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Tyack & Frayne #6
Third Solstice
Gideon’s managed to swing a few festive days off, and he and Lee are looking forward to celebrating their little girl’s first birthday. But duty calls, and Gideon is too good an officer to ignore the summons. He finds himself on the streets of Penzance, helping police the midwinter Montol celebrations.
It’s his third winter solstice with Lee, and disturbance, danger and magic are in the air. His daughter is beginning to show some remarkable gifts, and not all the family can cope with them. As the Montol festivities reach their fiery heights, will Lee and Gideon find a way to keep those they love best on the right side of the solstice gate?
It’s his third winter solstice with Lee, and disturbance, danger and magic are in the air. His daughter is beginning to show some remarkable gifts, and not all the family can cope with them. As the Montol festivities reach their fiery heights, will Lee and Gideon find a way to keep those they love best on the right side of the solstice gate?
78 pages, ebook
First published December 17, 2015
22 people are currently reading
269 people want to read
About the author
Harper Fox
58 books1,176 followersHarper Fox is an M/M author with a mission. She’s produced six critically acclaimed novels in a year and is trying to dispel rumours that she has a clone/twin sister locked away in a study in her basement. In fact she simply continues working on what she loves best– creating worlds and stories for the huge cast of lovely gay men queuing up inside her head. She lives in rural Northumberland in northern England and does most of her writing at a pensioned-off kitchen table in her back garden, often with blanket and hot water bottle.
She lives with her SO Jane, who has somehow put up with her for a quarter of a century now, and three enigmatic cats, chief among whom is Lucy, who knows the secret of the universe but isn't letting on. When not writing, she either despairs or makes bread, specialities foccacia and her amazing seven-strand challah. If she has any other skills, she's yet to discover them.
She lives with her SO Jane, who has somehow put up with her for a quarter of a century now, and three enigmatic cats, chief among whom is Lucy, who knows the secret of the universe but isn't letting on. When not writing, she either despairs or makes bread, specialities foccacia and her amazing seven-strand challah. If she has any other skills, she's yet to discover them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
March 19, 2016
harper fox is legit killing me in the feelz with these.
what marvelous writing. nearly everything you could want in a story—love, and magic, and kindness, and mysterious prophecies, and ezekiel behaving appallingly in such a way as to be quite hilarious in hindsight—and more.
oh, god. so much more.
as close to perfect as makes no difference, this one.
a world of things i ache to have for myself, and rejoice to see in people who don't even exist.
live long and write lots, ms. fox. i'm counting on you.
___________
my review of book five: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
what marvelous writing. nearly everything you could want in a story—love, and magic, and kindness, and mysterious prophecies, and ezekiel behaving appallingly in such a way as to be quite hilarious in hindsight—and more.
oh, god. so much more.
as close to perfect as makes no difference, this one.
a world of things i ache to have for myself, and rejoice to see in people who don't even exist.
live long and write lots, ms. fox. i'm counting on you.
___________
my review of book five: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
September 30, 2018
4 Stars
Wow. This latest installment really is quite the game changer where this is no longer a quasi-spooky contemporary, but one where legends and lore are actually manifested and all that is not grounded in reality becomes real, front and center. No joke.
Very strong on the family dynamics, not only between Gideon and Lee, who remain as solid a team as ever, but new developments occur with their daughter, a crisis comes for brother Zeke, and Ma Frayne has some trouble. This is where believing in magic and having faith is of the utmost importance and the reward brings about the most wonderful thing!
Another fabulous, full of feels entry!
Wow. This latest installment really is quite the game changer where this is no longer a quasi-spooky contemporary, but one where legends and lore are actually manifested and all that is not grounded in reality becomes real, front and center. No joke.
Very strong on the family dynamics, not only between Gideon and Lee, who remain as solid a team as ever, but new developments occur with their daughter, a crisis comes for brother Zeke, and Ma Frayne has some trouble. This is where believing in magic and having faith is of the utmost importance and the reward brings about the most wonderful thing!
Another fabulous, full of feels entry!
November 6, 2024
Reread April 2019
I can't say enough how much I love this series. It's just fantastic!
Originally read August 2018
The year is about over and Gideon and Lee are moving on with their lives and Tamsyn is turning one. But that doesn't stop strange things from happening. With every solstice, one leaves and one comes to be. And SOMEBODY has some special gifts that are amazing and scary for everyone. Gideon is finding out what he truly is and what he is meant to be. And Lee is ever present by his side. Everything is lining up.
I know I sound like a broken record, but this series has been amazing and I can't stop reading it. I have to know what's going to happen next for Gideon and Lee. They are a truly fantastic couple. Each so supportive of the other. Not to mention Zeke and Ma Frayne and all the other characters who play an important role as well. It's bloody brilliant!
I can't say enough how much I love this series. It's just fantastic!
Originally read August 2018
The year is about over and Gideon and Lee are moving on with their lives and Tamsyn is turning one. But that doesn't stop strange things from happening. With every solstice, one leaves and one comes to be. And SOMEBODY has some special gifts that are amazing and scary for everyone. Gideon is finding out what he truly is and what he is meant to be. And Lee is ever present by his side. Everything is lining up.
I know I sound like a broken record, but this series has been amazing and I can't stop reading it. I have to know what's going to happen next for Gideon and Lee. They are a truly fantastic couple. Each so supportive of the other. Not to mention Zeke and Ma Frayne and all the other characters who play an important role as well. It's bloody brilliant!
April 4, 2016
Review written April 3, 2016
3 Stars - Sweet with a huge last book-part feeling
Book #6
Started this sixth part with hope of another solid good Harper Fox romance. A very short one this time. I liked, enjoyed but wasn't stunned. Good reading for Tyack & Frayne admirers though.
*********************************************
Cornwall, south England, UK
The Tyack & Frayne series is so far six shorter (75-150 pages) novella episodes in the M/M mystery genre with a new mysterious "case" in every part. In essence, however much focus on the development of the romance between these men.
Characters, my reviews:
It is Christmas time, Winter Solstice, Montol Festival*) and it is also time to celebrate a one year old little cutie girl.
More of a series summary and a nice reunion with old acquaintances (from all five previous books) than a standalone story with a real new (crime/mystery) storyline. Touching, sweet and very nice... This novella truly felt as the very last episode in this wonderful Cornwall saga. We left these men, their baby, friends and families in a pretty good place.
I'm grateful I picked up these books. All in all a GOOD series written in its very own special style. — Thanks and hugs to dear Sofia for joining me on this journey.
*********************************************
I LIKE - good atmospheric writing and interesting stories
*****
*) The Montol Festival is
Tyack & Frayne series BR with Sofia. We started Jan 29, 2016.
3 Stars - Sweet with a huge last book-part feeling
Book #6
Started this sixth part with hope of another solid good Harper Fox romance. A very short one this time. I liked, enjoyed but wasn't stunned. Good reading for Tyack & Frayne admirers though.
*********************************************
Cornwall, south England, UK
The Tyack & Frayne series is so far six shorter (75-150 pages) novella episodes in the M/M mystery genre with a new mysterious "case" in every part. In essence, however much focus on the development of the romance between these men.
Characters, my reviews:
It is Christmas time, Winter Solstice, Montol Festival*) and it is also time to celebrate a one year old little cutie girl.
“You want me to take these walls down?”
“Yes. I can’t bear it.”
“But if you need them—”
“You’re my wall. You’re my higher ground.”
More of a series summary and a nice reunion with old acquaintances (from all five previous books) than a standalone story with a real new (crime/mystery) storyline. Touching, sweet and very nice... This novella truly felt as the very last episode in this wonderful Cornwall saga. We left these men, their baby, friends and families in a pretty good place.
I'm grateful I picked up these books. All in all a GOOD series written in its very own special style. — Thanks and hugs to dear Sofia for joining me on this journey.
*********************************************
I LIKE - good atmospheric writing and interesting stories
*****
*) The Montol Festival is
Tyack & Frayne series BR with Sofia. We started Jan 29, 2016.
September 6, 2018
4 Stars
It’s winter solstice time again and something significant always seems to happen around Lee and Gideon at this time of year.
They’re gearing up to celebrate their baby girls first birthday when Gideon gets called in to patrol the midwinter Montol celebrations in Penzance. The evening proves to be quite eventful, with Gideon facing several strange and enlightening encounters, and concluding with him using his natural gifts to call calm and order to a potentially disastrous disruption to the night’s festivities.
On a more personal note, Lee and Gideon face some overwhelming challenges at home when their daughter, Tamsyn, begins to exhibit a new and surprising preternatural gift, forcing the guys to quickly decide how best to handle their darling little girl's abilities. All the while, Gideon also discovers more about his own special gifts and what purpose they serve.
There is no real mystery plot in this one, but I didn’t miss it. The focus was more on the family dynamic, including their extended families, with Zeke dealing with some life changing personal issues of his own.
I enjoyed seeing the supernatural focus being a bit more on Gideon this time, too. It will be interesting, going forward, to see what comes next for this small family of gifted individuals.
As always, Lee and Gideon's love and adoration for each other shines through on every page. I love seeing how loyal, strong, and endlessly supportive they are together – they just get more lovable as the series progresses.
Unsurprisingly, this was another engaging and enlightening addition to this always enjoyable series and I look forward to reading more.
It’s winter solstice time again and something significant always seems to happen around Lee and Gideon at this time of year.
They’re gearing up to celebrate their baby girls first birthday when Gideon gets called in to patrol the midwinter Montol celebrations in Penzance. The evening proves to be quite eventful, with Gideon facing several strange and enlightening encounters, and concluding with him using his natural gifts to call calm and order to a potentially disastrous disruption to the night’s festivities.
On a more personal note, Lee and Gideon face some overwhelming challenges at home when their daughter, Tamsyn, begins to exhibit a new and surprising preternatural gift, forcing the guys to quickly decide how best to handle their darling little girl's abilities. All the while, Gideon also discovers more about his own special gifts and what purpose they serve.
There is no real mystery plot in this one, but I didn’t miss it. The focus was more on the family dynamic, including their extended families, with Zeke dealing with some life changing personal issues of his own.
I enjoyed seeing the supernatural focus being a bit more on Gideon this time, too. It will be interesting, going forward, to see what comes next for this small family of gifted individuals.
As always, Lee and Gideon's love and adoration for each other shines through on every page. I love seeing how loyal, strong, and endlessly supportive they are together – they just get more lovable as the series progresses.
Unsurprisingly, this was another engaging and enlightening addition to this always enjoyable series and I look forward to reading more.
June 10, 2021
Audiobook: ***3 Stars***
Story: ***3.5 Stars***
Story: ***3.5 Stars***
April 8, 2020
Loved seeing more of Gideon and Lee and their sweet baby daughter. I will say that this one felt a little more unsubstantial than the previous books. Still a good read, but the "mystery" part wasn't really there, and though there were great domestic/family moments, I think there needed to be a stronger counterpoint to the personal storyline.
January 6, 2019
4.5 Stars
These just get better and better...
These just get better and better...
May 24, 2025
This was a quick listen but nonetheless enjoyable! I'm already off to start book seven though I think I'm starting to get series fatigue from reading them all back-to-back 😅
January 2, 2016
I was pleasantly surprised to discover that Harper Fox released another book on her Tyack & Frayne Mystery series – and I knew I just had to get my paws on it pronto! I’ve re-read the series constantly ever since I got hold of the first book earlier last year and getting a glimpse of ‘em once again just makes me oh-so-happy!
This installment isn’t stand-alone since it includes characters from previous books which made me really happy (much so) since I really loved the “Kitto” one and he’s got a bit of a mention here.
As for the story here, it was all domestic for both Gideon and Lee and their daughter until said daughter started to show her psychokinetic abilities. It was also the winter solstice – also a time for new beginnings and everyone’s becoming what they should be.
I loved how Harper Fox focuses on their family this time and not all the odd things happening around them. I mean, it’s a given they’re an odd family what with all the paranormal stuff but this one feels more emotional in some way. Gideon and Lee’s relationship is stronger than ever, their careers are stable and just the whole domestic side is all so-endearing to read. Their love for their daughter is almost palpable and how they protect each other.
Reading the whole thing was like watching an episode of my favorite TV show. There were some issues at the beginning which got resolved easily at the end and that’s that. Purely enjoyable and you’d definitely want to ask for a repeat or perhaps the new “episode.” Highly recommended for the fans of the series!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
This installment isn’t stand-alone since it includes characters from previous books which made me really happy (much so) since I really loved the “Kitto” one and he’s got a bit of a mention here.
As for the story here, it was all domestic for both Gideon and Lee and their daughter until said daughter started to show her psychokinetic abilities. It was also the winter solstice – also a time for new beginnings and everyone’s becoming what they should be.
I loved how Harper Fox focuses on their family this time and not all the odd things happening around them. I mean, it’s a given they’re an odd family what with all the paranormal stuff but this one feels more emotional in some way. Gideon and Lee’s relationship is stronger than ever, their careers are stable and just the whole domestic side is all so-endearing to read. Their love for their daughter is almost palpable and how they protect each other.
Reading the whole thing was like watching an episode of my favorite TV show. There were some issues at the beginning which got resolved easily at the end and that’s that. Purely enjoyable and you’d definitely want to ask for a repeat or perhaps the new “episode.” Highly recommended for the fans of the series!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
January 27, 2016
3.5 stars
This had the same strong writing and atmospheric feel as the others in this series. Maybe it was my mood, but I didn't enjoy this as much as the others. Admittedly, I was rolling my eyes a little with the story line about the daughter and the brother's reactions to it.
This had the same strong writing and atmospheric feel as the others in this series. Maybe it was my mood, but I didn't enjoy this as much as the others. Admittedly, I was rolling my eyes a little with the story line about the daughter and the brother's reactions to it.
September 17, 2019
Re-read - Think I was generous with the rating. Can't really see the point of this book. Like the Lt I was left feeling I'd missed something everything building up to then fizzle out with no boom! Nothing really happens except that everyone including the dog now appears to be mythical/magical/special. It was both not enough and far too much.
-- --
Wavering between 3* and 4* I enjoyed it with reservations, but my continuing affection for this pair and their village bumps it upward.
Didn't get the usual instant immersion into the verse, felt quite disassociative at the beginning which was partly by the author's design. It took until almost halfway for me to start getting caught up in the story with isn't great considering the length of the book. Some of this is due to the paranormal developments and will depend on how you view them - for me it was perhaps a step too much. It had me wondering what next; metamorphosis, flight?
There's some excitement but no mystery in this one, it's set firmly with family and friends using Montol festivities as a background. I'm not sure if this is intended to finish the series, there's scope left for more but it has the air of a wrap-up party with every character mentioned thus far shoe-horning in a cameo. While it was nice to see some of them, in many respects this gave the impression more of a festive extra than part of the series.
I'd have liked more Zeke, part of me would have liked to be reading his story; his fervour over wanting children made me want to know him better. He's got some depths about him.
Ultimately I enjoyed the re-visit with a favourite character-set, the writing is good - often with a lyrical turn, there's strong love and hardy nuanced characters. Plenty that I liked. But it didn't hold me as did the other stories. Not a standalone - no cliffhanger, but being packed with past characters this wont make sense unless you've read the previous novellas. Really hope for at least one more in the series.
-- --
Wavering between 3* and 4* I enjoyed it with reservations, but my continuing affection for this pair and their village bumps it upward.
Didn't get the usual instant immersion into the verse, felt quite disassociative at the beginning which was partly by the author's design. It took until almost halfway for me to start getting caught up in the story with isn't great considering the length of the book. Some of this is due to the paranormal developments and will depend on how you view them - for me it was perhaps a step too much. It had me wondering what next; metamorphosis, flight?
There's some excitement but no mystery in this one, it's set firmly with family and friends using Montol festivities as a background. I'm not sure if this is intended to finish the series, there's scope left for more but it has the air of a wrap-up party with every character mentioned thus far shoe-horning in a cameo. While it was nice to see some of them, in many respects this gave the impression more of a festive extra than part of the series.
I'd have liked more Zeke, part of me would have liked to be reading his story; his fervour over wanting children made me want to know him better. He's got some depths about him.
Ultimately I enjoyed the re-visit with a favourite character-set, the writing is good - often with a lyrical turn, there's strong love and hardy nuanced characters. Plenty that I liked. But it didn't hold me as did the other stories. Not a standalone - no cliffhanger, but being packed with past characters this wont make sense unless you've read the previous novellas. Really hope for at least one more in the series.
December 21, 2015
Cornish magic and old friends, and foes, and fire and love and humor... and this:
"How do you do this, Lee? All the voices, all the visions... You must end up feeling as if you belong to the whole world.”
“Sometimes. Until you close the doors. Then you make me feel as if I just belong to you.”
Gideon and Lee are one of the most well written couples I've ever read. Two complete human beings who complete each other. In this, book six, there's nothing separating me from them. It's like seeing longtime friends, after not having done so for just as long a time, and there's no break in time required, no need for reacquainting myself with them.
Gideon's humor is here, as is Lee's steady hand. Their common strengths and worries keep them connected, which is definitely a plus considering the hurdles they encounter this time around. Interestingly, one of the main difficulties opens a baker's dozen of doors for future story possibilities. Even just in this elongated novella, it provided quite a meaty plot.
Some of our favorite supporting characters are here, too. Gideon's mother and brother, several of the townsfolk, and the ever present and important role the physical landscape of Cornwall itself plays, they're all masterfully utilized.
Egads, the emotion. Fox knows how to manipulate and make me feel grateful for it, make me identify with it. She makes me feel it. So effing good.
Cornish magic, yo, it's a thing. And Gideon, Lee, little Tamsyn, and all the rest are proof of it.
Fox's ways with the word type things continues, allowing me to float and bob and crash around atop them. I enjoyed every single second of this. I'm certain that Gideon and Lee do in fact benefit from a park bench, plaque with their names and all, residing in my heart. Always.
"How do you do this, Lee? All the voices, all the visions... You must end up feeling as if you belong to the whole world.”
“Sometimes. Until you close the doors. Then you make me feel as if I just belong to you.”
Gideon and Lee are one of the most well written couples I've ever read. Two complete human beings who complete each other. In this, book six, there's nothing separating me from them. It's like seeing longtime friends, after not having done so for just as long a time, and there's no break in time required, no need for reacquainting myself with them.
Gideon's humor is here, as is Lee's steady hand. Their common strengths and worries keep them connected, which is definitely a plus considering the hurdles they encounter this time around. Interestingly, one of the main difficulties opens a baker's dozen of doors for future story possibilities. Even just in this elongated novella, it provided quite a meaty plot.
Some of our favorite supporting characters are here, too. Gideon's mother and brother, several of the townsfolk, and the ever present and important role the physical landscape of Cornwall itself plays, they're all masterfully utilized.
Egads, the emotion. Fox knows how to manipulate and make me feel grateful for it, make me identify with it. She makes me feel it. So effing good.
Cornish magic, yo, it's a thing. And Gideon, Lee, little Tamsyn, and all the rest are proof of it.
Fox's ways with the word type things continues, allowing me to float and bob and crash around atop them. I enjoyed every single second of this. I'm certain that Gideon and Lee do in fact benefit from a park bench, plaque with their names and all, residing in my heart. Always.
May 6, 2020
Wow, what a book to start the year with. Harper Fox writes so beautifully. Each word is is important to the story. Her sentences evoke a wonderful sense of place and setting.
I love how quickly I am transported to Gideon and Lee's world. How the narrow streets and villages and the quirky locals seep into my brain and the actual world surrounding me disappears until I am there, in Dark, with Tyack and Frayne.
Gideon and Lee. What can I say? I love these guys. And Zeke and Ma and Tamsyn and every other character in the series. But mostly God and Lee.
This book adds everything to this series - what an excellent way to start 2016.
I love how quickly I am transported to Gideon and Lee's world. How the narrow streets and villages and the quirky locals seep into my brain and the actual world surrounding me disappears until I am there, in Dark, with Tyack and Frayne.
Gideon and Lee. What can I say? I love these guys. And Zeke and Ma and Tamsyn and every other character in the series. But mostly God and Lee.
This book adds everything to this series - what an excellent way to start 2016.
December 22, 2016
4.5 stars
March 30, 2017
3.5 stars
Urgh, this book totally sailed without my knowing about it!! If I didn't see a tweet from one of the blog reviews I follow, I wouldn't know about it at all. I couldn't miss Gideon and Lee (and baby Tamsyn) story, could I?!
Okay, I liked the thought that Tamsyn developed a power of her own; she does have "magical" blood running in hers, right? Even if neither Lee nor Gideon are her biological parents but Lee is family, so it's absolutely not surprising. Of course both men would have a 'fun' time dealing with it as she grows up *grin*
The whole Montol festivities were a blurry event for me though; if you ask me I wouldn't know how to explain. Sometimes I feel like so with Fox's stories, fuzzy and foggy recollection of what happens *lol*.
But the ending was good, even if it was placed in the hospital. And I had to smile to read what happened to Zeke . It's another good entry in this series :)
Going home for Christmas, Lee?
No. Just going home.
Urgh, this book totally sailed without my knowing about it!! If I didn't see a tweet from one of the blog reviews I follow, I wouldn't know about it at all. I couldn't miss Gideon and Lee (and baby Tamsyn) story, could I?!
Okay, I liked the thought that Tamsyn developed a power of her own; she does have "magical" blood running in hers, right? Even if neither Lee nor Gideon are her biological parents but Lee is family, so it's absolutely not surprising. Of course both men would have a 'fun' time dealing with it as she grows up *grin*
The whole Montol festivities were a blurry event for me though; if you ask me I wouldn't know how to explain. Sometimes I feel like so with Fox's stories, fuzzy and foggy recollection of what happens *lol*.
But the ending was good, even if it was placed in the hospital. And I had to smile to read what happened to Zeke . It's another good entry in this series :)
April 4, 2016
"Everyone's becoming what they should be."
The last for now in the series. An ending with tugs the floating threads and sets them in place, in the way they are meant to go, off the ground and well away.
I like Gid & Lee's story and am happy that they are in a good place but I keep being teased by Zeke - I'd love to have his story. Ah maybe someday.
all the series very happily read with Ingela - BR link
January 14, 2018
Audiobook reviewThird Solstice, more than the others, is not meant to be read as a standalone. To be able to enjoy and follow the story you need all the background knowledge the previous books will give you. Not to mention the great reads they are, so don't miss out on them, start at the beginning you won't be sorry.
Who ever said raising a baby was easy?
Oh yeah - no one. And raising a child in the small town of Dark, where legends and myths intertwine with everyday lives, brings its own set of challenges. Gideon and Lee soon finds out there's a lot more to their dear Tamsyn that meets the eye. (They might want to teach their guests to duck)
This book reads more like an interlude between books. It's more focused on family than the others have been. Everything else surrounding Lee and Gideon's family was secondary and there was no real mystery to it. But do I mind? Not in the least, I'm loving every word Ms. Fox writes about these people and the troubles they find themselves in. And imagining all the trouble Gideon and Lee will face when Tamsyn grow up brings a huge grin to my face. I can't wait for it - but I bet it will give them nightmares ;)
With each new book in the series we get more and more insight in the supernatural world of Dark. The secrets that are publicly hidden. And that there are so many more people involved and they all have their duties to fulfill. And it's all so much complex than what it seemed when we started out on this journey. I for one can't wait to see where we all end up, and I am more than happy to come along for the ride.
If you've read my previous reviews of this series, you all know I'm a big fan of Tim Gilbert's narration of these books. This book is no exception, I was wonderfully lost in his voice and narration and was not a happy camper when the book ended - it was just too soon. This book was over way too soon for my liking, but I think I've said that before too. This series needs to be full length novels so that we have enough time to bask in this wonderfully haunted village and spend some quality time with the people we've come to love.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
December 23, 2015
Oh my! You couldn’t imagine my glee when I found out that Harper had released another Tyack and Frayne mystery just when you thought that their run had come to an end. It was a great Christmas present for sure. So without much ado a got a copy and got stuck in straight away. Yes, I’m a self-confessed Tyack and Frayne junkie.
Even though this is book six there seems to be no running out of steam for these guys. This story revolves around the Winter Solstice and if you’re going to have lots of Celtic tradition, mystical goings-on then Cornwall is the place to set it for sure. the Winter Solstice represents a turning point, the shortest day or longest night of the year and from here on in the days start to get longer. As Harper portrays in this tale it’s like the turning of a wheel and with its turning then everything has come full circle. this is definitely the case for my two favourite boys.
They are now settled and have their daughter Tamsyn. However, Tamsyn seems to be developing mystical talents of her own. Obviously this runs deep in her bloodline but it does put Gideon and Lee at a bit of a quandary as to what to do. But more is happening alongside all this and Tamsyn’s role in all this soons becomes clear.
This is a story that concerns endings and new beginnings. Gideon is confronted with all the characters of the previous books, Old Penglas, Kitto, The Beast of Bodmin Moor and Ragwen while on duty at the Solstice festival in Penzance. It was like a coming together of all the previous books and characters which felt complete. Once again he has to protect the town from outsiders who come to start a riot but in so doing discovers why Tamsyn is the way she is.
I just loved this whole story, intricate plot, full of mystery and atmosphere and beautifully written Harper Fox style. this story seems to bring everything in their lives full circle just as the Winter Solstice would I guess. I loved how everything plays out in this book. I could feel the love that Lee and Gideon have for each other now a complete family and not to goive anything away even Zeke, Gideon’s older brother, has a surprise up his sleeve for everyone.
So I get the feeling with this book that everything has now been rounded up and brings everything together beautifully. If this should now really be the last book in the Tyack and Frayne series then I feel it is most definitely a fitting and wonderful end to what has been a fantastic and endearing time with these characters. They are among my all time favourites and will remain with me for a long time. If it’s not the last book then I’ll be waiting around the corner to snatch up the next one for sure.
Even though this is book six there seems to be no running out of steam for these guys. This story revolves around the Winter Solstice and if you’re going to have lots of Celtic tradition, mystical goings-on then Cornwall is the place to set it for sure. the Winter Solstice represents a turning point, the shortest day or longest night of the year and from here on in the days start to get longer. As Harper portrays in this tale it’s like the turning of a wheel and with its turning then everything has come full circle. this is definitely the case for my two favourite boys.
They are now settled and have their daughter Tamsyn. However, Tamsyn seems to be developing mystical talents of her own. Obviously this runs deep in her bloodline but it does put Gideon and Lee at a bit of a quandary as to what to do. But more is happening alongside all this and Tamsyn’s role in all this soons becomes clear.
This is a story that concerns endings and new beginnings. Gideon is confronted with all the characters of the previous books, Old Penglas, Kitto, The Beast of Bodmin Moor and Ragwen while on duty at the Solstice festival in Penzance. It was like a coming together of all the previous books and characters which felt complete. Once again he has to protect the town from outsiders who come to start a riot but in so doing discovers why Tamsyn is the way she is.
I just loved this whole story, intricate plot, full of mystery and atmosphere and beautifully written Harper Fox style. this story seems to bring everything in their lives full circle just as the Winter Solstice would I guess. I loved how everything plays out in this book. I could feel the love that Lee and Gideon have for each other now a complete family and not to goive anything away even Zeke, Gideon’s older brother, has a surprise up his sleeve for everyone.
So I get the feeling with this book that everything has now been rounded up and brings everything together beautifully. If this should now really be the last book in the Tyack and Frayne series then I feel it is most definitely a fitting and wonderful end to what has been a fantastic and endearing time with these characters. They are among my all time favourites and will remain with me for a long time. If it’s not the last book then I’ll be waiting around the corner to snatch up the next one for sure.
December 20, 2015
What a very pleasant surprise! Ms Fox posts on her Facebook page that she's uploaded a new Tyack & Frayne to various sites and within the space of half an hour it's there, on my Kindle. No publicity, no fanfare, just "I've written this.... and it should be uploaded by tomorrow".
Definitely not a stand-alone novel as the characters, both primary and secondary are changing. Maybe not so much Lee but definitely the Frayne brothers and the baby Tamsyn.
Such beautiful, image-evoking writing. Centred around the Winter solstice and Cornwall's Festivals of Light this is a very magical tale.
Loved it. 5 x stars.
Definitely not a stand-alone novel as the characters, both primary and secondary are changing. Maybe not so much Lee but definitely the Frayne brothers and the baby Tamsyn.
Such beautiful, image-evoking writing. Centred around the Winter solstice and Cornwall's Festivals of Light this is a very magical tale.
Loved it. 5 x stars.
October 1, 2018
Gideon and Lee are organizing Tamsyn’s first birthday party and of course getting ready for Christmas. But they have a lot on their minds when Tamsyn suddenly exhibits some unusual powers of her own. Lee doesn’t want Tamsyn to be a ‘freak’ like he has felt his whole life. But every attempt to nip Tamsyn’s powers in the bud just results in a very unhappy family all around.
When Gideon gets called in to keep an eye out for disturbances during the midwinter Montol celebrations, Lee and Tamsyn tag along to enjoy the festivities. But of course not everything goes smoothly…
This wasn’t quite as creepy as the other books, but I still can’t get enough of these two. I love how their connection has evolved and how they can ‘feel’ each other. It’s quite romantic actually.
And I’m really curious to see how things with Tamsyn will develop. I mean, having a baby with superpowers might be a bit too much to handle. But hey, at least it keeps things interesting.
When Gideon gets called in to keep an eye out for disturbances during the midwinter Montol celebrations, Lee and Tamsyn tag along to enjoy the festivities. But of course not everything goes smoothly…
This wasn’t quite as creepy as the other books, but I still can’t get enough of these two. I love how their connection has evolved and how they can ‘feel’ each other. It’s quite romantic actually.
And I’m really curious to see how things with Tamsyn will develop. I mean, having a baby with superpowers might be a bit too much to handle. But hey, at least it keeps things interesting.
January 3, 2016
This remains a favorite series. Lee is sweet and wonderful and strange in the right ways. Gideon is a solid cop who's had his eyes opened to the paranormal, and who is learning how to fit it into his worldview. And when to bend his views to fit. His top priority is still to keep the peace and make sure good people are safe. Especially the people he loves.
In this story, the guys finally have their small daughter at home, and are coming face to face with both the usual and some unusual challenges of child-rearing. And of course, there is no rest for the reliable country copper. Gideon is growing and learning, with every day he spends loving Lee.
Don't start with this book, though. Start at the beginning and enjoy the whole ride.
In this story, the guys finally have their small daughter at home, and are coming face to face with both the usual and some unusual challenges of child-rearing. And of course, there is no rest for the reliable country copper. Gideon is growing and learning, with every day he spends loving Lee.
Don't start with this book, though. Start at the beginning and enjoy the whole ride.
June 18, 2017
Probably not my favorite installment but enjoyable none the less. It's great to see little Tamsie is growing and her special gift is surely keeping Lee & Gideon in their toes. Zeke is becoming a firm favorite. Let's see how the final book ties things up
July 31, 2022
Really lovely. This whole series has been a joy to listen to. Espescially with the amazingly gifted performance of Tim Gilbert in the audio version.
March 4, 2023
This was another mild disappointment in the series because I was mostly just confused, about the paranormal stuff, at least. But I don't want to be too harsh because I'll be the first to admit I can be a bit dense with making sense of plot intricacies, and I'm also just a reader who gets easily annoyed by vagueness. It was also a short book though, and overall, for me, it kind of had the effect of me finishing and wondering what I just read and feeling like nothing much actually happened. That being said, I enjoyed the parts I did understand. I don't think I've ever read about a married couple raising a baby, and although that's not a type of story I seek out, these characters and their slowly expanding family are just so cute that I love it. Seriously, Gideon and Lee are just the sweetest dads, and the repaired relations with other relatives has become a lovely part of the series too. And some of the paranormal aspects add a whole new layer to things, all sorts of new marriage, family, and parenthood struggles. My thoughts on the audiobook narration can be found in my review for the first book. I guess I've had some ups and downs with this series, but I'm still enjoying it. These lovable, good-hearted characters and their adorable relationship and family have hooked me.
*I’ve read this book multiple times. This review was written after my 1st read.*
*Rating: 3.5 Stars // Read Date: 2020 // Format: Audiobook*
*Rating: 3.5 Stars // Read Date: 2023 // Format: Audiobook*
Recommended For:
Fans of Books 1-5 in Harper Fox's Tyack & Frayne series. Anyone who likes loving and supportive m/m romance, clairvoyants, mysteries, and small English towns.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
*I’ve read this book multiple times. This review was written after my 1st read.*
*Rating: 3.5 Stars // Read Date: 2020 // Format: Audiobook*
*Rating: 3.5 Stars // Read Date: 2023 // Format: Audiobook*
Recommended For:
Fans of Books 1-5 in Harper Fox's Tyack & Frayne series. Anyone who likes loving and supportive m/m romance, clairvoyants, mysteries, and small English towns.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
September 21, 2025
Enjoyable, but something is different...
More facets unfold, drama, suspense, comedy, sorrow, although it was shorter than usual, I have the feeling that this book is a transition, to a new fase perhaps.
More facets unfold, drama, suspense, comedy, sorrow, although it was shorter than usual, I have the feeling that this book is a transition, to a new fase perhaps.
December 22, 2015
Don't you love it when there's an addition to a favourite series, and you don't even know it's coming! And then there it is!
?
Yes, well, I do, and I snapped this up, and then read it, and savoured it, and loved it.
Gorgeous, deserving-of-everything couple, who will protect and guard, and guide, and love.
Delicious
#xmas2015
?
Yes, well, I do, and I snapped this up, and then read it, and savoured it, and loved it.
Gorgeous, deserving-of-everything couple, who will protect and guard, and guide, and love.
Delicious
#xmas2015
January 31, 2016
Another Tyack and Frayne gem
I'm an unashamed Tyack and Frayne groupie. I love these two and the colourful set of characters Harper has surrounded them with. I can't imagine another place in the entire world where this sweet of characters would fit so believably well. So perfect setting, prefect story and prefect Lee and Gideon
I'm an unashamed Tyack and Frayne groupie. I love these two and the colourful set of characters Harper has surrounded them with. I can't imagine another place in the entire world where this sweet of characters would fit so believably well. So perfect setting, prefect story and prefect Lee and Gideon
May 13, 2018
Another charming - though short - visit with the Tyack-Frayne household, as baby Tamsyn approaches her first birthday and is showing signs of the magical and supernatural abilities that run in her bloodline. The focus is firmly on the domestic here; Lee and Gideon are more in love than ever and their time as new parents is brilliantly depicted - anyone who has had to cope with the chaos of having a young child/toddler in the house will be nodding their heads sagely at the descriptions of shirts stained with breakfasts or sticky hands!
Zeke and Ma Frayne are back, and we also bump into a number of other characters we've met throughout the series, and - as is the case with each of the books in the series - we're given more glimpses of the supernatural world of Dark and Cornish/Celtic folklore; it's a bit bonkers sometimes, but I love it.
Narrator Tim Gilbert does a spectacular job once again; he captures Lee, Gid and Zeke so perfectly, and his narration is wonderfully nuanced and hits all the right emotional notes. Recommended.
Zeke and Ma Frayne are back, and we also bump into a number of other characters we've met throughout the series, and - as is the case with each of the books in the series - we're given more glimpses of the supernatural world of Dark and Cornish/Celtic folklore; it's a bit bonkers sometimes, but I love it.
Narrator Tim Gilbert does a spectacular job once again; he captures Lee, Gid and Zeke so perfectly, and his narration is wonderfully nuanced and hits all the right emotional notes. Recommended.
March 7, 2021
Review stands.
Great addition to the series and yet again the audio version is superb
Highly recommended series
This one was not as emotional as the last book. We see Gideon and Lee settling into their life with their daughter. I found it entertaining watching both of their reactions to their daughters unusual talents.
With Lee and Gideons relationship stable I felt this one focused more on Gideon's gifts. He has always said he was just a copper, but it was really highlighted how he always looked after the people in his little village. From the ones that most would have written off a long time ago to the older inhabitants, he treats everyone with respect and care. Ok he trades barbs with Darren constantly, but will also go and buy him gloves when he needs them.
I love Zeke. He is one of those secondary characters who steals any scene he is in. Poor Zeke has been trying for nearly the whole series to break from the moulding of his father. He is slowly unbending, but at times reverts back to what he has always known. It's great to see both he and Gideon trying to have a relationship as they both at times skirt around each other.
Great addition to the series.
Great addition to the series and yet again the audio version is superb
Highly recommended series
This one was not as emotional as the last book. We see Gideon and Lee settling into their life with their daughter. I found it entertaining watching both of their reactions to their daughters unusual talents.
With Lee and Gideons relationship stable I felt this one focused more on Gideon's gifts. He has always said he was just a copper, but it was really highlighted how he always looked after the people in his little village. From the ones that most would have written off a long time ago to the older inhabitants, he treats everyone with respect and care. Ok he trades barbs with Darren constantly, but will also go and buy him gloves when he needs them.
I love Zeke. He is one of those secondary characters who steals any scene he is in. Poor Zeke has been trying for nearly the whole series to break from the moulding of his father. He is slowly unbending, but at times reverts back to what he has always known. It's great to see both he and Gideon trying to have a relationship as they both at times skirt around each other.
Great addition to the series.
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