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Freeman
Freeman's return to the city is quiet, without fuss -- the way he likes things. But, he's missed by more people than he his ex-wife, his ex-lover, and his ex-business partner. One wants friendship, another one intimacy. The third just wants him the hell gone again. Freeman -- private, controlled -- hasn't time or appetite for trouble. But, when he strikes up an unusual, ill-advised friendship with young, lively, amoral Kit, it seems trouble's come looking for both men, ready to expose secrets that can destroy the fragile trust they've built. Freeman's more ready for the challenge than anyone realizes when the choice comes down to peace or Kit's life.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2009
22 people are currently reading
284 people want to read
About the author
Clare London
148 books434 followersClare took the pen name London from the city where she lives, loves, and writes. A lone, brave female in a frenetic, testosterone-fuelled family home, she juggles her writing with her other day job as an accountant. She’s written in many genres and across many settings, with award-winning novels and short stories published both online and in print. She says she likes variety in her writing while friends say she’s just fickle, but as long as both theories spawn good fiction, she’s happy. Most of her work features male/male romance and drama with a healthy serving of physical passion, as she enjoys both reading and writing about strong, sympathetic and sexy characters.
Clare currently has several novels sulking at that tricky chapter 3 stage and plenty of other projects in mind . . . she just has to find out where she left them in that frenetic, testosterone-fuelled family home.
All the details and free fiction are available at her website. Visit her today and say hello!
Clare also writes as Stella Shaw and launched a new series of rent boy romances in 2021.
Clare currently has several novels sulking at that tricky chapter 3 stage and plenty of other projects in mind . . . she just has to find out where she left them in that frenetic, testosterone-fuelled family home.
All the details and free fiction are available at her website. Visit her today and say hello!
Clare also writes as Stella Shaw and launched a new series of rent boy romances in 2021.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 28, 2013
The opening prologue to this book had me jumping up and down with excitement!!!
This is a compelling read and I was sucked in, mouth agape ready for the promise of more… it set the scene for the book perfectly, a story shrouded in mystery, the dark atmosphere almost oppressive with a narrator both unemotional and detached from the proceedings despite the fact that he was placed right in the middle of it. He is dark and mysterious, knowing, an observer lurking in the shadows of a seedy night club, the boy next to him a stranger, yet somehow he feels protective towards him… he knows this world and it’s nefarious characters, yet he sits, watching like a predator patiently stalking its prey, no emotion, guarded, yet totally aware!
There is no colour in this world, rather you get the feeling of a blanket of sadness and melancholy vividly enhanced through the writing of Clare London. It has the feel of a dark noir detective thriller, I could practically feel the fog swirling around my ankles! The mystery is enhanced by a constant underlying thread woven into this tale, we catch an occasional glimpse of it before it disappears back into the shadows, the dark plot and lack of information draw you in with each page turned relentlessly teasing, wanting to know more… hanging on the narrators every word to try and piece it all together, with a constant stream of questions in your head almost pleading for answers.
Our enigmatic narrator is Freeman a man of few words, dispassionate with a dangerous edge to him. He has returned to London after five years of self-imposed exile, wanting to escape the world and friends he no longer recognised. His return and stoically guarded demeanour have unsettled the equilibrium and his old friend and business partner George, his ex-wife Stella and ex-lover Miki are more than a little nervous about his intentions. He seems to be dismissive of them, but I felt that he got some satisfaction from unsettling those around him, I didn’t feel resentment or even revenge from Freeman… it was more a feeling of acceptance and hurt but we don’t find out the true reason of his return until the end of the book and despite Freeman being the narrator we never really fully understand him or see what’s going on inside his head, it’s as though he is hiding it from himself as well as us!
Kit is George’s new plaything, his toy… to do with as he pleases, he is smart but very naïve, thinking George is his chance to make something of himself, he is a misguided young man, fragile, lost and certainly doesn't belong in a world filled with the seedy underbelly of the criminal element of London but he too has his secrets.
Kit and Freeman are drawn to each other and it certainly wasn't because of Freemans scintillating conversation! I got the impression Kit felt safe with Freeman, a haven to escape, if only for a little while from a lifestyle he knew in his heart was all wrong… he feels guilt for letting himself be used and tries to justify it not only to Freeman but also himself. Freeman is not very forthcoming, he is a loner, a man who prefers his own company yet Kit has somehow wormed his way into his home and heart and it’s Kit that becomes the focus of his attention. Kit is relentlessly inquisitive, questioning, wanting to know something, anything about the man who hides behind the façade that is Freeman. But it’s not something Freeman dwells on, he has firmly buried and turned his back on a life his conscience wouldn't let him be a part of and his heart didn't want to be reminded of. I was hurting for both these characters, Kit for his naïve innocence, wanting something better and believing George is the man that can take him there… as a mother I wanted to cry, my heart was breaking for him and with Freeman it was his lack of emotion that was so compelling and gut wrenching… with him, it’s what we don’t see that hurts the most.
This book was so close to being on my best ever list based on the first half, but after that I was slightly disappointed but I’ll tell you why… at the 20% mark there is a scene in the club owned by George, now bearing in mind I love my dark m/m novels and for me this scene set the tone of the book… the promise of seedy nightclubs, drugs, sordid sex and violence, these men were dangerous and George was embarking on a deal that would see him as formidable opponent in London’s underground dealings… I wanted more dark, more danger… I wanted these men to be as bad and cut throat as promised, but that was as bad as it got it never quite delivered the characters I wanted. Now for those of you that do not enjoy the raw and gritty novels I lean towards then you will love this book… it skirts the fringes of danger with nothing more than a few scuffles and arguments and perhaps without that scene I probably wouldn’t have been quite so gutted that I didn’t get my desired slice of depravity.
Having said that this is still an excellent read, there is always that threat of danger with an underlying mystery excellently executed. The romance between these two men was intense and passionate full of sexual tension and some very hot sex scenes! Watching Freeman let Kit into his heart was beautiful to watch, Kit was an open book and wore his heart on his sleeve but Freeman had opened his heart and mind to sex being more than just the some of those three letters... and although they were total opposites in every sense of the word, it worked, this crazy relationship was right and they were perfect together.
Throughout we only have Freeman’s thoughts and perspective, but Ms London does not rush him, no… we are slowly and painfully drip fed information with layer upon layer slowly pulled away never getting the whole picture until the end, and I love that Clare London challenges us as readers to draw our own conclusions and fill in the gaps that Freeman has been so reluctant to share. Ms London brings us stories filled with atmosphere, the intensity of which is palpable at times and Freeman is a shining example.
This book is Highly recommended... I LOVED IT!!!
The night was dark, the pavements shadowed by the diffused gleam of the streetlights. Occasionally I'd hear a car passing, raising spray in the gutters, and the trajectory of it's headlights would flicker across my window blinds.
This is a compelling read and I was sucked in, mouth agape ready for the promise of more… it set the scene for the book perfectly, a story shrouded in mystery, the dark atmosphere almost oppressive with a narrator both unemotional and detached from the proceedings despite the fact that he was placed right in the middle of it. He is dark and mysterious, knowing, an observer lurking in the shadows of a seedy night club, the boy next to him a stranger, yet somehow he feels protective towards him… he knows this world and it’s nefarious characters, yet he sits, watching like a predator patiently stalking its prey, no emotion, guarded, yet totally aware!
There is no colour in this world, rather you get the feeling of a blanket of sadness and melancholy vividly enhanced through the writing of Clare London. It has the feel of a dark noir detective thriller, I could practically feel the fog swirling around my ankles! The mystery is enhanced by a constant underlying thread woven into this tale, we catch an occasional glimpse of it before it disappears back into the shadows, the dark plot and lack of information draw you in with each page turned relentlessly teasing, wanting to know more… hanging on the narrators every word to try and piece it all together, with a constant stream of questions in your head almost pleading for answers.
Our enigmatic narrator is Freeman a man of few words, dispassionate with a dangerous edge to him. He has returned to London after five years of self-imposed exile, wanting to escape the world and friends he no longer recognised. His return and stoically guarded demeanour have unsettled the equilibrium and his old friend and business partner George, his ex-wife Stella and ex-lover Miki are more than a little nervous about his intentions. He seems to be dismissive of them, but I felt that he got some satisfaction from unsettling those around him, I didn’t feel resentment or even revenge from Freeman… it was more a feeling of acceptance and hurt but we don’t find out the true reason of his return until the end of the book and despite Freeman being the narrator we never really fully understand him or see what’s going on inside his head, it’s as though he is hiding it from himself as well as us!
"No mystery, right. A businessman who lives in a fucking expensive flat, on his own, with some weird neighbours. With no sign of what that business actually is. A man who drinks too much coffee and works out of an alley behind the high street. A man who's young and pretty fit, but who watches strange films and listens to old music."
I grinned. "That's me" I replied.
Kit is George’s new plaything, his toy… to do with as he pleases, he is smart but very naïve, thinking George is his chance to make something of himself, he is a misguided young man, fragile, lost and certainly doesn't belong in a world filled with the seedy underbelly of the criminal element of London but he too has his secrets.
Suddenly it was all about Kit, all about him. All I could think of, all I could want and need. It was as if I were sinking, drowning, but with no attempt to save myself. My common sense stepped outside my body, gently shaking it's head, watching with disapproval as my heart beat faster and my blood turned from sustenance to desire.
Kit and Freeman are drawn to each other and it certainly wasn't because of Freemans scintillating conversation! I got the impression Kit felt safe with Freeman, a haven to escape, if only for a little while from a lifestyle he knew in his heart was all wrong… he feels guilt for letting himself be used and tries to justify it not only to Freeman but also himself. Freeman is not very forthcoming, he is a loner, a man who prefers his own company yet Kit has somehow wormed his way into his home and heart and it’s Kit that becomes the focus of his attention. Kit is relentlessly inquisitive, questioning, wanting to know something, anything about the man who hides behind the façade that is Freeman. But it’s not something Freeman dwells on, he has firmly buried and turned his back on a life his conscience wouldn't let him be a part of and his heart didn't want to be reminded of. I was hurting for both these characters, Kit for his naïve innocence, wanting something better and believing George is the man that can take him there… as a mother I wanted to cry, my heart was breaking for him and with Freeman it was his lack of emotion that was so compelling and gut wrenching… with him, it’s what we don’t see that hurts the most.
I felt something catch in my chest and a breath that was more like a gasp escaped through my lips. I felt as if something inside me started to unravel. The bindings slipped swiftly away, freeing me. sharp, silvered threads whipping away on the breeze, allowing me to breath again, to feel again.
This book was so close to being on my best ever list based on the first half, but after that I was slightly disappointed but I’ll tell you why… at the 20% mark there is a scene in the club owned by George, now bearing in mind I love my dark m/m novels and for me this scene set the tone of the book… the promise of seedy nightclubs, drugs, sordid sex and violence, these men were dangerous and George was embarking on a deal that would see him as formidable opponent in London’s underground dealings… I wanted more dark, more danger… I wanted these men to be as bad and cut throat as promised, but that was as bad as it got it never quite delivered the characters I wanted. Now for those of you that do not enjoy the raw and gritty novels I lean towards then you will love this book… it skirts the fringes of danger with nothing more than a few scuffles and arguments and perhaps without that scene I probably wouldn’t have been quite so gutted that I didn’t get my desired slice of depravity.
Having said that this is still an excellent read, there is always that threat of danger with an underlying mystery excellently executed. The romance between these two men was intense and passionate full of sexual tension and some very hot sex scenes! Watching Freeman let Kit into his heart was beautiful to watch, Kit was an open book and wore his heart on his sleeve but Freeman had opened his heart and mind to sex being more than just the some of those three letters... and although they were total opposites in every sense of the word, it worked, this crazy relationship was right and they were perfect together.
Throughout we only have Freeman’s thoughts and perspective, but Ms London does not rush him, no… we are slowly and painfully drip fed information with layer upon layer slowly pulled away never getting the whole picture until the end, and I love that Clare London challenges us as readers to draw our own conclusions and fill in the gaps that Freeman has been so reluctant to share. Ms London brings us stories filled with atmosphere, the intensity of which is palpable at times and Freeman is a shining example.
This book is Highly recommended... I LOVED IT!!!
August 24, 2021
This was a fascinating book with two main characters who interested me from the start, but who only very gradually came into focus.. We see the story through the eyes of Freeman - who has returned to his home town where his ex-business partner George is drifting further and further into criminal enterprises, where his ex-wife still lives, where the apartment he's owned for a long time feels like home, but not quite.
One night, sitting in the corner of a bar George owns, where he's warily tolerated, he meets a very young man. Kit is one of George's newest possessions, a kid who thinks he's made his own choices, who desperately needs to feel in control even though George effectively owns him. But Kit is caught in George's web, a pawn in a much bigger game, controlled and used. Freeman sees it, wants to help him, and yet doesn't want to get to close. So he lets Kit in, a bit at a time. A safe place to stay, a meal, an evening watching a movie without pressure to perform. And gradually, his heart becomes captured too.
But Kit is useful to George for more than his ass, and George isn't happy at having Freeman around, butting back into his empire. Slowly, things come to a head.
I liked that this was dark, but not super-dark. That the criminality was sometimes mundane, sometimes less that life-and-death, and yet still painful and grimy and devastating. I enjoyed the slow burn, and also the slow reveal. We learn important things about both men and their situation very gradually, with what feel like natural reveals over the length of the book. Freeman is very closed down, and often we learn things about him in how other people react to him.
The writing captured my attention and the slow build kept me turning the pages. I didn't fall in love with the main characters - the little bit of distance from Freeman's emotions was both part of the fascination but also kept me from loving him as I do my favorite MCs. But I imagine I'll reread this one , someday, and will be interested in what clues I missed the first time through, not to the mystery element, but to the men themselves.
One night, sitting in the corner of a bar George owns, where he's warily tolerated, he meets a very young man. Kit is one of George's newest possessions, a kid who thinks he's made his own choices, who desperately needs to feel in control even though George effectively owns him. But Kit is caught in George's web, a pawn in a much bigger game, controlled and used. Freeman sees it, wants to help him, and yet doesn't want to get to close. So he lets Kit in, a bit at a time. A safe place to stay, a meal, an evening watching a movie without pressure to perform. And gradually, his heart becomes captured too.
But Kit is useful to George for more than his ass, and George isn't happy at having Freeman around, butting back into his empire. Slowly, things come to a head.
I liked that this was dark, but not super-dark. That the criminality was sometimes mundane, sometimes less that life-and-death, and yet still painful and grimy and devastating. I enjoyed the slow burn, and also the slow reveal. We learn important things about both men and their situation very gradually, with what feel like natural reveals over the length of the book. Freeman is very closed down, and often we learn things about him in how other people react to him.
The writing captured my attention and the slow build kept me turning the pages. I didn't fall in love with the main characters - the little bit of distance from Freeman's emotions was both part of the fascination but also kept me from loving him as I do my favorite MCs. But I imagine I'll reread this one , someday, and will be interested in what clues I missed the first time through, not to the mystery element, but to the men themselves.
August 2, 2012
This was a very solid m/m suspense-romance novel. It reminded me a little like a noir film for its starkness and dark bar settings, or as another reviewer remarked, like a British gangster film, except no frenetic gun battles.
The story is told via Freeman’s POV, a mysterious man (even to the reader) who allows only small tidbits of information about himself to slip through as he observes his surroundings, works his "jobs", and generally tries to fade into the background, to be around people but not really to engage. Right from the first page, he meets a young man at a shady club, and this meeting pushes Freeman into actions that surprise even himself, and is pretty much the first push of the snowball that grows bigger and rolls faster as the story progresses.
Freeman is an interesting character, but purposefully very distant, as other characters have remarked. There were times that Freeman (and thus, the reader) are only able to gauge his true emotions by the reactions from other characters. For instance, Kit, the young man that Freeman meets, will react to Freeman’s facial expressions. “It was because you gave me that look of disapproval.” From Freeman’s POV, he didn’t think he was revealing his disapproving thoughts so clearly. It’s often from these character observations that we’re able to see a little more beneath the tight cover Freeman maintains.
Even though this is not a tragic story, it is also not a fluffy story. Kit was in some bad situations, and because of that, this could have been a much darker read. This edge is somewhat dulled by 1) Freeman’s distant POV, only catching glimpses of what’s going on or hearing about it after, and 2) Kit’s fierce need to make his own choices, no matter how bad they are. I liked Kit a lot, and I’m glad things turned out the way they did--if it had been much grimmer, I don’t think I would have enjoyed this book as much.
Freeman also reminded me of the film Drive, although I liked this book much better than Drive. (Freeman came out a couple years prior to the film.) This book is far less violent than the film. There is a steady undercurrent of potential threat and violence throughout, which keeps the tension high, but for the most part this threat is not acted upon. Again, I have a sense that Freeman can be quite scary when the situation calls for it, but I only got that impression from other character sidling away from him, and one moment of sharp violence.
Both the character of Freeman and Gosling’s character in Drive are loners, quiet and very controlled, and most of their emotions have to be picked up through subtle nuances. Also like Drive, there is a character "to be saved," but thankfully Kit has far more agency in this book, whereas the female "love interest" in Drive was more of an unattainable ideal of what happiness Gosling could have, and really wasn’t a character at all. (That film was so frustrating...)
Freeman’s distant perspective on himself, his feelings, and motivations seemed very purposeful by the author, and did successfully keep suspense up because there are some big surprises in this book that I did not see coming. But I did also wonder if I would have had a deeper understanding of the characters (and maybe more attachment to the story) if there were alternating POVs of Freeman and Kit. It might have been more difficult to steer away from some of the darker aspects if we experienced them from Kit’s POV, but it might have been nice to have that other view of Freeman and the story from someone else’s head.
It’s because of those big surprises that your reread of this book would be pretty different from your initial read because you would be interpreting actions with a better understanding of motivations. The author did a great job here of masking actions and their meanings, and when things were explained, I thought back at earlier scenes with a feeling of “A-ha!” London did a neat job of adding in those layers.
I will say that I wasn’t a big fan of the denouncement scene near the end-—it felt both talky and abrupt, and some of the dialogue felt unnatural. (At one point, Freeman said, “You’re talking like a porn novel,” to another character, and I felt all, “Thank you, Freeman! He was!!”) But at the same time, all the back-and-forth didn’t flow well with me. This could be on my end though because there was still so much tension, I might have been pushing to get to the point just to end the torture of “what will happen???”
Overall though, I thought it was a very good read with very interesting characters, a multi-layered story, and a slow burning romance. (It was through that romance where Freeman again would let slip that carefully maintained cover, allowing us again to see that vulnerability he so steadfastly hid.) Recommended if you’re looking for a good, gritty story, but one that won’t leave you in darkness. (Even Freeman needs light, although he might not say so in such a direct way.)
The story is told via Freeman’s POV, a mysterious man (even to the reader) who allows only small tidbits of information about himself to slip through as he observes his surroundings, works his "jobs", and generally tries to fade into the background, to be around people but not really to engage. Right from the first page, he meets a young man at a shady club, and this meeting pushes Freeman into actions that surprise even himself, and is pretty much the first push of the snowball that grows bigger and rolls faster as the story progresses.
Freeman is an interesting character, but purposefully very distant, as other characters have remarked. There were times that Freeman (and thus, the reader) are only able to gauge his true emotions by the reactions from other characters. For instance, Kit, the young man that Freeman meets, will react to Freeman’s facial expressions. “It was because you gave me that look of disapproval.” From Freeman’s POV, he didn’t think he was revealing his disapproving thoughts so clearly. It’s often from these character observations that we’re able to see a little more beneath the tight cover Freeman maintains.
Even though this is not a tragic story, it is also not a fluffy story. Kit was in some bad situations, and because of that, this could have been a much darker read. This edge is somewhat dulled by 1) Freeman’s distant POV, only catching glimpses of what’s going on or hearing about it after, and 2) Kit’s fierce need to make his own choices, no matter how bad they are. I liked Kit a lot, and I’m glad things turned out the way they did--if it had been much grimmer, I don’t think I would have enjoyed this book as much.
Freeman also reminded me of the film Drive, although I liked this book much better than Drive. (Freeman came out a couple years prior to the film.) This book is far less violent than the film. There is a steady undercurrent of potential threat and violence throughout, which keeps the tension high, but for the most part this threat is not acted upon. Again, I have a sense that Freeman can be quite scary when the situation calls for it, but I only got that impression from other character sidling away from him, and one moment of sharp violence.
Both the character of Freeman and Gosling’s character in Drive are loners, quiet and very controlled, and most of their emotions have to be picked up through subtle nuances. Also like Drive, there is a character "to be saved," but thankfully Kit has far more agency in this book, whereas the female "love interest" in Drive was more of an unattainable ideal of what happiness Gosling could have, and really wasn’t a character at all. (That film was so frustrating...)
Freeman’s distant perspective on himself, his feelings, and motivations seemed very purposeful by the author, and did successfully keep suspense up because there are some big surprises in this book that I did not see coming. But I did also wonder if I would have had a deeper understanding of the characters (and maybe more attachment to the story) if there were alternating POVs of Freeman and Kit. It might have been more difficult to steer away from some of the darker aspects if we experienced them from Kit’s POV, but it might have been nice to have that other view of Freeman and the story from someone else’s head.
It’s because of those big surprises that your reread of this book would be pretty different from your initial read because you would be interpreting actions with a better understanding of motivations. The author did a great job here of masking actions and their meanings, and when things were explained, I thought back at earlier scenes with a feeling of “A-ha!” London did a neat job of adding in those layers.
I will say that I wasn’t a big fan of the denouncement scene near the end-—it felt both talky and abrupt, and some of the dialogue felt unnatural. (At one point, Freeman said, “You’re talking like a porn novel,” to another character, and I felt all, “Thank you, Freeman! He was!!”) But at the same time, all the back-and-forth didn’t flow well with me. This could be on my end though because there was still so much tension, I might have been pushing to get to the point just to end the torture of “what will happen???”
Overall though, I thought it was a very good read with very interesting characters, a multi-layered story, and a slow burning romance. (It was through that romance where Freeman again would let slip that carefully maintained cover, allowing us again to see that vulnerability he so steadfastly hid.) Recommended if you’re looking for a good, gritty story, but one that won’t leave you in darkness. (Even Freeman needs light, although he might not say so in such a direct way.)
July 20, 2009
Freeman is back in the city he left years before. Working as a 'finder'; of things, information and even people, he's happy to stay as far away from his old life as possible. However, when he meets and forms a friendship with a young man he names Kit he'll find himself getting sucked back into that old life.
This was a wonderfully written story. Ms London has a beautiful descriptive style that drew me in from beginning to end. The story has a gritty dark feeling and the characters are complex and engaging. This wasn't the usual M/M story I'm used to reading. It gives off the feeling of an old-fashioned gangster film. Dark and seedy locations, the 'business man' who owns parts of the city, his 'associates', a faithful wife who happens to have a surprising connection to Freeman and a mystery that will take the reader by surprise when the details are revealed.
I really liked the character of Freeman. While the story is told in his POV we don't really learn too much about Freeman the man. He's almost as much of a mystery at the end of the story as in the beginning.
I sat in my usual place, out of the way. Clubs weren't really my thing, but after the pubs closed they were the only places I could get some company with my drinking. Not that I wanted something one-on-one, not even conversation. Just company in the background: noise, babble, bodies. I don't know what people would call me. Observer, not participant. Antisocial, maybe.
Content for the most part to be alone he's surprised when he starts letting Kit in as a friend. After their first awkward meeting he finds himself feeding and caring for his new companion and actually enjoying their times together. Their interactions were really interesting to read and I enjoyed seeing them grow closer seemingly despite themselves. While not the usual 'cute couple' nevertheless they work great together.
Kit is also an interesting character. Younger than Freeman, he's new to the city and pretty much alone when he gets involved with George, an older business man who offers to help him get on his feet in the big city. Once brought into George's world, Kit finds himself in situations he never imagined he'd be in and in need of a friend. Good thing for him he's got Freeman on his side.
When Freeman and Kit finally take their relationship from friends to lovers the sex is hot, tender and with a bit of humor that makes the scene so 'real'. They are more than just two men getting off, even though there are no flowery words exchanged the deep feelings between them resonate throughout.
I cried out as I came. My room hadn't heard such a sound for a long time. I moaned and I shuddered and I grabbed at him. My hand gripped his hip, fingers biting into the taut skin there, and I arched up off the bed. My vision saw colours, then a bright white, then just brightness.
His eyes were glazed, but he smiled at me. "Now," he mouthed. I smiled back and nodded. His eyes widened with pleasure.
And later....
It was a sweet, poignant sensation, caressing him, having him in my arms. He called my name several times as he came, shaking and gasping; then he coughed when the water ran into his mouth, and I laughed again. We both did.
Now lovers, Freeman must find a way to help Kit get out from George's hold and this will lead to a very climactic and surprising ending. The action will be intense and the results seem to tear the lovers apart for good. When the dust settles on the havoc that Freeman causes to George's organization many things will change for a lot of people, most especially for Kit.
As I stated previously, I really loved this book. Great writing, great characters, a story that starts off slow but then picks up speed and carries the reader along on a fascinating journey. There's mystery, emotional attachments both old and new, complex and surprising relationships and a very satisfying ending.
I especially love how Freeman is finally able to open up and express so much in just a few words.
"No," I interrupted. "Look at me." When he stared into my eyes, his laughter quieting, I looked back with everything I thought and felt. "I think about sex with you a lot. But I think about you even more."
My voice sounded very calm, very deep. "Then just to tell you I need you. Want you. Missed you." It was liberating to say it aloud, whatever he said in reply. I caught at his hand and held it to me, pressed against my chest. "Whatever you want."
He leant forward quickly, startling me, and his kiss was a capture rather than a gift. "You took your time," he whispered. His eyes were wet. "That's exactly what I want."
This was a wonderfully written story. Ms London has a beautiful descriptive style that drew me in from beginning to end. The story has a gritty dark feeling and the characters are complex and engaging. This wasn't the usual M/M story I'm used to reading. It gives off the feeling of an old-fashioned gangster film. Dark and seedy locations, the 'business man' who owns parts of the city, his 'associates', a faithful wife who happens to have a surprising connection to Freeman and a mystery that will take the reader by surprise when the details are revealed.
I really liked the character of Freeman. While the story is told in his POV we don't really learn too much about Freeman the man. He's almost as much of a mystery at the end of the story as in the beginning.
I sat in my usual place, out of the way. Clubs weren't really my thing, but after the pubs closed they were the only places I could get some company with my drinking. Not that I wanted something one-on-one, not even conversation. Just company in the background: noise, babble, bodies. I don't know what people would call me. Observer, not participant. Antisocial, maybe.
Content for the most part to be alone he's surprised when he starts letting Kit in as a friend. After their first awkward meeting he finds himself feeding and caring for his new companion and actually enjoying their times together. Their interactions were really interesting to read and I enjoyed seeing them grow closer seemingly despite themselves. While not the usual 'cute couple' nevertheless they work great together.
Kit is also an interesting character. Younger than Freeman, he's new to the city and pretty much alone when he gets involved with George, an older business man who offers to help him get on his feet in the big city. Once brought into George's world, Kit finds himself in situations he never imagined he'd be in and in need of a friend. Good thing for him he's got Freeman on his side.
When Freeman and Kit finally take their relationship from friends to lovers the sex is hot, tender and with a bit of humor that makes the scene so 'real'. They are more than just two men getting off, even though there are no flowery words exchanged the deep feelings between them resonate throughout.
I cried out as I came. My room hadn't heard such a sound for a long time. I moaned and I shuddered and I grabbed at him. My hand gripped his hip, fingers biting into the taut skin there, and I arched up off the bed. My vision saw colours, then a bright white, then just brightness.
His eyes were glazed, but he smiled at me. "Now," he mouthed. I smiled back and nodded. His eyes widened with pleasure.
And later....
It was a sweet, poignant sensation, caressing him, having him in my arms. He called my name several times as he came, shaking and gasping; then he coughed when the water ran into his mouth, and I laughed again. We both did.
Now lovers, Freeman must find a way to help Kit get out from George's hold and this will lead to a very climactic and surprising ending. The action will be intense and the results seem to tear the lovers apart for good. When the dust settles on the havoc that Freeman causes to George's organization many things will change for a lot of people, most especially for Kit.
As I stated previously, I really loved this book. Great writing, great characters, a story that starts off slow but then picks up speed and carries the reader along on a fascinating journey. There's mystery, emotional attachments both old and new, complex and surprising relationships and a very satisfying ending.
I especially love how Freeman is finally able to open up and express so much in just a few words.
"No," I interrupted. "Look at me." When he stared into my eyes, his laughter quieting, I looked back with everything I thought and felt. "I think about sex with you a lot. But I think about you even more."
My voice sounded very calm, very deep. "Then just to tell you I need you. Want you. Missed you." It was liberating to say it aloud, whatever he said in reply. I caught at his hand and held it to me, pressed against my chest. "Whatever you want."
He leant forward quickly, startling me, and his kiss was a capture rather than a gift. "You took your time," he whispered. His eyes were wet. "That's exactly what I want."
April 2, 2011
Sometimes I like the book so much that I'm afraid to read it again: What if it doesn't live up to my original impressions? In the case of Freeman not only did I love the book but the narrator of the story - Freeman himself - reveals the mystery to us in a way he does everything else: by keeping his cards close to his chest. Knowing that, I was afraid the magic of the story would be lost on the second reading. I didn't have to worry.
There is so much in this story that was practically tailored to my taste that I have to restrain myself from gushing. The atmosphere of the story appears to come right out of The Limey (although Freeman isn't as violent as Terence Stamp, Peter Fonda certainly can be George) or one of Guy Ritchie's movies. It's dark and oppressive and fabulously English - the danger lurks under the surface of good manners and polished veneer. Freeman fits into that setting like fish fits the water: he is cool, collected, mysterious, honorable. He might have a relaxed attitude towards the law, but his own moral code is unshakable. His voice is mesmerizing and you have no other option but to fall under the spell, even when you know he isn't telling you everything. Kit - young, naive, stubborn, proud Kit - is perfect to uncover the most important part of Freeman, even when everything else remains hidden - his heart. There was a part of their first love scene where Kit broke my heart and I couldn't help myself but want a happy ending for him, for both of them. The supporting cast was also excellent. George, Miki, Stella are all types, but they are by no means two-dimensional. There is more to them than meets the eye - just the way it should be. The climax of the story was simply delicious.
I enjoyed many of Clare London's books a lot, but I think Freeman is her best so far. This is a grownup book in every sense of the word - the writing, the clever plotting, the characters (not to mention lovely sex scenes). I recognize that this might not be to everyone's taste, but for me - it was perfect. Highly, highly recommended.
There is so much in this story that was practically tailored to my taste that I have to restrain myself from gushing. The atmosphere of the story appears to come right out of The Limey (although Freeman isn't as violent as Terence Stamp, Peter Fonda certainly can be George) or one of Guy Ritchie's movies. It's dark and oppressive and fabulously English - the danger lurks under the surface of good manners and polished veneer. Freeman fits into that setting like fish fits the water: he is cool, collected, mysterious, honorable. He might have a relaxed attitude towards the law, but his own moral code is unshakable. His voice is mesmerizing and you have no other option but to fall under the spell, even when you know he isn't telling you everything. Kit - young, naive, stubborn, proud Kit - is perfect to uncover the most important part of Freeman, even when everything else remains hidden - his heart. There was a part of their first love scene where Kit broke my heart and I couldn't help myself but want a happy ending for him, for both of them. The supporting cast was also excellent. George, Miki, Stella are all types, but they are by no means two-dimensional. There is more to them than meets the eye - just the way it should be. The climax of the story was simply delicious.
I enjoyed many of Clare London's books a lot, but I think Freeman is her best so far. This is a grownup book in every sense of the word - the writing, the clever plotting, the characters (not to mention lovely sex scenes). I recognize that this might not be to everyone's taste, but for me - it was perfect. Highly, highly recommended.
June 11, 2009
Freeman is an exercise in patience. The book builds story, relationships and suspense until the very end. Freeman and Kit meet on the first page, but they build their relationship for about half the book before they actually have any sexual contact. But they have emotional contact (even though Freeman doesn't always realize it) from the first page. Patience really does pay off for this story.
This book was a page turner for me. I could not put it down. Not because of the suspense/mystery part of the plot, although the outcome of that was certainly unique, but because I kept looking for each crack in Freeman's ennui and self-imposed emotional exile. As each factor of the people in his life unfolds, you get more and more pieces to the Freeman puzzle and begin to understand why he is so robotic and frozen in place.
The only reason this is not a five star read is because we only get Freeman's POV. I think I would have had a much more satisfying and strong connection with Kit if we had had his POV as well. Instead we get his reactions but none of the inner dialogue as to why those are his reactions.
I am really glad I read this one. Since I like Clare London, I took a chance and am glad I did.
This book was a page turner for me. I could not put it down. Not because of the suspense/mystery part of the plot, although the outcome of that was certainly unique, but because I kept looking for each crack in Freeman's ennui and self-imposed emotional exile. As each factor of the people in his life unfolds, you get more and more pieces to the Freeman puzzle and begin to understand why he is so robotic and frozen in place.
The only reason this is not a five star read is because we only get Freeman's POV. I think I would have had a much more satisfying and strong connection with Kit if we had had his POV as well. Instead we get his reactions but none of the inner dialogue as to why those are his reactions.
I am really glad I read this one. Since I like Clare London, I took a chance and am glad I did.
January 1, 2011
What I liked: I’m going to try to tell you what I liked about this book, why I’d recommend it, without going all spoilery: I am a big, giant sucker for fan of characters who really need taking care of, and not only think they don’t, but won’t allow it. Kit is a kid, compared to Freeman—-all lanky and underfed, dark hair and big, blue eyes, thinks he’s worldly and just isn’t—-who talks a good game that even he doesn’t really believe, and is so urgently in need of rescue that I wanted to charge into the story and take him home, install him in my guestroom and feed him until he begged me to stop cooking. And yet, the kid’s got to be tough as nails to have survived as long as he has, doing what he’s doing.
Freeman’s character is handled extraordinarily well, and it took me a while to understand what I was seeing, which impressed me even more. Because the entire story is told in Freeman’s POV, in the first-person, and the reader still doesn’t gain any insight that Freeman doesn’t want to give. I don’t know if I can communicate what I mean, and why it impressed me so much. It’s not that the author withholds information or history; it’s that Freeman himself doesn’t think about things he doesn’t want to think about, so the people that he sees around him are less of a mystery to the reader than he is. His story unravels naturally, with everything analyzed exactly when it needs to be analyzed and not before, exposed when he’s forced to face it and not a moment sooner.
The plot was well-rounded and believable. The secondary characters were interesting and vivid. I was especially pleased to see a decent female character, which you can’t always get in a story focused on a m/m relationship. No stereotypical, vindictive ex-wife harpy here. In fact, there was very little that was stereotypical or blatantly tropey in the entirety of the story. I was kept guessing, which hardly ever happens.
Watching the characters come together was… I wish I could come up with a better word than ‘sweet’. But it was. Freeman being all noble and Kit trying not to screw up the one friendship he’s managed to find, and there’s covert protection thrown in for good measure. I really rooted for them. And then I scowled and said, ‘Nooooooo!’ and then I won’t tell you what I did after that, because that would be spoilery. ;)
Nitpicks: Not many. I’m not a huge fan of stories told in the first-person, but this author pulled it off so well that I stopped noticing it only a few pages in. There was one point in the story where I found myself wrinkling my brow, thinking, ‘Um… okay, why are we pausing for a chat right now?’ but it quickly picked back up, and I happily moved along with it. In other words: a tiny stumble, not an actual speed-bump.
The elephant in the room: Yes, there was sex. And yes, it was done well. It was a natural part of the story, and not something thrown in to take it from a PG-13 to an R. And I never got the feeling that one of them was a girl with extra plumbing. ;)
Worth the $15.00? Yes. For me, anyway. It’s one I will pick up and read again, and probably again, and it introduced me to an author I now consider a ‘go to’ author, so I deem the money well spent. Plus, the author has said she’s been poking about a sequel, and I’m all for following characters I know and love through a series.
Freeman’s character is handled extraordinarily well, and it took me a while to understand what I was seeing, which impressed me even more. Because the entire story is told in Freeman’s POV, in the first-person, and the reader still doesn’t gain any insight that Freeman doesn’t want to give. I don’t know if I can communicate what I mean, and why it impressed me so much. It’s not that the author withholds information or history; it’s that Freeman himself doesn’t think about things he doesn’t want to think about, so the people that he sees around him are less of a mystery to the reader than he is. His story unravels naturally, with everything analyzed exactly when it needs to be analyzed and not before, exposed when he’s forced to face it and not a moment sooner.
The plot was well-rounded and believable. The secondary characters were interesting and vivid. I was especially pleased to see a decent female character, which you can’t always get in a story focused on a m/m relationship. No stereotypical, vindictive ex-wife harpy here. In fact, there was very little that was stereotypical or blatantly tropey in the entirety of the story. I was kept guessing, which hardly ever happens.
Watching the characters come together was… I wish I could come up with a better word than ‘sweet’. But it was. Freeman being all noble and Kit trying not to screw up the one friendship he’s managed to find, and there’s covert protection thrown in for good measure. I really rooted for them. And then I scowled and said, ‘Nooooooo!’ and then I won’t tell you what I did after that, because that would be spoilery. ;)
Nitpicks: Not many. I’m not a huge fan of stories told in the first-person, but this author pulled it off so well that I stopped noticing it only a few pages in. There was one point in the story where I found myself wrinkling my brow, thinking, ‘Um… okay, why are we pausing for a chat right now?’ but it quickly picked back up, and I happily moved along with it. In other words: a tiny stumble, not an actual speed-bump.
The elephant in the room: Yes, there was sex. And yes, it was done well. It was a natural part of the story, and not something thrown in to take it from a PG-13 to an R. And I never got the feeling that one of them was a girl with extra plumbing. ;)
Worth the $15.00? Yes. For me, anyway. It’s one I will pick up and read again, and probably again, and it introduced me to an author I now consider a ‘go to’ author, so I deem the money well spent. Plus, the author has said she’s been poking about a sequel, and I’m all for following characters I know and love through a series.
September 20, 2014
Beautiful writing, dark, gritty atmospheric setting, enigmatic hero, sleazy gangster types - everything I like! I really enjoyed this book. I didn't want it to end. Ms London has such as easy writing style she manages to carry the reader along in this intense drama wondering what's going to happen next. And yes, even if the 'twist' is one can see coming, it doesn't matter, this reader's investment in the characters had her holding her breath several time. The book is actually overly violent but the FEELING of menace is brilliantly done.
December 31, 2010
A deliciously gritty mystery tale with a terse and unreliable narrator, this novel hooked me in and didn’t let go. It’s not an easy read, but the tour through the sordid criminal underbelly of a large city had a tense atmosphere and plenty of mystery to keep me intrigued.
Perhaps the most enigmatic thing about the whole novel is Freeman himself, our narrator. Considering how little he tells us about his past and his motives, it’s amazing how sympathetic a character he remains. This is partly down to his wry humour and acceptance of his faults, but also because of his relationship to Kit. Despite the vulnerable young man throwing himself at Freeman, he maintains a respectful distance until he realises just how hard he’s fallen for him.
Kit is another great character. Voluble and charming, he’s been sucked into a life of near-prostitution to a criminal businessman with the naive hope of bettering himself. Freeman doesn’t lecture him about his lifestyle choices, but is the friend Kit can go to when things get difficult and he needs time to just relax. Their love grows slowly throughout the novel, but there are major barriers to it caused by Freeman finally revealing what his true mission has always been, both to Kit and the reader. It was a case of “I really didn’t see that one coming”, and I was amazed at how well Clare London had hidden this plot twist considering the story is narrated by Freeman himself.
An extremely well written mystery with much to recommend it.
Perhaps the most enigmatic thing about the whole novel is Freeman himself, our narrator. Considering how little he tells us about his past and his motives, it’s amazing how sympathetic a character he remains. This is partly down to his wry humour and acceptance of his faults, but also because of his relationship to Kit. Despite the vulnerable young man throwing himself at Freeman, he maintains a respectful distance until he realises just how hard he’s fallen for him.
Kit is another great character. Voluble and charming, he’s been sucked into a life of near-prostitution to a criminal businessman with the naive hope of bettering himself. Freeman doesn’t lecture him about his lifestyle choices, but is the friend Kit can go to when things get difficult and he needs time to just relax. Their love grows slowly throughout the novel, but there are major barriers to it caused by Freeman finally revealing what his true mission has always been, both to Kit and the reader. It was a case of “I really didn’t see that one coming”, and I was amazed at how well Clare London had hidden this plot twist considering the story is narrated by Freeman himself.
An extremely well written mystery with much to recommend it.
October 22, 2010
You ever read a book and think, these characters are distance, not exactly in tune with their emotions. This guy goes into a bar, sits in the corner and he observes. A kid comes up to him, sits down next to him and runs a pick up line. They share illegal smoking pleasure. The kid stands up and goes over to the owner of the bar. The kid performs his duty to the owner. The owner's security makes sure they aren't disturbed. Ogle the proceedings as they cover up the act from prying eyes. But the stranger is no stranger to owner's peculiar habits. Kid is done. He goes back to the stranger in the booth. Have a few words. The kid lays his head on the stranger's shoulders, and falls asleep. The stranger, who is Freeman, takes the kid home. Nothing happens, except you know, sleep. Freeman doesn't know the kid's name.
That's the beginning of Freeman, a very interesting story for the way it was structured. Told in the 1st person, the author manages to keep Freeman mysterious, offering sparse details, and descriptive information without overwhelming the readers with background data.
There is romance, mystery, and the nice pace in unraveling the story. I enjoyed Freeman quite a bit.
That's the beginning of Freeman, a very interesting story for the way it was structured. Told in the 1st person, the author manages to keep Freeman mysterious, offering sparse details, and descriptive information without overwhelming the readers with background data.
There is romance, mystery, and the nice pace in unraveling the story. I enjoyed Freeman quite a bit.
January 11, 2014
I've been adding a lot of book to my account here today because a friend pointed out that I haven't updated it in ages. I'm stopping mid-process to add a small review for this book.
Back in 2006 or 2007, I gave a prompt to Clare London, whom I'd known for a couple of years as a brilliant fan fiction writer (under a different pseudonym). We had even shared a hotel room and a couple of drinks together at YaoiCon in San Francisco. At any rate, I gave her a prompt one day on Livejournal and she wrote a little short story (it was more in the nature of a story treatment) that one day became "Freeman". When she expanded the story, fleshed it out, and turned it into a novella, I was thrilled (I think I may have been one of the first people to read it, actually). I thought it was brilliant then, and I still think it's brilliant today.
Clare is one of the funniest, nicest, most lovely people I've ever met. She's a terrific writer with a great sense of wit. Her love scenes are always written, well, HOT.
Trust me when I tell you that picking up any of her books, especially this one, will not be a mistake. If you like gay romance, she's your girl.
Back in 2006 or 2007, I gave a prompt to Clare London, whom I'd known for a couple of years as a brilliant fan fiction writer (under a different pseudonym). We had even shared a hotel room and a couple of drinks together at YaoiCon in San Francisco. At any rate, I gave her a prompt one day on Livejournal and she wrote a little short story (it was more in the nature of a story treatment) that one day became "Freeman". When she expanded the story, fleshed it out, and turned it into a novella, I was thrilled (I think I may have been one of the first people to read it, actually). I thought it was brilliant then, and I still think it's brilliant today.
Clare is one of the funniest, nicest, most lovely people I've ever met. She's a terrific writer with a great sense of wit. Her love scenes are always written, well, HOT.
Trust me when I tell you that picking up any of her books, especially this one, will not be a mistake. If you like gay romance, she's your girl.
April 18, 2011
Очень нуарная вещь. Первых страниц тридцать я честно думала, что действие происходит лет эдак семьдесят назад. Фриман, гл.герой, прямо как из детектива Раймонда Чендлера - весь из себя романтичный, немногословный и загадошшный, что весь зверь песец. Кит, второй герой, очень милый, такой щеночек лопоухий.
Было бы совсем замечательно, если бы было побольше насилия, как и принято в нуарных романах. А то вроде все как положено, но вот чтобы главному герою по морде дали, такого нет, что неправильно с точки зрения жанра :)))
Было бы совсем замечательно, если бы было побольше насилия, как и принято в нуарных романах. А то вроде все как положено, но вот чтобы главному герою по морде дали, такого нет, что неправильно с точки зрения жанра :)))
June 4, 2010
This is psychological romance in retro style. It pooled me in and I loved it, 5 stars
Read
June 5, 2009At first Freeman comes out like one of those characters from an old noir movie, a man tired of life with nothing or noone of important in his life, who tries to drown his sorrow in a glass of spirit. And so at first Freeman comes out also older and disenchanted; when he meets Kit, it's like an old lion with a young kitty, Freeman is all low growls that never turn in real danger, and Kit is like a burst of energy, like a bouncing ball that Freeman has no more the energy to follow. And so at first I didn't like Freeman, since Kit was obviously in danger and Freeman seemed to care but really he didn't do nothing to real help him: Kit entered and exited Freeman's house, and when he was there he was safe, but when he went out, we knew that he was in danger. We even witnessed to a very sad scene, through Freeman's eyes, and we had to turn the shoulders to that scene since Freeman turned them. It was not exactly what I would like to see from an "hero", but Freeman is not an usual hero.
In a way, Freeman did the right thing, since Kit is a runaway kid, and he is running away from being an adult. He has to mistake and he has to find the force to do the right thing, by himself, since only in that way he will grew. Kit is always ready to accuse Freeman to treat him like a kid, but probably Freeman is the only one who doesn't do that. You tell to a kid what to do, and instead you give to an adult all the elements to decide what to do; Freeman is doing so with Kit, he is making him take his choices. Only that, unfortunately, before taking them, he will have to go through a very bad period in his life.
Due to this, this novel has a very dark mood in it, a mood that will always remain, even when the things will turn good for Kit. I often associate the mood of the book to the weather, and even if it's not clearly said, I always felt, reading the book, as if it was a dark night, without moon, or a covered day, with the sun that never really managed to come out from the clouds. Actually the only sunny moments are those when Kit is in the room, since he seems to have an interior light that never goes out, even when he is kept under the thumb of an evil man. Maybe this difference in behavior, Kit so open and exposed, and Freeman instead so dark and mourning, gives that first impression of a greater age difference between them, when instead there are less than 10 years. There is another things that linked them but has a different evolution: of both Freeman than Kit we don't know the real name for a big part of the book (Kit is from kid), and in the end, we will know Kit real name, but not that of Freeman: we will know all of his past, even maybe the reason why he is called Freeman, but we will not know if Freeman is a real surname, if it is a nickname... till the end the dark behavior of Freeman will be confirmed as well as it will be the one more sunny of Kit.
There is quite an originality in the way the author deals with the development of Freeman; usually the normal development of a mourning hero is to find the "light" in the arms of his beloved. Here instead, Freeman doesn't radically change, he more or less, remains the same mysterious man, since the mourning him was not a consequence of a some bad experience in his past: from what we know, he was always like that and he always faced the life with a silent and deadly approach, he takes home the job and moves to another one, always in silence, always without giving too much explanations or asking too much questions. Maybe the difference this time it will be that he will take away with him a bit of sun to light his cloudy day.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1608200043/?...
In a way, Freeman did the right thing, since Kit is a runaway kid, and he is running away from being an adult. He has to mistake and he has to find the force to do the right thing, by himself, since only in that way he will grew. Kit is always ready to accuse Freeman to treat him like a kid, but probably Freeman is the only one who doesn't do that. You tell to a kid what to do, and instead you give to an adult all the elements to decide what to do; Freeman is doing so with Kit, he is making him take his choices. Only that, unfortunately, before taking them, he will have to go through a very bad period in his life.
Due to this, this novel has a very dark mood in it, a mood that will always remain, even when the things will turn good for Kit. I often associate the mood of the book to the weather, and even if it's not clearly said, I always felt, reading the book, as if it was a dark night, without moon, or a covered day, with the sun that never really managed to come out from the clouds. Actually the only sunny moments are those when Kit is in the room, since he seems to have an interior light that never goes out, even when he is kept under the thumb of an evil man. Maybe this difference in behavior, Kit so open and exposed, and Freeman instead so dark and mourning, gives that first impression of a greater age difference between them, when instead there are less than 10 years. There is another things that linked them but has a different evolution: of both Freeman than Kit we don't know the real name for a big part of the book (Kit is from kid), and in the end, we will know Kit real name, but not that of Freeman: we will know all of his past, even maybe the reason why he is called Freeman, but we will not know if Freeman is a real surname, if it is a nickname... till the end the dark behavior of Freeman will be confirmed as well as it will be the one more sunny of Kit.
There is quite an originality in the way the author deals with the development of Freeman; usually the normal development of a mourning hero is to find the "light" in the arms of his beloved. Here instead, Freeman doesn't radically change, he more or less, remains the same mysterious man, since the mourning him was not a consequence of a some bad experience in his past: from what we know, he was always like that and he always faced the life with a silent and deadly approach, he takes home the job and moves to another one, always in silence, always without giving too much explanations or asking too much questions. Maybe the difference this time it will be that he will take away with him a bit of sun to light his cloudy day.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/1608200043/?...
June 15, 2009
Clare London’s done it again. She’s sucked me into a story. I should know by now that this happens every time I read something that she’s done. She’s got a knack for taking people on the fringe of society, coming from a place that may be completly alien to the reader, and turning it into something that’s accessible. You feel with these characters and even when the motives behind their actions are obscured, you still understand them. It’s a rare talent.
This release is a bit different from the other work that I know and love from London. The reader doesn’t get to know exactly what the main character’s motives are until the very last chapter in the book. While it’s not my favorite plot device, she makes it work. Normally, I like to know everything about a character, so I can angst with them throughout the story.
There’s our main character, Freeman, whose job is to find things. He runs into a nameless club-goer, who he dubs ‘Kit.’ Kit becomes a fixture in Freeman’s life, even as Freeman starts to burrow into Kit’s employer’s not-so-legal dealings, and people from Freeman’s past come in to make things very confusing for Kit and Freeman both.
At times, you’re not even sure who the good guys are and that’s kind of nice. I like characters to be a bit ambiguous. It makes them all that much more real to me.
I’m not sure if this is going to be everyone’s cup of tea since it’s not happy and fluffy like the majority of BL out there, but it is a fantastic read. If people are going to ignore a good book because it’s not sticking to the conventions that we all got used to reading in BL manga and in fan-fiction, well, then they’re missing out. London is still one of my favorite authors–someone who I can always turn to for an engrossing story–even when she’s playing with new ideas and new ways of delivering gorgeously hot males screwing each other madly.
This release is a bit different from the other work that I know and love from London. The reader doesn’t get to know exactly what the main character’s motives are until the very last chapter in the book. While it’s not my favorite plot device, she makes it work. Normally, I like to know everything about a character, so I can angst with them throughout the story.
There’s our main character, Freeman, whose job is to find things. He runs into a nameless club-goer, who he dubs ‘Kit.’ Kit becomes a fixture in Freeman’s life, even as Freeman starts to burrow into Kit’s employer’s not-so-legal dealings, and people from Freeman’s past come in to make things very confusing for Kit and Freeman both.
At times, you’re not even sure who the good guys are and that’s kind of nice. I like characters to be a bit ambiguous. It makes them all that much more real to me.
I’m not sure if this is going to be everyone’s cup of tea since it’s not happy and fluffy like the majority of BL out there, but it is a fantastic read. If people are going to ignore a good book because it’s not sticking to the conventions that we all got used to reading in BL manga and in fan-fiction, well, then they’re missing out. London is still one of my favorite authors–someone who I can always turn to for an engrossing story–even when she’s playing with new ideas and new ways of delivering gorgeously hot males screwing each other madly.
August 9, 2009
Mini Tasting:
Why I bought it: Clare London is pretty much an auto buy for me. *g*
Mini-chomp:
Dislike~ This is more of a warning to those readers who prefer their characters to be more palatable. I was going to say that neither of the protags (Freeman nor Kit) are very likeable; however, on reflection, I think it was more their actions that some might find objectionable. Kit especially seems to be a very immature and selfish person. Still, his character grows as the plot develops and by the end of the story the reader is left feeling he had redeemed himself.
Like~ I LOVED the gritty, British underworld feel to this book with its dark and seedy setting, unrepentant cast of characters and the murky convergence of their past and present lives. It was a very engrossing read and I gobbled it up trying to find out what would happen next.
So, what I think: This is an excellent story; great writing, terrific characters and a wonderful, twisty plot. I would highly recommend Freeman.
====================================================
‘Tasting’ is my version of a mini-review where I talk a (very) little about what I liked and disliked about a book as well as who I think the story will appeal to. Oh, and I’ve added a bit about why I picked up the book in the first place – sometimes this can be interesting to know.
Why I bought it: Clare London is pretty much an auto buy for me. *g*
Mini-chomp:
Dislike~ This is more of a warning to those readers who prefer their characters to be more palatable. I was going to say that neither of the protags (Freeman nor Kit) are very likeable; however, on reflection, I think it was more their actions that some might find objectionable. Kit especially seems to be a very immature and selfish person. Still, his character grows as the plot develops and by the end of the story the reader is left feeling he had redeemed himself.
Like~ I LOVED the gritty, British underworld feel to this book with its dark and seedy setting, unrepentant cast of characters and the murky convergence of their past and present lives. It was a very engrossing read and I gobbled it up trying to find out what would happen next.
So, what I think: This is an excellent story; great writing, terrific characters and a wonderful, twisty plot. I would highly recommend Freeman.
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‘Tasting’ is my version of a mini-review where I talk a (very) little about what I liked and disliked about a book as well as who I think the story will appeal to. Oh, and I’ve added a bit about why I picked up the book in the first place – sometimes this can be interesting to know.
June 23, 2019
Wow! that was oppressive.
This book set the reader at work, you have to pay attention in order to catch every detail because the author gives away nothing.
And it comes to be nothing tough holding that attention; the story is absorbing despite of -or perhaps because of- the dark tones and the frugality of the narration.
I think that it isn't a story for all tastes, doesn't generate Aws or sighs but a kind of ball of anguish and caution in the pit of the stomach even in the ending.
There are more remarkable things: The plot in itself, with an outcome that I didn't see coming; a very good work with the MCs and cast, hardened like the background in which they live. Only George's character seemed me a little bit exaggerated
The best, in my opinion, was that none was served on a silver platter, that turned into an active experience the reading.
This book set the reader at work, you have to pay attention in order to catch every detail because the author gives away nothing.
And it comes to be nothing tough holding that attention; the story is absorbing despite of -or perhaps because of- the dark tones and the frugality of the narration.
I think that it isn't a story for all tastes, doesn't generate Aws or sighs but a kind of ball of anguish and caution in the pit of the stomach even in the ending.
There are more remarkable things: The plot in itself, with an outcome that I didn't see coming; a very good work with the MCs and cast, hardened like the background in which they live. Only George's character seemed me a little bit exaggerated
The best, in my opinion, was that none was served on a silver platter, that turned into an active experience the reading.
July 24, 2011
4.25 stars
A very good read with some dark elements. Freeman and Kit are complex opposites characters: one is an experienced man who recognize his faults, the other is an impulsive young man on his way of becoming an adult. Kit's choices are often misguided, and the negative consequences on his life are unavoidable. Freeman accepts him as he is, without trying to interfere or making suggestions of his own. I truly enjoyed their interactions and how they kept growing closer despite the circumstances that distanced them.
A very good read with some dark elements. Freeman and Kit are complex opposites characters: one is an experienced man who recognize his faults, the other is an impulsive young man on his way of becoming an adult. Kit's choices are often misguided, and the negative consequences on his life are unavoidable. Freeman accepts him as he is, without trying to interfere or making suggestions of his own. I truly enjoyed their interactions and how they kept growing closer despite the circumstances that distanced them.
November 8, 2010
Very clever. Not much personal detail is given about the main characters, yet the story still moves along smoothly and enhances several surprising plot twists. I really enjoyed.
June 13, 2011
Loved this book, Freeman reminded me of the charector in the film Payback. Definately one book I shall read again.
March 5, 2020
This is one of those books that I really went on a line on. There was enough in the description to peek my intrigue but I also knew it was the kind of book that would lend itself to romance/erotica which is not my reading cup of tea but I decided to dive in.
I am glad that I took a chance on this one. I found it quite compelling to read. It was different from my usual reading preferences but was well done and had a lot of elements I quite enjoy. It was gritty and edgy enough to hold my interest. I loved the noir like atmosphere which pulsed through the book and the trip through the underbelly of the city.
While the story is about romance and a building relationship I felt that London wrote it in a way that was not insulting to the reader. She did not sacrifice content for cheep thrills. Many romance writers write as if they think their audiences are nit wits who only want to be titillated. But London keeps the intellect engaged and she does not fall back on a lot of the cheap cliched metaphors found in many romances.
London had a way of writing about sex and romance that at times is subtle but can also be quite frank and open. There are some graphic scenes but I appreciate the realism and honesty in the writing and the lack of eye rolling ridiculous embellished language which marks a lot of romance.
I am glad that I took a chance on this one. I found it quite compelling to read. It was different from my usual reading preferences but was well done and had a lot of elements I quite enjoy. It was gritty and edgy enough to hold my interest. I loved the noir like atmosphere which pulsed through the book and the trip through the underbelly of the city.
While the story is about romance and a building relationship I felt that London wrote it in a way that was not insulting to the reader. She did not sacrifice content for cheep thrills. Many romance writers write as if they think their audiences are nit wits who only want to be titillated. But London keeps the intellect engaged and she does not fall back on a lot of the cheap cliched metaphors found in many romances.
London had a way of writing about sex and romance that at times is subtle but can also be quite frank and open. There are some graphic scenes but I appreciate the realism and honesty in the writing and the lack of eye rolling ridiculous embellished language which marks a lot of romance.
August 23, 2020
Missed reviewing this, so doing if from memory.
Parts of this book are really compelling, but it seems like when it came time to reveal all the mysteries the atmospheric opening chapters create, the book takes a hard left turn and left me behind.
This story, set in a quasi-London mobster world right out of Eastenders, seems to be two different books joined together. It would make sense if the main character was older, and the love interest he fixates on in a sort of duel with his old enemy was much younger.
As it is, it's hard to believe any of the interactions, that the young love interest is that easily led, and manipulated into ... well, that's not actually clear if he's working as a sex worker or just what the deal is between him and the straight, not-quite mobster who seems to control him and use him for sex in front of his henchmen, as you do.
Then again, it would make more sense if the love interest was a woman. Really, it would make the most sense that way.
There is a serious undertone to the main character, and he seems to have wandered into this melodrama of the detective and the gangster's moll he doesn't belong in. I liked him and wanted to know his story, but I'm not sure we ever get there in all the fairly lurid stuff that gets in the way.
Parts of this book are really compelling, but it seems like when it came time to reveal all the mysteries the atmospheric opening chapters create, the book takes a hard left turn and left me behind.
This story, set in a quasi-London mobster world right out of Eastenders, seems to be two different books joined together. It would make sense if the main character was older, and the love interest he fixates on in a sort of duel with his old enemy was much younger.
As it is, it's hard to believe any of the interactions, that the young love interest is that easily led, and manipulated into ... well, that's not actually clear if he's working as a sex worker or just what the deal is between him and the straight, not-quite mobster who seems to control him and use him for sex in front of his henchmen, as you do.
Then again, it would make more sense if the love interest was a woman. Really, it would make the most sense that way.
There is a serious undertone to the main character, and he seems to have wandered into this melodrama of the detective and the gangster's moll he doesn't belong in. I liked him and wanted to know his story, but I'm not sure we ever get there in all the fairly lurid stuff that gets in the way.
May 15, 2022
We are moved through this story at a gentle but not a slow pace. It has tense moments that we feel though the voice of Freeman.. his past catches up with him through Kit, who is caught up with Freeman’s ex boss, ex lover and even his ex wife!
In meeting Kit.. Freeman finds himself facing the people he left behind… having to work through his past, all the while wondering what it means for his developing feelings for Kit.
The drama isn’t over the top with this read. I enjoyed the way the author led us through Freeman’s emotions and also the other players in this story, through his view point.
Kit comes to life even though we only see him through Freeman’s eyes.. This is a great achievement for an author to have a character feel real and have depth when it’s only one pov.
Kit is vulnerable, but also feisty, strong and a little sensitive. But mostly determined to be seen as a person who doesn’t need pity for his choices. I loved his character.
I’ll definitely be reading more from this author.
In meeting Kit.. Freeman finds himself facing the people he left behind… having to work through his past, all the while wondering what it means for his developing feelings for Kit.
The drama isn’t over the top with this read. I enjoyed the way the author led us through Freeman’s emotions and also the other players in this story, through his view point.
Kit comes to life even though we only see him through Freeman’s eyes.. This is a great achievement for an author to have a character feel real and have depth when it’s only one pov.
Kit is vulnerable, but also feisty, strong and a little sensitive. But mostly determined to be seen as a person who doesn’t need pity for his choices. I loved his character.
I’ll definitely be reading more from this author.
December 18, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this noir-ish tale set in the seamier side of London's cut-and-thrust business world, where the titular hero, in the style of a mysterious man-with-no-name antihero, returns to face his past.
The slow reveal of this story was beautifully paced, adding to the emotional tension as Freeman, despite his best intentions is drawn to Kit, an alluring waif entangled with Freeman's old foe, George.
I was completely convinced by the growing bond between these two complex men, as the increasingly convoluted events threatened to overwhelm their budding closeness. Really wonderful storytelling.
The slow reveal of this story was beautifully paced, adding to the emotional tension as Freeman, despite his best intentions is drawn to Kit, an alluring waif entangled with Freeman's old foe, George.
I was completely convinced by the growing bond between these two complex men, as the increasingly convoluted events threatened to overwhelm their budding closeness. Really wonderful storytelling.
May 26, 2019
Intriguing
I liked the book. It felt like one of those old timey gumshoe stories. There was a lot of suspense but not a lot of violence which I rather liked. It was like one of those old dark black and white movies with Humphrey Bogart saying sure kid while a cigarette hung from his lips. It kept me nervous all the way through. I’m not sure the culmination was totally satisfying but worked and it ended well.
I liked the book. It felt like one of those old timey gumshoe stories. There was a lot of suspense but not a lot of violence which I rather liked. It was like one of those old dark black and white movies with Humphrey Bogart saying sure kid while a cigarette hung from his lips. It kept me nervous all the way through. I’m not sure the culmination was totally satisfying but worked and it ended well.
December 24, 2019
4.5 stars for a really really engaging read! I appreciate the focus being more on why Freeman has returned to the city and the slow-reveal backstory to his fraught past relationships with various characters (who seem to be all involved in criminal activity), rather than the older-younger M-M attraction with Kit. Overall satisfying read despite there being not much in-depth study for Freeman nor Kit.
January 7, 2026
4.5* rounded down. This started SO strongly but I think the ending was kind of mediocre. Not that it was bad .... just kind of typical.
The writing was so good ... so atmospheric... I loved sort of having no idea what was going on.
The writing was so good ... so atmospheric... I loved sort of having no idea what was going on.
June 22, 2022
interesting
Nor sure if the author added or edited anything but it’s held up pretty well for a 13 year old story. A little bit of a noir feeling.
Nor sure if the author added or edited anything but it’s held up pretty well for a 13 year old story. A little bit of a noir feeling.
January 23, 2018
The best way not to be seen, sometimes, is to be in plain sight. Freeman, the main character from Clair London's book 'Freeman' knows this all too well. Trying to hide too much actually draws more attention to you, and Freeman doesn't want attention. He takes in the minutest detail, plotting, and planning, so he can be a step or two ahead of everyone else. This is what makes him the best. With enough time and money, Freeman can find anyone and anything. He normally separates work from his personal life, but in his latest endeavor, he finds the two inexplicably entwine when he falls in love with Kit, a seemingly odd match for the sophisticated detective; but as we all know, the heart wants what the heart wants, no matter how far-fetched it may seem. Before he knows it, having Kit has become one of the most important things in his life. At this point, Freeman has to figure out how to fulfill his assignment and keep Kit safe at the same time.
Freeman narrates the story, telling us only what we need to know at the time, in fact, what he tells us may or may not be the truth. He is an observer, taking in every detail of his environment and every move anyone makes, every word, and every facial expression. Freeman never stops calculating, just like a computer, and often, his very existence depends upon it. He can't afford to have feelings; they just get in the way. This gives everyone the impression that he's cold and unfeeling. This is why it's such a surprise to him when Kit affects him as strongly as he does. He marvels at how this young man gets past his defenses so quickly and thoroughly. Freeman fights it, partly because it is unsettling and partly because he should not mix work and pleasure. If there is any possible way, he will complete his assignment, justice will prevail, and he will have Kit as well, that is, if Kit still wants him once the truth comes to light.
Kit is inexplicably drawn to Freeman from the first time they meet, but he lets his stubbornness get in the way. He's cheeky and rebellious and confuses irresponsibility with freedom. Kit needs Freeman. He's his rock, the only stability in his otherwise out of control world. Kit instinctively knows this; he needs someone to care about him, somewhere to hang out without any expectations which gives him room to breathe. Being with Freeman provides this buffer for him. Kit doesn't really know Freeman but he senses that there are two people behind that mask, and the one he falls in love with is seldom revealed. More than anyone, Kit gets a glimpse of Freeman that no one else sees. He can sometimes worm his way past Freeman's barriers, but not for long. Kit is frustrated with Freeman because, as much as he may want to, Freeman won't make any decisions for Kit, especially since that's what everyone else in Kit's life tries to do. Kit's independence and growth are more important to Freeman than Kit's feelings about him, because he knows that without it, they will never be able to be together.
The use of an unreliable narrator gave this story an extra layer of mystery and suspense; it raised my curiosity and kept me on my toes wondering what was going to happen. I never knew for sure if I had the right information necessary to make assumptions about the characters so I wasn't able to clearly predict what was going to happen. I tried to apply what Freeman reveals, but it makes it much more difficult to predict future events. I found it fascinating! Clare London is one of the most versatile writers I know. I marvel at Clare taking on new challenges genre-wise: horror, comedy, supernatural, or mystery, as she's done in this intriguing tale.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes a good mystery, with an unusual love story mixed in, fascinating, complex characters, and provocative reveals. I hope I get to see more of Kit and Freeman in the future. Thank you, Clare, for the exceptional reading experience.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Freeman narrates the story, telling us only what we need to know at the time, in fact, what he tells us may or may not be the truth. He is an observer, taking in every detail of his environment and every move anyone makes, every word, and every facial expression. Freeman never stops calculating, just like a computer, and often, his very existence depends upon it. He can't afford to have feelings; they just get in the way. This gives everyone the impression that he's cold and unfeeling. This is why it's such a surprise to him when Kit affects him as strongly as he does. He marvels at how this young man gets past his defenses so quickly and thoroughly. Freeman fights it, partly because it is unsettling and partly because he should not mix work and pleasure. If there is any possible way, he will complete his assignment, justice will prevail, and he will have Kit as well, that is, if Kit still wants him once the truth comes to light.
Kit is inexplicably drawn to Freeman from the first time they meet, but he lets his stubbornness get in the way. He's cheeky and rebellious and confuses irresponsibility with freedom. Kit needs Freeman. He's his rock, the only stability in his otherwise out of control world. Kit instinctively knows this; he needs someone to care about him, somewhere to hang out without any expectations which gives him room to breathe. Being with Freeman provides this buffer for him. Kit doesn't really know Freeman but he senses that there are two people behind that mask, and the one he falls in love with is seldom revealed. More than anyone, Kit gets a glimpse of Freeman that no one else sees. He can sometimes worm his way past Freeman's barriers, but not for long. Kit is frustrated with Freeman because, as much as he may want to, Freeman won't make any decisions for Kit, especially since that's what everyone else in Kit's life tries to do. Kit's independence and growth are more important to Freeman than Kit's feelings about him, because he knows that without it, they will never be able to be together.
The use of an unreliable narrator gave this story an extra layer of mystery and suspense; it raised my curiosity and kept me on my toes wondering what was going to happen. I never knew for sure if I had the right information necessary to make assumptions about the characters so I wasn't able to clearly predict what was going to happen. I tried to apply what Freeman reveals, but it makes it much more difficult to predict future events. I found it fascinating! Clare London is one of the most versatile writers I know. I marvel at Clare taking on new challenges genre-wise: horror, comedy, supernatural, or mystery, as she's done in this intriguing tale.
I recommend this book to anyone who likes a good mystery, with an unusual love story mixed in, fascinating, complex characters, and provocative reveals. I hope I get to see more of Kit and Freeman in the future. Thank you, Clare, for the exceptional reading experience.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
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