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Deerbourne Inn #1
My Past, Your Future
Callum MacLaren, a professor from Scotland, visits Willow Springs, Vermont during the Winter Solstice to study and explore the rich history of St. Joseph's Cemetery. His encounter with a sexy soldier in a tattered Civil War uniform is a captivating puzzle, and the more he learns, the deeper his attraction.
A hundred and fifty years ago, Elijah Freeman was killed during the Second Battle of Fort Wagner and woke up in Willow Springs, the only home he'd known. Alone, he roams the town, unable to leave or interact with a single soul until an intriguing Scot addresses him. Even stranger, the man can see him, hear him, and touch him--a sizzling caress that leaves Elijah aching for more.
But will Elijah return to his ghostly form when the magic of the solstice fades, or is Callum's love enough to keep him in the land of the living?
A hundred and fifty years ago, Elijah Freeman was killed during the Second Battle of Fort Wagner and woke up in Willow Springs, the only home he'd known. Alone, he roams the town, unable to leave or interact with a single soul until an intriguing Scot addresses him. Even stranger, the man can see him, hear him, and touch him--a sizzling caress that leaves Elijah aching for more.
But will Elijah return to his ghostly form when the magic of the solstice fades, or is Callum's love enough to keep him in the land of the living?
109 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 24, 2020
12 people are currently reading
108 people want to read
About the author
Gabbi Grey
81 books265 followersGabbi lives in beautiful British Columbia where her fur baby chin-poo keeps her safe from the nasty neighborhood squirrels. Working for the government by day, she spends her early mornings writing contemporary, gay, sweet, and dark erotic BDSM romances. While she firmly believes in happy endings, she also believes in making her characters suffer before finding their true love. She also writes m/f romances as Gabbi Black.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
September 8, 2021
A fantastic tale, and beautifully written, Gabbi Grey blew me away with My Past, Your Future. An absolutely charming paranormal romance, I adored the way these two characters found their way to a happily ever after. Simply lovely.
If the author ever felt the urge to flesh this one out, I'd really love to learn the details of the part we miss. I'd read it in a heartbeat!
Audio performed brilliantly by Michael Ferraiuolo. This is exactly the kind of story he really gets into, and it was clear he enjoyed it as much as I did. His brogue is gorgeous, and I could listen to him all day long.
If the author ever felt the urge to flesh this one out, I'd really love to learn the details of the part we miss. I'd read it in a heartbeat!
Audio performed brilliantly by Michael Ferraiuolo. This is exactly the kind of story he really gets into, and it was clear he enjoyed it as much as I did. His brogue is gorgeous, and I could listen to him all day long.
March 17, 2020
This was an interesting book. I don't read a lot of ghost stories - I don't usually seek them out, and I can probably count the ones I have read on one hand.
I also had some questions that remained unanswered, such as why is Elijah stuck to the town where he used to live, instead of the battle field where he died, and how is he able to go to some places nearby but not all, and why is Callum the first to ever be able to see and speak to him, because that's just a little too convenient for my liking.
I'm getting ahead of myself though...
Suspend disbelief and don't expect a whole lot of realism, because, hello - this is a ghost story. If you approach this book from that perspective, it's an enjoyable supernatural romance, in which a Scottish historian/professor, visiting a small Vermont town called Willow Springs around the Winter Solstice to do some research on the town's very old graveyard, meets a young freed slave-cum-Union soldier, who's been stuck in ghost form in said town for as long as he's been dead, which is about 150 years.
Both Callum and Elijah are likable characters, and their connection was quickly evident. Having gone without a human touch or any kind of interaction for one-and-a-half centuries, Elijah is flabbergasted when Callum addresses him directly and not only sees and hears him, but is also able to touch him. He invites the older man (or younger man, if you use date of birth) to a cabin in the woods he's been able to enter and which now stands empty since its owner died. Fortuitously, a snow storm traps them in the cabin. And somehow, magically, Elijah stays corporeal through the night and the day of the Winter Solstice.
While parts of the story were obviously unrealistic, the relationship and the romance felt very real to me. Both Elijah and Callum have their own hang-ups and romantic history. Callum is fascinated by the things Elijah has seen since he's been, well, dead, from the end of the Civil War to the industrial revolution, two world wars, automobiles, electricity, etc, at least what of those have touched Willow Springs, as he's tried to keep up with the changing times he "ghosted" through. Elijah on the other hand is just as fascinated by the other man. There are still things that surprise Elijah, and he brings a unique perspective to the story that someone contemporary like Callum wouldn't have considered otherwise, especially in light of both of them being LGBTQ.
The historical aspects of this story sounded accurate to me, and the author appears to have done her homework on those. The writing flows nicely without any major time jumps and is well suited to this story.
I was a little bit concerned as we neared the end of the story as to how the author would resolve the obvious issue between Elijah being a ghost and Callum being alive and give them a happy ending, but fear not, they get their HEA. It is a romance, after all. As to how that happens, well... for that, you have to read this for yourself.
Yes, yes, this was rather enjoyable, and I'm definitely interested in checking out what else this author comes up with.
** I received a free copy of this book from its author in exchange for an honest review. **
I also had some questions that remained unanswered, such as why is Elijah stuck to the town where he used to live, instead of the battle field where he died, and how is he able to go to some places nearby but not all, and why is Callum the first to ever be able to see and speak to him, because that's just a little too convenient for my liking.
I'm getting ahead of myself though...
Suspend disbelief and don't expect a whole lot of realism, because, hello - this is a ghost story. If you approach this book from that perspective, it's an enjoyable supernatural romance, in which a Scottish historian/professor, visiting a small Vermont town called Willow Springs around the Winter Solstice to do some research on the town's very old graveyard, meets a young freed slave-cum-Union soldier, who's been stuck in ghost form in said town for as long as he's been dead, which is about 150 years.
Both Callum and Elijah are likable characters, and their connection was quickly evident. Having gone without a human touch or any kind of interaction for one-and-a-half centuries, Elijah is flabbergasted when Callum addresses him directly and not only sees and hears him, but is also able to touch him. He invites the older man (or younger man, if you use date of birth) to a cabin in the woods he's been able to enter and which now stands empty since its owner died. Fortuitously, a snow storm traps them in the cabin. And somehow, magically, Elijah stays corporeal through the night and the day of the Winter Solstice.
While parts of the story were obviously unrealistic, the relationship and the romance felt very real to me. Both Elijah and Callum have their own hang-ups and romantic history. Callum is fascinated by the things Elijah has seen since he's been, well, dead, from the end of the Civil War to the industrial revolution, two world wars, automobiles, electricity, etc, at least what of those have touched Willow Springs, as he's tried to keep up with the changing times he "ghosted" through. Elijah on the other hand is just as fascinated by the other man. There are still things that surprise Elijah, and he brings a unique perspective to the story that someone contemporary like Callum wouldn't have considered otherwise, especially in light of both of them being LGBTQ.
The historical aspects of this story sounded accurate to me, and the author appears to have done her homework on those. The writing flows nicely without any major time jumps and is well suited to this story.
I was a little bit concerned as we neared the end of the story as to how the author would resolve the obvious issue between Elijah being a ghost and Callum being alive and give them a happy ending, but fear not, they get their HEA. It is a romance, after all. As to how that happens, well... for that, you have to read this for yourself.
Yes, yes, this was rather enjoyable, and I'm definitely interested in checking out what else this author comes up with.
** I received a free copy of this book from its author in exchange for an honest review. **
May 11, 2021
An uniqe love story, between a modern Scottish man who is an professor and a ghost of a man who was killed in the battle of Fort Wagner 150 years ago. I enjoyed this a lot, both the romance itself but also Elijah, the ghost, trying to get used to a new time and new rules and the beautiful bond and love that forms between Elijah and Callum. Im very intrigued to see what more Gabbi Grey have written as this was definitely a win for me.
August 26, 2021
First off, the narration was awesome. Michael F. was fantastic as always and I adored his Scottish accent here.
I really did enjoy the story so much, but there were just so many unanswered questions regarding why Callum was the one to see Elijah after 150 years of being a ghost and why being around him caused such a change in Elijah. And what happens after? Will he die again? I just have a ton of questions!!
I really did enjoy the story so much, but there were just so many unanswered questions regarding why Callum was the one to see Elijah after 150 years of being a ghost and why being around him caused such a change in Elijah. And what happens after? Will he die again? I just have a ton of questions!!
February 24, 2020
As with any paranormal story, we make allowance for the imagination. We expect that certain things will be unbelievable and we hope that we can still somehow cheat our brains into accepting what we're told. I didn't find the latter to be the case with this book. While ghosts are by definition figments and ethereal, Elijah's character was very believable. The story was written in such a way that it all felt very realistic to me. From Callum's first sighting of Elijah to the developing relationship between the men and how that was able to happen.
Elijah might be over one hundred and fifty years old and confined to a small perimeter of the world but that doesn't mean he's not kept up with the times as much as he could. I liked that some things enchanted him and others stunned him and his sensibilities. He, being in a unique situation, was able to have a perspective that most of us wouldn't even consider.
Callum was just about the most charming character that I've read in some time. I'm a HUGE sucker for a Scottish accent and I'm secretly hoping this comes to audio so I can hear that voice for real!
I loved the historical aspect of the story and felt like Gabbi really did her homework.
I will say that I was skeptical of how these two would be able to have a HEA. I mean, ghost and non-ghost type person? Gabbi did a wonderful job of putting all the pieces together though so no worries.
I really am a fan of this book and recommend it highly if you like ghost/paranormal romance.
Elijah might be over one hundred and fifty years old and confined to a small perimeter of the world but that doesn't mean he's not kept up with the times as much as he could. I liked that some things enchanted him and others stunned him and his sensibilities. He, being in a unique situation, was able to have a perspective that most of us wouldn't even consider.
Callum was just about the most charming character that I've read in some time. I'm a HUGE sucker for a Scottish accent and I'm secretly hoping this comes to audio so I can hear that voice for real!
I loved the historical aspect of the story and felt like Gabbi really did her homework.
I will say that I was skeptical of how these two would be able to have a HEA. I mean, ghost and non-ghost type person? Gabbi did a wonderful job of putting all the pieces together though so no worries.
I really am a fan of this book and recommend it highly if you like ghost/paranormal romance.
February 23, 2020
I thought this storyline was uniquely interesting I don’t believe I’ve ever read a story where the ghost comes alive. I enjoyed Gabbi’s descriptive writing, the civil war and the shocked surprise when Elijah realised Callum could see him, I felt like I was there with them. Loveable characters made this story, some slight angst and loved how Callum and Elijah came together, their chemistry sizzled.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book for my honest opinions of which I’m under no obligation to do so. I definitely recommend this book and look forward to reading more of Gabbi’s books.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book for my honest opinions of which I’m under no obligation to do so. I definitely recommend this book and look forward to reading more of Gabbi’s books.
February 18, 2020
Why does Elijah's ghost haunt the grounds of Willow Spring instead of the place he actually died at and his body is buried? How come he had access to some places, not all? Why, in all his years as a ghost, Callum is the first and only person to ever see him?
These are some of the questions me and the characters ask during this book. Many go unanswered and at some point I actually stopped wondering, because... ghost story! You know what I mean, lol? It's supposed to transcend logic or religion, for that matter, and I decided to just sit back and enjoy the story.
And I really did, because the subject is intriguing and the storytelling is easy flowing. Callum and Elijah are amazing and they have a strong connection, but... can it last? For how long can Elijah keep a solid form? Do they get a happy ending? Well, read My Past, Your Future and find out. You won't regret it.
These are some of the questions me and the characters ask during this book. Many go unanswered and at some point I actually stopped wondering, because... ghost story! You know what I mean, lol? It's supposed to transcend logic or religion, for that matter, and I decided to just sit back and enjoy the story.
And I really did, because the subject is intriguing and the storytelling is easy flowing. Callum and Elijah are amazing and they have a strong connection, but... can it last? For how long can Elijah keep a solid form? Do they get a happy ending? Well, read My Past, Your Future and find out. You won't regret it.
March 25, 2023
I don’t known. This was ok, but I just didn’t really connect with either of these guys. It was strange. A ghost suddenly coming to life. I just couldn’t relate. I liked both main characters,but I don’t know, I just hoped them the best. Does that make sense? I guess as much as the plot for me.
February 17, 2020
3.5 stars!
This book was very different and I appreciated that. It’s technically a paranormal, but didn’t have a paranormal feel to it and was firmly grounded in the contemporary present. I liked the history, it was very well done, and Grey can definitely write. I do wish there was some explanation for Elijah, but even without it the story was very good.
This book was very different and I appreciated that. It’s technically a paranormal, but didn’t have a paranormal feel to it and was firmly grounded in the contemporary present. I liked the history, it was very well done, and Grey can definitely write. I do wish there was some explanation for Elijah, but even without it the story was very good.
February 11, 2020
This was an amazing book that I couldn't put down. I've never read romances involving ghosts or anything paranormal before, so I hesitated when offered an ARC. I'm glad I tried it. Gabbi Grey had an amazing way of bringing both MCs to life and making sure the reader understood all of their emotions. The way she writes with explicit detail makes it so easy to picture everything in your mind. I'm definitely interested in reading more books by her!
I recieved an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
I recieved an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
May 8, 2020
Sometimes a story doesn’t have to make perfect sense and answer all the questions for it to be enjoyable. That’s how this book is.
There are two very different main characters – one is alive, one is dead, for starters! Elijah is a ghost whilst Callum is very much alive. These two get together although neither of them was expecting it – surprise! But then Elijah opens his mouth and inserts foot.
This is a fast-paced short novel that gives you enough story to keep your interest and turning the pages. I liked the characters but I didn’t really feel any connection to them. I am very glad they got their HEA, though if I’m being honest, I would like to have had some answers too but I guess that’s me being greedy.
All in all, this was an entertaining read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
There are two very different main characters – one is alive, one is dead, for starters! Elijah is a ghost whilst Callum is very much alive. These two get together although neither of them was expecting it – surprise! But then Elijah opens his mouth and inserts foot.
This is a fast-paced short novel that gives you enough story to keep your interest and turning the pages. I liked the characters but I didn’t really feel any connection to them. I am very glad they got their HEA, though if I’m being honest, I would like to have had some answers too but I guess that’s me being greedy.
All in all, this was an entertaining read that I have no hesitation in recommending.
February 24, 2020
Ms. Grey lured me in with her polished voice and vivid storytelling as a Civil War ghost and modern day history professor fall in love. In this m/m romance, Scottish Callum is visiting Willow Springs and sees the ghost, a former slave/Civil War soldier named Elijah inhabiting (haunting?) the town cemetery—Callum is the first person ever to see Elijah since his death. They spend a snow storm and hot night together. Is Elijah reappearing in his human form? Find out. HIGHLIGHTS: history, vivid writing, compelling characters (I loved both the Scottish vernacular of Callum, and Elijah’s 1800’s dialect). Note: the heat level is hot level. Not my usual, but I did enjoy Grey's storytelling and writing and found that compelling, plus her take on ghosts was interesting.
February 24, 2020
I admit I was skeptical about this book. However I’m will to give any romance with ghosts a try. I’m so glad I did!!! Callum catches sight of a ragged looking man while exploring an old cemetery. One second the man is there then the next he is gone. Elijah has been stuck in what he calls purgatory for 150 years, when suddenly a man calls out to him. The rest of the story is their journey towards a HEA. I very much enjoyed this book. I wish the ending was a little longer, mainly because I didn’t want this story to end.
November 7, 2022
This was a very short audiobook so I kind of knew I wasn't going to get the depth I wanted but Elijah was still wanting his lost love with 10 minutes left in the audiobook. I liked the idea but I think the execution just wasn't for me. There wasn't really an explanation of why Elijah started to move from being a ghost to a human again.
Also he didn’t use a condom and “he’s probably clean”. Sir. He was using butter as lube and raw dogging other soldiers in the 1860s and came back exactly as he was when he died. He’s not clean.
Also he didn’t use a condom and “he’s probably clean”. Sir. He was using butter as lube and raw dogging other soldiers in the 1860s and came back exactly as he was when he died. He’s not clean.
December 11, 2022
Really enjoyed this. The concept was great and well executed. Not everything made sense, but the story was entertaining and kept me engaged.
Narrated by Michael Ferraiuolo- he's a great narrator, but his Scottish accent could have been slowed a little. It seemed a little trippy to me, but its a very minor observation.
Narrated by Michael Ferraiuolo- he's a great narrator, but his Scottish accent could have been slowed a little. It seemed a little trippy to me, but its a very minor observation.
July 21, 2020
Callum was history professor at Edinburgh but was teaching at the community college in Montpelier, Vermont but he loved history of the past. So he would go to the cemeteries and read gravestones and wonder about the person that had been buried there. When he was at the cemetery in Willow Springs, Vermont he saw Elijah a ghost from the civil war and talked to him, he became human again. Callum and him stayed together and they loved each other and went back to Scotland. Loved this book!
February 24, 2020
My Past, Your Future: Amazing story and writing. I liked the whole story and the route it took. The characters were wonderful. It had a lot of emotions throughout the story. Elijah was a caring ghost that still cared for his past love but found an attraction to a human that he didn't have before. It was told so well that I could put it down. The title fit the story perfectly. Great title!
June 2, 2021
Paranormal romances rarely appeal to me. But having met Elijah Freeman and Callum MacLaren when they made cameo appearances in Gabbi Grey’s ‘If Only for Today (Deerbourne Inn #2), I made an exception and decided to read their complete story in ‘My Past, Your Future’.
I’m glad I did. Even though the concept of a 150-year old Civil War ghost returning to life under the loving touch of a current day Scotsman is clearly beyond my ability to believe, Elijah and Callum are exactly the kind of men for whom I wish it was possible.
‘My Past, Your Future’ is sweet, charming, and an absolute delight.
I’m glad I did. Even though the concept of a 150-year old Civil War ghost returning to life under the loving touch of a current day Scotsman is clearly beyond my ability to believe, Elijah and Callum are exactly the kind of men for whom I wish it was possible.
‘My Past, Your Future’ is sweet, charming, and an absolute delight.
August 29, 2021
Such a sweet story!
I love a concise short story that gives you heart and hope right from the start. I enjoyed the uniqueness of this story and the polar opposites of Callum and Elijah. These two are wonderful together and I enjoyed their connection.
Michael Ferriolo is fantastic as ever!!!
I love a concise short story that gives you heart and hope right from the start. I enjoyed the uniqueness of this story and the polar opposites of Callum and Elijah. These two are wonderful together and I enjoyed their connection.
Michael Ferriolo is fantastic as ever!!!
June 5, 2022
An unusual pairing of a history professor and a ghost from the Civil War. The ghost begins to rematerialize and the 2 develope a relationship. Might have been nice to have a slightly longer book to flesh out the story.
February 24, 2020
I couldn’t wait to read this book based on the blurb. Unfortunately it did not live up to what I was hoping for from it
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying I hated it by any means, I just wanted more from the story. I liked the characters but I didn’t feel connected to them. I just wished there was more to the guys and the story.
It was low angst story of the guys finding love
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying I hated it by any means, I just wanted more from the story. I liked the characters but I didn’t feel connected to them. I just wished there was more to the guys and the story.
It was low angst story of the guys finding love
February 8, 2020
I like paranormal fiction; and this was a nice gentle read. I have never read this author before, and I thought she did a pretty good job of the whole time displacement trope. The book was quite well written, the characters were very likeable and the story pleasing.
Elijah and Callum are lovely together, and the author has given us a gentle love story, which has a satisfying ending. If you want a low angst, paranormal tale, this is for you.
Elijah and Callum are lovely together, and the author has given us a gentle love story, which has a satisfying ending. If you want a low angst, paranormal tale, this is for you.
May 6, 2024
Beautiful love story
What is there to say? I got into the story from the first page and simply fell for the love story between a professor and a ghost. It was beautiful, and hot, and really, very good!
What is there to say? I got into the story from the first page and simply fell for the love story between a professor and a ghost. It was beautiful, and hot, and really, very good!
May 16, 2021
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Reviews
Callum is visiting the cemetery at the historic church in Willow Springs, Vermont when he encounters what appears to be a man guarding the Civil War section. It’s December and just before the Winter Solstice, so it’s cold and snowy. He notes that this man does not appear to have on appropriate winter clothing and that indeed it appears that he is wearing some sort of a uniform. Upon pondering further, he thinks is might be a Union uniform? Like a Civil War uniform? Did re-enactors hang out in the cemeteries in winter? However, when he enquires, he’s informed that no, there is no watchman.
Elijah Freeman has been guarding his gravemarker since 1863, when he was killed at the Second Battle of Fort Wagner. He lost his beloved, Cornelius that day and then lost his own life 🙁 And Callum is the first person who has seen him and tried to communicate after more than 150 years. He’s surprised and has no idea what this means.
But when Callum returns, he finds that the man is there again. And surprisingly Elijah can talk to Callum and even more surprisingly, he can touch Callum and actually feel him. Callum is shocked when he finds out that Elijah is actually a ghost who has been haunting the cemetery since December 21, 1963. When the priest from the local church finds Callum, he’s concerned that Callum is sitting out in the cold seemingly talking to himself 😉 But Callum doesn’t share his discovery of Elijah.
As the weather worsens, Elijah invites Callum back to the cabin in the woods where he’s been staying – a cabin that until a couple of years before had been inhabited by a lone trapper and hunter. Callum agrees and after they reach the cabin, the weather worsens and so Elijah convinces him to stay the night. And they find that they have a lot more in common than originally thought 😉 They give into their mutual attraction, but Elijah continues to notices changes – like he’s hungry, he’s cold and he has to use the privy for the first time in over 150 years. What is happening? Callum knows what he’d like to have happen, but Elijah refuses to go along with Callum when he tries to offer a potential future. He’s not been around anyone or talked to anyone for a century and a half, and he’s not sure that he can move on.
Well this was completely unexpected! I really enjoyed this little ghost story 🙂 I am a huge Civil War buff – my great-great grandfather was on Sherman’s March and I have his GAR memorial pins. Elijah’s experience was part of the Massachusetts 54th – the regiment depicted in the Academy Award winning film, Glory. If you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend it for so many reasons. Elijah’s description of the life of a black civil war soldier was so interesting – and he covered some of the most contentious things that happened to these brave and dedicated men. Callum is interested in history, but he’s fascinated by Elijah and he wants to spend more time with him. Elijah’s fear of moving in the modern world is completely warranted and I loved the way the author built a little bit of suspense around how indeed Callum and Elijah could figure out a path forward. I don’t want to spoil the story, but suffice to say that by Christmas, I was really happy with the way things turned out 😀 I didn’t care that we don’t have an “explanation” for how Elijah’s world has changed. I was just glad to see him get a second chance. As usual, Michael Ferriauolo, one of my absolute favorite narrators, does a marvelous job here particularly with his lovely Scottish accent for the character of Callum 🙂 The rest of the characters expressed the personalities of the characters well – especially Elijah’s deeply resonant and almost sootyhing tone. Recommended for fans of ghost stories, second chances and happy endings.
Callum is visiting the cemetery at the historic church in Willow Springs, Vermont when he encounters what appears to be a man guarding the Civil War section. It’s December and just before the Winter Solstice, so it’s cold and snowy. He notes that this man does not appear to have on appropriate winter clothing and that indeed it appears that he is wearing some sort of a uniform. Upon pondering further, he thinks is might be a Union uniform? Like a Civil War uniform? Did re-enactors hang out in the cemeteries in winter? However, when he enquires, he’s informed that no, there is no watchman.
Elijah Freeman has been guarding his gravemarker since 1863, when he was killed at the Second Battle of Fort Wagner. He lost his beloved, Cornelius that day and then lost his own life 🙁 And Callum is the first person who has seen him and tried to communicate after more than 150 years. He’s surprised and has no idea what this means.
But when Callum returns, he finds that the man is there again. And surprisingly Elijah can talk to Callum and even more surprisingly, he can touch Callum and actually feel him. Callum is shocked when he finds out that Elijah is actually a ghost who has been haunting the cemetery since December 21, 1963. When the priest from the local church finds Callum, he’s concerned that Callum is sitting out in the cold seemingly talking to himself 😉 But Callum doesn’t share his discovery of Elijah.
As the weather worsens, Elijah invites Callum back to the cabin in the woods where he’s been staying – a cabin that until a couple of years before had been inhabited by a lone trapper and hunter. Callum agrees and after they reach the cabin, the weather worsens and so Elijah convinces him to stay the night. And they find that they have a lot more in common than originally thought 😉 They give into their mutual attraction, but Elijah continues to notices changes – like he’s hungry, he’s cold and he has to use the privy for the first time in over 150 years. What is happening? Callum knows what he’d like to have happen, but Elijah refuses to go along with Callum when he tries to offer a potential future. He’s not been around anyone or talked to anyone for a century and a half, and he’s not sure that he can move on.
Well this was completely unexpected! I really enjoyed this little ghost story 🙂 I am a huge Civil War buff – my great-great grandfather was on Sherman’s March and I have his GAR memorial pins. Elijah’s experience was part of the Massachusetts 54th – the regiment depicted in the Academy Award winning film, Glory. If you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend it for so many reasons. Elijah’s description of the life of a black civil war soldier was so interesting – and he covered some of the most contentious things that happened to these brave and dedicated men. Callum is interested in history, but he’s fascinated by Elijah and he wants to spend more time with him. Elijah’s fear of moving in the modern world is completely warranted and I loved the way the author built a little bit of suspense around how indeed Callum and Elijah could figure out a path forward. I don’t want to spoil the story, but suffice to say that by Christmas, I was really happy with the way things turned out 😀 I didn’t care that we don’t have an “explanation” for how Elijah’s world has changed. I was just glad to see him get a second chance. As usual, Michael Ferriauolo, one of my absolute favorite narrators, does a marvelous job here particularly with his lovely Scottish accent for the character of Callum 🙂 The rest of the characters expressed the personalities of the characters well – especially Elijah’s deeply resonant and almost sootyhing tone. Recommended for fans of ghost stories, second chances and happy endings.
May 18, 2021
I have been wanting to read this author for a while but time for reading books has been short, so I was so excited to see an audiobook by Gabbi Grey become available. It didn't hurt that it was narrated by one of my favorite narrators, Michael Ferraiuolo. I would usually wait until the end of the review to talk about narration, but since I have already mentioned it, I am gonna go ahead and discuss it now. The narrator's Scottish accent for Callum was superb, downright dreamy, really. He out-narrated my expectations and only made me like him more.
On to the story. From the blurb, I kind of thought that the ghost of Elijah appeared around the same time as Callum came to the town of Willow Springs. It is not the case though as he has been haunting the town, especially the cemetery since shortly after his death 150 years before. He has watched people come and go and never been able to communicate or interact with the world around him. For a few reasons, Elijah has thought himself unworthy of heaven and doomed to just be. It is a very sad existence and I definitely felt bad for him. Callum is visiting the states from Scotland, researching the history of Willow Springs. Older (in terms of the age Elijah was when he died) and larger than Elijah, he comes to feel protective of the ghost.
Though calling Elijah a ghost becomes more difficult as the story goes on. From being seen for the very first time, to finding himself unable to walk through walls anymore, Elijah is becoming more corporeal. He can finally experience the touch and pleasure he hasn't since he was fell for a fellow soldier in the Civil War. Though the story takes place fully in the present day, there is a lot of discussion of the time Elijah came from. I can tell the author did a lot of research to make the story more real, and I definitely appreciate that.
There isn't a lot of explanation of why Elijah is becoming more solid, though the story takes place during the winter solstice. Is it the magic of the time? Did fate or God give Elijah the second chance in a world where he could find his second chance at love? I don't have any answers, but maybe there doesn't need to be. Bottom line, this is a sweet story of an interracial couple who found magic, love, and a happy ending.
On to the story. From the blurb, I kind of thought that the ghost of Elijah appeared around the same time as Callum came to the town of Willow Springs. It is not the case though as he has been haunting the town, especially the cemetery since shortly after his death 150 years before. He has watched people come and go and never been able to communicate or interact with the world around him. For a few reasons, Elijah has thought himself unworthy of heaven and doomed to just be. It is a very sad existence and I definitely felt bad for him. Callum is visiting the states from Scotland, researching the history of Willow Springs. Older (in terms of the age Elijah was when he died) and larger than Elijah, he comes to feel protective of the ghost.
Though calling Elijah a ghost becomes more difficult as the story goes on. From being seen for the very first time, to finding himself unable to walk through walls anymore, Elijah is becoming more corporeal. He can finally experience the touch and pleasure he hasn't since he was fell for a fellow soldier in the Civil War. Though the story takes place fully in the present day, there is a lot of discussion of the time Elijah came from. I can tell the author did a lot of research to make the story more real, and I definitely appreciate that.
There isn't a lot of explanation of why Elijah is becoming more solid, though the story takes place during the winter solstice. Is it the magic of the time? Did fate or God give Elijah the second chance in a world where he could find his second chance at love? I don't have any answers, but maybe there doesn't need to be. Bottom line, this is a sweet story of an interracial couple who found magic, love, and a happy ending.
May 25, 2021
This was such a beautiful story! Elijah has been trapped in Willow Springs for over 150 years, forced to observe but unable to interact. That is until the Scottish history professor, Callum, visits during the Winter Solstice and can see and touch Elijah.
This was the first book I had experienced by this author, and it was a lovely experience. I really enjoyed her writing style and sense of humour. Elijah’s situation and memories were handled sensitively, and the relationship between him and Callum was gorgeous to watch unfold.
The cast of characters is small. It is really just Elijah and Callum with a couple of others popping up here and there. Both Elijah and Callum are beautifully developed. They are both genuinely loveable characters. Both are undeniably soft souls. Particularly Callum, who is sensitive to Elijah's trauma and gives him the tenderness and love he craves that they both crave. Still, he is also a source of strength and support.
I read and listened to this story through Kindle’s Whispersync function. In my opinion, it was the narration that elevated this story from very sweet to sensationally emotional and romantic.
Michael Ferraiuolo did a fantastic job expressing Elijah's torment and frustration over his situation and the trauma from his past. Michael's Scottish accent was so easy to listen to, and he expertly vocalised Callum's tenderness and patience for Elijah. His voice was strong where needed, but you could always feel the tenderness and affection underneath.
It was, in essence, pure magic, which was particularly appropriate. I loved every moment of the story and narration. It is pure fantasy, and I'd highly recommend suspending disbelief and delving in, escaping into this wonderful tale.
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September 10, 2021
Superb narration 3.5*
Callum, the main character with a Scottish accent and interested in American history, meets Elijah Freeman in a cemetery in Vermont. However, Elijah dressed in a tatty uniform from war 150 years ago was a conundrum.
Callum couldn't believe that Elijah was a ghost and that he could touch and feel Elijah.
The story could do with being a little longer so we would find out more about Elijah and how he's able to interact with Callum and no one else, and why it's taken 150 years to be seen by anyone.
I wouldn't say I'm a big reader of paranormal ghost stories, but I have read a few and enjoyed them. Unfortunately, this book didn't hold my attention as much as I would like, it was OK, but I felt like I had many questions to ask the author.
Michael Ferraiuolo did an excellent job of narrating this book. His Scottish accent was good, easily defining the two characters. I did speed up the recording to 1.50 on Authors Direct.
My Past, Your Future
Deerbourne Inn
By: Gabbi Grey
Narrated by: Michael Ferraiuolo
Series: Deerbourne Inn Series
Length: 4 hrs and 4 mins
❤❤❤ Overall
🎧🎧🎧🎧 Narration
📚📚📚 Story
Read at 1.50 speed on Author Direct
I received this audiobook for free from GRR, and my review is my opinion and an honest review.
Callum, the main character with a Scottish accent and interested in American history, meets Elijah Freeman in a cemetery in Vermont. However, Elijah dressed in a tatty uniform from war 150 years ago was a conundrum.
Callum couldn't believe that Elijah was a ghost and that he could touch and feel Elijah.
The story could do with being a little longer so we would find out more about Elijah and how he's able to interact with Callum and no one else, and why it's taken 150 years to be seen by anyone.
I wouldn't say I'm a big reader of paranormal ghost stories, but I have read a few and enjoyed them. Unfortunately, this book didn't hold my attention as much as I would like, it was OK, but I felt like I had many questions to ask the author.
Michael Ferraiuolo did an excellent job of narrating this book. His Scottish accent was good, easily defining the two characters. I did speed up the recording to 1.50 on Authors Direct.
My Past, Your Future
Deerbourne Inn
By: Gabbi Grey
Narrated by: Michael Ferraiuolo
Series: Deerbourne Inn Series
Length: 4 hrs and 4 mins
❤❤❤ Overall
🎧🎧🎧🎧 Narration
📚📚📚 Story
Read at 1.50 speed on Author Direct
I received this audiobook for free from GRR, and my review is my opinion and an honest review.
April 2, 2022
2.5 stars. I love time travel-esque romances, so when I heard about this one, I immediately moved it up on my read list because it sounded SO good! A Scottish professor travels to the States and meets the ghost of a black Civil War era solider who has somehow endured into modern day. So not quite a time travel romance, but it gave me those vibes. It was nice! But just that. I can't say I was really rooting for the relationship or that I particularly liked either of these dudes. I didn't dislike them at all, but the charm just wasn't there. The writing was... eh. Elijah didn't feel remotely like a black man from the 1800s; he just felt like some dude. The writer did give reasons as to why his speech pattern was so modern but it still felt off. I appreciated some of the commentary about race and racism, but all in all, it just felt... fine.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Michael Ferraiuolo, which was good. IDK how convincing his Scottish accent was, but I'm not the best judge of that. I did enjoy this more than it might sound from this review; it was cute and hot. But also a tad underwhelming.
Content warnings: .
Listened to the audiobook as read by Michael Ferraiuolo, which was good. IDK how convincing his Scottish accent was, but I'm not the best judge of that. I did enjoy this more than it might sound from this review; it was cute and hot. But also a tad underwhelming.
Content warnings: .
September 4, 2021
I absolutely loved this book! What a fascinating love story from not only across time but from death itself. Elijah was killed during the Civil War and has been stuck in Willow Springs. He tends to hang around the cemetery, where his head stone is, and a near by cabin. Callum, a Scottish history professor in American teaching at a local college, happened to walking around the cemetery looking at graves when he spots Elijah. A first for both of them, Elijah hasn't been seen by anyone and Callum has never seen a ghost in all his study. I love the connection that develops between them being stuck in the cabin during a snowstorm, the love they find and get to keep. This is a steamy passionate love story that had me hoping Elijah and Callum would find the happy ending they deserved. Highly recommend
Narrator Michael Ferraiuolo does an amazing job. I loved his Scottish accent in this one. I loved reading this book and got to enjoy it all over again by listening to it.
I received a free copy of the audiobook and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Narrator Michael Ferraiuolo does an amazing job. I loved his Scottish accent in this one. I loved reading this book and got to enjoy it all over again by listening to it.
I received a free copy of the audiobook and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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