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Sequel to Walkabout
Book Three
A novella from the Dragon-ghosts of Viscaya Universe

New South Wales, Australia, 1876. As captured outlaws, Jim Kelly and Mark Turner face the gallows. Help comes from an unexpected quarter, but their hasty escape goes wrong and now Jim's life hangs by a thread. Mark is driven by desperation to form an alliance with an infamous bushranger who may hold clues to his mysterious past. But as Jim and Mark’s relationship intensifies, it is also tested. Their secret is discovered, tempers fray, and jealousy flares.

82 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 22, 2014

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About the author

Jack Byrne

35 books33 followers
Okay, some stray books keeping finding their way back to my author profile...
I did NOT write 'Cowgirl Romances' or 'High School Conditioning' just to be clear. I'm sure they're lovely books - just not mine!


Questions arising from the publication of 'Ace':

(1) It's a novel. It's fiction. No, the characters aren't behaving perfectly. Authors create imperfect characters to incite conflict and thus drama in their stories. If you find that concept eluding you, the more savage of my critics are right when they say you won't enjoy this book. If, on the other hand you enjoy complex characters living in real-world circumstances, have a read and let me know what you think!

(2) On a more serious note: Asexuality (being 'Ace') is a spectrum, and can intersect with other orientations. It does not exclude feeling romantic or even some sexual attraction for members of the same gender or the opposite gender from yourself (or both). Sexuality in a lot of people is incredibly complex. For more information about this, here is a marvellous resource where your questions will be welcome:
http://www.asexuality.org/en/
When you get there, tell them I sent you :)


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5 stars
10 (32%)
4 stars
17 (54%)
3 stars
4 (12%)
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0 (0%)
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Profile Image for Trio.
3,665 reviews215 followers
November 2, 2017
oh this series just gets better and better! I love the author's writing style, he has such an easy, intimate way with his prose - it's really a pleasure to read.

Mark's character is getting interesting! (Like he wasn't before, but now there are much larger hints about what's truly going on.)

Truly beautifully written, and I'm looking forward to the fourth (and final?? I hope not!) book in this series.
Profile Image for ♣ Irish Smurfétté ♣.
718 reviews163 followers
October 26, 2014
Reviewage on Prism Book Alliance

This story opens in 1876 New South Wales and tension is already running high. Also jumping off from page one are the lovely juxtapositions Jack Byrne manages to make a part of his stories: fear and major uncertainty mixed with quiet tenderness. Sucks me right in every time.

Mark and Jim's personalities are becoming more and better defined, refined really, in this third installment of the Bushrangers series. I found myself smiling, I just couldn't help it. They both have their moments of consternation with the other and it feels natural as written.

We also have a mystery on our hands (though, it turns out there is more than one), along with one character being reintroduced and a brand new one who seems to hold some secrets, or maybe the secret. Yeah, there's one of those, too.

The focus of this story is the relationship that continues to build between Mark and Jim. Time has allowed their feelings to not only grow but wind their way around each of them. They're finding it difficult to be separated at any point and miss each other when they are. It's new territory for them both. As are the worry, emotional ups and downs, and the sense that doors they didn't even know to exist have now been thrown wide open. Yep, I'm going there: not even the huge expanse of the Aussie Outback can contain these two. ;)

I had to!

Ahem, now then, moving on.

Back to the supporting characters I alluded to above: logically, I understand each of their roles and the possible future uses for them, but it added a disjointed feeling to the story for me during some of those scenes. It's like I was missing certain pieces of the puzzle, concrete pieces that do indeed exist but weren't in the box. (I know, I know, what's with the lame metaphors?) Anyway, you all know that I like surprises in my books, I like to not be spoon-fed the obvious, but that wasn't really the case here. What I do know is that my trust that I've put with this author has been proven an enjoyable investment, even with a choppy flow here and there.

There's something about this story, the writing, the characters... I can't quite put my finger on it yet. It's sensual and rugged and hot and tense and tender. So despite any imperfections, I simply find myself feeling relaxed and satisfied when reading all of the stories so far in this series. The closest I can come to explaining it is this: the settings and characters are so richly layered and intriguing to me, it feels like they're being shortchanged in a novella as opposed to a lengthier work. The writing talent is undeniable in my book and deserves to have all of the space and time in which to properly and deeply wallow around in a story rife with potential like this.

Maybe if Byrne will write more, I'll be able to figure it out? Ya see what I did there, don't ya. ;)
Profile Image for Marge.
995 reviews3 followers
October 22, 2014
Hmmmm, well this was a bit different. In this book we switch to Mark's POV rather than Jim, who was the narrator of the two previous books. In the review for Walkabout I noted that Mark was acting strange and that Jim didn't know quite what to make of him. Here we begin to realize that all is not as it seems with Mark and that his story will take us down that alternate universe path that the books' subtitle has hinted at.

But those strange tales are mostly left to the novel the author has said he is currently writing. This book is about the escape from jail and the hanging scheduled for the following day. Mark realizes just how important Jim is to him and how far Jim will go to protect Mark's life as well.

There is no cliffhanger at the end of this story, rather a sense of purpose Mark has I enjoyed the story, and the two guys do get closer as Jim learns more about Mark's background. Mostly it seems like a short respite while we wait for the coming book, and it whetted my appetite for more.
Profile Image for Christy.
4,555 reviews126 followers
April 12, 2019
'Dingo Run' is the third novella in this series by Jack Byrne set in the Australia of the 1870s. Jim and Mark have already had a number of adventures together, but Jack left me on a bit of a cliff and I'm eager to see what's coming around the bend for my guys. I strongly recommend that you read these books in order, starting with 'The Billabong' and then 'Walkabout', as it's important to get the background on Jim and Mark.

The end of the previous story had Jim and Mark being arrested and sentenced to be hung. What? Yes, that's how I felt, too. Mark got into a fight at the bar after hearing one man boast about having tortured and killed Min Yong, Mark's friend, and Mark punched him so hard in the face that he killed him. He and Jim were arrested and sentenced to the gallows. The strange thing, and one Jim remarked upon, is that Mark stove this man's face in, and he didn't hurt his hand. Just another oddity laid at Mark's feet, from a lifetime of being taunted as a freak and a demon.

In a crazy burst of fate, or luck, Jim and Mark get broken out of jail by the young man, Dan, they rescued and took to Min Yong's camp in the previous book. That is the good part. The bad part is Jim getting shot as they make their escape. Luckily, Jim makes it through, and then they met up with Dan's older brother. Now, here's where the author threw some stuff at me that I was definitely not expecting, but wow, it's an awesome plot twist. I can't say anymore, though, because it's a huge spoiler. I can say it has to do with Mark and his ancestry.

Jack Byrne has left me desperate, again, for the continuation of this series. I am absolutely crazy over Jim and Mark, and I can't wait to see what happens. So, I know, Jack, that you've got a regular job in the outback, but could you hurry up with the writing?

NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Profile Image for Serena Yates.
Author 104 books770 followers
May 19, 2016
After the cliff-hanger at the end of the previous book, with Jim and Mark in jail, awaiting their execution the next morning, I was very relieved to see them rescued in this sequel. And by none other than the young man they found and helped save in book two. Of course, as soon as they break out of jail they are on the run again, this time with Dan coming along until they can take him home. And when they run into an infamous bushranger with plans to rob a train, I could practically smell what’s going to happen in the next book. Of course, the author might surprise me, but my bet is on some major illegal activity in Jim and Mark’s future.

The other thing that came to the fore in this installment is the beginning of an explanation for some weird stuff that’s been going on. Ever since the first book there have been hints about Mark’s strength, then some odd sensations and dreams were added, and in this volume, there is some real evidence that Mark may not be as human as he looks. Yet another reason why I can’t wait to read book four – which is a full novel! And that makes me incredibly happy!

If you like stories with a hint of the paranormal, if you want to find out how cattleman Jim and doctor Mark are getting on in the bush as they continue to run from the law, and if you’re looking for a read that is full of mystery, suspense, adventure, and some very promising hints for the next book in the series, then you will probably like this novella.


NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.
Profile Image for Heather C.
1,480 reviews223 followers
November 10, 2014
Now that’s more like it! After the crazy cliffhanger ending of Walkabout, Dingo Run picks up right where things left off. I hate to spoiler too much but someone from Mark and Jim’s past shows up to get them out of the “situation” just in time…and then its back to life on the run for the lovers.

A new thing I really liked about this installment is that it’s entirely told from Mark’s POV this time. You’ll quickly see why that is…or why I suspect it’s told from his POV instead of Jim’s like the previous two stories. Anyway, I totally see Mark in a different way now! This one even had a bit of humor and it was hilarious seeing a jealous Jim!

This story also delves more into the mysteries of Mark’s preternatural strength. I TOTALLY did expect it to go in THAT direction…but I’m intrigued.

Dingo Run easily redeems this series after my slight disappointment in Walkabout. There was story and romance, and of course there was sex…but it wasn’t ALL sex!

The beauty of the Australian setting is back…and so is the beauty of Mark and Jim’s love for each other. I do hope the wait isn’t long before I can find out where these two head next on their journey.

Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
Profile Image for JR.
875 reviews32 followers
November 21, 2014
Mark and Jim are in jail awaiting the hang man's noose. Neither can figure out how to get out of this predicament, so they essential agree that dying together is what their future holds. As they contemplate their fate, a voice comes out of the darkness with a plan to rescue them. What follows is more high adventure and brushes with death. A daily occurrence in this rugged, untamed land.

Once again the author has woven an exciting, tense, sexy story around two of my now very favorite characters. Their differences compliment each other and provide spice to their on going struggles with life and society. I love the way Mr. Byrne is teasing the reader with his slow reveals. Many twists to keep this reader on the edge of his seat. Bravo! Can not wait for more.
Profile Image for Blue Bayou . .
503 reviews18 followers
October 25, 2014
Oh Jack Byrne you wonderfully fantastic writer! I'm almost over having to wait for Dingo Run but now I wait for a different reason. I'm not so worked up this time with thoughts of flying to Australia to tan your hide. I think I can wait a small bit o'time til the next installment. I do love these two MC's and their story. Thank you thank you kind sir!
Profile Image for Gay Media Review.
171 reviews31 followers
November 10, 2014
Blog Post: http://gaymediareviews.weebly.com/blo...

Dingo Run-Book 3 in the Bushrangers Series by Jack Byrne!

Set in New South Wales, Australia in 1876. Jim and Mark are captured outlaws who face the gallons. Jims life is now in danger due to an ill-conceived escape plan. Now Mark in total desperation to save Jim's life, he agrees to join forces with a bushranger. This bushranger may hold secrets of Mark's life and this has even surprised Mark. Now Jim and Mark's relationship is tested, will they survive everything? Can Mark save Jim's life and at what cost?

I truly love the stories set in this era, the outback and of course Australia. Mark and Jim find themselves facing the death sentence for murder and this now has them on the run. The action was so fascinating to read and the authors details of this era was so spot on that I found myself transported back to 1876. I loved the connection these characters had and lets remember it was in a time where being with another man was not heard of and this even brings them closer together. The author took us on a journey in the outback of intrigue, drama, suspense, hot gay sex and unconditional love. His writing is simply brilliant and he has created such beautiful and interesting characters and love the sub-characters also. I recommend this novel Dingo Run by Jack Byrne for anyone who loves to read mm-historical romance, hot cowboys, suspense and true beautiful love!



"Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review."

Reviewed by Paul at Gay Media Reviews
Profile Image for Janette.
893 reviews22 followers
November 8, 2014
I love books set in the Australian Outback, and to combine that with my love for historical settings, this one is a win-win for me. I really enjoy the tension and danger the 19th century brings to a story, especially one in this genre. I mean, seriously, the Outback is perilous enough, but to add to it the possibility of Mark and Jim's relationship being discovered? Not to mention they're not exactly good at keeping it on the down low, if you know what I'm saying. ;)

In Dingo Run, Mark and Jim find themselves facing certain death on murder charges until a turn of events has them on the run. I enjoyed the action and adventure Byrne infused into the story; the sense of desperation and urgency these guys feel is palpable. It's always great when an author achieves just the right balance of romance and action, and I feel Byrne got it just right in this one. He even manages to throw in a couple of steamy encounters that really heat things up. I think our excerpt is proof of that. ;)

The Bushrangers series is a string of novellas, but don't think that means it's short on story or details. If anything the shorter nature just adds to the draw, since you're getting a great story with a pretty minimal time commitment. It's easy to get lost in the pages and before you know it, the current installment is drawing to a close. Byrne does an excellent job connecting you to the characters, their surroundings and their predicament. It's definitely worth checking out.

3.5 stars

This review can also be found at www.3chicksafterdark.com
Profile Image for Riina Y.T..
Author 7 books60 followers
October 12, 2015
** re-read **

Definitely The Best One Yet!

#great adventure, #beautiful Australian setting, #endearing characters, #sweet romance, #deep emotions, #paranormal-ish mystery !

I enjoyed the first and second installment of this series, but this feels somehow... I don't want to say different, but perhaps richer , more intense, more fulfilling! Maybe because things slowly fall into place?

I’m so thrilled that we got to see everything from Mark’s POV!
The first two installments were from Jim’s POV. It’s a great, much needed and anticipated change.

Oh. I absolutely love Mark.

Also, we finally get to hear about Mark’s past, and how he perhaps isn’t human.

All is still a big mystery though! And the next part promises to get really interesting :)

I'm anxiously waiting for the next, perhaps longer and final installment!
Profile Image for Tex Reader.
530 reviews27 followers
January 30, 2021
3.5 out of 5 stars - Historical Australian Western Setting Carries the Day
This was a good third chapter, if you will, in an enjoyable series of shorts for me. I normally do not like shorts, and indeed found that to be the case here, too; because of the lack of depth in any one book. But taken together, it made for a good story.

In this one, again the historical and Western feel, especially with the Australian setting, drew me in. The MCs' relationship continued to develop nicely, and some paranormal elements became more prominent. The m/m romance was nice too. But like I find in most m/m, the sex scenes were ok, but the pov is disappointingly one-sided. Mainly viewed from the "receivers" perspective (so to speak), even when they change roles. Not getting the full effect, of how both men think and feel.

That said. I did enjoy the continuation of this journey the MCs were making.
Profile Image for Gavin Stephenson-Jackman.
1,721 reviews
August 29, 2024
Jim and Mark are sitting in a ramshackle jail after Mark killed the man who boasted of killing Min Yong and his people. They are expecting to die by the noose in the morning when a previous act of kindness finds Dan helping them break free. Mark resorts to some desperate measures to save Jim's life after he's shot during their escape. Hiding their relationship from Dan proves impossible and tensions rise when Dan's brother arrives sparkling jealousy in Jim. As they separate from Dan and his brother the race is on to find a safer refuge. An interesting continuation of this story.
3,223 reviews3 followers
May 2, 2020
Interesting series. sorta wish this was all one story.
Profile Image for MariF.
866 reviews2 followers
January 23, 2024
4.5*
I'm not sure I loved the paranormal angle but things got really interesting as our MCs proceed with the life on the run.
Profile Image for multitaskingmomma.
1,359 reviews44 followers
November 6, 2014
Blog Tour, eARC Review: Dingo Run by Jack Byrne (2 #Free eBooks #Giveaway!)

We would like to thank author Jack Byrne for donating an ebook copy of Walkabout, to two lucky commentators who gets chosen. Make sure to leave a comment below to get a free ebook copy of Walkabout.

Usually it is difficult to get your bearings straight while reading a book that just happens to be the third book of a series of novellas. Somehow, though, I did not have a difficult time at all. In fact, read as a standalone like I did, this was a totally enjoyable read. As for the back story, I had no difficulties for the author inserted the information here and there and frankly, I did not even miss it. I just loved reading about Jim and Mark's adventures about running from the law and trying to survive the outback without much means of medicines and fresh food!

Now this is an cowboy adventure story that took me a bit by surprise especially when coming across lines like "preternatural hearing" and "unnatural strength." Then there was the scarred ears of Mark which obviously depicted a painful cutting off of the tips. These parts of the story really intrigued me while the rest of it was just part and parcel of the cowboy love story set in Australia. Aside from the paranormal twist, the romantic interludes and the morbid curiosity and hinted resistance to a same sex relationship were very much expected.

What truly got my attention was the descriptive way this was written that even those who may never have been to the outback could clearly visualize the panoramic scenes as written by the author. Visual reads are irresistible to me for that makes me 'see' the unfolding of the story in my mind's eye, telling me the author is really talented. Although, it made my feet tingle a bit when the descriptions went further into the blood exchange scene. That just.. ugh... I could imagine my medical technician friends shudder at that... although frankly, that is how they did go about things during those times - good thing it freaking worked! (Sorry, but when medical stuff are part of the story I manage to focus on those scenes :D)

As for the rest of it? Well, things are going a different way and Mark is just about thinking he may finally get the answers he'd been searching for a very long time. How it unfolds in the later installments, well, I guess we better follow this series, right?
Profile Image for Alina Popescu.
Author 76 books180 followers
November 10, 2014
The third book in the Bushrangers series is exactly what it promises, hot and thrilling. Jail breaking and running away from authorities will do that to a reader, keep you turning the pages, trying to find out what’s going to happen next. Jim and Mark try very hard to keep their relationship a secret, but to those who are paying attention, it’s not really that hard to understand what the two of them share.

I have grown up with movies and books where a lot of horse riding happened, and this is the most thrilling chase there is, at least in my opinion. The added mystery about Mark’s heritage on top of the wild run to get away from authorities, to patch up gunshot wounds and fight all the other danger surrounding them, makes this read hard to put down once you’ve started it.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews