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Anagama Fires
Lucien Durand and Colin Ferguson have lived and loved as partners in life and art for more than twenty years. But happily ever after is never easy. Over time, Lucien begins to resent how Colin's work overshadows his own art, and their relationship falls apart. Colin leaves with nothing but a backpack, and Lucien goes on alone, getting some counseling, developing a practice in raku pottery, and waiting for what would happen next. He never expects that Colin will send his nephew James to train as a potter. With James staying in Lucien's home, a door will open between the former lovers, firing their hearts.
104 pages, ebook
First published August 10, 2010
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
May 26, 2013
Quick review because, um, I have trouble in writing reviews more than a day after finishing a book. It's either the moment a finish it or, usually, never. Appreciate the effort.
Second chance romance, when it's done well, is one of my favourite things in the world. See? It's even got its own pretty shelf. There's just something that gets me about two people who love each other so much that they can't help but come back to each other and work through the issues that separated them even after spending years apart.
If I had to find a fault in this book it would be that I wanted these guys to actually talk about their issues, not just get over them. I wanted live angst and out loud conflict. Instead, they just overcame them. Okay, I'm saying it as if it were a bad thing - it's not, obviously. It's just that my inner monster, who, in case you didn't know, feeds on romance and angst, was not completely satisfied.
That said, this remains a sweet novel, with top-notch writing, as usual for Sarah Black, and an interesting introduction to something I knew absolutely nothing about. Not that now I know much more, but that might be me.
Two things I particularly loved were the fact that the MCs are older than the average age of romance novel protagonists and James. Oh my, he is such an adorable little thing. His relationship with Adam, mirroring the one Lucien and Colin had when they were younger, was simply heartwarming, and the sculpture - actually, the sculpting process was incredibly sensual. What bugged me was the implied threesome between James, Adam and the White Bear guy. It's just implied, and the MCs aren't even remotely involved, so it should not bother me, but it does. I'm a picky, prissy bitch, that's right, but this offends my delicate sensibilities! That's not true, I have no delicate sensibilities. It simply conflicts with my deep-set need for strictly monogamous relationships in my romance books.
One last thing I want to mention are the wonderful scenes with Lucien and Colin in bed. I'm not talking about sex, but about the tender moments of holding each other and talking quietly about nothing. My inner monster also feeds on that kind of thing. It has a very full belly now.
Now holy fuck, can someone tell me why this review did not end up being as short as I was planning it to be? I suppose I'm overcoming my difficulties in delayed review writing.
Second chance romance, when it's done well, is one of my favourite things in the world. See? It's even got its own pretty shelf. There's just something that gets me about two people who love each other so much that they can't help but come back to each other and work through the issues that separated them even after spending years apart.
If I had to find a fault in this book it would be that I wanted these guys to actually talk about their issues, not just get over them. I wanted live angst and out loud conflict. Instead, they just overcame them. Okay, I'm saying it as if it were a bad thing - it's not, obviously. It's just that my inner monster, who, in case you didn't know, feeds on romance and angst, was not completely satisfied.
That said, this remains a sweet novel, with top-notch writing, as usual for Sarah Black, and an interesting introduction to something I knew absolutely nothing about. Not that now I know much more, but that might be me.
Two things I particularly loved were the fact that the MCs are older than the average age of romance novel protagonists and James. Oh my, he is such an adorable little thing. His relationship with Adam, mirroring the one Lucien and Colin had when they were younger, was simply heartwarming, and the sculpture - actually, the sculpting process was incredibly sensual. What bugged me was the implied threesome between James, Adam and the White Bear guy. It's just implied, and the MCs aren't even remotely involved, so it should not bother me, but it does. I'm a picky, prissy bitch, that's right, but this offends my delicate sensibilities! That's not true, I have no delicate sensibilities. It simply conflicts with my deep-set need for strictly monogamous relationships in my romance books.
One last thing I want to mention are the wonderful scenes with Lucien and Colin in bed. I'm not talking about sex, but about the tender moments of holding each other and talking quietly about nothing. My inner monster also feeds on that kind of thing. It has a very full belly now.
Now holy fuck, can someone tell me why this review did not end up being as short as I was planning it to be? I suppose I'm overcoming my difficulties in delayed review writing.
May 11, 2013
Wow. This is an easy book to admire, slightly harder to love deeply, and yet one I'll definitely reread. There is a lot happening here, and for all the happy ending, it doesn't neatly slot into the usual romance tropes. This story is a tribute to the idea that love happens, and it doesn't make either of you perfect, and sometimes it's still worth living with the imperfections, to have that person in your life.
Lucien and Colin lived and worked together as potters and ceramic artists for over twenty years. But over that time, things gradually came between them. Colin is an artist, of the kind that breaks molds and redefines a genre. His work is bold and brilliant, and attracted world-wide attention. Like many great artists, Colin is rather oblivious about everything outside his art. He's very sure of his vision, and that translates to also being sure in daily life, striding forward without paying attention to whether he's going the right direction for the man he loves.
Lucien is an artist in a quieter, more subtle way. He creates pieces with love and care, bowls that caress the hand and become deep favorites. He's also a softer personality, and was dragged along behind Colin. And gradually resentment built, for Colin's success and his certainty and his obliviousness and his entitlement. At the end of the twenty years, as Lucien and Colin put their newest great pieces into the hottest Anagama kiln and fired it up, Colin was baffled and restless, and Lucien was resentful and close to crying. And in the morning when Lucien woke, with the kiln still cooling, Colin had packed a bag and left for Thailand. As the book opens they haven't seen each other for five years.
It's tempting to blame Colin at this point, for being an insensitive asshole. And he is. But it's Lucien who sees a therapist, stays at the pottery and goes on quietly with his life and his art, although he has never opened that kiln full of potentially priceless art. It's Colin who hasn't created a new piece in five years, and spends his time digging ponds in his Thailand backyard.
One day Lucien looks up to see a young man coming down his road. It's not Colin, although for one heart-stopping moment he thinks it is, but James, Colin's nephew. And it's the beginning of an avalanche of events, engineered by Colin to bring them back together.
One thing I admire about this book is that Sarah Black doesn't really rehabilitate Colin. He's still a genius asshole with sensitivity problems and a sense of entitlement. Although he tries, somewhat, to do better. And Lucien doesn't become a tough independent man who asserts his rights and forces Colin to acknowledge his equality. That's how regular M/M would go, and I might have loved those more-perfect men better. But what the author creates here are two men whose flaws and defects remain, but who both find that the hole in their souls when they are apart is too painful to bear. And who are willing to try whatever it takes to get back together. If Colin's "whatever" takes the form of a lot of high-handed stage managing, and Lucien's is a collapse into letting Colin have his way, that doesn't invalidate how they feel about each other.
A fascinating book about two very flawed men who don't overcome those flaws, but move forward in spite of them. There's quite a bit of pottery lore here, bordering on too much had I been in an impatient mood, but as it was, interesting in its own right. I began to wish I could really see the glazes (and the guys.) I'm beginning to think this author is at her best with the realities and complexities of an existing relationship, after the first intense falling-in-love has happened. A book I will reread, and I expect one that will have new things to say that I missed on a fast first read.
Lucien and Colin lived and worked together as potters and ceramic artists for over twenty years. But over that time, things gradually came between them. Colin is an artist, of the kind that breaks molds and redefines a genre. His work is bold and brilliant, and attracted world-wide attention. Like many great artists, Colin is rather oblivious about everything outside his art. He's very sure of his vision, and that translates to also being sure in daily life, striding forward without paying attention to whether he's going the right direction for the man he loves.
Lucien is an artist in a quieter, more subtle way. He creates pieces with love and care, bowls that caress the hand and become deep favorites. He's also a softer personality, and was dragged along behind Colin. And gradually resentment built, for Colin's success and his certainty and his obliviousness and his entitlement. At the end of the twenty years, as Lucien and Colin put their newest great pieces into the hottest Anagama kiln and fired it up, Colin was baffled and restless, and Lucien was resentful and close to crying. And in the morning when Lucien woke, with the kiln still cooling, Colin had packed a bag and left for Thailand. As the book opens they haven't seen each other for five years.
It's tempting to blame Colin at this point, for being an insensitive asshole. And he is. But it's Lucien who sees a therapist, stays at the pottery and goes on quietly with his life and his art, although he has never opened that kiln full of potentially priceless art. It's Colin who hasn't created a new piece in five years, and spends his time digging ponds in his Thailand backyard.
One day Lucien looks up to see a young man coming down his road. It's not Colin, although for one heart-stopping moment he thinks it is, but James, Colin's nephew. And it's the beginning of an avalanche of events, engineered by Colin to bring them back together.
One thing I admire about this book is that Sarah Black doesn't really rehabilitate Colin. He's still a genius asshole with sensitivity problems and a sense of entitlement. Although he tries, somewhat, to do better. And Lucien doesn't become a tough independent man who asserts his rights and forces Colin to acknowledge his equality. That's how regular M/M would go, and I might have loved those more-perfect men better. But what the author creates here are two men whose flaws and defects remain, but who both find that the hole in their souls when they are apart is too painful to bear. And who are willing to try whatever it takes to get back together. If Colin's "whatever" takes the form of a lot of high-handed stage managing, and Lucien's is a collapse into letting Colin have his way, that doesn't invalidate how they feel about each other.
A fascinating book about two very flawed men who don't overcome those flaws, but move forward in spite of them. There's quite a bit of pottery lore here, bordering on too much had I been in an impatient mood, but as it was, interesting in its own right. I began to wish I could really see the glazes (and the guys.) I'm beginning to think this author is at her best with the realities and complexities of an existing relationship, after the first intense falling-in-love has happened. A book I will reread, and I expect one that will have new things to say that I missed on a fast first read.
September 12, 2010
I gave this book two stars but that is totally based on Goodread's definition of two stars..."it was okay". On a personal scale I'd have given the book 3.5 stars.
If you want a book where you ask yourself during each chapter, "Why is he with this prick?", then you'll love this book.
If it doesn't bother you watching a nice person be a total doormat...a leaf in the wind to a self-centered asshole, dig in.
If it doesn't bother you to see a person manipulate a lover with lies and secrets. You should enjoy the book more than I did. By the third time that Colin revealed to Lucien that something huge was gonna happen soon, something he planned and knew about well in advance and then LIED when Lucien asked "Is there more your not telling me?"...by the third time it became a chore to finish this. I did not feel any kind of love connection between these two main characters. I felt that they loved each other as artists...they loved each others work...but each other? No, I felt like they were just settled...like the fires of time had solidified them together.
And the secondary story of James and Adam? WHAT?!?!?! They met, shook hands, Adam sculpted James chest and suddenly they were lovers? Like, "I'm leaving you (James) and Adam my studio" type lovers. Like they had been together for years.
The use of art and firing (kiln) in this story was wonderful. I'd suggest having Google at the ready or go watch some YouTube vids, it could help you understand and visualize what is being talked about.
Sarah Black is a wonderful writer, I LOVED Idaho Pride...I just couldn't get into the characters in this one.
If you want a book where you ask yourself during each chapter, "Why is he with this prick?", then you'll love this book.
If it doesn't bother you watching a nice person be a total doormat...a leaf in the wind to a self-centered asshole, dig in.
If it doesn't bother you to see a person manipulate a lover with lies and secrets. You should enjoy the book more than I did. By the third time that Colin revealed to Lucien that something huge was gonna happen soon, something he planned and knew about well in advance and then LIED when Lucien asked "Is there more your not telling me?"...by the third time it became a chore to finish this. I did not feel any kind of love connection between these two main characters. I felt that they loved each other as artists...they loved each others work...but each other? No, I felt like they were just settled...like the fires of time had solidified them together.
And the secondary story of James and Adam? WHAT?!?!?! They met, shook hands, Adam sculpted James chest and suddenly they were lovers? Like, "I'm leaving you (James) and Adam my studio" type lovers. Like they had been together for years.
The use of art and firing (kiln) in this story was wonderful. I'd suggest having Google at the ready or go watch some YouTube vids, it could help you understand and visualize what is being talked about.
Sarah Black is a wonderful writer, I LOVED Idaho Pride...I just couldn't get into the characters in this one.
February 28, 2014
There are three reasons why I loved this book. The first is that I very much enjoy fiction in our genre that features older characters, and Sarah Black delivers once again. Hurrah!
The second reason (aptly) is that I love the trope of second chances. We don't always 'deserve' or completely earn our second chances - or maybe we do always deserve them, but they require a compassion not always to be found. In any case, Colin and Lucien finally get the opportunity to renew their relationship - whether as friends, potters or lovers - and they are wise enough to take it.
The third reason I loved this is all the lovely details included of working as potters. It all felt very real and utterly authentic - in ways I've only found elsewhere in The Children's Book by A.S. Byatt. Not that I'm a potter myself, but the detail here - without ever straying into indulgent irrelevance - obviously goes far beyond the casual hobbyist.
Well done, yet again, Sarah! Please never stop doing what you do.
The second reason (aptly) is that I love the trope of second chances. We don't always 'deserve' or completely earn our second chances - or maybe we do always deserve them, but they require a compassion not always to be found. In any case, Colin and Lucien finally get the opportunity to renew their relationship - whether as friends, potters or lovers - and they are wise enough to take it.
The third reason I loved this is all the lovely details included of working as potters. It all felt very real and utterly authentic - in ways I've only found elsewhere in The Children's Book by A.S. Byatt. Not that I'm a potter myself, but the detail here - without ever straying into indulgent irrelevance - obviously goes far beyond the casual hobbyist.
Well done, yet again, Sarah! Please never stop doing what you do.
December 26, 2015
Classic Sarah Black. We have art, grumpy men of a certain age, cooking, and caretaking of the baby-gay-artistes. Lovely.
September 28, 2013
Friends on Goodreads were clamoring for me to read this novel by Sarah Black. Why? Well, honestly, because I'm OLD. Me and my partner of 37 years are in our late 50s, and all my fellow m/m readers are very aware that almost NOBODY in m/m romance exists beyond the age of 40. So, they all KNEW I'd love this book because Colin and Lucien are ancient, like nearly fifty.
Sigh.
Well, in fact, when Sarah Black wrote this, Colin and Lucien were only about five years younger than my partner and I; so yes, I am pleased to see an older couple in a book like this, because it's an all-too rare thing. But that is not the reason I loved this book. I loved it because Black writes so well, and brings this complex, stormy relationship into high relief, focusing on the moment that Colin Ferguson, legendary potter and difficult lover, returns from his exile in Thailand after walking out on Lucien Durand five years earlier.
And then there are James and Adam, the former Colin's nephew and the latter a fireman in the small Idaho town where Lucien lives in solitude, tending his kilns and biding his time. James appears like an apparition to Lucien one morning, looking uncannily like his uncle and making Lucien's heart ache. Adam comes for a weekend raku seminar and immediately catches Adam's eye. The beginning of these twenty-somethings' relationship is presented as a counterpoint to Lucien and Colin's own decades-long relationship, and becomes a lens through which both Colin and Lucien begin to see themselves in a new light.
Finally, of course, there is the pottery. Clayworking plays a major role in this book, or more specifically the world of contemporary studio ceramics. This is of particular interest to me, because, as it happens, I'm an expert in studio ceramics through my long career as a museum curator. So, while some people might scratch their heads at this parallel subplot, the story of the anagama kiln that Lucien and Colin built together, and fired together on the day Colin walked out, became for me as powerful as a brooding (if silent) character in the narrative.
The young couple, the older couple, the kiln; this triangle is both emblematic of Lucien's point of view and the tool that Black uses to move the reader through the story to its quiet, moving conclusion. It is a book of deeply-felt poignancy and sweetness. Romances are usually about the birth of love; this distinctive novel is about its survival, and the hot fire of the kiln becomes a metaphor for the vicissitudes of life that challenge the integrity of any marriage. Right to the last page, this book felt like it was written for me. Thank you, Sarah Black.
Sigh.
Well, in fact, when Sarah Black wrote this, Colin and Lucien were only about five years younger than my partner and I; so yes, I am pleased to see an older couple in a book like this, because it's an all-too rare thing. But that is not the reason I loved this book. I loved it because Black writes so well, and brings this complex, stormy relationship into high relief, focusing on the moment that Colin Ferguson, legendary potter and difficult lover, returns from his exile in Thailand after walking out on Lucien Durand five years earlier.
And then there are James and Adam, the former Colin's nephew and the latter a fireman in the small Idaho town where Lucien lives in solitude, tending his kilns and biding his time. James appears like an apparition to Lucien one morning, looking uncannily like his uncle and making Lucien's heart ache. Adam comes for a weekend raku seminar and immediately catches Adam's eye. The beginning of these twenty-somethings' relationship is presented as a counterpoint to Lucien and Colin's own decades-long relationship, and becomes a lens through which both Colin and Lucien begin to see themselves in a new light.
Finally, of course, there is the pottery. Clayworking plays a major role in this book, or more specifically the world of contemporary studio ceramics. This is of particular interest to me, because, as it happens, I'm an expert in studio ceramics through my long career as a museum curator. So, while some people might scratch their heads at this parallel subplot, the story of the anagama kiln that Lucien and Colin built together, and fired together on the day Colin walked out, became for me as powerful as a brooding (if silent) character in the narrative.
The young couple, the older couple, the kiln; this triangle is both emblematic of Lucien's point of view and the tool that Black uses to move the reader through the story to its quiet, moving conclusion. It is a book of deeply-felt poignancy and sweetness. Romances are usually about the birth of love; this distinctive novel is about its survival, and the hot fire of the kiln becomes a metaphor for the vicissitudes of life that challenge the integrity of any marriage. Right to the last page, this book felt like it was written for me. Thank you, Sarah Black.
September 24, 2010
Oy I had trouble with this one. I didn’t like any of the characters, the romance fell flat, and the only good thing – the pottery detail – was added in such minute detail my eyes often glazed over. I did like the information on how to fire and glaze the pottery, since this is pretty interesting and offered in such incredibly finite detail. There is so much though that it overwhelms the story and the telling is not saved by the bland and unlikable characters.
The story follows the main character of Lucien. He’s been living alone for the past five years since his long time partner (of twenty five years) walked out one day after a fight. Neither man is over their relationship but Colin has taken to living in Thailand while Lucien remains in their home. Their stalemate is finally called off when Colin’s young nephew James appears at the ranch, this finally lets Colin and Lucien reconnect and maybe move on.
The initial problem with the story is that the information about Colin and Lucien is offered very sparingly. First it takes nearly half the novella to understand that Colin and Lucien had a fight over Lucien’s growing resentment and Colin walked out. This isn’t explicitly said but offered in tiny bits as neither Lucien nor Colin wants to apologize or talk about the past. They get together again and simply forget the past. So it takes the reader a while to understand the dynamics of their relationship, which is complicated and should be interesting given how long two strong personalities have been together.
Unfortunately Lucien comes across as a weak, bland character. He gives in to Colin constantly and always excuses his lack of reaction by saying it’s worthless to get upset at Colin. So instead that gives Colin free reign to act like an asshole (and boy does he) with no repercussions since he’s an artistic genius. Everyone gives in to Colin’s wild demands and though Lucien attempts to maintain control, he lets himself get walked on every single time. Apparently Lucien’s motto is it’s better to be with Colin, no matter how aggravating than be alone so everything else is not worth the drama of standing up for himself.
This dynamic is not one that is enjoyable to read and the secondary relationship of James and Aaron is utterly forgettable. They meet, have sex, and then are considered an established couple pretty fast. Yet they are pretty unimportant in the face of Colin’s over the top personality and the secondary characters all exist to give more information about the pottery process. This is the best part of the book as the raku pottery and firing process is fascinating and shown in extreme detail. Clearly the author knows a lot about the subject and threw in every single thing. This is a double edged sword since this is the best part by far but it’s so much information my eyes kind of glazed over from it. I wish there hadn’t been such huge blocks of it but it kept my interest more than anemic characters.
I think if you can connect to the hurt/comfort theme of Lucien and Colin’s relationship, the story will appeal to readers. If you find, as I did, that Lucien is spineless and Colin is an ass, then you may not like it as well as others. While I didn’t like the romance at all, the firing pottery process is fascinating enough to warrant at least another star.
The story follows the main character of Lucien. He’s been living alone for the past five years since his long time partner (of twenty five years) walked out one day after a fight. Neither man is over their relationship but Colin has taken to living in Thailand while Lucien remains in their home. Their stalemate is finally called off when Colin’s young nephew James appears at the ranch, this finally lets Colin and Lucien reconnect and maybe move on.
The initial problem with the story is that the information about Colin and Lucien is offered very sparingly. First it takes nearly half the novella to understand that Colin and Lucien had a fight over Lucien’s growing resentment and Colin walked out. This isn’t explicitly said but offered in tiny bits as neither Lucien nor Colin wants to apologize or talk about the past. They get together again and simply forget the past. So it takes the reader a while to understand the dynamics of their relationship, which is complicated and should be interesting given how long two strong personalities have been together.
Unfortunately Lucien comes across as a weak, bland character. He gives in to Colin constantly and always excuses his lack of reaction by saying it’s worthless to get upset at Colin. So instead that gives Colin free reign to act like an asshole (and boy does he) with no repercussions since he’s an artistic genius. Everyone gives in to Colin’s wild demands and though Lucien attempts to maintain control, he lets himself get walked on every single time. Apparently Lucien’s motto is it’s better to be with Colin, no matter how aggravating than be alone so everything else is not worth the drama of standing up for himself.
This dynamic is not one that is enjoyable to read and the secondary relationship of James and Aaron is utterly forgettable. They meet, have sex, and then are considered an established couple pretty fast. Yet they are pretty unimportant in the face of Colin’s over the top personality and the secondary characters all exist to give more information about the pottery process. This is the best part of the book as the raku pottery and firing process is fascinating and shown in extreme detail. Clearly the author knows a lot about the subject and threw in every single thing. This is a double edged sword since this is the best part by far but it’s so much information my eyes kind of glazed over from it. I wish there hadn’t been such huge blocks of it but it kept my interest more than anemic characters.
I think if you can connect to the hurt/comfort theme of Lucien and Colin’s relationship, the story will appeal to readers. If you find, as I did, that Lucien is spineless and Colin is an ass, then you may not like it as well as others. While I didn’t like the romance at all, the firing pottery process is fascinating enough to warrant at least another star.
June 29, 2023
I knew I would love this story from the blurb. I enjoy reading stories about "mature people"? What would be the right term here? Calling them older people makes me think AARP crowd. Well, anyway these guys are in their late 40s-50s. They have been together for 20 years. but this book is their story about how they come together again after being apart for 5 years. I LOVED this couple. I think there may be some people out there who may see Lucien as a doormat but he is not. I think this is REAL life as a couple. You compromise and you pick your battles. You also recognize that as a couple you are greater than the sum of your parts and work hard to keep that.
September 13, 2010
4.5 stars
I really enjoyed this story. All of the characters are likable and three dimensional and the different relationships in the book captured my interest. I also really enjoyed the descriptions of the pottery techniques and of the pieces themselves and even though sometimes it felt a bit too technical I did wish that I could actually see the process and the pieces when they were finished.
The storyline flows well as the author skillfully shares Lucien and Colin's past and present as well as the promise of a new beginning. The interactions between the protagonists and the secondary characters was interesting and kept me engaged throughout. This is an emotional story, there's anger and sadness, forgiveness and hope and above all a sense of the deep love between Lucien and Colin. Something else that I felt worked really well were the sex scenes which while not exactly fade to black are by no means overly explicit. They fit the tone of the story perfectly.
Anagama Fires is a wonderfully engaging story of second chances, new beginnings and the power of love. Highly recommended.
I really enjoyed this story. All of the characters are likable and three dimensional and the different relationships in the book captured my interest. I also really enjoyed the descriptions of the pottery techniques and of the pieces themselves and even though sometimes it felt a bit too technical I did wish that I could actually see the process and the pieces when they were finished.
The storyline flows well as the author skillfully shares Lucien and Colin's past and present as well as the promise of a new beginning. The interactions between the protagonists and the secondary characters was interesting and kept me engaged throughout. This is an emotional story, there's anger and sadness, forgiveness and hope and above all a sense of the deep love between Lucien and Colin. Something else that I felt worked really well were the sex scenes which while not exactly fade to black are by no means overly explicit. They fit the tone of the story perfectly.
Anagama Fires is a wonderfully engaging story of second chances, new beginnings and the power of love. Highly recommended.
July 14, 2011
Finally a book about two mature men instead of youngsters. Colin Ferguson and Lucien Durand had been lovers and fellow sculptors for years until professional jealousies and insecurities got in the way. They took a break from each other and Colin moved to Thailand where he stopped working. Now nearing their fifties the men are reunited when Lucien asks Colin to come home. I don't know anything about ceramics or the different firing processes and was apprehensive about reading this book. It seems that it didn't matter in the least. Ms Black did a wonderful thing with the clay and used the shaping, glazing and firing to show the work and care necessary to build a loving relationship. The new love between James and Adam was shown beautifully in the delicate handling needed for Adam's sculpture to stay intact. The ending of the story, which I'll not give away, was written extremely well. When you pick up this story, forget about the clay and see the intricate story of life and love.
February 21, 2016
Oh my GOD I did not expect such detailed and completely CORRECT pottery information in a book. I loved this! It made the book even better for me, and the story itself was very good.
I made pots for 20 years as a hobby, I took classes, I went to the biannual ceramic conference, read the books, even fired a wood kiln (twice).
I love seeing my hobbies crop up in books, but pottery is not often used as a backdrop. Thanks Sarah for doing this and for getting every detail right. :)
And so see Volkus mentioned in an m/m book? Bonus!
Also I loved the story. Really!
I made pots for 20 years as a hobby, I took classes, I went to the biannual ceramic conference, read the books, even fired a wood kiln (twice).
I love seeing my hobbies crop up in books, but pottery is not often used as a backdrop. Thanks Sarah for doing this and for getting every detail right. :)
And so see Volkus mentioned in an m/m book? Bonus!
Also I loved the story. Really!
September 25, 2010
This was a sweet, quiet love story between two mature men who split after a long-term relationship, but find their way back together. It was circled around the process of making raku ceramics, and there was a lot of technical terms of which I didn't understand one word in five. But what do you know, this wasn't important! It was awesome how the process of sculpting, glazing and firing was used as pictures for the loss and re-building of the relationship. Like a fantasy worldbuilding, something you do not necessarily need to understand literally to get the pictures it draws. A wonderful tale of redemption and loss and finding a way back home nevertheless.
August 27, 2012
2.5 stars. Ok short m/m romance about two potters, both nearly fifty, who've been together most of their lives... until the past five years. The more famous, who was the one who left, sends his nephew to his former lover to learn more about firing pottery. I did have a niggle about this one - the story took place over about a week. On the first day, puppies were born. A few days later, the same puppies were running around and getting underfoot! Whoops. Plus there was waaaaay too much information about the pottery.
August 27, 2012
2 stars - it was ok. There was way too much about pottery in this book than I cared for; in fact it resulted in me even liking the romance of the secondary characters more than the one of the MCs, as their relationship was questionable, at least for me.
March 1, 2012
Hats off to Sarah Black for writing so well that even when I sort of hated the characters a bit I still loved the novel. 3.5 stars
August 5, 2016
Such a lovely reunion story. This is classic Sarah Black: moving and elegant to the core. 3.75 stars.
Lucien and Colin loved each other for years, and lived together as artists -- potters -- who were at the top of their respective games. Colin, however, was better. After all, he was the one whose work was regularly sought by the top museums in the country. Even worse, he had the temperament of an artist: arrogant, difficult, selfish, a jerk. And Lucien became resentful, because he wanted to achieve his own artistic dreams, and he did not believe he could do it inside of Colin's considerable shadow. So he said some things. And Colin said some things. And those mutual things led to Colin walking away. Five years later, both of them miss the loves of their lives, and because they are more mature, they grab their second chance. Forgiveness is assured, but they are still, in important ways, the same people that they were before. Will Colin and Lucien manage to work it out? Even though they love each other, can they actually live together?
Once again, Black proves that she is so good at writing about men who are adults. Lucien and Colin are deeply imperfect, but completely self-aware, and they have internalized the lessons of loss so they are willing to compromise. They embrace each other's jagged edges, and they figure out how to be kind to each other. "Anagama Fires" is a quietly honest and engaging story about the shape that love can take in the second half of life.
Lucien and Colin loved each other for years, and lived together as artists -- potters -- who were at the top of their respective games. Colin, however, was better. After all, he was the one whose work was regularly sought by the top museums in the country. Even worse, he had the temperament of an artist: arrogant, difficult, selfish, a jerk. And Lucien became resentful, because he wanted to achieve his own artistic dreams, and he did not believe he could do it inside of Colin's considerable shadow. So he said some things. And Colin said some things. And those mutual things led to Colin walking away. Five years later, both of them miss the loves of their lives, and because they are more mature, they grab their second chance. Forgiveness is assured, but they are still, in important ways, the same people that they were before. Will Colin and Lucien manage to work it out? Even though they love each other, can they actually live together?
Once again, Black proves that she is so good at writing about men who are adults. Lucien and Colin are deeply imperfect, but completely self-aware, and they have internalized the lessons of loss so they are willing to compromise. They embrace each other's jagged edges, and they figure out how to be kind to each other. "Anagama Fires" is a quietly honest and engaging story about the shape that love can take in the second half of life.
September 23, 2012
Ms. Black is a talented author. This book is close/over that blurry line of Literature. It is not about 'liking' the characters or falling in-love with the characters. It's about the characters' Story. Like with most couples, opposites attract. This works well for love and passion, but what about for life? This is their story, about their struggles to love each other, live together, work together and like each other, too. Coupleness is not easy and it is not always pretty, but when it works- it is awesome. Thanks for their story.
Thanks also for sharing pottery and the passion for pottery. This book is also about art and the performing arts. If you like this you will enjoy this book, otherwise you will do some skimming. 8)
Thanks also for sharing pottery and the passion for pottery. This book is also about art and the performing arts. If you like this you will enjoy this book, otherwise you will do some skimming. 8)
March 4, 2012
2.5 stars. I had a hard time enjoying this story due to the main character Colin. It was hard to understand how Lucien could love him, or for that matter even liked the grouchy character.
December 28, 2015
Finally. I was able to find a good story to end 2015 with, after a pretty dismal year.
Lovely writing and oh so sweet. As always, second-chance love stories are my fave.
Lovely writing and oh so sweet. As always, second-chance love stories are my fave.
February 4, 2022
A very touching but confusing novella, I have to be honest, I had a very hard time trying to like Colin, and I failed, Lucien was worthy of so much more, but love is love. If you want an in-depth lesson on pottery, firing, kilns, and the mother of all kilns the Anagama, then this is the story for you, for me not so much. I loved all the other parts of this tale but the pottery sculpting was a bit over my head. It was a nice read, but with a rather abrupt ending that left me in a bit of a huff, I fell a little bit in love with Lucien, what a sweetheart, I wanted something better for him.
October 16, 2020
I enjoyed most of Sarah Black's books - unfortunately she doesn't seem to write often, anymore.
Anagama Fires
is not one of them, sadly. Maybe because it is one of her earlier (?) books? It was released a decade ago.
While there was still sense of wistfulness (which I adored) but basically, by the end, I thought Colin was still a jerk who railroaded Lucien, and Lucien acted like a doormat. The story felt meandering as well.
While there was still sense of wistfulness (which I adored) but basically, by the end, I thought Colin was still a jerk who railroaded Lucien, and Lucien acted like a doormat. The story felt meandering as well.
December 27, 2021
DNF @ 48%
Not sure if it was all the pottery talk, or just the writing in general, but this held no interest for me
Not sure if it was all the pottery talk, or just the writing in general, but this held no interest for me
November 7, 2014
The backstory in this book slowly unfolds as Lucien reminisced about what had happened five years ago when the anagama kiln was fired, sealed up, and not opened to see the potentially magnificent results. At one point Lucien admits that he doesn't really want it opened, since he's afraid that all of the disappointment and hurt he had at that time will come flying back out, as if opening Pandora's box.
Other reviewers mentioned that Colin is an asshole and that he hasn't changed. Sure he still has secret plans and overrides others' opinions, but several scenes demonstrate that he now has learned to appreciate and acknowledge the good things Lucien brings to the table--Lucien's art, his organizational skills, and his love. As the story unfolds, we see that these two men have realized that the love they have missed and the love they still have for each other is much more important than the differences between them.
The pottery and working the kilns almost becomes an additional character in the story. It was great to see people DOING something, something unusual even. I love people and characters who are competent and who know what they're doing. Lucien felt his heart clench when he "knew" what the proper glazing and kiln heat would be. We don't actually see the final results of any of the fires here, old or new. Though we expect everything will turn out okay, it is left as a mystery just how wonderful (or perhaps not) everything turns out in the end. Just like the relationships. Just like life!
Other reviewers mentioned that Colin is an asshole and that he hasn't changed. Sure he still has secret plans and overrides others' opinions, but several scenes demonstrate that he now has learned to appreciate and acknowledge the good things Lucien brings to the table--Lucien's art, his organizational skills, and his love. As the story unfolds, we see that these two men have realized that the love they have missed and the love they still have for each other is much more important than the differences between them.
The pottery and working the kilns almost becomes an additional character in the story. It was great to see people DOING something, something unusual even. I love people and characters who are competent and who know what they're doing. Lucien felt his heart clench when he "knew" what the proper glazing and kiln heat would be. We don't actually see the final results of any of the fires here, old or new. Though we expect everything will turn out okay, it is left as a mystery just how wonderful (or perhaps not) everything turns out in the end. Just like the relationships. Just like life!
September 10, 2012
3.75 Stars.
I adore Sarah Black and see her as someone that is truly gifted at her craft. She is one author that really makes me realise that authors are artists to. I tend to forget that when I read alot of the more mundane m/m books which dont have as much effort in their writing and plot.
I adore how Sarah challenges herself by writing about characters that are deeply flawed or about tough subjects. The reason this one doesnt get a higher rating for me is I simply couldnt connect with the characters, I didnt really feel the love. I think this was more of a time line issue then any other real flaw.
Colin is an Asshole = everyone knows this and its openly accepted by all the characters. I have read other asshole characters that managed to make me fall in love with them anyway.
I think that is where this story went wrong for me, I just didnt see enough from Colin to make me understand and identify with him.
Please be aware that this is just a personal preference. I truly think that there will be people that will like the dynamics of this relationship. The one thing I can say is congratulation to Sarah Black you have my respect because you challenge yourself and me the reader with your books.
I adore Sarah Black and see her as someone that is truly gifted at her craft. She is one author that really makes me realise that authors are artists to. I tend to forget that when I read alot of the more mundane m/m books which dont have as much effort in their writing and plot.
I adore how Sarah challenges herself by writing about characters that are deeply flawed or about tough subjects. The reason this one doesnt get a higher rating for me is I simply couldnt connect with the characters, I didnt really feel the love. I think this was more of a time line issue then any other real flaw.
Colin is an Asshole = everyone knows this and its openly accepted by all the characters. I have read other asshole characters that managed to make me fall in love with them anyway.
I think that is where this story went wrong for me, I just didnt see enough from Colin to make me understand and identify with him.
Please be aware that this is just a personal preference. I truly think that there will be people that will like the dynamics of this relationship. The one thing I can say is congratulation to Sarah Black you have my respect because you challenge yourself and me the reader with your books.
December 7, 2014
This is what I call quiet story telling. I'm crazy about this kind of story telling. It's not flashy but it's so grounding, you know? And it feels real, on the page and just grabs you without needing anything big, no dramatic inciting incidents, no misunderstandings. Just simple things that life complicates and then time happens, someone doesn't pick up the phone when they should and time keeps on happening.
Or something like that.
I really liked this one. At times I felt frustrated and wanted Lucien to just say no to Colin, found myself echoing James' worries about his uncle and his asshole tendencies. But never at any point did I feel that Lucien was a doormat. I actually found him quite a strong character, one that is unflinchingly honest with himself.
I enjoyed the setting and even loved everything about the pottery, didn't feel like there was info dumping, though I'll probably end up looking a few things up on the art. It intrigued me.
Definitely recommend this one and I already have another of the author's books lined up. Just lovely, lovely writing.
Or something like that.
I really liked this one. At times I felt frustrated and wanted Lucien to just say no to Colin, found myself echoing James' worries about his uncle and his asshole tendencies. But never at any point did I feel that Lucien was a doormat. I actually found him quite a strong character, one that is unflinchingly honest with himself.
I enjoyed the setting and even loved everything about the pottery, didn't feel like there was info dumping, though I'll probably end up looking a few things up on the art. It intrigued me.
Definitely recommend this one and I already have another of the author's books lined up. Just lovely, lovely writing.
February 8, 2011
When you look at my rating, you can see that I had trouble with this book. I didn't like Colin at all. I couldn't stop asking myself "Lucien why do you put up with this nonsense?" Unfortunately, Lucien's behaviour gave a weak image of his character. I mean, it's normal to do a lot for the person you love, but to accept him overrunning, manipulating your life ... I don't know. Not my cup of tea!!
And then sometimes the pottery details were just TOO much. It's always interesting to have some information, but I thought the romance was the main subject in the book and not the other way around.
And then sometimes the pottery details were just TOO much. It's always interesting to have some information, but I thought the romance was the main subject in the book and not the other way around.
January 26, 2013
I am a fan of Sarah Black. She is a good storyteller who doesn't use sex scenes to fill up the pages of her book. She can actually write. The thing I like about this book is the main characters are not some young, built,incredibly handsome young guys, but older men who have already seen their time in the sun and how they reconnect. Her stories and characters are believable. Give this one a chance, I don't think you will be disappointed.
April 29, 2017
I had to change this from four stars to five because, for me, the difference between a four-star read and a five-star read is the question, "Would I re-read this?" Originally, I didn't think so, but this story stuck with me for the past few months, coming to mind at the strangest times, and today I had to pull it back out of the cloud and read it again. Still just as wonderful, and completely deserving of a five-star rating.
December 26, 2019
love endures
Sarah Black's work is always a delight: she combines a deep knowledge of human nature with sensual appreciation, a sly sense of humor, and a pervasive hopefulness. Even long held differences can be reconciled, and old hurts overcome, with love and kindness.
Sarah Black's work is always a delight: she combines a deep knowledge of human nature with sensual appreciation, a sly sense of humor, and a pervasive hopefulness. Even long held differences can be reconciled, and old hurts overcome, with love and kindness.
September 12, 2010
2.5 stars
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