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Our Own Light
Floyd Bennett, a sweet and mild-mannered coal miner, entered a platonic marriage with his best friend Effie when she needed his help to start her life over somewhere new. For years, Floyd has sworn off love, too heartbroken from a tragic event in his past to let himself fall, but when Oliver comes to town, their friendship rekindles the smoldering embers of Floyd’s yearning for closeness.
Oliver Astor, an upper-class, eccentric man with an often-inappropriate sense of humor, has fled his carefully crafted future and emotionally neglectful family to become a miner in a small, unincorporated mining town. Having never truly experienced love or friendship, he is content with spending the rest of his life alone. But soon Oliver meets his mining partner Floyd, who ignites a new longing for love and intimacy.
As their relationship heats, Floyd starts to push Oliver away, their emotional closeness unearthing Floyd’s long-buried pain and threatening to obliterate their future together. For their love to last, Oliver must conquer the urge to run from perceived rejection while Floyd learns to open up about everything that was lost to him all those years ago.
Set in 1921, Our Own Light is an MM historical romance with a lot of sweetness, a smattering of humor and heartache, and a well-deserved happily ever after.
Oliver Astor, an upper-class, eccentric man with an often-inappropriate sense of humor, has fled his carefully crafted future and emotionally neglectful family to become a miner in a small, unincorporated mining town. Having never truly experienced love or friendship, he is content with spending the rest of his life alone. But soon Oliver meets his mining partner Floyd, who ignites a new longing for love and intimacy.
As their relationship heats, Floyd starts to push Oliver away, their emotional closeness unearthing Floyd’s long-buried pain and threatening to obliterate their future together. For their love to last, Oliver must conquer the urge to run from perceived rejection while Floyd learns to open up about everything that was lost to him all those years ago.
Set in 1921, Our Own Light is an MM historical romance with a lot of sweetness, a smattering of humor and heartache, and a well-deserved happily ever after.
319 pages, Paperback
First published August 22, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
August 10, 2024
4.5 stars.
Our Own Light is the debut novel by Logan Sage Adams.
I like so much historical romance, I am always looking for a book that catches my attention, especially for the historical period and this one did not disappoint me.
It is a slow burn romance set in 1920. The setting of the book is wonderful, from the food, the decoration of the house, the conflict with the appearance of the unions, (this is seen in the background),child labor, the life in the mine, the clothes, the language....
One of the main characters is Floyd, a miner who, due to life circumstances, has not received much academic education, the other one is Oliver, a city boy who runs away from his wealthy family to work in the mine.
What begins as a friendship becomes a sweet and tender love story. It was very nice to see how two men, so different, meet and develop feelings for each other, and decide to be brave and follow their hearts in an unfair world.
I will keep an eye on the author to see what her next book is.
Our Own Light is the debut novel by Logan Sage Adams.
I like so much historical romance, I am always looking for a book that catches my attention, especially for the historical period and this one did not disappoint me.
It is a slow burn romance set in 1920. The setting of the book is wonderful, from the food, the decoration of the house, the conflict with the appearance of the unions, (this is seen in the background),child labor, the life in the mine, the clothes, the language....
One of the main characters is Floyd, a miner who, due to life circumstances, has not received much academic education, the other one is Oliver, a city boy who runs away from his wealthy family to work in the mine.
What begins as a friendship becomes a sweet and tender love story. It was very nice to see how two men, so different, meet and develop feelings for each other, and decide to be brave and follow their hearts in an unfair world.
I will keep an eye on the author to see what her next book is.
October 3, 2024
OMFG, this book was SO freaking sweet I CANNOT EVEN. I've been in my queer historical romance era for a minute, and recent history is BY FAR my favorite, so 1920s coal miners was pretty much guaranteed to be right up my alley. When @logan.sage.adams offered me a copy of Our Own Light, I figured I’d give it a shot. And y'all - it's friends to lovers, virgin MMCs, SO much pining and the slowest of burns that absolutely pays off with a beautiful ending. It's swoony and perfect, and though there's a bit of angst, the story still comes across as relatively cozy. I'm obsessed and I need EVERYONE to read it!
I'm so in love with these characters y'all. Floyd is an absolute sweetheart, just going through life unable to move forward. I love how he immediately takes Ollie under his wing, even before he realizes that he's attracted to him. Floyd has sworn off finding anyone after he tragically loses his first love, and though his continued grief could be frustrating, it was satisfying to see him work things through with Ollie. And OMG, Ollie is just the best. A true golden retriever, he's all sunshine and smiles, and he's exactly what Floyd needs. Ollie's family has money, so it's absolutely wild that he just decides to go off and become a coal miner, but it totally fits his character. He's charming, talkative, and impulsive, but he's just gone for Floyd from the very beginning.
The setting of this one is just so vivid. I never thought I'd be so into a story about West Virginia coal mining, but Logan makes everything SO real. All of the historical aspects are added seamlessly into the story, you can just tell how much research went into this one. Though there is some homophobia in this one as befits the time period, most of the angst in the story comes from other sources, and the way everything works out in the end is honestly very clever. I know I'll be yapping about this one for a while, HIGHLY recommend checking it out.
I'm so in love with these characters y'all. Floyd is an absolute sweetheart, just going through life unable to move forward. I love how he immediately takes Ollie under his wing, even before he realizes that he's attracted to him. Floyd has sworn off finding anyone after he tragically loses his first love, and though his continued grief could be frustrating, it was satisfying to see him work things through with Ollie. And OMG, Ollie is just the best. A true golden retriever, he's all sunshine and smiles, and he's exactly what Floyd needs. Ollie's family has money, so it's absolutely wild that he just decides to go off and become a coal miner, but it totally fits his character. He's charming, talkative, and impulsive, but he's just gone for Floyd from the very beginning.
The setting of this one is just so vivid. I never thought I'd be so into a story about West Virginia coal mining, but Logan makes everything SO real. All of the historical aspects are added seamlessly into the story, you can just tell how much research went into this one. Though there is some homophobia in this one as befits the time period, most of the angst in the story comes from other sources, and the way everything works out in the end is honestly very clever. I know I'll be yapping about this one for a while, HIGHLY recommend checking it out.
October 7, 2024
This book is cute as hell!!
This is why I keep reading new authors. Because those once in a blue moon gems make it worth all the duds.
Seriously seriously impressed with this debut.
The only reason it isn’t a 5 star is that I think, being the time period and these men never having been intimate with another man (other than one of them having kissed one), that the author missed the opportunity to really deep dive into the awe of sexual(ity) discovery. The early first touches were soooo sweet and a slowwww burn and I expected the more intimate stuff to be like that but they kinda jumped into it after their first kiss and I didn’t get from either character that… joy of newness I guess.
And I needed a little less usage of the “sweetheart” term of endearment in the second half.
BUT. This book was really well written and sweet as hell and I really adored the MC’s. I’d keep reading about them, honestly. The language was perfect for the place and time period. The plot was different and interesting and kept me engaged. I’m looking forward to more from this author.
This is why I keep reading new authors. Because those once in a blue moon gems make it worth all the duds.
Seriously seriously impressed with this debut.
The only reason it isn’t a 5 star is that I think, being the time period and these men never having been intimate with another man (other than one of them having kissed one), that the author missed the opportunity to really deep dive into the awe of sexual(ity) discovery. The early first touches were soooo sweet and a slowwww burn and I expected the more intimate stuff to be like that but they kinda jumped into it after their first kiss and I didn’t get from either character that… joy of newness I guess.
And I needed a little less usage of the “sweetheart” term of endearment in the second half.
BUT. This book was really well written and sweet as hell and I really adored the MC’s. I’d keep reading about them, honestly. The language was perfect for the place and time period. The plot was different and interesting and kept me engaged. I’m looking forward to more from this author.
September 4, 2024
This review is going to be a bit of a ramble because it left me all up in my feels.
I’m honestly shocked this is a debut, the writing was beautiful and so immersive that I never once questioned the time it was set in.
The author not only wrote incredibly complex, loveable and times frustrating main characters, but an amazingly rich side character in Effie.
This story was a slow burn in the best way. I was squealing over pinky finger holding and the build up was just delicious.
Floyd and Ollie have my whole heart. This is the kind of book you read over and over again because it’s like a beautiful warm hug 🥹🥹
I’m honestly shocked this is a debut, the writing was beautiful and so immersive that I never once questioned the time it was set in.
The author not only wrote incredibly complex, loveable and times frustrating main characters, but an amazingly rich side character in Effie.
This story was a slow burn in the best way. I was squealing over pinky finger holding and the build up was just delicious.
Floyd and Ollie have my whole heart. This is the kind of book you read over and over again because it’s like a beautiful warm hug 🥹🥹
August 10, 2024
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Our Own Light was such a fun read. I‘m a huge fan of historical novels and the research the author has done really shines through. To me the scenery had a very strong When Calls the Heart Vibe which also helped me dive into this world. Ollie‘s antics and Floyd’s initial grumpiness are a wonderful combination against the backdrop of worker‘s strikes and life in a mining town. This book is a wonderful debut! (Also, Ollie is right, strawberry is always the better choice)
December 31, 2024
“What in the heck are you wearing?”
Oliver grinned. “This is my worst suit. I thought that by wearing it, I’d be able to prove to you how terrible I feel about how I acted earlier. You know, because I made myself look terrible. I tried to make my outsides match my insides. Does it look horrible?”
August 12, 2024
First up, a big shout out to @logan.sage.adams for the chance to read Our Own Light before it is released on August 22nd.
Ollie is running away from his family responsibilities, trying to create a life where he is accepted and loved for his quirkiness.
Floyd is living the quiet life of a miner, with his wife Effie and daughter Jo, when he meets Ollie on his first day in town.
Captivated by his golden hair and quirkiness, his sense of humour and out of place fashion. But he is reminded of his first and only love.
What follows is a friendship that develops quickly and deeply, quickly integrating into a blended family, the origins of Floyd’s marriage to Effie shedding light on their shared history.
This book was truly adorable, Floyd and Ollie’s friendship is intimate and written really well. The anguish that Floyd feels as he battles between accepting his feelings for Ollie and his fear of forgetting Matt was emotionally written and you can really feel for him.
I loved Effie and her deep love and support for Floyd and Ollie’s relationship. The way she pushed him towards it and welcomed Ollie into the family and let him find his place. I also really want a story about Aunt Betty, she is amazing and her story would be incredible.
I truly think the pacing and the flow of this book, without a major Third Act tragedy was superb and I am glad to have had the chance to read this
Ollie is running away from his family responsibilities, trying to create a life where he is accepted and loved for his quirkiness.
Floyd is living the quiet life of a miner, with his wife Effie and daughter Jo, when he meets Ollie on his first day in town.
Captivated by his golden hair and quirkiness, his sense of humour and out of place fashion. But he is reminded of his first and only love.
What follows is a friendship that develops quickly and deeply, quickly integrating into a blended family, the origins of Floyd’s marriage to Effie shedding light on their shared history.
This book was truly adorable, Floyd and Ollie’s friendship is intimate and written really well. The anguish that Floyd feels as he battles between accepting his feelings for Ollie and his fear of forgetting Matt was emotionally written and you can really feel for him.
I loved Effie and her deep love and support for Floyd and Ollie’s relationship. The way she pushed him towards it and welcomed Ollie into the family and let him find his place. I also really want a story about Aunt Betty, she is amazing and her story would be incredible.
I truly think the pacing and the flow of this book, without a major Third Act tragedy was superb and I am glad to have had the chance to read this
September 7, 2024
Our Own Light by Logan Sage Adams is a refreshing take on historical MM romance. Set in a West Virginia coal mining town in the early 20th century, the story weaves together the lives of two men from very different backgrounds. Floyd, a miner still grieving the loss of his first love, meets Oliver, a bright and quirky newcomer trying to escape his privileged but suffocating past. Their relationship starts as a friendship that slowly evolves into something more, with both men battling their inner wounds—Floyd's unresolved grief and Oliver's longing for acceptance.
The historical backdrop adds depth, immersing readers in the struggles of coal miners and the harsh realities of life in that era. The balance between emotional tension and genuine affection is beautifully written, with a slow burn romance that feels authentic for the time period. Floyd and Oliver’s dynamic is captivating, supported by rich side characters like Effie, Floyd’s wife, who surprisingly encourages the bond between the two men.
The author avoids the usual clichés, offering a tender, heartfelt journey that leaves you rooting for these characters. This novel is a gem for those seeking something both historically grounded and emotionally resonant. A must-read for fans of historical MM romance!
The historical backdrop adds depth, immersing readers in the struggles of coal miners and the harsh realities of life in that era. The balance between emotional tension and genuine affection is beautifully written, with a slow burn romance that feels authentic for the time period. Floyd and Oliver’s dynamic is captivating, supported by rich side characters like Effie, Floyd’s wife, who surprisingly encourages the bond between the two men.
The author avoids the usual clichés, offering a tender, heartfelt journey that leaves you rooting for these characters. This novel is a gem for those seeking something both historically grounded and emotionally resonant. A must-read for fans of historical MM romance!
August 7, 2024
My first ever historical romance and it did NOT disappoint. If you are looking for a historical romance that has a ton of spice, this probably isn't for you. But if you want (or at least okay with) a slowburn and an extremely sweet story between two men who are both hurt in some way? Yeah, add this one to your tbr immediately. I adore Floyd and Oliver. I loved everything about this book, if I'm being honest. The friendship that turned into more. That hard won HEA that was so so worth it. The growth! And Effie and Josephine were both the best side characters. Their place in the story only made it better.
Oliver, fancy and rich, comes to town with every intention of separating himself from the family he's never been happy in. He meets Floyd, a coal miner who has lived in the town for a long while. They really couldn't be more different but a friendship ensues between the pair. Soon enough those friendly feelings turn into something else. While Floyd has a wife, this isn't a problem given the circumstances of the marriage. That being said, something holds Floyd back from letting himself be with Oliver. Or someone, I should say...
Oliver, fancy and rich, comes to town with every intention of separating himself from the family he's never been happy in. He meets Floyd, a coal miner who has lived in the town for a long while. They really couldn't be more different but a friendship ensues between the pair. Soon enough those friendly feelings turn into something else. While Floyd has a wife, this isn't a problem given the circumstances of the marriage. That being said, something holds Floyd back from letting himself be with Oliver. Or someone, I should say...
August 9, 2024
What a beautiful story. Reading this book was really a pleasure and I never wanted it to end.
And, this book turned out to be so much more than I expected.
It's not only the story of two cute people meeting, becoming best friends and falling in love. The story has so many layers and I have to say some of the main elements of the plot are very delicate, it would have been quite easy to write them the wrong way and create ambiguity, but instead, everything and every character are written so well that you can't help to feel love and affection for everyone, to feel happy for Ollie who finds his deserved family, to want to hug Floyd because he's a person with so much love to give.
Truly beautiful ❤️
And, this book turned out to be so much more than I expected.
It's not only the story of two cute people meeting, becoming best friends and falling in love. The story has so many layers and I have to say some of the main elements of the plot are very delicate, it would have been quite easy to write them the wrong way and create ambiguity, but instead, everything and every character are written so well that you can't help to feel love and affection for everyone, to feel happy for Ollie who finds his deserved family, to want to hug Floyd because he's a person with so much love to give.
Truly beautiful ❤️
August 27, 2024
This was the different type MM romance that I was looking for with a new to me author.
Sometimes the books with the illustration covers have the better stories, more real and less formulaic.
That was the case with this story set in a West Virginia coal mining company town around 1912(maybe later) when coal miners were beginning to organize for a union. That historical time is an undercurrent for miner Floyd who wants no waves in his life with his wife and child.
Floyd’s wife, Effie, is spouse in name only as this is a marriage of convenience for Effie who had been attacked and left pregnant and for Floyd who has always known that he loves men, one certain man, Matt, who died in a cave in. Floyd and Effie leave their small minded town and are living in this West Virginia coal company town.
Oliver, son of a railroad owner, has fled NYC and his cold and overbearing family. He thinks that he will try coal mining, as soon as he replaces his custom made suits and shoes and fedora hats with overalls, work boots, and a lot of coal dust. His bright blonde hair and blue eyes, fancy clothes and trim body have blindsided hulking and handsome Floyd when he sees him at the company store.
Floyd has never stopped to grieve Matt’s death, yet the grief is with him almost every minute of the past eight years.
Oliver bursts into Floyd’s world with his non stop chatter and cheerfulness. Floyd is almost enchanted with Oliver and his talkative personality. There are many good scenes of their just hanging out together and talking, working down in the mine together and talking. Oliver hides the deep hurt of never feeling love. Floyd hides his never ending grief. Both of these unhealed wounds complicate the growing relationship.
Need I say that the story has depth? The writing is very good, clear and with good word choices. There is a slow burn for sex, but not for affection and wanting to be with each other everyday, at work and at home where wife Effie welcomes Oliver and his desire to be with Floyd. She was extremely understanding of Floyd and his needs. That was pretty surprising to read, almost unbelievable.
I thought about it that sometimes economically disadvantaged people are less rigid and judgmental than the well off. Perhaps they understand the pursuit of something to help with pain and to feel good, happy.
The MCs are very well written in a dual POV third person narrative.
The dialogue is good. Oliver shocks Floyd with his f* bombs, lol. I am not big on regional dialect in dialogue. Here, the author did very well with seamlessly inserting phrases and words like, ‘learn you how to’, and, ‘affeared’ and ‘worriment.’ This is how Floyd, Effie, little daughter Jo and the mining people spoke and it was well done.
Lots of angst and push pull because it’s 1912 West Virginia and gay is not okay. It was almost unbelievable to me that Floyd was spending many nights at Oliver’s little company row house, leaving in the morning, and no one noticed in a place where people were squeezed into close together houses. Only once in the story was there a scene where something was said. It did precipitate an event which led to a life change and a happy ending.
Oliver’s Aunt Betty is a side character living in a city a train ride away. Her scene with Floyd was unexpected and gave me tears. There are many instances of feels in the book that have lovely writing. I saved some of them.
I enjoyed this read that felt fresh and offered something a bit different.
Sometimes the books with the illustration covers have the better stories, more real and less formulaic.
That was the case with this story set in a West Virginia coal mining company town around 1912(maybe later) when coal miners were beginning to organize for a union. That historical time is an undercurrent for miner Floyd who wants no waves in his life with his wife and child.
Floyd’s wife, Effie, is spouse in name only as this is a marriage of convenience for Effie who had been attacked and left pregnant and for Floyd who has always known that he loves men, one certain man, Matt, who died in a cave in. Floyd and Effie leave their small minded town and are living in this West Virginia coal company town.
Oliver, son of a railroad owner, has fled NYC and his cold and overbearing family. He thinks that he will try coal mining, as soon as he replaces his custom made suits and shoes and fedora hats with overalls, work boots, and a lot of coal dust. His bright blonde hair and blue eyes, fancy clothes and trim body have blindsided hulking and handsome Floyd when he sees him at the company store.
Floyd has never stopped to grieve Matt’s death, yet the grief is with him almost every minute of the past eight years.
Oliver bursts into Floyd’s world with his non stop chatter and cheerfulness. Floyd is almost enchanted with Oliver and his talkative personality. There are many good scenes of their just hanging out together and talking, working down in the mine together and talking. Oliver hides the deep hurt of never feeling love. Floyd hides his never ending grief. Both of these unhealed wounds complicate the growing relationship.
Need I say that the story has depth? The writing is very good, clear and with good word choices. There is a slow burn for sex, but not for affection and wanting to be with each other everyday, at work and at home where wife Effie welcomes Oliver and his desire to be with Floyd. She was extremely understanding of Floyd and his needs. That was pretty surprising to read, almost unbelievable.
I thought about it that sometimes economically disadvantaged people are less rigid and judgmental than the well off. Perhaps they understand the pursuit of something to help with pain and to feel good, happy.
The MCs are very well written in a dual POV third person narrative.
The dialogue is good. Oliver shocks Floyd with his f* bombs, lol. I am not big on regional dialect in dialogue. Here, the author did very well with seamlessly inserting phrases and words like, ‘learn you how to’, and, ‘affeared’ and ‘worriment.’ This is how Floyd, Effie, little daughter Jo and the mining people spoke and it was well done.
Lots of angst and push pull because it’s 1912 West Virginia and gay is not okay. It was almost unbelievable to me that Floyd was spending many nights at Oliver’s little company row house, leaving in the morning, and no one noticed in a place where people were squeezed into close together houses. Only once in the story was there a scene where something was said. It did precipitate an event which led to a life change and a happy ending.
Oliver’s Aunt Betty is a side character living in a city a train ride away. Her scene with Floyd was unexpected and gave me tears. There are many instances of feels in the book that have lovely writing. I saved some of them.
I enjoyed this read that felt fresh and offered something a bit different.
August 25, 2024
Obsessed doesn't even begun.
This has to be one of the sweetest stories I've ever read. I was enamored from the very beginning. You get the chance to fall in love with the entirety of the main cast, and even a few from the side cast.
Floyd and Ollie's story is one we know all too well in the LGBT community. A story of secrecy for preservation. A story of always wanting to out the needs of those around you before your own. But also, a story about really giving into yourself fully, and allowing yourself to accept the love you deserve.
I connected so heavily with Ollie. His flamboyance, his outlandishness. His unwillingness to let what he wants slip through his hands.
I also connected with Floyd. His unwavering need to put others first. His hunger for stability. But also his inner turmoil. His "copperhead" as he called it.
Effie stole the show for me though. She was an absolute delight. Her love for both of them and her desire to see them both happy really resonated with my entire being.
All-in-all, This was an absolute treat of a story. The author really knows how to tell a story from the heart. How to make their readers feel each smile, sigh and tear from the characters.
I can't wait for whatever comes next!
This has to be one of the sweetest stories I've ever read. I was enamored from the very beginning. You get the chance to fall in love with the entirety of the main cast, and even a few from the side cast.
Floyd and Ollie's story is one we know all too well in the LGBT community. A story of secrecy for preservation. A story of always wanting to out the needs of those around you before your own. But also, a story about really giving into yourself fully, and allowing yourself to accept the love you deserve.
I connected so heavily with Ollie. His flamboyance, his outlandishness. His unwillingness to let what he wants slip through his hands.
I also connected with Floyd. His unwavering need to put others first. His hunger for stability. But also his inner turmoil. His "copperhead" as he called it.
Effie stole the show for me though. She was an absolute delight. Her love for both of them and her desire to see them both happy really resonated with my entire being.
All-in-all, This was an absolute treat of a story. The author really knows how to tell a story from the heart. How to make their readers feel each smile, sigh and tear from the characters.
I can't wait for whatever comes next!
October 20, 2024
Mam mieszane uczucia...
Bo z jednej strony to słodka historia, którą najlepiej chyba można byłoby określić jako niewinną i staroświecką. Nawet, jak pojawia się seks, to i tak te określenia ciągle są dla niej najlepsze.
Ale z drugiej, dwie rzeczy nie pozwalają osobiście dać jej więcej niż trzy gwiazdki.
Pierwsza to Floyd i jego uwieszenie się Matcie - Przyznaję, że zaczynało mnie to doprowadzać trochę do szału.
Druga to tempo... Uwielbiam slow-burny, całym swoim serduchem. Nie mam nic przeciwko temu, że coś się dzieje wolno. Ale tutaj tempo było tak wolne, że Prawie Mnie Zabiło 👀 Łapałam się na tym, że im dalej w historię, tym krótsze fragmenty czytałam na jedno posiedzenie i tym większe przerwy między nimi robiłam. I z coraz większą niechęcią brałam się za dalszy tekst...
Cóż, może po prostu źle trafiłam - nie to miejsce, nie ten czas.
Za miesiąc być może miałabym zupełnie inne zdanie...
Bo z jednej strony to słodka historia, którą najlepiej chyba można byłoby określić jako niewinną i staroświecką. Nawet, jak pojawia się seks, to i tak te określenia ciągle są dla niej najlepsze.
Ale z drugiej, dwie rzeczy nie pozwalają osobiście dać jej więcej niż trzy gwiazdki.
Pierwsza to Floyd i jego uwieszenie się Matcie - Przyznaję, że zaczynało mnie to doprowadzać trochę do szału.
Druga to tempo... Uwielbiam slow-burny, całym swoim serduchem. Nie mam nic przeciwko temu, że coś się dzieje wolno. Ale tutaj tempo było tak wolne, że Prawie Mnie Zabiło 👀 Łapałam się na tym, że im dalej w historię, tym krótsze fragmenty czytałam na jedno posiedzenie i tym większe przerwy między nimi robiłam. I z coraz większą niechęcią brałam się za dalszy tekst...
Cóż, może po prostu źle trafiłam - nie to miejsce, nie ten czas.
Za miesiąc być może miałabym zupełnie inne zdanie...
August 8, 2024
This book was romance at its best.
I don’t think I’ve ever read historical romance but I’m all for it from now on. This book was sensual without being too smutty and that made it work so much better.
Floyd and Ollie hit it off from the beginning, Ollie being the chatty cat he is became fast friends with quieter and pull together Floyd eventually leading to them starting a relationship.
I really liked how Floyds family was not an impediment for them to fall in love, there were circumstances happening due to the times they live in, but Floyd´s family only wanted to see him happy.
The book deals with themes of loss of a loved one, and even though that was one of the main plots it never felt like it would be impossible to overcome, alas, just a couple of tears were shed from me. It’s a powerful message that you can have more than one true love, you can still love them and their memory but being able to move on.
This was an amazing debut, and I’m definitely interested in period romance now.
Amazing.
I don’t think I’ve ever read historical romance but I’m all for it from now on. This book was sensual without being too smutty and that made it work so much better.
Floyd and Ollie hit it off from the beginning, Ollie being the chatty cat he is became fast friends with quieter and pull together Floyd eventually leading to them starting a relationship.
I really liked how Floyds family was not an impediment for them to fall in love, there were circumstances happening due to the times they live in, but Floyd´s family only wanted to see him happy.
The book deals with themes of loss of a loved one, and even though that was one of the main plots it never felt like it would be impossible to overcome, alas, just a couple of tears were shed from me. It’s a powerful message that you can have more than one true love, you can still love them and their memory but being able to move on.
This was an amazing debut, and I’m definitely interested in period romance now.
Amazing.
August 19, 2024
4.9⭐️
2.25🌶
If I had to sum up this book with one word: tender. I do not think I have ever read two MCs as tender and kind as Floyd and Oliver (Ollie). Floyd sacrifices so much to save his best friend Effie and helps raise Jo (Effie and Jo are a force in their own right to be clear). He also must contend with the loss of someone so dear to him in Matt.
And then there's Ollie, who has never felt fully seen and fully loved. Ostracized from his family because they couldn't "make sense of him."
Together, Ollie and Floyd make no sense whatsoever from the outside, yet somehow they make everything around them, and all they have experienced make sense when they accept their love for one another. They fully see and fully know each other, and I think that's what makes them so achingly beautiful. This was a story about loss, grief, starting over, finding yourself, and so much more. Thank you, Logan Sage Adams, for writing such a stunning story.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own*
2.25🌶
If I had to sum up this book with one word: tender. I do not think I have ever read two MCs as tender and kind as Floyd and Oliver (Ollie). Floyd sacrifices so much to save his best friend Effie and helps raise Jo (Effie and Jo are a force in their own right to be clear). He also must contend with the loss of someone so dear to him in Matt.
And then there's Ollie, who has never felt fully seen and fully loved. Ostracized from his family because they couldn't "make sense of him."
Together, Ollie and Floyd make no sense whatsoever from the outside, yet somehow they make everything around them, and all they have experienced make sense when they accept their love for one another. They fully see and fully know each other, and I think that's what makes them so achingly beautiful. This was a story about loss, grief, starting over, finding yourself, and so much more. Thank you, Logan Sage Adams, for writing such a stunning story.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2024
Our Own Light is a beautiful story about two men from different places who fall deeply in love in an unlikely scenario.
Logan's attention to historical detail is unrivaled in this novel set in 1920s rural West Virginia. It's clear that they've done their research to set the story up in such a clear way. I really felt transported to the small mining town. And even more impressive is the attention to dialects. Floyd with his regional Appalachian dialect and Ollie with his Midwestern dialect sprinkled with lots of colorful language you'd not expect to come from his mouth. They paint a rich tapestry I was happy to be a part of while reading.
The supporting characters of Floyd's wife/BFF Effie, their daughter Jo, and Ollie's Aunt Betty complement the two lovers in the very best ways.
On top of that, there were some magical, swoon-worthy moments between Floyd and Ollie where I was completely spellbound and swept away in their romance.
I think fans of historical M/M stories will love to take this deep dive into the coal mine with Floyd and Ollie!
Logan's attention to historical detail is unrivaled in this novel set in 1920s rural West Virginia. It's clear that they've done their research to set the story up in such a clear way. I really felt transported to the small mining town. And even more impressive is the attention to dialects. Floyd with his regional Appalachian dialect and Ollie with his Midwestern dialect sprinkled with lots of colorful language you'd not expect to come from his mouth. They paint a rich tapestry I was happy to be a part of while reading.
The supporting characters of Floyd's wife/BFF Effie, their daughter Jo, and Ollie's Aunt Betty complement the two lovers in the very best ways.
On top of that, there were some magical, swoon-worthy moments between Floyd and Ollie where I was completely spellbound and swept away in their romance.
I think fans of historical M/M stories will love to take this deep dive into the coal mine with Floyd and Ollie!
August 13, 2024
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
This book was just so pure. Floyd and Oliver are just the sweetest and they must be protected at all costs. I love books set in the 1920’s and I don’t find nearly enough so I jumped at the chance to read this one about a coal miner and a city boy.
Even the catalyst that must happen to move a story along was less intense than I was bracing myself for it to be. I wouldn’t have been mad if this story had been a gut wrenching sob fest because sometimes that is needed but has it happens it was a lovely little read.
I feel very privileged to have spent even a small amount of time with Floyd, Ollie, Effie and Josephine. I could honestly still have a little cry mind because even though they all lived happily ever after well into old age, I’m sad none of them would be alive today in 2024 because I would love to share a glass of moonshine on the porch with them.
This book was just so pure. Floyd and Oliver are just the sweetest and they must be protected at all costs. I love books set in the 1920’s and I don’t find nearly enough so I jumped at the chance to read this one about a coal miner and a city boy.
Even the catalyst that must happen to move a story along was less intense than I was bracing myself for it to be. I wouldn’t have been mad if this story had been a gut wrenching sob fest because sometimes that is needed but has it happens it was a lovely little read.
I feel very privileged to have spent even a small amount of time with Floyd, Ollie, Effie and Josephine. I could honestly still have a little cry mind because even though they all lived happily ever after well into old age, I’m sad none of them would be alive today in 2024 because I would love to share a glass of moonshine on the porch with them.
August 21, 2024
Ok.. so I've never actually read a historical romance before this book. This fact initially caused me to hesitate on running to it because it was a new thing and I'm often scared of new things 🤷♀️. I am without words for how happy I am to have read Floyd and Oliver's story 🥰.
Floyd and Oliver are so incredibly different and I love them equally. I keep trying to imagine what their lives would be like if they were alive today 😂. I love the sweetness and the innocence that comes with, not only the time period, but the story. I love how inexperience does not equal not knowing what you want. I love love love that a found family is a family and oftentimes the most important family you can find.
This book was an absolute page turner for me and I did not leave their story once it was started. I was all up in my feelings for the entirety of it and I already wish I had more.
Floyd and Oliver are so incredibly different and I love them equally. I keep trying to imagine what their lives would be like if they were alive today 😂. I love the sweetness and the innocence that comes with, not only the time period, but the story. I love how inexperience does not equal not knowing what you want. I love love love that a found family is a family and oftentimes the most important family you can find.
This book was an absolute page turner for me and I did not leave their story once it was started. I was all up in my feelings for the entirety of it and I already wish I had more.
August 3, 2024
This has got to be my favorite book of August. I loved the friendship between the main characters and most especially the romance between Floyd and Ollie. This book made me feel all sorts of emotions: sad, happy, heartbreak, anger at some point. Angry at Floyd at some point. But I loved the way Ollie helped Mr. Lunkhead Bennett to find the healing from the loss of his loved one. The world needs more people like these two. I also loved how supportive Effie was, and I hope she finds love as well. Little Josephine will always have my heart. I can't wait to read more stories by this author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2024
So Im just entering my historical romance era and well this was the perfect book to add to my historical faves list. I enjoyed this book so much. It was so damn sweet. Did I want to fight Floyd at one point yes yes I did. Did I forgive him because he is just a broken bean who needs hugs and care yes yes I did. Effie is everything to me like literally everything to me she is the most wonderful best friend on earth she is going on my favorite side character list. Gosh this book was such a good time. Also prepare to cry I cried.
August 22, 2024
incredible debut!
This was my first foray into historical fiction. I really enjoyed this super sweet story of one (or maybe two) coal miners. Perhaps my favorite piece of the story was Effie. A strong support female secondary character. I loved her and her approach to Oliver and Floyd and their family. A wonderful debut novel! Highly recommend. Definitely check the triggers though.
This was my first foray into historical fiction. I really enjoyed this super sweet story of one (or maybe two) coal miners. Perhaps my favorite piece of the story was Effie. A strong support female secondary character. I loved her and her approach to Oliver and Floyd and their family. A wonderful debut novel! Highly recommend. Definitely check the triggers though.
August 8, 2024
My first historical romance and it did not miss! Floyd and Oliver were written so well. You felt their longing and love for each other. Josephine was such a great side character as well, so spunky.
October 1, 2024
The best slow burn I've ever read. Completely loveable characters. I laughed, I cried!
October 3, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ this was so cute 🖤
August 11, 2024
A loving and beautiful glimpse into the past without the tragedy that accompanies so many historical tales of queer love.
First of all, this is a DEBUT!? Logan... I am honored to have read this book. I cannot wait to see what fascinating stories you weave next.
I immediately adored Oliver, the eccentric who just wanted to find his place in the world. A little naive, endearing fits of rambling and a kind heart just make you want to squeeze him. Which is also how his first real acquaintance in their quaint little mining town felt too.
Floyd's story broke my heart. The loss of his dearest friend and secret love has him so tangled up inside. While his content little life is his safe haven from an unfair world, adorable Oliver shows up, no idea what he's doing in a dangerous profession such as mining, and Floyd can't help but let his walls begin to crumble.
Our Own Light was the warm embrace everyone yearns for at the end of a trying day. Ollie and his lunkhead Floyd are the epitome of sweet, and as they begin to grow and the light they make together swells, you just can't help but bask in it.
First of all, this is a DEBUT!? Logan... I am honored to have read this book. I cannot wait to see what fascinating stories you weave next.
I immediately adored Oliver, the eccentric who just wanted to find his place in the world. A little naive, endearing fits of rambling and a kind heart just make you want to squeeze him. Which is also how his first real acquaintance in their quaint little mining town felt too.
Floyd's story broke my heart. The loss of his dearest friend and secret love has him so tangled up inside. While his content little life is his safe haven from an unfair world, adorable Oliver shows up, no idea what he's doing in a dangerous profession such as mining, and Floyd can't help but let his walls begin to crumble.
Our Own Light was the warm embrace everyone yearns for at the end of a trying day. Ollie and his lunkhead Floyd are the epitome of sweet, and as they begin to grow and the light they make together swells, you just can't help but bask in it.
August 19, 2025
das war schön! ich mag das Setting und die generelle Atmosphäre - rural west Virginia (mountain mamaaa, direkt ein Ohrwurm im Kopf) und Minenarbeiter, die sich unionizen wollen... wovon ich neben der romance aber gerne mehr gehabt hätte! was ich außerdem nicht so mochte war, dass diese zwei erwachsenen, gestandenen Männer infantil angefühlt haben bzw. ihre Dialoge waren dann doch sehr unrealistisch 😅 ansonsten, eine schöne , hoffnungsvolle mm romance mit historischem setting. 3,5 Sterne
August 10, 2024
Wow. I really didn’t expect this to hit me so hard but it did. I think historical romances just come with their own set of challenges within the story that tug harder at my heart strings 😭
Oliver is the new-in-town city boy that is starting his life over in the mines of West Virginia. He’s a man that has been without love and affection his whole life and so when he meets Floyd, they stick like glue.
Floyd is the sweet, teddy bear of a coal miner who is just trying to support his wife and kid when he meets a naive man in a store.
The rest is history. Literally.
A few disclaimers: this is historical. Set in the 1920’s. Google and astroglide weren’t around. Get over it. 🖤
Also, there’s NO cheating. It will make sense at the story goes on but there is no cheating, I pinky swear.
Anywho. This was a phenomenal debut and I’m so excited to read more from Logan.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary review! 🖤
Oliver is the new-in-town city boy that is starting his life over in the mines of West Virginia. He’s a man that has been without love and affection his whole life and so when he meets Floyd, they stick like glue.
Floyd is the sweet, teddy bear of a coal miner who is just trying to support his wife and kid when he meets a naive man in a store.
The rest is history. Literally.
A few disclaimers: this is historical. Set in the 1920’s. Google and astroglide weren’t around. Get over it. 🖤
Also, there’s NO cheating. It will make sense at the story goes on but there is no cheating, I pinky swear.
Anywho. This was a phenomenal debut and I’m so excited to read more from Logan.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but this is my honest and voluntary review! 🖤
December 7, 2024
4.75 stars
I loved this so much. A lot of queer historical romances focus A LOT on homophobia. And while there is a bit, it isn't heavy-handed in the story. This focuses way more on the romance and friendships of the story. This felt so cozy and sweet. I really love the family that formed between Ollie, Floyd, Effie, and Jo. Effie is for sure the unsung hero of this story, and I would read a whole book about her if there ever was one 👀. Both Floyd and Ollie are so great in their own separate ways. Floyd is so loyal, and Ollie is so loving. They both have very realistic character growth in the story that I really enjoyed seeing. They were believable characters with a believable relationship, and where the story ended for them felt like I could believe in the lasting nature of their relationship. I really really enjoyed this. The characters have so much depth that makes them interesting, and the focal point of this character driven story. It made it so easy to power through this read. This is super sweet and interesting, and definitely worth checking out.
I loved this so much. A lot of queer historical romances focus A LOT on homophobia. And while there is a bit, it isn't heavy-handed in the story. This focuses way more on the romance and friendships of the story. This felt so cozy and sweet. I really love the family that formed between Ollie, Floyd, Effie, and Jo. Effie is for sure the unsung hero of this story, and I would read a whole book about her if there ever was one 👀. Both Floyd and Ollie are so great in their own separate ways. Floyd is so loyal, and Ollie is so loving. They both have very realistic character growth in the story that I really enjoyed seeing. They were believable characters with a believable relationship, and where the story ended for them felt like I could believe in the lasting nature of their relationship. I really really enjoyed this. The characters have so much depth that makes them interesting, and the focal point of this character driven story. It made it so easy to power through this read. This is super sweet and interesting, and definitely worth checking out.
October 8, 2025
A really unique and meaningful historical romance about two men who couldn't be more different on the surface (but end up maybe having more in common than first apparent) becoming good friends and then lovers. The two main characters have a lot of heart and warmth and even the side characters all feel very fleshed out with stories of their own.
I don't know a lot about history but even I could tell that this aspect was researched and implemented so carefully, and there were so many interesting little references to old timey stuff! As a waterfowl enthusiast, I was not very happy to learn about goose grease. Even the language feels very era-appropriate and well researched.
A lot of this story feels very warm and wholesome, though there is some angst with Floyd's ex, and more is revealed about that as the story goes on, but it helps to add depth to his character.
All in all, if you like historical romance and sweet slow-burn romance, you will like this one.
I don't know a lot about history but even I could tell that this aspect was researched and implemented so carefully, and there were so many interesting little references to old timey stuff! As a waterfowl enthusiast, I was not very happy to learn about goose grease. Even the language feels very era-appropriate and well researched.
A lot of this story feels very warm and wholesome, though there is some angst with Floyd's ex, and more is revealed about that as the story goes on, but it helps to add depth to his character.
All in all, if you like historical romance and sweet slow-burn romance, you will like this one.
August 28, 2024
It's historical romance yes but it's coal miners and a bit of a societal gap but these two seriously are the most romantic men on the planet.
I never thought pinky holding, hand holding and kissed foreheads could be remotely arousing but I was wrong. The way their love story unfolds the intimacy and chemistry leaps off the page.
With that said don't think you won't be getting spice because trust me you do! The conversations these men have are full of praise, humor and all around caretaking.
You will also witness some of the most beautiful support and understanding of the times back then and I just adored the friendship/marraige and love between Effie, Floyd and Oliver. Seriously your heart may weep at how perfect they are.
I never thought pinky holding, hand holding and kissed foreheads could be remotely arousing but I was wrong. The way their love story unfolds the intimacy and chemistry leaps off the page.
With that said don't think you won't be getting spice because trust me you do! The conversations these men have are full of praise, humor and all around caretaking.
You will also witness some of the most beautiful support and understanding of the times back then and I just adored the friendship/marraige and love between Effie, Floyd and Oliver. Seriously your heart may weep at how perfect they are.
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