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Seventh
Hynd leads a lonely life, suffering the lingering effects of a debilitating illness and rejected by most of society because of it. He has spent most of a decade investigating the disappearance of the Seventh Dragoons, content to immerse himself in the frustrating search and the book he is writing about it.
When his sister comes to him about a handsome man eager to meet him, Hynd can scarcely believe his luck, unable to recall the last time somebody wanted to be near him and did not fear or revile him for his illness.
But Julius has come only to see Hynd's research, hoping to learn what happened to the Seventh and prove that his great-grandfather was not a traitor. And while an assistant in his research is not what Hynd had hoped for, it's better than nothing. And maybe between the two of them the mystery of the Seventh can at last be put to rest...
When his sister comes to him about a handsome man eager to meet him, Hynd can scarcely believe his luck, unable to recall the last time somebody wanted to be near him and did not fear or revile him for his illness.
But Julius has come only to see Hynd's research, hoping to learn what happened to the Seventh and prove that his great-grandfather was not a traitor. And while an assistant in his research is not what Hynd had hoped for, it's better than nothing. And maybe between the two of them the mystery of the Seventh can at last be put to rest...
168 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 24, 2015
2 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
About the author
Rachel White
95 books22 followersRachel White was born and raised in L.A., California, but moved north for college. An avid reader for as long as she can remember, she started writing in high school and hasn’t stopped since. Though her favorite genre is probably fantasy, she’ll devour a good book no matter what shelf it belongs to, and she takes an equally experimental approach to her own writing, hopping between ideas, genres, and stories as it suits her.
Along with writing, Rachel has been drawing since she was a little girl and also loves to bake, particularly bread; don't ask her about her sourdough starter unless you really want to know. Writing, however, remains her first and strongest passion.
Along with writing, Rachel has been drawing since she was a little girl and also loves to bake, particularly bread; don't ask her about her sourdough starter unless you really want to know. Writing, however, remains her first and strongest passion.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
November 9, 2021
Rachel White! Where have you been all my life?
It's such a treat to find a good writer. I mean someone who's good good, not merely "adequate." So often my m/m reading experiences have been the literary equivalent of eating cafeteria food — you know, the institutional, industrial-grade stuff. You eat it because you need food to stay alive and it's the only thing available. Or maybe you've been overcome by a freakish craving for reconstituted mashed potatoes and cooked-until-they're-gray green beans. Regardless, it's filler at best, and seriously off-putting — or inedible (the DNF!) at worst.
Okay, enough with the food metaphors. This is not a story I would normally have gravitated toward. The rebuffs and humiliations Hynd suffers in the course of his everyday life, as a result of his disfiguring illness, set a mood too sad and too distressing to appeal to me. I don't want books to make me feel miserable; I can feel plenty miserable in real life on my own, thank you very much. But this book was — wait for it — FREE — so yes, I took a chance on it in order to try a new author.
And it was obvious to me within only a few pages that I was going to finish the story regardless of where it went or how it got there, because the quality of the writing was stellar. Imagine if Kate Islay and Kim Fielding got together and had a little writer baby, and KJ Charles was its godparent — and then it grew up to be Rachel White. (Okay, hope I didn't offend anybody with that flight of fancy.) She's an author I'll be keeping an eye on.
I realize I've talked a lot here without saying anything substantive. (Now how did that happen?) So let me refer you to a couple of reviews that say it better, one by Relly and one by Hart.
It's such a treat to find a good writer. I mean someone who's good good, not merely "adequate." So often my m/m reading experiences have been the literary equivalent of eating cafeteria food — you know, the institutional, industrial-grade stuff. You eat it because you need food to stay alive and it's the only thing available. Or maybe you've been overcome by a freakish craving for reconstituted mashed potatoes and cooked-until-they're-gray green beans. Regardless, it's filler at best, and seriously off-putting — or inedible (the DNF!) at worst.
Okay, enough with the food metaphors. This is not a story I would normally have gravitated toward. The rebuffs and humiliations Hynd suffers in the course of his everyday life, as a result of his disfiguring illness, set a mood too sad and too distressing to appeal to me. I don't want books to make me feel miserable; I can feel plenty miserable in real life on my own, thank you very much. But this book was — wait for it — FREE — so yes, I took a chance on it in order to try a new author.
And it was obvious to me within only a few pages that I was going to finish the story regardless of where it went or how it got there, because the quality of the writing was stellar. Imagine if Kate Islay and Kim Fielding got together and had a little writer baby, and KJ Charles was its godparent — and then it grew up to be Rachel White. (Okay, hope I didn't offend anybody with that flight of fancy.) She's an author I'll be keeping an eye on.
I realize I've talked a lot here without saying anything substantive. (Now how did that happen?) So let me refer you to a couple of reviews that say it better, one by Relly and one by Hart.
March 1, 2020
3.5 stars
I liked this book, but for every aspect that I liked there was a corresponding downside.
I really liked Hynd, but then I am a sucker for scarred, lonely characters. I also appreciated him setting boundaries and not turning into a doormat with Julius. On the other hand, he was prone to rush judgments and the reason was ridiculous and contrived.
Julius’s characterization was refreshing, I especially liked how he was presented as a flawed person from his first appearance on page and that he kept making mistakes. It was realistic. The speed with which his feelings turned around, not so much. I think the length of the book didn’t make the relationship development any favors, there needed to be more time to make for a more natural progression. It was especially clear in the scene
The “mystery” wasn’t particularly complicated, which was for the best in such a short book, but still interesting, even though the final scenes relied a bit too heavily on convenient coincidences.
I didn’t really see why it was necessary to
The worldbuilding, if I can even call it that, left me a bit confused. Or better, it took me by surprise, because I didn’t even realize there was need for one at first. The fantasy historical world in which this story takes place is so similar to the real one, with just a couple of subtle changes aside from the fictional names of countries, that it took me a while to realize it was even a fantasy setting. I had my first doubts when I googled Hynd’s illness and couldn’t find anything about it, but even then the obvious reason didn’t jump at me until later. On the plus side, I realized that the characters openly and freely acknowledging and discussing same-sex relationships like they were ordinary wasn’t an anachronism, but actually part of the worldbuilding, which is always a nice touch.
Under normal circumstances, I think this would be rounded down, but I’m rounding up because despite the issues I had with this story, it was more enjoyable than most of the books I’ve read recently.
I liked this book, but for every aspect that I liked there was a corresponding downside.
I really liked Hynd, but then I am a sucker for scarred, lonely characters. I also appreciated him setting boundaries and not turning into a doormat with Julius. On the other hand, he was prone to rush judgments and the reason was ridiculous and contrived.
Julius’s characterization was refreshing, I especially liked how he was presented as a flawed person from his first appearance on page and that he kept making mistakes. It was realistic. The speed with which his feelings turned around, not so much. I think the length of the book didn’t make the relationship development any favors, there needed to be more time to make for a more natural progression. It was especially clear in the scene
The “mystery” wasn’t particularly complicated, which was for the best in such a short book, but still interesting, even though the final scenes relied a bit too heavily on convenient coincidences.
I didn’t really see why it was necessary to
The worldbuilding, if I can even call it that, left me a bit confused. Or better, it took me by surprise, because I didn’t even realize there was need for one at first. The fantasy historical world in which this story takes place is so similar to the real one, with just a couple of subtle changes aside from the fictional names of countries, that it took me a while to realize it was even a fantasy setting. I had my first doubts when I googled Hynd’s illness and couldn’t find anything about it, but even then the obvious reason didn’t jump at me until later. On the plus side, I realized that the characters openly and freely acknowledging and discussing same-sex relationships like they were ordinary wasn’t an anachronism, but actually part of the worldbuilding, which is always a nice touch.
Under normal circumstances, I think this would be rounded down, but I’m rounding up because despite the issues I had with this story, it was more enjoyable than most of the books I’ve read recently.
April 16, 2020
In some unnamed AU world, a man living with the aftereffects of the Blight is researching the disappearance of the Seventh Dragoons during the last major war. He gets an assistant courtesy of his sister. Julius is able to eventually look past Hynd's disfigurement and they get along swell.
The "mystery" of the Seventh Dragoons wasn't much of a mystery and the romance was pretty lukewarm and unconvincing. Though I liked both characters well enough, I think the author made Hynd purposely dense at times to delay the inevitable. I did like that Hynd stood up for himself, and that Julius was receptive to his lectures, but that was pretty much all we saw of their "relationship development" and without seeing more of the parts where they bonded and got along, the "romance" felt obligatory for the genre rather than a natural extension of their friendship.
The writing was adequate, though there was some repetition and a couple of instances of continuity errors, but not too many typos. This was a pleasant if predictable story overall. Recommended if you need something quick to read, but fair warning: the descriptions of Hynd's daily humiliations won't make this an easy read for some readers.
The "mystery" of the Seventh Dragoons wasn't much of a mystery and the romance was pretty lukewarm and unconvincing. Though I liked both characters well enough, I think the author made Hynd purposely dense at times to delay the inevitable. I did like that Hynd stood up for himself, and that Julius was receptive to his lectures, but that was pretty much all we saw of their "relationship development" and without seeing more of the parts where they bonded and got along, the "romance" felt obligatory for the genre rather than a natural extension of their friendship.
The writing was adequate, though there was some repetition and a couple of instances of continuity errors, but not too many typos. This was a pleasant if predictable story overall. Recommended if you need something quick to read, but fair warning: the descriptions of Hynd's daily humiliations won't make this an easy read for some readers.
May 16, 2015
Review copy from Netgalley
4.5 Stars
I really enjoyed this one.
Hynd Perrett is a royal scholar who is a survivor of a terrible disease called “Blight’s” that he was infected with at the age of 14. After spending a year in an asylum he was released when he went into remission. The disease has left him horribly disfigured with painful scars on his face and a deformed hand.
The author does a good job conveying his aloneness and embarrassment in the face of other peoples fear and disgust. Even with his gentle temperament he is no walk over. He doesn’t allow anyone to befriend him unless it is in the open, he will never allow himself to become the invisible friend. His relationship with his sister Alycia is also well developed. She is his champion in a world where unfortunately he needs one.
Hynd is writing a book about the mysterious disappearance of the Seventh Dragoon and while researching his sister Alycia introduces him to Julius Ocere a man who has a personal interest, due to his great grandfather being accused of their murders. Their first meeting ends terribly. Julius Ocere is a hard character to get a read on in the beginning. His reactions in the beginning are a pure human reaction. He is clearly wary and scared of Hynd’s disease but at the same time trying his best to move past it. He is upfront with Hynd stating that he only wants his knowledge and access to his materials, not a relationship.
Their relationship was well done. It was definitely a slow burn, which worked in this book. They became friends first, so Julius’s turnabout was easy to understand. He got to know the man not the disease.
The story kept me entertained with the mystery of the Dragoons, with pieces of the puzzle fitting together nicely in the end. I will definitely be looking up more of this author’s work
4.5 Stars
I really enjoyed this one.
Hynd Perrett is a royal scholar who is a survivor of a terrible disease called “Blight’s” that he was infected with at the age of 14. After spending a year in an asylum he was released when he went into remission. The disease has left him horribly disfigured with painful scars on his face and a deformed hand.
The author does a good job conveying his aloneness and embarrassment in the face of other peoples fear and disgust. Even with his gentle temperament he is no walk over. He doesn’t allow anyone to befriend him unless it is in the open, he will never allow himself to become the invisible friend. His relationship with his sister Alycia is also well developed. She is his champion in a world where unfortunately he needs one.
Hynd is writing a book about the mysterious disappearance of the Seventh Dragoon and while researching his sister Alycia introduces him to Julius Ocere a man who has a personal interest, due to his great grandfather being accused of their murders. Their first meeting ends terribly. Julius Ocere is a hard character to get a read on in the beginning. His reactions in the beginning are a pure human reaction. He is clearly wary and scared of Hynd’s disease but at the same time trying his best to move past it. He is upfront with Hynd stating that he only wants his knowledge and access to his materials, not a relationship.
Their relationship was well done. It was definitely a slow burn, which worked in this book. They became friends first, so Julius’s turnabout was easy to understand. He got to know the man not the disease.
The story kept me entertained with the mystery of the Dragoons, with pieces of the puzzle fitting together nicely in the end. I will definitely be looking up more of this author’s work
September 29, 2019
I do like stoic suffering (in other people) and "Seventh" gave me a hugely sympathetic MC in Hynd Perrent. Badly deformed by illness, he accepts with lonely dignity the sneers, snubs and insults of his entire society.
The messenger cringed when Hynd handed him the paper, and Hynd didn't miss the way the man wiped his hand on the leg of his trousers after pocketing the note, but it was a mild slight. At least the messenger had accepted the job this time.
He spends his time researching the fate of a military unit (the Seventh of the title) that, like the Ninth Legion, disappeared into the mists, never to be seen again.
It's a slight tale, well told, that doesn't outstay its welcome, but gives Hynd a well-deserved romance and rounds off neatly the story of the Seventh as well. Earlier this year, I'd also greatly enjoyed White's Scorpion Blues. She deftly creates new worlds with an economical eye for just the right telling detail; her romances are low-key too, but affecting. Recommended.
The messenger cringed when Hynd handed him the paper, and Hynd didn't miss the way the man wiped his hand on the leg of his trousers after pocketing the note, but it was a mild slight. At least the messenger had accepted the job this time.
He spends his time researching the fate of a military unit (the Seventh of the title) that, like the Ninth Legion, disappeared into the mists, never to be seen again.
It's a slight tale, well told, that doesn't outstay its welcome, but gives Hynd a well-deserved romance and rounds off neatly the story of the Seventh as well. Earlier this year, I'd also greatly enjoyed White's Scorpion Blues. She deftly creates new worlds with an economical eye for just the right telling detail; her romances are low-key too, but affecting. Recommended.
May 5, 2016
4.5 stars rounded up. This book isn't completely perfect; there are a couple of things that could have used slightly more exploration, but they were really minor.
Overall, this is a lovely book, well-written and charming. Both the mystery plot and the romance develop at a steady pace, and while the mystery was definitely interesting, it was the romance that captured my attention. It's not an overly complex romance, but it's believable and sweet.
There isn't a lot of world-building in this book; to be honest I felt that without the fictional disease, it could have been set in our world. It's kind of a vaguely late-1800s, British setting, but that's not too important. It had to be pseudo-historical for the plot to work; these people desperately needed a central source of information about the Blight. The only reason that . But it's easy to imagine a world in which it's taboo to talk about something so awful.
The mystery was appealing, and I didn't guess exactly how it would be resolved until everything was revealed. I've read other books in which the characters are investigating something that happened generations ago, and it can be a slightly boring type of plot. But the author did a great job of capturing Hynd's obsession with the missing dragoons, in addition to making Walsh, the long-dead author of the journals, an intriguing character in his own right. Including Walsh's over-the-top erotic musings was a great way to humanize him. I was so excited when Hynd made his discovery and everything started to come together. And I really felt for Walsh .
This is an enjoyable read, with some emotional depth, yet it's never heavy-handed. There's no sex scene, but I didn't think one was needed. I found Hynd's reaction to the heated kisses at the end genuinely moving. A great book, and I look forward to seeking out more of this author's work.
Overall, this is a lovely book, well-written and charming. Both the mystery plot and the romance develop at a steady pace, and while the mystery was definitely interesting, it was the romance that captured my attention. It's not an overly complex romance, but it's believable and sweet.
There isn't a lot of world-building in this book; to be honest I felt that without the fictional disease, it could have been set in our world. It's kind of a vaguely late-1800s, British setting, but that's not too important. It had to be pseudo-historical for the plot to work; these people desperately needed a central source of information about the Blight. The only reason that . But it's easy to imagine a world in which it's taboo to talk about something so awful.
The mystery was appealing, and I didn't guess exactly how it would be resolved until everything was revealed. I've read other books in which the characters are investigating something that happened generations ago, and it can be a slightly boring type of plot. But the author did a great job of capturing Hynd's obsession with the missing dragoons, in addition to making Walsh, the long-dead author of the journals, an intriguing character in his own right. Including Walsh's over-the-top erotic musings was a great way to humanize him. I was so excited when Hynd made his discovery and everything started to come together. And I really felt for Walsh .
This is an enjoyable read, with some emotional depth, yet it's never heavy-handed. There's no sex scene, but I didn't think one was needed. I found Hynd's reaction to the heated kisses at the end genuinely moving. A great book, and I look forward to seeking out more of this author's work.
May 12, 2015
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. I liked that the rejection Hynd felt was real, and had more to do with fear of the disease he was in remission from than his disfigurement. Hynd wasn't simply moping away in his home, but faced persecution, and harassment when he went outside. My introduction to Julius wasn't promising, but I liked that he grew over the course of the story. I appreciated that both Hynd and Julius had to learn to trust each other, and both men had their own issues and problems to deal with. Julius may have been beautiful, but that in no way made his life perfect. The side characters were also interesting, and well developed.
The plot of the story was interesting, and I found myself drawn into the mystery as much as the characters. I liked the time they spent researching, and how it served to help the characters understand each other. I liked how the secondary cast fit into the plot of the story. They weren't merely props, and some grew as much as the main characters. The ending was well done, and I appreciated that things didn't work out quite the way I was afraid they might. Overall a really nice story, perfect for my weekend away.
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. I liked that the rejection Hynd felt was real, and had more to do with fear of the disease he was in remission from than his disfigurement. Hynd wasn't simply moping away in his home, but faced persecution, and harassment when he went outside. My introduction to Julius wasn't promising, but I liked that he grew over the course of the story. I appreciated that both Hynd and Julius had to learn to trust each other, and both men had their own issues and problems to deal with. Julius may have been beautiful, but that in no way made his life perfect. The side characters were also interesting, and well developed.
The plot of the story was interesting, and I found myself drawn into the mystery as much as the characters. I liked the time they spent researching, and how it served to help the characters understand each other. I liked how the secondary cast fit into the plot of the story. They weren't merely props, and some grew as much as the main characters. The ending was well done, and I appreciated that things didn't work out quite the way I was afraid they might. Overall a really nice story, perfect for my weekend away.
September 3, 2016
Одна из тех книг, где у всех (или почти всех) героев есть раздражающая привычка. Где-то они поголовно прикусывают нижнюю губу, где-то пожимают плечами без конца, здесь все краснеют. От стыда, смущения, радости, желания... Вообще в моем понимании это не самая привлекательная черта у мужчины, поэтому мне всякий раз этот стыдливый румянец бросался в глаза и раздражал.
И ХЭ довольно приторный вышел, я бы предпочла каплю реализма в конце, но увы((
И ХЭ довольно приторный вышел, я бы предпочла каплю реализма в конце, но увы((
June 24, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
Seventh is a wonderfully compact tale that allows two great characters to explore and unravel an interesting mystery. Though the plot feels a little rushed by the end, it is generally well paced and the action unfolds naturally. The mystery surrounding the Seventh isn’t terribly complex, but it blends well into the wider narrative and is satisfyingly resolved. Seventh reads as something of a historical fantasy set against a very relatable backdrop that feels Regency in style. There is enough exploration of the world to provide a solid context for the action and to raise the reader’s interest, without info dumping or getting bogged down with information that doesn’t move the story forward. The author has done a wonderful job of providing a strong plot that rarely feels lacking in depth.
The characters are equally well rendered. It is easy to feel sympathy towards Hynd, given his tragic background and his quiet loneliness. But he never seems desperate or becomes an object of pity and that makes him genuinely likable. He is still gentle enough to have his feelings hurt but does not allow the fear of rejection or embarrassment to cripple him. His focus on the Seventh Dragoons was a passion that spoke volumes to me. I think most historians have one story or battle or person with which they are obsessed. So that particular aspect of Hynd’s personality really rang true.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
Seventh is a wonderfully compact tale that allows two great characters to explore and unravel an interesting mystery. Though the plot feels a little rushed by the end, it is generally well paced and the action unfolds naturally. The mystery surrounding the Seventh isn’t terribly complex, but it blends well into the wider narrative and is satisfyingly resolved. Seventh reads as something of a historical fantasy set against a very relatable backdrop that feels Regency in style. There is enough exploration of the world to provide a solid context for the action and to raise the reader’s interest, without info dumping or getting bogged down with information that doesn’t move the story forward. The author has done a wonderful job of providing a strong plot that rarely feels lacking in depth.
The characters are equally well rendered. It is easy to feel sympathy towards Hynd, given his tragic background and his quiet loneliness. But he never seems desperate or becomes an object of pity and that makes him genuinely likable. He is still gentle enough to have his feelings hurt but does not allow the fear of rejection or embarrassment to cripple him. His focus on the Seventh Dragoons was a passion that spoke volumes to me. I think most historians have one story or battle or person with which they are obsessed. So that particular aspect of Hynd’s personality really rang true.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
October 30, 2018
3.5 stars.
I quite enjoyed this, though there were a few things that I didn't like:
a) Hynd character seems to be conflicting at times. He is self-depreciating, but assertive. He feels lucky that he survived an illness that kills most, but accepts that people treat him like a monster.
b) I wish that Julius was slower to warm up to Hynd, because it seems pretty quickly (like the next day) that he starts flirting with Hynd, after running away with his tail between his legs upon their first encounter. Weeks doesn't seem like quite enough time for Julius to get over his issues with Hynd's Blight or for Hynd to Open up and trust Julius.
c) Because Hynd's feelings for Julius become apparent so quickly, it makes it seem like anyone who gave him the time of day (and was hot) would have fit the bill. I mean, Julius doesn't have much in the way of personality anyway.
d) The epilogue scene with Dent bothered me. Musing that they could be friends so day? Really? I can't stand when authors feel the need to have everyone make nice at the end. If someone treated me the way Dent treated Hynd, even with an apology, at best I would politely greet them and be on my way if we ever ran into each other.
But other than that, it was a nice, short read and the mystery of the Seventh was interesting enough.
I quite enjoyed this, though there were a few things that I didn't like:
a) Hynd character seems to be conflicting at times. He is self-depreciating, but assertive. He feels lucky that he survived an illness that kills most, but accepts that people treat him like a monster.
b) I wish that Julius was slower to warm up to Hynd, because it seems pretty quickly (like the next day) that he starts flirting with Hynd, after running away with his tail between his legs upon their first encounter. Weeks doesn't seem like quite enough time for Julius to get over his issues with Hynd's Blight or for Hynd to Open up and trust Julius.
c) Because Hynd's feelings for Julius become apparent so quickly, it makes it seem like anyone who gave him the time of day (and was hot) would have fit the bill. I mean, Julius doesn't have much in the way of personality anyway.
d) The epilogue scene with Dent bothered me. Musing that they could be friends so day? Really? I can't stand when authors feel the need to have everyone make nice at the end. If someone treated me the way Dent treated Hynd, even with an apology, at best I would politely greet them and be on my way if we ever ran into each other.
But other than that, it was a nice, short read and the mystery of the Seventh was interesting enough.
October 12, 2020
"Seventh" is set in an alternate universe that reads very much like 19th century England. However, in this world, homosexuality is not illegal or stigmatized and there is an incurable disease - Rymald's Blight - that withers and destroys skin, although it goes into a noncontagious remission.
Hynd Perrent had the Blight ten years ago and has learned to expect leers and disgusted glances as well as having to show his remission documentation. Hynd is a Royal Scholar researching the mysterious disappearance of the Seventh Dragoons, a unit of 30 men training in the Colwynn Mountains during the Lily Wars. The unit went missing, with its lone survivor branded a traitor.
The unit's commander, Jeardon Walsh, wrote extensively in his journeys of their maneuvers and battles, as well as extremely detailed, explicit details of his love affair with a man identified only as PA. Julius Ocere - tall, golden and leonine - is the great grandson of the man that returned - Pellam Athaby - and is determined to prove his ancestor is not a traitor.
As the two men work together to uncover the truth, what grows is a slowly unfurled romance, coupled with a heartbreaking resolution to the mystery. I'm a huge fan of regency romances, and this book is completely in my wheelhouse with an intriguing mystery and a gentle non-explicit romance. 4 stars.
I received an ARC from the Publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
Hynd Perrent had the Blight ten years ago and has learned to expect leers and disgusted glances as well as having to show his remission documentation. Hynd is a Royal Scholar researching the mysterious disappearance of the Seventh Dragoons, a unit of 30 men training in the Colwynn Mountains during the Lily Wars. The unit went missing, with its lone survivor branded a traitor.
The unit's commander, Jeardon Walsh, wrote extensively in his journeys of their maneuvers and battles, as well as extremely detailed, explicit details of his love affair with a man identified only as PA. Julius Ocere - tall, golden and leonine - is the great grandson of the man that returned - Pellam Athaby - and is determined to prove his ancestor is not a traitor.
As the two men work together to uncover the truth, what grows is a slowly unfurled romance, coupled with a heartbreaking resolution to the mystery. I'm a huge fan of regency romances, and this book is completely in my wheelhouse with an intriguing mystery and a gentle non-explicit romance. 4 stars.
I received an ARC from the Publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
October 12, 2020
3.75 stars
“Seventh” by Rachel White centers around Hynd Perrent’s determined research into the mysterious disappearance of a military unit. When Julius Ocero wants to join him in researching the group, there are multiple hurdles to overcome, including fear of the Blight, missing information, and active opposition…and a question of whether their attraction is mutual or if their potential relationship doomed before it begins.
This m/m fantasy story has an interesting twist on research and emphasizes the challenges that must be overcome when one has a visible disfigurement. I liked the gradual unfolding of clues to the mystery and I enjoyed watching the way the relationship evolved from its rocky start. The story vividly evoked the pain of being constantly judged and I was reassured to see that Hynd had someone who was definitely in his corner. I like mystery stories, so this was fun for me, and having the romantic element was a nice bonus.
I was still left with multiple questions and hope there are additional stories in this series that flesh out some of the elements. I thought a particular reaction by one of the secondary characters at the end was pretty calm, considering what had been revealed, and I wonder if there will be more repercussions in a future tale. This is the first story I have read by this author and I definitely would like to read more stories in this universe.
A copy of this title was provided for review
“Seventh” by Rachel White centers around Hynd Perrent’s determined research into the mysterious disappearance of a military unit. When Julius Ocero wants to join him in researching the group, there are multiple hurdles to overcome, including fear of the Blight, missing information, and active opposition…and a question of whether their attraction is mutual or if their potential relationship doomed before it begins.
This m/m fantasy story has an interesting twist on research and emphasizes the challenges that must be overcome when one has a visible disfigurement. I liked the gradual unfolding of clues to the mystery and I enjoyed watching the way the relationship evolved from its rocky start. The story vividly evoked the pain of being constantly judged and I was reassured to see that Hynd had someone who was definitely in his corner. I like mystery stories, so this was fun for me, and having the romantic element was a nice bonus.
I was still left with multiple questions and hope there are additional stories in this series that flesh out some of the elements. I thought a particular reaction by one of the secondary characters at the end was pretty calm, considering what had been revealed, and I wonder if there will be more repercussions in a future tale. This is the first story I have read by this author and I definitely would like to read more stories in this universe.
A copy of this title was provided for review
September 30, 2020
What an enjoyable read. You are drawn in from the first page, and entertained till the last.
You spend most of the book trying to help the characters solve the mystery, and when they do, you can’t help but cheer.
The characters are well developed and likable. Their relationships with each other are refreshing and supportive, while still being dynamic and interesting.
In the end, I was left wishing for more.
You spend most of the book trying to help the characters solve the mystery, and when they do, you can’t help but cheer.
The characters are well developed and likable. Their relationships with each other are refreshing and supportive, while still being dynamic and interesting.
In the end, I was left wishing for more.
May 19, 2023
A short, sweet, low-stakes read.
October 5, 2016
It's...well, it's perfectly all right of a book. I didn't find it particularly deep, even though it did touch upon some potentially deeper concepts. I didn't mind it as much later, especially as the context started getting built, but in the beginning I was quite annoyed with the way the "I'm hideous, no one could love me" was rendered. Not entirely unbacked by shitty treatment, later, but in the beginning, was a bit...well on its own it's rather melodramatic. And istg there was a moment where I was like "...when did I trip and fall into My Immortal?"
But it built the world a bit more, etc etc.
The ending resolution was way, way too idealistic. Everyone just makes nice in the end? It undercuts any sort of deeper theme that might have been touched on in any sort of meaningful way, which just sort of rendered the story shallower than it could have been. I dunno, some people go for that, though, I guess.
But it built the world a bit more, etc etc.
The ending resolution was way, way too idealistic. Everyone just makes nice in the end? It undercuts any sort of deeper theme that might have been touched on in any sort of meaningful way, which just sort of rendered the story shallower than it could have been. I dunno, some people go for that, though, I guess.
December 23, 2015
I loved this story. Hynd is such an unusual hero. His deformed appearance stood in stark opposition to Julius's handsomeness. But they have much in common. Their relationship felt natural, moving at a slow but steady pace. They grew to respect one another before falling in love. And I fell in love right along with them. A lovely fantasy world, fitting background for the engaging characters. Toward the end the two men were apart for quite a while, but I didn't see that as much of a hindrance, since it was part of the plot. The author's voice was compelling and strong, and her narrative reflected the beauty of the written word.
November 13, 2021
I really enjoyed the way the story took you through the changes in how Ocere saw and treated Hynd through Hynd’s view point. It was essentially the story of Ocere’s growth as a character.
There were times that the characters around Hynd acted in ways I found frustrating and I wanted him to be angrier but this was one of those books where I was happy to remind myself I was going on the journey the author intended.
There were times that the characters around Hynd acted in ways I found frustrating and I wanted him to be angrier but this was one of those books where I was happy to remind myself I was going on the journey the author intended.
July 3, 2015
This was a sweet romance with an interesting mystery. I would love to read more set in this universe!
August 16, 2015
4.5 stars
I loved this...just loved it!
I loved this...just loved it!
October 10, 2020
I’m glad I decided to give this novella by a new-to-me author a try; I really enjoyed it.
Hynd has been left horribly disfigured by illness (imagine something like leprosy), and he has accepted that no one will ever be able to look past the horrors of the disease and his scars enough to care for him. He’s starved for human contact, and when Julius comes into his life because of a shared interest in Hynd’s historical research, Hynd hardly dares believe that they can become friends. He doesn’t want to let himself hope for more, even when Julius seems to be flirting with him. Of course, Hynd’s appearance isn’t the barrier he thinks it is, but his research project has to take quite a dramatic turn before he allows himself to believe that Julius has feelings for him.
The story is relatively simple, but it very effectively grabbed my emotions. Hynd’s loneliness and pain at the cruelty of the people he encounters made me ache for him, and it was sweet to see him bloom when Julius starts to flirt and show affection for him. When Julius finally convinces Hynd that he genuinely cares for him—sigh. After all his suffering, it was so satisfying to see Hynd get his happy ending.
I do wish the author had done a few things differently. The setting is a little vague; it’s a fantasy world that seems roughly similar to historical Europe—Regency England, maybe. I would have liked more detailed worldbuilding, which would have helped anchor the story more firmly in its own reality. I also think the relationship between Hynd and Julius unfolded a bit too quickly. At their first encounter, Julius is so shocked at Hynd’s appearance that he can’t even bear to sit at a table with him, but after a few more meetings, he’s clearly interested in Hynd. To me, what’s described on page didn’t really seem to square with such a swift change of heart. I think showing their friendship deepening a bit more first would have set the stage better for their romance.
Overall, though, I liked it, and I’m looking forward to checking out some of the author’s other books.
A copy of this book was provided through NetGalley for review; all opinions expressed are my own.
Hynd has been left horribly disfigured by illness (imagine something like leprosy), and he has accepted that no one will ever be able to look past the horrors of the disease and his scars enough to care for him. He’s starved for human contact, and when Julius comes into his life because of a shared interest in Hynd’s historical research, Hynd hardly dares believe that they can become friends. He doesn’t want to let himself hope for more, even when Julius seems to be flirting with him. Of course, Hynd’s appearance isn’t the barrier he thinks it is, but his research project has to take quite a dramatic turn before he allows himself to believe that Julius has feelings for him.
The story is relatively simple, but it very effectively grabbed my emotions. Hynd’s loneliness and pain at the cruelty of the people he encounters made me ache for him, and it was sweet to see him bloom when Julius starts to flirt and show affection for him. When Julius finally convinces Hynd that he genuinely cares for him—sigh. After all his suffering, it was so satisfying to see Hynd get his happy ending.
I do wish the author had done a few things differently. The setting is a little vague; it’s a fantasy world that seems roughly similar to historical Europe—Regency England, maybe. I would have liked more detailed worldbuilding, which would have helped anchor the story more firmly in its own reality. I also think the relationship between Hynd and Julius unfolded a bit too quickly. At their first encounter, Julius is so shocked at Hynd’s appearance that he can’t even bear to sit at a table with him, but after a few more meetings, he’s clearly interested in Hynd. To me, what’s described on page didn’t really seem to square with such a swift change of heart. I think showing their friendship deepening a bit more first would have set the stage better for their romance.
Overall, though, I liked it, and I’m looking forward to checking out some of the author’s other books.
A copy of this book was provided through NetGalley for review; all opinions expressed are my own.
October 6, 2020
I often find myself not exactly knowing where to begin when reviewing a book, especially one where I liked quite a lot of what was going on but where it didn't (for me, at least) completely stick the landing. Seventh is one of those books.
For starters, it has a lot going for it in that it's very much focussed on the mystery plotline within it - this is a fantasy world not a million miles from our own but one where there has been a devastating disease which our hero has had and been disfigured by. Hynd is a solitary person now, a little fixated on his current research project which is to find out the truth about a missing group of soldiers. As the story goes on, we discover that Hynd had been hounded out of university and now works from home with only his very supportive sister for company, so it's quite natural that when an offer comes to help with the research, Hynd is suspicious.
Especially when Hynd is attracted to men and the offer comes from Julius, who pretty much ticks all the boxes for Hynd on what he finds attractive. Which is where the problems began for me because while I was invested in the overall mystery plot, I found the romance side of things so much less convincing. Either Hynd's self-image of himself is inaccurate and he's not as terrible as he imagines or believes (quite possible) or Julius is a saintly individual willing to look past this. Maybe it's because we're so much in Hynd's head that he's also projecting an image of Julius too, which is why he comes across as a little unconvincing.
This is also a fairly chaste relationship and the decision when to finish the book comes into that - the mystery is solved and a curtain is drawn over the relationship and its realities. I suspect I wanted a little more flesh on the relationship bones, around how the outside world is going to deal with this and the impact of that on the two men concerned.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
For starters, it has a lot going for it in that it's very much focussed on the mystery plotline within it - this is a fantasy world not a million miles from our own but one where there has been a devastating disease which our hero has had and been disfigured by. Hynd is a solitary person now, a little fixated on his current research project which is to find out the truth about a missing group of soldiers. As the story goes on, we discover that Hynd had been hounded out of university and now works from home with only his very supportive sister for company, so it's quite natural that when an offer comes to help with the research, Hynd is suspicious.
Especially when Hynd is attracted to men and the offer comes from Julius, who pretty much ticks all the boxes for Hynd on what he finds attractive. Which is where the problems began for me because while I was invested in the overall mystery plot, I found the romance side of things so much less convincing. Either Hynd's self-image of himself is inaccurate and he's not as terrible as he imagines or believes (quite possible) or Julius is a saintly individual willing to look past this. Maybe it's because we're so much in Hynd's head that he's also projecting an image of Julius too, which is why he comes across as a little unconvincing.
This is also a fairly chaste relationship and the decision when to finish the book comes into that - the mystery is solved and a curtain is drawn over the relationship and its realities. I suspect I wanted a little more flesh on the relationship bones, around how the outside world is going to deal with this and the impact of that on the two men concerned.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2020
I have mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, it was a nice easy read and I came away feeling generally positive about it. On the other hand, the 'mystery' was barely there in a blink-and-you'll-miss-it sort of way, the romance developed far too quickly, and Dent's rapid about-face from snarling insults to apology wasn't really believable.
I really liked Hynd's willingness to stick up for himself (even when it was hard for him) when he felt Julian was treating him poorly. However, he was also quick to judge Julian harshly and too willing to ignore other people's mistreatment of him.
Julian was really hard to pin down - I had a hard time telling if Hynd's scars troubled him or not, if he was interested in Hynd romantically or not, etc.
I really enjoyed Hynd's sister and her determined championing of him. She's willing to call people out for mistreating him even if he isn't. However she doesn't get a lot of screen time.
I started out enjoying Hynd's research, then that got put on the back burner for a while, then suddenly he's solved the mystery. I just feel like it could have been developed a lot more and I would have rated the novel higher.
In the same way, the relationship went from 0 to 100 so fast I had whiplash and I just feel like there were chunks of text missing. I wanted to *see* them becoming closer, finding clues, etc. Basically just having it be twice as long would have bumped my rating up a star or two because I *did* enjoy it - it just doesn't feel complete.
*Thanks to NetGalley and NineStarPress for providing an e-arc to review
I really liked Hynd's willingness to stick up for himself (even when it was hard for him) when he felt Julian was treating him poorly. However, he was also quick to judge Julian harshly and too willing to ignore other people's mistreatment of him.
Julian was really hard to pin down - I had a hard time telling if Hynd's scars troubled him or not, if he was interested in Hynd romantically or not, etc.
I really enjoyed Hynd's sister and her determined championing of him. She's willing to call people out for mistreating him even if he isn't. However she doesn't get a lot of screen time.
I started out enjoying Hynd's research, then that got put on the back burner for a while, then suddenly he's solved the mystery. I just feel like it could have been developed a lot more and I would have rated the novel higher.
In the same way, the relationship went from 0 to 100 so fast I had whiplash and I just feel like there were chunks of text missing. I wanted to *see* them becoming closer, finding clues, etc. Basically just having it be twice as long would have bumped my rating up a star or two because I *did* enjoy it - it just doesn't feel complete.
*Thanks to NetGalley and NineStarPress for providing an e-arc to review
October 18, 2020
I adore the worldbuilding in this novel, which takes place in a kingdom with distinctly regency elements: there are strict social hierarchies, duels, carriages, and waistcoats. Gotta love the waistcoats. There’s also a debilitating and contagious plague that surfaces every few decades, leaving survivors visibly scarred and all but ostracized by society. Hynd, the protagonist, is one such survivor. He’s also a diligent researcher and historian, a royal scholar working on the mystery of a long lost squadron of soldiers. In that capacity, he meets Julius, who wants to join the research to clear an ancestor’s name. Their first meeting is horrific: Julius is ignorant, and his reactions to Hynd’s condition are, over and over again, devastatingly hurtful, especially because Hynd, in spite of his better instincts, really likes Julius. The story deftly weaves together the solving of the mystery and the evolution of their relationship, and it’s a pleasure, overall, to read. Julius’s turnaround from tool to would-be knight in shining armor is a quick one, perhaps a bit rushed, but still plausible, and totally charming. Hynd is a great character: he is strong and pragmatic, sweet and sneakily snarky when the occasion calls for it. His sister, who has good intentions and even better aim, is also awesome. I wholeheartedly recommend this book, and I will definitely look for more works from this author.
I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily composed an unbiased review.
I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily composed an unbiased review.
October 17, 2020
4.5 stars
An engaging, suspenseful and well written novella.
Though it's novella length, the author has put together a story with mystery, characters with a background and an exciting romance.
The book follows Hynd who has been dealt a cruel hand by fate, but trudges forward-managing his illness, ignoring the way society shuns his presence and remains intent on his scholarly pursuit to uncover the mystery behind the disappearance of the Seventh Dragoons.
When Hynd learns that the only reason behind Julius' interest in him is the mystery he's pursuing, Hynd is heartbroken but decides to partner up with him. What follows is a tender romance as the duo move from being work partners, friends to love.
I personally loved Hynd's character. Independent, strong, can stand up for himself, but at the same time sensitive and loving. Very well written. The writing style was engaging and the parallel mystery plot of the story was exciting to read. It was also a treat to read the two MCs skirting around each other and flirting in scholarly terms.
Recommend to those looking for a good novella with some hurt comfort and mystery.
An engaging, suspenseful and well written novella.
Though it's novella length, the author has put together a story with mystery, characters with a background and an exciting romance.
The book follows Hynd who has been dealt a cruel hand by fate, but trudges forward-managing his illness, ignoring the way society shuns his presence and remains intent on his scholarly pursuit to uncover the mystery behind the disappearance of the Seventh Dragoons.
When Hynd learns that the only reason behind Julius' interest in him is the mystery he's pursuing, Hynd is heartbroken but decides to partner up with him. What follows is a tender romance as the duo move from being work partners, friends to love.
I personally loved Hynd's character. Independent, strong, can stand up for himself, but at the same time sensitive and loving. Very well written. The writing style was engaging and the parallel mystery plot of the story was exciting to read. It was also a treat to read the two MCs skirting around each other and flirting in scholarly terms.
Recommend to those looking for a good novella with some hurt comfort and mystery.
September 30, 2020
I enjoyed this for the most part.
I really liked Hynds character. He was left disfigured after a blight and I understood why he chose to keep to himself. I really felt for him when he did decide to go out and about in public. He was a very guarded and cautious person which made sense due to how he was treated. It hurt my heart, that people were so cruel. His personality and actions were relatable.
I felt like the story was a little predictable as it went on. The mystery element wasn’t really all that mysterious. And, while some parts of the relationship between Hynd and Julius was sweet, it felt a little forced.
I did find the world compelling, and I enjoyed the adventure.
However, I wish the ending had a bit more meat to it. It was too perfect. Suddenly everything that had happened at the beginning was obsolete.
Thank you NetGalley and NineStar Press for a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
I really liked Hynds character. He was left disfigured after a blight and I understood why he chose to keep to himself. I really felt for him when he did decide to go out and about in public. He was a very guarded and cautious person which made sense due to how he was treated. It hurt my heart, that people were so cruel. His personality and actions were relatable.
I felt like the story was a little predictable as it went on. The mystery element wasn’t really all that mysterious. And, while some parts of the relationship between Hynd and Julius was sweet, it felt a little forced.
I did find the world compelling, and I enjoyed the adventure.
However, I wish the ending had a bit more meat to it. It was too perfect. Suddenly everything that had happened at the beginning was obsolete.
Thank you NetGalley and NineStar Press for a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
October 12, 2020
I received a copy of Seventh by Rachel White via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review. I enjoy books set in AU England, as this one is. What sets it apart is the plague (blight) that afflicts the country every twenty years or so. The main character Hynd is a scarred survivor and the story details how it’s afflicted his life. The mystery Hynd sets out to solve is interesting, with an exciting denouement. While I’m not sure the romance is completely believable, it is sweet nonetheless. A couple of secondary characters keep Hynd from being lonely, notably his sister Alycia and the librarian Caeris, and they provide a touch of humanity in the story. The author should write another book set in this intriguing world.
October 12, 2020
This is a sweet book, sort of a romance, but more of an awakening of the main character, Hynd. He was disfigured and because of the inappropriate staring and words, he retreats into himself and his research. While the book starts off with the possibility of romance, the romance with Julian is more of a slow burn as the two men get to know one another while researching a war. It's a compelling read and I couldn't put it down, but there was the possibility of so much more between the two men. A good read.
October 14, 2020
Seventh is emotional, and heartbreaking, and beautiful all at once. Reading this...at times I teared up and wanted to scream in frustration at the way Hynd is treated. I know society can be cruel at the best of times, and White doesn't try to hide that. But as the story progressed I sometimes had tears of joy watching Hynd and Julius's journey together as they seek the truth, and learn more about each other. Appearances aren't always what they seem, and I must admit I was sad to come to the end of this story.
October 11, 2020
This was so good! I didn't know how i was expecting with this book but it was such a good surprise!
I really like the main characters, the way their respective world sorta collide and then intertwined. How their relationship changed from being friends to something more. It was adorable to see.
Also the mystery plot i really liked as well as the world building and "history".
Overall it was a lovely surprise and read.
I really like the main characters, the way their respective world sorta collide and then intertwined. How their relationship changed from being friends to something more. It was adorable to see.
Also the mystery plot i really liked as well as the world building and "history".
Overall it was a lovely surprise and read.
September 25, 2020
This was a fun read. Overall I liked the characters and story line, I just wish the fantasy world it was set in had been introduced more thoroughly. It was also over a bit too quickly for my taste. I think the book as a whole had more potential. The characters, love story, and the whole "world" weren't quite as developed as I would have like. Still a quick sweet and fun read!!
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