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Tyack & Frayne #9
Once Upon a Western Shore
It’s May Eve, and for once the body discovered in a meadow isn’t Gideon’s concern. The remains are decades old, and Gid and Lee are free to enjoy a proper Cornish Beltane, with maypoles, mirth, and a wild, sexy dash into the greenwood.
When trouble flares, it’s from an unexpected source: Tamsyn, after a quiet few months, suddenly manifests terrifying new paranormal powers. She can’t be kept hidden forever, and working out how to shield her is enough to drive a wedge even between these most united of parents.
Then Gideon’s cold case becomes a hot one for Lee. The dead man in the field has been forgotten by the living, but his memories are vivid and riding wild on the wind from the sea. No-one can act out his unfinished business but Lee, and it’s going to take all Gideon’s strength and love to get him through the ordeal.
Beltane magic past and present sweeps through Cornwall as Tamsyn steps into her powers, and the witches of the western shore look set to pay a dreadful price unless Gideon and Lee can bring to light the truth buried so long ago.
When trouble flares, it’s from an unexpected source: Tamsyn, after a quiet few months, suddenly manifests terrifying new paranormal powers. She can’t be kept hidden forever, and working out how to shield her is enough to drive a wedge even between these most united of parents.
Then Gideon’s cold case becomes a hot one for Lee. The dead man in the field has been forgotten by the living, but his memories are vivid and riding wild on the wind from the sea. No-one can act out his unfinished business but Lee, and it’s going to take all Gideon’s strength and love to get him through the ordeal.
Beltane magic past and present sweeps through Cornwall as Tamsyn steps into her powers, and the witches of the western shore look set to pay a dreadful price unless Gideon and Lee can bring to light the truth buried so long ago.
160 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2018
31 people are currently reading
328 people want to read
About the author
Harper Fox
58 books1,176 followersHarper Fox is an M/M author with a mission. She’s produced six critically acclaimed novels in a year and is trying to dispel rumours that she has a clone/twin sister locked away in a study in her basement. In fact she simply continues working on what she loves best– creating worlds and stories for the huge cast of lovely gay men queuing up inside her head. She lives in rural Northumberland in northern England and does most of her writing at a pensioned-off kitchen table in her back garden, often with blanket and hot water bottle.
She lives with her SO Jane, who has somehow put up with her for a quarter of a century now, and three enigmatic cats, chief among whom is Lucy, who knows the secret of the universe but isn't letting on. When not writing, she either despairs or makes bread, specialities foccacia and her amazing seven-strand challah. If she has any other skills, she's yet to discover them.
She lives with her SO Jane, who has somehow put up with her for a quarter of a century now, and three enigmatic cats, chief among whom is Lucy, who knows the secret of the universe but isn't letting on. When not writing, she either despairs or makes bread, specialities foccacia and her amazing seven-strand challah. If she has any other skills, she's yet to discover them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
November 9, 2024
Reread November 2022
I didn't find myself as confused this time, even though I didn't remember a whole lot about this book. I still love these two.
Originally read August 2018
I have loved this series so much. The writing has a lyrical quality to it. That and the setting give off an Old World vibe to the books that sometimes you wonder if is this historical or present-day setting. All this just adds to the mystery and creepy factor these books have.
In this one, Tamsyn is really showing her true powers. There's a dead body in a field with a mysterious history and it involves a missing old lady of Dark. Not to mention Gideon is showing his true "beastly" nature. Lots going on.
I have to say, this was probably my least favorite. Don't get me wrong. It was still good. But I found myself confused sometimes. I had to go back and reread a few passages because I thought I had missed something here or there. I also felt things "unfinished" more so than other books. But they weren't...it just "felt" like it to me. Maybe it was more rushed...I don't know.
Even after all that, I think I could read a hundred more books about these two and the things they get into. I love the village Dark and all its residents. Gideon and Lee are on my favorite couples shelf for sure. I love how they work things out. They might fight or say nasty things to each other, but they still go back to other and apologize and make it right. Zeke is stoic as ever, but he has a soft spot for Lee, Gideon, and his niece. I have a feeling that the whole village will come together to protect their own.
I will definitely be stalking the author for more in this series.
I didn't find myself as confused this time, even though I didn't remember a whole lot about this book. I still love these two.
Originally read August 2018
I have loved this series so much. The writing has a lyrical quality to it. That and the setting give off an Old World vibe to the books that sometimes you wonder if is this historical or present-day setting. All this just adds to the mystery and creepy factor these books have.
In this one, Tamsyn is really showing her true powers. There's a dead body in a field with a mysterious history and it involves a missing old lady of Dark. Not to mention Gideon is showing his true "beastly" nature. Lots going on.
I have to say, this was probably my least favorite. Don't get me wrong. It was still good. But I found myself confused sometimes. I had to go back and reread a few passages because I thought I had missed something here or there. I also felt things "unfinished" more so than other books. But they weren't...it just "felt" like it to me. Maybe it was more rushed...I don't know.
Even after all that, I think I could read a hundred more books about these two and the things they get into. I love the village Dark and all its residents. Gideon and Lee are on my favorite couples shelf for sure. I love how they work things out. They might fight or say nasty things to each other, but they still go back to other and apologize and make it right. Zeke is stoic as ever, but he has a soft spot for Lee, Gideon, and his niece. I have a feeling that the whole village will come together to protect their own.
I will definitely be stalking the author for more in this series.
November 6, 2018
I am in love as much as I've ever been with Gid, Lee, Tamsyn, the village of Dark, and every magical, inexplicable, frightening, and giggle-snorting thing that makes this Cornish universe my literary kryptonite.
Wee 3-year old Tamsyn is as front and center a character as she's ever been, as well: her powers are the catalyst for the mystery, the continued progress in the relationship of Lee n Gid's, and the further expansion of the supernatural goings on in Dark and what they all mean for her family and friends.
Gideon and Lee crack me up, especially when Gid is Lee's unwitting set-up man for Lee's natural humor. The better you know someone the more there can be to love and appreciate, including their foibles that bring on heartfelt sarcasm.
The village and its residents also play what feels like a wider reaching role. More and more they cast a protective embrace around Tamsyn, her abilities, and the impact they have on her family. They're all getting pretty good with that conspiratorial nod of understanding and acceptance any time some unexpected or outside force attempts to reveal the truth, especially for dastardly reasons.
A couple of times, I did have the feeling that there are too many spinning plates in the way of storylines in this latest Tyack-Frayne adventure. I could feel Fox's excitement all throughout and me thinks it might have prevented the culling and therefore tightening up on the connected narratives.
But surriusly, that's my only quibble dibble.
Because why? Because this:
Q: The honour of being believed—trusted, even when so much hung on so fine a thread as this—warmed him to the core. Gideon had offered him that from the very beginning. They’d become a port in the storm to each other, shelter from the wildness within. Lee would stay stalwart for Gid until his last breath. /Q
As ever, Fox's molding of the word type things to her unique will is engaging, thrilling, and sigh-inducing. And she introduces the seeds of what could be some wonderful and interesting stories to come, a world filled with Tamsyn and her powerful and powerfully adorable classmates. The danger of the wider world discovering the magic of Dark and her residents is ever present, but they now have more with which to shield themselves... and to protect.
Wee 3-year old Tamsyn is as front and center a character as she's ever been, as well: her powers are the catalyst for the mystery, the continued progress in the relationship of Lee n Gid's, and the further expansion of the supernatural goings on in Dark and what they all mean for her family and friends.
Gideon and Lee crack me up, especially when Gid is Lee's unwitting set-up man for Lee's natural humor. The better you know someone the more there can be to love and appreciate, including their foibles that bring on heartfelt sarcasm.
The village and its residents also play what feels like a wider reaching role. More and more they cast a protective embrace around Tamsyn, her abilities, and the impact they have on her family. They're all getting pretty good with that conspiratorial nod of understanding and acceptance any time some unexpected or outside force attempts to reveal the truth, especially for dastardly reasons.
A couple of times, I did have the feeling that there are too many spinning plates in the way of storylines in this latest Tyack-Frayne adventure. I could feel Fox's excitement all throughout and me thinks it might have prevented the culling and therefore tightening up on the connected narratives.
But surriusly, that's my only quibble dibble.
Because why? Because this:
Q: The honour of being believed—trusted, even when so much hung on so fine a thread as this—warmed him to the core. Gideon had offered him that from the very beginning. They’d become a port in the storm to each other, shelter from the wildness within. Lee would stay stalwart for Gid until his last breath. /Q
As ever, Fox's molding of the word type things to her unique will is engaging, thrilling, and sigh-inducing. And she introduces the seeds of what could be some wonderful and interesting stories to come, a world filled with Tamsyn and her powerful and powerfully adorable classmates. The danger of the wider world discovering the magic of Dark and her residents is ever present, but they now have more with which to shield themselves... and to protect.
June 4, 2019
3.5 rounded down
I liked this one more than I remember liking the previous book, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I remember loving the earlier books. Maybe it's because with each subsequent book I've had to wait longer and longer between reads, so I'm not as immersed in the world. Or maybe it's just that my tastes have changed since I started reading the series 3 years ago. But something about the writing here, while beautiful, felt almost like it was trying a little too hard. I felt myself getting frustrated with the lyrical obliqueness, and wanting things a little more spelled out, especially with all the supernatural aspects, which have verged into the confusing. Something about the relationship dynamic in this one also felt a little off and more unequal than I really loved, and Lee essentially Gideon's nature a secret from him honestly made me feel really uncomfortable given that their relationship is being portrayed as this super open thing. IDK, I just really wanted to love this, and it was just good. I thought the hint of future plot lines with the military was really interesting, but I'm honestly not sure if this is a series I still feel invested enough in to continue buying. I'll have to re-evaluate when the net book comes out.
I liked this one more than I remember liking the previous book, but I didn't enjoy it as much as I remember loving the earlier books. Maybe it's because with each subsequent book I've had to wait longer and longer between reads, so I'm not as immersed in the world. Or maybe it's just that my tastes have changed since I started reading the series 3 years ago. But something about the writing here, while beautiful, felt almost like it was trying a little too hard. I felt myself getting frustrated with the lyrical obliqueness, and wanting things a little more spelled out, especially with all the supernatural aspects, which have verged into the confusing. Something about the relationship dynamic in this one also felt a little off and more unequal than I really loved, and Lee essentially Gideon's nature a secret from him honestly made me feel really uncomfortable given that their relationship is being portrayed as this super open thing. IDK, I just really wanted to love this, and it was just good. I thought the hint of future plot lines with the military was really interesting, but I'm honestly not sure if this is a series I still feel invested enough in to continue buying. I'll have to re-evaluate when the net book comes out.
May 18, 2018
Tamsyn Tyack-Frayne has powers that no one but the mysterious Granny Ragwen seems to comprehend. Tamsyn is related to her daddy Lee by blood—his sister, Elowen, is her birth mother—so the fact there’s something special about the little girl is seemingly just part and parcel to the Tyack lineage. And she couldn’t have two better parents—because Gideon is something other, too, and Lee is the only one who can tame his beast. There are those in the village who have witnessed odd and inexplicable occurrences in Tamsyn’s presence, and her power seems to be building exponentially as she grows, but heaven help the outsider who comes nosing around the Tyack-Frayne household—there are folks in Dark who are protective of their own and mindful of little Tamsyn’s place there, and I love the way Fox is teasing out the prophesies surrounding her and the legacy of the Dark witch. How this will influence the series going forward remains to be seen, but I can guarantee it will be intensely interesting, if the previous books in the series are any sort of indicator of Fox’s imagination and gift for weaving local mythology and mysticism into her storytelling.
There was a momentous tone of friction between Lee and Gid in this book, something that hasn’t been as prominent before as it is here. These two are such a committed team, operating on the same side against whatever comes their way, and when they don’t see eye-to-eye about an intrusive visitor, it’s striking and impactful, and I was so jarred by it, I don’t mind admitting. Fortunately it was short-lived, though; Fox doesn’t serve up drama that’s extended for drama’s sake, but just enough to remind us that every couple, no matter how deeply in love they are, has issues to work through. The things these men are working through have farther reaching implications than most, however, and their bond is as strong as ever.
There’s a bit of the Big Bad Wolf afoot in Gideon’s becoming…whatever destiny he is meant to fulfill, and Lee once again gets to flex his extrasensory muscles in Once Upon a Western Shore. It just wouldn’t be a Tyack & Frayne mystery without something otherworldly being visited upon Lee. There is always a sense of the veil between worlds being a bit thinner in this little corner of Cornwall, the pagan rituals and ancient magick running deep, and it’s the bones of a man murdered some sixty years before that calls up a restless spirit in need of Lee’s help to find peace at last, exposing secrets along the way. There was a distinct tone of poignancy in the unraveling of this mystery, one that speaks to a less accepting time, and I appreciated the emotional implications of it.
There are very few fictional couples I love as much as Gideon and Lee Tyack-Frayne. There are plenty of couples I love as well as I love them, but I’d be pretty hard-pressed to name a couple I love more. I would also have a difficult time naming an author who, time after time, delivers romance through such lyrical prose and, in this case, such imaginative circumstances as author Harper Fox does. The Tyack & Frayne series is one of the finest examples of speculative fiction in the LGBTQ genre, and as long as there are books to be read set in this deceptively quiet little village in Cornwall, I’ll be there to read them. It will always hold a special place in my reading lexicon.
I did miss seeing more of Zeke Frayne, Gideon’s upright, uptight but loving brother, who, remarkably, I’ve grown to adore as the series has progressed, something I wouldn’t have predicted when he was first introduced. And while this installment won’t go down as an immediate favorite—that title still belongs to Guardians of the Haunted Moor—it still opens the doorway to a whole new avenue of mystical occurrences yet to come. One I can’t wait to explore.
Reviewed by Lisa for The Novel Approach
There was a momentous tone of friction between Lee and Gid in this book, something that hasn’t been as prominent before as it is here. These two are such a committed team, operating on the same side against whatever comes their way, and when they don’t see eye-to-eye about an intrusive visitor, it’s striking and impactful, and I was so jarred by it, I don’t mind admitting. Fortunately it was short-lived, though; Fox doesn’t serve up drama that’s extended for drama’s sake, but just enough to remind us that every couple, no matter how deeply in love they are, has issues to work through. The things these men are working through have farther reaching implications than most, however, and their bond is as strong as ever.
There’s a bit of the Big Bad Wolf afoot in Gideon’s becoming…whatever destiny he is meant to fulfill, and Lee once again gets to flex his extrasensory muscles in Once Upon a Western Shore. It just wouldn’t be a Tyack & Frayne mystery without something otherworldly being visited upon Lee. There is always a sense of the veil between worlds being a bit thinner in this little corner of Cornwall, the pagan rituals and ancient magick running deep, and it’s the bones of a man murdered some sixty years before that calls up a restless spirit in need of Lee’s help to find peace at last, exposing secrets along the way. There was a distinct tone of poignancy in the unraveling of this mystery, one that speaks to a less accepting time, and I appreciated the emotional implications of it.
There are very few fictional couples I love as much as Gideon and Lee Tyack-Frayne. There are plenty of couples I love as well as I love them, but I’d be pretty hard-pressed to name a couple I love more. I would also have a difficult time naming an author who, time after time, delivers romance through such lyrical prose and, in this case, such imaginative circumstances as author Harper Fox does. The Tyack & Frayne series is one of the finest examples of speculative fiction in the LGBTQ genre, and as long as there are books to be read set in this deceptively quiet little village in Cornwall, I’ll be there to read them. It will always hold a special place in my reading lexicon.
I did miss seeing more of Zeke Frayne, Gideon’s upright, uptight but loving brother, who, remarkably, I’ve grown to adore as the series has progressed, something I wouldn’t have predicted when he was first introduced. And while this installment won’t go down as an immediate favorite—that title still belongs to Guardians of the Haunted Moor—it still opens the doorway to a whole new avenue of mystical occurrences yet to come. One I can’t wait to explore.
Reviewed by Lisa for The Novel Approach
May 24, 2018
Once Upon a Western Shore (Tyack and Frayne #9)
By Harper Fox
FoxTales, 2018
Five stars
Curiouser and curiouser. A body found in an old grave on an isolated farm; a bizarre traffic accident that is no accident, and witnessed by many. These two unrelated incidents are only linked by the people to whom they matter, and once again Harper Fox draws us into the increasingly paranormal intimacy that is the Tyack-Frayne family of Dark, Cornwall.
Everybody knows that Lee Tyack is psychic; after all, he has his own regional television program. But not everybody understands that his husband, son of the late fire-and-brimstone Preacher Frayne, not only shares something of his otherworldly ability, but has a profound psychic tie to his beloved. For most everyone, Gideon is simply the Dark constable, in spite of his promotion. The big secret however, is their daughter Tamsyn, now a precocious toddler and attending the local pre-school. Both Lee and Gideon seem to be under the impression that they’ve kept her increasingly unnerving gifts under wraps. Until, of course, they realize the truth of the matter.
Two men who love each other desperately, and love their child fiercely. Joy and fear in equal measure punctuate this story, as people from the past step forward to tell them things they don’t think they want to hear. Every day brings a new piece in the puzzle of the sixty-year-old grave, even as it drags them one day closer to confronting their little girl’s powers and what they’re going to have to do to protect her—and the world—from what she can do.
Fox gives us constant close-ups of the intense, passionate relationship between Lee and Gideon. She also allows us to gradually see something of Tamsyn, shedding light on a very young life that appears to be far more knowing (and self-knowing) than her devoted fathers understand. All of this is set in the oddly mysterious context of the sun-filled Cornish coast, whose ties to ancient magic rumble quietly beneath the moors and megaliths until, once in a while, they surface.
In this chapter of the Tyack-Frayne universe, we are treated to some excellent face-time with Ezekiel Frayne, Gideon’s minister brother, who has come to be an emotional anchor for his dutiful sibling—a fact that warms the heart to see. There’s also Christine, Gideon’s superior officer, who finally learns some surprising things about her most trusted sergeant and his abilities as a policeman.
Fox never creates cliffhangers, but she always opens a window at the end, allowing us to understand that there will be more. That always makes me happy.
By Harper Fox
FoxTales, 2018
Five stars
Curiouser and curiouser. A body found in an old grave on an isolated farm; a bizarre traffic accident that is no accident, and witnessed by many. These two unrelated incidents are only linked by the people to whom they matter, and once again Harper Fox draws us into the increasingly paranormal intimacy that is the Tyack-Frayne family of Dark, Cornwall.
Everybody knows that Lee Tyack is psychic; after all, he has his own regional television program. But not everybody understands that his husband, son of the late fire-and-brimstone Preacher Frayne, not only shares something of his otherworldly ability, but has a profound psychic tie to his beloved. For most everyone, Gideon is simply the Dark constable, in spite of his promotion. The big secret however, is their daughter Tamsyn, now a precocious toddler and attending the local pre-school. Both Lee and Gideon seem to be under the impression that they’ve kept her increasingly unnerving gifts under wraps. Until, of course, they realize the truth of the matter.
Two men who love each other desperately, and love their child fiercely. Joy and fear in equal measure punctuate this story, as people from the past step forward to tell them things they don’t think they want to hear. Every day brings a new piece in the puzzle of the sixty-year-old grave, even as it drags them one day closer to confronting their little girl’s powers and what they’re going to have to do to protect her—and the world—from what she can do.
Fox gives us constant close-ups of the intense, passionate relationship between Lee and Gideon. She also allows us to gradually see something of Tamsyn, shedding light on a very young life that appears to be far more knowing (and self-knowing) than her devoted fathers understand. All of this is set in the oddly mysterious context of the sun-filled Cornish coast, whose ties to ancient magic rumble quietly beneath the moors and megaliths until, once in a while, they surface.
In this chapter of the Tyack-Frayne universe, we are treated to some excellent face-time with Ezekiel Frayne, Gideon’s minister brother, who has come to be an emotional anchor for his dutiful sibling—a fact that warms the heart to see. There’s also Christine, Gideon’s superior officer, who finally learns some surprising things about her most trusted sergeant and his abilities as a policeman.
Fox never creates cliffhangers, but she always opens a window at the end, allowing us to understand that there will be more. That always makes me happy.
May 28, 2018
This is another wonderful addition to the series! My favorite family! One of my favorite couples of all time! I just loved the whole thing about Tamsyn’s growing powers. She really is becoming what she’s supposed to be – the witch of Bodmin! I loved that we get to see Gideon and Lee’s domesticity here towards each other and towards their little girl. The whole plot feels like an ordinary day for this extraordinary family but it gets to you. The writing, the characters’ dynamics and the future of the series makes you all so excited! This is a superb read for the fans of the series – there’s a few tears here and there and a bit fo a surprise as well! It’s definitely worth reading and buying!!!
April 29, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up because the writing is so good. This was a good story, but I felt like there was a little too much focus on Gideon and Lee’s sex life. They needed to communicate more and fornicate less. I had initially thought I would stop reading the series here. I’ve read reviews that the author puts the couple through the wringer over the next 3 books, which are basically three parts of book 10. However, at the end of this story, there’s been a vague threat made to one of the characters and I really want to see how that plays out. I just don’t want to see the two MCs torn apart in the process. Grrr! 😖
March 6, 2023
Another enjoyable, though not super memorable, book in the series. I don't really have anything to particular to say about this one. It didn't feel like it had as much cuteness as previous books, but Gideon and Lee are still a lovely couple with a lovely little family, and there was another mystery to solve. Also some set up for what's to come next.
*Rating: 3.5 Stars // Read Date: 2023 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Fans of Books 1-8 in Harper Fox's Tyack & Frayne series. Anyone who likes loving and supportive m/m romance, clairvoyants, mysteries, and small English towns.
More Reviews @ Metaphors and Moonlight
*Rating: 3.5 Stars // Read Date: 2023 // Format: Ebook via TTS*
Recommended For:
Fans of Books 1-8 in Harper Fox's Tyack & Frayne series. Anyone who likes loving and supportive m/m romance, clairvoyants, mysteries, and small English towns.
More Reviews @ Metaphors and Moonlight
September 7, 2020
The Community’s Family!
In this chapter, we find Lee & Gideon struggle with Tamsyn’s magical incident, a lost soul’s final tale, and an unexpected visitor. These mystical tales get taller and the reality continues to shrink. However, I am still hooked, I love these characters, this world, and of course the descriptive storytelling.
An aside: This Cornwall seems riddled with festivals and folklore celebrations similar to “Midsomer”...huh?
Suspend your reality...Party On, Read On!
In this chapter, we find Lee & Gideon struggle with Tamsyn’s magical incident, a lost soul’s final tale, and an unexpected visitor. These mystical tales get taller and the reality continues to shrink. However, I am still hooked, I love these characters, this world, and of course the descriptive storytelling.
An aside: This Cornwall seems riddled with festivals and folklore celebrations similar to “Midsomer”...huh?
Suspend your reality...Party On, Read On!
May 1, 2018
I love this series - Gideon & Lee never fail to make me smile. Their love is beautiful and their love for Tamsyn is even more sweet.. super protective dads ! It’s going to be great to watch this family grow and develop their various skills. Hope the next book is sooner rather than later !!
June 15, 2018
It's difficult for me to rate this book
Was it intriguing? Yes, it was an improvement, compared to the latest books in this series (the last one I really enjoyed was Kitto)
Was it well written? Yes, as usual.
So, why only 2 stars?
Because I can't ignore the fact that in this book there's a sort of justification for a human sacrifice.
Through Lee's words, there's some blabbering about the Earth needing a sacrifice and whatever.
No sorry, I can't deal with this kind of stuff. Not in 2018.
Was it intriguing? Yes, it was an improvement, compared to the latest books in this series (the last one I really enjoyed was Kitto)
Was it well written? Yes, as usual.
So, why only 2 stars?
Because I can't ignore the fact that in this book there's a sort of justification for a human sacrifice.
Through Lee's words, there's some blabbering about the Earth needing a sacrifice and whatever.
No sorry, I can't deal with this kind of stuff. Not in 2018.
August 13, 2020
This is the latest installment in one of my favourite series, and Gideon and Lee are in top form. There is so much I like about this story: Lee and Gideon, and how they can differ and argue without drama and angst; the people of the small village of Dark, and how they protect their own; Gideon's brother Zeke, a grumpy preacher with a heart of gold; the mystery and superstitions of Cornwall; the lyrical writing; I can go on and on. Harper Fox can write 10 more installments of this series, and I will read them all.
June 18, 2018
Great addition to the series
4 🌟
Great addition to the series, I love these two and I love that while there is occasionally drama within their relationship they talk things through quickly so it doesn’t fester and become so much bigger. I love seeing the community stick together and protect one of their own.
This series is an auto buy for me and every time I finish one I want to go back to the beginning and start again
4 🌟
Great addition to the series, I love these two and I love that while there is occasionally drama within their relationship they talk things through quickly so it doesn’t fester and become so much bigger. I love seeing the community stick together and protect one of their own.
This series is an auto buy for me and every time I finish one I want to go back to the beginning and start again
May 12, 2018
4.5 stars from me. A great addition to the series...yes, there were a few tears at times and quite a few laughs too. Gideon, the Beast of Bodmin and Zeke discover their father was not a nice man. Isolde has developed a nasty habit 😉, as well as having a little flirtation with a Saluki. Tamsyn's powers are progressing at a fantastic rate. An unwelcome visitor turns up at Chy Lowen...make that several unwelcome visitors actually, and shock, horror DI Lawrence is quite the hypocrite!!
Lee solves a 60 year old mystery with the help of a body discovered on Pascoe's farm...and very sad it was too. Finally, one of my favourite characters reappears....I'll leave this one here. Can't wait for Tim Gilbert's audio version....
Lee solves a 60 year old mystery with the help of a body discovered on Pascoe's farm...and very sad it was too. Finally, one of my favourite characters reappears....I'll leave this one here. Can't wait for Tim Gilbert's audio version....
May 1, 2018
Such a great little book!
This couple has been through so much and finally they have their beautiful home and little daughter. There is a Ill wind blowing in for the future but first they need to solve this mystery. Of course they do and it was done wonderfully. Harper Fox has weaved a tale with so many threads that lead to future books and I will follow each and everyone this author puts to print.
This couple has been through so much and finally they have their beautiful home and little daughter. There is a Ill wind blowing in for the future but first they need to solve this mystery. Of course they do and it was done wonderfully. Harper Fox has weaved a tale with so many threads that lead to future books and I will follow each and everyone this author puts to print.
August 8, 2020
Ah, I love these guys. They're both such interesting characters, and Tamsyn is equally as fun and interesting, and the writing is always beautiful. Such a sense of place—I feel like I'm right there in Cornwall with them. I wish I were! And I love how their town comes together around them.
Interesting to see what Tamsyn's powers are like as she grows. And it's easy to forget what Zeke was like when we first met him; I'm glad he's become such a part of the stories, and in a positive way.
Always enjoy these little mysteries. ♥
Interesting to see what Tamsyn's powers are like as she grows. And it's easy to forget what Zeke was like when we first met him; I'm glad he's become such a part of the stories, and in a positive way.
Always enjoy these little mysteries. ♥
February 22, 2022
These stories keep getting more and more fantastical, with more and more paranormal activity. It’s fascinating, if not a little confusing. Sometimes there is so much not being said that I wish one of the men would just speak up. This is an interesting tale, that adds some new plot threads - a special school? another person with special abilities? An evil, shadowy agency? Onto books 10.1, 10.2 and 10.3.
Bought from kindle
Bought from kindle
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2018
Another great story told
Don't see how Harper Fox does it but I'm enthralled and captivated with each book release. Graphic detail, excellent world building, well developed characters..this author is awesome. Highly recommended.
Don't see how Harper Fox does it but I'm enthralled and captivated with each book release. Graphic detail, excellent world building, well developed characters..this author is awesome. Highly recommended.
August 30, 2018
This was a much better update to the series than the last installment, and I really enjoyed it. Interesting plot, lovely new characters, and of course, still one of the best relationships in this genre. I want more, because I'm greedy.
May 12, 2018
Reviewed by Tori (Vicki)
Back to Cornwall we go for another adventure with the Tyack-Frayne family! This time it starts with a Beltane celebration and some wild forest sex for Gideon and Lee, but of course it has to be interrupted by a phone call. Which sends Gideon off on a drive to a nearby village to see about a dead man. A long gone dead man in this case. Eventually Lee is pulled in as well, and there is a very sad look at the history of a lonely man. I was brought to tears by it, but it was a good addition to the plot of the book.
The other part of the book involved Tamsyn and her special powers, which lead to some drama and unwanted attention, not only by the locals, but by a relative of Lee’s who seems to want to be very involved in Tamsyn’s education. This led to a confrontation between Lee and Gideon and honestly seemed out of character and made me uncomfortable. Not their usual behavior at all! I have to say I wasn’t fond of this plot line particularly, and there’s this thing with the relative that was just all weird. Although there does seem to be a potential solution to Tamsyn’s situation, a character pops up at the end that might lead to good things! So I’ll hold my judgement until we see how that plays out.
So this wasn’t my favorite book of the series, unfortunately. I liked the paranormal plot, which involves the dead guy from the past. That had some interest, and some characters both good and bad. It wasn’t as creepy as past stories, and had less for Gideon to do, no big mystery to solve or anything, and Lee was pretty passive about it. But the thing with Tamsyn is getting old. It’s detracting from the paranormal mystery feeling of this series, yes that sounds stupid considering she has paranormal powers, but what I’ve loved about past books is the solving of an issue by combining Lee’s paranormal abilities with Gideon’s LEO abilities. That wasn’t present in this book. And someone comes back that I wasn’t happy to see, who keeps coming back over and over, and that is getting old. Not the person that may help Tamsyn, but someone else. Yes, I’m being vague!
This book was really a little meandering and unfocused. It took me a long time to get in to it, and looking back over it I am really just feeling meh. Not bad, I didn’t hate it, but not great either. It felt a little like the author needed to get a book out and just tossed something together. Damn, I hate to say that, Harper Fox is a favorite author, but something was just off about this book.
If you have read the others you’ll need to read this one, if you haven’t, go find book one read them! The first dozen or so are amazing!
This book was provided for free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Back to Cornwall we go for another adventure with the Tyack-Frayne family! This time it starts with a Beltane celebration and some wild forest sex for Gideon and Lee, but of course it has to be interrupted by a phone call. Which sends Gideon off on a drive to a nearby village to see about a dead man. A long gone dead man in this case. Eventually Lee is pulled in as well, and there is a very sad look at the history of a lonely man. I was brought to tears by it, but it was a good addition to the plot of the book.
The other part of the book involved Tamsyn and her special powers, which lead to some drama and unwanted attention, not only by the locals, but by a relative of Lee’s who seems to want to be very involved in Tamsyn’s education. This led to a confrontation between Lee and Gideon and honestly seemed out of character and made me uncomfortable. Not their usual behavior at all! I have to say I wasn’t fond of this plot line particularly, and there’s this thing with the relative that was just all weird. Although there does seem to be a potential solution to Tamsyn’s situation, a character pops up at the end that might lead to good things! So I’ll hold my judgement until we see how that plays out.
So this wasn’t my favorite book of the series, unfortunately. I liked the paranormal plot, which involves the dead guy from the past. That had some interest, and some characters both good and bad. It wasn’t as creepy as past stories, and had less for Gideon to do, no big mystery to solve or anything, and Lee was pretty passive about it. But the thing with Tamsyn is getting old. It’s detracting from the paranormal mystery feeling of this series, yes that sounds stupid considering she has paranormal powers, but what I’ve loved about past books is the solving of an issue by combining Lee’s paranormal abilities with Gideon’s LEO abilities. That wasn’t present in this book. And someone comes back that I wasn’t happy to see, who keeps coming back over and over, and that is getting old. Not the person that may help Tamsyn, but someone else. Yes, I’m being vague!
This book was really a little meandering and unfocused. It took me a long time to get in to it, and looking back over it I am really just feeling meh. Not bad, I didn’t hate it, but not great either. It felt a little like the author needed to get a book out and just tossed something together. Damn, I hate to say that, Harper Fox is a favorite author, but something was just off about this book.
If you have read the others you’ll need to read this one, if you haven’t, go find book one read them! The first dozen or so are amazing!
This book was provided for free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
June 21, 2018
It's May Eve and Gideon and Lee are enjoying some quiet family time with their daughter, Tamsyn. A century old body is discovered but even that is nothing to concern the boys. Tamsyn's powers can't be kept hidden forever and when Gideon's cold case can only be solved with Lee's abilities, suddenly their Beltane is no longer quiet. Will Lee be able to reach into the past to solve Gideon's case and will Gideon be able to pull Lee back?
When I saw that there was a new Tyack & Frayne story I was thrilled! There is just so much to love about these boys, Tamsyn, family, and friends. Their connection, their passion, their love for their daughter, the way they want to protect all those around them and with Once Upon a Western Shore we get to see those around them wanting to protect them too. Throw in the cold case mystery, paranormal elements, friendship, and the love that binds them together and you find yourself on an amazing journey.
I won't go into too much detail because of the mystery but let me tell you that my heart breaks for the past but the boys' love goes a long way to heal the present so the past can rest, watching Gid & Lee get from point A to point Z is quite a ride. As for Tamsyn, I can't wait to see her continue to grow into her powers, it's terrifying and exhilerating at that the same time. Watching Zeke go from a non-believer to a willing(mostly) assistant shows just how experiencing something can truly open a person to what is beyond their own four walls.
Once Upon a Western Shore is a great addition to the series and a thrilling next step in Gid & Lee's journey. Can't wait to see what the author has in store next for this family and the little Cornish village they call home.
When I saw that there was a new Tyack & Frayne story I was thrilled! There is just so much to love about these boys, Tamsyn, family, and friends. Their connection, their passion, their love for their daughter, the way they want to protect all those around them and with Once Upon a Western Shore we get to see those around them wanting to protect them too. Throw in the cold case mystery, paranormal elements, friendship, and the love that binds them together and you find yourself on an amazing journey.
I won't go into too much detail because of the mystery but let me tell you that my heart breaks for the past but the boys' love goes a long way to heal the present so the past can rest, watching Gid & Lee get from point A to point Z is quite a ride. As for Tamsyn, I can't wait to see her continue to grow into her powers, it's terrifying and exhilerating at that the same time. Watching Zeke go from a non-believer to a willing(mostly) assistant shows just how experiencing something can truly open a person to what is beyond their own four walls.
Once Upon a Western Shore is a great addition to the series and a thrilling next step in Gid & Lee's journey. Can't wait to see what the author has in store next for this family and the little Cornish village they call home.
May 22, 2018
Tamsyn steals the show... again! *grin*
Quirky as ever, and loving, and kind, Lee and Gideon always seem to find their way through whatever mess the "land" seems to throw at them, even when they come in from different fronts! Life is NEVER easy in Dark, but... easy is highly over-rated! *snort* LOL!!!
Zeke is making progress by leaps and bounds with the whole "being compassionate in his work" thing, but I would have liked to have had a scene with the twins in it... just sayin'! ;D
D I Lawrence gave us an unexpected surprise... nope, I didn't see it coming either!
We were left with a feeling of uneasiness about a life choice to make the ultimate sacrifice and a life choice to use that sacrifice to help with a future that would be in need... yeah, it was a "damned if you do... damned if you don't" kind of deal... but, such is life. Life may not be perfect, but Lee and Gid are living their dream in Dark with their daughter and dear friends! And as they say, it takes a village to raise a child, and Tasmie isn't just ANY child! *grin*
Quirky as ever, and loving, and kind, Lee and Gideon always seem to find their way through whatever mess the "land" seems to throw at them, even when they come in from different fronts! Life is NEVER easy in Dark, but... easy is highly over-rated! *snort* LOL!!!
Zeke is making progress by leaps and bounds with the whole "being compassionate in his work" thing, but I would have liked to have had a scene with the twins in it... just sayin'! ;D
D I Lawrence gave us an unexpected surprise... nope, I didn't see it coming either!
We were left with a feeling of uneasiness about a life choice to make the ultimate sacrifice and a life choice to use that sacrifice to help with a future that would be in need... yeah, it was a "damned if you do... damned if you don't" kind of deal... but, such is life. Life may not be perfect, but Lee and Gid are living their dream in Dark with their daughter and dear friends! And as they say, it takes a village to raise a child, and Tasmie isn't just ANY child! *grin*
November 19, 2023
3.5 stars M/M paranormal crime mystery and romance series.
I still love Gideon and Lee but I am increasingly confused about where this series wants to go.
There is still no explanation for how or why Gideon is now the
Yet Gideon remains clueless and Lee just leaves him be, except in dreams despite the danger to their future as Gideon isn’t aware during those deadly episodes. How is this considered loving?!
And what happened to their telepathic connection?
I still don’t get the connection with Ezekiel or what does he have to do with the Beast or any of the paranormal stuff. The book titled ‘Preacher, Prophet, Beast’ explained zilch!
And I have never liked the Tamsyn’s addition to the series and her presence adds to the confusing paranormal mess.
This plot started as promising with its focus on the relationship even if there wasn’t much sex. Then the plot meanders to an old case that makes zero sense. Why did this dead guy need to tell his story? What was the point of his story?! Inexplicable. Suddenly everyone is gay and the witches are morally ambiguous and boom they
And why was Gideon’s boss and brother involved? It is all built on flimsy logic/excuses.
I just wish the series stayed in the lane of the first 3 books and didn’t take this sharp weird direction that is drowning in a confusing paranormal world that lacks a framework and with an unrealistic child thrown in the mix!
I only kept reading to get glimpses of the Gideon and Lee from those earlier books and so I am not particularly looking forward to the last 3 books. Sigh!
I still love Gideon and Lee but I am increasingly confused about where this series wants to go.
There is still no explanation for how or why Gideon is now the
Yet Gideon remains clueless and Lee just leaves him be, except in dreams despite the danger to their future as Gideon isn’t aware during those deadly episodes. How is this considered loving?!
And what happened to their telepathic connection?
I still don’t get the connection with Ezekiel or what does he have to do with the Beast or any of the paranormal stuff. The book titled ‘Preacher, Prophet, Beast’ explained zilch!
And I have never liked the Tamsyn’s addition to the series and her presence adds to the confusing paranormal mess.
This plot started as promising with its focus on the relationship even if there wasn’t much sex. Then the plot meanders to an old case that makes zero sense. Why did this dead guy need to tell his story? What was the point of his story?! Inexplicable. Suddenly everyone is gay and the witches are morally ambiguous and boom they
And why was Gideon’s boss and brother involved? It is all built on flimsy logic/excuses.
I just wish the series stayed in the lane of the first 3 books and didn’t take this sharp weird direction that is drowning in a confusing paranormal world that lacks a framework and with an unrealistic child thrown in the mix!
I only kept reading to get glimpses of the Gideon and Lee from those earlier books and so I am not particularly looking forward to the last 3 books. Sigh!
April 23, 2020
So maybe a solid 4.5....???
More Lee and Gideon wonderfulness.
Gideon and Lee are faced with the daunting prospect of managing Tamsyn’s developing talents - but get sidetracked when they’re drawn into trying to solve a long-ago murder. When the victim returns, using Lee as his conduit, Gideon must confront the disturbing events of the past as well as find a way to protect his little family’s future.
Ah...what’s not to like here???
There’s all the goodness of Lee and Gideon, there’s the wonderful writing that gives us such an amazing sense of place, and some sobering observations from the murder victim as he wearily reflects on the war he fought and the culture of hate that follows: “‘What was the use of it all, if you’re going to piss it away in hate and fear of every bloody thing that’s different from yourselves?’”
I’m so glad that there’s one more installment of this series on the way, but I’ll miss these guys when that’s over!!!
More Lee and Gideon wonderfulness.
Gideon and Lee are faced with the daunting prospect of managing Tamsyn’s developing talents - but get sidetracked when they’re drawn into trying to solve a long-ago murder. When the victim returns, using Lee as his conduit, Gideon must confront the disturbing events of the past as well as find a way to protect his little family’s future.
Ah...what’s not to like here???
There’s all the goodness of Lee and Gideon, there’s the wonderful writing that gives us such an amazing sense of place, and some sobering observations from the murder victim as he wearily reflects on the war he fought and the culture of hate that follows: “‘What was the use of it all, if you’re going to piss it away in hate and fear of every bloody thing that’s different from yourselves?’”
I’m so glad that there’s one more installment of this series on the way, but I’ll miss these guys when that’s over!!!
August 11, 2018
Another good story about favourite paranormal duo, Lee and Gideon Tyack-Frayne.
A 60 yr old body is found in a shallow grave and at first it is only a passing case for Gideon. But ultimately Lee’s talents allow the mans tale to be told - forbidden love, a broke heart, literal as well as metaphorical and an odd ritual.
Throughout this story, Lee and Gideon also discover how Tamsyn’s powers are manifesting.
Gently intertwining the stories but with an element of potential disquiet as children’s powers look to be exploited so Tamsyn’s future could be a worry.
The last hours of the man in the field are shown by a Lee possession - though the end of that is disquieting.
The family continues to grow strong. Zeke gets more page time.
And plans are tentatively made and then elements immediately appear, so those tingly spidey senses are working strongly.
A 60 yr old body is found in a shallow grave and at first it is only a passing case for Gideon. But ultimately Lee’s talents allow the mans tale to be told - forbidden love, a broke heart, literal as well as metaphorical and an odd ritual.
Throughout this story, Lee and Gideon also discover how Tamsyn’s powers are manifesting.
Gently intertwining the stories but with an element of potential disquiet as children’s powers look to be exploited so Tamsyn’s future could be a worry.
The last hours of the man in the field are shown by a Lee possession - though the end of that is disquieting.
The family continues to grow strong. Zeke gets more page time.
And plans are tentatively made and then elements immediately appear, so those tingly spidey senses are working strongly.
May 12, 2018
It's Beltane in Dark and a old skeleton is found at the foot of one of the nearby standing stones. Not so much a police I investigation as Lee reveals the name of the victim and the locals name the cover as responsible for his death some 60 years before.
What unwinds is the sad story of a dying man whose last day sees him as the May King and whose death is given freely as a sacrifice to the land.
Gideon and Lee are also worried about Tamsyn, whose powers are growing and decisions need to be taken about her future and keeping her safe.
I like this series which though contemporary in setting is paranormal but sticks to the old traditions of Cornwall and some pagan rights and rituals.
I just wish each novella was longer and more detailed
What unwinds is the sad story of a dying man whose last day sees him as the May King and whose death is given freely as a sacrifice to the land.
Gideon and Lee are also worried about Tamsyn, whose powers are growing and decisions need to be taken about her future and keeping her safe.
I like this series which though contemporary in setting is paranormal but sticks to the old traditions of Cornwall and some pagan rights and rituals.
I just wish each novella was longer and more detailed
June 20, 2018
I had a much harder time getting into this one.
While I love the idea of Gideon being the Guardian of dark, I do not like the way he is also the beast.
I thought I didn't like the way Tamsie was developing but by the end I changed my mind and am looking forward to seeing her develop more.
I know I did not like the whole school idea of gifted children. I prefer the spooky stuff to be limited to the Tyack & Frayne families.
I did love the whole mystery with Clem, that had me in tears.
So overall not my favorite story but still entertaining enough and it's set me up for the next book.
While I love the idea of Gideon being the Guardian of dark, I do not like the way he is also the beast.
I thought I didn't like the way Tamsie was developing but by the end I changed my mind and am looking forward to seeing her develop more.
I know I did not like the whole school idea of gifted children. I prefer the spooky stuff to be limited to the Tyack & Frayne families.
I did love the whole mystery with Clem, that had me in tears.
So overall not my favorite story but still entertaining enough and it's set me up for the next book.
April 4, 2024
DNF @ 50%. Ok I think this is a me issue. I adored book 1-7 but I listened to them on audio. I loved the plot and romance so much but I think trying to read 8-12 as an ebook just doesn’t give me the same feeling. I think I have to just leave this as a 7 book series in my head and DNF the rest. Maybe I’ll try again one day but for now I just can’t. I think a major issue is that the plot is getting so much more paranormal and it’s so confusing what the author is doing. And I honestly think it was always a bit wonky but the narrator did such a good job with it I was able to move past it. But without the narrator it’s just hard to move past.
May 4, 2018
Another strong entry in this wonderful series. Less trippy than its predecessor, also less overtly political. The book's "mystery" is basically solved single-handedly by Lee's psychic abilities, but it's more satisfying to see his marriage with Gideon continue to evolve, and revisit old friends including Zeke, Sarah, DI Lawrence (who has a surprising revelation), Isolde the wonder dog, and of course Tamsyn. I wonder how long Fox plans to continue this series but I hope we'll see Tamsyn as a teenager and/or a young woman in love, taking care of her aging but still loving dads.
May 13, 2018
Man, this series just grabs a hold of you and takes you for a ride. Lee, Gideon, and Tamsyn are all changing and evolving into the roles that seemed to be ordained for them. Tamsyn's power hasn't abated and is getting harder to keep hidden. Thankfully the townsfolk of Dark love her and her dads and are trying to do their parts. Thank goodness both of them have strengths to protect her. But a new, powerful, and earthly threat was revealed in this book, and I can't help but worry about what it means for this little girl and her dads in future books.
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