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The Man Inside Me
Victorian London is a difficult place to be when you are gay, as Henry and Gabriel know all too well.
When they were young at Oxford University, Henry and Gabriel’s love burned hot and bright, and they thought to change the world together until a devastating tragedy ripped them apart.
Now, as youth fades away, Henry can no longer stand to see his own reflection in the mirror. All he sees is a sad, tired old man whose body has betrayed him. He craves the touch of another, to feel attractive and vital once more but his obsession with finding a cure for insanity has stolen his life away, and now his work has taken on a dark and sinister dimension. How far will he go to recapture the passion of his lost youth?
Gabriel fears that Henry is losing his mind, and when a brutal killer invades their lives, they are thrust into the dark depths of Victorian London in a fight for their very lives.
As their friendship is tested to its limits, Gabriel cannot help but wonder if there is still a chance for love. Can they move beyond the friendship that has spanned over thirty years and find the love that once made their hearts beat as one?
You may never be too old to find love, but will you be able to survive it?
An alternate cover version of ASIN B07GY1VSP3 can be found here.
When they were young at Oxford University, Henry and Gabriel’s love burned hot and bright, and they thought to change the world together until a devastating tragedy ripped them apart.
Now, as youth fades away, Henry can no longer stand to see his own reflection in the mirror. All he sees is a sad, tired old man whose body has betrayed him. He craves the touch of another, to feel attractive and vital once more but his obsession with finding a cure for insanity has stolen his life away, and now his work has taken on a dark and sinister dimension. How far will he go to recapture the passion of his lost youth?
Gabriel fears that Henry is losing his mind, and when a brutal killer invades their lives, they are thrust into the dark depths of Victorian London in a fight for their very lives.
As their friendship is tested to its limits, Gabriel cannot help but wonder if there is still a chance for love. Can they move beyond the friendship that has spanned over thirty years and find the love that once made their hearts beat as one?
You may never be too old to find love, but will you be able to survive it?
An alternate cover version of ASIN B07GY1VSP3 can be found here.
202 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2018
17 people are currently reading
93 people want to read
About the author
Sean Kerr
30 books189 followersI think that as I approach that milestone that is fifty, I must be one of the oldest gamers on the face of this earth. Many a day you will find me lashed to my PS4 enjoying a good session of Skyrim. Who doesn’t love a good session of Skyrim?
I love writing—I have done it since I was a child when I would happily write about the latest episode of Doctor Who (Tom Baker in those days) in my schoolbooks. Growing up and becoming a business owner with my friend Jayne left little time to pursue my dream of publication, but of late the desire and the compulsion to put words onto paper have once again dominated my life so that now, my laptop has become surgically fused to my fingertips.
There is something desperately satisfying about telling a story. My fascination with History, Religion and Conspiracy theories have, in this instance, gone hand-in-hand with my love of all things vampire, fantasy, sci-fi and horror. I drove my parents nuts when I was young because that was all I would read about in books, all I would watch on television, but they have held me in good stead, and long may my obsession with the subjects continue, at least, that is, until the day they put me in my own wooden box. And imagination is such a wonderful thing. I once had a rather vivid dream about David Tennant and the Tardis console, but I could not possibly go into details about that here. Let’s just say that my polarity was well and truly reversed.
Dead Camp is just the beginning. I have to check my knickers every day at the thought that this book is now in the public domain. My first book, and I hope the first of many. And to those out there who love to write, who love to transport us to new worlds, or old worlds with a twisted perspective, I say to you keep going. I never thought I would ever see my work available to download, and thanks to eXtasy Books, the dream that I always thought unobtainable has finally come true. So thank you all at eXtasy, I am one happy homosexual thanks to you, and thank you the reader for taking the time to read this strange tale and allowing Eli and the incomparable Malachi into your lives.
And now I really need Skyrim.
I love writing—I have done it since I was a child when I would happily write about the latest episode of Doctor Who (Tom Baker in those days) in my schoolbooks. Growing up and becoming a business owner with my friend Jayne left little time to pursue my dream of publication, but of late the desire and the compulsion to put words onto paper have once again dominated my life so that now, my laptop has become surgically fused to my fingertips.
There is something desperately satisfying about telling a story. My fascination with History, Religion and Conspiracy theories have, in this instance, gone hand-in-hand with my love of all things vampire, fantasy, sci-fi and horror. I drove my parents nuts when I was young because that was all I would read about in books, all I would watch on television, but they have held me in good stead, and long may my obsession with the subjects continue, at least, that is, until the day they put me in my own wooden box. And imagination is such a wonderful thing. I once had a rather vivid dream about David Tennant and the Tardis console, but I could not possibly go into details about that here. Let’s just say that my polarity was well and truly reversed.
Dead Camp is just the beginning. I have to check my knickers every day at the thought that this book is now in the public domain. My first book, and I hope the first of many. And to those out there who love to write, who love to transport us to new worlds, or old worlds with a twisted perspective, I say to you keep going. I never thought I would ever see my work available to download, and thanks to eXtasy Books, the dream that I always thought unobtainable has finally come true. So thank you all at eXtasy, I am one happy homosexual thanks to you, and thank you the reader for taking the time to read this strange tale and allowing Eli and the incomparable Malachi into your lives.
And now I really need Skyrim.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
December 16, 2018
Once I closed this book, I was stunned : what a fantastic writer, unknown to me before I read “The man Inside me”. The writing style, the characterization, the story-telling,…the execution is brilliant.
In a few words, this is a retelling of “Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde”. Set in the 1800’s, Gabriel and Henry meet when they were young and a loving connection is set into motion until a tragic event happening in Henry’s life changes everything for the both of them but they keep being close. Everything changes again once they reach their fifties when all the repressed emotions explose to the open.
As mentioned in the blurb : “You may never be too old to find love, but will you be able to survive it?”. Well, no spoiling, but the epilogue gave me a satisfying answer.
I have to be honest, it was tough for me to read this book. I need to be in the mood to read some heavy themes and it was not exactly the best time for me to read about them (some are still true nowadays, for some others, there have been a lot of improvement since the 1800’s but it doesn’t make it less hard to be reminded how it was – the condition of homosexuals, women and people suffering of psychiatric issues, trepanation,...).
However, even when recoiling at times or being disturbed, I kept coming back, like a moth drawn to a flame. The writing is brilliant, the descriptions and the characters perfectly drawn : it’s addictive and absorbing !! And boy, the sexual chemistry and the sexy scenes are hot. I won’t complain !!
For fan of “gothic romance” or dark themes or simply for fans of some good writing, it’s worth it. As for myself, I’m going to check the other works of this author, with hopefully for me, more fluffy stories.
ARC of “The Man Inside Me” was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
In a few words, this is a retelling of “Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde”. Set in the 1800’s, Gabriel and Henry meet when they were young and a loving connection is set into motion until a tragic event happening in Henry’s life changes everything for the both of them but they keep being close. Everything changes again once they reach their fifties when all the repressed emotions explose to the open.
As mentioned in the blurb : “You may never be too old to find love, but will you be able to survive it?”. Well, no spoiling, but the epilogue gave me a satisfying answer.
I have to be honest, it was tough for me to read this book. I need to be in the mood to read some heavy themes and it was not exactly the best time for me to read about them (some are still true nowadays, for some others, there have been a lot of improvement since the 1800’s but it doesn’t make it less hard to be reminded how it was – the condition of homosexuals, women and people suffering of psychiatric issues, trepanation,...).
However, even when recoiling at times or being disturbed, I kept coming back, like a moth drawn to a flame. The writing is brilliant, the descriptions and the characters perfectly drawn : it’s addictive and absorbing !! And boy, the sexual chemistry and the sexy scenes are hot. I won’t complain !!
For fan of “gothic romance” or dark themes or simply for fans of some good writing, it’s worth it. As for myself, I’m going to check the other works of this author, with hopefully for me, more fluffy stories.
ARC of “The Man Inside Me” was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
December 18, 2018
5 big stars!
You can find yourself in London in the 19th century. The environments, the language... it’s unbelievable consistent written. I was there I felt, saw and experienced it all.
Henry and Gabriel are friends and than lovers and after a traumatic events, friends again,
Not what Gabriel wants but it’s the only chance to be with Henry.
Henry is possessed with on thing, after he experienced the most horrible thing in his life... as a
scientist and tools... he has to cure the problem of lunacy... everything around him vanished out of frame.
Gabriel is standing with his back to the wall and can only watch and feel his own heart and forbidden love crumble into dust.
“It still breaks my heart to think that such clandestine encounters as these may be the only outlet for men such as us, for it is a sorry, sordid thing that lacks the emotion of true human connection.”
Emotional story, very captivating written, with feelings that goes to the depth of the heart.
A story about deep rooted love, grief, deep hurt, friendship, obsession are the main subjects here. The perspective was almost unbearable. There were beautiful ups and terrifying downs. All the monologues were splendid written!
The personalities were masterful developed and also beautifully flawed and much more....
“So, you love me then?”
It’s a story with extremes... on one side it’s sensitive, delicate, melancholic but it’s also a horrifying, deadly sore story. Told from different point of views and very well done... Henry, Gabriel, Richard and... the man inside... we can hear them all... and o goodness... they do have to tell a story! One that made me cry!!
Read and reviewed for Gay Book Promotions
You can find yourself in London in the 19th century. The environments, the language... it’s unbelievable consistent written. I was there I felt, saw and experienced it all.
Henry and Gabriel are friends and than lovers and after a traumatic events, friends again,
Not what Gabriel wants but it’s the only chance to be with Henry.
Henry is possessed with on thing, after he experienced the most horrible thing in his life... as a
scientist and tools... he has to cure the problem of lunacy... everything around him vanished out of frame.
Gabriel is standing with his back to the wall and can only watch and feel his own heart and forbidden love crumble into dust.
“It still breaks my heart to think that such clandestine encounters as these may be the only outlet for men such as us, for it is a sorry, sordid thing that lacks the emotion of true human connection.”
Emotional story, very captivating written, with feelings that goes to the depth of the heart.
A story about deep rooted love, grief, deep hurt, friendship, obsession are the main subjects here. The perspective was almost unbearable. There were beautiful ups and terrifying downs. All the monologues were splendid written!
The personalities were masterful developed and also beautifully flawed and much more....
“So, you love me then?”
It’s a story with extremes... on one side it’s sensitive, delicate, melancholic but it’s also a horrifying, deadly sore story. Told from different point of views and very well done... Henry, Gabriel, Richard and... the man inside... we can hear them all... and o goodness... they do have to tell a story! One that made me cry!!
Read and reviewed for Gay Book Promotions
September 30, 2018
A brilliant Masterpiece!
Sean Kerr is at the pinnacle of his storytelling talents. I have been a fan of this author since I read his first book: Dead Camp 1. And this author continues to not only NEVER disappoint but to NEVER keep surprising me. Once again he has captivated me with another of his novels.
This is a classic tale told with a finesse and flair that only Kerr can deliver. It’s set in the Victorian era and oh the author has captured the language so vibrantly and sets every scene so vividly that I cannot help but be transported. It was a delight to sit down each night to read this story and I did so in short sequences to stretch out the enjoyment of this tale that unfolded with both intrigue and candor.
There is not only masterful storytelling there is a genius story. It’s so brilliant and soooo Keen that only Kerr could have done it!
Sean Kerr is at the pinnacle of his storytelling talents. I have been a fan of this author since I read his first book: Dead Camp 1. And this author continues to not only NEVER disappoint but to NEVER keep surprising me. Once again he has captivated me with another of his novels.
This is a classic tale told with a finesse and flair that only Kerr can deliver. It’s set in the Victorian era and oh the author has captured the language so vibrantly and sets every scene so vividly that I cannot help but be transported. It was a delight to sit down each night to read this story and I did so in short sequences to stretch out the enjoyment of this tale that unfolded with both intrigue and candor.
There is not only masterful storytelling there is a genius story. It’s so brilliant and soooo Keen that only Kerr could have done it!
September 30, 2018
This author has done it again. He has taken every emotion I have and brought them to surface. I absolutely love the setting period in this book. It is the 1800’s in London, and this author is amazing at making me feel as if I am there. And the characters crept right into my heart. Of course, with Sean, you never know who will make it and who will be used to rip your heart apart. More than once was I cursing Sean and wishing him an itchy scalp or worse. LOL. The way he tells a story just intrigues me from beginning to end. A new concept on an old one, and boy, was it enjoyable.
I love the way Gab and Henry met. The enthusiasm and passion Henry has are addictive as Gab learns. The things Henry opens Gab’s eyes too are just refreshing and adorable. They go out of town together and thoroughly enjoy the train ride back. Gab is convinced they’ll love each other forever. Then tragedy hits. They will be lifelong friends, but that spark has left its existence. They grow older in each other's lives but will they ever find their spark again? Will Henry ever be able to cure the mind from going bad? Will he ever come to realize just how much Gab means to him?
These are the questions Sean loves to throw out at us. He loves to mess with our heads and hearts from one extreme to the next in Sean-style. There are other characters that we fall in love with, like Richardson. I loved his flamboyant self when it was not ok to be gay or flamboyant. He just loves his life and lives it for himself. There is some hot sex and some dirty as well, but it all flows with this epic story. If you don’t love this story, I won’t know how to feel. This is a love story written the only way Sean can write a story with twist and turns, love and hate and of course, tragedy and victory.
I love the way Gab and Henry met. The enthusiasm and passion Henry has are addictive as Gab learns. The things Henry opens Gab’s eyes too are just refreshing and adorable. They go out of town together and thoroughly enjoy the train ride back. Gab is convinced they’ll love each other forever. Then tragedy hits. They will be lifelong friends, but that spark has left its existence. They grow older in each other's lives but will they ever find their spark again? Will Henry ever be able to cure the mind from going bad? Will he ever come to realize just how much Gab means to him?
These are the questions Sean loves to throw out at us. He loves to mess with our heads and hearts from one extreme to the next in Sean-style. There are other characters that we fall in love with, like Richardson. I loved his flamboyant self when it was not ok to be gay or flamboyant. He just loves his life and lives it for himself. There is some hot sex and some dirty as well, but it all flows with this epic story. If you don’t love this story, I won’t know how to feel. This is a love story written the only way Sean can write a story with twist and turns, love and hate and of course, tragedy and victory.
December 26, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.5 stars
So, I really disliked The Man Inside Me. I mean, intensely disliked it. But the caveat to that is I think most readers might actually enjoy it. While trying to do this review, I was constantly torn between whether my issues with the book were mine alone or actually indicative of a legitimate problem. I’ve tried to be fair, while giving my own opinion, so bear with me. There also isn’t much I can say about the plot for fear of giving away a huge spoiler.
The one thing that The Man Inside Me gets absolutely right is the mood and setting of the book. The author has done an excellent job of giving us a time and place with feels vibrant and real. There is an eeriness and darkness to the book that captures the bleakness of the story without completely overpowering it.
The writing in this book is rather grating. The author seems clearly trying to use a certain style of writing to add to the overall flow of The Man Inside Me, but it just didn’t work. At least not for me. It felt excessively flowery, convoluted, and complex. Instead of drawing me in, I was constantly distracted and put off by the writing, to the point this nearly became my first DNF.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
2.5 stars
So, I really disliked The Man Inside Me. I mean, intensely disliked it. But the caveat to that is I think most readers might actually enjoy it. While trying to do this review, I was constantly torn between whether my issues with the book were mine alone or actually indicative of a legitimate problem. I’ve tried to be fair, while giving my own opinion, so bear with me. There also isn’t much I can say about the plot for fear of giving away a huge spoiler.
The one thing that The Man Inside Me gets absolutely right is the mood and setting of the book. The author has done an excellent job of giving us a time and place with feels vibrant and real. There is an eeriness and darkness to the book that captures the bleakness of the story without completely overpowering it.
The writing in this book is rather grating. The author seems clearly trying to use a certain style of writing to add to the overall flow of The Man Inside Me, but it just didn’t work. At least not for me. It felt excessively flowery, convoluted, and complex. Instead of drawing me in, I was constantly distracted and put off by the writing, to the point this nearly became my first DNF.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
November 26, 2018
What a truly magnificent romance story this was!!
The characters in this story were AH-MAZING!! I loved the story between Henry and Gabriel. These two characters molded a beautiful fairy tale with the love they had for one another. My heart and soul poured into Henry's past and all the terrible things he had to suffer through. I felt as broken as he did.
The story-line was phenomenal. This is my first M/M romance to read and I fell in love with the story. Kerr has a fantastic way of story-telling and making me crave to read more about the characters in the story. I felt as if I could connect with the characters too. I felt the pain, fear and love that poured out of the pages of this book. I was completely hooked to this book from beginning to end. And the title is the perfect fit for this story-line!! I also must add that this story had the most beautiful happy ending EVER!! It completely brought me to tears!! This author has gained a new reader and I highly recommend this story!!
CAUTION: Due to graphic scenes and language, reader discretion is advised.
The characters in this story were AH-MAZING!! I loved the story between Henry and Gabriel. These two characters molded a beautiful fairy tale with the love they had for one another. My heart and soul poured into Henry's past and all the terrible things he had to suffer through. I felt as broken as he did.
The story-line was phenomenal. This is my first M/M romance to read and I fell in love with the story. Kerr has a fantastic way of story-telling and making me crave to read more about the characters in the story. I felt as if I could connect with the characters too. I felt the pain, fear and love that poured out of the pages of this book. I was completely hooked to this book from beginning to end. And the title is the perfect fit for this story-line!! I also must add that this story had the most beautiful happy ending EVER!! It completely brought me to tears!! This author has gained a new reader and I highly recommend this story!!
CAUTION: Due to graphic scenes and language, reader discretion is advised.
September 30, 2018
Brilliant, Spellbinding Work of Art
Sean Kerr has woven his magic yet again into this most heart wrenching unique novel. He has captured that old English vernacular and his descriptive ways are a joy to behold, he makes you believe you are in that moment, feeling those emotions and seeing the world through his eyes.
His most vivid description of an asylum was so horrific it made me want to vomit.
The way he described the experience of lovemaking for the first time pulled at a depth of emotion that was truly beautiful.
The way he describes the simplest of things and turns them into something which is a pure joy to read.
He promises surprises and my god! he delivers them in spades.
This magnificent piece of art and the heart and soul which went into the writing of this book deserves to be read and treasured.
Sean Kerr has woven his magic yet again into this most heart wrenching unique novel. He has captured that old English vernacular and his descriptive ways are a joy to behold, he makes you believe you are in that moment, feeling those emotions and seeing the world through his eyes.
His most vivid description of an asylum was so horrific it made me want to vomit.
The way he described the experience of lovemaking for the first time pulled at a depth of emotion that was truly beautiful.
The way he describes the simplest of things and turns them into something which is a pure joy to read.
He promises surprises and my god! he delivers them in spades.
This magnificent piece of art and the heart and soul which went into the writing of this book deserves to be read and treasured.
April 14, 2019
"Mirror, mirror, don't you see? What you show is ruining me!"
I've picked this as a defining quote from the story as this is exactly what the story will do to you, it will ruin you, but in a good way!
In this the author has given a modern, twisted,M/M version of a classic tale. He's done it with such immense descriptiveness that when you're reading it, you're able to visualise what is being described, especially when it comes to the darker, more twisted, parts of the story.
I absolutely loved how well written it was, how the original version of the story still came through, even though it's been done with a more modern twist. It also, if you read between the lines, had the hidden message of how we've ALL got another person inside, figuratively speaking, fighting to get out. Yet unlike Henry, we're able to keep it locked inside, and if this tale is anything is to go by, it's a good job we do............
I've picked this as a defining quote from the story as this is exactly what the story will do to you, it will ruin you, but in a good way!
In this the author has given a modern, twisted,M/M version of a classic tale. He's done it with such immense descriptiveness that when you're reading it, you're able to visualise what is being described, especially when it comes to the darker, more twisted, parts of the story.
I absolutely loved how well written it was, how the original version of the story still came through, even though it's been done with a more modern twist. It also, if you read between the lines, had the hidden message of how we've ALL got another person inside, figuratively speaking, fighting to get out. Yet unlike Henry, we're able to keep it locked inside, and if this tale is anything is to go by, it's a good job we do............
September 30, 2018
After reading this book I literally had to put it down and walk away and I’ve had the hardest time writing this review. I want to tell you bits and pieces but not give anything away. So let’s start with your going to meet two men Gabriel and Henry and this book takes place in the 1800’s . You know when gentlemen were gentlemen. I can’t imagine that this book was easy to write because the descriptions that are used are in such a fine detail you can see things before your eyes as you read page by page.
The main characters Henry and Gabriel you feel like come to life before you as they meet as young men at Oxford and continue their friendship through midlife. Where they have both been so consumed with their careers to distract from the fact that they are gay at time where it definitely isn’t safe to be and also to where they don’t have to admit how lonely each of them are. While Henry seems to be the one to be more bothered by being older for me it is Gabriel that is the one that has the hardest time coming to terms with the fact that he loves Henry.
This book will give you spine tingling twists and turns. It will make you laugh and cry. It may also make you want throw something. You will be taken on a journey I don’t think you will expect and at times you’ll wonder if your even in the same area as he leads you through the back alley ways into a different world. What most I’m sure would call at that time a seedier part of the city where a gentleman would never go. Oh my oh my and I definitely have to say the sexual chemistry in this book is off the chart. From first time lovers to just the raw animal passion that we all have had at some point if we are lucky.
So at this time who do I recommend this book too. Anyone who likes a suspense, thriller, gothic romance. Anyone who wants that HEA that has drug you threw the mud and threw everything at you but your still together through it all. Or how about the innocent first moments of falling in love that first time. So I guess I recommend this book to anyone. Go ahead I guarantee you will not be disappointed with one ounce of this book.
The main characters Henry and Gabriel you feel like come to life before you as they meet as young men at Oxford and continue their friendship through midlife. Where they have both been so consumed with their careers to distract from the fact that they are gay at time where it definitely isn’t safe to be and also to where they don’t have to admit how lonely each of them are. While Henry seems to be the one to be more bothered by being older for me it is Gabriel that is the one that has the hardest time coming to terms with the fact that he loves Henry.
This book will give you spine tingling twists and turns. It will make you laugh and cry. It may also make you want throw something. You will be taken on a journey I don’t think you will expect and at times you’ll wonder if your even in the same area as he leads you through the back alley ways into a different world. What most I’m sure would call at that time a seedier part of the city where a gentleman would never go. Oh my oh my and I definitely have to say the sexual chemistry in this book is off the chart. From first time lovers to just the raw animal passion that we all have had at some point if we are lucky.
So at this time who do I recommend this book too. Anyone who likes a suspense, thriller, gothic romance. Anyone who wants that HEA that has drug you threw the mud and threw everything at you but your still together through it all. Or how about the innocent first moments of falling in love that first time. So I guess I recommend this book to anyone. Go ahead I guarantee you will not be disappointed with one ounce of this book.
January 4, 2019
Review in English and Polish || Recenzja po angielsku i polsku
England, times of Queen Victoria's reign.
Gabriel and Henry, two respectable middle-aged friends who occupy quite a high position in the social hierarchy, lead a well-organized but very lonely life. When they were young, there was a passionate intimacy between them, but now they are forced to keep their deeper feelings in check, as society doesn't look favorably upon homosexual relationships. As if that was not enough, the passing years have an impact not only on their bodies, but also on their well-being and self-esteem, which ultimately shakes their world and turns everything upside down. It turns out that when the midlife crisis coincides with a great mind and lust for youth, it could turn into something wicked and twisted.
We can undoubtedly write a lot of good about "The Man Inside Me" as it is a novel filled with many different advantages. For example, it can delight the reader from the very first sentences. That's why in this review in the first place I would like to focus on the thing that caught my eye right away. Well, it's about a language. Although English is a foreign language for me and I constantly learn it, it doesn't change the fact that the author charmed me at the very beginning of my adventure with this novel. "The Man Inside Me" was written in a marvelous, beautiful language, almost poetic one, which immediately reminded me of the classic literature books, although it's certainly better than many works of classic writers. All descriptions are unbelievably graphic, masterly depicted, as if the author didn't write, but painted with words, and each sentence is characterized by a unique melody and poetry. Thus, reading this book I would compare to admiring art. If I, a Polish girl, have managed to see all of this, how much stronger the language of this novel will appeal to English speakers. It is really worth reaching for this book, even if just for a simple pleasure of reading it.
I have already mentioned that in "The Man Inside Me" I managed to see its connection with the classic literature and this is the subject I want to develop a little more precisely. It turns out that this novel not only refers to the classics in terms of its fantastic style, but also in relation to the characters presented here. I admit that it was a huge, and without doubt positive, surprise for me. I won't lie, when I started reading this novel, I was expecting something like "Portrait of Dorian Gray" by Oscar Wilde and at first I completely didn't link Sean Kerr's characters with those originally created by a completely different, very popular nineteenth-century writer. I discovered it a little later. However, I won't mention his name, nor the title of the work that became the base of "The Man Inside Me", because I would like you to discover it yourself. In the end, the author certainly had some sort of a goal in giving us just some hints for a great part of his novel, instead of immediately revealing its whole secret. So I'm not going to spoil the fun that Sean Kerr has prepared for us all.
Another advantage of the novel is the way in which the author shows the characters. First of all, he clearly highlights those personality traits that make them who they are and which distinguish them from others. On the one hand we see it in the conversations they have, and on the other, in the narrative. It is worth noting that we are not dealing here with only one narrator, but there are several of them, and sometimes the narrative structure also changes, which helps the reader to look at the characters from a completely different angle. The perfect style of presenting the protagonists is also affected by the fact that the author allows us to look deep into their psyche, thoughts, fantasies, bigger and smaller sins. As the characters are very effusive and allow us to get to know them better than anyone else. All this makes this novel really electrifying and addictive, and we quickly feel a close connection between us and the characters.
At the end I would like to write something about the story itself. It must be admitted that Sean Kerr really has known how to direct the plot for the reader to quickly become addicted to his book. On the one hand he used the well-known nineteenth-century novel in a fantastic, twisted, intelligent and clever way. On the other hand giving us the insight into the characters' psyche, he partially reached to its bright, positive side, and above all to the darkest secrets of their souls. What is more, he managed to charge "The Man Inside Me" with such a dose of tension, including the sexual one, that the reader seems to breathe it in from the first to the last page of the novel. In short, the story as a whole looks perfect, for it is absorbing and I am sure, it will stay in our memory for a long time.
In conclusion, "The Man Inside Me" is a real marvel. This is a fantastically written, intriguing, hot and dark novel that surprises you, makes you addicted and exposes the human soul. I strongly recommend this story and assure you that you won't regret reading it. It's a masterpiece!
_____________________________________
Anglia, czasy panowania królowej Wiktorii. Gabriel i Henry, dwójka szanowanych i wysoko postawionych w hierarchii społecznej przyjaciół w średnim wieku, wiedzie ułożone, ale bardzo samotne życie. Za młodu łączyła ich namiętna intymność, jednak teraz zmuszeni są trzymać swoje gorące uczucia na wodzy, jako że społeczeństwo nie patrzy przychylnie na związki homoseksualne. Jakby tego było mało, upływające lata odbijają się na ich ciałach, samopoczuciu i samoocenie, co ostatecznie wstrząsa ich światem i wywraca wszystko do góry nogami. Okazuje się bowiem, że kiedy kryzys wieku średniego zejdzie się w parze z lotnym umysłem i żądzą młodości, może przerodzić się w coś wypaczonego i skrzywionego.
O „The Man Inside Me” niewątpliwie możemy napisać wiele dobrego, jako że jest to powieść wypełniona licznymi, różnorodnymi zaletami. A wierzcie mi, może ona zachwycić czytelnika już od pierwszych zdań. I właśnie na tym, co od razu rzuciło mi się w oczy, chciałabym skupić się w tej recenzji w pierwszej kolejności. Chodzi o język. Wprawdzie angielski jest dla mnie językiem obcym i bezustannie się go uczę, jednak nie zmienia to faktu, iż autor oczarował mnie nim już na samym początku mojej przygody z tą powieścią. „The Man Inside Me” został napisany wspaniałym, pięknym językiem, miejscami niemal poetyckim, który od razu skojarzył mi się z klasyką literatury, choć z całą pewnością bije na głowę niejednego klasyka. Wszelkie opisy są niebywale obrazowe, mistrzowsko oddane, jakby autor nie pisał, ale malował słowem, a każde zdanie cechuje swoista melodyjność oraz poetyzm. Tym samym czytanie tej książki porównałabym do podziwiania sztuki. Jeśli ja, Polka, zdołałam to dostrzec, to o ileż silniej język tej powieści przemówi do osób anglojęzycznych. Naprawdę warto sięgnąć po tę pozycję, nawet dla samej rozkoszy czytania.
Wspomniałam już, że w „The Man Inside Me” szybko odkryłam powiązanie z klasyką literatury i właśnie ten temat pragnę rozwinąć trochę dokładniej. Okazuje się bowiem, że powieść ta nie tylko pod względem fantastycznego stylu nawiązuje do klasyki, ale także ma to związek z ukazanymi tu postaciami. Przyznaję, że było to dla mnie ogromnym zaskoczeniem, które bez wątpienia mogę uznać za pozytywne. Nie będę kłamać, rozpoczynając lekturę, spodziewałam się czegoś w stylu „Portretu Doriana Greya” Oscara Wilde’a i początkowo zupełnie nie skojarzyłam bohaterów powieści Seana Kerra, z tymi stworzonymi oryginalnie przez zupełnie innego, bardzo popularnego XIX-wiecznego pisarza. Nie wymienię jednak jego nazwiska, ani też tytułu utworu, który stał się bazą „The Man Inside Me”, ponieważ chciałabym abyście odkryli to sami. W końcu autor z pewnością miał swój cel w podrzucaniu nam drobnych wskazówek przez część swojej powieści, zamiast od razu wyjawić nam całą jej tajemnicę. Nie zamierzam więc psuć Wam zabawy, jaką dla nas wszystkich przygotował Sean Kerr.
Kolejną zaletą powieści jest sposób, w jaki autor ukazuje bohaterów. Po pierwsze, wyraźnie uwydatnia te cechy charakteru, które czynią ich tym, kim są, które odróżniają ich od innych. Z jednej strony widzimy to w rozmowach, jakie prowadzą, z drugiej w narracji. Warto bowiem zauważyć, że nie mamy tu do czynienia z jednym tylko narratorem, ale jest ich kilku, a czasami zmienia się także struktura narracji, co pomaga czytelnikowi spojrzeć na bohaterów pod zupełnie innym kątem. Na doskonały styl ukazania postaci wpływa także fakt, iż autor pozwala nam na dogłębne wejrzenie w ich psychikę, myśli, fantazje, grzechy i grzeszki. Bohaterowie są bowiem bardzo wylewni i pozwalają abyśmy poznali ich tak, jak nikt inny. Wszystko to czyni tę powieść naprawdę elektryzującą i wciągającą, zaś postaci szybko stają się nam niesamowicie bliskie.
Na koniec chciałabym napisać co, nieco także o samej historii. Należy przyznać, że Sean Kerr naprawdę wiedział, w jaki sposób pokierować fabułą, alby czytelnik szybko uzależnił się od jego książki. Z jednej strony posłużył się bowiem doskonale nam znaną XIX-wieczną powieścią, wykorzystując ją w sposób fantastyczny, pokrętny, inteligentny i mądry. Z drugiej zaś, wchodząc w psychikę postaci sięgnął częściowo do jej jasnej, pozytywnej strony, jak i przede wszystkim do najbardziej mrocznych sekretów ich dusz. Dodatkowo zdołał naładować „The Man Inside Me” taką dawką napięcia, w tym także seksualnego, że czytelnik wydaje się nim oddychać od pierwszej do ostatniej strony powieści. Całość prezentuje się więc doskonale, jest absorbująca i zapada w pamięć na długo.
Podsumowując, „The Man Inside Me” to prawdziwe cudo. To fantastycznie napisana, intrygująca, gorąca i mroczna powieść, która zaskakuje, uzależnia i obnaża ludzką duszę. Gorąco polecam Wam tę historię i zapewniam, że decydując się na jej przeczytanie nie pożałujecie. To mistrzostwo!
England, times of Queen Victoria's reign.
Gabriel and Henry, two respectable middle-aged friends who occupy quite a high position in the social hierarchy, lead a well-organized but very lonely life. When they were young, there was a passionate intimacy between them, but now they are forced to keep their deeper feelings in check, as society doesn't look favorably upon homosexual relationships. As if that was not enough, the passing years have an impact not only on their bodies, but also on their well-being and self-esteem, which ultimately shakes their world and turns everything upside down. It turns out that when the midlife crisis coincides with a great mind and lust for youth, it could turn into something wicked and twisted.
We can undoubtedly write a lot of good about "The Man Inside Me" as it is a novel filled with many different advantages. For example, it can delight the reader from the very first sentences. That's why in this review in the first place I would like to focus on the thing that caught my eye right away. Well, it's about a language. Although English is a foreign language for me and I constantly learn it, it doesn't change the fact that the author charmed me at the very beginning of my adventure with this novel. "The Man Inside Me" was written in a marvelous, beautiful language, almost poetic one, which immediately reminded me of the classic literature books, although it's certainly better than many works of classic writers. All descriptions are unbelievably graphic, masterly depicted, as if the author didn't write, but painted with words, and each sentence is characterized by a unique melody and poetry. Thus, reading this book I would compare to admiring art. If I, a Polish girl, have managed to see all of this, how much stronger the language of this novel will appeal to English speakers. It is really worth reaching for this book, even if just for a simple pleasure of reading it.
I have already mentioned that in "The Man Inside Me" I managed to see its connection with the classic literature and this is the subject I want to develop a little more precisely. It turns out that this novel not only refers to the classics in terms of its fantastic style, but also in relation to the characters presented here. I admit that it was a huge, and without doubt positive, surprise for me. I won't lie, when I started reading this novel, I was expecting something like "Portrait of Dorian Gray" by Oscar Wilde and at first I completely didn't link Sean Kerr's characters with those originally created by a completely different, very popular nineteenth-century writer. I discovered it a little later. However, I won't mention his name, nor the title of the work that became the base of "The Man Inside Me", because I would like you to discover it yourself. In the end, the author certainly had some sort of a goal in giving us just some hints for a great part of his novel, instead of immediately revealing its whole secret. So I'm not going to spoil the fun that Sean Kerr has prepared for us all.
Another advantage of the novel is the way in which the author shows the characters. First of all, he clearly highlights those personality traits that make them who they are and which distinguish them from others. On the one hand we see it in the conversations they have, and on the other, in the narrative. It is worth noting that we are not dealing here with only one narrator, but there are several of them, and sometimes the narrative structure also changes, which helps the reader to look at the characters from a completely different angle. The perfect style of presenting the protagonists is also affected by the fact that the author allows us to look deep into their psyche, thoughts, fantasies, bigger and smaller sins. As the characters are very effusive and allow us to get to know them better than anyone else. All this makes this novel really electrifying and addictive, and we quickly feel a close connection between us and the characters.
At the end I would like to write something about the story itself. It must be admitted that Sean Kerr really has known how to direct the plot for the reader to quickly become addicted to his book. On the one hand he used the well-known nineteenth-century novel in a fantastic, twisted, intelligent and clever way. On the other hand giving us the insight into the characters' psyche, he partially reached to its bright, positive side, and above all to the darkest secrets of their souls. What is more, he managed to charge "The Man Inside Me" with such a dose of tension, including the sexual one, that the reader seems to breathe it in from the first to the last page of the novel. In short, the story as a whole looks perfect, for it is absorbing and I am sure, it will stay in our memory for a long time.
In conclusion, "The Man Inside Me" is a real marvel. This is a fantastically written, intriguing, hot and dark novel that surprises you, makes you addicted and exposes the human soul. I strongly recommend this story and assure you that you won't regret reading it. It's a masterpiece!
_____________________________________
Anglia, czasy panowania królowej Wiktorii. Gabriel i Henry, dwójka szanowanych i wysoko postawionych w hierarchii społecznej przyjaciół w średnim wieku, wiedzie ułożone, ale bardzo samotne życie. Za młodu łączyła ich namiętna intymność, jednak teraz zmuszeni są trzymać swoje gorące uczucia na wodzy, jako że społeczeństwo nie patrzy przychylnie na związki homoseksualne. Jakby tego było mało, upływające lata odbijają się na ich ciałach, samopoczuciu i samoocenie, co ostatecznie wstrząsa ich światem i wywraca wszystko do góry nogami. Okazuje się bowiem, że kiedy kryzys wieku średniego zejdzie się w parze z lotnym umysłem i żądzą młodości, może przerodzić się w coś wypaczonego i skrzywionego.
O „The Man Inside Me” niewątpliwie możemy napisać wiele dobrego, jako że jest to powieść wypełniona licznymi, różnorodnymi zaletami. A wierzcie mi, może ona zachwycić czytelnika już od pierwszych zdań. I właśnie na tym, co od razu rzuciło mi się w oczy, chciałabym skupić się w tej recenzji w pierwszej kolejności. Chodzi o język. Wprawdzie angielski jest dla mnie językiem obcym i bezustannie się go uczę, jednak nie zmienia to faktu, iż autor oczarował mnie nim już na samym początku mojej przygody z tą powieścią. „The Man Inside Me” został napisany wspaniałym, pięknym językiem, miejscami niemal poetyckim, który od razu skojarzył mi się z klasyką literatury, choć z całą pewnością bije na głowę niejednego klasyka. Wszelkie opisy są niebywale obrazowe, mistrzowsko oddane, jakby autor nie pisał, ale malował słowem, a każde zdanie cechuje swoista melodyjność oraz poetyzm. Tym samym czytanie tej książki porównałabym do podziwiania sztuki. Jeśli ja, Polka, zdołałam to dostrzec, to o ileż silniej język tej powieści przemówi do osób anglojęzycznych. Naprawdę warto sięgnąć po tę pozycję, nawet dla samej rozkoszy czytania.
Wspomniałam już, że w „The Man Inside Me” szybko odkryłam powiązanie z klasyką literatury i właśnie ten temat pragnę rozwinąć trochę dokładniej. Okazuje się bowiem, że powieść ta nie tylko pod względem fantastycznego stylu nawiązuje do klasyki, ale także ma to związek z ukazanymi tu postaciami. Przyznaję, że było to dla mnie ogromnym zaskoczeniem, które bez wątpienia mogę uznać za pozytywne. Nie będę kłamać, rozpoczynając lekturę, spodziewałam się czegoś w stylu „Portretu Doriana Greya” Oscara Wilde’a i początkowo zupełnie nie skojarzyłam bohaterów powieści Seana Kerra, z tymi stworzonymi oryginalnie przez zupełnie innego, bardzo popularnego XIX-wiecznego pisarza. Nie wymienię jednak jego nazwiska, ani też tytułu utworu, który stał się bazą „The Man Inside Me”, ponieważ chciałabym abyście odkryli to sami. W końcu autor z pewnością miał swój cel w podrzucaniu nam drobnych wskazówek przez część swojej powieści, zamiast od razu wyjawić nam całą jej tajemnicę. Nie zamierzam więc psuć Wam zabawy, jaką dla nas wszystkich przygotował Sean Kerr.
Kolejną zaletą powieści jest sposób, w jaki autor ukazuje bohaterów. Po pierwsze, wyraźnie uwydatnia te cechy charakteru, które czynią ich tym, kim są, które odróżniają ich od innych. Z jednej strony widzimy to w rozmowach, jakie prowadzą, z drugiej w narracji. Warto bowiem zauważyć, że nie mamy tu do czynienia z jednym tylko narratorem, ale jest ich kilku, a czasami zmienia się także struktura narracji, co pomaga czytelnikowi spojrzeć na bohaterów pod zupełnie innym kątem. Na doskonały styl ukazania postaci wpływa także fakt, iż autor pozwala nam na dogłębne wejrzenie w ich psychikę, myśli, fantazje, grzechy i grzeszki. Bohaterowie są bowiem bardzo wylewni i pozwalają abyśmy poznali ich tak, jak nikt inny. Wszystko to czyni tę powieść naprawdę elektryzującą i wciągającą, zaś postaci szybko stają się nam niesamowicie bliskie.
Na koniec chciałabym napisać co, nieco także o samej historii. Należy przyznać, że Sean Kerr naprawdę wiedział, w jaki sposób pokierować fabułą, alby czytelnik szybko uzależnił się od jego książki. Z jednej strony posłużył się bowiem doskonale nam znaną XIX-wieczną powieścią, wykorzystując ją w sposób fantastyczny, pokrętny, inteligentny i mądry. Z drugiej zaś, wchodząc w psychikę postaci sięgnął częściowo do jej jasnej, pozytywnej strony, jak i przede wszystkim do najbardziej mrocznych sekretów ich dusz. Dodatkowo zdołał naładować „The Man Inside Me” taką dawką napięcia, w tym także seksualnego, że czytelnik wydaje się nim oddychać od pierwszej do ostatniej strony powieści. Całość prezentuje się więc doskonale, jest absorbująca i zapada w pamięć na długo.
Podsumowując, „The Man Inside Me” to prawdziwe cudo. To fantastycznie napisana, intrygująca, gorąca i mroczna powieść, która zaskakuje, uzależnia i obnaża ludzką duszę. Gorąco polecam Wam tę historię i zapewniam, że decydując się na jej przeczytanie nie pożałujecie. To mistrzostwo!
December 17, 2018
The Man Inside Me, Sean Kerr’s adaptation of an olde classic, is as haunting and beautifully written as the original. In fact, Kerr surpassed that tale by brilliantly updating its moral issues to reflect current values. (Although Kerr uses the same names as the original, and readers will quickly recognize the storyline, he doesn’t make it obvious for several chapters, so I won’t either.)
Gabriel, a law student and Henry, a brilliant, handsome chemistry major, were secret lovers at University. Now they are middle-age, but haven’t acted on their still lively affections since youth. It is 1885 and the Labouchere Amendment (which used the statute of “gross indecency” to jail gay men) has just passed.
At first it appears Gabriel and Henry have shunned love in favor of their professional careers. Soon, we discover their distance is more complicated. The death of both Henry’s parents to insanity (his mother while he was in college) left him obsessed to find a cure for mental illness. He stuffed away his burgeoning love for Gabriel, who accepted mere friendship, rather than abandon the man he still loves.
The story starts at Henry’s dinner party, where Gabriel notices Henry seems unwell. Another friend doesn’t appear, and a fourth tells them about an encounter with a gloriously unapologetic man who has been seen at the molly house (a safe house for gay men to meet.)
Readers almost admire this stranger when we are introduced to him, as he openly defies the uptight, hypocritical strictures of Victorian times. But then we learn his disdain for life, and are reminded how easy it is to rationalize excess. It’s a timely theme. As news today reflects, we must be careful of our admiration of power. And sexuality can be used as a form of power.
Who is this stranger and what will he do to Gabriel and Henry’s affections? What is wrong with Henry? Do the men stand a chance after all this time? Kerr perfectly counterpoints suspense and danger with affection, and love through poignantly-timed flashbacks.
The Man Inside Me is a glimpse into the classic, which examined public and private personas, good and evil, and sanity and insanity (since mental illness was considered as a moral failing in those days). Sanity was defined as sticking to society’s dictates, and squashing any desire or emotion that didn’t fit the mold. Those who didn’t fit were locked away.
Today, however, most people believe that wide-eyed self-acceptance, without rationalization of our misbehavior, will allow us to tame our worst impulses. To do so requires examination of the “man inside.” Readers will be wowed by the all ways in which Kerr looks at the concept of self-reflection in a mirror, through the opinions of others, in Henry’s actions, and beliefs. How can a single book create so many windows through which to examine our souls?
Henry may be the man we wish to be, gifted, loving, passionate and ready to help the world. But it is the steady certainty of Gabriel’s love and forgiveness that creates a wise vision of mankind, one in which we, as average people, redeem ourselves and others, despite – and because of our “wicked” tendencies.
Kerr’s writing is sheer glory. Few modern Victorian novels incorporate the flowery language often popular back then. Thank goodness, it can be incomprehensible. But … Kerr’s words are easy to digest, highly enlightening, and so clear every image is painted to complete vibrancy, as if seen in a mirror, or on the big screen. His prose is exquisite.
Gosh, I want to see The Man Inside Me made into a movie. Any producers out there?
Gabriel, a law student and Henry, a brilliant, handsome chemistry major, were secret lovers at University. Now they are middle-age, but haven’t acted on their still lively affections since youth. It is 1885 and the Labouchere Amendment (which used the statute of “gross indecency” to jail gay men) has just passed.
At first it appears Gabriel and Henry have shunned love in favor of their professional careers. Soon, we discover their distance is more complicated. The death of both Henry’s parents to insanity (his mother while he was in college) left him obsessed to find a cure for mental illness. He stuffed away his burgeoning love for Gabriel, who accepted mere friendship, rather than abandon the man he still loves.
The story starts at Henry’s dinner party, where Gabriel notices Henry seems unwell. Another friend doesn’t appear, and a fourth tells them about an encounter with a gloriously unapologetic man who has been seen at the molly house (a safe house for gay men to meet.)
Readers almost admire this stranger when we are introduced to him, as he openly defies the uptight, hypocritical strictures of Victorian times. But then we learn his disdain for life, and are reminded how easy it is to rationalize excess. It’s a timely theme. As news today reflects, we must be careful of our admiration of power. And sexuality can be used as a form of power.
Who is this stranger and what will he do to Gabriel and Henry’s affections? What is wrong with Henry? Do the men stand a chance after all this time? Kerr perfectly counterpoints suspense and danger with affection, and love through poignantly-timed flashbacks.
The Man Inside Me is a glimpse into the classic, which examined public and private personas, good and evil, and sanity and insanity (since mental illness was considered as a moral failing in those days). Sanity was defined as sticking to society’s dictates, and squashing any desire or emotion that didn’t fit the mold. Those who didn’t fit were locked away.
Today, however, most people believe that wide-eyed self-acceptance, without rationalization of our misbehavior, will allow us to tame our worst impulses. To do so requires examination of the “man inside.” Readers will be wowed by the all ways in which Kerr looks at the concept of self-reflection in a mirror, through the opinions of others, in Henry’s actions, and beliefs. How can a single book create so many windows through which to examine our souls?
Henry may be the man we wish to be, gifted, loving, passionate and ready to help the world. But it is the steady certainty of Gabriel’s love and forgiveness that creates a wise vision of mankind, one in which we, as average people, redeem ourselves and others, despite – and because of our “wicked” tendencies.
Kerr’s writing is sheer glory. Few modern Victorian novels incorporate the flowery language often popular back then. Thank goodness, it can be incomprehensible. But … Kerr’s words are easy to digest, highly enlightening, and so clear every image is painted to complete vibrancy, as if seen in a mirror, or on the big screen. His prose is exquisite.
Gosh, I want to see The Man Inside Me made into a movie. Any producers out there?
January 18, 2019
*This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review*
This is an M/M retelling of The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and I absolutely loved it. I have read the original story, however it did take me a little while into the book to realize it was an actual retelling. While characters names are told right away, the general tale of the original story isn’t told until about half way through. I did enjoy this more, because this delves deeper into Henry’s backstory of why he would create a potion that would make someone’s inner demons form into its own manifestation. He had loving parents, but unfortunately his father passed away when he was young. His mother remarried to a doctor, but Henry doesn’t like or trust his new stepfather. Henry is always studying medicine and chemistry and wants to become a doctor himself. One day Henry runs into a man named Gabriel at the library. Gabriel is studying to become a lawyer. Gabriel is a lot more shy than Henry, and has never had any advances towards him, man or woman, but he is attracted to Henry. They start a secret relationship, because being gay in the time period is illegal. Henry finds out that his new stepfather did something horrific to his mother and can’t take it anymore. He’s getting older, he doesn’t feel he’s attractive anymore, he’s losing his hair, he isn’t in the best shape, and he just loses it. He’s too depressed with life to be in a relationship with Gabriel anymore and he spends all his time creating the concoction to bring forth his evil side. He finally succeeds in creating the monster known as Edward Hyde. Hyde is big, buff, attractive, and physically better than Jekyll is in every way. However, since he’s the evil side, he exacts his revenge on the people who wronged Jekyll in the past. It’s up to Gabriel to find out the truth and try to stop Hyde and bring Jekyll back into control before it’s too late.
I will say it is a little slow going in the beginning and picks up more halfway through. I’m not sure why it’s not marketed as a retelling but it spells out the names right in the beginning for you, but for someone who may have never read the original story they might not pick up on it right away. I didn’t even pick it up right away and I had read the story. However, I loved Henry and Gabriel and thought they were so good together. Once I got into it, I flew through it and couldn’t put it down. Highly recommended.
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng***
This is an M/M retelling of The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and I absolutely loved it. I have read the original story, however it did take me a little while into the book to realize it was an actual retelling. While characters names are told right away, the general tale of the original story isn’t told until about half way through. I did enjoy this more, because this delves deeper into Henry’s backstory of why he would create a potion that would make someone’s inner demons form into its own manifestation. He had loving parents, but unfortunately his father passed away when he was young. His mother remarried to a doctor, but Henry doesn’t like or trust his new stepfather. Henry is always studying medicine and chemistry and wants to become a doctor himself. One day Henry runs into a man named Gabriel at the library. Gabriel is studying to become a lawyer. Gabriel is a lot more shy than Henry, and has never had any advances towards him, man or woman, but he is attracted to Henry. They start a secret relationship, because being gay in the time period is illegal. Henry finds out that his new stepfather did something horrific to his mother and can’t take it anymore. He’s getting older, he doesn’t feel he’s attractive anymore, he’s losing his hair, he isn’t in the best shape, and he just loses it. He’s too depressed with life to be in a relationship with Gabriel anymore and he spends all his time creating the concoction to bring forth his evil side. He finally succeeds in creating the monster known as Edward Hyde. Hyde is big, buff, attractive, and physically better than Jekyll is in every way. However, since he’s the evil side, he exacts his revenge on the people who wronged Jekyll in the past. It’s up to Gabriel to find out the truth and try to stop Hyde and bring Jekyll back into control before it’s too late.
I will say it is a little slow going in the beginning and picks up more halfway through. I’m not sure why it’s not marketed as a retelling but it spells out the names right in the beginning for you, but for someone who may have never read the original story they might not pick up on it right away. I didn’t even pick it up right away and I had read the story. However, I loved Henry and Gabriel and thought they were so good together. Once I got into it, I flew through it and couldn’t put it down. Highly recommended.
***Review has been done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official. For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: www.facebook.com/NerdGirl.ng***
December 19, 2018
5 Stars!
I'm not sure what to say about this book without spoiling it for others, other than saying it's an amazing read. The writing is so elegant, almost poetic in some parts, very reminiscent of the time period it covers. I love historical romances, although I wouldn't say this is quite a romance, even if it's being heralded as a gothic or paranormal romance. To me, it's more of a gothic story with some romantic elements.
I really liked Henry and Gabriel, who'd been lovers at one time during their youth and now thirty years later are just friends. I liked the way the author showed us how they had met and how they fell in love and then why it all stopped and was hoping they could rekindle their relationship at some point.
The story is told from several perspectives in many different manners. We get Henry's POV, we see his inner turmoil, his love for Gabriel and his mother, his despair over the loss of his mother and his hate for her husband and above all, how his obsession changed him and made him turn his back on Gabriel's love back when they were still in their 20's. I can say I was truly surprised when I learned his true identity around the middle mark of the book, even if I had my suspicions before then. We get Gabriel's perspective, his fear that his dear friend, the man he's loved for so long, might be ill or losing his sanity. It was heartbreaking to realize how much it affected him to lose Henry's love and how lonely he'd been all those years. Then we have Richard, Henry and Gabriel's friend, who is privy to other details that add up to the mystery surrounding the story. Added to those, there are some articles from a newspaper regarding the mystery and some letters that round up the plotline and make it more detailed and rich.
I can safely say The Man Inside Me wasn't what I expected, and perhaps it's not for all readers, but if you love historical books and you love Gothic romances, you'll surely love this book.
*** While a copy of the book was provided to Bayou Book Junkie, the reviewer chose to borrow a copy through KU, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
I'm not sure what to say about this book without spoiling it for others, other than saying it's an amazing read. The writing is so elegant, almost poetic in some parts, very reminiscent of the time period it covers. I love historical romances, although I wouldn't say this is quite a romance, even if it's being heralded as a gothic or paranormal romance. To me, it's more of a gothic story with some romantic elements.
I really liked Henry and Gabriel, who'd been lovers at one time during their youth and now thirty years later are just friends. I liked the way the author showed us how they had met and how they fell in love and then why it all stopped and was hoping they could rekindle their relationship at some point.
The story is told from several perspectives in many different manners. We get Henry's POV, we see his inner turmoil, his love for Gabriel and his mother, his despair over the loss of his mother and his hate for her husband and above all, how his obsession changed him and made him turn his back on Gabriel's love back when they were still in their 20's. I can say I was truly surprised when I learned his true identity around the middle mark of the book, even if I had my suspicions before then. We get Gabriel's perspective, his fear that his dear friend, the man he's loved for so long, might be ill or losing his sanity. It was heartbreaking to realize how much it affected him to lose Henry's love and how lonely he'd been all those years. Then we have Richard, Henry and Gabriel's friend, who is privy to other details that add up to the mystery surrounding the story. Added to those, there are some articles from a newspaper regarding the mystery and some letters that round up the plotline and make it more detailed and rich.
I can safely say The Man Inside Me wasn't what I expected, and perhaps it's not for all readers, but if you love historical books and you love Gothic romances, you'll surely love this book.
*** While a copy of the book was provided to Bayou Book Junkie, the reviewer chose to borrow a copy through KU, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
December 14, 2018
*I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review*
As you all know I adore retellings and this is a wonderful take on the classic novel the Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson.
Whilst at university, Henry and Gabriel embark on a forbidden romance that comes to an abrupt end when a tragedy befalls Henry. In his grief he casts aside Gabriel and their love in favour of his scientific research, which quickly consumes him. Years later Gabriel is still in love with him and is greatly saddened that age and misfortune has kept them apart. But after all this time he has not given up on Henry. A murder and the shocking discovery of the terrible consequence of Henry’s experiments suddenly find Gabriel fighting not only for his own life, but also the man he loves.
I thoroughly enjoyed this retelling. Many of the classic characters were there, reimagined and with new relationships, personalities and motivations. Henry and Gabriel’s relationship was beautifully written and carefully crafted over so many years. Even when time and grief tore them apart you could really feel the love that they had for each other.
The story itself was very well-written and the language and dialogue used very in keeping with the Victoria time period. As events unfolded they did so in a way that made me want to keep turning every page. The finale kept me on the edge of my seat as to whether Gabriel’s love was enough to save Henry or whether Hyde would be the end of them both. I cannot recommend this novel enough and give it 5 stars!
As you all know I adore retellings and this is a wonderful take on the classic novel the Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson.
Whilst at university, Henry and Gabriel embark on a forbidden romance that comes to an abrupt end when a tragedy befalls Henry. In his grief he casts aside Gabriel and their love in favour of his scientific research, which quickly consumes him. Years later Gabriel is still in love with him and is greatly saddened that age and misfortune has kept them apart. But after all this time he has not given up on Henry. A murder and the shocking discovery of the terrible consequence of Henry’s experiments suddenly find Gabriel fighting not only for his own life, but also the man he loves.
I thoroughly enjoyed this retelling. Many of the classic characters were there, reimagined and with new relationships, personalities and motivations. Henry and Gabriel’s relationship was beautifully written and carefully crafted over so many years. Even when time and grief tore them apart you could really feel the love that they had for each other.
The story itself was very well-written and the language and dialogue used very in keeping with the Victoria time period. As events unfolded they did so in a way that made me want to keep turning every page. The finale kept me on the edge of my seat as to whether Gabriel’s love was enough to save Henry or whether Hyde would be the end of them both. I cannot recommend this novel enough and give it 5 stars!
April 9, 2019
A male/male romance based on the classic involving Dr. Henry Jekyll and Mr. Edward Hyde, where the suppressed side of human nature mingles with the repression of Victorian society and the consequences of its institutionalized homophobia. This story is told by the man Jekyll loves, one of Hyde’s willing victims, along with Jekyll and Hyde themselves. Readers get a view of the hidden Victorian London and its molly houses, the idealism of youth, and the tales which which dared not reveal themselves. A passionate desire for justice is curbed by the hypocrisy of the times, which Hyde is quick to point out and exploit. At times the readers is almost inclined to cheer Hyde on, yet he knows no safety limits, not control, and has no hesitation to act out on his darkest nature which will lash out at those dear to Jekyll as well as those hated by Jekyll. The love between Jekyll and Utterson is very sweet along with the mild-mannered attorney’s decision to fight for Henry, the man he loves. With a touch of melodrama and poesy that larger than life, this is a very interesting re-interpretation of elements in a classic tale. For all of this, I give this four stars.
December 13, 2018
This is the very well written tale of Henry and Gabriel, dear friends in 1800's London. In another time and circumstance, these two would be together, living happily ever after. However, this relationship takes place in a time where men aren't allowed to show feelings for each other that extend beyond friendship. Henry is also losing himself in his research, and Gabriel is powerless to help him. While there is a loving connection between the two men, this story is more thriller than romance, more violence than gentleness, and more often hopeless than hopeful. It is also incredibly good.
I will not post spoilers, but I will say that I was unable to put the book down once I read the first page. I was completely absorbed in this creepy and heartbreaking story. The author did an amazing job here, and I recommend this book to those who enjoy a creepy adult tale. This one will not be easily forgotten.
I will not post spoilers, but I will say that I was unable to put the book down once I read the first page. I was completely absorbed in this creepy and heartbreaking story. The author did an amazing job here, and I recommend this book to those who enjoy a creepy adult tale. This one will not be easily forgotten.
November 4, 2018
Another superb novel from Sean Kerr.
I have been an avid reader of Sean Kerr’s books since I happened upon Dead Camp, the first novel in a 5 book series. His masterful story telling, wit and humour make all Sean’s books wonderfully engrossing reads. The research and attention to historical detail make his stories all the more compelling.
The Man Inside Me is a fascinating take on another classic novel and draws the reader in from the very beginning. This book will make you think about love, ageing and some of life’s big questions. It will also have you on the edge of your seat until the final page. If you are a fan of historical novels with some murder and mayhem and a beautiful love story at its heart then this is the book for you. Another gem from a superb story teller.
I have been an avid reader of Sean Kerr’s books since I happened upon Dead Camp, the first novel in a 5 book series. His masterful story telling, wit and humour make all Sean’s books wonderfully engrossing reads. The research and attention to historical detail make his stories all the more compelling.
The Man Inside Me is a fascinating take on another classic novel and draws the reader in from the very beginning. This book will make you think about love, ageing and some of life’s big questions. It will also have you on the edge of your seat until the final page. If you are a fan of historical novels with some murder and mayhem and a beautiful love story at its heart then this is the book for you. Another gem from a superb story teller.
July 17, 2019
Gripping!
Kerr shares a remarkable gripping story in The Man Inside Me. The story revolves around the love of two men in Victorian London, and a sinister shadow that lingers over them. It feels more like there is more than one shadow, as the past and even present is haunting, and trying to hold on to what is there and what has been. It's one of those interesting love stories, that has more than love and romance. The connection between Gabriel and Henry is undeniable, and I was reading this on the edge of my seat. It's a real page-turner, and very unpredictable, and in some ways, heart-aching, while be chilling and heartfelt at the same time, if that's possible. I look forward to reading more by this author.
Kerr shares a remarkable gripping story in The Man Inside Me. The story revolves around the love of two men in Victorian London, and a sinister shadow that lingers over them. It feels more like there is more than one shadow, as the past and even present is haunting, and trying to hold on to what is there and what has been. It's one of those interesting love stories, that has more than love and romance. The connection between Gabriel and Henry is undeniable, and I was reading this on the edge of my seat. It's a real page-turner, and very unpredictable, and in some ways, heart-aching, while be chilling and heartfelt at the same time, if that's possible. I look forward to reading more by this author.
October 16, 2021
My first book with this author. How I love a well written story - and he does write exceptionally well. The language took me right there to that time in history. It certainly had more twists than a head full of ringlets, and I wasn't sure what the next page would bring. The pure, vast hugeness of love that Gabriel had for Henry was enough to break your heart. The way the story evolved was a stark reminder to live in the moment, to grab the joys offered with both hands and hang on tight. Jekyll and Hyde has never been written like this before and it was a fascinating, if not troubling, read. The heart was racing, the adrenaline was flowing. What a ride !! I'm almost fearful about diving into "Alive' and seeing what happens 200 years into the future.... almost
October 16, 2018
Book Reviewed: The Man Inside Me
My Rating: 5 Stars
Author: Sean Kerr
Publication Date: 10/6/2018
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
REVIEW
New to me author.
This book is of the male/male genre and very well written. We are in the 1800's.
We meet Gabriel and Henry who are very different but also very much the same. One accepting things as they are and the other not so much.
The author leads us on a tale of darkness, insane asylums, and beasts of the night.
However we get an undying love, and passion between these two men, unlike anything I have ever read.
I would highly suggest this book.
My Rating: 5 Stars
Author: Sean Kerr
Publication Date: 10/6/2018
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
REVIEW
New to me author.
This book is of the male/male genre and very well written. We are in the 1800's.
We meet Gabriel and Henry who are very different but also very much the same. One accepting things as they are and the other not so much.
The author leads us on a tale of darkness, insane asylums, and beasts of the night.
However we get an undying love, and passion between these two men, unlike anything I have ever read.
I would highly suggest this book.
October 27, 2018
Twist on a classic tale
There aren't enough pretty words to say what this book exudes. From the magnificent writing, the flow of words, to the astounding twist on a novel I grew up with and loved, this book is everything I didn't know could exist. While it is an MM book, it is done in such a masterful way, you don't get side tracked by the romance, which is super hot, by the way. 5 stars for this amazing story.
There aren't enough pretty words to say what this book exudes. From the magnificent writing, the flow of words, to the astounding twist on a novel I grew up with and loved, this book is everything I didn't know could exist. While it is an MM book, it is done in such a masterful way, you don't get side tracked by the romance, which is super hot, by the way. 5 stars for this amazing story.
November 16, 2018
Wow! This was a great book! This is the first book I have read by this author, so I wasn’t sure what to except. I am so glad I got to read this book! I love the twists and turns in this book. The chemistry between the characters was amazing. This book has so much to offer, suspense, gothic romance, and thrills. It’s also set in the 1800’s so that makes it even better!
*Magic Beyond The Covers Book Blog*
*Magic Beyond The Covers Book Blog*
November 29, 2018
The Man Inside Me: An MM Gothic Romance
WOW, this was some book! Definitely a must read, wonderful love story I thought, hold on to your seat, it's a very dark mystery, and year's of drama! I absolutely loved it and can not say more, read it, this Author will keep you turning those pages, He's amazing! Many thanks, Honey Bee 🐝📚💙🎶
WOW, this was some book! Definitely a must read, wonderful love story I thought, hold on to your seat, it's a very dark mystery, and year's of drama! I absolutely loved it and can not say more, read it, this Author will keep you turning those pages, He's amazing! Many thanks, Honey Bee 🐝📚💙🎶
December 10, 2018
I could not put this down!
I downloaded a sample to try it out having never read anything from the author. For the first chapter or two I didn’t know where it was headed but I was intrigued. Let me tell you very soon you get sucked in and won’t be able to stop. The characters are amazing, even the bad ones.
You definitely don’t want to miss this one!
I downloaded a sample to try it out having never read anything from the author. For the first chapter or two I didn’t know where it was headed but I was intrigued. Let me tell you very soon you get sucked in and won’t be able to stop. The characters are amazing, even the bad ones.
You definitely don’t want to miss this one!
could-not-finish
September 25, 2019I made it halfway through this retelling of Jekyll and Hyde. I just couldn't care about the characters. They just failed to feel human to me. I don't know if it was the rampant classist language, or what. I'm sure that Gabriel loved Henry, but I just couldn't stay interested long enough to get past the Edward Hyde reveal.
November 6, 2018
Historic .Net romance
My first time reading a book by Sean Kerr . What a beautifully written story. Love is a powerful thing,and you see that with these characters.
My first time reading a book by Sean Kerr . What a beautifully written story. Love is a powerful thing,and you see that with these characters.
December 18, 2018
Brilliant.
My full review will follow as soon as I can articulate my thoughts.
My full review will follow as soon as I can articulate my thoughts.
February 14, 2021
listened to this in 2020. it was okay, the narrator was good, my first from this author
December 4, 2022
Oh, wow! It took me a second to get into the story, but once I did? I couldn’t stop listening! It’s very compelling and engaging, with multiple POVs and flash-backs.
Very well-written and performed!
Very well-written and performed!
Want to read
October 12, 2018The Man Inside Me was graciously provided to me by the author for an honest review. Review to follow.
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