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Midwinter Manor #1
Poacher's Fall
Midwinter Book One
One snowy night just before Christmas, 1922, poacher Danny Costessey rounds off a night trapping rabbits by climbing a tree to fetch some mistletoe for his mother—only to fall and break his leg. Taken to the manor house to recover from his injuries, Danny meets the reclusive owner, Philip Luccombe. Village gossip has it Luccombe went mad during the war, but Danny soon realizes he’s simply still mourning his late lover. As friendship grows between them, Danny starts to fall for handsome, shy Philip.
Danny’s lively nature, roguish good looks, and ready laughter enchant Philip, and he finds himself being drawn out of his shell whether he will it or not. But when Danny tries to move beyond friendship, Philip panics—and his rejection threatens not only their happiness, but Danny’s health.
Previously published as the short story Pleasures With Rough Strife in December 2009 by Dreamspinner Press.
One snowy night just before Christmas, 1922, poacher Danny Costessey rounds off a night trapping rabbits by climbing a tree to fetch some mistletoe for his mother—only to fall and break his leg. Taken to the manor house to recover from his injuries, Danny meets the reclusive owner, Philip Luccombe. Village gossip has it Luccombe went mad during the war, but Danny soon realizes he’s simply still mourning his late lover. As friendship grows between them, Danny starts to fall for handsome, shy Philip.
Danny’s lively nature, roguish good looks, and ready laughter enchant Philip, and he finds himself being drawn out of his shell whether he will it or not. But when Danny tries to move beyond friendship, Philip panics—and his rejection threatens not only their happiness, but Danny’s health.
Previously published as the short story Pleasures With Rough Strife in December 2009 by Dreamspinner Press.
65 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2009
5 people are currently reading
272 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Merrow
145 books1,324 followersJL Merrow is that rare beast, an English person who refuses to drink tea. She read Natural Sciences at Cambridge, where she learned many things, chief amongst which was that she never wanted to see the inside of a lab ever again. Her one regret is that she never mastered the ability of punting one-handed whilst holding a glass of champagne.
She writes across genres, with a preference for contemporary gay romance and the paranormal, and is frequently accused of humour. Her novella Muscling Through was a 2013 EPIC Award finalist, and her novel Slam! won the 2013 Rainbow Award for Best LGBT Romantic Comedy. Her novel Relief Valve is a finalist in the 2015 EPIC Awards.
JL Merrow is a member of the UK GLBTQ Fiction Meet organising team.
Find JL Merrow online at: www.jlmerrow.com, on Twitter as @jlmerrow, and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/jl.merrow
She writes across genres, with a preference for contemporary gay romance and the paranormal, and is frequently accused of humour. Her novella Muscling Through was a 2013 EPIC Award finalist, and her novel Slam! won the 2013 Rainbow Award for Best LGBT Romantic Comedy. Her novel Relief Valve is a finalist in the 2015 EPIC Awards.
JL Merrow is a member of the UK GLBTQ Fiction Meet organising team.
Find JL Merrow online at: www.jlmerrow.com, on Twitter as @jlmerrow, and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/jl.merrow
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
February 5, 2013
First of all this is a charming little ebook. The language delicious and the story sweet. Danny is an eighteen year old poacher, a son of a poacher, with four siblings and a mother who he provides for. Since his father's untimely death, about 5 years prior, he is the 'man of the house' with his brother, Toby, ten, and three sisters ranging from nine to four years of age to worry about. He is out poaching rabbit's on Philip Luccombe's property when he decides to climb the oak tree there to get some mistletoe for his mother. It's Christmas and she loves it. Cut to the chase - he falls, breaks his leg, cracks some ribs, and finds himself as the guest of the rather skittish Philip Luccombe. Philip was injured in WWI, keeps to himself, has lost his lover, Robert, and is still grieving four years on. The locals consider him a bit 'touched.' Needless to say there is a connection betwen Danny and Philip, on many levels, and Philip sees some of Robert in Danny - his love of life, his positivity and spirit. There's not much to say as it is a short story and is best read. I have a number of status updates to give an idea of the language and the style.
For all of it's quaint appeal, and Ms Merrow's charming characters, they are not enough to carry off the ending and the fact that it takes two ebooks, it seems, to make up what I would regard as one. I did not like the abruptness of this ending, and, as lovely at the accompanying poem is at the 85% mark, it does not constitute an ending for me. This partial story was $3.99. I'm fortunate when it comes to buying books, my budget is substantial, but some of my GR friends are not so fortunate, or perhaps they are more inclined towards considered buying. I think Dreamspinner, perhaps Ms Merrow, need to take a good look at that. I've rated this three stars for the combination of writing against ending, and how I see this as a half of a whole with Keeper's Pledge required to make it a whole book...but at another cost of $3.99. Hmmm.
If you bought Pleasures with Rough Strife you are in luck as Dreamspinner is giving this to you for free from what I can gather. For the rest of us we can make a choice as to whether to buy or not.
For all of it's quaint appeal, and Ms Merrow's charming characters, they are not enough to carry off the ending and the fact that it takes two ebooks, it seems, to make up what I would regard as one. I did not like the abruptness of this ending, and, as lovely at the accompanying poem is at the 85% mark, it does not constitute an ending for me. This partial story was $3.99. I'm fortunate when it comes to buying books, my budget is substantial, but some of my GR friends are not so fortunate, or perhaps they are more inclined towards considered buying. I think Dreamspinner, perhaps Ms Merrow, need to take a good look at that. I've rated this three stars for the combination of writing against ending, and how I see this as a half of a whole with Keeper's Pledge required to make it a whole book...but at another cost of $3.99. Hmmm.
If you bought Pleasures with Rough Strife you are in luck as Dreamspinner is giving this to you for free from what I can gather. For the rest of us we can make a choice as to whether to buy or not.
February 20, 2013
This short novella about two men finding each other in the early 1920's really begs to be a full novel. As usual with J.L. Merrow, the characters are great, well-fleshed out, distinctive and appealing even in this short format. I love her writing and enjoyed this tale of an injured poacher, suffering from broken bones at Christmas, who is given recovery-room at the manor house by his grieving and shy landlord. But for me the story moved too fast, for the characters, for their difference in station and experience, and for the times in which they lived. With a longer build, time to really get to know each other, and acknowledgement of the difficulties, this could have been a truly stellar novel. Despite this, I enjoyed the story and will definitely read the sequel.
September 27, 2013
* 3.75*
What a charming and endearing little tale, set around Christmas and involving the lonely lord of the manor and the young scamp poacher who he ends up looking after,when he falls from an old oak tree whilst trying to collect mistletoe for his mam.
This is a very quick read and the only downside really is that it would have been lovely to have seen a bit more of them getting to know each other in this book as there is a touch of UST there which if it had been longer could have been expanded more. I believe there is a follow up so I'll definitely be reading that to see more of their growing relationship but it would have been a good idea to just merge the two together for a more meaty novel or longer novella.
More story than sex, although there is just enough to satisfy, this is still a sweetly romantic book and if you like some poetry this ends with a lovely Andrew Marvell poem.
What a charming and endearing little tale, set around Christmas and involving the lonely lord of the manor and the young scamp poacher who he ends up looking after,when he falls from an old oak tree whilst trying to collect mistletoe for his mam.
This is a very quick read and the only downside really is that it would have been lovely to have seen a bit more of them getting to know each other in this book as there is a touch of UST there which if it had been longer could have been expanded more. I believe there is a follow up so I'll definitely be reading that to see more of their growing relationship but it would have been a good idea to just merge the two together for a more meaty novel or longer novella.
More story than sex, although there is just enough to satisfy, this is still a sweetly romantic book and if you like some poetry this ends with a lovely Andrew Marvell poem.
December 5, 2013
3.5 stars
A sweet, tender, uncomplicated story around Christmas time, between Danny Costessey, an 18-year-old "poacher" and Philip Luccombe, the Lord of a Manor. The story is just like the summary says. No real angst or conflict, I think, though Philip lost his lover four years prior and still cannot really forget about him until Danny comes along.
The additional 0.5 stars is for the inclusion of Andrew Marvell's Poetry "To His Coy Mistress" in the end of the story because I always think that "Had we but world enough, and time. This coyness, lady, were no crime" is just one of the most beautiful lines ever.
A sweet, tender, uncomplicated story around Christmas time, between Danny Costessey, an 18-year-old "poacher" and Philip Luccombe, the Lord of a Manor. The story is just like the summary says. No real angst or conflict, I think, though Philip lost his lover four years prior and still cannot really forget about him until Danny comes along.
The additional 0.5 stars is for the inclusion of Andrew Marvell's Poetry "To His Coy Mistress" in the end of the story because I always think that "Had we but world enough, and time. This coyness, lady, were no crime" is just one of the most beautiful lines ever.
December 4, 2013
This was a second reading for me and I'm sure I reviewed this first time, but either I imagined it or GR ate my review.
Anyway I really enjoyed this little Christmas fic. It seems historicals work better at the Christmas theme than a lot of the modern day storys for me.
This was another case of all story with little to no sex. Just a strong learning of who these two guys were.
If I had a complaint it was this story ended far to soon. But I'm now happy to be able to go straight onto the next book and read just how these two proceeded.
Anyway I really enjoyed this little Christmas fic. It seems historicals work better at the Christmas theme than a lot of the modern day storys for me.
This was another case of all story with little to no sex. Just a strong learning of who these two guys were.
If I had a complaint it was this story ended far to soon. But I'm now happy to be able to go straight onto the next book and read just how these two proceeded.
December 9, 2024
3.5 - Rather quaint, quick Christmas read. Nicely written and is much better when read with the sequel novella to complete the story. Nice writing. I loved the characters and their early meeting. Because of the short length it felt rushed, this would have been lovely with some more time spent on their relationship building.
January 2, 2023
Not especially memorable, but I enjoyed it and after all I did read the sequel (which IMO is better).
Review for #2 discusses the chief problem I had with these novellas.
Review for #2 discusses the chief problem I had with these novellas.
July 13, 2013
4 Stars
I enjoy historical novels for their sense of place and calmer pace, especially if I can curl up before a fireplace and lose myself in another time and place. I found “Poacher’s Fall” with its rich description and fully developed characters perfect for doing so. It is a lovely, period read.
After the death of his father, and assuming the care of his mother and his siblings, Danny Costessey is carrying on the family business of poaching one frigid, snowy night before Christmas. He climbs a tree for a handful of mistletoe to gift to his mom and falls, knocking himself unconscious. When he awakens, he finds himself in an elegantly appointed room, in a warm bed under the roof of a man on whose land he is a tenant and from whom he was poaching rabbits. He is surprised by his host’s generosity and he is instantly attracted to his good looks and compassionate nature.
Aristocratic Philip Luccombe, owner of the English manor home, is deep in mourning for his lover, Robert, who has died of Spanish flu after World War I. Philip’s servants embrace who he is and they fiercely protect his privacy as he deals with the crippling grief over the loss of his friend and lover. Having Danny in his home and dealing with his attraction to his robust tenant, forces Philip to live in the present. Although the men are from different classes and educational backgrounds, personable Danny intrigues Philip on every level and both are aware of their mutual attraction. As their friendship grows, they discover common ground in a love of family, each other and, something I sincerely appreciate, a love of the works of Charles Dickens.
J. L. Merrow’s writing is meticulous and sensuous. She gives us the world building and the context to understand the two main characters, their backgrounds and their shared history as Danny juggles responsibility for family and Phillip grapples with loss and the rebirth of hope. Through some lovely dialogue, we experience Danny and Phillip’s feelings, as their interest becomes affection and then love.
This is a tender story that launches Danny and Phillip’s story and it is the lead-in to the next book, “Keeper’s Pledge.” I can not wait for the rest of the story.
Carli's review can also be found at Live Your Life, Buy The Book
I enjoy historical novels for their sense of place and calmer pace, especially if I can curl up before a fireplace and lose myself in another time and place. I found “Poacher’s Fall” with its rich description and fully developed characters perfect for doing so. It is a lovely, period read.
After the death of his father, and assuming the care of his mother and his siblings, Danny Costessey is carrying on the family business of poaching one frigid, snowy night before Christmas. He climbs a tree for a handful of mistletoe to gift to his mom and falls, knocking himself unconscious. When he awakens, he finds himself in an elegantly appointed room, in a warm bed under the roof of a man on whose land he is a tenant and from whom he was poaching rabbits. He is surprised by his host’s generosity and he is instantly attracted to his good looks and compassionate nature.
Aristocratic Philip Luccombe, owner of the English manor home, is deep in mourning for his lover, Robert, who has died of Spanish flu after World War I. Philip’s servants embrace who he is and they fiercely protect his privacy as he deals with the crippling grief over the loss of his friend and lover. Having Danny in his home and dealing with his attraction to his robust tenant, forces Philip to live in the present. Although the men are from different classes and educational backgrounds, personable Danny intrigues Philip on every level and both are aware of their mutual attraction. As their friendship grows, they discover common ground in a love of family, each other and, something I sincerely appreciate, a love of the works of Charles Dickens.
J. L. Merrow’s writing is meticulous and sensuous. She gives us the world building and the context to understand the two main characters, their backgrounds and their shared history as Danny juggles responsibility for family and Phillip grapples with loss and the rebirth of hope. Through some lovely dialogue, we experience Danny and Phillip’s feelings, as their interest becomes affection and then love.
This is a tender story that launches Danny and Phillip’s story and it is the lead-in to the next book, “Keeper’s Pledge.” I can not wait for the rest of the story.
Carli's review can also be found at Live Your Life, Buy The Book
September 28, 2014
Poacher’s Fall tells the story of poacher Danny Costessey and what happens to him after his fall from a tree while trying to cut down some mistletoe to bring to his mother for Christmas. He is found unconscious and brought to the land owner’s home to convalesce from his injuries. Philip Luccombe, the owner, has been living in seclusion since he lost his lover a few years ago. But Danny’s presence is brightening Philip’s days and giving him moments to look forward to his visits with Danny…but it is also bringing back memories and wounds that may not yet be healed.
This was a really sweet Christmas story that I really wish I could have read on a cold winter day sitting in front of the fire. Ah, but it is summer and I still enjoyed it immensely.
I loved how I didn’t know everything about Philip’s past immediately and it had me guessing along the way. And the sexual tension between Philip and Danny was nice. The fight of the attraction always gets to me. There isn’t a lot of sexy time in this story but they do have a “moment”.
It is a VERY short read so there isn’t much I can say about it without spoiling the whole thing. I was okay with the Happy For Now ending, but then I discovered that Keeper’s Pledge is a sequel to Philip and Danny’s story and now I HAVE to read it.
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
This was a really sweet Christmas story that I really wish I could have read on a cold winter day sitting in front of the fire. Ah, but it is summer and I still enjoyed it immensely.
I loved how I didn’t know everything about Philip’s past immediately and it had me guessing along the way. And the sexual tension between Philip and Danny was nice. The fight of the attraction always gets to me. There isn’t a lot of sexy time in this story but they do have a “moment”.
It is a VERY short read so there isn’t much I can say about it without spoiling the whole thing. I was okay with the Happy For Now ending, but then I discovered that Keeper’s Pledge is a sequel to Philip and Danny’s story and now I HAVE to read it.
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
Read
January 9, 2013This is an expanded (by 15%) and re-edited reissue of Pleasures with Rough Strife. The re-issue is to mark the publication of the sequel, Keeper's Pledge, a longer novella taking place four years after the original story.
Dreamspinner have kindly agreed to allow a free download of Poacher's Fall to all those who've previously purchased a stand-alone version of Pleasures with Rough Strife from the Dreamspinner website (not as part of the Advent Calendar). You should be able to access this from your bookshelf once the books are released on 30th Jan 2013. :)
If you've already got a copy of Pleasures from elsewhere, please note the story isn't substantially altered.
Dreamspinner have kindly agreed to allow a free download of Poacher's Fall to all those who've previously purchased a stand-alone version of Pleasures with Rough Strife from the Dreamspinner website (not as part of the Advent Calendar). You should be able to access this from your bookshelf once the books are released on 30th Jan 2013. :)
If you've already got a copy of Pleasures from elsewhere, please note the story isn't substantially altered.
Read
November 20, 2020Poacher’s Fall is a sweet little novella that I enjoyed. That said, it felt like the sturdy, well conceived foundation of a full length novel that ended too soon. I’d have loved to have spent more time with these characters to see where it would go. There is a sequel but it’s set 4 years in the future and I want to know what happens between now and then! *stamps foot petulantly*
To be clear, the ending wasn’t unsatisfying, it’s just that it ends just as they come together romantically and I wanted more of that.
I can’t decide on a rating... I mean, the foundation was 4 stars but it ended just as it was taking off! 😭 I feel bereft. So 3 stars? 3.5 stars?
It’s KU and it’s J.L. Merrow, if you want a solid, sweet little Christmas tease, check it out 😘
To be clear, the ending wasn’t unsatisfying, it’s just that it ends just as they come together romantically and I wanted more of that.
I can’t decide on a rating... I mean, the foundation was 4 stars but it ended just as it was taking off! 😭 I feel bereft. So 3 stars? 3.5 stars?
It’s KU and it’s J.L. Merrow, if you want a solid, sweet little Christmas tease, check it out 😘
June 8, 2017
This was pleasant, but didn't really grab me. It's easy and very lightweight. Not my favourite from this author.
March 22, 2013
Danny, the 18-year-old rabbit poacher of the story, is a delight to read. He is matter of fact, sincere and honorable. The fact that he is injured trying to get mistletoe just to make his mother smile was a great example of him. That his “mam” and family will go hungry without him there is his biggest fear. Father was a poacher and died after an accident and now here is Danny, injured poaching on the same property. He is brought to the manor and doctor advice is to not be moved.
Philip, the owner of the estate, is the opposite of the sunny, cheerful Danny. He is reserved, quiet and in so much pain from the loss of his lover in the war (and this was written in such a way that you want to hug the man). The village rumor has it that he is crazy. He is a good person, just in dire need of a way out of his grief. His lover, Robert, was his best friend and everything he ever wanted. How do you get past that?
I loved the touch of his bringing Charles Dickens to Danny to read while convelesceing at the manor house, because of course everyone was reading Dickens then and “live your life while you have it” is quoted.
There is a back story involving Danny’s father that is fairly easily seen through. The real story here is Danny and Philip. When they kiss and Philip reacts badly, Danny is so worried about his family. He’s just so sweet.
This is a gentle, soft look at coming back from heartbreak. Recommended.
Philip, the owner of the estate, is the opposite of the sunny, cheerful Danny. He is reserved, quiet and in so much pain from the loss of his lover in the war (and this was written in such a way that you want to hug the man). The village rumor has it that he is crazy. He is a good person, just in dire need of a way out of his grief. His lover, Robert, was his best friend and everything he ever wanted. How do you get past that?
I loved the touch of his bringing Charles Dickens to Danny to read while convelesceing at the manor house, because of course everyone was reading Dickens then and “live your life while you have it” is quoted.
There is a back story involving Danny’s father that is fairly easily seen through. The real story here is Danny and Philip. When they kiss and Philip reacts badly, Danny is so worried about his family. He’s just so sweet.
This is a gentle, soft look at coming back from heartbreak. Recommended.
December 4, 2013
Exactly what I was in the mood for, though not entirely what I expected.
The characters have depth for such a short story; a lost lover and the early responsibilty for a families wellbeing, yet the feel isn't angsty. The balance was for me just right, showing the situation/emotion without dumping too much cold fact. It's not a meet-up and jump into bed type of story.
I did wonder what the dynamic between the characters would be considering their posistions aka lord of the manor versus impoverished poacher, and was pleasantly suprised on meeting the characters. Phillip is a melancholy even poignant figure woken up by Danny's bright charm, far more sympathetic a character than I was expecting. Danny is an engaging mix of confidence and vulnerbility, I liked the glimpse of boy within the capable young man.
There's no great dramatic event this is a simple story of two men getting to know each other. It ends with a nice warm moment and I can imagine these two building a good life together, though I doubt it'll stop Danny's mother boxing his ears in!
The characters have depth for such a short story; a lost lover and the early responsibilty for a families wellbeing, yet the feel isn't angsty. The balance was for me just right, showing the situation/emotion without dumping too much cold fact. It's not a meet-up and jump into bed type of story.
I did wonder what the dynamic between the characters would be considering their posistions aka lord of the manor versus impoverished poacher, and was pleasantly suprised on meeting the characters. Phillip is a melancholy even poignant figure woken up by Danny's bright charm, far more sympathetic a character than I was expecting. Danny is an engaging mix of confidence and vulnerbility, I liked the glimpse of boy within the capable young man.
There's no great dramatic event this is a simple story of two men getting to know each other. It ends with a nice warm moment and I can imagine these two building a good life together, though I doubt it'll stop Danny's mother boxing his ears in!
November 17, 2015
3.5 stars
When Danny is out poaching rabbits for his family’s dinner he spies a cluster of mistletoe up high in an old oak tree-- just the thing to bring his mum, to dress up their poor cottage. When Danny takes a dangerous tumble from the tree, he falls right into Phillip Luccumbe’s life. It’s on Phillip’s estate that Danny is hunting illegally and Phillip, a recluse mourning a lost love, quickly offers Danny lodging and doctor to see him restored to health.
This is a sweet, gentle historical set in early 1900 England. I found it very well written and it’s characters well drawn. However, that bane of the short story, the quick fall into love, doesn’t work for me. For one thing, Danny is so very beholden to Phillip-- they are definitely not on equal footing-- and the tussling they get up to in Danny’s sickbed can’t work. The guy has a broken leg and ribs for pity’s sake! Stripping off clothing and grinding pelvises... not so easy!
Still, a nice, if a bit melancholy, read for the holidays.
November 25, 2016
Poacher’s Fall is set during Christmas in 1922. It revolves around poacher Danny Costessey, and the rich, recluse Philip Luccombe, whose land Danny has been poaching on. The story is told in third person from both Danny’s and Philip’s pov.
May 1, 2016
A short sweet Christmas tale set in 1922. When young Danny Costessey falls from a tree whilst trying to get some mistletoe for his mum (after poaching some rabbits), he breaks his leg and ends up spending the holidays at the ancestral estate of Phillip Luccombe. Soon Danny and Phllip find they share much more in common than love of a good Christmas pudding and Dicken's A Christmas Carol. The book is a tad bit too short, though, as the last part of the book compressed too many events into too few pages!
February 11, 2013
This was quite a lovely little historical Christmas story. I loved the rough/sweet/bold character of Danny and the setting of the manor. I dinged it one star just because it felt like it could have been longer.
Want to read
February 16, 2016As of 2/15/16 $1 sale
via Dreamspinner Press: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...
and Amazon (US): http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B...
via Dreamspinner Press: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...
and Amazon (US): http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B...
November 26, 2019
Somehow this managed to be gentle and tender, despite broken bones and memories of past violence.
June 15, 2020
I think I must have read the expanded version of this story, because it didn't feel too light and insubstantial to me. Of course, I would have liked more, just because I enjoy this author and both characters, but it seemed a suitable length to tell the tale.
October 24, 2021
A faultless post-WW1 setting and two very well-developed leads made this a joy to read. The countryside setting and class distinction of the time all added to the poignancy of the growing closeness between the couple. Gorgeous writing!
October 9, 2024
A really nice short story with an HFN. I am just not sure why this needed to be two novellas instead of one book? I am reading them on Libby so it’s not a problem, though. I am moving on to part two.
July 16, 2021
Kinda sappy
But it’s decent. I love this author though. Excellent writing. Easy to read and not stupid. I think this is the first one I’ve read that’s historical
But it’s decent. I love this author though. Excellent writing. Easy to read and not stupid. I think this is the first one I’ve read that’s historical
February 14, 2011
I tend to like Merrow’s contemporary work best for the great comic timing and wit. Pleasures with Rough Strife is a historical Christmas themed story that’s decent but not enough to hold my interest unfortunately. One of the two narrators has a nice accent that grabbed my attention but overall neither character really came alive for me.
Philip is moldering away alone in his big house years after the death of his best friend and lover. On a particularly chilly day a boy is brought in after a nasty fall on the grounds prompting Philip out of his daze. Danny is the son of a dead groundskeeper and he lives with his overburdened mother and siblings. Danny’s family relies on poaching for food and Philip realizes the young man has a lot to teach him.
The story feels mostly told rather than shown as Philip slowly comes back to life after the death of his lover. The servants are a nice touch yet feel indistinguishable from each other as did most of the other characters mentioned. Danny feels too young and brash to be interested in the older man and although Philip isn’t that much older, comes across as world weary. I couldn’t see the two together and their chemistry feels forced and manipulated. Part of this is that the story drags some as it sets up Danny’s accident, Philip’s background, and slowly throws the two together.
When Danny finally makes a move, this feels awkward and artificial rather than natural. The following explanation makes more sense and the resolution to how the two will be together feels fitting to the time period. Unfortunately I just never connected to the characters nor really cared about their plight. Philip should be a sympathetic character mourning the loss of his lover while Danny is struggling under the weight of carrying his family at a young age. Sadly neither man really came alive for me and remained very two dimensional without the much needed depth and subtly. The writing and dialogue feels too dry and just becomes slow and telling for the most part.
Although I like this author quite a bit, this particular historical didn’t do much for me but perhaps others will enjoy it more. I look forward to reading something else of Merrow’s.
Philip is moldering away alone in his big house years after the death of his best friend and lover. On a particularly chilly day a boy is brought in after a nasty fall on the grounds prompting Philip out of his daze. Danny is the son of a dead groundskeeper and he lives with his overburdened mother and siblings. Danny’s family relies on poaching for food and Philip realizes the young man has a lot to teach him.
The story feels mostly told rather than shown as Philip slowly comes back to life after the death of his lover. The servants are a nice touch yet feel indistinguishable from each other as did most of the other characters mentioned. Danny feels too young and brash to be interested in the older man and although Philip isn’t that much older, comes across as world weary. I couldn’t see the two together and their chemistry feels forced and manipulated. Part of this is that the story drags some as it sets up Danny’s accident, Philip’s background, and slowly throws the two together.
When Danny finally makes a move, this feels awkward and artificial rather than natural. The following explanation makes more sense and the resolution to how the two will be together feels fitting to the time period. Unfortunately I just never connected to the characters nor really cared about their plight. Philip should be a sympathetic character mourning the loss of his lover while Danny is struggling under the weight of carrying his family at a young age. Sadly neither man really came alive for me and remained very two dimensional without the much needed depth and subtly. The writing and dialogue feels too dry and just becomes slow and telling for the most part.
Although I like this author quite a bit, this particular historical didn’t do much for me but perhaps others will enjoy it more. I look forward to reading something else of Merrow’s.
January 29, 2013
4 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
Danny is a poacher on his way home with his bounty when he decides to treat his mum to some mistletoe, unfortunately he falls out of the tree and is found by the Gamekeeper. Danny awakens in the manor house and the Lord of the manor, Mr Luccombe, assures him his family will be taken care of while Danny recovers from his injuries. Peter has locked himself away inside his manor since the death of his beloved Robert, but having Danny under his roof pulls him back to the land of the living and maybe he can start to love again.
This is a sweet historical that touches the heart. Danny and Phillip come from different worlds, Phillip is well off and has all the comforts in life, while Danny is poor and has to resort to poaching so his family can survive. When the two first meet, it is a fearful Danny laid up in bed wondering if he will be punished for poaching and an unsure Phillip who is curious about his house guest. Both characters are wonderfully written with Phillip having a wounded heart over the loss of a loved one year’s before; he withdrew into himself and Danny who has confidence and an open heart.
Both characters have suffered loss, with Danny losing his father and having to become the man of the house at a young age and for Phillip it was the loss of his lover Robert. Both men connect in friendship and Danny’s presence in the house has Phillip seeking company for the first time in years, he begins to emerge from his self-exile from life and begins to feel things that he never thought he would again. This is a very sweet story that was a charm to read.
I will recommend this to those who love historicals, sweet connections, emerging from a cocoon of the past and a happy ending.
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
Danny is a poacher on his way home with his bounty when he decides to treat his mum to some mistletoe, unfortunately he falls out of the tree and is found by the Gamekeeper. Danny awakens in the manor house and the Lord of the manor, Mr Luccombe, assures him his family will be taken care of while Danny recovers from his injuries. Peter has locked himself away inside his manor since the death of his beloved Robert, but having Danny under his roof pulls him back to the land of the living and maybe he can start to love again.
This is a sweet historical that touches the heart. Danny and Phillip come from different worlds, Phillip is well off and has all the comforts in life, while Danny is poor and has to resort to poaching so his family can survive. When the two first meet, it is a fearful Danny laid up in bed wondering if he will be punished for poaching and an unsure Phillip who is curious about his house guest. Both characters are wonderfully written with Phillip having a wounded heart over the loss of a loved one year’s before; he withdrew into himself and Danny who has confidence and an open heart.
Both characters have suffered loss, with Danny losing his father and having to become the man of the house at a young age and for Phillip it was the loss of his lover Robert. Both men connect in friendship and Danny’s presence in the house has Phillip seeking company for the first time in years, he begins to emerge from his self-exile from life and begins to feel things that he never thought he would again. This is a very sweet story that was a charm to read.
I will recommend this to those who love historicals, sweet connections, emerging from a cocoon of the past and a happy ending.
February 4, 2013
2.5
Tis was not bad, just boring and flat.
The characters weren't very appealing, and not quite endearing to me.
There was something about this that just didn't click with me at all. There was kind of a sub-plot besides boy meets boy, but honestly? I wasn't really 'feeling' it.
[I suppose this is going to be a spoiler, but honestly, it's not like when I read it, I was like ERMGAWD, DEED DAT WEELY 'APPEN??]
*******SPOILER (supposedly) *********
The highlight of this book for me, was probably when the guy (whatever his name is) fell down the stairs with an already broken leg and I think a few ribs as well.
Okay, it might sound a bit sadistic, but in my mind I was like FUK YEH! DERE'S GAWNA BE SOME DRAMA!! *happy dance* Shit's lookin' up... Falling down stairs has never been so profound or beautiful.
But yeah, overall? It wasn't that great of a read, but I wouldn't go so far as to chase you away from this book with a fork or my kindle or something. If it seems to be your 'thing', then go ahead and read your thing.
Tis was not bad, just boring and flat.
The characters weren't very appealing, and not quite endearing to me.
There was something about this that just didn't click with me at all. There was kind of a sub-plot besides boy meets boy, but honestly? I wasn't really 'feeling' it.
[I suppose this is going to be a spoiler, but honestly, it's not like when I read it, I was like ERMGAWD, DEED DAT WEELY 'APPEN??]
*******SPOILER (supposedly) *********
The highlight of this book for me, was probably when the guy (whatever his name is) fell down the stairs with an already broken leg and I think a few ribs as well.
Okay, it might sound a bit sadistic, but in my mind I was like FUK YEH! DERE'S GAWNA BE SOME DRAMA!! *happy dance* Shit's lookin' up... Falling down stairs has never been so profound or beautiful.
But yeah, overall? It wasn't that great of a read, but I wouldn't go so far as to chase you away from this book with a fork or my kindle or something. If it seems to be your 'thing', then go ahead and read your thing.
June 26, 2013
This should really be read together with Keeper's Pledge, even though there is a four year gap between the two stories. Taken singly, each one is too short to satisfy -- but together, they make a nice story arc.
I'm giving the first book a lower rating than the second, in part because of its brevity and in part because the emotion is not nearly as well developed. This little story is just an introduction to the characters; we don't get into the meat of their relationship until Keeper's Pledge.
This one is pleasant enough in setting the scene and providing some sense of place and time, but don't expect too much from it.
3.4 stars because it *is* pleasant, but not rounding up to 4 because there's just not much too it.
I'm giving the first book a lower rating than the second, in part because of its brevity and in part because the emotion is not nearly as well developed. This little story is just an introduction to the characters; we don't get into the meat of their relationship until Keeper's Pledge.
This one is pleasant enough in setting the scene and providing some sense of place and time, but don't expect too much from it.
3.4 stars because it *is* pleasant, but not rounding up to 4 because there's just not much too it.
May 17, 2013
A sweet little story about caring, impulsive Danny who is struggling to support his family following his father's death, and Philip who can't come to terms with the fact that both he and his lover made it through the Great War, only for Robert to die in the Spanish flu epidemic. I had to get that bit in since other reviewers seem to think it was just the war that did for Robert. I loved all the little details about life in bith the manor house and Danny's family's cottage and the way the relationship develops gradually between the two until Danny's impulsive nature gets the better of him and they nearly make a complete mess of everything. The poetry and the references to Dickens just added to the atmosphere. One to reread at Christmas, I think.
November 6, 2014
There's really not much to this story. Philip Luccombe is the reclusive owner of the manor and the estate where young Danny Costessey does his poaching. Danny had an accident while picking up a mistletoe after poaching and was brought inside the manor where he meets Phillip, the master of the house for the first time. Instead of condemning Danny, Philip surprises himself and Danny with the turn of events that may lead into something unexpected.
It was actually a fairly quick read with succinct narration. Set just a few years after the first world war, it does have a side of bleakness and somehow a glitter of hope concerning both Danny and Philip. It's an okay read but nothing really special.
Rating: 2 out of 5 stars
It was actually a fairly quick read with succinct narration. Set just a few years after the first world war, it does have a side of bleakness and somehow a glitter of hope concerning both Danny and Philip. It's an okay read but nothing really special.
Rating: 2 out of 5 stars
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