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The Gaslight Mysteries #3
To The Bone
This edition is no longer available.
The time is 1923, and the place is a fantasy city in Ireland. Two unlikely men have formed a good-natured Michael, who keeps a serious secret, and sulky Simon, who has plenty of reasons to be angry at the world. Michael has stalked the standoffish Simon from the beginning, and Simon has consistently rebuffed him...yet not enough for Michael to give up a dedicated pursuit of the handsome investigator.
As private eyes, the men have a case to to find more than a score of stolen paintings, and especially one small valuable work of art worth more than all the others. But the case grows more complex the deeper they look into it. Soon Michael and Simon find themselves searching not just for a thief, but for a city-wide ring of criminals. And the closer they get to the paintings, the closer they find themselves to a killer.
Into this mix steps a man named Moshe--a pesky, secretive, nosy man who is nevertheless a brilliant investigator himself. He gives both the men fits, burrowing like a tick into their very private affairs, so close they have a hard time evading him.
Can the investigators solve a series of crimes, take care of the interfering Moshe, and drive their own intense relationship all the way to the bone?
Gay / Nostalgic Contemporary (1920s-Era) / Fantasy / Action / Adventure / Romantic Comedy / Mystery / Detective / BDSM (Light) / Series
170 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 28, 2013
4 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Erin O'Quinn
65 books72 followersErin O’Quinn earned a BA (English) and MA (Comparative Literature) from the University of Southern California. Her life has been a pastiche of fascinating vocations—newspaper marketing manager, university teacher, car salesperson, landscape gardener—until now, in relative retirement, she lives and writes in a small town in central Texas.
Erin has published six M/M novels and three novellas with AmberQuillPress and two independent M/M novels.
Her series titled “The Gaslight Mysteries” includes Heart to Hart, Sparring with Shadows, To the Bone. and Thin as Smoke.
Erin's indie books are NEVADA HIGHLANDER and THE KILT COMPLEX, both very well received.
In addition to these Amber Quill Press and indie books, Erin has thirteen other published novels. Of those, two are M/M historicals published by Siren Bookstrand, set in the Ireland of badass clansmen, cattle drovers, druids, Saxon mercenaries and St. Patrick himself.
Erin has published six M/M novels and three novellas with AmberQuillPress and two independent M/M novels.
Her series titled “The Gaslight Mysteries” includes Heart to Hart, Sparring with Shadows, To the Bone. and Thin as Smoke.
Erin's indie books are NEVADA HIGHLANDER and THE KILT COMPLEX, both very well received.
In addition to these Amber Quill Press and indie books, Erin has thirteen other published novels. Of those, two are M/M historicals published by Siren Bookstrand, set in the Ireland of badass clansmen, cattle drovers, druids, Saxon mercenaries and St. Patrick himself.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
September 22, 2016
My name is Alp and I'm a Erin O'holic - she's hooked me, no question. Truth be told, I was hooked from page one of Heart to Hart (Gaslight 1) - by the end of To The Bone (Gaslight 3), I'm running the sweats and shakes, looking for the next fix (and there are so many more to look forward to).
I said of part one - exquisite; I said of part two - sensory overload; what the fuck can I say of part three? Actually; finesse. This is a maturing series, with a lot of detail already shared, and to be carried - that is never easy if the pace is to remain just right to keep the tension on the right side of unbearable. The romance between Simon and Michael is blooming, but not in a way that it overshadows the story - which for me remains of equal importance - so far, everything is balanced, and tracking the arc pretty perfectly.
I do not plan to paraphrase the story here - the blurb is sufficient to give you the story outline - the reason why this is a 5 star story [and series] is the quality of the story and the skill of the story-telling - I open the book and step across the footlights, or through the celluloid, and become part of the action - not just a casual observer - a participant.
Immaculate world building - on top of which, I can smell the story, like the leather of the old couch in the club. There is just a gauze between me and the reality that Erin has created.
Character and plot work in harmony - draught horses and plough, cutting furrows into which seeds are sown and later harvested - a picture nether made from applying the oil paint with a trowel [I appreciate the opportunity to use my imagination] or scraped so thin that the canvas is showing through - masterpiece!
Thoroughly deserving of 5 stars, immensely rewarding to read, and there is the prospect of parts 4 and 5 ahead.
Alp Mortal
x
I said of part one - exquisite; I said of part two - sensory overload; what the fuck can I say of part three? Actually; finesse. This is a maturing series, with a lot of detail already shared, and to be carried - that is never easy if the pace is to remain just right to keep the tension on the right side of unbearable. The romance between Simon and Michael is blooming, but not in a way that it overshadows the story - which for me remains of equal importance - so far, everything is balanced, and tracking the arc pretty perfectly.
I do not plan to paraphrase the story here - the blurb is sufficient to give you the story outline - the reason why this is a 5 star story [and series] is the quality of the story and the skill of the story-telling - I open the book and step across the footlights, or through the celluloid, and become part of the action - not just a casual observer - a participant.
Immaculate world building - on top of which, I can smell the story, like the leather of the old couch in the club. There is just a gauze between me and the reality that Erin has created.
Character and plot work in harmony - draught horses and plough, cutting furrows into which seeds are sown and later harvested - a picture nether made from applying the oil paint with a trowel [I appreciate the opportunity to use my imagination] or scraped so thin that the canvas is showing through - masterpiece!
Thoroughly deserving of 5 stars, immensely rewarding to read, and there is the prospect of parts 4 and 5 ahead.
Alp Mortal
x
February 25, 2015
4.75 stars. As usual with O’Quinn, she shines in characterization, dialogue, and world-building. The writing is lyrically, breathtakingly descriptive, close to the skin and to the senses. Every single scene exudes heat, passion, intelligence, and action. The pace is swift, the plot has skillful intricacies slow to reveal themselves, and the erotic scenes are packed full of denied, yet undeniable passion. The town of Dun Linden is a living, breathing entity with a rich cultural heritage of its own, plus a dark, dangerous underbelly ripe with crimes and deviants.
And best of all, Michael and Simon are probably the most fully fleshed out characters I’ve ever come across, and they continue to surprise me with their realistic depth and their raw, passionate loving. The fact that we are given more new aspects about them with each new book shows how multi-faceted and realistic they are, how they continue to evolve as individuals and as a couple. As usual, I’m hungry and greedy for more.
Read the full review at Joyfully Jay.
And best of all, Michael and Simon are probably the most fully fleshed out characters I’ve ever come across, and they continue to surprise me with their realistic depth and their raw, passionate loving. The fact that we are given more new aspects about them with each new book shows how multi-faceted and realistic they are, how they continue to evolve as individuals and as a couple. As usual, I’m hungry and greedy for more.
Read the full review at Joyfully Jay.
December 12, 2013
The tremendously satisfying third book of 'The Gaslight Mysteries' series brings our two willful leads, Michael McCree and Simon Hart, full circle in their torrid love affair, and weaves yet another stimulating mystery betwixt its romance. While I hope this is not the last I see of these two charismatic men, Erin O’Quinn has proven that she knows how to wrap a tidy ribbon on the exquisite gift of this engaging series.
Beginning the morning after the endgame of the second book, Michael lies abed contemplating what the previous night's ferocious bout of lovemaking, initiated by his heretofore-reluctant partner Simon, will mean to the future of their relationship. Despite the uncharacteristic show of aggression by Simon, Michael knows that his partner’s absence means that the man is probably off recriminating himself for his blatant display of desire. Attempting to give Simon the space he needs makes peace with the true nature of his feelings toward his own sex, Michael puts his mind to finding out more about his elusive lover, like how he came about his skill of cane fighting, by which he saved Michael the prior evening.
Well-ordered Simon on his part is in turmoil, struggling as Michael imagines, and conflicted about how he can be with Michael and yet maintain his individuality. Michael seems to suck all the air from him simply by entering the same room. And how can his new partner be so easygoing, smart, and sure of himself…and of Simon, when they only met eleven days earlier? Ever the investigator Simon carefully begins to search his soul for the truth of his feelings. When twenty-five paintings are reported missing from a wealthy townsman, the new case affords Simon a temporary respite from his soul search, but an old acquaintance enters the picture and throws the new lovers into a greater turmoil.
The mysterious Moshe, a clever older man with sleuthing skills comparable to Michael’s, seems to have ferreted out the true nature of their fledgling relationship, and worse, appears to be a friend to their vanquished enemy, The Brown Man. What follows is a sublime journey deep into the hearts of Michael and Simon as they try to solve the case of the missing paintings and the mystery of Moshe’s past, while cementing their relationship under the suspended approval of a man Simon had hoped he’d never see again in his lifetime.
This third book of the series sheds an incandescent light on masculine emotion and the uncertainties embraced by all who feel the sparks of love’s tender bite for the first time. The multiple storyline adventure is given additional charm by the witty turns of phrase strewn throughout its pages. It is this tantalizing language of prose which takes this top-notch episodic mystery to a place far beyond exceptional. Once again I found myself rereading phrases and entire passages simply for the thrilling images words like “bone-handled switchblade” and eyes like “sodding British sovereigns”, brought forth. No almost about it, Erin O’Quinn definitely has the Irish gift of the Blarney in her writing. The sublime subtly of the language used to express the two leads' desire to fornicate holds more heat than many actual sex scenes I’ve read in other books; the sentiment of passion bringing the familiar to mind exquisitely with an extra spark of delight by the author’s enchanting delivery.
Poignant romance between two very diverse leads, dynamic emotional tension, scintillating sex scenes and not one, but several mysteries to solve, punctuated with exceptional prose, make for an outstanding and satisfying addition to the series. Oh I know I was supposed to say conclusion, but one can always hope, can’t one? Erin O’Quinn, you’ve done it again, and I heartily thank you for it.
“Clever, Sparkling, Amorous”
Beginning the morning after the endgame of the second book, Michael lies abed contemplating what the previous night's ferocious bout of lovemaking, initiated by his heretofore-reluctant partner Simon, will mean to the future of their relationship. Despite the uncharacteristic show of aggression by Simon, Michael knows that his partner’s absence means that the man is probably off recriminating himself for his blatant display of desire. Attempting to give Simon the space he needs makes peace with the true nature of his feelings toward his own sex, Michael puts his mind to finding out more about his elusive lover, like how he came about his skill of cane fighting, by which he saved Michael the prior evening.
Well-ordered Simon on his part is in turmoil, struggling as Michael imagines, and conflicted about how he can be with Michael and yet maintain his individuality. Michael seems to suck all the air from him simply by entering the same room. And how can his new partner be so easygoing, smart, and sure of himself…and of Simon, when they only met eleven days earlier? Ever the investigator Simon carefully begins to search his soul for the truth of his feelings. When twenty-five paintings are reported missing from a wealthy townsman, the new case affords Simon a temporary respite from his soul search, but an old acquaintance enters the picture and throws the new lovers into a greater turmoil.
The mysterious Moshe, a clever older man with sleuthing skills comparable to Michael’s, seems to have ferreted out the true nature of their fledgling relationship, and worse, appears to be a friend to their vanquished enemy, The Brown Man. What follows is a sublime journey deep into the hearts of Michael and Simon as they try to solve the case of the missing paintings and the mystery of Moshe’s past, while cementing their relationship under the suspended approval of a man Simon had hoped he’d never see again in his lifetime.
This third book of the series sheds an incandescent light on masculine emotion and the uncertainties embraced by all who feel the sparks of love’s tender bite for the first time. The multiple storyline adventure is given additional charm by the witty turns of phrase strewn throughout its pages. It is this tantalizing language of prose which takes this top-notch episodic mystery to a place far beyond exceptional. Once again I found myself rereading phrases and entire passages simply for the thrilling images words like “bone-handled switchblade” and eyes like “sodding British sovereigns”, brought forth. No almost about it, Erin O’Quinn definitely has the Irish gift of the Blarney in her writing. The sublime subtly of the language used to express the two leads' desire to fornicate holds more heat than many actual sex scenes I’ve read in other books; the sentiment of passion bringing the familiar to mind exquisitely with an extra spark of delight by the author’s enchanting delivery.
Poignant romance between two very diverse leads, dynamic emotional tension, scintillating sex scenes and not one, but several mysteries to solve, punctuated with exceptional prose, make for an outstanding and satisfying addition to the series. Oh I know I was supposed to say conclusion, but one can always hope, can’t one? Erin O’Quinn, you’ve done it again, and I heartily thank you for it.
“Clever, Sparkling, Amorous”
January 10, 2015
Loved this series.
September 8, 2016
**GRammar**
This time our boys need to catch a thief that is stealing paintings, but there is a bigger mystery behind this case.
Simon is still sulky and sometimes cold, he doesnt know how to express his feelings and also if he really cares about Michael and would protect him with his life, he doesnt have the courage to tell him he loves him. Simon is angry at himself and at Michael bcs he is making him feel something he never felt before and he is pissed at himself bcs he doesnt know what to do.
Michael's character changed a lot, he is more patient, he understands Simon better than the other man thinks and he knows that he needs time and if he pushes him, he risks of losing him forever and he doesnt want it, not now that for the first time he has fallen in love. Michael has had a lot of partners before Simon, he is used on being a top and also a bottom, but when he is with Simon his body becomes alive in a way that naver happened before, this isnt simple lust or sex, is much more and he will do all he can to keep Simon at his side, also if sometimes the other man stubborness makes him wanna strangle him.
In this book we dont see much of the little spies working for the private eyes, and I missed them a bit, the little guys are smart and cute.
The story has a major twist, who we thought was a foe in the last book, maybe wasnt.
Simon and Michael are working on the new case of the paitings, and are inspecting Chanda's apartment, bcs they think the man had something to do with this theft, sure now he is behind bars, but the Brown man had a lot of connections.
Our guys cant keep their hands off each other, but this time we see Simon becoming bossy and asking and taking what he wants. They still change position and their roles are equals, but Simon is changing, he is now sure that he is gay and is trying to understand what this means for him and for his life and how he can keep Michael in it.
There are some little BDSM scenes, but those are really light and consensual, and both our guys care for each other, and we can see it.
Simon is cleaning himself in the bath, in the secret apartment Chanda had near the one they were inspecting. Michael goes back to the first apartment to take their clothes and there he soon understands that he is not alone.
There is a fight, the other man, older than him, is able and smart. They are trying to kill each other, and Michael thinks that this is really the end, all seems lost but something in the other man's features tells him that he knows him, or at least he knows a younger version of him and his words seems to confirm his guessing.
Using Simon's name is a bet, but he soon finds out that he was right. This man, this skilled agent, is Simon's father.
Not much later, Simon and his old man have time to talk, and we find out something about their past. His father left him when he was only 16, and also if he left behind a lot of money and people who would care for him, he still abandoned his only son, a boy that was already without a mother and didnt have any other family. Simon's father was and still is a secret agent, working for the same agency Michael works for. The man is a good liar, and is full of secrets, but he really loves his son.
Here we read about the twist I was talking about before. Chanda was Simon's father lover. Maybe they werent exclusive, Simon's father knew it, since in the other books we saw Chanda having sex with Rose and having another male lover, Bala, but they were in love and Simon's father still loves him and wants him back. Maybe Chanda wasnt the bad man they though, he was just really good in making them believe he was, but thinking about it,Simon and Michael are sure that he never did something more than threaten them.
They never saw him kill or rape someone, he only made them think he did those things, and maybe they still arent 100% sure about his good intentions, but they still wanna help Simon's father.
Michael and his boss, make a deal. Chanda will be free if they catch the man behind the stolen paintings,a man that is robbing around the city and pissing off a lot of rich people.
Michael and Simon, risk their lives, get rescued by Michael's boss and in the end are able to solve the case. Chanda is free and back with Simon's father. We dont read about their reunion or what they say to each other, but when Simon and Michael talk about that scene, the younger man tells the other that he thinks they were really happy seeing each other.
We also find out, that Simon's father had come back not only to get Chanda, but to take back a painting belonging to his family, that had been stolen by that same thief our guys were searching for. The painting had been done by Simon's grandfather a famous painter that had died still young, leaving behind a young wife and a son, his father. Chanda had helped the man to find it and had stolen it for him, but he hadnt been able to tell him where he had put it.
In the epilogue, we see Simon and Michael in one of their private moments, talking, kissing, touching and finally confessing their feelings. Michael had already said these famous words in a moment of passion in the 1st book, but now he tells them again and this time, Simon answers with the same passion.
I'm really liking this couple, sometimes the fact that the author summarizes what happend in the other books each time we start a new one, is a bit annoying, but I can understand that it may be useful for the people who didnt read the book one after the other, but waited months or years before continuing the story.
Michael and Simon have still a lot to learn about each other, but I was happy to see that the younger man is finally able to say what he wants and what he feels.
This time our boys need to catch a thief that is stealing paintings, but there is a bigger mystery behind this case.
Simon is still sulky and sometimes cold, he doesnt know how to express his feelings and also if he really cares about Michael and would protect him with his life, he doesnt have the courage to tell him he loves him. Simon is angry at himself and at Michael bcs he is making him feel something he never felt before and he is pissed at himself bcs he doesnt know what to do.
Michael's character changed a lot, he is more patient, he understands Simon better than the other man thinks and he knows that he needs time and if he pushes him, he risks of losing him forever and he doesnt want it, not now that for the first time he has fallen in love. Michael has had a lot of partners before Simon, he is used on being a top and also a bottom, but when he is with Simon his body becomes alive in a way that naver happened before, this isnt simple lust or sex, is much more and he will do all he can to keep Simon at his side, also if sometimes the other man stubborness makes him wanna strangle him.
In this book we dont see much of the little spies working for the private eyes, and I missed them a bit, the little guys are smart and cute.
The story has a major twist, who we thought was a foe in the last book, maybe wasnt.
Simon and Michael are working on the new case of the paitings, and are inspecting Chanda's apartment, bcs they think the man had something to do with this theft, sure now he is behind bars, but the Brown man had a lot of connections.
Our guys cant keep their hands off each other, but this time we see Simon becoming bossy and asking and taking what he wants. They still change position and their roles are equals, but Simon is changing, he is now sure that he is gay and is trying to understand what this means for him and for his life and how he can keep Michael in it.
There are some little BDSM scenes, but those are really light and consensual, and both our guys care for each other, and we can see it.
Simon is cleaning himself in the bath, in the secret apartment Chanda had near the one they were inspecting. Michael goes back to the first apartment to take their clothes and there he soon understands that he is not alone.
There is a fight, the other man, older than him, is able and smart. They are trying to kill each other, and Michael thinks that this is really the end, all seems lost but something in the other man's features tells him that he knows him, or at least he knows a younger version of him and his words seems to confirm his guessing.
Using Simon's name is a bet, but he soon finds out that he was right. This man, this skilled agent, is Simon's father.
Not much later, Simon and his old man have time to talk, and we find out something about their past. His father left him when he was only 16, and also if he left behind a lot of money and people who would care for him, he still abandoned his only son, a boy that was already without a mother and didnt have any other family. Simon's father was and still is a secret agent, working for the same agency Michael works for. The man is a good liar, and is full of secrets, but he really loves his son.
Here we read about the twist I was talking about before. Chanda was Simon's father lover. Maybe they werent exclusive, Simon's father knew it, since in the other books we saw Chanda having sex with Rose and having another male lover, Bala, but they were in love and Simon's father still loves him and wants him back. Maybe Chanda wasnt the bad man they though, he was just really good in making them believe he was, but thinking about it,Simon and Michael are sure that he never did something more than threaten them.
They never saw him kill or rape someone, he only made them think he did those things, and maybe they still arent 100% sure about his good intentions, but they still wanna help Simon's father.
Michael and his boss, make a deal. Chanda will be free if they catch the man behind the stolen paintings,a man that is robbing around the city and pissing off a lot of rich people.
Michael and Simon, risk their lives, get rescued by Michael's boss and in the end are able to solve the case. Chanda is free and back with Simon's father. We dont read about their reunion or what they say to each other, but when Simon and Michael talk about that scene, the younger man tells the other that he thinks they were really happy seeing each other.
We also find out, that Simon's father had come back not only to get Chanda, but to take back a painting belonging to his family, that had been stolen by that same thief our guys were searching for. The painting had been done by Simon's grandfather a famous painter that had died still young, leaving behind a young wife and a son, his father. Chanda had helped the man to find it and had stolen it for him, but he hadnt been able to tell him where he had put it.
In the epilogue, we see Simon and Michael in one of their private moments, talking, kissing, touching and finally confessing their feelings. Michael had already said these famous words in a moment of passion in the 1st book, but now he tells them again and this time, Simon answers with the same passion.
I'm really liking this couple, sometimes the fact that the author summarizes what happend in the other books each time we start a new one, is a bit annoying, but I can understand that it may be useful for the people who didnt read the book one after the other, but waited months or years before continuing the story.
Michael and Simon have still a lot to learn about each other, but I was happy to see that the younger man is finally able to say what he wants and what he feels.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2019
This is an interesting series, but somehow it just doesn't grab my attention...I'm happy to read another story about Michael and Simon, especially when I need another O author in a spelling challenge, but I doubt I'll be going out of my way to read the next book. Eventually, sure, but no burning desire to know what happens next in their relationship.
October 18, 2013
3 1/2 - 4 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
This story is part of a series and is best read in order. Simon and Michael are back and their partnership as investigators is a lot easier than their relationship behind closed doors. As Simon and Michael come to terms with what they share, they still have work to do and they discover there was more to the 'Brown man' than they first realized. Picking up a case for missing paintings, their investigations lead to the discovery of a connection to Simon's family, and they stumble across a city-wide criminal ring. Throw in a secretive man called Moshe who won't leave them alone and they have an interesting couple of days ahead of them.
If you have read the previous stories in this series then you know that Michael is a confident man who is cheeky and cheery, but has found himself infatuated with an uptight man. You will also know that Simon is that uptight man who is still struggling with what Michael makes him feel, but he is becoming slightly more relaxed and not quite as grumpy as he portrays to be. Their adventures together usually ends with injury, capture and danger but they usually get their man and this story is no different with more characters adding to the intrigue.
As they work together on the new investigation we see how they compliment each other, but, it is still not easy especially when a figure from Simon's past sticks his neb in. The investigation is interesting and leads to a bigger investigation with Michael and Simon turning to Pinkerton's and making a deal. Moshe is a man with surprises and who keeps his secrets close to his chest, so close in fact that he makes Michael look like a blabber mouth, but if Moshe really wants Simon's co-operation then he has to learn to share.
I really liked this story and the progression of Michael's and Simon's relationship, although from the first story to now it has only been a matter of days it does seem longer and Simon's reticence adds to the overall effect of it being drawn out. I love the way that Simon works through what he is feeling rather than jumping in feet first and Michael seems to be getting Simon's nature better and backs off a little in this one, letting Simon come to him and make the first move. At times the story does seem to take place a lot in their heads as they think and dissect what is happening between them, and reliving certain couplings but it doesn't take away from what is going on around them. We also see how their relationship is heating up with a lot more sexual activity taking place with *gasp* Simon taking the initiative more.
I recommend this to those who love historicals, great characters coming to an understanding, an interesting investigation, secrets being revealed and an ending that is oddly hot and slightly touching.
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
This story is part of a series and is best read in order. Simon and Michael are back and their partnership as investigators is a lot easier than their relationship behind closed doors. As Simon and Michael come to terms with what they share, they still have work to do and they discover there was more to the 'Brown man' than they first realized. Picking up a case for missing paintings, their investigations lead to the discovery of a connection to Simon's family, and they stumble across a city-wide criminal ring. Throw in a secretive man called Moshe who won't leave them alone and they have an interesting couple of days ahead of them.
If you have read the previous stories in this series then you know that Michael is a confident man who is cheeky and cheery, but has found himself infatuated with an uptight man. You will also know that Simon is that uptight man who is still struggling with what Michael makes him feel, but he is becoming slightly more relaxed and not quite as grumpy as he portrays to be. Their adventures together usually ends with injury, capture and danger but they usually get their man and this story is no different with more characters adding to the intrigue.
As they work together on the new investigation we see how they compliment each other, but, it is still not easy especially when a figure from Simon's past sticks his neb in. The investigation is interesting and leads to a bigger investigation with Michael and Simon turning to Pinkerton's and making a deal. Moshe is a man with surprises and who keeps his secrets close to his chest, so close in fact that he makes Michael look like a blabber mouth, but if Moshe really wants Simon's co-operation then he has to learn to share.
I really liked this story and the progression of Michael's and Simon's relationship, although from the first story to now it has only been a matter of days it does seem longer and Simon's reticence adds to the overall effect of it being drawn out. I love the way that Simon works through what he is feeling rather than jumping in feet first and Michael seems to be getting Simon's nature better and backs off a little in this one, letting Simon come to him and make the first move. At times the story does seem to take place a lot in their heads as they think and dissect what is happening between them, and reliving certain couplings but it doesn't take away from what is going on around them. We also see how their relationship is heating up with a lot more sexual activity taking place with *gasp* Simon taking the initiative more.
I recommend this to those who love historicals, great characters coming to an understanding, an interesting investigation, secrets being revealed and an ending that is oddly hot and slightly touching.
September 21, 2015
This is the 3rd book in the series, and at this point I would say that it’s best read in order.
Once again, this book starts out right after where book 2 ends, so we get to pick up on everything that is happening. O’Quinn still gives enough information about what was going on in the previous books that if it’s been awhile since you read the other books, it’s a great catch up for you. However if you’re like me and reading them back to back, (because I just had to find out what was going to happen next) then those parts of the story do feel very repetitive.
While each book so far covers only a few days, those few days seem very long, and drawn out to a degree. There is a lot going on and happening throughout the course of the book that I was hanging waiting to find out what information O’Quinn was going to share with us next.
The relationship between Michael and Simon is just amazing, and I love being able to follow along with it and seeing what’s going to happen next. On one hand, it does seem very drawn out and I was wondering when Simon was finally going to accept his feelings, but then on the other hand I had to keep reminding myself that it has only been a few days and to give Simon time to come to terms with everything.
When I started this story, I couldn’t wait to find out what trouble these two were going to get into next, and I can say that I wasn’t let down.
I would recommend this series to anyone who is looking for a new mystery/suspense series with a side of romance.
Reviewed by Crystal Marie for Crystal’s Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
Once again, this book starts out right after where book 2 ends, so we get to pick up on everything that is happening. O’Quinn still gives enough information about what was going on in the previous books that if it’s been awhile since you read the other books, it’s a great catch up for you. However if you’re like me and reading them back to back, (because I just had to find out what was going to happen next) then those parts of the story do feel very repetitive.
While each book so far covers only a few days, those few days seem very long, and drawn out to a degree. There is a lot going on and happening throughout the course of the book that I was hanging waiting to find out what information O’Quinn was going to share with us next.
The relationship between Michael and Simon is just amazing, and I love being able to follow along with it and seeing what’s going to happen next. On one hand, it does seem very drawn out and I was wondering when Simon was finally going to accept his feelings, but then on the other hand I had to keep reminding myself that it has only been a few days and to give Simon time to come to terms with everything.
When I started this story, I couldn’t wait to find out what trouble these two were going to get into next, and I can say that I wasn’t let down.
I would recommend this series to anyone who is looking for a new mystery/suspense series with a side of romance.
Reviewed by Crystal Marie for Crystal’s Many Reviewers
*Copy provided for review*
November 6, 2014
Everything You've Imagined and So Much More...
With a new day to keep pursuing their unsolved mysteries and growing love life, private investigators Michael McCree and Simon Hart encounter their most confounding, and deeply personal, crisis yet--the arrival of a man from the past who will turn Simon's life upside down forever and challenge Michael to hold his lover more tightly than ever so that they never part.
This is either the perfect ending to a remarkable trilogy or a suitable tease for the next installment. No matter what the case, I was enthralled by its authenticity, its plotline, and its beautiful handling of love between men in an era and country where it was dangerous to be seen in such company. What struck me most, however, was that I discovered author Quinn's blog after I finished this tale, tears in my eyes and hope in my heart that she would continue the series.
That blog (http://romancemanlove.wordpress.com/t...) is so remarkable in many respects but mostly in that she uses photos to pictorialize her heroes and her scenes--and they were virtually identical to who and what I imagined them to be!
Any writer who can do that deserves all that we can give her--which is the highest praise for her work and our prayers that she continues.
With a new day to keep pursuing their unsolved mysteries and growing love life, private investigators Michael McCree and Simon Hart encounter their most confounding, and deeply personal, crisis yet--the arrival of a man from the past who will turn Simon's life upside down forever and challenge Michael to hold his lover more tightly than ever so that they never part.
This is either the perfect ending to a remarkable trilogy or a suitable tease for the next installment. No matter what the case, I was enthralled by its authenticity, its plotline, and its beautiful handling of love between men in an era and country where it was dangerous to be seen in such company. What struck me most, however, was that I discovered author Quinn's blog after I finished this tale, tears in my eyes and hope in my heart that she would continue the series.
That blog (http://romancemanlove.wordpress.com/t...) is so remarkable in many respects but mostly in that she uses photos to pictorialize her heroes and her scenes--and they were virtually identical to who and what I imagined them to be!
Any writer who can do that deserves all that we can give her--which is the highest praise for her work and our prayers that she continues.
February 26, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
A new case is brought to private investigators Simon Hart and Michael McCree. A bunch of valuable paintings, plus an exceedingly valuable piece of artwork, have been stolen. What at first seems like a simple case of tracking down the culprits to their lair and recovering the items, soon the case evolves into a hunt for a city-wide criminal ring. To make matters worse, a mysterious man named Moshe sticks his nose into the case and in Michael and Simon’s personal relationship. Ditching him isn’t easy and he’s driving a wedge between them.
Simon is starting to accept his nature as a gay man, an omi-palone, and his relationship with Michael has taken a huge leap forward. Their multitude of sensual and sexual encounters form their most honest and basic method of communication, where neither can hide who they truly are at heart. Simon is still uptight and reserved, but he’s learning to relax and even take the initiative during sex. Michael is infinitely patient, accepting what Simon offers, never demanding more than the other man is comfortable giving. He’s such a dream man, patient and loving, honorable and roguish too.
Read Susan’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
A new case is brought to private investigators Simon Hart and Michael McCree. A bunch of valuable paintings, plus an exceedingly valuable piece of artwork, have been stolen. What at first seems like a simple case of tracking down the culprits to their lair and recovering the items, soon the case evolves into a hunt for a city-wide criminal ring. To make matters worse, a mysterious man named Moshe sticks his nose into the case and in Michael and Simon’s personal relationship. Ditching him isn’t easy and he’s driving a wedge between them.
Simon is starting to accept his nature as a gay man, an omi-palone, and his relationship with Michael has taken a huge leap forward. Their multitude of sensual and sexual encounters form their most honest and basic method of communication, where neither can hide who they truly are at heart. Simon is still uptight and reserved, but he’s learning to relax and even take the initiative during sex. Michael is infinitely patient, accepting what Simon offers, never demanding more than the other man is comfortable giving. He’s such a dream man, patient and loving, honorable and roguish too.
Read Susan’s review in its entirety here.
April 22, 2016
I read all three books and since the time frame from page 1 of Heart to Hart to the last page of To the Bone only covers about two to three weeks, I'm going to do an overall review for these entries. I won't lie, the beginning was a bit tricky to get into with the Irish slang of the time but I was able to become comfortable with it after only a chapter or so. As I write this I am thinking that it had more to do with me not letting go of the previous book before starting this series and less of the slang language, but whatever the reason, after that first chapter I was hooked. Simon and Michael grabbed my heart and didn't let go. I loved the humorous banter between the new found partners. I found them to be very enjoyable and likeable despite their moments of infuriating debates. At times, they reminded me very much of the banter and bickering of Bogey and Bacall in The Big Sleep. The mysteries are quite intriguing and definitely hold the reader's interest as does the humor and the obvious attraction between the pair. Michael McCree and Simon Hart are a captivating pair that I look forward to read many times over.
November 14, 2015
"The Gaslight Mysteries" are really a favorite series of mine by noe. Once you got to know Simon and Michael you can't get enough of them. To see them dancing around each others, already smitten by their first look at each other and now getting closer....awesome. And those accents!! You nearly can hear Michael purring his words in Simons ear!
This mixture of suspense and some Action now and then, spiced up with the slightly romantic and sizzling longing moments between these two handsome men will Keep you bound to their story till you know what happens next.
And with their third case comes a surprise along Simon wouldn't have expected last to get. Still fighting with his true feelings for his guardian angel his past sneeks up closer than he wants.
Just awesome! I can't wait to read the next book in this series and get back to these two sexy fellas!
This mixture of suspense and some Action now and then, spiced up with the slightly romantic and sizzling longing moments between these two handsome men will Keep you bound to their story till you know what happens next.
And with their third case comes a surprise along Simon wouldn't have expected last to get. Still fighting with his true feelings for his guardian angel his past sneeks up closer than he wants.
Just awesome! I can't wait to read the next book in this series and get back to these two sexy fellas!
March 23, 2014
To The Bone was the Third book in the Gas light series and It was such a exciting read. Each book in this series carries on exactly where the last one ends which makes it so easy to get straight back into the story!
This book was a bit of a surprise, I knew the characters well and enjoyed the relationship between the two main characters, they certainly make a interesting pair. This book took a few turns which had me thinking and kept me guessing throughout.
Before I started this series I was not sure it was going to be for me but I have been pleasantly surprised...it is full of Crime, suspense, murder, mystery and a relationship that has taken Three books to build, which was a joy to witness!
Highly recommend, Great Series!
This book was a bit of a surprise, I knew the characters well and enjoyed the relationship between the two main characters, they certainly make a interesting pair. This book took a few turns which had me thinking and kept me guessing throughout.
Before I started this series I was not sure it was going to be for me but I have been pleasantly surprised...it is full of Crime, suspense, murder, mystery and a relationship that has taken Three books to build, which was a joy to witness!
Highly recommend, Great Series!
December 1, 2013
A very good love story. I would definitely recommend reading the first two books in this series before embarking on this one as Simon's evolution, and Michael's increasing ability to read Simon, are key. Ms. O'Quinn's writing is just beautiful.
August 12, 2016
** 4.5 Stars **
Another suspenseful read! I love Michael and Simon's exciting and 'always-evolving' relationship.
July 13, 2015
3.75 stars rounded up.
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