Carillon's Caliber: Book 3 of Men of the Shadows

Men of the Shadows #3

by Sionnach Wintergreen

It’s 1890, and a circus has come to Austin, Texas. When a murder steals the show, medium Thomas Carillon and his secret lover, Marshal Hadrian Burton are determined to find the killer. The circus is full of dark secrets and restless ghosts, and Thomas and Hadrian might have a bigger case than they can handle.

Visiting the circus freak show reminds Thomas that his clubfoot makes him Other to most people. Despite his better standing in the community and Hadrian’s love, he struggles with both feelings of insecurity and anger. When a handsome gay Pinkerton detective comes to town at the ringmaster’s behest, Thomas becomes jealous and his relationship with Hadrian is tested.

Hadrian, still plagued by soldier’s heart (PTSD), doubts his ability to solve this case and is grateful for the help of the Pinkerton. He’s equally glad that the Pinkerton is gay so he and Thomas don’t have to hide their relationship from his keen eye. Distracted by the case and his own troubles, he doesn’t recognize Thomas’s jealousy threatening their love.

Thomas and Hadrian must not only solve a gruesome and baffling case, they must also tend to their relationship before it’s too late.

Genres: Mystery, Crime, Historical

277 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 11, 2024

About the author

Sionnach (pronounced shuhn ukh) Wintergreen is a trans male author of gay romance, epic fantasy, and adult fantasy. His character-driven stories usually involve misfits because he is one. Sionnach has always loved writing and animals; he was a grant writer for an animal rescue group. He lives in Austin, Texas, with his husband and six furbabies—one sweet dog and five spoiled-rotten cats. He also has a wonderful human son.

Reviews

[Suzanne Irving · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thomas and Hadrian go to the circus

Sionnach Wintergreen continues the journey of Thomas and Hadrian as the circus comes to town and people start ending up in the cemetery. There are lots of delicious red herrings and tangents to this story that make it an interesting read. The two men have now been together long enough for the first rush of unconditional love to slow and Wintergreen tests their bond severely by bringing in an attractive gay Pinkerton detective who has been hired to solve the murder they are trying to solve themselves. I enjoy the historical elements in this series and also how different each book’s story is from the others. I hope this series lasts many more books.

[Maureen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited when I saw this was released, I loved the two previous tales with these two men and their sleuthing and sexing. Hadrian and Thomas make the perfect couple, in bed and as investigators. I've been hoping there would be more to come.
You need to be comfortable with talk of ghosts, murder with bodily trauma described, and a rather unpleasant vision of a brutal rape attack described, but don't be easily put off, this is an amazing and intense historical murder mystery. The author has kindly posted a few warnings at the start for what might be triggers for some. There are a few frustrating moments, Hadrian seems to get dismissive with Thomas quite a bit and Thomas gets stroppy a few times, but it all is through a very troubling murder case. A truly wonderful read.

[smatchell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this book, but found Thomas to be a bit on the whiny side at times. I completely understand feeling insecure at times, especially with all the societal pressures they faced, but Hadrian clearly adores him and gave him no reason to be jealous.
Overall, the book was interesting and the story compelling. I enjoyed the attention to detail as well. It was hard “seeing” how gay men were likely treated at that time, though I imagine being queer in Texas currently isn’t easy either.

[Bluesky39 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have enjoyed this series so far and found this novel to be a good read, as well. Thomas and Hadrian's relationship is seriously tested in Carillon's Calliber by Thomas's jealousy of the handsome, yet, brash and violent Pinkerton agent brought in to help them solve a series of murders taking place at the traveling circus that is in town. Thomas also doubts himself and whether he is whole enough for Hadrian. Seeing the Freaks in the circus is very difficult for him and stirs up his past feelings of inferiority because of his club foot. Hadrian is nearly blind to Thomas's feelings of inadequacy and jealousy until it is almost too late. Working alone and together, they are able to catch the villain and solve the crimes. And Thomas's pride in himself is redeemed.

[Virginia Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

We continue the journey with our characters as they search for a killer. you do need to read books in order. suspense they will keep you on with this mystery. there may be trouble being between them

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

The circus may be in town for everyone to have fun but it will not be so for them when a murder happens. This is not going to be easy for them to solve especially when their relationship may be in danger of jealousy. They need to act fast on both accounts to get all the answers they need before it is too late. See if they will

[Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carillon's Caliber is a fantastic addition to the Men of the Shadows series and my favorite of the trilogy.

The circus is in town and, while some of the side shows are entertaining, it has lost the luster from Thomas's youth. The animals seem depressed in their tiny cages and the "freaks" exhibit hits too close to home. On top of that, someone is killing men and there seems to be a homophobic element to the murders.

When a gay Pinkerton is brought in to help with the investigation and sets his sights on Hadrian, who seems to thrive on having another tough guy around, Thomas has had enough.

I have thoroughly enjoyed this series and feel like each installment just gets better. Thomas and Hadrian continue to grow as individuals and in their relationship, and they always come out the stronger for it. The mystery is excellent, the pacing is better than ever, and the side characters are well fleshed out.

[W.L. Hawkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thomas Carillon and Marshall Hadrian Burton take epic risks in this book. Gay lovers sharing a home at a time when homosexuality is a crime. 1890. "Sodomy carried a five to fifteen year imprisonment." We can have nothing but compassion for these two lovers who must hide their love, and the same goes for several other gay men in this book.

There are several things I like about this series.

First and foremost is Sionnach's beautiful writing. His sensual descriptions are gorgeous, lyrical, unique, and true. Sionnach is a gifted writer. There were so many phrases that gave me pause. "…giving the horse his head and letting him drink the wind." "The stitching of the brocade vest stood proud from the satin and grabbed at the calluses of his fingertips, causing a soft, slow rustle." "She gazed longingly at the fortuneteller's tent, a wasp-waisted bluebonnet twirling her beribboned parasol."

Another is the amount of research he does when he's writing historical fiction. In this serial murder mystery, the circus comes to Austin, bringing clowns, animal acts, jugglers, high wire acrobats, a fortuneteller, and "freaks" — all of which are described uniquely in a way that will make you wonder and weep—as the circus becomes the focus for both victims and suspects.

A third is characterization. The "freaks" get under Thomas's skin as he considers himself one because of his club foot. His vulnerability is gut-wrenching. Thomas feels less a man because he's physically challenged, but also because a fancy, gay Pinkerton arrives to assist Hadrian and obviously wants to bed him. The problem is, Hadrian acts like it's no big deal. Sometimes he's dense. This is a lot for Thomas to bear, especially with a killer hunting, murdering, and mutilating homosexuals such as themselves. On top of this, Hadrian invites the Pinkerton to stay at Thomas's house with them, and then can't understand why Thomas gets miffed. Lots of conflict. Lots of drama. And lots of suspense.

Carillon's Caliber is a well-plotted historical mystery—a riveting, sexually explicit gay romance, beautifully written and layered with violence and emotion. It could be read standalone but will be richer read in sequence as Thomas's and Hadrian's relationship grows and deepens over time. I hope it's not the last in the series.

[Merissa (Archaeolibrarian) · Rating 4 out of 5]

CARILLON'S CALIBER is the third book in the Men of the Shadows series and you do need to have read the others to get the full story.

The circus is in town and Thomas is looking forward to it, as he remembers one fondly from his youth. However, the shine has worn off and Thomas sees it differently. Especially when they have a tent full of 'freaks'. Hadrian is as rock-solid as always, delighting in his partner's ways while wishing they didn't have to hide their love. When people start turning up dead, they start to look into it, but the ringmaster isn't happy with their progress and so hires a Pinkerton detective. That, for me, was when this book lost its shine.

As usual, if these two have a disagreement, it usually ends up with them between the sheets and nothing gets resolved. Not only that, but Hadrian reverted to his stupid self, which frustrated the hell out of me. He knows Thomas is jealous and, while he does say he feels nothing for the detective and Thomas needs to trust him, also offers Thomas' home(!) for the detective to stay in, involves him in most things they do when they're off the clock, spends time alone with him, and even offers to extend his stay! Most of which was done without once speaking to Thomas about it. Not only that but even though Thomas' intuition has solved pretty much every case before, he ignores it now because the detective says something different. Thomas was frustrated and so was I.

The mystery side of things was incredibly well-written as always. The supporting characters, particularly Wally, were brilliant and really helped the story. It is graphic in places and the homophobia is rife but normal considering the times.

This was a good addition to the series that I know others will love, and I definitely recommend it. It just frustrated me too much to fully enjoy it. I don't want Hadrian to completely change his character, but how he was in here was a major step backwards.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
7 Nov, 2024

[RBR]

“People of character do the right thing even if no one else does, not because they think it will change the world but because they refuse to be changed by the world”. ~ Michael Josephson


Thomas and Hadrian, of 'Carillon's Caliber' by Sionnach Wintergreen, are attending a visiting circus when a murdered man is discovered. Hadrian, as marshal, and Thomas, his partner/consultant, become embroiled in the investigation.

While they move through the circus, a man comes rushing up to Hadrian, who is the sheriff, to tell them that they have discovered the body of a dead man. They rush to the location and are immediately repulsed by the gruesome scene; the killer not only murdered his victim but mutilated the victim as well.

After Hadrian and Thomas investigate for a while, they discover that they are dealing with a serial killer. Also, all of the victims are homosexuals, perhaps explaining the mutilation. When the circus owner thinks they are moving too slowly, he hires a Pinkerton detective. Thomas is upset, but Hadrian figures it's his money to waste.

The Pinkerton man is handsome and attracted to Hadrian, who is oblivious and does not even notice. Still, Thomas bristles, making his disdain known while secretly feeling insecure and, once again, wondering why Hadrian would want to be with him. Thomas desperately needs to find a way to regain his self-confidence concerning their relationship, or it may fail.

‘Carillon’s Caliber’ is my favorite of the ‘Men of the Shadows’ series. Sionnach has created a fascinating story of murder, mystery, and the power of love. Thanks, Sionnach, for the great read. I can hardly wait to see what Thomas and Hadrian get up to next.


DISCLAIMER: Books reviewed on this site were usually provided at no cost by the publisher or author. This book was purchased by the reviewer.

[Lena Grey · Rating 4 out of 5]

“People of character do the right thing even if no one else does, not because they think it will change the world but because they refuse to be changed by the world”. ~ Michael Josephson

Thomas and Hadrian, of 'Carillon's Caliber' by Sionnach Wintergreen, are attending a visiting circus when a murdered man is discovered. Hadrian, as marshal, and Thomas, his partner/consultant, become embroiled in the investigation.

While they move through the circus, a man comes rushing up to Hadrian, who is the sheriff, to tell them that they have discovered the body of a dead man. They rush to the location and are immediately repulsed by the gruesome scene; the killer not only murdered his victim but mutilated the victim as well.

After Hadrian and Thomas investigate for a while, they discover that they are dealing with a serial killer. Also, all of the victims are homosexuals, perhaps explaining the mutilation. When the circus owner thinks they are moving too slowly, he hires a Pinkerton detective. Thomas is upset, but Hadrian figures it's his money to waste.

The Pinkerton man is handsome and attracted to Hadrian, who is oblivious and does not even notice. Still, Thomas bristles, making his disdain known while secretly feeling insecure and, once again, wondering why Hadrian would want to be with him. Thomas desperately needs to find a way to regain his self-confidence concerning their relationship, or it may fail.

‘Carillon’s Caliber’ is my favorite of the ‘Men of the Shadows’ series. Sionnach has created a fascinating story of murder, mystery, and the power of love. Thanks, Sionnach, for the great read. I can hardly wait to see what Thomas and Hadrian get up to next.

[EQUUS · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great writing, but I wouldn't expect anything less from this author - I loved her Love Songs For The Lost Worlds series. Historically very accurate including the language. Terms and phrases used fit the times so I presume that a lot of research was put in this series. The result is a riveting historical, paranormal, mystery/romantic suspense thriller that's difficult to put down.
Just a trigger warning - this book gets very dark and spares almost no details.
The bigotry, prejudices and racism of the times is often highlighted. Characters are complex and I must admit that I had a hard time liking Hadrian at some moments. He got a tad better in the second book, but in this one he reverted to his insensitive self. There's no doubt he loves Thomas, but has trouble of shoving it properly and he's just barreling through relationship without a second thought, without thinking twice how Thomas might feel. I would give this book 5+ stars without a second thought, but Hadrian frustrated me too much. Don't get me wrong - this is without a doubt the best book in the series (books must be read in order). Brilliant mystery with riveting plot and very well fleshed out characters including supporting ones.
Highly recommended.

[Debby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thomas Carillon and his lover, Marshall Hadrian Burton, are once again on the trail of a murderer. This time the murder occurred in the circus visiting Austin. Their work is complicated by eccentricities of the circus members as well as the ghosts. As the bodies pile up, the ringmaster hires a Pinkerton detective, who turns out to be gay. While Hadrian is happy to have his help, Thomas recognizes this new detective wants more from Hadrian than just assisting. Jealousy abounds.

Thomas does have his own unique problems. The of which is a comparison to a group of members called Freaks. Thomas knows with his club foot, he is considered “Other” just as they are. As he struggles with that and his jealousy, his relationship with Hadrian becomes strained. Hadrian did seem a bit oblivious to what is going on. He just wanted to solve the crimes. Several times they thought they had, only to be proved wrong. The plot was cleverly done with tantalizing clues revealed throughout. This was quite an amazing book. It is sure to keep you up reading. I highly recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion.

[Bretton Coppedge · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this 3rd installment, you won't find much recap so make sure to read book 1 and 2 first. Thomas is still very insecure in himself and therefore in the relationship. Hadrian on the other hand can be fairly obtuse, despite being a detective.

I think of the crimes though, these were my favorite so far. It was a fun whodunnit for sure. So many people kept dying, I kept thinking to myself surely they'll run out of people to kill at some point. The mystery was fun and so were the ghosts, who can certainly be unhelpful but also fun.

Would recommend this to fans of the series. I thought it was a great installment that was on par with the first 2 books.

[Juniper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thomas and Hadrian, as individuals and as a pairing, are complex and interesting and easy to get caught up in. Their relationship, along with an engrossing mystery, some intriguing side characters, and a sense of place and atmosphere that feels spot on for the characters who inhabit it all add up to a deftly woven narrative. As with previous books in the series, well worth a read.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Deb Kel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great addition to this series. I initially was doubtful due to past setting but I am thoroughly enjoying it! The relationship between Thomas and Hadrian continues to grow even with Thomas's jealousy threatening to cause issues! A brilliant storyline alongside their development that had plenty of mysterious moments and great secondary characters.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review

[Mir Jak · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've enjoyed the first two books of this series immensely ......but this one not as much. The interactions between Thomas and Hadrian go from strained to okay within a blink of an eye. The murder mystery has plenty of suspense and twists .....and some very brutal flashbacks (TW's !!!) and this does makes up for Thomas's petulant tone and Hadrian's dismissive attitude and bull-headedness. Overall though, I still enjoyed this book.

[Ida Umphers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed both the murder mystery in this one, especially the addition of a Pinkerton detective, and the relationship complications between Thomas and Hadrian. The 1890 setting seemed to be realistically depicted and the fact that Thomas and Hadrian have to keep so much secret only added to the tensions they faced in this one.

[MM Book · Rating 4 out of 5]

Carillon's Caliber by Sionnach Wintergreen is an excellent murder mystery thriller! The main characters' love for each other is so romantic. Definitely couples goals. Overall, great flow and great story.