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Tyack & Frayne #3
Le fantôme de Cornouailles
Qu'est-ce qui peut bien hanter Lee Tyack ?
Il a emménagé chez Gideon Frayne, et ils aiment tous les deux leur nouvelle vie. Mais l'ombre est toujours là - une voix de l'enfer qui tourmente le médium, et que même Gideon, policier pragmatique, peut entendre.
Gideon est déterminé à protéger son compagnon. Mais après une blessure grave en service, il découvre à ses dépens qu'il a lui aussi besoin de protection. Son travail est en jeu et il a peur. Le pire de tout, c'est qu'il pense savoir à qui appartient cette voix - et il ne peut pas empêcher Lee d’affronter ce fantôme terrifiant de son passé.
Quand la pleine lune de printemps se lèvera sur la côte accidentée des Cornouailles, et que le voile entre les mondes s'amenuisera, Tyack et Frayne devront unir leurs forces pour résoudre un mystère vieux de plusieurs décennies, qui a encore le pouvoir de détruire leur monde.
213 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 11, 2014
41 people are currently reading
434 people want to read
About the author
Harper Fox
58 books1,176 followersHarper Fox is an M/M author with a mission. She’s produced six critically acclaimed novels in a year and is trying to dispel rumours that she has a clone/twin sister locked away in a study in her basement. In fact she simply continues working on what she loves best– creating worlds and stories for the huge cast of lovely gay men queuing up inside her head. She lives in rural Northumberland in northern England and does most of her writing at a pensioned-off kitchen table in her back garden, often with blanket and hot water bottle.
She lives with her SO Jane, who has somehow put up with her for a quarter of a century now, and three enigmatic cats, chief among whom is Lucy, who knows the secret of the universe but isn't letting on. When not writing, she either despairs or makes bread, specialities foccacia and her amazing seven-strand challah. If she has any other skills, she's yet to discover them.
She lives with her SO Jane, who has somehow put up with her for a quarter of a century now, and three enigmatic cats, chief among whom is Lucy, who knows the secret of the universe but isn't letting on. When not writing, she either despairs or makes bread, specialities foccacia and her amazing seven-strand challah. If she has any other skills, she's yet to discover them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 224 reviews
February 16, 2016
y'know...
at least once during every read of this series so far i've set the ipad down wishing the story didn't feel so aimless and overly-focused on the minutia of what is, underneath all the monster-of-the-week escandalo, a shockingly normal exploration of homosexual domesticity.
and then someone gets possessed by a malignant revenant haunting a chimney and i'm compelled to shut the fuck up.
further, i am given cause to reflect that examples of perfectly ordinary gay couples are so vanishingly rare in MM that i really should be five-starring the fuck out of this series left and right simply for existing. that the glorious indifference the men of this pairing display towards who's on top or who's cuddling whom or who gets what body part desecrated by whom whilst tied to an iron bed frame...
that it has nothing to do with who is bigger or butcher or... anything stupid like that?
well, that's just really satisfying, is all.
MM is all about reductive appropriation; some of it is necessary, because of the tropey needs of storytelling, and some of it is just plain barmy and insulting, and don't ask me about the difference because i will perch here like some dour faggot preacher and motherfucking tell you, at length, until it's hockey o'clock or someone gorgeous makes me lose my train of thought like i'm fifteen, whichever comes first.
and speaking of grim people shouting at you for your own good, lemme tell you something about ezekiel.
i love ezekiel.
i love ezekiel with gideon.
i love ezekiel with gideon and lee.
i love ezekiel with gideon and lee and isolde and holy shit does he remind me of the way alan rickman played professor snape in the harry potter films or what?
anyway.
i have feelings and thoughts but i think i'm pretty much done sharing them with you for now.
would much rather read the next novella in the series, tbh.
f'gouddaboudit.
__________
my review of book two: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
my review of book four: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
at least once during every read of this series so far i've set the ipad down wishing the story didn't feel so aimless and overly-focused on the minutia of what is, underneath all the monster-of-the-week escandalo, a shockingly normal exploration of homosexual domesticity.
and then someone gets possessed by a malignant revenant haunting a chimney and i'm compelled to shut the fuck up.
further, i am given cause to reflect that examples of perfectly ordinary gay couples are so vanishingly rare in MM that i really should be five-starring the fuck out of this series left and right simply for existing. that the glorious indifference the men of this pairing display towards who's on top or who's cuddling whom or who gets what body part desecrated by whom whilst tied to an iron bed frame...
that it has nothing to do with who is bigger or butcher or... anything stupid like that?
well, that's just really satisfying, is all.
MM is all about reductive appropriation; some of it is necessary, because of the tropey needs of storytelling, and some of it is just plain barmy and insulting, and don't ask me about the difference because i will perch here like some dour faggot preacher and motherfucking tell you, at length, until it's hockey o'clock or someone gorgeous makes me lose my train of thought like i'm fifteen, whichever comes first.
and speaking of grim people shouting at you for your own good, lemme tell you something about ezekiel.
i love ezekiel.
i love ezekiel with gideon.
i love ezekiel with gideon and lee.
i love ezekiel with gideon and lee and isolde and holy shit does he remind me of the way alan rickman played professor snape in the harry potter films or what?
anyway.
i have feelings and thoughts but i think i'm pretty much done sharing them with you for now.
would much rather read the next novella in the series, tbh.
f'gouddaboudit.
__________
my review of book two: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
my review of book four: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
April 8, 2025
I didn’t realise “realistic bickering between MC’s over situations that would cause real couples to bicker and then realistic apologising and making up sequence after” would be my kink of 2025, but here we are. 🤷🏻♀️🥵
Also, watching the relationship of the brothers trying to rekindle a friendship of sorts in this book is as satisfying as watching a pimple popping or wax extracting video…. (I constantly fuck up my own algorithms with watching these videos and going down a pimple-cursed rabbit hole)
Also, watching the relationship of the brothers trying to rekindle a friendship of sorts in this book is as satisfying as watching a pimple popping or wax extracting video…. (I constantly fuck up my own algorithms with watching these videos and going down a pimple-cursed rabbit hole)
October 30, 2024
Reread November 2022
This is one of my favorites in the series.
Reread April 2019
Still loving this series so hard.
Originally read August 2018
I really think this series is getting better and better. I am loving these two as a couple. They have their ups and downs but they work it out. Gideon has to come to terms with himself and work and Lee continues to be haunted. But, Gideon always has Lee's back.
Gideon's brother, Zeke, really did shine for me in this one. I am coming to love the grumpy Methodist preacher. He's rethinking what he's always believed and he wants to be part of Gideon's life. I also love Gideon's mom and how she is trying to accept who Gideon is even though it goes against everything she's been pushed to believe as well.
These books are so creepy and will give you chills if you think too long or too hard about it. But they are good and I don't think the romance takes a back seat to the mystery/suspense. It's just the right balance.
This is one of my favorites in the series.
Reread April 2019
Still loving this series so hard.
Originally read August 2018
I really think this series is getting better and better. I am loving these two as a couple. They have their ups and downs but they work it out. Gideon has to come to terms with himself and work and Lee continues to be haunted. But, Gideon always has Lee's back.
Gideon's brother, Zeke, really did shine for me in this one. I am coming to love the grumpy Methodist preacher. He's rethinking what he's always believed and he wants to be part of Gideon's life. I also love Gideon's mom and how she is trying to accept who Gideon is even though it goes against everything she's been pushed to believe as well.
These books are so creepy and will give you chills if you think too long or too hard about it. But they are good and I don't think the romance takes a back seat to the mystery/suspense. It's just the right balance.
August 8, 2018
This series...all the feels!!
Lee and Gid keep me sighing by how devoted they are to one another. The supernatural is alive and well in this series and it's damn creepy. In between sighing and feeling creeped out, there were also some teary eyed and laugh out loud moments.
On to the next...
Lee and Gid keep me sighing by how devoted they are to one another. The supernatural is alive and well in this series and it's damn creepy. In between sighing and feeling creeped out, there were also some teary eyed and laugh out loud moments.
On to the next...
July 31, 2018
4 Really Lovely Stars
I’m not gonna lie. It’s not the paranormal mystery that keeps me coming back. I now read this series strictly for Lee and Gideon.
It definitely melts my cynical heart that Gideon is protective, he actually listens and is open to Lee’s unconventional talents and believes in them, when his very upbringing and profession would deem him a skeptic. This man is proud but not so much so that he lets it get in the way of expressing his feelings or admitting when he’s wrong. Here, he’s doubly vulnerable, having had a serious injury making his future uncertain. However, Gideon loves Lee and will do anything for him, despite his own discomfort and pain.
Lee is no less a great man. Caring and sensitive but with his own quiet, subtle strength that surprises and often delights Gideon (as well as me). He’s vulnerable because his heart is so open, and he still goes forward, determined to help all and grateful for when Gideon is by his side lending support, both figuratively and literally.
There’s just something about the dynamic between these two that is deeply romantic - yearning, appreciative, sweet, and hot - all without being overly explicit, but still so sensual and full of sexy, heady emotions. Thankfully these two don’t miscommunicate on purpose, they don’t hide their feelings or hedge their intents. I appreciate that they wear their hearts on their sleeves, that they care so deeply and grab onto the small moments, as well as the big, and just love each other.
So that was just one long exposition on why I love these two and nothing at all to do with the plot. I admit, the mysterious, supernatural aspects are probably the weakest thing about this series - not because they’re silly or stupid, but oft convoluted, murky, and confusing due to the dubious nature that is inherent with such phenomena. What’s important ultimately, is that everything is righted - Gideon and Lee come out the stronger, and I’m left feeling wholly warm and satisfied and confident in the strength that is their love. *sigh*
I’m not gonna lie. It’s not the paranormal mystery that keeps me coming back. I now read this series strictly for Lee and Gideon.
It definitely melts my cynical heart that Gideon is protective, he actually listens and is open to Lee’s unconventional talents and believes in them, when his very upbringing and profession would deem him a skeptic. This man is proud but not so much so that he lets it get in the way of expressing his feelings or admitting when he’s wrong. Here, he’s doubly vulnerable, having had a serious injury making his future uncertain. However, Gideon loves Lee and will do anything for him, despite his own discomfort and pain.
Lee is no less a great man. Caring and sensitive but with his own quiet, subtle strength that surprises and often delights Gideon (as well as me). He’s vulnerable because his heart is so open, and he still goes forward, determined to help all and grateful for when Gideon is by his side lending support, both figuratively and literally.
There’s just something about the dynamic between these two that is deeply romantic - yearning, appreciative, sweet, and hot - all without being overly explicit, but still so sensual and full of sexy, heady emotions. Thankfully these two don’t miscommunicate on purpose, they don’t hide their feelings or hedge their intents. I appreciate that they wear their hearts on their sleeves, that they care so deeply and grab onto the small moments, as well as the big, and just love each other.
So that was just one long exposition on why I love these two and nothing at all to do with the plot. I admit, the mysterious, supernatural aspects are probably the weakest thing about this series - not because they’re silly or stupid, but oft convoluted, murky, and confusing due to the dubious nature that is inherent with such phenomena. What’s important ultimately, is that everything is righted - Gideon and Lee come out the stronger, and I’m left feeling wholly warm and satisfied and confident in the strength that is their love. *sigh*
December 20, 2025
Another really lovely addition to this enchanting series. I am hooked by these gentle, quiet, relatable characters. They are so normal and real and lovely. I never thought I would enjoy realistic couple bickering quite so much. They are sweet and endearing to each other without even a touch of corniness. This had a nice element of hurt/comfort which I lapped up as Gideon is my favourite kind of patient, gets on with it, no whinging!
The paranormal mystery element is kind of just in the background for me, I am 100% reading this for Gideon and Lee. I loved the first half pacing, things slowed a little in the second but overall the book is short so it never felt overly dragging and I’m keen to jump straight into book 4.
The narrator has grown on me, although Gideon still sounds like he is pushing 50 into of 30, I don’t think I could picture his voice any other way now.
The paranormal mystery element is kind of just in the background for me, I am 100% reading this for Gideon and Lee. I loved the first half pacing, things slowed a little in the second but overall the book is short so it never felt overly dragging and I’m keen to jump straight into book 4.
The narrator has grown on me, although Gideon still sounds like he is pushing 50 into of 30, I don’t think I could picture his voice any other way now.
February 20, 2016
Review written February 7, 2016
4 Stars — Maximized, beautiful and romantic ... add slightly scary and foggy supernatural
Book #3
*********************************************
Cornwall, south England, UK
The Tyack & Frayne series is so far six shorter (75-150 pages) novella episodes in the M/M mystery genre with a new mysterious "case" in every part. In essence, however much focus on the development of the romance between these men.
The local police, the "copper" Gideon Frayne had a Halloween case with a missing child when he first met Lee Tyack. Lee is a clairvoyant with a lot of strange abilities. There were strong feelings and a deep attraction at once. Insta-love but nevertheless believable for me. Intense, raw and truly sexy (without too much explicit words). Intriguing romance stuff from start.
• #1-Once Upon A Haunted Moor (4 stars)
• #2-Tinsel Fish (3.5 stars)
*********************************************
In this third Don't Let Go are we back on the Bodmin Moor. It is February (soon to be Valentine Day) and Gideon and Lee are now living together in a ground flat in the Dark village with Isobel (cutie dog). They are 'struggling' with everyday stuff; family, relatives, work, a promotion to "police sergeant", new wallpapers and of course their hot and lovely, but still quite new, relationship.
Life is truly good but then happens an accident at work and Gideon is badly injured. Add some mysterious voices from the past...
As always happens unexplained paranormal ghostly things. I have resigned myself, suited me to this book-world and believe in what I believe in. I feel the heat, the angst, deep emotions and this beautiful Cornwall landscape. Want to be there ... with them. Looking forward to #4-Kitto.
*********************************************
I LIKE - to visit this place and these men
*****
~ A Tyack & Frayne series-BR with my GR-buddy Sofia. We started January 29 and will do them book by book. A great reading-mission.
4 Stars — Maximized, beautiful and romantic ... add slightly scary and foggy supernatural
Book #3
*********************************************
Cornwall, south England, UK
The Tyack & Frayne series is so far six shorter (75-150 pages) novella episodes in the M/M mystery genre with a new mysterious "case" in every part. In essence, however much focus on the development of the romance between these men.
The local police, the "copper" Gideon Frayne had a Halloween case with a missing child when he first met Lee Tyack. Lee is a clairvoyant with a lot of strange abilities. There were strong feelings and a deep attraction at once. Insta-love but nevertheless believable for me. Intense, raw and truly sexy (without too much explicit words). Intriguing romance stuff from start.
• #1-Once Upon A Haunted Moor (4 stars)
• #2-Tinsel Fish (3.5 stars)
*********************************************
In this third Don't Let Go are we back on the Bodmin Moor. It is February (soon to be Valentine Day) and Gideon and Lee are now living together in a ground flat in the Dark village with Isobel (cutie dog). They are 'struggling' with everyday stuff; family, relatives, work, a promotion to "police sergeant", new wallpapers and of course their hot and lovely, but still quite new, relationship.
‘Gideon wouldn’t want to resist. He would just want to lie here, while his jade-eyed captor did with him whatever he wished. The ribbons were a reason, a delicious excuse.’
Life is truly good but then happens an accident at work and Gideon is badly injured. Add some mysterious voices from the past...
‘A dreamlike detachment settled over him. He was able to admire the sight of Lee and his brother on the hunt, both of them fine men in their very different ways. The idea that he’d ever see them in the same room together had never occurred to him, let alone that they would ever dash shoulder to shoulder into the fray. He took deep breaths of the salt-rich air, trying not to laugh.’
As always happens unexplained paranormal ghostly things. I have resigned myself, suited me to this book-world and believe in what I believe in. I feel the heat, the angst, deep emotions and this beautiful Cornwall landscape. Want to be there ... with them. Looking forward to #4-Kitto.
*********************************************
I LIKE - to visit this place and these men
*****
~ A Tyack & Frayne series-BR with my GR-buddy Sofia. We started January 29 and will do them book by book. A great reading-mission.
May 31, 2021
Audiobook: ***3 Stars***
Story: ***4 Stars***
Holy Feelz! Now we are talking... ;-) Best one so far!
Story: ***4 Stars***
Holy Feelz! Now we are talking... ;-) Best one so far!
June 11, 2017
4 Stars
There is just something about this series that holds me captivated.
The mystery portion, as always, is simple yet engaging. Although, sometimes the paranormal moments go a bit over my head and I have to take a minute to wrap my brain around the implications of what is happening, but mostly it’s all good, spooky fun. Plus, there is an element of hurt/comfort in this particular story that I eagerly gobbled up.
I simply adore Gideon and Lee, both as individual characters and for the sweet endearing couple that they so effortlessly make. This installment is a tad sexier and bit more romantic than its predecessors - these two are just so right for one another!
There is just something about this series that holds me captivated.
The mystery portion, as always, is simple yet engaging. Although, sometimes the paranormal moments go a bit over my head and I have to take a minute to wrap my brain around the implications of what is happening, but mostly it’s all good, spooky fun. Plus, there is an element of hurt/comfort in this particular story that I eagerly gobbled up.
I simply adore Gideon and Lee, both as individual characters and for the sweet endearing couple that they so effortlessly make. This installment is a tad sexier and bit more romantic than its predecessors - these two are just so right for one another!
January 12, 2017
Which whisperings do you listen to?
The story gets more personal and death stalks the West Country. The darkness is so close in this one, nearly suffocating and we see more the man behind the label. We witness Lee and Gideon faced off against adversaries, rally with allies and acknowledge graciously the blessing they've been given. Quite emotional, dramatic and the mystery is more in depth and the resolution is superbly paced.
Again, Fox's sense of place is exquisite. There's nothing like reversing a thousand feet bracketed close on either side by the stonewalls until you find a half-car dip so an opposing car can shimmy past, then roaring on past the endless green. Wonderful memories evoked with the descriptions. Gorgeous.
The story gets more personal and death stalks the West Country. The darkness is so close in this one, nearly suffocating and we see more the man behind the label. We witness Lee and Gideon faced off against adversaries, rally with allies and acknowledge graciously the blessing they've been given. Quite emotional, dramatic and the mystery is more in depth and the resolution is superbly paced.
Again, Fox's sense of place is exquisite. There's nothing like reversing a thousand feet bracketed close on either side by the stonewalls until you find a half-car dip so an opposing car can shimmy past, then roaring on past the endless green. Wonderful memories evoked with the descriptions. Gorgeous.
April 6, 2020
Gideon and Lee make a pretty instant connection despite Gideon's first impression of Lee's abilities being fake. Once he realizes that Lee is on the level they discover how well they work together, not to mention play together. The setting descriptions leave you feeling as if you are standing right there in Bodmin Moor, the characters are a recipe of good, bad, odd, funny, and everything in between. Each story might have a standalone mystery that the couple faces but because the evolution of their relationship, this series really should be read in order. Another great addition to my paranormal library.
July 12, 2014
In this third installment of "Tyack & Frayne" series, Gideon gets himself stabbed and ends up with serious injury. Gideon can't go on active duty until he is completely healed -- with physio treatment and surgery. But when he finds out that Lee is distracted by events from the past, while doing his job covering a Celtic Festival at a Fogou near his home, Gideon can't stop himself to go after Lee...
------
Lee and Gideon have slowly (and steadily) become an established couple whose stories I love to read. Their relationship is so, SO lovely. Their intimacy is tender and quiet and soothing. I love their personalities and reading about them together, even if they quarrel, somehow calms me. Gideon is a protector through and through and I love how he marches on, to be on Lee's side, to ensure that nothing harms his lover.
The mystery/supernatural element in this story is related to Lee's past and a secret that his father has kept from him. It also relates to the 'monster' that keeps 'attacking' Lee's mind (you need to read book 1 and 2 to get what I mean by it). I admit that this part feels rather choppy, it confuses me a bit, especially with the dream that Gideon has ... but I DO like the resolution that comes out of it. I feel like I get to know more about Lee's family, and that is always welcome.
Oh, and another thing that I truly LOVE here? The relationship between Gideon and his brother, Ezekiel. I already said in my review for book #2, how I appreciate that Ezekiel is more than meets the eye. It's a different take on a character with strong faith on Christianity and happens to have a gay little brother. I would love to read more of Gideon and Ezekiel too.
All in all, despite my struggling a bit with the mystery/supernatural element, it's another satisfying story of Tyack & Frayne. Hope there is more to them in the future...
------
Lee and Gideon have slowly (and steadily) become an established couple whose stories I love to read. Their relationship is so, SO lovely. Their intimacy is tender and quiet and soothing. I love their personalities and reading about them together, even if they quarrel, somehow calms me. Gideon is a protector through and through and I love how he marches on, to be on Lee's side, to ensure that nothing harms his lover.
The mystery/supernatural element in this story is related to Lee's past and a secret that his father has kept from him. It also relates to the 'monster' that keeps 'attacking' Lee's mind (you need to read book 1 and 2 to get what I mean by it). I admit that this part feels rather choppy, it confuses me a bit, especially with the dream that Gideon has ... but I DO like the resolution that comes out of it. I feel like I get to know more about Lee's family, and that is always welcome.
Oh, and another thing that I truly LOVE here? The relationship between Gideon and his brother, Ezekiel. I already said in my review for book #2, how I appreciate that Ezekiel is more than meets the eye. It's a different take on a character with strong faith on Christianity and happens to have a gay little brother. I would love to read more of Gideon and Ezekiel too.
All in all, despite my struggling a bit with the mystery/supernatural element, it's another satisfying story of Tyack & Frayne. Hope there is more to them in the future...
September 16, 2018
Holy cow, this was creepy. I loved it.
In this Gideon gets injured and can’t play the big bad copper like he wants to. He therefore accompanies Lee on one of his ghost hunts in some underground tunnels near Lee’s childhood home.
But a killer from Lee’s past might not be ready to let go of the mortal world……
I loved the scary parts in this. I’m totally into paranormal ghost stories these days and this series is turning out to be a real winner.
On to the next!
In this Gideon gets injured and can’t play the big bad copper like he wants to. He therefore accompanies Lee on one of his ghost hunts in some underground tunnels near Lee’s childhood home.
But a killer from Lee’s past might not be ready to let go of the mortal world……
I loved the scary parts in this. I’m totally into paranormal ghost stories these days and this series is turning out to be a real winner.
On to the next!
September 9, 2019
Audio - think the narrator struggled a bit with Ezekiel's voice but still a great listen. Enough intrique for the length of the book.
-- --
re-read.
Shadows revealed, monsters loose their masks. You need to read the first two books to get the impact of this one. The paranormal aspect is high but the focus is still the people. We learn about Lee's demons. Gideon's mother is endearing and Ezekiel is wonderful with his heart showing through the starch, I hope for more of him.
Even when arguing the love between Gideon and Lee is tangible, there's no contrived angst but the feel of real emotions and difficulties. Strength and tenderness. They both have their struggles in this book, there's pain and lots of feelings to work through. The two work well with each other and we leave them looking forward, together.
Blooper - Gideon Frayne calls Lee Tyack's uncle Jago 'Mr Frayne' at one point!
-- --
re-read.
Shadows revealed, monsters loose their masks. You need to read the first two books to get the impact of this one. The paranormal aspect is high but the focus is still the people. We learn about Lee's demons. Gideon's mother is endearing and Ezekiel is wonderful with his heart showing through the starch, I hope for more of him.
Even when arguing the love between Gideon and Lee is tangible, there's no contrived angst but the feel of real emotions and difficulties. Strength and tenderness. They both have their struggles in this book, there's pain and lots of feelings to work through. The two work well with each other and we leave them looking forward, together.
Blooper - Gideon Frayne calls Lee Tyack's uncle Jago 'Mr Frayne' at one point!
February 18, 2014
In book three of what I now think of as her Cornwall series, Ms. Fox has yet again given her devoted readers what they want. Gideon Frayne, big gentle-hearted copper from the village of Dark, and Lee Tayack, his psychic lover, are living together in a cozy old flat and exploring life as an established couple. Gideon’s once estranged family is back in his life, and in book three we are introduced to Lee’s family.
Well, that sounds dull, doesn’t it?
But, the joy of Harper Fox is that it isn’t, not remotely. A lot happens in this book, both in Gideon’s life as a small-town policeman and in Lee’s career as someone who can see beyond this world and into the next.
The central focus throughout remains this relationship, the evolving love of these two men for each other, and that sense of wide-eyed wonder they have at the idea of their love. Fox explores that relationship in the way she does best, by posing constant challenges to it and forcing her protagonists to deal with consequences of their own and other’s actions, past and present. Gideon has to deal with criminals; Lee has to deal with ghosts.
Sometimes the two overlap.
Fox’s beautiful writing (always perfectly edited) draws the reader into the world of Cornwall—the physical landscape, the weather, the seasonal shifts, and the sense of the people and the community. She not only brings it alive, but makes the reader part of it, so that one is always hovering on the edge of the action and silently participating in the conversations.
Fox creates characters so palpably real, with all their human flaws and fragility, that they become friends; folks we want to spend time with and get to know better. One of the many little joys of this volume is Gideon’s decade-older brother Ezekiel, a hawk-faced reminder of their father, the late pastor Frayne. With a gentle touch, Fox strips away stereotypes and the brothers’ own emotional defenses, unearthing a deep yearning for fraternal love long buried in the debris of two emotionally stunted childhoods.
And we learn, at last, Lee’s back story, the small-town saga of the Tayacks. Along with Gideon, we gradually understand who Lee is and, more importantly, why he is.
The beginning of understanding comes, strangely enough, in a dream in which Gideon and Lee meet as little boys, hiding under a bed from a monster. In that dream Lee takes Gideon’s hand and tells him, “Don’t let go.” In that simple moment, taken as the title of the book, the magic of a gifted author is loosed in all its touching, intimate splendor.
Harper Fox is always thanking Josh Lanyon as her guide and mentor. Here is one case, I think, of the student catching up with the teacher.
This book would be a perfectly fine way to end the Tayack and Frayne series. Whether Fox chooses to take them further or leave them here makes no difference. They have been realized in full, and all of us can be grateful.
Well, that sounds dull, doesn’t it?
But, the joy of Harper Fox is that it isn’t, not remotely. A lot happens in this book, both in Gideon’s life as a small-town policeman and in Lee’s career as someone who can see beyond this world and into the next.
The central focus throughout remains this relationship, the evolving love of these two men for each other, and that sense of wide-eyed wonder they have at the idea of their love. Fox explores that relationship in the way she does best, by posing constant challenges to it and forcing her protagonists to deal with consequences of their own and other’s actions, past and present. Gideon has to deal with criminals; Lee has to deal with ghosts.
Sometimes the two overlap.
Fox’s beautiful writing (always perfectly edited) draws the reader into the world of Cornwall—the physical landscape, the weather, the seasonal shifts, and the sense of the people and the community. She not only brings it alive, but makes the reader part of it, so that one is always hovering on the edge of the action and silently participating in the conversations.
Fox creates characters so palpably real, with all their human flaws and fragility, that they become friends; folks we want to spend time with and get to know better. One of the many little joys of this volume is Gideon’s decade-older brother Ezekiel, a hawk-faced reminder of their father, the late pastor Frayne. With a gentle touch, Fox strips away stereotypes and the brothers’ own emotional defenses, unearthing a deep yearning for fraternal love long buried in the debris of two emotionally stunted childhoods.
And we learn, at last, Lee’s back story, the small-town saga of the Tayacks. Along with Gideon, we gradually understand who Lee is and, more importantly, why he is.
The beginning of understanding comes, strangely enough, in a dream in which Gideon and Lee meet as little boys, hiding under a bed from a monster. In that dream Lee takes Gideon’s hand and tells him, “Don’t let go.” In that simple moment, taken as the title of the book, the magic of a gifted author is loosed in all its touching, intimate splendor.
Harper Fox is always thanking Josh Lanyon as her guide and mentor. Here is one case, I think, of the student catching up with the teacher.
This book would be a perfectly fine way to end the Tayack and Frayne series. Whether Fox chooses to take them further or leave them here makes no difference. They have been realized in full, and all of us can be grateful.
May 15, 2025
I'm officially in love with Gideon and Lee 💙 These two are just too precious for words 🥹 The narrator has grown on me too so that's a plus! Surprisingly, I'm enjoying the novella format more than I expected I would. Overall, the series has been a hit - entertaining and easy to binge (I say as I'm off to listen to the next one) ✌🏻
October 23, 2020
I liked this one, though I do still remain baffled by this series. This one is longer than the first two, which allowed for more time for the story to develop, and it had less of a paranormal element than the others too, though of course it still had one. As a result, it felt more focused and less rushed. I enjoyed seeing Lee and Gideon getting on with their lives (even if it still feels they moved awfully fast getting to this point) and seeing more of both their families, which provided some lighter moments. All that was great and for the first four hours or so, I was really into it.
But then the paranormal elements started to really kick in and I ran into the same issues I had with the first two. I'm just not clicking with the paranormal elements of this world. I can't even tell you why. Lee can see ghosts. Now Gideon's hearing one of them too. And there are things that go bump in the night, all of which is great. It just feels like it should belong in a different story, or maybe it's Gideon that feels like he should belong in another series. *shrug* The whole mystery revolving around some creep from Lee's past was interesting, but there's a point where Gideon's snooping around and we're thrown a red herring that makes no real sense when we have all the facts and look back. Red herrings should always make sense, otherwise they're just cheap ways to trick readers.
I think I'm going to put this series back on the back burner. It's just not really working for me.
But then the paranormal elements started to really kick in and I ran into the same issues I had with the first two. I'm just not clicking with the paranormal elements of this world. I can't even tell you why. Lee can see ghosts. Now Gideon's hearing one of them too. And there are things that go bump in the night, all of which is great. It just feels like it should belong in a different story, or maybe it's Gideon that feels like he should belong in another series. *shrug* The whole mystery revolving around some creep from Lee's past was interesting, but there's a point where Gideon's snooping around and we're thrown a red herring that makes no real sense when we have all the facts and look back. Red herrings should always make sense, otherwise they're just cheap ways to trick readers.
I think I'm going to put this series back on the back burner. It's just not really working for me.
February 26, 2023
So far, I've enjoyed each book in this series a little more than the last. I'm getting more attached to these lovable characters and the adorable relationship they've developed. I also liked how the author portrayed realistic physical and emotional effects of getting a serious injury when Gideon got hurt, as that is a rare thing to find in books in my experience. This one had a bit more emotion and tension within the characters and their relationship. It seemed to have less focus on mystery though, and the mystery element didn't even really come into play until over halfway, but that was ok since I enjoyed the focus on the relationship and on Gideon's problems. Lee's clairvoyant/psychic abilities bring an interesting element to things sometimes. My thoughts on the audiobook narration can be found in my review of the first book. Overall, I'm glad I decided to continue this series as I'm enjoying it!
*I’ve read this book multiple times. This review was written after my 1st read.*
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2020 // Format: Audiobook*
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2023 // Format: Audiobook*
Recommended For:
Fans of Books 1 and 2 in Harper Fox's Tyack & Frayne series. Anyone who likes loving and supportive m/m romance, clairvoyants, mysteries, and small English towns.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
*I’ve read this book multiple times. This review was written after my 1st read.*
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2020 // Format: Audiobook*
*Rating: 4 Stars // Read Date: 2023 // Format: Audiobook*
Recommended For:
Fans of Books 1 and 2 in Harper Fox's Tyack & Frayne series. Anyone who likes loving and supportive m/m romance, clairvoyants, mysteries, and small English towns.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
February 8, 2016
A good installment in this series, we are seeing the relationship grow and becoming more and more involved. Fox really gives us a sense of place with these. I so feel like I'm there in Cornwall whilst I'm reading these. It's as if the moors, the cliffs, the sea are additional characters, an integral part of the story. All I'd need to finish off would be a bag of fish and chips.
Fogou in Cornwall
Read with Ingela - BR link
April 3, 2018
Overall book rating: 4
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 4
Another good instalment. I really enjoy these two together.
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 4
Another good instalment. I really enjoy these two together.
April 12, 2021
4 stars audio
3.75 stars story
3.75 stars story
June 25, 2022
3.5/5 stars
The first half was four stars but the mystery/second half was only three stars.
But I’d give five stars for Gideon and Lee because I love how they love each other.
The first half was four stars but the mystery/second half was only three stars.
But I’d give five stars for Gideon and Lee because I love how they love each other.
February 5, 2024
With each book in the series, my enjoyment increases. I love the evolution of Lee and Gideon’s relationships, not just with each other, but with their family members and their community, it’s just so comforting and satisfying to read.
September 14, 2014
We’re back with Gideon and Lee, with more of them. More time and togetherness are now under their belts and that is followed through in this newest story of theirs. Lee has his talents and they include Gid, as usual. What’s not so usual is how this story unfolds. I never would have guessed, never would have picked what was behind bonus door number four. In other words, as usual, Ms Fox tells a story only she can conjure.
The case in which Gideon and Lee become involved in this book takes on a different tone, a change in significance, compared to the previous two stories. More than once I found myself utterly stilled by the intensity of it all. Exhilarating and yet bound. Less and less there are things that can come between Gid and Lee. More and more, they are open between each other about what they want, what they have, where they can go. This also means there is more at stake.
Simply, Gid & Lee are two of my favorite characters with whom I’ve been able to share time. They are one of my top couples. Ever. It’s a bonus that they are such a sweet, unintentionally dynamic, hot pairing that keeps growing each time I get some of that time. It’s a treasure that they come to life at the hands of Harper Fox.
Her kind of paranormal is personal. We always learn something about Gideon and Lee, and others, when they’re brought face to face with whatever supernatural forces are trying to take what isn’t theirs. Couple that with the adrenaline, tenderness, fear, humor and love between Gid and Lee, and well… it makes me love them. Beautiful.
This is the type of story by which I can be completely transported. What a blessing. A boon. And it’s all because someone can manipulate language for the good.
If Harper Fox is a new author for you, this Tyack and Frayne series is a great placed to lay down your opening bid. The first is Once Upon A Haunted Moor and book two is Tinsel Fish. All three of these stories are filled with the unpredictable and unexpected. These are two of the many reasons why I love her writing. There is always a moment in the story of ‘No, no, no, this can’t be happening’, but then she takes things in a direction I did not anticipate and it feels right, like I’m sinking down into that most familiar and comfortable place, snuggled, happy. Trust. I trust her with Gideon and Lee. I totally just smiled like a loon when I typed that. :)
The case in which Gideon and Lee become involved in this book takes on a different tone, a change in significance, compared to the previous two stories. More than once I found myself utterly stilled by the intensity of it all. Exhilarating and yet bound. Less and less there are things that can come between Gid and Lee. More and more, they are open between each other about what they want, what they have, where they can go. This also means there is more at stake.
Simply, Gid & Lee are two of my favorite characters with whom I’ve been able to share time. They are one of my top couples. Ever. It’s a bonus that they are such a sweet, unintentionally dynamic, hot pairing that keeps growing each time I get some of that time. It’s a treasure that they come to life at the hands of Harper Fox.
Her kind of paranormal is personal. We always learn something about Gideon and Lee, and others, when they’re brought face to face with whatever supernatural forces are trying to take what isn’t theirs. Couple that with the adrenaline, tenderness, fear, humor and love between Gid and Lee, and well… it makes me love them. Beautiful.
This is the type of story by which I can be completely transported. What a blessing. A boon. And it’s all because someone can manipulate language for the good.
If Harper Fox is a new author for you, this Tyack and Frayne series is a great placed to lay down your opening bid. The first is Once Upon A Haunted Moor and book two is Tinsel Fish. All three of these stories are filled with the unpredictable and unexpected. These are two of the many reasons why I love her writing. There is always a moment in the story of ‘No, no, no, this can’t be happening’, but then she takes things in a direction I did not anticipate and it feels right, like I’m sinking down into that most familiar and comfortable place, snuggled, happy. Trust. I trust her with Gideon and Lee. I totally just smiled like a loon when I typed that. :)
May 15, 2024
This one I think for me is a 3.5 stars. I definitely think that the first half was stronger than the second half. I found the mystery to be a bit weaker than previous installments, not to say that it didn’t have some impressive moments that I wasn’t expecting. But I think it was just missing a bit of overall ‘oomph’, which is ironic cause this is the longest book in the series thus far.
I think that this installment really shone with the network of interpersonal relationships. Lee and Gideon have such a wonderfully tender and loving relationship and it acts as a corner stone to Gideon reconnecting with his brother and mother and Lees own relationships with his father and Gideons brother, Ezekiel.
Gideons doubts and frustrations with his injury were palpable though and watching him grapple with the consequences of such a serious injury was tough.
Another solid installment. Also I feel like these covers get worse as they go… so sorry in advance….
I think that this installment really shone with the network of interpersonal relationships. Lee and Gideon have such a wonderfully tender and loving relationship and it acts as a corner stone to Gideon reconnecting with his brother and mother and Lees own relationships with his father and Gideons brother, Ezekiel.
Gideons doubts and frustrations with his injury were palpable though and watching him grapple with the consequences of such a serious injury was tough.
Another solid installment. Also I feel like these covers get worse as they go… so sorry in advance….
February 3, 2016
Another good, gripping addition to the series. This one had a darker feel to it.
February 25, 2014
I just couldn’t put this book down! Absolutely awe inspiring. In this third book in the Tyack and Frayne series we really get to see Lee coming to terms with the ghosts of his past.
Lee and Gideon have now moved in together and are setting up home. Gideon’s mother and his Methodist minister for a brother, Ezekiel are making every attempt to accept his lifestyle. I just loved the way you could feel the turmoil in Ezekiel coping with what his values teach him on one hand, but trying to accept his brother on the other, his mother now just so happy to have him back in her life. Lee with his sensitivity also goes a long way in helping the healing process of a family that has been so estranged for so many years. Lee has a vision and gives Gideon a warning, but during dinner one day he is called out to an incident in Bodmin and due to him not taking heed of Lee’s warning and acting impulsively ends up in hospital. When he awakes he finds out that he was very near death and has been unconscious for the best part of a week. However, in this state he has a dream of Lee as a child and the ghosts that have been haunting him all this time. This was a beautiful scene and seeing how the love and devotion Lee has for Gideon brings him back from the brink and into the land of the living.
Gideon is now healing and due to his actions which are not in keeping with his new position of responsibility, being recently promoted to sergeant, has now put his career on the line. During his convalescence in hospital Lee never left his side during the week of unconsciousness as neither did his brother. I really got to feel how Ezekiel gained more and more respect for Lee and he could see the love and devotion in him and could start to look past his religious doctrines a little. After all such love and devotion deserves respect. Lee also forms a bond with Ezekiel which was so nice to see.
However, when Lee doesn’t show up for his regular hospital visits and starts to act strangely on the phone Gideon becomes worried, discharging himself from hospital against the better orders of his doctor. Once again the bull headed and stubborn Gideon shows itself, but only out of concern for Lee. When he gets back he finds out why Lee was absent for the few days and is now comforted that he had nothing to worry about, or did he?
The mysterious paranormal voice and the banging are back that we encountered in the second book and that was also part of why Lee had been so shaken in the last few days. Anyway, Gideon gets Lee to tell him about his past and we learn about what happened to him as a child and where his gift has come through. This was really harrowing to read and relates to the dream that Gideon had while he was lying in hospital.
Lee has to go down to the Land’s End peninsula as he is doing a series on ancient Cornish sites and is investigating a Fogou near his home. He takes Gideon with him and meets Anna and Simon on location. They want to film mysterious happenings attributed to these ancient sites that take place and Imbolc, a Celtic festival.
OK, for those of you are asking what a Fogou is then it’s an old passage underground, normally leading to a chamber made during the Iron Age. No one today knows really what they were used for 100%, there are a number of theories, but this also gives rise to the paranormal stories that surround them as well. When I was a child these also provided great places to play with my brother, but they also have a sense of spooky foreboding too and as a child these places felt magical to us and to some extent still do today.
The fogou they are investigating happens to be very near Lee’s family home and next to an old Cornish church. When, Lee gives him the key to go and rest in his childhood home while he is working, he comes face to face with Lee’s Uncle Jago. At first the impression is of a very intolerant, threatening man, when he walks in on Gideon. But when Lee shows up there is an unbelievable transformation and you see his face light up with the love he has for his nephew. I loved the character of Jago. You could feel the love that this family shared and Lee’s father, now deceased, can be felt through the love that his Uncle has for him. A tight knit, devoted and loving Cornish family. Harper’s characterisations are so vivid the characters take on a real tangible quality. In this far flung part of the UK, we are reminded through Jago about the strong sense of tradition and Jago talks to his nephew in Cornish. It was a great touch from Harper to introduce this here to give the reader the feeling that this area is really isolated and clings to its history, heredity and traditions with a real tenacity of not wanting to let go. We also find out that Lee is a name he adopted later n life, his real Cornish name being Locryn. After the Uncle is introduced I was really left me wandering what the deal here is.
Gideon is a policeman through and through and starts to do some snooping around and stumbles on a folder that contains a lot of newspaper clippings associated with the time Lee was a child. It is from the point that the mystery starts to unravel itself. Imbolc approaches and the night comes where they have to spend it underground in the Fogou. No, I’m not going to tell you what happens here as it is so beautiful, breathtaking and a real revelation too, if I say more here the whole story would be spoilt. Enough to say that Lee’s dad in spirit and his Uncle, in actual fact the whole community has been protecting Lee in some way all their lives. Again I loved the way we learn about how such small Cornish communities will pull together and help each other out for the common good. Harper’s writing can bring these situations so vividly to life; I was tearing up while reading with the powerful emotion behind the words.
All in all this series for me just goes from strength to strength and I just hope this not the end of the road for these two, but I guess only Harper can answer that question.
Lee and Gideon have now moved in together and are setting up home. Gideon’s mother and his Methodist minister for a brother, Ezekiel are making every attempt to accept his lifestyle. I just loved the way you could feel the turmoil in Ezekiel coping with what his values teach him on one hand, but trying to accept his brother on the other, his mother now just so happy to have him back in her life. Lee with his sensitivity also goes a long way in helping the healing process of a family that has been so estranged for so many years. Lee has a vision and gives Gideon a warning, but during dinner one day he is called out to an incident in Bodmin and due to him not taking heed of Lee’s warning and acting impulsively ends up in hospital. When he awakes he finds out that he was very near death and has been unconscious for the best part of a week. However, in this state he has a dream of Lee as a child and the ghosts that have been haunting him all this time. This was a beautiful scene and seeing how the love and devotion Lee has for Gideon brings him back from the brink and into the land of the living.
Gideon is now healing and due to his actions which are not in keeping with his new position of responsibility, being recently promoted to sergeant, has now put his career on the line. During his convalescence in hospital Lee never left his side during the week of unconsciousness as neither did his brother. I really got to feel how Ezekiel gained more and more respect for Lee and he could see the love and devotion in him and could start to look past his religious doctrines a little. After all such love and devotion deserves respect. Lee also forms a bond with Ezekiel which was so nice to see.
However, when Lee doesn’t show up for his regular hospital visits and starts to act strangely on the phone Gideon becomes worried, discharging himself from hospital against the better orders of his doctor. Once again the bull headed and stubborn Gideon shows itself, but only out of concern for Lee. When he gets back he finds out why Lee was absent for the few days and is now comforted that he had nothing to worry about, or did he?
The mysterious paranormal voice and the banging are back that we encountered in the second book and that was also part of why Lee had been so shaken in the last few days. Anyway, Gideon gets Lee to tell him about his past and we learn about what happened to him as a child and where his gift has come through. This was really harrowing to read and relates to the dream that Gideon had while he was lying in hospital.
Lee has to go down to the Land’s End peninsula as he is doing a series on ancient Cornish sites and is investigating a Fogou near his home. He takes Gideon with him and meets Anna and Simon on location. They want to film mysterious happenings attributed to these ancient sites that take place and Imbolc, a Celtic festival.
OK, for those of you are asking what a Fogou is then it’s an old passage underground, normally leading to a chamber made during the Iron Age. No one today knows really what they were used for 100%, there are a number of theories, but this also gives rise to the paranormal stories that surround them as well. When I was a child these also provided great places to play with my brother, but they also have a sense of spooky foreboding too and as a child these places felt magical to us and to some extent still do today.
The fogou they are investigating happens to be very near Lee’s family home and next to an old Cornish church. When, Lee gives him the key to go and rest in his childhood home while he is working, he comes face to face with Lee’s Uncle Jago. At first the impression is of a very intolerant, threatening man, when he walks in on Gideon. But when Lee shows up there is an unbelievable transformation and you see his face light up with the love he has for his nephew. I loved the character of Jago. You could feel the love that this family shared and Lee’s father, now deceased, can be felt through the love that his Uncle has for him. A tight knit, devoted and loving Cornish family. Harper’s characterisations are so vivid the characters take on a real tangible quality. In this far flung part of the UK, we are reminded through Jago about the strong sense of tradition and Jago talks to his nephew in Cornish. It was a great touch from Harper to introduce this here to give the reader the feeling that this area is really isolated and clings to its history, heredity and traditions with a real tenacity of not wanting to let go. We also find out that Lee is a name he adopted later n life, his real Cornish name being Locryn. After the Uncle is introduced I was really left me wandering what the deal here is.
Gideon is a policeman through and through and starts to do some snooping around and stumbles on a folder that contains a lot of newspaper clippings associated with the time Lee was a child. It is from the point that the mystery starts to unravel itself. Imbolc approaches and the night comes where they have to spend it underground in the Fogou. No, I’m not going to tell you what happens here as it is so beautiful, breathtaking and a real revelation too, if I say more here the whole story would be spoilt. Enough to say that Lee’s dad in spirit and his Uncle, in actual fact the whole community has been protecting Lee in some way all their lives. Again I loved the way we learn about how such small Cornish communities will pull together and help each other out for the common good. Harper’s writing can bring these situations so vividly to life; I was tearing up while reading with the powerful emotion behind the words.
All in all this series for me just goes from strength to strength and I just hope this not the end of the road for these two, but I guess only Harper can answer that question.
October 31, 2025
This one didn't scare me as much as the previous one but that's not a bad thing 👻 Love the mix of paranormal spookiness and the life of Lee and Gideon.
August 5, 2016
This was absolutely lovely.
The relationship between Gideon and Lee is just such a joy to read. Nothing seems forced and I really see them as a strong united front. All of these mysteries tie very tightly to Lee's history and I enjoy learning more about him and his family. The same goes here for Gideon's family who really worked for me much better and Ezekiel, most especially, didn't feel like an anachronism in this story where in book two he felt tremendously out of step with modern times.
I liked the strengthening of the brothers' relationship very much and I like that Zeke feels more like a person to me, if that makes sense.
The story continues to be beautifully written and while I loved the read it felt a bit choppy, in that, quite a few great moments are only touched on lightly. If the story had been longer with more details I would say it was perfection but I needed those details. That lack didn't stop me loving Gideon and Lee and enjoying how much their lives have changed since they met, it just made me wish for more.
The relationship between Gideon and Lee is just such a joy to read. Nothing seems forced and I really see them as a strong united front. All of these mysteries tie very tightly to Lee's history and I enjoy learning more about him and his family. The same goes here for Gideon's family who really worked for me much better and Ezekiel, most especially, didn't feel like an anachronism in this story where in book two he felt tremendously out of step with modern times.
I liked the strengthening of the brothers' relationship very much and I like that Zeke feels more like a person to me, if that makes sense.
The story continues to be beautifully written and while I loved the read it felt a bit choppy, in that, quite a few great moments are only touched on lightly. If the story had been longer with more details I would say it was perfection but I needed those details. That lack didn't stop me loving Gideon and Lee and enjoying how much their lives have changed since they met, it just made me wish for more.
September 21, 2025
Brillant!
Oh my goodness! I enjoyed every second, I love the characters, all of them, fill with details and personality, I love to read the details, I could imagine all of it! Very rich characters!
I absolutely love the main characters' dynamic, the ups and downs, the growing, the sex scenes. I always cheer for them. Harper Fox, evil, leading us like an "in love person" overthinking, that was great!!!
The plot, amazing, I was hooked, the atmosphere, spooky, the mystery, the reconnections, family, friends!
I have also this book on Audible, again another remarkable performance from Tim Gilbert, congratulations!!!
Oh my goodness! I enjoyed every second, I love the characters, all of them, fill with details and personality, I love to read the details, I could imagine all of it! Very rich characters!
I absolutely love the main characters' dynamic, the ups and downs, the growing, the sex scenes. I always cheer for them. Harper Fox, evil, leading us like an "in love person" overthinking, that was great!!!
The plot, amazing, I was hooked, the atmosphere, spooky, the mystery, the reconnections, family, friends!
I have also this book on Audible, again another remarkable performance from Tim Gilbert, congratulations!!!
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