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Sharps & Springfield #1
Peacemaker
Secret agents, forbidden love, danger, and magic!
Supernatural Secret Service agents Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield meet on the train to their new assignment in St. Louis, and sparks fly between them. But it's 1897, and they need to be very careful—falling in love can be dangerous for men like them.
It's their first case together, investigating mysterious disappearances—including the two agents who preceded them. Grim evidence leads them to look for a darker purpose. Old ghosts haunt the railroad line, zombie rise, signs point to ritual sacrifice, and they suspect someone is trying to open the gates of hell.
Can Calvin and Owen stop the mayhem, thwart the vampires, and find true love, or will everything go up in smoke?
Peacemaker is a high-stakes steampunk MM romance thrill ride filled with found family, paranormal Pinkertons, intrepid reporters, mysterious disappearances, nefarious land brokers, hellhounds, zombies, vengeful spirits, dark spells, absinthe magic, a ruthless vampire railroad baron and a love that won't be denied.
Before Colt and Winchester, there was Sharps & Springfield!
Peacemaker is the first book in the new Sharps & Springfield series.
Supernatural Secret Service agents Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield meet on the train to their new assignment in St. Louis, and sparks fly between them. But it's 1897, and they need to be very careful—falling in love can be dangerous for men like them.
It's their first case together, investigating mysterious disappearances—including the two agents who preceded them. Grim evidence leads them to look for a darker purpose. Old ghosts haunt the railroad line, zombie rise, signs point to ritual sacrifice, and they suspect someone is trying to open the gates of hell.
Can Calvin and Owen stop the mayhem, thwart the vampires, and find true love, or will everything go up in smoke?
Peacemaker is a high-stakes steampunk MM romance thrill ride filled with found family, paranormal Pinkertons, intrepid reporters, mysterious disappearances, nefarious land brokers, hellhounds, zombies, vengeful spirits, dark spells, absinthe magic, a ruthless vampire railroad baron and a love that won't be denied.
Before Colt and Winchester, there was Sharps & Springfield!
Peacemaker is the first book in the new Sharps & Springfield series.
249 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 25, 2023
35 people are currently reading
380 people want to read
About the author
Morgan Brice
54books450followersMorgan Brice writes Urban Fantasy M/M Paranormal Romance with lots of magic, spooky stuff, and sexy men.
Pen name of author Gail Z. Martin.
Pen name of author Gail Z. Martin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
May 20, 2023
Morgan Brice was the first M/M romance author I ever read, and her Witchbane series was the start of my love of M/M romances and I have been hooked ever since. I have read and own everything she has written in this persona...all the "Badlands", "Witchbane" and "Treasure Trail" series, so needless to say I was excited to see a new series appear. So far there is only 2 books in the "Treasure Trail" series, so I am sincerely hoping that there will be more than 2 books in this one. Our new characters are Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield who meet for the first time on a train. Each unknown to the other, they find that they feel the same attraction toward who they later find turns out to be their new "Supernatural Secret Service" partner. Unfortunately, the proprieties of the day, 1887, mean it would be both improper and dangerous to act on their attractions. I wondered since they were going to facing life and death, if it would really have been so bad? Those same rules, make it hard to determine a person’s orientation, so they spent the majority of the book testing their theories about each other and being wrong. They gave "Don't ask...don't tell" a whole new meaning. The book is listed as a historical paranormal series, which is not a new theme for Morgan Brice as all her series have had hot guys with at least one having paranormal abilities. In this series both partners have different abilities, that no matter the situation, they are covered and at least one of them will live on...at least for now. Being the first, the story sets the tone and introduces the "ground crew". As I said...I have enjoyed several series by this author, and this series looks to be very promising. We get to see the viewpoints of both Owen and Calvin as the chapters alternate. They are going to be perfect partners both in bed and on the job. Unlike modern times, they can’t simply give a nudge and a nod in the local nightclub. Back then, society’s rules kept many aspects of life behind tight lips. So, the men must navigate the subtext of exchanges. The groundwork for the series has been beautifully accomplished...the cast of players are superb, and I so look forward to reading further books in this series, which will hopefully include more paranormal and a lot more romance between Calvin and Owen.
April 14, 2023
I wanted to like this book so much more than I did but I just couldn’t really get into it. The world was fine but the characters lacked depth and the level of insta-love was just too much. By the end of the book these two have spent less than a total of 24 hours together and yet they’re declaring their love for each other. Seriously. They spend 90% of the book apart talking to their “contacts� and it’s those contacts who provide all the answers and information. This book is a solid wall of tell with very (very) little show. Owen and Calvin get handed all the answers they seek by other people, including the wholly unnecessary hell gate nonsense that did not enrich the plot and frankly felt like it came out of nowhere, with no actual lead-up and wasn’t needed. The writing is simplistic lending the book the tone of a cosy mystery or some sort of teen daytime soap and there’s a note in the back about the use of language which I found utterly pointless because while it addressed the changing terms surrounding the queer community it did not address the fact that no change was made to the way the characters speak to fit the time. It’s all well and good to throw around the terms “mDZ� and “nԳ� but the way the characters spoke in simple conversation leant no historic lens. It may well have been set in modern day St Louis because I frequently forgot it wasn’t.
April 13, 2023
This story was a mix of wild west, unexpected magic and fierce attraction. Morgan Brice created likable characters with good chemistry and lots of longing and clever plot lines with a couple of sharp twists and turns. I liked the slower build up to the physical relationship between Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield because by that point they formed a strong bond. The mystery was interesting with what felt like a lot of research put into every line. I would not call it steampunk though but something straddling a line between it and historical PNR. It was well paced and had a variety of secondary characters that made the story well rounded. Good solid beginning of a new series.
June 11, 2023
I've given this a C at AAR
Peacemakeris the first book in the Sharps & Springfield series of historical paranormals set in the US near the end of the nineteenth century. It boasts an interesting central mystery and a well-developed setting, but the characters are barely two-dimensional and the romance is pretty much non-existent. The book is also labelled as ‘steampunk�, but I didn’t read a single thing that was remotely steampunk-y, so why this series has been labelled that way is a complete mystery to me.
The story opens with Owen Sharps, a meduim with the Supernatural Secret Service, travelling to St. Louis to take up his latest assignment. The train journey is made more pleasant when a very handsome man enters the carriage and takes the seat across from him. Owen has to stop himself drooling and immediately chubs up. (*eyeroll*. It’s page four.) Trying hard not to think about things he shouldn’t be thinking about, Owen chats with the mystery man chat for a bit about his book � he’s readingDracula� and other things in general; they share a convivial meal and evening, and settle in for the night, but don’t share names.
When the men alight, they realise that not only are they headed in the same direction, they’re actually going to be partnered together at the St. Louis Office of the Supernatural Secret Service. Like Owen, Calvin Springfield had been in the army prior to joining the service and, also like Owen � and most of the others in the SSS � he has a degree of paranormal ability (in his case, psychometry). (Owen is pleased to find out he’s not a mind-reader given all the lustful thoughts he’s been having!) Arrived at the St. Louis office, Owen and Calvin learn that they’ve been brought in following the disappearance of two agents who were investigating several gruesome murders that have taken place over the past few months. The two men vanished without trace, and Owen and Calvin are to take over the investigation into the murders while also trying to find out what happened to them.
The fairly short list of main suspects consists of a few local big-wigs, but the prime suspect is one Leland Aiken, a would-be railroad baron who also happens to be a vampire. There’s nothing tangible � so far � to connect him either to the murders or the disappearance of the two agents � he’s too smart to do any dirty work himself and has a number of very powerful friends including, they suspect, the local chief of police. Getting to the bottom of this mystery is going to be difficult and dangerous � vampires, evil witches, necromancers, shape-shifters, hell-hounds and dark spirits are only some of the things our heroes are going to have to face down if they’re going to uncover the truth and make it out alive.
The mystery element in this story works reasonably well, although it’s not especially deep or intricate, and clues and questions are found and answered rather too easily. Owen and Calvin are ably assisted by their valet-cum-general factotum, a retired agent called Winston, a skilled witch who ‘keeps house� for the men on their Pulman car accomodation, and by two friends, Ida, a hard-nosed reporter and Louisa, a Pinkerton working undercover as a showgirl. (It’s always nice to see some kickass women in an m/m book).
The setting is also nicely done; the author has clearly done her homework about late nineteenth century St. Louis, talking about how the city is still trying to find its footing post-war, and including so many of the hallmarks of the period, from showgirls to railroads, Pinkertons to corrupt officials. She also acknowledges the dangers of being queer at this time and takes care to use period-appropriate language to describe gay men (“mDZ�and“nԳ�are probably the least offensive terms.) There’s a wide variety of paranormal entities included, too, although it isn’t clear whether the general populace knows about the paranormal world or not, which is a bit of a hole in the worldbuilding. And as I said at the beginning of this review, NONE of this is remotely steampunk-y, so that label is very misleading.
Where the book really falls down is in the characterisation of the leads, which is paper thin, and the romance, which is based entirely on insta-lust. These two thirty-something former soldiers are prone to internal monologuing as a way of info dumping, and they moon over each other like a teenaged girl over Justin Bieber (or whoever the hell is the current crush du jour). They’ve known each other two days, maybe three. THREE. DAYS. Which they’ve spent mostly apart following separate leads, and they’re thinking about setting up house together and falling in love and forever � it’s just ridiculous. This is a series, so why do the leads have to fall in love in book one? If the author wants to have them falling into bed, okay � it’s fairly common in m/m series for the leads to hook up in the first book, but not catch feelings until later on � but I absolutely did not buy these guys to falling in love in less than a week. In addition, they nave no chemistry, and because we know so little about them � and they know so little about each other � it’s impossible to understand what they see in each other apart from their external hotness.
Peacemakerisn’t a terrible book, it’s just not as good as it could have been � or as good as I hoped it would be. The mystery isn’t bad � I think the storyline is going to run throughout the series � there are some very well-written set pieces and I liked the secondary cast, but the leads are bland and the romance is sorely lacking. I’m not sufficiently invested in anything here to want to continue with the series.
Peacemakeris the first book in the Sharps & Springfield series of historical paranormals set in the US near the end of the nineteenth century. It boasts an interesting central mystery and a well-developed setting, but the characters are barely two-dimensional and the romance is pretty much non-existent. The book is also labelled as ‘steampunk�, but I didn’t read a single thing that was remotely steampunk-y, so why this series has been labelled that way is a complete mystery to me.
The story opens with Owen Sharps, a meduim with the Supernatural Secret Service, travelling to St. Louis to take up his latest assignment. The train journey is made more pleasant when a very handsome man enters the carriage and takes the seat across from him. Owen has to stop himself drooling and immediately chubs up. (*eyeroll*. It’s page four.) Trying hard not to think about things he shouldn’t be thinking about, Owen chats with the mystery man chat for a bit about his book � he’s readingDracula� and other things in general; they share a convivial meal and evening, and settle in for the night, but don’t share names.
When the men alight, they realise that not only are they headed in the same direction, they’re actually going to be partnered together at the St. Louis Office of the Supernatural Secret Service. Like Owen, Calvin Springfield had been in the army prior to joining the service and, also like Owen � and most of the others in the SSS � he has a degree of paranormal ability (in his case, psychometry). (Owen is pleased to find out he’s not a mind-reader given all the lustful thoughts he’s been having!) Arrived at the St. Louis office, Owen and Calvin learn that they’ve been brought in following the disappearance of two agents who were investigating several gruesome murders that have taken place over the past few months. The two men vanished without trace, and Owen and Calvin are to take over the investigation into the murders while also trying to find out what happened to them.
The fairly short list of main suspects consists of a few local big-wigs, but the prime suspect is one Leland Aiken, a would-be railroad baron who also happens to be a vampire. There’s nothing tangible � so far � to connect him either to the murders or the disappearance of the two agents � he’s too smart to do any dirty work himself and has a number of very powerful friends including, they suspect, the local chief of police. Getting to the bottom of this mystery is going to be difficult and dangerous � vampires, evil witches, necromancers, shape-shifters, hell-hounds and dark spirits are only some of the things our heroes are going to have to face down if they’re going to uncover the truth and make it out alive.
The mystery element in this story works reasonably well, although it’s not especially deep or intricate, and clues and questions are found and answered rather too easily. Owen and Calvin are ably assisted by their valet-cum-general factotum, a retired agent called Winston, a skilled witch who ‘keeps house� for the men on their Pulman car accomodation, and by two friends, Ida, a hard-nosed reporter and Louisa, a Pinkerton working undercover as a showgirl. (It’s always nice to see some kickass women in an m/m book).
The setting is also nicely done; the author has clearly done her homework about late nineteenth century St. Louis, talking about how the city is still trying to find its footing post-war, and including so many of the hallmarks of the period, from showgirls to railroads, Pinkertons to corrupt officials. She also acknowledges the dangers of being queer at this time and takes care to use period-appropriate language to describe gay men (“mDZ�and“nԳ�are probably the least offensive terms.) There’s a wide variety of paranormal entities included, too, although it isn’t clear whether the general populace knows about the paranormal world or not, which is a bit of a hole in the worldbuilding. And as I said at the beginning of this review, NONE of this is remotely steampunk-y, so that label is very misleading.
Where the book really falls down is in the characterisation of the leads, which is paper thin, and the romance, which is based entirely on insta-lust. These two thirty-something former soldiers are prone to internal monologuing as a way of info dumping, and they moon over each other like a teenaged girl over Justin Bieber (or whoever the hell is the current crush du jour). They’ve known each other two days, maybe three. THREE. DAYS. Which they’ve spent mostly apart following separate leads, and they’re thinking about setting up house together and falling in love and forever � it’s just ridiculous. This is a series, so why do the leads have to fall in love in book one? If the author wants to have them falling into bed, okay � it’s fairly common in m/m series for the leads to hook up in the first book, but not catch feelings until later on � but I absolutely did not buy these guys to falling in love in less than a week. In addition, they nave no chemistry, and because we know so little about them � and they know so little about each other � it’s impossible to understand what they see in each other apart from their external hotness.
Peacemakerisn’t a terrible book, it’s just not as good as it could have been � or as good as I hoped it would be. The mystery isn’t bad � I think the storyline is going to run throughout the series � there are some very well-written set pieces and I liked the secondary cast, but the leads are bland and the romance is sorely lacking. I’m not sufficiently invested in anything here to want to continue with the series.
April 19, 2023
3,5 stars for this interesting story. I am on a history trip at the moment and was really happy to get the opportunity to review this book. Especially as Morgan Brice is quite a safe bet .
The world building was really well done, and I liked the premises of the story.
The characters were interesting - the MCs as well as the secondary characters.
Unfortunately, the relationship part was not so well done as I expected. There was a lot of "is he or is he not" and more telling via hearing the MCs thoughts than experiencing 🤔
Nevertheless, I really liked the story, and I am looking forward to the next book.
The world building was really well done, and I liked the premises of the story.
The characters were interesting - the MCs as well as the secondary characters.
Unfortunately, the relationship part was not so well done as I expected. There was a lot of "is he or is he not" and more telling via hearing the MCs thoughts than experiencing 🤔
Nevertheless, I really liked the story, and I am looking forward to the next book.
April 25, 2024
After enjoying Morgan Brice’s m/m paranormal romantic suspense series, Badlands, and already loving the western genre and John Solo’s narration work, I figured Peacemaker would be a shoe-in to capture my interest. I was not mistaken though I had a fun surprise in store when it came to the style of the story.
Peacemaker combines several genres and does it fairly well as I anticipated. What I didn’t realize was that this would be something in the style of the Wild Wild West TV series and later movie adaption with the light interplay between the two lead characters, the private train car, agency partnership, gadgetry, and the understanding that modernisms would unapologetically and openly creep in.
The time period is post-civil war in the heyday of the Wild West. Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield both working for the early US Secret Service paranormal branch. They are brought in to form a new investigation partnership and meet on a train into St. Louis right where the previous pair on a new disturbing case were taken out.
Things start off slowly gaining pace as the pair of opposites get to know each other, their new situation, and then launch into the case while fighting a blistering hot attraction for their working partner. In fact, the heat of their attraction was instantaneous and in the forefront from the first pages. Peacemaker is told from alternating perspectives and both Owen and Calvin can barely keep it in their pants as they try to do their jobs. Thus, I got to know their attraction more than I got to know them and see them grow a relationship, if you catch my drift.
The plot was suspenseful with moments of sharp action. They got lucky a few times in their investigation not hitting many roadblocks so that they knew what they were up against soon enough. It didn’t hurt that both were powerful psychics with specific skill sets and their support guy was a powerful witch and had lots of experience he could bring to bear on the case. The villain was powerful so made a worthy antagonist.
Even though I didn’t get as much development as I’d like, I liked both Owen and Calvin and I liked them together. Their light and wry attitudes and dialogue were engaging and I hope the author keeps up with this series.
John Solo voiced the story well and I had no difficulty distinguishing all the characters even though most were male. He captured the distinctness in Owen and Calvin for their alternating perspectives.
All in all, a solid start to a fun new series mashing up several genres. If you like cheeky Westerns in the Wild, Wild West style with a blend of paranormal and m/m romantic suspense, pick this one up on audio.
I rec'd an audiobook through Tantor Audio to listen to in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on Mar 31, 2024
Peacemaker combines several genres and does it fairly well as I anticipated. What I didn’t realize was that this would be something in the style of the Wild Wild West TV series and later movie adaption with the light interplay between the two lead characters, the private train car, agency partnership, gadgetry, and the understanding that modernisms would unapologetically and openly creep in.
The time period is post-civil war in the heyday of the Wild West. Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield both working for the early US Secret Service paranormal branch. They are brought in to form a new investigation partnership and meet on a train into St. Louis right where the previous pair on a new disturbing case were taken out.
Things start off slowly gaining pace as the pair of opposites get to know each other, their new situation, and then launch into the case while fighting a blistering hot attraction for their working partner. In fact, the heat of their attraction was instantaneous and in the forefront from the first pages. Peacemaker is told from alternating perspectives and both Owen and Calvin can barely keep it in their pants as they try to do their jobs. Thus, I got to know their attraction more than I got to know them and see them grow a relationship, if you catch my drift.
The plot was suspenseful with moments of sharp action. They got lucky a few times in their investigation not hitting many roadblocks so that they knew what they were up against soon enough. It didn’t hurt that both were powerful psychics with specific skill sets and their support guy was a powerful witch and had lots of experience he could bring to bear on the case. The villain was powerful so made a worthy antagonist.
Even though I didn’t get as much development as I’d like, I liked both Owen and Calvin and I liked them together. Their light and wry attitudes and dialogue were engaging and I hope the author keeps up with this series.
John Solo voiced the story well and I had no difficulty distinguishing all the characters even though most were male. He captured the distinctness in Owen and Calvin for their alternating perspectives.
All in all, a solid start to a fun new series mashing up several genres. If you like cheeky Westerns in the Wild, Wild West style with a blend of paranormal and m/m romantic suspense, pick this one up on audio.
I rec'd an audiobook through Tantor Audio to listen to in exchange for an honest review.
My full review will post at Books of My Heart on Mar 31, 2024
April 21, 2023
Quite the interesting story, mystery and world but he romance had me flustered as there was none. The MC's love for one another came completely out from left field for me, hitting me literally over the head by its suddenness and intensity. IMO they neither spent enough time together on or off the job nor talking about anything of significance to feel for one another as they did. I can understand lust and attraction but not this all consuming love. Other than that the mystery was interesting and I do so love a touch of history and steampunk.
May 17, 2023
A review.
3.75 stars
Peacemaker is the first book in the new Sharps & Springfield series focusing on Owen and Calvin’s adventures. I enjoy Morgan Brice’s writing and I was intrigued by the mix of historical western flavor and paranormal elements, a combination I don’t see often. Brice gives us a nice sense of time and place here, with St. Louis a city that feels like it is straddling the border between the more settled eastern cities and one on the edge of westward expansion. It makes a nice backdrop for the larger mystery and investigation and the little details really bring the setting to life. I found the investigation to be interesting overall and I think it is nice introduction to this supernatural world. We get to see folks with various paranormal abilities, both people on the side of the law and those up to no good. This is a nice suspense thriller, as the men dig into the murders and try to piece together who is behind it all and why.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety .
3.75 stars
Peacemaker is the first book in the new Sharps & Springfield series focusing on Owen and Calvin’s adventures. I enjoy Morgan Brice’s writing and I was intrigued by the mix of historical western flavor and paranormal elements, a combination I don’t see often. Brice gives us a nice sense of time and place here, with St. Louis a city that feels like it is straddling the border between the more settled eastern cities and one on the edge of westward expansion. It makes a nice backdrop for the larger mystery and investigation and the little details really bring the setting to life. I found the investigation to be interesting overall and I think it is nice introduction to this supernatural world. We get to see folks with various paranormal abilities, both people on the side of the law and those up to no good. This is a nice suspense thriller, as the men dig into the murders and try to piece together who is behind it all and why.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety .
March 4, 2024
I wanted to like PEACEMAKER so much because the set up and the concept was really cool but the execution of everything wasn't great. The writing felt fairly dry and with little emotion behind it; it was more like a recounting of events with a few personal thoughts from the MCs sprinkled in. The few inner monologues felt awkward and because there wasn't a lot of emotion the character voices of the MCs were indistinguishable from each other.
I liked both Owen and Calvin but they experienced the exact same things in each of their chapters and this made the book feel repetitive. As for the mystery plot it was cool but everything is figured out by the MC's contacts. Owen and Calvin didn't figure out one lead by themselves, instead they visited their contacts who conveniently had all the information they needed. And I didn't understand why Calvin and Owen would do things separately rather than sticking together considering the previous agents were targeted and killed because they were working on their own.
Overall, this author's writing just isn't for me.
Content Warning: frequent fear of being outed as gay
I liked both Owen and Calvin but they experienced the exact same things in each of their chapters and this made the book feel repetitive. As for the mystery plot it was cool but everything is figured out by the MC's contacts. Owen and Calvin didn't figure out one lead by themselves, instead they visited their contacts who conveniently had all the information they needed. And I didn't understand why Calvin and Owen would do things separately rather than sticking together considering the previous agents were targeted and killed because they were working on their own.
Overall, this author's writing just isn't for me.
Content Warning: frequent fear of being outed as gay
March 9, 2025
Waited for book 2. All points showed another was planned. I wonder why minds were changed
June 16, 2023
Peacemaker is book one in the Sharps & Springfield series by Morgan Brice. Supernatural Secret Service agents Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield were on the way to their new assignment. Unbeknown to them, they will become partners when they reach St Louis. Their first case together was the investigation into the disappearance of the two agents they were replacing. Was there a darker side to this investigation than a simple disappearance? The readers of Peacemaker will continue to follow Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield to discover what happens.
Peacemaker is the first book I read in the genre of Steampunk, and I was surprised that I did enjoy reading this book. I engaged with this historical story and the characters, and the engagement continued throughout the book. I love Morgan Brice's portrayal of her characters and how they intertwine with each other throughout this book. Peacemaker is well-written and researched by Morgan Brice. I like Morgan Brice's description of the settings of Peacemaker done in a way to complement the book's plot.
The readers of Peacemaker will learn about living in St Louis in 1897. Also, the readers will understand the role of a Pullman car in the 18th century.
I recommend this book.
Peacemaker is the first book I read in the genre of Steampunk, and I was surprised that I did enjoy reading this book. I engaged with this historical story and the characters, and the engagement continued throughout the book. I love Morgan Brice's portrayal of her characters and how they intertwine with each other throughout this book. Peacemaker is well-written and researched by Morgan Brice. I like Morgan Brice's description of the settings of Peacemaker done in a way to complement the book's plot.
The readers of Peacemaker will learn about living in St Louis in 1897. Also, the readers will understand the role of a Pullman car in the 18th century.
I recommend this book.
March 31, 2023
I think this is going to be a good series but to me I liked the slow burn between the MCs although I did get a little fed up with the does he, doesn't he. To me however, the mystery wasn't much and kind of ended on a damp squib. I did however like Winston and will read further books in the series.
June 1, 2023
I wanted to like this, but nearly every aspect of the story disappointed me.
1) The writing: SO MUCH INNER MONOLOGUE. not only is the constant tense switching jarring, but the actual monologues were juvenile
2) The plot: Nothing was surprising and the good guys figured everything out so easily.
3) The romance: this was the most disappointing part. It was somehow insta-love while also 97% of “is he or isn’t he.� They also were separated for most of the plot. Which would be fine, if their relationship developed accordingly. But then they declare their love at the end after having spent most of the book separate. AND THEN we get through 200+ pages of pining only for the big sex scene to (a) start in the middle without any foreplay (iykykh) (b) last two pages and (c) come at 99%
1) The writing: SO MUCH INNER MONOLOGUE. not only is the constant tense switching jarring, but the actual monologues were juvenile
2) The plot: Nothing was surprising and the good guys figured everything out so easily.
3) The romance: this was the most disappointing part. It was somehow insta-love while also 97% of “is he or isn’t he.� They also were separated for most of the plot. Which would be fine, if their relationship developed accordingly. But then they declare their love at the end after having spent most of the book separate. AND THEN we get through 200+ pages of pining only for the big sex scene to (a) start in the middle without any foreplay (iykykh) (b) last two pages and (c) come at 99%
November 7, 2023
4/10
In the first couple of chapters, I fell in love with the train setting and the titillating romantic potential between the MCs. But the further into the story I got, the less I liked it...
1) Everything is very abrupt. I understand there might be instant lust, but catching feelings for someone you have known for all of 24 hours and declaring your love for them are two separate things... And this abruptness infected all of the character interactions, making strangers act way too friendly or supportive without knowing each other at all.
The same thing happened with the plot; whenever the characters wanted any information, someone would divulge all of the available information with a simple question, or just show up at their door unannounced to offer support in a fight; very deus ex machina.
2) The writing was frustratingly bad. The inner monologues were very simplistic and inane and the dialogues often didn't seem to match perfectly. There was a weird lag where the author seemed to group multiple questions together and as a result when the other characters offered any reply, the dialogue seemed to go back in time to address them one by one, as if the conversation hadn't moved along already.
3) The mystery plot sucked. From the very beginning, when the MCs take over this case, they are given a list of potential suspects and immediately decide who the responsible party is, with no concrete evidence. Then they base their entire investigation on this assumption and what is even worse, is that they do no actual investigating. Their "contacts" provide all the clues that they have accumulated over time, with ready-made conclusions about what that information contributes to the MCs' case. The MCs just go around collecting that.
4) The time period was a joke. Aside from the historical persecution of the gays and the lack of cellphones, the language of the characters both in monologue and dialogue was very modern. The author even included a note about struggling with the language of the period, which I felt was hilarious, because any effort at "historically" appropriate language failed miserably.
5) The romance was non existent. Aside from the weird insta-love that I already touched upon, the MCs spent almost no time together and kept having fantasies (and fantastical misunderstandings) with each other in their heads... Aside from the supposedly historical "is he/ isn't he", there was zero foundation for any romantic feelings to develop. And yet, at the very end (and I mean the final chapter) of the book, we got a sex scene. I mean... why? This could have easily been more of a slowburn since it is book 1 of a series.
6) The world building was flimsy at best. The paranormal creatures and powers were random with no explanation, no framework of what is widely known or acceptable of the paranormal world among humans, no run-down of powers and limitations of the different species. To top everything off, the paranormal elements were completely decorative and ultimately totally irrelevant for the plot.
I don't think I 'll give this author a second chance...
In the first couple of chapters, I fell in love with the train setting and the titillating romantic potential between the MCs. But the further into the story I got, the less I liked it...
1) Everything is very abrupt. I understand there might be instant lust, but catching feelings for someone you have known for all of 24 hours and declaring your love for them are two separate things... And this abruptness infected all of the character interactions, making strangers act way too friendly or supportive without knowing each other at all.
The same thing happened with the plot; whenever the characters wanted any information, someone would divulge all of the available information with a simple question, or just show up at their door unannounced to offer support in a fight; very deus ex machina.
2) The writing was frustratingly bad. The inner monologues were very simplistic and inane and the dialogues often didn't seem to match perfectly. There was a weird lag where the author seemed to group multiple questions together and as a result when the other characters offered any reply, the dialogue seemed to go back in time to address them one by one, as if the conversation hadn't moved along already.
3) The mystery plot sucked. From the very beginning, when the MCs take over this case, they are given a list of potential suspects and immediately decide who the responsible party is, with no concrete evidence. Then they base their entire investigation on this assumption and what is even worse, is that they do no actual investigating. Their "contacts" provide all the clues that they have accumulated over time, with ready-made conclusions about what that information contributes to the MCs' case. The MCs just go around collecting that.
4) The time period was a joke. Aside from the historical persecution of the gays and the lack of cellphones, the language of the characters both in monologue and dialogue was very modern. The author even included a note about struggling with the language of the period, which I felt was hilarious, because any effort at "historically" appropriate language failed miserably.
5) The romance was non existent. Aside from the weird insta-love that I already touched upon, the MCs spent almost no time together and kept having fantasies (and fantastical misunderstandings) with each other in their heads... Aside from the supposedly historical "is he/ isn't he", there was zero foundation for any romantic feelings to develop. And yet, at the very end (and I mean the final chapter) of the book, we got a sex scene. I mean... why? This could have easily been more of a slowburn since it is book 1 of a series.
6) The world building was flimsy at best. The paranormal creatures and powers were random with no explanation, no framework of what is widely known or acceptable of the paranormal world among humans, no run-down of powers and limitations of the different species. To top everything off, the paranormal elements were completely decorative and ultimately totally irrelevant for the plot.
I don't think I 'll give this author a second chance...
February 25, 2024
I tend to shy away from M/M books that have a historical setting since I don’t want the added angst and drama of same-sex relationships from those time periods, but given the paranormal aspect and that this was written by one of my favorite authors, I set aside my reservations to give this a go. I’m glad I did because I really enjoyed this first story in this new series!
I love the idea of secret agencies dealing with supernatural threats, particularly in a historical setting like this. The historical aspects considering setting and time period showed the author did their research to keep things authentic. The meet-cute between Owen and Calvin was perfect, even though I did realize what was up as it was happening.
There is a lot of “is he or isn’t he� going on in each of their heads, and if you are expecting anything romantic or physical, you’ll be waiting a long while. This does serve to increase the angst level between them, and allows the story to concentrate on the case they are investigating. They each have their own contacts that help move the investigation forward, both strong female characters that I’m hoping we’ll see in subsequent books in the series. Another fantastic supporting character is Winston, who serves as their “valet�, but is also a witch, assistant, and like their version of Q (from the Bond stories). He’s one of my favorite supporting characters this author has written.
The story really grabbed my attention, and I was fully drawn in to everything that was going on. It does set things up well for the series, particularly with how the vampire baddie ends up in a down-but-not-out position…you just know he’s going to be back. And like with this author’s other series, there is a strong supporting network being established to help Calvin and Owen with whatever they might face.
Peacemaker was a 4.5-star read for me, my only wish is that when it came to their relationship there would have been more show, not tell—particularly earlier on in the story. Regardless, this was a great read, and I’d recommend it to any M/M paranormal romance fan.
The narration was excellent, perfectly paced and with good differentiation in the character voices. You could also easily tell the difference between points of view, as well as times when the characters� thoughts were being expressed as opposed to their dialogue/actions. John Solo’s narration gets 5 stars from me!
I love the idea of secret agencies dealing with supernatural threats, particularly in a historical setting like this. The historical aspects considering setting and time period showed the author did their research to keep things authentic. The meet-cute between Owen and Calvin was perfect, even though I did realize what was up as it was happening.
There is a lot of “is he or isn’t he� going on in each of their heads, and if you are expecting anything romantic or physical, you’ll be waiting a long while. This does serve to increase the angst level between them, and allows the story to concentrate on the case they are investigating. They each have their own contacts that help move the investigation forward, both strong female characters that I’m hoping we’ll see in subsequent books in the series. Another fantastic supporting character is Winston, who serves as their “valet�, but is also a witch, assistant, and like their version of Q (from the Bond stories). He’s one of my favorite supporting characters this author has written.
The story really grabbed my attention, and I was fully drawn in to everything that was going on. It does set things up well for the series, particularly with how the vampire baddie ends up in a down-but-not-out position…you just know he’s going to be back. And like with this author’s other series, there is a strong supporting network being established to help Calvin and Owen with whatever they might face.
Peacemaker was a 4.5-star read for me, my only wish is that when it came to their relationship there would have been more show, not tell—particularly earlier on in the story. Regardless, this was a great read, and I’d recommend it to any M/M paranormal romance fan.
The narration was excellent, perfectly paced and with good differentiation in the character voices. You could also easily tell the difference between points of view, as well as times when the characters� thoughts were being expressed as opposed to their dialogue/actions. John Solo’s narration gets 5 stars from me!
July 14, 2024
"Peacemaker" was a fun read! It's not very historical feeling when it comes to the language but the basics for setting are there. As it is a paranormal based book and has a bit of a steampunk edge, so the odd historical feel works and there are enough elements within the story that keep things very interesting.
The book is slow burn, with nothing very romance based until the end. Since the book takes place within only a few days and how careful gay men had to be during the time period, this makes sense and I hope for more development in following books. There were several other characters that I would love to have more background on, like the Women who help the MCs, and Winston. I want soooo much more Wimston!
The book is slow burn, with nothing very romance based until the end. Since the book takes place within only a few days and how careful gay men had to be during the time period, this makes sense and I hope for more development in following books. There were several other characters that I would love to have more background on, like the Women who help the MCs, and Winston. I want soooo much more Wimston!
March 4, 2024
It's Morgan Brice but historical. An entertaining romp around St Louis with vampires, zombies and witches.
The couple are new partners (in the Supernatural Secret Service) but due to the time period they spent a lot of the book questioning each others reactions.
Looking forward to reading the next installment.
Recommended.
ETA: really enjoyed revisiting this in audio. John Solo did a great job as usual.
The couple are new partners (in the Supernatural Secret Service) but due to the time period they spent a lot of the book questioning each others reactions.
Looking forward to reading the next installment.
Recommended.
ETA: really enjoyed revisiting this in audio. John Solo did a great job as usual.
April 5, 2023
La historia no es mala y tiene buenos argumentos, mi pero son los malos entendidos de los personajes, me frustró demasiado, si no fuera por eso el libro hubiera sido genial.
April 27, 2023
Reviewed for Love Bytes � 4 hearts.
Owen and Calvin meet on a train. Unknown to the other, they have the same lustful thoughts toward what turns out to be their new Supernatural Secret Service partner. Unfortunately, the proprieties of the day mean it would be improper to act upon their desires. However, given that they will face life and death, would it be so bad? Also, those same societal rules make it hard to determine a person’s proclivities.
Peacemaker is the first book in a new Sharps and Springfield historical paranormal series, which suggests that no matter the situation, the main protagonists will live on � at least for now. Being the first, the story sets the tone and introduces the ‘ground crew�, and the series arc, etc. I have enjoyed several tales by this author, and this run of books looks very promising. But first, ya gotta sort the good, the bad, the outright weird, and lustful.
The story is told in the third person from the viewpoints of Owen and Calvin. Technically, nothing glared out at me, and worldbuilding allowed me to easily sink into the late nineteenth century. OMG - living in a train carriage - awesome.
I love the worlds the author has created, so I have read a host of manuscripts. Opening the gates of hell is a frequent flyer in the books - and why not � it’s as good a reason as any for a long-term arc. But one must be careful that the same creatures and scenarios are not repeated too often. Altering the period and the names of the main protagonists isn’t always enough of an alteration. Although, I loved the swindlers, corruption, and strong-willed ladies. Winston the Witch, too, is the equivalent of Batman’s Alfred to the group. He has a wealth of knowledge, and I look forward to encountering him more in future books.
As already said, this book is more of a scene setter than out-and-out paranormal investigating � do not fear, there are paranormal shenanigans. Anyhoo, Owen, and Calvin, separately, are badass investigators, but they have yet to learn how to work as a team. Owen is more of a traditional detective, and Calvin is a wildcard. Together their skillset is complementary, but first, they must sort out their lust. A hefty portion of the story is about these two needing to get laid and having lustful thoughts about their partner. Unlike modern times, they can’t simply give a nudge and a nod in the local nightclub. Back then, society’s rules kept many aspects of life behind tight lips. So, the men must navigate the subtext of exchanges.
Overall, the groundwork for the series has been admirably accomplished. The action and the cast are superb, and I heartily look forward to reading further installments, which will hopefully include more paranormal and less second-guessing about orientation.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
Owen and Calvin meet on a train. Unknown to the other, they have the same lustful thoughts toward what turns out to be their new Supernatural Secret Service partner. Unfortunately, the proprieties of the day mean it would be improper to act upon their desires. However, given that they will face life and death, would it be so bad? Also, those same societal rules make it hard to determine a person’s proclivities.
Peacemaker is the first book in a new Sharps and Springfield historical paranormal series, which suggests that no matter the situation, the main protagonists will live on � at least for now. Being the first, the story sets the tone and introduces the ‘ground crew�, and the series arc, etc. I have enjoyed several tales by this author, and this run of books looks very promising. But first, ya gotta sort the good, the bad, the outright weird, and lustful.
The story is told in the third person from the viewpoints of Owen and Calvin. Technically, nothing glared out at me, and worldbuilding allowed me to easily sink into the late nineteenth century. OMG - living in a train carriage - awesome.
I love the worlds the author has created, so I have read a host of manuscripts. Opening the gates of hell is a frequent flyer in the books - and why not � it’s as good a reason as any for a long-term arc. But one must be careful that the same creatures and scenarios are not repeated too often. Altering the period and the names of the main protagonists isn’t always enough of an alteration. Although, I loved the swindlers, corruption, and strong-willed ladies. Winston the Witch, too, is the equivalent of Batman’s Alfred to the group. He has a wealth of knowledge, and I look forward to encountering him more in future books.
As already said, this book is more of a scene setter than out-and-out paranormal investigating � do not fear, there are paranormal shenanigans. Anyhoo, Owen, and Calvin, separately, are badass investigators, but they have yet to learn how to work as a team. Owen is more of a traditional detective, and Calvin is a wildcard. Together their skillset is complementary, but first, they must sort out their lust. A hefty portion of the story is about these two needing to get laid and having lustful thoughts about their partner. Unlike modern times, they can’t simply give a nudge and a nod in the local nightclub. Back then, society’s rules kept many aspects of life behind tight lips. So, the men must navigate the subtext of exchanges.
Overall, the groundwork for the series has been admirably accomplished. The action and the cast are superb, and I heartily look forward to reading further installments, which will hopefully include more paranormal and less second-guessing about orientation.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for
Love Bytes.
April 19, 2023
Ebook Review📚
Story ♥️♥️♥️♥️
Characters ♥️♥️♥️♥️
Overall ♥️♥️♥️♥️
Morgan Brice's wonderful take on a historical mm romance, and this time it features the 1890's. The two leads are also as unique as one can expect from Ms Brice. Both MCs come with paranormal abilities, one a psychic and the other a psychometric, quiet a combo. And then there is the backdrop of post civil war St. Louis, New Pittsburgh and the railroad expansion happening in out west.
MC1 Owen Sharpe is a psychic who is traveling to St Louis on his new assignment. He's a war veteren southerner whose family "defected" the confederacy and fought with the Northern army in the Civil War. With plenty of fighting experience, he also comes with a strong sense of the paranormal world, especially ghosts. But, he's living a lonely life because his interest lies with men, and in that century it was not a good thing for anyone to know. What he never expected was meeting the man of his dreams or at least bedroom fantasies riding the same train. The same man who turned out to be his future work partner from the Supernatural Department. On top of it all, they have got a very convoluted, mysterious case to solve, where two of the previous agents have already gone missing.
MC2 Calvin Springfield is trying to move on from his life in Boston and the Irish upbringing of street gangs. A war veteran, Calvin has learnt the hard way about how to make the most of life, has got more settled in his waywardness, except for one, his liking for men. He knows how dangerous such proclivities are, so when he meets Owen, he's jolted out of his comfort zone. Being a psychometric has its own set of challenges and you need a trustworthy partner who settles you when you get caught in of your visions. What he never expects is his train acquaintance is his future work partner. Now how to fight attraction, while resolving kidnapping, murder and the undead.
Morgan Brice never fails to amaze me. I love her paranormally woven mm stories, where the leads become the most intriguing and interesting central figures of the whole series (remembers...Badlands...💗💗💗💗💗). Her support cast is on point as well. In this story they are a zealous female reporter Ida, an undercover Pinkerton detective Louisa and a jack of all trades witch/valet/care taker of our two leads, Westin. The villains are both human and paranormal and we do have something to look forward to on the coming book, which I can't wait to read. Just a superb read💗💗💗💗.
***I received an free copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, for an honest review.***
Story ♥️♥️♥️♥️
Characters ♥️♥️♥️♥️
Overall ♥️♥️♥️♥️
Morgan Brice's wonderful take on a historical mm romance, and this time it features the 1890's. The two leads are also as unique as one can expect from Ms Brice. Both MCs come with paranormal abilities, one a psychic and the other a psychometric, quiet a combo. And then there is the backdrop of post civil war St. Louis, New Pittsburgh and the railroad expansion happening in out west.
MC1 Owen Sharpe is a psychic who is traveling to St Louis on his new assignment. He's a war veteren southerner whose family "defected" the confederacy and fought with the Northern army in the Civil War. With plenty of fighting experience, he also comes with a strong sense of the paranormal world, especially ghosts. But, he's living a lonely life because his interest lies with men, and in that century it was not a good thing for anyone to know. What he never expected was meeting the man of his dreams or at least bedroom fantasies riding the same train. The same man who turned out to be his future work partner from the Supernatural Department. On top of it all, they have got a very convoluted, mysterious case to solve, where two of the previous agents have already gone missing.
MC2 Calvin Springfield is trying to move on from his life in Boston and the Irish upbringing of street gangs. A war veteran, Calvin has learnt the hard way about how to make the most of life, has got more settled in his waywardness, except for one, his liking for men. He knows how dangerous such proclivities are, so when he meets Owen, he's jolted out of his comfort zone. Being a psychometric has its own set of challenges and you need a trustworthy partner who settles you when you get caught in of your visions. What he never expects is his train acquaintance is his future work partner. Now how to fight attraction, while resolving kidnapping, murder and the undead.
Morgan Brice never fails to amaze me. I love her paranormally woven mm stories, where the leads become the most intriguing and interesting central figures of the whole series (remembers...Badlands...💗💗💗💗💗). Her support cast is on point as well. In this story they are a zealous female reporter Ida, an undercover Pinkerton detective Louisa and a jack of all trades witch/valet/care taker of our two leads, Westin. The villains are both human and paranormal and we do have something to look forward to on the coming book, which I can't wait to read. Just a superb read💗💗💗💗.
***I received an free copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, for an honest review.***
August 5, 2024
Conversation with J:
"I... don't know yet. Im 7% in and i can't tell you what the story is for. Even if my life depends on it. I heard something about vampires but have no idea beyond that."
…]
"The book is odd. Steam punk with magic. Or maybe wild wild west? I honestly don't know what to call it. They don't engage in anything related to steam punk like dealing with engines or different devices. Its just the overall description of the world. The have telegraphs and no mobile phones, do magic and spells. Horses and trains as a primary way of moving around."
…]
"Its apparently forbidden to be gay in my book. Its a secret closely garded. They have -15 chemistry... 43%, take my advice, don't go for that book."
…]
"You know I can stomach everything. I can be okay with low chemistry. I can be fine with little to no intimacy, but this is bad, really bad. All of a sudden, there is a vampire. And I think I had a shapeshifter killed a few chapters back. So confusing. It's not a werewolf, it's a shapeshifter, he was shifting into different people. The funny part is that they're talking about the vampire like they've mentioned it before, or like you're aware and know who and what that is and what they're planning on doing, or at least what they've done."
…]
"Let me tell you how much romance this book has. Absolutely, non. All they did was solitary hindjobs once in a while. 34 min left from the book, they have not even told each other they like each other. And one of them just got buried in a mine.
4:45 min left. Door opens and here is one fingering himself ready to go 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 its almost like she forgot and had to fit it somewhere."
I felt like i was listening to spin-off. World building was vague, missing a lot of descriptions. I was expected to know things that i've never heard of. Like creatures that live in it. The magic system was not explained on the beginning. People just appeared to fitt the stores need at t moment.
I am a fan of the author and i'm actually surprised I didn't enjoy the book as I expected.
I wil think about going for book 2. I will think Very Very Very hard before i go for it. I probably will eventually because i will want to know what happened... but that's my broken self.
John Solo did good.
"I... don't know yet. Im 7% in and i can't tell you what the story is for. Even if my life depends on it. I heard something about vampires but have no idea beyond that."
…]
"The book is odd. Steam punk with magic. Or maybe wild wild west? I honestly don't know what to call it. They don't engage in anything related to steam punk like dealing with engines or different devices. Its just the overall description of the world. The have telegraphs and no mobile phones, do magic and spells. Horses and trains as a primary way of moving around."
…]
"Its apparently forbidden to be gay in my book. Its a secret closely garded. They have -15 chemistry... 43%, take my advice, don't go for that book."
…]
"You know I can stomach everything. I can be okay with low chemistry. I can be fine with little to no intimacy, but this is bad, really bad. All of a sudden, there is a vampire. And I think I had a shapeshifter killed a few chapters back. So confusing. It's not a werewolf, it's a shapeshifter, he was shifting into different people. The funny part is that they're talking about the vampire like they've mentioned it before, or like you're aware and know who and what that is and what they're planning on doing, or at least what they've done."
…]
"Let me tell you how much romance this book has. Absolutely, non. All they did was solitary hindjobs once in a while. 34 min left from the book, they have not even told each other they like each other. And one of them just got buried in a mine.
4:45 min left. Door opens and here is one fingering himself ready to go 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 its almost like she forgot and had to fit it somewhere."
I felt like i was listening to spin-off. World building was vague, missing a lot of descriptions. I was expected to know things that i've never heard of. Like creatures that live in it. The magic system was not explained on the beginning. People just appeared to fitt the stores need at t moment.
I am a fan of the author and i'm actually surprised I didn't enjoy the book as I expected.
I wil think about going for book 2. I will think Very Very Very hard before i go for it. I probably will eventually because i will want to know what happened... but that's my broken self.
John Solo did good.
April 17, 2023
4.5 rounded up due to some solid research and overall sense of fun.
This first book in a new series by Morgan Brice ended up being a lot more fun than I anticipated. Often, the first book in a new series can be a little difficult to get into as the "world" of the story is being established but this novel hit the ground running and didn't let up. Think of a gay version of "Wild, Wild West" and you wouldn't be too far off. Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield are partnered together in 1897 St. Louis as Supernatural Secret Service agents in order to solve the mystery of the disappearance of their predecessors. They uncover a plot by a powerful vampire, along with running into shifters, witches, and monsters of the human variety. They're aided by Winston, their valet who just happens to be a witch.
The plot is well thought out and makes sense for the era, and Brice keeps the action up, even when the two men are using good old detective work. And the supporting characters, including Ida and Louisa are quite entertaining. I had one minor quibble with the plot in that there is a lot of pining going on between the two main characters due to misunderstandings. I understand the reasoning for both men's reticence due to the social standards of the time period but I felt that it would have been more effective had their secret come out earlier in order to have some time for some more flirtatious banter and courtship, so to speak - I feel that would have been a bit more appropriate for their characters.
Brice's afterword is a must read, in which she addresses the two men being gay in a time period that didn't recognize the full construct of homosexuality, and how that informed some of her writing choices in the story. It's very informative and helps ground the story with her perspective.
I hope she continues to write in this world as it's immensely entertaining. Sharps and Springfield are entertaining characters that I'd like to get to know better.
This first book in a new series by Morgan Brice ended up being a lot more fun than I anticipated. Often, the first book in a new series can be a little difficult to get into as the "world" of the story is being established but this novel hit the ground running and didn't let up. Think of a gay version of "Wild, Wild West" and you wouldn't be too far off. Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield are partnered together in 1897 St. Louis as Supernatural Secret Service agents in order to solve the mystery of the disappearance of their predecessors. They uncover a plot by a powerful vampire, along with running into shifters, witches, and monsters of the human variety. They're aided by Winston, their valet who just happens to be a witch.
The plot is well thought out and makes sense for the era, and Brice keeps the action up, even when the two men are using good old detective work. And the supporting characters, including Ida and Louisa are quite entertaining. I had one minor quibble with the plot in that there is a lot of pining going on between the two main characters due to misunderstandings. I understand the reasoning for both men's reticence due to the social standards of the time period but I felt that it would have been more effective had their secret come out earlier in order to have some time for some more flirtatious banter and courtship, so to speak - I feel that would have been a bit more appropriate for their characters.
Brice's afterword is a must read, in which she addresses the two men being gay in a time period that didn't recognize the full construct of homosexuality, and how that informed some of her writing choices in the story. It's very informative and helps ground the story with her perspective.
I hope she continues to write in this world as it's immensely entertaining. Sharps and Springfield are entertaining characters that I'd like to get to know better.
April 8, 2023
For me, where this book really shines is in its premise and world building� a slightly ahistorical but still recognizably postbellum America intertwined with all the hallmarks late 19th century culture (railroads, Pinkerton agents, show girls, cemetery men, corrupt law enforcement and intrepid muckraking reporters) plus a broad spectrum of the supernatural (vampires, werewolves, witches and pretty much everything else, oh my). Against this backdrop, who wouldn’t want to spend time with supernaturally gifted secret service agents trying to make things just a little bit safer? Especially when their super-secret lair is a fully tricked out Pullman car? It helps that said agents are interesting individuals in their own right, and that they’re bolstered by a fascinating cast of supporting characters (I’m saying it now: the butler/assistant/witch needs his own series, he’s fabulous). Plus the case that throws these characters together has great pacing, and a solid amount of peril and intrigue. Honestly, the only part of the story that fell a bit flat for me was the romance: it just doesn’t feel like there’s time, in the whole “stop the potential end of the world� thing they’ve got going, to actually get to know each other or spend enough time together, especially since they have the added layer of caution and potential misunderstanding that comes from the serious consequences of the social stigma against same sex relationships� I believe the protagonists have chemistry and attraction, but actual feelings for each other? Maybe that would be more plausible when they’ve had more than *checks notes* two and half conversations. Overall, however, this feels like the start to a great series of adventures, and I’ll be deeply interested to see where Calvin, Owen, (and Winston! Love ya, Winston) go next.
April 9, 2023
This feels like the start to a great series of adventures and I can’t wait for more! Calvin and Owen have both been relocated to St. Louis. They had previously met on the train trip to St. Louis where there was a “spark� of attraction that was smoldered due to circumstances. Upon their arrival they learn they will be working together and the potential that arose on the train trip looms in the background. The setting for the story is the 19th Century so any relationship between the two comes with its own potential dangers.
During the course of the story, they are wrestling with a dangerous mystery along with their mutual attraction that if it became common knowledge could cost them everything, including their lives. The doubt of the common attraction is featured throughout the story line as they each try to determine if the other is interested. The mystery elements were interesting though I was disappointed that the main villain was always in the background. The word building is outstanding and certainly kept my interest. I very much liked the historical feel to the story with the setting, language and mores.
In summary, this is a very good slow burn romance with a focus on the underlying mystery. The character development of not only the main characters but the supporting characters is wonderful. I very much look forward to other books in the Sharps & Springfield series! I was provided a copy of this book by the author, and am leaving this review that reflects my opinion of the book voluntarily.
During the course of the story, they are wrestling with a dangerous mystery along with their mutual attraction that if it became common knowledge could cost them everything, including their lives. The doubt of the common attraction is featured throughout the story line as they each try to determine if the other is interested. The mystery elements were interesting though I was disappointed that the main villain was always in the background. The word building is outstanding and certainly kept my interest. I very much liked the historical feel to the story with the setting, language and mores.
In summary, this is a very good slow burn romance with a focus on the underlying mystery. The character development of not only the main characters but the supporting characters is wonderful. I very much look forward to other books in the Sharps & Springfield series! I was provided a copy of this book by the author, and am leaving this review that reflects my opinion of the book voluntarily.
April 13, 2023
**4.5**
Morgan Brice has created a world in 1897 that has a host of supernatural beings that exist in secret alongside humans. They have their own Supernatural Secret Service, which Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield are new partners in St Louis are fall straight into an intense case. There are so many creatures involved in this as well as the criminal world among the humans, including corrupt higher ups. There's some strong investigative work together and separately, that moves the case along quite quickly but they are also dealing with attraction to each other that they fight against.
Being gay in that era is dangerous and something that has to be kept secret but first they have to figure out if they can trust each other and if what they feel is mutual. There is talk of love near the end but with this being a super slow burn romance, I didn't feel they were quite there yet. The action and drama doesn't take long to start and builds up nicely throughout the well paced story as they try to work out what's going on in the town with links to a well known vampire, plans for a new railroad, murders, kidnappings and corruption.
I really enjoyed the whole story together. I can't wait to see how things develop between Owen and Calvin, and along with their assistant, Winston, they're going to have a lot of interesting and intense cases coming their way. I love that they all have a supernatural element to them as well.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Morgan Brice has created a world in 1897 that has a host of supernatural beings that exist in secret alongside humans. They have their own Supernatural Secret Service, which Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield are new partners in St Louis are fall straight into an intense case. There are so many creatures involved in this as well as the criminal world among the humans, including corrupt higher ups. There's some strong investigative work together and separately, that moves the case along quite quickly but they are also dealing with attraction to each other that they fight against.
Being gay in that era is dangerous and something that has to be kept secret but first they have to figure out if they can trust each other and if what they feel is mutual. There is talk of love near the end but with this being a super slow burn romance, I didn't feel they were quite there yet. The action and drama doesn't take long to start and builds up nicely throughout the well paced story as they try to work out what's going on in the town with links to a well known vampire, plans for a new railroad, murders, kidnappings and corruption.
I really enjoyed the whole story together. I can't wait to see how things develop between Owen and Calvin, and along with their assistant, Winston, they're going to have a lot of interesting and intense cases coming their way. I love that they all have a supernatural element to them as well.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
March 31, 2023
Welcome to St Louis, 1887. It's a time of curious challenges for the city that most people don't even realise are there; like ghostly goings on, vampires, and other things that go bump in the night. Fortunately, agents Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield are on hand to investigate. They've been sent by the Supernatural Secret Service to find out what happened to the previous agents who'd been assigned a job in St Louis and disappeared�
I like Calvin and Owen as characters. They're both dedicated agents, embarking on a new working relationship with all the positivity and great chemistry you'd want in a mystery story. That there's a secret longing for each other from the beginning is a treat; and that attraction whilst strong comes with its own potential dangers. It's the nineteenth century after all!
There's a lot to like in this steampunk PNR series opener: relatable MCs, strong side characters (I hope we get to learn more about Winston's past and abilities in subsequent books), decent world building and plot, and a slow burn romance that sets us up nicely for the next installment. I also appreciate the care the author has shown with trying to portray being part of the LGBTQ+ community in those days as faithfully but as sympathetically as possible. 4*
A copy was provided by the author. This is my honest review.
I like Calvin and Owen as characters. They're both dedicated agents, embarking on a new working relationship with all the positivity and great chemistry you'd want in a mystery story. That there's a secret longing for each other from the beginning is a treat; and that attraction whilst strong comes with its own potential dangers. It's the nineteenth century after all!
There's a lot to like in this steampunk PNR series opener: relatable MCs, strong side characters (I hope we get to learn more about Winston's past and abilities in subsequent books), decent world building and plot, and a slow burn romance that sets us up nicely for the next installment. I also appreciate the care the author has shown with trying to portray being part of the LGBTQ+ community in those days as faithfully but as sympathetically as possible. 4*
A copy was provided by the author. This is my honest review.
April 18, 2023
This book feels a lot like a single player video game storyline intro at first. I know it’s just how the author decided to present the info to us but it felt kind of weird to me. Once we’d been given what we’d need for the world the MCs live in it started feeling more like a book.
Our MCs are Calvin and Owen, two super secret government agents with special powers, who are both assigned to a case in St Louis. Their meet-cute on the train was adorbs and I was delighted that they were each others new partner. Then it became a slow-burn of nearly the entire book. There’s a number of misunderstandings and assumptions but thanks to one of the badass women that surround them they figure it out. Phew.
Peacemaker is written in the third person with alternating POVs between a the MCs but it has these moments of first person inner monologues that I found a bit jarring. I feel like the first person inner monologues could have benefited from a bit of editing, they were sometimes quite long and often somewhat repetitive. The parts of the book written in third person are great once the book gets going.
Overall I think this book is 3.75 stars. I’d like to read the second one to see if keeps up the momentum of the first book. I like the world the author created and I’m excited to see what new monsters await Owen and Calvin!
Our MCs are Calvin and Owen, two super secret government agents with special powers, who are both assigned to a case in St Louis. Their meet-cute on the train was adorbs and I was delighted that they were each others new partner. Then it became a slow-burn of nearly the entire book. There’s a number of misunderstandings and assumptions but thanks to one of the badass women that surround them they figure it out. Phew.
Peacemaker is written in the third person with alternating POVs between a the MCs but it has these moments of first person inner monologues that I found a bit jarring. I feel like the first person inner monologues could have benefited from a bit of editing, they were sometimes quite long and often somewhat repetitive. The parts of the book written in third person are great once the book gets going.
Overall I think this book is 3.75 stars. I’d like to read the second one to see if keeps up the momentum of the first book. I like the world the author created and I’m excited to see what new monsters await Owen and Calvin!
Read
February 23, 2024This is the first book in Brice's new historical/steampunk MM series
It was packed with mystery, action, and a light dose of romance -
very secondary to the overall storyline- that kept me looking for things to do so I could find out who was behind the unalivings.
John Solo did a solid job of narrating and bringing the cast to life
Calvin and Owen were sent undercover to figure out who or what was taking out citizens
Could it be the railroad people?
Could it be prospective business owners?
The railroad did mean big business for small towns
Or could it be something more nefarious?
Enjoyed the worldbuilding. A great job of transporting us back in time.
The mystery kept me guessing from beginning to end. So many wonderful villains and possibilities. There were all kinds of misleading clues and not-so-suspectable suspects. Each time I thought I had an inkling I turned a few pages and found that I was wrong.
A lot of small-minded folks as well as some very greedy ones
Our lead characters had that insta-attraction but delayed acting on anything. They were partners, undercover, and in the middle of a case that took priority. There was underlying tension that slowly simmered throughout the story, and they did finally connect. But as I said previously the romance was secondary to the story
It was packed with mystery, action, and a light dose of romance -
very secondary to the overall storyline- that kept me looking for things to do so I could find out who was behind the unalivings.
John Solo did a solid job of narrating and bringing the cast to life
Calvin and Owen were sent undercover to figure out who or what was taking out citizens
Could it be the railroad people?
Could it be prospective business owners?
The railroad did mean big business for small towns
Or could it be something more nefarious?
Enjoyed the worldbuilding. A great job of transporting us back in time.
The mystery kept me guessing from beginning to end. So many wonderful villains and possibilities. There were all kinds of misleading clues and not-so-suspectable suspects. Each time I thought I had an inkling I turned a few pages and found that I was wrong.
A lot of small-minded folks as well as some very greedy ones
Our lead characters had that insta-attraction but delayed acting on anything. They were partners, undercover, and in the middle of a case that took priority. There was underlying tension that slowly simmered throughout the story, and they did finally connect. But as I said previously the romance was secondary to the story
March 10, 2024
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️️
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was really looking forward to Morgan Brice's new series and the author has made a great start to the new series.
Sharps & Springfield is a little different from the previous series, but just as good to read.
The story takes place in 1897, when same-sex love was simply not allowed.
I liked the two protagonists, Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield, who met on the train. The two of them take on an assignment and their first case together is to solve the mysterious disappearance of two agents.
I found the two of them very likeable and the sparks fly - the chemistry is palpable. But they have to be very careful, especially when you assume that the other is not attracted to you. Revealing your feelings could end in disaster. But so could close cooperation.
There are several villains and a wide variety of paranormal protagonists who never let you get bored.
Morgan Brice has described the world vividly and in detail, so that I could imagine everything very well. The investigations are exciting and there are also lovable secondary characters.
Overall, I was thoroughly entertained by the audiobook narrated by John Solo. He did a good job and brought the story to life.
I'm already looking forward to the next volume!
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️️
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was really looking forward to Morgan Brice's new series and the author has made a great start to the new series.
Sharps & Springfield is a little different from the previous series, but just as good to read.
The story takes place in 1897, when same-sex love was simply not allowed.
I liked the two protagonists, Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield, who met on the train. The two of them take on an assignment and their first case together is to solve the mysterious disappearance of two agents.
I found the two of them very likeable and the sparks fly - the chemistry is palpable. But they have to be very careful, especially when you assume that the other is not attracted to you. Revealing your feelings could end in disaster. But so could close cooperation.
There are several villains and a wide variety of paranormal protagonists who never let you get bored.
Morgan Brice has described the world vividly and in detail, so that I could imagine everything very well. The investigations are exciting and there are also lovable secondary characters.
Overall, I was thoroughly entertained by the audiobook narrated by John Solo. He did a good job and brought the story to life.
I'm already looking forward to the next volume!
March 7, 2024
Opening the Gates of Hell (an audio review)
I admit I wasn’t certain what to expect with this one. Morgan always delivers great paranormal stories and this one had all the elements I’ve come to expect: ghosts, mediums, dark forces, vampires…throw in zombies and she’s presented with a very interesting book to read. Also, this one is steampunk, so there are interesting elements (flying ships in 1897).
There are also two men, secretly attracted to each other, but having to keep those desires hidden for fear of discovery. This might be an alternate world, but homophobia still runs rampant. Still, it’s St. Louis, so there is a Nancy bar.
Anyway, Calvin and Owen, Supernatural Secret Service Agents, have a mystery to solve � what happened to their predecessors? And what does railroad expansion have to do with disappearances?
I enjoyed the mystery in the story. I felt there was a little too much ‘does he like me or is he repulsed by me?� In the end, this was a romance and I got my happy for now. There’s more to come, and I won’t hesitate to pick up the next book in the series. Finally, tip of the hat to John Solo for a great performance. I always enjoy his work � he and Morgan make magic audiobooks together.
I admit I wasn’t certain what to expect with this one. Morgan always delivers great paranormal stories and this one had all the elements I’ve come to expect: ghosts, mediums, dark forces, vampires…throw in zombies and she’s presented with a very interesting book to read. Also, this one is steampunk, so there are interesting elements (flying ships in 1897).
There are also two men, secretly attracted to each other, but having to keep those desires hidden for fear of discovery. This might be an alternate world, but homophobia still runs rampant. Still, it’s St. Louis, so there is a Nancy bar.
Anyway, Calvin and Owen, Supernatural Secret Service Agents, have a mystery to solve � what happened to their predecessors? And what does railroad expansion have to do with disappearances?
I enjoyed the mystery in the story. I felt there was a little too much ‘does he like me or is he repulsed by me?� In the end, this was a romance and I got my happy for now. There’s more to come, and I won’t hesitate to pick up the next book in the series. Finally, tip of the hat to John Solo for a great performance. I always enjoy his work � he and Morgan make magic audiobooks together.
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