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Northern Horizons #2
Repentance and Absolution
You can’t take back your sins. You can only hope for forgiveness.
Jimmy Downing traveled seven hundred sixty difficult and dangerous miles to bring Oscar Yates to Port Essington to find his uncle. When Jimmy saw the abandoned homestead Oscar had inherited, he envisioned a future for them there, as long as they could keep the true nature of their relationship a secret. But once the initial work is complete and they have a cozy living space and a stable for the livestock, Oscar and Jimmy face a long winter dealing with thoughts that have time and space to plague them.
Jimmy suffers nightmares of dark deeds committed in his past, while Oscar deals with trauma from his time in Dawson and his mistreatment at the hands of Spook. A new horse provides a distraction for Oscar and leads to new friendships and a break from their solitary existence, but a dangerous encounter exposes surprising truths about their nearest neighbors and a sense that their lives are being guided by forces outside their control.
Jimmy Downing traveled seven hundred sixty difficult and dangerous miles to bring Oscar Yates to Port Essington to find his uncle. When Jimmy saw the abandoned homestead Oscar had inherited, he envisioned a future for them there, as long as they could keep the true nature of their relationship a secret. But once the initial work is complete and they have a cozy living space and a stable for the livestock, Oscar and Jimmy face a long winter dealing with thoughts that have time and space to plague them.
Jimmy suffers nightmares of dark deeds committed in his past, while Oscar deals with trauma from his time in Dawson and his mistreatment at the hands of Spook. A new horse provides a distraction for Oscar and leads to new friendships and a break from their solitary existence, but a dangerous encounter exposes surprising truths about their nearest neighbors and a sense that their lives are being guided by forces outside their control.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 15, 2022
6 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
A.E. Lister
52 books237 followersQueer 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...
They also write Young Adult under Alison Lister: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...
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August 28, 2023
"But he was God’s creature just the same, and I loved every bit of him and didn’t see nothing evil in anything he felt for me, wanted to do with me or anything I felt for him. What we had was a blessing and a miracle, and I revered it."
Repentance and Absolution picks up right where 760 Miles left off. Jimmy and Oscar have settled on a homestead left by Oscar’s uncle and are making a life for themselves. This book mainly focuses on their everyday life and relationship. They learn how to navigate in the outside world as two friends, which is more complicated than it seems, mainly because of their Daddy/Boy relationship. It is easy for Oscar to defer and for Jimmy to take the lead which might raise questions.
I also loved how they found people who were like them, in the sense of being in a gay/queer relationship. Their neighbours, to their surprise, are more similar to them than they thought. It was cute seeing Oscar and Irene bond and become close, as well as Clarence and Jimmy. They did not have to carry their secrets alone and had a safe space with them to love one another and be themselves.
There were plenty of steamy and sexy moments between them. I honestly did enjoy the way there were written by AE Lister! There were many tender and sweet moments. I love lots of sex scenes in my stories, so it was definitely a plus. I honestly loved their relationship. There's definitely a set dynamic between the two - Jimmy as the Daddy and more of a Dom and Oscar as his boy who is more submissive in the bedroom.
But some questions about masculinity do come up. Because Jimmy is bisexual and was attracted to women most of his life vs Oscar who always known was gay and questions and issues of masculinity and roles come up.
While there were plenty of hilarious moments, the story also shows the sobering reality of life in the early 1900s. They could never be out, and something as simple as holding or looking at one another in any way would betray their relationship. Homosexuality was not only seen as a sin, but it was a crime as well.
As with any relationship, there are ups and downs and learning to live with one another. Jimmy and Oscar also carry trauma from the past and from recent events. So there is still a lot of mental healing they need to do. Their love and devotion to one another were so beautiful to read.
Finally, I didn’t expect to laugh or smile so much reading this book, but Oscar, I love him. He is too crazy and funny.
The pace was very much different from the first book. It was a slower look into Oscar and Jimmy’s relationship and domestic life. So it was very much character focused and honestly little action or plot development. Overall, I enjoyed this book and excited to check out future works by AE Lister.
Repentance and Absolution picks up right where 760 Miles left off. Jimmy and Oscar have settled on a homestead left by Oscar’s uncle and are making a life for themselves. This book mainly focuses on their everyday life and relationship. They learn how to navigate in the outside world as two friends, which is more complicated than it seems, mainly because of their Daddy/Boy relationship. It is easy for Oscar to defer and for Jimmy to take the lead which might raise questions.
I also loved how they found people who were like them, in the sense of being in a gay/queer relationship. Their neighbours, to their surprise, are more similar to them than they thought. It was cute seeing Oscar and Irene bond and become close, as well as Clarence and Jimmy. They did not have to carry their secrets alone and had a safe space with them to love one another and be themselves.
There were plenty of steamy and sexy moments between them. I honestly did enjoy the way there were written by AE Lister! There were many tender and sweet moments. I love lots of sex scenes in my stories, so it was definitely a plus. I honestly loved their relationship. There's definitely a set dynamic between the two - Jimmy as the Daddy and more of a Dom and Oscar as his boy who is more submissive in the bedroom.
But some questions about masculinity do come up. Because Jimmy is bisexual and was attracted to women most of his life vs Oscar who always known was gay and questions and issues of masculinity and roles come up.
It had seemed strange at first, but now t’was just a part of who he was and who we were together. And I liked it, too, because I surely enjoyed bein’ the big man when it came to him. I liked to treat him nice, take care of him and bed him the way he deserved.
“Oh, I ain’t never gonna forget it, Jimmy. I will let you know in no uncertain terms if I believe you’re tarnishin’ my masculinity. I reckon I deserve more respect than to be coddled like a child.”
He was self-conscious of his slimness, although mostly he liked feeling delicate and breakable. He was stronger than he looked and tough as a wildcat.
While there were plenty of hilarious moments, the story also shows the sobering reality of life in the early 1900s. They could never be out, and something as simple as holding or looking at one another in any way would betray their relationship. Homosexuality was not only seen as a sin, but it was a crime as well.
As with any relationship, there are ups and downs and learning to live with one another. Jimmy and Oscar also carry trauma from the past and from recent events. So there is still a lot of mental healing they need to do. Their love and devotion to one another were so beautiful to read.
Finally, I didn’t expect to laugh or smile so much reading this book, but Oscar, I love him. He is too crazy and funny.
The pace was very much different from the first book. It was a slower look into Oscar and Jimmy’s relationship and domestic life. So it was very much character focused and honestly little action or plot development. Overall, I enjoyed this book and excited to check out future works by AE Lister.
November 2, 2022
AE Lister’s heartfelt and emotional Northern Horizons series continues in Repentance and Absolution. (Jimmy and Oscar’s tale picks up shortly after the end of 760 Miles, so you’ll need to read that book first.) This is such a beautifully written story, I can’t recommend it enough.
One of my all time favorite genres, I absolutely adore historical westerns. AE Lister has thoroughly captured my imagination with their descriptions of life in Canada’s Yukon Territory during the early 1900s. Charming accounts of filling a tub with water warmed on the stovetop, the notion of tasty foods prepared from cherished ingredients, and the allure of sexy red union suits with easy access! What could be better?
Of course, the early 1900’s was a dangerous time as well, and AE Lister includes a few hair raising events to keep it real. The unique threats of wild animals, the challenge of losing life or limb through injury and illness, and the reality of facing everything Mother Nature dishes out. Jimmy and Oscar bravely face up to the bad, as they equally treasure the good.
The thing I’m enjoying most about these novels is how gosh darn funny they are! I’ve laughed out loud over and over again as Jimmy recounts his daily adventures in Repentance and Absolution. This courageous man has a truly unique outlook on life, and I’m looking forward to the next chapter of the Northern Horizon series.
an ARC of Repentance and Absolution was generously provided by the author for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
One of my all time favorite genres, I absolutely adore historical westerns. AE Lister has thoroughly captured my imagination with their descriptions of life in Canada’s Yukon Territory during the early 1900s. Charming accounts of filling a tub with water warmed on the stovetop, the notion of tasty foods prepared from cherished ingredients, and the allure of sexy red union suits with easy access! What could be better?
Of course, the early 1900’s was a dangerous time as well, and AE Lister includes a few hair raising events to keep it real. The unique threats of wild animals, the challenge of losing life or limb through injury and illness, and the reality of facing everything Mother Nature dishes out. Jimmy and Oscar bravely face up to the bad, as they equally treasure the good.
The thing I’m enjoying most about these novels is how gosh darn funny they are! I’ve laughed out loud over and over again as Jimmy recounts his daily adventures in Repentance and Absolution. This courageous man has a truly unique outlook on life, and I’m looking forward to the next chapter of the Northern Horizon series.
an ARC of Repentance and Absolution was generously provided by the author for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
July 2, 2024
2.0 stars ...
because I'm feelin' generous! 😒
This was ...
ridiculous.
Kept waiting
for it to get better.
It didn't. 🥱
Beginning to end ...
felt like a complete
waste of time.
So I don't wanna
waste anymore time ...
bothering with explainin'
why it was a complete
waste of time. 😴
because I'm feelin' generous! 😒
This was ...
ridiculous.
Kept waiting
for it to get better.
It didn't. 🥱
Beginning to end ...
felt like a complete
waste of time.
So I don't wanna
waste anymore time ...
bothering with explainin'
why it was a complete
waste of time. 😴
November 18, 2022
A beautifully written historical romance settled in early 1900.
I didn’t read 760 Miles and know I missed out, but luckily this story was good to manage without reading the previous one.
Oscar and Jimmy arrived at Oscar’s deceased uncle’s house in Port Essington. They try to rebuild the house to their likes.
They have to keep their true relationship hidden in town, and can’t get affectionate, they have to act as buddies. But inside their house is warmth and so much love to find. They find solace in each other arms.
They have few demands and life is good enough with each other and their home.
Jimmy, the kind affectionate man he is, is a thinker, suffering nightmares about his past, Oscar is sweet, saucy, and just as affectionate, emotional, and pure, Jimmy will do everything to make Oscar happy. The boy is already traumatized by other men’s hands. First, Jimmy wants to buy Oscar a horse.
And only a horse ride away, live some precious neighbors, you’ll love them!!
It’s not all roses and sunshine, just like with every other couple, but it’s all natural. Oscar has to process what he’s been through and Jimmy has so many regrets about his past.
Together they are fun and so kind and sweet, they are happy with each other, their little house and their animals and they even made some good friends. They made me smile so hard, it was everything!
It felt all convincing and authentic, the whole scenery, the wild-life, the language, as if I was watching a western, all plausible af.
I’m so lucky to have the opportunity to read this story! It’s an amazingly written breathtakingly, heartwarming story, hugely entertaining, and with ALL the feels.
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
I didn’t read 760 Miles and know I missed out, but luckily this story was good to manage without reading the previous one.
Oscar and Jimmy arrived at Oscar’s deceased uncle’s house in Port Essington. They try to rebuild the house to their likes.
They have to keep their true relationship hidden in town, and can’t get affectionate, they have to act as buddies. But inside their house is warmth and so much love to find. They find solace in each other arms.
They have few demands and life is good enough with each other and their home.
Jimmy, the kind affectionate man he is, is a thinker, suffering nightmares about his past, Oscar is sweet, saucy, and just as affectionate, emotional, and pure, Jimmy will do everything to make Oscar happy. The boy is already traumatized by other men’s hands. First, Jimmy wants to buy Oscar a horse.
And only a horse ride away, live some precious neighbors, you’ll love them!!
It’s not all roses and sunshine, just like with every other couple, but it’s all natural. Oscar has to process what he’s been through and Jimmy has so many regrets about his past.
Together they are fun and so kind and sweet, they are happy with each other, their little house and their animals and they even made some good friends. They made me smile so hard, it was everything!
It felt all convincing and authentic, the whole scenery, the wild-life, the language, as if I was watching a western, all plausible af.
I’m so lucky to have the opportunity to read this story! It’s an amazingly written breathtakingly, heartwarming story, hugely entertaining, and with ALL the feels.
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
January 15, 2025
I did not know there was a sequel to ‘760 Miles’ and the story of Jimmy and Oscar. This was a beautiful book!
I haven’t read this depth of devotion between an MM couple in quite a while. Lovely writing of life in the wild British Columbia territory of 1906.
Civilization has arrived, but Jimmy and Oscar have set up housekeeping in a decrepit house that Oscar’s uncle has left to him.
Here was the wonderful bubble that the best MM books contain. A long winter among the forests, living in the only habitable room and keeping their relationship very private, especially when going into town. The people there are nice, but Jimmy is constantly cautioning much younger and impetuous Oscar to not act too familiar with him when away from their home.
Easier said than done for two people who are deeply, passionately, madly in love. Their shared experiences of finding each other, the long journey, and the relief of finding a home and even some like minded friends, was enthralling to read in Jimmy’s POV.
The writing is top notch! All the stars and is going on my Best Reads shelf.
I haven’t read this depth of devotion between an MM couple in quite a while. Lovely writing of life in the wild British Columbia territory of 1906.
Civilization has arrived, but Jimmy and Oscar have set up housekeeping in a decrepit house that Oscar’s uncle has left to him.
Here was the wonderful bubble that the best MM books contain. A long winter among the forests, living in the only habitable room and keeping their relationship very private, especially when going into town. The people there are nice, but Jimmy is constantly cautioning much younger and impetuous Oscar to not act too familiar with him when away from their home.
Easier said than done for two people who are deeply, passionately, madly in love. Their shared experiences of finding each other, the long journey, and the relief of finding a home and even some like minded friends, was enthralling to read in Jimmy’s POV.
The writing is top notch! All the stars and is going on my Best Reads shelf.
November 16, 2022
This historical romance is a beautiful follow-up to the book 760 Miles, although it can be read as a stand-alone. The tenor of this book is much more settled and low-angst than the first book. In this one, Jimmy and Oscar are settled in their new home and just need to continue to develop the property and draw closer to each other every day. They experience a few challenges, but mostly each of them is taking the time to process their pasts, the lack of choices they had, to address the guilt, and make sense of their place in the world moving forward, hence the title of the book.
Jimmy and Oscar have a rather large age gap that doesn't matter at all. They are mildly kinky in their mutual discovery of pleasure. They are hopeful for a future in spending the rest of their lives together. They are intensely passionate and deeply in love. The writing in this book is complex, thoughtful, personal, and just lovely. I don't know if we will visit Port Essington, British Columbia again, but I have no doubt that these two men will be there loving each other with all that they are.
Jimmy and Oscar have a rather large age gap that doesn't matter at all. They are mildly kinky in their mutual discovery of pleasure. They are hopeful for a future in spending the rest of their lives together. They are intensely passionate and deeply in love. The writing in this book is complex, thoughtful, personal, and just lovely. I don't know if we will visit Port Essington, British Columbia again, but I have no doubt that these two men will be there loving each other with all that they are.
February 4, 2023
This book continues a few months after the first with Jimmy and Oscar having settled in their new home and made a life for themselves.
They keep up their appearance in public but knows how to cherish each other in private.
Struggling with trauma they do their best to communicate and work through it together.
Luckily they find more like minded people which eases their every day life, someone they can be themselves with.
The story is well written and it was nice having a look at how their lives developed after the last book, though the pace of it was slow and at times dragged a bit.
They keep up their appearance in public but knows how to cherish each other in private.
Struggling with trauma they do their best to communicate and work through it together.
Luckily they find more like minded people which eases their every day life, someone they can be themselves with.
The story is well written and it was nice having a look at how their lives developed after the last book, though the pace of it was slow and at times dragged a bit.
October 10, 2022
Just lovely.
Jimmy Downing and Oscar Yates never fail to bring a smile to my face. Oscar is just so earnest and adorable and Jimmy is so devoted and just wants the best for Oscar. I absolutely adore these two.
Jimmy and Oscar are settling into Port Essington and trying to feel their way through. It’s not easy being new in town, let alone hiding your true self and the love you have for your partner. Jimmy and Oscar navigate this tricky territory wonderfully. Meeting new neighbors with secrets of their helps. Jimmy and Oscar forge connections that help them find their place in town and also help let them be themselves at home.
Lister also captures that sometimes loving someone is not all hearts and flowers. There is real work that has to go into communication and honesty. Jimmy struggles with his past and Oscar is still processing trauma from their journey to Port Essington. Lister conveys the frustration that can go along with feeling left out but also the absolute acceptance of a partner who loves and supports the other. I found this aspect of Jimmy and Oscar’s relationship so real and fresh.
This book was a delight. Jimmy and Oscar are fast becoming old friends I want to visit with time and time again.
Jimmy Downing and Oscar Yates never fail to bring a smile to my face. Oscar is just so earnest and adorable and Jimmy is so devoted and just wants the best for Oscar. I absolutely adore these two.
Jimmy and Oscar are settling into Port Essington and trying to feel their way through. It’s not easy being new in town, let alone hiding your true self and the love you have for your partner. Jimmy and Oscar navigate this tricky territory wonderfully. Meeting new neighbors with secrets of their helps. Jimmy and Oscar forge connections that help them find their place in town and also help let them be themselves at home.
Lister also captures that sometimes loving someone is not all hearts and flowers. There is real work that has to go into communication and honesty. Jimmy struggles with his past and Oscar is still processing trauma from their journey to Port Essington. Lister conveys the frustration that can go along with feeling left out but also the absolute acceptance of a partner who loves and supports the other. I found this aspect of Jimmy and Oscar’s relationship so real and fresh.
This book was a delight. Jimmy and Oscar are fast becoming old friends I want to visit with time and time again.
November 16, 2022
4.5 Stars
Oscar and Jimmy return, and by the end of this book I did not ever want to let them go. I think this love story has ruined my chances of ever finding someone, because when you aim this high....sigh...who could compete? But that's okay. I'm happy to be alone so long as AE Lister keeps churning out stories like this :) What struck me most about this book is the utter enchanting simplicity of it. There is only a small amount of angst, a moderate dose of drama, but so much love....so much hope and honesty. The writing is vivid, I could taste their Christmas dinner, I could smell the forest, I could feel the heartbreakingly beautiful love between the two men...and yeah....I could picture just how red Oscar's butt cheeks were after a good 'tumble between the sheets'. I really enjoyed 760 Miles, but it's a different type of book to this. Repentance and Absolution is a warm cup of cocoa while its snowing outside. It's a haven from life's dramas. Not going to lie, this book made my eyes leak on multiple occasions. And I never thought I describe a western as enchanting...or simply lovely...but I can think of no better words for it.
Oscar and Jimmy return, and by the end of this book I did not ever want to let them go. I think this love story has ruined my chances of ever finding someone, because when you aim this high....sigh...who could compete? But that's okay. I'm happy to be alone so long as AE Lister keeps churning out stories like this :) What struck me most about this book is the utter enchanting simplicity of it. There is only a small amount of angst, a moderate dose of drama, but so much love....so much hope and honesty. The writing is vivid, I could taste their Christmas dinner, I could smell the forest, I could feel the heartbreakingly beautiful love between the two men...and yeah....I could picture just how red Oscar's butt cheeks were after a good 'tumble between the sheets'. I really enjoyed 760 Miles, but it's a different type of book to this. Repentance and Absolution is a warm cup of cocoa while its snowing outside. It's a haven from life's dramas. Not going to lie, this book made my eyes leak on multiple occasions. And I never thought I describe a western as enchanting...or simply lovely...but I can think of no better words for it.
November 13, 2022
While you could read this without the first one, I'd say that you'd miss a lot of the relationship building between Oscar and Jimmy. As it builds on the previous events, you'd be spoiling the first book. This is a very well done historical romance that takes place in the early 1900s in the Canadian frontier. Jimmy and Oscar are in the process of fixing up the house that used to be Oscar's uncle's. We get to see them building their home and making friends with some of the people in town. I think their neighbors are a great addition and really liked the companionship they are able to give Jimmy and Oscar. I'd say that this one isn't as kinky as the first story but it's still there. It's just that in addition to all the spankings and other things, there are a lot more tender moments between these two.
The pacing in this one felt great to me. Nothing seemed to slow down the plot or be overly focused on. There's just enough action with bears and wolves that we get some adrenaline and yet the love that Oscar and Jimmy have for each other really is the focus. I very much enjoyed this follow up and think it may actually be better than the first. If you're looking for some frontier loving, then this one needs to be on your list.
The pacing in this one felt great to me. Nothing seemed to slow down the plot or be overly focused on. There's just enough action with bears and wolves that we get some adrenaline and yet the love that Oscar and Jimmy have for each other really is the focus. I very much enjoyed this follow up and think it may actually be better than the first. If you're looking for some frontier loving, then this one needs to be on your list.
November 15, 2022
I'm loving this series - once again told from Jimmy's POV, we experience life in turn of the century rural British Columbia, with all the pitfalls of being a gay couple trying to build a life together. Now that Jimmy and Oscar are established in the beginnings of their home, we see the day to day struggle of carving out a life in hiding...
This book is just as emotional, steamy and engrossing as the first one, with some beautifully surprising twists and turns and the chance to reflect and contrast the relationship our main characters have with the couple who are their nearest neighbours... as well as the expectations and assumptions of their friends and acquaintances in the nearest town.
I love seeing this relationship grow and mature, but we're left with a bit of a cliffhanger as we wait for the next book in the series and we find out just how many more obstacles Jimmy and Oscar face in their journey to a HEA. I really hope that we get a story told from Oscar's POV - even if it's just a novella at some point...
This series is best read in order - I think this author writes the story well enough to allude to previous incidents and integrates the couple's history into the story, but you'll enjoy the nuances more if you start at the beginning.
This book is just as emotional, steamy and engrossing as the first one, with some beautifully surprising twists and turns and the chance to reflect and contrast the relationship our main characters have with the couple who are their nearest neighbours... as well as the expectations and assumptions of their friends and acquaintances in the nearest town.
I love seeing this relationship grow and mature, but we're left with a bit of a cliffhanger as we wait for the next book in the series and we find out just how many more obstacles Jimmy and Oscar face in their journey to a HEA. I really hope that we get a story told from Oscar's POV - even if it's just a novella at some point...
This series is best read in order - I think this author writes the story well enough to allude to previous incidents and integrates the couple's history into the story, but you'll enjoy the nuances more if you start at the beginning.
November 13, 2022
Jimmy is trying to make up for his past violent behavior. He hopes a new place to live and Oscar, his new love, will give him the repentance he seeks. Oscar is naive, sweet and in love with Jimmy too. Their new home may be small but it’s full of love.
Jimmy and Oscar are wonderful, well rounded characters. Their particular lifestyle means they are mostly on their own till they meet their new neighbors.
An interesting book. I enjoyed their adventures with the wildlife and their own animals. Their romance was a funny, learning process for each, which I enjoyed very much. Their give and take was sweet. The addition of Clarence and Irene really filled out the story nicely.
I loved this historical romance. Good characters, well written, and an entertaining story made it a keeper.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
Jimmy and Oscar are wonderful, well rounded characters. Their particular lifestyle means they are mostly on their own till they meet their new neighbors.
An interesting book. I enjoyed their adventures with the wildlife and their own animals. Their romance was a funny, learning process for each, which I enjoyed very much. Their give and take was sweet. The addition of Clarence and Irene really filled out the story nicely.
I loved this historical romance. Good characters, well written, and an entertaining story made it a keeper.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
November 14, 2022
Where do I begin with how wonderful a sequel this is?!?
We pick up where book number one finished as Oscar and Jimmy are still happily together, moving into Oscar's deceased uncle's house and turning it into their own forever home. We meet several familiar faces along the way who are sweet and friendly with our boys, Sprite is once again bringing me to tears but along with a smile.
For the first chapter I worried I wouldn't be able to sync with the setting and time era, but thankfully with the characters I love so much I went right into the story with no trouble. We read as their relationship continues to develop and grow stronger with time, they go through troubles relationships often face, but always come out stronger together.
Can't wait for the third in the series!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
We pick up where book number one finished as Oscar and Jimmy are still happily together, moving into Oscar's deceased uncle's house and turning it into their own forever home. We meet several familiar faces along the way who are sweet and friendly with our boys, Sprite is once again bringing me to tears but along with a smile.
For the first chapter I worried I wouldn't be able to sync with the setting and time era, but thankfully with the characters I love so much I went right into the story with no trouble. We read as their relationship continues to develop and grow stronger with time, they go through troubles relationships often face, but always come out stronger together.
Can't wait for the third in the series!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 10, 2023
This historical mm story continues
This book made my heart happy. Following on from where the first book ends this is a look at how Jimmy and Oscar learn how to live with each other and how to manage to keep other people from learning that they aren’t just two bachelors living together to save money. AE Lister balances their intense relationship with neighbors, trips to town and a few dangerous situations. The vast majority of the book is in the very small house that these two men share and that could have come across as boring but it’s given such thoughtful treatment by Ms. Lister that it is entertaining instead. I don’t want to spoil anything but the new neighbors begin to play a bigger part in the story as it goes along. I am definitely interested in reading more about these characters.
This book made my heart happy. Following on from where the first book ends this is a look at how Jimmy and Oscar learn how to live with each other and how to manage to keep other people from learning that they aren’t just two bachelors living together to save money. AE Lister balances their intense relationship with neighbors, trips to town and a few dangerous situations. The vast majority of the book is in the very small house that these two men share and that could have come across as boring but it’s given such thoughtful treatment by Ms. Lister that it is entertaining instead. I don’t want to spoil anything but the new neighbors begin to play a bigger part in the story as it goes along. I am definitely interested in reading more about these characters.
November 13, 2022
I’m sitting here processing, just having finished this book, attempting to find the words. I will start by saying I don’t read historical romance with very few exceptions, but it’s AE Lister so I HAVE to read it. Book one was beautifully written and so captivating - Book two is even more so. Jimmy and Oscar are special in so many ways - they live a simple life and have to hide, from most folks, who they are to each other. That brings a certain melancholy but they still manage to show how much they love each other in so many ways. We also meet Clarence and Irene, a couple that our men are lucky to be neighbors with. I am using the Word reverent to describe this book - it’s absolutely beautiful.
January 9, 2023
I really enjoyed the first book, so I was happy to see more of Jimmy and Oscar. The author really does an excellent job creating an authentic western feel. Jimmy and Oscar are pretty sweet together, and I especially liked how the author handles the challenges they face by choosing to make a life together. The undercurrent of frustration for having to hide is very real and brings some weight to the story. I also loved their neighbors Irene and Clarence, and how the two couples forge a lovely friendship. This was a great read, the setting is very well developed and the characters are wonderfully complex and interesting. Excellent ❤️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
December 28, 2022
I can't help thinking that this book should teach everyone a lesson that 'you can't help who you love'. To think some people still have the same narrow mindedness as most did in 1906; shame on them. If I could have the love and tenderness between these two characters I would feel wholly cherished. This is a heartwarming book with lots of secrets and sacrifices but also fun and sexy. Book 1 was the warm up; this book is the body. Lots of sex scenes with some bondage, spanking and shaming. The extra characters added fantastic narrative. Low angst but be aware of animal attacks. A rating of 4.5 stars.
January 5, 2023
This is a well written historical with all the bigotry and as well the open-mindedness of the times - it just had to be hidden. I loved the characters, their progression in their relationship which is way beyond being just gay at the time - they are delving into something they are just beginning to understand(D/s relationship)- and finding their place in the world and community given. There are some surprises in this book mostly involving their neighbours and you'll probably love them.This definitely can't be read as standalone. You'll need to start with the first book in the series. Enjoy.
April 19, 2025
A beautiful continuation of the Northern Horizons series.
This slower paced historical romance brought out smiles and laughter as Jimmy and Oscar build their new life in Port Essington with new friends and neighbors.
Even though this can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the entire series since this continues on from 760 Miles.
*Sensitive readers - The profanity is a medium level and spice level is medium. If you are an animal lover please note that some wildlife do die in this story.
This slower paced historical romance brought out smiles and laughter as Jimmy and Oscar build their new life in Port Essington with new friends and neighbors.
Even though this can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading the entire series since this continues on from 760 Miles.
*Sensitive readers - The profanity is a medium level and spice level is medium. If you are an animal lover please note that some wildlife do die in this story.
January 9, 2023
This is the continuation of the story of Jimmy and Oscar, it is the 2nd book in the Northern Horizons series. Please read the trigger warnings. This book is amazing and written beautifully. The characters are awesome and you will fall in love with them even further. It is an emotional roller coaster of a read, but so worth it. Definitely recommended.
I received this book as an Arc and I am happily reviewing it voluntarily.
I received this book as an Arc and I am happily reviewing it voluntarily.
January 10, 2023
This was such an interesting book! AE Lister does a great job of bringing Oscar, Jimmy, and the Canadian wilderness to life. Jimmy and Oscar are a wonderful mix of sweet and kinky, and they help each other through some pretty tough times. There are so many themes that are relevant today, and Lister handles them in ways both practical and sensitive. The series transported me to another time and place, and I’m glad that Jimmy and Oscar manage to find happiness through adversity.
January 11, 2023
Loved getting this very domestic view of what Oscar and Jimmy's life was like after the long trek in 760 miles. The setting of the ranch and all the little daily details were perfectly described and I was right there while the book lasted. There was plenty of steam between them and even better it served to deepen their characters and their relationship. It's like I've left old friends to their life together. I wish them all the best and many happy years ahead.
January 14, 2023
I love the historical setting in this book, with all the difficulties of being a gay couple and making a life in secret. Jimmy and Oscar are such a beautiful couple, their love is sweet and hot and they are there for each other through good and bad. They both have some inner demons to deal with, but they talk and work on them together. The book is so well written and engaging, I do however recommend reading the first one first to understand the background. Love is love.
January 18, 2023
Holy wow! I am again blown away by this author! I read the first book in this series and knew I wanted to continue reading about Oscar and Jimmy, but I was not at all sure that the steamy story of their love could continue. However, I need not have worried, as this is JUST as action- packed and steamy as the first. While you don't absolutely have to have read the first book, I really recommend that you do. Perfect sequel... wish I could give it 10 stars!
February 19, 2023
I feel like I’ve been on a true journey with Jimmy and Oscar. They have gone through so much and truly have a new beginning in Port Essington, everything they deserve. They are such a wonderful couple and you just want the very best for them. Lovely secondary characters and dear friends Irene and Clarence. Jimmy and Oscar have both grown so much individually and most certainly as a couple. I will miss them. A wonderful reading experience.
November 18, 2022
I really enjoyed the first book and, honestly, didn't really think there was a need for a second one, but I read it anyway and Oscar and Jimmy have such great chemistry that even though the plot was not all that griping, I still enjoyed seeing their relationship develop and grow.
I noticed that they mentioned Cal a bunch of times in this, so I hope the next book in the series is about him!
I noticed that they mentioned Cal a bunch of times in this, so I hope the next book in the series is about him!
January 9, 2023
This second book in the series didn’t have as strong a storyline as the first but was still an entertaining book. The characters are well developed and the writing is excellent. I love westerns and felt this write does a great job staying true to the genre. Overall a great series and a high recommendation from me!
January 10, 2023
He knows he can never repair the damage he had done in the past but he can try to make amends by doing much better. They have to travel a long way to get to a ranch but they know they need to keep their relationship under wraps as being gay is not allowed. How will they get on? Can they make it? How will life treat them? Follow their journey into the unknown
March 10, 2023
A simple love in the wilderness.
This story as well as the first one, captured my heart for the simplicity of two men in love but not in a very understanding society. The mere simplicity of the love between these two men, brought tears to my eyes at times. Sad to say the we still have to hide in this day and age.
This story as well as the first one, captured my heart for the simplicity of two men in love but not in a very understanding society. The mere simplicity of the love between these two men, brought tears to my eyes at times. Sad to say the we still have to hide in this day and age.
December 10, 2022
A Good Story
I enjoyed this story. I loved the characters, they were wonderful. This is the first time I read anything by this Author. I like her.
I enjoyed this story. I loved the characters, they were wonderful. This is the first time I read anything by this Author. I like her.
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