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Elders Edge #1
The Slow Road to Hell
Forensic Psychologist Michael MacGregor returns to his old home town when his estranged father, the local priest, is murdered in the first of a series of killings. Nathan Quarryman, the lover he walked out on years before and now the local Chief of Police, is tasked with investigating the crimes. The two men must find a way to settle their differences, repair their broken relationship, and work together to bring the killer to justice.
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2017
87 people are currently reading
126 people want to read
About the author
Grant Atherton
4 books37 followersGrant lives with his partner in a small seaside town on the east coast of England not unlike the Elders Edge he writes about. The major difference between the two being that Elders Edge has a higher murder count.
When he's not dreaming up new ways to kill people, he relaxes by stargazing in the early hours.
When he's not dreaming up new ways to kill people, he relaxes by stargazing in the early hours.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
May 24, 2019
Whew, so much for the perfect title
This story was so slow, there were times I thought it wouldn't get anywhere - neither in regards to the mystery nor in the romance department - and it had me yawning so hard my jaw clunked. I don't want to be unfair, though, because after my latest book high I just knew that any book I picked up would be a tough act to follow.
The best word to describe this book would probably be solid. The writing was good, the mystery was okay, just nothing to set the world on fire, but my main issue was the guy (Mikey) whose head I was in the whole time and whom I didn't find pretty likeable, to be honest. He gathered some brownie points for manning up and owning his mistakes of the past by actually talking to Nathan (the brooding and grumpy type = me likey!) about it.
Overall, this second chances story was an okay read, I guess. *shrugs* It's probably not the book's fault that I felt a bit detached and couldn't connect more with story and characters. My original plan was to read the sequel right away, but I guess I'll leave that to another time.
This story was so slow, there were times I thought it wouldn't get anywhere - neither in regards to the mystery nor in the romance department - and it had me yawning so hard my jaw clunked. I don't want to be unfair, though, because after my latest book high I just knew that any book I picked up would be a tough act to follow.
The best word to describe this book would probably be solid. The writing was good, the mystery was okay, just nothing to set the world on fire, but my main issue was the guy (Mikey) whose head I was in the whole time and whom I didn't find pretty likeable, to be honest. He gathered some brownie points for manning up and owning his mistakes of the past by actually talking to Nathan (the brooding and grumpy type = me likey!) about it.
Overall, this second chances story was an okay read, I guess. *shrugs* It's probably not the book's fault that I felt a bit detached and couldn't connect more with story and characters. My original plan was to read the sequel right away, but I guess I'll leave that to another time.
July 10, 2017
I can never pass up the chance to read another character-goes-back-to-his-old-home-town-and-meets-his-former-love-again story. Because, second chances yay! :) But a lot of times those stories just leave me disappointed. This was a solid one. Well-written - we have first person PAST tense for a change, the style is clean and on-point, no unnecessary scenes, and the characters are not annoying, even the obligatory female friend of the main character. But I think I didn't quite connect with the main characters, I'm not even sure why. I didn't have any strong emotions about them, neither liked them very much, nor disliked them. My heart was not breaking over them when they had troubles in their relationship and I didn't want desperately for them to get together. It was not that the development of their relationship was predictable - it always is predictable in stories like this, that's a part of m/m romance charm. It's just that I didn't connect.
The mystery, though, was rather predictable, and it was not a good thing, but well, a good mystery is hard to write. Anyway, it was not a bad book by any means.
The mystery, though, was rather predictable, and it was not a good thing, but well, a good mystery is hard to write. Anyway, it was not a bad book by any means.
dnf
December 27, 2018Dnf at 16%
I know, I'm quitting early (in terms of number of pages, at least) with this one, but I started it 5 days ago and tried to pick it up again a couple of times with no luck, I never seem to be in the mood.
I honestly can't say if it's me or the book, but in any case I don't see the point of forcing it; the writing isn't bad, but not good enough to make up for my complete disinterest in the story and the fact that I don't particularly like or care about this MC.
I know, I'm quitting early (in terms of number of pages, at least) with this one, but I started it 5 days ago and tried to pick it up again a couple of times with no luck, I never seem to be in the mood.
I honestly can't say if it's me or the book, but in any case I don't see the point of forcing it; the writing isn't bad, but not good enough to make up for my complete disinterest in the story and the fact that I don't particularly like or care about this MC.
September 3, 2017
It started very engaging, but then it lost my interest more and more. I didn't really like Mikey, on the one hand he was a know-it-all, on the other hand he did rather stupid things. He left his home town a long time ago, only visiting his father a few times, if I remember correctly, and never met his 'big love' again after leaving the first time. Now suddenly, this guy is still his big love, even after two marriages, the last one just on the verge of divorce. Nothing about this was really part of the story, just mentioned a few times and done with it. When he met Nathan again, he was rather ambivalent, one moment not sure what he wants, next moment totally in love with Nathan again. And then he was astonished, when Nathan wasn't head over heels as well when they finally had their night together.
This whole thing was totally imbalanced.
Same with the crime. Mikey always found a way to inform the people around him about his huge experience and knowledge, but what the author showed was rather basics everyone picks up reading and having common sense. No really an asset to solve the crimes. The solution in the end was on the one hand rather far-fetched, on the other hand it was anticlimactic.
Not even the happy ending was able to save this story.
After writing all this (and realizing that there was more, but I don't want to waist more time on this) I think my rating is 2 stars.
This whole thing was totally imbalanced.
Same with the crime. Mikey always found a way to inform the people around him about his huge experience and knowledge, but what the author showed was rather basics everyone picks up reading and having common sense. No really an asset to solve the crimes. The solution in the end was on the one hand rather far-fetched, on the other hand it was anticlimactic.
Not even the happy ending was able to save this story.
After writing all this (and realizing that there was more, but I don't want to waist more time on this) I think my rating is 2 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 2, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
The book had a bit of a difficult start. It took awhile for Michael to grow on me. In fact, he was a right jerk. Once the story got going, I was a fan all the way. The same goes for Nathan. He still resented Michael, and didn’t seem to eager to accept the olive branch. Both men were broken, and it was obvious they needed to have it out before they could repair themselves and each other.
I loved the mystery. It was well written and very well plotted out. I was impressed with it from beginning to end. In fact, I pride myself on being able to figure out who’s the bad guy, but this time, it came out of left field. Just as I was piecing everything together, an entirely different motive came out of nowhere, and I was blown away. However, I don’t want to be held responsible for ruining this for anyone, so you’ll have to check it out for yourself.
As I mentioned, the romance takes a backseat to the mystery, but make no mistake, there is a romance. Michael and Nathan were in love when they were young. Nathan was heartbroken when Michael left, but Michael did have his reasons. All of the pain and heartache could have been avoided with one simple conversation, but of course, there wouldn’t have been much of a story then, right? Michael and Nathan’s pathway back to each other was long and it was slow. I’m so happy the author decided to write it this way. It would have felt unnatural if they’d have just hugged it out and picked up where they left off. Instead, they danced around each other. Also, seeing how Michael’s father was murdered, it would have been unseemly if the police chief was cavorting with the victim’s son.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
The book had a bit of a difficult start. It took awhile for Michael to grow on me. In fact, he was a right jerk. Once the story got going, I was a fan all the way. The same goes for Nathan. He still resented Michael, and didn’t seem to eager to accept the olive branch. Both men were broken, and it was obvious they needed to have it out before they could repair themselves and each other.
I loved the mystery. It was well written and very well plotted out. I was impressed with it from beginning to end. In fact, I pride myself on being able to figure out who’s the bad guy, but this time, it came out of left field. Just as I was piecing everything together, an entirely different motive came out of nowhere, and I was blown away. However, I don’t want to be held responsible for ruining this for anyone, so you’ll have to check it out for yourself.
As I mentioned, the romance takes a backseat to the mystery, but make no mistake, there is a romance. Michael and Nathan were in love when they were young. Nathan was heartbroken when Michael left, but Michael did have his reasons. All of the pain and heartache could have been avoided with one simple conversation, but of course, there wouldn’t have been much of a story then, right? Michael and Nathan’s pathway back to each other was long and it was slow. I’m so happy the author decided to write it this way. It would have felt unnatural if they’d have just hugged it out and picked up where they left off. Instead, they danced around each other. Also, seeing how Michael’s father was murdered, it would have been unseemly if the police chief was cavorting with the victim’s son.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
August 18, 2018
4.5 ★'s Rounded Up! Knowing there is going to be another book just pushed the rating on this one up!
There is no way I can give this a proper review but I'll tell you I really, really enjoyed this book. I liked the setting, the characters, the mystery, all of it. I was thoroughly entertained from the beginning until the very end.
Let's talk about the mystery. Man, this was done so well. There were so many suspects and the twists just kept coming. The execution was done perfectly and it just kept the story moving along.
The romance. This was more than just a second chance romance. I wanted so much for Mikey to get another chance even if part of me isn't sure he deserved it. But yeah, this was just so much more. It was believable. Totally.
So yeah, that is my not so proper and doesn't even touch on how good this story was review. If you are a fan of mysteries you should definitely read this one.
There is no way I can give this a proper review but I'll tell you I really, really enjoyed this book. I liked the setting, the characters, the mystery, all of it. I was thoroughly entertained from the beginning until the very end.
Let's talk about the mystery. Man, this was done so well. There were so many suspects and the twists just kept coming. The execution was done perfectly and it just kept the story moving along.
The romance. This was more than just a second chance romance. I wanted so much for Mikey to get another chance even if part of me isn't sure he deserved it. But yeah, this was just so much more. It was believable. Totally.
So yeah, that is my not so proper and doesn't even touch on how good this story was review. If you are a fan of mysteries you should definitely read this one.
February 22, 2022
This quote sums this story up nicely: "You know, Mikey, for someone in your line of work, you can be surprisingly dense at times."
July 9, 2017
Bit slow to get going, but solid plot & characters
March 7, 2023
4.5 stars. I really enjoyed this book. I love a good mystery, and this book didn't disappoint. The characters were flawed and likable in spite of those flaws. The pacing was good, I didn't get bored at any point, and the story didn't get bogged down in any one thing. I look forward to the next book.
April 27, 2020
** 4.5 stars **
I am wary of reading new authors. I know what I like in books and do not want to be disappointed, so I try to stick with the authors I love. Well the name sounded so appealing and the cover looked mighty good, so I put my big girl panties and gave this book a fair chance. I am glad that I did. It was very enjoyable. Yes, there were things that irked me, but for the most part I liked the easy way the story flowed, the language the author used - a smattering of British words without overwhelming usage of slang and idioms since the events are set in UK, modern language with small addition of old fashioned words. The story is told from a single POV, I usually like dual POV but the character despite some unfavorable traits had compelling thoughts and internal monologues that I enjoyed wading through.
Michael MacGregor whose POV we do get is a hard character to like at first. He is shown irresponsible, a tad selfish and a cheater (not to the MC but somebody else). I hate cheating in books so I thought to stop right there, but I figured that there had to be something to like about him since he had people who cared for him. Mikey's character evolved slightly throughout the story and changed for the better. I liked that he took matters into his own hands, made decisions and stuck by them. His profession of Forensic Psychologist was rather fascinating and I enjoyed him while hard at work. In the end I figured that with a tyrant of a father and uncaring mother any youth would have caved under pressure and made choices that would haunt them. Mikey did own up to his misdeeds and made peace with everyone in the end.
Nathan Quarryman is the man who has carried his feelings bottled up for too long without a way of easing the tension. Mikey's arrival and their subsequent meetings brought about the catharsis that was long overdue. Wow, the intensity of feelings, the pain he felt when they had it out between them was staggering and I loved it when it happened. Both men needed it, and it finally let them move past the hurt. I liked Nathan. He is loyal, steadfast and so caring. Years didn't lessen his feelings for Mikey, and his return must have been painful for Nathan at first. I loved how their closeness returned. They used to be everything to each other. I wonder if they can get that close ever again after all these years. The second chance high school sweethearts trope was a good choice here. There is a promise of great love story by the end of the book.
The mystery was rather good. There were suspects who kept changing with new murders happening quite often. The investigation was not overly technical or in depth, nor was it fast paced but I enjoyed the small town mentality that allowed everyone to know everyone's business thus providing plenty witnesses and helpful evidence. One thing to note is that the crucial moment when I, the reader, saw the possible killer was a tad sloppy and way too obvious. I wished that it didn't happen like that. Up until that moment I was in the dark and enjoying the guessing game of my own. But overall the whodunit was well written and engaged me till the very end.
I am glad I tried this one. It had major feels, danger and mystery, was set in UK and was rather good story. I am looking forward to the next one in the series.
I am wary of reading new authors. I know what I like in books and do not want to be disappointed, so I try to stick with the authors I love. Well the name sounded so appealing and the cover looked mighty good, so I put my big girl panties and gave this book a fair chance. I am glad that I did. It was very enjoyable. Yes, there were things that irked me, but for the most part I liked the easy way the story flowed, the language the author used - a smattering of British words without overwhelming usage of slang and idioms since the events are set in UK, modern language with small addition of old fashioned words. The story is told from a single POV, I usually like dual POV but the character despite some unfavorable traits had compelling thoughts and internal monologues that I enjoyed wading through.
Michael MacGregor whose POV we do get is a hard character to like at first. He is shown irresponsible, a tad selfish and a cheater (not to the MC but somebody else). I hate cheating in books so I thought to stop right there, but I figured that there had to be something to like about him since he had people who cared for him. Mikey's character evolved slightly throughout the story and changed for the better. I liked that he took matters into his own hands, made decisions and stuck by them. His profession of Forensic Psychologist was rather fascinating and I enjoyed him while hard at work. In the end I figured that with a tyrant of a father and uncaring mother any youth would have caved under pressure and made choices that would haunt them. Mikey did own up to his misdeeds and made peace with everyone in the end.
Nathan Quarryman is the man who has carried his feelings bottled up for too long without a way of easing the tension. Mikey's arrival and their subsequent meetings brought about the catharsis that was long overdue. Wow, the intensity of feelings, the pain he felt when they had it out between them was staggering and I loved it when it happened. Both men needed it, and it finally let them move past the hurt. I liked Nathan. He is loyal, steadfast and so caring. Years didn't lessen his feelings for Mikey, and his return must have been painful for Nathan at first. I loved how their closeness returned. They used to be everything to each other. I wonder if they can get that close ever again after all these years. The second chance high school sweethearts trope was a good choice here. There is a promise of great love story by the end of the book.
The mystery was rather good. There were suspects who kept changing with new murders happening quite often. The investigation was not overly technical or in depth, nor was it fast paced but I enjoyed the small town mentality that allowed everyone to know everyone's business thus providing plenty witnesses and helpful evidence. One thing to note is that the crucial moment when I, the reader, saw the possible killer was a tad sloppy and way too obvious. I wished that it didn't happen like that. Up until that moment I was in the dark and enjoying the guessing game of my own. But overall the whodunit was well written and engaged me till the very end.
I am glad I tried this one. It had major feels, danger and mystery, was set in UK and was rather good story. I am looking forward to the next one in the series.
November 10, 2017
Mikey is a forensic psychologist. I have no idea what that is, but it does allow for an unusual approach to the story. In the wake of his messy divorce, Mikey is forced to return to the town where he grew up because his father, a local vicar, died suddenly.
His best friend still lives there but painful memories have kept Mikey away. One of those is his first love, a man Mikey still carries the torch for. Even with just a few hints it's clear how important he was to Mikey and how painful his memory still is. The author's descriptive voice is great, bringing both people and their surroundings to life, but the dialogue was a little stilted.
Once is clear that his father's death was actually murder, Mikey is blindsided when the man in charge of investigation turns to be his lost love. Since they didn't part on best terms, Nathan is cool toward Mikey. This is where I ran into first hurdle. I didn't like how Mikey acted.
He is surprised and hurt when Nathan treats him as stranger, never mind that he is the one who left without saying goodbye and never contacted Nathan again. I can imagine him being pressured years ago, but the self-entitled attitude he was sporting now didn't win him any points.
Despite issues they have, their chemistry is obvious. The mystery plot is compelling and Mikey's character improves over time. The relationship plot is a bit contrived but the mystery one was great. The final showdown gathers all the pieces and reveals chilling truth.
The epilogue focuses on Nathan and Mikey so the story finished on upbeat note.
While the book had its problems, there were parts that really shone and it's good choice for mystery lovers. I would definitely like to see sequel!
I received copy of this book in exchange for review.
The review is also posted on Gay Book Reviews
His best friend still lives there but painful memories have kept Mikey away. One of those is his first love, a man Mikey still carries the torch for. Even with just a few hints it's clear how important he was to Mikey and how painful his memory still is. The author's descriptive voice is great, bringing both people and their surroundings to life, but the dialogue was a little stilted.
Once is clear that his father's death was actually murder, Mikey is blindsided when the man in charge of investigation turns to be his lost love. Since they didn't part on best terms, Nathan is cool toward Mikey. This is where I ran into first hurdle. I didn't like how Mikey acted.
He is surprised and hurt when Nathan treats him as stranger, never mind that he is the one who left without saying goodbye and never contacted Nathan again. I can imagine him being pressured years ago, but the self-entitled attitude he was sporting now didn't win him any points.
Despite issues they have, their chemistry is obvious. The mystery plot is compelling and Mikey's character improves over time. The relationship plot is a bit contrived but the mystery one was great. The final showdown gathers all the pieces and reveals chilling truth.
The epilogue focuses on Nathan and Mikey so the story finished on upbeat note.
While the book had its problems, there were parts that really shone and it's good choice for mystery lovers. I would definitely like to see sequel!
I received copy of this book in exchange for review.
The review is also posted on Gay Book Reviews
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 22, 2018
Excellent mystery, and i thought the second-chance romance arc was very well done. The characters are flawed, occasionally frustrating, but so good together. Looking forward to the next book!
September 23, 2019
Not bad but not great.
The mystery part of this wasn’t too bad except for the cliche villain stopping to explain everything at the end. The relationship part left much to be desired. The way that Mikey was written made him seem a self-centered jerk, not a character I could root for. His change of tune and attitude was too sudden and his dismay about Nathan after more than a decade of cheating on his wives lacked credibility. The relationship turn-arounds were too sudden and none of the details between them felt authentic. It was easy enough to read and had entertainment value.
The mystery part of this wasn’t too bad except for the cliche villain stopping to explain everything at the end. The relationship part left much to be desired. The way that Mikey was written made him seem a self-centered jerk, not a character I could root for. His change of tune and attitude was too sudden and his dismay about Nathan after more than a decade of cheating on his wives lacked credibility. The relationship turn-arounds were too sudden and none of the details between them felt authentic. It was easy enough to read and had entertainment value.
November 1, 2017
An Evocative Rollercoaster Ride
I am so tied up in knots right now it's not even funny. The angst and the feels, the angst and the feels, up, down, twist, down, up, and down again. Maybe my whodunit brain cells were broken, but the villain turned out to be at the bottom of my list of three suspects so ... for me, the mystery was successful. The relationship ... my gods. I felt like I was on an exhilaratingly terrifying rollercoaster the whole time. Take a look at these faces, you'll see what I mean. Clockwise from top right: relief, anguish, terror, and happiness. Mm-hmm. That about sums it up.
The pacing in this book was great. There weren't any lags and nothing seemed rushed either. To be honest, Mikey wasn't a very likable character. Putting aside his failed relationships and history of self-sabotaging those relationships in a most flagrant way, I continually got the feeling that he was weak of character, too. I'm not saying he was a total douche ... maybe. I can imagine his upbringing left a lot to be desired, but he seemed too quick to jump to conclusions and otherwise scarper for someone who was a trained forensic psychologist and profiler.
Then again, who knows what that's like when your emotions are involved in a situation. Perhaps objectivity goes out the window and you truly are blinded enough to ignore what skills that should be muscle memory are telling you. Sigh. I don't know. Nathan seemed to be similarly handicapped and clueless, I mean, seriously, what was that shit with Brandon? None of that particular situation was explained, at least not to my satisfaction. I realize the romance in this one was slow-going. In fact, there wasn't much steam at all, but the chemistry was intense and there was so much unresolved hope for more.
Was Nathan—who had thus far been mostly in the right—being a hypocrite and double dipping? If so, that was unforgivably wishy-washy, but I'm only speculating now. It just goes to show you, the whole damn thing was a wicked ride, and at the end ... well, I feel nauseous. That doesn't seem very flattering on its face, but I don't mean it in a bad way necessarily. I also kind of wanna love-cry at the same time.
💕💕💕
As much as I enjoyed it, I feel cheated by the ending. Thus the clenching in my gut. Things are unresolved as far as I'm concerned, and I resent it even though I understand it. I don't know if the author plans a follow-on or not, but I certainly hope so. This wasn't necessarily a cliffhanger, but I feel that there are so, so many things left hanging in the relationship that I can't find my way clear to decide whether this book was so good I was invested to the point of illness when it ended, or if that's disappointment roiling in my belly. I suppose if nothing else can be said of this book, it definitely made me feel pretty intensely about a great many things along the way.
I would read another title by this author tomorrow. I guess time will tell whether or not we get more of Mikey and Nathan or if Mr. Atherton will move on to other things. I would have given this book 4 stars, but I just can't get past the ending, so it gets 3.5 instead.
Other reviews by NeRdyWYRM can be read here .
Images may be subject to copyright
Galley copy of The Slow Road to Hell: A Gay Murder Mystery provided by Grant Atherton in exchange of an honest review.
I am so tied up in knots right now it's not even funny. The angst and the feels, the angst and the feels, up, down, twist, down, up, and down again. Maybe my whodunit brain cells were broken, but the villain turned out to be at the bottom of my list of three suspects so ... for me, the mystery was successful. The relationship ... my gods. I felt like I was on an exhilaratingly terrifying rollercoaster the whole time. Take a look at these faces, you'll see what I mean. Clockwise from top right: relief, anguish, terror, and happiness. Mm-hmm. That about sums it up.
The pacing in this book was great. There weren't any lags and nothing seemed rushed either. To be honest, Mikey wasn't a very likable character. Putting aside his failed relationships and history of self-sabotaging those relationships in a most flagrant way, I continually got the feeling that he was weak of character, too. I'm not saying he was a total douche ... maybe. I can imagine his upbringing left a lot to be desired, but he seemed too quick to jump to conclusions and otherwise scarper for someone who was a trained forensic psychologist and profiler.
Then again, who knows what that's like when your emotions are involved in a situation. Perhaps objectivity goes out the window and you truly are blinded enough to ignore what skills that should be muscle memory are telling you. Sigh. I don't know. Nathan seemed to be similarly handicapped and clueless, I mean, seriously, what was that shit with Brandon? None of that particular situation was explained, at least not to my satisfaction. I realize the romance in this one was slow-going. In fact, there wasn't much steam at all, but the chemistry was intense and there was so much unresolved hope for more.
Was Nathan—who had thus far been mostly in the right—being a hypocrite and double dipping? If so, that was unforgivably wishy-washy, but I'm only speculating now. It just goes to show you, the whole damn thing was a wicked ride, and at the end ... well, I feel nauseous. That doesn't seem very flattering on its face, but I don't mean it in a bad way necessarily. I also kind of wanna love-cry at the same time.
💕💕💕As much as I enjoyed it, I feel cheated by the ending. Thus the clenching in my gut. Things are unresolved as far as I'm concerned, and I resent it even though I understand it. I don't know if the author plans a follow-on or not, but I certainly hope so. This wasn't necessarily a cliffhanger, but I feel that there are so, so many things left hanging in the relationship that I can't find my way clear to decide whether this book was so good I was invested to the point of illness when it ended, or if that's disappointment roiling in my belly. I suppose if nothing else can be said of this book, it definitely made me feel pretty intensely about a great many things along the way.
I would read another title by this author tomorrow. I guess time will tell whether or not we get more of Mikey and Nathan or if Mr. Atherton will move on to other things. I would have given this book 4 stars, but I just can't get past the ending, so it gets 3.5 instead.
Other reviews by NeRdyWYRM can be read here .
Images may be subject to copyright
Galley copy of The Slow Road to Hell: A Gay Murder Mystery provided by Grant Atherton in exchange of an honest review.
December 10, 2017
2.5 Stars
This book was okay, I did end up enjoying it towards the end but it took me a really long time to get in to the book. Not sure why that was exactly but there was some elements of the book that I found a little frustrating in the beginning.
Michael goes back home when he gets a phone call to say that nobody had heard from his father for a while and he goes to discovered that he has passed away. Michael and his father didn't have a good relationship together and being the one to discover the body, he becomes a suspect in his death.
Along with being back home that is filled with demons of his childhood the town also comes with Local Chief of Police, Nathan.
Nathan and Michael used to be lovers before Michael up and leaves town without a word. Michael at the beginning is buried right in the closet.
One of my main problems with this book is Michael, I found it increasingly difficult to connect to his character and that didn't really get any better as the story went on. Michael has a supposed to be an expert in his field of forensic psychology and mentions it to anyone who will listen, however the points he makes is something that readers could already pick up on through basic knowledge and common sense. His relationship with Nathan seemed false to me, and I didn't like the two characters together.
The whole thing seemed a little inbalanced and far fetched.
Reviewed by Sarah from Alpha Book Club
This book was okay, I did end up enjoying it towards the end but it took me a really long time to get in to the book. Not sure why that was exactly but there was some elements of the book that I found a little frustrating in the beginning.
Michael goes back home when he gets a phone call to say that nobody had heard from his father for a while and he goes to discovered that he has passed away. Michael and his father didn't have a good relationship together and being the one to discover the body, he becomes a suspect in his death.
Along with being back home that is filled with demons of his childhood the town also comes with Local Chief of Police, Nathan.
Nathan and Michael used to be lovers before Michael up and leaves town without a word. Michael at the beginning is buried right in the closet.
One of my main problems with this book is Michael, I found it increasingly difficult to connect to his character and that didn't really get any better as the story went on. Michael has a supposed to be an expert in his field of forensic psychology and mentions it to anyone who will listen, however the points he makes is something that readers could already pick up on through basic knowledge and common sense. His relationship with Nathan seemed false to me, and I didn't like the two characters together.
The whole thing seemed a little inbalanced and far fetched.
Reviewed by Sarah from Alpha Book Club
March 25, 2022
Michael McGregor is an arse. A jerk of the first order. An idiot. Whew .... too tough? Well ...
MacGregor is a forensic psychologist, very skilled in reading body language and has assisted the police in London on several cases, while also hosting a radio show. He is carefully closeted, has been divorced once and his second marriage has broken up due to his cheating (with a man).
He returns to his hometown after the death of his father, only to learn his father has been murdered and that his former lover, Nathan, is investigating the case. Calling this a friends to lovers theme is a bit of an understatement. It's more of a friends to boyhood lovers / total denial of love / running away with no communication for years / returning home / realizing he still loves Nathan / realizing his whole life has been a sham / knowing this will never work / refusing to speak to Nathan / deciding he loves him and it will all work out / assuming Nathan doesn't love him / miscommunications galore ... and that's just the first part of the book.
For someone skilled in reading body language, Mikey cannot deduce himself out of a damp paperbag, and changes his mind from page to page and hour to hour, and while the murder / mystery was thoroughly engaging - and Nathan sounds like a really good man - I pretty much despised Mikey from the very start.
The mystery was really well-done and the author did a good job of tossing out suspects and clues, so I look forward to the next book in the series. But, Mikey, I got my eye on you .... 3.5 stars.
MacGregor is a forensic psychologist, very skilled in reading body language and has assisted the police in London on several cases, while also hosting a radio show. He is carefully closeted, has been divorced once and his second marriage has broken up due to his cheating (with a man).
He returns to his hometown after the death of his father, only to learn his father has been murdered and that his former lover, Nathan, is investigating the case. Calling this a friends to lovers theme is a bit of an understatement. It's more of a friends to boyhood lovers / total denial of love / running away with no communication for years / returning home / realizing he still loves Nathan / realizing his whole life has been a sham / knowing this will never work / refusing to speak to Nathan / deciding he loves him and it will all work out / assuming Nathan doesn't love him / miscommunications galore ... and that's just the first part of the book.
For someone skilled in reading body language, Mikey cannot deduce himself out of a damp paperbag, and changes his mind from page to page and hour to hour, and while the murder / mystery was thoroughly engaging - and Nathan sounds like a really good man - I pretty much despised Mikey from the very start.
The mystery was really well-done and the author did a good job of tossing out suspects and clues, so I look forward to the next book in the series. But, Mikey, I got my eye on you .... 3.5 stars.
June 30, 2023
It’s alright (maybe spoilers)
The mystery part is decent and the town seems kind of cozy.
I have some issues though.
He’s staying with his best friend at her boarding house that’s closed for the season. Then the press is all over and instead of protecting him his best friend opens up and rents rooms to all the press he doesn’t want to see. Really???
Then for some reason the press just goes away. The murder isn’t resolved until almost the very end but the press take off anyway.
His dad died and left him nothing and also made someone else the executor. That’s fine, but he’s the one packing up the house and going through all the papers and stuff. That wouldn’t happen. No one even notices. No one ever reads the will except the main character and he does it in private. They wouldn’t let him have the run of the place in those circumstances.
What did he do with the bracelet? The lady got it back for him but technically it belonged to his father so he shouldn’t end up with it. It was such a big deal until he gets it back and then it just disappears.
The guy he ran from all those years ago runs hot and cold and the main character is so melodramatic it can be hard to take.
The mystery part is decent and the town seems kind of cozy.
I have some issues though.
He’s staying with his best friend at her boarding house that’s closed for the season. Then the press is all over and instead of protecting him his best friend opens up and rents rooms to all the press he doesn’t want to see. Really???
Then for some reason the press just goes away. The murder isn’t resolved until almost the very end but the press take off anyway.
His dad died and left him nothing and also made someone else the executor. That’s fine, but he’s the one packing up the house and going through all the papers and stuff. That wouldn’t happen. No one even notices. No one ever reads the will except the main character and he does it in private. They wouldn’t let him have the run of the place in those circumstances.
What did he do with the bracelet? The lady got it back for him but technically it belonged to his father so he shouldn’t end up with it. It was such a big deal until he gets it back and then it just disappears.
The guy he ran from all those years ago runs hot and cold and the main character is so melodramatic it can be hard to take.
November 11, 2017
I had finished reading everything Josh Layton has written and was at a loss to find another good MM romance/murder mystery. I downloaded a sample of The Slow Road to Hell and only read two chapters before purchasing the full book. It hooked me that quickly. While the psychologist who can’t seem to grasp or resolve his own issues isn’t new, Atherton does a fine job of creating a character who is believable and convincing in his struggles with his past and his conflicted feelings for his one-time lover. The story is foremost a murder mystery. It is tightly plotted, paced just right, with an unexpected twist that breaks the case open, making it a very satisfying reading experience. I particularly enjoyed how Atherton managed the complex play of the personal and the professional between the former lovers as they grappled with solving the murder and coming to terms with each other. My only regret is that I must now wait for the publication of the promised next book.
June 30, 2017
I don't know how I came across this book but I am certainly glad that I did.
It's a murder mystery set in a small town in England. Michael, a forensic psychologist, comes home to bury his father but the discovery that his father was murdered changes everything.
Nathan is the police officer in charge of investigating the crime and he and Nathan have a past.
The investigation into the murders - yes I did say murders - is at the forefront in this story. The rekindling of a love affair is there but is not the focus. This will develop as the series unfolds.
The story is good and I liked the writing style.
I've put myself onto the author's mailing list so I don't miss out on the next book which is, hopefully, not too far away.
It's a murder mystery set in a small town in England. Michael, a forensic psychologist, comes home to bury his father but the discovery that his father was murdered changes everything.
Nathan is the police officer in charge of investigating the crime and he and Nathan have a past.
The investigation into the murders - yes I did say murders - is at the forefront in this story. The rekindling of a love affair is there but is not the focus. This will develop as the series unfolds.
The story is good and I liked the writing style.
I've put myself onto the author's mailing list so I don't miss out on the next book which is, hopefully, not too far away.
December 18, 2018
KU
Every once in a great while, I find a gem on Kindle Unlimited and this is one of those times. I love the writing style of this author and his character development is wonderful. The story is strong and kept me guessing and it also made me think. This isn't a run of the mill mystery.
The sex is minimal and the romance is beautiful. I can't wait for more from this author.
Every once in a great while, I find a gem on Kindle Unlimited and this is one of those times. I love the writing style of this author and his character development is wonderful. The story is strong and kept me guessing and it also made me think. This isn't a run of the mill mystery.
The sex is minimal and the romance is beautiful. I can't wait for more from this author.
January 23, 2019
Just okay. A little dull and I didn't like the MC much.
November 30, 2020
I heard about this book due to Brad Shreve's Gay Mystery Podcast where Brad does amazing interviews and Justene Adamec offers fantastic reviews. I was a little surprised at the other reviews that commented on the slow pace, I thought it moved along quite well. The writing is very clear and crisp. The author mentioned that he uses his own village as the source for this book and it seems to perfectly describe small town English village life. Chapters a re short and fast-paced.
The topic of the falling out with his Christian pastor father over his sexuality is handled well. Mikey leaves and never really looks back. Unfortunately, when leaving his homophobic father, he also leaves the love of his life abruptly. Mikey also appears to have led a very confused life after leaving. He marries twice, becomes somewhat of a minor celebrity as a forensic psychologist and has a radio show. However, he still slips back into gay affairs and hence is twice divorced. It seems to me he was still trying to please his father by becoming heterosexual, which usually leads to psychic damage that eventually bursts out.
Mikey's father dies at the vicarage, first identified as natural death but then appears to be a murder. Ironically, the chief inspector is his ex-boyfriend and Mikey now has to face his issues head on instead of running away from them in London party life.
The mystery itself is quite complicated. While there doesn't appear to be a lot of suspects, the plot weaves about and is not fully revealed until the last few pages. It appears the English village wasn't quite as charming as one would expect.
A surprising number of bodies turns up along the way, unlike most "cozy" mysteries where its usually only the initial killing. This book won't be a boon to tourism in Elders Edge!
The author's writing for me was quite good. He gets across his characters clearly and concisely. I can't imagine anyone not wanting to finish the book. Both the characters and the mystery drew me in and I read it far too quickly.
Grant certainly can write a sex scene! In some books, its not clearly written and just implied. Not in the case here! While only encounter occurs, it was quite a good depiction of the tension that had been laying in wait for Mikey and Nathan all these years.
My only criticism is that I felt the author wasn't really certain there would be a second book. So he wanted to tidy up Nathan & Mikey with a bow which wasn't necessary. I honestly doubt that Nathan would instantly dump a very solid boyfriend after just one roll in the hay with Mikey.
I think the reunion should have waited until book two. It would have made the flow more logical and also offered some material as the basis for book two. Nathan didn't appear to make rash decisions and he had been badly burned by Mikey, I really don't think he would drop everything in just a week.
In any event, I really cant wait to read book 2. I don't know if it's set in the same village or the happy couple move to greener pastures!
Either way, a warm welcome to Grant, looking to see lots more of Mikey.
The topic of the falling out with his Christian pastor father over his sexuality is handled well. Mikey leaves and never really looks back. Unfortunately, when leaving his homophobic father, he also leaves the love of his life abruptly. Mikey also appears to have led a very confused life after leaving. He marries twice, becomes somewhat of a minor celebrity as a forensic psychologist and has a radio show. However, he still slips back into gay affairs and hence is twice divorced. It seems to me he was still trying to please his father by becoming heterosexual, which usually leads to psychic damage that eventually bursts out.
Mikey's father dies at the vicarage, first identified as natural death but then appears to be a murder. Ironically, the chief inspector is his ex-boyfriend and Mikey now has to face his issues head on instead of running away from them in London party life.
The mystery itself is quite complicated. While there doesn't appear to be a lot of suspects, the plot weaves about and is not fully revealed until the last few pages. It appears the English village wasn't quite as charming as one would expect.
A surprising number of bodies turns up along the way, unlike most "cozy" mysteries where its usually only the initial killing. This book won't be a boon to tourism in Elders Edge!
The author's writing for me was quite good. He gets across his characters clearly and concisely. I can't imagine anyone not wanting to finish the book. Both the characters and the mystery drew me in and I read it far too quickly.
Grant certainly can write a sex scene! In some books, its not clearly written and just implied. Not in the case here! While only encounter occurs, it was quite a good depiction of the tension that had been laying in wait for Mikey and Nathan all these years.
My only criticism is that I felt the author wasn't really certain there would be a second book. So he wanted to tidy up Nathan & Mikey with a bow which wasn't necessary. I honestly doubt that Nathan would instantly dump a very solid boyfriend after just one roll in the hay with Mikey.
I think the reunion should have waited until book two. It would have made the flow more logical and also offered some material as the basis for book two. Nathan didn't appear to make rash decisions and he had been badly burned by Mikey, I really don't think he would drop everything in just a week.
In any event, I really cant wait to read book 2. I don't know if it's set in the same village or the happy couple move to greener pastures!
Either way, a warm welcome to Grant, looking to see lots more of Mikey.
September 23, 2017
This was a really good book with a lot of drama, mystery, suspense and unfinished business. It was a book that you never knew what was going to happen next and you definitely did not know who the killer was until it was revealed at the end of the book,
Mickey has a lot of unfinished business with his ex Nathan when he returns to the town he grew up in. Leaving Nathan the way Mickey did and never getting in touch with him until his father was murdered was not the brightest thing that Mickey had done. Mickey is a smart man but does a lot of dumb things.
When ift comes to light that Mickey's father did not die of a heart attack like everyone originally thought but instead was murdered, that is when things start to get dicey and quick like. Someone is trying to cover up what they have been up too and there is no clue to point out who it is. The only clues anyone can find is that whomever the killer is, he seems to be fixated on Mickey.
Nathan wants to forgive Mickey but it is not easy. Regardless of his feelings towards him, Nathan knows he needs to figure out who the killer is before he gets to Mickey and then they may never get the chance to work out if they have a chance to change the past mistakes.
I really enjoyed this read. It was so interesting reading how it was to all unfold. There was the element of surprise and the element of truth and hurt. I really enjoyed watching these these two men Wade their way through all the bad things they went through. It was really overall just a good read and I look forward to continuing their journey to possibly a happily ever after in the next book.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Mickey has a lot of unfinished business with his ex Nathan when he returns to the town he grew up in. Leaving Nathan the way Mickey did and never getting in touch with him until his father was murdered was not the brightest thing that Mickey had done. Mickey is a smart man but does a lot of dumb things.
When ift comes to light that Mickey's father did not die of a heart attack like everyone originally thought but instead was murdered, that is when things start to get dicey and quick like. Someone is trying to cover up what they have been up too and there is no clue to point out who it is. The only clues anyone can find is that whomever the killer is, he seems to be fixated on Mickey.
Nathan wants to forgive Mickey but it is not easy. Regardless of his feelings towards him, Nathan knows he needs to figure out who the killer is before he gets to Mickey and then they may never get the chance to work out if they have a chance to change the past mistakes.
I really enjoyed this read. It was so interesting reading how it was to all unfold. There was the element of surprise and the element of truth and hurt. I really enjoyed watching these these two men Wade their way through all the bad things they went through. It was really overall just a good read and I look forward to continuing their journey to possibly a happily ever after in the next book.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
March 10, 2018
This had the makings of a good book but it missed the mark.
This book was a long winded one. Meaning it took 62% of the book for really anything to happen. A mystery was all it was because I didn't see the connection between the 2 men. They argued for most of the book and only "got together" once. There was no visible relationship. I'll take a pass on the next one because the mystery really wasn't all that interesting. I'm supposing this is a HFN but with Mikey driving off who knows? "Mikey", really? At his age I'd have thought people would have gotten over the nickname.
This book was a long winded one. Meaning it took 62% of the book for really anything to happen. A mystery was all it was because I didn't see the connection between the 2 men. They argued for most of the book and only "got together" once. There was no visible relationship. I'll take a pass on the next one because the mystery really wasn't all that interesting. I'm supposing this is a HFN but with Mikey driving off who knows? "Mikey", really? At his age I'd have thought people would have gotten over the nickname.
October 4, 2018
I enjoyed this lovers reunited/lovers-enemies-friends story. I found it generally easy to read, pacy and engaging.
I liked that the high antagonism between Mike and Nathan wasn’t quickly resolved and continued up to a big explosion. Then there was just a detente for a while - it would have been too easy to fall into the easy option of sex then reconciliation but we endured with the guys a bit longer.
I enjoyed the who what and why of small town murder - my suspect wasn’t even close!
My only niggle was Mike turned a bit wingy when with Nathan but I did enjoy overall and will get book 2
I liked that the high antagonism between Mike and Nathan wasn’t quickly resolved and continued up to a big explosion. Then there was just a detente for a while - it would have been too easy to fall into the easy option of sex then reconciliation but we endured with the guys a bit longer.
I enjoyed the who what and why of small town murder - my suspect wasn’t even close!
My only niggle was Mike turned a bit wingy when with Nathan but I did enjoy overall and will get book 2
April 27, 2018
I really enjoyed this! A great whodunnit story with a slew of characters to keep the story interesting and a lovely second-chance relationship to boot. I saw the outcome towards the end, but not the reasons for it, so it was twisty enough to keep me hooked. Would have been a 5star but I think I needed a little more reflection/explanation on behalf of Mikey as to why he left and the impact it had - but overall a great read. Looking forward to book 2.
September 12, 2017
😀 Looking forward to Book #2
This was the first book by Author Grant Atherton. (Well, it is the only book of his I could find.)
According to the author's website, he is currently working on Book #2 which is the next book in the series and continues with the same main characters.
I am looking forward to reading Book 2 and hope it will be released soon!
This was the first book by Author Grant Atherton. (Well, it is the only book of his I could find.)
According to the author's website, he is currently working on Book #2 which is the next book in the series and continues with the same main characters.
I am looking forward to reading Book 2 and hope it will be released soon!
April 30, 2018
Mystery done well
I liked the mystery very much and I enjoyed Nathan. I’m not too sure about Mikey because he seemed too self absorbed in this book. In all his dealings with other people he always thought about himself first. Overall I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next!
I liked the mystery very much and I enjoyed Nathan. I’m not too sure about Mikey because he seemed too self absorbed in this book. In all his dealings with other people he always thought about himself first. Overall I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next!
July 12, 2017
Looking forward to more
This was a great read and I am definitely looking forward to more by this author and in this series. The suspense and intrigue made this a real whodunit with characters that will keep your eyes peeled and the pages turning.
This was a great read and I am definitely looking forward to more by this author and in this series. The suspense and intrigue made this a real whodunit with characters that will keep your eyes peeled and the pages turning.
November 6, 2017
This was well written, intriguing with an excellent mystery. It was also packed with a lot of emotion from the MC's especially Mikey. Grant Atherton is a new author for me and is definitely one I look forward to following. Looking forward to the next installment in this series.
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