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The Psychic and the Sleuth
Trusting a psychic flash might solve a mystery…and lead to love.
Inspector Robert Court should have felt a sense of justice when a rag-and-bones man went to the gallows for murdering his cousin. Yet something has never felt right about the investigation. Robert’s relentless quest for the truth has annoyed his superintendent, landing him lowly assignments such as foiling a false medium who’s fleecing the wives of the elite.
Oliver Marsh plays the confidence game of spiritualism, though his flashes of insight often offer his clients some comfort. Despite the presence of an attractive, if sneering, non-believer at a séance, he carries on—and experiences a horrifying psychic episode in which he experiences a murder as the victim.
There’s only one way for Court to learn if the young, dangerously attractive Marsh is his cousin’s killer or a real psychic: spend as much time with him as possible. Despite his resolve to focus on his job, Marsh somehow manages to weave a seductive spell around the inspector’s straight-laced heart.
Gradually, undeniable attraction overcomes caution. The two men are on the case, and on each other, as they race to stop a murderer before he kills again.
Warning: Graphic language and hot male/male sex with light BDSM themes. Despite “Descriptions of Murderous Acts” perpetrated by an unhinged killer, resist the temptation to cover your eyes—you’ll miss the good parts!
Inspector Robert Court should have felt a sense of justice when a rag-and-bones man went to the gallows for murdering his cousin. Yet something has never felt right about the investigation. Robert’s relentless quest for the truth has annoyed his superintendent, landing him lowly assignments such as foiling a false medium who’s fleecing the wives of the elite.
Oliver Marsh plays the confidence game of spiritualism, though his flashes of insight often offer his clients some comfort. Despite the presence of an attractive, if sneering, non-believer at a séance, he carries on—and experiences a horrifying psychic episode in which he experiences a murder as the victim.
There’s only one way for Court to learn if the young, dangerously attractive Marsh is his cousin’s killer or a real psychic: spend as much time with him as possible. Despite his resolve to focus on his job, Marsh somehow manages to weave a seductive spell around the inspector’s straight-laced heart.
Gradually, undeniable attraction overcomes caution. The two men are on the case, and on each other, as they race to stop a murderer before he kills again.
Warning: Graphic language and hot male/male sex with light BDSM themes. Despite “Descriptions of Murderous Acts” perpetrated by an unhinged killer, resist the temptation to cover your eyes—you’ll miss the good parts!
234 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 17, 2012
10 people are currently reading
683 people want to read
About the author
Summer Devon
62 books227 followersSummer Devon is the pen name writer Kate Rothwell often uses. Whether the characters are male or female, human or dragon, her books are always romance.
You can visit her facebook page, where there's a sign up form for a newsletter (she'll only send out newsletters when there's a new Summer Devon or Kate Rothwell release and she will never ever sell your name to anyone).
Her blog is available here.
She also has a blog with Bonnie Dee, a frequent co-author. It's mostly just announcements, but we might do good give-aways on occasion.
You can visit her facebook page, where there's a sign up form for a newsletter (she'll only send out newsletters when there's a new Summer Devon or Kate Rothwell release and she will never ever sell your name to anyone).
Her blog is available here.
She also has a blog with Bonnie Dee, a frequent co-author. It's mostly just announcements, but we might do good give-aways on occasion.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
May 4, 2013
3.5
Definitely above average, but why must BDSM come up in almost every book nowadays? O better: why did it have to come up here? Somehow it wasn't fitting into the story IMO. For the rest I liked both MCs, they had a certain depth, and also the historical details seemed well researched.
Definitely above average, but why must BDSM come up in almost every book nowadays? O better: why did it have to come up here? Somehow it wasn't fitting into the story IMO. For the rest I liked both MCs, they had a certain depth, and also the historical details seemed well researched.
March 20, 2015
3.5 stars
Oh, if only this book didn’t go that way when it came to the sexual intercourse and I would have gladly given this one a solid 4-stars...
I absolutely enjoyed this book for the most part. When it comes to murder mystery, I love when there is a paranormal element that comes to play. So when Oliver Marsh — who mainly relies on extensive research rather than an actual supernatural gift when it comes to his “conversations with the dead”– has his first psychic experience related to Robert Court’s cousin’s murder, the story became very interesting. A false medium who makes money by lying, so to speak, and a man who works in law enforcement who can actually arrest him? Well, that is a delicious set-up already.
It helped a lot that I thought Oliver and Robert had undeniable chemistry and both were likeable characters. Oliver has that cheeky attitude to him, which sometimes annoys Robert to no end. But it is clear that Oliver genuinely wants to help people, to put their mind at ease regarding their deceased loved ones. While Robert might be the grumpier between the two, but he is also solid and dependable. I loved reading how Robert finally gave in to the attraction he felt towards Oliver.
The identity of the murderer is given to us halfway through the book. So the rest of it is basically how Robert and Oliver work together to capture the murderer. Despite that there is no more mystery to solve, I found the planning and the action near the end as quite captivating.
Unfortunately, their D/s sexual scenes along with that one puppy play scene (with Robert actually calling Oliver ‘dog‘) totally turned me off. It actually ruined those intimate moments for me because it felt like it came out of the left field. I thought that maybe due to the popularity of D/s and BDSM, the authors would like to give it a go. However, it just didn’t fit in (with the characters or the storyline) and wasn’t necessary at all.
So enjoyable mystery-historical-romance EXCEPT for the sex scenes.
Oh, if only this book didn’t go that way when it came to the sexual intercourse and I would have gladly given this one a solid 4-stars...
I absolutely enjoyed this book for the most part. When it comes to murder mystery, I love when there is a paranormal element that comes to play. So when Oliver Marsh — who mainly relies on extensive research rather than an actual supernatural gift when it comes to his “conversations with the dead”– has his first psychic experience related to Robert Court’s cousin’s murder, the story became very interesting. A false medium who makes money by lying, so to speak, and a man who works in law enforcement who can actually arrest him? Well, that is a delicious set-up already.
It helped a lot that I thought Oliver and Robert had undeniable chemistry and both were likeable characters. Oliver has that cheeky attitude to him, which sometimes annoys Robert to no end. But it is clear that Oliver genuinely wants to help people, to put their mind at ease regarding their deceased loved ones. While Robert might be the grumpier between the two, but he is also solid and dependable. I loved reading how Robert finally gave in to the attraction he felt towards Oliver.
The identity of the murderer is given to us halfway through the book. So the rest of it is basically how Robert and Oliver work together to capture the murderer. Despite that there is no more mystery to solve, I found the planning and the action near the end as quite captivating.
Unfortunately, their D/s sexual scenes along with that one puppy play scene (with Robert actually calling Oliver ‘dog‘) totally turned me off. It actually ruined those intimate moments for me because it felt like it came out of the left field. I thought that maybe due to the popularity of D/s and BDSM, the authors would like to give it a go. However, it just didn’t fit in (with the characters or the storyline) and wasn’t necessary at all.
So enjoyable mystery-historical-romance EXCEPT for the sex scenes.
July 19, 2020
**grm**
For all the story, it seemed as if the author was building the plot towards a great scene, like a crescendo that would take us to a crucial point, but then when we finally arrived to the point where our guys confronted the killer, it felt like going down an hill. I think that all the expectations we had while reading, were crushed by the simplicity of this scene, one that should have been the most important part of the book. So yeah, I was a bit disappointed. I still think that the book was well written, but it wasn't as good as I thought at the start.
Ps= also for the ppl that maybe don't like these things, there is some BDSM, dom/sub, slave/dog play? and it pratically came out of nowhere...but well wasn't so bad so....I warned you though.
Ps2= I also forgot to say, but there are so many questions with no answers....why was the killer killing in that precise day? where was he before? and many more.....you can't end a mystery book like this...
RE-READ 18 JULY 2020
This book was still good. I actually re-read it bcs I thought that I hadn't yet(nice memory I have there), but I still liked the story, also if while reading I kinda started remembering all the plot.
I wish we had more books about these MCs.
For all the story, it seemed as if the author was building the plot towards a great scene, like a crescendo that would take us to a crucial point, but then when we finally arrived to the point where our guys confronted the killer, it felt like going down an hill. I think that all the expectations we had while reading, were crushed by the simplicity of this scene, one that should have been the most important part of the book. So yeah, I was a bit disappointed. I still think that the book was well written, but it wasn't as good as I thought at the start.
Ps= also for the ppl that maybe don't like these things, there is some BDSM, dom/sub, slave/dog play? and it pratically came out of nowhere...but well wasn't so bad so....I warned you though.
Ps2= I also forgot to say, but there are so many questions with no answers....why was the killer killing in that precise day? where was he before? and many more.....you can't end a mystery book like this...
RE-READ 18 JULY 2020
This book was still good. I actually re-read it bcs I thought that I hadn't yet(nice memory I have there), but I still liked the story, also if while reading I kinda started remembering all the plot.
I wish we had more books about these MCs.
November 6, 2012
These authors write a really nice style of historical romance, accessible and emotional, with a period feel but not an excess of detail, and always with engaging main characters. This is a story of two very-different men, brought together by a paranormal experience. Robert is an upright, truth-seeking, fundamentally lonely police officer. Oliver is a fake spiritualist with enough acting talent and perceptiveness to bilk a widow out of a fee for reassurances from beyond the grave. Neither of them is prepared to be brought together by the actual voice from a dead woman. But since Robert will do just about anything to solve her murder, and Oliver feels personally involved through his psychic connection, they must inevitably work together. Oliver is observant enough to see Robert's interest in him, and brave enough to make the first move. He's exactly what Robert needs.
I liked both MCs and the way they interacted. There was some light BDSM play between the two men, and some aspects didn't hit my criteria for sexy. At the same time, it was kind of cool to see a relationship of that era contain more than just the traditional roles. I'd love to see a sequel
I liked both MCs and the way they interacted. There was some light BDSM play between the two men, and some aspects didn't hit my criteria for sexy. At the same time, it was kind of cool to see a relationship of that era contain more than just the traditional roles. I'd love to see a sequel
February 1, 2012
I'm not normally a fan of historical fiction but Ms Dee and Ms Devon won me over with this well plotted story. Set back in London of 1892, Oliver Marsh is a con man playing the Spiritualist to wealthy old women. He justifies his scams by telling himself that he truly is doing a service by comforting them about their lost loved ones. Robert Court is a cop assigned to bring Marsh to justice but sparks fly when the two men meet at a seance. The story really starts to move when Oliver has some real psychic flashes of a woman, Lily, being murdered. Turns out that Lily was Robert's cousin. As the Oliver's psychic flashes become more intense, so does the sexual attraction between Robert and Oliver. The real killer must be caught but it will take complete trust between the psychic and the sleuth. I thoroughly enjoyed the interplay that Ms Dee and Ms Devon wove between Oliver and Robert. The two men were perfect foils for one another. There is some BDSM which adds spice to the stuffy thinking of old London and shows that while discreet, gay men of the time heated up the sheets. The mystery side of the story was intriguing and kept me interested right up until the surprising end. I recommend this well written story to any mystery lover.
April 4, 2017
A nice historical MM mystery with some kinky and very hot sex scenes. Very good
abandoned
July 21, 2015DNF at 60%.
Don't care and can't be arsed.
Don't care and can't be arsed.
January 29, 2012
Four and a half stars
I ummed and ahhed about reviewing this one for Speak Its Name, because it does have some paranormal aspects (spiritualism) but I’ve decided that this could be treated in the same way as ghosts – the only other paranormal theme we accept – because it could be subjective and brought on by other reasons, such as split personalities etc.
This book continues this writing partnership’s run of titles with similar names, The Nobleman and the Spy, The Gentleman and the Rogue–there’s endless fodder here and long may they continue to do them.
If you enjoyed either of the last titles, then you’ll certainly enjoy this. The thing is that although the titles are similar and there might be the danger that the authors would find it easy to slip into a pattern of plot that would be highly predictable they are to be commended that they don’t do that at all.
This, quite apart from the gay romance within it, is a good Victorian sleuth story which stands firmly on its own two feet. You could remove the gay romance and the detective story would still be viable, and that’s needed in the genre, too many stories simply concentrate on the meeting and eventual falling in love.
Yes, there’s instant attraction on both sides, and this attraction is acted on pretty soon, and both parties start to realise they are becoming fonder of each other than is wise, but the detective story runs neatly parallel to this at a good pace, deflecting us from simply concentrating on the uncertain love affair. This makes the balance of the book great and therefore accessible to more than just people who want gay sex stories.
The sex is nicely written, with a BDSM theme. I’m not a fan of the trope, and find it odd that so many gay books have it–far higher percentage of men in fiction indulge than do in real life, I’m sure, but what there is is nicely done. At least for me with little knowledge of the lifestyle. It’s most definitely “play” and the bottom is the top, which is how it should be. There was one scene where–for me–it tipped from sexy to rather giggle worthy, but I am 12 and I’m sure others won’t be as juvenile as me.
There are many secondary characters here, as befits a sleuthing story, and each one is given the necessary weight as suspicion shifts from person to person. As well the suspects there is a veritable line-up of society matrons, simpering hopefuls for the bachelor Court’s affections and Dickensian work colleagues.
What I liked most is that both characters, whilst developing in their personality throughout, both for the better, remained true to their core beliefs. Robert is a copper, to his bootstraps and he was sent to investigate Oliver’s mediuming (don’t think that’s a word!) and the way he deals with it after Oliver becomes his lover is entirely in character.
Similarly, the authors give Oliver a need to want to help people, and he’s never been comfortable conning them, although he’s been very clever never to actually do anything that could be proved to be fraudulent.
I would have liked to have seen a little more of Oliver’s original business, as he seemed to give it up altogether very quickly.
One thing that jarred for me–and again, I know that some readers love this device–was the sex scene that was put in after the denouement and the concluding sections. It seemed really jammed in and it added nothing to the plot, and my criteria has always been with sex scenes, if you can lift them out and they don’t cause a ripple, they didn’t belong there in the first place.
However, despite a couple of tiny niggles, it’s a really enjoyable read, and if you like Victoriana, crime fiction and anything written by this dynamic duo, then you’ll like this with great big brass knobs on.
The score doesn’t reflect it, but for shame, Samhain–surely you could have done a better job on the cover than that? Elasticated boxers? So much scope with lovely Victorian scenes and clothes and we get disconnected naked guys and a Matt Bomer lookalike. Horrid.
I ummed and ahhed about reviewing this one for Speak Its Name, because it does have some paranormal aspects (spiritualism) but I’ve decided that this could be treated in the same way as ghosts – the only other paranormal theme we accept – because it could be subjective and brought on by other reasons, such as split personalities etc.
This book continues this writing partnership’s run of titles with similar names, The Nobleman and the Spy, The Gentleman and the Rogue–there’s endless fodder here and long may they continue to do them.
If you enjoyed either of the last titles, then you’ll certainly enjoy this. The thing is that although the titles are similar and there might be the danger that the authors would find it easy to slip into a pattern of plot that would be highly predictable they are to be commended that they don’t do that at all.
This, quite apart from the gay romance within it, is a good Victorian sleuth story which stands firmly on its own two feet. You could remove the gay romance and the detective story would still be viable, and that’s needed in the genre, too many stories simply concentrate on the meeting and eventual falling in love.
Yes, there’s instant attraction on both sides, and this attraction is acted on pretty soon, and both parties start to realise they are becoming fonder of each other than is wise, but the detective story runs neatly parallel to this at a good pace, deflecting us from simply concentrating on the uncertain love affair. This makes the balance of the book great and therefore accessible to more than just people who want gay sex stories.
The sex is nicely written, with a BDSM theme. I’m not a fan of the trope, and find it odd that so many gay books have it–far higher percentage of men in fiction indulge than do in real life, I’m sure, but what there is is nicely done. At least for me with little knowledge of the lifestyle. It’s most definitely “play” and the bottom is the top, which is how it should be. There was one scene where–for me–it tipped from sexy to rather giggle worthy, but I am 12 and I’m sure others won’t be as juvenile as me.
There are many secondary characters here, as befits a sleuthing story, and each one is given the necessary weight as suspicion shifts from person to person. As well the suspects there is a veritable line-up of society matrons, simpering hopefuls for the bachelor Court’s affections and Dickensian work colleagues.
What I liked most is that both characters, whilst developing in their personality throughout, both for the better, remained true to their core beliefs. Robert is a copper, to his bootstraps and he was sent to investigate Oliver’s mediuming (don’t think that’s a word!) and the way he deals with it after Oliver becomes his lover is entirely in character.
Similarly, the authors give Oliver a need to want to help people, and he’s never been comfortable conning them, although he’s been very clever never to actually do anything that could be proved to be fraudulent.
I would have liked to have seen a little more of Oliver’s original business, as he seemed to give it up altogether very quickly.
One thing that jarred for me–and again, I know that some readers love this device–was the sex scene that was put in after the denouement and the concluding sections. It seemed really jammed in and it added nothing to the plot, and my criteria has always been with sex scenes, if you can lift them out and they don’t cause a ripple, they didn’t belong there in the first place.
However, despite a couple of tiny niggles, it’s a really enjoyable read, and if you like Victoriana, crime fiction and anything written by this dynamic duo, then you’ll like this with great big brass knobs on.
The score doesn’t reflect it, but for shame, Samhain–surely you could have done a better job on the cover than that? Elasticated boxers? So much scope with lovely Victorian scenes and clothes and we get disconnected naked guys and a Matt Bomer lookalike. Horrid.
September 1, 2012
This was a prize I won during the M/M Romance Group's 3rd Anniversary celebrations, and it coincided nicely with the bingo challenge category.
Robert Court, a police inspector in London in the late 19th century, is taken off murder cases after he investigates into another Inspector's case. Instead, he is assigned to investigate a medium, Oliver, who has become a thorn in a Lord's side. Although resentful of the fact that he no longer investigates murders, he pursues the medium with his usual dogged determination, thinking to halt a con-man taking advantage of a Lady's grief. As it turns out though, it's not quite as straight forward as it seems, and the attraction that flares between the two men only adds to Robert's problems.
This was an enjoyable story, with both men changing their minds about the other, and in many ways, changing their ways to please the other. Robert is a rather uptight character at first, and I can't say that I immediately took to him. Oliver though more likable, occasionally comes across as a bit TSTL, yet as the story evolves, these flaws mutate and become less prominent, probably due to their emotional connection to the other. Robert relaxes, and becomes more 'human' in his interactions with others, while Oliver, while still a little rash, becomes more responsible, both to himself and to others. The murder mystery is not so much of a mystery, but it provides the vehicle that allows the men to change.
It is not a novel that requires a lot of thought, but instead, it goes down easily and smoothly. The only real issue I had was the speed at which the two men fell into bed together, as it did not quite fit the times to me. Given that homosexuality was a criminal offence at the time, I would have thought that having sex together merely hours after they meet was a bit unrealistic, but maybe that's just me.
Robert Court, a police inspector in London in the late 19th century, is taken off murder cases after he investigates into another Inspector's case. Instead, he is assigned to investigate a medium, Oliver, who has become a thorn in a Lord's side. Although resentful of the fact that he no longer investigates murders, he pursues the medium with his usual dogged determination, thinking to halt a con-man taking advantage of a Lady's grief. As it turns out though, it's not quite as straight forward as it seems, and the attraction that flares between the two men only adds to Robert's problems.
This was an enjoyable story, with both men changing their minds about the other, and in many ways, changing their ways to please the other. Robert is a rather uptight character at first, and I can't say that I immediately took to him. Oliver though more likable, occasionally comes across as a bit TSTL, yet as the story evolves, these flaws mutate and become less prominent, probably due to their emotional connection to the other. Robert relaxes, and becomes more 'human' in his interactions with others, while Oliver, while still a little rash, becomes more responsible, both to himself and to others. The murder mystery is not so much of a mystery, but it provides the vehicle that allows the men to change.
It is not a novel that requires a lot of thought, but instead, it goes down easily and smoothly. The only real issue I had was the speed at which the two men fell into bed together, as it did not quite fit the times to me. Given that homosexuality was a criminal offence at the time, I would have thought that having sex together merely hours after they meet was a bit unrealistic, but maybe that's just me.
March 7, 2013
In 1892, Robert Court, an undercover cop hoping to discredit psychic medium Oliver Marsh, attends a séance in disguise. He believes Marsh to be a "confidence man", preying on women willing to hand over large sums of cash to contact their dearly departed. Instead of proving himself worthy of arrest, Oliver starts to speak believably as Lily Baker, a young woman recently murdered. Lily says she needs to tell Robert that there are other women. Robert is shocked, as no one knows his real name or his connection to Lily, his beloved cousin.
Reluctantly, after several encounters with the medium, Robert finally starts to believe in Oliver, and finds himself attracted to the handsome young man as well. They work unofficially together, sometimes against Robert's better judgment, to find the murderer and prove his guilt.
This is a very nice romance set within a paranormal mystery. I really enjoyed the entire story and loved the MC's. They do get their HEA, but not until they have quite an adventure and ultimately find a way to stay together in a society that has outlawed male/male relationships.
Reluctantly, after several encounters with the medium, Robert finally starts to believe in Oliver, and finds himself attracted to the handsome young man as well. They work unofficially together, sometimes against Robert's better judgment, to find the murderer and prove his guilt.
This is a very nice romance set within a paranormal mystery. I really enjoyed the entire story and loved the MC's. They do get their HEA, but not until they have quite an adventure and ultimately find a way to stay together in a society that has outlawed male/male relationships.
August 7, 2015
Oh bummer-well sorta bummer. The authors Dee and Devon who were ALWAYS on my favorite author list writes about a dumb, stupid, silly, embarrassing dog show.
Good news is- room for another author on my fav list . Ya see--lemonade.
Dear Bonnie & summer, you're better this and you know it.
Good news is- room for another author on my fav list . Ya see--lemonade.
Dear Bonnie & summer, you're better this and you know it.
February 2, 2016
Not bad, a nice little romance set in a difficult time.
July 9, 2018
The writing team of Summer Devon and Bonnie Dee have become synonymous with M/M historical romance over the years, and their 2017 collaboration The Psychic and the Sleuth is a fine example of why. It’s a novel set in Victorian Era London, and along with the romance they’ve added a paranormal twist with just a titch of BDSM to things just to spice things up a bit.
Oliver Marsh passes himself off as a spiritualist. He doesn’t truly make contact with the deceased lingering on the other side of the veil, but the more important aspect of his chosen profession is that he’s adept at making the people who pay him believe he is in touch with their dearly departed. His chicanery soon rouses the wrong person’s suspicions, which is where Inspector Robert Court figures into Oliver’s venture. Court means to prove Oliver a fraud and charge him with the crime he is, for all intents and purposes, guilty of, but little did either of them suspect the turn of events that awaited them.
Working on opposite sides of the law and yet both having common feelings of attraction to each other not only adds a nice undercurrent of tension to the telling but also shows how different to each other Oliver and Robert are in personality. I loved Oliver’s flirty playfulness as it contrasted Robert’s staid and stern demeanor, and then saw how well those differences complemented each other in the roles of Dom and sub. For those who don’t read BDSM, I will say that it’s on the light side here, but there is some puppy and breath play involved, just to give you a heads up.
The mystery in this novel is the catalyst that brings the two men together. Oliver evolves quickly from a person of suspicion in the death of a young woman, when Robert witnesses a strange occurrence at a seance, to Robert’s greatest asset in solving the crime. Robert being out to prove Oliver a fraud ends up adding another dimension to the story in the gray area between Oliver being a grifter and him being a counselor for the grieving, giving those who mourn a sense of closure and peace. The fact that their being together was in itself against the law, especially when contrasted with the seriousness of the murder investigation, was also a nice juxtaposition.
Everything comes together nicely in the end of The Psychic and the Sleuth, with the bonus of a suspenseful manhunt to prevent a serial killer from striking again. It all makes for an entertaining summer vacation read.
Reviewed by Lisa for The Novel Approach
Oliver Marsh passes himself off as a spiritualist. He doesn’t truly make contact with the deceased lingering on the other side of the veil, but the more important aspect of his chosen profession is that he’s adept at making the people who pay him believe he is in touch with their dearly departed. His chicanery soon rouses the wrong person’s suspicions, which is where Inspector Robert Court figures into Oliver’s venture. Court means to prove Oliver a fraud and charge him with the crime he is, for all intents and purposes, guilty of, but little did either of them suspect the turn of events that awaited them.
Working on opposite sides of the law and yet both having common feelings of attraction to each other not only adds a nice undercurrent of tension to the telling but also shows how different to each other Oliver and Robert are in personality. I loved Oliver’s flirty playfulness as it contrasted Robert’s staid and stern demeanor, and then saw how well those differences complemented each other in the roles of Dom and sub. For those who don’t read BDSM, I will say that it’s on the light side here, but there is some puppy and breath play involved, just to give you a heads up.
The mystery in this novel is the catalyst that brings the two men together. Oliver evolves quickly from a person of suspicion in the death of a young woman, when Robert witnesses a strange occurrence at a seance, to Robert’s greatest asset in solving the crime. Robert being out to prove Oliver a fraud ends up adding another dimension to the story in the gray area between Oliver being a grifter and him being a counselor for the grieving, giving those who mourn a sense of closure and peace. The fact that their being together was in itself against the law, especially when contrasted with the seriousness of the murder investigation, was also a nice juxtaposition.
Everything comes together nicely in the end of The Psychic and the Sleuth, with the bonus of a suspenseful manhunt to prevent a serial killer from striking again. It all makes for an entertaining summer vacation read.
Reviewed by Lisa for The Novel Approach
October 29, 2018
Look, I usually try to save one-star reviews for books that are actively offensive or truly awful. This isn't either of those -- but it's just so blandly bad that I can't bring myself to plunk down an extra star.
The characters are poorly developed -- are they even characters? You never get more than the labels in the title. The Psychic's growing powers are not handled in an interesting or dramatic way, and the Sleuth is bad at his job. There's random D/s that isn't grounded in characterization and therefore feels meaningless and not sexy. And like: the rape and murder of multiple women is used as a vehicle to get these two boring dudes together to do poorly negotiated puppy play. Again, this is not blatantly offensive and I like some thriller/action/mystery elements in my romance. I signed on for this. But I didn't sign on for it to be carried out in such a limp, careless fashion.
I started reading a K.J. Charles book after this; it's one of her slighter efforts and it's still a thousand times richer in just the first couple of chapters, with real characterization, unusual period detail, and thoughtful political ramifications. The difference is like night and day. That's probably going to be a three (or maybe four) star read, and that gap's why this book has to be one star.
Also because: it isn't good and I didn't like it.
The characters are poorly developed -- are they even characters? You never get more than the labels in the title. The Psychic's growing powers are not handled in an interesting or dramatic way, and the Sleuth is bad at his job. There's random D/s that isn't grounded in characterization and therefore feels meaningless and not sexy. And like: the rape and murder of multiple women is used as a vehicle to get these two boring dudes together to do poorly negotiated puppy play. Again, this is not blatantly offensive and I like some thriller/action/mystery elements in my romance. I signed on for this. But I didn't sign on for it to be carried out in such a limp, careless fashion.
I started reading a K.J. Charles book after this; it's one of her slighter efforts and it's still a thousand times richer in just the first couple of chapters, with real characterization, unusual period detail, and thoughtful political ramifications. The difference is like night and day. That's probably going to be a three (or maybe four) star read, and that gap's why this book has to be one star.
Also because: it isn't good and I didn't like it.
September 18, 2020
Robert Court is sure that the wrong man was hanged for killing his cousin Lily, his hounding of the other cop, gets him on the superintendent’s bad side and Robert is stuck investigating a case about a con man fleecing the wealthy by posing as a medium.
Oliver is very good at his medium job, and has adapted to conducting seances with a lot of investigative work at the library reading newspapers archives as well as brief flashes of true psychic gifts. Oliver has tried to ignore those brief flashes but when they put him in Court’s line of sight because he spoke words that only Court had heard from Lily before she died, Oliver knows he can’t ignore them any longer.
Court and Oliver clash with a difference of opinions on Oliver fleecing the wealthy, but they soon start to grow closer as they start looking into who really killed Lily. In a race against time and trying to hide their growing feelings from each other, Court and Oliver must also learn to lean on each other.
This was such a different take on a historical book, it had a nice mystery plot as well as some paranormal mixed into the historical aspect. The authors did a great job of weaving a unique story into the historical aspect. I would love to see another book and how they are doing in their new job as private investigators that is hinted at in the epilogue.
Oliver is very good at his medium job, and has adapted to conducting seances with a lot of investigative work at the library reading newspapers archives as well as brief flashes of true psychic gifts. Oliver has tried to ignore those brief flashes but when they put him in Court’s line of sight because he spoke words that only Court had heard from Lily before she died, Oliver knows he can’t ignore them any longer.
Court and Oliver clash with a difference of opinions on Oliver fleecing the wealthy, but they soon start to grow closer as they start looking into who really killed Lily. In a race against time and trying to hide their growing feelings from each other, Court and Oliver must also learn to lean on each other.
This was such a different take on a historical book, it had a nice mystery plot as well as some paranormal mixed into the historical aspect. The authors did a great job of weaving a unique story into the historical aspect. I would love to see another book and how they are doing in their new job as private investigators that is hinted at in the epilogue.
August 15, 2021
What I love about Bonnie Dee's books is that they're short, straightforward, and excellently paced. No waffling, no overly drawn out conflict, no unnecessary filler chapters.
This had a sexy dynamic (aggressive domineering detective + soft submissive con man with a heart of gold) with dom sub scenes. But the bulk of the plot is about an underwhelming murder mystery that I really didn't care for. From the moment you meet the killer, you know it's him, no twists or turns whatsoever.
This has good sequel potential, and if Devon and Dee get better at writing mysteries then it could be a promising series. But as of now it's kind of underwhelming, the smut aside. A decent read if you want an easy steamy romance to distract you for a bit, but nothing that really stands out.
This had a sexy dynamic (aggressive domineering detective + soft submissive con man with a heart of gold) with dom sub scenes. But the bulk of the plot is about an underwhelming murder mystery that I really didn't care for. From the moment you meet the killer, you know it's him, no twists or turns whatsoever.
This has good sequel potential, and if Devon and Dee get better at writing mysteries then it could be a promising series. But as of now it's kind of underwhelming, the smut aside. A decent read if you want an easy steamy romance to distract you for a bit, but nothing that really stands out.
May 4, 2013
We've all heard the saying that 'opposites attract' and that certainly seems to be the case of Robert Court and Oliver Marsh in 'The Psychic and the Sleuth' by Bonnie Dee and Summer Devon. But, what truly brings them together isn't their differences, but the ways in which they are alike. Even though their relationship starts up on opposite sides of the fence, things are not always as they seem. The more they're together, the more they begin to appreciate each other and soon come to realize that they are stronger as a team than either of them are on their own. Putting this knowledge and their individual talents to use, they're able extract justice for the murder of Robert's cousin, Alice.
Hidden under Robert's stiff exterior is a man of great passion and imagination who, for far too long, has been restraining these feelings in all aspects of his life. When first investigating Oliver for being a fraudulent medium, he is dead set on exposing him and shutting down his business. But, as he becomes more acquainted with him, in and out of bed, he begins to see him for the person he really is; charming, sensitive, observant, intelligent, and, the greatest surprise of all, he actually is psychic! The visions of his cousin's last moments convince him that Oliver truly has a gift and is communicating with his cousin.
Oliver is a delightful character with whom I became emotionally invested immediately. Considering his line of work, I found it absolutely hilarious when he discovers that he, indeed, has inherited the family gift of being a sensitive. As he scrambles to learn how to manage these abilities, he begins to understand the larger implications of having such a gift. Not only can he aid Robert in his cousin's murder investigation, but he can also use it to help others. , Oliver experiences huge character growth; for the first time, he realizes that between his gift and the skills he's learned as a charlatan, he is good at something which can be used for helping rather than deceiving people.
This is a great love story intertwined with mystery, suspense, intrigue, murder, ardent trysts, and two fascinating men who, together, are unstoppable. If you enjoy romantic historical fiction with lots of action and passion, you will enjoy 'The Psychic and the Sleuth.' Thanks Bonnie and Summer for another delightful story.
NOTE: This book was provided by Samhain Publishing for the purpose of a review on QMO Books.
Hidden under Robert's stiff exterior is a man of great passion and imagination who, for far too long, has been restraining these feelings in all aspects of his life. When first investigating Oliver for being a fraudulent medium, he is dead set on exposing him and shutting down his business. But, as he becomes more acquainted with him, in and out of bed, he begins to see him for the person he really is; charming, sensitive, observant, intelligent, and, the greatest surprise of all, he actually is psychic! The visions of his cousin's last moments convince him that Oliver truly has a gift and is communicating with his cousin.
Oliver is a delightful character with whom I became emotionally invested immediately. Considering his line of work, I found it absolutely hilarious when he discovers that he, indeed, has inherited the family gift of being a sensitive. As he scrambles to learn how to manage these abilities, he begins to understand the larger implications of having such a gift. Not only can he aid Robert in his cousin's murder investigation, but he can also use it to help others. , Oliver experiences huge character growth; for the first time, he realizes that between his gift and the skills he's learned as a charlatan, he is good at something which can be used for helping rather than deceiving people.
This is a great love story intertwined with mystery, suspense, intrigue, murder, ardent trysts, and two fascinating men who, together, are unstoppable. If you enjoy romantic historical fiction with lots of action and passion, you will enjoy 'The Psychic and the Sleuth.' Thanks Bonnie and Summer for another delightful story.
NOTE: This book was provided by Samhain Publishing for the purpose of a review on QMO Books.
October 9, 2018
Inspector Robert Court is investigating the potential fraud of a psychic, Oliver Marsh, who considers himself a con-artist, but with good intentions...after all, he comforts those with the well-being of their dearly departed. But while Robert Court is watching one of Oliver's seances, in disguise of course, Oliver suddenly channels Robert's murdered cousin and reveals information about her death that no one but the killer, or Robert, should know. Robert decides he's not going far from Oliver until he determines who Oliver really is and whether he can help him find the killer. In the meantime, Oliver and Robert give in to attraction and even begin to build a friendship, but Robert is sure that two men could never live a contented life together as lovers in their society.
This wasn't necessarily a bad story. But it was a difficult read to get through. I think this mostly had to do with the slow pace and the lack of tension and angst between Robert and Oliver. This story seemed to drag quite a bit, with little excitement and action to keep you reading until right there at the end when they go after the killer. And Oliver and Robert just sort of come together with hardly any push or pull, which was strange because Robert seemed to be resistant to his predilections and Oliver predicted he'd be buttoned up tight. But he wasn't in the least. These two fell into a sexual relationship with super fast and easy - there was chemistry and passion, but very little emotional drama. And then for some reason the whole D/S thing had to rear it's head, which I don't really care for and could have done with out. In fact...that whole "pet" thing, with the collar and all that was decidedly unsexy for me, but then I don't really enjoy that kind of kink. YMMV.
This wasn't necessarily a bad story. But it was a difficult read to get through. I think this mostly had to do with the slow pace and the lack of tension and angst between Robert and Oliver. This story seemed to drag quite a bit, with little excitement and action to keep you reading until right there at the end when they go after the killer. And Oliver and Robert just sort of come together with hardly any push or pull, which was strange because Robert seemed to be resistant to his predilections and Oliver predicted he'd be buttoned up tight. But he wasn't in the least. These two fell into a sexual relationship with super fast and easy - there was chemistry and passion, but very little emotional drama. And then for some reason the whole D/S thing had to rear it's head, which I don't really care for and could have done with out. In fact...that whole "pet" thing, with the collar and all that was decidedly unsexy for me, but then I don't really enjoy that kind of kink. YMMV.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2012
3.5 starsA psychic medium while under investigation by a detective, becomes involved in a murder mystery and romantically with the detective. This is a very similar plot to a story I just re read recently, Downtime. They even take place around the same time period --the 1880's to 1890's. Because of this I couldn't help comparing the two novels and this one suffers some in the comparison.
This is still an enjoyable book in many ways. There is a mystery to solve and the inspector and the psychic make an interesting pair. But the book very quickly veers into exploring the erotic relationship between the two with each very interested in role playing submissive, dominant and even a little puppy play.
Sometimes that feels like a writer trying to throw everything at you just for the sake of variety with the assumption (often false) that just because someone is interested in one sort of sex play they're interested in doing all. It was a little distracting (to getting to the heart of their relationship).
If you're interested in a historical with a little BDSM and a little mystery and you love reading stories about psychic mediums like I do, then give this one a try. If you're interested in a tighter story and less erotica, no BDSM but with similar psychic mystery themes then give Downtime a read. I'd highly recommend that one.
This is still an enjoyable book in many ways. There is a mystery to solve and the inspector and the psychic make an interesting pair. But the book very quickly veers into exploring the erotic relationship between the two with each very interested in role playing submissive, dominant and even a little puppy play.
Sometimes that feels like a writer trying to throw everything at you just for the sake of variety with the assumption (often false) that just because someone is interested in one sort of sex play they're interested in doing all. It was a little distracting (to getting to the heart of their relationship).
If you're interested in a historical with a little BDSM and a little mystery and you love reading stories about psychic mediums like I do, then give this one a try. If you're interested in a tighter story and less erotica, no BDSM but with similar psychic mystery themes then give Downtime a read. I'd highly recommend that one.
October 29, 2017
Re-Read Review October 2017:
Having read most of the Summer Devon/Bonnie Dee collaborations I decided to go back and re-read the first one that introduced me to this historical writing duo. I found I loved it even more than the first time. I found myself falling in love with Robert and Oliver's push-and-pull dance all over again, so much so that I can safely and honestly say that I have upped my rating from 4-1/2 to a full 5. I can't say that The Psychic and the Sleuth is going on my annual re-read list but it definitely will be revisited again and again.
Original Review February 2015:
4-1/2 stars
Robert and Oliver are such a great pair. I don't know that I would classify this as a "enemies to lovers" sub-genre but they most definitely have the equal parts fighting and attraction down pat. The author's warning says it best "Despite “Descriptions of Murderous Acts” perpetrated by an unhinged killer, resist the temptation to cover your eyes—you’ll miss the good parts!" There are so many good parts mixed throughout the story, and I'm not just talking about "yummy" times, there is humor, sparring, fear, and of course murder. By fear, I'm not just referring to the mystery, I'm also referring to Oliver's realization that he actually does have some psychic ability and Robert's same realization and having to admit that being psychic isn't an automatic conman at work. This is the first time I've read either author or one of their collaborations but it definitely won't be the last.
Having read most of the Summer Devon/Bonnie Dee collaborations I decided to go back and re-read the first one that introduced me to this historical writing duo. I found I loved it even more than the first time. I found myself falling in love with Robert and Oliver's push-and-pull dance all over again, so much so that I can safely and honestly say that I have upped my rating from 4-1/2 to a full 5. I can't say that The Psychic and the Sleuth is going on my annual re-read list but it definitely will be revisited again and again.
Original Review February 2015:
4-1/2 stars
Robert and Oliver are such a great pair. I don't know that I would classify this as a "enemies to lovers" sub-genre but they most definitely have the equal parts fighting and attraction down pat. The author's warning says it best "Despite “Descriptions of Murderous Acts” perpetrated by an unhinged killer, resist the temptation to cover your eyes—you’ll miss the good parts!" There are so many good parts mixed throughout the story, and I'm not just talking about "yummy" times, there is humor, sparring, fear, and of course murder. By fear, I'm not just referring to the mystery, I'm also referring to Oliver's realization that he actually does have some psychic ability and Robert's same realization and having to admit that being psychic isn't an automatic conman at work. This is the first time I've read either author or one of their collaborations but it definitely won't be the last.
October 26, 2015
Please Give Us More
There is nothing I like more in an M/M historical romance, especially in excessively oppressive England, than an MC who is a big, strong, somewhat older authority figure and a more rakish and elusive younger foil who takes him to the emotional cleaners.
In this one, Summer Devon delivers a serious detective story by giving us the quiet, but subliminally dominant and totally closeted detective Robert Court, and the near-charlatan but also almost desperately conflicted Oliver Marsh. And even though the plot heats up a lot longer than their attraction, you know from the start this is going to be one heck of a couple, and love story, as well.
Robert and Oliver completely fall apart for each other eventually, an occurrence which drives the plot here and there and back again without mucking up the narrative with too many heated encounters. It's just right, and they are, too. My fervent hope is that Ms. Devon can bring them back in a sequel or two, because this big lumpy sleuth and his clever, manipulative lover, have plenty left to tell us about.
There is nothing I like more in an M/M historical romance, especially in excessively oppressive England, than an MC who is a big, strong, somewhat older authority figure and a more rakish and elusive younger foil who takes him to the emotional cleaners.
In this one, Summer Devon delivers a serious detective story by giving us the quiet, but subliminally dominant and totally closeted detective Robert Court, and the near-charlatan but also almost desperately conflicted Oliver Marsh. And even though the plot heats up a lot longer than their attraction, you know from the start this is going to be one heck of a couple, and love story, as well.
Robert and Oliver completely fall apart for each other eventually, an occurrence which drives the plot here and there and back again without mucking up the narrative with too many heated encounters. It's just right, and they are, too. My fervent hope is that Ms. Devon can bring them back in a sequel or two, because this big lumpy sleuth and his clever, manipulative lover, have plenty left to tell us about.
January 20, 2012
An erotic M/M and a great thriller besides. It’s gratifying to read something about Victorian English crimes that doesn’t involved Jack the Ripper. The story of the false medium who suddenly discovers he’s really tapping into the Afterlife has been done to death but Devon and Dee give it a couple of twists by making Marsh realize that he’s been using his gift all along and just not aware of it. Court is a good counterpoint to the psychic who’s almost his opposite in personality, granite-like and self-contained, while Marsh is dramatic and sensitive to a fault. Each man has a full background, and concentrating not only on their love for each other but equally on the story at hand. Even the villain gets his share of a back story.
The sights, sounds, and smells of London are there in full force, and it all comes together in a gripping—and chilling—story of love and death, illicit passion and murder.
The sights, sounds, and smells of London are there in full force, and it all comes together in a gripping—and chilling—story of love and death, illicit passion and murder.
July 12, 2016
4 stars for this one. Another great read from this author. I did have a bit of a hard time because I had just finished several Megan Derr stories set in a world where men of this time period actually married other men. I had to get into a different mind set :)
Both MC's were great... Robert was trying to solve the case of his cousin's murder on his own because he believe the wrong man had paid for the crime. His official assignment was to get evidence of fraud by a psychic, Oliver Marsh. During the seance Oliver actually channeled Robert's cousin Lily and now Robert is trying to figure out if he has just heard the murderer talking about his cousin's last words.
Great read, good mystery, sexy romance... Highly Recommended.
==============================
1st read - Mar 29, 2013
2nd read - Jul 12, 2016
Both MC's were great... Robert was trying to solve the case of his cousin's murder on his own because he believe the wrong man had paid for the crime. His official assignment was to get evidence of fraud by a psychic, Oliver Marsh. During the seance Oliver actually channeled Robert's cousin Lily and now Robert is trying to figure out if he has just heard the murderer talking about his cousin's last words.
Great read, good mystery, sexy romance... Highly Recommended.
==============================
1st read - Mar 29, 2013
2nd read - Jul 12, 2016
January 18, 2012
This was a truly enjoyable story. There was just enough mystery balanced with emotional connection to really draw you into it. I have always enjoyed Bonnie and Summer as a writing duo and they have not let me down this time. My only reservation is the more humiliation tinted bdsm aspect of the MC's sexual relationship. That is not typically what I prefer to read, even within the bdsm genre. However, I enjoyed the dynamic tug between how the MC's interacted sexually and how they interacted in the rest of their lives. So despite my uncomfortableness with humiliation in the bedroom I really enjoyed this book. 4 stars.
June 26, 2013
Didn't finish.
I'm pretty sure this was the first book ever where I didn't even skim, but actually skipped a sex scene. In fact I skipped three by the time I was only about 60% through, out of 4 sex scenes or so overall! The amount was a wild exaggeration and the whole thing was incredibly tedious. I didn't feel much toward the characters, the dominant guy's, er, sexpertise was laughable considering his background, the D/S "games" were out of left field as well, and the mystery stopped being of any interest even earlier than those 60%.
I'm pretty sure this was the first book ever where I didn't even skim, but actually skipped a sex scene. In fact I skipped three by the time I was only about 60% through, out of 4 sex scenes or so overall! The amount was a wild exaggeration and the whole thing was incredibly tedious. I didn't feel much toward the characters, the dominant guy's, er, sexpertise was laughable considering his background, the D/S "games" were out of left field as well, and the mystery stopped being of any interest even earlier than those 60%.
July 12, 2013
I read this book for a BDSM challenge but I have to say that if the book had been sans the BDSM & erotic content, it would have been a much better read ... this felt like a gentle romance with a meaty story that had been sexed up which is a shame because the murder mystery aspect deserved more focus IMO ...
June 15, 2013
4,5 stars.
A very enjoyable read. There was a part in the middle were it dragged a bit for my taste, but I found both main characters were likable and interesting enough to carry the story.
Some humor, some romance, a more or less solid crime plot and some para normal plot that doesn't interfere with the general historical crime plot.
A very enjoyable read. There was a part in the middle were it dragged a bit for my taste, but I found both main characters were likable and interesting enough to carry the story.
Some humor, some romance, a more or less solid crime plot and some para normal plot that doesn't interfere with the general historical crime plot.
March 18, 2014
3.5 stars for me. I enjoyed the book, the plot and mystery, and the characters, but I have to say that the BDSM scenes would yank me out of the plot. Not that having "scenes" was unrealistic in historical times, but I think I would have enjoyed them more if they were eased into the story by starting off a little less intense than they had.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2018
Average m/m Historical Romance, Extra star for hot sex scenes
Summer Devon creates very likeable characters, and so does the writing team of Devon and Bonnie Dee. Often enough, their plots are also enjoyable with familiar and unexpected elements. It's their sex scenes that are frequently well done. The Psychic and the Sleuth is not their best work, but the characters are pleasant enough even if the plot is straightforward. I'd give this book 2.5-3 stars on plot, characterization and pacing, and extra credit for a couple of the sex scenes. Don't read this book for literary merit, but for easy if average entertainment. NOTE: Their book, the Professor and the Smuggler, while "cut from the same cloth" as this book, is far better in terms of character development, plot, emotion (and, yes, not sex scenes), setting, and also in terms of writing (more interesting metaphors, sentences that are less choppy and better crafted, and better pacing).
Summer Devon creates very likeable characters, and so does the writing team of Devon and Bonnie Dee. Often enough, their plots are also enjoyable with familiar and unexpected elements. It's their sex scenes that are frequently well done. The Psychic and the Sleuth is not their best work, but the characters are pleasant enough even if the plot is straightforward. I'd give this book 2.5-3 stars on plot, characterization and pacing, and extra credit for a couple of the sex scenes. Don't read this book for literary merit, but for easy if average entertainment. NOTE: Their book, the Professor and the Smuggler, while "cut from the same cloth" as this book, is far better in terms of character development, plot, emotion (and, yes, not sex scenes), setting, and also in terms of writing (more interesting metaphors, sentences that are less choppy and better crafted, and better pacing).
May 7, 2020
4.5 stars (Sorry I don't know how to do partial stars)
I'm not a huge fan of Historical drama, but I think I will read some more now.
I really like the fact that the mystery/drama that Oliver & Robert were following was the main focus and not just a plot structure to get them into bed with each other. Not that those scenes weren't bad.
Even when there was a major revelation the suspense was still maintained with how things were going to be resolved.
The characters are great. You will love Oliver from the get go and the changes in Robert are described quite naturally.
My only negative is the situation with Robert's boss and his colleague Childs. Not much was given at the beginning and I would like have liked to know more.
I'm not a huge fan of Historical drama, but I think I will read some more now.
I really like the fact that the mystery/drama that Oliver & Robert were following was the main focus and not just a plot structure to get them into bed with each other. Not that those scenes weren't bad.
Even when there was a major revelation the suspense was still maintained with how things were going to be resolved.
The characters are great. You will love Oliver from the get go and the changes in Robert are described quite naturally.
My only negative is the situation with Robert's boss and his colleague Childs. Not much was given at the beginning and I would like have liked to know more.
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