Dark Mirror

by J.J. Cassidy

Berran FitzHugh returns from crusade to an England torn apart by civil war. He needs a well-born wife to give him an heir, but his offer for Cecelia D'Angers is rejected by her brother, Ranulf. Berran decides to steal her instead, but a muddy skirmish leaves him as Ranulf's prisoner instead. Neither man is prepared for the attraction that springs to life between them, but one thing is Berran's heart is held captive, too.

Genres: Historical, M M Romance, Romance, Short Stories, Historical Fiction, M M Historical Romance, Medieval

56 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 25, 2012

About the author

J.J. Cassidy has worked for a riding stable, been a receptionist, an insurance clerk, and a freight forwarder. After that came the job at the steamship line, the Japanese Securities firm and the bank that doesn't exist anymore.

She's worked with animals -- dogs, primarily -- since 1994, and is much happier that way.

Reviews

[Julesmarie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very enjoyable story. I've not come across many m/m books set in this historical period and it was fun to get to explore that a little.

I really liked both of the characters--eventually, and I liked the men that they helped each other become as they spent more and more time together. I'm not sure if we're supposed to like Berran very much at first, but as he relaxes more and gives in to his feelings for Ranulf more he becomes very likable.

The one thing that bothers me is the amnesia. It seems like the author simply didn't know how to make Berran go from the person he was at the beginning to the kind of person who would make a pass at his enemy, so the solution was to make it happen off-page and have Berran have no memory of it. It just seemed rather like an easy way out, and left me wishing I could have seen a little more of the transformation so I could understand both men better.

Despite that, it was still a fun, well-written story. 3.5 stars rounded up for being free.

[SJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well written and the ending was lovely.

[Viv Ross · Rating 4 out of 5]

Points for originality, style, and taste. Concrit: some parts of the plot were left rather unclear. If there is to be a sequel that's all well and good, but if this is a one-shot type deal the readers will always be left wondering. A nice balance of plot enrichment and smut here. I particularly like the selected time-period. On that note, when I was reading reviews prior to reading this work, I saw a few reviews that had an issue with a lack of "inclusion" of consent from one of the female characters with regards to plans involving her. I have to say that while it may bother some people, to me it fits perfectly with this book. Back then, women did not have a say in their own affairs. They did what they were told and that was that. Points for historical accuracy.

[Bookbee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story. Good characters. Well written.

I did have a problem with one thing though...(trying not to reveal too much) the 2 MCs making plans with regard to the sister but showing no agreement on her part even going so far as to mention the use of drugs to keep her calm and complaisant. Yup, that really bothered me. Particularly with what was revealed of her history.

[Gavin Stephenson-Jackman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful medieval romance, and a great read. Berran FitzHugh, in an attempt to secure Cecelia D'Angers as his wife and cement his claim to his lands and move beyond his questionable parentage finds himself battling her brother Ranulf for her hand. Berran is captured by Ranulf in the battle that ensues and the two find much more in each other than in poor Cecelia.

[Sandra]

Offered FREE from the M/M Romance Group, Love is Always Write event.

[Mia Downing · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really interesting read because of the era. The author painted a rich, vivid background for this short but very satisfying read. I thought both heroes were awesome and I'll check out more books by this author. Thank you so much for participating in Love is Always Write.

[Annika · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even there where two things that really bugged me (the amnesia thing and no explanation for the kidnapping attempt) I really liked this story and it's atmosphere. It really hit the point. Would like to see this one in novel length (the whole amnesia thing could be worked out :-) )

[Jessa Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well written and a unique story. Loved it!

[Bubbles Hunty Honest & Direct Opinions]

Free gay story

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 - I really liked this historical story. Thank you J.J. Cassidy, for donating your story, time and talent.

[SueM · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Katy Beth Mckee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is really different. Haven't read a MM story from this time period and it was a great engaging story.

[Lily · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this story.

[Helen Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really love the story and would like to know more if possible.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was really good. I loved the way their relationship progressed. JJ always does a great job.