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Come To The Oaks: The Story of Ben and Tobias
ASIN B01N5XNP2S moved to this edition.
In 1845, as America is drowning in its own racial conflict, in a time when forbidden love has to remain a secret, can two young men find love when one has everything to lose, and the other has nothing?
For Tobias, a young African man, life has ended before it began. Snatched abruptly from his homeland and enslaved into the Antebellum South, grand homes and majestic oak trees meant little to him. Now he is considered the property of other men, but his spirit would not be broken.
The awkward Benjamin Nathanael Lee lives a privileged life. His father owns the largest tobacco plantation south of the Mason Dixon line. Ben wants little to do with the harsh realities of running a plantation—that is, until he meets Tobias, the one person that changes everything for him.
Wealth, greed, and power brought them together. The same now threatens to separate them forever. The two men are on the verge of losing the one thing that matters: their love for one another. Against the odds, they steal off and embark on a journey to find freedom: the freedom to love one another and to live a life without the chains of slavery.
Come to the Oaks is the tale of a forbidden romance—a love forged by two young men as they journey through a land that is tearing itself apart.
In 1845, as America is drowning in its own racial conflict, in a time when forbidden love has to remain a secret, can two young men find love when one has everything to lose, and the other has nothing?
For Tobias, a young African man, life has ended before it began. Snatched abruptly from his homeland and enslaved into the Antebellum South, grand homes and majestic oak trees meant little to him. Now he is considered the property of other men, but his spirit would not be broken.
The awkward Benjamin Nathanael Lee lives a privileged life. His father owns the largest tobacco plantation south of the Mason Dixon line. Ben wants little to do with the harsh realities of running a plantation—that is, until he meets Tobias, the one person that changes everything for him.
Wealth, greed, and power brought them together. The same now threatens to separate them forever. The two men are on the verge of losing the one thing that matters: their love for one another. Against the odds, they steal off and embark on a journey to find freedom: the freedom to love one another and to live a life without the chains of slavery.
Come to the Oaks is the tale of a forbidden romance—a love forged by two young men as they journey through a land that is tearing itself apart.
265 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 21, 2014
About the author
Bryan T. Clark
8 books48 followersBryan T. Clark is a 2X Lambda Literary finalist and Rainbow Award winning author of gay romance, and contemporary books. He is also a funny, loving, family-oriented, and proud member of the LGBT community. Behind his computer, working on his next novel, Bryan writes romance with an emphasis on moral dilemma. His multicultural characters and riveting plots embody real life, filled with challenges, personal growth, and, of course, what we all desire—love.
In his work, he is known to push the boundaries with brilliantly crafted stories of friendship, love, complicated relationships, and challenges all woven into a hard-earned happily-ever-after.
When Bryan is not writing, he enjoys reading a great book, traveling, lying by a body of water soaking up the sun, and watching a good movie while snuggled up with his husband on the couch with their loyal companion Nettie, the Sheepadoodle.
Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Bryan has made his home and life in the Central Valley of California.
In his work, he is known to push the boundaries with brilliantly crafted stories of friendship, love, complicated relationships, and challenges all woven into a hard-earned happily-ever-after.
When Bryan is not writing, he enjoys reading a great book, traveling, lying by a body of water soaking up the sun, and watching a good movie while snuggled up with his husband on the couch with their loyal companion Nettie, the Sheepadoodle.
Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Bryan has made his home and life in the Central Valley of California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
March 26, 2018
This is somehow difficult to rate.
On the one hand it is a very sweet and romantic story and I really wish it could have happened like this.
On the other hand it is a romanticized version of history, a story not really well developed and thought through. The whole plot headed nowhere and not making a lot of sense.
Of course a few issues of slavery were addressed but as feared, this was the "gay romance version" of history and it lacked a lot, which made reading this sometimes quite uncomfortable.
The boys were very sweet and very naive and I really doubt they would have lasted longer than a da day, after running away.
I think the author wanted a little too much and good intentions are not always enough, so this fell short in the historic as well as in the romantic context.
A nice and sweet read but nothing memorable or outstanding, it was a 3 star story for me.
On the one hand it is a very sweet and romantic story and I really wish it could have happened like this.
On the other hand it is a romanticized version of history, a story not really well developed and thought through. The whole plot headed nowhere and not making a lot of sense.
Of course a few issues of slavery were addressed but as feared, this was the "gay romance version" of history and it lacked a lot, which made reading this sometimes quite uncomfortable.
The boys were very sweet and very naive and I really doubt they would have lasted longer than a da day, after running away.
I think the author wanted a little too much and good intentions are not always enough, so this fell short in the historic as well as in the romantic context.
A nice and sweet read but nothing memorable or outstanding, it was a 3 star story for me.
May 8, 2022
4 Stars
5- Stars for character development
3 - Stars for believability
Despite the fact that the multiple escapes described in Bryan T. Clark’s Come to the Oaks: The Story of Ben and Tobias are more than highly improbable, the strength of this novel is in its characters.
Come to the Oaks, set in 1845, is enhanced by the evocative cover art from Kristallynn Designs featuring the interracial title characters, Tobias and Ben, at the Warren County Kentucky 'Oak Grove Plantation' owned by the Lee family.
The protagonists, Ben (Benjamin Nathanael Lee), heir apparent to the 'Oak Grove Planation', and Tobias (Mamadou Masamba), a West African slave purchased by Ben at auction against his father's wishes, are men who are easy to care about, as are so many of the other secondary characters Clark has created. It’s impossible for the reader not to be enchanted with Miss Gee-gee, Pearl, the children of the plantation, and all the individuals associated with the Underground Railroad.
Implausibility aside, Come to the Oaks: The Story of Ben and Tobias is nothing less than a great read.
5- Stars for character development
3 - Stars for believability
Despite the fact that the multiple escapes described in Bryan T. Clark’s Come to the Oaks: The Story of Ben and Tobias are more than highly improbable, the strength of this novel is in its characters.
Come to the Oaks, set in 1845, is enhanced by the evocative cover art from Kristallynn Designs featuring the interracial title characters, Tobias and Ben, at the Warren County Kentucky 'Oak Grove Plantation' owned by the Lee family.
The protagonists, Ben (Benjamin Nathanael Lee), heir apparent to the 'Oak Grove Planation', and Tobias (Mamadou Masamba), a West African slave purchased by Ben at auction against his father's wishes, are men who are easy to care about, as are so many of the other secondary characters Clark has created. It’s impossible for the reader not to be enchanted with Miss Gee-gee, Pearl, the children of the plantation, and all the individuals associated with the Underground Railroad.
Implausibility aside, Come to the Oaks: The Story of Ben and Tobias is nothing less than a great read.
March 28, 2020
We need more plantation owner/slave gay romances. They happened, they're extraordinary, and they make fascinating reading, despite the risk of triggering the patronizing and the homophobic.
December 9, 2018
Did I seriously just read a gay, interracial romance novel?? Oh yes I did... and I loved it! While I consider myself an eclectic reader (partial to horror and thrillers), romance is probably my least frequently read genre. I tend to pick up a romance novel when I see something about it that sets it apart from the traditional drugstore fare with Fabio on the cover. Well, actually, Fabio must be like 80 years old by now so it's probably someone else... but you know what I mean. I'm attracted to novelty. I've read one or two "Ermagerd! I'm in love with a werebear u guise!!!1" books. Fun to read once. Not something I'm terribly interested in going back to. I read an "urban" romance where the characters are African-Americans involved in the "rap scene." Surprisingly good. I thought I might go back and pick up the next book in that series at some point. I haven't yet. I read a Christian romance novel because I was interested to see how an author would engage the readers of the romance genre when she couldn't resort to sexual titillation. As I recall, she did surprisingly well given that constraint... but I'm not especially eager to pick up anything else she's written.
But THIS BOOK, Come To The Oaks: The Story of Ben and Tobias, by Bryan T. Clark, is unlike anything else I've read. The best book I've ever read? No. But it's in the top ten! As with all the other romances I've read, I was attracted to this book by its novel premise. A slave owner's son falling in love with a slave of the same sex and running away together? I was too curious not to check it out.
The robust and believable characters in this novel really brought it to life for me. Everyone except Dexter, the evil overseer, was well-developed. And there was no need to do much developing of Dexter. All we need to know about him is that he's an evil overseer. I feel like I know the characters in this book now.
There were homoerotic scenes. I skimmed them mostly just looking for dialogue to ensure I didn't miss anything important hidden in them. There wasn't anything central to the story. If, like me, you don't get anything out of gay sex scenes, you can skip them without worrying that you'll miss something important to the plot. There aren't even that many of them. There are only two or three gay sex scenes that are explicit.
Well developed and lovable characters are what make a good novel great, in my opinion. This was a truly special novel that I'll be thinking about for a long time to come. And I'm very interested in coming back to this author and seeing what else he's written. Even if you're not gay, even if you don't like romance, even if you're in the freaking Ku Klux Klan, you should read this book. It's high quality litfic in a romance package.
But THIS BOOK, Come To The Oaks: The Story of Ben and Tobias, by Bryan T. Clark, is unlike anything else I've read. The best book I've ever read? No. But it's in the top ten! As with all the other romances I've read, I was attracted to this book by its novel premise. A slave owner's son falling in love with a slave of the same sex and running away together? I was too curious not to check it out.
The robust and believable characters in this novel really brought it to life for me. Everyone except Dexter, the evil overseer, was well-developed. And there was no need to do much developing of Dexter. All we need to know about him is that he's an evil overseer. I feel like I know the characters in this book now.
There were homoerotic scenes. I skimmed them mostly just looking for dialogue to ensure I didn't miss anything important hidden in them. There wasn't anything central to the story. If, like me, you don't get anything out of gay sex scenes, you can skip them without worrying that you'll miss something important to the plot. There aren't even that many of them. There are only two or three gay sex scenes that are explicit.
Well developed and lovable characters are what make a good novel great, in my opinion. This was a truly special novel that I'll be thinking about for a long time to come. And I'm very interested in coming back to this author and seeing what else he's written. Even if you're not gay, even if you don't like romance, even if you're in the freaking Ku Klux Klan, you should read this book. It's high quality litfic in a romance package.
December 3, 2017
2017 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Come to the Oaks: The Story of Ben and Tobias
1) Come to the Oaks is a story set in a time when two men from opposite worlds couldn't be friends, much less lovers. Yet, in this deep and heartfelt story, these men are determined to escape to be free to love and live the lives they were meant to live. Mr. Clark paints a vivid world of strife and delivers a wonderful historical tale of two men who will stop at nothing to be together. A highly recommended read.
2) The author tackled a very difficult subject in a very respectful and informative way. I learned so much that I didn't know before - all the while believing in the developing romance of Ben and Tobias.
3) Come to the Oaks successfully transports the reader back to an era that none of us experienced first-hand--and that is only one of its many achievements. I was enthralled in not only the love story, but the story of Tobias and Ben's effort to escape. It was refreshing to see each story take a back-seat when necessary, but still remain important to the overall plot. The supporting characters were all essential, the setting was impressively described and Bryan's ability to effectively portray a time frame from hundreds of years ago is a feat that couldn't have been easy. This book could've easily been something that lacked depth or historical authenticity. But, it had both. Each character's journey was distinctly unique--and provided the necessary spark to keep me reading and anticipating each scene.
4) This was a fantastic story, well written and well researched. It captures the deceit and cruelty of the slave era where people in Africa were taken from their homeland betrayed, tortured and enslaved by white men, then sold to the highest bidder. It shows how not all white men believed nor agreed in what was done to these families, where women were raped, families were separated and the weak and sick were killed because they found no use for them. It is heartbreaking reading these events although, in the book we know it was written as fiction, one has to wonder how much of this actually happened in real life. This is the first story I've read from this author and would like to read more. Well done!
1) Come to the Oaks is a story set in a time when two men from opposite worlds couldn't be friends, much less lovers. Yet, in this deep and heartfelt story, these men are determined to escape to be free to love and live the lives they were meant to live. Mr. Clark paints a vivid world of strife and delivers a wonderful historical tale of two men who will stop at nothing to be together. A highly recommended read.
2) The author tackled a very difficult subject in a very respectful and informative way. I learned so much that I didn't know before - all the while believing in the developing romance of Ben and Tobias.
3) Come to the Oaks successfully transports the reader back to an era that none of us experienced first-hand--and that is only one of its many achievements. I was enthralled in not only the love story, but the story of Tobias and Ben's effort to escape. It was refreshing to see each story take a back-seat when necessary, but still remain important to the overall plot. The supporting characters were all essential, the setting was impressively described and Bryan's ability to effectively portray a time frame from hundreds of years ago is a feat that couldn't have been easy. This book could've easily been something that lacked depth or historical authenticity. But, it had both. Each character's journey was distinctly unique--and provided the necessary spark to keep me reading and anticipating each scene.
4) This was a fantastic story, well written and well researched. It captures the deceit and cruelty of the slave era where people in Africa were taken from their homeland betrayed, tortured and enslaved by white men, then sold to the highest bidder. It shows how not all white men believed nor agreed in what was done to these families, where women were raped, families were separated and the weak and sick were killed because they found no use for them. It is heartbreaking reading these events although, in the book we know it was written as fiction, one has to wonder how much of this actually happened in real life. This is the first story I've read from this author and would like to read more. Well done!
January 15, 2020
The storyline seemed unbelievable, more of a hoped for fantasy. On the other hand, it was a fairly engrossing fantasy with some suspense. The character of Tobias, the slave, was strange in speaking better English than his master (supposedly learned in Africa), and his thinking didn't appear to always match his background. Still, a romantic story.
August 5, 2017
things that are never okay to write about: plantation owner/slave romances
May 1, 2017
Mamadou Masamba, at the age of 19, has been forced to leave his homeland of Africa. He is the son of a West African healer, Babatunde Masamba—but his homeland and family are now just memories, as he’s shipped to America and sold into slavery.
In the year 1845 slaves are finding their freedom, but certain places did not conform and they continued the illegal act of transporting and selling slaves. Ben Lee is heading to Myrtleville, Kentucky with his father, Master Emmett Lee. They’re going to the auction to buy strong and healthy slaves to work his father’s plantation. One day Oak Grove plantation will belong to Ben, but he has no desire for the farm. Ben is shocked at the awful conditions that the slaves are kept in, and he becomes interested in Mamadou, who is not well. He talks his father into letting him buy Mamadou as his own slave.
Ben is protective of Mamadou and makes sure Mamadou is under his watch, giving the slave a new name, Tobias. As these two young men work, talk and become familiar with each other, a bond starts to form between them, until it becomes so much more, but it’s a danger to them both. Ben comes up with plan so he and Tobias can be free and start their new life together without intolerance and racial prejudice.
Bryan T. Clark creates a vivid picture of what life was like for slaves in 1845. This novel brings a mixture of emotions with its realism—rape, beatings, horrible living conditions and the inhuman treatment of slaves during a time when they should have been free. Ben and Tobias’s own actions caused tension to build, never knowing if they would be caught and what the consequences would be. I liked the contrast between Ben and Tobias, and I felt it really made the chemistry between them stronger. I had sort of mixed feelings, as it was sad that Tobias was taken from his family, but then there was hope for something good to happen when he meets Ben.
As the author stated this novel is not meant to depict actual events of slavery, but it does reflect the times and gives a better understanding of slavery in America. I believe the author met his goals. I was totally fascinated with this novel and hope to see more from him.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
In the year 1845 slaves are finding their freedom, but certain places did not conform and they continued the illegal act of transporting and selling slaves. Ben Lee is heading to Myrtleville, Kentucky with his father, Master Emmett Lee. They’re going to the auction to buy strong and healthy slaves to work his father’s plantation. One day Oak Grove plantation will belong to Ben, but he has no desire for the farm. Ben is shocked at the awful conditions that the slaves are kept in, and he becomes interested in Mamadou, who is not well. He talks his father into letting him buy Mamadou as his own slave.
Ben is protective of Mamadou and makes sure Mamadou is under his watch, giving the slave a new name, Tobias. As these two young men work, talk and become familiar with each other, a bond starts to form between them, until it becomes so much more, but it’s a danger to them both. Ben comes up with plan so he and Tobias can be free and start their new life together without intolerance and racial prejudice.
Bryan T. Clark creates a vivid picture of what life was like for slaves in 1845. This novel brings a mixture of emotions with its realism—rape, beatings, horrible living conditions and the inhuman treatment of slaves during a time when they should have been free. Ben and Tobias’s own actions caused tension to build, never knowing if they would be caught and what the consequences would be. I liked the contrast between Ben and Tobias, and I felt it really made the chemistry between them stronger. I had sort of mixed feelings, as it was sad that Tobias was taken from his family, but then there was hope for something good to happen when he meets Ben.
As the author stated this novel is not meant to depict actual events of slavery, but it does reflect the times and gives a better understanding of slavery in America. I believe the author met his goals. I was totally fascinated with this novel and hope to see more from him.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
January 9, 2018
A decent escapist read. Good writing. Ben and Tobias were both likable.
There's whiplash between the awful effects of slavery and the romantic relationship between the two men. The tone is off. If Clark wrote something closer to home/something modern, there might be more truth and power. This is well-researched, but lacks a sense of realness.
He does avoid the noble savage trope by presenting characters that are neither good nor evil, but still might be powerless to their situation. I enjoyed the process of reading this and couldn't put it down, and that's pretty cool.
There's whiplash between the awful effects of slavery and the romantic relationship between the two men. The tone is off. If Clark wrote something closer to home/something modern, there might be more truth and power. This is well-researched, but lacks a sense of realness.
He does avoid the noble savage trope by presenting characters that are neither good nor evil, but still might be powerless to their situation. I enjoyed the process of reading this and couldn't put it down, and that's pretty cool.
November 10, 2017
This is the first book I've read by this author and I thought it was really good. It was well written and kept my interest. I will likely read more by this author.
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. This is my honest review.*
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. This is my honest review.*
July 16, 2017
COME TO THE OAKS by Bryan T. Clark
Review by Brian Douglas
I loved this book! I loved the characters! I loved the intrigue! I loved the passion! I loved the ending!
Mamadou Masamba, in a raid by slave traders, is violently ripped from his village and family in West Africa, chained and thrown into the cargo hold of a ship and carried across the turbulent seas to America. He is a prisoner of the white slave traders of the Antebellum South. Mamadou, in poor health and imprisoned and chained in a cell, fearing for his life, despairs over the family he was torn from and wonders if they are still alive. He is about to be sold to a plantation owner’s son and his life is going to change in ways he could never imagine.
Benjamin Nathaniel Lee, a rich plantation owner’s son is about to purchase his first slave. Ben hates the idea of slavery, but must conform to his father’s wishes and pressures to do his best to prepare himself for the day when he will be the master of the plantation. At the trade market, Ben sees Mamadou and is mysteriously attracted to him. Ben decides to purchase Mamadou in spite of his father’s protest that buying a sickly slave will only create a financial burden for the planation. Ben succeeds in convincing his father that this is the slave he wants. With this purchase, Ben, unknowingly has set out on a journey of forbidden love and extreme danger in a struggle to escape to freedom.
Bryan Clark masterfully tells the story of how these two men, one white, one black, one free, one enslaved, become friends and fall in love under impossible circumstances in an environment filled with greed, fear, hatred and the threat of death. Ben and Mamadou, who has been given the plantation name Tobias must find a way to survive and share their love for one another without being discovered. They live with the constant danger of being discovered and have to go to extremes to protect one another, often being apart to keep suspicion at bay.
Ben and Tobias, deeply in love, are determined to find freedom, far away from the plantation. Tobias hears talk in the slave quarters about following the north star to freedom. Ben learns from townsfolk and others that slavery is over in the North. There are whispers about something called the underground railroad.
Mr. Clark is a craftsman in developing a compelling storyline filled with interesting and intriguing characters. There is a depth of understanding and compassion in each of his characters that is undeniable and keeps the story moving forward. As a reader, you become so involved with the characters and the tension that is inherent in the story that you are transported emotionally into the drama as if you were there. I could hardly put the book down! I highly recommend this Come To TheOaks. You will thoroughly enjoy the journey Mr. Clark takes you on as he tells the story of how Ben and Tobias find their way to love and freedom.
Review by Brian Douglas
I loved this book! I loved the characters! I loved the intrigue! I loved the passion! I loved the ending!
Mamadou Masamba, in a raid by slave traders, is violently ripped from his village and family in West Africa, chained and thrown into the cargo hold of a ship and carried across the turbulent seas to America. He is a prisoner of the white slave traders of the Antebellum South. Mamadou, in poor health and imprisoned and chained in a cell, fearing for his life, despairs over the family he was torn from and wonders if they are still alive. He is about to be sold to a plantation owner’s son and his life is going to change in ways he could never imagine.
Benjamin Nathaniel Lee, a rich plantation owner’s son is about to purchase his first slave. Ben hates the idea of slavery, but must conform to his father’s wishes and pressures to do his best to prepare himself for the day when he will be the master of the plantation. At the trade market, Ben sees Mamadou and is mysteriously attracted to him. Ben decides to purchase Mamadou in spite of his father’s protest that buying a sickly slave will only create a financial burden for the planation. Ben succeeds in convincing his father that this is the slave he wants. With this purchase, Ben, unknowingly has set out on a journey of forbidden love and extreme danger in a struggle to escape to freedom.
Bryan Clark masterfully tells the story of how these two men, one white, one black, one free, one enslaved, become friends and fall in love under impossible circumstances in an environment filled with greed, fear, hatred and the threat of death. Ben and Mamadou, who has been given the plantation name Tobias must find a way to survive and share their love for one another without being discovered. They live with the constant danger of being discovered and have to go to extremes to protect one another, often being apart to keep suspicion at bay.
Ben and Tobias, deeply in love, are determined to find freedom, far away from the plantation. Tobias hears talk in the slave quarters about following the north star to freedom. Ben learns from townsfolk and others that slavery is over in the North. There are whispers about something called the underground railroad.
Mr. Clark is a craftsman in developing a compelling storyline filled with interesting and intriguing characters. There is a depth of understanding and compassion in each of his characters that is undeniable and keeps the story moving forward. As a reader, you become so involved with the characters and the tension that is inherent in the story that you are transported emotionally into the drama as if you were there. I could hardly put the book down! I highly recommend this Come To TheOaks. You will thoroughly enjoy the journey Mr. Clark takes you on as he tells the story of how Ben and Tobias find their way to love and freedom.
May 12, 2017
4 1/2 Hearts Reviewed by Pixie for MM Good Book Reviews (Click the link to enter Bryan T. Clark's giveaway)
Mamadou has been brought to Kentucky to sell as a slave, ripped from his family and country, and given the name Tobias, he’s to serve at the whim of another man and he has no choice about it. Ben has been taken to the slave auctions by his father to begin learning the plantation business, buying his first slave isn’t what he wants to do but spotting a young ill slave has him determined to buy him.
Ben and Tobias strike up an unlikely friendship which develops into much more, their illicit relationship could see them both dead, friendship between master and slave is frown upon, loving each other will only get them killed.
This is an amazing story that takes us on a journey of two men’s love during a time where their roles in life make it near impossible for them to be friends never mind lovers. We join Tobias and Ben during a time of great strife as they make a rush for freedom and to escape where they can both be free men and to love the lives that they yearn to live.
Ben might be the son of the farm (plantation) owner but he still has to live the life his father dictates, Tobias is the slave that has Ben determined to break free from his father’s clutches because while Ben might be safe Tobias is far from safe as Ben’s father demands Ben’s compliance with his orders.
We see the dark truth of slavery, (and even that has been watered down so it isn’t too harrowing for us to read), we see savage whippings, rape, murder; we see the truth of the harrowing treatment of black men and women in 1845 as property of white men. We also see the glimmering hope of two young men as they travel across America hiding from the man who is determined to drag them both back to where they belong.
This is a touching story that brings to life a touching love story that blossoms in impossible times, it shows courage, determination and love, it drives home the desperation that is felt when a loved one is in danger and it makes you realise that love truly is worth giving everything up for.
I recommend this to those who love historicals, who adore characters who will do anything for the one they love and who adore stories that gives you a glimpse of history with a happy ending.
Mamadou has been brought to Kentucky to sell as a slave, ripped from his family and country, and given the name Tobias, he’s to serve at the whim of another man and he has no choice about it. Ben has been taken to the slave auctions by his father to begin learning the plantation business, buying his first slave isn’t what he wants to do but spotting a young ill slave has him determined to buy him.
Ben and Tobias strike up an unlikely friendship which develops into much more, their illicit relationship could see them both dead, friendship between master and slave is frown upon, loving each other will only get them killed.
This is an amazing story that takes us on a journey of two men’s love during a time where their roles in life make it near impossible for them to be friends never mind lovers. We join Tobias and Ben during a time of great strife as they make a rush for freedom and to escape where they can both be free men and to love the lives that they yearn to live.
Ben might be the son of the farm (plantation) owner but he still has to live the life his father dictates, Tobias is the slave that has Ben determined to break free from his father’s clutches because while Ben might be safe Tobias is far from safe as Ben’s father demands Ben’s compliance with his orders.
We see the dark truth of slavery, (and even that has been watered down so it isn’t too harrowing for us to read), we see savage whippings, rape, murder; we see the truth of the harrowing treatment of black men and women in 1845 as property of white men. We also see the glimmering hope of two young men as they travel across America hiding from the man who is determined to drag them both back to where they belong.
This is a touching story that brings to life a touching love story that blossoms in impossible times, it shows courage, determination and love, it drives home the desperation that is felt when a loved one is in danger and it makes you realise that love truly is worth giving everything up for.
I recommend this to those who love historicals, who adore characters who will do anything for the one they love and who adore stories that gives you a glimpse of history with a happy ending.
May 25, 2017
The first thing that gripped me about this story was the stark and depressing description of the slave boat and the people trapped there. The author tells us from the very beginning that this book is a work of fiction and yet, there were times I felt I was right beside Mamadou Masamba on his long journey.
Historical stories can be dull in their need to describe every building, article of clothing or food that is consumed. I didn't feel that way with this book. Every detail was there for a purpose to enrich the story of Ben and Tobias.
Tobias (Mamadou) was confused in his new world. Rightly so. He had lost everything and they took his name as well. He struggled to understand the workings of the plantation and how it was possible for one man to own another. His remembrances of his life in Africa, at times brought comfort but mostly kept his desire to return home alive in his heart.
Ben Lee, the son of the plantation owner, was a slave to his upbringing. Importing slaves had been outlawed, yet men like his father kept buying from slave traders. In his heart, he knew it was wrong but he didn't know to escape the future his father had cast for him.
From the moment Ben laid eyes on the young black slave, he had to have him. Tobias brought out the hidden desires Ben had kept buried inside for a long time. Though Ben owned Tobias, he didn't treat him as a slave which caused problems for both young men. They became friends and then so much more.
Hardships came and Ben makes the brave decision to take Tobias and run. The last half of the story focused on their dangerous quest to find freedom. Dealing with the Underground Railroad system and yet trying to keep their feelings for each other hidden as they traveled.
I won't given anything else away. I enjoyed this story for several reasons. I'm a Civil War buff. I am from the parts of Kentucky mentioned in the story. My ancestors were tobacco growers, too. Though to my knowledge, my ancestors never owned any slaves. And at its heart, it is a MM love story between two beautiful characters. For most, I enjoyed this book for the excellent writing and storytelling skills of Bryan T. Clark.
He took a fictional story and made me ache for these two young men who were forced to exist in a world torn apart by bigotry and war. Reading this book will make you feel many things...regret won't be one of them.
Historical stories can be dull in their need to describe every building, article of clothing or food that is consumed. I didn't feel that way with this book. Every detail was there for a purpose to enrich the story of Ben and Tobias.
Tobias (Mamadou) was confused in his new world. Rightly so. He had lost everything and they took his name as well. He struggled to understand the workings of the plantation and how it was possible for one man to own another. His remembrances of his life in Africa, at times brought comfort but mostly kept his desire to return home alive in his heart.
Ben Lee, the son of the plantation owner, was a slave to his upbringing. Importing slaves had been outlawed, yet men like his father kept buying from slave traders. In his heart, he knew it was wrong but he didn't know to escape the future his father had cast for him.
From the moment Ben laid eyes on the young black slave, he had to have him. Tobias brought out the hidden desires Ben had kept buried inside for a long time. Though Ben owned Tobias, he didn't treat him as a slave which caused problems for both young men. They became friends and then so much more.
Hardships came and Ben makes the brave decision to take Tobias and run. The last half of the story focused on their dangerous quest to find freedom. Dealing with the Underground Railroad system and yet trying to keep their feelings for each other hidden as they traveled.
I won't given anything else away. I enjoyed this story for several reasons. I'm a Civil War buff. I am from the parts of Kentucky mentioned in the story. My ancestors were tobacco growers, too. Though to my knowledge, my ancestors never owned any slaves. And at its heart, it is a MM love story between two beautiful characters. For most, I enjoyed this book for the excellent writing and storytelling skills of Bryan T. Clark.
He took a fictional story and made me ache for these two young men who were forced to exist in a world torn apart by bigotry and war. Reading this book will make you feel many things...regret won't be one of them.
May 22, 2017
“It was a journey filled with sorrow and pain, yet rich in love and hope.”
This is not a simple book with simply characters, simple meaning, and simple interpretation – nor is it a fun, easy read – it’s meant to be absorbed, experienced.
The author fluently weaves so many emotions, realizations, and realities with doses of innocence, discovery, pain, joy, fear, pride, and love into the tapestry of this story. It’s an intense concoction that keeps the reader engrossed and invested in Ben’s and Tobias’ relationship and subsequent journey to freedom where they can live and love with freely.
The love story between Ben and Tobias takes root when Benjamin Lee happens to catch sight of the sickly Mamadou Masamba coiled up in the corner of a holding cell awaiting the slave auction – or more likely eventual death considering his neglected state. For a reason immediately unknown to him, Ben insists on purchasing the Negro as his own – he will not leave the auction without him.
The author’s vivid, thorough, and eloquent writing style guides the reader on his own journey, one that demands a critical and uncomfortable confrontation with numerous upsetting events broached through the lens of culture, politics, racial tensions, ignorance, spiritual beliefs, and prejudice. Many characters cross paths with Ben and Tobias throughout the book, and each one plays a distinct role in steadily moving the story along. From pure evil – Dexter – to innocence lost – Pearl – to those like Miss Gee-Gee who experienced her own unimaginable horrors at the hands of her master’s merciless wife, the contrast and goodness Ben conveyed in so candidly expressing his love to and for Tobias, was tangible across the pages.
One thing about “Come to the Oaks: The Story of Ben and Tobias” that I’m absolutely certain of is that it will haunt me for a long time to come.
This is not a simple book with simply characters, simple meaning, and simple interpretation – nor is it a fun, easy read – it’s meant to be absorbed, experienced.
The author fluently weaves so many emotions, realizations, and realities with doses of innocence, discovery, pain, joy, fear, pride, and love into the tapestry of this story. It’s an intense concoction that keeps the reader engrossed and invested in Ben’s and Tobias’ relationship and subsequent journey to freedom where they can live and love with freely.
The love story between Ben and Tobias takes root when Benjamin Lee happens to catch sight of the sickly Mamadou Masamba coiled up in the corner of a holding cell awaiting the slave auction – or more likely eventual death considering his neglected state. For a reason immediately unknown to him, Ben insists on purchasing the Negro as his own – he will not leave the auction without him.
The author’s vivid, thorough, and eloquent writing style guides the reader on his own journey, one that demands a critical and uncomfortable confrontation with numerous upsetting events broached through the lens of culture, politics, racial tensions, ignorance, spiritual beliefs, and prejudice. Many characters cross paths with Ben and Tobias throughout the book, and each one plays a distinct role in steadily moving the story along. From pure evil – Dexter – to innocence lost – Pearl – to those like Miss Gee-Gee who experienced her own unimaginable horrors at the hands of her master’s merciless wife, the contrast and goodness Ben conveyed in so candidly expressing his love to and for Tobias, was tangible across the pages.
One thing about “Come to the Oaks: The Story of Ben and Tobias” that I’m absolutely certain of is that it will haunt me for a long time to come.
January 16, 2019
Dramatic, intense, and sensitive - A splendid novel worth your time
Bottom line - read this book. You'll be glad you did. If for some reason the first chapter doesn't grab you, keep reading. Come To The Oaks tells the story of Mamadou, a 19 year old brutally torn from his African village, illegally transported in a nightmare voyage to America, and enslaved in Kentucky, and Ben, also 19 and the son of a wealthy slave owner who finds himself irresistibly drawn to Mamadou. The complex and sensitive issues connected to interracial love in a racist, violent culture are handled with insight and care. I cringed, cried, and literally gasped as the story unfolded - and I'm a critical, cantankerous reader, constantly evaluating an author's technique, style, depth of imagination, empathy, and commitment to their characters. Mr. Clark's writing, despite using a narrative voice that I'm not overly find of, blew me away. His pacing, character development, use of historical context, dialogue, and economy of description end up coalescing perfectly, giving us a jarring, disturbing, and painful insight into the obstacles the two skillfully portrayed main characters must overcome to remain true to their love.
I've read over 50 M/M romances in the last 6 months, and this one is one of the best.
Bottom line - read this book. You'll be glad you did. If for some reason the first chapter doesn't grab you, keep reading. Come To The Oaks tells the story of Mamadou, a 19 year old brutally torn from his African village, illegally transported in a nightmare voyage to America, and enslaved in Kentucky, and Ben, also 19 and the son of a wealthy slave owner who finds himself irresistibly drawn to Mamadou. The complex and sensitive issues connected to interracial love in a racist, violent culture are handled with insight and care. I cringed, cried, and literally gasped as the story unfolded - and I'm a critical, cantankerous reader, constantly evaluating an author's technique, style, depth of imagination, empathy, and commitment to their characters. Mr. Clark's writing, despite using a narrative voice that I'm not overly find of, blew me away. His pacing, character development, use of historical context, dialogue, and economy of description end up coalescing perfectly, giving us a jarring, disturbing, and painful insight into the obstacles the two skillfully portrayed main characters must overcome to remain true to their love.
I've read over 50 M/M romances in the last 6 months, and this one is one of the best.
September 30, 2018
A beautiful, sensitive story of life in 19th century Southern US where equality, liberty and justice were determined by one's skin color, COME TO THE OAKS not only enlightens the reader on life of the African Negro in the 1800s but also expertly demonstrates that love and devotion can exist irrespective of misinformation perpetuated by society.
While Come to the Oaks is a work of fiction, perhaps the strongest aspect of this well-written novel is its account of the fear, pain and humiliation which the African Negro encountered in the many US states in the 1800s. That being said, the love between an African and white man was moving and palpable and left the reader hoping against long odds that their love would endure the risks that they faced daily. The message of the story is that regardless of what society thinks, the love between 2 men is a strong bond which propels them to stand up and fight for what they know is right in their hearts.
While Come to the Oaks is a work of fiction, perhaps the strongest aspect of this well-written novel is its account of the fear, pain and humiliation which the African Negro encountered in the many US states in the 1800s. That being said, the love between an African and white man was moving and palpable and left the reader hoping against long odds that their love would endure the risks that they faced daily. The message of the story is that regardless of what society thinks, the love between 2 men is a strong bond which propels them to stand up and fight for what they know is right in their hearts.
May 9, 2017
This m/m romance is the love story between two men of great disparity: a slave and his owner. Slowly it becomes obvious that in order for them to love freely, they must both be free men. So both undertake a dangerous journey via the underground railroad, from Kentucky to Canada. Their dedication to each other is amazing, and I loved the concluding pages of the story. There's a wonderful HEA that should satisfy any romance reader.
The story is told in a mix of omniscient and third person point of view, and the characters have unique voices. There are unexpected and tragic events that are handled skillfully and add to the historical setting. Kudos to Mr. Clark for choosing to tell such a challenging tale.
The story is told in a mix of omniscient and third person point of view, and the characters have unique voices. There are unexpected and tragic events that are handled skillfully and add to the historical setting. Kudos to Mr. Clark for choosing to tell such a challenging tale.
November 19, 2017
This was a fantastic story, well written and well researched. It captures the deceit and cruelty of the slave era where people in Africa were taken from their homeland betrayed, tortured and enslaved by white men, then sold to the highest bidder. It shows how not all white men believed nor agreed in what was done to these families, where women were raped, families were separated and the weak and sick were killed because they found no use for them. It is heartbreaking reading these events although, in the book we know it was written as fiction, one has to wonder how much of this actually happened in real life. This is the first story I've read from this author and would like to read more.
Well done!
Well done!
May 19, 2026
This writer is able to plant scenes into your mind so that everything he writes seems so real. He captures your imagination. What is interesting about this book is that it teaches us about what people went through during the days of slavery. Add an intense love story to the mix (a same sex couple), and you can barely wait to see how it’s all going to wrap up. Spoiler alert: it has a very satisfying ending. The only bad thing is having to part ways with the characters at the end of the book.
December 1, 2019
I rarely give 5 stars. Come to the Oaks is a beautiful love story. Ben's unfailing love for Tobias comes through over and over again, and author Bryan Clark nicely captures Tobias's agonizing thoughts about being captured, losing his family, and finally falling in love with Ben. It's too bad there are so very few interracial gay love stories out there. Thank you, Bryan, for writing such a good book.
June 26, 2020
Intimate love story
Given the present-day focus on systemic racism, I was intrigued to see how this unlikely romance would play out. There were indications that the lovers were aware of how impractical their relationship would be. I just let myself flow with the story being told, practical no, but when is loving someone practical. I hoped the Ben and Mamaduo with find happiness in their new country
Given the present-day focus on systemic racism, I was intrigued to see how this unlikely romance would play out. There were indications that the lovers were aware of how impractical their relationship would be. I just let myself flow with the story being told, practical no, but when is loving someone practical. I hoped the Ben and Mamaduo with find happiness in their new country
July 22, 2017
Compassionate and riveting look at slavery in the pre-Civil War South and forbidden love. My heart went out to both Ben and Tobias as they struggled to understand themselves and their life circumstances. Stayed up late last night to finish the book. Great story from the masterful hand of Mr. Clark!
October 29, 2017
Unimaginable
I initially started reading this book because I've downloaded it for a while now.vI was not disappointed . It has adventure, sorrow,betrayal,love and romance. Please read. This was an enjoyable bread for mem
I initially started reading this book because I've downloaded it for a while now.vI was not disappointed . It has adventure, sorrow,betrayal,love and romance. Please read. This was an enjoyable bread for mem
August 8, 2017
Wow
This book had me on edge. It was gripping, thrilling. I rooted for the characters throughout the book. Great read.
This book had me on edge. It was gripping, thrilling. I rooted for the characters throughout the book. Great read.
January 9, 2018
This was an intense historical unimaginable romance between two men of different cultures. It was realistic, brutal and tender. I enjoyed reading this book.
November 15, 2018
Riveting
This book gave me chills...I was excited to read this masterpiece. I wish there was a sequel so that I can see how the life of Ben and Tobias panned out.
This book gave me chills...I was excited to read this masterpiece. I wish there was a sequel so that I can see how the life of Ben and Tobias panned out.
March 1, 2019
Come to the oaks
This book was beautiful. The author truly brought the emotion. I felt I was present and cheering them on this journey of freedom.
This book was beautiful. The author truly brought the emotion. I felt I was present and cheering them on this journey of freedom.
December 26, 2020
Such a beautiful love story that kept me on the edge of my seat!
March 10, 2021
One of the best love stories I’ve read in a long time. It was very refreshing to read about interracial relationship that was based during a terrible time for black people in America. Very good.
June 20, 2024
This is a beautifully written book!
The narrative was compelling. You could see these two’s devotion to one another. Prepare yourself for a great read. Bravo!
The narrative was compelling. You could see these two’s devotion to one another. Prepare yourself for a great read. Bravo!
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