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How far would you travel for one man?

The very last thing Jimmy Downing needed was a skinny traveling partner who acted half his age with a chip on his shoulder and no idea how the real world worked. Because Jimmy had a lot of experience with the world and he wanted no part of it anymore.

He was trying his best to be an honorable man after two decades of being outside the law. He’d stolen things. He’d killed people in the name of survival. He’d helped other men do horrible things. But now he was keeping his head down and trying to live under the radar. It wasn’t his fault that Oscar needed someone to show him right from wrong, give him something to eat on the regular and try to keep him out of trouble, so he didn’t end up making a mess of his life the way Jimmy had. Maybe that was what being a good man was all about.

Except the things Jimmy wanted from this twenty-one-year-old man were far from respectable, and he couldn’t stop thinking about them, especially when Oscar Yates of the big brown eyes, cackle of a laugh and insatiable appetite for anything grilled over an open fire insisted on pushing all his buttons.

*Content warning for one instance of dubious consent in a hotel room, kidnapping, gun violence, sex work, wild animal attack.

342 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 15, 2022

25 people are currently reading
235 people want to read

About the author

A.E. Lister

52 books237 followers
Queer erotic romance. Incendiary encounters, stealthy romance, multiple genres. AE Lister is a Canadian non-binary/gender fluid author with a vivid imagination and a head full of unique and interesting characters. They write consent-based kink with a dash of romance.

They also write Young Adult under Alison Lister: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
Profile Image for Lilly [Hiatus due to School] .
939 reviews441 followers
August 29, 2023
“This was gonna be all about Oscar—about worshipping him from head to foot while he couldn’t do nothing but lie still and feel it, and experience how much I loved him and wanted him on a physical and a spiritual level.”

760 Miles by A.E. Lister was a wonderful historical western. We have the story of Jimmy Downing, a man who, after years of working with heartless and cruel outlaws, leaves to make an honest living as a wagon driver delivering supplies between cities in Canada's northern territories. In Dawson, he meets Oscar, a young, poor starving man (who turns out to be a bratty boy), and after showing him kindness, they learn they have a connection. Jimmy knows he can not leave Oscar behind and takes him on his journey.

The relationship that forms and grows between these two men was just wonderful to read. I love seeing how Jimmy comes to realize his sexuality and preferences and learns about kinks (wants as it was referred back then). He also wants to become a law-abiding man who does honest work after his time with outlaws, so when he is forced to face his attraction to Oscar, it creates a moral panic in him. Coupled with the view of homosexuality in the early 1900s, it takes him some time to realize what he and Oscar do and feel for one another is not wrong.

“I never trusted those preachers to tell me what God did or what he stood for. I seen enough men of the cloth do things that’d make me blush and think twice. I seen them ruin lives with their dishonesty, and actin’ like they know exactly what God wants of us. Tellin’ us how to behave, when they break rules and do things plenty more against nature than anythin’ you and I are doin’.”

T’was nothing like that. It came from loving another person and wanting to please them, no matter how strangely some things did that. T’was going off instinct and the way two people meshed together and not questioning things that felt good, and right. I figured the world could do with more of that.


This story covers kinks such as Daddy/Boy, D/s, CNC, and bondage. I liked seeing how they learn and accept what they do isn't wrong or amoral and is another extension of their preferences. Wants are okay between consenting partners, and it does not reflect anything negative.

“This really what you like, Oscar? Bein’ o’er my knee and takin’ a spankin’? E’en though you say you’re twenty-one?” He blushed again. “Do you even gotta ask? I spilled all o’er your trousers. I loved that. And what the hell has my age got to do with it?”

“I do. I like to feel like I ain’t even half a man when I’m with you, ’cause it makes me feel little and cared for. I don’t know…”


I adored Oscar. He was bratty, feisty, and loved that he knew what he wanted when he wanted. He definitely needed a Daddy to keep him in line, protect him, and care for him, too, especially after some of the heart-racing incidents that occurred to him. Poor kid could not get a break. Both Jimmy and Oscar have had brutal pasts, and I'm so happy they found each other.

Another aspect of the story I enjoyed was the setting and how AE Lister did a great job of keeping the writing authentic to the period. It was also very descriptive, so it was easy to imagine the landscape they were crossing through. I especially enjoyed the setting as a Canadian!

Overall I enjoyed it! It ends abruptly, but that is because there is a second book. I look forward to reading it. I recommend this if you enjoy long stories, Daddy/Boy, D/s, CNC, and historical Westerns. Please check TWs as always, as there is some graphic violence and attempted SA.
Profile Image for Trio.
3,615 reviews207 followers
March 16, 2022
hey y'all, 760 Miles is available now!!!

AE Lister starts off their Northern Horizons series with 760 Miles. Filled with descriptions of life during the early 1900s, AE Lister truly captures the charm of Canada’s Yukon Territory, as well as its challenges. With two fascinating main characters, and a superbly developed romance, I enjoyed this one from cover to cover. Historical Western romance perfection!

After spending much of his adult life with a gang of outlaws, Jimmy strikes out on his own to make an honest life for himself. Right from the start readers discover what a generous and kind man he is, when he meets Oscar, a homeless street rat.

Oscar has led a hard life, and trust doesn’t come easily for this proud young man. He may be down on his luck, and one step from starvation, but taking charity isn’t his nature. Surely he’s got something Jimmy wants, right? Well, he’s not giving up when it comes to introducing Jimmy to pleasure!

Jimmy resists at first, intending to take Oscar under his wing and be an honorable role model, helping him learn right from wrong. Along the way it turns out Oscar has important things to teach Jimmy too. The most valuable lessons of all: that love is love, and what feels good between consenting partners can’t be wrong.

The most fascinating aspect of 760 Miles for me, is the development of Jimmy’s character. Not only is he facing up to his physical and emotional attraction to a man, but also coming to grips with the erotic thrill of their bedroom games. Jimmy’s level headed, internal dialogue weighs both sides of every situation, and his methodical approach to reasoning is admirable.

Oscar gently leads Jimmy into a physical relationship, and their Dom/sub dynamic develops naturally. Building powerful romantic relationships, through intimate and emotional exchanges, is my favorite part of every AE Lister novel. Jimmy and Oscar get up to some delightfully kinky games, and their connection is incredible.

AE Lister does an amazing job incorporating the challenges of this time period into the story. Charming, old-timey speech sets the stage, as well as stunning descriptions of the majesty of the area. Add the details of the extreme traveling conditions, and it’s painfully easy to envision the couple shivering under their wagon for warmth at night.

Thankfully this is not the end of Jimmy and Oscar’s journey. We’ll find out how they make a go of their new life in the next book, titled Repentance and Absolution. And AE Lister has promised we’ll meet up with the intriguing characters at Miss June’s cathouse, in the third and final story in the Northern Horizons series. I hope we don’t have long to wait!
Profile Image for Daniel.
808 reviews157 followers
October 23, 2023
4.25 stars ...

All the "t'was"s and "o'er"s and similar shenanigans got very annoying and very distracting very quickly ... like by page 2!! 😖 Pretty sure no one in the history of ever actually talked like that. 🙄

Other than that, though, the story and the characters were wonderful and I actually loved everything else about this m/m western historical fiction (early 1900s Western Canada) romance tale.👍😁👍
Profile Image for NicoleR.M.M..
674 reviews169 followers
January 1, 2023
3,5 stars.

This was my first book by this author and I have to say that the writing was really good. The description of the landscape, the towns and the surroundings gave me the feeling of history, as if I was walking around in an early 20th century town. The use of language felt very genuine too.
I enjoyed the story, though at a certain point I was afraid the author would take it somewhere I didn't particularly wanted to go, and even though there was a bit of it, it didn't put me off like I was afraid it would. I do hope it doesn't go any further than this in the second book. Like many mm readers I do enjoy a bit of kinky and steamy scenes (which there are plenty of in this book!), but there are some kinks that are not my cup of tea. Not to judge, but to each their own, right?

This book is about a former outlaw, Jimmy, who wants to make a better life for himself. He hauls goods from one town to another with his horses and wagon, and when he finds himself in Dawson City (1906) he accidentally comes across Oscar, a young man who is on the verge to offer himself and his body for use at a brothel. He's starving, wearing ragged clothes and he's in desperate need of some food and a place to sleep. Jimmy can't help but feel sorry for the guy and he lends him a helping hand. What starts out as a friendly gesture, turns into friendship and eventually into something more. Somehow they fit. They discover their needs and wants sexually are very compatible and even though Jimmy has never really wanted to be with another man, he suddenly seems to be very needy when it comes to Oscar.
The two men agree to travel together, knowing their journey will end some day. But how and where and when, that's something they'll figure out on the way.

I liked the dynamics between Jimmy and Oscar, I loved how dedicated they were to each other. Maybe it was different in those days. When you found someone with the same preferences, you stuck to them and maybe fell in love because of lack in chances to meet other men like yourself. But that's a bit of a complaint I have, that they fell too soon. The other one was the route the author took with the kink, but that's all on me. It's not that I will rate differently because of that. It's just that when I started reading, I hadn't expected it. But it was still on the mild side and so it bothered me only just a little.

All in all this book was well written, the historical vibe feels very genuine and well researched. Enjoyable characters and an enjoyable romance as well. If you like to read about cowboys, if you enjoy historical books and an age gap romance, this book might be a good choice for your next read.

I kindly received a copy of this book and this is my honest, unbiased review
Profile Image for Szidi ☼.
946 reviews61 followers
February 11, 2022
Perfect.😍😍😍

Listen to me. If me, who doesn't like historical AND/OR western and cowboy settings, could LOVE this book, then anything is possible.

Anyway, I'm starting to believe that if a certain author comes and writes in the genre I don't like, then my opinion always changes. I started this book with a really positive and good feeling, and I was right, because this story is phenomenal. Loved it from start to finish. And when I discovered it isn't a standalone!!!Although I'm not sure if the next book is with the same couple (I hope!!) or not?

Although I loved the book, I think the title isn't the best? I mean it wouldn't catch my eyes if I didn't know about the author first. The cover though, that's great! And the cover alone would have been enough to stop me from reading it (since I don't like cowboys), but please, don't be like me, even if you're like me and don't like western or historical, becuase this book is a GEM! So, so good, and so much more then you'd think.

The romance part was lovely, it wasn't rushed, it was perfectly built and so beautiful. The sexy times were super hot and so long, wow! I really love how the author writes kink and sex, it seems easy and so real.

Really loved this book and I think everyone NEEDS to read it. Be a historical lover or not, this book is special and unique. One of my favorite read this year, that's for sure.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT.
Profile Image for AngelFire.
765 reviews50 followers
May 28, 2023
Rating: 2.5 Stars (rounded up)

While there was a lot I enjoyed about this story and I appreciate how unique it is (BDSM Historical Western set in 1906 Canada), the execution left me disappointed. It felt like the main focus was on the development of the BDSM sexual dynamic between the MCs and the author only included other random plot events in between sex scenes, which had very little follow up or connection to the overall story. It's not my preference for how I want romances (particularly wilderness survival/journey ones) to go so it didn't work for me but I feel the author did a solid job with what they set out to accomplish.

Side note - animal cruelty/death is something I have a really hard time with so if anybody's like me, I wanted to make people aware that there are two short but difficult scenes involving or referencing animal death near the end of the story. You can easily skim past both of these situations and the rest of the book doesn't have anything like that.

I adored the characters and the historical atmosphere and I particularly liked that the story takes place in 1906 Canada (the Yukon and also BC). The MCs attitudes about certain things felt too progressive for the time period and that whole part around 70% where they temporarily stayed at a brothel that was Diversity Central made me roll my eyes, but I just skimmed through those parts. The MCs spend the majority of the story travelling through the wilderness from Dawson City to Whitehorse and then Port Essington in BC (I assume the trip was 760 miles - hence the book title). The details of what their lives were like on the trail were really well done and I especially enjoyed the descriptions of the gorgeous scenery that dominates this part of (my) world. Yay for Canadian scenery love!!

Another thing I felt was well done was the BDSM relationship between the MCs. While there is a daddy/little dynamic between them, I felt this aspect was really mild. There's a big age gap between them (Jimmy's 38 and Oscar's 21) but even though Oscar acts like an immature brat at times, he only acts that way during their BDSM play. Jimmy's role as the stern 'parental' figure it also mainly done to complement Oscar's role during scenes. The kinks they engage in include . There was just one scene where Jimmy's use of spanking was done for actual discipline purposes instead of being fun-ishment and I nearly DNF'd at that point because it's not my thing, but I'm glad I skimmed to the end because it turned out that Jimmy approached the situation from a completely different mindset (Jimmy had a flashback to a traumatic event from his past) than a daddy/little situation, so I didn't mind.

I especially liked that Jimmy is the dom/daddy in the situation but he's the one who's brand new to BDSM and he relies on Oscar to guide him. Jimmy takes his cues from Oscar so it's Oscar who paces the progression of the kinks they try out and it's Oscar who is the one who encourages Jimmy to explore new things. I loved this because their dynamic normally consists of a very big power imbalance (Jimmy is the dom/daddy, Jimmy is the experienced trail rider etc) and I liked that Jimmy's naivety allowed Oscar to be the voice of wisdom and encouragement for a bit.

This all being said, I didn't enjoy the story overall because I didn't like the way it was constructed. The author clearly did a huge amount of research regarding the types of situations that people might encounter while on such long distance wilderness journeys in that part of Canada and during that time period but there wasn't enough attempt IMO to create ongoing plot lines from these situations. The boys get into trouble frequently but the situations are always isolated scenes that get introduced out of the blue, they're quickly resolved and then the boys move on as if they never happened. In particular, I was disappointed that the encounter with was over with so quickly. This pattern repeated itself over and over again, like when . I loved each of these plotlines and I thought they fit the story perfectly but I wanted the author to take their time with them. I wanted a build up of tension, more time spent on the event itself and then to have the aftermath of the event haunt the characters for a while.

Due to the setting and the time period, I couldn't help but compare the events in the wilderness with Jack London's stories, who wrote many stories that take place in the Yukon from 1900 to 1910. In particular, the scene in 760 Miles with happened so quickly and thus, there was very little tension. In contrast, Jack London's White Fang (which was ironically written in 1906!) has the first THREE CHAPTERS describing travelers on a Yukon trail being and the chapters are full of tension and fear. Speaking of London's version, another thing that makes the so effective is because in Chapter 4, London suddenly changes the POV from the men to that of the female wolf. This is another component that was missing in 760 Miles because we only get Jimmy's POV and Jimmy is only privy to half of the events that are happening. Situations like and other scenarios would have been much more powerful and tense if we had gotten Oscar's POV as well.

Lastly, I got a bit annoyed that it was always Jimmy rescuing Oscar. I was very sure when I started the story that we'd get a scene where Jimmy is attacked/sick/hurt and Oscar gets to demonstrate how tough and smart he is and how much he's learned about riding horses and life on the trail by saving Jimmy's life. But no. Oscar is the damsel in distress for the entire story. Maybe that's standard for daddy/little romances and it's what readers were expecting, but my main interest in the story was the historical western aspect so it was a letdown that Oscar didn't get the fully developed character arc I wanted him to have.

Overall, I appreciate the many unique things that the author combined to create this story. It definitely stands out among Historical Western MM romances, particularly the few BDSM ones that exist. While the story had a bit too much smut and not enough in-depth plot and romance development for my personal taste, I still recommend this as a unique read if you're interested in the premise.
Profile Image for Amos24601.
1,287 reviews44 followers
February 2, 2022
Set in 1906, 760 Miles shows that love can spring up in the most unexpected places. Jimmy Downing is trying to find some redemption after living the outlaw life for many years. He finds Oscar Yates in serious need of some kindness. What grows between the two men is a love that transcends what society thinks is right and wrong.

Jimmy is confused and confounded by Oscar in so many ways. Oscar is bratty and sassy and Jimmy doesn’t quite know how to handle it. But he can’t deny that his attraction keeps growing. I loved that he was willing to step outside of what he knew, examine who he was and take a step into the unknown. Oscar always seemed so sure of himself. He had so many layers to him and he kept me laughing so much with all the back talk to Jimmy. This pairing was absolutely delightful.

Their exploration into their wants and needs within the relationship was sexy and daring for its time. Lister wrote those scenes in a way that was certainly titillating, but also in a way that was utterly respectful of the timeframe we were working in. These were two dirty, dirty boys and I was there for it the whole time.

We also get a stop by at a place called The Angel, where we meet Miss June, Cal and Trick. I particularly enjoyed Jimmy and Oscar’s stay there. It was inclusive and accepting and a beautiful respite for a travel weary Jimmy and Oscar.

This was a fantastic book, though the ending was a tad abrupt. However, getting to know Jimmy and Oscar was so lovely I’m willing to forgive that one peeve. Lister takes us on a journey with Jimmy and Oscar that we never want to end. I can only picture that they have nothing but the best future together, making their own slice of home wherever they are.

*I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Kirsten.
1,911 reviews90 followers
September 11, 2022
GR needs .5 stars! This is a 3.5 rounded down

T'was his small nubby
that changed Jimmy's life. Kinky,
care-full, warm Western.
Profile Image for Lily Loves 📚.
780 reviews31 followers
dnf
March 25, 2022
DNF 18%

I don’t know why I can’t get into a book lately! This sounded so good, promising a slow burn with the cowboy MC trying to keep his attraction to the younger man at bay. But nope, the lying blurb is a liar!!!! So turned off by this and not because of the smut or idea of it but because I expected something totally different. Plus I can’t wrap my head around the wording.T’was and t’weren’t and o’er which may be how they spoke in 1906 but it’s hurting my head.
Profile Image for Scatteredashes.
439 reviews5 followers
February 2, 2022
This book feels both very different from AE Lister's other stories and yet very much like one of theirs. It's set back in 1906 and I do think the speech patterns and settings feel very much appropriate for the time. Jimmy and Oscar get to bonding over their travels and I liked the way the relationship unfolds. I was really invested in seeing how things turned out because a journey like theirs was full of danger. Plus, you know there's going to be kinky times along the way and oh did Oscar and Jimmy know how to turn up the heat! There's a really good scene with a saddle and some rope, not to mention all the nubby talk 😉 I was hooked on this book pretty much from the beginning.

The biggest reason that I gave it four stars rather than five is that I felt bad for poor Oscar. Out of all the hardships that kept popping up, they were all on him. I felt sure that Jimmy would have something happen to him but it always seemed that Oscar took the brunt of any bad luck. It's the biggest thing that felt unreal in the story. I also wouldn't have minded a bit of an epilogue or some type of update on the guys. After such a long journey, the end seemed a tad abrupt.

For all that, like I said before I really enjoyed this and liked seeing AE Lister stretch their storytelling wings. It was fun to have the old west setting and for a while we get to go back in time.
Profile Image for saintsinclaire.
297 reviews6 followers
March 31, 2022
Kinky, but make it western. Fast moving plot about love, survival, and living an honest life true to yourself. My only issue was some terminology took me out of the story and I was annoyed to read “t’was” so many times. Overall great read and I adored the main characters.
Profile Image for Janet Hunt.
3,538 reviews46 followers
March 24, 2022
Set in the early 1900's the story is of Jimmy and Oscar. Jimmy is trying to keep is head down and make an honest life for himself. Oscar is down on his luck. The path for these men will suck you into the story and not you go. This was fantastic!! Canada's Yukon Territory is the back drop for the story and the descriptions were fantastic. Very satisfying story!! Overall, a fantastic read! The story was really well written, the pacing was smooth, highly recommend.. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kelli.
128 reviews10 followers
January 22, 2022
Jimmy Downing is working hard trying to keep his life on track, trying hard to make up for all the awful things he did in the past when apart of a no good band of low life thieves. He just finished up with a job getting into town when he comes across a young kid, dirty, hungry, and desperate. They cross paths and he learns this kid isn't a kid, he's a young man named Oscar who is on his last leg trying to survive. Taking pity, Jimmy decides to help him for one night, but that one night unknowingly brings him more happiness than he could of possibly ever imagined. We read as they begin such an amazing journey together filled of personal growth, strong horses, delicious discoveries, rough moments, and love. If you're into westerns, age gaps, mouth watering smut, send more this is the perfect read for you.

This amazing romance is set all the way back in 1906 and I was so worried I wouldn't be able to keep invested, but the lovely author's words did just the trick. I'm not the best with fiction set way back when in a different time period, but I'm so happy I managed to get through it and never gave up.

I'll never be able to drink Sprite without crying and feeling feels, but I'll live.

I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Denise H..
3,246 reviews269 followers
June 14, 2024
An amazing historical Novel ! 1906 Yukon Territory.

Jimmy Downing, 36, strong, gruff, a hairy bear of a man, is on a quest to be a better man, especially since he escaped the gang he was associated with. He now travels the Overland Trail as a delivery man.
Oscar Yates, 21, brown eyes, longish brown hair, with lean muscles on his thin frame, needs guidance in this world.

Jimmy meets up with Oscar and decides to help the boy. Oscar is a sassy spitfire, and Jimmy likes his spirit and his inclinations toward men. It awakened something in Jimmy he had always pushed back. Jimmy will be taking the kid along on his journey and help him a bit.

They rode and talked of pasts and tales to tell and enjoyed the scenery. Jimmy is having deep thoughts on his feelings and Oscar is liking his new found luck and happiness.

Along the way they had sexy times, firsts for Jimmy, and new firsts for Oscar, as they got along and gave pleasure. They didn't know their needs had names, as we know today, but it was nearly, Daddy/boy, BDSM, spanking and edging, which were all fun and new. Oscar wasn't shy about talking and telling his "likes" and both admitted to be glad they had these instincts.

Meanwhile back on the trail, they ran into outlaws, and again aways farther, with an attempted rape plus rescue in the nick of time and a reckoning.

We hear about the rough river crossing, and the time they spent waiting for Oscar to heal. We hear more about their fledgling sex with BDSM, ropes and leather and much more our guys enjoy. The recovery is at a whore house that is fine with their leanings, and meet many folks who are thoughtful and caring, and similar.

Later, there's a wolf pack which waylays them, and their destination changes, because our men have deeper emotions as every day passes. There are adventures at every turn and more sexy times.
This story feels authentic, and is well written and riveting.

I highly recommend this beautiful, exciting, and lively novel !
ENJOY !

=====
Profile Image for Yue.
2,502 reviews30 followers
October 2, 2024
I liked the first part so much, I think it was so romantic. Jimmy the older guy (36 y.0.) taking care of this urchin Oscar (21 y.o.), who was starving and dirty, and our of desperation, offers himself. But Jimmy is kind and in spite of feeling very attracted for the 1st time to a man, he resists at first and just wants to make things right. Not that it lasts long, with Oscar taking things further. But Jimmy really wants Oscar to be fed and taken care of, and when the older, bigger guy takes care of his love, I melt. I also liked that Oscar is the one that is sassy and teaches things to Jimmy, who most of the times blushes like a virgin maiden. His whole experience in all these years has been with female prostitutes only, so he doesn't know much.

They find out they both like spanking, Oscar likes a bit of humiliation too (ok, I laughed at the "little nubby" term of endearment, it was ridiculous), and towards the end, Jimmy finds out he likes bondage. Everything was really sweet between them: this book is narrated from Jimmy's POV but it is easy to see they love each other. To the point of being emotional sometimes, it was very sweet.

There is a bit of danger which was a bit of a puzzle since, why would these guys be so interested in Jimmy, who already left the gang? Seemed like there were there for the purpose of plot only: The thing with the wolves too, it wasn't nice to read, at all, and again, it was so "what is the purpose?".

I did lose a bit of interest once they arrived at this clean, respectable brothel. I think it was a bit too educational, what with the girls, the educated madam, Cal who loved to dress in woman's clothes, etc. From there on, I lost interest even in all their lovemaking, which were too much but thankfully not too long. I am glad for their ending (getting a house) but I will not read the sequel.
Profile Image for SJ.
2,020 reviews32 followers
March 18, 2022
Erotic kink, historical Western style! This is a well written book and the story moved along like a journey on the Overland Trail. It was cool that the author set it in 1906 when the country would soon be adapting to technology like electricity, telephones, and automobiles, yet, it felt like the old West of the 1800’s. Kudos to the author for providing an interesting setting and two, oh, so wonderful, characters in Jimmy and Oscar. I liked their age difference. It was harrowing how Oscar was introduced. My heart was aching for his bravery and despair. Jimmy saved him and the physical care was satisfying to read. Their chemistry was apparent from the beginning. I loved their developing daddy bear and submissive boy relationship, with some BDSM and erotic humiliation, too. The sexual scenes were excellent with steamy erotica. I liked these two men, they are memorable characters. Jimmy’s POV throughout the story was well written with his internal thoughts and revelations about sexuality and a relationship with another man and life in general. His past life as an outlaw provided poignancy for the years that Jimmy lost to that lifestyle and the drama of Oscar and Jimmy coming into contact with the former gang.
The story took a surprising turn on the journey to British Columbia from the Yukon. Jimmy and Oscar end up in the Holiday Inn of cathouses when they need emergency help. It’s quite the progressive establishment regarding gender roles and is run by a liberated madam. Oscar indulges in cross dressing, to Jimmy’s pleasure. There is a lot of proselytizing in these chapters about freedom from prejudice and, for me, the story dragged. I liked when it was just Oscar and Jimmy and the journey. There was too much of the author on a soapbox in this part of the book. The next part of the journey has a scary and sad part. The story definitely has its moments of drama. I felt like what happened was glossed over too quickly, maybe it was intended that way as this was the wilderness.
The story has a nice ending with the two men setting up house in BC. I enjoyed reading about these men and their journey.
Profile Image for Michelle.
Author 1 book19 followers
April 2, 2022
Perfection

I had this book downloaded for some time but took my time starting it. My own fault; I tend to hesitate trying new authors. It's so disappointing when I'm let down. But what absolute and utter perfection!

This book was so well written, so smooth in its storytelling, and so true to the characters crafted. I fell in love with kinks I actually don't like in real life based on how utterly genuine, loving, and enthusiastic the characters were. Seeing Jimmy come out of his shell. Watching Oscar settle into the stability offered by Jimmy. I am so glad I have this book to be able to reread. Among my favorite parts were where Miss June, Caliope, and the others appeared. I wanted to dive into each of those characters lives as well. They leapt off the page. I was so happy for Jimmy and Oscar to have found the Angel and hope they go visit on occasion throughout their (all be it fictional) lives.

A perfect story for a beautiful love. I fell in love with Jimmy and Oscar's love and absolutely was overjoyed at their hardworking and happy ending. Already bought another book by this author. Off to read more!
431 reviews11 followers
December 29, 2022
This is mostly a story of bi awakening and finding love and desires out of the "norm" in that time and setting. MM relationship was still punishable by prison or worse in 1906 and sadly it's still in almost the half of the world more than a 100 years after. "Learning the ropes" so to speak and accepting ones true desires, especially in D's relationship sounds fairly easy in the internet era, but in those times trying to form a relationship was dangerous and very difficult at best. The story is very well written, told from Jimmy's POW. I just think that some of the "bedroom" scenes should "fade to black". I appreciate a good scene and I understand that author was trying to show us the development of desires and experimenting from Jimmy's POW (and they are doing a great job to show Oscar's feelings as well), but I've got the feeling that all the other and important happenings were just a prelude to another sex scene. That's why 4 stars instead of 5.
As I write this I'm starting a second book in the series and I can't wait to find out where the life takes them, because the first book ended in very strong HFN.
Profile Image for Lyssa.
69 reviews3 followers
January 3, 2023
Wow, this book really surprised me. It wasn’t what I expected at all, and yet it turned out to be something I really enjoyed. I love historical romances, and especially westerns, so I couldn’t wait to start this one even though I was unfamiliar with the author.

The kinky parts of the books really got me! Both men discovering not only each other, but themselves and their “wantings”, made for a very satisfying story all around. I loved the way the author handled “taboo” topics of the time through the eyes of the MCs.

I wasn’t a huge fan of the “historically accurate” language used (t’was, git, yer, etc) but after a while I got accustomed to it so that it didn’t detract from my reading experience so much.

FYI, there are definitely some triggers in this book, including death of a horse (tough one for me) so make sure you look into the potential trigger warnings first. I didn’t, and that part hit me really hard.

I loved the secondary characters, and the action was well-paced (even if poor Oscar was the regular recipient of the danger and injury!). Very kinky, very steamy, definitely a unique read.
Profile Image for Suzanne Irving.
2,727 reviews24 followers
January 3, 2023
Sweet dreams and hard times

Jimmy meets Oscar, Jimmy and Oscar travel a long way, Jimmy and Oscar fall in love. This is the bare bones of this story but it’s in the detail that AE Lister presents us with that this story comes alive. I’m sure there were men and women back in history like some of those in this book that did not conform to societal norms and some must have found ways to be together. I appreciate the lengths that AE Lister has taken to make things historically believable even while presenting us with two kinky gay men back shortly after the gold rush ended. I especially enjoyed the way the bdsm part is shown as the two characters slowly figure out what they enjoy and decide on things like what we would now call a safe word. I can see how this could have been shoehorned into the story as if the author had felt like they had a check list that they had to cover but it doesn’t come across that way at all. It seems to come out in very organic ways which reminds me of the idea that if it looks effortless then there has been a lot of practice/ work behind it. A most excellent tale.
1,014 reviews3 followers
July 2, 2023
Jimmy is hauling supplies back and forth in a wagon. It’s not a lot of money but it’s honest work and is enough for him to get by. Dalton is a town that is rough and tumble but has a hotel he can take a bath, eat a cooked meal and visit the local cathouse. A decision to visit one and work off a little energy, brings Oscar into his life. Offering to give him a blow for a few coins causes Jimmy to be curious about men being together. But feeling sorry for the half starved, filthy younger man, has Jimmy offering him a bath and a meal along with a bed to sleep in for the night.

Intimacy starts out slow between the two but soon Jimmy figures out he is more inclined to want to be with a man than a woman. Heading out to Jimmy’s job, then onto look for Oscar’s uncle, Oscar almost dies three times! Outlaws, wild wolfs and a runaway horse, injured Oscar bringing him close to death. Jimmy realizes that he wants to be with him forever.

Interesting historical western that has a bite of truth. Many times men got together when women were scarce, finding they enjoyed it more.

A HEA!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Nannette.
536 reviews22 followers
March 15, 2022
A. E. Lister creates a western in a universe not often mined, the Canadian frontier. The Yukon Territory, in 1906, is a sparsely settled land with settlements days apart. The weather is much harsher than in the American West. It is a huge canvas to work with.

Jimmy and Oscar are a couple who were made for each other. Each coming from bad situations, they form a partnership with a finite end. As they travel from Dawson City to White Horse, Jimmy's violent past comes to call. All the action happens against the huge canvas I mentioned earlier. This would be a fantastic visual film if made.

I enjoyed the growth of the relationship between Jimmy and Oscar. I also enjoyed the descriptions of the landscape and the towns. I am not familiar with Canadian history or geography except in the most basic way. It is apparent that AE Lister researched her topic well. If you enjoy the western genre, take a trip to the Canadian frontier.

#AELister #760Miles
Profile Image for Joyffree.
3,408 reviews61 followers
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March 19, 2022
Oscar is a bit of a bugbear as Jimmy is soon to find out
No good deed and all that jazz
Jimmy found himself drawn to the kid at first sight - Could have been his inept attempt to garner some coin or his destitute appearance
Definitely wasn't his smart mouth and smexy backside
Either way, Oscar called to something in him he wasn't aware he desired -
The chance to care for another

It is an almost insta attraction between these two - Though Jimmy fights it a bit more than Oscar. Jimmy rationalizes quite a bit - He has never found himself so drawn to another male
Oscar IMO welcomed the attention, wearily in the beginning but when you have nothing left to lose...

760 Miles is a sweet western romance that offers the reader a little bit of everything
Lots of action - Humor - Angst - Self-discovery - Smexy moments and a great storyline that entertains and two characters that will leave their mark
Profile Image for Lisa.
1,497 reviews5 followers
July 9, 2022
This is a historical romance with not too much historical detail, but with a lot of romance and passion. Jimmy has left the gang life to work a job as a freight hauler. While in town, he spots Oscar, a young man who is down on his luck, trying to survive by stealing food, while considering selling himself. Their relationship starts as Jimmy offers to buy Oscar some food and to give him a hotel bed to sleep in for the night. Oscar is flirtatious, but rather than being put off, Jimmy is rather aroused. One night turns into several and a platonic friendship begins to develop into something more. Can these two have a future when Jimmy plans to continue his job and Oscar wants to travel 760 miles to find his only living relative, an uncle? This book charts a growing BDSM-type relationship, experimentation and discovery between the two men, and a deep love affair.
3,221 reviews4 followers
March 15, 2022
Jimmy rescues Oscar from the mean streets of Dawson City. But who really saves whom? Their journey to Port Essington is fraught with danger from both nature and humans. The slow burn aspect of their romance was beautiful. Oscar knows who he is - Jimmy has numerous revelations along the way, but the best part is that he likes who he becomes. I particularly liked the time they spent at The Angel... exactly what they needed in their lives at that time. I loved the acceptance and advice they got from Miss June and her crew. The historical setting was so well-described by the author that I could imagine being there. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
68 reviews
March 16, 2022
A compelling story with unforgettable characters! I love how Jimmy and Oscar’s relationship develops, and was on the edge of my seat during a lot of action scenes. I might have shed a tear or two during the event as they are getting near Port Essington (no spoilers here!) This is a great story about finding love in unexpected places and with unexpected people. The book seems well-researched and very descriptive of the era and location.

We in the 21st century seem to think alternative lifestyles are “new” or “recent” developments. That gender identity issues are a modern invention. They are not. I was thrilled by the acceptance they found at The Angel – it made my heart happy.

This is a fabulous book overall, and I recommend it!
Profile Image for Fay MMBookworm.
3,079 reviews67 followers
May 8, 2022
❤ Set in 1906 in Canada's wild countryside.
Jimmy 36 years who was once in outlaw gang now was finding his way earning his living carting goods.
A good start as Jimmy's washing all the dirt and dust in a hotel room before eating his fill. While he's in Dawson city he kept running into a lost boy in the streets being up to no good.
Oscar 21 yrs was in a bad situation and needed food to eat badly. Oscar was young and had a surly attitude with the sussing which kept me readin.
An historical book in forbidden times for relations between two men. Hot spanking, sexy scenes, bratty boy, dangers and adventures and more.
A telling with Jimmy's pov included which was brilliantly written that I didn't miss Oscar's thoughts. A great ending with a HEA for them both.
888 reviews4 followers
February 5, 2022
I want to start this review stating I am not typically a fan of historical fiction. The only reason I read this book was because it was written by AE Lister and I just had to read their book. Well, let me tell you, 5 freakin huge, shiny stars. Absolutely fantastic story. Jimmy is on a road to personal redemption when he meets Oscar, who just needs someone to care. The physical journey they go on (760 miles) as well as the emotional one is fraught with danger but is so incredibly beautiful (and hot!!) The depth of emotion is real and the way the relationship developed between them was beautifully done. Read this - you won’t be sorry!
Profile Image for Juniper.
3,396 reviews24 followers
March 14, 2022
This story does a number of things really well: it paints a compelling picture of it’s time and place, with everything, from visual details to dialog, helping to set the scene. It showcases two complex, interesting characters whose emotions and outlooks develop over the course of their journey— you get to feel and see the relationship between Jimmy and Oscar take shape, and that makes for a really rewarding read. I’d love to see more of these two: they’ve come a long way, and deserve all the good things.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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