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Tyack & Frayne #5
Guardians of the Haunted Moor
Book 5 in the Tyack & Frayne Mystery series
The wedding is just the beginning…
Gideon and Lee have spent a year in chaotic married bliss, with all the trimmings – a dog, tricky in-laws, and a baby girl they both adore. But even the best of lives can be fragile, and a shocking family loss hits their new world like a demolition ball.
Gideon has little energy left to investigate a murder that’s taken place in the fields outside Dark. He still has his duties to his community, though, and with Lee at his side, he begins to unfold the mysterious death of Farmer John Bowe. It’s harvest time, ancient West Country magic in the air, and rumours are flying through the village of an enemy Gideon thought he’d left behind long ago.
Can the beast of Bodmin possibly be real? Everything in Gideon’s stoical police-sergeant’s nature says no. But Lee has taught him to see the world differently, and now they must pool their resources to unmask a killer before more lives are lost – and somehow find a way to mend their shattered family, too.
The wedding is just the beginning…
Gideon and Lee have spent a year in chaotic married bliss, with all the trimmings – a dog, tricky in-laws, and a baby girl they both adore. But even the best of lives can be fragile, and a shocking family loss hits their new world like a demolition ball.
Gideon has little energy left to investigate a murder that’s taken place in the fields outside Dark. He still has his duties to his community, though, and with Lee at his side, he begins to unfold the mysterious death of Farmer John Bowe. It’s harvest time, ancient West Country magic in the air, and rumours are flying through the village of an enemy Gideon thought he’d left behind long ago.
Can the beast of Bodmin possibly be real? Everything in Gideon’s stoical police-sergeant’s nature says no. But Lee has taught him to see the world differently, and now they must pool their resources to unmask a killer before more lives are lost – and somehow find a way to mend their shattered family, too.
141 pages, ebook
First published August 1, 2015
27 people are currently reading
365 people want to read
About the author
Harper Fox
58 books1,177 followersHarper Fox is an M/M author with a mission. She’s produced six critically acclaimed novels in a year and is trying to dispel rumours that she has a clone/twin sister locked away in a study in her basement. In fact she simply continues working on what she loves best– creating worlds and stories for the huge cast of lovely gay men queuing up inside her head. She lives in rural Northumberland in northern England and does most of her writing at a pensioned-off kitchen table in her back garden, often with blanket and hot water bottle.
She lives with her SO Jane, who has somehow put up with her for a quarter of a century now, and three enigmatic cats, chief among whom is Lucy, who knows the secret of the universe but isn't letting on. When not writing, she either despairs or makes bread, specialities foccacia and her amazing seven-strand challah. If she has any other skills, she's yet to discover them.
She lives with her SO Jane, who has somehow put up with her for a quarter of a century now, and three enigmatic cats, chief among whom is Lucy, who knows the secret of the universe but isn't letting on. When not writing, she either despairs or makes bread, specialities foccacia and her amazing seven-strand challah. If she has any other skills, she's yet to discover them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
September 2, 2018
4 Stars
I’m basically going to say what I’ve said from the beginning. It’s not the obtuse obscure mystery that brings me back to this gem of a series, because I will admit that I’m often scratching my head about the main plot point. It is however, about the two protagonists that have seriously carved a place in my heart for one of the rare spots available in my what I deem my favorites.
There’s just something about the way Fox writes lawman Gideon and psychic Lee, that melts me into a big pile of goo. Neither is loud or brash with their love and thus, it is the very little things that tug at my heartstrings, that make me swoon, and ultimately make me marvel at how these two very different men find so many ways to connect. Such shouldn’t be possible or easy but they make it thus, and it shows just how strong and hard they love each other. It shows so so much.
Add in a little paranormal flair set against a straight and narrow contemporary setting and this gives just a hint of “other” to make it sufficiently creepy as well as make you possibly believe in the unbelievable. Toss in the above and obviously, this was a win if I do say so myself!
I’m basically going to say what I’ve said from the beginning. It’s not the obtuse obscure mystery that brings me back to this gem of a series, because I will admit that I’m often scratching my head about the main plot point. It is however, about the two protagonists that have seriously carved a place in my heart for one of the rare spots available in my what I deem my favorites.
There’s just something about the way Fox writes lawman Gideon and psychic Lee, that melts me into a big pile of goo. Neither is loud or brash with their love and thus, it is the very little things that tug at my heartstrings, that make me swoon, and ultimately make me marvel at how these two very different men find so many ways to connect. Such shouldn’t be possible or easy but they make it thus, and it shows just how strong and hard they love each other. It shows so so much.
Add in a little paranormal flair set against a straight and narrow contemporary setting and this gives just a hint of “other” to make it sufficiently creepy as well as make you possibly believe in the unbelievable. Toss in the above and obviously, this was a win if I do say so myself!
March 27, 2016
Review written March 27, 2016
4.4 Stars - Atmospheric mysterious as always. Touching and creepy good.
Book #5
Easter read worthy. Another solid good Harper Fox romance.
*********************************************
Cornwall, south England, UK
The Tyack & Frayne series is so far six shorter (75-150 pages) novella episodes in the M/M mystery genre with a new mysterious "case" in every part. In essence, however much focus on the development of the romance between these men.
Characters, my reviews:
Back home in Dark, the small village on Bodmin Moor
Husbands since a year, a growing big family and a baby daughter, life seems to be solid and ordinary good ... but then it happens and it all turns again. At the same time is a local farmer found dead on the moor. Is the "Beast" back?
I'll never truthfully say that I understand everything that happens in these books. We usually just get small glimpses from Ms. Fox. It is mysterious, supernatural and often inexplicable diffused with misty tiny explanations. Everything that happens in between can only be sensed and guessed. I strain my brain, my imagination and my poor English language skills to a maximum. I just cross my fingers I got it right.
Beautifully written and described — Atmospheric almost
This fifth time heartbreaking touching about lifes sometimes hard realities. Don't fear, it felt so utterly good to leave them all in a good enough place in the end. Hopefully soon Sofia-BR-time for the sixth and last, Third Solstice.
*********************************************
I LIKE - very much
*****
Tyack & Frayne series BR with Sofia. We started Jan 29, 2016.
4.4 Stars - Atmospheric mysterious as always. Touching and creepy good.
Book #5
Easter read worthy. Another solid good Harper Fox romance.
*********************************************
Cornwall, south England, UK
The Tyack & Frayne series is so far six shorter (75-150 pages) novella episodes in the M/M mystery genre with a new mysterious "case" in every part. In essence, however much focus on the development of the romance between these men.
Characters, my reviews:
Back home in Dark, the small village on Bodmin Moor
Husbands since a year, a growing big family and a baby daughter, life seems to be solid and ordinary good ... but then it happens and it all turns again. At the same time is a local farmer found dead on the moor. Is the "Beast" back?
“Did you ever wonder why it was called Dark? The village, I mean?”
“Sometimes, yes.” Gideon gave Pendower a look that backed him up five paces. “Come here. You’re okay.”
“Seems stupid. It’s so full of light most of the time. Sunshine and leaves, and you’re part of it. You’re the same as the moor, massive and lovely and laid out in the sun. ..”
‘... Like any place on earth, Dark had its heroes and villains, but they were good people on the whole. He’d grown up with them, known their elders all his life, watched his own generation have children, fall in and out of love, debt and divorce. Ordinary people, not to be found anywhere else in the world.’
I'll never truthfully say that I understand everything that happens in these books. We usually just get small glimpses from Ms. Fox. It is mysterious, supernatural and often inexplicable diffused with misty tiny explanations. Everything that happens in between can only be sensed and guessed. I strain my brain, my imagination and my poor English language skills to a maximum. I just cross my fingers I got it right.
Beautifully written and described — Atmospheric almost
This fifth time heartbreaking touching about lifes sometimes hard realities. Don't fear, it felt so utterly good to leave them all in a good enough place in the end. Hopefully soon Sofia-BR-time for the sixth and last, Third Solstice.
*********************************************
I LIKE - very much
*****
Tyack & Frayne series BR with Sofia. We started Jan 29, 2016.
March 3, 2016
gosh.
that was an exciting bit o'business.
my word!
i was variously moved to tears, enraged by foolish white people, enraptured by lyrical prose, and tenderly nursing the sympathetic throbbing of the quite massively barren womb i'd grown in response to all the not-without-my-daughter escandalo up in hurr.
honestly the only thing missing was a chinchilla shifter—and by now i fully expect harper fox has one in store for me in the next installment.
i enjoyed this immensely.
__________
previously:
this book: target acquired
kylo ren: fire the weapon
my ovaries: [vaporization intensifies]
__________
my review of book four: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
my review of book six: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
that was an exciting bit o'business.
my word!
i was variously moved to tears, enraged by foolish white people, enraptured by lyrical prose, and tenderly nursing the sympathetic throbbing of the quite massively barren womb i'd grown in response to all the not-without-my-daughter escandalo up in hurr.
honestly the only thing missing was a chinchilla shifter—and by now i fully expect harper fox has one in store for me in the next installment.
i enjoyed this immensely.
__________
previously:
this book: target acquired
kylo ren: fire the weapon
my ovaries: [vaporization intensifies]
__________
my review of book four: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
my review of book six: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
November 5, 2024
Reread April 2019
This one certainly gutted me again even on reread.
Originally read August 2018
Well, this one just punched me in the gut. I felt ripped to pieces at one point. Gideon and Lee deserve some happiness and when it's torn away I felt kind of ragey.
This still has that underlying creepy factor going on. You don't know what's real and what's supernatural. Harper Fox definitely has a gift for weaving a tale to keep you guessing. But I didn't feel like it played as much of a big role here as previous ones. A lot of this is centered around Gideon and Lee and their family. The mystery was on the side only to help them forget their misery, and mine too I suppose.
Gideon and Lee are truly one of my favorite couples. The way they love and support each other is truly swoon-worthy. And the fact that Gideon is really becoming a part of Lee's world if he wasn't already. I love all the characters here. Ma Frayne, bless her heart. I wanted to pick her up and hug the hell out of her. She's really showing to be a strong woman and coming into her own.
Damn this series is good...That's about all I can say.
This one certainly gutted me again even on reread.
Originally read August 2018
Well, this one just punched me in the gut. I felt ripped to pieces at one point. Gideon and Lee deserve some happiness and when it's torn away I felt kind of ragey.
This still has that underlying creepy factor going on. You don't know what's real and what's supernatural. Harper Fox definitely has a gift for weaving a tale to keep you guessing. But I didn't feel like it played as much of a big role here as previous ones. A lot of this is centered around Gideon and Lee and their family. The mystery was on the side only to help them forget their misery, and mine too I suppose.
Gideon and Lee are truly one of my favorite couples. The way they love and support each other is truly swoon-worthy. And the fact that Gideon is really becoming a part of Lee's world if he wasn't already. I love all the characters here. Ma Frayne, bless her heart. I wanted to pick her up and hug the hell out of her. She's really showing to be a strong woman and coming into her own.
Damn this series is good...That's about all I can say.
August 10, 2015
I really enjoy this series. Gideon and Lee are wonderful characters, great together, human and fallible, and yet honest and palpably in love. In this instalment, they see the birth of Lee's sister's child, whom they have promised to adopt and raise. But things don't work out as smoothly as planned. And the savage murder of a local farmer, in the middle of the most stressful time of their lives, strains everything.
The paranormal in this one was atmospheric, but a little harder to pin down. Maybe that was just me and a failure to follow the hints and descriptions, but I'd have docked a star for that. Except that the relationship between the two men is so palpably real, so sweet and warm and painful and necessary, that it deserves all the stars. Through pain and fear and pleasure and joy, these two are a couple that nothing can shake now. But watching them live their complicated life is a total heart-catching fascination.
Read this series from the beginning - you must see the two men evolve separately and together, to the point they reach in this book. Very much worth the time of any lover of paranormal contemporary M/M and mystery.
The paranormal in this one was atmospheric, but a little harder to pin down. Maybe that was just me and a failure to follow the hints and descriptions, but I'd have docked a star for that. Except that the relationship between the two men is so palpably real, so sweet and warm and painful and necessary, that it deserves all the stars. Through pain and fear and pleasure and joy, these two are a couple that nothing can shake now. But watching them live their complicated life is a total heart-catching fascination.
Read this series from the beginning - you must see the two men evolve separately and together, to the point they reach in this book. Very much worth the time of any lover of paranormal contemporary M/M and mystery.
September 6, 2018
4 Stars
When this fifth installment begins, we find Lee and Gideon settled in marital bliss and about to start their new lives as daddies. It’s all so sweet and wonderful, and I just adored seeing these guys happy and thriving both personally and professionally.
Of course, knowing these two, the other shoe had to drop at some point, and soon enough some deeply personal heartbreak befalls our darling men. I could have cried all the tears, but the circumstances as they were, however short-lived, mostly just made me ragey – largely at you-know-who for doing you-know-what and even at the guys themselves for sensible actions not taken to preemptively combat such bullshit.
On top of battling through their own personal sorrows, Gideon and Lee are also quickly embroiled in the latest creepy, and in this case gruesome, murder-mystery in their Cornish town of Dark.
Once again, the mystery element was sufficiently captivating and certainly spooky, with a mix of the real and the unreal colliding in typical fashion for these preternaturally inclined characters.
As has been the case now for me for five whole books, I experience this weird sensation while reading whereby I simultaneously find the writing quality to be both impressive and confusing all at once. There is just something in the intense, more dramatic/action-packed scenes that I often just cannot grasp, like I’m missing or misinterpreting pivotal moments and actions which often leave me feeling baffled as to the truth of what actually occurred. I would blame the writing itself, but according to the reviews, very few readers seem to have this same experience. Thankfully, the lovely romance and the gripping mystery elements, paired with Harper’s remarkably vivid and immersive story setting, all work together to make for a really enjoyable read, overpowering any niggles I have regarding clarity.
Even with all the sad, somewhat rage inducing, and sometimes downright scary moments in this story, Lee and Gideon once again overcome all the obstacles and find love and happiness where needed. I truly adore these characters and would quite contentedly continue reading about their lives for years to come. *fingers crossed*
When this fifth installment begins, we find Lee and Gideon settled in marital bliss and about to start their new lives as daddies. It’s all so sweet and wonderful, and I just adored seeing these guys happy and thriving both personally and professionally.
Of course, knowing these two, the other shoe had to drop at some point, and soon enough some deeply personal heartbreak befalls our darling men. I could have cried all the tears, but the circumstances as they were, however short-lived, mostly just made me ragey – largely at you-know-who for doing you-know-what and even at the guys themselves for sensible actions not taken to preemptively combat such bullshit.
On top of battling through their own personal sorrows, Gideon and Lee are also quickly embroiled in the latest creepy, and in this case gruesome, murder-mystery in their Cornish town of Dark.
Once again, the mystery element was sufficiently captivating and certainly spooky, with a mix of the real and the unreal colliding in typical fashion for these preternaturally inclined characters.
As has been the case now for me for five whole books, I experience this weird sensation while reading whereby I simultaneously find the writing quality to be both impressive and confusing all at once. There is just something in the intense, more dramatic/action-packed scenes that I often just cannot grasp, like I’m missing or misinterpreting pivotal moments and actions which often leave me feeling baffled as to the truth of what actually occurred. I would blame the writing itself, but according to the reviews, very few readers seem to have this same experience. Thankfully, the lovely romance and the gripping mystery elements, paired with Harper’s remarkably vivid and immersive story setting, all work together to make for a really enjoyable read, overpowering any niggles I have regarding clarity.
Even with all the sad, somewhat rage inducing, and sometimes downright scary moments in this story, Lee and Gideon once again overcome all the obstacles and find love and happiness where needed. I truly adore these characters and would quite contentedly continue reading about their lives for years to come. *fingers crossed*
September 17, 2019
Great audio though he mixes the voices up a few times. A good way to end the series, lots of familiar faces and a big family feel. There are more books but um...
-- --
All the stars - problem with five starring the series is being unable to rate this higher. Probably my favourite yet, though it does need the books that have come before to have full impact. To know the journey Gideon has taken from a solitary figure, distant to his family on the edge of the village; to being married, surrounded by family and the backbone of his village, impregnably woven in.
A good blend of personal story, mystery and paranormal chills; told in a way that swirls them together rather than warring for focus.
Though short, these are not written in the light spirit of most short stories, all the depth and details are present. These novellas are written as a though a novel with all the page building faff chopped out. But there's still poetry and imagery that caused me a few pauses along the way, Harper has a great talent of painting a picture for the reader.
While the main pairing a great favourites the support cast make for an endearing ensemble. Brother Zeke shows his strength and could have his own stories, their mother, cunning women and those ever troublesome Prowse.
The story delivers an emotional punch early and the feelings are carried through everything that comes after. Trepidation was building but the kick hurt. There's frights, laughter and head-shaking before the very satisfying conclusion. This would be a good place to end the series, though I'm loath to part from them - luckily there's another book to be read.
-- --
Kinda irrelevant but... the series started with phenomenal covers, I don't like this one - when I first saw it (possibly due to angles, maybe due to too much caffeine to little sleep, or perhaps I'm just part crazy-woman!) I saw a toad in a nest of leaves - it took me a while to see the man's face. Like any optical illusions know whenever I look at it the two images flicker. Laugh if you must, but me no likey!
-- --
All the stars - problem with five starring the series is being unable to rate this higher. Probably my favourite yet, though it does need the books that have come before to have full impact. To know the journey Gideon has taken from a solitary figure, distant to his family on the edge of the village; to being married, surrounded by family and the backbone of his village, impregnably woven in.
A good blend of personal story, mystery and paranormal chills; told in a way that swirls them together rather than warring for focus.
Though short, these are not written in the light spirit of most short stories, all the depth and details are present. These novellas are written as a though a novel with all the page building faff chopped out. But there's still poetry and imagery that caused me a few pauses along the way, Harper has a great talent of painting a picture for the reader.
While the main pairing a great favourites the support cast make for an endearing ensemble. Brother Zeke shows his strength and could have his own stories, their mother, cunning women and those ever troublesome Prowse.
The story delivers an emotional punch early and the feelings are carried through everything that comes after. Trepidation was building but the kick hurt. There's frights, laughter and head-shaking before the very satisfying conclusion. This would be a good place to end the series, though I'm loath to part from them - luckily there's another book to be read.
-- --
Kinda irrelevant but... the series started with phenomenal covers, I don't like this one - when I first saw it (possibly due to angles, maybe due to too much caffeine to little sleep, or perhaps I'm just part crazy-woman!) I saw a toad in a nest of leaves - it took me a while to see the man's face. Like any optical illusions know whenever I look at it the two images flicker. Laugh if you must, but me no likey!
April 8, 2020
I really REALLY loved this one. This is a series you need to read in order, to catch all the evolving characters. It's particularly critical for this installment.
Just wonderful. The fantastic elements, the town, its people, and the strife Gideon and Lee have to endure while trying to solve a murder may be the overt elements, but the underpinning of a place, a guardian, a psychic, a new element and a stolen child kept me riveted to this novel.
Just wonderful. The fantastic elements, the town, its people, and the strife Gideon and Lee have to endure while trying to solve a murder may be the overt elements, but the underpinning of a place, a guardian, a psychic, a new element and a stolen child kept me riveted to this novel.
September 30, 2018
I’m still loving this series.
This one had a lot more heartbreak and I was really hoping everything would work out alright.
Lee and Gideon are awaiting the birth of their daughter when they agree they will adopt the child Lee’s sister is carrying. The birth goes well and they are now the proud parents of a little girl.
Gideon and Lee could not be happier with little Tamsyn. But when Lee’s sister decides after 6 months that she wants her daughter back, Gideon and Lee are heartbroken. They never got around to legally adopt Tamsyn because Lee wanted to wait a bit before they had his sister sign legal documents. But now they’re upset they never got around to that.
While Gideon and Lee are still grieving the loss of their daughter, people are getting killed around them. And it looks like the beast of Bodmin Moor might have something to do with it…
I love these guys. They are just so perfect for each other. I especially loved how Gideon seemed to become more like Lee everyday with his psychic powers.
There were some very sad times in this book and at first I wasn’t sure what the goal of that was, but of course this all became clear later on. And I loved it when all of it came together.
Still such a lovely series. A bit scary, a bit romantic, and I can’t wait to see what will happen next.
This one had a lot more heartbreak and I was really hoping everything would work out alright.
Lee and Gideon are awaiting the birth of their daughter when they agree they will adopt the child Lee’s sister is carrying. The birth goes well and they are now the proud parents of a little girl.
Gideon and Lee could not be happier with little Tamsyn. But when Lee’s sister decides after 6 months that she wants her daughter back, Gideon and Lee are heartbroken. They never got around to legally adopt Tamsyn because Lee wanted to wait a bit before they had his sister sign legal documents. But now they’re upset they never got around to that.
While Gideon and Lee are still grieving the loss of their daughter, people are getting killed around them. And it looks like the beast of Bodmin Moor might have something to do with it…
I love these guys. They are just so perfect for each other. I especially loved how Gideon seemed to become more like Lee everyday with his psychic powers.
There were some very sad times in this book and at first I wasn’t sure what the goal of that was, but of course this all became clear later on. And I loved it when all of it came together.
Still such a lovely series. A bit scary, a bit romantic, and I can’t wait to see what will happen next.
June 8, 2021
Audiobook: same-as-ever ***3 Stars***
Story: a bit toobatshit-crazy esoteric for me ***3.5 Stars***
Story: a bit too
February 17, 2016
Life and death, happening simultaneously. That’s how the world works sometimes. Gideon and Lee are experiencing that right now. Amidst it all they have another mystery on their hands, murder and all. The paranormal aspect makes itself known through both the lands of Cornwall and its inhabitants. I love that it’s not just spinning heads or evil spirits but something that feels much older, as ancient as the ground beneath everyone’s feet.
Gideon Frayne and Lee Tyack are two of my favorite characters with whom I’ve ever had the pleasure of spending time. And together, as a couple? They are a force. For good. For heart. For fear and love and mystery. And humor.
“Sergeant Pendower,” Lee said fervently, as soon as the door was shut behind him, “is a pain in the arse.”
“I couldn’t help noticing that myself. It’s a shame you don’t like him, though— he thinks the sun shines out of yours.”
Pendower, poor bloke, he obtains a nickname that made me snort every time Gideon or Lee uttered it under their breath.
Familial relationships are as well depicted as ever: Gideon with his brother, Zeke; Gideon with their mother; Zeke with their mother; and this time around, some of those from Lee’s family. Opportunities for broken hearts and promises, biting humor, unwavering love, and lovely surprises are the payoffs.
These two men love each other. They adore each other. They want to do for each other. Their connection is something I think most of us dream about and hope to, not just find but, live our lives experiencing every day.
Some elements felt rushed and densely packed in the word department. However, that’s overridden by the immense satisfaction and contentment I feel whenever I get to spend time with those same word type things as they’re manipulated by Ms Fox.
I’ll say that I think you do need to read the other books in this series before enjoying this one.
The characters’ personalities and histories are deeply ensconced and layered, their nuances dropping like literary bombs, sometimes breaking my heart. I ate it up like the best red velvet cake in town.
This is also very British, maybe overtly so more than any other stories in the series. I loved it. From the UKIP to the oiks to the Cornish traditions and folklore, together they formed another complete character, intermingling with the human types.
I found myself hesitant to finish this,seeing as it’s the final entrant to this series. (no longer true!) However, my time with Gid and Lee isn’t over. All I need do is start reading from the beginning again, fall even more in love with Gideon and Lee, discover things I missed, and rediscover others. Yep, that’s what I’m going to do.
Thank you, Harper Fox, for introducing us to and forever gifting us with Gideon Frayne and Lee Tyack.
Gideon Frayne and Lee Tyack are two of my favorite characters with whom I’ve ever had the pleasure of spending time. And together, as a couple? They are a force. For good. For heart. For fear and love and mystery. And humor.
“Sergeant Pendower,” Lee said fervently, as soon as the door was shut behind him, “is a pain in the arse.”
“I couldn’t help noticing that myself. It’s a shame you don’t like him, though— he thinks the sun shines out of yours.”
Pendower, poor bloke, he obtains a nickname that made me snort every time Gideon or Lee uttered it under their breath.
Familial relationships are as well depicted as ever: Gideon with his brother, Zeke; Gideon with their mother; Zeke with their mother; and this time around, some of those from Lee’s family. Opportunities for broken hearts and promises, biting humor, unwavering love, and lovely surprises are the payoffs.
These two men love each other. They adore each other. They want to do for each other. Their connection is something I think most of us dream about and hope to, not just find but, live our lives experiencing every day.
Some elements felt rushed and densely packed in the word department. However, that’s overridden by the immense satisfaction and contentment I feel whenever I get to spend time with those same word type things as they’re manipulated by Ms Fox.
I’ll say that I think you do need to read the other books in this series before enjoying this one.
The characters’ personalities and histories are deeply ensconced and layered, their nuances dropping like literary bombs, sometimes breaking my heart. I ate it up like the best red velvet cake in town.
This is also very British, maybe overtly so more than any other stories in the series. I loved it. From the UKIP to the oiks to the Cornish traditions and folklore, together they formed another complete character, intermingling with the human types.
I found myself hesitant to finish this,
Thank you, Harper Fox, for introducing us to and forever gifting us with Gideon Frayne and Lee Tyack.
August 31, 2015
It has been ten days since I finished it -- so my review is going to be, well, sucky.
The story continued from the previous book, with Gideon and Lee familiarizing themselves with being parents for their adorable baby girl (the baby actually is Lee's niece from his younger sister). But then something emotional happened, and I couldn't help myself for hating Lee's sister for it. It really was heartbreaking. In amidst to that, there was a mystery when a local farmer was horribly murdered. I could do without the paranormal element of it, because somehow it just harder for me to grasp.
All in all, it was lovely and the murderer revelation satisfying. I really loved this couple and whenever there's a new Tyack and Frayne's story, I'll going to check up on them again :)
The story continued from the previous book, with Gideon and Lee familiarizing themselves with being parents for their adorable baby girl (the baby actually is Lee's niece from his younger sister). But then something emotional happened, and I couldn't help myself for hating Lee's sister for it. It really was heartbreaking. In amidst to that, there was a mystery when a local farmer was horribly murdered. I could do without the paranormal element of it, because somehow it just harder for me to grasp.
All in all, it was lovely and the murderer revelation satisfying. I really loved this couple and whenever there's a new Tyack and Frayne's story, I'll going to check up on them again :)
May 21, 2025
I'm still loving Gideon and Lee and their journey together. There's something that's just nice about popping in my headphones and listening to this series. It's nothing earth shatteringly amazing, but it is a nice, solid little story that puts a smile on my face ☺️
January 11, 2018
Audiobook reviewI thought I knew what was coming, but I really didn't. I didn't expect that at all. This book will break your heart, so you might want to have a few tissues handy before starting it.
While reading and listening to this series I've been thoroughly invested in every word of this story. I've loved, laughed, worried and been creeped out all along with our friends in Bodmin Moor. But I can't say the books have left me reeling, they have not been angsty or emotional on that rollercoaster level. They've always had that warm, cosy mystery feel to them, but with a haunting and creepy edge. This book though? This book will gut not only you, but each and every one of the characters we've come to love and care for. You will feel the pain Lee and Gideon are going through, wonder why right alongside with them and wonder if they will ever be happy again.
Even though this book is more angsty than the rest of the series, what shines through the most is unwavering love. The love between Gideon and Lee is indescribable. I truly don’t have words to describe it but I’ll try to muddle through. If you’ve read the books, you will know what I mean. And if you haven’t, you’ve truly missed out on something wonderful.
Their love is something that is unbelievable strong, you can almost see it in front of you as a physical bond between them. And you know that old cliché about two people completing each other - well that's Gideon and Lee. Together they make a whole. The struggles they face in this book make them stronger and you just know that nothing can ever tear them apart. They are it. Come hell or high water, no matter what, they will stand strong together. Together they can face anything.
I find the town of Dark to be a fascinating place. So intertwined by legends and stories of the beast of Bodmin yet at first glance it seems like any other small English town. But secrets run deep and so do the stories about guardians and beasts. The townspeople and the legends are so intertwined and part of each other that at times they can be hard to separate from each other. Or to tell if they really are as they seem? And what does the beast really want? I just love the atmosphere of these books and I just can’t get enough.
As always, Tim Gilbert makes this a book a true joy to listen to. He nails the creepy/haunted feeling that Fox's words create and he brings us a story about love, loss and hope. Highly recommended!
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
March 28, 2016
A great lot is packed into this little short. A great big breath required before you start and hope it lasts till you reach the end.
A niggle kept me from enjoying this mystery/romance.
Read with Ingela - to set date - BR link
February 3, 2016
*4.5 stars*
Oh, what lovely imagery here.
I feel like the Cornish moorland setting and its history, tradition and people are as much a main character in this series as are Gideon and Lee.
Book #5 is another wonderful addition to this series. We see the continuation of Lee and Gideon's love story, which has always had such a real, pure and honest feel to me. All the key secondary characters (like Zeke and Ma Frayne) are back and continuing to grow and evolve with one very special new addition. This isn't an easy read - there are heartbreaking moments and the mystery, like others in this series, is on the dark side - but the emotional connection between Gideon and Lee and the moments of pure joy are well worth it!
I'm very hopeful there will be more Gideon and Lee to come.
Oh, what lovely imagery here.
I feel like the Cornish moorland setting and its history, tradition and people are as much a main character in this series as are Gideon and Lee.
Book #5 is another wonderful addition to this series. We see the continuation of Lee and Gideon's love story, which has always had such a real, pure and honest feel to me. All the key secondary characters (like Zeke and Ma Frayne) are back and continuing to grow and evolve with one very special new addition. This isn't an easy read - there are heartbreaking moments and the mystery, like others in this series, is on the dark side - but the emotional connection between Gideon and Lee and the moments of pure joy are well worth it!
I'm very hopeful there will be more Gideon and Lee to come.
July 30, 2022
I didn't think Harper Fox could be so cruel (and I'm not spoiling it for anyone who hasn't read this series yet). But thankfully my faith remains intact (and hopefully that's cryptic enough not to give it away).
Seriously though, a seriously great series and I highly recommend doing it in audio - beautifully performed by the marvelous Tim Gilbert.
Seriously though, a seriously great series and I highly recommend doing it in audio - beautifully performed by the marvelous Tim Gilbert.
August 8, 2015
In this fifth installment of the Tyack & Frayne series, Harper Fox took us back to the Bodmin Moor of the Dark village from the very first book where Sargeant Gideon Frayne and his husband Lee Tyack are now settling well and good after their wedding with their dog Isolde and their lovely baby girl Tamsyn. Their domestic bliss was halted when a shocking family event took place leaving our boys gasping for something to hold on into and if that’s not enough, the legend about the Bodmin beast resurfaced resulting to murder prompting Gideon and Lee to gather all their resources to find the killer.
As expected, Harper Fox delivered something that is nothing short of perfect! As usual, there’s the vivid description of the Dark village that will transport you to the place itself. This is where Harper Fox really excel the most – her lyrical storytelling will lull you into somberness and be hypnotized by her story in return.
I loved how rock-solid the relationship of Gid and Lee now like there’s nothing anyone can do to break them. They’re so in sync in every way including the paranormal stuff going on between them. I also loved how awfully realistic the scenario about Elowen and their baby. Gideon was mad and he’s every right to be and I loved that about his character. Despite his almost too forgiving nature, he’s still very human after all. I was actually very pissed with that situation but knowing the author, I don’t think she would leave her readers unsettled with the issue and naturally, she didn’t. I was relieved but still wanted to strangle Lee’s sister just the same.
There was no big twist here. It’s all very perfunctory regarding the Bodmin beast and catching the killer. What we got here instead was the strong connection between Gid and Lee through the years. We got a tour of how they’re living their marital life and a glimpse of their future.
Again, what a beautiful story from Miss Fox. I hope this isn’t the last book in the series.
Thank you, Harper Fox!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
***
Yassss!!!!
Gideon Frayne and Lee Tyack are back!!!!!
Need to re-read the first four books ASAP!!!!!
Perfect Series is Perfect!
As expected, Harper Fox delivered something that is nothing short of perfect! As usual, there’s the vivid description of the Dark village that will transport you to the place itself. This is where Harper Fox really excel the most – her lyrical storytelling will lull you into somberness and be hypnotized by her story in return.
I loved how rock-solid the relationship of Gid and Lee now like there’s nothing anyone can do to break them. They’re so in sync in every way including the paranormal stuff going on between them. I also loved how awfully realistic the scenario about Elowen and their baby. Gideon was mad and he’s every right to be and I loved that about his character. Despite his almost too forgiving nature, he’s still very human after all. I was actually very pissed with that situation but knowing the author, I don’t think she would leave her readers unsettled with the issue and naturally, she didn’t. I was relieved but still wanted to strangle Lee’s sister just the same.
There was no big twist here. It’s all very perfunctory regarding the Bodmin beast and catching the killer. What we got here instead was the strong connection between Gid and Lee through the years. We got a tour of how they’re living their marital life and a glimpse of their future.
Again, what a beautiful story from Miss Fox. I hope this isn’t the last book in the series.
Thank you, Harper Fox!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
***
Yassss!!!!
Gideon Frayne and Lee Tyack are back!!!!!
Need to re-read the first four books ASAP!!!!!
Perfect Series is Perfect!
August 14, 2015
Seriously love this series. In fact MM series are what I'm really enjoying at the moment, especially ones with a mystery/crime going on as well.
The best thing about this book is the ongoing relationship development between Lee and Gideon. Just because they are together and in love doesn't mean everything runs smoothly, that life is full of roses. And yay for that - because life doesn't always run to plan. In fact it most often chooses not to and sometimes what makes or breaks a situation is the way it is reacted to.
Despite some overwhelming grief/anger (any parent can relate to) at the beginning. Despite it almost knocking these two off their knees - it didn't knock them apart. What doesn't break us makes us stronger, huh. Not always, but in this case, yes.
As ever the wonderful Cornish moorlands made fpr a perfect setting to this story, and previously met and loved characters featured. A series I love more with each instalment from the wonder Harper Fox.
The best thing about this book is the ongoing relationship development between Lee and Gideon. Just because they are together and in love doesn't mean everything runs smoothly, that life is full of roses. And yay for that - because life doesn't always run to plan. In fact it most often chooses not to and sometimes what makes or breaks a situation is the way it is reacted to.
Despite some overwhelming grief/anger (any parent can relate to) at the beginning. Despite it almost knocking these two off their knees - it didn't knock them apart. What doesn't break us makes us stronger, huh. Not always, but in this case, yes.
As ever the wonderful Cornish moorlands made fpr a perfect setting to this story, and previously met and loved characters featured. A series I love more with each instalment from the wonder Harper Fox.
September 21, 2025
Heartbreaking!!
Another triumph, I love how the main characters are still growing, their connection, the love (and love making), the ups and downs!
The amazing characters, Ma Frayne, Zeke... all full of colours, also the characters we want to slap!
Heartbreaking moments, sadness and anger, love, happiness, Harper leads you to a whirlwind of emotions, I'm sold!
I like the cover, pretty!
“My name is Locryn Tyack-Frayne, and Gideon is with me, and nothing can dislodge my soul.”
Congratulations, I loved it!
Another triumph, I love how the main characters are still growing, their connection, the love (and love making), the ups and downs!
The amazing characters, Ma Frayne, Zeke... all full of colours, also the characters we want to slap!
Heartbreaking moments, sadness and anger, love, happiness, Harper leads you to a whirlwind of emotions, I'm sold!
I like the cover, pretty!
“My name is Locryn Tyack-Frayne, and Gideon is with me, and nothing can dislodge my soul.”
Congratulations, I loved it!
December 22, 2016
4.5 stars
February 19, 2024
I’m still super into this series! Love, love, love where the bonds between Gideon and Lee are growing and am VERY curious to see where the bonds between Lee and Tamsyn will grow. That said, I found the mystery and its ties to Cornish folklore a bit confusing and am not sure I truly followed some of it. I felt a little lost and adrift at times. But honestly, I felt similarly confused while reading book 1 and those very parts, where I wasn’t sure I completely understood, tied back into the plot of this book so maybe I’m meant to dangle a bit…? 🤔🤷🏻♀️
Anyway, big love for this series and its characters!
Anyway, big love for this series and its characters!
June 17, 2017
4.5 - this was great !! How Harper Fox can come up with these twists are amazing. The use of old language, mysteries of the moor and paranormal superstition that are really plausible, even to the non believer. This was one of my favorite episodes- with the inclusion of baby Tamsyn, the growing bond between Lee & Gideon, the development of secondary characters- especially Zeke, and the whole mystery of the Beast. This book series would make an awesome Netflix series!!
March 4, 2023
This book wasn't as strong as some of the previous ones in the series. I still loved the characters, their sweet relationship, and their emotional moments. I still loved getting to see the trials and tribulations of a relationship beyond the initial romance. I still loved Gideon's adorable mom who wasn't supportive most of his life but has been trying to make up for it and become a champion of LGBT+ rights and acceptance. I still liked how this author wove paranormal and mystery aspects with the contemporary struggles of normal life things. But I'm not sure I fully understood the mystery, and it felt sort of anticlimactic. And I definitely didn't understand the paranormal stuff, it seemed so random. Also, one of the side characters had schizophrenia, and though I have no experience with the illness myself, I feel like it was not a good portrayal. *SPOILER* *END SPOILER* It might've also been mixed with paranormal stuff, so that makes it even harder to say. And it seemed like the only reason he even had it was to make the story seem more mysterious. My thoughts on the audiobook narration can be found in my review for the first book. Overall though, I still enjoyed this book and the time I got to spend with these lovely characters.
*I’ve read this book multiple times. This review was written after my 1st read, slightly edited after my 2nd.*
*Rating: 3.5 Stars // Read Date: 2020 // Format: Audiobook*
*Rating: 3 Stars // Read Date: 2023 // Format: Audiobook*
Recommended For:
Fans of Book 1-4 in Harper Fox's Tyack & Frayne series. Anyone who likes loving and supportive m/m romance, clairvoyants, mysteries, and small English towns.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
*I’ve read this book multiple times. This review was written after my 1st read, slightly edited after my 2nd.*
*Rating: 3.5 Stars // Read Date: 2020 // Format: Audiobook*
*Rating: 3 Stars // Read Date: 2023 // Format: Audiobook*
Recommended For:
Fans of Book 1-4 in Harper Fox's Tyack & Frayne series. Anyone who likes loving and supportive m/m romance, clairvoyants, mysteries, and small English towns.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
February 2, 2017
This book hit me right in the feels.
Which I wasn't expecting, because the preceding books haven't been particularly angsty. I spent most of the book hurting for Gideon and Lee. Their pain was just so palpable.
But I didn't need to worry. Gideon and Lee hold each other up and work through it. And despite the angst, the relationship is still the mix of sweet and sexy that makes this series so easy to enjoy.
The mystery was very entertaining. Genuinely creepy at times. Bodmin Moor is still a complete enigma, so I'm hoping Lee and Gideon have more adventures there.
Also, how awesome is Ma Frayne? A total badass. Zeke's not too bad either.
Overall, another great addition to the Tyack and Frayne series!
Which I wasn't expecting, because the preceding books haven't been particularly angsty. I spent most of the book hurting for Gideon and Lee. Their pain was just so palpable.
But I didn't need to worry. Gideon and Lee hold each other up and work through it. And despite the angst, the relationship is still the mix of sweet and sexy that makes this series so easy to enjoy.
The mystery was very entertaining. Genuinely creepy at times. Bodmin Moor is still a complete enigma, so I'm hoping Lee and Gideon have more adventures there.
Also, how awesome is Ma Frayne? A total badass. Zeke's not too bad either.
Overall, another great addition to the Tyack and Frayne series!
September 16, 2016
Probably the best series I have read, every time I thought that this was going to slide into schmaltz or irritate, HF bought it right back.
Ended in a good place, but surely there has to be more ?
Full review on blog
Ended in a good place, but surely there has to be more ?
Full review on blog
January 1, 2019
4.5 Stars
With this book I actually managed to complete my 2018 Reading Challenge, so YAY!
Loved Tim Gilbert's narration, as always...and these guys are still totally #RelationshipGoals. When Lee and Gideon were talking about how quickly everything in their lives came together, and yet it wasn't too quickly for them? *Heart Eyes*
Can't wait to get to the next one, as it's the first of the whole series I haven't read OR listened to, yet!
With this book I actually managed to complete my 2018 Reading Challenge, so YAY!
Loved Tim Gilbert's narration, as always...and these guys are still totally #RelationshipGoals. When Lee and Gideon were talking about how quickly everything in their lives came together, and yet it wasn't too quickly for them? *Heart Eyes*
Can't wait to get to the next one, as it's the first of the whole series I haven't read OR listened to, yet!
September 26, 2015
And I remember again why I didn't dig this series so much...
12:58 pm 26 September 2015
Guardians Of The Haunted Moor: (A Tyack & Frayne Mystery) (The Tyack & Frayne Mysteries Book 5) - Harper Fox
The relationship between the two MCs is established, their great true love stronger than anything and so on.
So the drama centers on their ready-made family.
The last installment ended with Lee's conveniently pregnant sister at their wedding.
I don't want to spoil it for other readers, so no details. Just that I didn't like where the story was going.
Also the paranormal stuff was bordering on ridiculous. The crime story was boring to me.
I don't understand why Gideon had evolve like this (it started in the last books as hints, and became very emphasized here). I liked him better as the silent and strong and good giant, the copper and all around good guy. He didn't need anymore special polish imho.
So, all in all, just ok.
12:58 pm 26 September 2015
Guardians Of The Haunted Moor: (A Tyack & Frayne Mystery) (The Tyack & Frayne Mysteries Book 5) - Harper Fox
The relationship between the two MCs is established, their great true love stronger than anything and so on.
So the drama centers on their ready-made family.
The last installment ended with Lee's conveniently pregnant sister at their wedding.
I don't want to spoil it for other readers, so no details. Just that I didn't like where the story was going.
Also the paranormal stuff was bordering on ridiculous. The crime story was boring to me.
I don't understand why Gideon had evolve like this (it started in the last books as hints, and became very emphasized here). I liked him better as the silent and strong and good giant, the copper and all around good guy. He didn't need anymore special polish imho.
So, all in all, just ok.
January 24, 2016
This one made me cry. (Plus the thing from the moor is back.) I love this series so hard!
September 15, 2016
getting better and better. Also only one very short book left in the series. What will ever cure this book hungover? i
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