What do you think?
Rate this book
The Professor and the Smuggler
A grumpy smuggler meets a bumbling professor and treasure is found.
An explorer at heart, university professor Phillip Singleton’s adventures have only taken place in his imagination—until recently. Exploring the Cornish coast to research a travel book, he encounters a living example of a pirate archetype. Dark-haired, black-bearded Carne Treleaven might have been hewn from the very rock his name describes, and Phillip is eager to discover more.
Carne has little patience for the awkward, dreamy professor, an outsider who must be steered away from local secrets. He agrees to serve as a guide to seaside caves where smugglers once operated only to keep Phillip away from more recent activity.
As personalities clash, secrets unfold, and riches are revealed, the two polar opposites find the point where their similarities lay. Carne’s old beliefs are shattered by his attraction to a man and he must decide if he’s willing to take a huge step outside his familiar life and into a brand new world.
An explorer at heart, university professor Phillip Singleton’s adventures have only taken place in his imagination—until recently. Exploring the Cornish coast to research a travel book, he encounters a living example of a pirate archetype. Dark-haired, black-bearded Carne Treleaven might have been hewn from the very rock his name describes, and Phillip is eager to discover more.
Carne has little patience for the awkward, dreamy professor, an outsider who must be steered away from local secrets. He agrees to serve as a guide to seaside caves where smugglers once operated only to keep Phillip away from more recent activity.
As personalities clash, secrets unfold, and riches are revealed, the two polar opposites find the point where their similarities lay. Carne’s old beliefs are shattered by his attraction to a man and he must decide if he’s willing to take a huge step outside his familiar life and into a brand new world.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 2, 2016
19 people are currently reading
339 people want to read
About the author
Bonnie Dee
131 books698 followersI began telling stories as a child. Whenever there was a sleepover, I was the designated ghost tale teller. I still have a story printed on yellow legal paper in second grade about a ghost, a witch and a talking cat.
I enjoy dabbling in many genres. Whether you're a fan of contemporary historical or fantasy romance, you'll find something to enjoy among my books. I'm interested in flawed, often damaged, people who find the fulfillment they seek in one another. To stay informed about new releases, please sign up for my newsletter. You can join my street team at FB. Learn more about my backlist at http://bonniedee.com and find me on FB and Twitter @Bonnie_Dee.
I enjoy dabbling in many genres. Whether you're a fan of contemporary historical or fantasy romance, you'll find something to enjoy among my books. I'm interested in flawed, often damaged, people who find the fulfillment they seek in one another. To stay informed about new releases, please sign up for my newsletter. You can join my street team at FB. Learn more about my backlist at http://bonniedee.com and find me on FB and Twitter @Bonnie_Dee.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
January 4, 2016
~4.25~
This is another low-key, romantic, well-written story from Dee and Devon.
The historical details and descriptions of the setting really elevate this book, which is seeped in Cornish history and lore.
Carne Treleaven, a dark-haired, bearded, taciturn man, agrees to be Phillip Singleton's tour guide of sorts. Phillip used to be a professor but left academia to pursue adventure and write stories of fascinating places. Phillip is ahead of his time because he doesn't just want to write a book; he wants to write a book with pictures.
Phillip shows up in a small town on the coast of Cornwall in a fancy motorcar and carrying camera equipment. He promptly knocks over an ancient stone. Clearly, Phillip can't be trusted not to get himself killed.
Carne agrees to keep an eye on Phillip; he doesn't want Phillip to discover that the entire town participates in, uh, tax-free trade. But Phillip is much smarter and savvier than he seems. He and Carne stumble upon a stash of illegal goods and are trapped in a cave with nothing but brandy for company.
I really liked these MCs. Phillip's good nature and sweetness win him many friends, and Carne can't help but be drawn to the tall, long-limbed (former) professor. Carne feels like he carries the fate of the town on his shoulders; he's serious and intense.
This isn't a gay-for-you story as much as it is a story of sexual awareness. Carne has never been attracted to a man before, but he's also never given himself over to a woman. Sex takes the edge off, but it doesn't excite. Not until he meets Phillip.
There is a quiet sexiness to Phillip and Carne's love-making. Carne isn't tentative, not at all, and Phillip wants everything Carne is willing to give. Carne just isn't sure he can commit to a man, until an accident, a moment, changes everything.
The secondary characters in this book are well-developed and add depth to the plot. A special shout-out goes to Bea, Carne's one-time lover, for understanding and young Robin for saving the day!
The mystery/suspense plot doesn't overtake the story; this isn't a shoot-em-up kind of mystery. It's more about greed and human nature than anything sinister.
This isn't an edge-of-your-seat story, but page by page you can't let go. I wanted a HEA for these men, and I'm happy to report that they get one, and a truly awesome one at that.
This is another low-key, romantic, well-written story from Dee and Devon.
The historical details and descriptions of the setting really elevate this book, which is seeped in Cornish history and lore.
Carne Treleaven, a dark-haired, bearded, taciturn man, agrees to be Phillip Singleton's tour guide of sorts. Phillip used to be a professor but left academia to pursue adventure and write stories of fascinating places. Phillip is ahead of his time because he doesn't just want to write a book; he wants to write a book with pictures.
Phillip shows up in a small town on the coast of Cornwall in a fancy motorcar and carrying camera equipment. He promptly knocks over an ancient stone. Clearly, Phillip can't be trusted not to get himself killed.
Carne agrees to keep an eye on Phillip; he doesn't want Phillip to discover that the entire town participates in, uh, tax-free trade. But Phillip is much smarter and savvier than he seems. He and Carne stumble upon a stash of illegal goods and are trapped in a cave with nothing but brandy for company.
I really liked these MCs. Phillip's good nature and sweetness win him many friends, and Carne can't help but be drawn to the tall, long-limbed (former) professor. Carne feels like he carries the fate of the town on his shoulders; he's serious and intense.
This isn't a gay-for-you story as much as it is a story of sexual awareness. Carne has never been attracted to a man before, but he's also never given himself over to a woman. Sex takes the edge off, but it doesn't excite. Not until he meets Phillip.
There is a quiet sexiness to Phillip and Carne's love-making. Carne isn't tentative, not at all, and Phillip wants everything Carne is willing to give. Carne just isn't sure he can commit to a man, until an accident, a moment, changes everything.
The secondary characters in this book are well-developed and add depth to the plot. A special shout-out goes to Bea, Carne's one-time lover, for understanding and young Robin for saving the day!
The mystery/suspense plot doesn't overtake the story; this isn't a shoot-em-up kind of mystery. It's more about greed and human nature than anything sinister.
This isn't an edge-of-your-seat story, but page by page you can't let go. I wanted a HEA for these men, and I'm happy to report that they get one, and a truly awesome one at that.
December 30, 2015
*3.75 stars*
This was another lovely historical from Bonnie Dee and Summer Devon.
One one hand, this book felt familiar and heart warming, just like what I'm used to from this writing duo; the characters are diametrically opposed, the story is not overridden with angst, although the era provides plenty, and the ending is true to the time period.
But what made this one exciting, was the setting.
Professor Phillip Singleton arrives at the The Cornish coast of England, to explore the area and its history, and take photos for the travel book he's in the process of writing. That's where he meets Carne Treleaven, a broody, local fisherman. What Phillip doesn't know is that Carne isn't really a fisherman; he's a smuggler.
To quote the author, "The Cornish coast of England was legendary for being a landing spot for tax-free booty from overseas, particularly during Napoleonic times but well beyond too." This place and its residents have secrets and Carne must steer Phillip away from them. That's why he accepts to serve as his travel guide.
I really loved the Professor. He's such an open hearted, babbling person. And he's totally uninhibited in bed and the only one who can make Carne blush!
My only complaint is that I would have liked to see more relationship development. There is some steam and romantic moments, but sometimes I fet that the mystery/action subplot took too much space.
The epilogue is delightful and so very fitting for Carne.
*Also posted on Gay Book Reviews*
January 14, 2016
3.75 stars
For some reason, I keep seeing The Professor and the Snuggler when I see this title. Maybe it's just me?
This started out strong for me but wasn't my favourite Devon and Dee story. Loved the time period (early twentieth century) and the atmospheric small fishing/smuggling town setting in Cornwall. I found the Professor, aka Phillip, to be a particularly unique character. I loved that he was so open, so positive and so interested in the world and that he could (and would) just talk and talk about anything. I also enjoyed watching the development of his relationship with Carne.
That being said, I just wasn't completely onside with the physical attraction between Carne and Phillip. I also didn't find it believable that Bea (Carne's former lover) would . And this also had one of the cheesiest lines I've read recently (following some loving between Carne and Phillip): "The pirate had assumed command of his frigate, and Phillip was entirely content to raise a white flag and invite him on board." Oh maybe I was just in a picky mood when I read this!
Overall, a quite enjoyable historical but not, IMO, Devon and Dee's best.
For some reason, I keep seeing The Professor and the Snuggler when I see this title. Maybe it's just me?
This started out strong for me but wasn't my favourite Devon and Dee story. Loved the time period (early twentieth century) and the atmospheric small fishing/smuggling town setting in Cornwall. I found the Professor, aka Phillip, to be a particularly unique character. I loved that he was so open, so positive and so interested in the world and that he could (and would) just talk and talk about anything. I also enjoyed watching the development of his relationship with Carne.
That being said, I just wasn't completely onside with the physical attraction between Carne and Phillip. I also didn't find it believable that Bea (Carne's former lover) would . And this also had one of the cheesiest lines I've read recently (following some loving between Carne and Phillip): "The pirate had assumed command of his frigate, and Phillip was entirely content to raise a white flag and invite him on board." Oh maybe I was just in a picky mood when I read this!
Overall, a quite enjoyable historical but not, IMO, Devon and Dee's best.
July 11, 2021
Nicely done!
I don't think I'll ever find a book written by Bonnie Dee and Summer Devon that I'm not going to enjoy, so add The Professor and the Smuggler to the pile.
This writing pair always blends romance with mystery and suspense, and throw in a nice dash of historical ambiance to create a thoroughly wonderful novel.
I did the audio, performed by Patrick Eastham, who does a fine job.
I don't think I'll ever find a book written by Bonnie Dee and Summer Devon that I'm not going to enjoy, so add The Professor and the Smuggler to the pile.
This writing pair always blends romance with mystery and suspense, and throw in a nice dash of historical ambiance to create a thoroughly wonderful novel.
I did the audio, performed by Patrick Eastham, who does a fine job.
December 30, 2015
Take and steal and have all of me that you want.
First thing that came to my mind when I finished this was … “this is so charming and romantic”. I guess, I immediately fell in love with former professor Phillip Singleton the moment he appeared on the page, tripped and knocked over a menhir that has been raised over thousands of years before. I found Phillip to be so endearing, the way that he was jubilantly talking about his writing a book (with photographs!!), about his camera, about wanting to have an adventure. He was such a darling!
I also found him to be quite surprising … in a sense that he was actually the one who had experience with men. It was a bit of a different set-up for me, because it is usually the blue-collar men who become the ‘teacher’ for the academic (and sometimes virgin) gentleman. Here, however, it was the other way around. On top of that, although I also thought of Phillip as being a romantic with a gentle dreamy heart, he also never pushed for a relationship, even if he longed for it. I loved Phillip so very much. *hugs*
Of course, the rugged Carne Treleaven (can you believe that Phillip thinks of Carne as a DAFFODIL? *laugh mirthlessly*) was also fighting for my heart – I guess I loved him for being protective towards Phillip, even though it started with Carne wanting to stop the former professor from discovering the illegal smuggling activities that were still active at Par Gwynear. I also wholeheartedly enjoyed the process of him taking the important step of embracing the love of another man. It was something new for Carne – before Phillip, he found comfort in the arms of women.
The surrounding place added the nuance to the story – the idea of a town whose people involved in smuggling activities was intriguing, in addition to the danger posed towards Phillip because there were locals who didn’t want him to find out. The romance and the action blends nicely; with two lovable main characters, The Professor and the Smuggler is another winner from Bonnie Dee and Summer Devon for me.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the author for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
March 26, 2017
Audio Review
This was a fun listen with delicious accents that have me driving my family crazy by asking them constantly if they'd like to go for a ride "in the motoring car". Say it with an overly affected accent and I dare you not to get hooked on it too.
There was just enough angst for it to read real-ish, but not so much that I didn't get to wallow in the love and HEA I want and expect from these authors.
This was a fun listen with delicious accents that have me driving my family crazy by asking them constantly if they'd like to go for a ride "in the motoring car". Say it with an overly affected accent and I dare you not to get hooked on it too.
There was just enough angst for it to read real-ish, but not so much that I didn't get to wallow in the love and HEA I want and expect from these authors.
February 7, 2017
DNF at 30%
Found this dragged. Dual POV slowed it down further and I kept feeling it was circling back over and over without getting anywhere.
I wondered if Professor Phillip had a level of autism considering his childlike enthusiasms and absorption in his research, often ignorant of or analytical of social cues. Possibly that was the intention.
The writing felt formal, the most historical seeming of the books I've tried by these authors, but perhaps that's the attempt to come across Cornish. It might appeal more to fans of historical stories than it did to me who rarely reads them.
Slow moving and for me it lacked joy, there were no sparks or warmth to keep me reading. Decided to skim on and found I was only at 30% when thought I was nearly done. Then the death-knell realised I didn't care about anything going on, any plot was too far in background and already clear the characters would get together. So DNF.
Found this dragged. Dual POV slowed it down further and I kept feeling it was circling back over and over without getting anywhere.
I wondered if Professor Phillip had a level of autism considering his childlike enthusiasms and absorption in his research, often ignorant of or analytical of social cues. Possibly that was the intention.
The writing felt formal, the most historical seeming of the books I've tried by these authors, but perhaps that's the attempt to come across Cornish. It might appeal more to fans of historical stories than it did to me who rarely reads them.
Slow moving and for me it lacked joy, there were no sparks or warmth to keep me reading. Decided to skim on and found I was only at 30% when thought I was nearly done. Then the death-knell realised I didn't care about anything going on, any plot was too far in background and already clear the characters would get together. So DNF.
January 9, 2016
Ex-professor Phillip Singleton went on a journey towards the Cornish coast in search of old stories that made the essence of the place and to discover various hidden treasures along the way if he was lucky. He had wanted nothing more than to bring the amazing places to people in a shape of a book loaded with pictures and incredible stories that had shaped the place. So on his automobile, carrying his camera equipment, Phillip set out the secrets of Par Gwynear and share it with the world. Trudging on his own, stumbling along the way and even damaging a thousand year old landmark, Phillip found himself in the presence of a local man, Carne Treleaven.
Carne on the other hand, wanted nothing more than to get Mr. Singleton out of Par Gwynear. The people have their own secret and due to the circumstances prior, the town provides a place for contraband items. Smuggler activities, to be exact. Despite the negative act, this provide the financial means for the town to survive in the years to come. So with his discovery of the very curious and clumsy Phillip, Carne offered to be a guide for the wondering professor. At least this way he can steer Phillip away from the smuggling activities of the town as well as to keep an eye on the professor’s work. The town couldn’t afford to get caught with their illegal happenings if Phillip wasn’t what he said he was.
The chemistry between the two characters blended so well. Phillip’s personality as the ex-professor off to create his own adventure flew off the page. He was such a unique character that it was no wonder I favored him from the very start. The way he gets lost when talking about his life, his camera and his pictures, it was so admiring, Maybe that was why Carne couldn’t help but be interested in some way at the tourist which of course he refused to acknowledge. But living together in Carne’s home, sharing a meal, touring caves and spending the whole day together, something was bound to happen.
Writing-wise, this was greatly done. It was simple and not too wordy. It wasn’t too angst which I know a lot of people will appreciate for a change, that including myself. There weren’t any scenes that were prolonged too much which I absolutely hate. The moments between the two characters were a pleasure to read, since this was set in a different timeline, it felt more genuine to see them make something out of their growing closeness. The fact that Carne wasn’t into men as he said proved to be a challenge in their way along with Phillip’s openness for their ‘experimentations’. It wasn’t natural for Carne, yet with Phillip, it felt natural.
Over all, I really loved this book. It was exciting to read, what with the town’s secret coming to the surface, people doing things behind other’s backs, caves threatening to collapse, storms proving to be difficult to overcome. A lot of things happened yet it wasn’t too overloaded. It really got me anticipating for what would happen next. I agree this isn’t a jam-packed action filled book but it’s enough to catch your attention until the very end. Thumbs up.
Full review here.
Carne on the other hand, wanted nothing more than to get Mr. Singleton out of Par Gwynear. The people have their own secret and due to the circumstances prior, the town provides a place for contraband items. Smuggler activities, to be exact. Despite the negative act, this provide the financial means for the town to survive in the years to come. So with his discovery of the very curious and clumsy Phillip, Carne offered to be a guide for the wondering professor. At least this way he can steer Phillip away from the smuggling activities of the town as well as to keep an eye on the professor’s work. The town couldn’t afford to get caught with their illegal happenings if Phillip wasn’t what he said he was.
The chemistry between the two characters blended so well. Phillip’s personality as the ex-professor off to create his own adventure flew off the page. He was such a unique character that it was no wonder I favored him from the very start. The way he gets lost when talking about his life, his camera and his pictures, it was so admiring, Maybe that was why Carne couldn’t help but be interested in some way at the tourist which of course he refused to acknowledge. But living together in Carne’s home, sharing a meal, touring caves and spending the whole day together, something was bound to happen.
Writing-wise, this was greatly done. It was simple and not too wordy. It wasn’t too angst which I know a lot of people will appreciate for a change, that including myself. There weren’t any scenes that were prolonged too much which I absolutely hate. The moments between the two characters were a pleasure to read, since this was set in a different timeline, it felt more genuine to see them make something out of their growing closeness. The fact that Carne wasn’t into men as he said proved to be a challenge in their way along with Phillip’s openness for their ‘experimentations’. It wasn’t natural for Carne, yet with Phillip, it felt natural.
Over all, I really loved this book. It was exciting to read, what with the town’s secret coming to the surface, people doing things behind other’s backs, caves threatening to collapse, storms proving to be difficult to overcome. A lot of things happened yet it wasn’t too overloaded. It really got me anticipating for what would happen next. I agree this isn’t a jam-packed action filled book but it’s enough to catch your attention until the very end. Thumbs up.
Full review here.
January 10, 2016
Just a beautiful story with two amazingly realistic characters and a village of interesting characters. There is a mystery. There is a story of two men in a time that does not treat their love kindly. These MCs and their story will not leave my head. Phillip was one of those characters that just burst forth from a book. Carne slowly overpowered you with his inner strength and beauty. To the village Phillip became Carne's Professor.
He'd never been more content or satisfied.
And he'd never been more afraid, the realization struck him. Carne may have embarked on this as a harmless experimentation but h'd been a fool to think it would be so easy. For he'd fundamentally changed and could never return to being ignorant of what he now new. His wants and needs were different. And they included Phillip Singleton.
He'd never been more content or satisfied.
And he'd never been more afraid, the realization struck him. Carne may have embarked on this as a harmless experimentation but h'd been a fool to think it would be so easy. For he'd fundamentally changed and could never return to being ignorant of what he now new. His wants and needs were different. And they included Phillip Singleton.
November 14, 2016
Re-read November 2016 (audiobook)
The narration of this book by Patrick Eastham was really enjoyable. I'm American so I am a very bad judge of British accents so I have no idea if Carne's Cornish accent was accurate, but I loved it. It was deep and sexy. Still a 5 star read!
----------------------------------------------
I started this and couldn't put it down. As usual the duo of Dee and Devon did not disappoint (try and say that 3 times fast). If you are a fan of M/M historicals, this is a must read.
The narration of this book by Patrick Eastham was really enjoyable. I'm American so I am a very bad judge of British accents so I have no idea if Carne's Cornish accent was accurate, but I loved it. It was deep and sexy. Still a 5 star read!
----------------------------------------------
I started this and couldn't put it down. As usual the duo of Dee and Devon did not disappoint (try and say that 3 times fast). If you are a fan of M/M historicals, this is a must read.
September 1, 2022
Reread 2022.. May I tell you how awesome this book is?!!? I’m not a fan of historical in MM romance to be honest although I do have some historical books I loved on my shelves.. This one here is one of my favorites!! Early 1900, British rural Cornwall, a posh, smart and clumsy Stanford professor and a straight (supposedly) , gruff, burly and grumpy fisherman, smuggling and (very) small village , secrets and history, a bit of humor and a smidge of tenderness with a believable HEA. What more could you want? Excellent writing and so 😍 ..Just loved it !!
January 5, 2019
3.7 Stars
Once again I am lamenting my resolution not to round up because if nothing else, Patrick Eastham's narration would be worth it. I loved the accents.
Once again I am lamenting my resolution not to round up because if nothing else, Patrick Eastham's narration would be worth it. I loved the accents.
February 21, 2022
This was good. But nothing really special. The story was sweet and had some interesting moments, the sex was hot, but honestly I think I would've been bored reading it.
I did enjoy the narration and considering this is part of the Audible Plus Catalogue I would recommend others listen to it if they have a membership. The contrast between Phillip's and Khan's voice was really well done.
I did enjoy the narration and considering this is part of the Audible Plus Catalogue I would recommend others listen to it if they have a membership. The contrast between Phillip's and Khan's voice was really well done.
November 18, 2020
Audible Review
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Performance 5 out of 5 stars
Story 4 out of 5 stars
Engaging historical romance.
4.5*
This was a really excellent read/listen! I know a lot of us are lamenting the loss of Audible Escape and all the wonderful LGBTQ+ audiobooks that were included, so I was happy to come across this series by Bonnie Dee and Summer Devon, both new-to-me authors. I'm excited to see more of their work is include in Plus.
The Professor and the Smuggler was an engaging and quite charming story. It was also heart-clenching at times, thanks to some of the things the characters went through and dealt with, It has a bit of a melancholic feel, due to the time and place, as Carne and Phillip weren't free to live as they pleased, which always makes me sad. But I loved the way they were able to work through and overcome the limitations the time period put on them.
I love when I find a book that I think will be good just to while away the time, only to have it smack me upside the face with how wonderful it really is, which is exactly what happened with The Professor and the Smuggler.
Patrick Eastham is a new-to-me narrator, but you can bet I'll be searching out more books featuring him! His performance was outstanding and I think added a lot of depth to what was an already interesting story, He really brought Phillip and Carne's story to life for me- at times I could actually picture myself there with the characters. I would have happily listened to 7 more hours!
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Performance 5 out of 5 stars
Story 4 out of 5 stars
Engaging historical romance.
4.5*
This was a really excellent read/listen! I know a lot of us are lamenting the loss of Audible Escape and all the wonderful LGBTQ+ audiobooks that were included, so I was happy to come across this series by Bonnie Dee and Summer Devon, both new-to-me authors. I'm excited to see more of their work is include in Plus.
The Professor and the Smuggler was an engaging and quite charming story. It was also heart-clenching at times, thanks to some of the things the characters went through and dealt with, It has a bit of a melancholic feel, due to the time and place, as Carne and Phillip weren't free to live as they pleased, which always makes me sad. But I loved the way they were able to work through and overcome the limitations the time period put on them.
I love when I find a book that I think will be good just to while away the time, only to have it smack me upside the face with how wonderful it really is, which is exactly what happened with The Professor and the Smuggler.
Patrick Eastham is a new-to-me narrator, but you can bet I'll be searching out more books featuring him! His performance was outstanding and I think added a lot of depth to what was an already interesting story, He really brought Phillip and Carne's story to life for me- at times I could actually picture myself there with the characters. I would have happily listened to 7 more hours!
September 23, 2018
Loved this. Phillip was so sweet. Carne was kind of rough around the edges but I loved him. Phillip has decided to write a book, complete with photographs and chooses to start in this little town. The townies aren't particularly fond of outsiders, especially when they have things to hide and are not much on trust. I like the way Carne and Phillip's relationship develops. I hated that they had to worry about others, but there were some great characters in there that obviously didn't care about that as they cared about Carne and Phillip. The epilogue was pretty perfect, too.
April 5, 2022
I knew I read the ebook but I forgot everything. I keep mixing up Porthkennack stories.
The narrator is on my avoid list from now on. He did not do voices, even the females sounded like himself, and I could only recognize the professor because he did not have a Cornish accent.
I liked how the main characters connected to each other and expressed their love. But for the rest? Avarage.
The narrator is on my avoid list from now on. He did not do voices, even the females sounded like himself, and I could only recognize the professor because he did not have a Cornish accent.
I liked how the main characters connected to each other and expressed their love. But for the rest? Avarage.
February 15, 2016
I enjoyed this…really liked both MCs and the characters of the village. Some parts were predictable, but I liked the twist near the end with the surprise ally.
December 22, 2020
Phillip and Carne were really great together. Once Carne got past being attracted to Phillip and what that means things got really hot.
I love that the authors didn't shy away from how taboo being with someone of the same sex was during this time period. The actually talked about the ugly things that could happen to them if anyone found out, which made the story feel more real.
It just goes to show that you can't help who you fall in love with, you can only control what you choose to do about it. These two chose each other, but it wasn't all sunshine and roses. Add to that the suspenseful aspect with the smuggling and locals looking for treasure.
I loved Phillip right away with all his awkwardness, and wanted to kick someone ass for messing with his stuff.
I love that the authors didn't shy away from how taboo being with someone of the same sex was during this time period. The actually talked about the ugly things that could happen to them if anyone found out, which made the story feel more real.
It just goes to show that you can't help who you fall in love with, you can only control what you choose to do about it. These two chose each other, but it wasn't all sunshine and roses. Add to that the suspenseful aspect with the smuggling and locals looking for treasure.
I loved Phillip right away with all his awkwardness, and wanted to kick someone ass for messing with his stuff.
January 17, 2022
This was an entertaining look at a small village in Cornwall and its inhabitants while watching two very disparate men fall in love. While the attraction happens quite quick and a lot happens in a short time frame, the epilogue tied it all together beautifully.
The narrator did a good job and it was a pleasure to listen to.
The narrator did a good job and it was a pleasure to listen to.
February 20, 2021
Audiobook had very interesting narration, complete with accents and character voices. Sweet and interesting story with romance, adventure, suspense, grit, and a love for the Cornish coast. Ending made me sniffle.
The only hangup i have is... peppermint oil, really? Lord above.
The only hangup i have is... peppermint oil, really? Lord above.
January 9, 2022
Bonnie Dee is masterful at creating fascinating characters and unique settings of time and place. Intense interaction between the MC's and the townspeople with much distrust all around. Craggy individuals imperceptibly breaking down barriers till the realization happens that they have fallen for each other.
January 7, 2016
The Cover Tells the Story
Oh, my, what a lovely tale. And how unexpected that it should be so. Not that Bonnie Dee and Summer Devon have ever disappointed in that scenario when they have given us historical MM romances before, but this one had a bit of a different spin from the beginning that made it seem like it might be a bit of a full-on angst trip.
Start with the cover. When I first ordered the book, I thought that the man with the beard was the professor (why not?, he looks a bit tweedy in the late 19th century fashion), and the blond on the right was the smuggler (why not?, he could be an ambitious Cornish lad looking to make money). Well, that was quickly put to rest in the first chapter, and as I went through the book I realized how perfect the cover is.
Carne Treleaven is a rough-hewn 28-year-old Cornishman and Phillip Singleton is the boyish looking but about the same age scholar who has just left his professorship at Cambridge for a life of adventure. This new life, he strongly believes, will center on opening the eyes of the world to the history and beauty of Cornwall and other British locales--and as possible vacation destinations. What, you say?
Well, they key to this whole tale (to me at least) is the fact that Phillip intends to accomplish his goal by writing books with photos--something which apparently hadn't come acros the minds of many back in that day. We see here how technological advances (the camera, and even the auto) can inspire some to think innovatively, and scare the living devil out of others who have secrets and a way of life to protect. That is the underlying current of tension that runs through the plot.
But it is the underlying current of attraction between Carne and Phillip that comes out of the blue (as blue as the Cornish coast and sky) that draws you in, relaxes and overwhelmingly charms you. That Phillip is gay, and quite accepting of his orientation, and Carne has never given his straight orientation a thought, is a theme that many authors, including these two ladies, have struggled to reconcile in the past. But this "gay-for-you" reconciliation is different in that they have created a surprisingly strong and confident (but wary of love) Phillip and an extremely open minded and in the end aggressive Carne that raises the eyebrow a bit but spreads the smile wide.
The plot is believable, the characters are true to the time, locale, and culture, and the wild and somewhat violent action that sums up the tale is brilliantly plotted out and superbly detailed. But what makes this book so wonderful is the rather extensive denouement in the final chapter and a surprising epilogue. You put the book down with a smile on your face, and a heart that goes pitty-patter.
Oh, my, what a lovely tale. And how unexpected that it should be so. Not that Bonnie Dee and Summer Devon have ever disappointed in that scenario when they have given us historical MM romances before, but this one had a bit of a different spin from the beginning that made it seem like it might be a bit of a full-on angst trip.
Start with the cover. When I first ordered the book, I thought that the man with the beard was the professor (why not?, he looks a bit tweedy in the late 19th century fashion), and the blond on the right was the smuggler (why not?, he could be an ambitious Cornish lad looking to make money). Well, that was quickly put to rest in the first chapter, and as I went through the book I realized how perfect the cover is.
Carne Treleaven is a rough-hewn 28-year-old Cornishman and Phillip Singleton is the boyish looking but about the same age scholar who has just left his professorship at Cambridge for a life of adventure. This new life, he strongly believes, will center on opening the eyes of the world to the history and beauty of Cornwall and other British locales--and as possible vacation destinations. What, you say?
Well, they key to this whole tale (to me at least) is the fact that Phillip intends to accomplish his goal by writing books with photos--something which apparently hadn't come acros the minds of many back in that day. We see here how technological advances (the camera, and even the auto) can inspire some to think innovatively, and scare the living devil out of others who have secrets and a way of life to protect. That is the underlying current of tension that runs through the plot.
But it is the underlying current of attraction between Carne and Phillip that comes out of the blue (as blue as the Cornish coast and sky) that draws you in, relaxes and overwhelmingly charms you. That Phillip is gay, and quite accepting of his orientation, and Carne has never given his straight orientation a thought, is a theme that many authors, including these two ladies, have struggled to reconcile in the past. But this "gay-for-you" reconciliation is different in that they have created a surprisingly strong and confident (but wary of love) Phillip and an extremely open minded and in the end aggressive Carne that raises the eyebrow a bit but spreads the smile wide.
The plot is believable, the characters are true to the time, locale, and culture, and the wild and somewhat violent action that sums up the tale is brilliantly plotted out and superbly detailed. But what makes this book so wonderful is the rather extensive denouement in the final chapter and a surprising epilogue. You put the book down with a smile on your face, and a heart that goes pitty-patter.
January 8, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
The Professor and the Smuggler was a wonderful read, full of romance and action. The authoring duo of Bonnie Dee and Summer Devon have been favorites of mine for some time and this book represents a fine return to form. The story surrounds the fairly well known smuggling history off the Cornish coast in Britain and it provides an excellent backdrop for the burgeoning romance between Carne and Phillip. The authors do a good job of describing the distinctiveness of Cornwall and providing readers a strong sense of time and place. The village of Par Gwynear is given a life of its own with villains and heroes and an essence that is both unique and relatable all at once. This aspect of The Professor and the Smuggler was a real strongpoint and made the entire story even more fun.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
The Professor and the Smuggler was a wonderful read, full of romance and action. The authoring duo of Bonnie Dee and Summer Devon have been favorites of mine for some time and this book represents a fine return to form. The story surrounds the fairly well known smuggling history off the Cornish coast in Britain and it provides an excellent backdrop for the burgeoning romance between Carne and Phillip. The authors do a good job of describing the distinctiveness of Cornwall and providing readers a strong sense of time and place. The village of Par Gwynear is given a life of its own with villains and heroes and an essence that is both unique and relatable all at once. This aspect of The Professor and the Smuggler was a real strongpoint and made the entire story even more fun.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
June 13, 2018
3.5 The Professor and the Smuggler Stars
I am not a huge fan of this genre but I went in with an open mind and didn’t hate it. Haha
I liked Carne and Phillip and their connection grew so there wasn’t any insta-love thank goodness for that.
Carne held a lot of secrets and Phillip just wanted to explore. Phillip making no apologies for who he was, well that was the best part for me. Carne not judging was a close second.
I think the only thing I didn’t really enjoy was the smuggler’s aspect that we don’t really get a lot of detail about it until near the end, I kept wondering why Carne wasn’t just showing Phillip what he wanted to see. Maybe some inner dialog would have helped clear up any confusion.
Overall I enjoyed the book and really enjoyed the narration I think that is what kept me interested for as long as it did.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
I am not a huge fan of this genre but I went in with an open mind and didn’t hate it. Haha
I liked Carne and Phillip and their connection grew so there wasn’t any insta-love thank goodness for that.
Carne held a lot of secrets and Phillip just wanted to explore. Phillip making no apologies for who he was, well that was the best part for me. Carne not judging was a close second.
I think the only thing I didn’t really enjoy was the smuggler’s aspect that we don’t really get a lot of detail about it until near the end, I kept wondering why Carne wasn’t just showing Phillip what he wanted to see. Maybe some inner dialog would have helped clear up any confusion.
Overall I enjoyed the book and really enjoyed the narration I think that is what kept me interested for as long as it did.
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
May 2, 2018
Historical romances by Summer Devon and Bonny Dee always are always between 3 and 4 stars because they are competently done and quite frankly, the difference between 3.5 rounded up and 3.5 rounded down mostly lies in how much I like the characters. In this one I like both characters very much. For once, the awkward intellectual, Phillip, is also a charmer who has (to borrow a phrase from "Four Weddings and a Funeral") this enormous capacity for joy that is really delightful. The other MC, the smuggler named Carne is a (not too) curmudgeonly Cornish man who is appropriately charmed.
Liked it, not too deep but all in all a lovely read.
Liked it, not too deep but all in all a lovely read.
January 23, 2022
This started out pretty slow. I had a hard time getting into it at first. When Carne first showed up, I thought he was the villain. He had a little bit of a shady vibe and I wasn't at all sure about his involvement with the Concern. He eventually won me over but it took a while. Phillip was fun. He was a ball of energy and could quite possibly talk a dog off of a meat wagon. I liked that he was ahead of his time and wanted to discover the little known corners of the world.
It took a while for the story to really get going but once it did, wow! It turned out to be quite the adventure.
It took a while for the story to really get going but once it did, wow! It turned out to be quite the adventure.
January 17, 2016
very sweet historical romance with an engaging story and interesting MCs. I especially fell in love with the adorkable adventure-seeking professor.
June 18, 2018
I loved the narration and the story was very good. I would listen again. Great MCs, I enjoyed the story, and I will look for more by the narrator.
Read
January 4, 2016Working on this book made me want to visit the Cornish coast.
October 11, 2018
Phillip is a wealthy, former professor on the Cornish coast hoping to write a book including the tales of the people living there, their smuggling history and some photos with his new camera. He finds a less than friendly welcome from the standoffish villagers. Carne Treleaven, a gruff and grouchy villager, agrees to be Phillip's guide, but with the agreement of the townsfolk who want to keep the over friendly professor out of the way of their smuggling. Carne, who has never even looked at a man with sexual desire, is surprised to find himself doing so with Phillip. Phillip agrees to tutor Phillip in the sexual ways between men and help Carne with his experimentation...only Phillip doesn't intend to lose his heart as quickly as he does. In the meantime, Phillip does get in the way of the smuggling operation, much to the chagrin of some of the townsfolk.
An average story, which kinda drags a bit, but not so much that I got bored or needed to put the book down. This reminded me a lot of these author's other story, The Shepherd and the Solicitor. Phillip is that same, borderline childlike and exuberant personality that the other hero finds loveable despite how annoying he should be and Carne is that same gruff, secretive personality that resists the attraction before giving into it. It was quite similar. I didn't love Phillip's personality here though. Something just didn't work...maybe he was too exuberant. Carne I got, though I could find absolutely no reason to believe he'd so suddenly decide that sexual desire for another man was perfectly okay and nothing to feel guilty about...especially given the way he grew up. He'd never even been with a man before and thought of sodomy with disgust before he just decided that it was gonna be great with Phillip. Learning who the bad guys were and weren't was pretty interesting, but it was the relationship between Carne and Phillip and the angst of their almost-separation that really drove the story there towards the end.
An average story, which kinda drags a bit, but not so much that I got bored or needed to put the book down. This reminded me a lot of these author's other story, The Shepherd and the Solicitor. Phillip is that same, borderline childlike and exuberant personality that the other hero finds loveable despite how annoying he should be and Carne is that same gruff, secretive personality that resists the attraction before giving into it. It was quite similar. I didn't love Phillip's personality here though. Something just didn't work...maybe he was too exuberant. Carne I got, though I could find absolutely no reason to believe he'd so suddenly decide that sexual desire for another man was perfectly okay and nothing to feel guilty about...especially given the way he grew up. He'd never even been with a man before and thought of sodomy with disgust before he just decided that it was gonna be great with Phillip. Learning who the bad guys were and weren't was pretty interesting, but it was the relationship between Carne and Phillip and the angst of their almost-separation that really drove the story there towards the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews