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Sharps & Springfield #2
Equalizer
Grave robbers, dark magic, mad scientists, and forbidden love!
Supernatural Secret Service agents Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield are back in action, heading to Chicago to investigate a sudden spike in missing bodies. Rumors about a showman’s new invention to bring the dead back to life catch their attention, and so do stories about a shadowy doctor replacing damaged body parts with pieces from stolen corpses.
After their first case together, Calvin and Owen fell in love and discovered their partnership held true both on and off the job. It’s dangerous to be two men in love in 1897, but they’re willing to face any risk to be together and keep each other safe.
In Chicago, they team up with psychics, witches, and intrepid newspaper reporters to get to the truth about who is stealing corpses and what’s behind the dark intentions of the resurrectionists. Even the Mob has a stake in the game.
The ghosts of the murdered men demand justice, and it’s going to take plenty of magic and firepower to stop the graverobbers, end the illicit market for body parts, prevent a war between two Mob families, and keep a mad inventor from shifting the boundary between the living and the dead.
Equalizer is a high-stakes steampunk MM romance thrill ride filled with found family, paranormal Pinkertons, intrepid reporters, body snatchers and resurrectionists, Mob witches, vengeful spirits, dark spells, unholy inventions, and a love that won't be denied.
Before Colt and Winchester, there was Sharps & Springfield!
Equalizer is the second book in the Sharps & Springfield series.
Supernatural Secret Service agents Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield are back in action, heading to Chicago to investigate a sudden spike in missing bodies. Rumors about a showman’s new invention to bring the dead back to life catch their attention, and so do stories about a shadowy doctor replacing damaged body parts with pieces from stolen corpses.
After their first case together, Calvin and Owen fell in love and discovered their partnership held true both on and off the job. It’s dangerous to be two men in love in 1897, but they’re willing to face any risk to be together and keep each other safe.
In Chicago, they team up with psychics, witches, and intrepid newspaper reporters to get to the truth about who is stealing corpses and what’s behind the dark intentions of the resurrectionists. Even the Mob has a stake in the game.
The ghosts of the murdered men demand justice, and it’s going to take plenty of magic and firepower to stop the graverobbers, end the illicit market for body parts, prevent a war between two Mob families, and keep a mad inventor from shifting the boundary between the living and the dead.
Equalizer is a high-stakes steampunk MM romance thrill ride filled with found family, paranormal Pinkertons, intrepid reporters, body snatchers and resurrectionists, Mob witches, vengeful spirits, dark spells, unholy inventions, and a love that won't be denied.
Before Colt and Winchester, there was Sharps & Springfield!
Equalizer is the second book in the Sharps & Springfield series.
219 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 21, 2025
25 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
About the author
Morgan Brice
50 books552 followersMorgan 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 30 reviews
September 27, 2025
September 2025
Kindle edition
Huh. I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first. The two were mostly joined and the hip, getting into trouble when they split up. Calvin getting kidnapped again got old. Winston's presence in the first book was stronger. Shame about Steven. Pearl was a fun character. I dunno, I expected more on the ghost front. It was alright but I probably wouldn't read the next one.
Kindle edition
Huh. I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first. The two were mostly joined and the hip, getting into trouble when they split up. Calvin getting kidnapped again got old. Winston's presence in the first book was stronger. Shame about Steven. Pearl was a fun character. I dunno, I expected more on the ghost front. It was alright but I probably wouldn't read the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2025
Equalizer is the second book in the Sharps & Springfield series, continuing the story of Calvin and Owen, our supernatural secret agents and established couple. Their latest case leads them to Chicago, where they have to navigate the dangerous world of local mafia and witch covens. Although the book can be enjoyed as a standalone, I strongly recommend reading the series in order.
The story is set in the late 1890s, and it blends historic elements with a bit of steampunk, a lot of magic, but also science, mafia, and mystery. Calvin and Owen came to Chicago to investigate a string of missing bodies, but what starts as a simple case quickly turns into something much darker.
I loved how the author blends early ideas of body part transplants with magic and electricity (Tesla’s coils). It was interesting to read since in the 19th century transplants were so out of the realm of possibility, whereas how now it’s a very common place thing. So the mix of historical and supernatural elements really made it a fascinating (and slightly eerie) read.
As always with Morgan Brice’s books, I found the writing quite immersive. The story pulls you right into the action and it doesn’t let go till the end. Also, the characters (Calvin, Owen, and Winston) feel real and relatable. I also loved that we got to see their relationships develop further, and that we got a bit of backstory for Owen. I’m really hoping and looking forward to learn more about all of them in future books.
For me, Equalizer is a fantastic continuation of the series. It was exciting, well-paced, and full of twists. Looking forward to book 3.
I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my unbiased review.
The story is set in the late 1890s, and it blends historic elements with a bit of steampunk, a lot of magic, but also science, mafia, and mystery. Calvin and Owen came to Chicago to investigate a string of missing bodies, but what starts as a simple case quickly turns into something much darker.
I loved how the author blends early ideas of body part transplants with magic and electricity (Tesla’s coils). It was interesting to read since in the 19th century transplants were so out of the realm of possibility, whereas how now it’s a very common place thing. So the mix of historical and supernatural elements really made it a fascinating (and slightly eerie) read.
As always with Morgan Brice’s books, I found the writing quite immersive. The story pulls you right into the action and it doesn’t let go till the end. Also, the characters (Calvin, Owen, and Winston) feel real and relatable. I also loved that we got to see their relationships develop further, and that we got a bit of backstory for Owen. I’m really hoping and looking forward to learn more about all of them in future books.
For me, Equalizer is a fantastic continuation of the series. It was exciting, well-paced, and full of twists. Looking forward to book 3.
I received a copy of this book from the author, and this is my unbiased review.
May 22, 2025
A Thrilling Blend of Magic, Mystery, and Gothic Horror
This is the second installment in the Sharps & Springfield series, and it’s a gripping, atmospheric ride from beginning to end. Calvin and Owen—agents of the Supernatural Secret Service and an established couple—head to 1890s Chicago to investigate a series of missing bodies. What begins as a straightforward case quickly spirals into a dark and dangerous mystery involving mafia families, witch covens, mad science, forbidden magic, and grave robbing.
The historical setting is rich, blending science and magic in ways that feel fresh and immersive. The narrative is vivid and descriptive—you truly feel like you're right there alongside the characters, unraveling the sinister secrets lurking in the shadows of the city. Calvin, Owen, and Winston are wonderfully developed, and their dynamic adds depth and emotional resonance to the story. Although this book can easily be read as a standalone, I highly recommend starting with book one to fully appreciate the character arcs and world-building.
This book has everything: forbidden love, ghosts seeking justice, an illicit market for body parts, and a mystery that keeps you hooked until the final chapter. If you love supernatural thrillers with historical flair this is a must-read.
Thank you to the author, Morgan Brice for an advance copy of this book for review consideration. I am voluntarily leaving this review which is my honest, unbiased opinion.
This is the second installment in the Sharps & Springfield series, and it’s a gripping, atmospheric ride from beginning to end. Calvin and Owen—agents of the Supernatural Secret Service and an established couple—head to 1890s Chicago to investigate a series of missing bodies. What begins as a straightforward case quickly spirals into a dark and dangerous mystery involving mafia families, witch covens, mad science, forbidden magic, and grave robbing.
The historical setting is rich, blending science and magic in ways that feel fresh and immersive. The narrative is vivid and descriptive—you truly feel like you're right there alongside the characters, unraveling the sinister secrets lurking in the shadows of the city. Calvin, Owen, and Winston are wonderfully developed, and their dynamic adds depth and emotional resonance to the story. Although this book can easily be read as a standalone, I highly recommend starting with book one to fully appreciate the character arcs and world-building.
This book has everything: forbidden love, ghosts seeking justice, an illicit market for body parts, and a mystery that keeps you hooked until the final chapter. If you love supernatural thrillers with historical flair this is a must-read.
Thank you to the author, Morgan Brice for an advance copy of this book for review consideration. I am voluntarily leaving this review which is my honest, unbiased opinion.
April 3, 2025
This is the second book in the Sharps & Springfield series and it can be enjoyed as a standalone read. These are the continuing story of Calvin and Owen. The two are agents for the Supernatural Secret Service. The two are travelling in their luxury private coach to Chicago to investigate the cases of missing bodies. Along with their butler, assistant, bodyguard and chef, Winston. The three are an unbeatable team. Of course, Calvin and Owen are a couple during the time when being gay was illegal. So outside of the Pullman, everything is circumspect. The mix of science and magic is always explosive. Add in the local mafia and you have an intriguing mystery to solve. This is their story. I really enjoyed this book. I was able to enjoy it without first having read the earlier book. The book is very well written and easy to read. The narrative is quite descriptive so it feels like you are right in the middle of the action. All the characters are very well developed. A very enjoyable read.
I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 12, 2025
This is the second book in the series about Calvin and Owen who are supernatural agents for the government. It's set in the 1890's and is a great blend of steampunk, historic elements, magic, some science (from that time), magic and the mafia. You'd think that's mixing a few too many things but it works and works well in this story. Calvin and Owen who move from cast to case on a steam engine pullman train car are in Chicago for a case where dead bodies are being snatched. It turns into a much bigger case involving the mafia, witch covens and the idea of transplanting body parts.
I really loved how the author made transplantation seem so farfetched but achievable back then with magic and electricity (Tesla Coils). It had a bit of a Frankenstein vibe and was creepy and interesting. The characters continue to solidify their relationship and I just really enjoyed it.
Looking forward to another book in the series.
I really loved how the author made transplantation seem so farfetched but achievable back then with magic and electricity (Tesla Coils). It had a bit of a Frankenstein vibe and was creepy and interesting. The characters continue to solidify their relationship and I just really enjoyed it.
Looking forward to another book in the series.
March 29, 2025
“We tell them that we were chased by miscreants, and the driver ran away."
“Miscreant cows?” Calvin echoed, unable to avoid chuckling despite the situation. “Clearly from the wrong side of the tracks.” Owen kept a straight face as the others laughed, releasing the tension from their near miss."
Oh my gosh I am loving this new series by Morgan Brice called Sharps and Springfield. I'm not surprised that I'm loving it because everything I've read or listened to by this author has been wonderful. This author is able to weave a tale like nobody's business.
This series is set in the late 1800s. This particular story happens in Chicago. There are mafia families, there's magic, there's a murderer on the loose, there's a mystery to unravel and there are two supernatural secret agents on the case.
“Miscreant cows?” Calvin echoed, unable to avoid chuckling despite the situation. “Clearly from the wrong side of the tracks.” Owen kept a straight face as the others laughed, releasing the tension from their near miss."
Oh my gosh I am loving this new series by Morgan Brice called Sharps and Springfield. I'm not surprised that I'm loving it because everything I've read or listened to by this author has been wonderful. This author is able to weave a tale like nobody's business.
This series is set in the late 1800s. This particular story happens in Chicago. There are mafia families, there's magic, there's a murderer on the loose, there's a mystery to unravel and there are two supernatural secret agents on the case.
April 1, 2025
This is a great second book in the series set in the late 1890s. I love Owen and Calvin, the two supernatural secret agents who are a couple at a time when being gay was a crime.
There is mystery, witches, the mafia and a really interesting plot about the very early stages of how transplant was developed.
Together with their valet, witch Winston, they are digging deeply in the underground of Chicago, making not only friends.
I love how the books are creating the development of an ongoing relationship. With more details about their backgrounds, the characters are getting fleshed out more and more.
I hope book 3 will be soon.
There is mystery, witches, the mafia and a really interesting plot about the very early stages of how transplant was developed.
Together with their valet, witch Winston, they are digging deeply in the underground of Chicago, making not only friends.
I love how the books are creating the development of an ongoing relationship. With more details about their backgrounds, the characters are getting fleshed out more and more.
I hope book 3 will be soon.
May 13, 2025
EQUALIZER by Morgan Brice, Book 2 of Sharps & Springfield
Forbidden love, grave robbers, dark magic, mad scientists, missing bodies, ghosts wanting justice, illicit market for body parts, two mob families . . . Supernatural Secret Service agents Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield have their work cut out in this exciting EQUALIZER, a high-stakes steampunk MM romance thrill ride filled with found family, paranormal Pinkertons, intrepid reporters, body snatchers and resurrectionists, Mob witches, vengeful spirits, dark spells, unholy inventions, and a love that won't be denied. Don’t miss it!
Forbidden love, grave robbers, dark magic, mad scientists, missing bodies, ghosts wanting justice, illicit market for body parts, two mob families . . . Supernatural Secret Service agents Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield have their work cut out in this exciting EQUALIZER, a high-stakes steampunk MM romance thrill ride filled with found family, paranormal Pinkertons, intrepid reporters, body snatchers and resurrectionists, Mob witches, vengeful spirits, dark spells, unholy inventions, and a love that won't be denied. Don’t miss it!
March 26, 2025
Set in 1897 the 2 MCs are Supernatural Secret Service and along with their butler, bodyguard Winston they are sent to Chicago to investigate a series of body snatches.
Its strange to read the idea here of transplantation of body parts. It was so in the future in this timeline that its now a very common place thing in the 21st century. Although the process has been refined and we don't rely on electricity to move the limbs.
I enjoy these stories. I guess the mystery is grounded in some fact ( like it can and could happen) and I also like the interactions between the 3 men.
Its strange to read the idea here of transplantation of body parts. It was so in the future in this timeline that its now a very common place thing in the 21st century. Although the process has been refined and we don't rely on electricity to move the limbs.
I enjoy these stories. I guess the mystery is grounded in some fact ( like it can and could happen) and I also like the interactions between the 3 men.
May 24, 2025
An interesting and intriguing story that kept me entertained, unleashing my imagination with the strange situations the protagonists faced. I liked the information the author provided and how it contributed to the development of the plot. I remained attentive to the roles of the different characters, some already familiar, and how the relationship between Calvin and Owen evolved despite the difficulties they faced at the time. Magic, suspense, conflicting emotions, funny comments, danger, romance, and passion.
September 8, 2025
ok, this was kind of disappointing. I really liked the first book and was so looking forward to this one ... but alas it just was not as good.
the mystery felt flat, because seriously, most of the work did someone else
Calvin was nearly non-existent in this book, Owen was a bit more present and we got a bit more background for him. But the many scenes where "they relaxed together on the couch in the evening" should not be what stuck most in my mind after reading this book
I really hope the next one is better
the mystery felt flat, because seriously, most of the work did someone else
Calvin was nearly non-existent in this book, Owen was a bit more present and we got a bit more background for him. But the many scenes where "they relaxed together on the couch in the evening" should not be what stuck most in my mind after reading this book
I really hope the next one is better
March 30, 2025
Another great story from Morgan Brice. I love all of their books! Our two favorite government supernatural agents, Sharps and Springfield, are in Chicago this time, looking for someone who is stealing bodies. What they uncover is straight out of a gothic horror novel. Calvin, Owen, and their assistant Winston have their work cut out for them trying to uncover what is going on. These guys are becoming quite the team to reckon with and I am enjoying these books a lot.
May 20, 2025
Following book 1 this story picks up with the heroes as they move on to another case. As before there is never a dull moment. Paranormal activities all around as you embark upon another adventure while being pulled into the story. Strong characters engage the reader while the storyline holds your focus. A romance with action packed around every corner. Definitely a reading that’s most enjoyable. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
June 21, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield are on their way to Chicago to find out why dead bodies are disappearing. What the find is extremely disturbing and it's fascinating that they mention Frankenstein's monster. When Owen's friend is killed, and Calvin is kidnapped, help is needed from the mob, witches, and other supernatural people. I also enjoyed getting more backstory of both men which was not easy. As always, eagerly awaiting the next book.
July 6, 2025
Same as book #1 -- While the characters have interesting potential and the plot is good, the delivery is jarred by jumps in logic. With very sparce clues the heroes come up with a working hypothesis which is accurate. Amazing! The worldbuilding is very good and the language seems historically accurate. The characters are not fully developed, but are beyond stereotypical or flat. Overall, an entertaining read - just not fantastic.
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September 26, 2025I picked this up without bothering with the first installment, and honestly, it wasn’t a deal‑breaker. Sure, I probably missed the “how they met” montage, but I got the gist: two guys, already in love, now knee‑deep in grave robbing, dark magic, and a sketchy inventor in 1897 Chicago. The atmosphere is moody, the paranormal mystery is fun, and the romance is steady enough that I didn’t need a refresher course.
April 2, 2025
Owen and Calvin are back and the bad guys are just as creepy as the first time. Bodies are missing in Chicago and while this may not bother some at the time, the SSS is convinced something sinister is going on. Owen and Calvin dig into the dark underbelly of the city in search of who or what is behind the body snatching. This world is amazing!
April 3, 2025
This was an intriguing return for Owen Sharps and Calvin Springfield. This time their train pullman carriage complete with their loyal wingman / butler / witch Winston rolls into Chicago in the midst of a frightening spate of missing body parts.
Exciting story, all the magic and a sweet romance. Bring on book 3 - I can't wait to see where the Sharps and Springfield train heads to next.
Exciting story, all the magic and a sweet romance. Bring on book 3 - I can't wait to see where the Sharps and Springfield train heads to next.
May 19, 2025
I'm voluntarily leaving a review after receiving a free copy. This case was both disturbing and dangerous. The culprits were not scared to attack while Owen and Calvin were investigating. I'm glad they had capable help and survived the case. I found it interesting how the covens and mobs policed themselves.
March 31, 2025
So own and Calvin are
part of the
paranormal secret service they are sent
to
Chicago to
check
out a
doctor who are
bringing people back of the dead there
are so they are so many twist and
turn you are sitting on the edge
if you seat This part 2 of the series is mi d blogging
part of the
paranormal secret service they are sent
to
Chicago to
check
out a
doctor who are
bringing people back of the dead there
are so they are so many twist and
turn you are sitting on the edge
if you seat This part 2 of the series is mi d blogging
March 31, 2025
Calvin and Owen works for the Supernatural Secret Service. Their Pullman car bringing visions of the Wild Wild West to mind. Tracking a reanimater is their most deadly case yet. Their love for each other and the help of good friends will serve them well.
March 31, 2025
This second book of the series was just as good as book one. I got pulled into the story very early on and just did not want to put it down. I enjoyed it.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
May 22, 2025
They are pulled into yet another adventure when dead bodies go missing. They need to find the clues to find who is behind it all. It is not easy and they will try to get the answers to find the one behind it all
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and it is a great tale
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and it is a great tale
March 27, 2025
A superb addition
This book is a great addition to Brice's series. It continues the adventures of Sharps and Springfield. Please read this.
This book is a great addition to Brice's series. It continues the adventures of Sharps and Springfield. Please read this.
April 2, 2025
Another great story from Morgan Brice. Loved it. I hope the author will continue with this series.
More, please!
More, please!
April 9, 2025
love the guys. Glad that there will be more
May 5, 2025
I gave up at around 60%. I couldn’t really make myself continue reading, it was so dull. I really enjoyed the first instalment but this was such a slog.
May 21, 2025
Another exciting steampunk mystery. I look forward to book three which is mentioned as a future endeavour at the end of the story.
July 14, 2025
Fun story; perhaps a few anachronisms but all in the service of an imaginative plot.
September 15, 2025
I am not a fan of steampunk or historical books. I dislike the whole hiding your love because you can be arrested and/or killed for it. But traveling to each investigation by train, they are able to spend quality time together and the like butler, doesn’t care. The investigation was good, and I loved the Frankenstein vibe. Can’t wait for more.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews