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Gothika: Tales of Love and the Supernatural
Immerse yourself in four tales of love and gothic horror in this anthology by Eli Easton. Each story is novella length.
"Reparation"
On the harsh planet of Kalan, weakness is not tolerated. When young spore farmer Edward suffers a carriage accident that kills his mail-order bride and his factory manager, Edward has little chance of survival, until Knox—an enormous “reconstitute” slave—plucks him from disaster.
Recons are part machine, part human remains from executed Federation prisoners. But Knox is different from other recons. He can read and has flashes of brilliance. With no one else to rely on over the bleak winter, Edward forms an alliance with Knox, and against social taboos, they become friends. Edward struggles against his growing lust for the large humanoid, and while Knox thrives in his new life, memories of his past torment him.
A twist of fate brought Knox and Edward together, but there will be a price to pay in blood when they learn how deeply their lives truly intersect
“The Bird”
Colin Hastings is sent to Jamaica in 1870 to save his father’s sugar cane plantation. If he succeeds, he can marry his fiancée back in London and take his place in proper English society. But Colin finds more than he bargained for on the island. His curiosity about Obeah, the native folk magic, leads him to agree to a dangerous ritual where he is offered his heart’s most secret desire—one he’s kept deeply buried all his life. What happens when a proper English gentleman has his true sensual nature revealed and freed by the Obeah spirits?
“Among the Dead”
Ever since his accident, Neil Gaven sees dead people. He’s isolated himself, unable to bear the constant barrage of sadness and grief. But a gentle ghost grabs his attention on the bus one day. He seems to understand, to have some secret to impart. Neil works to interpret the ghost’s clues. Then they lead him to Trist, a homeless young man who is also tormented by spirits. Are they two of a kind? Maybe together they can find a way to live among the dead.
"The Black Dog"
Constable Hayden MacLairty is used to life being dull around the tiny hamlet of Laide on the north Scottish coast. They get occasional tourists, “monster hunters” interested in the local legend of the Black Dog, but Hayden thinks that’s only a myth. A rash of sheep killings, a murdered hiker, huge footprints, and sightings of the Black Dog force Hayden to rethink the matter. With the help of Simon Corto, a writer from New York doing research for a book about the Black Dog, Hayden tries to figure out why the enormous hound is reappearing. Hayden finds himself strongly attracted to another person for the first time in his life. But between the danger stalking the hills, Simon’s inevitable return to New York, and Hayden’s mother’s illness, true love may be more of a phantom than the Black Dog.
"Reparation"
On the harsh planet of Kalan, weakness is not tolerated. When young spore farmer Edward suffers a carriage accident that kills his mail-order bride and his factory manager, Edward has little chance of survival, until Knox—an enormous “reconstitute” slave—plucks him from disaster.
Recons are part machine, part human remains from executed Federation prisoners. But Knox is different from other recons. He can read and has flashes of brilliance. With no one else to rely on over the bleak winter, Edward forms an alliance with Knox, and against social taboos, they become friends. Edward struggles against his growing lust for the large humanoid, and while Knox thrives in his new life, memories of his past torment him.
A twist of fate brought Knox and Edward together, but there will be a price to pay in blood when they learn how deeply their lives truly intersect
“The Bird”
Colin Hastings is sent to Jamaica in 1870 to save his father’s sugar cane plantation. If he succeeds, he can marry his fiancée back in London and take his place in proper English society. But Colin finds more than he bargained for on the island. His curiosity about Obeah, the native folk magic, leads him to agree to a dangerous ritual where he is offered his heart’s most secret desire—one he’s kept deeply buried all his life. What happens when a proper English gentleman has his true sensual nature revealed and freed by the Obeah spirits?
“Among the Dead”
Ever since his accident, Neil Gaven sees dead people. He’s isolated himself, unable to bear the constant barrage of sadness and grief. But a gentle ghost grabs his attention on the bus one day. He seems to understand, to have some secret to impart. Neil works to interpret the ghost’s clues. Then they lead him to Trist, a homeless young man who is also tormented by spirits. Are they two of a kind? Maybe together they can find a way to live among the dead.
"The Black Dog"
Constable Hayden MacLairty is used to life being dull around the tiny hamlet of Laide on the north Scottish coast. They get occasional tourists, “monster hunters” interested in the local legend of the Black Dog, but Hayden thinks that’s only a myth. A rash of sheep killings, a murdered hiker, huge footprints, and sightings of the Black Dog force Hayden to rethink the matter. With the help of Simon Corto, a writer from New York doing research for a book about the Black Dog, Hayden tries to figure out why the enormous hound is reappearing. Hayden finds himself strongly attracted to another person for the first time in his life. But between the danger stalking the hills, Simon’s inevitable return to New York, and Hayden’s mother’s illness, true love may be more of a phantom than the Black Dog.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 8, 2020
29 people are currently reading
165 people want to read
About the author
Eli Easton
70 books2,807 followersHaving been, at various times and under different names, a minister’s daughter, a computer programmer, the author of paranormal mysteries, a game designer, an organic farmer, an avid hiker, and a profound sleeper, Eli is happily embarking on yet another incarnation as a m/m romance author.
As an addicted reader of such, she is tinkled pink when an author manages to combine literary merit, vast stores of humor, melting hotness and eye-dabbing sweetness into one story. She promises to strive to achieve most of that most of the time. She currently lives on a farm in Pennsylvania with her husband, three bulldogs, three cows and six chickens. All of them (except for the husband) are female, hence explaining the naked men that have taken up residence in her latest fiction writing.
Her website in www.elieaston.com
You can email her at eli@elieaston.com
COMING SOON:
See what's in the pipeline here: http://elieaston.com/work-in-progress/
As an addicted reader of such, she is tinkled pink when an author manages to combine literary merit, vast stores of humor, melting hotness and eye-dabbing sweetness into one story. She promises to strive to achieve most of that most of the time. She currently lives on a farm in Pennsylvania with her husband, three bulldogs, three cows and six chickens. All of them (except for the husband) are female, hence explaining the naked men that have taken up residence in her latest fiction writing.
Her website in www.elieaston.com
You can email her at eli@elieaston.com
COMING SOON:
See what's in the pipeline here: http://elieaston.com/work-in-progress/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
October 15, 2020
Final overall rating, 4 stars. A beautiful set of supernatural stories, even though some had some flaws. A great read for fans of something sweet and spooky at the same time.
Reparation- 3.5 stars
Beautifully written, but the slavery aspect made me extremely uncomfortable. I couldn't get past it, even at the end. I thought the story gave a great sense of atmosphere, and I felt the chilling, barren vibe of the world, but I didn't enjoy the power imbalance. Still, it showcased Eli Easton's writing talents.
The Bird- 4 stars
This is a gorgeous, creepy, powerful story that takes place at a Jamaican planation during British rule. The romance knocked my socks off, but I knocked a full star off of this one due to some racist undertones. Yes, I know that the MC is a plantation owner and he might view his servants certain way due to the time period, but I struggled with a few of the descriptions. Really rubbed me the wrong way, and I know it's just a few words here or there, but I wish the author had just omitted those elements. Aside from that, the story was perfect for the Gothika collection.
Among the Dead- 4 stars
I really enjoyed this magical realism story. Some spooky elements with all of the dead people and a few emotional moments, but it never got into the realm of extremely sad or extremely upsetting. I got very into the story, and I had a hard time putting it down. Truly, just a well done story with some surprises and a lovely, though very quick, romance.
The Black Dog- 4 stars
Another winner to round off the anthology! I really enjoyed this one, and a huge Scottish man with a brogue is never a bad thing. The romance moved a little quickly, which is to be expected in a story of this length, but I loved the cast of characters and the feel of the small, Scottish town. A few twists and turns to keep things exciting. A winner.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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Reparation- 3.5 stars
Beautifully written, but the slavery aspect made me extremely uncomfortable. I couldn't get past it, even at the end. I thought the story gave a great sense of atmosphere, and I felt the chilling, barren vibe of the world, but I didn't enjoy the power imbalance. Still, it showcased Eli Easton's writing talents.
The Bird- 4 stars
This is a gorgeous, creepy, powerful story that takes place at a Jamaican planation during British rule. The romance knocked my socks off, but I knocked a full star off of this one due to some racist undertones. Yes, I know that the MC is a plantation owner and he might view his servants certain way due to the time period, but I struggled with a few of the descriptions. Really rubbed me the wrong way, and I know it's just a few words here or there, but I wish the author had just omitted those elements. Aside from that, the story was perfect for the Gothika collection.
Among the Dead- 4 stars
I really enjoyed this magical realism story. Some spooky elements with all of the dead people and a few emotional moments, but it never got into the realm of extremely sad or extremely upsetting. I got very into the story, and I had a hard time putting it down. Truly, just a well done story with some surprises and a lovely, though very quick, romance.
The Black Dog- 4 stars
Another winner to round off the anthology! I really enjoyed this one, and a huge Scottish man with a brogue is never a bad thing. The romance moved a little quickly, which is to be expected in a story of this length, but I loved the cast of characters and the feel of the small, Scottish town. A few twists and turns to keep things exciting. A winner.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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March 21, 2024
This is a collection of stories, some are good, some are meh, so 2.5 stars
Review with more details to come, just put my list in order.
Review with more details to come, just put my list in order.
November 7, 2020
Frankenstein feels, voodoo witchcraft, the walking dead and the howling. Each story distinctive, earthy and Gothic. The moral? Beauty takes many forms and love indeed conquers all. There was no glossing over the uglier aspects of humanity so the readers delicate sensibilities wouldn't be offended. Thank God. These are Gothic horror tales, not Disney.
January 30, 2021
Reparation-5 Stars
The Bird- 4 Stars
Among The Dead- 2 Stars
The Black Dog- 4Stars
The Bird- 4 Stars
Among The Dead- 2 Stars
The Black Dog- 4Stars
October 10, 2020
I’m so glad Eli Easton re-released her four novellas into their own collection, “Gothika: Tales of Love and the Supernatural”. The four novellas in “Gothika” all have a nice blend of romance and mystery to them that will keep the readers interested. My favorites of the four were “The Black Dog”, which had a Sherlock Holmes vibe to it and “Reparation”, which reminded me of a futuristic Frankenstein. I fell in love with Hayden and Simon from “The Black Dog” and Edward and Knox from “Reparation”. I felt so much for both couples as they navigated everything that was happening to them. If you’re looking for something to read on a quiet fall evening, give “Gothika” a chance, it has something for everyone-alien worlds, curses, ghosts, love, and mystery.
I give this collection 4 stars.
I received an arc from the author for an honest review.
I give this collection 4 stars.
I received an arc from the author for an honest review.
October 10, 2020
My Rating : [🌟🌟🌟🌟.5]
.
Kindle/ GRR/ October 2020
Thank you @gayromancereviews for the review copy, which let's me give you my honest opinion.
.
First, I absolutely adore that cover and I am a huge fan of Eli's writing style, so I had to pick this book up. This book is kind of an anthology of supernatural with four different settings. Every story has it's own style and message, and I really liked the contrast it gave me while reading.
.
There are four short stories in total.
• Reparation : This story has a Dystopian-Fantasy setting to it with lots of humanoids and inter space conflicts. Knox and Edward made a very intelligent pair and I really loved how the story progressed. This one was definitely my favorite. It deals with self love, acceptance and overcoming the past to open up to a future.
• The Bird : This is a historical fiction set in a small town of Jamaica with lots of local legends, rituals , and beliefs. It's an interesting story with a different format of writing style. i.e. few chapters are in the form of letters. Richard and Colin was an amazing pair and they had the besties to lovers trope as well. It deals with self discovery and accepting your true self without worrying about the society and judgement.
• Among the Dead : Out of all, this one surprised me the most. It has a magical realism feel with lots of ghosts and angels. When my mind was conjuring up weird scenarios, it ended in a simple yet effective way! Trist and Neil made the cutest pair ever and I loved their relationship. I was laughing at myself after finishing this one. (Cause it never occurred to me).
• The Black Dog : This one was set in a small town Scotland with it's urban legend of Black Hound. I think this was my least favorite of all. It had much potential, but Simon and Hayden never fit as a couple wrt the story. It still had a good ending, but I expected more from the story. It deals with trust and the importance of your heritage.
.
Overall, I totally recommend this book to anyone looking for a light spooky read for this October , that had lots of Supernatural elements and a happy ending as well!
.
Kindle/ GRR/ October 2020
Thank you @gayromancereviews for the review copy, which let's me give you my honest opinion.
.
First, I absolutely adore that cover and I am a huge fan of Eli's writing style, so I had to pick this book up. This book is kind of an anthology of supernatural with four different settings. Every story has it's own style and message, and I really liked the contrast it gave me while reading.
.
There are four short stories in total.
• Reparation : This story has a Dystopian-Fantasy setting to it with lots of humanoids and inter space conflicts. Knox and Edward made a very intelligent pair and I really loved how the story progressed. This one was definitely my favorite. It deals with self love, acceptance and overcoming the past to open up to a future.
• The Bird : This is a historical fiction set in a small town of Jamaica with lots of local legends, rituals , and beliefs. It's an interesting story with a different format of writing style. i.e. few chapters are in the form of letters. Richard and Colin was an amazing pair and they had the besties to lovers trope as well. It deals with self discovery and accepting your true self without worrying about the society and judgement.
• Among the Dead : Out of all, this one surprised me the most. It has a magical realism feel with lots of ghosts and angels. When my mind was conjuring up weird scenarios, it ended in a simple yet effective way! Trist and Neil made the cutest pair ever and I loved their relationship. I was laughing at myself after finishing this one. (Cause it never occurred to me).
• The Black Dog : This one was set in a small town Scotland with it's urban legend of Black Hound. I think this was my least favorite of all. It had much potential, but Simon and Hayden never fit as a couple wrt the story. It still had a good ending, but I expected more from the story. It deals with trust and the importance of your heritage.
.
Overall, I totally recommend this book to anyone looking for a light spooky read for this October , that had lots of Supernatural elements and a happy ending as well!
December 14, 2020
This collection of novellas really chimed a lot of my bells—paranormal, scifi, pseudo regency, pseudo historical. I think I have a new author to follow.
October 29, 2020
Reparation - 3.5 stars
The Bird - 3.0 stars
Among the Dead - 2.5 stars
The Black Dog - 3.0 stars
The Bird - 3.0 stars
Among the Dead - 2.5 stars
The Black Dog - 3.0 stars
October 14, 2020
I loved all of the stories in this collection. The characters drew me in and kept me reading, and I loved the twist in the stories. Some I saw coming, but others left me thinking ‘wow.’ They’re all well worth the read.
Reparation
This story has fabulous world building, and vivid descriptions. I could easily visualise the barren rock of a planet. I loved the mixed vibe of old fashioned, yet SF. I felt for Edward hiding his desires and trying to keep the family farm going despite losing all his family. Poor Knox tries to make sense of his broken memories and figure out who he was, and is. This story is very emotionally raw, and has a powerful storyline with chilling reminder that the victors write history. I was worried that they wouldn’t get their happy ending, and relieved when they did. These two men deserve that and more.
The Bird
This story has a fantastic sense of atmosphere, not only with the historical setting, but also the ritual in which Colin need to choose whether to follow his heart’s desire. I liked that he had to be allow himself to work out what and who that was first, which was realistic for the time period. I loved the peek of his life later on, and that the Obeah spirit isn’t quite finished with him yet.
Among the Dead
Wow. This story led me down one path then totally flipped into something else, although looking back all the clues were there as to what was really going on. I loved Neil and Trist as characters, and their relationship which, although has its foundations in mutual desire and a shared ability to see the dead, soon grows into much more. I liked Edward too, and I’d love to read his story. I liked how this story started off without much hope of a future, then finished on a feel-good note. Nicely done.
The Black Dog
This was another story that turned the plot on its head. I loved the twist in the tale, and how it all fits into place. I loved Hayden and Simon, and the reference to Diana Gabaldon. The scenes where they’re tracking the dog and hunted by it are tense, as is when Simon gets into a situation way over his head. I loved the ending, which was perfect not only for the story, but for these two men.
5 out of 5 stars.
Reparation
This story has fabulous world building, and vivid descriptions. I could easily visualise the barren rock of a planet. I loved the mixed vibe of old fashioned, yet SF. I felt for Edward hiding his desires and trying to keep the family farm going despite losing all his family. Poor Knox tries to make sense of his broken memories and figure out who he was, and is. This story is very emotionally raw, and has a powerful storyline with chilling reminder that the victors write history. I was worried that they wouldn’t get their happy ending, and relieved when they did. These two men deserve that and more.
The Bird
This story has a fantastic sense of atmosphere, not only with the historical setting, but also the ritual in which Colin need to choose whether to follow his heart’s desire. I liked that he had to be allow himself to work out what and who that was first, which was realistic for the time period. I loved the peek of his life later on, and that the Obeah spirit isn’t quite finished with him yet.
Among the Dead
Wow. This story led me down one path then totally flipped into something else, although looking back all the clues were there as to what was really going on. I loved Neil and Trist as characters, and their relationship which, although has its foundations in mutual desire and a shared ability to see the dead, soon grows into much more. I liked Edward too, and I’d love to read his story. I liked how this story started off without much hope of a future, then finished on a feel-good note. Nicely done.
The Black Dog
This was another story that turned the plot on its head. I loved the twist in the tale, and how it all fits into place. I loved Hayden and Simon, and the reference to Diana Gabaldon. The scenes where they’re tracking the dog and hunted by it are tense, as is when Simon gets into a situation way over his head. I loved the ending, which was perfect not only for the story, but for these two men.
5 out of 5 stars.
October 12, 2020
I was so happy when I heard that Eli Easton would be re-releasing her Gothika novels in an anthology just in time for Halloween. To have all these great novellas in one place is wonderful. Great spooky stories with just the right touch of romance is just what is needed for this time of year.
The Black Dog : This one takes place in a small town Scotland with it's urban legend of Black Hound. I love how the landscape and the Baltic Sea become characters in this story.
Each story has its own drama and intrigue. You can't go wrong with this collection of novellas.
The Black Dog : This one takes place in a small town Scotland with it's urban legend of Black Hound. I love how the landscape and the Baltic Sea become characters in this story.
Each story has its own drama and intrigue. You can't go wrong with this collection of novellas.
October 11, 2020
this was wow.. creepy and freaky.. amazing and sexy.. interesting and action packed.. so many interesting personalities and emotions going on and i loved this series !
November 29, 2020
A collection of short stories/novellas. Eli Easton offers us a wide variety of themes and monsters. I loved the first and last one the most!!
Reparation (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
I LOVED this and wished it was a full length novel. Such unique world building and deep character profiles. Also the sexual tension was insane! 😤
In a futuristic dystopian universe our protagonist Edward runs a lichen farm on the harsh planet of Kalan. His farmhands are purchased slaves called recons, created from condemned criminals, cut up and put back together as a Frankenstein-like slaves programmed to be dumb and strong. But unlike other slaves/recons Knox is rare high 80% human and Edward tries to ignore the look of intelligence in the hulking giant's eyes. But after a terrible accident leaves Edward alone and undermanned on his lichen farm he has little choice but to ask the handsome recon for help. The other recons are too mindless and it'll be another season before a transport ship can bring more humans to help him. Forced together out of need, loneliness, and lust the two men must face hard truths about each other that will either destroy them or remake them.
Bird (⭐⭐⭐)
A bit of a slow start, but stick with it.
Collin, a young Englishmen is making his own way running a plantation in Jamaica. Things take a strange turn when his curiosity of native lore and voodoo results in a deity indebted to him. The dark, mysterious visions and rituals were very thrilling.
Gets pretty spicy in bed too. 🔥🔥🔥
Among the Dead (⭐⭐)
Niel can see dead people. As I'm not a fan of ghost stories this ranked very low for me.
It had all the ridiculous cliche things I dislike about ghosts. It was only made bearable by Niel's sense of humor.
The Black Dog (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
My second favorite of the collection. It had a real air of Gothic mystery as famous author Simon Corto travels to a small Scottish town to research the legend of the Black Dog. Things get especially interesting when he meets big hulking Scottish Constable Hayden MacLairty.
As much as Hayden admonishes the older more superstitious residents of Laide he cannot deny that strange things are happening. All at once Hayden is dealing with the mysterious death of a tourist, his mother's continued illness and a nosy writer from New York. And for some reason there seems to be an undeniable chemistry between him and Simon and Hayden has no idea how to handle it.
The story was predictable but oh so delicious. I would love a full fledged novel of the Black Dog.
Reparation (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
I LOVED this and wished it was a full length novel. Such unique world building and deep character profiles. Also the sexual tension was insane! 😤
In a futuristic dystopian universe our protagonist Edward runs a lichen farm on the harsh planet of Kalan. His farmhands are purchased slaves called recons, created from condemned criminals, cut up and put back together as a Frankenstein-like slaves programmed to be dumb and strong. But unlike other slaves/recons Knox is rare high 80% human and Edward tries to ignore the look of intelligence in the hulking giant's eyes. But after a terrible accident leaves Edward alone and undermanned on his lichen farm he has little choice but to ask the handsome recon for help. The other recons are too mindless and it'll be another season before a transport ship can bring more humans to help him. Forced together out of need, loneliness, and lust the two men must face hard truths about each other that will either destroy them or remake them.
Bird (⭐⭐⭐)
A bit of a slow start, but stick with it.
Collin, a young Englishmen is making his own way running a plantation in Jamaica. Things take a strange turn when his curiosity of native lore and voodoo results in a deity indebted to him. The dark, mysterious visions and rituals were very thrilling.
Gets pretty spicy in bed too. 🔥🔥🔥
Among the Dead (⭐⭐)
Niel can see dead people. As I'm not a fan of ghost stories this ranked very low for me.
It had all the ridiculous cliche things I dislike about ghosts. It was only made bearable by Niel's sense of humor.
The Black Dog (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
My second favorite of the collection. It had a real air of Gothic mystery as famous author Simon Corto travels to a small Scottish town to research the legend of the Black Dog. Things get especially interesting when he meets big hulking Scottish Constable Hayden MacLairty.
As much as Hayden admonishes the older more superstitious residents of Laide he cannot deny that strange things are happening. All at once Hayden is dealing with the mysterious death of a tourist, his mother's continued illness and a nosy writer from New York. And for some reason there seems to be an undeniable chemistry between him and Simon and Hayden has no idea how to handle it.
The story was predictable but oh so delicious. I would love a full fledged novel of the Black Dog.
October 14, 2021
These tales will make the reader uncomfortable.
Reparation deals with Edward, a younger son ill-suited to taking over the family's spore plantation on the harsh world of Kalan. But after the eldest son and Edward's father are killed in a pirate raid, he must do just that.. Then, when the plantation manager and Edward's mail-order bride are killed in a carriage accident, Edward is saved by Knox, a “Recon.” Recons are Frankenstein's monster like. They're slaves altered to live in the planet's harsh conditions with the “reconditioned” minds of one condemned prisoner and the body of another. As Edward starts to treat Knox more humanely the “recon” starts to recover some of his pre-execution skills and memories. As those memories surface we are genuinely asked to consider just who the monsters are.
The Bird - when Jamaican island magic frees a repressed Englishman's passion, can he finally live the kind of life he's never been brave enough to dream of? This is kinder gentler tale of the mysterious, but then Jamaica with its gentler climate may just be ideal for some.
Among the Dead – Following a concussion Neil finds himself in a “Sixth Sense situation.” He sees dead people. He also sees a psychiatrist (living) His visions have turned him into a bit of an urban recluse. Then one of his ghosts leads him to someone else who seems to be having the same problem only more so. Can the these two get through life better together? Maybe it's a match made in limbo.
The Black Dog - Hayden MacLairty is a constable in a small Scottish town. He's the youngest of the MacLairty boys. He's also the only one that stuck around the small town of Laide. Never all that interested in either boys or girls, he's stuck living at home with his aging mum. And mom's Alzheimer's is getting worse by the day. Then NYC based author, Simon Corto comes to their small town to gather background material for a new novel. He's interested in “the Black Dog,” a legendary local guardian that only appears at times of national troubles. When Hayden and Simon meet, both men are surprised by their mutual attraction. While the major plot-line is m/m, this tale is very evocative of it's locale. Local color plays as much of a role as any of the characters. But remember Heathcliffe and Catherine ended up in side by side graves. There's a certain chill to this tale beyond that conjured by the Black Dog...
These tales put a new twist (a gay bent?) on several old Gothic plots that have been used in more than a few movies. And in addition to these being m/m friendly, they all make you think a bit, or maybe allow you to fantasize a bit. Reparation raises several morale questions that weren't even remote concerns when Frankenstein was originally penned. It's by far the strongest of the tales in my estimation. But all four are just the thing for curling up with on a dark & stormy night. Each of the tales can stand alone. Other than their m/m focus and their “Night Gallery” feel, there's not a lot tying them together. All four also bring their own peculiar sense of dread. Each tale is a bit m/m gothic but also a bit more. It got me really yearning for a day when a gay Rod Serling type could introduce tales like this in a regular weekly TV program. In the mean time, I'll make do with these text versions.
***Note: I am voluntarily reviewing this after receiving a complimentary copy ***
Reparation deals with Edward, a younger son ill-suited to taking over the family's spore plantation on the harsh world of Kalan. But after the eldest son and Edward's father are killed in a pirate raid, he must do just that.. Then, when the plantation manager and Edward's mail-order bride are killed in a carriage accident, Edward is saved by Knox, a “Recon.” Recons are Frankenstein's monster like. They're slaves altered to live in the planet's harsh conditions with the “reconditioned” minds of one condemned prisoner and the body of another. As Edward starts to treat Knox more humanely the “recon” starts to recover some of his pre-execution skills and memories. As those memories surface we are genuinely asked to consider just who the monsters are.
The Bird - when Jamaican island magic frees a repressed Englishman's passion, can he finally live the kind of life he's never been brave enough to dream of? This is kinder gentler tale of the mysterious, but then Jamaica with its gentler climate may just be ideal for some.
Among the Dead – Following a concussion Neil finds himself in a “Sixth Sense situation.” He sees dead people. He also sees a psychiatrist (living) His visions have turned him into a bit of an urban recluse. Then one of his ghosts leads him to someone else who seems to be having the same problem only more so. Can the these two get through life better together? Maybe it's a match made in limbo.
The Black Dog - Hayden MacLairty is a constable in a small Scottish town. He's the youngest of the MacLairty boys. He's also the only one that stuck around the small town of Laide. Never all that interested in either boys or girls, he's stuck living at home with his aging mum. And mom's Alzheimer's is getting worse by the day. Then NYC based author, Simon Corto comes to their small town to gather background material for a new novel. He's interested in “the Black Dog,” a legendary local guardian that only appears at times of national troubles. When Hayden and Simon meet, both men are surprised by their mutual attraction. While the major plot-line is m/m, this tale is very evocative of it's locale. Local color plays as much of a role as any of the characters. But remember Heathcliffe and Catherine ended up in side by side graves. There's a certain chill to this tale beyond that conjured by the Black Dog...
These tales put a new twist (a gay bent?) on several old Gothic plots that have been used in more than a few movies. And in addition to these being m/m friendly, they all make you think a bit, or maybe allow you to fantasize a bit. Reparation raises several morale questions that weren't even remote concerns when Frankenstein was originally penned. It's by far the strongest of the tales in my estimation. But all four are just the thing for curling up with on a dark & stormy night. Each of the tales can stand alone. Other than their m/m focus and their “Night Gallery” feel, there's not a lot tying them together. All four also bring their own peculiar sense of dread. Each tale is a bit m/m gothic but also a bit more. It got me really yearning for a day when a gay Rod Serling type could introduce tales like this in a regular weekly TV program. In the mean time, I'll make do with these text versions.
***Note: I am voluntarily reviewing this after receiving a complimentary copy ***
October 13, 2020
This is a collection of four supernatural, slightly creepy tales. I love the way Eli Easton writes, so overall I enjoyed this collection - but I wasn't such a huge fan of every story, so overall it was very slightly hit and miss. Having said that, it was more an issue of genre for me than the way the stories were written - Easton is always quite the wordsmith, so no complaints there.
Reparation was a tiny bit too sci fi for me - it's not a genre I generally like, but in a short story format it was ok. It's a dystopian setting, and captures the sense of emptiness and isolation that I would have thought would have taken a longer book to manage. I wasn't crazily into the slave aspect, but overall Easton does a good job of preventing that turning into a really uncomfortable dynamic. It had tones a futuristic Frankenstein story, but it also gave me a bit of a Rocky Horror vibe and that kind of helped tone down the creepiness of it.
The Bird: This one is historical fiction set in Jamaica - it has strong Gothic horror vibes where it isn't really scary, but is filled with an impeding or potential sense of dread and uncomfortableness that clashes with the very proper behaviour of the characters. I enjoyed it, overall, but did find a few aspects slightly creepy (never mess with voodoo guys) and in a longer book would have definitely needed some stronger acknowledgement or tackling of the strong colonialist aspects.
Among the dead: I'm not usually a big fan of ghost stories, but this wasn't overly alarming in tone or content. It's...sort of the odd story in this bunch, and while that's not a bad thing, I wasn't entirely sure what to make of it. I wasn't utterly sold on it the whole way through, and the ending felt slightly predictable - but Easton captured a lot in this short story and it's definitely a tale that makes you think. It left me feeling oddly unsatisfied, although perhaps it's meant to not make the reader feel comfortable nor provide a nice clean ending... And the fact that I'm still chewing over it might actually be a marker of great success for this story!
The Black Dog: Based on a traditional folk tale, and set in modern Scotland, I think this one was my favourite. It sort of combines both uses of the black dog (one as an omen of death, the other a way to visualise/describe depression), with Hayden's world just a little bit grey (until Simon!). I always enjoy small down murder stories, and really enjoyed the spooky tone Easton brought to this one.
Reparation was a tiny bit too sci fi for me - it's not a genre I generally like, but in a short story format it was ok. It's a dystopian setting, and captures the sense of emptiness and isolation that I would have thought would have taken a longer book to manage. I wasn't crazily into the slave aspect, but overall Easton does a good job of preventing that turning into a really uncomfortable dynamic. It had tones a futuristic Frankenstein story, but it also gave me a bit of a Rocky Horror vibe and that kind of helped tone down the creepiness of it.
The Bird: This one is historical fiction set in Jamaica - it has strong Gothic horror vibes where it isn't really scary, but is filled with an impeding or potential sense of dread and uncomfortableness that clashes with the very proper behaviour of the characters. I enjoyed it, overall, but did find a few aspects slightly creepy (never mess with voodoo guys) and in a longer book would have definitely needed some stronger acknowledgement or tackling of the strong colonialist aspects.
Among the dead: I'm not usually a big fan of ghost stories, but this wasn't overly alarming in tone or content. It's...sort of the odd story in this bunch, and while that's not a bad thing, I wasn't entirely sure what to make of it. I wasn't utterly sold on it the whole way through, and the ending felt slightly predictable - but Easton captured a lot in this short story and it's definitely a tale that makes you think. It left me feeling oddly unsatisfied, although perhaps it's meant to not make the reader feel comfortable nor provide a nice clean ending... And the fact that I'm still chewing over it might actually be a marker of great success for this story!
The Black Dog: Based on a traditional folk tale, and set in modern Scotland, I think this one was my favourite. It sort of combines both uses of the black dog (one as an omen of death, the other a way to visualise/describe depression), with Hayden's world just a little bit grey (until Simon!). I always enjoy small down murder stories, and really enjoyed the spooky tone Easton brought to this one.
October 6, 2020
I really think Eli Easton is the master of the short story. How she manages to effortlessly pack so much emotion and backstory into so few words always amazes me. Creating characters you really care for in such a short amount of time is clearly a talent. I’m so glad Eli decided to re-release these stories, they are so cool and different from anything I’ve read in the MM romance genre.
Reparations
This novella was a very cool mix of old-fashioned and futuristic. The culture of the farm owners seemed to be 19th century England, but it takes place on another planet with advanced technology and space travel. The setting is very creepy and one character seems to be inspired by Frankenstein’s monster. The story itself was gripping, with several twists and turns I didn’t see coming!
The Bird
Taking place mostly in Jamaica in 1870, this story is suffused with the feel of being on the island. Her descriptions seem simple but I felt the heat and humidity, the intensity of the Obeah rituals. It felt historically accurate while also respectful of the islanders and their culture. I don’t want to say too much about the actual story, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Atmospheric, frightening, exciting, and satisfying.
Among the Dead
Wow, this story really got me in the feels. It made me cry so hard!!! But in a good way. It takes place in present day Seattle and is about a guy who can see ghosts. Not saying more than that, you’ll have to read this for yourself! I’m definitely going to reread this at some point. I know I wrote the least about this one, but it may be my favorite, it just wrecked me and I can't talk about it!
The Black Dog
Eli is 4 for 4 with the stories in Gothika! Another great one! Taking place in rural Scotland, a local small-town constable and a visiting author investigate the legend of the Black Dog. Again, you can really get the feeling for the setting of this book. You can almost feel that freezing Highland wind cutting through your clothes or the cozy atmosphere of the village pub. This story creates this really interesting local legend and brings it to life in an exciting and emotional way. Loved this one.
I really loved all the novellas in this collection. It wildly surpassed my expectations, to be honest. I mean, I’ve never read a bad Eli Easton book, and I was expecting to enjoy it, but I really ended up loving every story in this collection!
Reparations
This novella was a very cool mix of old-fashioned and futuristic. The culture of the farm owners seemed to be 19th century England, but it takes place on another planet with advanced technology and space travel. The setting is very creepy and one character seems to be inspired by Frankenstein’s monster. The story itself was gripping, with several twists and turns I didn’t see coming!
The Bird
Taking place mostly in Jamaica in 1870, this story is suffused with the feel of being on the island. Her descriptions seem simple but I felt the heat and humidity, the intensity of the Obeah rituals. It felt historically accurate while also respectful of the islanders and their culture. I don’t want to say too much about the actual story, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Atmospheric, frightening, exciting, and satisfying.
Among the Dead
Wow, this story really got me in the feels. It made me cry so hard!!! But in a good way. It takes place in present day Seattle and is about a guy who can see ghosts. Not saying more than that, you’ll have to read this for yourself! I’m definitely going to reread this at some point. I know I wrote the least about this one, but it may be my favorite, it just wrecked me and I can't talk about it!
The Black Dog
Eli is 4 for 4 with the stories in Gothika! Another great one! Taking place in rural Scotland, a local small-town constable and a visiting author investigate the legend of the Black Dog. Again, you can really get the feeling for the setting of this book. You can almost feel that freezing Highland wind cutting through your clothes or the cozy atmosphere of the village pub. This story creates this really interesting local legend and brings it to life in an exciting and emotional way. Loved this one.
I really loved all the novellas in this collection. It wildly surpassed my expectations, to be honest. I mean, I’ve never read a bad Eli Easton book, and I was expecting to enjoy it, but I really ended up loving every story in this collection!
October 9, 2020
Reparation
I'm a true fan of science fiction and of Eli Easton, so I was not surprised, in the least, that she delivered such an incredible addition to this anthology. Edward is a spore farmer on his home world of Kalan, a harsh and desolate planet that can kill the weak in an instant. After a carriage accident, Edward is rescued by Knox, one of his recon laborers, half man and half machine. Knox is different from the other recons whom Edward employs. Knox almost looks human, he can read, and he seems to recall bits and pieces of knowledge from the human part of him who lived before. This is not normal for reconstituted slaves, built from machines and human remains of executed prisoners, cyborgs, essentially.
Because of Edward's injuries from the accident, and the loss of his right-hand man, he takes a chance and asks Knox to manage the spore harvest, overseeing the other laborers too, while Edward works the factory. Edward also insists that Knox move into the house from the barracks to now separate him from the other slaves. Winter begins, the workdays grow shorter, and Edward and Knox's time together in the evenings in front of the fire, reading, talking, playing chess, grows longer. The attraction they both feel intensifies. But, as the days go by, Knox's memories become more clear and he understands that he was a prisoner, executed, and his brain put into a different body. Knox remembers his other body and begins to know who he was, before. Unfortunately, who Knox was before is the reason that Edward lost his father and his brother and why he is all alone now struggling to run the farm.
What an incredible story! I loved every minute of it, Eli. Knox and Edward are amazing characters and their love story is sublime. A true tale of heartache and redemption.
The Bird
Obeah. A type of folk magic that traces itself back to the African slave trade. Colin, a graduate of Eton and Cambridge, is fascinated by this from a scientific standpoint. When Colin provides the means to save one of his plantation workers’ daughters, Tiyah tells him that in exchange, Erzulie, an Obeah loa, a powerful spirit, will grant him a life of his secret passion. This is a huge honor, and not something normally given to a non-follower, but Tiyah's daughter is also Erzulie's, as the loa was riding, or possessing, Tiyah at the time of conception.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
I'm a true fan of science fiction and of Eli Easton, so I was not surprised, in the least, that she delivered such an incredible addition to this anthology. Edward is a spore farmer on his home world of Kalan, a harsh and desolate planet that can kill the weak in an instant. After a carriage accident, Edward is rescued by Knox, one of his recon laborers, half man and half machine. Knox is different from the other recons whom Edward employs. Knox almost looks human, he can read, and he seems to recall bits and pieces of knowledge from the human part of him who lived before. This is not normal for reconstituted slaves, built from machines and human remains of executed prisoners, cyborgs, essentially.
Because of Edward's injuries from the accident, and the loss of his right-hand man, he takes a chance and asks Knox to manage the spore harvest, overseeing the other laborers too, while Edward works the factory. Edward also insists that Knox move into the house from the barracks to now separate him from the other slaves. Winter begins, the workdays grow shorter, and Edward and Knox's time together in the evenings in front of the fire, reading, talking, playing chess, grows longer. The attraction they both feel intensifies. But, as the days go by, Knox's memories become more clear and he understands that he was a prisoner, executed, and his brain put into a different body. Knox remembers his other body and begins to know who he was, before. Unfortunately, who Knox was before is the reason that Edward lost his father and his brother and why he is all alone now struggling to run the farm.
What an incredible story! I loved every minute of it, Eli. Knox and Edward are amazing characters and their love story is sublime. A true tale of heartache and redemption.
The Bird
Obeah. A type of folk magic that traces itself back to the African slave trade. Colin, a graduate of Eton and Cambridge, is fascinated by this from a scientific standpoint. When Colin provides the means to save one of his plantation workers’ daughters, Tiyah tells him that in exchange, Erzulie, an Obeah loa, a powerful spirit, will grant him a life of his secret passion. This is a huge honor, and not something normally given to a non-follower, but Tiyah's daughter is also Erzulie's, as the loa was riding, or possessing, Tiyah at the time of conception.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
October 11, 2020
I was really excited when I heard that Eli Easton would be re-releasing her Gothika novels in an anthology just in time for Halloween. Four spooky love stories with a hint of darkness and romance was perfect for October. Eli Easton is a great author so if you're ready for spooky love stories, then Gothika is the perfect. Be careful when reading alone at night because I made the mistake of reading some stories in bed and it scared the spirits out of me!
Reparations
This novella had a futurist, sci-fi spin with a familiar Frankenstein story. Recons are cyborgs used as slave labor on different plants by the mysterious Federation. There were several plot twists and turns in this story so get ready for some surprising events. This story is not what it appears and just when you think you have it figured out...Eli threw in some kinks. Shocking truths and hidden secrets will be discovered.
The Bird
By far one of the spookiest novella in the series since it takes place in Jamaica in 1870 with slavery, magic, animal sacrifices and blood. The Obeah rituals scared me so much and I feel like Eli Easton was very thoughtful and respectful with regards to the old practitioners, people, and island folklore. I made the mistake of reading this at night which I regretted since it was really scary. So glad I didn't have nightmares.
Among the Dead
This was the saddest story in the whole anthology. OMG, I didn't see the ending coming because I thought it was just a human seeing spirits in present day Seattle. By this point, I should have seen the plot twists coming since it was the third novella but wow, what a sucker punch of emotions! I suggest you read something light-hearted and uplifting after this tale because you will need it.
The Black Dog
My favorite in the whole bunch because it takes place in a small village in rural Scotland with a local constable and an American writer researching an old Scottish myth about the Black Dog. The landscape and Baltic Sea comes alives in this story as you join the town in trying to figure out if the Black Dog actually exists. Local folk lore and secrets come alive in The Black Dog and is the perfect last story to round out Gothika!
Reparations
This novella had a futurist, sci-fi spin with a familiar Frankenstein story. Recons are cyborgs used as slave labor on different plants by the mysterious Federation. There were several plot twists and turns in this story so get ready for some surprising events. This story is not what it appears and just when you think you have it figured out...Eli threw in some kinks. Shocking truths and hidden secrets will be discovered.
The Bird
By far one of the spookiest novella in the series since it takes place in Jamaica in 1870 with slavery, magic, animal sacrifices and blood. The Obeah rituals scared me so much and I feel like Eli Easton was very thoughtful and respectful with regards to the old practitioners, people, and island folklore. I made the mistake of reading this at night which I regretted since it was really scary. So glad I didn't have nightmares.
Among the Dead
This was the saddest story in the whole anthology. OMG, I didn't see the ending coming because I thought it was just a human seeing spirits in present day Seattle. By this point, I should have seen the plot twists coming since it was the third novella but wow, what a sucker punch of emotions! I suggest you read something light-hearted and uplifting after this tale because you will need it.
The Black Dog
My favorite in the whole bunch because it takes place in a small village in rural Scotland with a local constable and an American writer researching an old Scottish myth about the Black Dog. The landscape and Baltic Sea comes alives in this story as you join the town in trying to figure out if the Black Dog actually exists. Local folk lore and secrets come alive in The Black Dog and is the perfect last story to round out Gothika!
October 14, 2020
Gothika
MMy Thoughts and Review:
Four timeless tales, one that flung me to an alternate universe where the body parts of prisoners are reconstituted in a Frankenstein-esque way and then sent to work as slaves on a harsh planet where they harvest spores used in obscure ways to “help” the government.
One such recon, NOX, shows signs of intelligence and over time and with the help and aid of a newly formed friendship of his Young Master, he begins to remember things from his past life, that should have been wiped from memory.
In “The Bird,” a plantation owner discovers what it means to lose one’s inhibitions in a different culture. This allows doors to open in the man’s heart and mind that he closed years earlier, believing the desires of his heart lost to him forever.
Next up was a ghost story to rival any seen at the cinema. Ghosts can be terrifying, but they can also just be misunderstood beings as the MC discovers in the wonderfully vibrant and dark story about a man who suffers a trauma. Once it is over, he wakes in the hospital to find he can see the dead.
Finally, a legend brought to life in the frigid northern hills of Scotland. It is said the Black Dog is a harbinger of danger or destruction to come. So, why is it coming around now when the quiet town is fine, and nothing is happening? A very good question indeed.
This anthology is perfect for the season. The gothic sense, so dark and alluring draws you to the table, the creepy factor, however, sprinkled here and there, tickles your brain’s taste buds like a special spice. The romance aspect was infused throughout, much like a Secret ingredient that sneaks up on you. You can’t quite figure out how or when you first discovered it’s flavor, but it is what made the dish completely satisfying.
This anthology is a must-read to get you into the spooky spirit of the season. 👻
Sharonica’s Logic: 4.00 embrace-the-spirits-stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 🎃
MMy Thoughts and Review:
Four timeless tales, one that flung me to an alternate universe where the body parts of prisoners are reconstituted in a Frankenstein-esque way and then sent to work as slaves on a harsh planet where they harvest spores used in obscure ways to “help” the government.
One such recon, NOX, shows signs of intelligence and over time and with the help and aid of a newly formed friendship of his Young Master, he begins to remember things from his past life, that should have been wiped from memory.
In “The Bird,” a plantation owner discovers what it means to lose one’s inhibitions in a different culture. This allows doors to open in the man’s heart and mind that he closed years earlier, believing the desires of his heart lost to him forever.
Next up was a ghost story to rival any seen at the cinema. Ghosts can be terrifying, but they can also just be misunderstood beings as the MC discovers in the wonderfully vibrant and dark story about a man who suffers a trauma. Once it is over, he wakes in the hospital to find he can see the dead.
Finally, a legend brought to life in the frigid northern hills of Scotland. It is said the Black Dog is a harbinger of danger or destruction to come. So, why is it coming around now when the quiet town is fine, and nothing is happening? A very good question indeed.
This anthology is perfect for the season. The gothic sense, so dark and alluring draws you to the table, the creepy factor, however, sprinkled here and there, tickles your brain’s taste buds like a special spice. The romance aspect was infused throughout, much like a Secret ingredient that sneaks up on you. You can’t quite figure out how or when you first discovered it’s flavor, but it is what made the dish completely satisfying.
This anthology is a must-read to get you into the spooky spirit of the season. 👻
Sharonica’s Logic: 4.00 embrace-the-spirits-stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 🎃
October 14, 2020
I first read this stories in the original four books back in 2017. To me they feel incredibly nostalgic, as they were the first books I read when I first got my kindle.
The first one, which was originally in Stitch, is the one I remembered best. I really loved the worldbuilding, the sci fi but goth feel, and the knowledge that the people in power would truly create humanoid, corpse-made slave labor if they knew how. The use of Kalan's resources is also something so rooted in reality it's kind of sad. I really felt for Edward and his loneliness. It is still really good a second time.
The second one, originally in Spirit, made me uncomfortable the first time. Now I know it's because it's rooted in sensuality and I'm asexual, so the discomfort now was no worse than a regular sex scene. It fits more in the realm of fantastical realism and between historical fiction, with a British man traveling to the colony of Jamaica to oversee his father's sugar plantation.
The third, originally in Ghost, was nice if a bit underwhelming to reread. If the first time the bird was my least loved story, this time the price is firm for this one. I liked it still, and if I had to rank it it would also be around 4 stars. It's the least out there of the four though, placed in the modern Seattle.
The last story is the one that was originally in Beast, and the one I'd completely forgotten about. It also is, currently, my favorite. It's set in modern Scotland, and deals with and author and a police officer searching for the mythical Black Dog, who is apparently killing people. I think, maybe because it was the last one after so many short stories, the ones in beast are the ones that stuck to me the least. Still, this one has all the plot points of a full novel with less length. It was exciting and had an appealing air of mystery and that gothic allure... love!
Now if Jamie Fessenden released his stories too, I'd be peachy!
The first one, which was originally in Stitch, is the one I remembered best. I really loved the worldbuilding, the sci fi but goth feel, and the knowledge that the people in power would truly create humanoid, corpse-made slave labor if they knew how. The use of Kalan's resources is also something so rooted in reality it's kind of sad. I really felt for Edward and his loneliness. It is still really good a second time.
The second one, originally in Spirit, made me uncomfortable the first time. Now I know it's because it's rooted in sensuality and I'm asexual, so the discomfort now was no worse than a regular sex scene. It fits more in the realm of fantastical realism and between historical fiction, with a British man traveling to the colony of Jamaica to oversee his father's sugar plantation.
The third, originally in Ghost, was nice if a bit underwhelming to reread. If the first time the bird was my least loved story, this time the price is firm for this one. I liked it still, and if I had to rank it it would also be around 4 stars. It's the least out there of the four though, placed in the modern Seattle.
The last story is the one that was originally in Beast, and the one I'd completely forgotten about. It also is, currently, my favorite. It's set in modern Scotland, and deals with and author and a police officer searching for the mythical Black Dog, who is apparently killing people. I think, maybe because it was the last one after so many short stories, the ones in beast are the ones that stuck to me the least. Still, this one has all the plot points of a full novel with less length. It was exciting and had an appealing air of mystery and that gothic allure... love!
Now if Jamie Fessenden released his stories too, I'd be peachy!
October 6, 2020
This stories has a mild dose of horror, circumstances that seems to be against the characters happiness, mystery, a high dose of adrenaline, a lot of love that's stronger than anything and support and understanding where you least expect it.
REPARATION
Edward and Knox have a forbidden relationship according to society and the secret past of how Knox came to be isn't helping matters. It has some Frankenstein references that makes all more interesting and intriguing. They have to forgive each other and to fight against everything to be together.
THE BIRD
The magic and the strength of the believers in her is so strong and astonishing. Thanks to his kind heart Colin is granted his heart desire by the deity of said magic and so is reunited with his childhood friend and secret crush Richard. The intensity of their feelings and the slightly reference to Wuthering heights gives this story an air of mystery and adrenaline.
AMONG THE DEAD
That one was intriguing and had an unexpected turn of events that in the end makes perfect sense. Neil and Trist story has an air of mystery and reunite two lost souls that suffered a lot and they find each other in their time of need to be able to get to the next level. This proves to us that human mind is a powerful thing that can accomplish a lot of things even one perfect illusion to deny reality.
THE BLACK DOG
I really loved Hayden and Simon story and the legend that revolves around this story. The mystery and action is breathtakingly intense and the characters had a lot of challenges go through so they could be together.
REPARATION
Edward and Knox have a forbidden relationship according to society and the secret past of how Knox came to be isn't helping matters. It has some Frankenstein references that makes all more interesting and intriguing. They have to forgive each other and to fight against everything to be together.
THE BIRD
The magic and the strength of the believers in her is so strong and astonishing. Thanks to his kind heart Colin is granted his heart desire by the deity of said magic and so is reunited with his childhood friend and secret crush Richard. The intensity of their feelings and the slightly reference to Wuthering heights gives this story an air of mystery and adrenaline.
AMONG THE DEAD
That one was intriguing and had an unexpected turn of events that in the end makes perfect sense. Neil and Trist story has an air of mystery and reunite two lost souls that suffered a lot and they find each other in their time of need to be able to get to the next level. This proves to us that human mind is a powerful thing that can accomplish a lot of things even one perfect illusion to deny reality.
THE BLACK DOG
I really loved Hayden and Simon story and the legend that revolves around this story. The mystery and action is breathtakingly intense and the characters had a lot of challenges go through so they could be together.
November 11, 2020
WoW!!!!
Amazing, unforgettable, moving, tales!!! They are so rich with details and so much feeling that it's like reading a full novel. There may seem like expected tropes but there are twists. The characters are all well-drawn and the research sound. You won't regret picking this book up.
One science fiction, set on a harsh world with a society that echoes 19thC England with landowners in charge of large plantations to harvest precious spores that can only grow there. A young landowner finds himself in a bad situation, having to rely only on one of the cyborg slaves engineered as mindless workers.
Second tale is actually set in 19thC Jamaica where a nobleman's son is in Jamaica in order to try and oversee the family's plantation. He finds himself fascinated by the strange rites and beliefs of some of the workers (this is set just post-slavery).
The third story is about a man who sees ghosts after a bad concussion and has become almost a hermit out of fear. Then he starts seeing a different kind of ghost...
Fourthly, an American novelist goes to a small Scottish village to research legends of the Black Dog. The lone constable there has to deal with a sick mother and now reports of a Black Dog roaming the lanes and threatening the few tourists the village needs to survive.
----
These are seriously wonderful tales. Not too dark, the gothic mostly refers to the paranormal elements, although there are dangers and these are not exactly light and fluffy stories. The romance is lovely.
Highly Recommended!
Amazing, unforgettable, moving, tales!!! They are so rich with details and so much feeling that it's like reading a full novel. There may seem like expected tropes but there are twists. The characters are all well-drawn and the research sound. You won't regret picking this book up.
One science fiction, set on a harsh world with a society that echoes 19thC England with landowners in charge of large plantations to harvest precious spores that can only grow there. A young landowner finds himself in a bad situation, having to rely only on one of the cyborg slaves engineered as mindless workers.
Second tale is actually set in 19thC Jamaica where a nobleman's son is in Jamaica in order to try and oversee the family's plantation. He finds himself fascinated by the strange rites and beliefs of some of the workers (this is set just post-slavery).
The third story is about a man who sees ghosts after a bad concussion and has become almost a hermit out of fear. Then he starts seeing a different kind of ghost...
Fourthly, an American novelist goes to a small Scottish village to research legends of the Black Dog. The lone constable there has to deal with a sick mother and now reports of a Black Dog roaming the lanes and threatening the few tourists the village needs to survive.
----
These are seriously wonderful tales. Not too dark, the gothic mostly refers to the paranormal elements, although there are dangers and these are not exactly light and fluffy stories. The romance is lovely.
Highly Recommended!
March 30, 2021
Four novellas by Eli Easton - of course they are a must-read for me. Unfortunately they did not deliver. None of these stories did really catch my fancy.
"Reparation" – 3 stars
In the not so far future, on a distant planet: farmer Edward suffers a carriage accident that kills his bride and his factory manager, and is rescued by slave Knox.
The relationship building and love story is great, the fact that one of the main protagonists is a slave does grate a bit on me, thus having to pick a star from my rating.
“The Bird” – 3 stars
Colin Hastings is offered his heart’s most secret desire—one he’s kept deeply buried all his life – when he takes care of a plantation in Jamaica in the 19hundreds.
Guess what his most secret desire is? *ha*
The novella read steadily along, nothing special, though. Even though I was full heartedly rooting for Colin and Richard, of course!
“Among the Dead” – 2 stars
Ever since his accident, Neil Gaven sees dead people. Heard that before? Now, if you hope for sexy Bruce Willis running around, thoroughly gay, you’ll be disappointed.
This story had so many holes and did not make any sense, bashing a certain political party was the least of its problems. Easy to skip novella!
"The Black Dog" – 4 stars
Constable Hayden MacLairty is small village police man in Scotland, trying to solve the mystery of the “Black Dog” with the help of Simon Corto, a writer from New York doing research for a book about the Black Dog.
While the story did not make much sense, the relationship building between Hayden and Simon was sweet.
"Reparation" – 3 stars
In the not so far future, on a distant planet: farmer Edward suffers a carriage accident that kills his bride and his factory manager, and is rescued by slave Knox.
The relationship building and love story is great, the fact that one of the main protagonists is a slave does grate a bit on me, thus having to pick a star from my rating.
“The Bird” – 3 stars
Colin Hastings is offered his heart’s most secret desire—one he’s kept deeply buried all his life – when he takes care of a plantation in Jamaica in the 19hundreds.
Guess what his most secret desire is? *ha*
The novella read steadily along, nothing special, though. Even though I was full heartedly rooting for Colin and Richard, of course!
“Among the Dead” – 2 stars
Ever since his accident, Neil Gaven sees dead people. Heard that before? Now, if you hope for sexy Bruce Willis running around, thoroughly gay, you’ll be disappointed.
This story had so many holes and did not make any sense, bashing a certain political party was the least of its problems. Easy to skip novella!
"The Black Dog" – 4 stars
Constable Hayden MacLairty is small village police man in Scotland, trying to solve the mystery of the “Black Dog” with the help of Simon Corto, a writer from New York doing research for a book about the Black Dog.
While the story did not make much sense, the relationship building between Hayden and Simon was sweet.
October 5, 2020
This was a really interesting collection of novella tales surrounding creepy and sexy. Each of these stories follows a unique tale about dark romance and spooky elements.
My favorite by far was “The Bird” in which we have a young Englishman named Colin who must travel to Jamaica to manage his father’s plantation. He has left his very best friend behind at home and they write each other constantly. When Colin gets mixed up in some spiritual dark magic within some of the locals, he enters into a ritual that will bring him passion, and maybe help him realize his true feeling for his best friend. This one was so eerie and atmospheric. I LOVED it!
Another fun one was “Among the Dead” where Neil is plagued with seeing dead people after a terrible accident. He is bothered by these apparitions so much that he has become a hermit. But one in particular whom he keeps seeing is different. He helps Neil find love. But the twist ending may leave your head spinning...
Thank you so much to Gay Romance Reviews for my gifted copy of this collection of stories in exchange for my honest review.
My favorite by far was “The Bird” in which we have a young Englishman named Colin who must travel to Jamaica to manage his father’s plantation. He has left his very best friend behind at home and they write each other constantly. When Colin gets mixed up in some spiritual dark magic within some of the locals, he enters into a ritual that will bring him passion, and maybe help him realize his true feeling for his best friend. This one was so eerie and atmospheric. I LOVED it!
Another fun one was “Among the Dead” where Neil is plagued with seeing dead people after a terrible accident. He is bothered by these apparitions so much that he has become a hermit. But one in particular whom he keeps seeing is different. He helps Neil find love. But the twist ending may leave your head spinning...
Thank you so much to Gay Romance Reviews for my gifted copy of this collection of stories in exchange for my honest review.
October 8, 2020
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review.
Reparation
Edward and Knox story has a tragic movement, second chances and altar memories. Recon/Kalanese forbidden love.
The Bird
One act of kindness lines Colin in the sights of a great and powerful Erzulie. Hearts desire ya say.. and just what is that? Tiyah is the human conduit on the human plane can she deliver the promise of the Loa? A door is opened but can Colin trust that Richard wants the same.
Among the Dead
Neil has a curse/gift depending on the others view point, All unthankfully due to a concussion. Seeing the dead was not a gift. A friendly ghost push him to help little red hoodie. Be prepared for the tear-jerk reaction.
The Black Dog
With the stories of a massive dog sightings Constable Hayden MacLairty has know choice but to investigate add in A famed author is just one more thing he didn't need with his mom's illness. Simon is something that he can't have in a small town than leave him with the missing piece.
Wow each story has it own set of drama from a denial about one self in one way or other. Overall a really great and entertaining read that leaves moved.
Reparation
Edward and Knox story has a tragic movement, second chances and altar memories. Recon/Kalanese forbidden love.
The Bird
One act of kindness lines Colin in the sights of a great and powerful Erzulie. Hearts desire ya say.. and just what is that? Tiyah is the human conduit on the human plane can she deliver the promise of the Loa? A door is opened but can Colin trust that Richard wants the same.
Among the Dead
Neil has a curse/gift depending on the others view point, All unthankfully due to a concussion. Seeing the dead was not a gift. A friendly ghost push him to help little red hoodie. Be prepared for the tear-jerk reaction.
The Black Dog
With the stories of a massive dog sightings Constable Hayden MacLairty has know choice but to investigate add in A famed author is just one more thing he didn't need with his mom's illness. Simon is something that he can't have in a small town than leave him with the missing piece.
Wow each story has it own set of drama from a denial about one self in one way or other. Overall a really great and entertaining read that leaves moved.
October 12, 2020
This is a great anthology of four horror influenced novellas. They have all previously been published but this is the first time they have been offered in one collection.
All four stories are very different from each other and have clearly tracked inspiration. My favourite two, for example, have a definite classic/gothic monster vibe: Reparation has a very clever take on the Frankenstein's creature trope and The Black Dog has elements of werewolf tales and a bit of Hound of the Baskervilles about it. Whereas The Bird and Among The Dead draw on ritual and magic, and the ability to see ghosts respectively.
I really like the writing style - all four stories are written in such a way as to give us a full plot arc, richly described settings and locations, with multidimensional, engaging characters. There's a bit of a morality tale in there, too, which I liked a lot...also a throwback to those old gothic tales. The ability to consistently do all of this at novella length speaks volumes about the quality of this author...excellent!
I'd definitely recommend this anthology if you're in the mood for something more on the spooky side...4*
An ARC was provided by GRR in exchange for an honest review.
All four stories are very different from each other and have clearly tracked inspiration. My favourite two, for example, have a definite classic/gothic monster vibe: Reparation has a very clever take on the Frankenstein's creature trope and The Black Dog has elements of werewolf tales and a bit of Hound of the Baskervilles about it. Whereas The Bird and Among The Dead draw on ritual and magic, and the ability to see ghosts respectively.
I really like the writing style - all four stories are written in such a way as to give us a full plot arc, richly described settings and locations, with multidimensional, engaging characters. There's a bit of a morality tale in there, too, which I liked a lot...also a throwback to those old gothic tales. The ability to consistently do all of this at novella length speaks volumes about the quality of this author...excellent!
I'd definitely recommend this anthology if you're in the mood for something more on the spooky side...4*
An ARC was provided by GRR in exchange for an honest review.
October 12, 2020
Reparation
This is a totally different sub genre for me but I absolutely loved it.
Edward is the last of his family, as a second son he was never meant to inherit. And has been left to run the family farm that has been in his family for 6 generations, after the deaths of his father and older brother, Kalan is a harsh Planet to live on, it's lonely and the work is hard.
Knox a Recon arrived on the last freighter, he is more handsome than the other Recons that Edward has seen, which is unusual as they are normally terribly scarred. After a carriage accident leaves Edward injured and short staffed he is forced to depend more on Knox, He is not as childlike and unintelligent as Edward has come to expect from Recons, they are normally only fit for manual and factory work. There are surprises and shocks ahead of them as Knox recovers some memories and Edward discovers the truths that have been hidden from him all his life.
Absolutely fantastic and enthralling, I was absorbed into their story within moments of reading, and although I had a sense of something not being right....I was shocked to learn the extent of the horror and was hoping for a HEA for them.
This is a totally different sub genre for me but I absolutely loved it.
Edward is the last of his family, as a second son he was never meant to inherit. And has been left to run the family farm that has been in his family for 6 generations, after the deaths of his father and older brother, Kalan is a harsh Planet to live on, it's lonely and the work is hard.
Knox a Recon arrived on the last freighter, he is more handsome than the other Recons that Edward has seen, which is unusual as they are normally terribly scarred. After a carriage accident leaves Edward injured and short staffed he is forced to depend more on Knox, He is not as childlike and unintelligent as Edward has come to expect from Recons, they are normally only fit for manual and factory work. There are surprises and shocks ahead of them as Knox recovers some memories and Edward discovers the truths that have been hidden from him all his life.
Absolutely fantastic and enthralling, I was absorbed into their story within moments of reading, and although I had a sense of something not being right....I was shocked to learn the extent of the horror and was hoping for a HEA for them.
October 17, 2021
...So, I’ll be giving you 2 at a time, forming Parts A and B. Ladies, Gentlemen, and those of you yet to make up your minds, welcome to Mme. Eli’s Gothika, Part A!
Tale 1: REPARATION
A painful haunting thing. I had no ida what could possibly happen but ever heard the saying, too coincidental to be a coincidence? Mme. Eli, I have the feeling you wove the nd before you wrote the first word. When I think Yeess!, I get blasted with a NO that I can’t wrap my head about. But I know Mme. Eli wont do me like that. Her tales have always been sweet but this is laced with dollops of darkness that are as well puppeteered as Lana Del Ray’s deliciously dark version of ‘Once upon a dream'(one of my favorite cartoon and movie soundtracks). Colin has suffered enough, been respectable to a fault and the man has tried hard. So damn hard! Just when Knox comes to the goddess, I know some peace. Only for ...
FOr the rest of this review, do go here - https://thequilleandlampe.wordpress.c...
Tale 1: REPARATION
A painful haunting thing. I had no ida what could possibly happen but ever heard the saying, too coincidental to be a coincidence? Mme. Eli, I have the feeling you wove the nd before you wrote the first word. When I think Yeess!, I get blasted with a NO that I can’t wrap my head about. But I know Mme. Eli wont do me like that. Her tales have always been sweet but this is laced with dollops of darkness that are as well puppeteered as Lana Del Ray’s deliciously dark version of ‘Once upon a dream'(one of my favorite cartoon and movie soundtracks). Colin has suffered enough, been respectable to a fault and the man has tried hard. So damn hard! Just when Knox comes to the goddess, I know some peace. Only for ...
FOr the rest of this review, do go here - https://thequilleandlampe.wordpress.c...
October 15, 2020
A sweet and spooky anthology. All stories are beautifully written and equally engaging.
Overall rating 4 stars
Reparation : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This one had a very unique and compelling world building. Loved reading about recons. A sweet friends to lovers romance. Knox and Edward were adorable!
The Bird : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was extremely interesting. A proper gentleman going to save his sugar Plantation in Jamaica lands up agreeing to a dangerous ritual and having its true sensual nature revealed by the Obeah spirits.
Among the Dead : ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a sweet an eerie story of two men of similar nature, finding their way to eachother.
The Black Dog : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This one was quite compelling. I really enjoyed reading about the mysterious legend of the black Dog. Hayden thinks it's a myth until he finds out otherwise.
Overall rating 4 stars
Reparation : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This one had a very unique and compelling world building. Loved reading about recons. A sweet friends to lovers romance. Knox and Edward were adorable!
The Bird : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was extremely interesting. A proper gentleman going to save his sugar Plantation in Jamaica lands up agreeing to a dangerous ritual and having its true sensual nature revealed by the Obeah spirits.
Among the Dead : ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a sweet an eerie story of two men of similar nature, finding their way to eachother.
The Black Dog : ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This one was quite compelling. I really enjoyed reading about the mysterious legend of the black Dog. Hayden thinks it's a myth until he finds out otherwise.
October 16, 2020
These short stories are exactly what you would expect from Eli Easton. I loved all of these stories, they were perfectly gothic and yet so romancey. Reparations was a great twist of a Frakenstein story. The story of Edward and Knox is charming in it's own creepy way. The Bird was a great story about plantation life in Jamaica in 1870. It was one of the scarier of the stories and there are definite racist vibes but to me that just added to the authenticity of it being 1870 on a Jamaican plantation. Neil and Trist in Among the Dead were my favorite. The ghosts just made the story all the better. I love the tale of the Black Dog so The Black Dog in this one was amazing. Hayden and Collin made a great pair. Overall the book was a collection of 4 delicious gothic romances that left me very happy. I would definitely recommend this book.
October 17, 2020
Even if I had read these amazing stories as part of the original series, I couldn't resist the temptation to read them again in this selection of Ms Easton's tales. After reading and rereading all the stories I can't decide which one is the best, Is It Colin and Richard's story and how they put all their life and their feelings in some letters while discovering all the folklore and magic of the islanders and the influence they would have above them? Or the heartbreaking story of Trist and Neil that made me cry a lot, but also enjoyed so much how they found peace and love together? It Is so difficult to choose because all of them are simply wonderful. The combination of heartwarming situations with a pinch of darkness and a supernatural twist caught me since the beginning until the very end. A brilliant collection of tales!!
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