Guardians Of The Haunted Moor: (A Tyack & Frayne Mystery) (The Tyack & Frayne Mysteries Book 5)

“You’re so bloody beautiful,” he whispered, undoing the last button, the one deliberately left fastened for him. “God give me strength to make the most of you.” While I enjoyed the last two books in this series, I found Guardians of the Haunted Moor much more riveting. It might be life’s current craziness distracting me, but, regardless, Book 5 broke through the static. Gideon and Lee now have a daughter, there’s a new sergeant about who seems a total prat, and an old farming family is mysteriously decimated by the Bodmin beast. Ma Frayne - who I adore - continues her LGBTQ crusade, to the consternation of Zeke, Gideon’s sweet but tied-too-tight brother (still, Zeke is probably one of the truest friends anyone could have despite his Methodist blinders). But a betrayal wracks the Tyack-Frayne family, a wound made deeper by coming from within the family. There are both touching and troubling scenes and some beautiful writing in this well-constructed mystery. Book 6, here I come.

4.5 stars Publisher's Story Blurb: The wedding is just the beginning… Gideon and Lee have spent a year in chaotic married bliss, with all the trimmings – a dog, tricky in-laws, and a baby girl they both adore. But even the best of lives can be fragile, and a shocking family loss hits their new world like a demolition ball. Gideon has little energy left to investigate a murder that’s taken place in the fields outside Dark. He still has his duties to his community, though, and with Lee at his side, he begins to unfold the mysterious death of Farmer John Bowe. It’s harvest time, ancient West Country magic in the air, and rumours are flying through the village of an enemy Gideon thought he’d left behind long ago. Can the beast of Bodmin possibly be real? Everything in Gideon’s stoical police-sergeant’s nature says no. But Lee has taught him to see the world differently, and now they must pool their resources to unmask a killer before more lives are lost – and somehow find a way to mend their shattered family, too. Disclosure: I purchased a copy in July 2015, but was generously given a copy by the author, although not with an expectation that I would write a review. My reflection: My experience reading Harper’s work is to fall completely in love with the main characters she creates as well as the beautiful landscapes of Cornwall in the south and Northumberland along with its Pennines in the north. Harper has an amazing gift of narrative and ability to convey her love of her native country and people. I find myself transported and wanting very much to see these places for myself. I have loved each installment in the Tyack & Frayne Mysteries and feel sad to see it come to an end. However, I respect and admire an author who knows when a story arc is complete and doesn’t continue trying to wring out a story well beyond its natural conclusion. In the first story of the series, “Once upon a Haunted Moor”, we meet the main characters Gideon Frayne and Lee Tyack who are the heroes on the journey to the series end “Guardians of the Haunted Moor.” Gideon is the local policeman in the village of Dark and is ruggedly handsome, but repressed and lonely. Lee Tyack, a psychic, is asked to come help locate a missing girl, is beautiful, lithe, freer in spirit although lonely too or perhaps isolated by his talent. Using contrasting, but complementary personalities is a special talent and gift of Harper Fox. The couples she invents leave a lasting impression on the reader’s heart and Gideon and Lee particularly so for me, although I’m not sure how to articulate the full why of it. Each of the subsequent novellas brings in additional backstory for each of the main characters to give the reader an understanding and appreciation of the characters along with a new mystery. The series installments build on the deepening and loving relationship between Gideon and Lee in addition to their relationship with their family. The overall result gives the reader sympathetic characters that I found endearing for all their vulnerabilities as well as fierce devotion. Another element that Harper deftly weaves into her stories is a touch of magic – there is a hint or sometimes a heaping dollop of the paranormal woven into the fabric of many of her stories. In this series, yes, there are quite a number of heaping dollops or bucketful, but it is done in such a way that leaves you thinking about the possibility rather than rolling your eyes with incredulity. It isn’t really surprising; after all, this is the country where magical stories seem to be part of the DNA if you recall reading “Peter Pan”, “Midsummer Night’s Dream”, “The Chronicles of Narnia”, “Alice in Wonderland”, and “The Canterville Ghost” as just a few examples off the top of my head. Each installment has a bit of the supernatural, a mystery to solve, and romance between two lovers who have found one another and quickly realized the gifts each offers to the other – acceptance, grounding, lightheartedness, tenderness, honesty, strength, physicality, spirituality, sensuality, freedom, companionship, commitment, release, humor, and joy. “Guardians of the Haunted Moor” has multiple layers of complexity within a few pages. There is the unexpected savage murder at the beginning of the harvest with Gideon investigating whether there is a murderer in his village or entertaining the improbable existence of the Beast of Bodmin Moor. The story also touches on the themes of loss and the struggle to overcome in the face of adversity while finding solace in the person who holds your heart, life, and future. Harper excels in the nuances of tenderness her characters convey to one another through a sweet endearment or steadfast support. How can you not love a stoic policeman who writes a tender note to slip under the bed covers before leaving for work? Harper Fox is a gifted author whose imagination and writing ability are demonstrated with each story published. I loved the series and will no doubt re-read it again and again.

Life and death, happening simultaneously. That’s how the world works sometimes. Gideon and Lee are experiencing that right now. Amidst it all they have another mystery on their hands, murder and all. The paranormal aspect makes itself known through both the lands of Cornwall and its inhabitants. I love that it’s not just spinning heads or evil spirits but something that feels much older, as ancient as the ground beneath everyone’s feet. Gideon Frayne and Lee Tyack are two of my favorite characters with whom I’ve ever had the pleasure of spending time. And together, as a couple? They are a force. For good. For heart. For fear and love and mystery. And humor. ~ * ~ “Sergeant Pendower,” Lee said fervently, as soon as the door was shut behind him, “is a pain in the ar*e.” “I couldn’t help noticing that myself. It’s a shame you don’t like him, though— he thinks the sun shines out of yours.” ~ * ~ Pendower, poor bloke, he obtains a nickname that made me snort every time Gideon or Lee uttered it under their breath. Familial relationships are as well depicted as ever: Gideon with his brother, Zeke; Gideon with their mother; Zeke with their mother; and this time around, some of those from Lee’s family. Opportunities for broken hearts and promises, biting humor, unwavering love, and lovely surprises are the payoffs. These two men love each other. They adore each other. They want to DO for each other. Their connection is something I think most of us dream about and hope to, not just find but, live our lives experiencing every day. Some elements felt rushed and densely packed in the word department. However, that’s overridden by the immense satisfaction and contentment I feel whenever I get to spend time with those same word type things as they’re manipulated by Ms Fox. I’ll say that I think you do need to read the other books in this series before enjoying this one. The characters’ personalities and histories are deeply ensconced and layered, their nuances dropping like literary bombs, sometimes breaking my heart. I ate it up like the best red velvet cake in town. This is also very British, maybe overtly so more than any other stories in the series. I loved it. From the UKIP to the oiks to the Cornish traditions and folklore, together they formed another complete character, intermingling with the human types. I found myself hesitant to finish this, seeing as it’s the final entrant to this series. However, my time with Gid and Lee isn’t over. All I need do is start reading from the beginning again, fall even more in love with Gideon and Lee, discover things I missed, and rediscover others. Yep, that’s what I’m going to do. Thank you, Harper Fox, for introducing us to and forever gifting us with Gideon Frayne and Lee Tyack.

I really REALLY loved this one. This is a series you need to read in order, to catch all the evolving characters. It's particularly critical for this installment. Just wonderful. The fantastic elements, the town, its people, and the strife Gideon and Lee have to endure while trying to solve a murder may be the overt elements, but the underpinning of a place, a guardian, a psychic, a new element and a stolen child kept me riveted to this novel.

This one in the series kept me up until 6am in the morning, and I can tell I’m going to have a true book hangover when I finish. This story - oh my, so much going on. Ancient rituals, monsters human or otherwise, Frayne developing his own brand of second sight (or did he already have it?), Tyack at odds with his sister. There’s so much to it, including their baby, Frayne’s awesome mother, and his brother.

This one takes you on several roller coaster rides. Gideon the constable and Lee, his husband and clairvoyant (OK, psychic), bring us into their newly married world with joy and hope--which suddenly and abruptly turns into one of the most heartbreaking episodes you will encounter in a book that opens with such joy. (No Spoilers). But you will plow on through the rough fields of the West Country because Harper Fox forces you to do so by introducing a horrifying murder than cannot possibly have occurred without the help of the occult--or, could it? The fast-moving plot that wrenches Gideon and Lee from their crushing loss into a maelstrom of evil potential is superbly handled by Ms. Fox, and the ultimate resolution of the mystery is, if not a bit obvious, then spectacularly spot-on. The manner in which Gideon and Lee's personal journey plays out through this exciting book is almost predictable, but not in the way it actually goes down. If this is the end of the series, so be it, but it also is a book steadfastly constructed on pillars of love and hope, and that ain't bad at all.

4.5 stars I love this series. Lee and Gideon are one of my all time favourite couples. Gideon has always been good at believing in and protecting Lee from overdoing it with his gifts and Lee has tried to protect Gideon from outside forces, but in this one we really see them protecting each other's emotions when their world falls apart and they are both suffering immense pain their first thoughts are to ease the suffering of the other. Their relationship is so stable and they complement each other so well. The paranormal aspects and how they are woven into each storyline are well done making it another enjoyable read. Definitely recommend this whole series

First, I agree with everything the first reviewer said. I love these characters and the atmosphere of these books; the growth of both the individual characters and the various relationships between the characters (both primary and secondary) is wonderful to watch. The emotional swings of this book from the depths of sorrow to the highs of tremendous, and, like real life, can change in a heartbeat. And, this book did something that has only happened a handful of times during all the years I have been reading...I actually cried at one point in the books...actually, two points in the book. Lest this discourage anyone from reading this wonderful book, I was smiling by the end of the story. Get this, read it, love it.

Another excellent book in this really great series. I thought the mystery was a little weaker and less compelling than the previous books, though that might be because the personal drama was so intense. I loved seeing Gideon and Lee stay strong together in the face of such turmoil, and it was nice to see Lee be a little more open and communicative. Great book, and a happy ending--yay! :D

Ugh, for so much of the time while I was reading this book I was not okay. It was unputdownable. I had to take breaks and literally flail, because what else was there to do in the face of so much agh? Also, I really liked it. Even if Harper Fox is some brand of emotional tormentor, at least she keeps it brief and sets it right. Tl;dr: This had me in incoherent flailing fractions and I am off to buy the next one. Please don't disturb me until I've finished the series kthx.

“You’re so bloody beautiful,” he whispered, undoing the last button, the one deliberately left fastened for him. “God give me strength to make the most of you.” While I enjoyed the last two books in this series, I found Guardians of the Haunted Moor much more riveting. It might be life’s current craziness distracting me, but, regardless, Book 5 broke through the static. Gideon and Lee now have a daughter, there’s a new sergeant about who seems a total prat, and an old farming family is mysteriously decimated by the Bodmin beast. Ma Frayne - who I adore - continues her LGBTQ crusade, to the consternation of Zeke, Gideon’s sweet but tied-too-tight brother (still, Zeke is probably one of the truest friends anyone could have despite his Methodist blinders). But a betrayal wracks the Tyack-Frayne family, a wound made deeper by coming from within the family. There are both touching and troubling scenes and some beautiful writing in this well-constructed mystery. Book 6, here I come.

4.5 stars Publisher's Story Blurb: The wedding is just the beginning… Gideon and Lee have spent a year in chaotic married bliss, with all the trimmings – a dog, tricky in-laws, and a baby girl they both adore. But even the best of lives can be fragile, and a shocking family loss hits their new world like a demolition ball. Gideon has little energy left to investigate a murder that’s taken place in the fields outside Dark. He still has his duties to his community, though, and with Lee at his side, he begins to unfold the mysterious death of Farmer John Bowe. It’s harvest time, ancient West Country magic in the air, and rumours are flying through the village of an enemy Gideon thought he’d left behind long ago. Can the beast of Bodmin possibly be real? Everything in Gideon’s stoical police-sergeant’s nature says no. But Lee has taught him to see the world differently, and now they must pool their resources to unmask a killer before more lives are lost – and somehow find a way to mend their shattered family, too. Disclosure: I purchased a copy in July 2015, but was generously given a copy by the author, although not with an expectation that I would write a review. My reflection: My experience reading Harper’s work is to fall completely in love with the main characters she creates as well as the beautiful landscapes of Cornwall in the south and Northumberland along with its Pennines in the north. Harper has an amazing gift of narrative and ability to convey her love of her native country and people. I find myself transported and wanting very much to see these places for myself. I have loved each installment in the Tyack & Frayne Mysteries and feel sad to see it come to an end. However, I respect and admire an author who knows when a story arc is complete and doesn’t continue trying to wring out a story well beyond its natural conclusion. In the first story of the series, “Once upon a Haunted Moor”, we meet the main characters Gideon Frayne and Lee Tyack who are the heroes on the journey to the series end “Guardians of the Haunted Moor.” Gideon is the local policeman in the village of Dark and is ruggedly handsome, but repressed and lonely. Lee Tyack, a psychic, is asked to come help locate a missing girl, is beautiful, lithe, freer in spirit although lonely too or perhaps isolated by his talent. Using contrasting, but complementary personalities is a special talent and gift of Harper Fox. The couples she invents leave a lasting impression on the reader’s heart and Gideon and Lee particularly so for me, although I’m not sure how to articulate the full why of it. Each of the subsequent novellas brings in additional backstory for each of the main characters to give the reader an understanding and appreciation of the characters along with a new mystery. The series installments build on the deepening and loving relationship between Gideon and Lee in addition to their relationship with their family. The overall result gives the reader sympathetic characters that I found endearing for all their vulnerabilities as well as fierce devotion. Another element that Harper deftly weaves into her stories is a touch of magic – there is a hint or sometimes a heaping dollop of the paranormal woven into the fabric of many of her stories. In this series, yes, there are quite a number of heaping dollops or bucketful, but it is done in such a way that leaves you thinking about the possibility rather than rolling your eyes with incredulity. It isn’t really surprising; after all, this is the country where magical stories seem to be part of the DNA if you recall reading “Peter Pan”, “Midsummer Night’s Dream”, “The Chronicles of Narnia”, “Alice in Wonderland”, and “The Canterville Ghost” as just a few examples off the top of my head. Each installment has a bit of the supernatural, a mystery to solve, and romance between two lovers who have found one another and quickly realized the gifts each offers to the other – acceptance, grounding, lightheartedness, tenderness, honesty, strength, physicality, spirituality, sensuality, freedom, companionship, commitment, release, humor, and joy. “Guardians of the Haunted Moor” has multiple layers of complexity within a few pages. There is the unexpected savage murder at the beginning of the harvest with Gideon investigating whether there is a murderer in his village or entertaining the improbable existence of the Beast of Bodmin Moor. The story also touches on the themes of loss and the struggle to overcome in the face of adversity while finding solace in the person who holds your heart, life, and future. Harper excels in the nuances of tenderness her characters convey to one another through a sweet endearment or steadfast support. How can you not love a stoic policeman who writes a tender note to slip under the bed covers before leaving for work? Harper Fox is a gifted author whose imagination and writing ability are demonstrated with each story published. I loved the series and will no doubt re-read it again and again.

Life and death, happening simultaneously. That’s how the world works sometimes. Gideon and Lee are experiencing that right now. Amidst it all they have another mystery on their hands, murder and all. The paranormal aspect makes itself known through both the lands of Cornwall and its inhabitants. I love that it’s not just spinning heads or evil spirits but something that feels much older, as ancient as the ground beneath everyone’s feet. Gideon Frayne and Lee Tyack are two of my favorite characters with whom I’ve ever had the pleasure of spending time. And together, as a couple? They are a force. For good. For heart. For fear and love and mystery. And humor. ~ * ~ “Sergeant Pendower,” Lee said fervently, as soon as the door was shut behind him, “is a pain in the ar*e.” “I couldn’t help noticing that myself. It’s a shame you don’t like him, though— he thinks the sun shines out of yours.” ~ * ~ Pendower, poor bloke, he obtains a nickname that made me snort every time Gideon or Lee uttered it under their breath. Familial relationships are as well depicted as ever: Gideon with his brother, Zeke; Gideon with their mother; Zeke with their mother; and this time around, some of those from Lee’s family. Opportunities for broken hearts and promises, biting humor, unwavering love, and lovely surprises are the payoffs. These two men love each other. They adore each other. They want to DO for each other. Their connection is something I think most of us dream about and hope to, not just find but, live our lives experiencing every day. Some elements felt rushed and densely packed in the word department. However, that’s overridden by the immense satisfaction and contentment I feel whenever I get to spend time with those same word type things as they’re manipulated by Ms Fox. I’ll say that I think you do need to read the other books in this series before enjoying this one. The characters’ personalities and histories are deeply ensconced and layered, their nuances dropping like literary bombs, sometimes breaking my heart. I ate it up like the best red velvet cake in town. This is also very British, maybe overtly so more than any other stories in the series. I loved it. From the UKIP to the oiks to the Cornish traditions and folklore, together they formed another complete character, intermingling with the human types. I found myself hesitant to finish this, seeing as it’s the final entrant to this series. However, my time with Gid and Lee isn’t over. All I need do is start reading from the beginning again, fall even more in love with Gideon and Lee, discover things I missed, and rediscover others. Yep, that’s what I’m going to do. Thank you, Harper Fox, for introducing us to and forever gifting us with Gideon Frayne and Lee Tyack.

I really REALLY loved this one. This is a series you need to read in order, to catch all the evolving characters. It's particularly critical for this installment. Just wonderful. The fantastic elements, the town, its people, and the strife Gideon and Lee have to endure while trying to solve a murder may be the overt elements, but the underpinning of a place, a guardian, a psychic, a new element and a stolen child kept me riveted to this novel.

This one in the series kept me up until 6am in the morning, and I can tell I’m going to have a true book hangover when I finish. This story - oh my, so much going on. Ancient rituals, monsters human or otherwise, Frayne developing his own brand of second sight (or did he already have it?), Tyack at odds with his sister. There’s so much to it, including their baby, Frayne’s awesome mother, and his brother.

This one takes you on several roller coaster rides. Gideon the constable and Lee, his husband and clairvoyant (OK, psychic), bring us into their newly married world with joy and hope--which suddenly and abruptly turns into one of the most heartbreaking episodes you will encounter in a book that opens with such joy. (No Spoilers). But you will plow on through the rough fields of the West Country because Harper Fox forces you to do so by introducing a horrifying murder than cannot possibly have occurred without the help of the occult--or, could it? The fast-moving plot that wrenches Gideon and Lee from their crushing loss into a maelstrom of evil potential is superbly handled by Ms. Fox, and the ultimate resolution of the mystery is, if not a bit obvious, then spectacularly spot-on. The manner in which Gideon and Lee's personal journey plays out through this exciting book is almost predictable, but not in the way it actually goes down. If this is the end of the series, so be it, but it also is a book steadfastly constructed on pillars of love and hope, and that ain't bad at all.

4.5 stars I love this series. Lee and Gideon are one of my all time favourite couples. Gideon has always been good at believing in and protecting Lee from overdoing it with his gifts and Lee has tried to protect Gideon from outside forces, but in this one we really see them protecting each other's emotions when their world falls apart and they are both suffering immense pain their first thoughts are to ease the suffering of the other. Their relationship is so stable and they complement each other so well. The paranormal aspects and how they are woven into each storyline are well done making it another enjoyable read. Definitely recommend this whole series

First, I agree with everything the first reviewer said. I love these characters and the atmosphere of these books; the growth of both the individual characters and the various relationships between the characters (both primary and secondary) is wonderful to watch. The emotional swings of this book from the depths of sorrow to the highs of tremendous, and, like real life, can change in a heartbeat. And, this book did something that has only happened a handful of times during all the years I have been reading...I actually cried at one point in the books...actually, two points in the book. Lest this discourage anyone from reading this wonderful book, I was smiling by the end of the story. Get this, read it, love it.

Another excellent book in this really great series. I thought the mystery was a little weaker and less compelling than the previous books, though that might be because the personal drama was so intense. I loved seeing Gideon and Lee stay strong together in the face of such turmoil, and it was nice to see Lee be a little more open and communicative. Great book, and a happy ending--yay! :D

Ugh, for so much of the time while I was reading this book I was not okay. It was unputdownable. I had to take breaks and literally flail, because what else was there to do in the face of so much agh? Also, I really liked it. Even if Harper Fox is some brand of emotional tormentor, at least she keeps it brief and sets it right. Tl;dr: This had me in incoherent flailing fractions and I am off to buy the next one. Please don't disturb me until I've finished the series kthx.

Overall Series Review: Gideon and Lee make a pretty instant connection despite Gideon's first impression of Lee's abilities being fake. Once he realizes that Lee is on the level they discover how well they work together, not to mention play together. The setting descriptions leave you feeling as if you are standing right there in Bodmin Moor, the characters are a recipe of good, bad, odd, funny, and everything in between. Each story might have a standalone mystery that the couple faces but because the evolution of their relationship, this series really should be read in order. Another great addition to my paranormal library.

Harper Fox pretty much never disappoints. Best writer of gay romance with unique characters, fraught but reliable (HEA) conflicts, and beautiful geographic descriptions. Gideon & Lee's relationship has been heartwarming and unique from first installment, and the interesting way Harper always finds to make them closer and keeps shifting their relationship paradigm/situation just enough to see growth and solidity. It's really just incredibly lovely. Love her longer, stand alone novels as well but could always use more Tyack & Frayne per-year. (No pressure though Harper, as long as you keep publishing i'll keep buying.)

I am a solid fan of Ms. Fox and have read everything she has ever written with much pleasure, until now. I wish female writers would leave their men male and not superimpose female characteristics on them, even if they know or suspect that the majority of readers are women. Elaboration will result in spoilers, so I will refrain from doing so. Let it suffice to say that I found this book disappointing and will not continue this series should more books follow. Too much sugary syrup for my liking and not what I expected from this writer. Nevertheless, Ms. Fox's writing is still better than most in this genre, therefore the 3-star allocation.

I really love Gideon and Lee, had from the first book. This one is the fifth and there is so much going on in a few days of their lifes. Heartbreaking and sad things, but also fun, sweet and amazing things. The grizzly murder on the Moor and the final result with the killer was a shock to me.

The Tyack & Frayne Mysteries just keep getting better with each book. I love how belief and skepticism are balanced in this book with Gideon as kind of the focal point of a small town cop who can still remain skeptical of the supernatural while at the same time admitting that Lee sees more than is there and that he himself is becoming more in tune with the unexplainable. I loved the mention of Flynn and his doctor (from Harper Fox's "Driftwood"). It would be cool if they appeared in a future book, maybe helping Lee and Gideon out on a case.

The love between Gideon and Lee continues to grow stronger as they are hit with heartache. How I love these two as they face ongoing events in their lives. This story showed Gideon concern for his town and how familiar he was of each family as his responsibility.

Love love this series, I have never been disappointed. I can't think of a character I like as much as Gideon Frayne. He's the perfect combo of masculine and sensitive. Also, these books have me planning a trip to Bodmin Moor which I can almost feel because of how she writes. Harper Fox can really set a mood- both romantic and eerie. A wonderful love story with an intriguing and suspenseful plot.

Kind of a different feel for the genre. I really enjoyed the character development as well as the plot and the representation of paranormal elements. I devoured the whole series in a couple of days and am reading other works by the author and enjoying them.

This is a great series. I would recommend it to anyone who is looking for a well balanced crime, romance and suspense novel. You will not be disapponted. The characters are well fleshed out with them being consistent and true to thier nature, while growing in each novel to move the progression of the stories forward.

I absolutely love this series. Gideon and Lee have become one of my favorite couples in literature. IMHO. This particular bit of storytelling was fun, amazing and brilliant. It was a lovely journey for me and I truly hope Harper plans on more of these wonderful men but if not this was a sweet ending.

What a lovely visit two my two favourite characters. Lee ans Gideon are getting there hea but not without pain, demos and death. My heart broke when Tasmin was taken away but it made sense why Lee didn't pursue. I hope Harper continues the series.

Dark and riveting, once again with a thread of hope and love through it. This one broke me down something fierce, I cried a lot while reading it.

I love this series, it's such an interesting take on the myths and legends surrounding the border towns

All the books in this series are so wonderful and dark. But the lone between Gideon and Lee is palpable

One more book in a wonderful series. All characters have been well developd, culture, scenery and architecture beautifully described.

Harper Fox at her finest. Have not read a single book of hers that has let me down.

I love love love this series. My only complaint? Too long between installments!

I love this whole series. This is romance and mystery spiced with some paranormal and skilled writing. Very enjoyable! Thumb up!!

Yes I have read all books in this series and I think they are fantastic. Lee and Gideon are one of the best love couples I know of. The mysteries, a cop, love what do you want more?

Great series!

love this series!

I love the entire series!

I loved this book and would thoroughly recommend it. To get the most out of the series I recommend reading the books in order.

Harper Fox captures a wonderfully rich sense of place, a passionate bond between Gideon and Lee, and a intriguing look at the paranormal.

Once Upon a Haunted Moor is the first in the series. HF is an excellent author and this series just keeps getting better. Off to get the next book!

This book wasn't as strong as some of the previous ones in the series. I still loved the characters, their sweet relationship, and their emotional moments. I still loved getting to see the trials and tribulations of a relationship beyond the initial romance. I still loved Gideon's adorable mom who wasn't supportive most of his life but has been trying to make up for it and become a champion of LGBT+ rights and acceptance. I still liked how this author wove paranormal and mystery aspects with the contemporary struggles of normal life things. But the mystery in this one was confusing; I still don't fully understand it, and I feel like a few things were left unexplained. Also, one of the side characters had schizophrenia, and though I have no experience with the illness myself, I feel like it was maybe not the best or most accurate portrayal. [Hidden spoiler can be found in my review on my blog or Goodreads.] It might've also been mixed with paranormal stuff, so that makes it even harder to say. My thoughts on the audiobook narration can be found in my review for the first book. Overall though, I still enjoyed this book and the time I got to spend with these lovely characters. *Rating: 3.5 Stars // Read Date: 2020 // Format: Audiobook* Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight (link in profile)

Oh nooooo!!! Is this the last book for Tyack and Frayne? I certainly get that feeling but as we say in German “die Hoffnung stirbt zuletzt” (hope is the last thing to die), so I'll still be keeping my fingers crossed that maybe, just maybe we might have another adventure. However, if this should be the case then it is a well rounded and fitting end to the saga which is Tyack and Frayne. Right from the very beginning of this book we are thrown into the tumultuous lives of Lee and Gideon. Thrown headfirst into the circle of life, as one person dies a new life is born. I found a certain comfort in this funnily enough as it illustrates the ying and yang of all our lives. On the one hand a sad moment but on the other hand a joyous one, balancing out perfectly the lives of the two MCs throughout this book. Their daughter is born but after a family drama taken away from them and leaves both of them bereft and this obviously takes its toll. However, Tyack and Frayne for me have come full circle in their relationship. With the love and support they have for each other they are able to weather the storm, drawing on each other's strength. I could feel the desolation in their hearts, the emptiness left behind in their lives, it was seriously too much really. But I just love these two guys for the way they compliment one another and are able to work as a team, reading each other's thoughts and feelings where no words are necessary, something that only comes after being together after a length of time, being one unit, one entity, joined by their unfailing love. As they are coming to terms with this then trouble is also brooding on the moors. I just so love this setting, if anyone has ever experienced Bodmin Moor it is the ideal backdrop for mysterious and unexplainable goings on, a place where in the very air hangs a palpable doorway to the other side. So with this in mind I could really get into the spirit of things. Throw into this setting a Cornish village with all its quirky characters, mysterious deaths, traditions that go way back, then you have a great read which will keep you enthralled from the word go. Is the beast of Bodmin Moor back or are there more worldly machinations going on? I just love how Harper with series combines the ethereal or paranormal with the temporal or human. Based around the old Cornish tradition of Guldize, or in Cornish Goel Dheys, also known as The Crying of The Neck which has its origins in Cornwall's Celtic heritage, now lost in the mists of time. I remember only to well as a child going with my parents to this ancient harvest ceremony, standing in the freshly harvested corn field. When the last handful of standing corn is harvested one i of the reapers hold it up, shouting; Reaper: I 'ave un! I 'ave un! I 'ave un! Everyone: What 'ave ee? What 'ave ee? What 'ave ee? Reaper: A neck! A neck! A neck! Everyone: Hurrah! Hurrah for the neck! Then it was off to the Methodist chapel hall for tea and saffron buns. Anyway, sorry for the trip down memory lane, back to the review. As always Lee’s visions have become critical in trying to work exactly what is happening and going on. this time though he needs help from the local village witch, or at least modern day witch, but none the less as far as the villagers are concerned she definitely has powers that are somewhat supernatural. I loved this character, how Harper weaved her into the story bringing yet another supernatural slant to the the village of Dark and the moor. But all this paranormal power that Lee and the witch has it is always ethereal in Harper’s writing. Present enough to be there, gets the hairs on the back of your neck to stand up, but never that it becomes the main aspect or focal point. this in my books is very talented writing and makes the whole paranormal happenings even more spooky or “goose bumpy.” I love the way these two characters also balance out, Lee the psychic and Gideon the down-to-earth, practical kind of guy. He has no doubts about Lee’s abilities but he is also a good anchor for Lee, stopping him from going off the deep end when his visions become too much. I also love how all these different threads weave their way through the book; a pinch of paranormal, a little murder, village traditions, rumours are rife, shady dealings and all set n a backdrop as atmospheric as it is beautiful. All threads coming together at the end providing for another fantastic Tyack and Lee adventure. Is this their last adventure? Well, I guess only Harper can answer that question. Even if it should be then Tyack and Frayne are now have permanent residence in my literary heart as two characters I will be visiting again. So for anyone wishing to embark on a Cornish journey of mystery, murder, the occult and two sexy MCs, then start and book and enjoy!!

Now married, Copper Frayne & Psychic Tyack’s next adventure includes a new baby drama, a local farming mystery, and an even deeper connection to each other. I am totally immersed in this world and have signed up for the total ride! The storytelling is still intriguing and I’m infatuated with the MCs and folkloric dynamic the communities. An aside: the activities or characteristics attributed to baby T.E. seems inconsistent for a 6-month-old. Just an observation. Overall, a great read.

“After having children, life becomes about living beyond yourself; about being bigger and better.” ~ Jaclyn Smith When Lee's sister, Elowen, offers to let Gideon and Lee adopt her expected child, they are over the moon. Being a parent is something they both want, regardless of whatever changes it may cause. They see this as one more step in their relationship, binding them together and cementing their commitment to each other. After Miss Tamsyn Elizabeth Tyack-Frayne is born, Elowen stays a while to nurse the baby and help take care of her. It is almost too overwhelming. They begin to realize how much and how quickly they have adapted to their new schedules. They discover that they love the diapers, toys, crying, and the mess that comes along with it; because it is their baby and that makes it all right. While dealing with the challenges being a father brings, there is also Gideon's job as a copper. When necessary, Lee is there to care for their child so Gideon is able to carry on with his responsibilities of keeping the good people in his charge safe. It's not too long before this happens. A man is killed, and butchered in his own cornfield. It's a gory sight, but Gideon has to help investigate it. Unfortunately, Gideon has to work with a detective named Pendower, who specializes in cases with, as Gideon so aptly called it, “weird-shit” saying he's a big fan of Lee's, but is actually hell-bent on exposing him as a fraud. Needless to say, Pendower isn't much help. In fact, he mostly gets in the way. Also, after seeing Lee work, Pendower begins to think he just might be wrong about Lee's abilities. In the middle of all the chaos and their heavy hearts due to their family problems, Gideon and Lee work together; never letting events sway their love for and faith in each other. As dysfunctional as Gideon's family is, his mother and brother Ezekiel, become closer and more supportive to Gideon and Lee than ever before. Everyone is distraught, but Lee blames a lot of what happens on himself and his overly trusting nature; but Gideon doesn't hold it against him. In fact Gideon loves Lee's openness and sensitivity, even if it causes problems at times, and doesn't hesitate to tell him. Loyally, Gideon follows Lee's lead when coming up with a solution to their problems. There is a great deal more to this exceptionally well written story than I can mention for fear of giving too much away. Harper continues to amaze me with her descriptive versatility in descriptions ranging from simply beautiful and endearing to evil and sinister. Harper weaves them together, good or bad, bright or dark, to portray a world composed of both, making her characters more believable and taking her stories to a whole new level. Just when all seems lost and the Gordian knot she's so magnificently tied is so tight and I think there's no way any good could ever come of it, she skillfully unties the knot and out pops a happy ending. Fans of the Frayne and Tyack Mysteries will love this one as well. As for readers new to the story, it needs to be read sequentially to truly understand what is going on, but if you enjoy reading mysteries involving murder, witches, psychic detectives, harvest rituals, angst, betrayal, and love, this book might be for you. Thank you, Harper, for reminding me how wonderful Gideon and Lee are together. Originally reviewed at Rainbow Book Reviews.

Another warm, sad, beautiful story with two of my favourite characters, Gideon (a cop in a small town in Cornwall) and his husband Lee, a clairvoyant. Since we read about them last they have got married and have adopted a little girl - the unwanted baby of Lee's sister. They should be on top of the world and yet, are not. They lose their baby - their grief is incandescent and oh so well painted by Harper Fox. At the same time more paranormal crises arise around them, which they get involved in. Gid because of his association with Lee, and the love they share, is becoming more open to the invisible world; much against his wishes by the way, but this leads to a marvelous deepening of the love he and Lee share. There is still a sense of blundering in the dark at times but the communication between Gid and Lee remains more secure than it has been in the past. Their love is tangible and a beautiful thing, as is the trust between them. All in all yet another beautiful story for which I thank the writer.

I teared up several times during the reading of this novel, not because it was overly sad, not because it was overly happy, purely on the strength of the beautiful writing. Usually I am not a fan of similes, but wow, I found myself wondering how Ms Fox can come up with such wonderfully expressive and poetic writing without it seeming trite or overly flowery. Beautiful, a real pleasure to read. Great plot, great characters, Gideon and Lee rate among my top five couples in M/M literature and what a fabulous series. Is this a paranormal series? Most psychic occurrences in the plot are explained away by the author, several are not and at the end of this novel we are left with a definite affirmation of both protagonists' psychic skills. Harper Fox's writing is a joy to read and this series is just amazingly good.

Gideon and Lee have baby Tamsyn now and are settling into married life, things happen around them to fracture that happiness but things have a habit of coming back around while they deal with murder up on the big farm in Dark.