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Lake Prophet #2
Equinox: Lake Prophet Mystery, Book 2
The tranquility of Prophet is shattered when a horseback rider is killed on a popular trail and whispers spread of dangerous beasts roaming the woods.
Three months after the murder of Mike Bressett, the sleepy town of Prophet faces another tragedy-the death of Billy Odette, a well-liked Makah man who ran trail rides for the tourists. When Billy is discovered to have been the victim of a vicious animal attack, dragged right off a popular trail, angry locals are quick to blame a wolf pack that's recently moved into the area. Sheriff Gabriel Thompson is the only authority standing between those who want to protect the wolves and those who want them hunted down-all while trying to keep people safe and get to the bottom of what happened.
Tiber Russo, local animal whisperer, is firmly on the side of the wolves. But when a figure from his past shows up in town, his own spiraling panic casts a shadow over his blossoming relationship with Gabriel and his ability to help the wolves.
To get to the truth, Gabriel and Tiber unravel a tangled web of deception, greed, curses, magic, and long-held grudges. But when Tiber's life is threatened, they both just might lose everything.
Three months after the murder of Mike Bressett, the sleepy town of Prophet faces another tragedy-the death of Billy Odette, a well-liked Makah man who ran trail rides for the tourists. When Billy is discovered to have been the victim of a vicious animal attack, dragged right off a popular trail, angry locals are quick to blame a wolf pack that's recently moved into the area. Sheriff Gabriel Thompson is the only authority standing between those who want to protect the wolves and those who want them hunted down-all while trying to keep people safe and get to the bottom of what happened.
Tiber Russo, local animal whisperer, is firmly on the side of the wolves. But when a figure from his past shows up in town, his own spiraling panic casts a shadow over his blossoming relationship with Gabriel and his ability to help the wolves.
To get to the truth, Gabriel and Tiber unravel a tangled web of deception, greed, curses, magic, and long-held grudges. But when Tiber's life is threatened, they both just might lose everything.
Audible Audio
First published September 29, 2023
97 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
About the author
Eli Easton
83 books2,805 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/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
October 4, 2023
I enjoyed this one a lot more than book 1. I found the mystery more interesting, probably because of the wolves. I do have to say that it was
I liked how the relationship between Tiber and Gabriel developed. They are really sweet, and so are all their lovely pets. There was some
A few more things that stood out for me here: Gabriel's relationship with his brother Sam and his family, one character that Tiber talked to in relation to the case – I loved their conversation, and the fact that the story takes place in October. Also, the cover is beautiful.
I liked how the relationship between Tiber and Gabriel developed. They are really sweet, and so are all their lovely pets. There was some
A few more things that stood out for me here: Gabriel's relationship with his brother Sam and his family, one character that Tiber talked to in relation to the case – I loved their conversation, and the fact that the story takes place in October. Also, the cover is beautiful.
July 18, 2024
Since reading the first Lake Prophet book a few weeks back, I've sampled five MM romantic suspense series:
- two I finished and loved (Seven of Spades, The Murder/Grave Between Us)
- three I didn't like enough to continue after the first book (Memento Mori, Paul Monroe Mysteries, Hazard & Somers)
Valor & Doyle is the series that started my obsession (thanks, Nicky James!).
Anyway, I circled back around to Lake Prophet and decided to give the series another go (I had a digital credit floating around, so why not). And, honestly, I'm happy I did because the second book is definitely better than the first.
Gabriel's POV, written by RJ Scott, is still not as polished as Tiber's chapters, but this is not nearly as noticeable as it was in book 1.
The stars of this book are the animals: horses, dogs, cats, a rabbit, and a tortoise. I love Tiber's (and eventually Gabriel's) pack so much. Gabriel calls them their "kids," which is what I call my furry companions. I'm a huge animal lover. Reading about dogs especially is like a balm to my soul.
Granted, there were evil people here doing evil things that made Tiber (and me) incredibly angry, but there's hope at the end.
Equinox is a quiet mystery. There's not a lot of police procedural scenes, because Prophet is a small town, and it's just Gabriel and his rookie Devin. The investigation is mostly intuition and some sleuthing.
The romance between Gabriel and Tiber is a standout. They are so respectful and caring with one another. Serious couple goals!
Tiber's sociopathic ex shows up; meeting him helped me understand Tiber's reclusive nature and overabundance of caution. Fortunately, Tiber's new boyfriend is the sheriff and not putting up with anyone's shit.
On to book 3.
- two I finished and loved (Seven of Spades, The Murder/Grave Between Us)
- three I didn't like enough to continue after the first book (Memento Mori, Paul Monroe Mysteries, Hazard & Somers)
Valor & Doyle is the series that started my obsession (thanks, Nicky James!).
Anyway, I circled back around to Lake Prophet and decided to give the series another go (I had a digital credit floating around, so why not). And, honestly, I'm happy I did because the second book is definitely better than the first.
Gabriel's POV, written by RJ Scott, is still not as polished as Tiber's chapters, but this is not nearly as noticeable as it was in book 1.
The stars of this book are the animals: horses, dogs, cats, a rabbit, and a tortoise. I love Tiber's (and eventually Gabriel's) pack so much. Gabriel calls them their "kids," which is what I call my furry companions. I'm a huge animal lover. Reading about dogs especially is like a balm to my soul.
Granted, there were evil people here doing evil things that made Tiber (and me) incredibly angry, but there's hope at the end.
Equinox is a quiet mystery. There's not a lot of police procedural scenes, because Prophet is a small town, and it's just Gabriel and his rookie Devin. The investigation is mostly intuition and some sleuthing.
The romance between Gabriel and Tiber is a standout. They are so respectful and caring with one another. Serious couple goals!
Tiber's sociopathic ex shows up; meeting him helped me understand Tiber's reclusive nature and overabundance of caution. Fortunately, Tiber's new boyfriend is the sheriff and not putting up with anyone's shit.
On to book 3.
January 30, 2024
It was more of a piece than the previous one. This time the focus of the authors was on Tiber's and Gabriel's growing relationship with a mystery investigation as the story tether in the background. I really liked their dynamic even more so because the authors never claimed that there is an easy solution for their emotional injuries and that a single victory like in Tiber's case won't change the devastation his past relationship caused but it can be a step in the right direction. .
It's just that this focus on the other hand was at the expense of the mystery and also a bit of the animal-whispering. It was quite clear who's involved. The only question was the motive and although that lead to an interesting scene or two, it was a bit far fetched and I wasn't really satisfied. Nevertheless I'm glad I gave this series another chance and there's no question that I'm going to read the next part as well.
It's just that this focus on the other hand was at the expense of the mystery and also a bit of the animal-whispering. It was quite clear who's involved. The only question was the motive and although that lead to an interesting scene or two, it was a bit far fetched and I wasn't really satisfied. Nevertheless I'm glad I gave this series another chance and there's no question that I'm going to read the next part as well.
September 18, 2023
I want to have better words than asdfghjk!!!!!! While a keyboard smash and a bunch of exclamation points do convey my feelings, it's not very articulate as to why.
But it was kind of everything. It has emotions, and the mystery, and drama, and emotional growth, and cute dogs. I can usually point to a thing I'd have liked more of, or something that peeved me or that I didn't like, but not here. It's just so well constructed I can't think of anything I'd change.
I'm left, again, to wait for more of Tiber and Gabriel. I could see myself maybe even rereading this books in the future, and I'm not a rereader.
But it was kind of everything. It has emotions, and the mystery, and drama, and emotional growth, and cute dogs. I can usually point to a thing I'd have liked more of, or something that peeved me or that I didn't like, but not here. It's just so well constructed I can't think of anything I'd change.
I'm left, again, to wait for more of Tiber and Gabriel. I could see myself maybe even rereading this books in the future, and I'm not a rereader.
June 16, 2024
Hmm I think this was stronger than the previous, I felt more in the story, yet it still has issues beyond really poor editing.
Gabriel's dark past - so obviously going to turn up next book. The foreshadowing is tiresome.
Tiber's villainous ex that took on cartoon extremes.
Romance - their attraction seems based on looks and trauma, there's little more to them. The way they were suddenly together felt off as did the sex scene
The mystery - again obvious from the beginning. It seemed a touch more thought out though the 'hint' thrown out was bludgeoning any reader who'd not caught on over the head with the how.
The who; I don't get how nobody in this small close knit town knew anything.
Tiber, slender toned sexy armful Tiber. He's playing a standard plucky female lead. Mary Sueing with the best and worst of them. It had me eyerolling. Out of character, just plain stupid.
There was definitely some Disney moments, I was humming 'kill the beast' for awhile today!
'The pack' are now also 'the kids' I don't love that.
But Duke with no training is now both a magical psychic tracking dog and a miracle therapy dog.
It's flawed. I could pick it apart. The ending is a touch sad and unbelievable I liked it well enough. Reading the next book just to end the trilogy.
Gabriel's dark past - so obviously going to turn up next book. The foreshadowing is tiresome.
Tiber's villainous ex that took on cartoon extremes.
Romance - their attraction seems based on looks and trauma, there's little more to them. The way they were suddenly together felt off as did the sex scene
The mystery - again obvious from the beginning. It seemed a touch more thought out though the 'hint' thrown out was bludgeoning any reader who'd not caught on over the head with the how.
The who; I don't get how nobody in this small close knit town knew anything.
Tiber, slender toned sexy armful Tiber. He's playing a standard plucky female lead. Mary Sueing with the best and worst of them. It had me eyerolling. Out of character, just plain stupid.
There was definitely some Disney moments, I was humming 'kill the beast' for awhile today!
'The pack' are now also 'the kids' I don't love that.
But Duke with no training is now both a magical psychic tracking dog and a miracle therapy dog.
It's flawed. I could pick it apart. The ending is a touch sad and unbelievable I liked it well enough. Reading the next book just to end the trilogy.
September 30, 2023
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Equinox is the second story in Eli Easton and R.J. Scott’s excellent Lake Prophet Mysteries series. I went absolutely wild for the first book, Solstice, and was thrilled to learn the authors had more stories planned. The authors once again do a great job blending the romance and the mystery side of things here and we get some nice progress for Gabriel and Tiber. The men have sort of been in a friendship holding pattern, as Tiber is wary about getting into another relationship. But there is this lovely sense of calm that settles between Gabriel and Tiber when they are together and a feeling that they can each relax and just breath when they are around each other. This story focuses more on Tiber’s demons, as he is forced to confront things with his ex, and we see a nice sense of him coming to recognize his own growth and strength in the aftermath.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Equinox is the second story in Eli Easton and R.J. Scott’s excellent Lake Prophet Mysteries series. I went absolutely wild for the first book, Solstice, and was thrilled to learn the authors had more stories planned. The authors once again do a great job blending the romance and the mystery side of things here and we get some nice progress for Gabriel and Tiber. The men have sort of been in a friendship holding pattern, as Tiber is wary about getting into another relationship. But there is this lovely sense of calm that settles between Gabriel and Tiber when they are together and a feeling that they can each relax and just breath when they are around each other. This story focuses more on Tiber’s demons, as he is forced to confront things with his ex, and we see a nice sense of him coming to recognize his own growth and strength in the aftermath.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
March 7, 2024
Weeeelllll...I didn't like this one as much as I did the first unfortunately.
Let's see. There are still some pretty in your face editing errors. I don't understand that. I mean one here and there but it's like no one read the book before it was released into the wild, same with the first. It's not getting better. Normally I would leave this for the end of my review but, well, I don't see an improvement.
I'm losing some faith in Gabriel's ability to be the Sheriff. This book really didn't shed a good light on his abilities. He's lost in his head a lot, not paying any attention to what is going on and misses a lot of clues and questions he should be asking. Lots of talk about his rookie deputy though when he's the one acting like a rookie.
The over the top ex turning villain. Ugh.
The mystery was sort of ok. I was worried about the wolves but also really wondering what could have left a paw print at the scene. Tiber's involvement in this one was very "And I would have gotten away with it too, if it weren't for you meddling kids!". I don't dislike his involvement but Gabriel should.
It was better than ok but I didn't love it. I'm not sure I'm that happy with where it looks like the third book is going either.
Off to the finale!
Let's see. There are still some pretty in your face editing errors. I don't understand that. I mean one here and there but it's like no one read the book before it was released into the wild, same with the first. It's not getting better. Normally I would leave this for the end of my review but, well, I don't see an improvement.
I'm losing some faith in Gabriel's ability to be the Sheriff. This book really didn't shed a good light on his abilities. He's lost in his head a lot, not paying any attention to what is going on and misses a lot of clues and questions he should be asking. Lots of talk about his rookie deputy though when he's the one acting like a rookie.
The over the top ex turning villain. Ugh.
The mystery was sort of ok. I was worried about the wolves but also really wondering what could have left a paw print at the scene. Tiber's involvement in this one was very "And I would have gotten away with it too, if it weren't for you meddling kids!". I don't dislike his involvement but Gabriel should.
It was better than ok but I didn't love it. I'm not sure I'm that happy with where it looks like the third book is going either.
Off to the finale!
August 12, 2024
It’s been a while since I read the first book, but I do recall some of it, including the animal whisperer that is Tiber.
Gabriel as the sheriff in the small town I also recall.
I love how the author describes animals. It’s my fave part of these books. The mystery wasn’t much of one. Pretty much from the first moment the bad guy got on page you knew he had something to do with it. Just not entirely why. So the mystery was really about unraveling the why.
I wish there was more punishment on page for Tibet’s ex. He could have murdered someone! Never mind all the animals! What an awful human being.
Gabriel as the sheriff in the small town I also recall.
I love how the author describes animals. It’s my fave part of these books. The mystery wasn’t much of one. Pretty much from the first moment the bad guy got on page you knew he had something to do with it. Just not entirely why. So the mystery was really about unraveling the why.
I wish there was more punishment on page for Tibet’s ex. He could have murdered someone! Never mind all the animals! What an awful human being.
March 23, 2025
Voto: 4.5
RECENSIONE A CURA DI LADY MARMELADE
Bentornati a Prophet, “ridente”, si fa per dire, cittadina dello stato di Washington, dispersa tra le foreste, dove ultimamente sembra che le persone cadano vittima di troppi incidenti, forse perché:
Avevamo lasciato il fascinoso sceriffo Gabriel alle prese con il chiedere perdono alla sua famiglia per non essersi fatto vivo per anni, visto che il padre non avrebbe mai accettato che fosse gay, e cercare di portare la sua amicia con Tiber al livello successivo.
Continua sul nostro blog!
RECENSIONE A CURA DI LADY MARMELADE
Bentornati a Prophet, “ridente”, si fa per dire, cittadina dello stato di Washington, dispersa tra le foreste, dove ultimamente sembra che le persone cadano vittima di troppi incidenti, forse perché:
“Le persone si trasferivano qui per non essere trovate… Era perfetta per chi sperava di nascondere i propri peccati nella parte più profonda e oscura delle foreste delle Olympics.”
Avevamo lasciato il fascinoso sceriffo Gabriel alle prese con il chiedere perdono alla sua famiglia per non essersi fatto vivo per anni, visto che il padre non avrebbe mai accettato che fosse gay, e cercare di portare la sua amicia con Tiber al livello successivo.
Continua sul nostro blog!
January 29, 2024
4 stars. Sweet, paranormal, slow burn story set in a small town with lots of pets. The pets are like actual characters in the book and add a warm coziness to this police/sheriff mystery. Actually, they’re more like family members, lol, and animal lovers will adore this book.
This is book 2 in a 3 book series. Starts 3 months after the last book. This is a true slow burn, done really well. A decision was made to be friends and we can see how one of the MCs struggles with that limitation, seeing him touch starved and desperate for simple affection makes my chest ache.
Murder mystery, sheriff, empath, Native American, m/m, paranormal, slow burn, series, HFN.
This is book 2 in a 3 book series. Starts 3 months after the last book. This is a true slow burn, done really well. A decision was made to be friends and we can see how one of the MCs struggles with that limitation, seeing him touch starved and desperate for simple affection makes my chest ache.
Murder mystery, sheriff, empath, Native American, m/m, paranormal, slow burn, series, HFN.
January 5, 2024
This paranormal procedural series is not quite as 'spooky' as those written by George Seaton but the plots have so far been interesting enough to keep my attention; the dramatic tension escalated suddenly in the final chapters of this book. I did guess the perpetrator (one of them at lease) quite early on though.
dnf
October 16, 2023I loved the first book in this series but this felt like it was written by different authors. I put the book down and was going to come back to it. I forgot about it so that’s saying something. Oh well!
September 20, 2023
Let me start by saying, I really enjoyed the first book. Book 2 is even better! Gabriel and Tiber are both a little broken and they grow more in this story. I like how their story is unfolding.
Tiber appears to be a trouble magnet and Gabriel is going to end up having a heart attach if Tiber doesn't stop putting himself in danger.
This story has heart, humor and action that can keep you on the edge of your seat. As a bonus, you get to solve a mystery.
Eli and RJ are a great pairing. So far, this series is a must read!
Tiber appears to be a trouble magnet and Gabriel is going to end up having a heart attach if Tiber doesn't stop putting himself in danger.
This story has heart, humor and action that can keep you on the edge of your seat. As a bonus, you get to solve a mystery.
Eli and RJ are a great pairing. So far, this series is a must read!
February 9, 2024
3.5 stars
An interesting mystery - although the baddie is obvious from the start - that centres around proving or disproving that a murder was committed by a wolf. Some interesting animal facts combined with the developing romance between Gabriel and Tiber make for an engaging read.
An interesting mystery - although the baddie is obvious from the start - that centres around proving or disproving that a murder was committed by a wolf. Some interesting animal facts combined with the developing romance between Gabriel and Tiber make for an engaging read.
April 8, 2025
Nayeli - per RFS
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Si conferma l’ottima abilità delle autrici nella costruzione della trama gialla. Questa volta i protagonisti si fanno carico di indagare sulla morte di una persona a cavallo che si dice sia stata aggredita dai lupi, nonostante questo non rientri nella loro indole.
Tiber e Gabriel indagano insieme a dei collaboratori e si schierano contro l’intera comunità di Prophet per difendere questi animali, seguendo piste che portano a nuovi indiziati e analizzando gli atteggiamenti degli animali coinvolti.
Dire che speravo di vederlo sarebbe stato un eufemismo. Vestito con i suoi soliti jeans e il cappotto giallo, con i capelli legati, io non avevo mai visto niente di più bello da… beh, dall’ultima volta che l’avevo visto. Il mio cuore si gonfiò un po’, nonostante fossimo solo amici, perché ero un uomo paziente e speravo che un giorno avrebbe voluto baciarmi di nuovo senza tirarsi indietro.
Nota piacevole di questo secondo volume della serie è l’attesa svolta nella relazione tra i protagonisti, che finalmente fanno un passo avanti e cedono, un bacio rubato dopo l’altro, a una relazione.
Tiber ha un faccia a faccia con il suo ex che gli fa capire di essere diventato più forte e non più manipolabile, di essere capace di riconoscere il suo modo viscido di approcciarsi e le bugie che gli racconta allo scopo di ammansirlo e addolcirlo. Una volta affrontato il passato, Tiber si sente più forte e libero di lasciarsi andare con Gabriel.
Quello degli effetti psicologici della violenza mentale, anziché fisica, è un tema molto ben trattato; i segni che può lasciare sulla fiducia di una persona, sulla sicurezza in se stessi e sul dubitare dei propri stessi giudizi sono tutti elementi che si sommano alla dipendenza emotiva, economica, relazionale, alla vergogna e al senso di impotenza che un manipolatore riesce a trasmettere alla vittima, danneggiandolo anche a lungo termine.
Non avevo mai vinto quella discussione prima, e non l’avrei vinta in quel momento. Non volevo provarci. Non volevo essere lì. Non volevo esistere, quasi. Nel senso, su questo pianeta. Volevo strisciare in un buco e morire. E quella era una sensazione familiare. Jeff mi faceva sentire in quel modo. Intrappolato. Come una mosca nel miele, sopraffatto dalla sua personalità dominante, dalle sue scuse costanti e dalla manipolazione psicologica. Mi faceva sentire come se non sarei mai riuscito a essere libero. Mi faceva venir voglia di sparire dalla faccia della terra.
Anche Gabriel ha fatto qualche progresso nelle sue problematiche personali e sta riuscendo a riallacciare i rapporti con il fratello, dopo avergli spiegato a grandi linee di essere stato sotto copertura e le conseguenti difficoltà che gli hanno impedito di fare ritorno a casa. Le cose terribili che hanno eroso la sua umanità sono tuttavia ancora ben nascoste in lui.
Ancora nessuno conosce i dettagli che lo hanno traumatizzato (si suppone che arriverà un terzo libro), ma per il momento Tiber ha assistito agli incubi notturni e ha saputo dare la sua accettazione silenziosa senza fare pressioni.
Tracciai la forma di un cerchio lì e lo baciai sopra la maglietta. «Lo sai che averti nella mia vita rende ogni mio giorno più luminoso?» «Davvero?» «Ogni secondo che sono lontano da te mi sento abbandonato, stressato, come se gli incubi fossero in agguato dietro le quinte, ma tu li fai sparire solo essendo te stesso.» «Non l’ho fatto intenzionalmente,» mormorò. «Non sapevo di farlo.» «Sei tu. Ogni giorno, dal momento in cui ho bussato alla tua porta, mi hai fatto sentire sicuro e forte.» «Davvero?» Sembrava così stupito, come se nessuno gli avesse mai detto che tipo di uomo fosse. «Sì, tesoro, davvero.»
Per quanto riguarda la trama romantica, troviamo poca passione descrittiva e una connessione emotiva che si stabilizza crescendo sempre più. Emozioni che partono in modo incerto e via via si consolidano in un legame fatto di sostegno, amicizia, timore per l’altro, senso di protezione, desiderio di esserci per l’altro e di rimanere a tempo indeterminato.
Sono affascinata da come si è riusciti a rendere la personalità di un sussurratore di cani, ovvero comportamentista animale. Le capacità di Tiber sono credibili in quanto l’istinto e la sua sensibilità innata agiscono attraverso l’osservazione degli animali e la deduzione logica sui loro comportamenti, permettendogli in qualche modo di mettersi in connessione con loro e comunicare in un modo pratico.
.
Si conferma l’ottima abilità delle autrici nella costruzione della trama gialla. Questa volta i protagonisti si fanno carico di indagare sulla morte di una persona a cavallo che si dice sia stata aggredita dai lupi, nonostante questo non rientri nella loro indole.
Tiber e Gabriel indagano insieme a dei collaboratori e si schierano contro l’intera comunità di Prophet per difendere questi animali, seguendo piste che portano a nuovi indiziati e analizzando gli atteggiamenti degli animali coinvolti.
Dire che speravo di vederlo sarebbe stato un eufemismo. Vestito con i suoi soliti jeans e il cappotto giallo, con i capelli legati, io non avevo mai visto niente di più bello da… beh, dall’ultima volta che l’avevo visto. Il mio cuore si gonfiò un po’, nonostante fossimo solo amici, perché ero un uomo paziente e speravo che un giorno avrebbe voluto baciarmi di nuovo senza tirarsi indietro.
Nota piacevole di questo secondo volume della serie è l’attesa svolta nella relazione tra i protagonisti, che finalmente fanno un passo avanti e cedono, un bacio rubato dopo l’altro, a una relazione.
Tiber ha un faccia a faccia con il suo ex che gli fa capire di essere diventato più forte e non più manipolabile, di essere capace di riconoscere il suo modo viscido di approcciarsi e le bugie che gli racconta allo scopo di ammansirlo e addolcirlo. Una volta affrontato il passato, Tiber si sente più forte e libero di lasciarsi andare con Gabriel.
Quello degli effetti psicologici della violenza mentale, anziché fisica, è un tema molto ben trattato; i segni che può lasciare sulla fiducia di una persona, sulla sicurezza in se stessi e sul dubitare dei propri stessi giudizi sono tutti elementi che si sommano alla dipendenza emotiva, economica, relazionale, alla vergogna e al senso di impotenza che un manipolatore riesce a trasmettere alla vittima, danneggiandolo anche a lungo termine.
Non avevo mai vinto quella discussione prima, e non l’avrei vinta in quel momento. Non volevo provarci. Non volevo essere lì. Non volevo esistere, quasi. Nel senso, su questo pianeta. Volevo strisciare in un buco e morire. E quella era una sensazione familiare. Jeff mi faceva sentire in quel modo. Intrappolato. Come una mosca nel miele, sopraffatto dalla sua personalità dominante, dalle sue scuse costanti e dalla manipolazione psicologica. Mi faceva sentire come se non sarei mai riuscito a essere libero. Mi faceva venir voglia di sparire dalla faccia della terra.
Anche Gabriel ha fatto qualche progresso nelle sue problematiche personali e sta riuscendo a riallacciare i rapporti con il fratello, dopo avergli spiegato a grandi linee di essere stato sotto copertura e le conseguenti difficoltà che gli hanno impedito di fare ritorno a casa. Le cose terribili che hanno eroso la sua umanità sono tuttavia ancora ben nascoste in lui.
Ancora nessuno conosce i dettagli che lo hanno traumatizzato (si suppone che arriverà un terzo libro), ma per il momento Tiber ha assistito agli incubi notturni e ha saputo dare la sua accettazione silenziosa senza fare pressioni.
Tracciai la forma di un cerchio lì e lo baciai sopra la maglietta. «Lo sai che averti nella mia vita rende ogni mio giorno più luminoso?» «Davvero?» «Ogni secondo che sono lontano da te mi sento abbandonato, stressato, come se gli incubi fossero in agguato dietro le quinte, ma tu li fai sparire solo essendo te stesso.» «Non l’ho fatto intenzionalmente,» mormorò. «Non sapevo di farlo.» «Sei tu. Ogni giorno, dal momento in cui ho bussato alla tua porta, mi hai fatto sentire sicuro e forte.» «Davvero?» Sembrava così stupito, come se nessuno gli avesse mai detto che tipo di uomo fosse. «Sì, tesoro, davvero.»
Per quanto riguarda la trama romantica, troviamo poca passione descrittiva e una connessione emotiva che si stabilizza crescendo sempre più. Emozioni che partono in modo incerto e via via si consolidano in un legame fatto di sostegno, amicizia, timore per l’altro, senso di protezione, desiderio di esserci per l’altro e di rimanere a tempo indeterminato.
Sono affascinata da come si è riusciti a rendere la personalità di un sussurratore di cani, ovvero comportamentista animale. Le capacità di Tiber sono credibili in quanto l’istinto e la sua sensibilità innata agiscono attraverso l’osservazione degli animali e la deduzione logica sui loro comportamenti, permettendogli in qualche modo di mettersi in connessione con loro e comunicare in un modo pratico.
February 4, 2025
Una bellissima conferma, su tutti i fronti. Il duo Easton - Scott funziona a meraviglia.
Anche questo secondo volume della serie "Lake Prophet Mistery" ha una struttura coesa, organica e molto accattivante.
La trama investigativa è stata sorprendente perché, seppur ha lasciato intravedere una direzione, ne ha poi dato una interpretazione inaspettata e convincente.
La cittadina di Prophet si delinea sempre meglio, i suoi misteri e le sue peculiarità iniziano ad emergere, fornendo solidità alla trama.
L'anima Romance, in questo capitolo, decolla con naturalezza (e lo ammetto, quando finalmente i due protagonisti hanno fatto cadere ogni remora, mi sono lasciata andare a espressioni colorite, e ne sa qualcosa Antonella 😂).
Il passato dei due inizia a profilassi, per Tiber in modo chiaro e doloroso, per Gabriel è ancora poco più che accennato, ma le premesse sono parecchio taglienti.
L'animo dei due protagonisti si delinea con meraviglioso dettaglio. Le loro interazioni sono splendidamente descritte e i moti dei loro cuori mi hanno emozionata profondamente. I temi che si celano dietro alle ferite dei loro animi sono affrontati con coraggio e chiarezza, senza infiocchettature ma anche con garbo e partecipazione.
Ancora una volta gli animali sono al centro della scena. Ancora una volta commuovono e affascinano, ancora una volta, in confronto con gli uomini, vincono a mani basse.
La narrazione, ricca di descrizioni dei luoghi e delle loro atmosfere, è in technicolor. Le immagini che mi sono apparse davanti agli occhi della mente erano brillanti e vivide.
Il ritmo è ben calibrato, mai eccessivamente teso, ma sempre adeguatamente veloce.
Ora aspettiamo il terzo.
Hugs&kisses
Anche questo secondo volume della serie "Lake Prophet Mistery" ha una struttura coesa, organica e molto accattivante.
La trama investigativa è stata sorprendente perché, seppur ha lasciato intravedere una direzione, ne ha poi dato una interpretazione inaspettata e convincente.
La cittadina di Prophet si delinea sempre meglio, i suoi misteri e le sue peculiarità iniziano ad emergere, fornendo solidità alla trama.
L'anima Romance, in questo capitolo, decolla con naturalezza (e lo ammetto, quando finalmente i due protagonisti hanno fatto cadere ogni remora, mi sono lasciata andare a espressioni colorite, e ne sa qualcosa Antonella 😂).
Il passato dei due inizia a profilassi, per Tiber in modo chiaro e doloroso, per Gabriel è ancora poco più che accennato, ma le premesse sono parecchio taglienti.
L'animo dei due protagonisti si delinea con meraviglioso dettaglio. Le loro interazioni sono splendidamente descritte e i moti dei loro cuori mi hanno emozionata profondamente. I temi che si celano dietro alle ferite dei loro animi sono affrontati con coraggio e chiarezza, senza infiocchettature ma anche con garbo e partecipazione.
Ancora una volta gli animali sono al centro della scena. Ancora una volta commuovono e affascinano, ancora una volta, in confronto con gli uomini, vincono a mani basse.
La narrazione, ricca di descrizioni dei luoghi e delle loro atmosfere, è in technicolor. Le immagini che mi sono apparse davanti agli occhi della mente erano brillanti e vivide.
Il ritmo è ben calibrato, mai eccessivamente teso, ma sempre adeguatamente veloce.
Ora aspettiamo il terzo.
Hugs&kisses
March 16, 2024
This one was a huge fall from the next one: it felt more like a romantic, hallmark book, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but not what you expect from a series that is advertised as a mystery/thriller. The story is a rip off of a very famous Sherlock Holmes story and extremely predictable. Since I'm reading the trilogy in a go, I feel connected to the characters and the characters' growth/warmth towards each other is the only reason for the 3 stars.
January 21, 2024
i think i liked this one more than the first book!
i liked the wolves and seeing tiber & gabriel try for a relationship, they're just so sweet.
i also loved seeing gabriel (& tiber) interact with his niece & nephew.
i totally get sam's point, but i do think he's a bit unfair towards gabriel.
i can't wait to read book three!
was i the only one who noticed that gypsy became gracie & then gypsy again for a while & then back to gracie?🤓
i liked the wolves and seeing tiber & gabriel try for a relationship, they're just so sweet.
i also loved seeing gabriel (& tiber) interact with his niece & nephew.
i totally get sam's point, but i do think he's a bit unfair towards gabriel.
i can't wait to read book three!
was i the only one who noticed that gypsy became gracie & then gypsy again for a while & then back to gracie?🤓
January 6, 2024
Enjoyed it as much as the first.
Loved the developing relationship and learning more about the community.
Number three is soon!
Loved the developing relationship and learning more about the community.
Number three is soon!
October 2, 2023
Equinox is the second book in the ‘Lake Prophet Mysteries’ series. Again, the main characters are Sheriff Gabriel Thompson, and Tiber Russo, an animal communicator. This is told in first person from both Tiber and Gabriel’s povs.
This book has another gorgeous cover that fits the season the story is set in. I enjoyed this book more than the first one. There was a good balance between the murder mystery and the romance, whereas the first book was more focused on the mystery. The blurb does a good job of explaining the plot so I won’t go over it again.
I don’t want to give much away so I’ll keep this review short. The only part that bothered me with the writing was as I started reading. It was from Tiber’s pov and I don’t know why, but it confused me. Like his voice was different from how I remembered in the first book, or it was written like we were in the middle of a dream Tiber was having. The writing and voice felt off. It wasn’t until I read Gabriel’s pov that the story started to settle into place.
I liked the developing relationship between Gabriel and Tiber. The authors did a great job of showing Gabriel longing for a closer connection to Tiber, how much he already knew that he loved Tiber, but he was going to respect Tiber’s wishes and stay friends. It took Tiber awhile to realize how different Gabriel was from his ex, and that was well written in a certain scene.
The mystery was good, although again it was easy to tell who the bad guy was.
I enjoyed Equinox much more than I did the first book, and I’d recommend this one to others, although it can’t be read as a stand alone because of the developing relationship between Gabriel and Tiber. I give this book, 5 Stars.
I received an ARC from the authors and am giving my honest and unbiased opinion.
This book has another gorgeous cover that fits the season the story is set in. I enjoyed this book more than the first one. There was a good balance between the murder mystery and the romance, whereas the first book was more focused on the mystery. The blurb does a good job of explaining the plot so I won’t go over it again.
I don’t want to give much away so I’ll keep this review short. The only part that bothered me with the writing was as I started reading. It was from Tiber’s pov and I don’t know why, but it confused me. Like his voice was different from how I remembered in the first book, or it was written like we were in the middle of a dream Tiber was having. The writing and voice felt off. It wasn’t until I read Gabriel’s pov that the story started to settle into place.
I liked the developing relationship between Gabriel and Tiber. The authors did a great job of showing Gabriel longing for a closer connection to Tiber, how much he already knew that he loved Tiber, but he was going to respect Tiber’s wishes and stay friends. It took Tiber awhile to realize how different Gabriel was from his ex, and that was well written in a certain scene.
The mystery was good, although again it was easy to tell who the bad guy was.
I enjoyed Equinox much more than I did the first book, and I’d recommend this one to others, although it can’t be read as a stand alone because of the developing relationship between Gabriel and Tiber. I give this book, 5 Stars.
I received an ARC from the authors and am giving my honest and unbiased opinion.
April 26, 2025
While the mystery feels more time-pressing what with the threats against the wild wolves and all -- and yes, for me that is more important because URGH humans who want to destroy the beautiful animals!!! -- I was also here for Gabriel and Tiber's relationship.
I am glad that Tiber seemed to somehow finally able to close the door to his past relationship that made him unable to move forward with Gabriel (). I guess book #3 will deal more with Gabriel's past, since his nightmares are still strongly present in this book.
By the way - I noticed the name change for one of Tiber's dog. Here is Gracie - in the previous book I believe it was Gypsy? Did none of the authors realize this?
I am glad that Tiber seemed to somehow finally able to close the door to his past relationship that made him unable to move forward with Gabriel (). I guess book #3 will deal more with Gabriel's past, since his nightmares are still strongly present in this book.
By the way - I noticed the name change for one of Tiber's dog. Here is Gracie - in the previous book I believe it was Gypsy? Did none of the authors realize this?
January 25, 2025
Anche il 2° volume della serie è stato un meraviglioso thriller-giallo poliziesco.
La storia di amicizia tra lo sceriffo Gabriel Thompson e Tiber Russo continua, tra qualche abbraccio e baci.
Tiber si porta ancora addosso una relazione abusiva e Gabriel gli effetti di una vita di poliziotto sotto copertura di Los Angeles.
Ci sarà un nuovo caso di omicidio, che coinvolgerà un branco di lupi, che vivono nel parco.
Condurranno insieme le indagini, trovando intrighi, vecchi rancori, tradimenti...
Tiber si troverà davanti il suo ex...
Personaggi senza scrupoli, assassini, una razza di cane-lupo...
Tiber si troverà in pericolo e Gabriel correrà in suo aiuto, non lascerà che succeda qualcosa uomo che ama ...
Ma anche il passato di Gabriel lo troverà?
💖💖💖💖💖
La storia di amicizia tra lo sceriffo Gabriel Thompson e Tiber Russo continua, tra qualche abbraccio e baci.
Tiber si porta ancora addosso una relazione abusiva e Gabriel gli effetti di una vita di poliziotto sotto copertura di Los Angeles.
Ci sarà un nuovo caso di omicidio, che coinvolgerà un branco di lupi, che vivono nel parco.
Condurranno insieme le indagini, trovando intrighi, vecchi rancori, tradimenti...
Tiber si troverà davanti il suo ex...
Personaggi senza scrupoli, assassini, una razza di cane-lupo...
Tiber si troverà in pericolo e Gabriel correrà in suo aiuto, non lascerà che succeda qualcosa uomo che ama ...
Ma anche il passato di Gabriel lo troverà?
💖💖💖💖💖
October 25, 2023
3.5 stars. Similar to Book #1, these stories are nice mysteries, this one about a mysterious killing via a wolf (I don't think I need to read about what a wolf can do to one's throat anymore), and the last one possibly by Bigfoot. The stories are set in rainy Washington State and the mood seems always somber. The MC's ended Book #1 as friends, nothing more, but picked up the action a little in this book. However, it still seemed very tentative.
So okay stories, but just that. The romance, the emotion, the setting could all use a big wolf running behind them and scaring them to death to bring them to life.
So okay stories, but just that. The romance, the emotion, the setting could all use a big wolf running behind them and scaring them to death to bring them to life.
September 25, 2023
Tiber and Gabriel are a couple you just can’t help but root for. Add in Tiber’s pack, and you have an irresistible family. Gabriel’s niblings (& his renewed relationship with his brother) add another layer of depth to the tale.
I loved the first book in the series but I absolutely adored Equinox. With layered sub-plots, this is an immersive reading experience. I couldn’t put the book down!
Readers get to learn more about both men’s pasts and see the relationship organically develop. But the relationship is definitely secondary to the mystery at hand - a whodunnit that is expertly crafted.
Easton and Scott have collaborated beautifully and the outcome is a fast-paced, rich read. 5-stars for this one while I anxiously await book 3 in the series.
I loved the first book in the series but I absolutely adored Equinox. With layered sub-plots, this is an immersive reading experience. I couldn’t put the book down!
Readers get to learn more about both men’s pasts and see the relationship organically develop. But the relationship is definitely secondary to the mystery at hand - a whodunnit that is expertly crafted.
Easton and Scott have collaborated beautifully and the outcome is a fast-paced, rich read. 5-stars for this one while I anxiously await book 3 in the series.
October 1, 2023
Great follow up to Solstice
Eli Easton and RJ Scott knock it out of the ball park again! I've been anticipating this story so much, I loved the previous book, Solstice and fell in love with both Gabriel and Tiber. They are two broken souls dealing with past demons, hindering them from finding peace. The day they meet, despite their problems, they are immediately (and in Tiber's case, reluctantly), drawn to one another. I've loved everything about Tiber and Gabriel's journey so far. It's been neither smooth nor candy coated. They've had two murders to deal with, a crazy ex and frightening nightmares. The mysteries the authors have come up with are well written, and entertaining, not predictable at all. However, despite the intrigue, the most precious thing about the books is the developing relationship between Tiber and Gabriel. The way they began to speak their truths to each other, without judgment and began to try and live in the present together, was so moving and so amazing. They're two broken souls who are mending one another. I'm highly recommending this series, and cannot wait for the next book.
Eli Easton and RJ Scott knock it out of the ball park again! I've been anticipating this story so much, I loved the previous book, Solstice and fell in love with both Gabriel and Tiber. They are two broken souls dealing with past demons, hindering them from finding peace. The day they meet, despite their problems, they are immediately (and in Tiber's case, reluctantly), drawn to one another. I've loved everything about Tiber and Gabriel's journey so far. It's been neither smooth nor candy coated. They've had two murders to deal with, a crazy ex and frightening nightmares. The mysteries the authors have come up with are well written, and entertaining, not predictable at all. However, despite the intrigue, the most precious thing about the books is the developing relationship between Tiber and Gabriel. The way they began to speak their truths to each other, without judgment and began to try and live in the present together, was so moving and so amazing. They're two broken souls who are mending one another. I'm highly recommending this series, and cannot wait for the next book.
January 22, 2024
3.5⭐️
This was an easy read, with good pacing. I enjoyed the story overall, and I liked the character development for Tiber and Gabriel compared to the first book.
For a mystery book, however, I will say that I did anticipate some of where it was going to go. It still had unexpected elements, but I found it seemed predictable too.
This was an easy read, with good pacing. I enjoyed the story overall, and I liked the character development for Tiber and Gabriel compared to the first book.
For a mystery book, however, I will say that I did anticipate some of where it was going to go. It still had unexpected elements, but I found it seemed predictable too.
April 23, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Great mystery, excellent character development, and an incredibly satisfying conclusion. Highly recommend this book and series to mystery fans.
May 23, 2025
Another great installment, although it could have used a red herring or two.
October 1, 2023
Tierflüsterer mit schrecklichem Ex und gepeinigter Sheriff mit dunklen Geheimnissen - das ist das ungewöhnliche Ermittler-Duo in der Gay Romance-Reihe "The Lake Prophet Mysteries" von Eli Easton und RJ Scott.
Klar, dass bei einem Tierflüsterer mit indianischem Einschlag und Abschluss in tierischem Verhalten wie Tiber auch in diesem Fall wieder eine tierische Komponente eine große Rolle spielen muss. Dieses Mal soll ein neues Wolfsrudel in der Gegend einen Reiter getötet haben. Schnell kocht die Stimmung hoch und während Sheriff Gabriel herausfinden muss, was dem armen Reiter zugestoßen ist, setzt Tiber alles dran, um die Unschuld des Wolfsrudels zu beweisen.
Ich mag die tierische und leicht übernatürlich angehauchte Variante dieser Reihe und eigentlich bin ich auch ein Fan von hurt-comfort-Themen in Liebesromanen. Aber ich weiß nicht, woran es liegt, der letzte Funke will bei mir nicht wirklich überspringen.
Aber zumindest die Entwicklung der Liebesgeschichte macht das Ganze in meinen Augen realistischer. Hier gibt es keine Liebe auf den ersten Blick, Scheinprobleme, die sich ganz leicht durch ein Gespräch hätten lösen lassen, oder Liebesgeständnisse, die aus dem Nichts kommen. Die Beziehung zwischen Gabriel und Tiber entwickelt sich langsam und das ist gut so. Beide müssen an sich und ihren Problemen arbeiten, um sich auf eine Beziehung einlassen zu können. Und sie ist nicht eitel Sonnenschein, nur weil sie das so wollen.
Die Krimihandlung fand ich gut und die Auflösung kam trotz einiger Verdachtsmomente auch für mich überraschend. Insgesamt eine gute Fortsetzung zu "Solstice und eine gelungene Gay Romance für alle Krimi-Fans.
Klar, dass bei einem Tierflüsterer mit indianischem Einschlag und Abschluss in tierischem Verhalten wie Tiber auch in diesem Fall wieder eine tierische Komponente eine große Rolle spielen muss. Dieses Mal soll ein neues Wolfsrudel in der Gegend einen Reiter getötet haben. Schnell kocht die Stimmung hoch und während Sheriff Gabriel herausfinden muss, was dem armen Reiter zugestoßen ist, setzt Tiber alles dran, um die Unschuld des Wolfsrudels zu beweisen.
Ich mag die tierische und leicht übernatürlich angehauchte Variante dieser Reihe und eigentlich bin ich auch ein Fan von hurt-comfort-Themen in Liebesromanen. Aber ich weiß nicht, woran es liegt, der letzte Funke will bei mir nicht wirklich überspringen.
Aber zumindest die Entwicklung der Liebesgeschichte macht das Ganze in meinen Augen realistischer. Hier gibt es keine Liebe auf den ersten Blick, Scheinprobleme, die sich ganz leicht durch ein Gespräch hätten lösen lassen, oder Liebesgeständnisse, die aus dem Nichts kommen. Die Beziehung zwischen Gabriel und Tiber entwickelt sich langsam und das ist gut so. Beide müssen an sich und ihren Problemen arbeiten, um sich auf eine Beziehung einlassen zu können. Und sie ist nicht eitel Sonnenschein, nur weil sie das so wollen.
Die Krimihandlung fand ich gut und die Auflösung kam trotz einiger Verdachtsmomente auch für mich überraschend. Insgesamt eine gute Fortsetzung zu "Solstice und eine gelungene Gay Romance für alle Krimi-Fans.
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