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Blue River
2nd Edition
Photography genius Ethan Mars is out and living the fast life in Los Angeles until a mysterious mist in Topanga Canyon sends him back in time. There he meets Quinn Parker, a farmer who has hidden his homosexuality from everyone, even Margaret, his fiancée. Falling in love is the last thing Ethan expects, and the last thing Quinn can allow—in 1863, being gay can get him killed. When Ethan is unexpectedly offered a way home, he faces an impossible decision: go back... or stay?
1st Edition published by MLR Press, 2011.
A Timeless Dreams title: While reaction to same-sex relationships throughout time and across cultures has not always been positive, these stories celebrate M/M love in a manner that may address, minimize, or ignore historical stigma.
Photography genius Ethan Mars is out and living the fast life in Los Angeles until a mysterious mist in Topanga Canyon sends him back in time. There he meets Quinn Parker, a farmer who has hidden his homosexuality from everyone, even Margaret, his fiancée. Falling in love is the last thing Ethan expects, and the last thing Quinn can allow—in 1863, being gay can get him killed. When Ethan is unexpectedly offered a way home, he faces an impossible decision: go back... or stay?
1st Edition published by MLR Press, 2011.
A Timeless Dreams title: While reaction to same-sex relationships throughout time and across cultures has not always been positive, these stories celebrate M/M love in a manner that may address, minimize, or ignore historical stigma.
92 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 13, 2011
About the author
Theo Fenraven
32 books75 followersTheo Fenraven happily lives in south Florida, where it is hot and sunny much of the year.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
December 24, 2011
Good short m/m holiday time travel romance about a photographer who walks through some mist and ends up in 1863, where he stays with an innocent young farmer and his sister. The thing I liked best about this book was that it didn't gloss over historical details like people not bathing very often. I do have my doubts that greens stored in a root cellar would be lovely and fresh by December...
October 17, 2013
What a cool, charming story. I didn’t want it to end. That’s the problem with novelettes, isn’t it? If they are well written and engaging, as Blue River by Theo Fenraven is, they always leave you wanting more.
When Ethan mysteriously appears on a farm in 1863, he finds it isn’t that mysterious at all. He isn’t the first strange visitor that Quinn and his sister, Hes, have had at their home; though he is the first to open up feelings that Quinn has been suppressing – albeit out of necessity – and make him see that what he is isn’t ‘wrong’, but instead is what is natural for him. Ethan and Quinn are really lovely, and their chemistry is very nice. They seem to be extremely well-suited for each other, and find themselves quickly developing strong feelings. Quinn feels trapped in his life on the farm, now 2 years engaged to a neighbor girl, with the nuptials fast approaching... but, Ethan creates in him a longing for more, and suggests the possibility that he COULD live a happy open life as himself in Ethan’s time.
The author does a great job of describing what life on a farm in 1863 would be like, creating a very nice image of a simpler life, in a very different time. I love his descriptions of the food, and how wonderful and rich everything must have tasted without the additions of all the pesticides and preservatives we are used to now. It also really made me think about and appreciate, as Ethan did in the story, all of the comforts we have in 2013 that we absolutely take for granted on a daily basis.
When the mist that brought Ethan from Topanga Canyon to Blue River appears again to enable him to get home, he and Quinn have to face their feelings, and make a decision. Is there a way for them to be together? Read the book to find out! I think you will love the end, as I did.
When Ethan mysteriously appears on a farm in 1863, he finds it isn’t that mysterious at all. He isn’t the first strange visitor that Quinn and his sister, Hes, have had at their home; though he is the first to open up feelings that Quinn has been suppressing – albeit out of necessity – and make him see that what he is isn’t ‘wrong’, but instead is what is natural for him. Ethan and Quinn are really lovely, and their chemistry is very nice. They seem to be extremely well-suited for each other, and find themselves quickly developing strong feelings. Quinn feels trapped in his life on the farm, now 2 years engaged to a neighbor girl, with the nuptials fast approaching... but, Ethan creates in him a longing for more, and suggests the possibility that he COULD live a happy open life as himself in Ethan’s time.
The author does a great job of describing what life on a farm in 1863 would be like, creating a very nice image of a simpler life, in a very different time. I love his descriptions of the food, and how wonderful and rich everything must have tasted without the additions of all the pesticides and preservatives we are used to now. It also really made me think about and appreciate, as Ethan did in the story, all of the comforts we have in 2013 that we absolutely take for granted on a daily basis.
When the mist that brought Ethan from Topanga Canyon to Blue River appears again to enable him to get home, he and Quinn have to face their feelings, and make a decision. Is there a way for them to be together? Read the book to find out! I think you will love the end, as I did.
October 10, 2013
This a review of the 2nd edition of this story.
What a sweet, hot, and delightful book! Although short it is a complete story, but I can’t say that you won’t want more from Ethan and Quinn. Ethan is a slightly jaded 21st century photographer that has found success in work but not in his personal life. Quinn is a farmer from the 19th century who has hidden who he is all his life, living up to the expectations set out for him because he doesn’t have any other option.
I enjoyed the way Mr. Fenraven dealt with the differences between the times, allowing Ethan to find beauty in and enjoyment of a simpler but not easier time while still recognizing that giving up modern conveniences is not an easy adjustment. The past was presented in a realistic manner, neither overly romanticized nor made a horrible place empty of anything worthwhile.
What really made me love this story was the connection between these two men. It is very swift and wonderfully selfless. Although Ethan is first drawn to Quinn’s innocence and novelty he quickly recognizes that Quinn has much more to offer him. Quinn is overwhelmed by Ethan but quickly comes to appreciate everything that Ethan shows him. Together they are incredibly appealing and extremely sexy.
In the end all I can say is read this book, you will be very happy you did. The instant I was finished I wanted to immediately reread it and I am still smiling when I think of parts of the story. The only thing that would make me happier would be if I could have more!
What a sweet, hot, and delightful book! Although short it is a complete story, but I can’t say that you won’t want more from Ethan and Quinn. Ethan is a slightly jaded 21st century photographer that has found success in work but not in his personal life. Quinn is a farmer from the 19th century who has hidden who he is all his life, living up to the expectations set out for him because he doesn’t have any other option.
I enjoyed the way Mr. Fenraven dealt with the differences between the times, allowing Ethan to find beauty in and enjoyment of a simpler but not easier time while still recognizing that giving up modern conveniences is not an easy adjustment. The past was presented in a realistic manner, neither overly romanticized nor made a horrible place empty of anything worthwhile.
What really made me love this story was the connection between these two men. It is very swift and wonderfully selfless. Although Ethan is first drawn to Quinn’s innocence and novelty he quickly recognizes that Quinn has much more to offer him. Quinn is overwhelmed by Ethan but quickly comes to appreciate everything that Ethan shows him. Together they are incredibly appealing and extremely sexy.
In the end all I can say is read this book, you will be very happy you did. The instant I was finished I wanted to immediately reread it and I am still smiling when I think of parts of the story. The only thing that would make me happier would be if I could have more!
November 20, 2013
3~3.5 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
I really enjoyed this read, even though it wasn’t as enthralling as one would expect. It was fun though for me, and it had the most in your face slap of reality I’ve encountered. That on itself was hysterically funny for me. I swear I was reading the book and imagining what other reader’s faces and reactions would be at certain scenes, making my laugh out loud and hard for a while...
Read the rest of the review here.
Thommie
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
I really enjoyed this read, even though it wasn’t as enthralling as one would expect. It was fun though for me, and it had the most in your face slap of reality I’ve encountered. That on itself was hysterically funny for me. I swear I was reading the book and imagining what other reader’s faces and reactions would be at certain scenes, making my laugh out loud and hard for a while...
Read the rest of the review here.
Thommie
October 10, 2013
3.5 stars for this one. I would've liked to have discovered a little bit more about the time-travelling fog, and a few other things that I won't mention here cos they'll give the plot away.
November 1, 2013
Note: I read the extended version just released from Dreamspinner Press
A step out of time... A slightly cynical and jaded artist carries his camera with him into the year 1863 and captures more than just images on his memory card. Ethan meets Quinn who is trapped in a life that will demand his very soul and with it any chance for these two men to have something more than friendship.
1863. Ethan steps though a misty fog and into the past. There he is met by a brother and sister team who know where he comes from although they don't fully understand how. They do know there has been a previous visitor--the one that Ethan had heard about and humorously dismissed as unbelievable. In fact, Ethan had gone along on the trip with his buddy to see "the fog" just as a lark. Then he accidentally got trapped within it and ended up at Blue River.
Over the next nine days, Ethan will live in a way that few ever experience. Rustic charm aside, life in 1863 was hard, backbreaking work and eking out a season to season existence farming the land. Quinn and his sister Hes are not strangers to rising early and breaking a sweat but Ethan surely is and that is a source of scorn for Hes and sympathy from Quinn.
It is Quinn's sweet reserve that first draws Ethan beyond his outer good looks. The idea that Quinn hides the secret that he is attracted to men only triggers more lust in Ethan. But when Ethan begins to weigh all that Quinn will give up in order to do his "duty" and marry a girl from the neighboring farm, he realizes the depth to which Quinn will lose his own humanity. Slowly but surely Ethan falls further and further into Quinn's world as Quinn falls straight into Ethan's arms. But the fog has reappeared and that is Ethan's ticket home...to a place without Quinn, without love.
What a smartly written novella! Author Theo Fenraven keeps his characters grounded throughout this story, never allowing Ethan to go the easy route of "insta-love" but rather always wary of it and of his emotions. Without sacrificing his plot, Mr. Fenraven manages to cast a contemporary take on how so many men "hide" in marriages they feel forced to endure, even in this day and age. Carefully, he allows the reader to question how far we have strayed from the much less "toxic" food of the 1800's and how we love our trappings and "things" more than we perhaps should. Don't get me wrong, the author is not passing judgement, rather he floats these ideas to us by weaving them into Ethan's internal dialogue and then allows us to draw our own conclusions.
But the real crux of this novella is the overreaching theme about taking risks and the potential for both success and failure when we do. The author hazards that to love someone we must be willing to put it all on the line, gambling with both our heart and our future. We must be willing to make it work and in doing so have faith that the other person is ready for that as well. Most definitely Quinn makes that decision. He reaches beyond his fear and, yes, guilt and takes a stand, banking on Ethan to be there for him in the end.
I loved the fact that right up to the last word in this story, the author has a shadow of doubt cross Ethan's mind. Would this relationship last especially since none of Ethan's prior ones had? Had Ethan done a terrible wrong in trying to convince Quinn to walk away from his pre-destined life? I think that made this novella more realistic and made the love that Ethan discovers he has for Quinn easier to understand and believe in, even after such a short time. There was something so fragile about Quinn, so sweet and innocent. The two men together were simply lovely.
If you are a stickler for "historical accuracy" you should take note of the disclaimer on the Dreamspinner website assuring you that this is fiction and may not follow the rules when it comes to time era mores and values. Having said that, just the way in which the author has Ethan compare living with Quinn and Hes to modern day points up many of the living conditions in that time in history. I never felt pulled from the story or disappointed by an "historical inaccuracy". In fact, the plot itself was so compelling that I was focused on how it all played out rather than any other details.
This is my first time reading author Theo Fenraven and I can assure you it will not be my last. I am told this is an expanded version of an original story. Whether you have read it before or not, Blue River is a definite must read in my opinion. I highly recommend it to you!
A step out of time... A slightly cynical and jaded artist carries his camera with him into the year 1863 and captures more than just images on his memory card. Ethan meets Quinn who is trapped in a life that will demand his very soul and with it any chance for these two men to have something more than friendship.
1863. Ethan steps though a misty fog and into the past. There he is met by a brother and sister team who know where he comes from although they don't fully understand how. They do know there has been a previous visitor--the one that Ethan had heard about and humorously dismissed as unbelievable. In fact, Ethan had gone along on the trip with his buddy to see "the fog" just as a lark. Then he accidentally got trapped within it and ended up at Blue River.
Over the next nine days, Ethan will live in a way that few ever experience. Rustic charm aside, life in 1863 was hard, backbreaking work and eking out a season to season existence farming the land. Quinn and his sister Hes are not strangers to rising early and breaking a sweat but Ethan surely is and that is a source of scorn for Hes and sympathy from Quinn.
It is Quinn's sweet reserve that first draws Ethan beyond his outer good looks. The idea that Quinn hides the secret that he is attracted to men only triggers more lust in Ethan. But when Ethan begins to weigh all that Quinn will give up in order to do his "duty" and marry a girl from the neighboring farm, he realizes the depth to which Quinn will lose his own humanity. Slowly but surely Ethan falls further and further into Quinn's world as Quinn falls straight into Ethan's arms. But the fog has reappeared and that is Ethan's ticket home...to a place without Quinn, without love.
What a smartly written novella! Author Theo Fenraven keeps his characters grounded throughout this story, never allowing Ethan to go the easy route of "insta-love" but rather always wary of it and of his emotions. Without sacrificing his plot, Mr. Fenraven manages to cast a contemporary take on how so many men "hide" in marriages they feel forced to endure, even in this day and age. Carefully, he allows the reader to question how far we have strayed from the much less "toxic" food of the 1800's and how we love our trappings and "things" more than we perhaps should. Don't get me wrong, the author is not passing judgement, rather he floats these ideas to us by weaving them into Ethan's internal dialogue and then allows us to draw our own conclusions.
But the real crux of this novella is the overreaching theme about taking risks and the potential for both success and failure when we do. The author hazards that to love someone we must be willing to put it all on the line, gambling with both our heart and our future. We must be willing to make it work and in doing so have faith that the other person is ready for that as well. Most definitely Quinn makes that decision. He reaches beyond his fear and, yes, guilt and takes a stand, banking on Ethan to be there for him in the end.
I loved the fact that right up to the last word in this story, the author has a shadow of doubt cross Ethan's mind. Would this relationship last especially since none of Ethan's prior ones had? Had Ethan done a terrible wrong in trying to convince Quinn to walk away from his pre-destined life? I think that made this novella more realistic and made the love that Ethan discovers he has for Quinn easier to understand and believe in, even after such a short time. There was something so fragile about Quinn, so sweet and innocent. The two men together were simply lovely.
If you are a stickler for "historical accuracy" you should take note of the disclaimer on the Dreamspinner website assuring you that this is fiction and may not follow the rules when it comes to time era mores and values. Having said that, just the way in which the author has Ethan compare living with Quinn and Hes to modern day points up many of the living conditions in that time in history. I never felt pulled from the story or disappointed by an "historical inaccuracy". In fact, the plot itself was so compelling that I was focused on how it all played out rather than any other details.
This is my first time reading author Theo Fenraven and I can assure you it will not be my last. I am told this is an expanded version of an original story. Whether you have read it before or not, Blue River is a definite must read in my opinion. I highly recommend it to you!
January 9, 2012
A charming and well-written story, with an unusual romance that came alive for me.
Review for Brief Encounters Reviews: http://briefencountersreviews.com/201...
The author’s style flows very well, and from the start there’s a fine sense of place and atmosphere. A hawk sailed slowly overhead, riding the air currents, looking for food. In the distance, on the side of a tree-covered hill, I saw a rabbit scurry for cover. The hawk circled, banked, and flew on. I liked the way the story starts immediately, no time wasted on exposition except what Ethan tells us through his dialogue. He’s inquisitive about the time travel story Randy tells him, and intrigued enough to see if it’d happen again for him. Ethan’s a city man, with money and all the trappings of career success. He has a sharp wit and plenty of modern cynicism, but his fascination with the potential adventure is endearing.
When he’s suddenly transplanted to 1863, he’s a charming narrator, comparing the old with the new. What I particularly liked was the way his hosts accept quite calmly he’s from the future, and are fascinated in return! This is a lovely twist on the confusion time travel usually produces. Much of Ethan’s world is already a familiar concept to Quinn, and this allows the author to concentrate successfully on the romance.
The issue of Ethan being gay is carefully treated, he realises quickly he has to be careful. There are thought-provoking instances where he realises he can’t use modern slang. His worries about the loss of modern conveniences – like toilet paper! – are very amusing. Give me 2011, with all its fuckups and disappointments and stupidity; at least I could live there.
The main theme for me was the awakening of both men. Ethan’s homesick, but astonished at rediscovering the natural delights of food and nature. He also begins to realise his life has become shallow. The batteries in my camera would soon die, and then I wouldn’t even be able to take pictures. I would not only be out of time, I would have no purpose. He’s a man of his times – who appreciates his pizza – but he feels alien in Quinn’s world, among the honesty of his hosts’ less sophisticated life. In contrast, Quinn is sexually naïve, rather vulnerable, but principled, gradually coveting Ethan’s world, where he could admit to being gay and live openly. Ethan of course holds the narration, but Quinn is bold enough for me to show he’s a match for Ethan.
The lust shifts to love rather too swiftly for me: it seems at first that Ethan is really in love with the novelty and challenge of the virgin Quinn. The sex is exciting but also poignant, and Quinn’s gentleness and need seem to soften Ethan. It’s a pity the story wasn’t longer to explore this change in both of them: at one stage I genuinely wasn’t sure how it’d end. The actual ending felt too easy, but pleasant for both men. I really enjoyed the story and rate it A.
by pettyprose…my opinion alone.
Review for Brief Encounters Reviews: http://briefencountersreviews.com/201...
The author’s style flows very well, and from the start there’s a fine sense of place and atmosphere. A hawk sailed slowly overhead, riding the air currents, looking for food. In the distance, on the side of a tree-covered hill, I saw a rabbit scurry for cover. The hawk circled, banked, and flew on. I liked the way the story starts immediately, no time wasted on exposition except what Ethan tells us through his dialogue. He’s inquisitive about the time travel story Randy tells him, and intrigued enough to see if it’d happen again for him. Ethan’s a city man, with money and all the trappings of career success. He has a sharp wit and plenty of modern cynicism, but his fascination with the potential adventure is endearing.
When he’s suddenly transplanted to 1863, he’s a charming narrator, comparing the old with the new. What I particularly liked was the way his hosts accept quite calmly he’s from the future, and are fascinated in return! This is a lovely twist on the confusion time travel usually produces. Much of Ethan’s world is already a familiar concept to Quinn, and this allows the author to concentrate successfully on the romance.
The issue of Ethan being gay is carefully treated, he realises quickly he has to be careful. There are thought-provoking instances where he realises he can’t use modern slang. His worries about the loss of modern conveniences – like toilet paper! – are very amusing. Give me 2011, with all its fuckups and disappointments and stupidity; at least I could live there.
The main theme for me was the awakening of both men. Ethan’s homesick, but astonished at rediscovering the natural delights of food and nature. He also begins to realise his life has become shallow. The batteries in my camera would soon die, and then I wouldn’t even be able to take pictures. I would not only be out of time, I would have no purpose. He’s a man of his times – who appreciates his pizza – but he feels alien in Quinn’s world, among the honesty of his hosts’ less sophisticated life. In contrast, Quinn is sexually naïve, rather vulnerable, but principled, gradually coveting Ethan’s world, where he could admit to being gay and live openly. Ethan of course holds the narration, but Quinn is bold enough for me to show he’s a match for Ethan.
The lust shifts to love rather too swiftly for me: it seems at first that Ethan is really in love with the novelty and challenge of the virgin Quinn. The sex is exciting but also poignant, and Quinn’s gentleness and need seem to soften Ethan. It’s a pity the story wasn’t longer to explore this change in both of them: at one stage I genuinely wasn’t sure how it’d end. The actual ending felt too easy, but pleasant for both men. I really enjoyed the story and rate it A.
by pettyprose…my opinion alone.
October 10, 2013
This is a 2nd, more extended edition of this story and I hadn’t read the first edition so it was new for me.
After a rough start to get into it, I found myself getting swept up by the impressive, all-consuming way of storytelling by this author.
It is easy to get familiar with the characters. Ethan seems such a fast guy but adapts quite easily to his new living arrangements and Quinn he is so adorable and sweet, learning things while getting to know Ethan.
Even Quinn’s sister is a pleasure to get to know just because of the fact she personalizes a character from that period of time. And because she is so different than her brother. You can see the author work hard and researched the time period well.
This story isn’t long and it moves at a good pace. You get acquainted with the characters quickly but steadily and you learn a lot in a couple of pages. For me the way Quinn learns from Ethan about his feelings, his struggle to allow himself to feel like that for Ethan is the most fascinating and enthralling part of this story.
It is nice to read how Ethan adapts as well, how he learns about simple things. The end without spoiling too much is perfectly written . The struggle when Ethan faces the choice is very well portrayed by the author.An I have to say that in a way you get surprised even by the ending. I liked that a lot.
If I have one point of criticism, I would have to mention that I would have liked to have seen more at the end. I would have loved to see how Ethan and Quinn would adapt and continue on. Also there is a focus on first times and in a way it feels like something is missing there. It is not disturbing or anything but for me it could have been there and made the story more complete..
In the end I have to say I really liked this short story. It makes you feel connected to the characters in an comfortable way and the writing of Mr Theo Fenraven is definitely a pleasure to experience. The story is well built, reads easily and is extremely well-written.
A solid 4 stars from me.
Review posted at :
http://sidlove.wordpress.com/2013/10/...
After a rough start to get into it, I found myself getting swept up by the impressive, all-consuming way of storytelling by this author.
It is easy to get familiar with the characters. Ethan seems such a fast guy but adapts quite easily to his new living arrangements and Quinn he is so adorable and sweet, learning things while getting to know Ethan.
Even Quinn’s sister is a pleasure to get to know just because of the fact she personalizes a character from that period of time. And because she is so different than her brother. You can see the author work hard and researched the time period well.
This story isn’t long and it moves at a good pace. You get acquainted with the characters quickly but steadily and you learn a lot in a couple of pages. For me the way Quinn learns from Ethan about his feelings, his struggle to allow himself to feel like that for Ethan is the most fascinating and enthralling part of this story.
It is nice to read how Ethan adapts as well, how he learns about simple things. The end without spoiling too much is perfectly written . The struggle when Ethan faces the choice is very well portrayed by the author.An I have to say that in a way you get surprised even by the ending. I liked that a lot.
If I have one point of criticism, I would have to mention that I would have liked to have seen more at the end. I would have loved to see how Ethan and Quinn would adapt and continue on. Also there is a focus on first times and in a way it feels like something is missing there. It is not disturbing or anything but for me it could have been there and made the story more complete..
In the end I have to say I really liked this short story. It makes you feel connected to the characters in an comfortable way and the writing of Mr Theo Fenraven is definitely a pleasure to experience. The story is well built, reads easily and is extremely well-written.
A solid 4 stars from me.
Review posted at :
http://sidlove.wordpress.com/2013/10/...
October 14, 2013
Really wonderful book. Ethan and Quinn captured my heart and I found myself laughing and crying with them. I was so impressed with the research for this book. More often then not with books or even movies that are time periods, things are inaccurate. I loved that Theo addressed things not often addressed in this particular time. I am a creature of observation and it is always a pet peeve of mine to have inaccuracies. Really great book you should all check it out!
October 14, 2013
Basically, Blue River is a light romance with some angst added to keep the reader interested, so I’m giving this one a rating of 4 stars!
See the full review at The Novel Approach: http://thenovelapproachreviews.com/20...
See the full review at The Novel Approach: http://thenovelapproachreviews.com/20...
October 17, 2013
This was such a cute and quick read. I not only loved the characters, but I appreciated the message conveyed regarding homosexuality being a choice or a sin. Very poignant message surrounded by a sweet story.
Loved it!
Update... This gave me a book hangover. I can't stop thinking about it!!
Loved it!
Update... This gave me a book hangover. I can't stop thinking about it!!
December 20, 2011
Another nice romance with Ethan and Quinn getting their happy ending just in time for Christmas.
December 22, 2011
Very sweet...loved the idea around this and reading what happened in the end!
December 17, 2013
I do like a good time-travel story, especially when the author keeps the story realistic. There is nothing more frustrating than a modern character travelling back to earlier times – like in this case 1863 – and seamlessly falling into the way of life they find there. Of course such a character would miss modern conveniences, and have huge issues fitting in and getting used to the morals and traditions.
This story adds an extra consideration to that dilemma. Not only does Ethan find himself in a time where personal hygiene is still frowned upon, where he doesn’t trust the water and finds himself having to use an outhouse that gives him the creeps, he is also facing a time and place where homosexuality is still considered a crime as well as a sin. While completely equal rights may still be a goal to aim towards in Ethan’s world, he is used to living in a time and place where he can be who he is without having to hide anything.
My heart broke for poor Quinn. After years of more or less successfully suppressing his desires he suddenly finds himself face to face with a man who openly admits he is attracted to him. Within minutes of meeting Ethan all Quinn’s certainties have been destroyed. The future Quinn knew he was destined for – marriage to a woman he’s known for years, followed by children – and was ready, although not happy, to face suddenly appears impossible. And the more he gives in to his attraction to Ethan the more impossible the idea of ignoring his needs seems. And yet, what is the alternative? Ethan has to return to his own time, to live his own life just as Quinn has to face his destiny.
There was one paragraph in this book that took my breath away; a statement that should be made into one of those Facebook photo-quotes by somebody who knows about these things.
“But if it was so bad, why then did he want it so? Why had God made him this way if it went against his will? God didn’t make mistakes. Quinn was not a mistake.” - Quinn
This was an interesting and charming story; a quick read I thoroughly enjoyed even if the ending left me feeling all sorts of worried for these two characters. That’s not necessarily a bad thing though. I love it when a story ends in such a way that my imagination can play with what might happen next. That imagination of mine will have a field day coming up with possible scenarios for these two characters.
This story adds an extra consideration to that dilemma. Not only does Ethan find himself in a time where personal hygiene is still frowned upon, where he doesn’t trust the water and finds himself having to use an outhouse that gives him the creeps, he is also facing a time and place where homosexuality is still considered a crime as well as a sin. While completely equal rights may still be a goal to aim towards in Ethan’s world, he is used to living in a time and place where he can be who he is without having to hide anything.
My heart broke for poor Quinn. After years of more or less successfully suppressing his desires he suddenly finds himself face to face with a man who openly admits he is attracted to him. Within minutes of meeting Ethan all Quinn’s certainties have been destroyed. The future Quinn knew he was destined for – marriage to a woman he’s known for years, followed by children – and was ready, although not happy, to face suddenly appears impossible. And the more he gives in to his attraction to Ethan the more impossible the idea of ignoring his needs seems. And yet, what is the alternative? Ethan has to return to his own time, to live his own life just as Quinn has to face his destiny.
There was one paragraph in this book that took my breath away; a statement that should be made into one of those Facebook photo-quotes by somebody who knows about these things.
“But if it was so bad, why then did he want it so? Why had God made him this way if it went against his will? God didn’t make mistakes. Quinn was not a mistake.” - Quinn
This was an interesting and charming story; a quick read I thoroughly enjoyed even if the ending left me feeling all sorts of worried for these two characters. That’s not necessarily a bad thing though. I love it when a story ends in such a way that my imagination can play with what might happen next. That imagination of mine will have a field day coming up with possible scenarios for these two characters.
May 20, 2014
I do like a good time-travel story, especially when the author keeps the story realistic. There is nothing more frustrating than a modern character travelling back to earlier times – like in this case 1863 – and seamlessly falling into the way of life they find there. Of course such a character would miss modern conveniences, and have huge issues fitting in and getting used to the morals and traditions.
This story adds an extra consideration to that dilemma. Not only does Ethan find himself in a time where personal hygiene is still frowned upon, where he doesn’t trust the water and finds himself having to use an outhouse that gives him the creeps, he is also facing a time and place where homosexuality is still considered a crime as well as a sin. While completely equal rights may still be a goal to aim towards in Ethan’s world, he is used to living in a time and place where he can be who he is without having to hide anything.
My heart broke for poor Quinn. After years of more or less successfully suppressing his desires he suddenly finds himself face to face with a man who openly admits he is attracted to him. Within minutes of meeting Ethan all Quinn’s certainties have been destroyed. The future Quinn knew he was destined for – marriage to a woman he’s known for years, followed by children – and was ready, although not happy, to face suddenly appears impossible. And the more he gives in to his attraction to Ethan the more impossible the idea of ignoring his needs seems. And yet, what is the alternative? Ethan has to return to his own time, to live his own life just as Quinn has to face his destiny.
There was one paragraph in this book that took my breath away; a statement that should be made into one of those Facebook photo-quotes by somebody who knows about these things.
“But if it was so bad, why then did he want it so? Why had God made him this way if it went against his will? God didn’t make mistakes. Quinn was not a mistake.” - Quinn
This was an interesting and charming story; a quick read I thoroughly enjoyed even if the ending left me feeling all sorts of worried for these two characters. That’s not necessarily a bad thing though. I love it when a story ends in such a way that my imagination can play with what might happen next. That imagination of mine will have a field day coming up with possible scenarios for these two characters.
This story adds an extra consideration to that dilemma. Not only does Ethan find himself in a time where personal hygiene is still frowned upon, where he doesn’t trust the water and finds himself having to use an outhouse that gives him the creeps, he is also facing a time and place where homosexuality is still considered a crime as well as a sin. While completely equal rights may still be a goal to aim towards in Ethan’s world, he is used to living in a time and place where he can be who he is without having to hide anything.
My heart broke for poor Quinn. After years of more or less successfully suppressing his desires he suddenly finds himself face to face with a man who openly admits he is attracted to him. Within minutes of meeting Ethan all Quinn’s certainties have been destroyed. The future Quinn knew he was destined for – marriage to a woman he’s known for years, followed by children – and was ready, although not happy, to face suddenly appears impossible. And the more he gives in to his attraction to Ethan the more impossible the idea of ignoring his needs seems. And yet, what is the alternative? Ethan has to return to his own time, to live his own life just as Quinn has to face his destiny.
There was one paragraph in this book that took my breath away; a statement that should be made into one of those Facebook photo-quotes by somebody who knows about these things.
“But if it was so bad, why then did he want it so? Why had God made him this way if it went against his will? God didn’t make mistakes. Quinn was not a mistake.” - Quinn
This was an interesting and charming story; a quick read I thoroughly enjoyed even if the ending left me feeling all sorts of worried for these two characters. That’s not necessarily a bad thing though. I love it when a story ends in such a way that my imagination can play with what might happen next. That imagination of mine will have a field day coming up with possible scenarios for these two characters.
May 30, 2014
I’m trying to quit smoking. I’m rewarding myself by reading Theo Fenraven’s backlist. Few things can distract my mind right now, but his words never fail to suck me in and hold me in their spell. It’s working - I’m on day three - so I went and bought the rest of his books.
Today I pulled Blue River up on the Kindle. I’d heard good things about this book, but, (and it seems I say this about every single one of his books), time travel stories aren’t normally my thing. But, just like every other one of Theo’s stories, the moment Ethan got sucked into the mist, I got sucked into the story and couldn’t put it down.
Ethan is a typical Fenraven character. He could easily be your best friend. He’s down to earth, open and honest. He tells it like it is. He’s got both feet firmly planted in 2013 and all the amenities and conveniences it provides. Until he’s transported back in time, that is, to a time of outhouses, oil lamps and infrequent bathing.
Quinn, however, was very different from the other Fenraven characters I’ve encountered so far. He lives in 1863, he’s a farmer and he’s engaged to be married to a girl he doesn’t love because he’s a deeply closeted gay man. He’s polite and proper and has always done what’s expected of him and has never acknowledged his true desires. Along comes Ethan and Quinn sees possibilities he never dared existed.
I thought the scenes between Ethan and Quinn were exceptionally hot. Not in an erotic or explicit way, but in a “first time-awkward groping” kind of way. The kind of excitement experienced by someone having their very first kiss or very first sexual encounter. It was sweet and tender and steamy simply because of the innocent emotions involved.
I think this may be my favorite book of Theo’s so far, but I’m not done reading them all…yet. I may have quit smoking (fingers crossed), but I will never quit reading Theo Fenraven’s words.
Today I pulled Blue River up on the Kindle. I’d heard good things about this book, but, (and it seems I say this about every single one of his books), time travel stories aren’t normally my thing. But, just like every other one of Theo’s stories, the moment Ethan got sucked into the mist, I got sucked into the story and couldn’t put it down.
Ethan is a typical Fenraven character. He could easily be your best friend. He’s down to earth, open and honest. He tells it like it is. He’s got both feet firmly planted in 2013 and all the amenities and conveniences it provides. Until he’s transported back in time, that is, to a time of outhouses, oil lamps and infrequent bathing.
Quinn, however, was very different from the other Fenraven characters I’ve encountered so far. He lives in 1863, he’s a farmer and he’s engaged to be married to a girl he doesn’t love because he’s a deeply closeted gay man. He’s polite and proper and has always done what’s expected of him and has never acknowledged his true desires. Along comes Ethan and Quinn sees possibilities he never dared existed.
I thought the scenes between Ethan and Quinn were exceptionally hot. Not in an erotic or explicit way, but in a “first time-awkward groping” kind of way. The kind of excitement experienced by someone having their very first kiss or very first sexual encounter. It was sweet and tender and steamy simply because of the innocent emotions involved.
I think this may be my favorite book of Theo’s so far, but I’m not done reading them all…yet. I may have quit smoking (fingers crossed), but I will never quit reading Theo Fenraven’s words.
December 15, 2013
A charming time travel story. There was a lot of humor and a few little twists that made the novella feel fresh and original.
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I felt like Ethan was expressing some of my doubts about living in older times, without running water, indoor plumbing, disinfectant and a complete refusal to maintain personal hygiene. Ethan actually dealt with it with a grace and humor that was admirable.
I liked Ethan. He cracked me up with his snark and showed himself to be more sensitive than he appeared in the beginning.
Poor, sweet and repressed Quinn. So innocent and open, he had no clue how to hide his thoughts and emotions. I wanted to hug him tight and tell him that he deserved to be happy and there was nothing wrong with him. Luckily, Ethan hugged and loved on Quinn for me.
This crazy trek through time forced Ethan to grow up a little. He had to take a look at some of his attitudes and found a new appreciation for a lot of things he took for granted, including his freedom to be himself and express his sexuality. I enjoyed my time with these men. They were so sweet together and deserved to somehow, someway, find their HEA.
Reviewed by Nina
To see more of this review and others like it please visit us at Gay List Book Reviews at www.gaylistbookreviews.wordpress.com
October 18, 2013
This is a really great short story, having what I what in short story - great characters, a story that hooks you from the start, no loose ends or hanging story threads, a satisfying ending.
I liked that the differences in 1860 are pointed out by Ethan (amd Bobby's) experiences rather than me just being told. Despite being a hard working woman, Hes comes over as a self absorbed teen, even in the 1860's! Ethan and Quinn together were interesting, juggling their private adventures and having to behave in front of an audience. And an ending thats both expected and unexpected and satisfying.
As always, good clear writing, no excess words and the story flows nicely.
I liked that the differences in 1860 are pointed out by Ethan (amd Bobby's) experiences rather than me just being told. Despite being a hard working woman, Hes comes over as a self absorbed teen, even in the 1860's! Ethan and Quinn together were interesting, juggling their private adventures and having to behave in front of an audience. And an ending thats both expected and unexpected and satisfying.
As always, good clear writing, no excess words and the story flows nicely.
January 5, 2014
This was a great story, really creative! Not your run of the mill romance but something a little extra.
I loved the characters & the details of the time that Ethan travels back to. I wish we had gotten more time to spend with Randy. I really think I would have liked him a lot but he didn't really fit anywhere but at the beginning & end.
I would highly recommend!
I loved the characters & the details of the time that Ethan travels back to. I wish we had gotten more time to spend with Randy. I really think I would have liked him a lot but he didn't really fit anywhere but at the beginning & end.
I would highly recommend!
July 23, 2014
Oh come on!!! There's not a follow up book?!? I want to see how Quinn handles 2013 for crying out loud. That would be fantastic. A flushing toilet? What? lol. I loved this little story of time travel showing the difference levels of acceptance. Very sweet!
July 27, 2014
I enjoyed this book. The Main characters are both very likable.
I would love it if there was a sequel so we would read how Ouinn would adapt to living in the futere, how he feels and what he thinks about living in our time. I just want more Ethan and Quinn.
I would love it if there was a sequel so we would read how Ouinn would adapt to living in the futere, how he feels and what he thinks about living in our time. I just want more Ethan and Quinn.
July 29, 2016
3.75 Stars
Nice little time-travelling short! My copy is a first edition; I'd find it interesting to compare it to the new, expanded 2nd edition.
Nice little time-travelling short! My copy is a first edition; I'd find it interesting to compare it to the new, expanded 2nd edition.
December 8, 2013
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
Lovely and magical. Theo creates a magical time travel story while still keeping it grounded in reality. For my full review visit http://wp.me/p220KL-1K2
March 19, 2015
Good, solid read - wish it was longer.
May 1, 2015
Very charming time travel story
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