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The Resurrectionists #1
Glass Castles
Lucas Walker has been down on his luck for years. Then he has a run-in with a surgeon named Henry Glass, who presents him with an unusual job opportunity: procuring corpses for Henry's medical research. Out of work and out of options, and maybe just a little enamored with the shy and gentlemanly Henry, Lucas agrees. But between the perils of bodysnatching and the fear of being outed for his proclivities, Lucas has his hands full. Falling in love with his employer is the last thing he needs.
Glass Castles is a novella and the first in The Resurrectionist series.
Glass Castles is a novella and the first in The Resurrectionist series.
194 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2023
4 people are currently reading
87 people want to read
About the author
Kelley York
23 books604 followersKelley resides off the coast of Northern California with her wife, dogs, cats, and birds. In addition to writing, she has her A.S. in Anthropology, and is a graphic designer with a successful book cover design business called Sleepy Fox Studio. She spends her spare time playing video games and tabletop games like the nerd she is. Her specialty is LGBT+ fiction, usually with a dark twist.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
June 5, 2023
✰ 3.75 stars ✰
“He teetered between joy and panic, happiness at having got a taste of something he so desperately wanted, and fear that, somehow, his actions were going to be cause for regret later.”
I'm not usually fond of reading novellas, but as a fan of Kelley York's works, I was willing to make Glass Castles an exception. And while I still feel that it barely grazed the surface of what could have potentially been a more fulfilling story, what she did offer with her signature style of combining spooky historical settings with unique and intriguing characters made it an enjoyable worthwhile read. 🤍🤍
Taking place during the late 19th century, this is the story of how Lucas Walker, a young man in his early twenties, at a weak moment in his life propositioned a Mr. Henry Glass, a surgeon in his early 40s, in the darkened streets of England. And while he may have turned down his proposal, what he offers in exchange is a chance to earn some honest money performing a not-so-honest task that while may help save lives, inadvertently endangers his own life, as well. And even though, these two men were from opposite worlds and completely different backgrounds, as their relationship progresses, a soft and steady attraction develops between them, one which neither of them have the courage to admit to, due to their own personal guilt and past fears.
“You are attractive and engaging. And very much…not the sort of man I thought would have any lasting interest in someone like me.”
That statement brought a laugh bubbling from Lucas’s chest. “Me not be interested in you? Are you daft?”
When Henry frowned, Lucas gave his head a shake. “I’m some poor kid from Whitechapel. I grew up chasing rats in the sewers. I haven’t got a damned thing to offer anyone—let alone someone as brilliant as you.”
Lucas had this innocence about him - this honest look to life that you couldn't help but want to protect; he may have been too trusting, too forgiving, too much unsure of his own position in this world that he allowed himself to be trodden over too many times. 😢 When all he wanted was someone to respect him and a means of a decent life and living that he could call his own. And yet, he still had a quiet fierce determination to himself to stand by his constituents and to speak up for the ones who were less deserving and needed it.
So for someone of such stature like Henry Glass to glance his way - to offer him a way out with even the strangest bizarre of tasks, he took a chance with it. I liked how it never felt like Henry was pitying him or making advances to him with the care he showed him - it was more that he just wanted Lucas to feel safe - to feel wanted. And even though his job was a dangerous one and eventually did land him in trouble, he knew in his heart that it was worth it - that if he still stayed true to himself, that even when 'push comes to shove', Henry would be there for him.
“When he looked at Henry Glass, he saw a man with a kind heart and an empathy many lacked. He saw someone who strived to make the world a better place in whatever little ways he could.
He also saw a man who was very lonely.”
Henry Glass was a lonely soul that really made you feel sorry for him - for all that he was perfect, his past was so flawed, so riddled with guilt and shame, that he worked so hard to keep Lucas at arm's length, despite his own palpable desire to keep him close. 😔 While the limits of his restraint were tested multiple times, it was the gentle quiet ease in which he reflected his care for him - the affection that he was too afraid to show before with his kind gestures and protective nature - that when he finally had the chance to act upon those feelings - without care or fear - that really warmed my heart. That despite their age difference, Lucas wanted him and as much as that scared him, he realized that it was time to not be beholden to his past demons.
“Jasper’s expression darkened then, his mouth downturned, and his hand shot up, grabbing hold of Lucas’s chin. “Don’t raise your bloody voice at me,” he scolded sharply, and for a split second, the Welsh accent he tried so hard to smother when he spoke rang through brightly.
“And don’t you dare speak of yourself like that! Any man—rich or poor—would be lucky to have you. You’re a good man with a good heart, Lucas Walker. If some foolish surgeon can’t see that, then he isn’t worth your time.”
I also very much enjoyed each of the supporting characters. Jasper, Lucas' best friend and frequent occupant at the brothel had such a sweet and caring temperament that genuinely cared more for Lucas' well-being than his own; I would love to see if there's a chance he will get his own novella in the future, because I also want him to find some happiness, as well. 🥺 There was also such an intriguing dynamic between Daniel Barker - one of Henry's close friends with a sharp candor but hindered within himself by his own illness, and Theseus Blackthorne, the charismatic lawyer who swept in to save Lucas during the trial - one that had a strange alluring current to it, that hinted that there may have been some past mysterious liaison shared between the two, not yet addressed.
“An offer for what it was: commitment. A promise that Henry would no longer be holding him at arm’s length.
The walls of Henry’s castle were finally coming down.”
And I just love the double entendre in the title - those always make my heart aflutter when done so very well. All in all, this was a simple and easy read, that still managed to draw me into this unique world Kelley York created. 😊 It may not be for everyone, but she's certainly won a fervent fan in me and I am very much looking forward to what is in store next for The Resurrectionists when the next novella releases.
“He teetered between joy and panic, happiness at having got a taste of something he so desperately wanted, and fear that, somehow, his actions were going to be cause for regret later.”
I'm not usually fond of reading novellas, but as a fan of Kelley York's works, I was willing to make Glass Castles an exception. And while I still feel that it barely grazed the surface of what could have potentially been a more fulfilling story, what she did offer with her signature style of combining spooky historical settings with unique and intriguing characters made it an enjoyable worthwhile read. 🤍🤍
Taking place during the late 19th century, this is the story of how Lucas Walker, a young man in his early twenties, at a weak moment in his life propositioned a Mr. Henry Glass, a surgeon in his early 40s, in the darkened streets of England. And while he may have turned down his proposal, what he offers in exchange is a chance to earn some honest money performing a not-so-honest task that while may help save lives, inadvertently endangers his own life, as well. And even though, these two men were from opposite worlds and completely different backgrounds, as their relationship progresses, a soft and steady attraction develops between them, one which neither of them have the courage to admit to, due to their own personal guilt and past fears.
“You are attractive and engaging. And very much…not the sort of man I thought would have any lasting interest in someone like me.”
That statement brought a laugh bubbling from Lucas’s chest. “Me not be interested in you? Are you daft?”
When Henry frowned, Lucas gave his head a shake. “I’m some poor kid from Whitechapel. I grew up chasing rats in the sewers. I haven’t got a damned thing to offer anyone—let alone someone as brilliant as you.”
Lucas had this innocence about him - this honest look to life that you couldn't help but want to protect; he may have been too trusting, too forgiving, too much unsure of his own position in this world that he allowed himself to be trodden over too many times. 😢 When all he wanted was someone to respect him and a means of a decent life and living that he could call his own. And yet, he still had a quiet fierce determination to himself to stand by his constituents and to speak up for the ones who were less deserving and needed it.
So for someone of such stature like Henry Glass to glance his way - to offer him a way out with even the strangest bizarre of tasks, he took a chance with it. I liked how it never felt like Henry was pitying him or making advances to him with the care he showed him - it was more that he just wanted Lucas to feel safe - to feel wanted. And even though his job was a dangerous one and eventually did land him in trouble, he knew in his heart that it was worth it - that if he still stayed true to himself, that even when 'push comes to shove', Henry would be there for him.
“When he looked at Henry Glass, he saw a man with a kind heart and an empathy many lacked. He saw someone who strived to make the world a better place in whatever little ways he could.
He also saw a man who was very lonely.”
Henry Glass was a lonely soul that really made you feel sorry for him - for all that he was perfect, his past was so flawed, so riddled with guilt and shame, that he worked so hard to keep Lucas at arm's length, despite his own palpable desire to keep him close. 😔 While the limits of his restraint were tested multiple times, it was the gentle quiet ease in which he reflected his care for him - the affection that he was too afraid to show before with his kind gestures and protective nature - that when he finally had the chance to act upon those feelings - without care or fear - that really warmed my heart. That despite their age difference, Lucas wanted him and as much as that scared him, he realized that it was time to not be beholden to his past demons.
“Jasper’s expression darkened then, his mouth downturned, and his hand shot up, grabbing hold of Lucas’s chin. “Don’t raise your bloody voice at me,” he scolded sharply, and for a split second, the Welsh accent he tried so hard to smother when he spoke rang through brightly.
“And don’t you dare speak of yourself like that! Any man—rich or poor—would be lucky to have you. You’re a good man with a good heart, Lucas Walker. If some foolish surgeon can’t see that, then he isn’t worth your time.”
I also very much enjoyed each of the supporting characters. Jasper, Lucas' best friend and frequent occupant at the brothel had such a sweet and caring temperament that genuinely cared more for Lucas' well-being than his own; I would love to see if there's a chance he will get his own novella in the future, because I also want him to find some happiness, as well. 🥺 There was also such an intriguing dynamic between Daniel Barker - one of Henry's close friends with a sharp candor but hindered within himself by his own illness, and Theseus Blackthorne, the charismatic lawyer who swept in to save Lucas during the trial - one that had a strange alluring current to it, that hinted that there may have been some past mysterious liaison shared between the two, not yet addressed.
“An offer for what it was: commitment. A promise that Henry would no longer be holding him at arm’s length.
The walls of Henry’s castle were finally coming down.”
And I just love the double entendre in the title - those always make my heart aflutter when done so very well. All in all, this was a simple and easy read, that still managed to draw me into this unique world Kelley York created. 😊 It may not be for everyone, but she's certainly won a fervent fan in me and I am very much looking forward to what is in store next for The Resurrectionists when the next novella releases.
November 12, 2023
I love Kelley York’s style of storytelling. Something about it sucks me in, keeping me wholly captivated from start to finish. I expected Glass Castles to be darker and creepier than it was but it was still beautifully atmospheric and I felt immersed in its 1870s world.
Exactly what I want in m/m and 100% Kat
5 full stars
Exactly what I want in m/m and 100% Kat
5 full stars
September 10, 2023
This was entertaining enough but often felt like deployment of tropes without much development, such as the class difference between the characters not making any real difference aside from some token wondering on Lucas’s part if it would be a problem, or Lucas having a kindly yet mysterious femme sex worker best friend, which I swear is how at least 50% of all the sex workers I’ve read in romance have been portrayed. Henry’s only real character trait was “nice person who helps people,” and having his POV for only a handful of chapters didn’t add much to the story aside from giving the reader information Lucas didn’t know.
I also don’t understand the decision to make Lucas a resurrectionist – it seemed like that was chosen just so he could have an illegal profession that Henry relied on. Why have your characters do something as taboo as dig up and dissect dead bodies if everyone’s attitude to it is not only “this is fine” but “people are only upset about this due to ignorance”? I just don’t see the point of it if it isn’t going to create any actual conflict, and overall I felt that part of the premise was wasted.
All in all, this didn’t have the interest or development of York’s other books.
I also don’t understand the decision to make Lucas a resurrectionist – it seemed like that was chosen just so he could have an illegal profession that Henry relied on. Why have your characters do something as taboo as dig up and dissect dead bodies if everyone’s attitude to it is not only “this is fine” but “people are only upset about this due to ignorance”? I just don’t see the point of it if it isn’t going to create any actual conflict, and overall I felt that part of the premise was wasted.
All in all, this didn’t have the interest or development of York’s other books.
June 1, 2023
Lucas Walker is living his life on the streets of London. He’s in his early twenties and now has no means of employment. He’s been black balled by the warehouses and he’s not needy enough for the workhouses. He’s a little awkward, but honest and has a lot of pride and doesn’t want to have to work at the brothel.
His best friend Jasper Rees resides at Madam Beatrice’s, Sun & Stars brothel. Jasper is always willing to give Lucas a place to stay and meets with him often at the Rusty Duck for ale and food. The Rusty Duck is a known pub where men of like proclivities come for drink, food and to meet other men. Lucas isn’t very good at meeting others, but he spies a gentlemen who seems out of place for the Rusty Duck. When the man leaves his table, it’s a way for Lucas to get a free meal as the man has left his dinner. But Lucas has a change of heart. He decides to follow the well-to-do gentleman and tries to proposition him, which he’s not very good at.
Dr. Henry Glass is in his early forties. He’s built a wall around his heart and has regrets that lead him to the Rusty Duck, a place that he avoided. But his need to drown his sorrow and loneliness had him seeking out company. He just found he couldn’t do it and left. He knows he’s being followed and confronts the young man, who tries to proposition him in the alley. After a conversation Henry gives the young man his card and a possibility of work.
Lucas has all types of worries to face. What has happened to Jasper? Will Lucas take that chance and go to the hospital and meet Henry? Is he ready to take on the work that Henry asks him to perform and face the danger that comes with it. What of the confusing emotions between Henry and Lucas?
Kelley York creates an entertaining novella with: a little suspense, danger, friendship, humor and love in “Glass Castles”. The novella is well written and a very easy read that reflects 19th century Victorian London. The author brings to life two men from opposite worlds, Henry Glass and Lucas Walker. The gradual relationship that grows between them is filled with anxiety and mixed messages as they both have the same need.
Besides Henry and Lucas the author has created some very likable secondary characters that brighten the story: Jasper, who is adorable and unique; Daniel Barker, who is very smart in his own way and deals with an illness; Theseus Blackthorne, the bold attorney and has his eye on Daniel, Frederick, butler/footman for Mr. Glass; and Madeline McCormick, a lady of the brothel.
“Glass Castles” is an enjoyable read and I highly recommend it. As I’m really invested in the “Resurrectionists” series, I’m excited for the second book “Dark Horse” to find what Kelley York has planned next!
His best friend Jasper Rees resides at Madam Beatrice’s, Sun & Stars brothel. Jasper is always willing to give Lucas a place to stay and meets with him often at the Rusty Duck for ale and food. The Rusty Duck is a known pub where men of like proclivities come for drink, food and to meet other men. Lucas isn’t very good at meeting others, but he spies a gentlemen who seems out of place for the Rusty Duck. When the man leaves his table, it’s a way for Lucas to get a free meal as the man has left his dinner. But Lucas has a change of heart. He decides to follow the well-to-do gentleman and tries to proposition him, which he’s not very good at.
Dr. Henry Glass is in his early forties. He’s built a wall around his heart and has regrets that lead him to the Rusty Duck, a place that he avoided. But his need to drown his sorrow and loneliness had him seeking out company. He just found he couldn’t do it and left. He knows he’s being followed and confronts the young man, who tries to proposition him in the alley. After a conversation Henry gives the young man his card and a possibility of work.
Lucas has all types of worries to face. What has happened to Jasper? Will Lucas take that chance and go to the hospital and meet Henry? Is he ready to take on the work that Henry asks him to perform and face the danger that comes with it. What of the confusing emotions between Henry and Lucas?
Kelley York creates an entertaining novella with: a little suspense, danger, friendship, humor and love in “Glass Castles”. The novella is well written and a very easy read that reflects 19th century Victorian London. The author brings to life two men from opposite worlds, Henry Glass and Lucas Walker. The gradual relationship that grows between them is filled with anxiety and mixed messages as they both have the same need.
Besides Henry and Lucas the author has created some very likable secondary characters that brighten the story: Jasper, who is adorable and unique; Daniel Barker, who is very smart in his own way and deals with an illness; Theseus Blackthorne, the bold attorney and has his eye on Daniel, Frederick, butler/footman for Mr. Glass; and Madeline McCormick, a lady of the brothel.
“Glass Castles” is an enjoyable read and I highly recommend it. As I’m really invested in the “Resurrectionists” series, I’m excited for the second book “Dark Horse” to find what Kelley York has planned next!
February 18, 2024
While the story had some elements that made it unique, those elements didn't play as big of a role as I wanted them to and the romance was lackluster.
I enjoyed the author's efforts at historical authenticity when it came to the general atmosphere but there were also some elements that I didn't like. Specifically, the author incorporated a lot of different topics into the story and some of them (Lucas getting blacklisted for organizing a strike in a factory, Henry's always-correct 21st-century medical views) felt like they were crammed in purely to show off how progressive the characters are. Henry was already a boring character anyway so having him be The Perfect Doctor while other doctors around him fell short made him even more boring. The strike thing had zero impact on the story and was info dumped about in the final chapters, which was pointless.
But my biggest gripe was the dialog, which was anachronistic and American. Characters frequently used modern phrases that weren't used in the 1800s and in fact, aren't British at all (ex. 'chickened out' and 'up shit creek') and Jasper decided that 'Lu' was a good nickname for Lucas, which is cringe on multiple levels. But the issue of using Americanized modern wording wasn't only restricted to idioms. Calling places 'joints', using the word 'stuff' and referring to streets as 'blocks' shows that the author made no effort to learn how to Brit-pick her own work even slightly, despite the fact that there are dozens of free online resources that authors can consult. The author also committed my personal pet peeve very frequently - having characters using modern profanity and in particular, having characters use the word fuck in all its modern variations (ex. Are you fucking with me? Fuck that. The fuck? Fuck off. Fucker got away.). It's lazy, it's anachronistic and I hate it because it constantly destroyed my immersion.
Another issue was that the book's marketing seems to emphasize the creepy nature of the premise (Lucas being hired to be a body-snatcher) and that dark vibe is what attracted me to the story. Unfortunately, there's nothing dark or creepy about the story after the first body-snatching scene. The rest of the body-snatching scenes are kept very vague and/or off page and the author bends over backwards to have every single character agree that digging up bodies to use for medical research is no big deal. Whether I agree with it or not is irrelevant but my issue was that there was no variation between characters' views on it. Lucas' best friend Jasper is the only one to express misgivings about it and it's due to safety concerns. It was very odd that the premise focused on a morally grey practice, yet that grey aspect of it was never explored. There were also some odd plot holes, like the author not revealing what Henry does with the bodies once he's finished working with them. The author does that annoying thing where she has a character wonder about a plot hole without ever filling it, which always leave me flabbergasted. If you know the plot hole is there, why didn't you address it?? The answer to that question would have added some much needed characterization to Mr. Henry-The-Bland-One and explored the moral issues of the story a bit more.
Lastly, the romance was lackluster and it's because the author was clearly more interested in the side characters and those side characters' relationships with the MCs rather than the MCs' romance. Henry Glass was a very boring character, which wasn't helped by his Gary Stu medical abilities and his infrequent POV chapters (which meant we had little chance to get to know him). In addition, the only reason the MCs don't get together until near the end is because the author uses the boring old miscommunication trope, followed by the lack-of-communication trope (complete with Lucas literally running away multiple times to avoid talking to Henry and Henry using his shyness as an excuse to keep his mouth shut). I got bored of that by the one-third mark so having it stretch out for nearly the entire story was annoying. Instead of pacing the romance in a more interesting way, the author has the MCs spending tons of time with side characters or spending time together while dealing with issues related to the side characters. I really liked all the side characters and I'm going to read Book 2 (which focuses on Daniel and Theseus), but that made this book's romance even more boring and lackluster.
To the author's credit, the final arc was intense and finally added much needed excitement to the narrative that had been moving way too slowly since the first body snatching event. Unfortunately, this arc only happened at 80%, it mostly involved side characters and the author made the odd decision to re-tell readers afterwards exactly what had transpired, step by step, as if we only have two brain cells. Like...no, you don't have to explain that side characters A through C became involved in the situation if we all saw characters A through C be present at the situation earlier. It was a very odd way to end the story and made the pacing grind to a halt again.
Despite not being overly impressed with this story and knowing that the author's lack of attention to historical and British detail will likely continue, I'm going to check out Book 2. I did like the characters who will feature in that one because they were a lot more interesting than Henry and reviews indicate that the second book is a lot more romance centric. That being said, Book 2 is a re-telling of Book 1 from Daniel's POV and multiple reviews warn that the book feels lackluster if it's read too soon after Book 1 so I'm going to put the second book on my TBR and wait a few months before trying it.
I enjoyed the author's efforts at historical authenticity when it came to the general atmosphere but there were also some elements that I didn't like. Specifically, the author incorporated a lot of different topics into the story and some of them (Lucas getting blacklisted for organizing a strike in a factory, Henry's always-correct 21st-century medical views) felt like they were crammed in purely to show off how progressive the characters are. Henry was already a boring character anyway so having him be The Perfect Doctor while other doctors around him fell short made him even more boring. The strike thing had zero impact on the story and was info dumped about in the final chapters, which was pointless.
But my biggest gripe was the dialog, which was anachronistic and American. Characters frequently used modern phrases that weren't used in the 1800s and in fact, aren't British at all (ex. 'chickened out' and 'up shit creek') and Jasper decided that 'Lu' was a good nickname for Lucas, which is cringe on multiple levels. But the issue of using Americanized modern wording wasn't only restricted to idioms. Calling places 'joints', using the word 'stuff' and referring to streets as 'blocks' shows that the author made no effort to learn how to Brit-pick her own work even slightly, despite the fact that there are dozens of free online resources that authors can consult. The author also committed my personal pet peeve very frequently - having characters using modern profanity and in particular, having characters use the word fuck in all its modern variations (ex. Are you fucking with me? Fuck that. The fuck? Fuck off. Fucker got away.). It's lazy, it's anachronistic and I hate it because it constantly destroyed my immersion.
Another issue was that the book's marketing seems to emphasize the creepy nature of the premise (Lucas being hired to be a body-snatcher) and that dark vibe is what attracted me to the story. Unfortunately, there's nothing dark or creepy about the story after the first body-snatching scene. The rest of the body-snatching scenes are kept very vague and/or off page and the author bends over backwards to have every single character agree that digging up bodies to use for medical research is no big deal. Whether I agree with it or not is irrelevant but my issue was that there was no variation between characters' views on it. Lucas' best friend Jasper is the only one to express misgivings about it and it's due to safety concerns. It was very odd that the premise focused on a morally grey practice, yet that grey aspect of it was never explored. There were also some odd plot holes, like the author not revealing what Henry does with the bodies once he's finished working with them. The author does that annoying thing where she has a character wonder about a plot hole without ever filling it, which always leave me flabbergasted. If you know the plot hole is there, why didn't you address it?? The answer to that question would have added some much needed characterization to Mr. Henry-The-Bland-One and explored the moral issues of the story a bit more.
Lastly, the romance was lackluster and it's because the author was clearly more interested in the side characters and those side characters' relationships with the MCs rather than the MCs' romance. Henry Glass was a very boring character, which wasn't helped by his Gary Stu medical abilities and his infrequent POV chapters (which meant we had little chance to get to know him). In addition, the only reason the MCs don't get together until near the end is because the author uses the boring old miscommunication trope, followed by the lack-of-communication trope (complete with Lucas literally running away multiple times to avoid talking to Henry and Henry using his shyness as an excuse to keep his mouth shut). I got bored of that by the one-third mark so having it stretch out for nearly the entire story was annoying. Instead of pacing the romance in a more interesting way, the author has the MCs spending tons of time with side characters or spending time together while dealing with issues related to the side characters. I really liked all the side characters and I'm going to read Book 2 (which focuses on Daniel and Theseus), but that made this book's romance even more boring and lackluster.
To the author's credit, the final arc was intense and finally added much needed excitement to the narrative that had been moving way too slowly since the first body snatching event. Unfortunately, this arc only happened at 80%, it mostly involved side characters and the author made the odd decision to re-tell readers afterwards exactly what had transpired, step by step, as if we only have two brain cells. Like...no, you don't have to explain that side characters A through C became involved in the situation if we all saw characters A through C be present at the situation earlier. It was a very odd way to end the story and made the pacing grind to a halt again.
Despite not being overly impressed with this story and knowing that the author's lack of attention to historical and British detail will likely continue, I'm going to check out Book 2. I did like the characters who will feature in that one because they were a lot more interesting than Henry and reviews indicate that the second book is a lot more romance centric. That being said, Book 2 is a re-telling of Book 1 from Daniel's POV and multiple reviews warn that the book feels lackluster if it's read too soon after Book 1 so I'm going to put the second book on my TBR and wait a few months before trying it.
August 12, 2025
This was such a beautifully written story. Incredibly immersive, it perfectly took me back to the time of graverobbers, gas lamps, and horse drawn carriages.
I adored every character and their relationships with one another.
This may have been my first read of Kelley York's, but it will not be my last.
I adored every character and their relationships with one another.
This may have been my first read of Kelley York's, but it will not be my last.
June 26, 2024
This was very good. Good characters, great character arcs, interesting plot, and less gritty than I was expecting there near the end, which was better for my current mental state. :) I will give book 2 a try, which is a compliment. Also, I found just one (1) typo. Remarkable.
May 25, 2023
I have already read a couple of other books from the author and they were amazing. The dark is night series is among my absolute favourite books of all times. Being neurodivergent, I need to connect with the characters in order to really enjoy a story, but connection and emotional involvement with characters do not come easily for me. However, I have never had this issue with Kelley’s books, and was the same with the Glass Castle. Lucas and Henry were amazing persons with their own individual struggles in the past which just made it more fulfilling to watch as their relationship developed. Though it is not a thriller or gothic horror story, the atmosphere was satisfyingly ominous enough with the tension around ‘acquiring specimens’. As always, the side characters are very much likeable, especially Jasper who was absolutely adorable. Kelley writing is also amazing, with simple sentences she creates a flowing prose which other authors can not usually achieve even with flowery sentences. I can’t wait to read the next book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2023
I received a free copy of this book from Book Sprouts. This did not interfere with my review.
Glass Castles, by K. York, is a historical romance about two men who are able to find comfort in a rather morbidly cruel world. Lucas, a struggling ex-factory worker, propositions Dr. Henry Glass, who, miraculously enough, gives him a job that will help him get on his feet. Henry Glass is a renowned surgeon who needs bodies to conduct research on as a way to save patients’ lives. After meeting Lucas in a dark alleyway, Henry decides to hire him to procure corpses that he can use and later experiment on. As Lucas and Henry grow closer, tensions and misunderstandings arise that bring a morbid humor to an otherwise gothic romance.
I’m not going to lie; I thought this was going to be a lot darker than I thought. I absolutely love the idea of a surgeon falling in love with a grave robber. It illustrates the quote, “There is no life without death” beautifully. As a surgeon, Henry needs the practice, and Lucas was able to provide that practice. Granted, it’s rather dark, but their sexual orientation is already stigmatized, so what’s another sin? And in a way, the relationship between Lucas and Henry just fits; there’s no need for deception, no toxicity, no drama, aside from the very real threats of homophobia and, you know, being caught robbing graves. Even though there were times when it was a bit predictable, I still loved every minute of it.
I also just need to appreciate how soft Henry is. Despite his struggles, he goes out of his way for other men who have similar plights. He knows he’s privileged, and yet he’s choosing to use his money to help others who are struggling far worse than he is. He doesn’t take advantage of his employees, and is rather protective of his employees. Although he’s in the closet per easy, he still tries to help everyone else. Moreover, Lucas, in all his “I’m-an-independent-man”, is still able to go to Henry, not at all like Jasper or anyone else. He knows Henry is someone he can rely on, and this is one of the main cruxes of their relationship.
A lot of times, when writers are introducing death into a relationship, it’s like they need to incorporate obsession and violence into the mix. York has no need for that. She shows how aspects of life and death can intertwine in a way that’s oddly comforting. It reminds me of the remembrance ceremonies that medical schools would have, honoring those who have given up their bodies to either make advancements towards science, or to help students practice their craft; I feel it’s all summed up with Blackthorne’s logic. It’s a rather refreshing story, and almost reads like a fairytale. As such, I’m giving this book a 5 out of 5.
Glass Castles, by K. York, is a historical romance about two men who are able to find comfort in a rather morbidly cruel world. Lucas, a struggling ex-factory worker, propositions Dr. Henry Glass, who, miraculously enough, gives him a job that will help him get on his feet. Henry Glass is a renowned surgeon who needs bodies to conduct research on as a way to save patients’ lives. After meeting Lucas in a dark alleyway, Henry decides to hire him to procure corpses that he can use and later experiment on. As Lucas and Henry grow closer, tensions and misunderstandings arise that bring a morbid humor to an otherwise gothic romance.
I’m not going to lie; I thought this was going to be a lot darker than I thought. I absolutely love the idea of a surgeon falling in love with a grave robber. It illustrates the quote, “There is no life without death” beautifully. As a surgeon, Henry needs the practice, and Lucas was able to provide that practice. Granted, it’s rather dark, but their sexual orientation is already stigmatized, so what’s another sin? And in a way, the relationship between Lucas and Henry just fits; there’s no need for deception, no toxicity, no drama, aside from the very real threats of homophobia and, you know, being caught robbing graves. Even though there were times when it was a bit predictable, I still loved every minute of it.
I also just need to appreciate how soft Henry is. Despite his struggles, he goes out of his way for other men who have similar plights. He knows he’s privileged, and yet he’s choosing to use his money to help others who are struggling far worse than he is. He doesn’t take advantage of his employees, and is rather protective of his employees. Although he’s in the closet per easy, he still tries to help everyone else. Moreover, Lucas, in all his “I’m-an-independent-man”, is still able to go to Henry, not at all like Jasper or anyone else. He knows Henry is someone he can rely on, and this is one of the main cruxes of their relationship.
A lot of times, when writers are introducing death into a relationship, it’s like they need to incorporate obsession and violence into the mix. York has no need for that. She shows how aspects of life and death can intertwine in a way that’s oddly comforting. It reminds me of the remembrance ceremonies that medical schools would have, honoring those who have given up their bodies to either make advancements towards science, or to help students practice their craft; I feel it’s all summed up with Blackthorne’s logic. It’s a rather refreshing story, and almost reads like a fairytale. As such, I’m giving this book a 5 out of 5.
July 31, 2023
A soft, unexpected romance in a vivid historical setting. The story follows Lucas Walker, a down-on-his-luck former factory worker in desperate need of a job, and Henry Glass, a lonely surgeon longing for love but too afraid to reach for it. When in a moment of weakness Lucas propositions Henry in a dark alley, he gets summarily turned down. No surprise there, because Henry is much too conflicted to take Lucas up on his offer. Still, Henry's habit of picking up strays kicks in without a hitch, which is how Lucas ends up instead with a job as a resurrectionist and growing attraction to the quiet, caring man who never hesitates to offer help and affection, but retreats behind his castle walls every time someone gets too close to his heart.
I liked how the author handled the pretty grim reality of living in Victorian London while poor and queer to boot, not avoiding the painful truths but also not allowing the hard issues to overshadow the romance arc. And despite the truly Dickensian imagery of working-class living conditions the overall impression is, rather surprisingly, far from bleak. There's a sense of—maybe not found family, but certainly tight community, a strong safety net of relationships the characters have built over time which will support them if something goes wrong.
The characters are definitely a strong point of this story, the side ones as much as the protagonists. It's an interesting mix of people coming from different worlds and different backgrounds, connected by their queer orientation, but also common decency and selfless willingness to help someone in need. I liked Lucas and Henry slowly navigating their way to a relationship past the age gap, the difference in social standing and their past experiences, but more interesting to me was the dynamic between Daniel and Theseus. Great job on setting up the sequel, I'm definitely looking forward to their story. I'm also hoping that Jasper will get a book too, that's one cinnamon roll who absolutely deserves a HEA.
By the way, it's a novella, so obviously on the shorter side, but for me it didn't feel too short or rushed. While there's certainly potential to continue the story, this is the how-they-got-together part of Lucas and Henry's romance and it got wrapped up rather nicely. A good read for fans of historical love stories with some spooky vibes.
ARC provided by the author, I have chosen to read and write an honest review.
I liked how the author handled the pretty grim reality of living in Victorian London while poor and queer to boot, not avoiding the painful truths but also not allowing the hard issues to overshadow the romance arc. And despite the truly Dickensian imagery of working-class living conditions the overall impression is, rather surprisingly, far from bleak. There's a sense of—maybe not found family, but certainly tight community, a strong safety net of relationships the characters have built over time which will support them if something goes wrong.
The characters are definitely a strong point of this story, the side ones as much as the protagonists. It's an interesting mix of people coming from different worlds and different backgrounds, connected by their queer orientation, but also common decency and selfless willingness to help someone in need. I liked Lucas and Henry slowly navigating their way to a relationship past the age gap, the difference in social standing and their past experiences, but more interesting to me was the dynamic between Daniel and Theseus. Great job on setting up the sequel, I'm definitely looking forward to their story. I'm also hoping that Jasper will get a book too, that's one cinnamon roll who absolutely deserves a HEA.
By the way, it's a novella, so obviously on the shorter side, but for me it didn't feel too short or rushed. While there's certainly potential to continue the story, this is the how-they-got-together part of Lucas and Henry's romance and it got wrapped up rather nicely. A good read for fans of historical love stories with some spooky vibes.
ARC provided by the author, I have chosen to read and write an honest review.
July 17, 2023
Thanks to Booksprout for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed York's "Dark is the Night" series so I was excited to see that they were releasing a new historical MM romance series, especially with adult characters and resurrectionists (body snatchers) in 19th century London as the subject.
Lucas is down on his luck after being part of a work-related protest for better conditions at the factory he worked at. The riot was quelled and Lucas was made an example of, now not able to find work anywhere in the East end. He also happens to be a homosexual, still a strongly-enforced crime in the UK at this time. However, he spends a lot of time in what is understood to be a gay bar with a known gay prostitute, his best friend Jasper. One hungry night when Lucas isn't sure if he's going to be able to eat any time soon or where he's going to sleep, he spots an unusually nicely dressed gentlemen at the bar and decides to test his luck and maybe get a warm bed to sleep in afterwards. The gentlemen turns out to be Dr. Henry Glass, a surgeon, who turns him down but instead offers him work helping to provide his medical practice with cadavers, a roaring trade of the time.
While Henry turned down Lucas, he was actually very interested in Lucas and using the cover of periodic employment, he spends as much time with Lucas as he can. They form a friendship and then more over time.
York is very good at creating an atmosphere and realistic dialogue and situations. The drama here, Lucas being caught during one of their late-night jobs in a cemetery, is a catalyst that makes Henry finally admit his feelings for Lucas rather than being the main point of the plot. The romance is very much in the forefront. I didn't dislike any of the characters and I look forward to learning more about them in the subsequent books, as it looks like each book will focus on a different couple/characters.
I really enjoyed York's "Dark is the Night" series so I was excited to see that they were releasing a new historical MM romance series, especially with adult characters and resurrectionists (body snatchers) in 19th century London as the subject.
Lucas is down on his luck after being part of a work-related protest for better conditions at the factory he worked at. The riot was quelled and Lucas was made an example of, now not able to find work anywhere in the East end. He also happens to be a homosexual, still a strongly-enforced crime in the UK at this time. However, he spends a lot of time in what is understood to be a gay bar with a known gay prostitute, his best friend Jasper. One hungry night when Lucas isn't sure if he's going to be able to eat any time soon or where he's going to sleep, he spots an unusually nicely dressed gentlemen at the bar and decides to test his luck and maybe get a warm bed to sleep in afterwards. The gentlemen turns out to be Dr. Henry Glass, a surgeon, who turns him down but instead offers him work helping to provide his medical practice with cadavers, a roaring trade of the time.
While Henry turned down Lucas, he was actually very interested in Lucas and using the cover of periodic employment, he spends as much time with Lucas as he can. They form a friendship and then more over time.
York is very good at creating an atmosphere and realistic dialogue and situations. The drama here, Lucas being caught during one of their late-night jobs in a cemetery, is a catalyst that makes Henry finally admit his feelings for Lucas rather than being the main point of the plot. The romance is very much in the forefront. I didn't dislike any of the characters and I look forward to learning more about them in the subsequent books, as it looks like each book will focus on a different couple/characters.
July 29, 2023
OMG! This is so incredibly clever!! An historically silenced narrative being voiced! I absolutely love it and want to rave about it forever!
I'm sure you're well aware that homosexuality in the Victorian era was a heavily silenced narrative due to the
social, cultural, and legal attitudes of the time.
Then homosexuality was considered immoral, unnatural, and a criminal offense under British law (a law which, I believe, only changed in the early 1960s). Subsequently, there's a significant scarcity of explicit references to homosexuality in Victorian literature. Hence my excitement at reading this brilliant, well paced, thoroughly researched and oh, so beautiful, love story!
Everything here is historical perfection: the secret worlds many LGBTQ+ individuals were forced to inhabit, the suppression of true identities, the living fear of detection and persecution. All wrapped neatly into a fascinating story of resurrectionists and the surgeon they supply. This story is ripe with Dickensian imagery, pitch perfect characters, fierce friendships and so many feels bubbling under the surface that you actually shout yes! when Lucas and Henry finally become lovers.
In short, this is a fantastic representation of what it must have been like to live a queer life in Victorian London. The oppresion and silencing of their narrative is plainly witnessed in Henry and Lucas's lives, Lucas's imprisonment and trial, and in all their friends lives. An utterly spellbinding read, as gritty as it is breathtakingly beautiful! A total must read!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I'm sure you're well aware that homosexuality in the Victorian era was a heavily silenced narrative due to the
social, cultural, and legal attitudes of the time.
Then homosexuality was considered immoral, unnatural, and a criminal offense under British law (a law which, I believe, only changed in the early 1960s). Subsequently, there's a significant scarcity of explicit references to homosexuality in Victorian literature. Hence my excitement at reading this brilliant, well paced, thoroughly researched and oh, so beautiful, love story!
Everything here is historical perfection: the secret worlds many LGBTQ+ individuals were forced to inhabit, the suppression of true identities, the living fear of detection and persecution. All wrapped neatly into a fascinating story of resurrectionists and the surgeon they supply. This story is ripe with Dickensian imagery, pitch perfect characters, fierce friendships and so many feels bubbling under the surface that you actually shout yes! when Lucas and Henry finally become lovers.
In short, this is a fantastic representation of what it must have been like to live a queer life in Victorian London. The oppresion and silencing of their narrative is plainly witnessed in Henry and Lucas's lives, Lucas's imprisonment and trial, and in all their friends lives. An utterly spellbinding read, as gritty as it is breathtakingly beautiful! A total must read!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 23, 2023
Interesting story about resurrectionists in the 1800s. I’ve never read period pieces so I wasn’t sure what to expect. Henry offers Lucas a job after Lucas propositions him in an alley because he is desperate for any kind of work. I would be interested to know if the laws in this book were true for the time.
I liked the all the characters in the book, but especially the supporting characters. I really hope that Jasper gets his own story and HEA, I am super interested in his backstory. I am also interested in Daniel and Theseus’ story.
I was a bit disappointed in Henry and Lucas’ relationship overall. During the story you can feel the frustration from Lucas regarding Henry’s hesitance. And I didn’t quite understand Henry’s stance until I sat with it for a bit and thought about his position in society and the laws against ‘sodomites’ at the time and what that could mean to people. But Lucas is able to break through his walls so he is able to start living again. My disappointment comes from their lack of a connection. I honestly felt more connection between Theseus and Daniel who were barely on page together. Maybe their relationship can be described more as longing, as that’s what the majority of this book was.
Either way I still thought this book was interesting and I still want to read the next one. I am hopeful that Jasper gets his own book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I liked the all the characters in the book, but especially the supporting characters. I really hope that Jasper gets his own story and HEA, I am super interested in his backstory. I am also interested in Daniel and Theseus’ story.
I was a bit disappointed in Henry and Lucas’ relationship overall. During the story you can feel the frustration from Lucas regarding Henry’s hesitance. And I didn’t quite understand Henry’s stance until I sat with it for a bit and thought about his position in society and the laws against ‘sodomites’ at the time and what that could mean to people. But Lucas is able to break through his walls so he is able to start living again. My disappointment comes from their lack of a connection. I honestly felt more connection between Theseus and Daniel who were barely on page together. Maybe their relationship can be described more as longing, as that’s what the majority of this book was.
Either way I still thought this book was interesting and I still want to read the next one. I am hopeful that Jasper gets his own book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 29, 2023
This is a gem of a story, beautifully shaped with a variety of interesting facets. There’s the care and nuance with which Victorian London takes shape – there’s enough historical detail to give context but not to overwhelm, and it’s easy to see how the characters are products of their time and place. Speaking of characters, there’s a lot to like in both Henry and Lucas as protagonists (and some interesting supporting characters as well, who often get the chance to shine in their own ways). I loved Lucas from the start: there’s such a core of earnestness and integrity to him, and a strength that shines through in moments both large and small. Henry I found easy to empathize with, even if at times his choices were a bit frustrating. The dichotomy between their perspectives and life experiences feels stark but not, ultimately, insurmountable. As a final note, I’ll give props to the plot for being immersive and keeping me invested– I won’t spoil the details, but the tl;dr for this review is that I think this story is well worth checking out.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 11, 2023
Glass Castles is a sweet, slightly melancholy, engaging read.
You really can't help but want both main characters, Lucas and Henry, to find their happily ever after. They've both been through a lot in life, and Lucas in particular has had to deal with more than he should have for one so young.
There was a bit of back and forth, as Henry fought his attraction to Lucas, but it didn't take him too ling to realize they were meant to be.
Along with the romance there was a little suspense and intrigue, due to the bodysnatching aspect of the story. I liked that the very straight-laced doctor was involved in a bit of seediness, but that he did it for good.
For a fairly quick read Kelley York does a fantastic job with the world building, but I wouldn't have expected any less after having read some of her other books. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!
You really can't help but want both main characters, Lucas and Henry, to find their happily ever after. They've both been through a lot in life, and Lucas in particular has had to deal with more than he should have for one so young.
There was a bit of back and forth, as Henry fought his attraction to Lucas, but it didn't take him too ling to realize they were meant to be.
Along with the romance there was a little suspense and intrigue, due to the bodysnatching aspect of the story. I liked that the very straight-laced doctor was involved in a bit of seediness, but that he did it for good.
For a fairly quick read Kelley York does a fantastic job with the world building, but I wouldn't have expected any less after having read some of her other books. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series!
July 31, 2023
Accepting His Proposition
‘Oh, Lord, there was something about the way his name sounded on Henry’s lips that made his knees weak every damned time. He closed his eyes, breathed deep, and pressed his cheek against one of those hands.’
Kelley York’s Glass Castles was a delightful historical MM romance to read. Readers will adore Lucas and Henry’s love story.
Young Lucas, starving and at his breaking point, connects with a a distinguished man, his senior by at least a decade, and propositions him.
From that brief encounter, a unique friendship is born, although each is smitten with the other.
Delightful read!
‘Oh, Lord, there was something about the way his name sounded on Henry’s lips that made his knees weak every damned time. He closed his eyes, breathed deep, and pressed his cheek against one of those hands.’
Kelley York’s Glass Castles was a delightful historical MM romance to read. Readers will adore Lucas and Henry’s love story.
Young Lucas, starving and at his breaking point, connects with a a distinguished man, his senior by at least a decade, and propositions him.
From that brief encounter, a unique friendship is born, although each is smitten with the other.
Delightful read!
October 7, 2023
I gobbled this up in a single sitting (until 5am! I didn't mean to)
Kelley York is quickly becoming a favorite. A mildly gruesome subject, but you never see the gore. It's a fun little story, i don't know why it's not better known.
Poor/Rich
Age gap (early 20s/late 30s)
Some spice, but not much
Bi/gay
Supportive friends
Victorian London
I learned some things about body snatching. Like... It wasn't technically illegal??
Triggers: brief mentions of dead bodies, surgery, an off-screen assault of a supporting character, and the expected societal homophobia of the time period.
Kelley York is quickly becoming a favorite. A mildly gruesome subject, but you never see the gore. It's a fun little story, i don't know why it's not better known.
Poor/Rich
Age gap (early 20s/late 30s)
Some spice, but not much
Bi/gay
Supportive friends
Victorian London
I learned some things about body snatching. Like... It wasn't technically illegal??
Triggers: brief mentions of dead bodies, surgery, an off-screen assault of a supporting character, and the expected societal homophobia of the time period.
August 1, 2023
Lucas can't find a job in any of the factories in London because he tried to get better wages for the workers. Henry is a surgeon and when Lucas offers him sex for money, he offers him a job as a grave robber instead. Lucas has feelings for Henry but Henry keeps pushing him away. When Lucas gets arrested, Henry realizes he will do anything to get Lucas back. I really enjoyed this book.
June 1, 2023
Great historical romance!! Very elegantly written and wonderfully intriguing MCs! Lucas and Henry have captured my heart. Loved the original storyline and setting—spooky and definitely not without danger, what with the whole resurrectionist thing!
August 3, 2023
J'ai adoré l'ambiance et les personnages, impossible de le poser avant d'en connaitre les tenants et les aboutissants.
17/20 - https://www.leslecturesdemylene.com/2...
17/20 - https://www.leslecturesdemylene.com/2...
September 3, 2023
Liked this but didn't love it. Will read the sequel
February 6, 2025
Cute story and loveable characters. Entertaining
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews