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The Plumber's Mate Mysteries #6
Une lune de miel… d'enfer
Un couple béni des dieux, mais une lune de miel d’enfer
Le plombier Tom Paretski et son jeune mari, le détective privé Phil Morrison, ont l’intention de profiter pleinement de leur lune de miel en Italie. Ce devrait être le début d’un merveilleux avenir ensemble. Mais lorsque Wayne, l’ex meilleur ami de Phil et l’ancien tyran de Tom, débarque à l’improviste à leur hôtel, des problèmes datant de leurs années d’école menacent de tout gâcher.
Alors quand la mort surgit de manière brutale, que leur lune de miel se transforme en enquête pour meurtre, et qu'un groupe que Wayne avait rencontré s’intéresse aux capacités psychiques de Tom, Phil et lui doivent se serrer les coudes pour comprendre ce qui se passe - ou risquer que ce voyage soit le dernier qu’ils fassent.
#Fantôme #Lunedemiel #MM #Enquête
Le plombier Tom Paretski et son jeune mari, le détective privé Phil Morrison, ont l’intention de profiter pleinement de leur lune de miel en Italie. Ce devrait être le début d’un merveilleux avenir ensemble. Mais lorsque Wayne, l’ex meilleur ami de Phil et l’ancien tyran de Tom, débarque à l’improviste à leur hôtel, des problèmes datant de leurs années d’école menacent de tout gâcher.
Alors quand la mort surgit de manière brutale, que leur lune de miel se transforme en enquête pour meurtre, et qu'un groupe que Wayne avait rencontré s’intéresse aux capacités psychiques de Tom, Phil et lui doivent se serrer les coudes pour comprendre ce qui se passe - ou risquer que ce voyage soit le dernier qu’ils fassent.
#Fantôme #Lunedemiel #MM #Enquête
366 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 14, 2021
39 people are currently reading
281 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Merrow
145 books1,327 followersJL Merrow is that rare beast, an English person who refuses to drink tea. She read Natural Sciences at Cambridge, where she learned many things, chief amongst which was that she never wanted to see the inside of a lab ever again. Her one regret is that she never mastered the ability of punting one-handed whilst holding a glass of champagne.
She writes across genres, with a preference for contemporary gay romance and the paranormal, and is frequently accused of humour. Her novella Muscling Through was a 2013 EPIC Award finalist, and her novel Slam! won the 2013 Rainbow Award for Best LGBT Romantic Comedy. Her novel Relief Valve is a finalist in the 2015 EPIC Awards.
JL Merrow is a member of the UK GLBTQ Fiction Meet organising team.
Find JL Merrow online at: www.jlmerrow.com, on Twitter as @jlmerrow, and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/jl.merrow
She writes across genres, with a preference for contemporary gay romance and the paranormal, and is frequently accused of humour. Her novella Muscling Through was a 2013 EPIC Award finalist, and her novel Slam! won the 2013 Rainbow Award for Best LGBT Romantic Comedy. Her novel Relief Valve is a finalist in the 2015 EPIC Awards.
JL Merrow is a member of the UK GLBTQ Fiction Meet organising team.
Find JL Merrow online at: www.jlmerrow.com, on Twitter as @jlmerrow, and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/jl.merrow
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
June 25, 2021
This series is an ongoing fun read. This installment finds the guys on their honeymoon near Pompeii, a romantic interlude which is set on edge when an old acquaintance - a friend of Phil's and bully of Tom's - turns up in their space, with apologies that don't ring true and an interest that becomes intrusive, for a reason.
The balance of the story here feels a bit difficult - it's true that the outside world would no doubt be taking an interest in Tom's revealed talent (I have a whole series about how dangerous it might be to be known to have such a talent) but that risk and danger is wrapped into a cozy mystery, as usual, and that makes it hard to balance the emotions involved. And the absence of the usual side characters meant that I had no emotional investment in any of the new ones, and didn't develop any over the span of the book.
I still love Tom, both the character and his narrative voice. Phil is making progress in communicating and in recognizing how the past impacts Tom, although not as much as he should have in this context. I'm not sure these guys are close to ready for but their relationship wasn't displayed at its domestic best in this exotic and dangerous locale. Still a series I'll continue to read.
The balance of the story here feels a bit difficult - it's true that the outside world would no doubt be taking an interest in Tom's revealed talent (I have a whole series about how dangerous it might be to be known to have such a talent) but that risk and danger is wrapped into a cozy mystery, as usual, and that makes it hard to balance the emotions involved. And the absence of the usual side characters meant that I had no emotional investment in any of the new ones, and didn't develop any over the span of the book.
I still love Tom, both the character and his narrative voice. Phil is making progress in communicating and in recognizing how the past impacts Tom, although not as much as he should have in this context. I'm not sure these guys are close to ready for but their relationship wasn't displayed at its domestic best in this exotic and dangerous locale. Still a series I'll continue to read.
do-not-read
May 4, 2022After some thought, I've decided to hang up the towel on this series. I never warmed up to Phil, nor really understood why Tom liked him, and now that they're married, I just can't get past that. Plus, the author's ignored things I wanted to see more of over the last couple of books in favor of, well, Phil, lol. So I'm done.
Plus, these new covers by Riptide give me the wiggins. LOL.
Plus, these new covers by Riptide give me the wiggins. LOL.
March 18, 2022
This one was really an uphill climb for me. I have completely had enough of Tom and Phil's shenanigans. Here trouble finds them on honeymoon in Italy, where we spend quite a lot of time with some pretty obnoxious people. I struggled to care about the mystery, struggled to find Tom and Phil's domesticity cute. I finished the series because I don't like loose threads but actually, I should've stopped a while ago.
June 30, 2021
It's been too long since I read this series, and it was such a treat to meet up with these two again.
Tom and Phil head to Naples on their honeymoon, where (of course) they shortly find themselves embroiled in one heck of a mystery. I love the way J.L. Merrow writes this romance - it's a perfect mix of dialog and fade to black sex. Really well done.
Tom and Phil head to Naples on their honeymoon, where (of course) they shortly find themselves embroiled in one heck of a mystery. I love the way J.L. Merrow writes this romance - it's a perfect mix of dialog and fade to black sex. Really well done.
May 10, 2024
4.5 stars.
I’m a little biased here. This volume may be the weakest in the series. And most of the usual supporting cast are absent. But perhaps I’m so in love with J.L Merrow’s writing and her humor, I still have tremendous joy reading it. So it’s still a five-star for me.
I’m a little biased here. This volume may be the weakest in the series. And most of the usual supporting cast are absent. But perhaps I’m so in love with J.L Merrow’s writing and her humor, I still have tremendous joy reading it. So it’s still a five-star for me.
September 14, 2021
Audiobook review
Story: 3 stars
Narration: 5 stars
I was a bit let down by this installment in the series. Tom and Phil are on their honeymoon in Italy and they find that their old schoolmate, and Tom’s biggest bully, is also on holiday there. Most of the book was centered on this bully, Wayne and his girlfriend Siri showing up everywhere. Throw in a few old ladies and another strange guy and Tom & Phil’s honeymoon has gone totally sideways!
When Wayne falls to his death his girlfriend asks Phil to look into it. This was a very strange request. Why would she decide to stay on vacation after her boyfriend died? She even went on day trips!
The only time we get to see Tom using his ability is once and he doesn’t even use it, he fakes it! The mystery is tied up in a head scratching way.
This seemed very long and boring. What happened to the exciting and lovable stories of the previous books? I am very disappointed.
The narration save this. Philip Humphries is excellent as usual. I adore him and his different character voices. If there are any more books in this series I hope they go back to the way the others were!
Story: 3 stars
Narration: 5 stars
I was a bit let down by this installment in the series. Tom and Phil are on their honeymoon in Italy and they find that their old schoolmate, and Tom’s biggest bully, is also on holiday there. Most of the book was centered on this bully, Wayne and his girlfriend Siri showing up everywhere. Throw in a few old ladies and another strange guy and Tom & Phil’s honeymoon has gone totally sideways!
When Wayne falls to his death his girlfriend asks Phil to look into it. This was a very strange request. Why would she decide to stay on vacation after her boyfriend died? She even went on day trips!
The only time we get to see Tom using his ability is once and he doesn’t even use it, he fakes it! The mystery is tied up in a head scratching way.
This seemed very long and boring. What happened to the exciting and lovable stories of the previous books? I am very disappointed.
The narration save this. Philip Humphries is excellent as usual. I adore him and his different character voices. If there are any more books in this series I hope they go back to the way the others were!
November 10, 2021
After tying the knot in the last book, Tom and Phil are off to the sundrenched Naples’ coast for their honeymoon. The cheeky blue-collar plumber and his brooding PI husband are a perfect match. Tom tumbles into trouble and over bodies while Phil helps get at the truth. I enjoy snarky, bumbling-mouthed Tom and deep Phil so I was glad the series didn’t end at the I-Do’s.
Stop Cock is the sixth installment of a series that works best in order when it comes to the personal and relationship side of the story.
Planning to visit the local sights, delight in the cuisine, and enjoy the amenities of their suite, they are a bit sidetracked when one of Phil’s old pals and Tom’s bullying enemies happens to show up and seems to be dogging their steps. Tom and Phil are highly suspicious, but can’t figure his lay until he shows undo interest in Tom’s psychic finding gift and has clandestine meetings with some sketchy Italian guys. But, it isn’t until a hotel guest plunges from the high balcony to his death that Tom and Phil resign themselves to sharing their honeymoon with a murder investigation.
Stop Cock took it’s time getting to the mystery. The first section is all Tom and Phil on honeymoon and playing tourists. It was sweet, but also slow going. But, the bits and pieces leading to the murder are there and after the fact, the pace stayed gentle as they tried to get at the truth. I figured out the truth as soon as a key bit was revealed about the past for one of the guests that tied to the deceased.
As with previous books, the personalities of the two main characters makes for a sparkling duo. Tom tends to be a bit of a working class charmer when it comes to cozying up with people, but he also can get foot in mouth disease pretty often. And, this happens a lot with Phil. Phil and Tom struggle of their shared ugly past when Phil used to be one of Tom’s bullies when Phil was pretending to be straight and secretly, reluctantly attracted to Tom who was always sure of himself and out. Love and a loving relationship don’t suddenly sweep away the past.
Now, I was a tad startled that the pair were already talking the addition of a little bundle of joy to their shiny new marriage, but it’s not like they haven’t been in a relationship for a bit.
I did miss having all the usual fun cast of characters around them, but I wasn’t too cut up since they were in Italy and met some interesting fellow travelers.
All in all, it was another engaging installment in the series and left me eager for more Plumber’s Mate Mysteries. Those who don’t mind a mild psychic element and enjoy a cozy mystery with strong romantic elements should definitely give this series a go.
I rec’d an eARC from Riptide Publishing to read in exchange for an honest review.
Stop Cock is the sixth installment of a series that works best in order when it comes to the personal and relationship side of the story.
Planning to visit the local sights, delight in the cuisine, and enjoy the amenities of their suite, they are a bit sidetracked when one of Phil’s old pals and Tom’s bullying enemies happens to show up and seems to be dogging their steps. Tom and Phil are highly suspicious, but can’t figure his lay until he shows undo interest in Tom’s psychic finding gift and has clandestine meetings with some sketchy Italian guys. But, it isn’t until a hotel guest plunges from the high balcony to his death that Tom and Phil resign themselves to sharing their honeymoon with a murder investigation.
Stop Cock took it’s time getting to the mystery. The first section is all Tom and Phil on honeymoon and playing tourists. It was sweet, but also slow going. But, the bits and pieces leading to the murder are there and after the fact, the pace stayed gentle as they tried to get at the truth. I figured out the truth as soon as a key bit was revealed about the past for one of the guests that tied to the deceased.
As with previous books, the personalities of the two main characters makes for a sparkling duo. Tom tends to be a bit of a working class charmer when it comes to cozying up with people, but he also can get foot in mouth disease pretty often. And, this happens a lot with Phil. Phil and Tom struggle of their shared ugly past when Phil used to be one of Tom’s bullies when Phil was pretending to be straight and secretly, reluctantly attracted to Tom who was always sure of himself and out. Love and a loving relationship don’t suddenly sweep away the past.
Now, I was a tad startled that the pair were already talking the addition of a little bundle of joy to their shiny new marriage, but it’s not like they haven’t been in a relationship for a bit.
I did miss having all the usual fun cast of characters around them, but I wasn’t too cut up since they were in Italy and met some interesting fellow travelers.
All in all, it was another engaging installment in the series and left me eager for more Plumber’s Mate Mysteries. Those who don’t mind a mild psychic element and enjoy a cozy mystery with strong romantic elements should definitely give this series a go.
I rec’d an eARC from Riptide Publishing to read in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2023
Reading another book with Tom and Phil is like a warm hug, it’s just comforting and lovely seeing them have wedded bliss; even when it comes with a side of old enemies/friends and murder. This book had everything I’ve come to expect from the series, hilarious wit, wonderful writing, an interesting mystery, and just one of my absolute favorite couples (although I really do wish they’d get better with communicating with each other already!). If you’ve been wanting more resolution regarding the former bullying, I think you’ll be very happy with this book as you really get to see how apologetic and regretful Phil is. There’s just so much love between these book and I could honestly read a dozen more books about these two and everything they encounter!
May 15, 2021
I've enjoyed this series greatly, so I'm tilting my head a bit to figure out why this book doesn't have me raving. I think perhaps it was the general unlikability of everyone except the MCs. That and the (for me) gag-inducing "now it's time for us to have a baybee" theme, which, UGH.
All that said, the main relationship was written charmingly (apart from the baby stuff), and the mystery was resolved believably but unpredictably. There's no question about the quality of the writing—just, this wasn't the story I wished I were reading. For me, 3.5 stars—but other people may respond very differently.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for an advance copy of this book.
All that said, the main relationship was written charmingly (apart from the baby stuff), and the mystery was resolved believably but unpredictably. There's no question about the quality of the writing—just, this wasn't the story I wished I were reading. For me, 3.5 stars—but other people may respond very differently.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for an advance copy of this book.
June 10, 2021
4 stars
I very much enjoyed this addition to the series
It's been a while and I was worried I wouldn't remember parts of the storyline, but no stress I picked it right up.
In this one we moved to Italy for the guys' honeymoon. I love this area and the ruins of Pompeii part was like revisiting the area again, The location change also worked well for me as this took them away from their usual crutches and Tom and Phil actually had to communicate and talk things out. It was good for relationship improvement. Tom has a knack at the best of times to hide from what needs to be said and it took his ability to do this away. I do wonder at times how the two of them actually got to the stage of getting married when they ignore important discussions within their relationship, this causes Tom to walk on eggshells at times, careful not to mention certain things as he doesn't want to upset the apple cart, but most of these were discussed in this installment and I liked the way it was handled. Hopefully they can both move on from them now and look forward.
I really enjoy the narration style within this series as we see things from Tom's POV and I enjoy his very British working class style, it comes through very well and I can actually hear it in my head as I'm reading. I need to check the audio out of this series. I struggle more with Phil as we are only seeing him from Tom's POV and he comes across moody at times. In this one I was amazed to see he wasn't moody and I was liking the new Phil until about 1/2 way through and he reverted to moody Phil. Luckily this change only lasted a short while and the guys talked it out, once they talked it out I understood where he was coming from better.
I liked the mystery aspect and how it was solved, I enjoyed watching the guys navigate their way through the interactions with the other guests as everyone was hiding something.
Great addition to the series and definitely worth the wait for me.
***ARC provided by GRR. This is my honest and voluntary review***
I very much enjoyed this addition to the series
It's been a while and I was worried I wouldn't remember parts of the storyline, but no stress I picked it right up.
In this one we moved to Italy for the guys' honeymoon. I love this area and the ruins of Pompeii part was like revisiting the area again, The location change also worked well for me as this took them away from their usual crutches and Tom and Phil actually had to communicate and talk things out. It was good for relationship improvement. Tom has a knack at the best of times to hide from what needs to be said and it took his ability to do this away. I do wonder at times how the two of them actually got to the stage of getting married when they ignore important discussions within their relationship, this causes Tom to walk on eggshells at times, careful not to mention certain things as he doesn't want to upset the apple cart, but most of these were discussed in this installment and I liked the way it was handled. Hopefully they can both move on from them now and look forward.
I really enjoy the narration style within this series as we see things from Tom's POV and I enjoy his very British working class style, it comes through very well and I can actually hear it in my head as I'm reading. I need to check the audio out of this series. I struggle more with Phil as we are only seeing him from Tom's POV and he comes across moody at times. In this one I was amazed to see he wasn't moody and I was liking the new Phil until about 1/2 way through and he reverted to moody Phil. Luckily this change only lasted a short while and the guys talked it out, once they talked it out I understood where he was coming from better.
I liked the mystery aspect and how it was solved, I enjoyed watching the guys navigate their way through the interactions with the other guests as everyone was hiding something.
Great addition to the series and definitely worth the wait for me.
***ARC provided by GRR. This is my honest and voluntary review***
July 8, 2021
It feels like I've known Tom and Phil for a long time ... and now we finally get to their honeymoon six books into the series. And like the previous book or two ... the focus is not so much on the death/murder but rather on the MCs (still) rather volatile relationship (given their traumatic backstory with each other). This will please romance buffs, but leaves those like me who prefer more actual sleuthing, feeling a little 'meh'. Despite a startling 'deathly plunge' introduction, the first half read more like a holiday travelogue and I got rather frustrated wondering when and how our guys were going to start investigating if it was a murder or not, and if Tom's paranormal skills would be called upon; ending up with a not-fully satisfying denouement. Just 3 stars this time round I'm afraid.
June 1, 2021
This was probably ny favourite of the plumber's mate series. The mystery was typically twisty and interesting, and lits of the side characters were interesting and suspicious all at once!
One of the highlights for me was how it focused on the relationship between Tom and Phil too. Phil's history as s bully was always a hard point for me, and I really appreciated how it was revisited in this book, and finding a more solid sense of regret and apology that had not been addressed quite as fully before.
I also appreciated a lot the emphasis on ethics and morality that made solving the mystery more intriguing and complex.
A really enjoyable and fun read!
One of the highlights for me was how it focused on the relationship between Tom and Phil too. Phil's history as s bully was always a hard point for me, and I really appreciated how it was revisited in this book, and finding a more solid sense of regret and apology that had not been addressed quite as fully before.
I also appreciated a lot the emphasis on ethics and morality that made solving the mystery more intriguing and complex.
A really enjoyable and fun read!
July 19, 2021
This really wasn’t great. Not a lot of laughs and no real romance. Just the murder mystery. Won’t be reading more of this author for a while.
February 28, 2024
I read the first books of this series in a mad rush back in 2018-2019, moved onto other books and then rediscovered the series with this book, the (perhaps) final book in the series?
Phil and Tom are on their honeymoon in romantic Italy, only to run into a mutual classmate Wayne at the same hotel. In fact, most places they go (including Pompei and Herculaneum) Wayne is also there. And when Wayne jumps / is thrown off a balcony of their hotel, Phil and Tom have a murder to solve.
And the rest of the book, to me, was an awful long slog until we learn what happened (and yup, I was surprised). This book just felt really long and I was surprised to learn that it was only 259 pages. 3 stars and a big "meh" for this book.
AND who are the people on the cover? Because they absolutely are NOT Tom and Phil. Aarrgghh.
Phil and Tom are on their honeymoon in romantic Italy, only to run into a mutual classmate Wayne at the same hotel. In fact, most places they go (including Pompei and Herculaneum) Wayne is also there. And when Wayne jumps / is thrown off a balcony of their hotel, Phil and Tom have a murder to solve.
And the rest of the book, to me, was an awful long slog until we learn what happened (and yup, I was surprised). This book just felt really long and I was surprised to learn that it was only 259 pages. 3 stars and a big "meh" for this book.
AND who are the people on the cover? Because they absolutely are NOT Tom and Phil. Aarrgghh.
June 9, 2021
A honeymoon in Italy… What can go wrong? Well, it turns out Tom and Phil attract trouble, no matter what country they are in…
Visiting the Campania, enjoying the sun and the ruins of Pomepii, sightseeing the impressive Vesuvius… It all sounds too good to be true. So trouble starts with an old school bully joining them, and continues with an accidental death that doesn’t seem so accidental, a bunch of very suspicious characters, and some mafioso boys with terrible intentions… It is going to take all that Paretsky charm to keep Tom and Phil alive this time…
I’ve been following Tom and Phil from the very first book, and I do love them. This book has everything we are used to. Tom with his unrepentant attitude, using his charm to make friends, Phil, with his somehow broody and overprotective attitude, a bit of mystery, a lot of action… The setting is great, there is some anguish when Phil’s ghost of his bully past comes to chase the newly wedded bliss… but all is well that ends well, and finding themselves at home, being happily ignored by their cats, and making hopeful plans for the future is all Tom and Phil may desire...
Very recommendable
I received a copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
Visiting the Campania, enjoying the sun and the ruins of Pomepii, sightseeing the impressive Vesuvius… It all sounds too good to be true. So trouble starts with an old school bully joining them, and continues with an accidental death that doesn’t seem so accidental, a bunch of very suspicious characters, and some mafioso boys with terrible intentions… It is going to take all that Paretsky charm to keep Tom and Phil alive this time…
I’ve been following Tom and Phil from the very first book, and I do love them. This book has everything we are used to. Tom with his unrepentant attitude, using his charm to make friends, Phil, with his somehow broody and overprotective attitude, a bit of mystery, a lot of action… The setting is great, there is some anguish when Phil’s ghost of his bully past comes to chase the newly wedded bliss… but all is well that ends well, and finding themselves at home, being happily ignored by their cats, and making hopeful plans for the future is all Tom and Phil may desire...
Very recommendable
I received a copy of this book, and this is my honest review.
August 18, 2021
3.5 stars
The book was a good read but another one of those where the author obviously didn't know how to end it:)
So it just fizzled out.
The book was a good read but another one of those where the author obviously didn't know how to end it:)
So it just fizzled out.
October 7, 2023
I can't believe I managed to devour this book in less than a day: I was actually planning on savouring it, since it's the last one (for now at least, but who knows how long we'll have to wait for the next? *cries*), but once I started I was completely hooked.
Tom and Phil's sixth adventure has a totally different atmosphere than any of their previous ones, since it's not only set abroad (in sunny, boling hot Sorrento, that I'm now kind of desperate to visit since it's not far from where I live), but they're supposedly on their honeymoon, so no investigations or noisy neighbours asking Tom about his psychic gifts, right? No, wrong.
I did miss the cast of weird and hilarious side characters a bit, but I completely adored how different this one was. For one, the sheer amount of one-on-one Phil and Tom time has now totally ruined me, but also my plea was finally answered and we get lots (well, more than what I was expecing since Tom and Phil are still Tom and Phil AKA a bit emotionally stunted) of CONVERSATIONS, not only about their emotions and future wishes and stuff, but also about Tom's injury and Phil's bullying and I was so happy it was finally addressed. Not all of it, mind: I'm still a bit miffed about the fact that Tom's remark in the previous book about feeling suicidal after his accident was glossed over, but who knows? Maybe it's just the start of their emotional growth journey and J.L. Merrow will get them talking a bit more. My two babies are finally growing up *is misty eyed*
I also completely loved the change in scenery: I love the small town setting and all the usual British quirkiness and shenanigans, but it was nice seeing Tom and Phil interact with a new, unfamiliar place (and the unfamiliar police!) and them being all romantic and in-love and tourist-y on their honeymoney (the usual murder mystery and dangers aside) was an absolute treat. Also, speaking as an Italian: I was a bit worried that the author's portrayal of Italy, the food and the locals, was going to end up being full of stereotypes and offensive stuff about us being all about the Mafia and the food, but actually I was pleasantly surprised. Not only the grammar of the Italian phrases and words was completely correct (even the doubled consonants! I know, fellow Italians, we don't get that very often), but the way Merrow describes the atmosphere, the hot summer days, Sorrento and Capri and Pompeii, with the cliffs and the beaches and the history and the archeology and yes, the food, it felt really realistic and well-researched. I'm so pleased.
The mystery was also pretty different from the ones we're used: Phil and Tom are VERY outside their jurisdiction, but it was a delight (and also hilarious) seeing them have a go at amateur sleuthing. I've read some reviews of this book and I know not everybody was satisfied with the ending, but I thought it was actually good for Tom and Phill to investigate a case that was so challenging (for them, since it's pretty much tangled with Phil's not-so-nice past), not as black-or-white, with no clear cut bad guy or villain eventually getting caught, justice prevailing and all that jazz. It was fairly refreshing and it added something to this already pretty great series. Also, I'm usually not a fan of the big ol' "we should have kids" conversations in a book, but it actually didn't bother me, since I trust Merrow knows what she's doing with her beloved characters, and also, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't so very curious to see what will happen there.
I'd sell a kidney to have another six books about Phil and Tom getting nearly murdered whilst being cheerfully in love in my grubby hands, but oh well, I'll have to re-read them all in the meantime.
Tom and Phil's sixth adventure has a totally different atmosphere than any of their previous ones, since it's not only set abroad (in sunny, boling hot Sorrento, that I'm now kind of desperate to visit since it's not far from where I live), but they're supposedly on their honeymoon, so no investigations or noisy neighbours asking Tom about his psychic gifts, right? No, wrong.
I did miss the cast of weird and hilarious side characters a bit, but I completely adored how different this one was. For one, the sheer amount of one-on-one Phil and Tom time has now totally ruined me, but also my plea was finally answered and we get lots (well, more than what I was expecing since Tom and Phil are still Tom and Phil AKA a bit emotionally stunted) of CONVERSATIONS, not only about their emotions and future wishes and stuff, but also about Tom's injury and Phil's bullying and I was so happy it was finally addressed. Not all of it, mind: I'm still a bit miffed about the fact that Tom's remark in the previous book about feeling suicidal after his accident was glossed over, but who knows? Maybe it's just the start of their emotional growth journey and J.L. Merrow will get them talking a bit more. My two babies are finally growing up *is misty eyed*
I also completely loved the change in scenery: I love the small town setting and all the usual British quirkiness and shenanigans, but it was nice seeing Tom and Phil interact with a new, unfamiliar place (and the unfamiliar police!) and them being all romantic and in-love and tourist-y on their honeymoney (the usual murder mystery and dangers aside) was an absolute treat. Also, speaking as an Italian: I was a bit worried that the author's portrayal of Italy, the food and the locals, was going to end up being full of stereotypes and offensive stuff about us being all about the Mafia and the food, but actually I was pleasantly surprised. Not only the grammar of the Italian phrases and words was completely correct (even the doubled consonants! I know, fellow Italians, we don't get that very often), but the way Merrow describes the atmosphere, the hot summer days, Sorrento and Capri and Pompeii, with the cliffs and the beaches and the history and the archeology and yes, the food, it felt really realistic and well-researched. I'm so pleased.
The mystery was also pretty different from the ones we're used: Phil and Tom are VERY outside their jurisdiction, but it was a delight (and also hilarious) seeing them have a go at amateur sleuthing. I've read some reviews of this book and I know not everybody was satisfied with the ending, but I thought it was actually good for Tom and Phill to investigate a case that was so challenging (for them, since it's pretty much tangled with Phil's not-so-nice past), not as black-or-white, with no clear cut bad guy or villain eventually getting caught, justice prevailing and all that jazz. It was fairly refreshing and it added something to this already pretty great series. Also, I'm usually not a fan of the big ol' "we should have kids" conversations in a book, but it actually didn't bother me, since I trust Merrow knows what she's doing with her beloved characters, and also, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't so very curious to see what will happen there.
I'd sell a kidney to have another six books about Phil and Tom getting nearly murdered whilst being cheerfully in love in my grubby hands, but oh well, I'll have to re-read them all in the meantime.
June 14, 2021
Tom’s narrative voice resonates with me on a number of levels: he’s snarky, but also deeply kind-- and he subjects himself to the same scrutiny he applies to others. He’s a great protagonist, and easy to root for. His “gift” for finding lost things (and water) is an interesting part of who he is, but it’s not the entirety of his skill set, and given the trouble it brings him, it’s hard not to sympathize with his exasperation with it. The plot has plenty of mystery-- there’s murder and intrigue aplenty-- and it’s definitely easy to get drawn into the investigation and to trying to figure out which suspects are most plausible and what their motivations *really* are. As much as I enjoyed the sleuthing aspect, however, I think what resonated most for me about this book was the way it shines a light on the relationship between Tom and Phil. There are plenty of “school days tormenter repents and becomes boyfriend” romances out there-- it’s a recognizable trope-- but I haven’t encountered many, if any, that put as much careful thought into what the ramifications of that kind of past are for both parts of the couple, and it’s moving to watch Phil struggle with his guilt over his past actions, and to watch Tom try to balance his. It’s trickier than you might expect, for both of them, especially since Tom lives with the visible physical reminder of the consequences of that time in their lives, and it’s definitely not helped here by the reappearance of someone else who was there (and also part of persecuting Tom), which drags it all back to them at arguably the worst possible time, their honeymoon. Watching them solve a murder while working through their personal challenges makes for an exciting read, especially since, as in the previous books in this series, you definitely get the feeling that their love, and their investigative skills, will eventually triumph.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 20, 2021
I'm giving it a generous 3 stars. I really, really enjoy Tom (and Phil) and their relationship, however this was a very weak entry in an otherwise great series.
I enjoyed the change of scenery and new characters, in theory. However, I had two issues with this:
1. I didn't really buy the set up (Wayne masterminding the honeymoon and following them both)
2. The author treated the side characters (and developed their relationship with T&P) as the usual cast of characters, meaning they got too friendly and cosy too soon.
I also felt that Phil's usual coldness was even worse here. He's always been an aloof character that comes across as quite a bit of an asshole (to Tom, even) and I couldn't warm up to him here. He's either mercurial or distant and I don't think the occasional bouts of "mushiness" made up for it.
I also resent the idea that these two would have kids soon when they still have got so so much to work out... They've been together barely two years, just gotten married, still fight about the ex-husband and Phil has tons of issues to work through. How is that en environment for a kid?.
I also thought Tom, as usual, got the short end of the stick.
I enjoyed the change of scenery and new characters, in theory. However, I had two issues with this:
1. I didn't really buy the set up (Wayne masterminding the honeymoon and following them both)
2. The author treated the side characters (and developed their relationship with T&P) as the usual cast of characters, meaning they got too friendly and cosy too soon.
I also felt that Phil's usual coldness was even worse here. He's always been an aloof character that comes across as quite a bit of an asshole (to Tom, even) and I couldn't warm up to him here. He's either mercurial or distant and I don't think the occasional bouts of "mushiness" made up for it.
I also resent the idea that these two would have kids soon when they still have got so so much to work out... They've been together barely two years, just gotten married, still fight about the ex-husband and Phil has tons of issues to work through. How is that en environment for a kid?.
I also thought Tom, as usual, got the short end of the stick.
June 16, 2021
Was it nice meeting Tom and Phil again after a long break? it was. Did I finish the book rather quickly? I did. Otherwise it was not the strongest entry in the series. There were two main problems:
- The honeymoon setting robbed the story of the usual strong cast of side characters. The most we have here are two phone calls and one text. The new characters did not leave much of a lasting impression.
- The mystery aspect was probably the weakest in the entire series. The book lost a star on it.
- The honeymoon setting robbed the story of the usual strong cast of side characters. The most we have here are two phone calls and one text. The new characters did not leave much of a lasting impression.
- The mystery aspect was probably the weakest in the entire series. The book lost a star on it.
June 15, 2021
Sometimes, surprisingly, a book can be difficult to review when you like it a lot. It can be easy to review a book with large flaws, at times too easy, but how to communicate the good things in a book that are at times intangible and hard to explain?
"Stop Cock" is such a book for me, partly because it's the latest in a series that I've recently binged and come to love. So in many ways reviewing this novel means reviewing the series as well. Merrow has created some great characters in this series with plumber Tom Paretski and PI Phil Morrison, depicting a real journey for the two in their character arcs for the series from their first steps into a relationship to their honeymoon and consideration of children in this latest book. Several of the supporting characters such as Tom's sister, Cherry, and Dave Southgate, a friend of Paretski's on the police force shine as well, also showing growth in the series.
The first book, "Pressure Head", was at times fairly dark with Tom's "gift" for finding hidden items at the forefront. Gradually, though, as Tom and Phil get to know one another and start a relationship, humor comes more into play, lightening up stories that otherwise could be quite grim considering the number of corpses that start to pile up in a British version of Maine's Cabot Cove. It's a tricky balance between the mystery and the humor that Merrow handles masterfully, crafting interesting mysteries and advancing the characters of Tom and Phil without letting the humor overwhelm the stories. In many ways the humor between the two, as it often is in real life, is both a sign of affection and at other times defense against feeling vulnerable to the other, at times leading to some communication errors and hard talks on learning to overcome their fears. This aspect of following a couple through a series of books turns out wonderfully, tracking their progression from being tentative about one another to being trusting enough to start discussing expanding their family.
As to the mystery, "Stop Cock" has a good one, managing to bring some emotional heft to it as Tom and Phil attempt to solve a murder of someone from their past, with its attendant negative connotations for both men. Their investigation takes some interesting twists and turns and the solution ends up being not necessarily a shocker, because the clues are there all along, but somewhat chilling, especially in light of circumstances that make the act of murder almost understandable. Indeed, all of the mysteries in the Plumber's Mate series have done an excellent job at examining the violent dark underbelly of polite society and how easily it can be stripped away -a trait shared by all good mysteries, I suppose.
I had a few minor quibbles at points in the book. In one instance, it seemed that the main characters took a step back in their relationship as another British traveller manages to drive a wedge between them temporarily. I would have thought that after the events of the last book that they'd be a bit more secure in each other's motives. And Phil's miss on the motivations of said traveller surprised me. Despite the distractions around them, I thought Phil would be a little quicker as to what was really going on.
Still, I loved this book as the culmination of a fantastic series with characters I've become attached to. I don't see where Merrow could take the series after this one as it serves as a pretty good stopping point, but if she writes another I'll definitely be along for the ride.
"Stop Cock" is such a book for me, partly because it's the latest in a series that I've recently binged and come to love. So in many ways reviewing this novel means reviewing the series as well. Merrow has created some great characters in this series with plumber Tom Paretski and PI Phil Morrison, depicting a real journey for the two in their character arcs for the series from their first steps into a relationship to their honeymoon and consideration of children in this latest book. Several of the supporting characters such as Tom's sister, Cherry, and Dave Southgate, a friend of Paretski's on the police force shine as well, also showing growth in the series.
The first book, "Pressure Head", was at times fairly dark with Tom's "gift" for finding hidden items at the forefront. Gradually, though, as Tom and Phil get to know one another and start a relationship, humor comes more into play, lightening up stories that otherwise could be quite grim considering the number of corpses that start to pile up in a British version of Maine's Cabot Cove. It's a tricky balance between the mystery and the humor that Merrow handles masterfully, crafting interesting mysteries and advancing the characters of Tom and Phil without letting the humor overwhelm the stories. In many ways the humor between the two, as it often is in real life, is both a sign of affection and at other times defense against feeling vulnerable to the other, at times leading to some communication errors and hard talks on learning to overcome their fears. This aspect of following a couple through a series of books turns out wonderfully, tracking their progression from being tentative about one another to being trusting enough to start discussing expanding their family.
As to the mystery, "Stop Cock" has a good one, managing to bring some emotional heft to it as Tom and Phil attempt to solve a murder of someone from their past, with its attendant negative connotations for both men. Their investigation takes some interesting twists and turns and the solution ends up being not necessarily a shocker, because the clues are there all along, but somewhat chilling, especially in light of circumstances that make the act of murder almost understandable. Indeed, all of the mysteries in the Plumber's Mate series have done an excellent job at examining the violent dark underbelly of polite society and how easily it can be stripped away -a trait shared by all good mysteries, I suppose.
I had a few minor quibbles at points in the book. In one instance, it seemed that the main characters took a step back in their relationship as another British traveller manages to drive a wedge between them temporarily. I would have thought that after the events of the last book that they'd be a bit more secure in each other's motives. And Phil's miss on the motivations of said traveller surprised me. Despite the distractions around them, I thought Phil would be a little quicker as to what was really going on.
Still, I loved this book as the culmination of a fantastic series with characters I've become attached to. I don't see where Merrow could take the series after this one as it serves as a pretty good stopping point, but if she writes another I'll definitely be along for the ride.
December 28, 2023
Après des retrouvailles assez tumultueuses et un rapprochement malgré tout assez prévisible, nous voici arrivés à la conclusion de cette saga, je ne divulgâche pas le suspens : les deux héros se sont mariés et sont donc en lune de miel au soleil, tout est dit à la fois dans le titre et dans le paysage de la couverture.
Mais comme il s'agit de Tom et de Phil, forcément, ça ne peut pas se passer uniquement sous le soleil de l'Italie en enchainant les Spritz et les pizzas. Et ça commence très fort par une rencontre venue du passé plutôt déstabilisante : Wayne, ancien "meilleur ami au lycée" de Phil et co-harceleur de Tom, accessoirement aussi à l'origine de l'accident qui a laissé le plombier avec une hanche en carton (merci au résumé qui balance tout...).
Un tome, le dernier de la série (?), qui est pour moi un peu en dessous des précédents. Tout d'abord, je l'ai trouvé plus indolent, plus lent, sans doute voulu par l'auteur à l'image de cette "bella vita" italienne, mais je me suis un peu ennuyée. Le roman nous propose une visite de Pompéi et d'Herculanum, avec force détails et anecdotes, et se passe sinon quasiment en huis-clos dans l'hôtel où logent les tourtereaux, dans une ambiance un peu "agathachristienne". Il m'a manqué cet humour so british, sans doute aussi la galerie de personnages pittoresques qui gravitent autour du couple, avec une intervention plutôt agréable de ce cher inspecteur Dave. Même Arthur et Merlin m'ont manqué.
Les dons de Tom, ce qui fait malgré tout le gros plus de la série, ne sont une fois encore pas suffisamment exploités, ce que je trouve dommage après le premier tome, que j'avais trouvé bien fichu.
Le côté positif de ce tome, c'est qu'on revient une fois pour toutes sur ce qui a construit l'histoire de Tom et de Phil, avec cette notion de pardon et de remords, de regrets et de prises de tête entre les deux hommes, et c'est une bonne chose, je trouvais que le premier pardonnait un peu trop facilement et que le second mettait son comportement passé dans sa poche bien vite.
Le dernier chapitre m'a fait un peu peur, j'ai crains à un moment que l'auteur n'aille au bout d'une idée qui me paraissait pour le coup, vraiment tarabiscotée. Mais elle a eu le bon goût de ne pas le faire, je me demande cependant ce que cette "visite" apporte à l'histoire.
Bref, une série qui a démarré très fort, mais qui s'est à mon sens un peu essoufflée au fur et à mesure, même si chaque tome m'a fait passer un super moment. Mais je pense qu'il est temps que ça s'arrête et qu'il faut laisser Tom et Phil vivre leur vie.
Mais comme il s'agit de Tom et de Phil, forcément, ça ne peut pas se passer uniquement sous le soleil de l'Italie en enchainant les Spritz et les pizzas. Et ça commence très fort par une rencontre venue du passé plutôt déstabilisante : Wayne, ancien "meilleur ami au lycée" de Phil et co-harceleur de Tom, accessoirement aussi à l'origine de l'accident qui a laissé le plombier avec une hanche en carton (merci au résumé qui balance tout...).
Un tome, le dernier de la série (?), qui est pour moi un peu en dessous des précédents. Tout d'abord, je l'ai trouvé plus indolent, plus lent, sans doute voulu par l'auteur à l'image de cette "bella vita" italienne, mais je me suis un peu ennuyée. Le roman nous propose une visite de Pompéi et d'Herculanum, avec force détails et anecdotes, et se passe sinon quasiment en huis-clos dans l'hôtel où logent les tourtereaux, dans une ambiance un peu "agathachristienne". Il m'a manqué cet humour so british, sans doute aussi la galerie de personnages pittoresques qui gravitent autour du couple, avec une intervention plutôt agréable de ce cher inspecteur Dave. Même Arthur et Merlin m'ont manqué.
Les dons de Tom, ce qui fait malgré tout le gros plus de la série, ne sont une fois encore pas suffisamment exploités, ce que je trouve dommage après le premier tome, que j'avais trouvé bien fichu.
Le côté positif de ce tome, c'est qu'on revient une fois pour toutes sur ce qui a construit l'histoire de Tom et de Phil, avec cette notion de pardon et de remords, de regrets et de prises de tête entre les deux hommes, et c'est une bonne chose, je trouvais que le premier pardonnait un peu trop facilement et que le second mettait son comportement passé dans sa poche bien vite.
Le dernier chapitre m'a fait un peu peur, j'ai crains à un moment que l'auteur n'aille au bout d'une idée qui me paraissait pour le coup, vraiment tarabiscotée. Mais elle a eu le bon goût de ne pas le faire, je me demande cependant ce que cette "visite" apporte à l'histoire.
Bref, une série qui a démarré très fort, mais qui s'est à mon sens un peu essoufflée au fur et à mesure, même si chaque tome m'a fait passer un super moment. Mais je pense qu'il est temps que ça s'arrête et qu'il faut laisser Tom et Phil vivre leur vie.
November 17, 2025
6-й , і на зараз заключний роман в серії квір-детективів. двоє героїв колись навчалися в одному класі, проте Тома в школі не любили і цькували. а серед його переслідувачів був Філіпп. завершилося все дуже негарно - тікаючи від Філа і друзів, Том потрапив під машину і пошкодив таз. відповідно, до школи він так і не повернувся і заробляє на життя сантехніком, трохи кульгає. любить котів і іноді допомагає другові з поліції у розслідуваннях. бо ще має трішки надприродних здібностей - здатен знаходити заховані або загублені речі.
зустрівшись в дорослому житті, герої починають серію пригод-розслідувань, поступово зближуючись і примиряючись.
такого типу книжок англійською друкують досить багато. мене в цьому циклі підкупили:
1. вайб англійської глибинки - події часто розгортаються десь в невеликих селищах під Лондоном. відповідно, розслідування чимось нагадують "чисто англійське вбивство".
2. своєрідний гумор головного героя.
3. те що Том - дуже добра, чуйна і уважна до оточуючих людина. мені рідко зустрічаються подібні герої. тому слідкувати за сюжетами романів завжди було цікаво.
загалом, прочитала з задоволенням. навіть якщо події 6-го роману вперше відбуваються за кордоном - парочка їде до Неаполю - то сам злочин має всі принади англійських детективів. з чаєм о 5-й годині і кривавим вбивством через досить неочевидні українському читачеві причини. )))
зустрівшись в дорослому житті, герої починають серію пригод-розслідувань, поступово зближуючись і примиряючись.
такого типу книжок англійською друкують досить багато. мене в цьому циклі підкупили:
1. вайб англійської глибинки - події часто розгортаються десь в невеликих селищах під Лондоном. відповідно, розслідування чимось нагадують "чисто англійське вбивство".
2. своєрідний гумор головного героя.
3. те що Том - дуже добра, чуйна і уважна до оточуючих людина. мені рідко зустрічаються подібні герої. тому слідкувати за сюжетами романів завжди було цікаво.
загалом, прочитала з задоволенням. навіть якщо події 6-го роману вперше відбуваються за кордоном - парочка їде до Неаполю - то сам злочин має всі принади англійських детективів. з чаєм о 5-й годині і кривавим вбивством через досить неочевидні українському читачеві причини. )))
November 29, 2021
4 Stars
I could (again) just copy my review of an earlier book of this series here. J.L. Merrow delivers solid, steady crime with a british cozy feeling and a m/m setting.
This time crime follows Tom and Phil onto their honeymoon in Italy. But despite the italian sun and old roman ruins the british feeling remains. Most of the involved people are british anyway. Because an old school mate shows up at their honeymoon and they can't get rid of him - but someone else manages.
On the relationship-level we have a honeymoon, Tom's first but Phil's second and I must say the enigma of the always mysterious-remaining Mark is in my eyes overdue to become unveiled. All these secrets can't be healthy. But on the other side we have Tom and Phil thinking about parenthood. So that offers some promising prospects for the futre.
I could (again) just copy my review of an earlier book of this series here. J.L. Merrow delivers solid, steady crime with a british cozy feeling and a m/m setting.
This time crime follows Tom and Phil onto their honeymoon in Italy. But despite the italian sun and old roman ruins the british feeling remains. Most of the involved people are british anyway. Because an old school mate shows up at their honeymoon and they can't get rid of him - but someone else manages.
On the relationship-level we have a honeymoon, Tom's first but Phil's second and I must say the enigma of the always mysterious-remaining Mark is in my eyes overdue to become unveiled. All these secrets can't be healthy. But on the other side we have Tom and Phil thinking about parenthood. So that offers some promising prospects for the futre.
August 4, 2021
I need to remember that I don't care for this narrator, he sounds like he's talking around a mouthful of marbles with a stuffed nose.
I loved this series when it started but part of me feels like it's run its course. Enough with the going over what happened when they were kids, FFS they're married clearly Tom is over it or he should be. Enough with Tom being jealous of Phil's dead husband. This one didn't really have anything to do with Tom's talent either. The mystery was decent, I was thinking it would go in a different direction for a while. Overall it was okay.
I loved this series when it started but part of me feels like it's run its course. Enough with the going over what happened when they were kids, FFS they're married clearly Tom is over it or he should be. Enough with Tom being jealous of Phil's dead husband. This one didn't really have anything to do with Tom's talent either. The mystery was decent, I was thinking it would go in a different direction for a while. Overall it was okay.
October 31, 2022
That was quite the honeymoon! I wish Tom and Phil had both been more secure in their relationship by this point but old arguments resurface. In between the insecurities, there is a possible murder, shady mafia type guys, smarmy strangers, and a mystery of whodunit. There is also some history with the tourist sites in Italy that made for a nice setting. Almost made me want to go! I did wish Tom had more opportunity to use his gift although it came in handy when needed.
Read
December 15, 2024Finishing this series was a bit of an uphill battle for me. It started strong but I became less and less interested with each installment. Normally this kind of series would be right up my alley but I just really struggled to connect with this one.
June 29, 2023
Enjoyable mystery romance with a paranormal twist and likable characters.
June 6, 2021
I absolutely adore Tom and Phil. The author’s grasp on both characters and the continuing development and Tom and Phil separately and together is great to see. I enjoying seeing that despite Phil’s previous marriage, he always lets Tom know that he’s it for him, that he dispels Tom’s insecurities before they take hold and often before Tom says anything.
I have to admit with the mystery that I didn’t guess who it was, and was pleasantly surprised to see who it was and how it unfolded afterwards.
I also enjoyed the brief appearances of DCI Dave Southgate, and his interactions with our boys.
I found the first part of the novel slow, but once it got going it moved quickly and totally absorbed me. I hope there is another instalment
I have to admit with the mystery that I didn’t guess who it was, and was pleasantly surprised to see who it was and how it unfolded afterwards.
I also enjoyed the brief appearances of DCI Dave Southgate, and his interactions with our boys.
I found the first part of the novel slow, but once it got going it moved quickly and totally absorbed me. I hope there is another instalment
March 24, 2024
I love this series. It is probably my favorite gay cozy mystery series and this one did not disappoint.
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