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Merrick #1
Merrick
New York, 1799: the future looks bright for the charming young book dealer William Lacy, until a raucous night of drinking lands him in shackles. He narrowly avoids the brutal prison system thanks to his mother, who negotiates with the judge to secure him a five year apprenticeship in lieu of a prison sentence. And so William finds himself in a carriage bound for the remote woods upstate, where he'll spend the next years of his life learning a new trade under some old master.
When he first sees Merrick, William thinks he's been dropped into a medieval horror story. Tall and gruff, dressed in a hooded robe that completely conceals his features, and riding a black mare, Merrick might as well be the Grim Reaper.
But appearances are deceiving. An uncannily skilled apothecary and healer, Merrick proves to be a generous host and a gentle teacher, and William soon finds himself surprisingly comfortable in his new surroundings. Yet troubling mysteries Why does Merrick never show his face or hands? Why do his movements seem so young and sure beneath his robes? What lies within the cave behind the stone cottage?
Something unnatural is afoot. But most alarming by far is William's own reaction to his new master. For Merrick's strange charms are bewitching enough by day; but by night, in the darkness of the room and the bed they share, William finds himself entirely overwhelmed by desires he never imagined...
When he first sees Merrick, William thinks he's been dropped into a medieval horror story. Tall and gruff, dressed in a hooded robe that completely conceals his features, and riding a black mare, Merrick might as well be the Grim Reaper.
But appearances are deceiving. An uncannily skilled apothecary and healer, Merrick proves to be a generous host and a gentle teacher, and William soon finds himself surprisingly comfortable in his new surroundings. Yet troubling mysteries Why does Merrick never show his face or hands? Why do his movements seem so young and sure beneath his robes? What lies within the cave behind the stone cottage?
Something unnatural is afoot. But most alarming by far is William's own reaction to his new master. For Merrick's strange charms are bewitching enough by day; but by night, in the darkness of the room and the bed they share, William finds himself entirely overwhelmed by desires he never imagined...
207 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 25, 2012
33 people are currently reading
1326 people want to read
About the author
Claire Cray
21 books180 followersClaire Cray writes M/M Romance featuring hot, complicated men in weird situations. Offbeat and character-driven with a Gothic bent, her work is often described as atmospheric and a little strange.
Born and raised in the rural Pacific Northwest, Claire takes inspiration from its wild, moody vibes. Her stories often combine vivid natural settings with steamy sensuality and psychological drama.
Claire lives, writes, and independently publishes in Portland, Oregon, USA.
Born and raised in the rural Pacific Northwest, Claire takes inspiration from its wild, moody vibes. Her stories often combine vivid natural settings with steamy sensuality and psychological drama.
Claire lives, writes, and independently publishes in Portland, Oregon, USA.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
November 10, 2015
let me bathe you, and then go wait for me in my bed.
despite a few structural flaws (the absence of a plot, a shockingly abrupt ending, at least five unresolved threads by my count), this book remains a spectacular example of paranormal diddle-porn with delicious bath-fetish sauce.
in other words, what it lacks in formality it makes up for in sheer loveliness and what i can only describe as an unnatural ability to make me horny as fuck.
seriously.
the woman knows how to write a sensual bathing/undressing/fondling scene, ok?
add in a magic bathtub that never needs filling or emptying, an enormous bed to lie awake in gorgeously pining next to your suuuuuuuuper-hot and absurdly kind master, plus what had to have been the most incineratingly sexy necking scene i've read all year—well, what you have is a Julio Fap Incantation guaranteed to have me writhing in carnal discomfort until i can bear it no longer and where are the motherfucking tissues goddammit fuck the lube this is happening right now omg kitty i didn't mean to kick you off the bed i totally didn't see you sleeping there.
*gathers self with visible effort*
omg i wanna be a fucktoy renfield so. bad.
but yeah, a friend describes it as more of a character study than a novel, and she's right, but...
look at these sheets.
look at them.
*raises chin in challenge*
i do not care, mes amis.
bonus points for a fun homage to fop!lestat.
despite a few structural flaws (the absence of a plot, a shockingly abrupt ending, at least five unresolved threads by my count), this book remains a spectacular example of paranormal diddle-porn with delicious bath-fetish sauce.
in other words, what it lacks in formality it makes up for in sheer loveliness and what i can only describe as an unnatural ability to make me horny as fuck.
seriously.
the woman knows how to write a sensual bathing/undressing/fondling scene, ok?
add in a magic bathtub that never needs filling or emptying, an enormous bed to lie awake in gorgeously pining next to your suuuuuuuuper-hot and absurdly kind master, plus what had to have been the most incineratingly sexy necking scene i've read all year—well, what you have is a Julio Fap Incantation guaranteed to have me writhing in carnal discomfort until i can bear it no longer and where are the motherfucking tissues goddammit fuck the lube this is happening right now omg kitty i didn't mean to kick you off the bed i totally didn't see you sleeping there.
*gathers self with visible effort*
omg i wanna be a fucktoy renfield so. bad.
but yeah, a friend describes it as more of a character study than a novel, and she's right, but...
look at these sheets.
look at them.
*raises chin in challenge*
i do not care, mes amis.
bonus points for a fun homage to fop!lestat.
July 27, 2016
This is my first book about homosexual vampires (if we don't include Blay and Qhuinn).
But I had no idea it was about vampires. Or if I had, I totally forgot about it when I started this book. I just knew it was historical and I felt like reading something of this kind. Add that the prospect of a love story in a cabin far from the madding crowd and you have won me. The vampire issue was a little detail that ended up being the icing on the cake. I liked how the paranormal facet was treated, like it was just something natural, something intangible at first. And every time a mystery is answered, you only had more questions, because the initial interest turns into real attraction.
A perfect example is the appearance in which Merrick is introduced. We wears a cloak that hides everything in him. He looks like Death herself. Not even his hands are at sight, but covered by globes. His face is never shown. He induces respect in his charismatic and imposing demeanor. But he is deferent and kind with the apprentice he takes under his wing, William. it's undeniable the enigmatic character arises William's curiosity. And the little discoveries only intensifies his need to know. For instance, Merrick doesn't feel under the cloak like the old man he fools everybody else into believing.
William is not gay but he can't avoid feeling a pull towards his Master. His intern conflicts are well developed, and sometimes those same doubts and self-recriminations drives him to foolish decisions. He never made me roll my eyes and I even found him funny in those occasions, because he truly suffers at moments. Good thing Merrick is so patient, and so welcoming. But... is it as simple as it seems?
There is lots of UST, teasing, bath scenes, walks in the woods, finger itchings, delicious bites and pain of being far away, or not close enough. This story was a surprise because I didn't expect it. The premise as simple as it's effective. No excess of characters or plots, only the necessary components and disregarding as many components every time it was possible. Love stories should be this way, the way in which all the focus is on the MCs. Because that's the real challenge.
PS: If you want to see some funny gifs about vampires, go look my status updates :) .
But I had no idea it was about vampires. Or if I had, I totally forgot about it when I started this book. I just knew it was historical and I felt like reading something of this kind. Add that the prospect of a love story in a cabin far from the madding crowd and you have won me. The vampire issue was a little detail that ended up being the icing on the cake. I liked how the paranormal facet was treated, like it was just something natural, something intangible at first. And every time a mystery is answered, you only had more questions, because the initial interest turns into real attraction.
A perfect example is the appearance in which Merrick is introduced. We wears a cloak that hides everything in him. He looks like Death herself. Not even his hands are at sight, but covered by globes. His face is never shown. He induces respect in his charismatic and imposing demeanor. But he is deferent and kind with the apprentice he takes under his wing, William. it's undeniable the enigmatic character arises William's curiosity. And the little discoveries only intensifies his need to know. For instance, Merrick doesn't feel under the cloak like the old man he fools everybody else into believing.
William is not gay but he can't avoid feeling a pull towards his Master. His intern conflicts are well developed, and sometimes those same doubts and self-recriminations drives him to foolish decisions. He never made me roll my eyes and I even found him funny in those occasions, because he truly suffers at moments. Good thing Merrick is so patient, and so welcoming. But... is it as simple as it seems?
There is lots of UST, teasing, bath scenes, walks in the woods, finger itchings, delicious bites and pain of being far away, or not close enough. This story was a surprise because I didn't expect it. The premise as simple as it's effective. No excess of characters or plots, only the necessary components and disregarding as many components every time it was possible. Love stories should be this way, the way in which all the focus is on the MCs. Because that's the real challenge.
PS: If you want to see some funny gifs about vampires, go look my status updates :) .
December 25, 2012
I really enjoyed this MM paranormal romance. It was my first time reading a MM paranormal and I really got into it! I'll be reading more of those in the future for sure. I'm already a paranormal lover but add in my MM fetish and i'm HOOKED! It could have been more steamy for my taste (but that's just me) and maybe a bit longer but overall it was a solid 4 stars. I would write a better review but its Christmas Eve and I just wanted to jot down my thoughts before I forgot!
September 10, 2015
Written September 9, 2015
3 1/2 Stars - A very sweet historical vampire tale
I bought this historical M/M PNR on an impulse. Glad I did. Merrick is a sweet, unique feeling story and I really like the quiet phase, the romantic storyline and all over fairytale feeling. It will be more books written by Claire Cray in the future.
*********************************************************
When the judge decides that the young book dealer William Lacy must do a five year long apprenticeship in lieu of a prison sentence (drinking, a bar fight etc) there is just to leave Manhattan, NY for a far away small cottage and a life learning a new trade under an old master.
Mr Merrick is tall and gruff, dressed in a hooded robe that completely conceals his features, and riding a odd black mare. Merrick is for sure a bit scary and William has much to learn and discover.
*********************************************************
It started great, dragged a bit and ended nice and good. Maybe I lost a bit of it's magic when I didn't read and finish it at once. Anyway, a good tale. Recommended for fans of historical PNR. — “But how long can a wolf and a lamb share a bed?” — Read and learn.
I LIKE - fairytales - a hot blood-drinker add that extra
3 1/2 Stars - A very sweet historical vampire tale
I bought this historical M/M PNR on an impulse. Glad I did. Merrick is a sweet, unique feeling story and I really like the quiet phase, the romantic storyline and all over fairytale feeling. It will be more books written by Claire Cray in the future.
*********************************************************
When the judge decides that the young book dealer William Lacy must do a five year long apprenticeship in lieu of a prison sentence (drinking, a bar fight etc) there is just to leave Manhattan, NY for a far away small cottage and a life learning a new trade under an old master.
Mr Merrick is tall and gruff, dressed in a hooded robe that completely conceals his features, and riding a odd black mare. Merrick is for sure a bit scary and William has much to learn and discover.
‘I felt like I’d been whisked out of 1799 and dropped into some medieval peasant’s nightmare.
‘A moment of grim clarity hit me: I was bound hand and foot, being taken out of the city against my will by one vampire to be delivered to another, and I was trying to look for a bright side that involved Merrick opening his arms to me.
Christ, I was pathetic.’
*********************************************************
It started great, dragged a bit and ended nice and good. Maybe I lost a bit of it's magic when I didn't read and finish it at once. Anyway, a good tale. Recommended for fans of historical PNR. — “But how long can a wolf and a lamb share a bed?” — Read and learn.
I LIKE - fairytales - a hot blood-drinker add that extra
August 4, 2015
For the first half of the story there are only two characters, stuck in a cabin in the woods.
Not once did I feel bored or claustrophobic.
Another, minor, character joins in the second part, bringing such a presence with him, that I immediately feel like I need to read his story, too.
This is insta love for me.
More, please! :D
Not once did I feel bored or claustrophobic.
Another, minor, character joins in the second part, bringing such a presence with him, that I immediately feel like I need to read his story, too.
This is insta love for me.
More, please! :D
March 19, 2015
GFY historical romance with a frustrating amount of UST, like you UST up 'til the end with no resolution. That said the whole bored with immortality vampire and fresh ingenue apprentice was a sweet and fun read. I particularly liked the tie in with Seneca Indians even though it was merely a brief mention.
February 20, 2015
My hand stayed at his neck, toying with a tendril of his hair. And then, impulsively, I climbed into the coffin and lay on top of him.
One of the best paranormal romances I've read in a long time. This book was beautifully written and my only complaint is that it's too short. But hey, there is another book!
Young William has been wrongly convicted of a crime and rather than be sent to jail he is sent to a remote destination to be the new apothecary apprentice to Master Merrick. For the first time in his life William is breathing in fresh air, living on the edge of the forest in the little cottage he shares with Merrick. He enjoys being the apprentice to such a generous and patient Master and doesn't find it a hardship at all.
Merrick and William begin to hunger for each other and what follows is a breathtakingly beautiful slow burning romance. However all is not what it seems and Merrick soon trusts William enough to confide his startling secret!
One of the best paranormal romances I've read in a long time. This book was beautifully written and my only complaint is that it's too short. But hey, there is another book!
Young William has been wrongly convicted of a crime and rather than be sent to jail he is sent to a remote destination to be the new apothecary apprentice to Master Merrick. For the first time in his life William is breathing in fresh air, living on the edge of the forest in the little cottage he shares with Merrick. He enjoys being the apprentice to such a generous and patient Master and doesn't find it a hardship at all.
Merrick and William begin to hunger for each other and what follows is a breathtakingly beautiful slow burning romance. However all is not what it seems and Merrick soon trusts William enough to confide his startling secret!
February 23, 2015
4.5 Stars
Claire Cray’s Merrick completely swept me up into another world. I forgot the time, the day, and my worries and just read & read. Every moment between Silas Merrick and William Lacy held me captivated.
The year was 1799. The New World—New York City. Instead of prison, young William Lacy is sentenced to servitude after a night of drunken behavior. He is sentenced to five years as an apothecary’s apprentice in the wilderness with a man shrouded in mystery--Merrick. A man that will change William’s life forever.
”Nothing could have prepared me for how it felt to melt against him like this. It was as though my body had found its true purpose, and that was to be caught in Merrick’s arms and consumed.”
I wish I could explain how caught up I was in this story. Charmed and bewitched by the emotions. From peace to desire to confusion. And curiosity! I loved William’s curiosity and questions. Haha…So many questions. The power of this tale truly surprised me though. Big tears hitting the kindle snapped me out of a reading trance and made me see just how captivated these men, words, and world had me.
The woods and city moved with light and shadows, color and sounds. I could feel the dark eeriness of the woods and the warm, security of Merrick’s cabin and lean-to. William’s curiosity made every dandelion, mushroom, and emotion soar and shine. The emotions dazzled me! William’s heart especially. His warm blushes, openness, and fear of disappointing his Master coupled with Merrick’s air of secrecy, protectiveness, and belief in his “ghoulishness” created a powerful heat and aliveness on the page. It all felt so ALIVE to me. Every soft caress, “Sir”, whisper, nip and nibble made my own heart ache and hunger. The tension and desire between these two men is palpable. I savored every moment. I’ll shut up now. Just go read it! :)
Thanks, Em for introducing me to Merrick and William.
p.s. This line broke my heart…..
July 20, 2016
A few thoughts...
Well written story with a strong sense of time and place, the writing style setting the mood perfectly. And so much showing! The hunger, the need, the pleasure.
Appealing characters...the noble Merrick, the flustered but determined William, and Theo, the naughty rogue who worried about his friend.
A pleasure to read :)
Well written story with a strong sense of time and place, the writing style setting the mood perfectly. And so much showing! The hunger, the need, the pleasure.
Appealing characters...the noble Merrick, the flustered but determined William, and Theo, the naughty rogue who worried about his friend.
A pleasure to read :)
June 15, 2017
This is more like 3.5*
I wasn't aware this would be a book about vampires. I'd have preferred just the older master, younger apprentice scenario I envisioned when I bought this book. The story itself, or rather the story idea, was enchanting, though not written to its full capacity. Merrick and William were distinct and threedimensional characters I was and kept being interested in.
I had quite a few quibbles with the writing, like lots of repetitions which intruded in the flow of reading, more telling than showing, all put together this read like a story in the first edit still. But then it also was far better than many I read in the past months, so my wavering fell to the positive side, rather than going with 3* only, and I am sure this author will become much better as time goes by.
That's a lovely cover!
I will be looking for more of that author.
I wasn't aware this would be a book about vampires. I'd have preferred just the older master, younger apprentice scenario I envisioned when I bought this book. The story itself, or rather the story idea, was enchanting, though not written to its full capacity. Merrick and William were distinct and threedimensional characters I was and kept being interested in.
I had quite a few quibbles with the writing, like lots of repetitions which intruded in the flow of reading, more telling than showing, all put together this read like a story in the first edit still. But then it also was far better than many I read in the past months, so my wavering fell to the positive side, rather than going with 3* only, and I am sure this author will become much better as time goes by.
That's a lovely cover!
I will be looking for more of that author.
June 14, 2017
(4.25 stars)
decidedly less tentacles (none, in fact) than the last story i read by this author, but the vampires made up for it.
decidedly less tentacles (none, in fact) than the last story i read by this author, but the vampires made up for it.
January 27, 2013
I don't want to give any spoilers out about this story so it makes it a hard review to write but I will say this is a ' otherwordly ' tale as the synopsis hints at and for its price and for once decent length at 198 pages was surprisingly enjoyable and very well written in a style that suited its period - it is set in 1799 and the author captures its feel perfectly in the voice of its narrator and MC , William, a young 18 yr old ' Jack the Lad ' who manages to escape a jail sentence by being indentured to an apothecary and healer - Merrick - who lives out in the wilds and is himself a character of mystery and speculation. There is a Gothic feel about this book and its atmospheric but not too dark or dreary. The synopsis does a pretty good job of explaining the main premise so I'm not going to rehash the plot but it becomes pretty clear to both William and the reader that Merrick is not what he seems, some of his cures appear to be magical and the odd glimpses of him behind his hood and robes belie the age that William thinks he should be, all of this is part of the story's charm and attraction and keeps you glued to the book. I started a chapter in bed and ended up finishing it in the early hours as once started I couldn't put it down. Thank goodness it wasn't 390 pages!
What I loved about this was that Claire Cray stretches out the unvavailing of who Merrick is so there's time to see the relationship grow between the two main characters. The ST starts from the moment they meet and grows as William finds himself drawn more and more to Merrick sexually. Before they meet he has only had experiences with women so he can't understand his body's reaction to this mysterious man.
The best part of the story takes place when it is just the two of them ' discovering ' their feelings and Merricks secrets ( not hard to guess but she does have you wondering for a while! ) whilst they are at the cabin, afterwards it takes a slightly different turn - other characters are introduced and that is when I'm sure others will make comparisons to another well known set of paranormal books - the books title is a major clue. I did but personally I pushed that aside and just enjoyed this clever little tale and its paranormal twist, that was very nicely handled by a competent author who you can see put a lot of love into her characters and story and IMO it shows. I hope we get a sequel as I would love to read more about these two, there's definitely more to come and Theo - one of the other characters - has a lot of promise for his own book too. I'm definitely keeping this little gem. At .77p it's a must have!
What I loved about this was that Claire Cray stretches out the unvavailing of who Merrick is so there's time to see the relationship grow between the two main characters. The ST starts from the moment they meet and grows as William finds himself drawn more and more to Merrick sexually. Before they meet he has only had experiences with women so he can't understand his body's reaction to this mysterious man.
The best part of the story takes place when it is just the two of them ' discovering ' their feelings and Merricks secrets ( not hard to guess but she does have you wondering for a while! ) whilst they are at the cabin, afterwards it takes a slightly different turn - other characters are introduced and that is when I'm sure others will make comparisons to another well known set of paranormal books - the books title is a major clue. I did but personally I pushed that aside and just enjoyed this clever little tale and its paranormal twist, that was very nicely handled by a competent author who you can see put a lot of love into her characters and story and IMO it shows. I hope we get a sequel as I would love to read more about these two, there's definitely more to come and Theo - one of the other characters - has a lot of promise for his own book too. I'm definitely keeping this little gem. At .77p it's a must have!
October 4, 2015
Well, the ending totally took me by surprise. I was so immersed in the story, I didn't expect it to end so soon. I wanted to know more about the two MC and how their story would unfold.
What I disliked was the sudden finish . It makes for an interesting sequel but I would have liked to read more on them now. There was no adrenaline rush, no great mystery. And yet, you end up liking the characters and enjoying their story.
2nd Read: 4th October 2015
What I disliked was the sudden finish . It makes for an interesting sequel but I would have liked to read more on them now. There was no adrenaline rush, no great mystery. And yet, you end up liking the characters and enjoying their story.
2nd Read: 4th October 2015
December 11, 2013
Oh my oh my... William and Merrick's story is fantastic!
Don't miss it because:
*it's a self published book, but the quality is superb. I got many books published by (in theory) professional publishers that was not good as this book! And the price! Smashwords price, now, December 2013: 0.99$. Oh fuckingg yeah. I'm not kidding! Less than one dollar!!!! . less than one dollar for a book with higher quality of many I got paying 9 or more dollars! Yeah! I kid you not!
*It's a dark fantasy... I will not spoil it, but let's say it's not all fluffy bunnies walking around while people say "awwwwww". If there were fluffy bunnies probably Merrick would eat them. And don't feel guilt about it. At all. Get used to hear talks about killing someone as if it's the most normal and acceptable thing in the world. Merrick and Theo (Merrick's friend and VERY FUNNY secondary character) kill people... Many.. Countless. And... Yeah, it's ok in the story. Nothing gross or gore is show, but it's there in the plot.
* It's VERY romantic. If you don't like sappy stay away from this story
* In my view the historic facts are cool. I have no idea how precise they are, how historical correct is this book. I really don't care at all. It's a paranormal romance with incredible funny moments and a lot of weird stuff. That's what I know, and what I liked.
* William never stop calling Merrick Sir. That was fucking hot
:D
(no, no BDSM subplot. Wiliam just like to call his lover Sir... And yeah, I like it)
^_^
A lot
:o)
* I loooooove the end.
5 stars... And if someday more of their lives will be out I WILL get it. William and Merrick are a couple I will ALWAYS want to read more!
Don't miss it because:
*it's a self published book, but the quality is superb. I got many books published by (in theory) professional publishers that was not good as this book! And the price! Smashwords price, now, December 2013: 0.99$. Oh fuckingg yeah. I'm not kidding! Less than one dollar!!!! . less than one dollar for a book with higher quality of many I got paying 9 or more dollars! Yeah! I kid you not!
*It's a dark fantasy... I will not spoil it, but let's say it's not all fluffy bunnies walking around while people say "awwwwww". If there were fluffy bunnies probably Merrick would eat them. And don't feel guilt about it. At all. Get used to hear talks about killing someone as if it's the most normal and acceptable thing in the world. Merrick and Theo (Merrick's friend and VERY FUNNY secondary character) kill people... Many.. Countless. And... Yeah, it's ok in the story. Nothing gross or gore is show, but it's there in the plot.
* It's VERY romantic. If you don't like sappy stay away from this story
* In my view the historic facts are cool. I have no idea how precise they are, how historical correct is this book. I really don't care at all. It's a paranormal romance with incredible funny moments and a lot of weird stuff. That's what I know, and what I liked.
* William never stop calling Merrick Sir. That was fucking hot
:D
(no, no BDSM subplot. Wiliam just like to call his lover Sir... And yeah, I like it)
^_^
A lot
:o)
* I loooooove the end.
5 stars... And if someday more of their lives will be out I WILL get it. William and Merrick are a couple I will ALWAYS want to read more!
August 11, 2016
3.5 stars, rounded up for numerous sexy bathing scenes. :)
William is an eighteen-year-old who is indentured to Merrick as a punishment for a night of destructive drunkenness. He is a very sweet boy and finds himself both attracted to Merrick and ashamed of the attraction. (It doesn't help that Merrick seems to insist on touching him and bathing him a lot!) There is a nice unraveling of the mystery of what Merrick is, as well as a nice long section of UST. I enjoyed this and will check out other books by the author.
William is an eighteen-year-old who is indentured to Merrick as a punishment for a night of destructive drunkenness. He is a very sweet boy and finds himself both attracted to Merrick and ashamed of the attraction. (It doesn't help that Merrick seems to insist on touching him and bathing him a lot!) There is a nice unraveling of the mystery of what Merrick is, as well as a nice long section of UST. I enjoyed this and will check out other books by the author.
November 9, 2015
This was fun--for someone with a biting fetish, I don't actually read much vampire fiction, but I enjoyed this. Had a good time. :)
June 24, 2017
The quiet atmosphere and large spoonfuls of UST in Merrick were incredible...at first. Then the writing slowly began to grate; it was overwrought and gave me a "grandmotherly" vibe. A small example, a peer the young Mary Sue of a narrator described like this: "she was an endearing little thing, and I was glad she'd come by". And the dialogue was endlessly repetitive and stilted ("what's the matter?", "please forgive me", "does this frighten you?", "my desire", "his desire", "my desire", "forgive me"(x 20)). These things made me become aware of the plot and characters lacking substance.
Also, this has gotta be the most subdued and dull vampire I've ever read about. But I ought to be glad the dude at least didn't glitter in the sunshine.
Still, I was willing to give this 3 stars. Right until a meddling 3rd character was introduced near the end of the story, quite obviously because the author was clueless how to otherwise let the - by then ridiculously spun-out - pining of her passive characters result in some sort of fruition. And so the quiet story turned into a melodramatic soap-opera, that I couldn't wait to be done with, but that simultaneously managed to startle me by ending so suddenly and unsatisfyingly. Huh!
Also, this has gotta be the most subdued and dull vampire I've ever read about. But I ought to be glad the dude at least didn't glitter in the sunshine.
Still, I was willing to give this 3 stars. Right until a meddling 3rd character was introduced near the end of the story, quite obviously because the author was clueless how to otherwise let the - by then ridiculously spun-out - pining of her passive characters result in some sort of fruition. And so the quiet story turned into a melodramatic soap-opera, that I couldn't wait to be done with, but that simultaneously managed to startle me by ending so suddenly and unsatisfyingly. Huh!
December 26, 2012
I liked it quite a bit for a vampire story, which usually do nothing for me. I think it helped that the vampire wasn't the typical arrogant ass, and William wasn't a complete doormat. They had an interesting relationship, and I appreciate the love and respect I could see between the two. An enjoyable read.
September 19, 2020
3.5 stars
The writing is unpolished (I've never read so many exclamation points!), but yet had my attention for the whole story. A little disappointed in how much is still unknown. Communication is a problem with these MCs.
The writing is unpolished (I've never read so many exclamation points!), but yet had my attention for the whole story. A little disappointed in how much is still unknown. Communication is a problem with these MCs.
May 17, 2022
DNF @ 39%
My biggest issue is one that I should have foreseen but I decided to take a gamble (one that sadly backfired). I knew there would be a massive age gap between William and Merrick, but I wasn't prepared for William's immaturity. I felt bad for the poor guy because he's been through a lot and he's suddenly found himself living with a much older man who holds immense power over him and who William happens to be sexually attracted to. Given the massive power imbalance between them and how William comes across like a child who Merrick has to protect and look after, I kept getting father-son vibes from them instead of future lovers. Because of this, I felt Merrick's actions towards William were really inappropriate and could be interpreted as dub-con. If an older man who is in charge of a young, naïve person realizes the young person is sexually attracted to him, the correct response is to create distance and firm boundaries. Not make up some bullshit excuse to . Yuck.
But based on reviews, this type of dynamic was expected for this story and if that were my only problem, I wouldn't have rated it. However, I felt zero romantic chemistry between the characters (which I suppose is a good thing, given how I viewed their dynamic...?) and I couldn't understand what attracted Merrick to William, except for William being young, pretty and under Merrick's control.
Also - I was annoyed by William's 21st century views about everything around him. When he sees a woman struggling while giving birth, he suddenly develops a pro-choice view as if that was a normal view to jump to during the 1700s. When Merrick gives strong hints that he's a supernatural being (options including being the devil), William is perfectly fine with any of the dark creatures that Merrick could be.
The rest of the villagers were also 21st century Liberals living in a 1700s New England village. Women regularly come to Merrick for abortion medication, because that's how things definitely were back in the 1700s. And everybody respects and likes Merrick, a mysterious stranger who walks around dressed like a Wraith. I also rolled my eyes at the author pushing the 'First-Nations-Are-Mythical-Beings' thing by insisting that all First Nations people are into witchcraft and need to commune with nature as if they literally suck some type of energy from trees.
My biggest issue is one that I should have foreseen but I decided to take a gamble (one that sadly backfired). I knew there would be a massive age gap between William and Merrick, but I wasn't prepared for William's immaturity. I felt bad for the poor guy because he's been through a lot and he's suddenly found himself living with a much older man who holds immense power over him and who William happens to be sexually attracted to. Given the massive power imbalance between them and how William comes across like a child who Merrick has to protect and look after, I kept getting father-son vibes from them instead of future lovers. Because of this, I felt Merrick's actions towards William were really inappropriate and could be interpreted as dub-con. If an older man who is in charge of a young, naïve person realizes the young person is sexually attracted to him, the correct response is to create distance and firm boundaries. Not make up some bullshit excuse to . Yuck.
But based on reviews, this type of dynamic was expected for this story and if that were my only problem, I wouldn't have rated it. However, I felt zero romantic chemistry between the characters (which I suppose is a good thing, given how I viewed their dynamic...?) and I couldn't understand what attracted Merrick to William, except for William being young, pretty and under Merrick's control.
Also - I was annoyed by William's 21st century views about everything around him. When he sees a woman struggling while giving birth, he suddenly develops a pro-choice view as if that was a normal view to jump to during the 1700s. When Merrick gives strong hints that he's a supernatural being (options including being the devil), William is perfectly fine with any of the dark creatures that Merrick could be.
The rest of the villagers were also 21st century Liberals living in a 1700s New England village. Women regularly come to Merrick for abortion medication, because that's how things definitely were back in the 1700s. And everybody respects and likes Merrick, a mysterious stranger who walks around dressed like a Wraith. I also rolled my eyes at the author pushing the 'First-Nations-Are-Mythical-Beings' thing by insisting that all First Nations people are into witchcraft and need to commune with nature as if they literally suck some type of energy from trees.
July 29, 2016
3.5
The first half is wonderful, tender, hot and it manages to be all that without sex.
William is 'booked for public intoxication, breaking and entering, trespassing, vandalism, and attempted burglary.' Actually, he was drunk in the bushes the whole time, but he was the only one they caught. A real jinx. In order to avoid prison he was bound to serve as Merrick's apprentice for five years.
His reactions to Merrick are hilarious. William hasn't got a clue that he could be attracted to men until he meets Merrick. It is funny since William can't see the real Merrick under his robe and the hood.
Then, in the second half of the book and near the end, the story slows down. I loved the first part of the book while William is getting to know himself and Merrick.
The first half is wonderful, tender, hot and it manages to be all that without sex.
William is 'booked for public intoxication, breaking and entering, trespassing, vandalism, and attempted burglary.' Actually, he was drunk in the bushes the whole time, but he was the only one they caught. A real jinx. In order to avoid prison he was bound to serve as Merrick's apprentice for five years.
His reactions to Merrick are hilarious. William hasn't got a clue that he could be attracted to men until he meets Merrick. It is funny since William can't see the real Merrick under his robe and the hood.
'Something about the trace of his touch reminded me of a particularly scintillating morning with Miss Molly Wrigs a couple weeks before - and Lord, that was all shades of wrong! That wasn't the sort of memory that was meant to be associated with an old man's hands.'His inner turmoil and confusion is enough to feel sorry for the poor guy (and at the same time to laugh), especially when his unexpected feelings didn't just go away. The bathing scenes were particularly hot.
Then, in the second half of the book and near the end, the story slows down. I loved the first part of the book while William is getting to know himself and Merrick.
November 28, 2015
Thanks to Sheziss for putting this book all over my GR updates. As always, your book choice was spot on!
This isn't my first MM vampire story, but it's certainly my favorite from the bunch.
Set at the dust of the 18th century in New England, Cray creates a beautiful, intimate, and oddly believable, story about Merrick, a tortured centuries-old vampire ready to check out and his adorably pragmatic apprentice William who gives him a new lease on life.
Cohabiting such close quarters, the mentor- apprentice paradigm quickly shifts as William is embarrassed by the obvious attraction he feels towards the enigmatic what? witch? ghoul? devil?
He finds it hard to explain his body's reaction to another man, other than a mere question of 'circulation'. GFY galore!
Think less "Seattle vampires that glitter in the sunlight" and more "The tortured soulless undead who mourn their lack of mortality, Rice style".
I highly recommend this book to anyone who needs something a little different from their usual MM read.
March 18, 2015
This was quite good! It wasn't like most of the M/M vampire romances I've come across, it wasn't overly sappy and fluffy, it was atmospheric and a bit moody. The writing reminded me a bit of a certain other famous vampire author's (who I will NOT be mentioning here, thank you very much!) earlier work, in the tone and the style, with a bit of Meyer's self sacrificing vampire lead thrown into the mix.
Set in 1799 in New York, William is found guilty of drunk and disorderly and a few other things (most of which he didn't actually do!) and is sentenced to 5 years as an indentured servant. He is sent off to work for Merrick, a mysterious, elderly healer, who keeps his entire body and face covered at all times. He finds himself drawn to (and frightened of) his new master, who is very kind and patient with William.
I really enjoyed the world that Cray created here. It wasn't overly detailed, but descriptive enough that I could actually see the cabin that they lived in, and the foggy paths that they walked while picking herbs and helping people.
Slow and easy, I definitely recommend this to readers who enjoy a good vampire story, especially a historical set one.
Set in 1799 in New York, William is found guilty of drunk and disorderly and a few other things (most of which he didn't actually do!) and is sentenced to 5 years as an indentured servant. He is sent off to work for Merrick, a mysterious, elderly healer, who keeps his entire body and face covered at all times. He finds himself drawn to (and frightened of) his new master, who is very kind and patient with William.
I really enjoyed the world that Cray created here. It wasn't overly detailed, but descriptive enough that I could actually see the cabin that they lived in, and the foggy paths that they walked while picking herbs and helping people.
Slow and easy, I definitely recommend this to readers who enjoy a good vampire story, especially a historical set one.
January 1, 2015
★★★★☆
William is sentenced to indentured servitude after his friends went on a bout of vandalism and he was too drunk to run away. He's sent away and his mysterious employer wears a hood and is a bit scary.
As time passes, he begins to learn Merrick's apothecary and healing skills and to enjoy his time with Merrick although Merrick is still a mystery. Until the day William cuts himself.
Don't know if all the historical details were accurate but they were close enough for me, Theo was a good side character and the sexin' was pretty light although there was a sexy bathing scene .
Still, I enjoyed the story and wouldn't mind reading more about William and Merrick.
William is sentenced to indentured servitude after his friends went on a bout of vandalism and he was too drunk to run away. He's sent away and his mysterious employer wears a hood and is a bit scary.
As time passes, he begins to learn Merrick's apothecary and healing skills and to enjoy his time with Merrick although Merrick is still a mystery. Until the day William cuts himself.
Don't know if all the historical details were accurate but they were close enough for me, Theo was a good side character and the sexin' was pretty light although there was a sexy bathing scene .
Still, I enjoyed the story and wouldn't mind reading more about William and Merrick.
November 27, 2012
I feel like I just ate this wonderfully filling (but not overly so) meal, and I just want to sigh and sink into a comfortable, worn chair.
Reading this was like taking a long, relaxing stroll . It was just such a pleasant read.
The cover had me completely fooled.
Though the blurb didn't sound too bad, I was actually quite worried. And imagine how surprised I was. There's no angst, but never, not at even one tiny point, does it become boring. And the romance was such a gradual, heart-warming process. Not to mention the goddamn sexual tension.
-sigh-
I feel so satisfied.
Such a wonderful read!
Reading this was like taking a long, relaxing stroll . It was just such a pleasant read.
The cover had me completely fooled.
Though the blurb didn't sound too bad, I was actually quite worried. And imagine how surprised I was. There's no angst, but never, not at even one tiny point, does it become boring. And the romance was such a gradual, heart-warming process. Not to mention the goddamn sexual tension.
-sigh-
I feel so satisfied.
Such a wonderful read!
December 14, 2013
Reminders:
1. To-do-list add coffin fetish.
-Tasty morsel to sink some bucky-beavers into-
SO-Mad titillation. AND..Then.It.Stops..{hisssss-deflate}.
-.-
BUT-the best ride I've been on to date of the legendary Merrick. Just too short...
William.William.William...makes a heart yearn.
Theo.What.A.F'ing.Hoot.
1. To-do-list add coffin fetish.
-Tasty morsel to sink some bucky-beavers into-
“I thought my love was a comfort to you, sir,” I whispered, forgetting not to call him that. Slowly, I reached into the coffin and brushed a shining lock of hair from his smooth brow.
When he did not respond, I dropped my head with a sigh. My hand stayed at his neck, toying with a tendril of his hair. And then, impulsively, I climbed into the coffin and lay on top of him.
He shifted, startled, and put his hands to my waist.
“William.”
In a true act of boldness, I pulled the lid shut.
Then, catching his chin with my hand, I pressed my lips to his.
He softened beneath me for a moment, even moving his lips against mine, before he put his hands on my cheeks and pulled me back. “What are you doing?” he whispered.
I blinked in the perfect darkness. “Suppose I might need a quiet place to think, myself, sir.” I caught myself again. “Merrick.” I licked my lips, searching for his taste, and felt his cool breath upon them.
His hands moved down to my hips, squeezing gently. “It isn’t over, William.”
“What do you mean by that?” I shifted for a more comfortable position. There was enough room for me to settle my knees on either side of his legs.
One of his hands moved up beneath my shirt to stroke my spine. The other moved further around my hip and took a slow squeeze. “I will not turn you as easily as that. I will savor every moment of your mortal life. I will not rush to turn you just because of this ridiculous scheme.”
“If you say so,” I whispered, and felt my lips graze his. In the dark, it was hard to tell how close our faces were…but it was impossible to ignore how tightly our bodies fit together at the hip. My cheeks grew warm.
He kissed me again, softly, and then brushed his lips over my cheek. “Are you blushing?”
“Might be, sir.” Sir, again! That would be a hard habit to break, it seemed. And it wasn’t the only one. It seemed my body knew only one way to react when it met with his. In this position, there was no hiding it.
Nor was there reason to, it seemed. Merrick groaned softly beneath his breath and caught my lips for another kiss, and this time his mouth was insistent.
I melted against him as his hands roamed my body, squeezing and grasping. They worked themselves under my breeches and grabbed my buttocks, squeezing and kneading and grinding me against him as he rocked beneath me. I gasped against his mouth, and moaned when he plunged his tongue into mine and gave another slow, torturous roll of his hips that sent a shudder of need through my entire body.
SO-Mad titillation. AND..Then.It.Stops..{hisssss-deflate}.
-.-
BUT-the best ride I've been on to date of the legendary Merrick. Just too short...
William.William.William...makes a heart yearn.
Theo.What.A.F'ing.Hoot.
December 11, 2012
What a lovely gem of a vampire story. Concise and alluring with a splendidly timed build up to a truly romantic story, I loved it. Claire Cray has a gift for creating atmospheric environments and uses a charming first person narrative in the voice of one William Lacy.
Initially the sinister openings of chapters one and two are reminiscent of the traditional tale of Dracula. The heroic lead, William, appears in my mind's eye as the innocent Jonathan Harker, is enroute in a dark coach on a darker night to be left in the hands of a tall, ebony cloaked stranger on a black horse.
The hooded giant of a figure turns out to be Merrick, the supposed doctor that William will call Master until his penance for breaking the windows of a judge's home is completed. It seems William and his friends were out drinking on the 18th century's equivalent of boy's night out and got caught up in horseplay, as boy's often do. While his friends had the presence of mind to flee the scene of the crime, the drunken William is caught and takes the brunt of the blame.
And so the journey begins, a hooded master and his young charge in a lone stone cottage on isolated lands surrounded by a dank forest far from town. The story is slightly Gothic, with a sweet air of deeper mystery and is spiced with enchanting comic moments of youthful reasoning.
For example when William expresses his fear that his new master may be of the "beds boys" ilk, like the old blacksmith whom his friend has shared horror stories about. When those fears prove incorrect, but his own attraction to the mysterious man grows… well, he begins to think himself insane in a most hilarious and delightful manner.
Merrick is perfect as the tall, dark, mysterious stranger, revealing himself to be a caring, skilled and wise, gentle giant well before his cloak is removed to reveal his exquisite physical attributes.
Other characters enter the story in a timely fashion, most notably Merrick's fly-by-night friend Theo, who perhaps deserves a book of his own.
I found this book, sensual, sweet, romantic and yes, hot. I sure hope that the author is penning its sequel as I am eager to continue the extraordinary journey of Merrick and William. Very nice, totally caught me by surprise. Thank you, Claire, for your lovely writing.
Initially the sinister openings of chapters one and two are reminiscent of the traditional tale of Dracula. The heroic lead, William, appears in my mind's eye as the innocent Jonathan Harker, is enroute in a dark coach on a darker night to be left in the hands of a tall, ebony cloaked stranger on a black horse.
The hooded giant of a figure turns out to be Merrick, the supposed doctor that William will call Master until his penance for breaking the windows of a judge's home is completed. It seems William and his friends were out drinking on the 18th century's equivalent of boy's night out and got caught up in horseplay, as boy's often do. While his friends had the presence of mind to flee the scene of the crime, the drunken William is caught and takes the brunt of the blame.
And so the journey begins, a hooded master and his young charge in a lone stone cottage on isolated lands surrounded by a dank forest far from town. The story is slightly Gothic, with a sweet air of deeper mystery and is spiced with enchanting comic moments of youthful reasoning.
For example when William expresses his fear that his new master may be of the "beds boys" ilk, like the old blacksmith whom his friend has shared horror stories about. When those fears prove incorrect, but his own attraction to the mysterious man grows… well, he begins to think himself insane in a most hilarious and delightful manner.
Merrick is perfect as the tall, dark, mysterious stranger, revealing himself to be a caring, skilled and wise, gentle giant well before his cloak is removed to reveal his exquisite physical attributes.
Other characters enter the story in a timely fashion, most notably Merrick's fly-by-night friend Theo, who perhaps deserves a book of his own.
I found this book, sensual, sweet, romantic and yes, hot. I sure hope that the author is penning its sequel as I am eager to continue the extraordinary journey of Merrick and William. Very nice, totally caught me by surprise. Thank you, Claire, for your lovely writing.
October 21, 2015
Such sensuality in the writing. When I read my first piece by this author, I had the same thought. You get the sense that the words are chosen carefully, shaping everything towards a sensual awareness… gentle touches likened to silk rasping over skin, steamy baths in a cedar lean-to with lavender salt scrubs, lips ghosting over a delicate vein… Gah, what a feast. Who knew life in the country could be so sweet.
That’s where sweet William, nineteen, finds himself after being accused of a crime he didn’t commit. He’s indentured to Merrick, a mysteriously shrouded apothecary who works out of a country cottage. Quite a change from the bustling, hip streets of late-eighteenth century Manhattan.
I so enjoyed this. I think what held it back just a bit was William’s immediate physical reaction to Merrick. It seemed a little too quick, too easy. But then… it did feed into the whole ‘falling under the spell’ kind of thing which is common in this type of story . The seductive descent was wonderful. (A warning… it is a very slow burn.)
The author manages to bring something new and fresh to this well-worn corner of the paranormal read. Merrick is hot and seductive, but William winds his own spell, too. His falling for Merrick is so delicious, relentless and almost obsessive, all-encompassing. And we get to witness his every step. These two are at odds, though, innocence and awakening on one-hand, cynical world-weariness on the other. You wonder how they can find a common ground for their passion.
Then… there’s Theo, that foppish French fancy-boy who enters the scene to stir things up. Loved him and his pouting obnoxious meddling. And his championing of Merrick. He raised some interesting points in the story about keeping that spark burning in life and love. I’m hoping we get more of Theo in the next book in this series. And a deeper connection between Merrick and William; this story ends at their beginning.
November 26, 2015
Absolutely LOVED! The perfect mix of vampire lore, historical fiction and sexual tension. I didn't want it to end. Speaking of the ending, I know some people had issues with it, but I found it very fitting. Not everything has to be tied up with a pretty bow, complete with epilogue.
Read this if you're looking for something to curl up with and savor. It is not a sex scene filled romance, but something to enjoy at a slower pace. The language and subtle nuances will delight fans of historical romance.
Off to read more by this author.
Read this if you're looking for something to curl up with and savor. It is not a sex scene filled romance, but something to enjoy at a slower pace. The language and subtle nuances will delight fans of historical romance.
Off to read more by this author.
January 6, 2023
That was unexpectedly romantic. Like… wildly romantic. I’m actually kind of embarrassed that I’m gushing like a schoolgirl about how romantic Merrick is (both the character and the book) because it edged on sappy but dammit, I loved it 😳😅
So I’ve knocked one more book off my Kindle Unread Pile, but will be adding another because I NEED William, the sequel NOW.
Not KU but as far as I’m concerned, completely worth it!
4.35 stars
Happy New Year and happy reading my friends! Love and hugs y’all! 💛😘
So I’ve knocked one more book off my Kindle Unread Pile, but will be adding another because I NEED William, the sequel NOW.
Not KU but as far as I’m concerned, completely worth it!
4.35 stars
Happy New Year and happy reading my friends! Love and hugs y’all! 💛😘
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