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Une pause hors du temps
L’agent du FBI Morgan Nash est en mission à Londres où son affaire tourne mal et il se trouve à quelques instants de prendre une balle dans le cœur en poursuivant un suspect. Mais le destin a d’autres plans : Morgan perd connaissance… et se réveille en 1888.
Chargé de répertorier les manuscrits anciens au British Museum, Ezra Glacenbie a attiré accidentellement Morgan hors du vingt et unième siècle – des vacances impromptues qui pourraient devenir permanentes pour Morgan, si les deux hommes n’arrivent pas à localiser le grimoire qu’Ezra a utilisé.
La quête de Morgan pour rentrer chez lui est entravée par son irrésistible tentation d’enquêter sur le tueur en série le plus célèbre de l’histoire. Mais dans le Londres victorien répressif, la romance inattendue qui fleurit entre Morgan et Ezra devient la complication la plus dangereuse de toutes.
Romance MM : Voyage dans le temps
Retrouvez notre catalogue sur http://juno-publishing.com/
Chargé de répertorier les manuscrits anciens au British Museum, Ezra Glacenbie a attiré accidentellement Morgan hors du vingt et unième siècle – des vacances impromptues qui pourraient devenir permanentes pour Morgan, si les deux hommes n’arrivent pas à localiser le grimoire qu’Ezra a utilisé.
La quête de Morgan pour rentrer chez lui est entravée par son irrésistible tentation d’enquêter sur le tueur en série le plus célèbre de l’histoire. Mais dans le Londres victorien répressif, la romance inattendue qui fleurit entre Morgan et Ezra devient la complication la plus dangereuse de toutes.
Romance MM : Voyage dans le temps
Retrouvez notre catalogue sur http://juno-publishing.com/
603 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2007
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4001 people want to read
About the author
James Allen
1 book3 followersThere is more than one author with this name
James Allen is a pen name used by author Tamara Allen.
James Allen is a pen name used by author Tamara Allen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 378 reviews
December 27, 2014
willfully reposted that i may heartily irritate the author, who has accused me of improprieties while defending the right of ann somerville to talk shit about my mama.
tamara: bite me.
OMG I'm in the 1800s. Wait until twitter hears about this—O NOES! Stupid cellphone. Y U NO HAZ SIGNAL???
It's grating to spend time with a character so dense he was as likely to blurt out something that could alter the course of human history as he was to reach for 21st century identification to soothe the suspicions of a 19th century constable.
The sex scene was an embarrassment of ill-considered plotting. By which I mean orchestrating a scene that involves two men taking turns diddling one another under a blanket—hiding their bodies as much from the reader as from one another—is not a very satisfying conclusion to nearly 200 pages of unresolved sexual tension.
The Ripper was obvious and I found myself quite simply incandescent with rage at Morgan—of late sucked into the 1880's by means of a stupid grimoire nobody can name or describe to anyone's satisfaction—ultimately accepting his H.G. Wells moment only to draw a hard and fast line of incredulity between himself and Ezra's extra-sensory powers—which brought him to the fucking past in the first place.
A massively irritating litany of WTFery and headdeskery.
But lawwwwwwwwd, that Ezra was adorbz...
tamara: bite me.
OMG I'm in the 1800s. Wait until twitter hears about this—O NOES! Stupid cellphone. Y U NO HAZ SIGNAL???
It's grating to spend time with a character so dense he was as likely to blurt out something that could alter the course of human history as he was to reach for 21st century identification to soothe the suspicions of a 19th century constable.
The sex scene was an embarrassment of ill-considered plotting. By which I mean orchestrating a scene that involves two men taking turns diddling one another under a blanket—hiding their bodies as much from the reader as from one another—is not a very satisfying conclusion to nearly 200 pages of unresolved sexual tension.
The Ripper was obvious and I found myself quite simply incandescent with rage at Morgan—of late sucked into the 1880's by means of a stupid grimoire nobody can name or describe to anyone's satisfaction—ultimately accepting his H.G. Wells moment only to draw a hard and fast line of incredulity between himself and Ezra's extra-sensory powers—which brought him to the fucking past in the first place.
A massively irritating litany of WTFery and headdeskery.
But lawwwwwwwwd, that Ezra was adorbz...
December 17, 2012
I just spent the whole day reading this 500 page beauty, and I loved every second of it! This book really had everything for me. It mixes time-travel, historical fiction, a sweet m-m romance, and fully developed plot.
Thank you Tamara Allen for giving this romance a SLOW BURN. There was no rushing, everything was built-up at a wonderfully delicious pace. The chemistry felt real and the 19th century world was described beautifully. I have nothing but praise for this book. My one wish is that it was a bit higher on the heat factor (it is a pretty clean romance) but that is just the dirty side of me coming out! This book was a gem and I'm sure it will be on my list of books I re-read from time to time.
Thank you Tamara Allen for giving this romance a SLOW BURN. There was no rushing, everything was built-up at a wonderfully delicious pace. The chemistry felt real and the 19th century world was described beautifully. I have nothing but praise for this book. My one wish is that it was a bit higher on the heat factor (it is a pretty clean romance) but that is just the dirty side of me coming out! This book was a gem and I'm sure it will be on my list of books I re-read from time to time.
February 3, 2013
A Gorgeous, lovely romance and another favourite from Tamara Allen who has a talent for building wonderful atmospheric stories. I could almost smell and feel that I was there with Ezra and Morgan. Jack the Ripper is a big feature and a gripping addition to the story, loved the way Ezra and Morgan teamed up to investigate the murders. The institution where Ezra ends up briefly, is terrifying and spine-chilling in its desperate hopelessness, a horrible place for anyone who has the misfortune of ending up there. I really liked all the secondary characters especially Hannah, who blossomed from Morgans attention, he eventually gets Kathleen to see Hannah in an new light and treat her as the little girl she deserves to be. There is no doubt about it though Ezra is the one for me, shy, cute, clever, understanding and an admirable friend to adore and love. Highly recommended, only don't go into it thinking hot sex, there isn't any, its a slow burn romance and its dreamy.
November 21, 2012
Well surprise, surprise…”Downtime” is one of my favorite books of the year.
…and for none of the reasons that I love other books.
No steamy sex scenes.
No action.
No angst.
No fast-pace.
Instead, it was a slowly rolled-out, beautifully-written love story about time travel, 1888 London, friendships, transformations, and Jack the Ripper. Not an obvious recipe for a winning read, but Tamara Allen produced just that.
I love Morgan, Derry, Kathleen, and Hannah. I also love creepy George, mystery-Sid, and broken-Jem.
But most of all…I love Ezra…sweet, patient, witty, smart, capable, gifted.
And though the ending , it was exactly what I needed and wanted.
March 24, 2018
***4.5 Stars***
Now that's what I call a one-eighty...
Or should I say an eighteen-eighty-eight? ;-) I love time travel stories, especially the unintentional kind (Outlander Jamie Frasier will always be one of my favorite book boyfriends!), so I was a bit disappointed when this book and I were off to a somewhat rocky start. I can be stubborn as a mule, though, and I simply refused to give up on my second book in a row. Sometimes stubbornness pays off big time and this book turned from a nearly miss into a gem that ended up on my favorites shelf.
FBI-Agent Morgan Nash, on an assignment in England that almost turned out to be his last one, is saved at the very last minute by a spell that throws him back into the nineteenth century. Into London, 1888, to be precise. Stuck in time and in an alien surrounding, but with three contrite culprits at his side determined to reverse the spell...
... Morgan suddenly gets sidetracked. Not only by one of the most fascinating mysteries in the history of mysteries -or unsolved murders in that case- (I can't really blame him since this is something that fascinates me as well and no, I won't tell you more, but psst... Google knows! ;-) ). But also by Ezra, the person mainly responsible, for his backfall in time and someone who is fighting his own ghosts - quite literally. Both men form a bond that could easily pass the confines of time...
... but it's almost too late until Morgan discovers that home can be a person, not a place or a time in which he suddenly does not seem to belong any longer.
What a sweet - sometimes bittersweet - love story!!! Slowly but surely I should create a made-me-cry-my-a**-off shelf!!! Especially during the last 15% tears were streaming down my face and even if it was late at night, I just had to know if these guys will find their HEA.
As soon as Morgan landed in the past, I was hooked and could not put this book down. And it's a looooong book! The dark and gloomy atmosphere of Victorian London casted its own spell over me, the mystery plot -like I already said- kept me on the edge of my seat, although it happened more due to underlying suspension than action itself and how Morgan and Ezra solved the case without changing history was absolutely brilliant, so kudos to the author. First and foremost, though, it was the love story that enthralled me. It's pretty low on the steam, but it didn't bother me. At all. I loved both men, especially Ezra, so I will definitely revisit them again someday.
Now that's what I call a one-eighty...
Or should I say an eighteen-eighty-eight? ;-) I love time travel stories, especially the unintentional kind (Outlander Jamie Frasier will always be one of my favorite book boyfriends!), so I was a bit disappointed when this book and I were off to a somewhat rocky start. I can be stubborn as a mule, though, and I simply refused to give up on my second book in a row. Sometimes stubbornness pays off big time and this book turned from a nearly miss into a gem that ended up on my favorites shelf.
FBI-Agent Morgan Nash, on an assignment in England that almost turned out to be his last one, is saved at the very last minute by a spell that throws him back into the nineteenth century. Into London, 1888, to be precise. Stuck in time and in an alien surrounding, but with three contrite culprits at his side determined to reverse the spell...
... Morgan suddenly gets sidetracked. Not only by one of the most fascinating mysteries in the history of mysteries -or unsolved murders in that case- (I can't really blame him since this is something that fascinates me as well and no, I won't tell you more, but psst... Google knows! ;-) ). But also by Ezra, the person mainly responsible, for his backfall in time and someone who is fighting his own ghosts - quite literally. Both men form a bond that could easily pass the confines of time...
... but it's almost too late until Morgan discovers that home can be a person, not a place or a time in which he suddenly does not seem to belong any longer.
What a sweet - sometimes bittersweet - love story!!! Slowly but surely I should create a made-me-cry-my-a**-off shelf!!! Especially during the last 15% tears were streaming down my face and even if it was late at night, I just had to know if these guys will find their HEA.
As soon as Morgan landed in the past, I was hooked and could not put this book down. And it's a looooong book! The dark and gloomy atmosphere of Victorian London casted its own spell over me, the mystery plot -like I already said- kept me on the edge of my seat, although it happened more due to underlying suspension than action itself and how Morgan and Ezra solved the case without changing history was absolutely brilliant, so kudos to the author. First and foremost, though, it was the love story that enthralled me. It's pretty low on the steam, but it didn't bother me. At all. I loved both men, especially Ezra, so I will definitely revisit them again someday.
November 18, 2012
4.5 stars. Tamara Allen is an auto-buy author for me. She has just the right touch with a historical romance, making the settings and characters feel relatively authentic and yet not alien, giving rich description but not so much it feels overworked or intrusive. In this book Morgan Nash, a modern FBI agent is transported back in time to 1888, where he meets Ezra, who sees ghosts. Morgan is cool, brash, determined and abrasive. Ezra is quiet, sweet, honest and haunted. And gay in a time when that is even less accepted than it is today.
At first Morgan's one thought is to get back home to the future as fast as possible, but the book containing the necessary incantation is missing, leaving him stranded until it can be found. Morgan initially feels only skepticism and disdain toward Ezra, considering him a con-man. Gradually Morgan comes to believe Ezra is in fact an honest psychic. With his growing affection toward both Ezra and the interesting secondary characters around him, Morgan becomes more and more wrapped up in the events of the past.
Being a dedicated, or perhaps obsessed, law-enforcement officer, Morgan insists on trying to solve a historical mystery that is now fresh on his doorstep. In the process of attempting to use Ezra's communication with ghosts as a forensic tool, their acquaintance quickly becomes friendship and then more. For me, both men seemed initially a little flat. It was the first encounter with the ghost of Sully that brought these characters into focus for me, showing Ezra's strength behind the sweetness, and Morgan's heart behind the brusque facade. I was quickly invested in them and their relationship.
The plot is complex and kept me guessing. I had one moment where a cliff-hanger phrase at the end of a chapter was more irritation than suspense but for a long time I wasn't sure how things would work out. The mystery was almost incidental, and I would have been just as happy if Morgan had failed to solve it since the solution fell into place a bit easily. But as a device for pushing our MCs together, ramping up the stress and danger, and forcing cool Morgan out of his complacency, it worked well.
At first Morgan's one thought is to get back home to the future as fast as possible, but the book containing the necessary incantation is missing, leaving him stranded until it can be found. Morgan initially feels only skepticism and disdain toward Ezra, considering him a con-man. Gradually Morgan comes to believe Ezra is in fact an honest psychic. With his growing affection toward both Ezra and the interesting secondary characters around him, Morgan becomes more and more wrapped up in the events of the past.
Being a dedicated, or perhaps obsessed, law-enforcement officer, Morgan insists on trying to solve a historical mystery that is now fresh on his doorstep. In the process of attempting to use Ezra's communication with ghosts as a forensic tool, their acquaintance quickly becomes friendship and then more. For me, both men seemed initially a little flat. It was the first encounter with the ghost of Sully that brought these characters into focus for me, showing Ezra's strength behind the sweetness, and Morgan's heart behind the brusque facade. I was quickly invested in them and their relationship.
The plot is complex and kept me guessing. I had one moment where a cliff-hanger phrase at the end of a chapter was more irritation than suspense but for a long time I wasn't sure how things would work out. The mystery was almost incidental, and I would have been just as happy if Morgan had failed to solve it since the solution fell into place a bit easily. But as a device for pushing our MCs together, ramping up the stress and danger, and forcing cool Morgan out of his complacency, it worked well.
May 15, 2015
I like Susan's review of this book. And though we disagree in our rating I would like to echo her main points about the book:
*No steamy sex scenes.
*No action.
*No angst.
*No fast-pace.
And add some from me:
*Annoying sub-plot.
*Boring and uninteresting investigations.
*The book is very long. It could have at least 100 pages less without a negative influence on the plot.
*A very sterile romance.
*Morgan Nash. The most uninteresting figure in the book. His figure is...colourless and flat.
But it was sweet and terribly cute and well written. And I feel sad that I couldn't enjoy it as much as the most of my GR freinds. But I'm not a big fan of a very sweet fairy tale-like fantasy. Even if Tamara Allen did a good job trying to create a credible atmosphere of the 19th century in London.
It was like a nice original Disney movie that was turned into a TV-show with 5 Seasons each of them consisted of 20 Episodes.
And, of course, with a typical Disney's HEA.
BR with Irina and Ingela.
Thank you, girls, for a sweet company!
May 14, 2018
Lot of things going on in Downtime, that made it a very enjoyable read for me :
* Time-travel : Morgan Nash, an abrasive FBI agent, is sent to London on a case that almost gets him killed at the British Museum when a spell sends him back to…1888.
* Paranormal : this messy situation is due to Ezra inadvertently (or maybe not) reading a spell from an old manuscript. As the sweet and patient gentleman he is, Ezra pledges to do whatever he can to bring Morgan back to his time.
Wait, why paranormal, then ? Because Ezra is a psychic, haunted by all these ghosts surrounding him since his childhood.
* Historical : while searching for the spell-manuscript that has gone missing, Morgan discovers the Victorian age, its codes, its society and the foggy streets of London. And can’t resist the opportunity to investigate the most popular and unsolved crime of all centuries.
*Romance : there is no love between Morgan and Ezra at first. They are so different but even if Morgan’s brain is slow to compute, his heart and actions speak volume about the bound gradually forming with Ezra. Granted, there is almost no heat (yes, what a shame !!), but damned, the chemistry is there and the relationship is never overshadowed.
It’s well-written with endearing characters and a delicious atmosphere. It kept me engaged until the end and intrigued about the HEA. No fear : there is always sunshine once the rain stops and the fog disappears.
PS : Thank you, Simone, for putting this in my radar, and THANK YOU , Lisa for this surprising gift <3
* Time-travel : Morgan Nash, an abrasive FBI agent, is sent to London on a case that almost gets him killed at the British Museum when a spell sends him back to…1888.
* Paranormal : this messy situation is due to Ezra inadvertently (or maybe not) reading a spell from an old manuscript. As the sweet and patient gentleman he is, Ezra pledges to do whatever he can to bring Morgan back to his time.
Wait, why paranormal, then ? Because Ezra is a psychic, haunted by all these ghosts surrounding him since his childhood.
* Historical : while searching for the spell-manuscript that has gone missing, Morgan discovers the Victorian age, its codes, its society and the foggy streets of London. And can’t resist the opportunity to investigate the most popular and unsolved crime of all centuries.
*Romance : there is no love between Morgan and Ezra at first. They are so different but even if Morgan’s brain is slow to compute, his heart and actions speak volume about the bound gradually forming with Ezra. Granted, there is almost no heat (yes, what a shame !!), but damned, the chemistry is there and the relationship is never overshadowed.
It’s well-written with endearing characters and a delicious atmosphere. It kept me engaged until the end and intrigued about the HEA. No fear : there is always sunshine once the rain stops and the fog disappears.
PS : Thank you, Simone, for putting this in my radar, and THANK YOU , Lisa for this surprising gift <3
February 15, 2022
3.5 stars
How do you rate a book that you wanted to rate 2 to 3 stars for the first half, have been repeatedly tempted to DNF…and then had you glued to your kindle for the last third or so?
We’ve all had those books, the ones that have an amazing first half and then sink or the ones that start weak and improve later. This is not one of those cases, I don’t think the book got better, I think my mindset changed somewhere along the way and I started to accept or get used to the flaws, until the flaws didn’t even register anymore. In the process, I became attached to the characters. Or maybe it was the other way around, I started to care for the characters so much that I didn’t notice the flaws anymore. Anyway, I became so invested in the MCs’ happiness that I closed the book thinking “I can’t give this less than 4 stars.” Again, this from the person that struggled with the book so much that I almost DNF’d it.
One of the friends in my BR told me this is the first book by this author and it shows, if it had been my first experience with her writing, I might have given up on this book before things turned around.
The time travel subject is unrealistic by default, so I had my suspension of disbelief ready, but not even that prepared me for the unbelievable reactions from the characters.
I also found Morgan incredibly annoying, with his judging people in 1888 by his 21-century mentality, and his behavior was all over the place. This is supposed to be a capable FBI agent and he acted like a complete idiot time and again.
The other characters’ reactions were a little better, but they also suffered from a too-easy acceptance of things that should’ve at least warranted a little bit of surprise.
So, you see, the book has flaws. And I haven’t even mentioned the part of the plot. When it was first mentioned, I rolled my eyes hard, and I mean hard. And then I was shaking my head at the absurdity of
Then something changed (with me not the book), I stopped taking things too seriously and just went with the flow. I think that happened when I became attached to the characters. Ezra had always been a sweetheart, patient with Morgan in a way I wouldn’t achieve in ten lifetimes, and I loved his sense of humor. Morgan never stopped being annoying, but he grew on me and by the time , I was cheering him on and hoping he’d teach some of those 1888 morons, , a lesson, preferably with his fists.
Another thing that had me worried was how I liked how things were handled, my main worry——was put to rest and the ending was as realistic as anything in a story like this could be.
The writing style is very good and I know the author lived up to her potential because I’ve already read some of her more recent books. I want to round up so badly, especially when I compare this to my latest string of DNFs, and if I had enjoyed the entire book as much as I did the last part, I would, even with all the contradictions and issues I pointed out. But I know that’s my emotional reaction talking and, objectively, I don’t think this reached 4 stars, no matter how much I wish otherwise and how much fun I had with part of the story. So take this as a very, very solid 3.5 stars.
How do you rate a book that you wanted to rate 2 to 3 stars for the first half, have been repeatedly tempted to DNF…and then had you glued to your kindle for the last third or so?
We’ve all had those books, the ones that have an amazing first half and then sink or the ones that start weak and improve later. This is not one of those cases, I don’t think the book got better, I think my mindset changed somewhere along the way and I started to accept or get used to the flaws, until the flaws didn’t even register anymore. In the process, I became attached to the characters. Or maybe it was the other way around, I started to care for the characters so much that I didn’t notice the flaws anymore. Anyway, I became so invested in the MCs’ happiness that I closed the book thinking “I can’t give this less than 4 stars.” Again, this from the person that struggled with the book so much that I almost DNF’d it.
One of the friends in my BR told me this is the first book by this author and it shows, if it had been my first experience with her writing, I might have given up on this book before things turned around.
The time travel subject is unrealistic by default, so I had my suspension of disbelief ready, but not even that prepared me for the unbelievable reactions from the characters.
I also found Morgan incredibly annoying, with his judging people in 1888 by his 21-century mentality, and his behavior was all over the place. This is supposed to be a capable FBI agent and he acted like a complete idiot time and again.
The other characters’ reactions were a little better, but they also suffered from a too-easy acceptance of things that should’ve at least warranted a little bit of surprise.
So, you see, the book has flaws. And I haven’t even mentioned the part of the plot. When it was first mentioned, I rolled my eyes hard, and I mean hard. And then I was shaking my head at the absurdity of
Then something changed (with me not the book), I stopped taking things too seriously and just went with the flow. I think that happened when I became attached to the characters. Ezra had always been a sweetheart, patient with Morgan in a way I wouldn’t achieve in ten lifetimes, and I loved his sense of humor. Morgan never stopped being annoying, but he grew on me and by the time , I was cheering him on and hoping he’d teach some of those 1888 morons, , a lesson, preferably with his fists.
Another thing that had me worried was how I liked how things were handled, my main worry——was put to rest and the ending was as realistic as anything in a story like this could be.
The writing style is very good and I know the author lived up to her potential because I’ve already read some of her more recent books. I want to round up so badly, especially when I compare this to my latest string of DNFs, and if I had enjoyed the entire book as much as I did the last part, I would, even with all the contradictions and issues I pointed out. But I know that’s my emotional reaction talking and, objectively, I don’t think this reached 4 stars, no matter how much I wish otherwise and how much fun I had with part of the story. So take this as a very, very solid 3.5 stars.
August 1, 2023
For now it’s a dnf at 60% but I do intent to finish it, only that in small doses. I love Tamara Allen’s historical books, they’re amazing but this one here had so many ..holes lol. You have to roll your eyes a A LOT . Also I REALLY don’t care for Morgan,he’s a judgmental hypocrite who is self-lenient but who judges everybody and particularly Ezra all the freaking time! And what’s worse is that he does it by his modern world standards.
I have a feeling this is her debut novel?? Because I’ve read a few more by her and they were exquisite.
I have a feeling this is her debut novel?? Because I’ve read a few more by her and they were exquisite.
January 21, 2013
I’m really not one for historical reads but Tamara Allen has converted me as long as she is the writer. This is my second book by her and it will not be my last. Her writing skill is amazing. She can bring to life the past. OK as you can gather this will be another ramble rather than a detailed review lol.
This wonderful story mixes the present with the past in a way that is totally absorbing.
First we have a beautiful love story between Ezra and Morgan. You wont find any detailed sex scenes or corny sex dialogue in this book, instead you will find a quiet love building between two men that live in a time of extreme danger should they be found out.
Next you have a mystery story full of clever twists and wonderful imagination on the authors part. After all just who hasn’t dreamed of going back in time to find out just who the Ripper really was lol. Brilliant.
The author did a fine job of showing us both the dark side of this era, the poverty and grime of Old London, and the more affluent side, with the cheerful boarding house and respectable gentlemen residents.
We also have a wonderful cast of side characters. Kathleen grew on me after a rocky start.
Hannah was the little girl I wanted to save, luckily Morgan felt the same way. I think the Morgan and Hannah scenes were among my favourite, they had me both laughing and crying.
And Derry sweet lovely Derry. Oh if only he were gay we could have his story next. LOL.
I really can’t do justice to this book. It is so much more than a mere story. Recommended for all looking for a really entertaining read.
Perfect for those who are unsure if Historical books would work for them. This is the ideal book to try as it gives the details of the past while still keeping us connected to the present.
This wonderful story mixes the present with the past in a way that is totally absorbing.
First we have a beautiful love story between Ezra and Morgan. You wont find any detailed sex scenes or corny sex dialogue in this book, instead you will find a quiet love building between two men that live in a time of extreme danger should they be found out.
Next you have a mystery story full of clever twists and wonderful imagination on the authors part. After all just who hasn’t dreamed of going back in time to find out just who the Ripper really was lol. Brilliant.
The author did a fine job of showing us both the dark side of this era, the poverty and grime of Old London, and the more affluent side, with the cheerful boarding house and respectable gentlemen residents.
We also have a wonderful cast of side characters. Kathleen grew on me after a rocky start.
Hannah was the little girl I wanted to save, luckily Morgan felt the same way. I think the Morgan and Hannah scenes were among my favourite, they had me both laughing and crying.
And Derry sweet lovely Derry. Oh if only he were gay we could have his story next. LOL.
I really can’t do justice to this book. It is so much more than a mere story. Recommended for all looking for a really entertaining read.
Perfect for those who are unsure if Historical books would work for them. This is the ideal book to try as it gives the details of the past while still keeping us connected to the present.
January 31, 2013
4.75
What a wonderfully romantic read.
I do enjoy a good time travel story and this has a lot of elements that so worked for me. Great MC's who were flawed but charming, a strong historical element with an interesting paranormal spin on time travel and well fleshed out secondary characters with an engaging storyline.
I loved the slow burn here but I admit to being worried about how things were going to turn out. So much so that
I enjoyed that we got a really strong feel for Morgan in his own time before the shift happened. He and Erza had such fantastic chemistry and were such a great team. The midnight rescue from St. Andrews was KILLER!! Very, very emotional.
Are you looking for a PNR M/M with time travel angle that is incredibly romantic but also has a tense action thriller aspect? Read this story. I hope you love it as much as I did. Recommended.
What a wonderfully romantic read.
I do enjoy a good time travel story and this has a lot of elements that so worked for me. Great MC's who were flawed but charming, a strong historical element with an interesting paranormal spin on time travel and well fleshed out secondary characters with an engaging storyline.
I loved the slow burn here but I admit to being worried about how things were going to turn out. So much so that
I enjoyed that we got a really strong feel for Morgan in his own time before the shift happened. He and Erza had such fantastic chemistry and were such a great team. The midnight rescue from St. Andrews was KILLER!! Very, very emotional.
Are you looking for a PNR M/M with time travel angle that is incredibly romantic but also has a tense action thriller aspect? Read this story. I hope you love it as much as I did. Recommended.
February 23, 2010
It's probably nearer a four-star book. But I loved it, and I shall give it as many stars as I like. *nods*
September 2, 2013
Wonderful story!
So the other day, Nikyta sent me a text telling me that I should read this book. I didn't really take the time to ask why or even what it was about, but immediately jumped in blind. She's known me for years and when she tells me to read something, there's a 99% chance that I'm going to love it...
...and I totally loved this!
While on a case in present day London, FBI Agent Morgan Nash gets accidentally sucked back through time into 1888 by Ezra and two of his housemates, Derry and Henry. There, Morgan spends the next two weeks stirring up trouble while trying to find the key to returning back home...and trying not to fall in love with Ezra.
So what did I love about this story?
The romance. While I must admit it wasn't as smutty as I usually prefer, Morgan and Ezra easily make up for it in the sweetness of their story. The sexual tension was powerfully addictive and their love for each other was intense and beautiful...even though they were a bit slow at admitting it.
The paranormal. Other than being an accidental spell caster, Ezra was also an unfortunately powerful medium and was able to use his mediumship to help Morgan...while also risking his sanity in the process.
The mystery. The present day case turns into nothing once Morgan takes it upon himself, with Ezra's help, to stop the Whitechapel murders. I really loved this spin on the Jack the Ripper legend.
The characters. There was a lovely cast of secondary characters that I came to care for dearly by the end.
The setting. The author vividly depicts a dreary London autumn with gas lights and horse cabs and a time where a man kissing another man on the cheek...or even sleeping in the same bed with him wearing a dressing gown was not suspect, but sins of the flesh was deemed a hangable crime. I felt like I was also brought back through time along with Morgan.
The Happy Ever After. I will say I was really freaking out there in the end! I had knots in my stomach because I was so worried that Morgan and Ezra wouldn't be together forever! Ah, but no worries, the ending still brings the sweetest smile to my face.
This one's going on my "faves" shelf.
So the other day, Nikyta sent me a text telling me that I should read this book. I didn't really take the time to ask why or even what it was about, but immediately jumped in blind. She's known me for years and when she tells me to read something, there's a 99% chance that I'm going to love it...
...and I totally loved this!
While on a case in present day London, FBI Agent Morgan Nash gets accidentally sucked back through time into 1888 by Ezra and two of his housemates, Derry and Henry. There, Morgan spends the next two weeks stirring up trouble while trying to find the key to returning back home...and trying not to fall in love with Ezra.
So what did I love about this story?
The romance. While I must admit it wasn't as smutty as I usually prefer, Morgan and Ezra easily make up for it in the sweetness of their story. The sexual tension was powerfully addictive and their love for each other was intense and beautiful...even though they were a bit slow at admitting it.
The paranormal. Other than being an accidental spell caster, Ezra was also an unfortunately powerful medium and was able to use his mediumship to help Morgan...while also risking his sanity in the process.
The mystery. The present day case turns into nothing once Morgan takes it upon himself, with Ezra's help, to stop the Whitechapel murders. I really loved this spin on the Jack the Ripper legend.
The characters. There was a lovely cast of secondary characters that I came to care for dearly by the end.
The setting. The author vividly depicts a dreary London autumn with gas lights and horse cabs and a time where a man kissing another man on the cheek...or even sleeping in the same bed with him wearing a dressing gown was not suspect, but sins of the flesh was deemed a hangable crime. I felt like I was also brought back through time along with Morgan.
The Happy Ever After. I will say I was really freaking out there in the end! I had knots in my stomach because I was so worried that Morgan and Ezra wouldn't be together forever! Ah, but no worries, the ending still brings the sweetest smile to my face.
This one's going on my "faves" shelf.
December 1, 2019
An FBI investigator somehow ends up travelling back in time to 1888. While trying to find his way back to his present (back to the future?) he falls in love with the man who brought him back, Ezra. He also makes a cast of friends that I deserved to know a hell of a lot more about.
Stuck in 1888, our MC figures out that the Jack the Ripper murders are happening and he could solve and/or stop them.
Now this is a book that I could have gotten sucked into and never found my way out of. But it somehow became- boring. Time fucking travel is GLOSSED OVER. It was Endgame all over again. The Jack the Ripper cases were treated as cursory subplots into the ever growing love "web" between Ezra and Morgan. What disappointed me even further was the relationship between Sid and Jem. Sid was a gay sex worker and Jem was a (royalty or royalty adjacent) broken hearted man in love with a prince. Their story was fascinating, but again, author saw only fit to let us have a peek through the curtains.
The story didn't have any particular direction with the main conflict being will Morgan get back to his time and will he want to stay in 1888? Another missed opportunity. This could have been a nice entertaining deep dive for someone adjusting to life in 1888 after the age of social media and television. Morgan didn't once freak out or experience culture shock. Also, for whatever reason, Ezra couldn't just go with Morgan to the future. But I honestly didn't give a damn.
The most unforgivable thing about this is that it was brought to my attention as a mystery- but there was no damn mystery to solve. Just a series of sometimes unfortunate events that are rendered unnecessary because once . Frankly, Jem, Sid and the off screen Eddy had a better story.
The book really drags and not once was their any mention of a cock or a prick. After the unbelievably well written sex scenes of The Wolf at Bay, this was like being given a sugar rush to replicate a cocaine high.
However, all is not lost, if you're in the mood for a shallow historical pseudomystery time travel mm romance not-suspense novel, here's your guy.
Stuck in 1888, our MC figures out that the Jack the Ripper murders are happening and he could solve and/or stop them.
Now this is a book that I could have gotten sucked into and never found my way out of. But it somehow became- boring. Time fucking travel is GLOSSED OVER. It was Endgame all over again. The Jack the Ripper cases were treated as cursory subplots into the ever growing love "web" between Ezra and Morgan. What disappointed me even further was the relationship between Sid and Jem. Sid was a gay sex worker and Jem was a (royalty or royalty adjacent) broken hearted man in love with a prince. Their story was fascinating, but again, author saw only fit to let us have a peek through the curtains.
The story didn't have any particular direction with the main conflict being will Morgan get back to his time and will he want to stay in 1888? Another missed opportunity. This could have been a nice entertaining deep dive for someone adjusting to life in 1888 after the age of social media and television. Morgan didn't once freak out or experience culture shock. Also, for whatever reason, Ezra couldn't just go with Morgan to the future. But I honestly didn't give a damn.
The most unforgivable thing about this is that it was brought to my attention as a mystery- but there was no damn mystery to solve. Just a series of sometimes unfortunate events that are rendered unnecessary because once . Frankly, Jem, Sid and the off screen Eddy had a better story.
The book really drags and not once was their any mention of a cock or a prick. After the unbelievably well written sex scenes of The Wolf at Bay, this was like being given a sugar rush to replicate a cocaine high.
However, all is not lost, if you're in the mood for a shallow historical pseudomystery time travel mm romance not-suspense novel, here's your guy.
February 8, 2013
I loved Tamara Allen’s The Only Gold, and now after Downtime, I want to wander the streets singing songs about her and her ability to write such enveloping stories that are bursting with such realized characters and such a sweeping, heart-filling romance. I want to cry. I want to gush. I want to go back immediately and relive it again and see all the beautiful bits that I missed the first time.
The story itself seems far-fetched--modern day FBI agent Morgan Nash is working a case in London, only to be sucked back in time by some museum workers in 1888 who think their playful reading of an old spell book would be a fun way to waste time. Little did they know that a strange man with stranger clothes and an American accent would appear before them. Nash is understandably disoriented, and as he’s bundled over to a boarding house, he tries to puzzle out his predicament while keeping a careful eye on those who yanked him back in time, especially Ezra, the strange young man who appears to have an otherworldly ability to talk with the dead.
Pair Nash’s time-travel woes with an ongoing murder spree by one Jack the Ripper, and you have a hell of a novel that has mystery, adventure, the paranormal, historical bits out the wazoo, and an absolutely lovely and very touching romance.
Downtime is a long read, but in that glorious way of sinking deep into really great story. The characters, both the main and the side, are distinct and colorful and sympathetic. Nash’s growing relationship with Ezra is a wonderful slow burn, and their back-and-forth dialogue is just as delicious as the later soft touches and fevered embraces that they share (and attempt to discreetly hide from Victorian morals.)
At times it was a little slow; I didn’t want to ponder the time travel angle too much, and Nash’s glacial realizations at time was a little painful (but mostly because I am very impatient), but overall this was a fantastic read, and my love for it pretty much washes away everything else. Allen is an excellent writer, to the point that she makes diving into such a different world feel so easy and effortless.
Highly highly recommended, especially if you love historicals. (And if you don’t love them, this might be the one to turn you.)
I want to go outside and sing and cry and gush some more, I loved it that much. I <3 you, Tamara Allen!
The story itself seems far-fetched--modern day FBI agent Morgan Nash is working a case in London, only to be sucked back in time by some museum workers in 1888 who think their playful reading of an old spell book would be a fun way to waste time. Little did they know that a strange man with stranger clothes and an American accent would appear before them. Nash is understandably disoriented, and as he’s bundled over to a boarding house, he tries to puzzle out his predicament while keeping a careful eye on those who yanked him back in time, especially Ezra, the strange young man who appears to have an otherworldly ability to talk with the dead.
Pair Nash’s time-travel woes with an ongoing murder spree by one Jack the Ripper, and you have a hell of a novel that has mystery, adventure, the paranormal, historical bits out the wazoo, and an absolutely lovely and very touching romance.
Downtime is a long read, but in that glorious way of sinking deep into really great story. The characters, both the main and the side, are distinct and colorful and sympathetic. Nash’s growing relationship with Ezra is a wonderful slow burn, and their back-and-forth dialogue is just as delicious as the later soft touches and fevered embraces that they share (and attempt to discreetly hide from Victorian morals.)
At times it was a little slow; I didn’t want to ponder the time travel angle too much, and Nash’s glacial realizations at time was a little painful (but mostly because I am very impatient), but overall this was a fantastic read, and my love for it pretty much washes away everything else. Allen is an excellent writer, to the point that she makes diving into such a different world feel so easy and effortless.
Highly highly recommended, especially if you love historicals. (And if you don’t love them, this might be the one to turn you.)
I want to go outside and sing and cry and gush some more, I loved it that much. I <3 you, Tamara Allen!
April 21, 2013
This book contained everything that I love; intrigue, mystery and suspense, historical, supernatural and a sweet romance. It's so difficult to write a review on such a intricate and multi-faceted story.
FBI agent Morgan Nash is on secondment in London and is thrown back to 1888. This throws him for a loop first of all, but then finds values and a love that he never experienced in modern times. While there and trying to get back to the present day he meets Ezra, a gentle but troubled soul battling with his affections for men that would not be accepted in Victorian England. However, in Nash he finds his absolution and together they form a bond of love that transcends time and prejudice. Nash, the consummate FBI agent gets involved in solving one of history's longest cold cases and serial killer which has now become legend.
Nash learns that despite all the technology and know-how of the modern world he discovers values in 1888 long since forgotten. The author very convincingly uses and contrasts Victorian English with modern day English making for vey amusing dialogues.
This book left be bubbling with tears of joy at Morgan's and Ezra's reunion which was beautifully written. As I said this book is so multi-layered it makes it almost impossible to write a fitting review. All I can say is that this book is a keeper and will stay with me a long time.
FBI agent Morgan Nash is on secondment in London and is thrown back to 1888. This throws him for a loop first of all, but then finds values and a love that he never experienced in modern times. While there and trying to get back to the present day he meets Ezra, a gentle but troubled soul battling with his affections for men that would not be accepted in Victorian England. However, in Nash he finds his absolution and together they form a bond of love that transcends time and prejudice. Nash, the consummate FBI agent gets involved in solving one of history's longest cold cases and serial killer which has now become legend.
Nash learns that despite all the technology and know-how of the modern world he discovers values in 1888 long since forgotten. The author very convincingly uses and contrasts Victorian English with modern day English making for vey amusing dialogues.
This book left be bubbling with tears of joy at Morgan's and Ezra's reunion which was beautifully written. As I said this book is so multi-layered it makes it almost impossible to write a fitting review. All I can say is that this book is a keeper and will stay with me a long time.
May 4, 2017
4.5 Stars
So, you know how a normal-length book can feel like it just won't ever end? Yeah, this is a hella long book and it never felt that way; the story was so well-written and the plot so very interesting that the pace of this novel never got bogged down.
I really liked the FBI angle/procedural set up...and adored how the time-travel aspect seamlessly wove this Fed into one of the most famous crime sprees in history without changing a damn thing and still managed to "solve" an unsolved crime. Brilliant!
The psychic-medium aspect was a little harder to believe...and for a long while there I honestly thought that since there was no way to verify what Ezra claimed, that the details he provided about Sully to Morgan were actually Morgan's subconscious/memories because he was unconscious in the present and this was all a dream. And solving Jack the Ripper was simply a vanity stunt for his brain or something while he was knocked out, recovering. But no...the existence of that photograph changed everything.
So I went back and read a whole bunch over again because there wasn't just a "lesson" there for Morgan to change his ways. It was actual character growth and development that allowed Morgan to recognize love when it finally hit him.
And while I will admit the thought of those living conditions kind of squick me, there is a small (infinitesimal) part of me that would probably do really well in the past. Except, I'd need access to a very large library if I don't have my Kindle and can't just Google something when I need an answer. Yeah, no nevermind. That's a deal-breaker right there; I'm not sure I'd survive without instant info. (Which is why I'm pretty sure I'd never make it more than a few weeks in the event of a Zombie apocalypse - I'd end up eating something poisonous because I couldn't look it up first.)
So, you know how a normal-length book can feel like it just won't ever end? Yeah, this is a hella long book and it never felt that way; the story was so well-written and the plot so very interesting that the pace of this novel never got bogged down.
I really liked the FBI angle/procedural set up...and adored how the time-travel aspect seamlessly wove this Fed into one of the most famous crime sprees in history without changing a damn thing and still managed to "solve" an unsolved crime. Brilliant!
The psychic-medium aspect was a little harder to believe...and for a long while there I honestly thought that since there was no way to verify what Ezra claimed, that the details he provided about Sully to Morgan were actually Morgan's subconscious/memories because he was unconscious in the present and this was all a dream. And solving Jack the Ripper was simply a vanity stunt for his brain or something while he was knocked out, recovering. But no...the existence of that photograph changed everything.
So I went back and read a whole bunch over again because there wasn't just a "lesson" there for Morgan to change his ways. It was actual character growth and development that allowed Morgan to recognize love when it finally hit him.
And while I will admit the thought of those living conditions kind of squick me, there is a small (infinitesimal) part of me that would probably do really well in the past. Except, I'd need access to a very large library if I don't have my Kindle and can't just Google something when I need an answer. Yeah, no nevermind. That's a deal-breaker right there; I'm not sure I'd survive without instant info. (Which is why I'm pretty sure I'd never make it more than a few weeks in the event of a Zombie apocalypse - I'd end up eating something poisonous because I couldn't look it up first.)
December 25, 2019
3.5 stars, rounded up because it's Christmas Day so I'm feeling generous.
April 1, 2024
3.5 stars
I wanted to reread this one for my review project because I knew for a long time it didn't really deserve the 5 star rating I initially gave it (that ending is enough to make you forgive a lot that came before, lol), and there was a lot I didn't quite remember. I also had the good fortune of reading this with Elena and Rosa for a BR, and as always, they made the experience ten times more fun than it would have been to read it alone.
Anyway, I figured I'd drop this to 4 stars, but in the end it did have a few more issues that dropped it down to 3.5 stars. Though if I were in the habit of rounding up for half-stars, I still think this one would deserve the round up just based on how much I came to care about what happened to the characters.
It has to be said that this was Allen's first book, and it really does show. It's a bit too long and takes way too long to get to the Ripper part of the story. Also, there's a Ripper part of the story. The time travel aspect has a certain Back to the Future 2 farcical tone to it - not to be taking too seriously at all, if you go by the characters' reactions, which were basically non-existent.
Morgan is an idiot - there's no kind way to say it, lol - and if left to his own devices would've gotten himself killed within two minutes of landing in 1888 because the man has no undercover skills to speak of, despite being in the FBI. As a detective, no less. He's a lovable idiot by the end - he does manage to grow up a bit during all this - but to say he's hardheaded and self-assured is putting it mildly. Still, he has good parts too, and seeing his and Ezra's relationship develop was the best part of this. Ezra's a sweetheart and the other side characters really shine here too, even Henry now and then.
But honestly, Morgan's characterization especially makes little sense. It was only the other characters, especially Ezra, having gentle fun at Morgan's expense that made any of that tolerable. At least the author is aware of how absurd her main character is! And despite everything, he does grow on you by the end.
(OMG. Morgan is the Jory of time travel.) 😲😂
Yet despite the slow start and lackadaisical attention to details, this is still well-written and Allen shows her potential here in spades, especially in writing characters you can care about. Please, if this was your first book by this author and you were underwhelmed, give her later books a try. You shouldn't be disappointed.
I wanted to reread this one for my review project because I knew for a long time it didn't really deserve the 5 star rating I initially gave it (that ending is enough to make you forgive a lot that came before, lol), and there was a lot I didn't quite remember. I also had the good fortune of reading this with Elena and Rosa for a BR, and as always, they made the experience ten times more fun than it would have been to read it alone.
Anyway, I figured I'd drop this to 4 stars, but in the end it did have a few more issues that dropped it down to 3.5 stars. Though if I were in the habit of rounding up for half-stars, I still think this one would deserve the round up just based on how much I came to care about what happened to the characters.
It has to be said that this was Allen's first book, and it really does show. It's a bit too long and takes way too long to get to the Ripper part of the story. Also, there's a Ripper part of the story. The time travel aspect has a certain Back to the Future 2 farcical tone to it - not to be taking too seriously at all, if you go by the characters' reactions, which were basically non-existent.
Morgan is an idiot - there's no kind way to say it, lol - and if left to his own devices would've gotten himself killed within two minutes of landing in 1888 because the man has no undercover skills to speak of, despite being in the FBI. As a detective, no less. He's a lovable idiot by the end - he does manage to grow up a bit during all this - but to say he's hardheaded and self-assured is putting it mildly. Still, he has good parts too, and seeing his and Ezra's relationship develop was the best part of this. Ezra's a sweetheart and the other side characters really shine here too, even Henry now and then.
But honestly, Morgan's characterization especially makes little sense. It was only the other characters, especially Ezra, having gentle fun at Morgan's expense that made any of that tolerable. At least the author is aware of how absurd her main character is! And despite everything, he does grow on you by the end.
(OMG. Morgan is the Jory of time travel.) 😲😂
Yet despite the slow start and lackadaisical attention to details, this is still well-written and Allen shows her potential here in spades, especially in writing characters you can care about. Please, if this was your first book by this author and you were underwhelmed, give her later books a try. You shouldn't be disappointed.
January 16, 2022
**Update January 2022: third reread and I love the comfort this novel (despite its minor flaws) is always capable of giving me** Ezra <3
**Update after reading Downtime for the second time in February 2019.**
I cannot but confirm all I've said below about this wonderful historical novel. On a second read, the book took on so many extra layers and the characters became for me even more rounded and complex.
Morgan - although still full of himself and hard-headed - came across as deeply wounded by his experiences with his dad and his mentor. And Ezra... well, Ezra is simply amazing. I felt so much for him and his pain. The burden he takes around with him is portrayed by the author with subtlety and gentleness but also with a lot of deeply moving touches.
I really love this book - its plot, its characters, Allen's writing style. Truly highly recommended!
*********
Another lovely, entertaining and endearing tale from Tamara Allen! I'm really growing into a bit of a fan of her historical fictions.
Downtime contends the title of my favourite work in her catalogue together with Whistling in the Dark and If It Ain't Love. But, well, what's not to love in a book that mixes successfully time travel, Victorian London, Jack the Ripper and pretty much takes place on my doorstep (I live and work in Bloomsbury, two minutes away from the British Museum)?
The MCs at the centre of the story are two wonderful creations (yes, I even liked the obnoxious, too-full-of-himself Morgan!). Ezra is probably my favourite character in Allen's books, up there with Jack Bailey and Whit Stoddard.
The writing is, as usual, rich and entertaining. The pace is relentless and goes from funny (e.g. Morgan's troubles in adjusting to 19th-century life) to tragic (Ezra's psychic powers and the unsure status of his mental health). The historical setting is accurate and believable.
Another lovely read - and I do hope she keeps them coming!
**Update after reading Downtime for the second time in February 2019.**
I cannot but confirm all I've said below about this wonderful historical novel. On a second read, the book took on so many extra layers and the characters became for me even more rounded and complex.
Morgan - although still full of himself and hard-headed - came across as deeply wounded by his experiences with his dad and his mentor. And Ezra... well, Ezra is simply amazing. I felt so much for him and his pain. The burden he takes around with him is portrayed by the author with subtlety and gentleness but also with a lot of deeply moving touches.
I really love this book - its plot, its characters, Allen's writing style. Truly highly recommended!
*********
Another lovely, entertaining and endearing tale from Tamara Allen! I'm really growing into a bit of a fan of her historical fictions.
Downtime contends the title of my favourite work in her catalogue together with Whistling in the Dark and If It Ain't Love. But, well, what's not to love in a book that mixes successfully time travel, Victorian London, Jack the Ripper and pretty much takes place on my doorstep (I live and work in Bloomsbury, two minutes away from the British Museum)?
The MCs at the centre of the story are two wonderful creations (yes, I even liked the obnoxious, too-full-of-himself Morgan!). Ezra is probably my favourite character in Allen's books, up there with Jack Bailey and Whit Stoddard.
The writing is, as usual, rich and entertaining. The pace is relentless and goes from funny (e.g. Morgan's troubles in adjusting to 19th-century life) to tragic (Ezra's psychic powers and the unsure status of his mental health). The historical setting is accurate and believable.
Another lovely read - and I do hope she keeps them coming!
July 13, 2011
If you are considering reading this book after having read a fast-paced action thriller, chill out first. Have a glass of wine and relax. The slow pace at the beginning of this wonderful historical may send you into shock at first as it did me. But the measured pace of events, characters being introduced and relationships established all come in good time, and you will soon feel so invested in these characters and their lives that you won't want to stop reading.
FBI agent Morgan Nash is pulled back in time to London in the late 1880s. He is one pissed off cop who hadn't yet caught his bad guy when he discovers what has happened to him. Although the three men who did this to him are as shocked as he is, Morgan doesn't want to hear how sorry they are for disrupting his life; he just wants to know how they are going to send him back. That doesn't turn out to be as easy as everyone thought.
Morgan is forced to wait until information needed can be located and finds himself getting to know the three single men who all live at the same boarding house and take him in. He finds himself attracted to Ezra as they spend time together searching for the needed book. Meanwhile, Morgan discovers he's now living in the time of Jack the Ripper and can't keep himself from trying to solve the murder, dragging Ezra along on his investigations.
I won't tell you more, other than this is a great story you really should read. The ending is 100% satisfying and romantic.
FBI agent Morgan Nash is pulled back in time to London in the late 1880s. He is one pissed off cop who hadn't yet caught his bad guy when he discovers what has happened to him. Although the three men who did this to him are as shocked as he is, Morgan doesn't want to hear how sorry they are for disrupting his life; he just wants to know how they are going to send him back. That doesn't turn out to be as easy as everyone thought.
Morgan is forced to wait until information needed can be located and finds himself getting to know the three single men who all live at the same boarding house and take him in. He finds himself attracted to Ezra as they spend time together searching for the needed book. Meanwhile, Morgan discovers he's now living in the time of Jack the Ripper and can't keep himself from trying to solve the murder, dragging Ezra along on his investigations.
I won't tell you more, other than this is a great story you really should read. The ending is 100% satisfying and romantic.
May 16, 2018
*4,5 stars*
Now that is quite a tale! The pages just flew by, and not even once did the thought "omg how much longer is this?" cross my mind.
On the contrary.
I was totally wrapped up in the adventurous plot and wondered for most of the time how this could possibly end. Would Morgan go back? Would Ezra travel to the future? Would they meet up as ghosts at one point? Would Ezra turn up in the future in a different body? See what I mean?
The possibilities are manifold!
As for Morgan and Ezra - the development of their relationship is really sweet and despite the distinct lack of heat, the simmering UST between them, the blossoming of friendship and the bubbling of real feelings translate into a lovely and 'true' love story.
Only thing that bothered me marginally - the simplicity of the time travel.
For a better in depth review please consult:
Simone's review
and
Christelle's review
Now that is quite a tale! The pages just flew by, and not even once did the thought "omg how much longer is this?" cross my mind.
On the contrary.
I was totally wrapped up in the adventurous plot and wondered for most of the time how this could possibly end. Would Morgan go back? Would Ezra travel to the future? Would they meet up as ghosts at one point? Would Ezra turn up in the future in a different body? See what I mean?
The possibilities are manifold!
As for Morgan and Ezra - the development of their relationship is really sweet and despite the distinct lack of heat, the simmering UST between them, the blossoming of friendship and the bubbling of real feelings translate into a lovely and 'true' love story.
Only thing that bothered me marginally - the simplicity of the time travel.
For a better in depth review please consult:
Simone's review
and
Christelle's review
February 14, 2022
This is a difficult one, I enjoyed the story a lot but the time travelling thing isn't too well done in my opinion. That said, I liked the characters despite wanting to kick Morgan repeteadly for various reasons, it's very well written and the BR, as always, was fantastic. This one is my first Tamara Allen book and I think it won't be the last.
December 19, 2012
This was a very good book, even if I had a few reservations. Anyway.
You have to read it:
1 - for the beautiful love story. Morgan is basically married to his job. He's not a bad guy, but he has never tried to give himself to another man with all his heart. He's a bit arrogant and set in his ways, but when he goes back in time he meets Ezra, who's really an angel. Ezra is able to make Morgan change his mind and attitude by proximity. The story is in the first-person point-of-view of Morgan, but after reading the whole story Ezra is the character who really stays with me, the one I felt closer to and the one I care for the most. Ezra is a medium, he's been talking with spirits since when he was a child. He lives in the Victorian Age and someone considers him the real thing, someone else - especially his father - considers him a lunatic that should be locked in an asylum. On top of that he is also gay. Many people seem to be aware of his perversion, those who love him tolerate this, those who don't try to make him marry to cure him. Ezra is obviously trying to do right, and even when he's faced with Morgan's skepticism he never tries to convince him by showing off his psychic powers, instead he simply seems to ask for respect. He is also subtly sensual and affectionate, gosh, he's perfect. Even if I didn't really love Morgan, they're good together and their journey and tribulations kept me glued to the book;
2 - for the 1888 London. It's such a wonderful setting, a time where the chasm between social classes was deep, but on the verge of changing; a time when appearance was so important and there was this hypocrisy that made people conform to moral principles, while behaving in a very uncharitable way toward the lower classes. Ezra comes from a very good family, but his real family is with Derry and Kathleen, who are humbler but more sincere and caring; Hanna, the maid, is apparently treated well, but she's not seen by Kathleen as a human being until Morgan points this out with his modern sensibility.
What didn't convince me?
There's time travel, so it's clearly paranormal, but Ezra's powers seemed too broad at a certain point and what happens in the end was unexpected and it seemed too forced for the story. Also, at the beginning Ezra and Morgan spend some time chasing the book with the incantation to send Morgan back to his time, but the investigation about Jack the Ripper takes center stage. We later learn why, but, as I said before, giving the reason for this at the end of the book was not revealing in a good way. I don't know how to explain this without giving too much away. I didn't find myself nodding with conviction, I was rather puzzled instead and not impressed.
Warning:
If you're looking for hot steamy sex: no. The book had its sexy moments, but not explicitly. I liked it. It was sweet and it matched perfectly the Victorian age and the wonder of what Ezra was discovering with Morgan.
Recommended for the good writing and the romance. I downloaded it for free, I was so lucky.
You have to read it:
1 - for the beautiful love story. Morgan is basically married to his job. He's not a bad guy, but he has never tried to give himself to another man with all his heart. He's a bit arrogant and set in his ways, but when he goes back in time he meets Ezra, who's really an angel. Ezra is able to make Morgan change his mind and attitude by proximity. The story is in the first-person point-of-view of Morgan, but after reading the whole story Ezra is the character who really stays with me, the one I felt closer to and the one I care for the most. Ezra is a medium, he's been talking with spirits since when he was a child. He lives in the Victorian Age and someone considers him the real thing, someone else - especially his father - considers him a lunatic that should be locked in an asylum. On top of that he is also gay. Many people seem to be aware of his perversion, those who love him tolerate this, those who don't try to make him marry to cure him. Ezra is obviously trying to do right, and even when he's faced with Morgan's skepticism he never tries to convince him by showing off his psychic powers, instead he simply seems to ask for respect. He is also subtly sensual and affectionate, gosh, he's perfect. Even if I didn't really love Morgan, they're good together and their journey and tribulations kept me glued to the book;
2 - for the 1888 London. It's such a wonderful setting, a time where the chasm between social classes was deep, but on the verge of changing; a time when appearance was so important and there was this hypocrisy that made people conform to moral principles, while behaving in a very uncharitable way toward the lower classes. Ezra comes from a very good family, but his real family is with Derry and Kathleen, who are humbler but more sincere and caring; Hanna, the maid, is apparently treated well, but she's not seen by Kathleen as a human being until Morgan points this out with his modern sensibility.
What didn't convince me?
There's time travel, so it's clearly paranormal, but Ezra's powers seemed too broad at a certain point and what happens in the end was unexpected and it seemed too forced for the story. Also, at the beginning Ezra and Morgan spend some time chasing the book with the incantation to send Morgan back to his time, but the investigation about Jack the Ripper takes center stage. We later learn why, but, as I said before, giving the reason for this at the end of the book was not revealing in a good way. I don't know how to explain this without giving too much away. I didn't find myself nodding with conviction, I was rather puzzled instead and not impressed.
Warning:
If you're looking for hot steamy sex: no. The book had its sexy moments, but not explicitly. I liked it. It was sweet and it matched perfectly the Victorian age and the wonder of what Ezra was discovering with Morgan.
Recommended for the good writing and the romance. I downloaded it for free, I was so lucky.
October 18, 2014
DNF @45%
Usually I try very hard to finish my books. I know that with some of them, it takes time for a story to unravel and I just don't want to miss a hidden jewel. But when I genuinely lose interest, there's no point in wasting my time.
This book had started off quite well. I was intrigued to see how a modern-day FBI agent will adjust to the life in the 19th century and what kind of trouble will he get into. The idea had a potential, but for some reason, it didn't work for me.
I liked the writing though. And I don't want to discourage others from reading this book. Perhaps, the problem was my issue with the time travelling. I'm yet to find a book I like with that theme. But even so, I've expected this to turn out differently, and as soon as I knew that's not going to happen, I've given up.
Sorry, Lena and Ingela, for abandoning our BR this way!
Usually I try very hard to finish my books. I know that with some of them, it takes time for a story to unravel and I just don't want to miss a hidden jewel. But when I genuinely lose interest, there's no point in wasting my time.
This book had started off quite well. I was intrigued to see how a modern-day FBI agent will adjust to the life in the 19th century and what kind of trouble will he get into. The idea had a potential, but for some reason, it didn't work for me.
I liked the writing though. And I don't want to discourage others from reading this book. Perhaps, the problem was my issue with the time travelling. I'm yet to find a book I like with that theme. But even so, I've expected this to turn out differently, and as soon as I knew that's not going to happen, I've given up.
Sorry, Lena and Ingela, for abandoning our BR this way!
April 17, 2013
I am not a fan of historical romance. Not a fan of time travel stories, either. Furthermore, my thoughts on the explicitness of sex scenes in the M/M Romance I read are: the more, the better, thank you very much. This story had NO explicit sex scenes, was set in the late 1800's, and one of the MCs was from present day. Yet I loved it.
Why? Because the characters made me fall in love with them, pulled me in and made me care. All of them, not just the main ones, or the good ones. I felt for Sid, for George, and yes, even for Henry. Throughout a plot that was at times brilliant, at others confusing, and at some points even downright contradictory, I kept going because I needed to know what happened next to these people. I laughed with them, got stomach cramps and bit my nails from anxiety, cried in sadness and loneliness, felt angry and impotent to help them against the unfairness of that age. Then came the end, which was everything I had hoped for and more. What a wonderful ride!
Ezra and Morgan will remain in my memory as one of the most beautiful gay couples I've had the privilege to meet. That I was able to enjoy this story is a testament of Ms. Allen's talent. Highly recommended.
Why? Because the characters made me fall in love with them, pulled me in and made me care. All of them, not just the main ones, or the good ones. I felt for Sid, for George, and yes, even for Henry. Throughout a plot that was at times brilliant, at others confusing, and at some points even downright contradictory, I kept going because I needed to know what happened next to these people. I laughed with them, got stomach cramps and bit my nails from anxiety, cried in sadness and loneliness, felt angry and impotent to help them against the unfairness of that age. Then came the end, which was everything I had hoped for and more. What a wonderful ride!
Ezra and Morgan will remain in my memory as one of the most beautiful gay couples I've had the privilege to meet. That I was able to enjoy this story is a testament of Ms. Allen's talent. Highly recommended.
May 9, 2016
I'm not a huge fan of historical lit, I know I say this all the time and keep reading them but once again I found the blurb about this book to enticing to give it up. It was well worth the read and it's a big book. 500 pages.
I know this was written as a stand alone but every now and then you read a book that has the potential for a great sequel and this is one of those books. I'm usually against sequel as so many written are unwarranted, I'm not talking about series here either. I don't want to review this book, I want people to read it. It is exceptional in every way, from MC's, storyline, writing, genre. . . etc. I couldn't find fault with it. It is also exceptionally smart
I know this was written as a stand alone but every now and then you read a book that has the potential for a great sequel and this is one of those books. I'm usually against sequel as so many written are unwarranted, I'm not talking about series here either. I don't want to review this book, I want people to read it. It is exceptional in every way, from MC's, storyline, writing, genre. . . etc. I couldn't find fault with it. It is also exceptionally smart
zz-dnf
November 6, 2020DNF after 258 pages. I’m really surprised at how much I’m struggling with this one. I loved the other two books I’ve read by this author, but I can’t get into this one at all. And I don’t want to keep forcing myself through another 200 pages.
If you’re new to Tamara Allen, I recommend Whistling in the Dark or The Only Gold instead.
If you’re new to Tamara Allen, I recommend Whistling in the Dark or The Only Gold instead.
October 9, 2012
This book was quite emotional for me, I found myself unsure of where the most emotion came from. The ending would be my guess, it was my first time reading a historical mm romance and it will not be my last. Ezra and Morgan were a nice couple and they made the story what it was. The story was a bit complicated in places but I never got lost when reading it. I hope to read more like this soon :)
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