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Snow & Winter #3
The Mystery of the Moving Image
Blurb and cover reveal on June 25th at Gay Book Reviews blog.
Nook
First published September 11, 2018
146 people are currently reading
460 people want to read
About the author
C.S. Poe
44 books1,246 followersC.S. Poe is an author of gay mystery, romance, and speculative fiction. She’s a winner of the Next Generation and e-Lit book awards, as well as a finalist of the Lambda Literary award.
She resides in New York City and is a Gilded Age New York historian and board director for the Victorian Society of New York. She loves Romanticism artwork, the films of Buster Keaton, coffee in the morning and whiskey in the evening, true crime, and cats. She’s rescued two cats—Milo and Kasper do their best to distract her from work on a daily basis.
C.S. is an alumna of the School of Visual Arts.
Her debut novel, The Mystery of Nevermore, was published 2016.
cspoe.com
She resides in New York City and is a Gilded Age New York historian and board director for the Victorian Society of New York. She loves Romanticism artwork, the films of Buster Keaton, coffee in the morning and whiskey in the evening, true crime, and cats. She’s rescued two cats—Milo and Kasper do their best to distract her from work on a daily basis.
C.S. is an alumna of the School of Visual Arts.
Her debut novel, The Mystery of Nevermore, was published 2016.
cspoe.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 263 reviews
July 19, 2020
***4.5 Stars*** for the
B(anter)
E(motions)
S(team)
T(ale)
in this series so far! ❤
P.S.: the audiobook was a DNF for me. Nothing wrong with the narration, except for non-distinctive voices, it's just that after listening to the first two books, Derrick McClain is Sebastian Snow for me and I just couldn't get used to such a new and enthusiastic voice. 😔
B(anter)
E(motions)
S(team)
T(ale)
in this series so far! ❤
P.S.: the audiobook was a DNF for me. Nothing wrong with the narration, except for non-distinctive voices, it's just that after listening to the first two books, Derrick McClain is Sebastian Snow for me and I just couldn't get used to such a new and enthusiastic voice. 😔
May 21, 2025
Audiobook May 2025
Still great!
Audiobook: Dec 2021
- it took me awhile to get used to the narrator, his tone for Seb is very different from the previous narrator. Once I did, it was all good. Still a solid 4.
Original review: March 2018
Sebastian turns away from sleuthing, but a murder still falls in his lap. Finally, the man feels fear and for good reason. It seems that he is the very target of this delicious crime Pope rolled out for us starting with a rare Edison Kinetoscope and a mysterious and valuable old film.
Fearful as he is, Sebastian can't quite mange to stay away from sleuthing, but he has his old ex watching his back along with his live-in boyfriend. Together, Neil, Sebastian and Calvin finally get to the bottom of this arcane mystery that teaches back 120 years.
Although some of the plot was a bit transparent, I was wishy-washy about the perp. I was devilishly confused about the motive behind the crimes and most of all, about the mysterious murder caught on film more than a century ago. I also enjoyed that all characters involved thought it was absurd just how many murders and mysteries Sebastian found himself embroiled in the last six months. Because, come on now....there’s suspension of disbelief and then there’s sheer lunacy. Thankfully, the lunacy was addressed and I could carry on in false reality of the novel. Thanks for that, Poe!
Poe again showed her researching props in developing this plot that revolved around the birth of film in the U.S..
A superb addition to the series ending with a very romantic, autumnal final scene in Central Park. ❤️❤️
Still great!
Audiobook: Dec 2021
- it took me awhile to get used to the narrator, his tone for Seb is very different from the previous narrator. Once I did, it was all good. Still a solid 4.
Original review: March 2018
Sebastian turns away from sleuthing, but a murder still falls in his lap. Finally, the man feels fear and for good reason. It seems that he is the very target of this delicious crime Pope rolled out for us starting with a rare Edison Kinetoscope and a mysterious and valuable old film.
Fearful as he is, Sebastian can't quite mange to stay away from sleuthing, but he has his old ex watching his back along with his live-in boyfriend. Together, Neil, Sebastian and Calvin finally get to the bottom of this arcane mystery that teaches back 120 years.
Although some of the plot was a bit transparent, I was wishy-washy about the perp. I was devilishly confused about the motive behind the crimes and most of all, about the mysterious murder caught on film more than a century ago. I also enjoyed that all characters involved thought it was absurd just how many murders and mysteries Sebastian found himself embroiled in the last six months. Because, come on now....there’s suspension of disbelief and then there’s sheer lunacy. Thankfully, the lunacy was addressed and I could carry on in false reality of the novel. Thanks for that, Poe!
Poe again showed her researching props in developing this plot that revolved around the birth of film in the U.S..
A superb addition to the series ending with a very romantic, autumnal final scene in Central Park. ❤️❤️
February 17, 2024
2024 Audio
The change in narrators is not bad. I like them both, though I will say I liked Derrick McClain's voice for Calvin more than Wyatt's. Derrick gives Calvin a deeper voice which is better suited to his description. Highly recommend the series!!
2021 (gotta get used to year change)
I never want to say goodbye! Calvin!!!! 💜💜💜💜💜
2018 review
This series is addicting! I LOVE Sebastian and Calvin. They are so sweet and loving together, so scrumptious! There was so much going on with the historical murder, and putting names and events together was a little confusing for me but I just went with it. Sebastian can talk fast, lol! :D I wasn't too worried I couldn't follow along because I knew in the end I would learn all the facts about the past and present murders/break-ins and understand what happened, which I did. It was all about money. Big surprise right?
The writing as always was great, the plot was fun and exciting, and really well thought out. The side characters were good; the usual gang (Pops, Quinn, Max, Neil,) and now Cals ex, which was very interesting. He played a part in the overall plot, but I won't give away how. ;) I hope this series keeps going for a long time, but only if the plots are just as good as these. And whoa! That ending! Super excited! Squee, I just can't wait to see what the next book will be about. I have a suspicion, but I don't know if it will be that obvious
I would not consider these books stand alone. You should read them all in order. But I suppose if you really don't want to read them all, you might be able to get away with, just know events are mentioned in each book that happened in previous books, so you are warned you might be lost. :)
4.5 stars because I wanted to know what happened with the kinetoscope and films, but we aren't told that info. Which darn it! The murders were because of that drat machine; the least CS could have done was told us of it's future. They are worth a fortune! Even fictional fortunes are important, lol. :D
The change in narrators is not bad. I like them both, though I will say I liked Derrick McClain's voice for Calvin more than Wyatt's. Derrick gives Calvin a deeper voice which is better suited to his description. Highly recommend the series!!
2021 (gotta get used to year change)
I never want to say goodbye! Calvin!!!! 💜💜💜💜💜
2018 review
This series is addicting! I LOVE Sebastian and Calvin. They are so sweet and loving together, so scrumptious! There was so much going on with the historical murder, and putting names and events together was a little confusing for me but I just went with it. Sebastian can talk fast, lol! :D I wasn't too worried I couldn't follow along because I knew in the end I would learn all the facts about the past and present murders/break-ins and understand what happened, which I did. It was all about money. Big surprise right?
The writing as always was great, the plot was fun and exciting, and really well thought out. The side characters were good; the usual gang (Pops, Quinn, Max, Neil,) and now Cals ex, which was very interesting. He played a part in the overall plot, but I won't give away how. ;) I hope this series keeps going for a long time, but only if the plots are just as good as these. And whoa! That ending! Super excited! Squee, I just can't wait to see what the next book will be about. I have a suspicion, but I don't know if it will be that obvious
I would not consider these books stand alone. You should read them all in order. But I suppose if you really don't want to read them all, you might be able to get away with, just know events are mentioned in each book that happened in previous books, so you are warned you might be lost. :)
4.5 stars because I wanted to know what happened with the kinetoscope and films, but we aren't told that info. Which darn it! The murders were because of that drat machine; the least CS could have done was told us of it's future. They are worth a fortune! Even fictional fortunes are important, lol. :D
December 23, 2019
Calvin and Sebastian return in this caper whereby trouble magnet extraordinaire Sebastian finds himself in yet another mystery courtesy of his Emporium. An anonymous sender couriers a kinetoscope (which is basically a peep hole movie watching device) which is apparently a big deal among antiques enthusiasts, who in this universe seem to be startlingly many.
The kinetoscope comes with a lot of issues because the Emporium gets broken into multiple times due to the footage inside the scope. The footage is meaningful, because of reasons that were so boring I had to keep rereading the pages where the exposition was vomited so ruthlessly not even Sebastian's perceived enthusiasm could save it.
The appearance of the dead body in Sebastian's dumpster does raise the stakes but not by much. These dead bodies are usually anonymous and characters who may as well have died off page to trigger events.
I found myself wishing for the mystery to fast forward itself so that I could explore the heart of the story, Sebastian. A desperate Adrien wannabe who somehow wormed his way into my heart. I loved him when he was pretending not to sleuth, when he was in trouble, with his father, his ex, his boyfriend. But beyond that I was just- bored.
I find mysteries to be more entertaining when the subject matter is something I can relate with. But a historical device like a kinetoscope which is too niche and only Sebbie and his peers cared about made me tune out often. While this doesn't take away from the general quality of the book, it did diminish my enjoyment of it. Perhaps my mistake was expecting it to be as riveting as The Wolf at Bay series which gave me a book hangover I still haven't gotten over.
The kinetoscope comes with a lot of issues because the Emporium gets broken into multiple times due to the footage inside the scope. The footage is meaningful, because of reasons that were so boring I had to keep rereading the pages where the exposition was vomited so ruthlessly not even Sebastian's perceived enthusiasm could save it.
The appearance of the dead body in Sebastian's dumpster does raise the stakes but not by much. These dead bodies are usually anonymous and characters who may as well have died off page to trigger events.
I found myself wishing for the mystery to fast forward itself so that I could explore the heart of the story, Sebastian. A desperate Adrien wannabe who somehow wormed his way into my heart. I loved him when he was pretending not to sleuth, when he was in trouble, with his father, his ex, his boyfriend. But beyond that I was just- bored.
I find mysteries to be more entertaining when the subject matter is something I can relate with. But a historical device like a kinetoscope which is too niche and only Sebbie and his peers cared about made me tune out often. While this doesn't take away from the general quality of the book, it did diminish my enjoyment of it. Perhaps my mistake was expecting it to be as riveting as The Wolf at Bay series which gave me a book hangover I still haven't gotten over.
January 3, 2024
This series is really hitting its stride now after a bit of a fumbly beginning. The characters are solid - the whole cast have become well developed and I’m loving the progression of Cal and Sebastian’s relationship. I need stories for Neil and Max. And Aubrey. I like the dad. I want to find out more about Cal’s family. I’d love to see things from Cal’s point of view and see what Sebastien really looks like and what colour combos his outfits end up as.
The mysteries are fast paced with constant action and sleuthing going on. I wouldn’t mind some down time with the characters and for Sebastian to chill out a bit and do some sleuthing from the safety of his home. I believe there is a future book called the Interlude that has more scenes and short stories to fit in between the main books which I think would be nice to read.
Clearly this author has done a lot of research into each of these mysteries and I appreciate that level of detail. Some of it passes over my head but I always feel like I can catch up in the end. I truly can’t tell who the killer is for sure until the end and I love that about a mystery, I’m always disappointed if it’s obvious from the beginning but I was kept guessing here and in the last book. Loved the ending. I recommend this series. Looking forward to book 4.
The mysteries are fast paced with constant action and sleuthing going on. I wouldn’t mind some down time with the characters and for Sebastian to chill out a bit and do some sleuthing from the safety of his home. I believe there is a future book called the Interlude that has more scenes and short stories to fit in between the main books which I think would be nice to read.
Clearly this author has done a lot of research into each of these mysteries and I appreciate that level of detail. Some of it passes over my head but I always feel like I can catch up in the end. I truly can’t tell who the killer is for sure until the end and I love that about a mystery, I’m always disappointed if it’s obvious from the beginning but I was kept guessing here and in the last book. Loved the ending. I recommend this series. Looking forward to book 4.
September 18, 2018
Absolutely loved it .. Snow & Winter are fabulous characters. Engaging, clever yet extremely vulnerable. This was another unique situation that poor Seb finds himself in.. but I can’t help think he’s a magnet to trouble ! Highly recommend this series if you enjoy a little “quirky “ with your mystery 😊
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August 20, 2025Buy Links:
Ebook, Paperback, and Audio
audio narrated by Wyatt Baker
French edition
with Mnemosyne Lit.
German edition
with deadsoft verlag
Italian edition
with Triskell Edizioni
Ebook, Paperback, and Audio
audio narrated by Wyatt Baker
French edition
with Mnemosyne Lit.
German edition
with deadsoft verlag
Italian edition
with Triskell Edizioni
October 9, 2018
I loved this book. Apart from getting to know more about Snow and Winter, the mystery was quite fascinating and I actually learned a lot of new information about the history of movie making. Who knew there was so much out there! That was amazing.
Lets get back to Seb and Calvin. I love those two. They are moving in together and so happy. Start of a new chapter in life is always a wonder but as usual Snow is in the midst of a mystery even though this time it's not even his fault. He seems to be the magnet for curious and murderous. Calvin is very patient, his loving exasperation making him the perfect man to take care of Snow and possibly bail him out of jail should the need arise. Their relationship dynamics feels as if they've known each other for years yet still have that novelty of new love, and their passion is unrelenting. If in the previous book both men were dealing with Winter's PTSD and inner demons here at the forefront is Snow and his vulnerabilities - everything that he hides from the world comes spilling out. Who knew that underneath all that knowledge and sarcastic sense of humor is a man who is unsure and in need of reassurance. And the best part is he has people around him who are there when he crumbles, who understand and who are ready to hold him up when he is feeling weak or scared.
The mystery of the kinetoscope, the whole murder case is really thrilling, the chase to find the truth takes Snow into unexpected places where he meets many new and old forgotten acquaintances. As always he seems to get hit by the debris of the investigation but his brilliant mind and talent for sleuthing get the answers better that the police. It kept me guessing till the very end. Yes, there were different angles. And the ending was very exciting. There were unexpected plot twists, old friends coming to help and new characters with the case of sour grapes making appearances. It was funny, sexy and romantic. The ending was absolutely adorable. I loved this book and I highly recommend it!
Lets get back to Seb and Calvin. I love those two. They are moving in together and so happy. Start of a new chapter in life is always a wonder but as usual Snow is in the midst of a mystery even though this time it's not even his fault. He seems to be the magnet for curious and murderous. Calvin is very patient, his loving exasperation making him the perfect man to take care of Snow and possibly bail him out of jail should the need arise. Their relationship dynamics feels as if they've known each other for years yet still have that novelty of new love, and their passion is unrelenting. If in the previous book both men were dealing with Winter's PTSD and inner demons here at the forefront is Snow and his vulnerabilities - everything that he hides from the world comes spilling out. Who knew that underneath all that knowledge and sarcastic sense of humor is a man who is unsure and in need of reassurance. And the best part is he has people around him who are there when he crumbles, who understand and who are ready to hold him up when he is feeling weak or scared.
The mystery of the kinetoscope, the whole murder case is really thrilling, the chase to find the truth takes Snow into unexpected places where he meets many new and old forgotten acquaintances. As always he seems to get hit by the debris of the investigation but his brilliant mind and talent for sleuthing get the answers better that the police. It kept me guessing till the very end. Yes, there were different angles. And the ending was very exciting. There were unexpected plot twists, old friends coming to help and new characters with the case of sour grapes making appearances. It was funny, sexy and romantic. The ending was absolutely adorable. I loved this book and I highly recommend it!
July 23, 2021
I certainly hope that C.S. Poe is moved to write more of this series. At this time there is only one more...so please get with it. If same sex couples are not your cup of tea...just skip over those parts and immerse yourself in one very good mystery with lots of clues and red herrings. There is even two wonderful dogs in the stories now. I read this one in a day and it was just so intriguing with the detailing of film history and how the device...the Kinescope... which was delivered to Sebastian fit into it all. I also wonder if a new series is forthcoming featuring Sabastian’s former boyfriend and Calvin's fellow cop, Neil and a new character Lee. Neil will have to do a lot of changing before he will fit into any series this good but we’ll see. He’s really working on becoming a better person than it was when he was with Sebastian. The lore and history surrounding the mystery is meticulously researched and so well carried out until the very end. You learn something new and interesting with each new book.
October 6, 2018
This is another fun, fast-paced mystery that also moves forward the relationship between antique shop proprietor Sebastian Snow and NYPD detective Calvin Winter.
Once again Seb stumbles into trouble/has it foisted upon him. It's really splitting hairs at this point. But Seb is again at the center of a mystery that has people gunning for him. The whole crew is back again, Max with his humor, Pop with his wisdom and Neil, with a new outlook on things, but Calvin and Seb are the heart of things. Their romance is moving forward and I love their relationship. Seb still has his insecurities (and even the love of a wonderful man can't cure him of his lovable grumpiness) and Calvin has his issues, but the way they support and communicate with each other just makes me adore them more with every book. Neil has also grown and he and Seb forge ahead here with what seems the start of a nice friendship.
The mystery was well plotted with lots of potential suspects, including a character I'm hoping to see more of in the future, Calvin's ex-boyfriend Lee, who seemingly pops up out of the blue and into the mystery. I enjoy the way C.S. Poe finds quirky, interesting bits of history and presents them with entwined with the mystery. With what I know about the era of the Edison/Tesla/Westinghouse battles, murder and mayhem surrounding the appearance of the Kinetoscope seem a natural fit.
I'm really looking forward to the next book, especially after that ending, and can't imagine what piece of history will draw Seb and Calvin into trouble next.
Once again Seb stumbles into trouble/has it foisted upon him. It's really splitting hairs at this point. But Seb is again at the center of a mystery that has people gunning for him. The whole crew is back again, Max with his humor, Pop with his wisdom and Neil, with a new outlook on things, but Calvin and Seb are the heart of things. Their romance is moving forward and I love their relationship. Seb still has his insecurities (and even the love of a wonderful man can't cure him of his lovable grumpiness) and Calvin has his issues, but the way they support and communicate with each other just makes me adore them more with every book. Neil has also grown and he and Seb forge ahead here with what seems the start of a nice friendship.
The mystery was well plotted with lots of potential suspects, including a character I'm hoping to see more of in the future, Calvin's ex-boyfriend Lee, who seemingly pops up out of the blue and into the mystery. I enjoy the way C.S. Poe finds quirky, interesting bits of history and presents them with entwined with the mystery. With what I know about the era of the Edison/Tesla/Westinghouse battles, murder and mayhem surrounding the appearance of the Kinetoscope seem a natural fit.
I'm really looking forward to the next book, especially after that ending, and can't imagine what piece of history will draw Seb and Calvin into trouble next.
July 6, 2022
Loved this one. The best so far, for sure. I love the growth both Sebastian and Cal has done.
February 11, 2024
The books in C.S. Poe's Snow & Winter series just keep getting better and better. I love Sebastian, he's such a sweetie. And the mysteries are always so clever. Just great.
The audio version of The Mystery of the Moving Image is performed by Wyatt Baker who does a lovely job. Way better than the previous narrator of this series, in my opinion.
The audio version of The Mystery of the Moving Image is performed by Wyatt Baker who does a lovely job. Way better than the previous narrator of this series, in my opinion.
September 11, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
I love the Snow and Winter series! I’ve been happily reading/reviewing the books from the beginning. Sebastian and Calvin are two of the most memorable characters I’ve ever come across. They’re smart, funny, charming, and sexy. They’ve got a fiery chemistry that enhances the well-written and plotted mysteries the men solve (more or less) together. Book three is just as exciting as book one and two. No momentum is lost, and nothing has grown old or stale.
Here in this third installment, Sebastian and Calvin are starting their new life together. They’re more in love than ever, and they’re very happy. Surrounded by family and friends, they feel as if it’s safe to relax after the last case. It had been rough, but it’s calmed down. Calvin has finally accepted he was suffering from PTSD and has started seeing a therapist and gotten a service dog. Sebastian is trying to broaden his business by sponsoring an antiques convention.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
I love the Snow and Winter series! I’ve been happily reading/reviewing the books from the beginning. Sebastian and Calvin are two of the most memorable characters I’ve ever come across. They’re smart, funny, charming, and sexy. They’ve got a fiery chemistry that enhances the well-written and plotted mysteries the men solve (more or less) together. Book three is just as exciting as book one and two. No momentum is lost, and nothing has grown old or stale.
Here in this third installment, Sebastian and Calvin are starting their new life together. They’re more in love than ever, and they’re very happy. Surrounded by family and friends, they feel as if it’s safe to relax after the last case. It had been rough, but it’s calmed down. Calvin has finally accepted he was suffering from PTSD and has started seeing a therapist and gotten a service dog. Sebastian is trying to broaden his business by sponsoring an antiques convention.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
January 17, 2023
Reread 01/2023 review- 1.9〜2.3 stars?? I absolutely can’t stand Sebastian.
Original 03/2021 review- 2.4 stars? Sebastian is TSTL or rather, too reckless & arrogant (?). Best part was the Ms. Butterwith books references (Holmes & Moriarity series by Josh Lanyon). Also, I didn’t hate the narration, but I didn’t much care for it either.
Original 03/2021 review- 2.4 stars? Sebastian is TSTL or rather, too reckless & arrogant (?). Best part was the Ms. Butterwith books references (Holmes & Moriarity series by Josh Lanyon). Also, I didn’t hate the narration, but I didn’t much care for it either.
September 11, 2018
When a package arrives at his shop with no note or information as to its owner, Sebastian can’t help but feel a bit wary. Luckily for him, when the box is pried open there are no dead bodies in sight. Not even so much as a heart. Instead he and his assistant find a Kinetoscope–one of the earliest forms of cinema viewing made for a single person’s use. Unsure what to do with this mysterious gift he decides to keep it in the shop till he can hunt down the owner. He can’t resist giving the film sent along with the Kinetoscope a look, though. After all, how often are you going to be able to view a film over a century old? And what harm could be done, anyways.
Well…he really should have known better. Now he has people breaking into his shop, leaving dead bodies in their wake, and some very persistent stalkers doing their best to get their hands on a film depicting a century old murder. What they could possible want with it, Sebastian hasn’t a clue…he only knows they are more than happy to kill to get their hands on it.
*happy sigh*…I just adore a good mystery novel.
Not much to say about this book, other than that. It was just so damn good. Which makes for an incredibly short review. So…
Well, I guess I can talk about how I have greatly enjoyed how this series has handled Sebastian’s color blindness. The fact that it plays into the story, and actually affects him as a person, as well as the plot, makes for great storytelling. On a really basic level I like seeing characters who are different, because it spices up tropes that I love–but which might have become a bit stale after the 800th rendition. Outside of that though, there is something to love about taking that character trait and weaving it into a story in a way that feels needed to the plot. Sebastian would not be Sebastian without his disability. It informs his personality and life in such a way that seems essential to the story and the character. And C.S. Poe has been very good at letting it sink into the background of the story when needed, but also having it move the plot in a way that doesn’t seem even the little bit forced.
A lot of the praise I have for this book are things that I have said about the two previous stories in the series. I continue to love the way Sebastian and Calvin interact. They are not without their problems, but they act like adults. They talk shit out. They take the time to consider each other. And at the end of the day I feel a genuine connection between the two of them.
Without giving anything away, I also really liked how this mystery kept me guessing the whole way thru. It is one of the things I need in a mystery story. And so far C.S. Poe has shown themselves to be very good at crafting mystery plots that link together seamlessly. I know I–and many other reviewers–have commented on it before, but Poe is very reminiscent of Josh Lanyon in this regard. They clearly have stylistic differences, but the way I can so easily slip into these mysteries is very much the same.
There was also never really a point where it felt like the characters were acting the way they were simply because the plot dictated it. Their actions help dictate the plot, not the other way around. I know with stories the two thing kinda have this weird relationship, especially in mystery stories where the plot needs to happen in a certain way or else the whole mystery aspect can fall completely flat, but I think the standard should always be that it feels natural, even if there is a lot of complicated goings on behind the scenes.
The way this series has built itself up, I can’t but be excited to see where it goes. These kinds of mystery stories, with well crafted plots and interesting characters, are probably my favorite type of books. I find them both relaxing and compelling; a way to sink into a story and forget the world, but also engage my brain in a little game of whodunit. And Poe has certainly managed to do both with this story. The series on the whole has my recommendation, and one can only hope that Poe has many more stories like this one waiting for us in the future.
4.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Well…he really should have known better. Now he has people breaking into his shop, leaving dead bodies in their wake, and some very persistent stalkers doing their best to get their hands on a film depicting a century old murder. What they could possible want with it, Sebastian hasn’t a clue…he only knows they are more than happy to kill to get their hands on it.
*happy sigh*…I just adore a good mystery novel.
Not much to say about this book, other than that. It was just so damn good. Which makes for an incredibly short review. So…
Well, I guess I can talk about how I have greatly enjoyed how this series has handled Sebastian’s color blindness. The fact that it plays into the story, and actually affects him as a person, as well as the plot, makes for great storytelling. On a really basic level I like seeing characters who are different, because it spices up tropes that I love–but which might have become a bit stale after the 800th rendition. Outside of that though, there is something to love about taking that character trait and weaving it into a story in a way that feels needed to the plot. Sebastian would not be Sebastian without his disability. It informs his personality and life in such a way that seems essential to the story and the character. And C.S. Poe has been very good at letting it sink into the background of the story when needed, but also having it move the plot in a way that doesn’t seem even the little bit forced.
A lot of the praise I have for this book are things that I have said about the two previous stories in the series. I continue to love the way Sebastian and Calvin interact. They are not without their problems, but they act like adults. They talk shit out. They take the time to consider each other. And at the end of the day I feel a genuine connection between the two of them.
Without giving anything away, I also really liked how this mystery kept me guessing the whole way thru. It is one of the things I need in a mystery story. And so far C.S. Poe has shown themselves to be very good at crafting mystery plots that link together seamlessly. I know I–and many other reviewers–have commented on it before, but Poe is very reminiscent of Josh Lanyon in this regard. They clearly have stylistic differences, but the way I can so easily slip into these mysteries is very much the same.
There was also never really a point where it felt like the characters were acting the way they were simply because the plot dictated it. Their actions help dictate the plot, not the other way around. I know with stories the two thing kinda have this weird relationship, especially in mystery stories where the plot needs to happen in a certain way or else the whole mystery aspect can fall completely flat, but I think the standard should always be that it feels natural, even if there is a lot of complicated goings on behind the scenes.
The way this series has built itself up, I can’t but be excited to see where it goes. These kinds of mystery stories, with well crafted plots and interesting characters, are probably my favorite type of books. I find them both relaxing and compelling; a way to sink into a story and forget the world, but also engage my brain in a little game of whodunit. And Poe has certainly managed to do both with this story. The series on the whole has my recommendation, and one can only hope that Poe has many more stories like this one waiting for us in the future.
4.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
August 17, 2018
There was more than just images moving in this one...
Ok before I get into this one, I'm just going to say if you haven't read the first two books you may want to stop here because some of the stuff that I'm going to mention happened in previous books and I admit I'm not up for spoiler tags, however, I don't plan on mentioning any major plot points and will keep it to smaller things.
It's Sebastian and Calvin!!!! I'm really, really loving these two and this book has cemented them with me. I was more than a little impressed with the first book and book two also went fairly well but this one...Sweetbabyjebus!!!! I loved it. From start to finish this story had my full attention.
After having his apartment destroyed in the last book, Seb's needing a new home and so he and Calvin are taking the next step and they've found a place of their own. Calvin's got a dog and he's seeing a counselor (this is a previous story thing).
Once again Sebastian is faced with a mystery with origins in the past and this time it goes back to the beginnings of the golden age of film...or more accurately the beginnings of film. When Sebastian receives a mysterious package at his shop. Inside he finds a Thomas Edison Kinetoscope a 19th century movie viewer but there's so much more to this than it appears.
As Sebastian gets drawn further into the mystery things begin to become complicated and not everything or everyone is as it seems. But add in to these events the appearance of someone from Calvin's past and Neil, Seb's ex and you've got a story that's teeming with twist and turns. From start to finish I was kept guessing and wonderfully entertained with this one.
Calvin and Sebastian are definitely evolving as a couple and I loved seeing them grown and their interactions had some very definite humorous moments. Along with Calvin and Seb's relationship growth, we're treated to some personal growth on the part of Seb and Neil, as they both evolve from bitterness over their failed relationship to a friendship that just might still be tinged with a bit of sarcasm on both their parts. Sarcasm that also held a touch of affection as Seb and Neil both realize that the biggest problem they'd ever faced was that they were really only ever meant to be friends.
Back when the first book was released in this series there were mentions of another well loved cop & shop owner pairing and the resemblance that Calvin and Sebastian held to them, which is something that I'm not trying to dispute because I truly feel this is a matter of personal perspective so I'm not looking for a right or wrong here because I don't think there is one, but I would just like to say that for a number of reasons with this book I think Sebastian and Calvin have firmly moved themselves out of that shadow and are standing in a spotlight that is all their own.
Now there's just one other thing that I'd like to mention and that's the ending...which, I'm simply going to say I loved it. The ending of this book for me was totally perfect...I loved it and yes, I'm so on board for more of these two men and I can't wait for what's coming next or at least I hopefully I won't have to wait too long, maybe...please?
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An ARC of 'The Mystery of the Moving Image' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Ok before I get into this one, I'm just going to say if you haven't read the first two books you may want to stop here because some of the stuff that I'm going to mention happened in previous books and I admit I'm not up for spoiler tags, however, I don't plan on mentioning any major plot points and will keep it to smaller things.
It's Sebastian and Calvin!!!! I'm really, really loving these two and this book has cemented them with me. I was more than a little impressed with the first book and book two also went fairly well but this one...Sweetbabyjebus!!!! I loved it. From start to finish this story had my full attention.
After having his apartment destroyed in the last book, Seb's needing a new home and so he and Calvin are taking the next step and they've found a place of their own. Calvin's got a dog and he's seeing a counselor (this is a previous story thing).
Once again Sebastian is faced with a mystery with origins in the past and this time it goes back to the beginnings of the golden age of film...or more accurately the beginnings of film. When Sebastian receives a mysterious package at his shop. Inside he finds a Thomas Edison Kinetoscope a 19th century movie viewer but there's so much more to this than it appears.
As Sebastian gets drawn further into the mystery things begin to become complicated and not everything or everyone is as it seems. But add in to these events the appearance of someone from Calvin's past and Neil, Seb's ex and you've got a story that's teeming with twist and turns. From start to finish I was kept guessing and wonderfully entertained with this one.
Calvin and Sebastian are definitely evolving as a couple and I loved seeing them grown and their interactions had some very definite humorous moments. Along with Calvin and Seb's relationship growth, we're treated to some personal growth on the part of Seb and Neil, as they both evolve from bitterness over their failed relationship to a friendship that just might still be tinged with a bit of sarcasm on both their parts. Sarcasm that also held a touch of affection as Seb and Neil both realize that the biggest problem they'd ever faced was that they were really only ever meant to be friends.
Back when the first book was released in this series there were mentions of another well loved cop & shop owner pairing and the resemblance that Calvin and Sebastian held to them, which is something that I'm not trying to dispute because I truly feel this is a matter of personal perspective so I'm not looking for a right or wrong here because I don't think there is one, but I would just like to say that for a number of reasons with this book I think Sebastian and Calvin have firmly moved themselves out of that shadow and are standing in a spotlight that is all their own.
Now there's just one other thing that I'd like to mention and that's the ending...which, I'm simply going to say I loved it. The ending of this book for me was totally perfect...I loved it and yes, I'm so on board for more of these two men and I can't wait for what's coming next or at least I hopefully I won't have to wait too long, maybe...please?
*************************
An ARC of 'The Mystery of the Moving Image' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 22, 2019
I think this one is my favorite of the series so far!
I just adore Sebastian and Calvin and how in tune to the other they are and how much they love each other. I love that despite all his snark and bravado, Sebastian does have his own worries, and I enjoyed him opening up to Calvin about it. His relationship with Calvin and his dad, and his friendship with Max and even Neil now, I just kinda love him.
Also, I really loved the mystery in this one - it kept me entertained and guessing! And I kinda love Neil and I want him to find some happiness in his own life.
And gah the ending! I can't WAIT for the 4th book!
I just adore Sebastian and Calvin and how in tune to the other they are and how much they love each other. I love that despite all his snark and bravado, Sebastian does have his own worries, and I enjoyed him opening up to Calvin about it. His relationship with Calvin and his dad, and his friendship with Max and even Neil now, I just kinda love him.
Also, I really loved the mystery in this one - it kept me entertained and guessing! And I kinda love Neil and I want him to find some happiness in his own life.
And gah the ending! I can't WAIT for the 4th book!
April 7, 2022
Ya con varios meses en una relacion con Calvin, ambos han tomado la decision de mudarse juntos, y Sebastian solo esta esperando que caiga el "el otro zapato" nunca habia sido tan feliz y tiene un miedo horrible de que Calvin se de cuenta que no es a Sebastian a quien quiere y lo deje. Por eso, sus inseguridades han repuntado, y ha cambiado un par de habitos (como el de vestir ropa de colores) para que Calvin no se aburra de el, pero lo que no puede cambiar es su curiosidad por los misterios y cuando un misterioso paquete conteniendo una maquina de cine de finales del siglo XIX llega a su tienda, el misterio que la envuelve no hace mas que despertar su curiosodad, y cuando entrar a su tienda para robar la cinta que traia el misterioso aparato, no puede evitar inmiscuirse en la investigacion, aunque Calvin y su ex Neil, le hagan prometer mas de una vez que se mantenga alejado.
Pero el asesinato de un joven en la parte de atras de su tienda, mas la aparicion de un ex de Calvin y los intentos de asesinarlo mas de una vez, lo hacen repensar el hacerle caso a su novio y a su ex, y aunque quiere desesperadamente probar que puede cuidarse solo y que puede resolver el misterio, tambien tiene que aceptar que el no es un policia y no esta capacitado para perseguir o enfrentarse a nadie.
El misterio es bastante innovador, y la clase de historia del cine muy entretenido, tambien disfrute mucho del humor de Max y Beth, asi como de la inseguridad tal real de Sebastian, pero siento que me sigue haciendo falta de alguna manera saber lo que piensa o quiere Calvin. Y es que como toda la historia esta contada por Sebastian, de Calvin solo sabemos lo que el personaje de Sebastian ve o cree ver o sentir, y por eso me gustaria saber si es realmente lo que ve o siente Calvin, como por ejemplo, la ultima escena, como Calvin llego a esa decision? Porque tan rapido? Que fue lo que lo movio para decidirse?
Ademas, me gustaria ver cuales son los chistes de Quinn con Calvin cuando estan trabajando y hablando de Sebastian, apuesto a que serian muy divertidos, casi como los de Max con Sebatian cuando trabajand y hablan de Calvin.
En fin, la serie ha resultado de lo mas entretenida, mucho mas de lo que esperaba, asi que voy a continuar con ella.
Pero el asesinato de un joven en la parte de atras de su tienda, mas la aparicion de un ex de Calvin y los intentos de asesinarlo mas de una vez, lo hacen repensar el hacerle caso a su novio y a su ex, y aunque quiere desesperadamente probar que puede cuidarse solo y que puede resolver el misterio, tambien tiene que aceptar que el no es un policia y no esta capacitado para perseguir o enfrentarse a nadie.
El misterio es bastante innovador, y la clase de historia del cine muy entretenido, tambien disfrute mucho del humor de Max y Beth, asi como de la inseguridad tal real de Sebastian, pero siento que me sigue haciendo falta de alguna manera saber lo que piensa o quiere Calvin. Y es que como toda la historia esta contada por Sebastian, de Calvin solo sabemos lo que el personaje de Sebastian ve o cree ver o sentir, y por eso me gustaria saber si es realmente lo que ve o siente Calvin, como por ejemplo, la ultima escena, como Calvin llego a esa decision? Porque tan rapido? Que fue lo que lo movio para decidirse?
Ademas, me gustaria ver cuales son los chistes de Quinn con Calvin cuando estan trabajando y hablando de Sebastian, apuesto a que serian muy divertidos, casi como los de Max con Sebatian cuando trabajand y hablan de Calvin.
En fin, la serie ha resultado de lo mas entretenida, mucho mas de lo que esperaba, asi que voy a continuar con ella.
September 29, 2018
I really really love this series. Sebastian is so smart and it's really not his fault people keep trying to kill him! The way Calvin is just so charmed and in love with him is adorable. The mystery is interesting. I'm wondering how much dramatic license was taken. The resolution I feel leaves me left wondering about things, what happens to the stolen films? Were they recovered? Does Sebastian have legal ownership? What about the found plans? What happens with them? But the ending? Made me so happy. It was perfect.
November 3, 2019
4,5 stars
This is my favourite book in this series so far.
The mystery is well done and I really liked how Sebastian relied on Calvin and communicated with him ... not only regarding the mystery but also in regards to his feelings
For me the book would get another star if we got to see Calvin's POV. Not only because I am a fan of reading dual POVs but also because I think the book would profit from that.
Regardless I really like Sebastian. His character development is well done over the last three books and I really want to see more of him.and Calvin
And I nearly forgot: this book did a marvellous job in bringing the secondary characters a bit more to the front.
Especially Neill was a pleasant surprise ... but as Sebastians father saud: " some people are meant to be friends, no matter how much one want to force a different outcome "
Loved the statement and the sentiment behind it
This is my favourite book in this series so far.
The mystery is well done and I really liked how Sebastian relied on Calvin and communicated with him ... not only regarding the mystery but also in regards to his feelings
For me the book would get another star if we got to see Calvin's POV. Not only because I am a fan of reading dual POVs but also because I think the book would profit from that.
Regardless I really like Sebastian. His character development is well done over the last three books and I really want to see more of him.and Calvin
And I nearly forgot: this book did a marvellous job in bringing the secondary characters a bit more to the front.
Especially Neill was a pleasant surprise ... but as Sebastians father saud: " some people are meant to be friends, no matter how much one want to force a different outcome "
Loved the statement and the sentiment behind it
January 21, 2022
This series is growing on me. It was a little too insta-love and ridiculous sleuthing at first. But the ending of this one? Adored it.
October 3, 2024
(3.75/5) And we're at it again. Same pattern, same people, same progress.
But it was just a tiny bit different, a tiny bit more than the last two books. And that made it different.
I liked the story in this book. I liked the connection between the past and the case, the hidden details and the completely over the top action was also quite good. I really liked the idea of this case. It was a lot of fun and if I didn't have so much to do in real life, I probably would have finished the book much sooner.
The only thing I didn't like so much was the sameness of Sebastian and Calvin's relationship. Nothing really changed between the two of them. I don't think they developed much compared to before. Little to no character growth is just not good enough for me. I wish their relationship wasn't so fast paced. I feel like they were done developing in the first book.
A little more romance would have been nice.
But it was just a tiny bit different, a tiny bit more than the last two books. And that made it different.
I liked the story in this book. I liked the connection between the past and the case, the hidden details and the completely over the top action was also quite good. I really liked the idea of this case. It was a lot of fun and if I didn't have so much to do in real life, I probably would have finished the book much sooner.
“Snow and Winter sounds like….”
“A happy accident?”
“Sounds like forever.”
The only thing I didn't like so much was the sameness of Sebastian and Calvin's relationship. Nothing really changed between the two of them. I don't think they developed much compared to before. Little to no character growth is just not good enough for me. I wish their relationship wasn't so fast paced. I feel like they were done developing in the first book.
A little more romance would have been nice.
September 14, 2018
Review coming on release day, but the preview is - my favorite book in this series so far :)
Cross-posted on Amazon.
C.S. Poe is quickly becoming a favorite - and an autobuy for me. She can write funny, sarcastic, moving, suspenseful, romantic, erotic, normal, quirky - whatever the story calls for. In this installment of the Snow & Winter series, Sebastian cannot buy a break! After receiving an unexpected shipment of a Kinetoscope and a long thought lost movie, bad things keep happening. We see the return of Neal, Sebastian's ex, who is a CSU guy, as bodies start piling up and Seb is obviously in danger - even though he doesn't know why. Meanwhile Calvin is trying to keep Seb out of harm's way, despite Sebastian's habit of rushing into things. But this time, even though he's careful, things still spin out of control. As usual, Max, Seb's faithful employee, as well as his father and his next door business neighbo, book store owner Beth, do their parts to keep Seb in line too ;)
The mystery and history of the Kinetoscope and Edison in general were fascinating. As usual, the person who gets credit for so many things really is part of a larger contributing team. As a history major myself, I love this kind of stuff. It's like Eden Winter's Diversion series - where I learn something new every time I read her stuff - I feel the same way about this author. And especially this series - but really really all her mysteries are so well researched and fun to watch unfold.
Highly recommended - but really read the whole series in order :)
Cross-posted on Amazon.
C.S. Poe is quickly becoming a favorite - and an autobuy for me. She can write funny, sarcastic, moving, suspenseful, romantic, erotic, normal, quirky - whatever the story calls for. In this installment of the Snow & Winter series, Sebastian cannot buy a break! After receiving an unexpected shipment of a Kinetoscope and a long thought lost movie, bad things keep happening. We see the return of Neal, Sebastian's ex, who is a CSU guy, as bodies start piling up and Seb is obviously in danger - even though he doesn't know why. Meanwhile Calvin is trying to keep Seb out of harm's way, despite Sebastian's habit of rushing into things. But this time, even though he's careful, things still spin out of control. As usual, Max, Seb's faithful employee, as well as his father and his next door business neighbo, book store owner Beth, do their parts to keep Seb in line too ;)
The mystery and history of the Kinetoscope and Edison in general were fascinating. As usual, the person who gets credit for so many things really is part of a larger contributing team. As a history major myself, I love this kind of stuff. It's like Eden Winter's Diversion series - where I learn something new every time I read her stuff - I feel the same way about this author. And especially this series - but really really all her mysteries are so well researched and fun to watch unfold.
Highly recommended - but really read the whole series in order :)
November 30, 2018
This is honestly one of my favorite series that I'm reading right now. It's wonderful. I absolutely adore the characters. Weirdly enough, I'm not big on mystery in general (I can never figure out who done it, ever, even if it's obvious to people who are big on the mystery genre, so the fact that I don't know who did it in a given book means nothing).
Oddly enough, I have a horrible time remembering what happened in this series even though I adore it. It just doesn't seem to stick with me for some reason. I adore it when I read it, I remember that I adore it, and I adore it if I reread it, but I forget it. I'm not sure what's going on with that. I'm perfectly capable of remembering other books/series that I adore, but this one slips away from me. I still adore it, though.
This book was fun to read because it was fun to watch the characters and their relationships develop, including side characters. In some books, characters and relationships just stay stagnant no matter what happens and no matter how many books you move through, but not this book. People change and how they react to each other change, and that was quite lovely. It was wonderful to watch both Sebastian and Calvin start to overcome some of older issues and confront new ones that arose. It was also really nice to see side characters evolve in their relationships.
I look forward to the next book, although I kind of dread wondering how much I might forget. I don't know how to get myself to start remembering what happened in the previous books, and at a certain point I can't just keep rereading them! They series will get too long!
Oddly enough, I have a horrible time remembering what happened in this series even though I adore it. It just doesn't seem to stick with me for some reason. I adore it when I read it, I remember that I adore it, and I adore it if I reread it, but I forget it. I'm not sure what's going on with that. I'm perfectly capable of remembering other books/series that I adore, but this one slips away from me. I still adore it, though.
This book was fun to read because it was fun to watch the characters and their relationships develop, including side characters. In some books, characters and relationships just stay stagnant no matter what happens and no matter how many books you move through, but not this book. People change and how they react to each other change, and that was quite lovely. It was wonderful to watch both Sebastian and Calvin start to overcome some of older issues and confront new ones that arose. It was also really nice to see side characters evolve in their relationships.
I look forward to the next book, although I kind of dread wondering how much I might forget. I don't know how to get myself to start remembering what happened in the previous books, and at a certain point I can't just keep rereading them! They series will get too long!
August 7, 2025
“What part of the sandwich am I?” “Huh?” “The peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Which am I?” “Jelly, definitely,” I answered. “You think I’m the sweet one?” “I’m way too salty to be.” Calvin smiled and petted my hair. “We really are better together.”
4.25 ⭐
The Mystery of the Moving Image, book 3 in the Snow and Winter series, brings us back into Sebastian’s chaotic life as he somehow finds himself knee-deep in another mystery. This time, it revolves around something called a Kinetoscope. Like with the previous books, the most interesting part for me was learning all this old-timey history and lore that I had absolutely no clue about. Sebastian is basically a walking Victorian encyclopedia, and we love him for that.
This book had the perfect opportunity to give Calvin a little more depth, especially since we meet one of his exes. But nope, Calvin remains the perfect boyfriend and the certified sex machine he always is. I mean, love that for Sebastian, truly. But as I’ve said before, I just want more from him. Calvin is so perfect that it almost makes him feel flat sometimes.
Now take Neil, for example. He is Sebastian’s ex, a closeted ex at that, and I find his character way more interesting. Not because he is closeted, so calm down, but because he actually pushes back against Sebastian and has a real, nuanced personality. Calvin, meanwhile, is just this hulking, pasty ginger Adonis who never puts a foot wrong. Again, I do love him, I just want something to chew on character-wise.
Anyway, this was another fun one. Great vibes, interesting mystery, and Sebastian continuing to snoop his way through life while being smarter than everyone around him.
4.25 ⭐
The Mystery of the Moving Image, book 3 in the Snow and Winter series, brings us back into Sebastian’s chaotic life as he somehow finds himself knee-deep in another mystery. This time, it revolves around something called a Kinetoscope. Like with the previous books, the most interesting part for me was learning all this old-timey history and lore that I had absolutely no clue about. Sebastian is basically a walking Victorian encyclopedia, and we love him for that.
This book had the perfect opportunity to give Calvin a little more depth, especially since we meet one of his exes. But nope, Calvin remains the perfect boyfriend and the certified sex machine he always is. I mean, love that for Sebastian, truly. But as I’ve said before, I just want more from him. Calvin is so perfect that it almost makes him feel flat sometimes.
Now take Neil, for example. He is Sebastian’s ex, a closeted ex at that, and I find his character way more interesting. Not because he is closeted, so calm down, but because he actually pushes back against Sebastian and has a real, nuanced personality. Calvin, meanwhile, is just this hulking, pasty ginger Adonis who never puts a foot wrong. Again, I do love him, I just want something to chew on character-wise.
Anyway, this was another fun one. Great vibes, interesting mystery, and Sebastian continuing to snoop his way through life while being smarter than everyone around him.
September 11, 2018
The Mystery of the Moving Image is the third book in the Snow and Winter series. Although it could be read as a standalone, don't miss out on reading the first two books in this great series!
Calvin and Seb have just moved into an apartment together, Calvin is seeing a therapist and is dealing with his PTSD, they now have a puppy named Dillon, and Sebastian has just received a mysterious crate at Snow's Antiques Emporium, with a kinetoscope inside. This sets into motion a mystery involving a pre-1900's film showing a murder, a few murders in the present and a slew of suspects (including Calvin's ex-boyfriend Lee Straus).
I love the plot of this book - C.S. Poe manages to provide readers a sweeping background of arcane historical happenings and writes with such clarity and assurance (insert fangirl gushing here). Sebastian's father and ex-boyfriend Neil make an appearance, with Neil and Seb reaching an uneasy "friendship" of sorts:
I received an ARC from DSP Publications in exchange for an honest review.
Review also also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
Calvin and Seb have just moved into an apartment together, Calvin is seeing a therapist and is dealing with his PTSD, they now have a puppy named Dillon, and Sebastian has just received a mysterious crate at Snow's Antiques Emporium, with a kinetoscope inside. This sets into motion a mystery involving a pre-1900's film showing a murder, a few murders in the present and a slew of suspects (including Calvin's ex-boyfriend Lee Straus).
I love the plot of this book - C.S. Poe manages to provide readers a sweeping background of arcane historical happenings and writes with such clarity and assurance (insert fangirl gushing here). Sebastian's father and ex-boyfriend Neil make an appearance, with Neil and Seb reaching an uneasy "friendship" of sorts:
[Neil] I'm not talking about an open investigation with you.The love and chemistry between Calvin and Seb sizzles as always, but Sebastian is finally allowing himself to believe that he deserves this happiness with Calvin and that they are "imperfectly perfect for each other." I have such a soft spot in my heart for Sebastian:
[Sebastian] "What about an ID on Dumpster Kid?" I continued.
Neil crossed his arms. "I know there's nothing wrong with your hearing."
"It's be nice if you'd tell me."
"So Winter can kick my ass seven ways to Sunday?"
"I'm trying to help."
"Helping never helps," Neil answered.
"You should be a motivational speaker," I replied.
Neil shook his head. "I'd nearly forgotten what a salty son of a bitch you could be."
"You started it."
"I get self-consious. There are some days .... when I'm wearing mismatched clothes, have crumbs on my sweater and the clerk at CVS gives me a dubious look when I buy condoms because she'd sooner believe I'm making balloon animals out of them than getting laid."Although it took me a while to recall everything about Calvin and Sebastian's history, once I got into the mystery, the book held my interest every page of the way, and while the ending was all times of good, I didn't want the book to end. But never fear, there are a few free Snow & Winter ficlets and codas on C.S. Poe's website and there is another book in the series coming. 5 stars and a Recommended Read for "The Mystery of the Moving Image."
I received an ARC from DSP Publications in exchange for an honest review.
Review also also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
July 18, 2023
4.5 stars
Another intresting and superbly researched mystery that opens when Sebastian receives an unexpected delivery containing a Kinetoscope and a roll of film that is not only believed lost, but which also contains footage of a murder that happened over a century earlier.
I enjoyed this a lot, although I've realised that I have to just accept Sebastian's tendency to get into trouble as part of his character AND part of the whole "amateur sleuth" trope; there wouldn't be any story if he just sat on the sidelines, and to be fair, in this story, he does exactly what Calvin tells him to do (go home), and is attacked outside his appartment, so I suppose he just can't win sometimes.
But I do like Sebastian as a character; I like his snarky geekiness and was pleased to see him learning to rely on Calvin and to communicate his feelings better; his character development over the course of the three books in the series so far has been excellent. I also like the way his relationship with Neil is going; after a pretty nasty break-up, they're becoming friends, and I'm enjoying their interactions. Sebastian's dad hits the nail on the head when he says that some people are meant to be friends regardless of how things start out. Speaking of Pop, he's another great secondary character, loving and supportive and insightful.
My favourite of the series so far.
Another intresting and superbly researched mystery that opens when Sebastian receives an unexpected delivery containing a Kinetoscope and a roll of film that is not only believed lost, but which also contains footage of a murder that happened over a century earlier.
I enjoyed this a lot, although I've realised that I have to just accept Sebastian's tendency to get into trouble as part of his character AND part of the whole "amateur sleuth" trope; there wouldn't be any story if he just sat on the sidelines, and to be fair, in this story, he does exactly what Calvin tells him to do (go home), and is attacked outside his appartment, so I suppose he just can't win sometimes.
But I do like Sebastian as a character; I like his snarky geekiness and was pleased to see him learning to rely on Calvin and to communicate his feelings better; his character development over the course of the three books in the series so far has been excellent. I also like the way his relationship with Neil is going; after a pretty nasty break-up, they're becoming friends, and I'm enjoying their interactions. Sebastian's dad hits the nail on the head when he says that some people are meant to be friends regardless of how things start out. Speaking of Pop, he's another great secondary character, loving and supportive and insightful.
My favourite of the series so far.
September 10, 2018
It’s just been six months since the Mystery of the Curiosities, and Sebastian’s world is about to go topsy-turvy again. Sebastian is trying to settle into a new apartment with Calvin, Calvin is getting therapy for his PTSD, and they’re looking forward to some much-needed downtime. But that’s not in the cards. A mystery box arrives at the Emporium containing lost footage and a century old murder at the end. This raises more questions than answers and that’s one mystery Sebastian isn’t going to walk away from.
This should NOT be read as a stand-alone. The first two books establish the background, characters and setting for book three, which are integral to the ending for Mystery of the Moving Image.
I will start with my (small) issues: I found this mystery to be overly convoluted and, this is totally my quirk, it wasn’t grabbing me. I was having a hard time finding the historical aspect of movies and film interesting. So the first/middle part of the book was not as interesting (for me) as I would have hoped. Entirely my quirk.
On top of that, I was struggling with Calvin’s character. Calvin was there, he was supportive, he was indulgent and tolerant of Sebastian’s often poor behavior and Calvin was mostly…meh. Like egg-shell white paint meh. Sebastian’s ex-boyfriend Neil was far more interesting and engaging. The dialog between Neil and Sebastian was witty, snarky, and fun to read. Heck, the dialog between Max and Sebastian was more engaging than Calvin was in this installment.
So those are my points of contention with the plot and characters.
The flip side is, I really did enjoy this latest installment. I liked the addition of Neil. I loved Max. Lest I seem overly harsh on Calvin, I did enjoy the small sweet moments (and a couple hot ones) between Calvin and Sebastian that showed just how much they cared for each other despite a slew of insecurities. I liked seeing a more vulnerable side of Sebastian, especially when he opened up to his Dad.
And what totally cinched the book for me was the ending. I had to go and read it a second time. So frikin’ SWEET!!
I am SO looking forward to the next installment!
Review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author and publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!!
This should NOT be read as a stand-alone. The first two books establish the background, characters and setting for book three, which are integral to the ending for Mystery of the Moving Image.
I will start with my (small) issues: I found this mystery to be overly convoluted and, this is totally my quirk, it wasn’t grabbing me. I was having a hard time finding the historical aspect of movies and film interesting. So the first/middle part of the book was not as interesting (for me) as I would have hoped. Entirely my quirk.
On top of that, I was struggling with Calvin’s character. Calvin was there, he was supportive, he was indulgent and tolerant of Sebastian’s often poor behavior and Calvin was mostly…meh. Like egg-shell white paint meh. Sebastian’s ex-boyfriend Neil was far more interesting and engaging. The dialog between Neil and Sebastian was witty, snarky, and fun to read. Heck, the dialog between Max and Sebastian was more engaging than Calvin was in this installment.
So those are my points of contention with the plot and characters.
The flip side is, I really did enjoy this latest installment. I liked the addition of Neil. I loved Max. Lest I seem overly harsh on Calvin, I did enjoy the small sweet moments (and a couple hot ones) between Calvin and Sebastian that showed just how much they cared for each other despite a slew of insecurities. I liked seeing a more vulnerable side of Sebastian, especially when he opened up to his Dad.
And what totally cinched the book for me was the ending. I had to go and read it a second time. So frikin’ SWEET!!
I am SO looking forward to the next installment!
Review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author and publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!!
September 15, 2018
This went by so quickly that I was left with wanting more!
When Sebastian receives a package that has a kinetoscope and one film in, mysterious things start to happen. There was no return address and despite trying to find that, he got no results. And then there is the festival he is a sponsor to that they are still behind on transporting his stuff to the venue.
Sebastian and Calvin have just moved in on their new place and everything goes bad, which makes Sebastian’s insecurities pile up and worry about everything with Calvin. It made my heart break seeing him so down and not believing in himself.
Neil, Sebastian’s ex, made an appearance for the whole book. He was there for Sebastian and I liked how their relationship developed. I think it was needed to happen so that both of them could move on from that and to be able to be friends again. I loved Neil in this book a lot and I cannot wait for his own book!
Then break in starts to happen again to his shop, suspicious people appear and dead people piling up and all of them connected to the kinetoscope. It seems that Sebastian has bad luck.
I loved the mystery. Pretty cool use of the kinetoscope and the info for it.
The only thing I had issue with was the hasty ending. I was and wasn’t happy with it. I’m gonna be vague and say that someone got hurt badly and the recovery time was written so fast… And then the ending, so abrupt. GIMME MORE!
Anyways! Pretty cool story and very awesome mystery!
When Sebastian receives a package that has a kinetoscope and one film in, mysterious things start to happen. There was no return address and despite trying to find that, he got no results. And then there is the festival he is a sponsor to that they are still behind on transporting his stuff to the venue.
Sebastian and Calvin have just moved in on their new place and everything goes bad, which makes Sebastian’s insecurities pile up and worry about everything with Calvin. It made my heart break seeing him so down and not believing in himself.
Neil, Sebastian’s ex, made an appearance for the whole book. He was there for Sebastian and I liked how their relationship developed. I think it was needed to happen so that both of them could move on from that and to be able to be friends again. I loved Neil in this book a lot and I cannot wait for his own book!
Then break in starts to happen again to his shop, suspicious people appear and dead people piling up and all of them connected to the kinetoscope. It seems that Sebastian has bad luck.
I loved the mystery. Pretty cool use of the kinetoscope and the info for it.
The only thing I had issue with was the hasty ending. I was and wasn’t happy with it. I’m gonna be vague and say that someone got hurt badly and the recovery time was written so fast… And then the ending, so abrupt. GIMME MORE!
Anyways! Pretty cool story and very awesome mystery!
October 23, 2024
RILETTI I PRECEDENTI VOLUMI 😍
Anche questo thriller, poliziesco, suspence...
è stato meraviglioso.
Adoro l’antiquario Sebastian Snow e il detective della Omicidi Calvin Winter.
Sebastian come sempre viene coinvolto in una serie di misteri che coinvolgono un raro esemplare di cinetoscopio di Thomas Edison –
un visore inventato dal nonno del cinema moderno, W.K.L. Dickson –, e con esso il filmato di un omicidio risalente a oltre un secolo prima.
Il suo ex fidanzato sarà al suo fianco per cercare di proteggerlo e Calvin si troverà una scia di cadaveri, che portano dritto al suo amato.
Proposta in vista!! 🤩💖
💖💖💖💖💖
Anche questo thriller, poliziesco, suspence...
è stato meraviglioso.
Adoro l’antiquario Sebastian Snow e il detective della Omicidi Calvin Winter.
Sebastian come sempre viene coinvolto in una serie di misteri che coinvolgono un raro esemplare di cinetoscopio di Thomas Edison –
un visore inventato dal nonno del cinema moderno, W.K.L. Dickson –, e con esso il filmato di un omicidio risalente a oltre un secolo prima.
Il suo ex fidanzato sarà al suo fianco per cercare di proteggerlo e Calvin si troverà una scia di cadaveri, che portano dritto al suo amato.
Proposta in vista!! 🤩💖
💖💖💖💖💖
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