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The Clearwater Mysteries #0
Banyak & Fecks
Banyak & Fecks is a prequel to The Clearwater Mystery series of romantic gay novels. However, it is not a mystery. It is a story of how a Ukrainian refugee and the son of an Irish immigrant come to meet in the East End of London in 1884. It is a story about friendship.
1881. Andrej’s family are dead or missing, and his village in Ukraine decimated. Aged thirteen, he walks west to find a boat to take him to London. Three years later, homeless, starving and having resorted to prostitution, he finds safe passage and arrives in London alone but determined.
1884. Silas’ mother has died, leaving him to fend for his twin sisters in the hellish world of the Westerpool slums. Silas only knows the work of a thief and trickster and at sixteen, heads to London to make his money. What he finds is poverty, starvation and the Greychurch workhouse. About to give up, he encounters a giant Ukrainian, proud, handsome, and renting his body in the alleys of the East End.
Silas (Banyak) and Andrej (Fecks) make an unlikely pair, but their friendship is all they need to survive life in London’s notorious East End. When disaster robs them of their home, they have no choice but to live rough and work the streets. Lodging houses, rope houses, arrest, violence and prostitution, they face it together.
But when the Ripper starts slaughtering Greychurch rent boys, Banyak and Fecks have only their friendship to ensure their survival.
‘Banyak & Fecks’ ends the day before the first Clearwater Mystery, ‘Deviant Desire’ begins. It is a story of friendship and platonic love set in Greychurch, the imaginary Whitechapel of the Clearwater world. Extensively researched, readers are taken from the Russian steppe and the Wirral slums to the squalor of the East End in the late 1880s.
1881. Andrej’s family are dead or missing, and his village in Ukraine decimated. Aged thirteen, he walks west to find a boat to take him to London. Three years later, homeless, starving and having resorted to prostitution, he finds safe passage and arrives in London alone but determined.
1884. Silas’ mother has died, leaving him to fend for his twin sisters in the hellish world of the Westerpool slums. Silas only knows the work of a thief and trickster and at sixteen, heads to London to make his money. What he finds is poverty, starvation and the Greychurch workhouse. About to give up, he encounters a giant Ukrainian, proud, handsome, and renting his body in the alleys of the East End.
Silas (Banyak) and Andrej (Fecks) make an unlikely pair, but their friendship is all they need to survive life in London’s notorious East End. When disaster robs them of their home, they have no choice but to live rough and work the streets. Lodging houses, rope houses, arrest, violence and prostitution, they face it together.
But when the Ripper starts slaughtering Greychurch rent boys, Banyak and Fecks have only their friendship to ensure their survival.
‘Banyak & Fecks’ ends the day before the first Clearwater Mystery, ‘Deviant Desire’ begins. It is a story of friendship and platonic love set in Greychurch, the imaginary Whitechapel of the Clearwater world. Extensively researched, readers are taken from the Russian steppe and the Wirral slums to the squalor of the East End in the late 1880s.
- GenresHistorical
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 27, 2020
26 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Jackson Marsh
43 books81 followersJackson Marsh is a British born author of novels and screenplays. He has won awards for his gay erotic writing and currently writes for several adult websites. In 2007, Jackson won an EGPA for his writing and in 2017 won awards for his screenplay writing. He is married and lives in Greece.
You can reach Jackson at his website jacksonmarsh.com
You can reach Jackson at his website jacksonmarsh.com
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
October 13, 2025
4.75 stars ...
Re-read: Oct '25
Buying the physical books and taking my time re-reading this amazing series. Victorian historical fiction, suspense/drama/mystery, found family, love/loyalty, ... checks so many boxes for me.
Re-read: Oct '25
Buying the physical books and taking my time re-reading this amazing series. Victorian historical fiction, suspense/drama/mystery, found family, love/loyalty, ... checks so many boxes for me.
August 4, 2024
One of my favorite reads of 2024.
I finished this one at least a month ago but haven’t had the spoons to write reviews. Eventually I’ll come back to read this one again and will hopefully write a decent review because this series, and this book in particular, seem wholly under read, under review and under appreciated.
Emotionally challenging content but I truly loved the story.
I finished this one at least a month ago but haven’t had the spoons to write reviews. Eventually I’ll come back to read this one again and will hopefully write a decent review because this series, and this book in particular, seem wholly under read, under review and under appreciated.
Emotionally challenging content but I truly loved the story.
September 1, 2023
4.5 enthusiastic stars! I’m so glad I read this prequel before embarking on the actual series. I loved getting to know Silas/Banyak and Andrej/Fecks through their backstories. The detailed Victorian England setting was amazing and helped me visualize the atmosphere these two lived in. While there are several gay and bi characters, I would not categorize this as a m/m romance. It felt more like a bromance, an unbreakable bond forged between two young men forced to make it on their own while relying on each other. I look forward to reading more about their friendship and experiences in upcoming books.
March 19, 2021
“Banyak & Fecks” is the tale of Andrej Borysko Yakiv Kolisnychenko aka Fecks and Silas Hawkins aka Banyak, before they meet in the alley of East End London. If the title alone is intriguing, come along, and follow their journey’s, of how they meet and acquire such interesting nicknames.
In the summer of 1881, in Serbka, Ukraine, Andrej Borysko Yakiv Kolisnychenko has returned, one last time, to his war destroyed home, where generations of his ancestors have worked the land. His family now dead the only hope he has is reunite with his brother Danylo, who went to war. With a black and white pebble from Danylo, his grandfather’s khanjali (knife) and wise words of his Babusya (grandmother), he heads west. The journey was difficult and Andrej had to be cautious of the Russians and villagers as he never knew where he would meet danger. As time passes and along his arduous journey he meets Mirel Paulescu, a blind farmer and his horse Banyak. Mirel is a life saver for Andrej as he gives him shelter and comfort. As Andrej decides to depart he still heads west in his journey to London. He comes across the Zoran Amazing Circus, where he is mesmerized by the horses and becomes a performer. Never experiencing such an abusive situation, Andrej runs in fear from the circus. With his destination unknown in 1883, he finds himself aboard a ship heading for Genoa, Italy where he learns lessons of life and become friends with Anatoly Makarov. They travel the sea for years until 1884 where they arrive in Limedock, London. With the help of Makarov, Andrej has a place to stay with Matrona, Makarov’s grandmother. Andrej worked the docks but he eventually learned how to work the streets and one evening with a trick, a young man saves his life.
October 1884, Center Wharf, Westerpool, Silas Hawkins, at the age of sixteen is ready to move on. He’s helped provide for his, now deceased Mother and younger twin sisters, Iona and Karan, as best he could. But he has a reputation now, for pickpocketing, stealing, and deception. He visits with Father Patrick to let him know he’s off to London and promises to send money to support his sisters. Silas is smart, creative and a master at imitation. He’s always thinking of the next step to earn money and not get sent to gaol. But something was always missing in Silas’ life and that was a true friendship. Once in London he meets Micky-Nick and so they become friends and he shows Silas what takes place in Greychurch. But Micky-Nick is not always around and Silas ventures on and makes a way for himself and it’s not always easy. He also learns of the trade many of the young men perform to survive.
The first time he lays eyes on the long blond haired giant, he’s shocked, but he saves the giants life and runs off. Eventually they meet up again and in turn Andrej saves Silas. A bond is formed between them to help each other while surviving the hard street life of the East End. Sometimes choices are made just to survive and some choices will come back to haunt Silas. By 1888 the streets and the lives of the young boys become endangered as the East End Ripper comes to wreak terror. Regardless of what life deals these two different souls, Silas and Andrej’s love and friendship never falters.
Jackson Marsh has never failed in bringing 18th century, Victorian history into the incredible “Clearwater Mysteries” series. With this prequel it’s very clear the amount of research he did to bring the hardships, abuse, and danger that existed for many on the streets of East End London. Marsh also shares a magnificent news letter and blog posts that provide an abundance of information on his characters, writing ideas, novels and research information.
The story of “Banyak & Fecks” is a magnificent journey of two young men from two different walks of life and what they have to endure to stay alive. Besides Andrej and Silas there are so many colorful characters that they meet along the way: Dr. Markland, Toviyah and Eddie Lovemount that will be in several of the “Clearwater Mysteries”.
If “Banyak & Fecks” had published as the very first novel in the “Clearwater Mysteries” I would have been hooked immediately! It’s a fantastic read and even now a great temptation to make me want to read the first novel again, as I’m sure I will at some point! Jackson Marsh, did this right though, as it leads right into the first novel “Deviant Desire” of the “Clearwater Mysteries”.
In the summer of 1881, in Serbka, Ukraine, Andrej Borysko Yakiv Kolisnychenko has returned, one last time, to his war destroyed home, where generations of his ancestors have worked the land. His family now dead the only hope he has is reunite with his brother Danylo, who went to war. With a black and white pebble from Danylo, his grandfather’s khanjali (knife) and wise words of his Babusya (grandmother), he heads west. The journey was difficult and Andrej had to be cautious of the Russians and villagers as he never knew where he would meet danger. As time passes and along his arduous journey he meets Mirel Paulescu, a blind farmer and his horse Banyak. Mirel is a life saver for Andrej as he gives him shelter and comfort. As Andrej decides to depart he still heads west in his journey to London. He comes across the Zoran Amazing Circus, where he is mesmerized by the horses and becomes a performer. Never experiencing such an abusive situation, Andrej runs in fear from the circus. With his destination unknown in 1883, he finds himself aboard a ship heading for Genoa, Italy where he learns lessons of life and become friends with Anatoly Makarov. They travel the sea for years until 1884 where they arrive in Limedock, London. With the help of Makarov, Andrej has a place to stay with Matrona, Makarov’s grandmother. Andrej worked the docks but he eventually learned how to work the streets and one evening with a trick, a young man saves his life.
October 1884, Center Wharf, Westerpool, Silas Hawkins, at the age of sixteen is ready to move on. He’s helped provide for his, now deceased Mother and younger twin sisters, Iona and Karan, as best he could. But he has a reputation now, for pickpocketing, stealing, and deception. He visits with Father Patrick to let him know he’s off to London and promises to send money to support his sisters. Silas is smart, creative and a master at imitation. He’s always thinking of the next step to earn money and not get sent to gaol. But something was always missing in Silas’ life and that was a true friendship. Once in London he meets Micky-Nick and so they become friends and he shows Silas what takes place in Greychurch. But Micky-Nick is not always around and Silas ventures on and makes a way for himself and it’s not always easy. He also learns of the trade many of the young men perform to survive.
The first time he lays eyes on the long blond haired giant, he’s shocked, but he saves the giants life and runs off. Eventually they meet up again and in turn Andrej saves Silas. A bond is formed between them to help each other while surviving the hard street life of the East End. Sometimes choices are made just to survive and some choices will come back to haunt Silas. By 1888 the streets and the lives of the young boys become endangered as the East End Ripper comes to wreak terror. Regardless of what life deals these two different souls, Silas and Andrej’s love and friendship never falters.
Jackson Marsh has never failed in bringing 18th century, Victorian history into the incredible “Clearwater Mysteries” series. With this prequel it’s very clear the amount of research he did to bring the hardships, abuse, and danger that existed for many on the streets of East End London. Marsh also shares a magnificent news letter and blog posts that provide an abundance of information on his characters, writing ideas, novels and research information.
The story of “Banyak & Fecks” is a magnificent journey of two young men from two different walks of life and what they have to endure to stay alive. Besides Andrej and Silas there are so many colorful characters that they meet along the way: Dr. Markland, Toviyah and Eddie Lovemount that will be in several of the “Clearwater Mysteries”.
If “Banyak & Fecks” had published as the very first novel in the “Clearwater Mysteries” I would have been hooked immediately! It’s a fantastic read and even now a great temptation to make me want to read the first novel again, as I’m sure I will at some point! Jackson Marsh, did this right though, as it leads right into the first novel “Deviant Desire” of the “Clearwater Mysteries”.
December 19, 2024
A Thoughtful and Heartfelt Prequel to the Clearwater Mysteries. Historical fiction is most captivating when an author immerses readers in a well-researched, believable world—and Jackson Marsh achieves that in Banyak & Fecks, the prequel to his popular Clearwater Mysteries series. As a first-time reader of Marsh’s work, I chose to start with this prequel, and it provided a compelling introduction to the characters and setting. While the Clearwater Mysteries series is known for its mysteries, Banyak & Fecks is not a mystery in itself; instead, it serves as a deeply emotional and character-driven backstory. According to Marsh, this book fits between books 9 and 10 in the series, but it stands on its own as a powerful narrative.
The novel transports readers to the East End of London in 1884, where we meet Andrej, a Ukrainian refugee, and Silas, the son of an Irish immigrant. Their unlikely friendship forms the heart of the story, and Marsh masterfully explores themes of survival, trust, and camaraderie. The setting is richly drawn, from the gritty streets of London to the nuanced portrayal of historical struggles.
What makes Banyak & Fecks especially captivating is its emotional depth. Marsh doesn't just show the hardships these men face; he makes us feel their experiences. Through their journey, we witness the power of empathy, the importance of understanding during difficult times, and the resilience of the human spirit. The bond that grows between Andrej and Silas serves as a reminder of the strength we find in connection with others.
Marsh's writing is both engaging and evocative, with vivid descriptions that immerse readers in the time and place. His characters are richly developed, and you can't help but become invested in their fates. While this prequel may not be a traditional mystery, it provides an emotional and thoughtful foundation for the series, leaving me eager to explore the Clearwater Mysteries further.
The novel transports readers to the East End of London in 1884, where we meet Andrej, a Ukrainian refugee, and Silas, the son of an Irish immigrant. Their unlikely friendship forms the heart of the story, and Marsh masterfully explores themes of survival, trust, and camaraderie. The setting is richly drawn, from the gritty streets of London to the nuanced portrayal of historical struggles.
What makes Banyak & Fecks especially captivating is its emotional depth. Marsh doesn't just show the hardships these men face; he makes us feel their experiences. Through their journey, we witness the power of empathy, the importance of understanding during difficult times, and the resilience of the human spirit. The bond that grows between Andrej and Silas serves as a reminder of the strength we find in connection with others.
Marsh's writing is both engaging and evocative, with vivid descriptions that immerse readers in the time and place. His characters are richly developed, and you can't help but become invested in their fates. While this prequel may not be a traditional mystery, it provides an emotional and thoughtful foundation for the series, leaving me eager to explore the Clearwater Mysteries further.
October 23, 2021
3.5/4*
I enjoy this series so going back to the start with Andrej and Silas has been very instructive and entertaining. At times I found the story to speed along and yet a others it dragged a bit.
We see how both men get to London, meet and cement the friendship which continues throughout the stories to come.
What is apparent and comes across strongly is how hard life was, how clinging to life is precarious and you dance 1 step ahead of death.
Towards to end we start to come across some of the names we know from the later stories.
I enjoy this series so going back to the start with Andrej and Silas has been very instructive and entertaining. At times I found the story to speed along and yet a others it dragged a bit.
We see how both men get to London, meet and cement the friendship which continues throughout the stories to come.
What is apparent and comes across strongly is how hard life was, how clinging to life is precarious and you dance 1 step ahead of death.
Towards to end we start to come across some of the names we know from the later stories.
October 8, 2024
As origin stories go, this is one of the best. Andrej leaves the Ukraine and finds his way onto a ship leaving Genoa for London, and Silas lands in Cornwall and makes his ways to London. I just wish the book had ended with Silas meeting Archer.
April 5, 2021
Very enjoyable series, well written with likeable characters. Some very interesting historical facts as well. Can't wait for more.
July 26, 2022
An extremely well researched, atmospheric, and very touching friendship story. It’s about poverty and survival and friendship and love and it’s just perfect for the series.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews