Finding Harbor

The Long Shadow Series #3

by Duncan Gaye

Part of The Long Shadow Series by Duncan Gaye

Patrick Callahan comes to Cape Breton expecting easy money from a quick and lucrative timber deal. Instead, he only finds humiliation. Swindled out of his inheritance and stranded in a windswept fishing village, he is left with nothing but a single suitcase and a future that has collapsed overnight. At seven and a half feet tall, Angus MacAskill is a gentle giant with his own past. In St. Ann's, he is known for his silent kindness as much as he is for his stoic nature. He offers Patrick a bookkeeping job in his mercantile, and a place by the fire. What begins as simple arrangement blossoms into a profound connection neither man could have ever imagined.

Set within the wild beauty of nineteenth-century Nova Scotia, Finding Harbor is a queer historical romance about survival, finding home, and a love that takes root slowly but with unshakable strength. Perfect for readers who love the tenderness of Cat Sebastian and KJ Charles, and for those drawn to the warmth and hope found in TJ Klune's novels.

306 pages, ebook

Published November 10, 2025

About the author

Duncan Gaye lives in River Forest, Illinois. He believes magic can be found anywhere, even the suburbs. He writes the kind of love stories that sneak up on you—queer, tender, and just a little strange. His books are full of burly big-hearted men, tall tales, impossible odds, and the kind of endings that leave you wanting more.

When not writing, he likes to read, travel and relax with his adorable senior dogs, Spotty and French Fry.



The Long Shadow Series by Duncan Gaye is a thematic anthology series of stand-alone LGBTQ+ novellas and novels that tell love stories shaped by the extraordinary. Blending elements of speculative fiction, magical realism, tall tales, and literary drama, these are stories where intimacy and identity meet epic strength and emotional vulnerability.

From the mythical to the mundane, each book explores larger-than-life characters—strongmen, bodyguards, super soldiers, and other giants. For fans of emotional intensity, queer desire, and stories that stretch the boundaries of realism, this series offers a new kind of legend.

Reviews

[Sarah Patterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book...even with its deficiencies. I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review.

I'm not going to spill the intricate details about the book because basically all the other reviews seem to do that PLUS the author's blurb is sufficient enough to generate an addition to your TBR list at min.

This MM historical love story gives as a small glimpse into the life of a VERY angsty same-sex couples at a time when such romantic coupling could be deadly to be very frank. Living in Texas in 2025, I have often wondered about the successful MM/FF/XX romances of the wild wild west. Unfortunately, due to very restrictive American norms, those narratives have for the most part been excluded from history...until very recently at best. That is in part why I chose to read Duncan Gaye's story. Well, that AND I thoroughly enjoy the broader breadth of storyline possibilities that MMCs seem to experience in MM romances. Thankfully Angus and Patrick did not disappoint. However, if you're looking for spice this isn't where you're going to find it. There's nothing but angst and poor communication on top of poor communication and the usual community villains (so to speak) here BUT Patrick and Angus are such sweet, sweet characters. Honestly, I absolutely adore Angus. The complete omission of detailed spice is almost forgivable because there is an overabundance of tenderness to take it's place.

When I was reading the book, I didn't know that this was part of a larger series. After I finished the book, I only learned then that it was b/c I was absolutely desperate to find out more information about Patrick's and Angus' characters before finding each other in Finding Harbor. I say all that to say, if DG decides to drop an epilogue or dare I say a Part 2, count me in as a given. I have to see what's next for these two. They deserve more time on many more pages of somebody's book soon, and as enjoyable as DG's writing style is, I have no doubt I will absolutely enjoy the continuation of their precious tale.

Again, this is my honest review of Finding Harbor by Duncan Gaye, and I received an arc of this book from Gay Romance Reviews.

[Rach · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I've spent my life being stared at, talked about. I thought I was sparing you that."
"I don't need sparing," Patrick replied. "I need-" He stopped, momentarily overwhelmed by the simplicity of what he required. "I just need you. Here."

Finding Harbor is a tender, poetic love story that makes you stop and consider the true value of the people and the things you hold most dear in life. It was a good reminder for me that the people that hold space in your life deserve to be seen, not just looked at, and properly listened to, not just heard.

I don't normally read historical romances, so this is a first for me, but I just couldn't go past that cozy little tropes list. Small town? Stranded traveller? Gentle Giant? Size Difference? Only one bed? Check, check, check, check, check. Sign me right up.

When I signed up for the arc I didn’t actually realise it was the third in a series, I thought it was a stand-alone. But I’m going to be so for real with you - you don’t need to have read the first two to enjoy this one. In my opinion anyway. It worked really well as a stand-alone for me.

Patrick and Angus were such deep, intense characters. You get a sense for who they are almost immediately - Angus is quiet, stoic even, with a heart of gold and an intense need to belong in a world that wasn't made for him at all. Patrick is a lonely, confused young man who's desperate to prove himself and his worth to the world. Though both men desperately crave understanding and companionship, neither are expecting to find it in St Ann, Cape Breton of all places. And yet, find it they do. They try so hard to pretend that their closeness is just out of charity and necessity at the beginning, and it was beautiful to see them let their guards down around each other and slowly start t come out of their shells.

I loved seeing Patrick redefine what success meant to him. It was fascinating to watch his mental growth as he let go of the pretences he'd brought with him from Boston, and embraced a simpler, humbler way of living in Cape Breton. That's probably why it hurt me so much to watch him give up the hard-won new life he'd forged for himself, because his peace and happiness was threatened by small-minded townsfolk who couldn't just let a man be. I understand why he felt he had to leave and why he couldn't have fought for the life he'd made, even if he'd wanted to, but it still made me so sad.

What really made my heart ache was that Angus said variations of "most don't see past what I am to who I am" over and over again, yet Patrick still thought of him as “the giant” in his mind. He didn’t take in the things Angus was desperately trying to convey to him, because he was too busy waxing poetic about his own hardships.

Angus's story broke my heart. To have gone through so much, so young, and to have walked through life knowing you were different because people took the time to point it out to you at every opportunity was... well it hurt. So much of his time and energy is spent taking care of other people, yet there's no one to take care of him properly until Patrick comes crashing into his life. I understood completely why he pulled away from Patrick when he thought he was going to make his lovers life harder than it had to be. If people tell you that you're a burden enough, you start to believe them.

I hated that they were separated by their own mental hurdles for so much of the story and I would have liked more from the ending after having to see them act like ships in the night for so long. I know we weren't ever going to see Angus or Patrick stand up and tell the town to get stuffed because homosexuality was a punishable offence in 1800's Nova Scotia, but it would have been nice to see everyone in St Ann's quietly mind their own damn business as Angus and Patrick went back to their daily routines and began to navigate a quiet life together. They deserved that much after everything they'd done for that town.

One think I'm not used to with romances these days is low or closed door spice. I'm so glad I gave this one a go though because it was so well done. It was intimate and cosy without having any explicit sex scenes between the main characters. The way Angus and Patrick orbit around one another is tender and sweet - almost every choice they make is with the comfort of the other in mind and that was really lovely to read.

What was slightly less lovely to read was the repetition of information and character inconsistencies. The same thing is repeated over and over again, just in a different order. After the fourth time you've read about Angus having to duck through his own front doorway that's actually raised to the correct height for him, he just ducks out of habit, it becomes a bit much. While most of this story is written like poetry, a quite a bit of it is just filler words, rather than moments with meaning.
I also noticed a lot of inconsistencies with things like his dad’s description, Mrs Cambell turning into Mrs Abercrombie, pricing inconsistencies for ships passage, just little things like that that really dragged me out of the story.

Those little things wouldn't stop me from reading another Duncan Gaye book though. The beautiful way in which he tells stories makes me want to read more from him, and I can see myself reading the rest of his backlist very soon.

4/5 stars!

[Julie Underhill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Harbor by Duncan Gaye is part of his The Long Shadow series. It is the poignant story of two men, one trying to be his true self and the other finding out what being authentic means as they work together and realize they belong to each other, all taking place in the early 1900’s. Patrick Callahan left Boston where he was a shopkeeper’s assistant and ledger keeper and was aspiring to be more than what he was and gain money and social status. He had given all his money to someone who promised him a junior partnership and some of the profits of a lumber company in Nova Scotia. He arrived by boat at St. Ann’s and was expecting to see the owner of the company but no one was there to meet him. After wandering the town and talking to some of its citizens he realized that he had been scammed and had no way to return to Boston and even if he did have, he had burned his bridges there with his father and former employers. He had nothing and was starting to panic when he saw a huge man, over 7 feet 5 inches tall, handling a broken wagon and its heavy contents with ease. Angus MacAskill was the strongest man in the colonies and owned MacAskill’s General Mercantile and Grist Mill. Patrick entered the store and looked around. Mary MacGregor was working there and was very observant. When Angus came in, he asked about Patrick who told him he needed a job and could take care of his ledgers and do whatever else he needed done. Angus tested him and offered him a job working from 6 in the morning to 6 at night, doing the ledgers and tending to the store when he wasn’t there. It was half his pay from his job in Boston but he had no other choice so he was happy to have it. Angus had fascinated him from when he first saw him and Mary said he was a man who had a softness for people in trouble. When he asked where he could find lodging Angus took him home to stay at his cottage. He had built it taking in his height but it was plain with a large room with, a kitchen, a large table and 2 chairs, and one bed. At dinner they talked and Angus told him he had traveled and been in Barnum’s Traveling Circus as the Giant of Cape Breton, but it didn’t feel right because people looked at him like a curiosity and a freak and never as the real man he was. That night, as they shared the bed, Patrick stayed awake thinking about all that had happened but when Angus put his arm on his waist, he felt grounded and for the first time in years he didn’t want to be any place else. The next day Patrick took care of the ledgers and cleaned out the back room and learned the routine of the store. Angus’s brother Donald came in and was somewhat pompous and cruel and told him about Angus’s time in the circus. He wanted his service at the farm and when he got back to the cottage Patrick had done the chores and had dinner waiting. He saw that Angus was determined to carve his own identity and be the real man he was inside. This caused a recalibration of the values Patrick had and he wanted to be his authentic self, not someone who aspired to greatness because that is what society dictated. He thought this could be the start of something real and honest and authentic. They talked and saw that their lives had been somewhat similar with both being something they weren’t and how they wanted to be their true selves. The story continues as they work together and learn more about each other’s lives and their attraction grows which leads to a kiss. They went to a natural pool, went swimming and played, and then laid in the sun enjoying their day. There were ups and downs in their relationship as things would be very good between them but then something would happen that would make Angus distance himself. Plus, people were noticing that they were still staying together and shoppers were being less friendly to Patrick. It came to a head when the Reverand gave a sermon about men and women being together and creating families and Patrick was told that in order to save Angus’s business he needed to leave before the bay froze over. Patrick had his ticket but something happened with Mary that caused Angus to realize Patrick couldn’t leave and that he belonged to him. Their deep bond, trust, and affection had built up to this moment and they knew that while it wouldn’t be easy they would get through it together. I really enjoyed this book. There were many ups and downs as both Angus and Patrick were striving to live their authentic lives. Patrick saw what a fool he had been and learned many lessons. Angus had always been a freak but he strived to have people see the real person he was inside, which Patrick saw almost immediately. Men being together during that time had severe consequences but the more they were with each other the more they knew they could face whatever came together. Mary, the townspeople, and Donald also played a big part in the story. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like historical M/M stories about a man who has been scammed, the gentle giant who takes him in and teaches him about being authentic, facing hard times, and finally acknowledging they belonged together and would stay with each other no matter what.

[Maryann Kafka · Rating 4 out of 5]

Patrick Callahan has made his way to Cape Breton, St. Ann’s, Nova Scotia in1855. He has made a big step in accepting a contract from Mr. Carroway. William Carroway claims to be a big businessman and a representative of Cape Breton Timber Consortium. Patrick is excited to make this new move from Boston and his job as an accountant. He has given up his meager inheritance from his Aunt, $1,842 and his savings to become an equal partner in Carroway’s deal. This was a big chance for Patrick to prove to himself he could be so much more, instead of being passed over as a junior partner. Patrick was intelligent, educated, sharp and understood figures. This was his chance to fulfill his dream of prosperity that once felt impossible.

When he arrives at Cape Breton docks he finds them not as busy. He was suppose to meet a Mr. Bruce according to Carroway’s instructions. When he pulls out the contract and reads it again, he realizes he’s been totally fooled. Asking those, who he thought could help, had never heard of a Mr. Bruce, and there were others who had faced this awful situation.

The next morning Patrick walked the St. Ann’s dock. He watched the men work. They worked as a well oiled machine, with no words, only nods and gestures. Patrick knew at that point, he was an outsider.

As he talked with a boy, a loaded wagon was arriving and in distress. The axle was cracked and could no longer move the large crates and barrels on board. The wagon owner had but one thing to do and that was call on Angus MacAskill. A giant of a man, who did the work of four men. With calm, no hesitation, controlled power and preciseness, Patrick was mesmerized by this incredible man.

Walking around the town, Patrick finds he’s not dressed for it, and now in pain and no money to even have a place to stay. He finds a store, MacAskill’s Corner, and there he meets the young pregnant Mary, who’s the shopgirl. She’s a delightful women and shares that she’s married to John David MacGregor. She shares her story of being fifteen and a tragedy that left her alone in the world and Angus who gave her this job four years ago.

When he get’s to meet Angus MacAskill in person, Patrick is still mesmerized by this giant of a man. Patrick explains that he’s in need of employment and Angus doesn’t hesitate to put Patrick through his paces. Angus sees something special in Patrick and it leads to a change in both men’s lives.

Duncan Gaye brings a wonderfully, descriptive tale to the page with “Finding Harbor”. He brings two magnificent characters together that are opposite and start to build a relationship together. Patrick still has a lot to learn about the life of St. Ann’s. He’s still a bit naive about the world. Angus has a beautiful soul but he’s had a hard life and knows how cruel it could be. He’s tried to put that aside and always tries to help the people who live in the village whenever needed. No matter what others think, Angus tried too maintain a normalcy in his life. But there were always those who are cruel and can’t see the true value of people.

Mary MacGregor is a wonderful character and she brought the sunshine to this fabulous tale. She never judged others and always offered her advice and remained positive. Besides understanding and building a friendship with Patrick and Angus, she achieves a miracle.

I can’t even begin to describe how romantically beautiful this story is written, but it takes your breath away. With the romantic writings there doesn’t need to be the physical intimacy, as I stated the writing alone fulfills those moments. It’s a story of two brave men’s thoughts, wishes, hopes, and dreams. But with the beauty of romance comes the ugliness of people being influenced or having there own thoughts of how others should live. The story is set in a time when homophobia and gossip were a danger to those of a particular sexuality. Unfortunately, the villages preacher and Angus’s brother Donald were not even interested in understanding. Donald only cared in keeping his reputation pure.

I appreciate an author who also takes the time to write about historical facts and meld them with fiction. The history of Barnum and Bailey circus fits this story perfectly. It expresses how hard it was for those who were unique and the struggle to never feel comfortable being themselves.

For me, “Finding Harbor” was a magnificent read. It drew me in and became a page-turner, with: drama, excitement, the struggle of the time period, and a romance that will pull at your heart-strings.

I purchased the two other books by Duncan Gaye: “Carry Me Gently” and “Enter The Ox”. I am curious to see if theses also contain specific historical times.

[Sandy Kay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Immersive historical MM romance set in an atmospheric isolated small coastal town.

I enjoyed the setting and tone of this novel quite a lot, as well as the characters of the two MCs. Moody, authentic historical time period, a vivid town and population I could visualize…it has a lot going for it.

The first half pulled me in, as Patrick Callahan arrives in this small island town thinking he’s a partner in a timber company who will make it rich, only to find he’s been swindled out of his inheritance and has nowhere to go and no money to return home.

Angus MacAskill is the local mercantile owner…and a unique man. He’s a giant-size human who spent time as a sideshow act in Barnum’s (exploitive) circus, and has come home to make a life away from staring crowds and acting as someone he’s not. His contrast of extreme strength and gentleness charmed me.

Angus taking in Patrick, making him welcome in his one-room, one-bed cabin, was awkwardly lovely, and the first half of the book sang with warmth and growing connection.

It fell apart a bit after that; this is a time when homophobia reigned and men had to hide their “shameful” desires, but, these two had their own space, and it was kind of weird how they came together and then became strangers even privately, two ships drifting in a harbor together but going from comfort and a loving connection to bad-awkward silence and no communication. Then they seemed to come together again, after Patrick makes an attempt to interact at a town establishment and it goes poorly, and Angus finds him, but then they just...didn't? Yes, the townfolk’s tongues started wagging, and a nasty preacher put gossipy busybody attitudes into effect, but…I just didn’t really follow the changing romance beats, they didn’t make sense. And the way the tension was resolved seemed random…like, something public and heroic happened, but, nothing had really changed, so, why were these two suddenly going to work out when they couldn't before?

More needed to come from within them, rather than being so susceptible to the public attitudes when they already had privacy and a place to be safe. Sure, the attitudes and actions of townspeople got bleak and unfair and a bit scary, but…I don’t know, they just stopped communicating at all and it seemed contrived somehow. Not organic. They

I felt these two were a good match and was rooting for them. Secondary characters, especially Mary, Angus’s pregnant shop clerk, supported the story and added layers. Angus’s brother seemed more of a cliché predictable antagonist. And the sailors were quite one-note. The finale with Angus taking action seemed to devolve him backward rather than moving him forward to a place of inner strength…the second half was more fighting itself than working for me.

But overall, I enjoyed spending time with these two and was happy that they seemed to be in a good place in the end.

HFN, overtones of HEA, though the time period still makes that nebulous. Strangers to only one bed to lovers, but inconsistent development. NO others in any way, entirely safe and lovely for me. Recommended.

My thanks to BookSirens and the author for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.

[KelseyreadsHR · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 I really enjoyed this book. The poetic prose from the beginning of the story naturally drew me in and kept me engaged throughout.

The about the author section at the end of the book says he writes love stories that sneak up on you and are tender. And I felt that’s exactly what this story was. The coziness of the story highlighted how the simplest things in life can bring contentment.

I loved the internal exploration Patrick navigated, circumstances forcing him to re-evaluate his perception of himself and success.

The main conflict emerged from living in a small town and the inevitable gossip it brings. I wondered how this would be resolved and was satisfied with the ending.

Angus is a longtime resident of St. Ann’s but spent time away when he was part of Barnum’s traveling circus. The way Angus is treated by family and townsfolk wears on him and adds to tension within the relationship and character arc.

This story is told solely from Patrick’s point of view and for the most part you know where Angus stands but there are times you are left wondering. There’s also a period of silence in their relationship. Where they are wary and uncertain of how to get back to where they were before. While I’m not usually a fan of the communication trope, this came off as realistic and in line with these characters. I understood and felt the tension it created.

Overall, I thought this book was beautifully written that will have me thinking about it long after today.

Finding Harbor is the third book in The Long Shadow series. This was a new to me author and I would read this author again. This can be read as a standalone.

There is one open door scene of sole self pleasure early on in the book and would described it as sensual. This is the first m/m book I’ve read with no on page intimate encounters with/between both MC. The gentle touches, glances, and kisses paired with their goings on of everyday life provided plenty of intimacy.

I received an advance reader copy from the author via BookSirens. All opinions are my own

[DJ McCready · Rating 4 out of 5]

For me, this was a first time reading this author and I have to say there is a great deal he can contribute to the MM literature. To be able to imagine the period and the isolation of Cape Breton at that period was amazing.

The period is important because Patrick arrives to find he has been scammed and is almost penniless, in the wrong clothing for Cape Breton. He is attracted to Angus on the dock but does not communicate with him until he wanders into the local mercantile store where Mary, who becomes a loving character throughout the novel, introduces them. The result is that Angus hires Patrick and offers him temporary accommodation and food. The isolated cabin Angus had built for his own size has only one bed but they agree to share the bed. During this early part of the story, things go smoothly and Angus and Patrick show they are attracted to each other.

I found the latter half of the novel to be difficult, but it made compelling reading as I wanted their initial attraction to grow and instead, threatened by the homosexuality in their midst Angus' family and many village residents drive Patrick and Angus apart, not just once but twice. Mary is the bridge to them overcoming the negatives and admitting they can live authentically even with all the negatives.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Deb Kel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finding Harbor is one of those stories that quietly steals your heart. Set against the rugged beauty of nineteenth-century Nova Scotia, it tells the story of Patrick Callahan, a man who arrives chasing fortune and status, only to lose everything, and Angus MacAskill — the gentle giant who offers him kindness, dignity, and, eventually, love.

What I loved most about this book is how unhurried it feels. The relationship between Patrick and Angus grows slowly, built on trust, small gestures, and shared silences. There’s such tenderness in how they come to see and accept one another, not just as two men drawn together, but as two souls trying to live honestly in a world that often won’t allow it.

Duncan Gaye’s writing is quietly powerful; it captures the isolation and beauty of Cape Breton while also delving deeply into the characters’ inner lives. Angus, in particular, was unforgettable — his mix of strength and gentleness made him feel utterly real. Patrick’s journey from pride and shame to humility and self-acceptance was moving and genuine.

There are moments of hardship and heartbreak, especially as the town begins to notice their closeness, but the ending left me hopeful. It’s not an easy love story, but it’s an honest one — about finding home, both in a place and in another person.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review

[Nina Diab · Rating 5 out of 5]

'He glanced up, meeting Patrick's gaze directly. "Being surrounded by people who only see what makes you different creates a special kind of loneliness."
Patrick nodded, unable to speak past the sudden tightness in his throat. How well he understood that particular loneliness, though for entirely different reasons. His secrets were not written on his body like Angus's, but they separated him just as surely from genuine connection. Always performing, always watching his words, his gestures, his glances, lest they reveal what must remain hidden.'

I loved this book. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Angus and Patrick. Angus was very tall at almost eight feet and very strong. But he was a gentle giant, fair in his business, and assessing. He drew me in immediately. There was also a loneliness to him beneath the surface- something Patrick recognized and experienced himself. After being scammed of all his money and unable to go home, I could appreciate Patrick didn't fall into despair despite his desperate situation. He was honorable and determined. I loved the dynamic between the two of them and the way their relationship developed. This story was a journey and I really got invested in these two men. This is the first book I've read by this author and I would read more. 5 stars

[SNik · Rating 4 out of 5]

Historical standalone. Size difference. Only one bed. Slow burn/no burn. HFN. Single POV.

Stranded and swindled, Patrick is left in a small fishing village with no money or hope of returning home to Boston. When local businessman Angus takes pity on Patrick and hires him as a bookkeeper, he offers him a bed and the ability to survive.

This is a beautifully written story of two men finding something special and unexpected but struggling to keep themselves and their feelings safe during a period where they are not supposed to be together. Angus has a difficult past he has overcome but still haunts him, and Patrick takes time to see that his happiness and sense of accomplishment may be different than what he once envisioned. As this is single POV, we don’t get Angus’s perspective, and the constant lack of communication is frustrating and yet might be understandable given these characters and the time period in which they live. Overall, I really enjoyed this story of two men finding a connection and struggling to overcome their own doubts and the pressures of their peers in order to be together. Would have loved to see an epilogue or that they truly make it to their HEA. 4.25

[Splash · Rating 3 out of 5]

I just love historical MM romances lately. This was a bit of a different one, but definitely good. I'm not gonna say too much about the story because the blurb covers it pretty well.

What surprised me the most in this book was the pacing. It starts off pretty fast (which I wasn't a fan of). They meet right at the beginning of the book. The day after they meet (and after Angus offers Patrick a job and a place to sleep), they have their first kiss. I found it to be a bit unrealistic and too fast, concerning the times and that they had never talked about anything really regarding sexuality (it's not really a topic throughout the whole book). With that, you're left wondering: what's the rest of the book about? They're everyday life. Hiding in plain sight from the village, managing the store, managing times of no communication, managing the whispers of the villagers.

Now, for anyone going into this: there is no steam in this. Zero. They kiss, and that's it. But overall, it's still a good book, and I encourage you to read it, because it has something special about it.

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.

[Raven · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to BookSirens for giving me access to the eARC of this book, all thoughts are solely my own.
This book was really cute and really interesting, it was fascinating to read about living in a small town in the 1800s and being gay no less. I understood why certain things happened the way they did but my only issue is the lack of communication especially for people that are sharing a home and a bed they were really horrible at communicating, like I found myself at multiple points just thinking like Just say something, both of them are waiting for the other to break the silence first and then neither do.
Another kind of issue I had with the book is the repetitiveness of a lot of the paragraphs, I felt like the author kept trying to shoving some certain facts down our throats instead of letting us the readers use our brains.
Like I understand that Angus is a giant but it really doesn’t need to be mentioned all the time about how gentle he is despite his size , like let us infer his gentleness for ourselves through his actions you know what I mean ? 😅
But I really did enjoy this book , I need to read more MM romances written by men.

[Showarst · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was beautiful


Finding Harbor by Duncan Gaye was such a beautifully written historical romance. Set in an era where homosexuality was frowned upon, Patrick and Angus find something worth fighting for. Patrick ends up in St. Ann after being conned into giving away his money in a timber scam. He has nothing more to his name than a few dollars and the clothes on this back. Shop owner and giant, Angus, takes pity on him and offers him a home and a job. These two find solace in each other in a very cruel world. I loved the way this author wrote. It was poetic and lovely. I could not put it down because I was so drawn to these men. The town, and at times Angus, drove me nuts with how they treated Patrick. I wanted to see more of their lives together—not them being ghosts passing each other and not acknowledging what was happening. But I could understand why Angus behaved the way he did. This is definitely low spice with a few kisses and touches. However, I really enjoyed this story. I will definitely be reading more by this author.

I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review.

[Didi Ps · Rating 5 out of 5]

After Patrick loses pretty much everything, he ends up meeting Angus who gives him a bookkeeping job that will hopefully help him out of the troubles he finds himself in.

This is a sweet story about survival & friendship, and about finding their home together.

In the beginning, it was clear that Patrick had had a run of bad luck, it was quite sad. However, as I read about Angus and how his brother treats him, as well as his past, this was a much sadder back story.

They are so good together, but when real life intrudes... Ugh...

This story is extremely well written, with great descriptive lines... The point of view, being only told from Patrick’s side, was quite effective, too.

It is such a sweet story, about an innocent love, a love that many misunderstand...

I would have really loved an epilogue a few months or a year later to show what happened with the villagers.

Still, despite this missing, if I could, I would give it more than 5 stars... <3 <3 <3

I received this free ARC, and this is my honest review.

[RN · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical romances are not usually my thing, but this one is superb. The story and the writing is beautiful, words chosen carefully, measured and thoughtful, just like the two men, Angus and Patrick. Their relationship is gentle, the connection built through actions that are considered and deliberate, tiny steps taken, yet filled with so much meaning and intent. It was a time when men didn't talk about their feelings too much, so actions took the place of words. In the closed mindedness of the village, in a time that was not accepting of two men together, they needed to talk more instead of allow silence build between them. The reader shares in the emotions of the two men as they move from wonder at their developing connection, to despair, and ultimately to the choice they have to make. A wonderful story.

***** potential spoiler below *****


So this shouldn't be a spoiler given the genre, but because of the way the story develops, it kind of is.
However if you're like me, you need to know this to read a book - ultimately these two men do get their HEA.

[Sheila M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book, which was a different kind of love story of two outcasts that find harbor, or home, with each other. The gentle giant Angus MacAskill and his lost leprechaun Patrick Callahan meet when Patrick shows up in town after being swindled from his savings. Something sparks when they meet, and soon Angus takes him in, offering him a home and job. The story follows their relationship as they weather many storms, literally and figuratively.

Finding Harbor was a poignant and moving story about forbidden love for that time period. It was beautifully and respectfully written without any added spice. There were a lot of supporting characters, with my favorites being Mary MacGregor and her husband John David. Angus and Patrick had a wonderful relationship with them. My least favorite was Donald MacAskill, Angus’ brother. He was selfish, liked to mock his brother, and generally mistreated him. Readers that enjoy emotional, mm, historical, small-town stories may enjoy this book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Gavin Stephenson-Jackman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seeing beneath the surfaces and appearances to the real person is what we should all aspire to, but too often do not. Patrick has been about appearances to fit in and keep his secret, unfortunately he finds himself in Cape Breton and broke after being swindled. Angus has returned to St. Ann's after years of being exhibited as a circus oddity. Angus is a giant, Patrick is diminutive by comparison but each seems capable of seeing beyond the surface to what lies beneath. What starts as a business relationship soon turns personal but secrets are hard to hide in a small costal village in the 1800s. How will their fragile relationship withstand societal pressures? An interesting love story in a difficult time.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Molly Otto · Rating 5 out of 5]

Historical romances are not what I generally go to and yet this one intrigued me enought to give it a try. I am so happy that I took that chance in this beautiful building of something more. In a time it is not safe to be out, two men learn what it is like to lean on the other for comfort and safety. The build up is done so elegantly you grasp for the next touch. Angus and Patrick are two men in a time not ready for their love, yet both accept their happiness is worth the risk. Duncan does a brilliant job in showing the towns views and how it affects the overall relationship to when the choices are made they are made with care and understanding of what is to come.

I received an early copy of this story formy honest review.

[Derek · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this historical romance by Duncan Gaye. Set in rural Nova Scotia, it digs deeply into themes of betrayal, bigotry, friendship, and love. The main characters, Patrick and Angus, are immediately interesting and engaging to the reader (and each other), with a small cast of dynamic folks rounding out the narrative. Gaye builds the tension slowly, then explosively, as the men come to grip with the power of their attraction, affection, and place in society. The story was original, tender, and fresh - will now enjoy the other volumes in the Long Shadow series, and keep my eye out for #4. I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Polli.p · Rating 4 out of 5]

A queer quirky romance, full of the unusual. Patrick arrives at St Annes to discover he is a victim of a massive scam. Left homeless and short of money he's offered work and a home by Angus, a giant of a man who once was a circus 'freak.'

From the blend of the unusual with the bleakness of St Annes, through to the homophobic villagers, this MM romance pulses with deep emotions, hidden trauma and the truth of love.

There's an ache in this story that belongs to Angus and Patrick, but can be felt by the reader from page one. The story is gritty, raw, original. It's a hundred different emotions and more. And that ending? What a corker!

[Amanda Vierra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I signed up for this ARC because im always looking for something different. This started out super slow and took me awhile to capture my attention. Angus ened up capturing my attention though. He's such a gentle giant, literally. I love how he just took to Patrick like ya, your mine. But it is set in the 1850s so it is so forbidden. Their relationship ends up growing into something so beautiful and simple. There was no "spice" but a handful of intimate moments between them that had me blushing. I'd say this does end with an HEA even though towards the end I thought it wasn't going to and it was going to rip my heart out.
Duncan, this story was beautifully written. I loved it!

[Rachel Watkinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review
Finding Harbor
Duncan Gaye
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I absolutely loved this story.
You get history. You get love. You get family. It's a very nice refreshing read that you will absolutely love

Patrick went on a journey from Boston to St.Annes Nova Scotia, expecting something big, but it turns out he was scamed out of his inheritance and left at the harbor with nothing.
Until he meets Angus, and things start to look up.
That is until the small ville gets work of Angus and Patrick, and they decide it's best for him to leave......but will he?

[C.B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet. Patrick is swindled, stranded and left discombobulated and embarrassed. Angus compassionately comes to Patrick's aid. They form a bond of friendship and survival within the bonds of society at their time in history. Duncan, creates an intelectually emotional story of men finding their way through trauma and life's challenges. We can't put the story down hoping our men can find their paths to happiness. This story pulls at your heart. Nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Bookhookedmum&#x1f4da; · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book by Duncan Gaye and it will not be my last. I tucked into this story and loved every page. I’m a fool for historical romance and this was written with accuracy that I could envision it all so perfectly. It was a beautiful romance between two very opposite characters. I felt every nervous moment, every sad moment and every heart warming moment with them. It is definitely going on my ‘Go-To’ mm romance recs. I think that everyone would enjoy it just as much as I did and would be just as hungry for more stories from this author!!

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet, tender and slightly unusual, this historical romance between a duped young clerk from Boston and a gentle giant from the wilds of Canada is a wonderful read. It has so much, the city boy getting used to life in a wild province, the gradual thawing toward each other, the rejected giant finding love he never thought he would, and a city boy finding all he ever needed in a frontier town. A gem of a story.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Tracy Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this well written and set story.
Angus and Patrick had that slow burn intensity throughout.
Every character was interesting and well developed.
The scenes drawing me into the story and giving a well rounded scene of life in these 2 mens' lives.

A real life read about two people that felt the pull of togetherness.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Juniper · Rating 5 out of 5]

There’s something about each of the elements in this story that adds another layer of quietly immersive appeal: the prose is polished, the setting is evocatively described and the characters, main and supporting, have layers and depths of personality that emerge over the course of the narrative. It’s not an easy romance, but it is an interesting one, and I mean that in the best way. 4.5 stars.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

After coming to Cape Breton Patrick expecting to be a part of a great business deal & a new lease on life he finds out it was a con & is swindled out of his inheritance. Angus hearing of Patrick's misfortune takes him under his wing, offering him a job to get back on his feet & possibly go home or stay. A friendly gesture leads to something more. Low angst, HEA. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh how I just loved Angus and Patrick. All the angst. All the tenderness. I so badly wanted these two to be able to scream their love for each other but this is the mid 1880s, and I thought the author wrote their story well. These two found strength in each other, albeit it was rocky road to get there, but I couldn’t get enough of them. Oh how I wish their story would go on into a second book… I could easily devour more of Angus and Patrick.

[Linda Crandall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deeply emotional
Heavy with the weight of a world not so long past that exacts specific social mores, like what one must be and do to be accepted by, at the very least, their peers and, seen as more important, by those in control of power.
Written with what I've come to see as Duncan Gaye's typical repetitive prose, grinding in the specific places, moments, and feelings expressed through haunting melancholy or buoyant joy.
Very emotionally draining for the reader as much as the protagonists. I was crying, if not sobbing outright, through at least a third of the book, reading through tears as the utterly unfair conditions placed by social expectancy on the sweetest couple tried to destroy a joyous peace they'd found in each other. This scenario was even more devastating knowing that it reflects a reality so many have been forced to live through over the last few centuries.

ARC from GRR