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Ben Ames Case Files #3
The Man Who Hated Clouds
Private investigator Ben Ames is supposed to be on vacation. He’s followed his rock star boyfriend, Jesse, to the Edmonton Folk Festival, where Jess is doing an acoustic set with friends and having a boozy sulk about his changing image.
Neither is there to solve a crime, but they’re offered a case anyway, when the festival headliner hires them to help his author friend Charlie.
Charlie’s latest manuscript is missing. A normal guy would have backups, but Charlie’s an internet-hating conspiracy theorist who saved his work to a laptop flash drive, and now the drive and the computer are gone. Ben thinks the case is impossible, but Jess could use a distraction, so they pay a visit to Charlie’s river valley home—where Charlie tells them he knows who took the book, he’s not telling, and a detective can’t help. Good day.
They’re still in Edmonton, enjoying a lazy summer day, when word comes that Charlie’s been murdered. Back on the case and without suspects or a motive, Ben knows the answers are in that missing book. He just needs to do the impossible and find it….
Neither is there to solve a crime, but they’re offered a case anyway, when the festival headliner hires them to help his author friend Charlie.
Charlie’s latest manuscript is missing. A normal guy would have backups, but Charlie’s an internet-hating conspiracy theorist who saved his work to a laptop flash drive, and now the drive and the computer are gone. Ben thinks the case is impossible, but Jess could use a distraction, so they pay a visit to Charlie’s river valley home—where Charlie tells them he knows who took the book, he’s not telling, and a detective can’t help. Good day.
They’re still in Edmonton, enjoying a lazy summer day, when word comes that Charlie’s been murdered. Back on the case and without suspects or a motive, Ben knows the answers are in that missing book. He just needs to do the impossible and find it….
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2024
About the author
Gayleen Froese
13 books24 followersGayleen Froese is an LGBTQ writer of detective fiction living in Edmonton, Canada. Her novels include the upcoming The Girl Whose Luck Ran Out as well as Touch, and Grayling Cross. Her chapter book for adults, What the Cat Dragged In, was short-listed in the International 3-Day Novel Contest and is published by The Asp, an authors’ collective based in western Canada.
Gayleen has appeared on Canadian Learning Television’s A Total Write-Off, won the second season of the Three Day Novel Contest on BookTelevision, and, as a singer-songwriter, showcased at festivals across Canada. She has worked as a radio writer and talk-show host, an advertising creative director, and a communications officer.
A past resident of Saskatoon, Toronto, and northern Saskatchewan, Gayleen now lives in Edmonton with novelist Laird Ryan States in a home that includes dogs, geckos, snakes, monitor
lizards, and Marlowe the tegu. When not writing, she can be found kayaking, photographing unsuspecting wildlife, and playing cooperative board games, viciously competitive card games, and tabletop RPGs.
Gayleen has appeared on Canadian Learning Television’s A Total Write-Off, won the second season of the Three Day Novel Contest on BookTelevision, and, as a singer-songwriter, showcased at festivals across Canada. She has worked as a radio writer and talk-show host, an advertising creative director, and a communications officer.
A past resident of Saskatoon, Toronto, and northern Saskatchewan, Gayleen now lives in Edmonton with novelist Laird Ryan States in a home that includes dogs, geckos, snakes, monitor
lizards, and Marlowe the tegu. When not writing, she can be found kayaking, photographing unsuspecting wildlife, and playing cooperative board games, viciously competitive card games, and tabletop RPGs.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
July 10, 2024
Not going to lie... when I saw this title I was intrigued because what kind of man hates clouds? Clouds are great God's creature. They're on the sky! They're wonderful!
Only to find out in this book that the clouds here means "remote data storage". That's hilarious! 😂
Anyway, I really enjoyed this. I thought that Ben and Jess still needed to work things out in terms of communication - but they hadn't probably become boyfriend (again) for too long (since book #1). So yes, they may still need to learn to align their communication style. But I felt that they were going the right path. They're going to be just fine.
I enjoyed the mystery too -- what Ben and Jess was doing feel truly "proper procedural". I also liked that Ben wasn't the kind of detective that made enemies out of cops. He was quite respectful, in fact.
The writing style was good. The dialogues were good. The mystery was good. So yep, solid 4-stars from me. Definitely going to be in for the next one as well.
Only to find out in this book that the clouds here means "remote data storage". That's hilarious! 😂
Anyway, I really enjoyed this. I thought that Ben and Jess still needed to work things out in terms of communication - but they hadn't probably become boyfriend (again) for too long (since book #1). So yes, they may still need to learn to align their communication style. But I felt that they were going the right path. They're going to be just fine.
I enjoyed the mystery too -- what Ben and Jess was doing feel truly "proper procedural". I also liked that Ben wasn't the kind of detective that made enemies out of cops. He was quite respectful, in fact.
The writing style was good. The dialogues were good. The mystery was good. So yep, solid 4-stars from me. Definitely going to be in for the next one as well.
July 3, 2024
I read this one in two days. Something about the way this author writes clicks well with my brain. The prose is good, the mystery is good, the characters delight me. The humor works on me! So, I pre-ordered the next book, The Woman Who Went On Midnights.
July 2, 2024
I do wish there was more romance in this one but it was a good mystery read nonetheless. Excited for the last book in the series!
July 5, 2024
REPOSTED FROM DA
Dear Gayleen Froese,
I was waiting for Ben and Jesse's next investigation/adventure, and overall the book did not disappoint me although as with many mystery series I start wondering what I can safely discuss in terms of spoilers besides what blurb tells us.
I did like very much small but significant developments in their relationship. I may be wrong on the timeline, but I think that in this book it have been a little less than a year from when they got back together and it makes sense to me that they are still feeling their way around the rebuilding relationship and their communication skills. They are not fighting exactly as the story begins, but it is clear to Ben than something is off with Jesse and Jesse is avoiding discussing this topic with him.
I enjoyed how it unfolded, I liked that it did not become the reason for blow out of any sort, just that Jess eventually got his nerves together and told Ben. Even more importantly his hesitation about discussing the topic also made sense based on what Ben said in the past. It did not feel as if if Jesse talked about it earlier, all would have been good right away, but I was happy that it was discussed.
As to the investigation itself, the blurb gives a really nice set up, at first Ben is hired to find a manuscript, and he is very reluctant to take the case, but the writer in question does not seem to be interested in allowing Ben to start the search. And then the writer from whom the manuscript was stolen is found dead and now Ben is hired to investigate his murder and of course Jesse is coming along as his unofficial helper.
I am not sure why the investigations in these series have a realistic feel to me. I love reading/watching mysteries/ police procedurals, but I have had nothing to do with police investigations or private detective investigating anything, so maybe it is not really realistic, but still kudos to the writer for making me feel like it could be.
Maybe because Ben seems to deal with his cases without presenting himself as a super hero? Maybe because he tries to keep as much collaboration with police as possible ( which makes sense him being a former cop) without abandoning his investigation? Maybe because answers to the questions are coming up while investigation is ongoing and we still get enough suspense for the final confrontation?
I am not sure why, I just know that I liked it.
I am also very happy that the dialogues between the characters still have the touch of humor and it seems to blend well enough with the investigation without making me roll my eyes.
Also, Izzy is back, I loved her in the last book and was very pleased to see her again.
Grade: A-
Dear Gayleen Froese,
I was waiting for Ben and Jesse's next investigation/adventure, and overall the book did not disappoint me although as with many mystery series I start wondering what I can safely discuss in terms of spoilers besides what blurb tells us.
I did like very much small but significant developments in their relationship. I may be wrong on the timeline, but I think that in this book it have been a little less than a year from when they got back together and it makes sense to me that they are still feeling their way around the rebuilding relationship and their communication skills. They are not fighting exactly as the story begins, but it is clear to Ben than something is off with Jesse and Jesse is avoiding discussing this topic with him.
I enjoyed how it unfolded, I liked that it did not become the reason for blow out of any sort, just that Jess eventually got his nerves together and told Ben. Even more importantly his hesitation about discussing the topic also made sense based on what Ben said in the past. It did not feel as if if Jesse talked about it earlier, all would have been good right away, but I was happy that it was discussed.
As to the investigation itself, the blurb gives a really nice set up, at first Ben is hired to find a manuscript, and he is very reluctant to take the case, but the writer in question does not seem to be interested in allowing Ben to start the search. And then the writer from whom the manuscript was stolen is found dead and now Ben is hired to investigate his murder and of course Jesse is coming along as his unofficial helper.
I am not sure why the investigations in these series have a realistic feel to me. I love reading/watching mysteries/ police procedurals, but I have had nothing to do with police investigations or private detective investigating anything, so maybe it is not really realistic, but still kudos to the writer for making me feel like it could be.
Maybe because Ben seems to deal with his cases without presenting himself as a super hero? Maybe because he tries to keep as much collaboration with police as possible ( which makes sense him being a former cop) without abandoning his investigation? Maybe because answers to the questions are coming up while investigation is ongoing and we still get enough suspense for the final confrontation?
I am not sure why, I just know that I liked it.
I am also very happy that the dialogues between the characters still have the touch of humor and it seems to blend well enough with the investigation without making me roll my eyes.
Also, Izzy is back, I loved her in the last book and was very pleased to see her again.
Grade: A-
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2024
This is 100% my favourite so far in the Ben Ames series! Froese once again crafts a kickass whodunnit headlined with fully-fleshed out realistic characters in the middle of awesome Canadiana.
I was so excited to come hang out with Ben and Jesse again, and this instalment didn't disappoint. The cast of suspects surrounding the mystery had me guessing throughout the whole book, but I was also invested in the interpersonal relationships between the characters, especially Ben and Jesse themselves.
The relationship between them and Jesse's mental health and stresses with his job are woven in between chasing the case so organically. And I adore how even though they might come at things in the wrong way in the heat of the moment, they face their problems like adults and get through it together. Ben and Jesse are 100% relationship goals! It's realistic and charming.
I won't say anything about the case itself because I don't want to spoil a single thing. Quite a few moments had me going WHAT?! OH! which is the best part of a mystery. I also loved how much more involved Izzy was this time, because she makes me laugh, especially her interactions with her not-dads. Froese has such a way with character voices and Izzy is a standout fave.
All around, highly rec this book, and of course the two before it! Looking forward to rejoining Ben and Jesse (and Izzy) on future adventures!
I received an advanced review copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was so excited to come hang out with Ben and Jesse again, and this instalment didn't disappoint. The cast of suspects surrounding the mystery had me guessing throughout the whole book, but I was also invested in the interpersonal relationships between the characters, especially Ben and Jesse themselves.
The relationship between them and Jesse's mental health and stresses with his job are woven in between chasing the case so organically. And I adore how even though they might come at things in the wrong way in the heat of the moment, they face their problems like adults and get through it together. Ben and Jesse are 100% relationship goals! It's realistic and charming.
I won't say anything about the case itself because I don't want to spoil a single thing. Quite a few moments had me going WHAT?! OH! which is the best part of a mystery. I also loved how much more involved Izzy was this time, because she makes me laugh, especially her interactions with her not-dads. Froese has such a way with character voices and Izzy is a standout fave.
All around, highly rec this book, and of course the two before it! Looking forward to rejoining Ben and Jesse (and Izzy) on future adventures!
I received an advanced review copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 22, 2025
I’ve read the three books in this series, so this is a review of my opinion of this series so far.
I’ve enjoyed the three books a lot. As a general rule, like the combination of romance and mystery, but I find certain things tiresome sometimes. These books are really easy to read, the mystery is compelling and the romance a sweet one. But I do like specially the fact that, both the relationship between Ben and Jesse, and the mystery give an impression of very down to earth. Ben is not a genius finding secret clues, in fact, he is quite lost during most of the investigations.. There is not big reveal at the end, it feels normal. And the romance is not a wonderful experience where everything is easy and oh-so-perfect… The have plenty of issues they are working throughout the three books, their relationship is a work-in-process where both seem a bit lost sometimes. But what I appreciate most is the lack of intercourse… I’m so bored of graphic scenes that provide nothing to the plot or the development of the characters, that books without smut become really enjoyable
Looking forward to the next book in the series
I’ve enjoyed the three books a lot. As a general rule, like the combination of romance and mystery, but I find certain things tiresome sometimes. These books are really easy to read, the mystery is compelling and the romance a sweet one. But I do like specially the fact that, both the relationship between Ben and Jesse, and the mystery give an impression of very down to earth. Ben is not a genius finding secret clues, in fact, he is quite lost during most of the investigations.. There is not big reveal at the end, it feels normal. And the romance is not a wonderful experience where everything is easy and oh-so-perfect… The have plenty of issues they are working throughout the three books, their relationship is a work-in-process where both seem a bit lost sometimes. But what I appreciate most is the lack of intercourse… I’m so bored of graphic scenes that provide nothing to the plot or the development of the characters, that books without smut become really enjoyable
Looking forward to the next book in the series
March 5, 2025
This one isn't quite as strong as #2 for me, but I still enjoyed it quite a bit. The mystery dragged a bit, and I didn't love all the secondary characters. Plus, Jesse is depressed through much of this, and that slowed the pacing a bit. Still, the mystery picked up speed as the story continued, and I liked seeing how Ben and Jesse continued to grow closer. Also, I appreciate how little sex Froese includes; being able to read a gay romantic mystery series without tons of graphic sex is a treat. :)
July 21, 2024
good mystery
This third book was as good as the first two. The plot was a very creative mystery and I was not able to figure it out until revealed by the MC’s. Really enjoying this adventure with Ben and Jesse.
For those looking for spice, it is not in this book. But it does have heart.
This third book was as good as the first two. The plot was a very creative mystery and I was not able to figure it out until revealed by the MC’s. Really enjoying this adventure with Ben and Jesse.
For those looking for spice, it is not in this book. But it does have heart.
August 5, 2024
Though I adored all of the "Ben Ames Case Files," this one was over the top; I loved it. I thinkthat the author's writing is well done and the mysteries are well fabricated. Ben and Jesse/Jack are very believable characters. I like the way that they continue to collect friends as family. Recommend reading.
April 10, 2026
Ben and Jesse are back again.
Their relationship seems both solid and fragile at the same time, with Ben floundering a bit as regards a musicians psyche.
Jesse has the gift of people power, he listens and chats and get info from them, where as Ben is much more fact based.
They are set on a wild goose chase in this one, a quiet standard start that ends up with quite a few twists and turns.
Their relationship seems both solid and fragile at the same time, with Ben floundering a bit as regards a musicians psyche.
Jesse has the gift of people power, he listens and chats and get info from them, where as Ben is much more fact based.
They are set on a wild goose chase in this one, a quiet standard start that ends up with quite a few twists and turns.
July 20, 2024
I enjoyed this instalment a lot, even if at times the very very subtle romance frustrated me a little. I find the relationship very realistic and therefore more low key (not always what I’m looking for in a romance). The mystery is interesting.
August 6, 2024
Well written and some progression in Ben and Jesse’s relationship - but not much. Felt a little light on details and storyline.
April 20, 2025
A much better read than the previous book. The investigative parts were engaging but the rising tension between the MCs were at times inexplicable and tiresome. Overall - 3.5 stars.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews