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Lake Prophet #1
Solstice: Lake Prophet Mysteries, Book 1
Gabriel is a former undercover cop haunted by the things he's seen and done. He returns to his small hometown of Prophet, taking on the role of sheriff, hoping to mend his fractured relationship with his estranged brother and rebuild his life. But when a chilling murder occurs at Sentinel Rocks, a sacred Makah site on Lake Prophet, Gabriel's dreams of peace and reconciliation are shattered.
Gabriel navigates a web of intrigue, where suspects abound; from local tribal elders to fervent Solstice worshippers and even those hunting the elusive Big Foot. When the brutal murder leaves Duke, a loyal Labrador retriever, as the sole witness, Gabriel stumbles upon an unexpected ally-a local animal behaviorist named Tiber.
Tiber, a newcomer to Prophet, seeks refuge in this remote haven. Armed with his extraordinary ability to communicate with animals, he offers his expertise through video consultations. While he attributes his skill to his academic background, his intuition and flashes of insight owe as much to his Navajo heritage as to science.
With the relentless rain washing away sins and good intentions alike, Gabriel and Tiber must begin to confront their vulnerabilities and unravel the truth.
Gabriel navigates a web of intrigue, where suspects abound; from local tribal elders to fervent Solstice worshippers and even those hunting the elusive Big Foot. When the brutal murder leaves Duke, a loyal Labrador retriever, as the sole witness, Gabriel stumbles upon an unexpected ally-a local animal behaviorist named Tiber.
Tiber, a newcomer to Prophet, seeks refuge in this remote haven. Armed with his extraordinary ability to communicate with animals, he offers his expertise through video consultations. While he attributes his skill to his academic background, his intuition and flashes of insight owe as much to his Navajo heritage as to science.
With the relentless rain washing away sins and good intentions alike, Gabriel and Tiber must begin to confront their vulnerabilities and unravel the truth.
Audible Audio
First published July 28, 2023
205 people are currently reading
945 people want to read
About the author
Eli Easton
83 books2,804 followersHaving been, at various times and under different names, a minister’s daughter, a computer programmer, the author of paranormal mysteries, a game designer, an organic farmer, an avid hiker, and a profound sleeper, Eli is happily embarking on yet another incarnation as a m/m romance author.
As an addicted reader of such, she is tinkled pink when an author manages to combine literary merit, vast stores of humor, melting hotness and eye-dabbing sweetness into one story. She promises to strive to achieve most of that most of the time. She currently lives on a farm in Pennsylvania with her husband, three bulldogs, three cows and six chickens. All of them (except for the husband) are female, hence explaining the naked men that have taken up residence in her latest fiction writing.
Her website in www.elieaston.com
You can email her at eli@elieaston.com
COMING SOON:
See what's in the pipeline here: http://elieaston.com/work-in-progress/
As an addicted reader of such, she is tinkled pink when an author manages to combine literary merit, vast stores of humor, melting hotness and eye-dabbing sweetness into one story. She promises to strive to achieve most of that most of the time. She currently lives on a farm in Pennsylvania with her husband, three bulldogs, three cows and six chickens. All of them (except for the husband) are female, hence explaining the naked men that have taken up residence in her latest fiction writing.
Her website in www.elieaston.com
You can email her at eli@elieaston.com
COMING SOON:
See what's in the pipeline here: http://elieaston.com/work-in-progress/
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
August 1, 2023
Things I liked:
Tiber's POV. I liked Tiber as a character and reading about his animals was my favourite part of the book. His chapters were written really well. There were only a couple things that I didn't find believable -
The romance. Or better to say – hints of it. It's very slow burn and I expect it to develop over the course of the series. I know that some readers won't be happy about it, but I enjoyed what we got here. I can see Tiber and Gabriel being good for each other.
Things I'm on the fence about:
Gabriel's POV. I struggled with his chapters for almost half the book, mostly because of the writing style that didn't work so well for me. There were awkward conversations and scenes that felt random, and it took me a lot longer to connect to his character. It got better in the second half.
The mystery. It was good overall, nothing complex, I just wasn't as invested as I expected to be. I was more interested to see how things with Duke would play out. There were things about the investigation that I found questionable.
The atmosphere.
Tiber's POV. I liked Tiber as a character and reading about his animals was my favourite part of the book. His chapters were written really well. There were only a couple things that I didn't find believable -
The romance. Or better to say – hints of it. It's very slow burn and I expect it to develop over the course of the series. I know that some readers won't be happy about it, but I enjoyed what we got here. I can see Tiber and Gabriel being good for each other.
Things I'm on the fence about:
Gabriel's POV. I struggled with his chapters for almost half the book, mostly because of the writing style that didn't work so well for me. There were awkward conversations and scenes that felt random, and it took me a lot longer to connect to his character. It got better in the second half.
The mystery. It was good overall, nothing complex, I just wasn't as invested as I expected to be. I was more interested to see how things with Duke would play out. There were things about the investigation that I found questionable.
The atmosphere.
October 26, 2024
Peguei o livro e audiobook sem esperar muito, mas acabou sendo uma história muito boa. O audiobook é perfeito. Eu sou um Tiber na vida, gosto mais de animais do que de pessoas, confio mais em meus cachorros do que em certas pessoas. Compreendo o Tiber perfeitamente 🙏🏼 Se eu fosse milionária abriria vários abrigos de animais por todo país. Com certeza vou ler e ouvir o segundo livro dessa série, quero mais de Tiber e Gabriel.
June 25, 2024
~3.5~
This book is gloomy and depressing right down to the setting, with constant rain and sorrow, and an absolutely brutal murder. I had a hard time reading this one because I cannot stand to see dogs hurt, and the victim's Labrador, Duke, is seriously traumatized following his dad's death.
The story is narrated by Gabriel, the sheriff who returns to his small home town in Washington state following a stint in L.A., and Tiber, an animal behaviorist and recluse. Both men are jumpy and standoffish from the get-go. Both are keeping secrets.
Gabriel is stiff and arrogant, although he hides deep pain and insecurities, while Tiber is cold and withdrawn, still fearful of his abusive ex.
There's no real relationship development in this first series installment. The men kiss, but at this point what they have is a friendship, and honestly I found this really refreshing. Most recent books in this genre start with sex, and I'm getting kind of sick of it.
What I want to call out though is that the flow of the story is a bit uneven because it's very, VERY obvious (at least to me) which author wrote whose POV.
I adore Eli Easton. I've 5 starred so many of her books and am a huge fan. RJ Scott, on the other hand, is an author I avoid. I just don't like her writing style. I could tell Scott's style was tempered by Easton's, but it wasn't quite enough. The sections from Gabriel's POV were jumbled and sometimes confusing.
I want to continue with the series, but these books are no longer on KU so I don't know if I will.
This book is gloomy and depressing right down to the setting, with constant rain and sorrow, and an absolutely brutal murder. I had a hard time reading this one because I cannot stand to see dogs hurt, and the victim's Labrador, Duke, is seriously traumatized following his dad's death.
The story is narrated by Gabriel, the sheriff who returns to his small home town in Washington state following a stint in L.A., and Tiber, an animal behaviorist and recluse. Both men are jumpy and standoffish from the get-go. Both are keeping secrets.
Gabriel is stiff and arrogant, although he hides deep pain and insecurities, while Tiber is cold and withdrawn, still fearful of his abusive ex.
There's no real relationship development in this first series installment. The men kiss, but at this point what they have is a friendship, and honestly I found this really refreshing. Most recent books in this genre start with sex, and I'm getting kind of sick of it.
What I want to call out though is that the flow of the story is a bit uneven because it's very, VERY obvious (at least to me) which author wrote whose POV.
I adore Eli Easton. I've 5 starred so many of her books and am a huge fan. RJ Scott, on the other hand, is an author I avoid. I just don't like her writing style. I could tell Scott's style was tempered by Easton's, but it wasn't quite enough. The sections from Gabriel's POV were jumbled and sometimes confusing.
I want to continue with the series, but these books are no longer on KU so I don't know if I will.
August 4, 2023
DNF ~15%
I'll admit, I was a bit out of it last night when I began this one, but it was not working for me at all. There was something a bit forced and awkward about the writing, and the characters just didn't feel natural or like they were really acting organically. No chemistry at all in the brief scene I got between the two MCs, and I just had no interest in continuing.
I'll admit, I was a bit out of it last night when I began this one, but it was not working for me at all. There was something a bit forced and awkward about the writing, and the characters just didn't feel natural or like they were really acting organically. No chemistry at all in the brief scene I got between the two MCs, and I just had no interest in continuing.
July 18, 2023
I knew only good things could come out of this duo. They do great as individuals, so it is unsurprising they do great as a duo. I'm leaving this book thoroughly impressed by the mystery plot and thoroughly invested in Gabriel and Tiber's relationship.
I love leaving a book with an itch for more and the promise that more will come in the future. It really does feel special. If all the books were already out, I'd be halfway through the next book before writing a review for this one or even taking a pause to mark it as read. That's the current level of invested I'm in.
I love leaving a book with an itch for more and the promise that more will come in the future. It really does feel special. If all the books were already out, I'd be halfway through the next book before writing a review for this one or even taking a pause to mark it as read. That's the current level of invested I'm in.
February 10, 2025
When a dead body is found in the woods there's only one witness. The dead mans's dog. Small town sheriff Gabriel starts investigating with the help from Tiber, an animal behaviorist. This is more of a mystery than a romance but I really liked it.
October 8, 2023
I wish I had liked this more; it just wasn't my jam. It's very well-written, of course. I just could not bring myself to like the characters.
December 3, 2023
Possible Trigger: Violence involving an animal
This is listed as a romantic suspense novel. It does feature two gay characters, but not much actual romance occurs other that they're together. You will have no trouble figuring out that they love one another. Much more emphasis in the story is placed on the mystery & suspense part. If you enjoy stories with intricate plots and more than a little sexual tension but with less "sheet pressing", then this is absolutely your book. Gabriel has recently moved back to his hometown to become the sheriff and also to mend the rift between himself and his family. Tiber also recently moved to Prophet. Both men have situations and memories that they are trying to escape. Gabriel goes to Tiber for help when a murder victim’s dog, Duke, is found near his body. The dog is terrified and Tiber’s expertise with animals is just what Gabriel needs. I've read R.J. Scott's books before but had never read anything by Eli Easton, but once I started this book, I had to finish it. In addition to the murder mystery, the personal situations that each of the main characters found themselves in had me glued to their drama. Gabriel’s situation with his brother, and the reasons for it, was heartbreaking. The murder gets solved, so there is no cliffhanger or continuation on down the line... but I wondered what the authors were going to do with the personal relationship between Gabriel and Tiber as it was only just getting started here. Watching them “dance” around each other was one of the things that I really enjoyed about this book. It just goes to show that a book doesn’t have to be hot and heavy between the sheets to be a really great story. I can’t wait to see how their romance develops over the course of the series, and I certainly hope the authors let it happen. I gave the book 3.5 stars, not because I didn't like the story, because as I have said, I really, really did. If it hadn't been for the violence that the animal suffered, I would have given it a 5-star rating in a heartbeat.
This is listed as a romantic suspense novel. It does feature two gay characters, but not much actual romance occurs other that they're together. You will have no trouble figuring out that they love one another. Much more emphasis in the story is placed on the mystery & suspense part. If you enjoy stories with intricate plots and more than a little sexual tension but with less "sheet pressing", then this is absolutely your book. Gabriel has recently moved back to his hometown to become the sheriff and also to mend the rift between himself and his family. Tiber also recently moved to Prophet. Both men have situations and memories that they are trying to escape. Gabriel goes to Tiber for help when a murder victim’s dog, Duke, is found near his body. The dog is terrified and Tiber’s expertise with animals is just what Gabriel needs. I've read R.J. Scott's books before but had never read anything by Eli Easton, but once I started this book, I had to finish it. In addition to the murder mystery, the personal situations that each of the main characters found themselves in had me glued to their drama. Gabriel’s situation with his brother, and the reasons for it, was heartbreaking. The murder gets solved, so there is no cliffhanger or continuation on down the line... but I wondered what the authors were going to do with the personal relationship between Gabriel and Tiber as it was only just getting started here. Watching them “dance” around each other was one of the things that I really enjoyed about this book. It just goes to show that a book doesn’t have to be hot and heavy between the sheets to be a really great story. I can’t wait to see how their romance develops over the course of the series, and I certainly hope the authors let it happen. I gave the book 3.5 stars, not because I didn't like the story, because as I have said, I really, really did. If it hadn't been for the violence that the animal suffered, I would have given it a 5-star rating in a heartbeat.
April 24, 2024
This was gloomy, inconsistent, and I swear I could tell every word RJ Scott wrote because I do not consider them a strong author. I do consider Eli Easton to be a strong author so this was a mish mash.
Gabriel was a bit too pushy with Tiber still even after he asked him to back off.
The murder was mostly just sad. Seeing Duke and Tiber communicate was so sad and even though it was interesting, when you combine it with Tiber’s horrible past and Gabriel’s horrible past and Duke’s horrible experience, it was all just blaaahhh.
There is yet again a woman being abused in this book while the cops do fuck all about it and it’s never addressed.
However, even with all that, I did enjoy it enough to check out the next book to see how their relationship progresses. I like the idea of the books.
Edit: I can’t find the ebooks anywhere so I guess I’m not reading the rest lol
Gabriel was a bit too pushy with Tiber still even after he asked him to back off.
The murder was mostly just sad. Seeing Duke and Tiber communicate was so sad and even though it was interesting, when you combine it with Tiber’s horrible past and Gabriel’s horrible past and Duke’s horrible experience, it was all just blaaahhh.
There is yet again a woman being abused in this book while the cops do fuck all about it and it’s never addressed.
However, even with all that, I did enjoy it enough to check out the next book to see how their relationship progresses. I like the idea of the books.
Edit: I can’t find the ebooks anywhere so I guess I’m not reading the rest lol
August 2, 2023
This was really good! I was a bit unsure of starting this at first because even though I’ve read both authors before and have enjoyed many books by Eli Easton I usually don’t vibe with RJ Scott. But this was so, so good!
This was a completely different type of mystery with the animal angle. Tiber works with animals and can feel what they feel and read them. He has the sweetest menagerie of animals he lives with: dogs, cats a rabbit and a tortoise! Tiber is a sensitive person who has come out of an abusive relationship. He’s very guarded and lives basically alone aside from his animals.
Sheriff of the peculiar town of Phophet, Gabriel has returned home after being undercover in LA. He has troubling memories and is hoping to reconnect with his family he left behind when he left Phophet. The last thing he expects to be involved in is a murder investigation. The only witness is the victims dog, Duke. He turns to Tiber to assist him. There is a definite attraction between the men but Tiber doesn’t do relationships.
Duke is the sweetest character, missing his owner who he witnessed murdered. Tiber takes him in to foster him and little by little Duke comes out of his shell. I loved this angle, the dog helping to rule out subjects and helping to nab the murderer. It wasn’t unbelievable at all, it was done so well.
I cannot wait for the next book! The relationship is very slow going so don’t expect high heat. I have a feeling both of these men’s pasts will also be coming to haunt them in the future too!
This was a completely different type of mystery with the animal angle. Tiber works with animals and can feel what they feel and read them. He has the sweetest menagerie of animals he lives with: dogs, cats a rabbit and a tortoise! Tiber is a sensitive person who has come out of an abusive relationship. He’s very guarded and lives basically alone aside from his animals.
Sheriff of the peculiar town of Phophet, Gabriel has returned home after being undercover in LA. He has troubling memories and is hoping to reconnect with his family he left behind when he left Phophet. The last thing he expects to be involved in is a murder investigation. The only witness is the victims dog, Duke. He turns to Tiber to assist him. There is a definite attraction between the men but Tiber doesn’t do relationships.
Duke is the sweetest character, missing his owner who he witnessed murdered. Tiber takes him in to foster him and little by little Duke comes out of his shell. I loved this angle, the dog helping to rule out subjects and helping to nab the murderer. It wasn’t unbelievable at all, it was done so well.
I cannot wait for the next book! The relationship is very slow going so don’t expect high heat. I have a feeling both of these men’s pasts will also be coming to haunt them in the future too!
April 23, 2025
I don't know why I gloss over this series before - I mean, mystery, small town, ANIMALS! I should've been all over this one. But I am here now. A bit late but totally on-board!
I thought it was a good start - I was intrigued with Gabriel's past, with Tiber and his "empathic power", and of course I adored the animals and I wanted to see how this relationship flourished. Yes, there was a murder, and it was HEARTBREAKING when I learned how it happened, especially because it traumatized the dog, Duke, but at the same time, I was also here for the relationship *laugh*
Good start. I am off to book #2
I thought it was a good start - I was intrigued with Gabriel's past, with Tiber and his "empathic power", and of course I adored the animals and I wanted to see how this relationship flourished. Yes, there was a murder, and it was HEARTBREAKING when I learned how it happened, especially because it traumatized the dog, Duke, but at the same time, I was also here for the relationship *laugh*
Good start. I am off to book #2
March 6, 2024
I’ve been meaning to get to this series and when I saw somewhere that it was getting pulled from KU this month, well, I figured it was time.
I liked it quite a bit. Quirky small town at sort of the end of the earth. The weather, the mountains, the forest.
I struggled a bit with the animal aspect, not realizing this was a thing (I’m a horrible blurb reader) but once I accepted it I just rolled with it. It hurt though.
I liked that both Tiber and Gabriel need healing and found a safe place to do that. I liked even more what they are seeing in each other. This is definitely going to be a slow burn, but that's ok, it works, as this is also a mystery and suspense sort of story.
The mystery was heartbreaking but well done. Again, I forget how much I enjoy mysteries sometimes and would love more stories like this one.
My only issue really was the editing or proofing or something. There were sentences that I had to read over and over and they still didn’t make sense to me. There were also times when maybe italics should have been used, or something to differentiate.
But, overall it was really pretty great and I’m starting the next one right away. Rounding up.
I liked it quite a bit. Quirky small town at sort of the end of the earth. The weather, the mountains, the forest.
I struggled a bit with the animal aspect, not realizing this was a thing (I’m a horrible blurb reader) but once I accepted it I just rolled with it. It hurt though.
I liked that both Tiber and Gabriel need healing and found a safe place to do that. I liked even more what they are seeing in each other. This is definitely going to be a slow burn, but that's ok, it works, as this is also a mystery and suspense sort of story.
The mystery was heartbreaking but well done. Again, I forget how much I enjoy mysteries sometimes and would love more stories like this one.
My only issue really was the editing or proofing or something. There were sentences that I had to read over and over and they still didn’t make sense to me. There were also times when maybe italics should have been used, or something to differentiate.
But, overall it was really pretty great and I’m starting the next one right away. Rounding up.
August 9, 2023
Can't help it but I believe it could have been more. A small town in the middle of nowhere with quirky residents, barely kept resentments between the towns people and the Native Americans reservation, a murder on a sacred place, a traumatized dog and two broken men … sounds like an interesting setup that could be anything from a cozy mystery to a paranormal romance or everything in-between. Maybe this can-be-all was also the problem and the authors didn't like to take only one road or weren't able to to focus only on some aspects and leave others on the backseat for the time being, so in the end we get a bit of everything but not all the pieces fit together seamlessly. However there was the mystery vibe I was looking for and the animal whisperer part was a nice addition (though with some inconsistencies) so I probably have to read another part to finally decide if I really like to follow the Lake Prophet Mysteries
September 17, 2023
A small town with an even smaller policing department - I liked the working dynamic between MC Gabriel with his team of Devin and Hen. I can also see how the particularities of the murder can utilize the skill-set of a pet-whisperer MC Tiber with his household menagerie of adorable rescues. Combine all that with a nosy but protective group of townies ... and this makes for a great introduction of a new murder mystery series. 3.5 stars.
September 24, 2023
There was some steam, just a short hand job. Mystery was meh. I was interested in the animals and in the romance most. Wish I didn't have to wait for the next one.
July 26, 2024
RECENSIONE A CURA DI LADY MARMELADE
Sono rimasta molto sorpresa da questo romanzo, soprattutto rapita dalla storia, dai personaggi, dall’ambientazione, insomma da tutto!
È arrivato del tutto inaspettato, non conoscevo la serie ma le due autrici sì e sapevo che sarebbe stato una lettura positiva.
Ultimamente sono un po’ fuori dal mondo delle nuove uscite, presa dai problemi che tutti abbiamo nella vita: lavoro, famiglia, vita privata.
La lettura rimane un baluardo di serenità per me e incappare in questo romanzo è stato davvero un bel colpo.
Tra la marea di uscite che ci sono, pochi sono i libri che restano impressi e questo è uno di quelli.
Le due autrici si sono divise i punti di vista dei due personaggi, una tecnica collaudata per chi scrive a quattro mani, facendo arrivare al lettore i pensieri di entrambi, ma forse n questo primo romanzo appare di più il punto di vista di Gabriel, lo sceriffo di Prophet, piuttosto che quello del timido Tiber.
O forse semplicemente sono io che mi sono focalizzata più su lui che sul bel comportamentalista.
Continua sul nostro blog!
Sono rimasta molto sorpresa da questo romanzo, soprattutto rapita dalla storia, dai personaggi, dall’ambientazione, insomma da tutto!
È arrivato del tutto inaspettato, non conoscevo la serie ma le due autrici sì e sapevo che sarebbe stato una lettura positiva.
Ultimamente sono un po’ fuori dal mondo delle nuove uscite, presa dai problemi che tutti abbiamo nella vita: lavoro, famiglia, vita privata.
La lettura rimane un baluardo di serenità per me e incappare in questo romanzo è stato davvero un bel colpo.
Tra la marea di uscite che ci sono, pochi sono i libri che restano impressi e questo è uno di quelli.
Le due autrici si sono divise i punti di vista dei due personaggi, una tecnica collaudata per chi scrive a quattro mani, facendo arrivare al lettore i pensieri di entrambi, ma forse n questo primo romanzo appare di più il punto di vista di Gabriel, lo sceriffo di Prophet, piuttosto che quello del timido Tiber.
O forse semplicemente sono io che mi sono focalizzata più su lui che sul bel comportamentalista.
Continua sul nostro blog!
July 28, 2023
I have to say, Solstice is one of my favorite reads so far this year. Between the excellent writing, intriguing characters, and the emotional wallop this story packs, I was thoroughly entranced from start to finish. And now…I want MORE!
We spend a good chunk of the book without knowing Gabriel’s full backstory, but come to find out there is a reason for that. While it might have drawn a tiny bit of frustration out, I understood it later on. It’s the same with Tiber; we know he’s been hurt in the past, and while there are bits and pieces along the way, the full tale doesn’t emerge until much later on, and when it does it’s heart-wrenching.
The scenes involving animals were the ones that pulled most of my emotions out, and yes my eyes may have welled up a time or two. Much of that could be attributed to Tiber’s almost otherworldly connection he has with the animals. But I also felt an emotional connection to Mike, the victim, and I really felt his loss in a big way by the end as all the details come out.
There are a few suspects to consider, and while I was mostly sure of who the ultimate culprit was, I had enough doubts to still be hanging on the edge. I’m usually not a big mystery reader,—whodunnits are just not my thing—but this one really drew me in, first with the eerie cover and then with the writing, characters, and emotion.
It definitely was the huge hit my emotions took during this story that cemented my overall rating for this book, which was a full five stars. The romantic elements are downplayed here, mostly due to the characters’ pasts, especially Tiber’s, but there is a hint at something more to come so I’m really looking forward to see how things go between them in future stories. This really was a fantastic read, and I highly recommend to any mystery or M/M romance fan. For a first collaboration between these two authors, they really did an outstanding job!
We spend a good chunk of the book without knowing Gabriel’s full backstory, but come to find out there is a reason for that. While it might have drawn a tiny bit of frustration out, I understood it later on. It’s the same with Tiber; we know he’s been hurt in the past, and while there are bits and pieces along the way, the full tale doesn’t emerge until much later on, and when it does it’s heart-wrenching.
The scenes involving animals were the ones that pulled most of my emotions out, and yes my eyes may have welled up a time or two. Much of that could be attributed to Tiber’s almost otherworldly connection he has with the animals. But I also felt an emotional connection to Mike, the victim, and I really felt his loss in a big way by the end as all the details come out.
There are a few suspects to consider, and while I was mostly sure of who the ultimate culprit was, I had enough doubts to still be hanging on the edge. I’m usually not a big mystery reader,—whodunnits are just not my thing—but this one really drew me in, first with the eerie cover and then with the writing, characters, and emotion.
It definitely was the huge hit my emotions took during this story that cemented my overall rating for this book, which was a full five stars. The romantic elements are downplayed here, mostly due to the characters’ pasts, especially Tiber’s, but there is a hint at something more to come so I’m really looking forward to see how things go between them in future stories. This really was a fantastic read, and I highly recommend to any mystery or M/M romance fan. For a first collaboration between these two authors, they really did an outstanding job!
June 14, 2024
I liked this enough to be considering the next, but overall it didn't wow me despite the potential to be a favourite.
I'm not entirely clear how long the story spanned, but I don't think Sheriff Gabriel slept once.
Loved the setting and liked the characters but somehow the romance, mystery, backstory, scene setting, were all balanced out to the point of blandness. I read for the dog. Even the conclusion was just..
There was no urgency to solving the mystery. Nice guy but noone knew or cared about him. Sad.
The suspect list was small and the distractions were clearly just that. Only real detecting was done by the dog.
The romance slow burn over the series, I'm all for that. While I liked them there was no sizzle, one makeout, one conversation. Tiber's defensiveness read petulant at times for the most part it seemed they liked how each other looked more than anything deeper.
Backstories - what's wrong with beat cops? Does everyone have to have a big dark history?
Pet empathy, I don't know. I love dogs, more than many people. Tiber's talents/training ok, but the pack talk felt odd. I think maybe how often it was said. And no decent person leaves a dog in a car, for him to do it, big no.
I'm wary off author's cowriting. Here I felt they wrote drew out a plan then both carefully coloured within the lines. Everything was good but nothing grabbed attention. Reactions were all muted.
Though Tiber's ex's brother should have bad things happen to him.
At the end there's an account of what happened. I found it strange. No empathic reading, or confession, but an italic as it happened account.
I'm not entirely clear how long the story spanned, but I don't think Sheriff Gabriel slept once.
Loved the setting and liked the characters but somehow the romance, mystery, backstory, scene setting, were all balanced out to the point of blandness. I read for the dog. Even the conclusion was just..
There was no urgency to solving the mystery. Nice guy but noone knew or cared about him. Sad.
The suspect list was small and the distractions were clearly just that. Only real detecting was done by the dog.
The romance slow burn over the series, I'm all for that. While I liked them there was no sizzle, one makeout, one conversation. Tiber's defensiveness read petulant at times for the most part it seemed they liked how each other looked more than anything deeper.
Backstories - what's wrong with beat cops? Does everyone have to have a big dark history?
Pet empathy, I don't know. I love dogs, more than many people. Tiber's talents/training ok, but the pack talk felt odd. I think maybe how often it was said. And no decent person leaves a dog in a car, for him to do it, big no.
I'm wary off author's cowriting. Here I felt they wrote drew out a plan then both carefully coloured within the lines. Everything was good but nothing grabbed attention. Reactions were all muted.
Though Tiber's ex's brother should have bad things happen to him.
At the end there's an account of what happened. I found it strange. No empathic reading, or confession, but an italic as it happened account.
January 29, 2024
I love Gabriel and Tiber. But the entire plot was just meh.
It's the epitome of a slow burn in every sense of the phrase - the crime, the case, the romance, the plot twists, the tension.
It's fine. Just fine.
It's the epitome of a slow burn in every sense of the phrase - the crime, the case, the romance, the plot twists, the tension.
It's fine. Just fine.
November 19, 2023
4.25 Stars!
August 3, 2023
Did Eli Easton really write this? Or did I read a different book than all the people here?
The book seems like an illegitimate child between Nordic noir and Bollywood spectacle. Everything is dreary and bleak, everyone carries a "terribly dark, deep and unspoken past" and some characters randomly (and in public) throw hysterical tantrums like a three-year-old spoiled brat. For example, our second MC, Tiberius, is really not shy - he throws his coins around, jumps up from the table in the cafe with such vigor that he crashes into the furniture... and all this just because the sheriff invited him for coffee. The sheriff was truly shameless!
I could appreciate a slow-burn romance. This book is slow, allright, but it isn't romance at all. Tiberius hates and constantly humiliates the sheriff for no reason, while this sheriff is probably slower on the uptake because he hasn't noticed that once in the whole time.
Their very first scene had started when the sheriff politely and correctly asks for help, while Tiberius jabs and digs at him without a reason. Tiberius is patronizing and condescending throughout all the scene. Then the sheriff says to himself with suprising satisfaction that Tiberius has beautiful eyes and hair. The fact that he is mostly a hysterical and super high-strung idiot was somehow not noticed. And not only is Tiberius a histrionic ass***e, his know-it-all attitude really rubbed me the wrong way.
The other problem was a bit bigger - the whole book felt like it was giving the reader some mixed signals - the narrative (or the hero's inner voice) would state something in a very tedious and passive way at the beginning of the chapter, only to have the next scene give completely opposite vibes. As if the narrative was written by someone other than the scene, and those people didn't even talk about it or read it to each other later. Like some kind of game of Chinese whispers.
Speaking of which, the book could use really thorough proofreading. For example, in one scene one MC constantly keeps putting the dog on the ground without picking him up in between. Elsewhere, the sheriff claims he is 32 years old, only to be 34 a few pages later. Small things, but it don't improve the feeling of the book. And I'm not even getting started about the fact that the book had very unpleasant (and unnecessary) racist undertones.
It's not a romance, it's just a very poorly written mystery (I don't want to write spoilers, so I won't write any details here). The characters are ill-conceived, the environment descriptions nonexistent and everything is monotonous bleak.
The book seems like an illegitimate child between Nordic noir and Bollywood spectacle. Everything is dreary and bleak, everyone carries a "terribly dark, deep and unspoken past" and some characters randomly (and in public) throw hysterical tantrums like a three-year-old spoiled brat. For example, our second MC, Tiberius, is really not shy - he throws his coins around, jumps up from the table in the cafe with such vigor that he crashes into the furniture... and all this just because the sheriff invited him for coffee. The sheriff was truly shameless!
I could appreciate a slow-burn romance. This book is slow, allright, but it isn't romance at all. Tiberius hates and constantly humiliates the sheriff for no reason, while this sheriff is probably slower on the uptake because he hasn't noticed that once in the whole time.
Their very first scene had started when the sheriff politely and correctly asks for help, while Tiberius jabs and digs at him without a reason. Tiberius is patronizing and condescending throughout all the scene. Then the sheriff says to himself with suprising satisfaction that Tiberius has beautiful eyes and hair. The fact that he is mostly a hysterical and super high-strung idiot was somehow not noticed. And not only is Tiberius a histrionic ass***e, his know-it-all attitude really rubbed me the wrong way.
The other problem was a bit bigger - the whole book felt like it was giving the reader some mixed signals - the narrative (or the hero's inner voice) would state something in a very tedious and passive way at the beginning of the chapter, only to have the next scene give completely opposite vibes. As if the narrative was written by someone other than the scene, and those people didn't even talk about it or read it to each other later. Like some kind of game of Chinese whispers.
Speaking of which, the book could use really thorough proofreading. For example, in one scene one MC constantly keeps putting the dog on the ground without picking him up in between. Elsewhere, the sheriff claims he is 32 years old, only to be 34 a few pages later. Small things, but it don't improve the feeling of the book. And I'm not even getting started about the fact that the book had very unpleasant (and unnecessary) racist undertones.
It's not a romance, it's just a very poorly written mystery (I don't want to write spoilers, so I won't write any details here). The characters are ill-conceived, the environment descriptions nonexistent and everything is monotonous bleak.
August 9, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
Solstice is the first book in the new Lake Prophet Mystery series by Eli Easton and R.J. Scott. I enjoy both of these authors’ writing individually, so I was really excited and intrigued when I saw that they had a new series together. This story really takes advantage of both of the authors’ strengths and I loved this book so much, I could barely put it down. The mystery is interesting and well developed and takes great advantage of the setting. The authors really bring the beautiful area to life, and they paint such wonderful pictures of the Olympic Mountains and the national park and the lovely scenery. Prophet is also a quirky small town with some interesting characters and there really is a great sense of place to the book.
The mystery captured my attention right from the start, as there are a lot of intriguing elements and I really enjoyed seeing the investigation all come together.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
Solstice is the first book in the new Lake Prophet Mystery series by Eli Easton and R.J. Scott. I enjoy both of these authors’ writing individually, so I was really excited and intrigued when I saw that they had a new series together. This story really takes advantage of both of the authors’ strengths and I loved this book so much, I could barely put it down. The mystery is interesting and well developed and takes great advantage of the setting. The authors really bring the beautiful area to life, and they paint such wonderful pictures of the Olympic Mountains and the national park and the lovely scenery. Prophet is also a quirky small town with some interesting characters and there really is a great sense of place to the book.
The mystery captured my attention right from the start, as there are a lot of intriguing elements and I really enjoyed seeing the investigation all come together.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
July 25, 2023
No questions Duke stole the show. This amazing pooch is not only an integral part to the plot but he tugged and pulled my emotions like nobody’s business. Add in Tiber’s pack and this one is definitely one to recommend to all your animal-loving friends. (Trigger note: there is one upsetting scene about wild animals).
Tiber and Gabriel have mutual attraction and affection but this isn’t a romance first and foremost. At the end of the day, this is a mystery and a darn good one to boot.
Scott and Easton weave a grand story with lots of suspects (& times of no suspects), some red herrings and a lot of intrigue.
Tiber is a protagonist that’s easy to sympathize with and feel affection for. The sensitive, hurt, animal-loving man is a character you just want to pluck off the page and hug. At first, it seems Gabriel is going to be less fleshed-out; we know he has some scary stuff in his past, that he’s trying to make amends with his family and that he’s a dedicated officer of the law. Bit by bit, we get to know the candy-loving, sleep-deprived man with a complex back story.
I cannot wait for book two in the series. Kudos to the authors for this five star read.
Tiber and Gabriel have mutual attraction and affection but this isn’t a romance first and foremost. At the end of the day, this is a mystery and a darn good one to boot.
Scott and Easton weave a grand story with lots of suspects (& times of no suspects), some red herrings and a lot of intrigue.
Tiber is a protagonist that’s easy to sympathize with and feel affection for. The sensitive, hurt, animal-loving man is a character you just want to pluck off the page and hug. At first, it seems Gabriel is going to be less fleshed-out; we know he has some scary stuff in his past, that he’s trying to make amends with his family and that he’s a dedicated officer of the law. Bit by bit, we get to know the candy-loving, sleep-deprived man with a complex back story.
I cannot wait for book two in the series. Kudos to the authors for this five star read.
September 29, 2023
At 28% I hit yet another stupid act by the supposedly experienced Sherriff, and now I am very done. I was already having trouble with the overexplaining and wordiness and repetitions, but I cannot abide an experienced character being uncharacteristically stupid. My suspension of disbelief has been murdered. Please send someone smarter than this guy.
September 23, 2024
This was a good story with a vivid setting, likable MCs, and an interesting mystery.
The story is told in alternating points of view. There's Gabriel, the sheriff of Prophet who has recently returned to his small hometown and the mess that has become of his family. His guilt weighs him down and the stress from his previous undercover work is still present and draining him. Tiber, an animal behaviorist is also dealing with serious issues and has settled in Prophet to escape a bad relationship. He may or may not be able to talk to animals, but he feels more of a kinship with them than with most people. Gabriel calls on Tiber to assist with a dog that likely witnessed his person's suspicious death. The two are attracted but have qualms about relationships, using their work on the case to get to know each other. This is a VERY slow burn. They have one encounter, but they end on an HFN agreeing just to be friends, something that felt fitting for their characters.
I did have some issues with the story. I could easily tell which author had written which character and the chapters flowed differently. There were some proofing issues and Gabriel's character used some British terms in the story that jumped right out at me.
I wish I had realized that the other two books were leaving KU when I downloaded this one, but I plan to continue with the series.
The story is told in alternating points of view. There's Gabriel, the sheriff of Prophet who has recently returned to his small hometown and the mess that has become of his family. His guilt weighs him down and the stress from his previous undercover work is still present and draining him. Tiber, an animal behaviorist is also dealing with serious issues and has settled in Prophet to escape a bad relationship. He may or may not be able to talk to animals, but he feels more of a kinship with them than with most people. Gabriel calls on Tiber to assist with a dog that likely witnessed his person's suspicious death. The two are attracted but have qualms about relationships, using their work on the case to get to know each other. This is a VERY slow burn. They have one encounter, but they end on an HFN agreeing just to be friends, something that felt fitting for their characters.
I did have some issues with the story. I could easily tell which author had written which character and the chapters flowed differently. There were some proofing issues and Gabriel's character used some British terms in the story that jumped right out at me.
I wish I had realized that the other two books were leaving KU when I downloaded this one, but I plan to continue with the series.
December 1, 2023
While it wasn't exactly a page turner for me, I appreciated the wildlife premise and the remote-town-in-the-mountains vibe of the story. The main characters are both people with some past trauma and baggage and I like the slow cooking attraction between them, rather than insta-steam the way we sometimes get with MM stories. They both have trust issues and the way their relationship develops bit by bit, with a steady help from all the fury friends, is really sweet and I'm looking forward to more.
My impression was that the criminal plot wasn't all that well constructed but it didn't take away much from my enjoying of the book.
I'm moving on to the next one right away and feeling hopeful about the series!
My impression was that the criminal plot wasn't all that well constructed but it didn't take away much from my enjoying of the book.
I'm moving on to the next one right away and feeling hopeful about the series!
October 22, 2023
I was in the mood for a mystery and this delivered. I really liked Gabriel and Tiber, found them both flawed, vulnerable, and good-hearted. Their romance/friendship was incredibly slow burn, but it felt natural and right. The mystery was intriguing, and while there were not really any twists or surprises, it was still fun to watch justice find its way. Duke was also sweet and a MVP, including all of Tiber's pack. Recommend to anyone looking for a m/m mystery that focuses mostly on the crime and a bit on the personal. Great writing and can't wait to read book two.
March 15, 2024
3+1+1 Stars (humor me)
(3 STARS)
The story was quite good, although I didn't care much for the romance between the 2 protagonists. The pace was extremely fun and who doesn't love a small town murder mystery? All the characters were loveable and you ended up vouching for each one of them. The reveal was nothing too special, slightly tame if you ask me. The editor was abysmal with his/her job: there were so many errors and lack of continuity that I kept cringing.
(1 STAR)
One extra star for all the chapters that have Tiber spending time with his animals or any instance when he shows affection to his fauna buddies.
(1 STAR)
This one is just for my boy, Duke
(3 STARS)
The story was quite good, although I didn't care much for the romance between the 2 protagonists. The pace was extremely fun and who doesn't love a small town murder mystery? All the characters were loveable and you ended up vouching for each one of them. The reveal was nothing too special, slightly tame if you ask me. The editor was abysmal with his/her job: there were so many errors and lack of continuity that I kept cringing.
(1 STAR)
One extra star for all the chapters that have Tiber spending time with his animals or any instance when he shows affection to his fauna buddies.
(1 STAR)
This one is just for my boy, Duke
October 13, 2024
This series turned out to be super fun. Very much enjoying, continuing to Book 2.
July 29, 2023
Unusual Mystery Romance.
When I heard that two of my favourite authors were getting together to write a story l got really excited, and justifiably so. This murder mystery is a real page turner, and I was hooked from start to finish. Gabriel and Tibor are compelling characters, but both are very troubled. There is an instant spark between them, which does develop very slowly and surely throughout the story, however, it's very low heat. I personally didn't mind, considering the situation of both men, it seemed a very natural move. They are both at a stage in their lives, when they're obviously not ready for a romance , it would've been unrealistic if the authors had rushed the guys into a sexual relationship.
The mystery was a treat to read. You're completely taken into another world, where they really capture the atmosphere of the case that Gabriel and Tibor are investigating. Each character is well drawn and believable. As well as Gabriel and Tibor, I adored the enthusiasm of Devin, the rookie,he was an excellent addition to the team. I loved Tibor and all of his animals, he brought a pleasant new twist to the detective story. Can't wait for the next book.
I received an ARC of this story, which in no way influenced my opinion.
When I heard that two of my favourite authors were getting together to write a story l got really excited, and justifiably so. This murder mystery is a real page turner, and I was hooked from start to finish. Gabriel and Tibor are compelling characters, but both are very troubled. There is an instant spark between them, which does develop very slowly and surely throughout the story, however, it's very low heat. I personally didn't mind, considering the situation of both men, it seemed a very natural move. They are both at a stage in their lives, when they're obviously not ready for a romance , it would've been unrealistic if the authors had rushed the guys into a sexual relationship.
The mystery was a treat to read. You're completely taken into another world, where they really capture the atmosphere of the case that Gabriel and Tibor are investigating. Each character is well drawn and believable. As well as Gabriel and Tibor, I adored the enthusiasm of Devin, the rookie,he was an excellent addition to the team. I loved Tibor and all of his animals, he brought a pleasant new twist to the detective story. Can't wait for the next book.
I received an ARC of this story, which in no way influenced my opinion.
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