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The Bone Orchard
After leaving a trail of terror and death in his wake, the notorious “Missouri” Boone Jennings finally meets his match in San Francisco when US marshal Ambrose Shaw catches up to him. The story of his capture, and the marshal’s bravery, has already become legend back east by the time Pinkerton inspector Ezra Johns gets off the train from New York City to testify in the murderer’s trial.
When Ambrose is unable to give witness to the evils he’s seen, Ezra becomes their lone hope for putting Jennings in a noose. But if Ezra thinks that’s his biggest problem, he’s got plenty to learn about life—and the afterlife—in the spirited West.
Fortunately, Ambrose is there to assist, and more than happy to oblige Ezra—in the courtroom or the bedroom. He spent his life bringing justice to the Wild West, and if he has a say in it, that’s how he’ll be spending his death too.
This title is part of the My Haunted Blender's Gay Love Affair, and Other Twisted Tales collection.
When Ambrose is unable to give witness to the evils he’s seen, Ezra becomes their lone hope for putting Jennings in a noose. But if Ezra thinks that’s his biggest problem, he’s got plenty to learn about life—and the afterlife—in the spirited West.
Fortunately, Ambrose is there to assist, and more than happy to oblige Ezra—in the courtroom or the bedroom. He spent his life bringing justice to the Wild West, and if he has a say in it, that’s how he’ll be spending his death too.
This title is part of the My Haunted Blender's Gay Love Affair, and Other Twisted Tales collection.
108 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 9, 2014
15 people are currently reading
517 people want to read
About the author
Abigail Roux
37 books4,976 followersAbigail Roux was born and raised in North Carolina. A past volleyball star who specializes in sarcasm and painful historical accuracy, she currently spends her time coaching high school volleyball and investigating the mysteries of single motherhood. Any spare time is spent living and dying with every Atlanta Braves and Carolina Panthers game of the year. Abigail has a daughter, Little Roux, who is the light of her life, a boxer, four rescued cats who play an ongoing live-action variation of 'Call of Duty' throughout the house, a certifiable extended family down the road, and a cast of thousands in her head.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
May 10, 2023
I love the idea of an old western, based in 1875 San Francisco, with two gay men!
A Pinkerton detective
A haunted hotel room
A murdered US Marshal
A Serial killer
Insta-love
PNR
Why did Ezra and Ambrose fall in love? No description of intimacy, no real communication on page.
The premise is highly unique, and while I really enjoyed the storytelling, the ending sucked. There really was no ending…
Nick J. Russo did a wonderful job as a narrator.
A Pinkerton detective
A haunted hotel room
A murdered US Marshal
A Serial killer
Insta-love
PNR
Why did Ezra and Ambrose fall in love? No description of intimacy, no real communication on page.
The premise is highly unique, and while I really enjoyed the storytelling, the ending sucked. There really was no ending…
Nick J. Russo did a wonderful job as a narrator.
August 19, 2014
This was a weird mash-up of historical and paranormal romance, and it didn't quite work for me.
While I love a good old-fashioned western story, this felt lazy and not particularly historically accurate. Throw in some old-timey phrases and some cowboys hats and call it a day! I think the author didn't do a great job creating an atmosphere for this story. It sort of just was, without any of that masculine, old-fashion charm that westerns have.
However, my biggest pet peeve was the insta-love. GAH! Why oh why do authors do this to me! Ezra and Ambrose know each other for a hot second and all of the sudden they are in looove? I don't think so. And the sex wasn't even hot, which is normally what Abigail Roux does best.
Now, as someone that has read most of the Cut & Run series but none of the Sidewinder series (Shock & Awe), I didn't appreciate the mash-up between these characters and the Sidewinder ones. Maybe this book is intended for die-hard fans only and I don't fall into that category?
While not a bad story, I didn't think it was particularly strong. One of this author's weaker efforts.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
While I love a good old-fashioned western story, this felt lazy and not particularly historically accurate. Throw in some old-timey phrases and some cowboys hats and call it a day! I think the author didn't do a great job creating an atmosphere for this story. It sort of just was, without any of that masculine, old-fashion charm that westerns have.
However, my biggest pet peeve was the insta-love. GAH! Why oh why do authors do this to me! Ezra and Ambrose know each other for a hot second and all of the sudden they are in looove? I don't think so. And the sex wasn't even hot, which is normally what Abigail Roux does best.
Now, as someone that has read most of the Cut & Run series but none of the Sidewinder series (Shock & Awe), I didn't appreciate the mash-up between these characters and the Sidewinder ones. Maybe this book is intended for die-hard fans only and I don't fall into that category?
While not a bad story, I didn't think it was particularly strong. One of this author's weaker efforts.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
September 6, 2021
I hate cliches(@Cal😺😺😺😺) But, when the first scene of this Western historical novella started with the MC entering the bar and orders 'top self' followed by a scene of US, Marshall, decorated with six guns, I whistled, because this thing never gets old in a western.
The story is of Ezra, a police inspector from New York who has come to testify against the serial 'Missouri's murderer and meets the hardened, well-known US Marshal, Ambrose. I was totally in love with the plot and MCs till the paranormal twist came into the tale.
Yes, this could have been an amazing novella, with a western historical setting of 1875, and a touch of romance but only if you like your cocktail with the flavor of paranormal.
I mean how much a girl can handle in 110 pages.🤭🤭🤭 Still, the forever lovers against a never-dying enemy plot has its own unique appeal.
The story is of Ezra, a police inspector from New York who has come to testify against the serial 'Missouri's murderer and meets the hardened, well-known US Marshal, Ambrose. I was totally in love with the plot and MCs till the paranormal twist came into the tale.
Yes, this could have been an amazing novella, with a western historical setting of 1875, and a touch of romance but only if you like your cocktail with the flavor of paranormal.
I mean how much a girl can handle in 110 pages.🤭🤭🤭 Still, the forever lovers against a never-dying enemy plot has its own unique appeal.
June 7, 2017
Pinkerton Agent Ezra has the help of US Marshal Ambrose whether he wants it or not. Just when he thinks the execution of a notorious serial killer heralds the end of his reign of terror, that's when everything else goes wrong.
Part western, part paranormal - this was riddled with some action, romance, and suspense.
Fans of Abigail Roux won't be disappointed with her nice little twist at the end, something I'm sure I will probably never tire of. But I'm biased because of reasons and I'm not ashamed to admit that. Enjoy.
Part western, part paranormal - this was riddled with some action, romance, and suspense.
Fans of Abigail Roux won't be disappointed with her nice little twist at the end, something I'm sure I will probably never tire of. But I'm biased because of reasons and I'm not ashamed to admit that. Enjoy.
September 4, 2019
This was a very funny and entertaining novella mixing up a ghost story and a love story using the American West as fascinating background.
US marshal Ambrose Shaw and Pinkerton detective Ezra Johns combine their strengths and knowledge to fight Boone Jennings, a formidable adversary who keeps up with his criminal antics even in the most unusual of circumstances.
The story takes off with great pace and events roll on in a relentless manner and this was perhaps the best aspects of the book and the thing I found more problematic. Such is the promise of the beginning, so much fun are the twists in the plot, that the second half of the novella - felt a bit flat and forced. Perhaps a slight rethink of the plot or a longer book would have contributed to avoiding this slight pitfall.
Having said that, I thought the book was really entertaining, well written and compelling.
A nice read - 3.5 stars rounded to 4.
US marshal Ambrose Shaw and Pinkerton detective Ezra Johns combine their strengths and knowledge to fight Boone Jennings, a formidable adversary who keeps up with his criminal antics even in the most unusual of circumstances.
The story takes off with great pace and events roll on in a relentless manner and this was perhaps the best aspects of the book and the thing I found more problematic. Such is the promise of the beginning, so much fun are the twists in the plot, that the second half of the novella - felt a bit flat and forced. Perhaps a slight rethink of the plot or a longer book would have contributed to avoiding this slight pitfall.
Having said that, I thought the book was really entertaining, well written and compelling.
A nice read - 3.5 stars rounded to 4.
February 5, 2020
Oh hey, Sidewinder crew cameo! Wasn't expecting that. (Failing on my Note To Self about reading GR Friends' reviews, obvs.)
November 20, 2017
The Bone Orchard by Abigail Roux is a terrific ghost story set in the past. A witness comes to testify against a serial kill and to watch him hang. When he gets there, the saloon owner tells him he has one one room open but it is haunted and no one wants it, gives him a great rate. He takes it. It is haunted by the Marshall that is the last man killed and wounded the serial killer enough to catch him. It is an fast paced, exciting story. The new guy, Ezra, can see the Marshall. They also see that the killer doesn't stop killing once he is hung. Lots of great fun. It is also a gay romance so those who are offended, you will miss out on a terrific story.
July 29, 2022
Honestly, this one was just okay. Abigail Roux captures the "old West" feel pretty well, and there are some nice twists, but it's kinda corny.
Nick J. Russo's Western accent is well done in the audio version.
Nick J. Russo's Western accent is well done in the audio version.
October 27, 2017
'The Bone Orchard' it's a lovely ghost story or is that a ghostly love story...
I'm not a big fan of ghost stories but given that it's getting to that time of year...Halloween! Folks, it's just a few days away. I decided that it's good to have exceptions to every rule and besides this one's by Abigail Roux and seriously the woman knows how to write a story and Nick J. Russo was the narrator so it had strong possibilities and my guestimate was correct.
At just over 3 hours this works well for an evenings entertainment. I loved this story of good vs evil as US Marsal Ambrose Shaw hunts down 'Missouri' Boone Jennings, there is no limit to what he'll do or sacrifice to catch this man and see him brought to justice. But it's up to Pinkerton Detective Ezra Johns to ensure that Ambrose's sacrifice isn't in vain. Ambrose and Ezra soon find out though that Jennings is an evil that even death can't stop leaving Ambrose and Ezra to spend eternity together...loving each other and keeping justice in the west.
'The Bone Orchard' was a fun way to recognize the time of year and Ambrose and Ezra were a pretty spooktacular pairing and while I enjoyed this story from start to finish it was the ending that I enjoyed the most but I'm not going to spoil it for anyone so I'm just going to say that the ending was definitely not what I was expecting and I really like how it brought things full circle.
I really enjoyed this book as an audio story...it just worked for me in way that I'm not sure reading the story would have. Nick J. Russo's voices were very much in tune with how I imagined these characters to sound...especially Ambrose and when that happens it just makes the story experience that much more enjoyable for me.
While I didn't find this to be a 'scary' story, I did find it to be interesting and as always the narration was spot on...taking this from a good story to something that's probably going to become a holiday tradition for me. I mean really cowboys or ghostly cowboys, evil psycho villains, haunted hotels and jail cells all rolled up into a story that's scary enough to be spooky but not enough to keep me up at night is just the type of Halloween story that I enjoy.
************************
An audio book of 'The Bone Orchard' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I'm not a big fan of ghost stories but given that it's getting to that time of year...Halloween! Folks, it's just a few days away. I decided that it's good to have exceptions to every rule and besides this one's by Abigail Roux and seriously the woman knows how to write a story and Nick J. Russo was the narrator so it had strong possibilities and my guestimate was correct.
At just over 3 hours this works well for an evenings entertainment. I loved this story of good vs evil as US Marsal Ambrose Shaw hunts down 'Missouri' Boone Jennings, there is no limit to what he'll do or sacrifice to catch this man and see him brought to justice. But it's up to Pinkerton Detective Ezra Johns to ensure that Ambrose's sacrifice isn't in vain. Ambrose and Ezra soon find out though that Jennings is an evil that even death can't stop leaving Ambrose and Ezra to spend eternity together...loving each other and keeping justice in the west.
'The Bone Orchard' was a fun way to recognize the time of year and Ambrose and Ezra were a pretty spooktacular pairing and while I enjoyed this story from start to finish it was the ending that I enjoyed the most but I'm not going to spoil it for anyone so I'm just going to say that the ending was definitely not what I was expecting and I really like how it brought things full circle.
I really enjoyed this book as an audio story...it just worked for me in way that I'm not sure reading the story would have. Nick J. Russo's voices were very much in tune with how I imagined these characters to sound...especially Ambrose and when that happens it just makes the story experience that much more enjoyable for me.
While I didn't find this to be a 'scary' story, I did find it to be interesting and as always the narration was spot on...taking this from a good story to something that's probably going to become a holiday tradition for me. I mean really cowboys or ghostly cowboys, evil psycho villains, haunted hotels and jail cells all rolled up into a story that's scary enough to be spooky but not enough to keep me up at night is just the type of Halloween story that I enjoy.
************************
An audio book of 'The Bone Orchard' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2014
This review can also be found on my blog: A Match Made in Heaven
This was a pretty good western ghost story. I don't read a lot of ghost stories, but this was really interesting. Ezra and Ambrose are both lawmen hunting the same killer. One a Marshall from California, the other an Inspector from New York. They hunt Jennings across the country, until they meet in San Francisco where they have tracked down Jennings. He is tried and hung, but continues to kill from beyond the grave.
I especially enjoyed the second half of the story, as time starts to pass more quickly, and Ezra and Ambrose watch the decades pass around them. The idea that having a nemesis is what makes the time worth living for them is different and unexpected. Ezra and Ambrose have each other, but protecting people is what their lives were about and so are their deaths. Meeting Ezra's nephew at the end was an interesting turn of events. I was not expecting more story at that point and I enjoyed the fact that others knew of Ezra and Ambrose's existence. Although, I wish they could have spoken more and that Owen and his friends
could have known all the good Ezra and Ambrose have done over the last 150 years.
The romance in this was pretty disappointing though. I didn't really feel the connection between Ezra and Ambrose. It seemed to happen awfully quickly. They probably knew each other 3 or 4 days before they expressed feelings for each other. Eventually they said the 'L' word and it wasn't even made into a big deal. They both acted as if it was totally normal to fall in love after only a week or so and neither were surprised to hear the words.
But regardless of the passage of time, it wasn't used to its full potential. Their relationship could have been developed better in the given time. I don't really know what they loved about each other. We were not told. And I don't think we were ever told what Ezra looked like. When he first saw Ambrose he described him to us, but we were never given a description of Ezra and he is sort of just a blank in my mind. Also, in a story of 133 pages, there was time for more than one sex scene, but we were only given one. It wasn't super explicit but I enjoyed it. It was one of the few times when I felt their emotional closeness, as well as physical, of course.
So this is a good read for people who enjoy ghost stories and paranormal, who don't mind some M/M on the side, but aren't looking for a romance at the moment. I wouldn't mind a sequel.
This was a pretty good western ghost story. I don't read a lot of ghost stories, but this was really interesting. Ezra and Ambrose are both lawmen hunting the same killer. One a Marshall from California, the other an Inspector from New York. They hunt Jennings across the country, until they meet in San Francisco where they have tracked down Jennings. He is tried and hung, but continues to kill from beyond the grave.
I especially enjoyed the second half of the story, as time starts to pass more quickly, and Ezra and Ambrose watch the decades pass around them. The idea that having a nemesis is what makes the time worth living for them is different and unexpected. Ezra and Ambrose have each other, but protecting people is what their lives were about and so are their deaths. Meeting Ezra's nephew at the end was an interesting turn of events. I was not expecting more story at that point and I enjoyed the fact that others knew of Ezra and Ambrose's existence. Although, I wish they could have spoken more and that Owen and his friends
could have known all the good Ezra and Ambrose have done over the last 150 years.
The romance in this was pretty disappointing though. I didn't really feel the connection between Ezra and Ambrose. It seemed to happen awfully quickly. They probably knew each other 3 or 4 days before they expressed feelings for each other. Eventually they said the 'L' word and it wasn't even made into a big deal. They both acted as if it was totally normal to fall in love after only a week or so and neither were surprised to hear the words.
But regardless of the passage of time, it wasn't used to its full potential. Their relationship could have been developed better in the given time. I don't really know what they loved about each other. We were not told. And I don't think we were ever told what Ezra looked like. When he first saw Ambrose he described him to us, but we were never given a description of Ezra and he is sort of just a blank in my mind. Also, in a story of 133 pages, there was time for more than one sex scene, but we were only given one. It wasn't super explicit but I enjoyed it. It was one of the few times when I felt their emotional closeness, as well as physical, of course.
So this is a good read for people who enjoy ghost stories and paranormal, who don't mind some M/M on the side, but aren't looking for a romance at the moment. I wouldn't mind a sequel.
June 9, 2016
2 1/2 stars
This was a very weird book and I don't know how if I liked it or not. Some parts - like the little twist near the end - were good, but others - like - were... unsatisfying, to say the least. All in all, you could say that I'm frustrated.
This was a very weird book and I don't know how if I liked it or not. Some parts - like the little twist near the end - were good, but others - like - were... unsatisfying, to say the least. All in all, you could say that I'm frustrated.
Read
March 2, 2024Ghostly insta love revenge story.
February 18, 2019
I enjoyed this story. The narration was really good so I can recommend it on that factor alone. The story is short, and the ending makes it sound like there will be another installment because the "serial killer ghost" isn't caught. Which is something I never thought I would say, lol. :D
I was surprised how the story developed. It's very obvious this is a short story because after the MCs get to know each other, and something key happens in the plot, things speed up to modern times and they have been trying to stop the serial killer ghost for over 100 years! I loved how Ezra's descendant came to be in the story. He had Ezra's journal and read about the serial killer, his hanging, and the murders that took place after that. He and some of his friends come to town to figure out what happened. And of course Ezra and Ambrose are there and they try to protect/help/warn the guys.
Overall this was a good story and I really loved all the characters. Even the serial killer ghost. I do wish the ending was more satisfactory, OR it was obvious there would be a 2nd book. I do recommend this. To those who don't care for frivolous sex scenes in their romance, be warned these guys have an insta-love/romance thing going on, and they almost immediately have sex when they are able to.
I was surprised how the story developed. It's very obvious this is a short story because after the MCs get to know each other, and something key happens in the plot, things speed up to modern times and they have been trying to stop the serial killer ghost for over 100 years! I loved how Ezra's descendant came to be in the story. He had Ezra's journal and read about the serial killer, his hanging, and the murders that took place after that. He and some of his friends come to town to figure out what happened. And of course Ezra and Ambrose are there and they try to protect/help/warn the guys.
Overall this was a good story and I really loved all the characters. Even the serial killer ghost. I do wish the ending was more satisfactory, OR it was obvious there would be a 2nd book. I do recommend this. To those who don't care for frivolous sex scenes in their romance, be warned these guys have an insta-love/romance thing going on, and they almost immediately have sex when they are able to.
December 15, 2014
This was pretty good. I liked Ambrose and Ezra a lot. I thought they made a sweet couple. I also though they had some funny scenes at times.
There is a mash up with some very popular characters that made me smile. I knew about it before reading it and I was excited to see how it would be done. I know a lot of people didn't like it, but I did. *shrug*
Recommended if you're a fan of Abi Roux!
There is a mash up with some very popular characters that made me smile. I knew about it before reading it and I was excited to see how it would be done. I know a lot of people didn't like it, but I did. *shrug*
Recommended if you're a fan of Abi Roux!
January 1, 2020
I loved this wild mishmash of a western with a paranormal twist! I think this is one of those stories that either you totally buy into, or don't like at all. I got hooked and finished this novella in one sitting. This story of Ambrose Shaw and Ezra Johns and their shared love and mission is beautifully woven together with San Francisco's history. 4 stars.
Visit my new blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
Visit my new blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
August 13, 2014
Huh, I liked it. It didn't knock my socks off or anything but it was enjoyable and different. The little twist toward the end of the book I LOVED!!! I will take anything I can get in regards to that! Not a bad ghost story.
August 4, 2017
3.5 stars.
Would have been an average paranormal/ghost story - but then team Sidewinder made an appearance...*_*
'Nuff said.
Would have been an average paranormal/ghost story - but then team Sidewinder made an appearance...*_*
'Nuff said.
March 8, 2025
Out of the wild novellas I have read, this one was pretty entertaining overall! Very quick read and I liked the characters. The last chapter probably could’ve been cut, hence the 3 star rating.
August 6, 2016
Okay.. this is going to be difficult... How to write something close to a review without to much fangirling?
I don't think I can... I mean...
How did I not know about this?? I mean I knew that this was about Owen's great great great uncle or something like that but I was not expecting to actually
I almost feel from my bed. I laughed so much with this book. I was having already so much fun with it, I mean they are freaking ghosts! Ghosts having sex! How is it possible not to laugh?? And then and I just couldn't control myself. I'm so fucking excited about this!
They made me laugh so hard. Ambrose making the possibles to keep from tearing each others cloths off.
"Our room is haunted. It doesn't want us to get laid."
I love I just love him!!!
And ahahah
"Johns, what the fuck are you doing? You don't chat with ghosts, you fucking run like Scooby-Doo, man!"
"It's okay."
"Scooby-Doo!"
"Not okay."
"Okay, okay,"
I just can't. xD
I have to say that I liked meeting Ezra Johns . I have a difficult relationship with Owen but I liked that this book involved him... I wonder if this little ghost episode is going to be mentioned in one of the Sidewinder books or maybe Cut & Run book 9.
Only :( What a shame..
Ezra and Ambrose story was kind of a bittersweet thing. Really fun but it must be frustrating sometimes being a ghost. (Still can't get used to that part, I was so "what the hell is happening" at first, couldn't stop laughing).
Glad they are together forever and ever. They are so great together. Love it!
Never expected to love this book this much. It was pretty awesome!
*** This title was kindly provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ***
Note: This title is part of the My Haunted Blender's Gay Love Affair, and Other Twisted Tales collection.
I don't think I can... I mean...
How did I not know about this?? I mean I knew that this was about Owen's great great great uncle or something like that but I was not expecting to actually
I almost feel from my bed. I laughed so much with this book. I was having already so much fun with it, I mean they are freaking ghosts! Ghosts having sex! How is it possible not to laugh?? And then and I just couldn't control myself. I'm so fucking excited about this!
They made me laugh so hard. Ambrose making the possibles to keep from tearing each others cloths off.
"Our room is haunted. It doesn't want us to get laid."
I love I just love him!!!
And ahahah
"Johns, what the fuck are you doing? You don't chat with ghosts, you fucking run like Scooby-Doo, man!"
"It's okay."
"Scooby-Doo!"
"Not okay."
"Okay, okay,"
I just can't. xD
I have to say that I liked meeting Ezra Johns . I have a difficult relationship with Owen but I liked that this book involved him... I wonder if this little ghost episode is going to be mentioned in one of the Sidewinder books or maybe Cut & Run book 9.
Only :( What a shame..
Ezra and Ambrose story was kind of a bittersweet thing. Really fun but it must be frustrating sometimes being a ghost. (Still can't get used to that part, I was so "what the hell is happening" at first, couldn't stop laughing).
Glad they are together forever and ever. They are so great together. Love it!
Never expected to love this book this much. It was pretty awesome!
*** This title was kindly provided by Riptide Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ***
Note: This title is part of the My Haunted Blender's Gay Love Affair, and Other Twisted Tales collection.
September 15, 2014
Bumped up a star team sidewinder makes an appearance.
I went into book with an open mind. I'm very hesitant reading historical romances featuring mm love. It's hard for me not to compare books to K.J. Charles. Is it wrong? Yes it is. So what, I like what I like.
Now it was western theme, meh who cares. We start off with Ambrose Shaw going across country for Boone Jennings, a serial killer/psychopath extraordinaire. Upon catching up to him in a tavern, Ambrose has made the decision that he is willing sacrifice to die if it means stopping Boone. Well shit happens. Fast forward 2 weeks, and Pinkerton Detective Ezra Johns stop in shows up he is the only alive witness to the crimes of Boone Jennings. Ezra stops in the same bar as Ambrose and low and behold he meets Ambrose Shaw, that is the ghost of Ambrose, well I'll be damned is what Ezra is thinking how, can I see a damn dead man. They never figure this out.
Can't give away the plot, but it's very insta-love between a human and a ghost, and I was starting to think Abigail went and lost her mind if they were able to have incorporeal and corporeal sex. First thing first in my mind, Where was Samuel Colt when we needed him, we could have fixed this 12% in. Second then is, didn't they learn anything in these days to prevent a ghost, you have to salt & burn the bones honey! It's the final word.
Fast forward a century, I'm not sure since I can't remember the date exactly and in walks Team Sidewinder, minus Ty & Zane let me make that clear they aren't there it isn't some euphemism for something else, it's clean cut they guys minus Ty & Zane, I'm okay with that because it was funny when they arrived and I had a little tweak of the heart knowing in the near distant future they guys are going away. This was my favorite part n the book. I thoroughly enjoyed it, was great no. It was good.
Moral of the Story, Call Ghostbusters I guess, or don't do by an evil psychopath whichever one happens first, I'm content!
I went into book with an open mind. I'm very hesitant reading historical romances featuring mm love. It's hard for me not to compare books to K.J. Charles. Is it wrong? Yes it is. So what, I like what I like.
Now it was western theme, meh who cares. We start off with Ambrose Shaw going across country for Boone Jennings, a serial killer/psychopath extraordinaire. Upon catching up to him in a tavern, Ambrose has made the decision that he is willing sacrifice to die if it means stopping Boone. Well shit happens. Fast forward 2 weeks, and Pinkerton Detective Ezra Johns stop in shows up he is the only alive witness to the crimes of Boone Jennings. Ezra stops in the same bar as Ambrose and low and behold he meets Ambrose Shaw, that is the ghost of Ambrose, well I'll be damned is what Ezra is thinking how, can I see a damn dead man. They never figure this out.
Can't give away the plot, but it's very insta-love between a human and a ghost, and I was starting to think Abigail went and lost her mind if they were able to have incorporeal and corporeal sex. First thing first in my mind, Where was Samuel Colt when we needed him, we could have fixed this 12% in. Second then is, didn't they learn anything in these days to prevent a ghost, you have to salt & burn the bones honey! It's the final word.
Fast forward a century, I'm not sure since I can't remember the date exactly and in walks Team Sidewinder, minus Ty & Zane let me make that clear they aren't there it isn't some euphemism for something else, it's clean cut they guys minus Ty & Zane, I'm okay with that because it was funny when they arrived and I had a little tweak of the heart knowing in the near distant future they guys are going away. This was my favorite part n the book. I thoroughly enjoyed it, was great no. It was good.
Moral of the Story, Call Ghostbusters I guess, or don't do by an evil psychopath whichever one happens first, I'm content!
August 16, 2014
Totally Original and a Total Hoot
What a hoot! This is one of Ms. Roux's sleight-of-hand triumphs, a book which brings you into it by introducing characters you believe in, a scenario which is logical, and relationship potential which really doesn't arch an eyebrow--and then all of a sudden, KABOW! She just takes all your imaginations and twists them around into something so out-of-the-box that it seems the only right way to go.
The love story here is powerful, charming, sad, exhilarating and perfectly developed, much in the same way Roux handled male relationships in the Old West in her most under-rated book, According to Doyle. But where the protagonists of that novel took their time getting their interests focused, Ezra and Ambrose are hot from the start, or at least you will hope so.
Their story, which is remarkable in the fact that it's implausible but totally right, carries us along until her biggest twist of all--which is a spoiler I am not going to divulge. However, I will state that even though it would help to have read her Cut & Run and Sidewinder series, you need not have done so to enjoy one of her most remarkable reads. But even though this is not a horror story, it will make your eyes bug out and your hair stand on end if you've read both Sidewinders--and with that I will shut up.
What a hoot! This is one of Ms. Roux's sleight-of-hand triumphs, a book which brings you into it by introducing characters you believe in, a scenario which is logical, and relationship potential which really doesn't arch an eyebrow--and then all of a sudden, KABOW! She just takes all your imaginations and twists them around into something so out-of-the-box that it seems the only right way to go.
The love story here is powerful, charming, sad, exhilarating and perfectly developed, much in the same way Roux handled male relationships in the Old West in her most under-rated book, According to Doyle. But where the protagonists of that novel took their time getting their interests focused, Ezra and Ambrose are hot from the start, or at least you will hope so.
Their story, which is remarkable in the fact that it's implausible but totally right, carries us along until her biggest twist of all--which is a spoiler I am not going to divulge. However, I will state that even though it would help to have read her Cut & Run and Sidewinder series, you need not have done so to enjoy one of her most remarkable reads. But even though this is not a horror story, it will make your eyes bug out and your hair stand on end if you've read both Sidewinders--and with that I will shut up.
January 7, 2015
I don't know why everybody is making such a big fuss about a few pages of Sidewinder being a part of this book.....I mean, seriously, what's the big deal guys!!!
Personally, I think, The book was doing pretty good with the MCs only.
Ambrose and Ezra made a good team....and they were great together...there are some good funny times and some smexy times as well...
There is a ghosty ghosty thing going on here....I am not going to tell exactly what it is...Don't wanna spoil it for the new readers.....But I will tell you this-That added a nice touch and made things really interesting and funny
It's a good read...Nice light read without the heartache and torture and angst...
Personally, I think, The book was doing pretty good with the MCs only.
Ambrose and Ezra made a good team....and they were great together...there are some good funny times and some smexy times as well...
There is a ghosty ghosty thing going on here....I am not going to tell exactly what it is...Don't wanna spoil it for the new readers.....But I will tell you this-That added a nice touch and made things really interesting and funny
It's a good read...Nice light read without the heartache and torture and angst...
October 22, 2017
Audio Review
I've come to the conclusion that I would likely read or listen to any books by this author. The Bone Orchard was the last of the author's books that I hadn't encountered and I was supremely excited to receive the audio version because its a blend of historical western, romance, paranormal, and modern. And, bonus, there is a fun crossover element with the Sidewinder characters. I'll let fans discover this fun little gem for themselves.
So, The Bone Orchard, was a novella-length piece that begins with a shootout between serial killing outlaw 'Missouri' Boone Jennings and US Marshal, Ambrose Shaw, in a saloon- quintessential western, right? But then it gets interesting when eastern Pinkerton agent, Ezra Johns arrives to give testimony that will see Jennings hang. Ezra soon discovers the man with the dangerous silver eyes who has been sharing his hotel room is none other than Ambrose Shaw.
Though this one shows a vengeful criminal that has to be stopped at all costs, the story has a lighter quality to it as well. The new partnership of Ambrose and Ezra was engaging as all this author's pairings are. There is a balance between opposites, respects for diverse skill sets, and smoldering passion. There is a sweet and tender quality even as the romance was fast and passionate.
The paranormal aspect of the story was a fun extra layer that adds complications to the action plot as well as the romance. This allows for the quirk where this can cross from historical to modern. I don't want to spoil it for others to discover what it is or how it works.
As I noted above, I enjoyed this story in audio format. What fun! I got to hear a favorite narrator, Nick Russo, demonstrate some flexibility by tackling the sounds of The Old West in his voice. Humor, grit, and engaging storytelling delighted my ears from start to finish.
All in all, this shorter piece did a great job of entertaining me with a genre blend, characters, and plot that had me wishing I could spend more time in Ambrose and Ezra's world or see them on other adventures together (even if this means altering some of this story to fit it all in, haha). This is for those who are looking for a quick and light, but entertaining m/m Western Paranormal Romance.
My thanks to Riptide Publishing for the opportunity to listen to this book in exchange for an honest review.
I've come to the conclusion that I would likely read or listen to any books by this author. The Bone Orchard was the last of the author's books that I hadn't encountered and I was supremely excited to receive the audio version because its a blend of historical western, romance, paranormal, and modern. And, bonus, there is a fun crossover element with the Sidewinder characters. I'll let fans discover this fun little gem for themselves.
So, The Bone Orchard, was a novella-length piece that begins with a shootout between serial killing outlaw 'Missouri' Boone Jennings and US Marshal, Ambrose Shaw, in a saloon- quintessential western, right? But then it gets interesting when eastern Pinkerton agent, Ezra Johns arrives to give testimony that will see Jennings hang. Ezra soon discovers the man with the dangerous silver eyes who has been sharing his hotel room is none other than Ambrose Shaw.
Though this one shows a vengeful criminal that has to be stopped at all costs, the story has a lighter quality to it as well. The new partnership of Ambrose and Ezra was engaging as all this author's pairings are. There is a balance between opposites, respects for diverse skill sets, and smoldering passion. There is a sweet and tender quality even as the romance was fast and passionate.
The paranormal aspect of the story was a fun extra layer that adds complications to the action plot as well as the romance. This allows for the quirk where this can cross from historical to modern. I don't want to spoil it for others to discover what it is or how it works.
As I noted above, I enjoyed this story in audio format. What fun! I got to hear a favorite narrator, Nick Russo, demonstrate some flexibility by tackling the sounds of The Old West in his voice. Humor, grit, and engaging storytelling delighted my ears from start to finish.
All in all, this shorter piece did a great job of entertaining me with a genre blend, characters, and plot that had me wishing I could spend more time in Ambrose and Ezra's world or see them on other adventures together (even if this means altering some of this story to fit it all in, haha). This is for those who are looking for a quick and light, but entertaining m/m Western Paranormal Romance.
My thanks to Riptide Publishing for the opportunity to listen to this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 11, 2025
I wish I could say this is the wildest novella I’ve ever read but it’s not. Definitely could have ended the book sooner. The ending really wasn’t necessary. Overall not bad writing and enjoyable characters
March 22, 2019
What could be more exciting than the Wild West in 19th century America? The days of outlaws, US Marshals, and a Pinkerton agent is what Abigail Roux brings to the table in 'The Bone Orchard'. Marshal Ambrose Shaw has tracked no-good, lying, murdering, filth, "Missouri" Boone Jennings, through six states and two territories, and finally caught him in San Francisco. Ezra Johns is a special investigator for the Pinkerton Agency who has come from New York to testify against Jennings in his trial. Due to a shortage of rooms in the hotel these two strangers end up sharing a room.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
August 13, 2014
Когда мне попалась эта новинка от Roux, я планировала взяться за нее в будущем. Но посмотрев первые отзывы и спойлеры, меня сьело любопытство и я таки прочитала ее.
Самое главное - не воспринимать всерьез. Это паранормал от Roux))). Мне понравилось почти все. Главные герои Эзра и Эмброуз забавные, очаровательные, интересные. Их встреча, связующее их дело, их общение. Единственная претензия - инста-лав. Ну можно было бы в рамках событий дать им побольше времени для любовных признаний.
А сюрприз в конце, ради которого я и бросилась читать эту книгу, просто шик. Что там поиски сокровищ, охотники за привидениями снова в деле))))
Самое главное - не воспринимать всерьез. Это паранормал от Roux))). Мне понравилось почти все. Главные герои Эзра и Эмброуз забавные, очаровательные, интересные. Их встреча, связующее их дело, их общение. Единственная претензия - инста-лав. Ну можно было бы в рамках событий дать им побольше времени для любовных признаний.
А сюрприз в конце, ради которого я и бросилась читать эту книгу, просто шик. Что там поиски сокровищ, охотники за привидениями снова в деле))))
August 13, 2014
I wasn't sure about this book at first, since westerns are not my normal genre but I love Abi Roux's writing and thought I'd give it a try and I loved it. Ezra and Ambrose were a great team and a fantastic couple and Boone Jennings was a worthy opponent. Their story kept my attention throughout and the surprise in the end was very unexpected!
August 18, 2014
Certainly part of my enjoyment is its relationship to the other series.
August 30, 2014
Well that was interesting, and fun, I do love ghost stories :-)
And Sidewinders, I love them too
And Sidewinders, I love them too
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2016
LOVED this book. Don't usually read paranormal but this one is by Abi, and I FLOVE her stuff. This did not disappoint!! Short, sweet, and the surprise is perfect for fans. Must read!
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