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Resurrectionist #1
La stagione della caccia
Lunedì 20 dicembre 1897. Benedict Hannan, proprietario della casa d’aste Hannan a Fitzrovia, Londra, riceve una lettera che lo invita a partecipare alla vendita della collezione privata di opere d’arte e antiquariato appartenente al defunto lord Percival Ardmillan. Ardmillan è noto a Benedict, o meglio lo è suo figlio Euan, così Benedict si precipita nelle Highlands occidentali della Scozia per realizzare il suo sogno di possedere un particolare oggetto della collezione del lord, qualcosa che ha desiderato per trent’anni.
In Scozia, Benedict incontra i collezionisti che sono stati invitati a presentare le loro offerte all’asta. Scopre in fretta che l’asta privata di antiquariato non è così semplice come aveva immaginato. Costretto a fare i conti con i suoi desideri passati e presenti, Benedict si ritrova in balia del suo ex amante e di un misterioso viaggiatore che cambieranno la sua vita per sempre.
In Scozia, Benedict incontra i collezionisti che sono stati invitati a presentare le loro offerte all’asta. Scopre in fretta che l’asta privata di antiquariato non è così semplice come aveva immaginato. Costretto a fare i conti con i suoi desideri passati e presenti, Benedict si ritrova in balia del suo ex amante e di un misterioso viaggiatore che cambieranno la sua vita per sempre.
110 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 22, 2019
39 people are currently reading
582 people want to read
About the author
Isobel Starling
67 books235 followersAWARD WINNING AUTHOR OF GAY ROMANCE.
Born in Germany, Isobel Starling spent most of her twenty-year professional career making art in Ireland. Now she writes full-time and runs her publishing company, Decent Fellows Press.
The Shatterproof Bond series is Gay Romance bestseller in the US, Germany and France. It is also a bestseller in audiobook format, narrated by Gary Furlong
Isobel is currently working on "The Dark Harvest", (The Quiet Work #2) The follow up to her successful Fantasy novel "Apple Boy"
When that book is done Isobel will be working on "Infernal Vices" book #3 of the Resurrectionist Historical MM series, and then "The Rebel Candidate " Book #6 in the Shatterproof Bond series.
Born in Germany, Isobel Starling spent most of her twenty-year professional career making art in Ireland. Now she writes full-time and runs her publishing company, Decent Fellows Press.
The Shatterproof Bond series is Gay Romance bestseller in the US, Germany and France. It is also a bestseller in audiobook format, narrated by Gary Furlong
Isobel is currently working on "The Dark Harvest", (The Quiet Work #2) The follow up to her successful Fantasy novel "Apple Boy"
When that book is done Isobel will be working on "Infernal Vices" book #3 of the Resurrectionist Historical MM series, and then "The Rebel Candidate " Book #6 in the Shatterproof Bond series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
September 15, 2020
Trigger warning: There is a scene in this story that some readers may find dubious consent. Religious views on homosexuality also make an important part of this story.
It wasn't exactly what I expected. It's still an interesting story, but I guess I thought it would be something else.
I'm not a big fan of first-person narrative. And this novella is a good example of why. Some sentences, especially at the beginning of the story, felt a bit forced and unnatural. It even made me dislike the main character at first. Only later did he convince me and it was easier for me.
I also don't like when in the book the main character has sex with one partner first and then with the other. I can't really focus on the right relationship, and it always seems to me that there is a betrayal, even if it is completely untrue (as in this case).
The plot is fine, but I wish Benedict had played a bigger part in uncovering the plot. That he would come to at least some of the right conclusions himself. I would definitely value his intelligence much more then. In fact, he seems a little overly naive. Which is a bit weird about a fifty-year-old businessman.
I might read the next book in this series if I do it right away.
It wasn't exactly what I expected. It's still an interesting story, but I guess I thought it would be something else.
I'm not a big fan of first-person narrative. And this novella is a good example of why. Some sentences, especially at the beginning of the story, felt a bit forced and unnatural. It even made me dislike the main character at first. Only later did he convince me and it was easier for me.
I also don't like when in the book the main character has sex with one partner first and then with the other. I can't really focus on the right relationship, and it always seems to me that there is a betrayal, even if it is completely untrue (as in this case).
The plot is fine, but I wish Benedict had played a bigger part in uncovering the plot. That he would come to at least some of the right conclusions himself. I would definitely value his intelligence much more then. In fact, he seems a little overly naive. Which is a bit weird about a fifty-year-old businessman.
I might read the next book in this series if I do it right away.
December 29, 2019
Audio - 5++ Stars! Gary Furlong rocked this narration with his Scottish, British, Boston and French accents. What talent!!
Story - 2 Meh Stars.
Story - 2 Meh Stars.
August 22, 2020
I love the depth a charmingly flawed character brings to a story, and Isobel Starling has crafted a gem in Benedict Hannan. Naïve and a bit dim, Benedict has a way to go before he figures it all out, and the goings on in The Shooting Season are just the beginning of his education.
Set up to initiate him into the ways of the world is humble American traveller John Edwards, or is it art collector Artur Engels, or master thief Sebastian Cavell? Well, whatever alias he’s using at the moment, I love the chemistry between him and Benedict and I can’t wait to see what Isobel Starling is going to do with these two gents!
Regardless of his pompous piety, do not let Benedict’s buffoonery put you off. Ms. Starling has plans for him and The Resurrectionist series continues in episode two, The Gentleman’s Thief. I’m diving straight into the audio version of this one, and here’s hoping there will be many more episodes to come.
I know it can't possibly be true, but I can't help but wonder if Isobel Starling writes her novels to be read by the spectacular voice actor, Gary Furlong. Knowing his amazing strengths, she capitalizes on Mr. Furlong's unparalleled skills with accents and makes the most of his many other talents. A bonus to this clever, creative mystery, listening to Mr. Furlong's narration is always an immense pleasure.
an audiobook copy of The Shooting Season was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
Set up to initiate him into the ways of the world is humble American traveller John Edwards, or is it art collector Artur Engels, or master thief Sebastian Cavell? Well, whatever alias he’s using at the moment, I love the chemistry between him and Benedict and I can’t wait to see what Isobel Starling is going to do with these two gents!
Regardless of his pompous piety, do not let Benedict’s buffoonery put you off. Ms. Starling has plans for him and The Resurrectionist series continues in episode two, The Gentleman’s Thief. I’m diving straight into the audio version of this one, and here’s hoping there will be many more episodes to come.
I know it can't possibly be true, but I can't help but wonder if Isobel Starling writes her novels to be read by the spectacular voice actor, Gary Furlong. Knowing his amazing strengths, she capitalizes on Mr. Furlong's unparalleled skills with accents and makes the most of his many other talents. A bonus to this clever, creative mystery, listening to Mr. Furlong's narration is always an immense pleasure.
an audiobook copy of The Shooting Season was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
April 26, 2020
There’s nothing like getting a tightly wound man to uncoil! 3.8 Stars!
Seeing our 50 year-old MC get some after 30 years is definitely worth picking up this Christmas novella. Seeing him finally accept who he is, is priceless!
And of course, if you like audiobooks, there is no one like Gary Furlong to bring sexy to a proper British accent!
My rec? But of course, dear heart!
Seeing our 50 year-old MC get some after 30 years is definitely worth picking up this Christmas novella. Seeing him finally accept who he is, is priceless!
And of course, if you like audiobooks, there is no one like Gary Furlong to bring sexy to a proper British accent!
My rec? But of course, dear heart!
December 13, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.25 stars
I’m not sure really where to start with The Shooting Season, except to say that I’m not a fan. I struggled to connect with any of the characters and the plot is almost beyond absurd. There is some intrigue and action on page that helped keep the pacing strong, but that is the most positive aspect for me.
Benedict isn’t a likable character from my perspective. He’s got lots of religious guilt about his homosexuality, but he proceeds to be an absolute hypocrite about it. He constantly lusts after other men, but when they proposition him, he becomes offended. Having guilt is one thing, but I find hypocrisy, especially religious hypocrisy, to be enraging in real life, so my patience for it in a fictional character is pretty much non-existent. But luckily, this religiosity is cured by one magical night of sex. Per usual. And then there’s Benedict’s obsession with the Staff, which is just a big dildo, which he wants for his collection. It adds a creep factor to his character and I just envisioned him clutching this dildo for all it’s worth like Gollum in The Lord of the Rings. Sebastian, the thief, is basically a non-entity. His reason for being at the Ardmillan Estate borders on the absurd and his interest in Benedict never reads as believable.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
2.25 stars
I’m not sure really where to start with The Shooting Season, except to say that I’m not a fan. I struggled to connect with any of the characters and the plot is almost beyond absurd. There is some intrigue and action on page that helped keep the pacing strong, but that is the most positive aspect for me.
Benedict isn’t a likable character from my perspective. He’s got lots of religious guilt about his homosexuality, but he proceeds to be an absolute hypocrite about it. He constantly lusts after other men, but when they proposition him, he becomes offended. Having guilt is one thing, but I find hypocrisy, especially religious hypocrisy, to be enraging in real life, so my patience for it in a fictional character is pretty much non-existent. But luckily, this religiosity is cured by one magical night of sex. Per usual. And then there’s Benedict’s obsession with the Staff, which is just a big dildo, which he wants for his collection. It adds a creep factor to his character and I just envisioned him clutching this dildo for all it’s worth like Gollum in The Lord of the Rings. Sebastian, the thief, is basically a non-entity. His reason for being at the Ardmillan Estate borders on the absurd and his interest in Benedict never reads as believable.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
June 16, 2020
Liberation!
A turn of the century historical tale of romance and intrigue between Mr. Benedict & the mysterious John/Sebastian/Josiah. I love this story and can’t wait for the next installment. It has interesting dynamic characters, an actual plot and just the right amount of sexy times. A good read.
A turn of the century historical tale of romance and intrigue between Mr. Benedict & the mysterious John/Sebastian/Josiah. I love this story and can’t wait for the next installment. It has interesting dynamic characters, an actual plot and just the right amount of sexy times. A good read.
August 5, 2025
4.5 stars. Audiobook. Trilogy, must be read in order, must read all three for full resolution to the story. Victorian era London plotting and scheming with a side of kinky cult. Well written, very interesting and sexy. Audio narration was just right, Gary Furlong does an exceptional suave British gentleman.
Some suspension is required, as we get a bit OTT. Keep in mind that this is a time when science was rarely believed and spiritualism, seances and rituals was a popular past-time of the bored wealthy class. It’s imaginative and entertaining, everything that fiction should be. The romance is A+, sweet, tender, secretive and spicy.
HEA, trilogy, read in order, London, Victorian era, m/m, vers, mild angst, mild drama, machinations, ritual, kinky sex cult.
Some suspension is required, as we get a bit OTT. Keep in mind that this is a time when science was rarely believed and spiritualism, seances and rituals was a popular past-time of the bored wealthy class. It’s imaginative and entertaining, everything that fiction should be. The romance is A+, sweet, tender, secretive and spicy.
HEA, trilogy, read in order, London, Victorian era, m/m, vers, mild angst, mild drama, machinations, ritual, kinky sex cult.
June 13, 2020
Ben goes to Scotland to try to obtain some antiquities which are going to auction. There he is reunited with his college friend and also meets Seb for the first time.
August 31, 2020
A great historical romance where much of the action/plot centers around middle-aged MC Benedict, whose main goal/purpose of making a last minute pre-Christmas dash into the snowy Scottish realms is to obtain a priceless collectable object being offered in a deceased estate. Readers gradually become enlightened as to the backstory and historical entanglements tying poor Ben to his place of destination just as Ben becomes aware he's gained the uninvited attentions from not one but two striking figures. The romance elements play out quietly alongside Ben's main mission ... the former never overshadows nor supplants the latter; this is how a M-M romance should be done IMO. The ending was delightfully unexpected and paves the way for more tales in the series. 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.
October 3, 2025
3.5 stars. A short historical novella featuring art auctions, deceit, thievery, and an uptight Englishman looking for love. I enjoyed this one quite a bit. I’m a big fan of Gary Furlong as a narrator and felt he did a wonderful job bringing this story to life. It’s definitely true to its time, which made Benedict a little angsty and a lot repressed. I hope there will be more stories as hinted at, because I think there is a lot of potential here for a great arc!
November 26, 2019
Reviewed for Rainbow Gold Reviews. A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I am a big fan of this author’s Shatterproof Bond series so I’m always eager to read and review the author’s other works. The author definitely changes things up among her different series, and this is no exception. In this book we are taken back in time to the end of the 19th century. In a historical novel it is always so much harder for a character to be gay. Despite the strides we still need to make in the present, in most countries it is not a crime and more people accept it than not. In 1897, a man only has to see how Oscar Wilde was imprisoned for homosexuality to know they have to keep their true selves hidden.
This is true for the main character of this story, Benedict Hannan. In a romance, there are usually two main characters, but in this book, I feel like there is really only one. The story is told from Ben’s point of view and while there is a possibility for a romance, this story largely has to do with Ben’s acceptance of himself. The title “The Shooting Season” refers to a time when Ben stayed with Euan Ardmillan and the two young men gave into their desires for one another. Many years later, now, Euan’s father has passed away and Benedict is invited to an auction of his collection of art and artifacts. Only once there, Ben realizes that he has been quite misled.
Ever since his brief love affair with Euan, Ben has been very repressed. He turned to God to forget and pray away his homosexuality and avoids physical contact with others so his desires aren’t inflamed. He is afraid of breaking laws of country and religion by being himself. I do feel bad for him, to a certain extent. I know society has told him what he is is wrong, but to see him pull away from others and dislike himself, it is also frustrating. Ben is now 50 years old and has no one to care about.
After arriving at Ardmillan’s estate it seems that Euan might try to rekindle his boyhood romance with Ben but he is hiding things from Ben that one of the guests takes the liberty to reveal. Sebastian Cavell is a man of many names and disguises. He has watched Ben for awhile to measure his character and he seeks to free Ben from his self-imposed cage. While both Euan and Sebastian play a part in Ben’s shame of himself and his eventual acceptance, the story is left open-ended. There was a bit of mystery to the story, though it is subtle. And at the end, I was still left with questions. What is Sebastian’s end game and is there any magic to the staff that Ben had hoped to purchase from Euan? Will Ben and Sebastian find a HEA? Because he does seem to be a better fit for Ben than Euan is. It does say “to be continued” at the end, but I am hoping for the best and can’t wait to read the next book in this series(?) I’m not sure what to call it because there is no series name, but I can and do recommend this book.
9/10 Pots of Gold (90% Recommended) – Compares to 4.5/5 Stars
I am a big fan of this author’s Shatterproof Bond series so I’m always eager to read and review the author’s other works. The author definitely changes things up among her different series, and this is no exception. In this book we are taken back in time to the end of the 19th century. In a historical novel it is always so much harder for a character to be gay. Despite the strides we still need to make in the present, in most countries it is not a crime and more people accept it than not. In 1897, a man only has to see how Oscar Wilde was imprisoned for homosexuality to know they have to keep their true selves hidden.
This is true for the main character of this story, Benedict Hannan. In a romance, there are usually two main characters, but in this book, I feel like there is really only one. The story is told from Ben’s point of view and while there is a possibility for a romance, this story largely has to do with Ben’s acceptance of himself. The title “The Shooting Season” refers to a time when Ben stayed with Euan Ardmillan and the two young men gave into their desires for one another. Many years later, now, Euan’s father has passed away and Benedict is invited to an auction of his collection of art and artifacts. Only once there, Ben realizes that he has been quite misled.
Ever since his brief love affair with Euan, Ben has been very repressed. He turned to God to forget and pray away his homosexuality and avoids physical contact with others so his desires aren’t inflamed. He is afraid of breaking laws of country and religion by being himself. I do feel bad for him, to a certain extent. I know society has told him what he is is wrong, but to see him pull away from others and dislike himself, it is also frustrating. Ben is now 50 years old and has no one to care about.
After arriving at Ardmillan’s estate it seems that Euan might try to rekindle his boyhood romance with Ben but he is hiding things from Ben that one of the guests takes the liberty to reveal. Sebastian Cavell is a man of many names and disguises. He has watched Ben for awhile to measure his character and he seeks to free Ben from his self-imposed cage. While both Euan and Sebastian play a part in Ben’s shame of himself and his eventual acceptance, the story is left open-ended. There was a bit of mystery to the story, though it is subtle. And at the end, I was still left with questions. What is Sebastian’s end game and is there any magic to the staff that Ben had hoped to purchase from Euan? Will Ben and Sebastian find a HEA? Because he does seem to be a better fit for Ben than Euan is. It does say “to be continued” at the end, but I am hoping for the best and can’t wait to read the next book in this series(?) I’m not sure what to call it because there is no series name, but I can and do recommend this book.
9/10 Pots of Gold (90% Recommended) – Compares to 4.5/5 Stars
January 21, 2020
If you have never read (or Listened to) Isobel Starling…You should. The writing is exquisite, the characters compelling and the stories, interesting and twisted.
The Shooting Season was quite a bit different than the Shatterproof Bond series in a way. This was a historical set back when if you were caught in a gay relationship you were imprisoned or killed. It is set in Oscar Wilde’s time and he was cited as an example. Benedict is on his way to a huge private invitation-only auction where he hopes to acquire a special artifact not for his Auction House but for himself. It is a staff rumored to cure any ailment and he hopes to cast away his evil, Impure thoughts. The problem is it is taking him straight into the lion’s den to the home of his first lover Euan Ardmillan, The new owner of the estate.
This is a very short book and it drags you in with its telling and keeps you there with each page turn. Once the twists begin, they get tighter and tighter and more and more. There is a lot in this short of a book.
The narration by Gary Furlong is perfect. His voice for Benedict gives the story the perfect accent for this setting, and also the perfect eerie feeling.
If you love historical MM stories, mystery/suspense, lots of twists, and a short story to fill some time this is for you. I highly recommend the audio since the narration gives it a perfect boost just reading will miss.
The Shooting Season was quite a bit different than the Shatterproof Bond series in a way. This was a historical set back when if you were caught in a gay relationship you were imprisoned or killed. It is set in Oscar Wilde’s time and he was cited as an example. Benedict is on his way to a huge private invitation-only auction where he hopes to acquire a special artifact not for his Auction House but for himself. It is a staff rumored to cure any ailment and he hopes to cast away his evil, Impure thoughts. The problem is it is taking him straight into the lion’s den to the home of his first lover Euan Ardmillan, The new owner of the estate.
This is a very short book and it drags you in with its telling and keeps you there with each page turn. Once the twists begin, they get tighter and tighter and more and more. There is a lot in this short of a book.
The narration by Gary Furlong is perfect. His voice for Benedict gives the story the perfect accent for this setting, and also the perfect eerie feeling.
If you love historical MM stories, mystery/suspense, lots of twists, and a short story to fill some time this is for you. I highly recommend the audio since the narration gives it a perfect boost just reading will miss.
January 26, 2021
Conoscevo già l'autrice, quindi quando l'ho visto in Unlimited non ho potuto fare a meno di prenderlo in prestito e vi dirò che è davvero un bel inizio di una serie. Due personaggi davvero carismatci che, in questa, novella ci vengono presentati nel migliore dei modi. Non vedo l'ora di leggere il seguito.
December 10, 2019
Review to come!
November 23, 2020
Delizioso
November 14, 2025
Fun and a good start to a series.
November 3, 2025
Odd little novella revolving around an obsidian dildo and an easily manipulated Benedict.
May 18, 2020
Good story - Perfect Narration - but - To Be Continued ???
The audiobook version of The Shooting Season by Isobel Starling immediately captures the listener’s attention.
The pitch perfect narration by Gary Furlong brings each of the characters vividly to life. This is the first audiobook I’ve heard narrated by Furlong - it won’t be my last.
But just as this story seems to near its conclusion, Mr. Furlong (through no fault of his own) has to announce, ‘To Be Continued’.
I have a personal antipathy to this particular marketing device, but I definitely do want to hear what comes next.
The Shooting Season tells the story of Ben Hannan, the owner of a prestigious London Auction House being invited to Edinburgh to examine and bid on the renowned fine art and antiquities collection of the late Lord Percival Ardmillan. Ben’s trip undoubtedly will bring him back into contact with his former university roommate, Euan Ardmillan, Lord Percival’s son.
Ben has long struggled with his own sexuality and, following multiple sexual experiences with Euan in collage, he is both concerned and excited about their reunion.
[Spoiler Alert - If you don't want to know any more, please skip these final paragraphs]
On the train ride to Edinburgh, Ben meets ‘Sebastian’, a true master of disguise, who is subsequently revealed to be a renowned ‘Gentleman Thief’. Among Lord Ardmillan's collection, Ben, Euan, and Sebastian are all particularly interested in the mystical Asclepius (Greek God of Healing) phallic artifact.
What follows in a story of intrigue, deception, theft, and personal discovery.
The audiobook version of The Shooting Season by Isobel Starling immediately captures the listener’s attention.
The pitch perfect narration by Gary Furlong brings each of the characters vividly to life. This is the first audiobook I’ve heard narrated by Furlong - it won’t be my last.
But just as this story seems to near its conclusion, Mr. Furlong (through no fault of his own) has to announce, ‘To Be Continued’.
I have a personal antipathy to this particular marketing device, but I definitely do want to hear what comes next.
The Shooting Season tells the story of Ben Hannan, the owner of a prestigious London Auction House being invited to Edinburgh to examine and bid on the renowned fine art and antiquities collection of the late Lord Percival Ardmillan. Ben’s trip undoubtedly will bring him back into contact with his former university roommate, Euan Ardmillan, Lord Percival’s son.
Ben has long struggled with his own sexuality and, following multiple sexual experiences with Euan in collage, he is both concerned and excited about their reunion.
[Spoiler Alert - If you don't want to know any more, please skip these final paragraphs]
On the train ride to Edinburgh, Ben meets ‘Sebastian’, a true master of disguise, who is subsequently revealed to be a renowned ‘Gentleman Thief’. Among Lord Ardmillan's collection, Ben, Euan, and Sebastian are all particularly interested in the mystical Asclepius (Greek God of Healing) phallic artifact.
What follows in a story of intrigue, deception, theft, and personal discovery.
August 14, 2024
A very nice, well written and oh-so sweet historical romance.
Fifty-year-old Benedict has been celibate and ashamed most of his life. After his first and only lover snubbed him while they were still at school together, the next 30 years of Benedict’s life consisted only of piety, collecting antiquities, practising extreme introversion, isolation and celibacy. Benedict avoids all human connection, even the most innocuous of physical contact because of the carnal desire that the touch of another man’s flesh stir in him.
Out of the blue Benedict’s first and only lover, Ewan, (with whom Benedict has had no contact for over 30 years), reaches out with a last minute Christmastime missive to an event at his family estate for the auctioning off of Ewan’s deceased father’s collection of art and antiquities, which successfully tempts Benedict to attend, despite the last minute summons.
Benedict, having never truly gotten over Ewan, attends the house party and is promptly seduced by the conniving and selfish man that Ewan has become. Ewan’s true nature is revealed to Benedict with some helpful nudges from a familiar, handsome, and boldly flirtatious younger man.
Ewan promises to gift Benedict with the phallic staff that Benedict has coveted for 30 years, but at the last minute the staff is stolen. Benedict’s journey and reunion with Ewan all seems to have been for naught. Plus Benedict finds out that Ewan betrayed him once again, as he never intended to hand over the staff to Benedict as he’d promised.
Benedict cannot bear to waste another minute wallowing in his heartbreak over Ewan. After all, he had already spent more than half his life mourning the loss of Ewan’s companionship, and hating his own “immoral” proclivity toward his own sex.
Re-enter the handsome young stranger (Sebastian), who is revealed to be a Robin Hood sort of thief, who steals valuable items from rich men who obtained said items through nefarious means, and restores them to their rightful owner.
Initially, Sebastian means to approach the aptly positioned auction house owner, Benedict with a business arrangement. However, when looking into Benedict…. after all, Sebastian must do his due diligence to investigate Benedict before making an approach to propose a business partnership, Sebastian finds that he’s far more interested in Benedict as a man… Well in actuality, Sebastian is primarily interested in Benedict as a lover. So Sebastian seeks to seduce Benedict. But first he must convince Benedict to overcome his shame and self-loathing and accept the intimate touch of another man…. Which he does, ever so gallantly… washing away the many years Benedict has spent in isolation and celibacy, with a single grand romantic gesture and sexy as hell seduction scene. I cannot wait to read the rest of Benedict’s and Sebastian’s story in the much lengthier 2nd book of the series: The Gentleman’s Thief.
Fifty-year-old Benedict has been celibate and ashamed most of his life. After his first and only lover snubbed him while they were still at school together, the next 30 years of Benedict’s life consisted only of piety, collecting antiquities, practising extreme introversion, isolation and celibacy. Benedict avoids all human connection, even the most innocuous of physical contact because of the carnal desire that the touch of another man’s flesh stir in him.
Out of the blue Benedict’s first and only lover, Ewan, (with whom Benedict has had no contact for over 30 years), reaches out with a last minute Christmastime missive to an event at his family estate for the auctioning off of Ewan’s deceased father’s collection of art and antiquities, which successfully tempts Benedict to attend, despite the last minute summons.
Benedict, having never truly gotten over Ewan, attends the house party and is promptly seduced by the conniving and selfish man that Ewan has become. Ewan’s true nature is revealed to Benedict with some helpful nudges from a familiar, handsome, and boldly flirtatious younger man.
Ewan promises to gift Benedict with the phallic staff that Benedict has coveted for 30 years, but at the last minute the staff is stolen. Benedict’s journey and reunion with Ewan all seems to have been for naught. Plus Benedict finds out that Ewan betrayed him once again, as he never intended to hand over the staff to Benedict as he’d promised.
Benedict cannot bear to waste another minute wallowing in his heartbreak over Ewan. After all, he had already spent more than half his life mourning the loss of Ewan’s companionship, and hating his own “immoral” proclivity toward his own sex.
Re-enter the handsome young stranger (Sebastian), who is revealed to be a Robin Hood sort of thief, who steals valuable items from rich men who obtained said items through nefarious means, and restores them to their rightful owner.
Initially, Sebastian means to approach the aptly positioned auction house owner, Benedict with a business arrangement. However, when looking into Benedict…. after all, Sebastian must do his due diligence to investigate Benedict before making an approach to propose a business partnership, Sebastian finds that he’s far more interested in Benedict as a man… Well in actuality, Sebastian is primarily interested in Benedict as a lover. So Sebastian seeks to seduce Benedict. But first he must convince Benedict to overcome his shame and self-loathing and accept the intimate touch of another man…. Which he does, ever so gallantly… washing away the many years Benedict has spent in isolation and celibacy, with a single grand romantic gesture and sexy as hell seduction scene. I cannot wait to read the rest of Benedict’s and Sebastian’s story in the much lengthier 2nd book of the series: The Gentleman’s Thief.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2019
When to risk everything (an audio review)
I used to read m/f historical romances and the ones I enjoyed the most were the ones where the heroes and heroines faced real risk. Interracial romances were amongst my favorites because the stakes were often high. In gay historical romances, the stakes are as high as they can get. Imprisonment, banishment, and even death were considered acceptable punishment for men caught in the act with other men. In this story, Oscar Wilde is never far from mind.
All that being said, there are risks exhibited by the men in this story. The main protagonist, Benedict Hannan, has the most to lose and the most to gain. He’s been summoned to Scotland mere days before Christmas to an estate auction. There he meets a man who, in their formative university days, had been his lover. Benedict has spent the past thirty years suppressing his unnatural urges and in less than a day, Euan Ardmillan has him reconsidering everything in his life. Realizing how lonely he truly is. Seeing that temptations of the flesh are as powerful now as they’ve always been. Euan has been busy the past thirty years – some parts have been happy, some not so much. Now he needs Benedict’s help to recapture some of his youth. His virility.
There is also another man Benedict meets on his journey. A man who also makes Benedict question everything.
I really enjoyed this book. Benedict was a man who generated my sympathies, to be sure. Living repressed for nearly thirty years has been difficult, to say the least. To watch him interacting with other men on the base level of sexual contact was interesting. I wanted more. This book left me wanting more. It does end with ‘to be continued’ and I, for one, will be eagerly awaiting the next story, curious as to where this mystery is going to lead me next.
Gary Furlong narrates all of Ms. Starling’s books and it’s a match made in audio heaven. His performances are always spot on and his talent knows no bounds. This was another great listen and, as I’ve said, I can’t wait for more.
I used to read m/f historical romances and the ones I enjoyed the most were the ones where the heroes and heroines faced real risk. Interracial romances were amongst my favorites because the stakes were often high. In gay historical romances, the stakes are as high as they can get. Imprisonment, banishment, and even death were considered acceptable punishment for men caught in the act with other men. In this story, Oscar Wilde is never far from mind.
All that being said, there are risks exhibited by the men in this story. The main protagonist, Benedict Hannan, has the most to lose and the most to gain. He’s been summoned to Scotland mere days before Christmas to an estate auction. There he meets a man who, in their formative university days, had been his lover. Benedict has spent the past thirty years suppressing his unnatural urges and in less than a day, Euan Ardmillan has him reconsidering everything in his life. Realizing how lonely he truly is. Seeing that temptations of the flesh are as powerful now as they’ve always been. Euan has been busy the past thirty years – some parts have been happy, some not so much. Now he needs Benedict’s help to recapture some of his youth. His virility.
There is also another man Benedict meets on his journey. A man who also makes Benedict question everything.
I really enjoyed this book. Benedict was a man who generated my sympathies, to be sure. Living repressed for nearly thirty years has been difficult, to say the least. To watch him interacting with other men on the base level of sexual contact was interesting. I wanted more. This book left me wanting more. It does end with ‘to be continued’ and I, for one, will be eagerly awaiting the next story, curious as to where this mystery is going to lead me next.
Gary Furlong narrates all of Ms. Starling’s books and it’s a match made in audio heaven. His performances are always spot on and his talent knows no bounds. This was another great listen and, as I’ve said, I can’t wait for more.
December 18, 2025
I found this book through one of those ‘if you like this... read this....’ lists and it wasn’t a bad book per se, but it wasn’t anything to write home about.
I did enjoy this book, and I did know going in that it was a bit of a shorter story in a small series of small novella length books. However, I was still expecting some sort of substance from the story. Although the story was good if you’re just looking for something quick to read and consume and not really get much out of – it didn’t have enough substance to make it more than that in my opinion.
I didn’t really grow to love the characters, there wasn’t anything I particularly felt like I learned from the story, and most of the characters ended up back exactly where they started at the beginning of the story and it didn’t truly feel like anything had changed. I’m vaguely (only vaguely) interested in the next book in the series but mostly just because I want to see what more can be added to this story. I’m theorizing that book two will feel like the middle of the book and book 3 will feel like the end and it will make me feel like they should have published it as one book instead of 3 smaller ones, but we’ll see. The spicy level was also a level 3.
Overall, I would rate this book a 3 out of 5 star rating. Nothing particularly grand but nothing necessarily bad about it either.
I did enjoy this book, and I did know going in that it was a bit of a shorter story in a small series of small novella length books. However, I was still expecting some sort of substance from the story. Although the story was good if you’re just looking for something quick to read and consume and not really get much out of – it didn’t have enough substance to make it more than that in my opinion.
I didn’t really grow to love the characters, there wasn’t anything I particularly felt like I learned from the story, and most of the characters ended up back exactly where they started at the beginning of the story and it didn’t truly feel like anything had changed. I’m vaguely (only vaguely) interested in the next book in the series but mostly just because I want to see what more can be added to this story. I’m theorizing that book two will feel like the middle of the book and book 3 will feel like the end and it will make me feel like they should have published it as one book instead of 3 smaller ones, but we’ll see. The spicy level was also a level 3.
Overall, I would rate this book a 3 out of 5 star rating. Nothing particularly grand but nothing necessarily bad about it either.
October 7, 2025
It’s Britain in 1897 and fine arts auctioneer Benedict Hannan still labours under the guilt and fear of his same-sex attraction. He’s surprised to be invited by one-time lover Lord Euan Ardmillan to bid for his late father’s private collection. Euan hasn’t spoken to him for decades after suddenly ending the relationship but Benedict can’t fight the old feelings he had for him. However, all is not what it seems and Benedict finds himself being deceived and manipulated by more than one person. Who can he trust?
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every Isobel Starling novel I’ve read and this historical romance novella was no exception. Benedict is decent and kind but easily taken advantage of. I enjoyed the intrigue, the study of manners, and the frisson of very real danger of exposure would bring Benedict undone. It’s the first in the trilogy and I can’t wait to read the others. 🎧 UK voice actor Gary Furlong has become one of my most treasured narrators, he always gives a great audio performance.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every Isobel Starling novel I’ve read and this historical romance novella was no exception. Benedict is decent and kind but easily taken advantage of. I enjoyed the intrigue, the study of manners, and the frisson of very real danger of exposure would bring Benedict undone. It’s the first in the trilogy and I can’t wait to read the others. 🎧 UK voice actor Gary Furlong has become one of my most treasured narrators, he always gives a great audio performance.
December 26, 2019
Benedict Hannon receives a late missive giving him an opportunity to travel to Scotland and bid on items from the late Lord Armillan's collection of fine art and antiquities. Benedict knew Ardmillan's son from University and had been to the house before. He is delighted to be able to hopefully obtain an object he has wanted for 30 years. When he arrives, things are not quite as he imagined. Now he finds himself facing his past and present desires as well as an intriguing stranger who brings him to life.
Benedict started out being quite the prissy one. As we learn about his past, we realize the reason for it. We also find the Euan, the son, is beginning to experience some retribution and wants help from Benedict. Nothing really goes as planned and you cannot help but be delighted as to how all works out. Pick this one up as you will be delighted with Benedict as he tries to resolve his issues.
Benedict started out being quite the prissy one. As we learn about his past, we realize the reason for it. We also find the Euan, the son, is beginning to experience some retribution and wants help from Benedict. Nothing really goes as planned and you cannot help but be delighted as to how all works out. Pick this one up as you will be delighted with Benedict as he tries to resolve his issues.
December 22, 2023
Good start to a series
The storytelling in this book was excellent. I felt like I knew the characters and experienced what they were experiencing at the time.
A good storyteller will do that to you.
A couple of things, though:
The book needs a good editor or proofreader, as the book was throwing commas all over the place, except for where they were needed.
Many sentences ended abruptly.
Sometimes I couldn't tell who was 'speaking', and I had to reread the previous paragraph to figure it out.
The biggest peeve (which I guess I should have led with), was the main character and his droning internal monologue...pages and pages of it, to where I found myself skipping thru a lot of it.
The rambling added nothing to the story, and much of the internal dialogue was repetitive.
For the above listed gripes, this book could have been a great read, instead of a good read.
I will definitely check out the next book in this series.
The storytelling in this book was excellent. I felt like I knew the characters and experienced what they were experiencing at the time.
A good storyteller will do that to you.
A couple of things, though:
The book needs a good editor or proofreader, as the book was throwing commas all over the place, except for where they were needed.
Many sentences ended abruptly.
Sometimes I couldn't tell who was 'speaking', and I had to reread the previous paragraph to figure it out.
The biggest peeve (which I guess I should have led with), was the main character and his droning internal monologue...pages and pages of it, to where I found myself skipping thru a lot of it.
The rambling added nothing to the story, and much of the internal dialogue was repetitive.
For the above listed gripes, this book could have been a great read, instead of a good read.
I will definitely check out the next book in this series.
December 20, 2019
I absolutely loved both the story and the narration. Told solely from the point of view of a rather proper Benedict, I love how Gary Furlong brings him to life, yet never misses an opportunity to be creative with the secondary characters. I particularly enjoyed the many voices of Sebastian. I can't wait to hear more of his work.
The author captured the late 19th century excellently and this is indicative of thorough research. I certainly learnt several new things and will never look at plums the same way again! I like how Benedict is a more mature man of 50 (at a time when this might have been considered old). I definitely want to see him to continue to blossom after being so set in his way for 30 years. I hope that Sebastian is a large part of his rebirth.
Looking forward to the next in the series.
The author captured the late 19th century excellently and this is indicative of thorough research. I certainly learnt several new things and will never look at plums the same way again! I like how Benedict is a more mature man of 50 (at a time when this might have been considered old). I definitely want to see him to continue to blossom after being so set in his way for 30 years. I hope that Sebastian is a large part of his rebirth.
Looking forward to the next in the series.
March 15, 2020
I have read and listened to several of Isobel Starling's books but these have been books set in the modern era.
I initially I found the book slow and the lead character Benedict quite heavy going. However, as the tale developed you understood why he was like he was. Also, as the mystery developed the pace sped up. I was then gripped, growing to like Benedict more and more but also seriously taking against one particular character.
I hope there will be another book this series in which we get to meet the two main protagonists. I enjoyed the period feel and the clever but not overly elaborate twist.
It is a useful reminder that it is major change in recent times to be able to talk about being gay so freely.
I was then given this book as an advanced listener. Gary Furlong is gem of a narrator. I had not realised he was so versatile. Foe the audible book I give 4.5*
I initially I found the book slow and the lead character Benedict quite heavy going. However, as the tale developed you understood why he was like he was. Also, as the mystery developed the pace sped up. I was then gripped, growing to like Benedict more and more but also seriously taking against one particular character.
I hope there will be another book this series in which we get to meet the two main protagonists. I enjoyed the period feel and the clever but not overly elaborate twist.
It is a useful reminder that it is major change in recent times to be able to talk about being gay so freely.
I was then given this book as an advanced listener. Gary Furlong is gem of a narrator. I had not realised he was so versatile. Foe the audible book I give 4.5*
June 26, 2020
***SPOILER ALERT***Benedict has been trying to rid himself of his sexuality for his entire adult life. His affair with his roommate in college, and the roommate subsequently giving him the cold shoulder, made him feel hurt and ashamed.
He now wants to buy an antiquity rumoured to have magical properties, hoping to cure himself of his feelings. He goes to Scotland, where his old roommate’s father has passed and left an ill gotten collection of valuables.
On the train, he meets Sebastian, going by an alias, there as a cat burglar to right the wrongs of the dead man’s escapades.
As things unfold, it seems like father like son, Ben’s old roommate is manipulative and deceitful. But, Sebastian becomes someone who takes care of Ben, warning him and being kind and concerned, and a new relationship is formed.
KU
He now wants to buy an antiquity rumoured to have magical properties, hoping to cure himself of his feelings. He goes to Scotland, where his old roommate’s father has passed and left an ill gotten collection of valuables.
On the train, he meets Sebastian, going by an alias, there as a cat burglar to right the wrongs of the dead man’s escapades.
As things unfold, it seems like father like son, Ben’s old roommate is manipulative and deceitful. But, Sebastian becomes someone who takes care of Ben, warning him and being kind and concerned, and a new relationship is formed.
KU
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2020
I wish it had been longer but that's easily forgiven since it's part of a series. There was too much tell in the beginning but that seemed to ease quickly and, as the author is new to me, I've chalked up to Benedict's character. It could use some editing for continuity on historical voice. There were a few places a word or phrase was used by a character that seemed too modern but not glaringly so. I felt like there were a few missed opportunities with Benedict's touch issues where his passion or aversion could have made things more interesting. The plot surrounding the staff was completely absurd but so hilarious and interesting that I refused to disbelieve.
Despite the flaws, I got sucked in. I am interested in reading the second book but I'll probably wait until the series is finished. In the meantime, I'll probably check out something else by this author.
Despite the flaws, I got sucked in. I am interested in reading the second book but I'll probably wait until the series is finished. In the meantime, I'll probably check out something else by this author.
December 11, 2019
~AUDIO REVIEW~
I absolutely love this duo
Gary Furlong was amazing as always. I loved his performance. From changing each character’s voice to knowing where to express emotions he portrays a wonderful story.
I could feel the pain and battles Benedict had with his sexuality. He stayed a bachelor suppressing his deepest desires until he returns to Ardmillan Estates for an auction, and is once again confronted by Euan, a past lover. But not all is as it seems.
The moment “Sebastian” and Benedict met I hoped for more from the two. I'm really intrigued with Sebastian and want to know more. The story as a whole ended nicely, and I would have been fine with the ending, but… there seems to be more, and I can’t wait.
I absolutely love this duo
Gary Furlong was amazing as always. I loved his performance. From changing each character’s voice to knowing where to express emotions he portrays a wonderful story.
I could feel the pain and battles Benedict had with his sexuality. He stayed a bachelor suppressing his deepest desires until he returns to Ardmillan Estates for an auction, and is once again confronted by Euan, a past lover. But not all is as it seems.
The moment “Sebastian” and Benedict met I hoped for more from the two. I'm really intrigued with Sebastian and want to know more. The story as a whole ended nicely, and I would have been fine with the ending, but… there seems to be more, and I can’t wait.
April 6, 2020
Short and sweet with a nice touch of sexy, this had a steel grip on my heart since chapter 1 and never let go. Beautiful prose without being overly flowery. That, plus the narrator, made it a very immersive experience for me (re: steel grip on my heart). Supremely attached to Benedict and his internal conflict, to me always toying with the line between sadly relatable and funny, as did a lot of this story. Some things didn't feel realistic to me, but that resulted in an almost like a fairytale-esque effect, which I personally love. Sometimes I just wanna read nice things, y'know? Great job, looking forward to more.
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