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Blyd and Pearce
Born into poverty and orphaned young, Daveth Blyd had one chance for success when his fighting prowess earned him a place in the Tangye city guard—a place he lost to false accusations of theft. Now he scrapes out a living searching for wayward spouses and missing children. When a nobleman offers him a small fortune to find an entertainer who’s stolen a ring, Daveth takes the case.
While Jory Pearce may or may not be a thief, he certainly can’t be trusted. But, enchanted by Jory’s beauty and haunting voice, Daveth soon finds himself caught in the middle of a conspiracy. As he searches desperately for answers, he realizes that he’s also falling for Jory. The two men face river wraiths, assassins, a necromancer, and a talking head that could be Daveth’s salvation on their quest for the truth. But with everyone’s integrity in question and Death eager to dance, Daveth will need more than sorcery to survive.
While Jory Pearce may or may not be a thief, he certainly can’t be trusted. But, enchanted by Jory’s beauty and haunting voice, Daveth soon finds himself caught in the middle of a conspiracy. As he searches desperately for answers, he realizes that he’s also falling for Jory. The two men face river wraiths, assassins, a necromancer, and a talking head that could be Daveth’s salvation on their quest for the truth. But with everyone’s integrity in question and Death eager to dance, Daveth will need more than sorcery to survive.
210 pages, Paperback
First published July 24, 2018
38 people are currently reading
453 people want to read
About the author
Kim Fielding
179 books1,299 followersKim Fielding lives in Oregon and travels as often as she can manage. A professor by day, at night she rushes into a phone booth to change into her author costume (which involves comfy clothes instead of Spandex and is, sadly, lacking a cape). Her superpowers include the ability to write nearly anywhere, often while simultaneously doling out assistance to her family. Her favorite word to describe herself is "eclectic" and she finally got that seventh tattoo.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
August 15, 2018
~3.5~
Kim Fielding is a strong writer with a flair for world building. Without telling us much, she shows us Tangye: the dark political underbelly, the wealthy ruling the poor, a prince hiding in his castle, the stench of the barracks, bloated bodies floating ashore, orphaned children willing to do anything for a coin.
Tangye is a dangerous city, a city that shows no mercy. Daveth knows it well. He was born and raised in the Low, clawing his way to a favored position in the royal guard only to lose it. Daveth finds things and people for a living. He trusts no one.
When Daveth is hired to find a beautiful entertainer and whore named Jory Pearce who supposedly stole an heirloom ring from a very rich man, he has no idea what he's getting into. Jory is no thief, but he's hiding something.
Told entirely from Daveth's first-person POV, Blyd and Pearce is first and foremost a novel of crime and suspense; it is not a romance in the traditional sense. The novel has a distinct medieval noir feel with an added element of magic (there are wizards and spells).
The plot weaves in and out as we navigate the city with Jory and Daveth, because Daveth can't let Jory go to a certain death. Jory doesn't share much of himself and while the men become lovers, the romance plays second fiddle to the mystery. Indeed, as the men's pasts and presents collide, it becomes obvious the missing ring is but one piece in an intricate puzzle of intrigue, betrayal, and revenge.
There's some steam, moments of love and possession, but the ending, in true noir fashion, leaves us with more questions than answers. The men are together, but the future is uncertain.
My rating reflects my subjective preference for sweet romance, which this book certainly isn't. I can't fault the writing or character development, but I didn't feel connected to the MCs or their relationship. Fans of mystery novels are sure to enjoy this one more than I did.
Kim Fielding is a strong writer with a flair for world building. Without telling us much, she shows us Tangye: the dark political underbelly, the wealthy ruling the poor, a prince hiding in his castle, the stench of the barracks, bloated bodies floating ashore, orphaned children willing to do anything for a coin.
Tangye is a dangerous city, a city that shows no mercy. Daveth knows it well. He was born and raised in the Low, clawing his way to a favored position in the royal guard only to lose it. Daveth finds things and people for a living. He trusts no one.
When Daveth is hired to find a beautiful entertainer and whore named Jory Pearce who supposedly stole an heirloom ring from a very rich man, he has no idea what he's getting into. Jory is no thief, but he's hiding something.
Told entirely from Daveth's first-person POV, Blyd and Pearce is first and foremost a novel of crime and suspense; it is not a romance in the traditional sense. The novel has a distinct medieval noir feel with an added element of magic (there are wizards and spells).
The plot weaves in and out as we navigate the city with Jory and Daveth, because Daveth can't let Jory go to a certain death. Jory doesn't share much of himself and while the men become lovers, the romance plays second fiddle to the mystery. Indeed, as the men's pasts and presents collide, it becomes obvious the missing ring is but one piece in an intricate puzzle of intrigue, betrayal, and revenge.
There's some steam, moments of love and possession, but the ending, in true noir fashion, leaves us with more questions than answers. The men are together, but the future is uncertain.
My rating reflects my subjective preference for sweet romance, which this book certainly isn't. I can't fault the writing or character development, but I didn't feel connected to the MCs or their relationship. Fans of mystery novels are sure to enjoy this one more than I did.
Read
June 25, 2018Spec fic and noir are two of my favorite genres, and in this story I had a wonderful time with them both. It was such fun thinking about how to mix familiar private eye tropes into a medieval fantasy setting! Of course we have an enchanting and potentially dangerous homme fatal, and our poor jaded detective doesn't know whom he can trust. I hope you enjoy reading as much as I enjoyed writing!
August 26, 2018
An amazing world with characters so real I felt like I could talk with them.
I hope there will be a sequel.
I hope there will be a sequel.
July 28, 2018
3.5 Stars
Kim fielding weaves a tale of intrigue and magic. Of the disparity between the rich and the poor. Of desperation and perseverance. She shows us a world of an another time and a different place. A place where horses are mythical creatures ...
Even still, some things never change. People are often greedy and backstabby and petty.
Daveth Blyd doesn't have expectations or aspirations. Hasn't always been the case, though. Born and raised in Low, the son of a whore, Daveth has rarely known anything else. He briefly experienced a different life when he proved himself worthy of being a City Guard - though no matter his skills, there were those that never felt him worthy and framed him for a crime that could have cost him his life.
Jory Pearce is not exactly what he seems. Beautiful, with the looks and voice of an angel, Jory sings for his supper, an occasionally sells more than just his voice. Jory's a mystery that Daveth needs to solve. He's wanted for thieving, but something isn't right with that story.
Both men are caught up in intrigue that neither of them understand but need to get to the bottom of and they only have each other to trust. At least as much as either can trust the other.
I enjoyed the story and the writing and the connection that was apparent between Daveth and Jory. I found the mystery entertaining, full of twists and turns...and wraiths and witches...and I could not wait to find out the truth of what really happened.
The ending was kind of an odd thing, but I felt it fit the, already quirky, story. I would definitely recommend Blyd and Pearce to those who, like me, enjoy a quirky, twisty mystery with a side of light romance.
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ARC of Blyd and Pearce was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
Kim fielding weaves a tale of intrigue and magic. Of the disparity between the rich and the poor. Of desperation and perseverance. She shows us a world of an another time and a different place. A place where horses are mythical creatures ...
"And you fascinate me—I’ve never met anyone like you. I don’t think anyone like you exists. You’re a mythical creature, like a horse. Can you imagine a large animal that allows people to ride on it and lead it around?”
Even still, some things never change. People are often greedy and backstabby and petty.
Daveth Blyd doesn't have expectations or aspirations. Hasn't always been the case, though. Born and raised in Low, the son of a whore, Daveth has rarely known anything else. He briefly experienced a different life when he proved himself worthy of being a City Guard - though no matter his skills, there were those that never felt him worthy and framed him for a crime that could have cost him his life.
Jory Pearce is not exactly what he seems. Beautiful, with the looks and voice of an angel, Jory sings for his supper, an occasionally sells more than just his voice. Jory's a mystery that Daveth needs to solve. He's wanted for thieving, but something isn't right with that story.
Both men are caught up in intrigue that neither of them understand but need to get to the bottom of and they only have each other to trust. At least as much as either can trust the other.
I enjoyed the story and the writing and the connection that was apparent between Daveth and Jory. I found the mystery entertaining, full of twists and turns...and wraiths and witches...and I could not wait to find out the truth of what really happened.
The ending was kind of an odd thing, but I felt it fit the, already quirky, story. I would definitely recommend Blyd and Pearce to those who, like me, enjoy a quirky, twisty mystery with a side of light romance.
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ARC of Blyd and Pearce was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
August 24, 2018
Solid Fielding. There is no cliffhanger but the ending is open for more adventures, I look forward to them.
I’d never held any dreams except joining the guard. And I’d always wondered what it would be like to hold them. Were they like a star in the darkness, lending a bit of light? Or like a mirage, always disappearing when you reached for them?
I’d never held any dreams except joining the guard. And I’d always wondered what it would be like to hold them. Were they like a star in the darkness, lending a bit of light? Or like a mirage, always disappearing when you reached for them?
July 24, 2018
I think I’ve forgotten how much I enjoy it when Kim Fielding decides to do fantasy stories. Which I really shouldn’t, because all the ones I have read have turned out really well.
This newest addition to her fantasy catalog is an enthralling romp through the underbelly of the city of Tangye, where death is commonplace and there is very little that can’t be bought. Except maybe Daveth Blyd, a Lowler turned Guard turned Lowler detective for hire. Not that Daveth is adverse to taking coin, but he prefers that the coin he does take not cost him what little honor he has left. So he looks for missing spouses, cheating spouses, children who are lost, and what little jobs can keep him in the luxury he has long become accustomed–a luxury of food in his stomach (most of the time) and a roof over his head (as long as he can scrape together the rent each month). When a nobleman comes knocking, offering more money than he has seen in some time, to find a missing ring–and return both it and the thief to the man–he is cautious…but hungry. He does not plan to truly fall into the shit when he sets his sights on the singer and theif, Jory Pearce, though. And now he is left unsure where to go, or who to trust, when he starts to be haunted by assassins, wizards, and…well, actual ghosts.
I’m seriously not sure what to say about this book other than is was a whole ball of fun. You have back-alley brawls, sword-fights, double-dealing, falling in love with beautiful untruthful men, and a whole lot of intrigue and murder. I can’t say I was bored for a second of it.
Like Daveth you are never sure you can trust anyone, but slowly but surely Jory wins both of you over. He just has one of those personalities that makes you want him to be a good guy, because while him turning traitor would be a wonderful twist, it would also break your heart. And the story is played out in such a way that betrayal is inevitable, but you are never quite sure where it is going to come from. This is much bigger than stolen ring, after all, and as the story unfolds you start to see just how challenging a good ending–let alone a happily ever after–really is. But boy do you want it. It doesn’t come exactly the way you think it will, though–which I actually really loved, for the novelty if nothing else–but the ending is satisfying in a way I hadn’t expected.
There is a lot of really good things to say about this book. Half of them are spoilers, though. Which…dammit. That is annoying. I can say that the pacing was very well done. I didn’t want to set this book down for a second. Which made the fact that I literally had to get off the bus and go into work like three lines before the Big Reveal near the end so painful. I spent nine hours just desperately waiting for the clock to kick over to 5 so I could finish the book, and let me tell you…it was worth it. It left me a tad sad, but also really happy. You’ll understand after you read the story, trust me. It certainly didn’t always go where I was thinking it should, but I think it did go where it needed to. And, hey, if there is ever a chance for a sequel to show what happens after that last chapter, I’d be all over that. But for where it left off for Daveth and Jory? I’m satisfied. For now.
As it stands, I’m happy to have read this. It was a lovely story, that was at times a bit bleak, but always hopeful enough to keep you hoping and keep you reading. If you have read some of Fielding’s other fantasy book, I think this will be right up you alley, but honestly I think this is something to please most fantasy lovers out there.
4.5 stars
This book was provided 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.
This newest addition to her fantasy catalog is an enthralling romp through the underbelly of the city of Tangye, where death is commonplace and there is very little that can’t be bought. Except maybe Daveth Blyd, a Lowler turned Guard turned Lowler detective for hire. Not that Daveth is adverse to taking coin, but he prefers that the coin he does take not cost him what little honor he has left. So he looks for missing spouses, cheating spouses, children who are lost, and what little jobs can keep him in the luxury he has long become accustomed–a luxury of food in his stomach (most of the time) and a roof over his head (as long as he can scrape together the rent each month). When a nobleman comes knocking, offering more money than he has seen in some time, to find a missing ring–and return both it and the thief to the man–he is cautious…but hungry. He does not plan to truly fall into the shit when he sets his sights on the singer and theif, Jory Pearce, though. And now he is left unsure where to go, or who to trust, when he starts to be haunted by assassins, wizards, and…well, actual ghosts.
I’m seriously not sure what to say about this book other than is was a whole ball of fun. You have back-alley brawls, sword-fights, double-dealing, falling in love with beautiful untruthful men, and a whole lot of intrigue and murder. I can’t say I was bored for a second of it.
Like Daveth you are never sure you can trust anyone, but slowly but surely Jory wins both of you over. He just has one of those personalities that makes you want him to be a good guy, because while him turning traitor would be a wonderful twist, it would also break your heart. And the story is played out in such a way that betrayal is inevitable, but you are never quite sure where it is going to come from. This is much bigger than stolen ring, after all, and as the story unfolds you start to see just how challenging a good ending–let alone a happily ever after–really is. But boy do you want it. It doesn’t come exactly the way you think it will, though–which I actually really loved, for the novelty if nothing else–but the ending is satisfying in a way I hadn’t expected.
There is a lot of really good things to say about this book. Half of them are spoilers, though. Which…dammit. That is annoying. I can say that the pacing was very well done. I didn’t want to set this book down for a second. Which made the fact that I literally had to get off the bus and go into work like three lines before the Big Reveal near the end so painful. I spent nine hours just desperately waiting for the clock to kick over to 5 so I could finish the book, and let me tell you…it was worth it. It left me a tad sad, but also really happy. You’ll understand after you read the story, trust me. It certainly didn’t always go where I was thinking it should, but I think it did go where it needed to. And, hey, if there is ever a chance for a sequel to show what happens after that last chapter, I’d be all over that. But for where it left off for Daveth and Jory? I’m satisfied. For now.
As it stands, I’m happy to have read this. It was a lovely story, that was at times a bit bleak, but always hopeful enough to keep you hoping and keep you reading. If you have read some of Fielding’s other fantasy book, I think this will be right up you alley, but honestly I think this is something to please most fantasy lovers out there.
4.5 stars
This book was provided 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.
August 28, 2018
Although well written and edited, I didn’t care about either protagonist in the first half of the book. The world building was quite good, but the pacing was slow and the focus just felt “off”. Even depressing. It picked up in the second half, the plot was clever, but I never quite warmed up to Blyd or Pearce. This will never be one of my favorite Fielding stories.
July 24, 2018
**4.5 stars**
I loved this fantasy adventure from the very creative mind of Kim Fielding and found it very difficult to put down once I became swept up into the adventures of this very unlikely—yet ultimately perfect for each other—couple.
Daveth Blyd has lived on the streets in the section of town known as the Low for most of his life. Poverty is a step up for Daveth and others in the Low. When he had a chance, he managed to earn a place in the Tangye city guard, though it wasn’t long before an accusation of theft cost him his job and his reputation. He’s now a PI, searching for missing children and wayward spouses.
Blyd meets Jory Pearce when he’s hired by Lord Uren to locate a family heirloom ring that Jory apparently stole. Jory is an entertainer—of various sorts. He’s a singer, an actor, and a whore. He’s also a thief, as he does indeed have the ring, but he’s got a story to tell that turns the whole search for the truth upside down. The good guys aren’t so good and the bad guys aren’t so bad. The story is an amazing, complex, entertaining adventure that I highly recommend.
One of my favorite scenes in the story took place in a very serious moment, when the men were attempting to warn Prince Clesek about a plot to assassinate him. Ms. Fielding added a scene outside the castle that completely cracked me up. Was her subtle message to not take life too seriously? I don’t know, but I do know it’s one of the reasons I love her work. She does inject humor in situations where characters are starting to get full of themselves, or at times when readers need a break from the tension. In this case, the timing was perfect.
The main reason this didn’t hit five stars for me (only 4.5) is that I didn’t enjoy the dynamic between Blyd and Pearce, at first, as much as I did between some of her other fantasy characters like Ennek and Miner. I went into this story with high expectations—and that’s the author’s fault because she is so highly talented and has already given us memorable fantasies—including the Ennek Trilogy (Stasis, Flux, Equipoise) and Brute. There’s not as much romance—one on one couple time—in this as I thought there’d be. But it’s a slow-build, forever MM partnership that ends on a note that leads me to believe we will see more of these men in the future. And if or when we do, I will be first in line to read more of their adventures.
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
I loved this fantasy adventure from the very creative mind of Kim Fielding and found it very difficult to put down once I became swept up into the adventures of this very unlikely—yet ultimately perfect for each other—couple.
Daveth Blyd has lived on the streets in the section of town known as the Low for most of his life. Poverty is a step up for Daveth and others in the Low. When he had a chance, he managed to earn a place in the Tangye city guard, though it wasn’t long before an accusation of theft cost him his job and his reputation. He’s now a PI, searching for missing children and wayward spouses.
Blyd meets Jory Pearce when he’s hired by Lord Uren to locate a family heirloom ring that Jory apparently stole. Jory is an entertainer—of various sorts. He’s a singer, an actor, and a whore. He’s also a thief, as he does indeed have the ring, but he’s got a story to tell that turns the whole search for the truth upside down. The good guys aren’t so good and the bad guys aren’t so bad. The story is an amazing, complex, entertaining adventure that I highly recommend.
One of my favorite scenes in the story took place in a very serious moment, when the men were attempting to warn Prince Clesek about a plot to assassinate him. Ms. Fielding added a scene outside the castle that completely cracked me up. Was her subtle message to not take life too seriously? I don’t know, but I do know it’s one of the reasons I love her work. She does inject humor in situations where characters are starting to get full of themselves, or at times when readers need a break from the tension. In this case, the timing was perfect.
The main reason this didn’t hit five stars for me (only 4.5) is that I didn’t enjoy the dynamic between Blyd and Pearce, at first, as much as I did between some of her other fantasy characters like Ennek and Miner. I went into this story with high expectations—and that’s the author’s fault because she is so highly talented and has already given us memorable fantasies—including the Ennek Trilogy (Stasis, Flux, Equipoise) and Brute. There’s not as much romance—one on one couple time—in this as I thought there’d be. But it’s a slow-build, forever MM partnership that ends on a note that leads me to believe we will see more of these men in the future. And if or when we do, I will be first in line to read more of their adventures.
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
July 25, 2018
4.25 stars
For Daveth Blyd, it starts with a case of a missing ring, claimed to has been stolen from a Lord by a singer who also provides more ‘sexual’ entertainment. The Lord gives quite sum of payment to Blyd; his task is to return the ring and at the same time to bring the thief to the Lord. However, not long after Blyd finds the thief – Jory Pearce – people seem to want to kill them instead. Who the hell is this Jory Pearce, anyway?
Kim Fielding is back with a speculative fiction, mystery noir, in a medieval fantasy setting. It’s like she writes this book to fulfill my heart’s content. I LOVE reading mystery noir – a private eye who meets a femme fatale, then gets involved in dangerous business while also falling in love with her.
Blyd and Pearce has exactly that – with homme fatale instead of femme *grin* – but because of the fantasy setting, we also encounter wraiths, necromancers, magic spells, in addition to plain ole’ sword fights. IT’S EXCITING, I tell you!! The world that Fielding writes is vivid and colorful complete with the rich, the poor, the outcasts… I found myself easily fallen into this tale. I gobbled up the pages, hungry for the revelation of the sinister plan that Blyd and Pearce were stumbled into.
However, if you are looking for strong romantic flair, I’m not sure this book provides it. Yes, there’s a tender relationship growing between Blyd and Jory, but I can’t really say that it’s prominent, compared to intrigue surrounding the two. I also wasn’t fully satisfied with the ending; it felt rather open, a happy-for-now rather than happily-ever-after *pout*.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
For Daveth Blyd, it starts with a case of a missing ring, claimed to has been stolen from a Lord by a singer who also provides more ‘sexual’ entertainment. The Lord gives quite sum of payment to Blyd; his task is to return the ring and at the same time to bring the thief to the Lord. However, not long after Blyd finds the thief – Jory Pearce – people seem to want to kill them instead. Who the hell is this Jory Pearce, anyway?
“Lead me in this dance, Jory.
Kim Fielding is back with a speculative fiction, mystery noir, in a medieval fantasy setting. It’s like she writes this book to fulfill my heart’s content. I LOVE reading mystery noir – a private eye who meets a femme fatale, then gets involved in dangerous business while also falling in love with her.
Blyd and Pearce has exactly that – with homme fatale instead of femme *grin* – but because of the fantasy setting, we also encounter wraiths, necromancers, magic spells, in addition to plain ole’ sword fights. IT’S EXCITING, I tell you!! The world that Fielding writes is vivid and colorful complete with the rich, the poor, the outcasts… I found myself easily fallen into this tale. I gobbled up the pages, hungry for the revelation of the sinister plan that Blyd and Pearce were stumbled into.
However, if you are looking for strong romantic flair, I’m not sure this book provides it. Yes, there’s a tender relationship growing between Blyd and Jory, but I can’t really say that it’s prominent, compared to intrigue surrounding the two. I also wasn’t fully satisfied with the ending; it felt rather open, a happy-for-now rather than happily-ever-after *pout*.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
September 16, 2018
A noir detective story set in a medieval fantasy world where magic, gender and sexual fluidity are commonplace. Moody and engaging characters as well as social commentary lends a gritty feel to this story.
Sharply written dialogue and just enough twists and turns make for an excellent read.
I hope there’s more of Blyd and Pearce to come as Kim Fielding gave use a solid HFN with room to expand the story.
4.5 stars rounded up and highly recommend
Sharply written dialogue and just enough twists and turns make for an excellent read.
I hope there’s more of Blyd and Pearce to come as Kim Fielding gave use a solid HFN with room to expand the story.
4.5 stars rounded up and highly recommend
October 3, 2018
4.5 Stars
Blyd and Pearce is a lot of things; it’s a tale set in an alternate universe with a medieval noir feel with MC’s I am completely smitten with, it’s an action packed mystery with a healthy side of romance and it’s everything I want in a fantasy.
Once I started, I didn’t want to put it down even though I did drag out the last 20% or so just because I wanted it to last longer. I can only hope this is the start of a series because Daveth and Jory have a lot more stories to tell and I feel like we are just at the beginning of their relationship. Which, to be fair, they’ve been on the run from evil Lords, unscrupulous guards and river wraiths, so the getting-to-know-you phase of their love was a bit harried and I want more of it.
Daveth is one of the best characters I’ve read in a long time. I was completely charmed by his dry wit and sage wisdom. He has virtually no education besides what he has learned so he could survive in the Low and support himself. He has no illusions about himself. He knows his strengths and his weaknesses and he’s incredibly pragmatic about everything. He has to be in order to get by. But, that’s pretty much all he’s been doing his whole life, surviving and getting by. And he’s ok with that.
Then Lord Uren comes to him requesting his professional skills as a gothic private investigator. Lord Uren hires Daveth to recover a “stolen” ring. The Lord gives him plenty of clues to work with and is generous with payment. It sounds like an easy gig until Daveth tracks down the perpetrator of the alleged crime in one Jory Pearce, a singer and possible whore with the face of an angel. Daveth is a smitten kitten from the get-go and once the two started with the banter it was obvious that there was much more to the story than a stolen ring. Daveth is not overly thrilled with this easy mark turning into an adventure for the ages, but he’s with Jory and it’s not long before Daveth would do anything for the man. And vice versa.
The mystery is fun. The fantastical beasts even more so. The author is a master at showing and not telling with the world building and while it is an entirely new environment, it’s easy to get immersed and not at all overwhelming. The city is a character in itself and the social structure is fascinating to read about.
What hooked me though was Daveth and Jory. They are on the run and in danger for much of the story, so if you are heavily into more traditional romance, this will be a bit frustrating for you. To me though, the danger element made the stolen moments between the two of them more special. The time they did have was actually incredibly romantic because it read so real. They knew there was a good chance they wouldn’t make it out of this nonsense alive so they appreciated their time together and didn’t bother with any manufactured angst.
Daveth was a man who couldn’t deceive anyone, it wasn’t his nature and it wasn’t a “skill” he ever needed for survival. He was honest to a fault, but people respected him for it and his blunt delivery of information ended up being pretty funny a lot of times. Jory on the other hand, survived, after being disowned by his family, by being able to play the game. Daveth never judged anyone for what they had to do to get by and Jory wasn’t really sure how to process that reaction to his professions. It also meant that Daveth didn’t trust Jory 100% and they both knew it. Jory owned his faults just as much as Daveth did, and while I don’t doubt Jory wouldn’t hesitate to lie, cheat or steal if his life depended on it, I never doubted his devotion to Daveth and completely bought into the idea that Jory would sacrifice himself for Daveth in a heartbeat.
I really can’t gush enough about the two of them together. Daveth really didn’t understand his true worth or appeal. Like, he honestly didn’t get it. But Jory was just as much a smitten kitten as Daveth was and I just swooned with how Jory loved Daveth so hard. He said the sweetest things and without any flowery speech (Daveth wouldn’t appreciate that) it made me believe every word. Especially knowing that Jory could flower it up to hell and back if he had to, but he didn’t for Daveth, he just spoke his truth and I loved it. In turn Daveth saw Jory as brave, smart and strong, words that had never been used to describe Jory in the past, but Daveth saw it and made sure Jory knew.
*SIGH*
While I do love me some cracky fluff, I really appreciate the stories that are more accidentally, or honestly romantic and Blyd and Pearce had that for me. Plus all the fantasy and adventure were a total kick, so this story will be a reread for me for sure. I’ll drop this not-so-subtle request one more time, I really hope there are more Blyd and Pearce books coming, that would make me one happy Peach.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
Blyd and Pearce is a lot of things; it’s a tale set in an alternate universe with a medieval noir feel with MC’s I am completely smitten with, it’s an action packed mystery with a healthy side of romance and it’s everything I want in a fantasy.
Once I started, I didn’t want to put it down even though I did drag out the last 20% or so just because I wanted it to last longer. I can only hope this is the start of a series because Daveth and Jory have a lot more stories to tell and I feel like we are just at the beginning of their relationship. Which, to be fair, they’ve been on the run from evil Lords, unscrupulous guards and river wraiths, so the getting-to-know-you phase of their love was a bit harried and I want more of it.
Daveth is one of the best characters I’ve read in a long time. I was completely charmed by his dry wit and sage wisdom. He has virtually no education besides what he has learned so he could survive in the Low and support himself. He has no illusions about himself. He knows his strengths and his weaknesses and he’s incredibly pragmatic about everything. He has to be in order to get by. But, that’s pretty much all he’s been doing his whole life, surviving and getting by. And he’s ok with that.
Then Lord Uren comes to him requesting his professional skills as a gothic private investigator. Lord Uren hires Daveth to recover a “stolen” ring. The Lord gives him plenty of clues to work with and is generous with payment. It sounds like an easy gig until Daveth tracks down the perpetrator of the alleged crime in one Jory Pearce, a singer and possible whore with the face of an angel. Daveth is a smitten kitten from the get-go and once the two started with the banter it was obvious that there was much more to the story than a stolen ring. Daveth is not overly thrilled with this easy mark turning into an adventure for the ages, but he’s with Jory and it’s not long before Daveth would do anything for the man. And vice versa.
The mystery is fun. The fantastical beasts even more so. The author is a master at showing and not telling with the world building and while it is an entirely new environment, it’s easy to get immersed and not at all overwhelming. The city is a character in itself and the social structure is fascinating to read about.
What hooked me though was Daveth and Jory. They are on the run and in danger for much of the story, so if you are heavily into more traditional romance, this will be a bit frustrating for you. To me though, the danger element made the stolen moments between the two of them more special. The time they did have was actually incredibly romantic because it read so real. They knew there was a good chance they wouldn’t make it out of this nonsense alive so they appreciated their time together and didn’t bother with any manufactured angst.
Daveth was a man who couldn’t deceive anyone, it wasn’t his nature and it wasn’t a “skill” he ever needed for survival. He was honest to a fault, but people respected him for it and his blunt delivery of information ended up being pretty funny a lot of times. Jory on the other hand, survived, after being disowned by his family, by being able to play the game. Daveth never judged anyone for what they had to do to get by and Jory wasn’t really sure how to process that reaction to his professions. It also meant that Daveth didn’t trust Jory 100% and they both knew it. Jory owned his faults just as much as Daveth did, and while I don’t doubt Jory wouldn’t hesitate to lie, cheat or steal if his life depended on it, I never doubted his devotion to Daveth and completely bought into the idea that Jory would sacrifice himself for Daveth in a heartbeat.
I really can’t gush enough about the two of them together. Daveth really didn’t understand his true worth or appeal. Like, he honestly didn’t get it. But Jory was just as much a smitten kitten as Daveth was and I just swooned with how Jory loved Daveth so hard. He said the sweetest things and without any flowery speech (Daveth wouldn’t appreciate that) it made me believe every word. Especially knowing that Jory could flower it up to hell and back if he had to, but he didn’t for Daveth, he just spoke his truth and I loved it. In turn Daveth saw Jory as brave, smart and strong, words that had never been used to describe Jory in the past, but Daveth saw it and made sure Jory knew.
*SIGH*
While I do love me some cracky fluff, I really appreciate the stories that are more accidentally, or honestly romantic and Blyd and Pearce had that for me. Plus all the fantasy and adventure were a total kick, so this story will be a reread for me for sure. I’ll drop this not-so-subtle request one more time, I really hope there are more Blyd and Pearce books coming, that would make me one happy Peach.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
July 31, 2018
Born into poverty and orphaned young, Daveth Blyd had one chance for success when his fighting prowess earned him a place in the Tangye city guard—a place he lost to false accusations of theft. Now he scrapes out a living searching for wayward spouses and missing children. When a nobleman offers him a small fortune to find an entertainer who’s stolen a ring, Daveth takes the case.
While Jory Pearce may or may not be a thief, he certainly can’t be trusted. But, enchanted by Jory’s beauty and haunting voice, Daveth soon finds himself caught in the middle of a conspiracy. As he searches desperately for answers, he realizes that he’s also falling for Jory. The two men face river wraiths, assassins, a necromancer, and a talking head that could be Daveth’s salvation on their quest for the truth. But with everyone’s integrity in question and Death eager to dance, Daveth will need more than sorcery to survive.
Review.
I expected this book to work much better for me than it actually did unfortunately. It has all the components that I am looking in the book with m/m romance in it. The guys participate in the actual adventure storyline, there is an actual mystery involved, there is a new world I could have gotten super excited about and there is a building romance amongst all the action. It sounded as a perfect book for me and it is nicely written.
However if I were to sum up my impressions, MEH is the word I would use .
Jory and Daveth *sounded* as if they should be interesting characters, but I could not bring myself to care about them much or at all. Separately or together. Often enough I like the guys separately, but do not feel chemistry between them, in this book I just did not feel almost anything for them and their romance left me cold. Actually, scratch that, I did feel a little bit of chemistry closer to the end, when they were supposedly in most danger but then spark left as suddenly as it appeared.
World building was okay, but I think "been there, seen something similar many many times" applies here. Extreme division between poor and rich can be used very effectively to sharpen the characters' portrayals. Unfortunately all that ended up happening here was myself thinking why the heck did Daveth care so much about this city which cares so freaking little about him and other poor people? Yes I know we were meant to cheer for his patriotism no matter what. Alas, I thought he was a little bit of an idiot .
Jory, well, Jory was supposed to be someone who lies all the time I guess? Somebody for whom truth is difficult in his own words. However the ultimate truth for him seemed to be that he fell hard for Daveth and that truth he never ever betrayed (and once again per his own words did not plan to), so couple of small lies of his just felt inconsequential ( even the last one). I felt some kind of dissonance in his portrayal.
Last but not the least, I kid you not, I figured who the villain was right after their first appearance.
While Jory Pearce may or may not be a thief, he certainly can’t be trusted. But, enchanted by Jory’s beauty and haunting voice, Daveth soon finds himself caught in the middle of a conspiracy. As he searches desperately for answers, he realizes that he’s also falling for Jory. The two men face river wraiths, assassins, a necromancer, and a talking head that could be Daveth’s salvation on their quest for the truth. But with everyone’s integrity in question and Death eager to dance, Daveth will need more than sorcery to survive.
Review.
I expected this book to work much better for me than it actually did unfortunately. It has all the components that I am looking in the book with m/m romance in it. The guys participate in the actual adventure storyline, there is an actual mystery involved, there is a new world I could have gotten super excited about and there is a building romance amongst all the action. It sounded as a perfect book for me and it is nicely written.
However if I were to sum up my impressions, MEH is the word I would use .
Jory and Daveth *sounded* as if they should be interesting characters, but I could not bring myself to care about them much or at all. Separately or together. Often enough I like the guys separately, but do not feel chemistry between them, in this book I just did not feel almost anything for them and their romance left me cold. Actually, scratch that, I did feel a little bit of chemistry closer to the end, when they were supposedly in most danger but then spark left as suddenly as it appeared.
World building was okay, but I think "been there, seen something similar many many times" applies here. Extreme division between poor and rich can be used very effectively to sharpen the characters' portrayals. Unfortunately all that ended up happening here was myself thinking why the heck did Daveth care so much about this city which cares so freaking little about him and other poor people? Yes I know we were meant to cheer for his patriotism no matter what. Alas, I thought he was a little bit of an idiot .
Jory, well, Jory was supposed to be someone who lies all the time I guess? Somebody for whom truth is difficult in his own words. However the ultimate truth for him seemed to be that he fell hard for Daveth and that truth he never ever betrayed (and once again per his own words did not plan to), so couple of small lies of his just felt inconsequential ( even the last one). I felt some kind of dissonance in his portrayal.
Last but not the least, I kid you not, I figured who the villain was right after their first appearance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2019
Warning: this books is mystery-suspense, not a romance. However, the MCs are not skimming on hanky-panky at all and by the end of the book they are firmly in lust/love (luve?)
The ending is absolutely perfect, it left me smiling and hoping for book two :)
The ending is absolutely perfect, it left me smiling and hoping for book two :)
March 21, 2020
I’ll admit I’ve had this book on my list for awhile but have put it off. Based on the authors notes and some other reviewers I was expecting more of a film noir vibe, which I’m not a huge fan of... I love a good PI story but the I don’t like the style of film noir.
I didn’t need to be worried though because this was a typical Fielding historical paranormal/fantasy read, and as usual I fan-girled out a bit. I believe Fielding’s best work has always been her darker historicals, those are grade-A reads, and I was hoping this one made the list.
Unfortunately while I enjoyed good story I found myself skimming here and there because parts of the book dragged. And, as some of the other reviewers mentioned, there were a lot of moving parts that never really seemed to come together even though we did get the answers. In the end, the mystery was concluded, but I still felt very empty with the ending. While it’s definitely a hea, it wasn’t what we rooting for the entire time.
I know what makes it sound like I didn’t enjoy the story but in reality, besides the minor skims and the ending, I really love it.
Two, imo, broken men from the Lows. One, a low born whores son that’s got a heart of gold, but has never been able to count on anyone but himself. Another that once had everything and lost it on a gamble of love, he went from finery to selling his body and never seem to complain.
I love how while there may have still been trust issues, both Daveth and Jory never looked at each other as anything less than an angel. Daveth never saw a whore and Jory never saw low born scum.
Gah... Fielding seriously writes some of the best “real” men. They’re never perfect, they’re scarred and broken, and even when they have the appearance of perfect there is always something that’s keeps them real.
I am crossing my fingers for a sequel...
I didn’t need to be worried though because this was a typical Fielding historical paranormal/fantasy read, and as usual I fan-girled out a bit. I believe Fielding’s best work has always been her darker historicals, those are grade-A reads, and I was hoping this one made the list.
Unfortunately while I enjoyed good story I found myself skimming here and there because parts of the book dragged. And, as some of the other reviewers mentioned, there were a lot of moving parts that never really seemed to come together even though we did get the answers. In the end, the mystery was concluded, but I still felt very empty with the ending. While it’s definitely a hea, it wasn’t what we rooting for the entire time.
I know what makes it sound like I didn’t enjoy the story but in reality, besides the minor skims and the ending, I really love it.
Two, imo, broken men from the Lows. One, a low born whores son that’s got a heart of gold, but has never been able to count on anyone but himself. Another that once had everything and lost it on a gamble of love, he went from finery to selling his body and never seem to complain.
I love how while there may have still been trust issues, both Daveth and Jory never looked at each other as anything less than an angel. Daveth never saw a whore and Jory never saw low born scum.
Gah... Fielding seriously writes some of the best “real” men. They’re never perfect, they’re scarred and broken, and even when they have the appearance of perfect there is always something that’s keeps them real.
I am crossing my fingers for a sequel...
July 25, 2018
A wonderfully detailed and socially specific world is the setting for this fantasy thriller with a historical feel. The location is the city of Tangye, the kingdom’s capital, and its various quarters are separated by profession - or lack thereof for the poorest in this society. With a royal family, nobility, merchants, and working class strictly separated, this feudal society has many markers of our past. But there are also spells that are sold and replace technology, and wizards and witches are commonplace, putting it firmly into fantasy territory. I enjoyed this rich background with all its colors, scents, and flavors and getting to know the details was almost as much fun as following the main story.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
July 30, 2018
It started good but it somewhere lost me. lol It's a 3.5 stars from me.
Blyd and Pearce is a fantasy book with a mystery and lots of magic! What attracted me most was that there would be a talking head, which reminded me of Mimir from Norse mythology and I was expecting something like that but it wasn't. Instead we got wraiths and ghosts and necromancy!
The story is told by Daveth's POV who he is sent to find Jory Pearce and a ring that belonged to a rich man. Instead he is dragged into something much more complicated matter than he wanted. I really like Daveth and learning and seeing the city od Tangye and the history was very compelling and intriguing. On the other hand, Jory Pearce is an enigmatic person, doesn't tell us much. He is a singer and this is how Daveth finds him and gets "enchanted" by him and his voice.
They embark on a quest to retrieve the ring and find the people responsible.
The relationship between them, I personally, did not feel it. Maybe because it was only from Daveth's POV? Maybe we didn't get to know more about Jory? But I found it really forced, and it was literally as if Jory enchanted him and nothing else mattered. Some people may like it, since the story mostly is about the ring and other things happening, and maybe they saw something I didn't lol but that is only my opinion.
I recommend it, if only for the interesting world building and the mystery. :)
Blyd and Pearce is a fantasy book with a mystery and lots of magic! What attracted me most was that there would be a talking head, which reminded me of Mimir from Norse mythology and I was expecting something like that but it wasn't. Instead we got wraiths and ghosts and necromancy!
The story is told by Daveth's POV who he is sent to find Jory Pearce and a ring that belonged to a rich man. Instead he is dragged into something much more complicated matter than he wanted. I really like Daveth and learning and seeing the city od Tangye and the history was very compelling and intriguing. On the other hand, Jory Pearce is an enigmatic person, doesn't tell us much. He is a singer and this is how Daveth finds him and gets "enchanted" by him and his voice.
They embark on a quest to retrieve the ring and find the people responsible.
The relationship between them, I personally, did not feel it. Maybe because it was only from Daveth's POV? Maybe we didn't get to know more about Jory? But I found it really forced, and it was literally as if Jory enchanted him and nothing else mattered. Some people may like it, since the story mostly is about the ring and other things happening, and maybe they saw something I didn't lol but that is only my opinion.
I recommend it, if only for the interesting world building and the mystery. :)
December 10, 2018
I quite enjoyed this. I would say that the romance is more secondary, but I wouldn't count that as points against.
However, I do feel like the chemistry wasn't quite there. I was never really sold on Daveth's feelings for Jory being real or some sort of bewitching. He does say that Jory's singing was nothing special if you closed your eyes, yet Jory is lauded as an excellent singer in the city. And Daveth does wonder if it was some sort of spell, which I suppose we are just suppose to assume that the spell is true love, since at not point is it clarified that Jory doesn't have some kind of charmed item.
I also found the ending abrupt and not completely satisfied.
And one last thing that bothered me was the Finch. So, yeah... that has niggled at my mind.
However, I do feel like the chemistry wasn't quite there. I was never really sold on Daveth's feelings for Jory being real or some sort of bewitching. He does say that Jory's singing was nothing special if you closed your eyes, yet Jory is lauded as an excellent singer in the city. And Daveth does wonder if it was some sort of spell, which I suppose we are just suppose to assume that the spell is true love, since at not point is it clarified that Jory doesn't have some kind of charmed item.
I also found the ending abrupt and not completely satisfied.
And one last thing that bothered me was the Finch. So, yeah... that has niggled at my mind.
July 24, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
Blyd and Pearce is a period fantasy piece with a touch of magic, conspiracy, and intrigue. Told from Daveth’s point of view, Fielding sets the scene and the atmosphere that carries all the way through. Daveth is a man in his 40s and his life has been rough and everything has been a struggle. He’s been disappointed and disillusioned his entire life and he’s almost at peace with it. He knows he was set up while in the guard, but no one would believe a man like him and he never tried to clear his name.
Jory was born into a noble family, but after he was cast out, he used the only thing he could to survive: his body. He had a dream once of a man hearing him sing and immediately falling for him, but he hasn’t thought of that dream in a long time, until Daveth sits in his audience.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
Blyd and Pearce is a period fantasy piece with a touch of magic, conspiracy, and intrigue. Told from Daveth’s point of view, Fielding sets the scene and the atmosphere that carries all the way through. Daveth is a man in his 40s and his life has been rough and everything has been a struggle. He’s been disappointed and disillusioned his entire life and he’s almost at peace with it. He knows he was set up while in the guard, but no one would believe a man like him and he never tried to clear his name.
Jory was born into a noble family, but after he was cast out, he used the only thing he could to survive: his body. He had a dream once of a man hearing him sing and immediately falling for him, but he hasn’t thought of that dream in a long time, until Daveth sits in his audience.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
July 24, 2018
I really enjoyed this fantasy romp! It was gritty in just the right way with a romance I could get behind. Though I had my suspicions as to the perpetrators, the mystery was well done. There is tons of action and great characters. The sex is very light but it fit the story well.
I loved Davith and Jory as characters and together. They were well rounded and interesting with flaws and strengths. I really appreciated that Davith Blyd wasn’t a big strong man, but rather thin and awkward. He didn’t fit any stereotypes. Jory, though pretty and sweet voiced, had a ruthlessness and cunning about him.
The ending wasn’t what I expected but it was happy nonetheless. I had a hard time putting the book down and was happy/sad that it was finished - happy because of the ending sad because there was no more story.
I definitely recommend this to mm fantasy lovers.
September 30, 2024
Enjoyable story that is well written with likeable characters and good world building. The narration is very good as well.
September 17, 2022
they could have tried harder with the title, but the book is still a fairly good read. enjoyed the world-building and plot was a fairly fast one.
July 25, 2018
3.5
“Blyd and Pearce” is a fantasy-noir with Daveth Blyd positioned as the lowborn, gritty PI and Jory Pearce as the enigmatic singer and homme fatale. Blyd is tasked by Lord Uren to find Jory and bring him in for stealing a family heirloom. However, in the course of doing so, assassins attack them, and Blyd’s simple recovery case turns into a hellish and vast conspiracy. As Jory mostly only offers half-truths and tidbits, each avenue that Blyd uncovers for answers is soon blocked by a dead body (or two), and while Jory is seemingly the last man Daveth can trust, he is actually the only man he can trust.
While I enjoy fantasy, noir and Kim Fielding’s writing, this particular story was just ok for me. I just couldn’t connect to the characters or the story the way I usually can with her books. I liked Daveth, and felt like I got a true sense of his character, but not so much with Jory. This makes sense because he’s supposed to be a mystery to Daveth as well, but even in his moments of genuineness or filling in his sad backstory, it just never clicked for me. At one point, Jory talked about how nothing had mattered to him and this shadow of not quite being there seemed to follow him throughout most of the story. His beauty and voice are enchanting together, he is seductive, capable and seems to care about Daveth, but as a character, he feels more like a composite of notes and not fully fleshed out.
Additionally, I didn’t find the intrigue to be that intriguing, and some of the choices the characters’ made seemed to be only narrative devices to keep Daveth and Jory on the run. I don’t usually feel the authorial hand of contrivance much in the Fielding stories I have read, but it came across a bit heavily to me in this one. However, it is a Kim Fielding book, so as usual, at least in my experience, the setting, world-building and writing is good and she has yet to put out a bad story, which remains true with “Blyd and Pearce”. It may not be my favorite of her works, but it’s still worth a read.
“Blyd and Pearce” is a fantasy-noir with Daveth Blyd positioned as the lowborn, gritty PI and Jory Pearce as the enigmatic singer and homme fatale. Blyd is tasked by Lord Uren to find Jory and bring him in for stealing a family heirloom. However, in the course of doing so, assassins attack them, and Blyd’s simple recovery case turns into a hellish and vast conspiracy. As Jory mostly only offers half-truths and tidbits, each avenue that Blyd uncovers for answers is soon blocked by a dead body (or two), and while Jory is seemingly the last man Daveth can trust, he is actually the only man he can trust.
While I enjoy fantasy, noir and Kim Fielding’s writing, this particular story was just ok for me. I just couldn’t connect to the characters or the story the way I usually can with her books. I liked Daveth, and felt like I got a true sense of his character, but not so much with Jory. This makes sense because he’s supposed to be a mystery to Daveth as well, but even in his moments of genuineness or filling in his sad backstory, it just never clicked for me. At one point, Jory talked about how nothing had mattered to him and this shadow of not quite being there seemed to follow him throughout most of the story. His beauty and voice are enchanting together, he is seductive, capable and seems to care about Daveth, but as a character, he feels more like a composite of notes and not fully fleshed out.
Additionally, I didn’t find the intrigue to be that intriguing, and some of the choices the characters’ made seemed to be only narrative devices to keep Daveth and Jory on the run. I don’t usually feel the authorial hand of contrivance much in the Fielding stories I have read, but it came across a bit heavily to me in this one. However, it is a Kim Fielding book, so as usual, at least in my experience, the setting, world-building and writing is good and she has yet to put out a bad story, which remains true with “Blyd and Pearce”. It may not be my favorite of her works, but it’s still worth a read.
September 21, 2018
This was just okay for me. I had trouble getting into this story and felt that there was very little chemistry. I usually struggle with characters that seem to fall in love the instant that they meet, in this case they seem to instantly get married to each other and actually commented about that as part of the narrative. I found the relationship between the two MCs unusual and difficult to comprehend.
It took me awhile to finish this book and I found I needed to step away at about the midpoint just because I had lost interest. I did come back to it and manage to finish the book. I just couldn't seem to get into this one in the way I wanted ...
The world building was actually quite spectacular and I admire this writer's versatility and skill. The setting was vivid and engaging - at times dark but not morbidly so. I just think that this was perhaps a case of wrong book at the wrong time for me.
It took me awhile to finish this book and I found I needed to step away at about the midpoint just because I had lost interest. I did come back to it and manage to finish the book. I just couldn't seem to get into this one in the way I wanted ...
The world building was actually quite spectacular and I admire this writer's versatility and skill. The setting was vivid and engaging - at times dark but not morbidly so. I just think that this was perhaps a case of wrong book at the wrong time for me.
September 5, 2018
So much worked in this book in terms of worldbuilding and story...but I couldn't buy into the core relationship at all. The feelings were off, the randomness of the thinking, the awkward conversations and interactions...I would go along with the story and then just be frustrated every time the two got together. Had to really stretch my reading of this one over many days with breaks for other books. Very disappointed as the concept had a LOT going for it.
January 6, 2019
I enjoyed this novel, though it did take me awhile to warm up to it. In a way, the ancient city it's set in is nearly a character, too. There's a "historical" air to the technology level and division of wealth and labor, and there is magic. I liked Daveth, our point of view character, right away. And I really liked how by the end, Jory is worthy of him, although I'm sure Daveth would protest me putting it like that. :)
July 24, 2018
I requested and was given an advance copy of this novel for an honest review.
Full Disclosure—I'm a HUGE Kim Fielding Fan. Yes, capitol 'F' Fan. I was hooked when I read Brute (still my #1 favorite), and I've not looked back nor regretted reading anything she's written since. I like her contemporary romances, but her historical fantasies are my most favorite of her writings (and yes, I put Motel.Pool in this category). If I had to pick, historical fantasy would is my go to read. Some authors are exceptional at writing this genre, and Ms. Fielding, I feel is one of those authors.
Kim Fielding knows her way around world building—overwhelming your senses at times (I could smell the stench coming off the Tangye River, see the pollution in the water, feel the splintered and rotted floor boards, and taste the thick black smoke)--and it's so worth the assault. Ms. Fielding also knows how to write well defined characters that drive the story—a man down on his luck to some, but to him, it's the way it is, and he accepts it. Life is okay, not quite comfortable, yet not wretched. There are others who have it off much worse. Both Daveth and Jory, the main characters in this book, fit this description.
Okay, on with the review. This is...wait for it...a historical fantasy (in a kingdom far far away, in a world that could have been...lol). Daveth Blyd opens the book, and it is told from his point of view. He is a former Tangye City Guard (run out on some sketchy circumstances), and he is a Lowler (probably the reason he was framed and kicked out). A Lowler is a person born in the Low, a place that sits between two mountains. As with any area, there are tiers within the city—one side, is the religious mountain from where people preach, yet stay there. The other mountain has the merchant classes, wealthy, nobility, and royalty. You got it, Low is where all the shit rolls down, literally and figuratively. Even the Low has tiers too...River Rats (people) on the very bottom, to the streets that aren't a hazard to walk down. Daveth is now eking out a living being what can best be called a people finder; a medieval P.I. of sorts. Daveth is involved with adult activities with his former Sargent, now Captain, of the guard. He urges Daveth to take a cushier job running packages for a nobleman a few times a week. More pay, less hassle, less fighting, less work. Daveth passes, he likes his life helping people. All he needs is a place to lay his head, and he's able to get that with his current job. A few weeks later, when his resources are about to run dry, Lord Uren (a noble) appears with lots of money. He needs a person, Jory Pearce, found and brought back to him. Seems Jory stole a very valuable ring from him (from a locked chest in the Lord's room no less), and he wants the ring back and Jory punished. Punished in this case is by execution.
Harsh!
Daveth thinks the story a bit off, but the money clouds him momentarily. The scene at the bank is hilarious. It's almost like the people channel the Goblin's love fo money from Harry Potter. Daveth finds Jory alright, and he falls for Jory's beauty and voice. Then things begin not to mesh with the Lord Uren's story, and Jory's not telling the whole truth...then things take off at a smoking pace. Things that should not be happening. Both David and Jory look from answers, and the more they seek, the more bodies begin to pile up—both from fighting when attacked, to being framed for murder by a mimicked doppelganger. Then add the Finches, the Rover Rats, the Wraiths, the Dark Magic, the betrayals, and the little street urchins. It will have you guessing to the end what parts some play in the never ending quest to save the Prince.
Oh, I will tell you, the ending is not a tidily wrapped, let's sing Why Can't We be Friends, finish. Somehow, though, it fits these characters and the book properly.
Songs that came to mind while reading this novel / Novel playlist: Lunatic Fringe by Red Rider, Don't Let Me be Misunderstood by Santa Esmerelda (Jory's version) AND The Animals (Daveth's version), If Not for You by Brian Ferry, Find You (Remix) By Nick Jonas & Karol G, Livin' on a Prayer by Bon Jovi, Pressure Drop by Toots & The Maytals, It's My Life by The Animals, and Amaranth by Nightwish.
I can just see Daveth humming a few bars of Lunatic Fringe...
Lunatic Fringe
In the twilight's last gleaming
This is open season
But you won't get too far
'Cause you gotta blame someone
for your own confusion
We're on guard this time
Against your final solution...
Full Disclosure—I'm a HUGE Kim Fielding Fan. Yes, capitol 'F' Fan. I was hooked when I read Brute (still my #1 favorite), and I've not looked back nor regretted reading anything she's written since. I like her contemporary romances, but her historical fantasies are my most favorite of her writings (and yes, I put Motel.Pool in this category). If I had to pick, historical fantasy would is my go to read. Some authors are exceptional at writing this genre, and Ms. Fielding, I feel is one of those authors.
Kim Fielding knows her way around world building—overwhelming your senses at times (I could smell the stench coming off the Tangye River, see the pollution in the water, feel the splintered and rotted floor boards, and taste the thick black smoke)--and it's so worth the assault. Ms. Fielding also knows how to write well defined characters that drive the story—a man down on his luck to some, but to him, it's the way it is, and he accepts it. Life is okay, not quite comfortable, yet not wretched. There are others who have it off much worse. Both Daveth and Jory, the main characters in this book, fit this description.
Okay, on with the review. This is...wait for it...a historical fantasy (in a kingdom far far away, in a world that could have been...lol). Daveth Blyd opens the book, and it is told from his point of view. He is a former Tangye City Guard (run out on some sketchy circumstances), and he is a Lowler (probably the reason he was framed and kicked out). A Lowler is a person born in the Low, a place that sits between two mountains. As with any area, there are tiers within the city—one side, is the religious mountain from where people preach, yet stay there. The other mountain has the merchant classes, wealthy, nobility, and royalty. You got it, Low is where all the shit rolls down, literally and figuratively. Even the Low has tiers too...River Rats (people) on the very bottom, to the streets that aren't a hazard to walk down. Daveth is now eking out a living being what can best be called a people finder; a medieval P.I. of sorts. Daveth is involved with adult activities with his former Sargent, now Captain, of the guard. He urges Daveth to take a cushier job running packages for a nobleman a few times a week. More pay, less hassle, less fighting, less work. Daveth passes, he likes his life helping people. All he needs is a place to lay his head, and he's able to get that with his current job. A few weeks later, when his resources are about to run dry, Lord Uren (a noble) appears with lots of money. He needs a person, Jory Pearce, found and brought back to him. Seems Jory stole a very valuable ring from him (from a locked chest in the Lord's room no less), and he wants the ring back and Jory punished. Punished in this case is by execution.
Harsh!
Daveth thinks the story a bit off, but the money clouds him momentarily. The scene at the bank is hilarious. It's almost like the people channel the Goblin's love fo money from Harry Potter. Daveth finds Jory alright, and he falls for Jory's beauty and voice. Then things begin not to mesh with the Lord Uren's story, and Jory's not telling the whole truth...then things take off at a smoking pace. Things that should not be happening. Both David and Jory look from answers, and the more they seek, the more bodies begin to pile up—both from fighting when attacked, to being framed for murder by a mimicked doppelganger. Then add the Finches, the Rover Rats, the Wraiths, the Dark Magic, the betrayals, and the little street urchins. It will have you guessing to the end what parts some play in the never ending quest to save the Prince.
Oh, I will tell you, the ending is not a tidily wrapped, let's sing Why Can't We be Friends, finish. Somehow, though, it fits these characters and the book properly.
Songs that came to mind while reading this novel / Novel playlist: Lunatic Fringe by Red Rider, Don't Let Me be Misunderstood by Santa Esmerelda (Jory's version) AND The Animals (Daveth's version), If Not for You by Brian Ferry, Find You (Remix) By Nick Jonas & Karol G, Livin' on a Prayer by Bon Jovi, Pressure Drop by Toots & The Maytals, It's My Life by The Animals, and Amaranth by Nightwish.
I can just see Daveth humming a few bars of Lunatic Fringe...
Lunatic Fringe
In the twilight's last gleaming
This is open season
But you won't get too far
'Cause you gotta blame someone
for your own confusion
We're on guard this time
Against your final solution...
August 21, 2018
~ 4.5 Stars ~
I am a sucker for a good spec fic. With a mystery, a touch of fantasy, a dash of romance, and a noir feel, Blyd and Pearce quickly grabbed my attention and kept me enthralled in the events unfolding. Kim Fielding has a gift for unique world building. Her descriptions of the city of Tangye in all its different factions, from the poverty of the lows to the opulence of the of the Royal Quarter and all that lies between, are vivid and riveting in their exquisite detail. With magic expertly woven into the setting, and plot, it is a remarkable and compelling story.
Daveth Blyd is a lowler, born and raised. He spent his childhood surviving in a place that has no compassion. In the lows, everyone is just trying to stay afloat and alive and look out for themselves. Nothing comes without a cost. The things he saw, and did to survive, caused him to become jaded and hard. He honed skills that eventually gave him the opportunity to claw his way out of the lows and into the city guard. But after being accused of theft, his position is ripped away and along with it, any hope he had held. He trusts no one. He lives his life keeping everyone at a distance and taking cases to keep food in his belly and a roof over his head. No more, no less. A nobleman arrives on his doorstep offering an obscene amount of money and weaving a tale of theft; all Blyd must do is return the ring and the entertainer who took it. Sounds easy? Its becomes anything but.
Jory Pearce may be an entertainer, but he is many other things: possible thief, liar, whore, beautiful, captivating. While Blyd had no ill will towards the latter of these, the thief and liar part keeps him on his guard as to exactly what Jory did and why. While there are hints of a truth, it is clear Jory is hiding something big. Despite his best efforts to remain detached, there is something about the man that grabs Blyd’s attention. With a need to know more about the intriguing and complex man, as well as a desire to protect Jory, Daveth soon finds himself at the center of a conspiracy that makes no sense.
I wouldn’t consider Daveth and Jory’s romance as sweet in the traditional sense, but a romance it was nonetheless. They both have pasts which have hardened them, neither trust each other completely, and both have preconceived notions and expectations. They begin their journey on opposite sides, then become allies of sorts. While searching for answers, they eventually find a refuge in each other as the world around them spirals out of control. They each find someone who sees them and understands them. With one another there is at least one person that finds the other is not someone to be used and discarded for personal gain. Blyd sees strength and determination in Jory, not his choice of making a living. Jory sees someone who is loyal and heroic in his own way, not a street rat son of a whore that everyone else has labeled Daveth. Their pasts don’t define them when they are together.
With corruption everywhere, sword-fights, murders, magic, wraiths, betrayals, and several twists and turns, I found myself unable to put the story down. The ending, like many noirs, leaves as many questions as answers. It was unexpected yet somehow fit. Should it end here it is a complete story, but there is enough to continue with Blyd and Pearce on the next chapter in their adventure together.
While Blyd and Pearce hit the spot for me, it may not be for those looking for a sweet fantasy romance with a bit of crime and suspense. Blyd and Jory’s romance has sweet elements, but is on the gritty side as it develops through tragic events. It is first a crime and suspense fantasy with a sprinkling of an unlikely romance, which I found to be fascinating and right up my alley.
Reviewed by Lindsey for The Novel Approach
I am a sucker for a good spec fic. With a mystery, a touch of fantasy, a dash of romance, and a noir feel, Blyd and Pearce quickly grabbed my attention and kept me enthralled in the events unfolding. Kim Fielding has a gift for unique world building. Her descriptions of the city of Tangye in all its different factions, from the poverty of the lows to the opulence of the of the Royal Quarter and all that lies between, are vivid and riveting in their exquisite detail. With magic expertly woven into the setting, and plot, it is a remarkable and compelling story.
Daveth Blyd is a lowler, born and raised. He spent his childhood surviving in a place that has no compassion. In the lows, everyone is just trying to stay afloat and alive and look out for themselves. Nothing comes without a cost. The things he saw, and did to survive, caused him to become jaded and hard. He honed skills that eventually gave him the opportunity to claw his way out of the lows and into the city guard. But after being accused of theft, his position is ripped away and along with it, any hope he had held. He trusts no one. He lives his life keeping everyone at a distance and taking cases to keep food in his belly and a roof over his head. No more, no less. A nobleman arrives on his doorstep offering an obscene amount of money and weaving a tale of theft; all Blyd must do is return the ring and the entertainer who took it. Sounds easy? Its becomes anything but.
Jory Pearce may be an entertainer, but he is many other things: possible thief, liar, whore, beautiful, captivating. While Blyd had no ill will towards the latter of these, the thief and liar part keeps him on his guard as to exactly what Jory did and why. While there are hints of a truth, it is clear Jory is hiding something big. Despite his best efforts to remain detached, there is something about the man that grabs Blyd’s attention. With a need to know more about the intriguing and complex man, as well as a desire to protect Jory, Daveth soon finds himself at the center of a conspiracy that makes no sense.
I wouldn’t consider Daveth and Jory’s romance as sweet in the traditional sense, but a romance it was nonetheless. They both have pasts which have hardened them, neither trust each other completely, and both have preconceived notions and expectations. They begin their journey on opposite sides, then become allies of sorts. While searching for answers, they eventually find a refuge in each other as the world around them spirals out of control. They each find someone who sees them and understands them. With one another there is at least one person that finds the other is not someone to be used and discarded for personal gain. Blyd sees strength and determination in Jory, not his choice of making a living. Jory sees someone who is loyal and heroic in his own way, not a street rat son of a whore that everyone else has labeled Daveth. Their pasts don’t define them when they are together.
With corruption everywhere, sword-fights, murders, magic, wraiths, betrayals, and several twists and turns, I found myself unable to put the story down. The ending, like many noirs, leaves as many questions as answers. It was unexpected yet somehow fit. Should it end here it is a complete story, but there is enough to continue with Blyd and Pearce on the next chapter in their adventure together.
While Blyd and Pearce hit the spot for me, it may not be for those looking for a sweet fantasy romance with a bit of crime and suspense. Blyd and Jory’s romance has sweet elements, but is on the gritty side as it develops through tragic events. It is first a crime and suspense fantasy with a sprinkling of an unlikely romance, which I found to be fascinating and right up my alley.
Reviewed by Lindsey for The Novel Approach
July 23, 2018
4.5 stars
In a world where treachery is commonplace, you can find allies in the most unexpected places..
In the dangerous city of Tangye nothing is what seems to be. Daveth Blyd knows it very well, that’s why he knows the apparently easy job he’s just been engaged to do is not going to be easy at all. But after meeting Jory Pierce, he realises there is more at risk than his life…
In this book, Kim weaves a story of treachery and mystery in a dark world where magic is common and feared by most. The city of Tangye is a dangerous place, and your position and expectations in society are determined by the place you were born. Both main characters in the story, Daveth and Jory, managed to change their expected roles, and they are both paying for it. Daveth was born a lower, but he managed to gain a place in the city guard, only to be disowned. Obliged to make a living as a sort of private detective, Daveth is a stoic man, resigned to his fate. On the other hand, Jory experienced the same but from a very different position. His was a descend from the higher to the lower, but he never lost his ability to dream and hope. Against all odds, this two meet and create and instant-bond. The find themselves the object of a dark conspiracy which threatens more than their lives. In a race against time, with corpses piling up and enemies more and more dangerous, Daveth and Jory manage to devise a plan to keep alive, while slowly but certainly falling for each other.
I really enjoyed this story. I loved the world Kim created, there is not overwhelming world-building but in a few chapters we understand how the society of Tangye works. It is an intriguing place which seems to be a twisted version of the middle ages, where magic is expected and horses are mythical creatures. Both main characters are interesting, even likeable, though while I found Jory endearing, I found Daveth fascinating in a darker way… Like a dangerous animal you know it is not tamed but cannot avoid trying to pet… Anyway, they seem perfect for each other, like two opposite sides of that interesting coin that is the city of Tangye. Their HEA is an atypical one. Although there is uncertainty in their future, there is also hope and promise. On leaving behind the city of Tangye, after having closed both the wounds from their past, they leave behind their old identities and limitations. The world that opens in front of them is a new one, where they can be whatever they mean to be, and that includes happy. I know there are a lot of adventures ahead for these two, and I have no doubt their lives together will be very exciting …
Very recommendable.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
In a world where treachery is commonplace, you can find allies in the most unexpected places..
In the dangerous city of Tangye nothing is what seems to be. Daveth Blyd knows it very well, that’s why he knows the apparently easy job he’s just been engaged to do is not going to be easy at all. But after meeting Jory Pierce, he realises there is more at risk than his life…
In this book, Kim weaves a story of treachery and mystery in a dark world where magic is common and feared by most. The city of Tangye is a dangerous place, and your position and expectations in society are determined by the place you were born. Both main characters in the story, Daveth and Jory, managed to change their expected roles, and they are both paying for it. Daveth was born a lower, but he managed to gain a place in the city guard, only to be disowned. Obliged to make a living as a sort of private detective, Daveth is a stoic man, resigned to his fate. On the other hand, Jory experienced the same but from a very different position. His was a descend from the higher to the lower, but he never lost his ability to dream and hope. Against all odds, this two meet and create and instant-bond. The find themselves the object of a dark conspiracy which threatens more than their lives. In a race against time, with corpses piling up and enemies more and more dangerous, Daveth and Jory manage to devise a plan to keep alive, while slowly but certainly falling for each other.
I really enjoyed this story. I loved the world Kim created, there is not overwhelming world-building but in a few chapters we understand how the society of Tangye works. It is an intriguing place which seems to be a twisted version of the middle ages, where magic is expected and horses are mythical creatures. Both main characters are interesting, even likeable, though while I found Jory endearing, I found Daveth fascinating in a darker way… Like a dangerous animal you know it is not tamed but cannot avoid trying to pet… Anyway, they seem perfect for each other, like two opposite sides of that interesting coin that is the city of Tangye. Their HEA is an atypical one. Although there is uncertainty in their future, there is also hope and promise. On leaving behind the city of Tangye, after having closed both the wounds from their past, they leave behind their old identities and limitations. The world that opens in front of them is a new one, where they can be whatever they mean to be, and that includes happy. I know there are a lot of adventures ahead for these two, and I have no doubt their lives together will be very exciting …
Very recommendable.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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