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Trowchester Blues #1
Trowchester Blues
Michael May is losing it. Long ago, he joined the Metropolitan Police to escape his father’s tyranny and protect people like himself. Now his father is dead, and he’s been fired for punching a suspect. Afraid of his own rage, he returns to Trowchester—and to his childhood home, with all its old fears and memories. When he meets a charming, bohemian bookshop owner who seems to like him, he clings tight.
Fintan Hulme is an honest man now. Five years ago, he retired from his work as a high class London fence and opened a bookshop. Then an old client brings him a stolen book too precious to turn away, and suddenly he’s dealing with arson and kidnapping, to say nothing of all the lies he has to tell his friends. Falling in love with an ex-cop with anger management issues is the last thing he should be doing.
Finn thinks Michael is incredibly sexy. Michael knows Finn is the only thing that still makes him smile. But in a relationship where cops and robbers are natural enemies, that might not be enough to save them.
NOTE: The Trowchester Blues series features stand-alone titles that can be read in any order.
Fintan Hulme is an honest man now. Five years ago, he retired from his work as a high class London fence and opened a bookshop. Then an old client brings him a stolen book too precious to turn away, and suddenly he’s dealing with arson and kidnapping, to say nothing of all the lies he has to tell his friends. Falling in love with an ex-cop with anger management issues is the last thing he should be doing.
Finn thinks Michael is incredibly sexy. Michael knows Finn is the only thing that still makes him smile. But in a relationship where cops and robbers are natural enemies, that might not be enough to save them.
NOTE: The Trowchester Blues series features stand-alone titles that can be read in any order.
290 pages, Paperback
First published February 7, 2015
40 people are currently reading
900 people want to read
About the author
Alex Beecroft
44 books298 followersSpaceships and galaxy spanning empires, conversations with angels, viking villages, haunted mansions and forbidden love in the Age of Sail... I love a good strong plot in an exotic setting, with characters you can admire, and a happy ending.
If you make a venn diagram of genres, including historical, fantasy, gay romance and mystery, I occupy the space in the middle where they overlap.
~
BTW, if you're thinking my reviews on here are a bit mean, most of the books I really enjoy will get a 4 star. I am saving 5 stars for books I find genuinely life changing. 4 is still "this was really really good, you should read it." 5 is "OMG, my mind is blown and my life will never be the same again."
If you make a venn diagram of genres, including historical, fantasy, gay romance and mystery, I occupy the space in the middle where they overlap.
~
BTW, if you're thinking my reviews on here are a bit mean, most of the books I really enjoy will get a 4 star. I am saving 5 stars for books I find genuinely life changing. 4 is still "this was really really good, you should read it." 5 is "OMG, my mind is blown and my life will never be the same again."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
February 5, 2015
4.5 stars
Sometimes you get to read a book that feels like it's written just for you -- a book that just checks all your list of the things you want to read. You won't care what everyone else thinks about the book, people might hate it, might think it's mediocre. Heck, you might even see some issues later on when you read other people's reviews. But you don't care, you know you love it, and the story fills your heart with such gentle, warm, lovely feeling, that you don't want to let the characters go. Not just yet.
This is what Trowchester Blues for me. I loved it that much and it was (nearly) perfect for my mood, for a read on a rainy day. Even days after I finished this one, whenever I thought back about it, I felt like I was being cloaked with state of content. Unfortunately, I also often found it difficult to explain the reason why ...
Maybe it was the storytelling -- there was something compelling in the way Beecroft wrote the story of Michael May, a former homicide detective who has been slowly crumbled after failing to save victims, and Fintan "Finn" Hulme, a bookshop owner who has been trying to live as honest man after leaving his old days as a fencer for stolen antiquities. Both are mature characters -- over 40 years old -- and have dealt with losses in their life.
But while Finn has slowly climbed out of his grief of losing his partner for the past five years, Michael is still haunted with the ghost of his tyrannic father as he returns to his childhood home at Trowchester. There was this solemn mood in the book, a balance between hopeful encounter and a possible complication that might happen when an ex-criminal and a former detective forge a relationship. Especially when both have to deal with old client who brings danger to Finn's door, including arson and kidnapping.
Oh, I wish I can write something poetic or coherent to further tell you how I fell in love with these characters and the small-town setting. But I can't ... words just fail me. All I can say that the story is beautiful, I was clinging to every words, every conversation that happened between Michael and Finn, every arguments that arise, even their inner thoughts and worries and wishes. How I cheered when Michael had the chance to be Finn's white knight, for finally being able to do 'right' for someone who matters to him. How I felt relieved that Finn could be Michael's savior, his sole reason to smile and be happy.
The one story line I wasn't sure of was the one related to the homeless / runaway girl, Sarah. As a character, she might be designed to give layers to both Michael and Finn. For Michael, Sarah is his one chance to do things right -- things that he couldn't do for all those missing girls that he couldn't save during his time on the Met. While for Finn, Sarah is his 'ghost-company', someone he silently (and namelessly) shared his meal with without ever exchanging any information. It was sweet but I didn't think that this plot was deeply explored. So at times, I just found it distracting.
However, in overall, Trowchester Blues is a satisfying combination of a little mystery, a little suspense, and a lot of character development and romance. What else can I ask for?
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
This could be ours. D’you think you could do that? In this place where I don’t think you were very happy for a very long time, d’you think I could make you happy in the future?
Sometimes you get to read a book that feels like it's written just for you -- a book that just checks all your list of the things you want to read. You won't care what everyone else thinks about the book, people might hate it, might think it's mediocre. Heck, you might even see some issues later on when you read other people's reviews. But you don't care, you know you love it, and the story fills your heart with such gentle, warm, lovely feeling, that you don't want to let the characters go. Not just yet.
This is what Trowchester Blues for me. I loved it that much and it was (nearly) perfect for my mood, for a read on a rainy day. Even days after I finished this one, whenever I thought back about it, I felt like I was being cloaked with state of content. Unfortunately, I also often found it difficult to explain the reason why ...
Maybe it was the storytelling -- there was something compelling in the way Beecroft wrote the story of Michael May, a former homicide detective who has been slowly crumbled after failing to save victims, and Fintan "Finn" Hulme, a bookshop owner who has been trying to live as honest man after leaving his old days as a fencer for stolen antiquities. Both are mature characters -- over 40 years old -- and have dealt with losses in their life.
But while Finn has slowly climbed out of his grief of losing his partner for the past five years, Michael is still haunted with the ghost of his tyrannic father as he returns to his childhood home at Trowchester. There was this solemn mood in the book, a balance between hopeful encounter and a possible complication that might happen when an ex-criminal and a former detective forge a relationship. Especially when both have to deal with old client who brings danger to Finn's door, including arson and kidnapping.
Oh, I wish I can write something poetic or coherent to further tell you how I fell in love with these characters and the small-town setting. But I can't ... words just fail me. All I can say that the story is beautiful, I was clinging to every words, every conversation that happened between Michael and Finn, every arguments that arise, even their inner thoughts and worries and wishes. How I cheered when Michael had the chance to be Finn's white knight, for finally being able to do 'right' for someone who matters to him. How I felt relieved that Finn could be Michael's savior, his sole reason to smile and be happy.
The one story line I wasn't sure of was the one related to the homeless / runaway girl, Sarah. As a character, she might be designed to give layers to both Michael and Finn. For Michael, Sarah is his one chance to do things right -- things that he couldn't do for all those missing girls that he couldn't save during his time on the Met. While for Finn, Sarah is his 'ghost-company', someone he silently (and namelessly) shared his meal with without ever exchanging any information. It was sweet but I didn't think that this plot was deeply explored. So at times, I just found it distracting.
However, in overall, Trowchester Blues is a satisfying combination of a little mystery, a little suspense, and a lot of character development and romance. What else can I ask for?
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
dnf
October 17, 2019DNF @50%
The writing is excellent, but I have to throw in the towel. The tone is too bleak and despairing for me. I'm pretty confident there's an HEA ahead, and I wouldn't want to discourage anyone else from reading it, but it's making me feel anxious and depressed. That's not what I want from a book.
The writing is excellent, but I have to throw in the towel. The tone is too bleak and despairing for me. I'm pretty confident there's an HEA ahead, and I wouldn't want to discourage anyone else from reading it, but it's making me feel anxious and depressed. That's not what I want from a book.
July 12, 2015
4.5 stars rounded up. I really enjoyed this - a flavorful story with originality, after a couple of competent but ordinary books I read.
Michael became a cop with the London Metropolitan Police to protect people, to do good work, and to be everything his emotionally abusive father wasn't. But time, and crime, with its impact on the innocent, have worn him down. He's seen more pain and suffering at the hands of criminals than he can stand. Then the death of his father, even though it represents the loss of antagonism and not of love, sets him adrift. A new abused innocent pushes him past the breaking point, and when the smoke clears he's forced to resign from the force and start his life over.
Going back to his father's old house in Trowchester, now his, is a bit like pulling the scab off a festering sore. It's messy and difficult, it hurts, and the memories that leak out are the kind that stain his heart and churn his stomach. But if he can get past that, if he can exorcise his father from the house and his head, perhaps he can move on.
There have been changes in Trowchester since Michael last lived there, and one new establishment draws him in. It's a bookstore, but an odd one. The window displays only one volume, and the words on the glass are more challenge than welcome. Michael can't help being curious about what lies inside. What he finds is a treasurehouse of old volumes, odd curios, and the man who is at home among them.
Finn moved out of the city to escape a life spiralling down into crime. Five years ago, he lost his partner, and almost his freedom, and this new bookstore is his fresh start. He's self-sufficient, comfortable in his skin, and interested in the sad, sexy, tentative man who wanders in one day. But Finn's past isn't done with him, and Michael's police instincts may be as much hindrance as help. These two very different men each need an ally to make it through the weeks to come, and they fasten on each other with sudden and almost obsessive attraction. But trust doesn't come easy to either of them.
I really liked these characters, who are complex and flawed men, with quirks (like Finn's preferences in bed) that make them an imperfect fit. I really liked that. The story went places I wasn't expecting, and resolved in ways that surprised me. A couple of the developments perhaps pushed believability a little, and the relationship development was very fast, but nothing went over the top for me. I really connect with this author's writing style, which I'd so far only experienced in historicals. It worked equally well for me in a contemporary. I immediately bought the next book in the series.
Michael became a cop with the London Metropolitan Police to protect people, to do good work, and to be everything his emotionally abusive father wasn't. But time, and crime, with its impact on the innocent, have worn him down. He's seen more pain and suffering at the hands of criminals than he can stand. Then the death of his father, even though it represents the loss of antagonism and not of love, sets him adrift. A new abused innocent pushes him past the breaking point, and when the smoke clears he's forced to resign from the force and start his life over.
Going back to his father's old house in Trowchester, now his, is a bit like pulling the scab off a festering sore. It's messy and difficult, it hurts, and the memories that leak out are the kind that stain his heart and churn his stomach. But if he can get past that, if he can exorcise his father from the house and his head, perhaps he can move on.
There have been changes in Trowchester since Michael last lived there, and one new establishment draws him in. It's a bookstore, but an odd one. The window displays only one volume, and the words on the glass are more challenge than welcome. Michael can't help being curious about what lies inside. What he finds is a treasurehouse of old volumes, odd curios, and the man who is at home among them.
Finn moved out of the city to escape a life spiralling down into crime. Five years ago, he lost his partner, and almost his freedom, and this new bookstore is his fresh start. He's self-sufficient, comfortable in his skin, and interested in the sad, sexy, tentative man who wanders in one day. But Finn's past isn't done with him, and Michael's police instincts may be as much hindrance as help. These two very different men each need an ally to make it through the weeks to come, and they fasten on each other with sudden and almost obsessive attraction. But trust doesn't come easy to either of them.
I really liked these characters, who are complex and flawed men, with quirks (like Finn's preferences in bed) that make them an imperfect fit. I really liked that. The story went places I wasn't expecting, and resolved in ways that surprised me. A couple of the developments perhaps pushed believability a little, and the relationship development was very fast, but nothing went over the top for me. I really connect with this author's writing style, which I'd so far only experienced in historicals. It worked equally well for me in a contemporary. I immediately bought the next book in the series.
February 13, 2017
Rating: 4.5* of five
#ReadingIsResistance to cruel family ties, to the undisguised homophobia of heteronormative ideas on what a family can and should be...Alex Beecroft is having none of it, and it's a delight to read. Romantic deliciousness, suspense and sex and being surprised by joy after hope has been ceremoniously buried and forgotten.
My review is live now.
#ReadingIsResistance to cruel family ties, to the undisguised homophobia of heteronormative ideas on what a family can and should be...Alex Beecroft is having none of it, and it's a delight to read. Romantic deliciousness, suspense and sex and being surprised by joy after hope has been ceremoniously buried and forgotten.
My review is live now.
June 7, 2018
3.5 stars
Beautiful writing. Endearing MCs, but the angst trumped the romance.
Beautiful writing. Endearing MCs, but the angst trumped the romance.
February 25, 2015
Really nice writing, as is typical of Beecroft. I liked the storyline, and I really liked the characters. Love, love, love stories about men who are mature falling in love. MORE OF THIS PLEASE.
Recommend for fans of contemporaries with lyrical writing and those who like big burly cops even after they retire.
Recommend for fans of contemporaries with lyrical writing and those who like big burly cops even after they retire.
maybe
November 26, 2018The whole series is free at the zon.com right now: https://smile.amazon.com/Trowchester-...
February 6, 2015
4.5 stars - If I hadn’t been reading this for the blog, I might have put this book down too early, and that would have been my loss.
Why was I pondering dropping it in the first early chapters? Well, I’m not the biggest contemporary romance fan to begin with—I picked up this book, the first in a new series by Beecroft, because I saw that a later volume will have an asexual character. I couldn’t dive into book 3 without trying the earlier ones, right?
But why I almost put it down was because the beginning of this book is GRIM. Grim and morose, much like its MC Michael May, a policeman who starts this story with a truly terrible case, one so horrifying (even to this reader), that it changed the entire course of his career, and his life.
From those horrors that have drained his life of color and vitality, Michael May returns to his hometown to take care of the house his jerk of a father left him. He is a dejected man, having to break into his own home because his father, still a dick even when he’s deceased, hid the keys from him.
The beginning chapters of this story were a bit dark in mood, and mirrored Michael’s depressed, exhausted mental state. Having a hard week myself, I didn’t know if I could finish this, but then I saw Ami’s review. I didn’t read it, because I won’t read other reviews while mid-read, but I gleamed the glowing stars around it, and I know she’s a tough critic, so if it made it by the Ami-meter, I had to have faith that this was something special.
And it is. And I recommend hanging in there with Michael as he weathers those first rough nights back home, because once he comes upon the window of an eccentric bookshop, and is compelled to open the door to go inside, a light falls onto his dim life, one that’s part fiery and warm, and part brilliant and electric. The entrance of Michael’s polar opposite, Finn, is a heady mix of energy, cleaned-up chaos, classy refinement, and snark. His keen gaze sees right through Michael, and even if pursuing something might be hazardous for both of them, they find themselves falling into each other’s orbits, with Finn’s flirty, secretive nature and Michael’s earnest shy honesty coming together into a surprising stunned, but hungry union.
That’s long way to say that the MCs really work well together, even though they are very much opposites, and at times, those opposing natures cause fear and distrust within both of them (and at one point bring on one of my Least Favorite tropes in contemporary romance—the Misunderstanding, followed by jumping to conclusions.) Thankfully, Beecroft doesn’t draw this instance out for long, and our MCs realize they are adults and they can talk through misconceptions, especially for the right incentive.
This is the first time I’ve read Beecroft, and I thought her writing was stellar. Lots of detail that paints the scenes without feeling overblown. (What is up with these hyper-evocative British writers? I’m looking at you, Harper Fox!) Smooth writing that’s easy to sink into, and well-crafted transitions in style when we shift POVs between Michael and Finn. This was a great introduction to Beecroft, and I’m excited to check out more of her work.
Overall, I thought this was a very enjoyable read, once I got past the grim beginning. Michael and Finn’s chemistry is very palpable, and as a reader, I was rooting for them to push beyond their mutual hang-ups and see how together they were the golden glue that fills in the broken cracks in each other’s lives and reveals something whole and beautiful.
I look forward to reading what’s next in Trowchester. It’s certainly off to a wonderful start.
Why was I pondering dropping it in the first early chapters? Well, I’m not the biggest contemporary romance fan to begin with—I picked up this book, the first in a new series by Beecroft, because I saw that a later volume will have an asexual character. I couldn’t dive into book 3 without trying the earlier ones, right?
But why I almost put it down was because the beginning of this book is GRIM. Grim and morose, much like its MC Michael May, a policeman who starts this story with a truly terrible case, one so horrifying (even to this reader), that it changed the entire course of his career, and his life.
From those horrors that have drained his life of color and vitality, Michael May returns to his hometown to take care of the house his jerk of a father left him. He is a dejected man, having to break into his own home because his father, still a dick even when he’s deceased, hid the keys from him.
The beginning chapters of this story were a bit dark in mood, and mirrored Michael’s depressed, exhausted mental state. Having a hard week myself, I didn’t know if I could finish this, but then I saw Ami’s review. I didn’t read it, because I won’t read other reviews while mid-read, but I gleamed the glowing stars around it, and I know she’s a tough critic, so if it made it by the Ami-meter, I had to have faith that this was something special.
And it is. And I recommend hanging in there with Michael as he weathers those first rough nights back home, because once he comes upon the window of an eccentric bookshop, and is compelled to open the door to go inside, a light falls onto his dim life, one that’s part fiery and warm, and part brilliant and electric. The entrance of Michael’s polar opposite, Finn, is a heady mix of energy, cleaned-up chaos, classy refinement, and snark. His keen gaze sees right through Michael, and even if pursuing something might be hazardous for both of them, they find themselves falling into each other’s orbits, with Finn’s flirty, secretive nature and Michael’s earnest shy honesty coming together into a surprising stunned, but hungry union.
That’s long way to say that the MCs really work well together, even though they are very much opposites, and at times, those opposing natures cause fear and distrust within both of them (and at one point bring on one of my Least Favorite tropes in contemporary romance—the Misunderstanding, followed by jumping to conclusions.) Thankfully, Beecroft doesn’t draw this instance out for long, and our MCs realize they are adults and they can talk through misconceptions, especially for the right incentive.
This is the first time I’ve read Beecroft, and I thought her writing was stellar. Lots of detail that paints the scenes without feeling overblown. (What is up with these hyper-evocative British writers? I’m looking at you, Harper Fox!) Smooth writing that’s easy to sink into, and well-crafted transitions in style when we shift POVs between Michael and Finn. This was a great introduction to Beecroft, and I’m excited to check out more of her work.
Overall, I thought this was a very enjoyable read, once I got past the grim beginning. Michael and Finn’s chemistry is very palpable, and as a reader, I was rooting for them to push beyond their mutual hang-ups and see how together they were the golden glue that fills in the broken cracks in each other’s lives and reveals something whole and beautiful.
I look forward to reading what’s next in Trowchester. It’s certainly off to a wonderful start.
Want to read
March 31, 2018Kindle freebie 3/31/18!
February 7, 2015
What does an ex-con and an ex-cop have in common? Well, when both are trying to put their pasts behind them and make a new start then they actually have quite a lot in common.
I just love stories with characters who are trying to overcome their turbulent pasts and trying to step in a new direction in life. It gives the story just that little bit more joy when they finally make it, not only on the romantic level, but also on the personal level too. Trowchester Blues combined all these elements for me which made it an emotional but tender, loving and happy story.
Michael has left the police as he just can’t cope with dealing with scum and after an incident with a suspect decides that he needs to make a new start. He is also still dealing with issues from his childhood as his father was extremely abusive, never physically but psychologically. I guess sometimes the one is definitely no better than the other. He throws everything in a returns to Trowchester to the house where he lived as a child. He gets anxiety attacks at just the thought of living there after what happened and decides to set up home in a narrow boat not far from his house until has been stripped and cleaned not only physically but also emotionally from his traumatic childhood.
Finn has a bookshop and runs a book club. He has moved from London after losing his former lover unexpectedly and has escaped in an attempt to go straight. After being acquitted of being a fence for dealing in antiques. When Michael wanders into the shop I just loved the way that this bookshop was described, like a magical place full of books but also curiosities of all sorts. Whilst reading I felt like this place was so warming, a place to relax and get away from it all. Finn however is not what Michael expected and sparked attraction immediately. Unfortunately, his past catches up with him and the heavies arrive after finding out where Finn is and he is threatened and finds himself getting involved again against his will. I loved Finn a smart ass with caustic humour on the outside but conflicted on the inside always trying to do the right thing but always getting caught up in with his past too.
This book is an exceptionally intriguing story. As Michael and Finn try to come to terms with their pasts and possibly a relationship is the last thing these guys need currently considering the amount of emotional baggage they are both carrying around. However, love can also heal, be supportive and give us strength in order to cope with life in general and Michael and Finn soon find out they are good for each other. Obviously, they go through some very serious trust issues as Michael being an ex-cop finding out Finn is an ex-con and vice versa obviously brings a whole new dynamic into their relationship that neither could ever have reckoned with. Actually in normal circumstances they would have run a mile from each other in opposite directions. But once Michael is able to cut through all of Finns external bravado and Finn sees that Michael can be trusted as a cop then the initial physical attraction soon turns into something deeper and emotional. Finding that trust of each other though is a long road and not until Finn finds himself in what apparently seems to be a life threatening situation and Michael comes to the rescue does Finn really consider that Michael maybe worth taking a chance on in the romantic stakes.
Michael is bi, or at least he was married and in the force which meant being openly gay is not always the best option. Wasn’t sure whether he was bi or latent gay so to speak. But it wasn’t an issue anymore as soon as he meets Finn. The sex is hot with a soft BDSM feel to it. Finn likes to play rough a little bit and Michael is more than happy to go along with his wishes. However, I seemed to have got the impression that Finn seems to have a bit of a thing going for hickies as some way of Michael marking his territory. I just kept thinking that man’s neck must be black and blue. But the sex is hot, gritty, raw and a little rough, no fluff or twink sex to be found here. These guys are both mature mid-thirties so experienced, full-on man sex.
I adore books with good plots and this one pushed all my buttons. Finn getting involved in a crime against his will. Michael after getting the truth out of Finn actually is the one who saves him from his slippery slope back to criminality. The whole crime story and Finns past had me glued to the page. Also the sub-plots of Michael caring for a homeless girl, as she’d been thrown out by her parents, and giving her a home was wonderful, tender and so heart-warming. I loved this book and will definitely be reading the following books in this series.
4.5 Stars
I just love stories with characters who are trying to overcome their turbulent pasts and trying to step in a new direction in life. It gives the story just that little bit more joy when they finally make it, not only on the romantic level, but also on the personal level too. Trowchester Blues combined all these elements for me which made it an emotional but tender, loving and happy story.
Michael has left the police as he just can’t cope with dealing with scum and after an incident with a suspect decides that he needs to make a new start. He is also still dealing with issues from his childhood as his father was extremely abusive, never physically but psychologically. I guess sometimes the one is definitely no better than the other. He throws everything in a returns to Trowchester to the house where he lived as a child. He gets anxiety attacks at just the thought of living there after what happened and decides to set up home in a narrow boat not far from his house until has been stripped and cleaned not only physically but also emotionally from his traumatic childhood.
Finn has a bookshop and runs a book club. He has moved from London after losing his former lover unexpectedly and has escaped in an attempt to go straight. After being acquitted of being a fence for dealing in antiques. When Michael wanders into the shop I just loved the way that this bookshop was described, like a magical place full of books but also curiosities of all sorts. Whilst reading I felt like this place was so warming, a place to relax and get away from it all. Finn however is not what Michael expected and sparked attraction immediately. Unfortunately, his past catches up with him and the heavies arrive after finding out where Finn is and he is threatened and finds himself getting involved again against his will. I loved Finn a smart ass with caustic humour on the outside but conflicted on the inside always trying to do the right thing but always getting caught up in with his past too.
This book is an exceptionally intriguing story. As Michael and Finn try to come to terms with their pasts and possibly a relationship is the last thing these guys need currently considering the amount of emotional baggage they are both carrying around. However, love can also heal, be supportive and give us strength in order to cope with life in general and Michael and Finn soon find out they are good for each other. Obviously, they go through some very serious trust issues as Michael being an ex-cop finding out Finn is an ex-con and vice versa obviously brings a whole new dynamic into their relationship that neither could ever have reckoned with. Actually in normal circumstances they would have run a mile from each other in opposite directions. But once Michael is able to cut through all of Finns external bravado and Finn sees that Michael can be trusted as a cop then the initial physical attraction soon turns into something deeper and emotional. Finding that trust of each other though is a long road and not until Finn finds himself in what apparently seems to be a life threatening situation and Michael comes to the rescue does Finn really consider that Michael maybe worth taking a chance on in the romantic stakes.
Michael is bi, or at least he was married and in the force which meant being openly gay is not always the best option. Wasn’t sure whether he was bi or latent gay so to speak. But it wasn’t an issue anymore as soon as he meets Finn. The sex is hot with a soft BDSM feel to it. Finn likes to play rough a little bit and Michael is more than happy to go along with his wishes. However, I seemed to have got the impression that Finn seems to have a bit of a thing going for hickies as some way of Michael marking his territory. I just kept thinking that man’s neck must be black and blue. But the sex is hot, gritty, raw and a little rough, no fluff or twink sex to be found here. These guys are both mature mid-thirties so experienced, full-on man sex.
I adore books with good plots and this one pushed all my buttons. Finn getting involved in a crime against his will. Michael after getting the truth out of Finn actually is the one who saves him from his slippery slope back to criminality. The whole crime story and Finns past had me glued to the page. Also the sub-plots of Michael caring for a homeless girl, as she’d been thrown out by her parents, and giving her a home was wonderful, tender and so heart-warming. I loved this book and will definitely be reading the following books in this series.
4.5 Stars
June 7, 2015
4.5 stars
Another beautifully written book by Alex Beecroft, and the first time I have read a contemporary romance of hers. No matter the style or the period, wonderful writing, great characters and attention to detail are a staple.
Full review at http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
Another beautifully written book by Alex Beecroft, and the first time I have read a contemporary romance of hers. No matter the style or the period, wonderful writing, great characters and attention to detail are a staple.
Full review at http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
August 5, 2015
I don’t know how I feel about this one. On the one hand it held my attention but on the other hand it was kind of awkward and really far fetched. I mean REALLY.
Boat building and runaways, arson and kidnapping just to name a few.
It was kind of angsty but not like hurt my heart angst, kind of more like stuff was depressing and there was drama? I don’t know how to explain that. It was a little disturbing though, some of it. Like his Dad. WHAT A FUCKING DICK.
The drama though. Out of left field. Like five years out of left field. I know why and all that it just, if thought about logically didn’t make sense. It was also really kind of violent and no one seemed to take it seriously.
What else? Oh, it was insta-love but the confusing where did that come from insta-love. I like insta-love when I feel it but I don’t know what this was really. It seemed more like opportunity or something. It was still endearing and I liked the boys together, they were sweet, especially their kisses, but it was fantastical. Oh, I did not buy for one second that they were in their forties though. They didn’t come across as grown adults. Honestly I had one Hell of a time ever picturing Michael as a police officer. He just seemed so innocent and weak or something. Always hiding his face in his hands and crying. I dunno. And Finn in the crime world? I don’t know if I bought that either.
There was a side story that even though I really liked it just didn’t fit with the story. It was there and then it wasn’t. It was a very touching part of the story but I didn’t understand why it was part of the story.
So, here is what I think. I didn’t hate even with all that stuff up there. This is one of those books that worked, you just have to suspend ALL belief and go along for the ride. As long as you don’t try to put a puzzle together that doesn’t really fit it was an enjoyable read. Shit, I even cried at the end. Go figure.
Boat building and runaways, arson and kidnapping just to name a few.
It was kind of angsty but not like hurt my heart angst, kind of more like stuff was depressing and there was drama? I don’t know how to explain that. It was a little disturbing though, some of it. Like his Dad. WHAT A FUCKING DICK.
The drama though. Out of left field. Like five years out of left field. I know why and all that it just, if thought about logically didn’t make sense. It was also really kind of violent and no one seemed to take it seriously.
What else? Oh, it was insta-love but the confusing where did that come from insta-love. I like insta-love when I feel it but I don’t know what this was really. It seemed more like opportunity or something. It was still endearing and I liked the boys together, they were sweet, especially their kisses, but it was fantastical. Oh, I did not buy for one second that they were in their forties though. They didn’t come across as grown adults. Honestly I had one Hell of a time ever picturing Michael as a police officer. He just seemed so innocent and weak or something. Always hiding his face in his hands and crying. I dunno. And Finn in the crime world? I don’t know if I bought that either.
There was a side story that even though I really liked it just didn’t fit with the story. It was there and then it wasn’t. It was a very touching part of the story but I didn’t understand why it was part of the story.
So, here is what I think. I didn’t hate even with all that stuff up there. This is one of those books that worked, you just have to suspend ALL belief and go along for the ride. As long as you don’t try to put a puzzle together that doesn’t really fit it was an enjoyable read. Shit, I even cried at the end. Go figure.
February 7, 2015
When Michael May “snaps” during a kidnapping/murder investigation, he decides it’s time for a life change and moves from busy London to the town of Trowchester where he spent an unhappy childhood. By going “home”, Michael must now exorcise his past ghosts before he can ever have a chance at a happy future. When Michael meets Finn, an eccentric bookstore owner, trust isn’t something that comes easy for Michael. And what will happen when he discovers Finn has an old habit of breaking the law.
Hmm, so I liked this…but I didn’t love it.
First, I want to put it out there and make it known that this is my second experience with this author and think it’s possible that the writing style just might not be for me. I tend to love the slow-to-start stories with heavy imagery, but this time, I kept getting lost in the descriptions. So, no, I wasn’t hooked in the beginning, but my interest did spike about midway through.
Then, there seemed to be more “telling” than “showing”, and I’m the type of person that wants, no NEEDS, all those little scenes in between where the characters build up the tension and build up the relationship so I can FEEL what the characters are feeling…FEEL that connection between them. That did not happen for me with this story and I kept thinking: “Stop TELLING me what happened, and SHOW me!”
Also, it was a bit too insta-love for my tastes. I mean, Michael and Finn spend ONE night together and Michael is all ready to build him a boat. No way! Both these characters have so much baggage. I’m not saying that’s a bad thing, but much of it needed to be explored on a deeper level. For example: Michael’s anger and Finn’s desire for pain and control. This was brought up numerous times throughout the story, but it seemed to be pushed to the side with all the other “complications”.
I liked what was happening with Sarah and Tai. I felt like Sarah’s purpose in the story was very important to Michael’s new life and him finally being able to do something “good” when he had failed in the past. Again, I felt like there was more story there to tell.
The villains and that whole plot with the stolen book was a bit over the top. For one thing, why did Finn keep opening his door without looking to see who was knocking??!!! That was driving me crazy!!! And the ENTIRE bit in the end with the magistrate…ridiculous and too easy!
The good news: there’s a sweet happily ever after in the end and I was glad to see Finn and Michael finally move out of the past.
Whew, I feel like I’ve almost written myself out of a 3.5 rating, but overall, I DID enjoy the story as a whole and I’m looking forward to the other books in the Trowchester Blues Collection.
3.5 Stars
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
Hmm, so I liked this…but I didn’t love it.
First, I want to put it out there and make it known that this is my second experience with this author and think it’s possible that the writing style just might not be for me. I tend to love the slow-to-start stories with heavy imagery, but this time, I kept getting lost in the descriptions. So, no, I wasn’t hooked in the beginning, but my interest did spike about midway through.
Then, there seemed to be more “telling” than “showing”, and I’m the type of person that wants, no NEEDS, all those little scenes in between where the characters build up the tension and build up the relationship so I can FEEL what the characters are feeling…FEEL that connection between them. That did not happen for me with this story and I kept thinking: “Stop TELLING me what happened, and SHOW me!”
Also, it was a bit too insta-love for my tastes. I mean, Michael and Finn spend ONE night together and Michael is all ready to build him a boat. No way! Both these characters have so much baggage. I’m not saying that’s a bad thing, but much of it needed to be explored on a deeper level. For example: Michael’s anger and Finn’s desire for pain and control. This was brought up numerous times throughout the story, but it seemed to be pushed to the side with all the other “complications”.
I liked what was happening with Sarah and Tai. I felt like Sarah’s purpose in the story was very important to Michael’s new life and him finally being able to do something “good” when he had failed in the past. Again, I felt like there was more story there to tell.
The villains and that whole plot with the stolen book was a bit over the top. For one thing, why did Finn keep opening his door without looking to see who was knocking??!!! That was driving me crazy!!! And the ENTIRE bit in the end with the magistrate…ridiculous and too easy!
The good news: there’s a sweet happily ever after in the end and I was glad to see Finn and Michael finally move out of the past.
Whew, I feel like I’ve almost written myself out of a 3.5 rating, but overall, I DID enjoy the story as a whole and I’m looking forward to the other books in the Trowchester Blues Collection.
3.5 Stars
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
November 18, 2017
3.5 stars
I’m not sure how I should rate this.
It’s technically very well written and I liked the set-up, Michael with his demons and insecurities, forced to confront his past, and Finn, living with regrets and the ghost of his late partner, after rebuilding his life as a new man.
The problem is that, although the book is long, there was a lot going on and at the same time many important things happened off page.
When the story starts, Michael can barely stay inside his father’s house and keeps having flashbacks of how it was to live there, constantly mocked by a cruel father and never quite knowing when the next attack would arrive. It was heartbreaking and had a huge impact on his mental well-being and yet we barely saw a part of how he dealt with it, the rest was summarized in a couple of sentences, when we were told how things changed and he was able to conquer his memories.
Same thing for the relationship between Michael and Finn.
When the declarations of love arrived they took me completely by surprise. They didn’t happen early, not at all, but as far as relationship development went, I considered the relationship barely started at that point. I couldn’t see how they could even think about being in love with each other.
There were other issues, like important conversations about sex, which also happened off page and we learned about that by a “they had discussed things over the two days they spent together” and then they were kissing goodbye on a Monday morning.
That’s not what I call a romance novel. Don’t make me spend time reading about one of the MCs going to Primark to buy clothes and then leave all the relationship conversations out like they’re nothing. That’s the whole point, I want to see the characters build a relationship together and I love when they do so while also dealing with other difficult, important stuff.
In this book it all felt weirdly disjointed, with a glimpse of interesting things showed here and there, but none of them were given the attention and level of details they deserved.
Now, it’s possible that my opinion is suffering from the fact that when I read this book my personal conditions were far from ideal. I was tired, could barely manage to read two or three chapters at a time before going to sleep and when I did I was physically and mentally exhausted. So I probably shouldn’t have picked up a new book at all, but I did and this was the result.
I’m not sure how I should rate this.
It’s technically very well written and I liked the set-up, Michael with his demons and insecurities, forced to confront his past, and Finn, living with regrets and the ghost of his late partner, after rebuilding his life as a new man.
The problem is that, although the book is long, there was a lot going on and at the same time many important things happened off page.
When the story starts, Michael can barely stay inside his father’s house and keeps having flashbacks of how it was to live there, constantly mocked by a cruel father and never quite knowing when the next attack would arrive. It was heartbreaking and had a huge impact on his mental well-being and yet we barely saw a part of how he dealt with it, the rest was summarized in a couple of sentences, when we were told how things changed and he was able to conquer his memories.
Same thing for the relationship between Michael and Finn.
When the declarations of love arrived they took me completely by surprise. They didn’t happen early, not at all, but as far as relationship development went, I considered the relationship barely started at that point. I couldn’t see how they could even think about being in love with each other.
There were other issues, like important conversations about sex, which also happened off page and we learned about that by a “they had discussed things over the two days they spent together” and then they were kissing goodbye on a Monday morning.
That’s not what I call a romance novel. Don’t make me spend time reading about one of the MCs going to Primark to buy clothes and then leave all the relationship conversations out like they’re nothing. That’s the whole point, I want to see the characters build a relationship together and I love when they do so while also dealing with other difficult, important stuff.
In this book it all felt weirdly disjointed, with a glimpse of interesting things showed here and there, but none of them were given the attention and level of details they deserved.
Now, it’s possible that my opinion is suffering from the fact that when I read this book my personal conditions were far from ideal. I was tired, could barely manage to read two or three chapters at a time before going to sleep and when I did I was physically and mentally exhausted. So I probably shouldn’t have picked up a new book at all, but I did and this was the result.
January 30, 2016
★★★★☆ ~ 4 Stars
Fintan, an ex-fence who wants to stay that way and Michael, an ex-cop, both men trying to escape their past and forge a new future.
Michael grew up in Trowchester, the son of a horrible man who escaped Trowchester as soon as he could, has returned upon the death of his father and leaving the police department under unfortunate circumstances and Finn has built a new life as a bookseller (plus right there in my book!) and dealing with his partner's death. Instant attraction.
It figures that Finn's past reasserts itself and Michael has plenty of his own issues so their new relationship has fits and starts.
I liked this a lot more than I thought I would and first book for me from this author and I've tagged the other books in this series as possible reads.
Fintan, an ex-fence who wants to stay that way and Michael, an ex-cop, both men trying to escape their past and forge a new future.
Michael grew up in Trowchester, the son of a horrible man who escaped Trowchester as soon as he could, has returned upon the death of his father and leaving the police department under unfortunate circumstances and Finn has built a new life as a bookseller (plus right there in my book!) and dealing with his partner's death. Instant attraction.
It figures that Finn's past reasserts itself and Michael has plenty of his own issues so their new relationship has fits and starts.
I liked this a lot more than I thought I would and first book for me from this author and I've tagged the other books in this series as possible reads.
Ridiculous, that Finn had to be the one giving comfort. But it had been this way with Tom too. Arguments were tricky things for both sides to win if no one ever gave way first. There was something terribly domestic about the small sacrifice of ego, of first place. Sure, sex was a fine thing, but a fight at the end of which the pair of you were more lovingly entangled than ever, that was closer to being one flesh, one soul, than anything else.
April 4, 2018
4.1 Stars
Well, wasn't that a nice surprise? Again, got this one free from Amazon and now I'm deliberating asking for the rest from my local library (they have this sharing thing going on, I think).
Great characterization...and I love how they both seem so ordinary. But OMFG, the way they describe each other in moments of wonder! It's like a tunnel-vision, wind-machine, blurry Halelujah Chorus kind of scene from a rom-com...but not cheesy like that. It's actually quite breath-taking to see each of them through the eyes of the other. And it's not blind adoration or deliberately overlooking faults; both of them are FAR from perfect - but that just makes them more interesting IMHO.
Yes, it all unfolds quite fast but somehow it doesn't seem like Insta-love. The way this is written is quite believable.
I know the other stories feature different characters but man, I hope they're as good as this one!
Well, wasn't that a nice surprise? Again, got this one free from Amazon and now I'm deliberating asking for the rest from my local library (they have this sharing thing going on, I think).
Great characterization...and I love how they both seem so ordinary. But OMFG, the way they describe each other in moments of wonder! It's like a tunnel-vision, wind-machine, blurry Halelujah Chorus kind of scene from a rom-com...but not cheesy like that. It's actually quite breath-taking to see each of them through the eyes of the other. And it's not blind adoration or deliberately overlooking faults; both of them are FAR from perfect - but that just makes them more interesting IMHO.
Yes, it all unfolds quite fast but somehow it doesn't seem like Insta-love. The way this is written is quite believable.
I know the other stories feature different characters but man, I hope they're as good as this one!
March 9, 2020
This is a very nice though really long story.
We have two very nice heroes here. Michael with a tragic past and a former thief Fin. Together they form a very fine couple and I'm not even angry that it is rather a story of desire at first sight. The romance could indeed have been more developed, but I've seen worse cases.
The same applies to parts with suspense. I was really expecting a mystery that obviously isn't here. It's a shame. Fortunately, the dynamics of the relationship between Michael and Fin compensate for this a little.
As a result, we have a pretty good story here. Rather nothing that I will come back to, but definitely enjoyable read. And that's why this review is pretty short. I just don't have much to say about this book, neither good nor bad.
We have two very nice heroes here. Michael with a tragic past and a former thief Fin. Together they form a very fine couple and I'm not even angry that it is rather a story of desire at first sight. The romance could indeed have been more developed, but I've seen worse cases.
The same applies to parts with suspense. I was really expecting a mystery that obviously isn't here. It's a shame. Fortunately, the dynamics of the relationship between Michael and Fin compensate for this a little.
As a result, we have a pretty good story here. Rather nothing that I will come back to, but definitely enjoyable read. And that's why this review is pretty short. I just don't have much to say about this book, neither good nor bad.
March 14, 2015
Trowchester Blues
By Alex Beecroft
Four stars
There are few wordsmiths in the m/m romance world as elegant as Alex Beecroft.
“Trowchester Blues” introduces us to a small fictional city somewhere far from London in the UK. There we find Michael May, a London cop forced into retirement, and Fintan Hulme, a high-end London fence, also forced into retirement.
The cop and the crook—a nice conundrum for a romance.
Thing is, and this is what makes Beecroft such a delicious writer, both of these men are gentle and generous at heart, and both of them are haunted by their pasts. I’m not sure why Michael had to be bi and not just closeted, and I don’t know why Fintan needed to like pain during sex; but these are just quirks that become part of the lovely tapestry Beecroft weaves for us, thread by colorful thread.
There are a host of little warm-hearted details that make this book better and bigger than some m/m fiction: the Chinese neighbors with the genderqueer child; the homeless teenager; the punk gay boy with tattooed knuckles; and the haughty local lady of the manor (I kept thinking of Penelope Keith from the TV series “To the Manor Born”). These are not just distractions from the core plot, they are extra ingredients that ultimately allow us a deeper understanding of Michael and Finn. They add richness and savor to this stew of personality and emotion.
Apparently this is but the first in a series of books set in Trowchester. It is surely a place I shall want to revisit.
By Alex Beecroft
Four stars
There are few wordsmiths in the m/m romance world as elegant as Alex Beecroft.
“Trowchester Blues” introduces us to a small fictional city somewhere far from London in the UK. There we find Michael May, a London cop forced into retirement, and Fintan Hulme, a high-end London fence, also forced into retirement.
The cop and the crook—a nice conundrum for a romance.
Thing is, and this is what makes Beecroft such a delicious writer, both of these men are gentle and generous at heart, and both of them are haunted by their pasts. I’m not sure why Michael had to be bi and not just closeted, and I don’t know why Fintan needed to like pain during sex; but these are just quirks that become part of the lovely tapestry Beecroft weaves for us, thread by colorful thread.
There are a host of little warm-hearted details that make this book better and bigger than some m/m fiction: the Chinese neighbors with the genderqueer child; the homeless teenager; the punk gay boy with tattooed knuckles; and the haughty local lady of the manor (I kept thinking of Penelope Keith from the TV series “To the Manor Born”). These are not just distractions from the core plot, they are extra ingredients that ultimately allow us a deeper understanding of Michael and Finn. They add richness and savor to this stew of personality and emotion.
Apparently this is but the first in a series of books set in Trowchester. It is surely a place I shall want to revisit.
own-but-not-read-yet
March 31, 2018FREE on Amazon US (not sure about other locations)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07...
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07...
February 15, 2015
Loved it - the characters, the setting, the bookshop! I want that bookshop! most of all I appreciated how real these characters and what they go through emotionally felt. There's a bit of angst, and a bit of adventure, and humor too. Looking forward to the next books in this series.
January 12, 2020
4⭐️
Thank you Alex Beecroft for taking me back to what I love about small English towns. Though mine does not have an awesome bookshop like Trowchester does.
This story took me on a journey. A journey through the good and bad found in humanity. It made me once again ask the question why it’s seems so difficult for us to be accepting, of ourselves and others.
In the end a beautifully written story that I will definitely read again.
Thank you Alex Beecroft for taking me back to what I love about small English towns. Though mine does not have an awesome bookshop like Trowchester does.
This story took me on a journey. A journey through the good and bad found in humanity. It made me once again ask the question why it’s seems so difficult for us to be accepting, of ourselves and others.
In the end a beautifully written story that I will definitely read again.
February 5, 2015
[Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.]
Michael has been released from his work as a police officer for not being able to control his temper. With seemingly nothing else to do, he returns to his hometown and to the house that is now vacant after his father's death. He expects there is nothing for him there, but he can busy himself with getting the house ready to sell. But then he meets Fintan Hulme, proprietor of the town's bookshop. There's attraction and chemistry, but can that overcome Michael's policeman tendencies and Fintan's criminal past?
I want to describe this as a smooth, easy read. When I finished, it felt much shorter than it actually is, but not because of lack of story or pacing. It's just an engaging and well-written story. There's a bit of suspense and action here with some romantic elements thrown in for good measure. This is the start of a series that looks to be more of a 'takes place in the same space but doesn't involve the same main characters throughout' type, and I'm certainly looking forward to continuing it.
Michael has been released from his work as a police officer for not being able to control his temper. With seemingly nothing else to do, he returns to his hometown and to the house that is now vacant after his father's death. He expects there is nothing for him there, but he can busy himself with getting the house ready to sell. But then he meets Fintan Hulme, proprietor of the town's bookshop. There's attraction and chemistry, but can that overcome Michael's policeman tendencies and Fintan's criminal past?
I want to describe this as a smooth, easy read. When I finished, it felt much shorter than it actually is, but not because of lack of story or pacing. It's just an engaging and well-written story. There's a bit of suspense and action here with some romantic elements thrown in for good measure. This is the start of a series that looks to be more of a 'takes place in the same space but doesn't involve the same main characters throughout' type, and I'm certainly looking forward to continuing it.
March 31, 2018
Ex Con Ex Cop both should be enemies but they become lovers and the story works for me. Michael and Fintan(Finn) just have a chemistry that work. I like that while Michael is uncomfortable inflicting pain for Finn's pleasure he finally relents to use pressure points to cause pain without risking injury. Also I like how Sarah has been helped by both men when she was on the street. would have loved to see more of the relationship. Will read on in this series.
August 14, 2015
Rating: 3.5 stars
A romance between mature adults, sprinkled with the occasional irrational moments, but ending on a good note.
A romance between mature adults, sprinkled with the occasional irrational moments, but ending on a good note.
January 3, 2015
Arc received by netgalley ~ riptide publishing
Review to come
Review to come
September 8, 2019
This is a new to me author and I will read more, there were just certain times in this novel where it felt like things got a little disjointed for me. I could have used more depth in certain places and some of the things that happened seemed a little OTT because it wasn't given the time and attention I wanted it to. Overall, though I did like the characters and how things played out.
August 3, 2018
“I don't know what we're doing here – you and me…I don't know what we are or what we can be, but this doesn't have to be about that. This can just be about…a chance. Taking a chance.” ~ Dianna Hardy, Broken Lights
Being a criminal investigator, like Michael May of 'Trowchester Blues' by Alex Beecroft, can be almost unbearable at times. Michael has been feeling himself slipping for the last year or so, and has been desperately trying to hold on to his rage; but the brutality of his present case unleashes all the fury he's been trying so hard to retain and he crosses the line by beating up their latest suspect. Michael knows that he's in big trouble; in an effort to maintain what little dignity he has left, Michael resigns rather than being fired, further embarrassing his colleges. Michael has no idea what he will do now that he's no longer a cop, but when his father dies, he is required to go back to the place that almost destroyed him. It's the last place Michael ever expects to find peace, much less, someone love.
Coming back to the town where he experienced so much trauma when he was young, is one of the hardest things Michael has ever had to do. It's not his ideal place to try to find himself, especially living in his father's house, where most of his nightmares, real or imagined, manifested. Michael can barely stand the sight of it, much less the smell. Even though Michael knows his father is dead, he can still hear his father's cruel taunts and remember the abusive behavior he endured. Michael's main goal in life has been to not be like his father; his latest failure at controlling his temper makes it obvious that he's failing. Michael takes a long look at his home town, trying desperately to find some degree of goodness he can cling to as he gets his feet under him again. As he surveys his surroundings, Michael finds a very unusual looking book store with an even more peculiar proprietor named Fintan Hulme. Michael is further surprised that Finn, as he prefers to be called, is flirting with him.
Finn lost the love of his life, Tom, five years ago, which caused him to totally reevaluate his life. He'd had enough of being a fence for stolen property—the secrecy, deceit, the threat of being caught, which before was thrilling, became too much to bear after Tom died. Finn dropped off the grid and bought a small bookstore in an obscure little town, where he hopes he can stay on the straight and narrow and become an honest member of society. Even though he knows Michael is a cop, he's intrigued by the man. Michael stirs feelings that Finn thought were long gone and despite the fact they are normally opponents, cop and criminal, he decides to go with his feelings and, once again, reach for love. When Finn's past comes back to haunt him, he has to make a choice. Will Finn let his future drag him back under, or will he fight to keep the honest life he's been nurturing for the last five years, including the man he loves?
It was delightfully refreshing to read about an older couple, weathered by life's joys, disappointments, and losses, yet still being able to reach out for love. Michael and Finn are marvelous, complex characters with good hearts, ultimately rewarded for making the right choices. The story is beautifully written in a lyrical style which clearly portrays the raw character of the town, his father's house, and the strong, but conflicted feelings Michael and Finn share. Michael and Finn's struggles grabbed my heart and I suffered and rejoiced right along with them. If you like a story with mystery, suspense, secrets, self development, second chances, love, and redemption, you may enjoy reading this book. Thanks, Alex, for the message that, no matter how down things seem, the light may be right around the corner.
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Being a criminal investigator, like Michael May of 'Trowchester Blues' by Alex Beecroft, can be almost unbearable at times. Michael has been feeling himself slipping for the last year or so, and has been desperately trying to hold on to his rage; but the brutality of his present case unleashes all the fury he's been trying so hard to retain and he crosses the line by beating up their latest suspect. Michael knows that he's in big trouble; in an effort to maintain what little dignity he has left, Michael resigns rather than being fired, further embarrassing his colleges. Michael has no idea what he will do now that he's no longer a cop, but when his father dies, he is required to go back to the place that almost destroyed him. It's the last place Michael ever expects to find peace, much less, someone love.
Coming back to the town where he experienced so much trauma when he was young, is one of the hardest things Michael has ever had to do. It's not his ideal place to try to find himself, especially living in his father's house, where most of his nightmares, real or imagined, manifested. Michael can barely stand the sight of it, much less the smell. Even though Michael knows his father is dead, he can still hear his father's cruel taunts and remember the abusive behavior he endured. Michael's main goal in life has been to not be like his father; his latest failure at controlling his temper makes it obvious that he's failing. Michael takes a long look at his home town, trying desperately to find some degree of goodness he can cling to as he gets his feet under him again. As he surveys his surroundings, Michael finds a very unusual looking book store with an even more peculiar proprietor named Fintan Hulme. Michael is further surprised that Finn, as he prefers to be called, is flirting with him.
Finn lost the love of his life, Tom, five years ago, which caused him to totally reevaluate his life. He'd had enough of being a fence for stolen property—the secrecy, deceit, the threat of being caught, which before was thrilling, became too much to bear after Tom died. Finn dropped off the grid and bought a small bookstore in an obscure little town, where he hopes he can stay on the straight and narrow and become an honest member of society. Even though he knows Michael is a cop, he's intrigued by the man. Michael stirs feelings that Finn thought were long gone and despite the fact they are normally opponents, cop and criminal, he decides to go with his feelings and, once again, reach for love. When Finn's past comes back to haunt him, he has to make a choice. Will Finn let his future drag him back under, or will he fight to keep the honest life he's been nurturing for the last five years, including the man he loves?
It was delightfully refreshing to read about an older couple, weathered by life's joys, disappointments, and losses, yet still being able to reach out for love. Michael and Finn are marvelous, complex characters with good hearts, ultimately rewarded for making the right choices. The story is beautifully written in a lyrical style which clearly portrays the raw character of the town, his father's house, and the strong, but conflicted feelings Michael and Finn share. Michael and Finn's struggles grabbed my heart and I suffered and rejoiced right along with them. If you like a story with mystery, suspense, secrets, self development, second chances, love, and redemption, you may enjoy reading this book. Thanks, Alex, for the message that, no matter how down things seem, the light may be right around the corner.
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
February 12, 2015
I received one copy of this book at no charge in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. Review first written for Nautical Star Books.
Let me just say that Trowchester Blues was a phenomenal book. One of the first things that really caught my attention was the author’s writing style itself. The words almost flowed off the page…descriptive and almost poetic at times, the story wasn’t just TOLD but more like SHOWED to the reader.
Trowchester Blues starts out with a rather graphic murder investigation but if you are squeamish, rest assured that it is the only one in the book. The author includes those gory details to show us why Michael is so burnt out. He loves being a cop in the London police department but he cannot stand to see one more brutal murder and his anger finally takes over and he punches a suspect. He realizes that he cannot go on, no matter how much he loves the job and he heads back to his home town to fight the demons of his past. His horrible childhood, abusive dead father, and a house he can’t stand are emotional challenges that need to be tackled.
Finn is an amazing character. So determined to lead a life on the straight and narrow after having lost the love of his life during his life of crime. But, his love of antiquities gets him into trouble when he ‘rescues’ an ancient book from a past associate. His old acquaintances are determined to drag him back into the world of stolen art but he is equally determined to make a new life for himself with Michael.
The secondary characters were incredibly unique and touched on some serious social issues that I would love to see explored more fully. A young runaway, a gender queer teen, and a book club full of nosy gay men round out an incredibly captivating story.
I loved the detail that the author went into in terms of Michael and Finn’s past. Giving us glimpses of Micheal’s childhood and seeing how deeply Finn cared for his past lover…those things are key to who each of the characters is in the present tense. These are fully developed and amazingly well rounded characters and I would honestly love to see another book with them in it.
Trowchester Blues is not exactly an ‘easy’ read. If you just skim through it quickly you will lose the details that really give this book such amazing depth. There is a mystery to solve, a touching romance, a small smattering of sex, and a lot of personal growth for each of the characters. It is definitely a book I recommend you sit down with when you really have the time to enjoy it!
Let me just say that Trowchester Blues was a phenomenal book. One of the first things that really caught my attention was the author’s writing style itself. The words almost flowed off the page…descriptive and almost poetic at times, the story wasn’t just TOLD but more like SHOWED to the reader.
Trowchester Blues starts out with a rather graphic murder investigation but if you are squeamish, rest assured that it is the only one in the book. The author includes those gory details to show us why Michael is so burnt out. He loves being a cop in the London police department but he cannot stand to see one more brutal murder and his anger finally takes over and he punches a suspect. He realizes that he cannot go on, no matter how much he loves the job and he heads back to his home town to fight the demons of his past. His horrible childhood, abusive dead father, and a house he can’t stand are emotional challenges that need to be tackled.
Finn is an amazing character. So determined to lead a life on the straight and narrow after having lost the love of his life during his life of crime. But, his love of antiquities gets him into trouble when he ‘rescues’ an ancient book from a past associate. His old acquaintances are determined to drag him back into the world of stolen art but he is equally determined to make a new life for himself with Michael.
The secondary characters were incredibly unique and touched on some serious social issues that I would love to see explored more fully. A young runaway, a gender queer teen, and a book club full of nosy gay men round out an incredibly captivating story.
I loved the detail that the author went into in terms of Michael and Finn’s past. Giving us glimpses of Micheal’s childhood and seeing how deeply Finn cared for his past lover…those things are key to who each of the characters is in the present tense. These are fully developed and amazingly well rounded characters and I would honestly love to see another book with them in it.
Trowchester Blues is not exactly an ‘easy’ read. If you just skim through it quickly you will lose the details that really give this book such amazing depth. There is a mystery to solve, a touching romance, a small smattering of sex, and a lot of personal growth for each of the characters. It is definitely a book I recommend you sit down with when you really have the time to enjoy it!
February 10, 2015
This was my first time reading this author and I'm now a fan. I really enjoyed this book. Michael is a police detective who has seen one too many crimes scenes. After a forced retirement he heads back to the city he was raised in to try to put his life back together. His parent's home does nothing but bring back bad memories for him. While there he meets Finn who is his complete opposite. While Michael is dark and broody and hiding his sexuality, Finn is light-hearted, outgoing and completely in tune with being gay. Finn is also an ex criminal with a shady past. The two men begin a friendship and then a relationship. While trying to get things off the ground Finn's past catches up to him and throws the two men into crisis.
This story was well done and flowed really smoothly. The main characters were both really likable and even though they each had their demons I could understand where they were coming from. They were good together and their scenes together were both sweet and steamy. It all felt realistic and it wasn't too much in either direction. Not too angsty but not to insta-love either. The author throws in a little side story with a homeless girl that serves to show a different side to both men. I loved that little twist. It was a unique way to show the two men's deeper connection.
As I previously said it was my first time reading this author but it won't be my last. There's something I can't quite place my finger on that makes this author's storytelling unique. While I can't quite explain what it is, I like it and I'm eagerly looking forward to the next book in this series
February 21, 2015
OK, for my first foray into Alex Beecroft's writing I must say this is really good. I mean, seriously well written.
Michael May, the London cop who finally loses it due to the stress of his job, goes home to the house that he inherits from his father, a total emotional abuser who is responsible for Michael's mother's suicide.
Once he returns to Trowchester, disgraced and resigned from his London police job, he encounters the magical Fintan Hulme, owner of an amazing book store and holder of deep, dark secrets from his past and the two just click in that amazing way that you can feel right through the writing... well done!
Fintan's past comes back to haunt him in the form of a few unsavory characters, all the while he's trying to keep hunky Michael, who is just perplexed as to what the heck's going one and dealing with his own baggage.
As this develops it doesn't feel contrived, or forced. It flows beautifully and the dots are connected brilliantly.
I'm not going to give any spoilers, but I will say this is definitely well worth it, and as it seems it's the grounder for a themed series, I highly recommend it!
Well done!
Michael May, the London cop who finally loses it due to the stress of his job, goes home to the house that he inherits from his father, a total emotional abuser who is responsible for Michael's mother's suicide.
Once he returns to Trowchester, disgraced and resigned from his London police job, he encounters the magical Fintan Hulme, owner of an amazing book store and holder of deep, dark secrets from his past and the two just click in that amazing way that you can feel right through the writing... well done!
Fintan's past comes back to haunt him in the form of a few unsavory characters, all the while he's trying to keep hunky Michael, who is just perplexed as to what the heck's going one and dealing with his own baggage.
As this develops it doesn't feel contrived, or forced. It flows beautifully and the dots are connected brilliantly.
I'm not going to give any spoilers, but I will say this is definitely well worth it, and as it seems it's the grounder for a themed series, I highly recommend it!
Well done!
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