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The Medium
To win a heart, he must risk his soul…
Cast out of his family for being a freak, psychic Justin Crump helps others find peace by using his ability. When he’s called upon to release a distressed soul from a haunted house, a child’s angry spirit draws him into a dark mystery. Equally intriguing is the skeptical homeowner, Albert. A man who has buried his sexuality deeper than the grave.
Albert Henderson humors his mother’s wishes by inviting the medium for a visit. While he doubts Justin’s gifts, he can’t deny one truth: the man stirs desire in him that Albert has spent a lifetime denying. Slowly, the walls of his proper life crumble. And when Justin proposes some emotion-free experimentation, neither imagines it might lead to love…and danger.
After learning the terrifying truth about the deceased child’s persecutor, the two men pursue a perpetrator of great evil. When they coax a confession from their quarry, the vengeful spirit unleashes power nearly beyond control. To free the earthbound ghost from the past that holds it shackled, Justin must risk his own soul. And Albert must find the courage to break free of the chains of doubt that will deny him and Justin the future of which they once only dreamed.
Warning: Contains mention of child sexual abuse.
Cast out of his family for being a freak, psychic Justin Crump helps others find peace by using his ability. When he’s called upon to release a distressed soul from a haunted house, a child’s angry spirit draws him into a dark mystery. Equally intriguing is the skeptical homeowner, Albert. A man who has buried his sexuality deeper than the grave.
Albert Henderson humors his mother’s wishes by inviting the medium for a visit. While he doubts Justin’s gifts, he can’t deny one truth: the man stirs desire in him that Albert has spent a lifetime denying. Slowly, the walls of his proper life crumble. And when Justin proposes some emotion-free experimentation, neither imagines it might lead to love…and danger.
After learning the terrifying truth about the deceased child’s persecutor, the two men pursue a perpetrator of great evil. When they coax a confession from their quarry, the vengeful spirit unleashes power nearly beyond control. To free the earthbound ghost from the past that holds it shackled, Justin must risk his own soul. And Albert must find the courage to break free of the chains of doubt that will deny him and Justin the future of which they once only dreamed.
Warning: Contains mention of child sexual abuse.
197 pages, ebook
First published May 29, 2018
32 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
About the author
Bonnie Dee
131 books697 followersI began telling stories as a child. Whenever there was a sleepover, I was the designated ghost tale teller. I still have a story printed on yellow legal paper in second grade about a ghost, a witch and a talking cat.
I enjoy dabbling in many genres. Whether you're a fan of contemporary historical or fantasy romance, you'll find something to enjoy among my books. I'm interested in flawed, often damaged, people who find the fulfillment they seek in one another. To stay informed about new releases, please sign up for my newsletter. You can join my street team at FB. Learn more about my backlist at http://bonniedee.com and find me on FB and Twitter @Bonnie_Dee.
I enjoy dabbling in many genres. Whether you're a fan of contemporary historical or fantasy romance, you'll find something to enjoy among my books. I'm interested in flawed, often damaged, people who find the fulfillment they seek in one another. To stay informed about new releases, please sign up for my newsletter. You can join my street team at FB. Learn more about my backlist at http://bonniedee.com and find me on FB and Twitter @Bonnie_Dee.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
June 20, 2018
5 big stars
I was sold from the very first line... When an author can make me, as a reader, fully aware of details and surroundings, like vision, smell, noise, body language, the tensions and very important the century it take place in ....from the very first page.... It can’t go wrong in any way with the story.
Picture ‘ London 1895’
Albert Henderson bought a beautiful house, only it had a lost and angry young spirit in it.
Justin Crump is a psychic and thrown away as dirt by his family.
Albert his mother ask for Mr. Crump to help with the lost spirit. When both men get involved there is an undeniable attraction. Albert has no experience at all how to deal or act with his feelings for Justin, he is at first a bit curt, Justin gently tries to open his heart.
Bit by bit the secrets of the lost spirit are revealed. While working together at the same case Justin and Albert are getting more fond of each other.
Some ugly things had happened in this house... and both men are determined to help the spirit.
Sublime story and sublime written. It had a focus on several important things, the injustice toward people, the restless spirits, family, friendship and the strong connection between two men in a century which didn’t allowed a love between two people from the same sex. The mysterious case that brought them together is beautiful woven into this story. The spiritual level was amazing put down. Both men were gentle and considerate, their bond indestructible and that was what saved them at heavy occasion.
Their longing and yearning so strong and so present... it made me emotional.
This story and the beautiful way it’s written touched my on a deep level. I felt the emotional and psychic depth, I balked ugly tears. I was completely enchanted by this story!
Read and reviewed for Diverse Reader
I was sold from the very first line... When an author can make me, as a reader, fully aware of details and surroundings, like vision, smell, noise, body language, the tensions and very important the century it take place in ....from the very first page.... It can’t go wrong in any way with the story.
Picture ‘ London 1895’
Albert Henderson bought a beautiful house, only it had a lost and angry young spirit in it.
Justin Crump is a psychic and thrown away as dirt by his family.
Albert his mother ask for Mr. Crump to help with the lost spirit. When both men get involved there is an undeniable attraction. Albert has no experience at all how to deal or act with his feelings for Justin, he is at first a bit curt, Justin gently tries to open his heart.
Bit by bit the secrets of the lost spirit are revealed. While working together at the same case Justin and Albert are getting more fond of each other.
Some ugly things had happened in this house... and both men are determined to help the spirit.
Sublime story and sublime written. It had a focus on several important things, the injustice toward people, the restless spirits, family, friendship and the strong connection between two men in a century which didn’t allowed a love between two people from the same sex. The mysterious case that brought them together is beautiful woven into this story. The spiritual level was amazing put down. Both men were gentle and considerate, their bond indestructible and that was what saved them at heavy occasion.
Their longing and yearning so strong and so present... it made me emotional.
This story and the beautiful way it’s written touched my on a deep level. I felt the emotional and psychic depth, I balked ugly tears. I was completely enchanted by this story!
Read and reviewed for Diverse Reader
August 28, 2018
This story was gruesome, with vivid details about child abuse. I just couldn't get behind a romance that developed while the MCs were attempting to bring a pedophile to justice.
The paranormal elements were too literal. Including chapters from the POV of an angry, abused child spirit made me feel unsettled and sad. Russell's story broke my heart.
I liked the beginning of the book, including the light enemies-to-lovers theme, but Albert's epiphany happened too quickly. By the time I got to the happy ending, I was disengaged from the romance. The story just felt rushed and disjointed.
Also, I absolutely HATED that the villain received forgiveness, however minute and vague. Pedophiles do not deserve mercy! They don't deserve justice. They don't deserve to live.
The paranormal elements were too literal. Including chapters from the POV of an angry, abused child spirit made me feel unsettled and sad. Russell's story broke my heart.
I liked the beginning of the book, including the light enemies-to-lovers theme, but Albert's epiphany happened too quickly. By the time I got to the happy ending, I was disengaged from the romance. The story just felt rushed and disjointed.
Also, I absolutely HATED that the villain received forgiveness, however minute and vague. Pedophiles do not deserve mercy! They don't deserve justice. They don't deserve to live.
September 24, 2018
Nobody loves ghost stories and historicals more than I do. I’m a HUGE fan of Bonnie Dee and some of my all time favorite historical tales are authored by her. I don’t really care that it was 90 degrees yesterday, it’s fall (ish) and that means Halloween and that means ghost stories, don’t even try and tell me otherwise.
The Medium was anchored by two MC’s that I really enjoyed reading about and even if the paranormal element were eliminated I would have loved reading about the evolution of the relationship between Justin and Albert. Honestly, the paranormal element was a tough one. Pedophilia is . . . I can’t even with words. The topic is abhorrent and unfortunately all too real. While I loved the relationship between Albert and Justin, it was difficult to reconcile Russell’s painful story with the romance that was happening. I almost with they were two different books I was reading because it’s hard to switch gears from the horror to the love in a quick turn around.
I’m actually going to treat them as two different stories for reviewing purposes. It’s not like they didn’t meld, they did. But, I liked them separately in different ways and I don’t want to knock what I loved with what made me a cringey.
Russell’s story was heartbreaking and tough to process. As I alluded to before, the words don’t even work here. I had so much sympathy for him and with each revelation my heart got darker and that’s not an easy read when you aren’t prepared. I’ve read plenty of dark and I can’t pretend my perspective is completely Susie Sunshine. I think that, in the end, the conclusion I came to was that the subject was too much for the length of the story. Russell did get his completion in theory, but I wanted more for him, and in order to get that, he’d honestly need so many more pages. His resolution felt rushed in the end for me and I just wanted more for him. I give zero fucks for his “family” and I think the visceral response is a tough one to separate from the rest of the book.
Now, as far as the romance aspect went, I loved it! Justin and Albert are characters I can get behind and their story alone was strong enough to carry a book without anything additional. I found myself parsing the painful past of Russell from the positive hope of Justin and Albert. I really loved the two of them and the author did an amazing job of showing their chemistry. Even though the overall arc was a little Pollyanna as far as the reality of what was acceptable and a reality for men during that time period, the author made me believe in their happiness and I just wanted to buy into it so I did, no questions asked.
I can never recommend Bonnie Dee stories enough and The Medium is right up there. Just know, you are going to get some heartbreak that supports the idea of the story, but is going to be tough to digest in its minimalist form. The romance will carry you through though and I would be more than happy to read more about Justin and Albert. Their relationship was sublime and I will reread the story for that alone.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
The Medium was anchored by two MC’s that I really enjoyed reading about and even if the paranormal element were eliminated I would have loved reading about the evolution of the relationship between Justin and Albert. Honestly, the paranormal element was a tough one. Pedophilia is . . . I can’t even with words. The topic is abhorrent and unfortunately all too real. While I loved the relationship between Albert and Justin, it was difficult to reconcile Russell’s painful story with the romance that was happening. I almost with they were two different books I was reading because it’s hard to switch gears from the horror to the love in a quick turn around.
I’m actually going to treat them as two different stories for reviewing purposes. It’s not like they didn’t meld, they did. But, I liked them separately in different ways and I don’t want to knock what I loved with what made me a cringey.
Russell’s story was heartbreaking and tough to process. As I alluded to before, the words don’t even work here. I had so much sympathy for him and with each revelation my heart got darker and that’s not an easy read when you aren’t prepared. I’ve read plenty of dark and I can’t pretend my perspective is completely Susie Sunshine. I think that, in the end, the conclusion I came to was that the subject was too much for the length of the story. Russell did get his completion in theory, but I wanted more for him, and in order to get that, he’d honestly need so many more pages. His resolution felt rushed in the end for me and I just wanted more for him. I give zero fucks for his “family” and I think the visceral response is a tough one to separate from the rest of the book.
Now, as far as the romance aspect went, I loved it! Justin and Albert are characters I can get behind and their story alone was strong enough to carry a book without anything additional. I found myself parsing the painful past of Russell from the positive hope of Justin and Albert. I really loved the two of them and the author did an amazing job of showing their chemistry. Even though the overall arc was a little Pollyanna as far as the reality of what was acceptable and a reality for men during that time period, the author made me believe in their happiness and I just wanted to buy into it so I did, no questions asked.
I can never recommend Bonnie Dee stories enough and The Medium is right up there. Just know, you are going to get some heartbreak that supports the idea of the story, but is going to be tough to digest in its minimalist form. The romance will carry you through though and I would be more than happy to read more about Justin and Albert. Their relationship was sublime and I will reread the story for that alone.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
June 25, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
The Medium is a fine return for Bonnie Dee, whose works I have regularly enjoyed. Justin and Albert are well developed characters, each with their own demons, but both determined to help a child who is long dead. Their tentative relationship is first sweet and then passionate and Arthur’s slow acceptance of himself feels believable. Arthur can be quite hypocritical at times, but he does recognize this failing in himself and it made him more relatable in many ways. Justin is a bit cheeky, which makes him endearing, but his confidence and sense of self makes him incredibly engaging. There are several very British moments in The Medium, and you’ll recognize them right away. I laughed out loud on several occasions, which was unexpected in a story with such dark themes. One theme in particular may cause triggers for some of you, so understand this book deals with childhood sexual abuse. And while it’s handled well, the author doesn’t shy from the difficulty of the topic either.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
The Medium is a fine return for Bonnie Dee, whose works I have regularly enjoyed. Justin and Albert are well developed characters, each with their own demons, but both determined to help a child who is long dead. Their tentative relationship is first sweet and then passionate and Arthur’s slow acceptance of himself feels believable. Arthur can be quite hypocritical at times, but he does recognize this failing in himself and it made him more relatable in many ways. Justin is a bit cheeky, which makes him endearing, but his confidence and sense of self makes him incredibly engaging. There are several very British moments in The Medium, and you’ll recognize them right away. I laughed out loud on several occasions, which was unexpected in a story with such dark themes. One theme in particular may cause triggers for some of you, so understand this book deals with childhood sexual abuse. And while it’s handled well, the author doesn’t shy from the difficulty of the topic either.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
February 21, 2019
It started as a 4-star read and ended with 3 stars because I had some issues while the story revealed. But let's start with the good ones because this book was good.
The setting liked very much. There is something very captivating about reading a story in 19th century London. Call me old-fashioned but I believe that back then was more romantic than it is nowadays. Especially when it comes to love between two men.
The first few encounters between the two MCs were absolutely charming. There was an enemies-to-lovers trope, a lot of tension, struggle, and denial. And the paranormal genre just added the cherry on the top. I especially liked the way the author was describing the chemistry between two men - a lot of body language, lingering looks, and some inner monologue. It was perfect. Albert's mother was a very interesting character, too.
After that everything went wrong. Albert's many years of denial was gone so fast that it was unbelievable for me. Even though the chemistry between him and Justin was great, in the second half of the book I felt like some of it just evaporated in the thin air. And the main issue I had with this book was the little boy's ghost's story. It nearly broke my heart. I had a hard time reading so many details about what happened and having the reason for his death present in the story was hard for me to read. I hated that guy every time he was present on the pages and kept thinking that he had no right to be walking on Earth. My focus changed and I was unable to engage with the beautiful love between Albert and Justin.
Once again, great writing style and a very good book. My issues with the book were more personal rather than anything else.
The setting liked very much. There is something very captivating about reading a story in 19th century London. Call me old-fashioned but I believe that back then was more romantic than it is nowadays. Especially when it comes to love between two men.
The first few encounters between the two MCs were absolutely charming. There was an enemies-to-lovers trope, a lot of tension, struggle, and denial. And the paranormal genre just added the cherry on the top. I especially liked the way the author was describing the chemistry between two men - a lot of body language, lingering looks, and some inner monologue. It was perfect. Albert's mother was a very interesting character, too.
After that everything went wrong. Albert's many years of denial was gone so fast that it was unbelievable for me. Even though the chemistry between him and Justin was great, in the second half of the book I felt like some of it just evaporated in the thin air. And the main issue I had with this book was the little boy's ghost's story. It nearly broke my heart. I had a hard time reading so many details about what happened and having the reason for his death present in the story was hard for me to read. I hated that guy every time he was present on the pages and kept thinking that he had no right to be walking on Earth. My focus changed and I was unable to engage with the beautiful love between Albert and Justin.
Once again, great writing style and a very good book. My issues with the book were more personal rather than anything else.
June 15, 2018
The Victorian Era and the fascination with spiritualism during that time is one of my favorite marriages of setting and premise in paranormal fiction. Seances, the wish to communicate with the dead and the puritanical mores of the time were in opposition, and it was a ripe time for the grifters with a penchant for performance to separate the wealthy from their money.
Bonnie Dee is such a consistent deliverer of historical romantic fiction, and she does so again with her latest novel, The Medium. Eugenia Henderson senses a presence in her home, an overwhelming negative sensation that she wishes professional medium Justin Crump to exorcise and to ease the spirit’s unrest. Her son, Albert, is willing to indulge her—not that she’s seeking his permission at all. I loved her pluck! But he’s also determined to be there to make sure the charlatan spiritualist doesn’t try to bilk Mrs. Henderson for more money.
A good part of the story, of course, hinges on Justin proving to Albert that he isn’t a fake and can indeed communicate with the deceased whose souls are still tethered to the mortal plane. The spirit haunting the former Kingman home is just a boy, a boy who was dealt a heartbreaking ending to his short life and is now seeking vengeance against his tormentor. And, it’s here I’ll take the opportunity to mention that the warning in the blurb should be heeded by those who may be sensitive to mentions of child abuse—do proceed with caution. Bonnie Dee went straight for the emotional jugular in this novel and her narrative struck true. The crimes that drive the story add to the conviction to see the villain, a disgusting pedophile, pay for his twisted actions, and I appreciated how this pitted Justin and Alfred against each other for a short time before it all resolved.
The romantic element in the story is consistent with the time, which is yet another thing I appreciated. Alfred is in denial of his attraction to men. He doesn’t recognize it let alone acknowledge the times he’s been stirred by the sight of an attractive man, and I enjoyed his journey to self-discovery with Justin, who’d come to terms with his sexuality long before and had his heart broken in the process, as Alfred’s guide. Dee doesn’t force a tidy answer to the very real social implications of their relationship, and yet their affection for each other was still tangible without their ability to live openly with each other. It also gives Eugenia the opportunity to be fabulous again, and she even gets a sweet second-chance romance of her own.
There’s comfort in the familiar, both in romantic tropes and knowing an author’s style. The Medium is another strong addition to Bonnie Dee’s body of work as well as to the historical paranormal category in the gay romance genre.
Reviewed by Lisa for The Novel Approach
Bonnie Dee is such a consistent deliverer of historical romantic fiction, and she does so again with her latest novel, The Medium. Eugenia Henderson senses a presence in her home, an overwhelming negative sensation that she wishes professional medium Justin Crump to exorcise and to ease the spirit’s unrest. Her son, Albert, is willing to indulge her—not that she’s seeking his permission at all. I loved her pluck! But he’s also determined to be there to make sure the charlatan spiritualist doesn’t try to bilk Mrs. Henderson for more money.
A good part of the story, of course, hinges on Justin proving to Albert that he isn’t a fake and can indeed communicate with the deceased whose souls are still tethered to the mortal plane. The spirit haunting the former Kingman home is just a boy, a boy who was dealt a heartbreaking ending to his short life and is now seeking vengeance against his tormentor. And, it’s here I’ll take the opportunity to mention that the warning in the blurb should be heeded by those who may be sensitive to mentions of child abuse—do proceed with caution. Bonnie Dee went straight for the emotional jugular in this novel and her narrative struck true. The crimes that drive the story add to the conviction to see the villain, a disgusting pedophile, pay for his twisted actions, and I appreciated how this pitted Justin and Alfred against each other for a short time before it all resolved.
The romantic element in the story is consistent with the time, which is yet another thing I appreciated. Alfred is in denial of his attraction to men. He doesn’t recognize it let alone acknowledge the times he’s been stirred by the sight of an attractive man, and I enjoyed his journey to self-discovery with Justin, who’d come to terms with his sexuality long before and had his heart broken in the process, as Alfred’s guide. Dee doesn’t force a tidy answer to the very real social implications of their relationship, and yet their affection for each other was still tangible without their ability to live openly with each other. It also gives Eugenia the opportunity to be fabulous again, and she even gets a sweet second-chance romance of her own.
There’s comfort in the familiar, both in romantic tropes and knowing an author’s style. The Medium is another strong addition to Bonnie Dee’s body of work as well as to the historical paranormal category in the gay romance genre.
Reviewed by Lisa for The Novel Approach
June 27, 2018
I was really excited by the blurb but the book did not quite meet my expectations. Bonnie Dee is a go-to-author for me when it comes to M/M historical. Her books that she co-authored with Summer Devon are some of the best I've ever read. The Medium was a case of "I liked it but I didn't love it".
First, let me say the cover is gorgeous. The story, however, seemed rushed. Everything happened so fast. Unrealistically so. The opening chapter was very interesting and I thought to myself this is going to be so good. But somewhere along the way the story seemed to have lost its, well, way.
There was plenty of steam and romance in this one but I wanted more of the mystery which almost didn't seem like one because how quickly it was resolved. Likeable characters but a weak story.
3 stars
First, let me say the cover is gorgeous. The story, however, seemed rushed. Everything happened so fast. Unrealistically so. The opening chapter was very interesting and I thought to myself this is going to be so good. But somewhere along the way the story seemed to have lost its, well, way.
There was plenty of steam and romance in this one but I wanted more of the mystery which almost didn't seem like one because how quickly it was resolved. Likeable characters but a weak story.
3 stars
October 1, 2018
3.5
Justin Crump is a genuine medium who lives disgraced from his family after being caught in a sexual situation with a man. He's invited to the Henderson's new home in the country to determine the background of a ghostly presence which causes Mrs. Henderson to feel melancholy. Albert Henderson, the skeptic son, doesn't feel anything, but he's willing to pay Justin to humor his mother. Justin sees right through Albert - he knows there's a heavy dose of sketpcisim and that there is a heavy dose of attraction between them, not that Albert would ever admit it. He has buried his desires and ruthlessly represses them, refusing to be abnormal. But being in Justin's presence makes that impossible, and it's that struggle that puts him in tune with the ghostly presence, a young boy who had similar struggles to be normal and who was sexually abused by an uncle. This turns Albert into a true believer. The next message from the ghost, asking him and Justin to stop his uncle from molesting more children and sets their path towards stopping a monster.
Absolute trigger warning: This book contains description of child sexual abuse and delves into the mind of the predator who abuses. This was pretty disturbing.
On the whole, this book was pretty good. I liked the start, that Justin wasn't a charlatan and was actually an honest medium. That right away made this different. I also liked that, although Albert was a skeptic, he was still able to look at Justin with respect - to treat him as a person providing comfort at the most and entertainment at the very least...just so long as he didn't swindle. And finding out who the ghost was, was intriguing, but as mentioned before, with more detail it gets disturbing. The chemistry didn't really exist between Albert and Justin, mostly, I think because Albert was repressing. But they did have some chemistry later on, but it didn't really reach high levels of tension or anything. Especially there at the beginning as it starts out as just an experiment so Albert can finally experience sex (he's a virgin), and Justin agrees to initiate him into it. So it doesn't really feel like they come together because they can't stay apart any longer...it's a bit less passionate than that. I also kinda struggled with how quickly Albert turned himself around from long-held opinions. Life-long skeptic suddenly believes in ghosts and despite all his beliefs about sodomy and sin, he jumps right into sexual relationship with a man and never feels an ounce of guilt. Even so, this was still entertaining. I liked the paranormal aspect quite a bit.
Justin Crump is a genuine medium who lives disgraced from his family after being caught in a sexual situation with a man. He's invited to the Henderson's new home in the country to determine the background of a ghostly presence which causes Mrs. Henderson to feel melancholy. Albert Henderson, the skeptic son, doesn't feel anything, but he's willing to pay Justin to humor his mother. Justin sees right through Albert - he knows there's a heavy dose of sketpcisim and that there is a heavy dose of attraction between them, not that Albert would ever admit it. He has buried his desires and ruthlessly represses them, refusing to be abnormal. But being in Justin's presence makes that impossible, and it's that struggle that puts him in tune with the ghostly presence, a young boy who had similar struggles to be normal and who was sexually abused by an uncle. This turns Albert into a true believer. The next message from the ghost, asking him and Justin to stop his uncle from molesting more children and sets their path towards stopping a monster.
Absolute trigger warning: This book contains description of child sexual abuse and delves into the mind of the predator who abuses. This was pretty disturbing.
On the whole, this book was pretty good. I liked the start, that Justin wasn't a charlatan and was actually an honest medium. That right away made this different. I also liked that, although Albert was a skeptic, he was still able to look at Justin with respect - to treat him as a person providing comfort at the most and entertainment at the very least...just so long as he didn't swindle. And finding out who the ghost was, was intriguing, but as mentioned before, with more detail it gets disturbing. The chemistry didn't really exist between Albert and Justin, mostly, I think because Albert was repressing. But they did have some chemistry later on, but it didn't really reach high levels of tension or anything. Especially there at the beginning as it starts out as just an experiment so Albert can finally experience sex (he's a virgin), and Justin agrees to initiate him into it. So it doesn't really feel like they come together because they can't stay apart any longer...it's a bit less passionate than that. I also kinda struggled with how quickly Albert turned himself around from long-held opinions. Life-long skeptic suddenly believes in ghosts and despite all his beliefs about sodomy and sin, he jumps right into sexual relationship with a man and never feels an ounce of guilt. Even so, this was still entertaining. I liked the paranormal aspect quite a bit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2018
I was so hopeful because it has it all : the Victorian era, interesting characters, a good plot, a psychic and a ghost!
But sadly I found myself more or less struggling through the story because it wasn’t completely grabbing my attention. I felt no real tension building, I never felt the sexual attraction, the need that Justin and Albert have for each other at some point or Albert's internal conflict and mental struggle. I didn't like the first person POV in this particular book, I should have felt immersed into these characters but I actually felt disconnected from them :(
** WARNING : take the tag "child sexual abuse" seriously. **
But sadly I found myself more or less struggling through the story because it wasn’t completely grabbing my attention. I felt no real tension building, I never felt the sexual attraction, the need that Justin and Albert have for each other at some point or Albert's internal conflict and mental struggle. I didn't like the first person POV in this particular book, I should have felt immersed into these characters but I actually felt disconnected from them :(
** WARNING : take the tag "child sexual abuse" seriously. **
August 5, 2020
I had a lot of issues with this book.
* the way that interacting with spirits was too literal - not enough mystery!
* not sure anyone wants background serial child abuse in their romance?
* the whole, "one character has his gay awakening and the other is afraid of being just an experiment/fling" thing is pretty tired
* The characters are really bad at bringing criminals to justice...like....maybe just let the ghostie get revenge on what is objectively an evil person? A little murder can be ok in fiction!
* the way that interacting with spirits was too literal - not enough mystery!
* not sure anyone wants background serial child abuse in their romance?
* the whole, "one character has his gay awakening and the other is afraid of being just an experiment/fling" thing is pretty tired
* The characters are really bad at bringing criminals to justice...like....maybe just let the ghostie get revenge on what is objectively an evil person? A little murder can be ok in fiction!
July 1, 2018
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
I took a huge chance on this book because historicals are not normally my thing. However, I love paranormals, and knowing there was a medium as the main character was just too much enticement for me to pass it over. And I am glad I did. I admit that I struggled a bit with the Victorian Era English country life, but I was able to ignore all that and just focus on the plot and not the time frame. I did not deduct any stars in my rating for the historical aspect as I knew going in I would have a small issue.
Justin is a medium who is considered a near quack for that alone, but add in his queerness and he was just too much for “polite” society. Albert is a conflicted man who is so far in denial for his attraction to men that he nearly convinces himself that his choice to not date women was because of other things, like work and taking care of his mother. Until Justin. Justin comes in all hot and gorgeous and gay, and makes Albert question himself. He blames Justin for a while, but as soon as the paranormal aspects come into play, Albert has other things to focus on.
This is a story of a caterpillar becoming a beautiful butterfly. The Albert we meet at the beginning is nowhere near the same Albert we see at the end. Even though he was a bit of handful, and didn’t always treat Justin nicely, he was a man conflicted and Justin allowed him time and space to come to terms with who he really was. At the end, I was in love with both of them, and knowing that together they were able to stop a pedophile with the help of a ghost child, made this a very interesting, and in some ways, a tragic but beautiful read.
I took a huge chance on this book because historicals are not normally my thing. However, I love paranormals, and knowing there was a medium as the main character was just too much enticement for me to pass it over. And I am glad I did. I admit that I struggled a bit with the Victorian Era English country life, but I was able to ignore all that and just focus on the plot and not the time frame. I did not deduct any stars in my rating for the historical aspect as I knew going in I would have a small issue.
Justin is a medium who is considered a near quack for that alone, but add in his queerness and he was just too much for “polite” society. Albert is a conflicted man who is so far in denial for his attraction to men that he nearly convinces himself that his choice to not date women was because of other things, like work and taking care of his mother. Until Justin. Justin comes in all hot and gorgeous and gay, and makes Albert question himself. He blames Justin for a while, but as soon as the paranormal aspects come into play, Albert has other things to focus on.
This is a story of a caterpillar becoming a beautiful butterfly. The Albert we meet at the beginning is nowhere near the same Albert we see at the end. Even though he was a bit of handful, and didn’t always treat Justin nicely, he was a man conflicted and Justin allowed him time and space to come to terms with who he really was. At the end, I was in love with both of them, and knowing that together they were able to stop a pedophile with the help of a ghost child, made this a very interesting, and in some ways, a tragic but beautiful read.
Want to read
October 27, 2018Per author author Bonnie Dee: "The Medium" is on sale for a LIMITED time. 99 cents through Halloween at Amazon only.
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July 21, 2018
Hmmm.....Victorian spiritualism mixed with all that repressed British sexuality....can’t miss...right?
The story had real potential, which just evaporates in the face of two characters who are so cold and remote that they freeze out any possibility of heat or emotion developing.
Justin, a psychic, is hired by Albert, a businessman, to discover the source of his mother’s belief that there’s a disturbing presence in her house. Justin has accepted his sexuality, and encourages Albert to do the same. However Albert has spent his lifetime suppressing his ‘urges,’ until Justin becomes too much of a temptation.
Although some of the problem with the story is due to the alternating 1st-person POV, mostly it’s just that Justin and Albert are such cold fish that when they do eventually get together, their encounters seem more clinical than emotional. Also, despite his lifelong denial, Albert seems to get over his scruples very, very quickly...and without too much soul searching. So...his change of heart doesn’t create much tension or conflict....
So...just two stars.
The story had real potential, which just evaporates in the face of two characters who are so cold and remote that they freeze out any possibility of heat or emotion developing.
Justin, a psychic, is hired by Albert, a businessman, to discover the source of his mother’s belief that there’s a disturbing presence in her house. Justin has accepted his sexuality, and encourages Albert to do the same. However Albert has spent his lifetime suppressing his ‘urges,’ until Justin becomes too much of a temptation.
Although some of the problem with the story is due to the alternating 1st-person POV, mostly it’s just that Justin and Albert are such cold fish that when they do eventually get together, their encounters seem more clinical than emotional. Also, despite his lifelong denial, Albert seems to get over his scruples very, very quickly...and without too much soul searching. So...his change of heart doesn’t create much tension or conflict....
So...just two stars.
June 28, 2018
Didn't love it. It wasn't scary, but it was kind of boring to me.
July 2, 2018
Justin Crump, disowned by his family for who and what he is, uses his abilities to help others. When he's called in to help rid a haunted house of a distressed spirit he finds himself pulled into a mystery he wasn't expecting. Albert Henderson is skeptical of Justin's abilities but he humors his mother who is a believer. Finding himself intrigued by Justin on multiple levels, will the pair find love among the danger once the truth to the spirit is discovered?
Followers of my reviews have long ago realized just how big a fan of historicals and paranormals I am and when the two are put together, well then I am in reader heaven. Bonnie Dee has once again made history come alive, she has a way about her that makes even the paranormal element seem realistic without going over the top. Whether you believe spirits, ghosts, and mediums to be real doesn't really matter, with this book the author has you believing in the possibilities.
Justin and Albert are such a perfect match, not exactly the "opposites attract" trope and not really "enemies to lovers" either but a little bit of both probably. Justin is not your typical medium nor is he the typical con-artist that Albert believes him to be, he knows how the "upper class" works but he also knows the value of the "working man". Albert's not lost to the ways of either as well but he isn't easily won over as he thinks his mother has been. They both work for what they find and I really love that about both of them, it just adds to their chemistry.
As for the mystery part, I won't say much but I will mention that it will break your heart and just how Justin is able to deal with what he learns and continue on is beyond me. I would most definitely want to find answers but I don't think I'd be able to bounce back so quickly to do so but I think that is probably down to Albert at Justin's side. I will say that I certainly shed no tears when the mystery was brought to a conclusion 😉😉
The Medium is another prime example of the brilliance behind Bonnie Dee when she has her mind set on bringing history to life. Throw in a little paranormal, a little mystery, and just the right amount of romance and you are looking at great entertaining fiction. The title may be The Medium but the quality and talent that brought this gem to life is definitely The High.😉
Followers of my reviews have long ago realized just how big a fan of historicals and paranormals I am and when the two are put together, well then I am in reader heaven. Bonnie Dee has once again made history come alive, she has a way about her that makes even the paranormal element seem realistic without going over the top. Whether you believe spirits, ghosts, and mediums to be real doesn't really matter, with this book the author has you believing in the possibilities.
Justin and Albert are such a perfect match, not exactly the "opposites attract" trope and not really "enemies to lovers" either but a little bit of both probably. Justin is not your typical medium nor is he the typical con-artist that Albert believes him to be, he knows how the "upper class" works but he also knows the value of the "working man". Albert's not lost to the ways of either as well but he isn't easily won over as he thinks his mother has been. They both work for what they find and I really love that about both of them, it just adds to their chemistry.
As for the mystery part, I won't say much but I will mention that it will break your heart and just how Justin is able to deal with what he learns and continue on is beyond me. I would most definitely want to find answers but I don't think I'd be able to bounce back so quickly to do so but I think that is probably down to Albert at Justin's side. I will say that I certainly shed no tears when the mystery was brought to a conclusion 😉😉
The Medium is another prime example of the brilliance behind Bonnie Dee when she has her mind set on bringing history to life. Throw in a little paranormal, a little mystery, and just the right amount of romance and you are looking at great entertaining fiction. The title may be The Medium but the quality and talent that brought this gem to life is definitely The High.😉
November 20, 2018
I liked Justin Crump right away. Not every reader will understand this but sometimes you come across a character whose "aura" (this is hard to write so my words may be inadequate or wrong) is one you sense in just a few sentences. Justin was born with more than the compassion of his heart, he also is able to sense the dead.
Lady Henderson, the owner of the estate once known as the impressive Kingman Estate, has been disturbed by the sense that something is in her house. She asks Justin Crump to find out what it is.
Albert Henderson is the son of Lady Henderson. He is an upright, very savvy businessman who has been successful in continuing and increasing the family's fortunes. He is a skeptic of such things as spirits and sees Justin as one of those fake mediums out to bilk his mother. However, Albert, who has suppressed his "unnatural" desires since he was a schoolboy, finds that Justin stirs awake that which he wishes remained asleep.
Justin has no contempt for Albert or his beliefs of mediums. On the contrary, he finds he is just as affected as Albert is only he embraces his desires but he does not act upon them by forcing himself upon Albert.
The trouble is revealed during not a seance but a walk that Justin and Albert take in the gardens. Justin "sees" a vision of the most recent past and a little boy who demands that Justin stop the one who tormented and killed him before his murderer hurts another child.
Albert does not dismiss the vision, and he is even concerned for Justin after his vision is complete. And then, Albert, who never expected his ordered life to be disturbed has his very life shaken up overnight.
I really enjoyed this story and I rather hope there will be a sequel as I don't wish to leave these two gentlemen behind.
Lady Henderson, the owner of the estate once known as the impressive Kingman Estate, has been disturbed by the sense that something is in her house. She asks Justin Crump to find out what it is.
Albert Henderson is the son of Lady Henderson. He is an upright, very savvy businessman who has been successful in continuing and increasing the family's fortunes. He is a skeptic of such things as spirits and sees Justin as one of those fake mediums out to bilk his mother. However, Albert, who has suppressed his "unnatural" desires since he was a schoolboy, finds that Justin stirs awake that which he wishes remained asleep.
Justin has no contempt for Albert or his beliefs of mediums. On the contrary, he finds he is just as affected as Albert is only he embraces his desires but he does not act upon them by forcing himself upon Albert.
The trouble is revealed during not a seance but a walk that Justin and Albert take in the gardens. Justin "sees" a vision of the most recent past and a little boy who demands that Justin stop the one who tormented and killed him before his murderer hurts another child.
Albert does not dismiss the vision, and he is even concerned for Justin after his vision is complete. And then, Albert, who never expected his ordered life to be disturbed has his very life shaken up overnight.
I really enjoyed this story and I rather hope there will be a sequel as I don't wish to leave these two gentlemen behind.
May 9, 2019
It somehow managed to hit all the tropes I love in a historical mm romance fantasy but in a way that made me go 'meh' right up till the end where I went 'hell no.'
It was a solid read, with a pretty predictable plot (both romantic and non-romantic), and reasonably interesting characters who had spark. And yet, I just couldn't find myself invested in the story. I did wonder if it was just because I'd been reading so much historical mm romance around the time I started this. So I stopped for a bit and restarted a few weeks later. Nope. It just didn't click for me.
I could see how this would be appealing to people, it's familiar and comfortable. But there's familiar and comfortable that's like having a hot drink on a cold day, and the kind that's like eating yet another mediocre toast to get through the day. Wait, given the ending, it's mediocre toast but with like a cockroach on it.
So. Yeah.
It was a solid read, with a pretty predictable plot (both romantic and non-romantic), and reasonably interesting characters who had spark. And yet, I just couldn't find myself invested in the story. I did wonder if it was just because I'd been reading so much historical mm romance around the time I started this. So I stopped for a bit and restarted a few weeks later. Nope. It just didn't click for me.
I could see how this would be appealing to people, it's familiar and comfortable. But there's familiar and comfortable that's like having a hot drink on a cold day, and the kind that's like eating yet another mediocre toast to get through the day. Wait, given the ending, it's mediocre toast but with like a cockroach on it.
So. Yeah.
June 1, 2018
This was a very good book about spirits, mediums, evil child abusers and a forbidden love. Justin is the medium and is invited to Albert's home to settle his mother down as she feel's doom and gloom in newly acquired home. Russell Kingman is a distraught and angry ghost that has a task to do in revenge for the abuse he was shown while alive. Justin gets entangled in the mess and then Albert does too. A lot of angst, anger evil violence toward children, first time gay six, loosing one's home and life and an abiding love takes us on a spiritual journey back tot the victorian era where any form of homosexuality is forbidden. Justin and Albert must find their way in a world not ready to accept them. An excellent story that let's us dig into the spiritual worlds through it's pages.
July 7, 2019
Definitely a book of two halves for me.
The start with the potential haunting, Albert the sceptic, Justin’s unique ability to contact spirits, the spark of attraction - it was shaping up nicely.
Then we got a solution of sorts and it changed into a man hunt sort of thing and will the vile things that Silas had done coming out.
The plans to catch him out seemed a bit hotchpotch in a way.
Then the spirit of Russell came back with a vengeance and it got quite feisty with the spirits for a while.
The writing was quite pacy but it did tail off for me in terms of credibility but I did like most of it.
The start with the potential haunting, Albert the sceptic, Justin’s unique ability to contact spirits, the spark of attraction - it was shaping up nicely.
Then we got a solution of sorts and it changed into a man hunt sort of thing and will the vile things that Silas had done coming out.
The plans to catch him out seemed a bit hotchpotch in a way.
Then the spirit of Russell came back with a vengeance and it got quite feisty with the spirits for a while.
The writing was quite pacy but it did tail off for me in terms of credibility but I did like most of it.
July 31, 2018
It's actually a historical story
Which you wouldn't know by the blurb. Since that is not my cup of tea, it was hard for me to rate this book. It's well written, and the premise / plot was pretty solid. I guess since it takes place in the 1800s in London, therefore the characters speak as such, it just didn't do it for me. Yes, there is mention of child abuse and actually child suicide as well, so it's far from a happy book. The romance is pretty minimal, and yeah, I really don't want to read a MM book where an author actually says "do you wish to sodomize me?" Just no. Call me crazy, but that just makes it sound dirty and wrong, when in reality, it's not. Like I said, it's a really hard book to rate for me.
Which you wouldn't know by the blurb. Since that is not my cup of tea, it was hard for me to rate this book. It's well written, and the premise / plot was pretty solid. I guess since it takes place in the 1800s in London, therefore the characters speak as such, it just didn't do it for me. Yes, there is mention of child abuse and actually child suicide as well, so it's far from a happy book. The romance is pretty minimal, and yeah, I really don't want to read a MM book where an author actually says "do you wish to sodomize me?" Just no. Call me crazy, but that just makes it sound dirty and wrong, when in reality, it's not. Like I said, it's a really hard book to rate for me.
September 28, 2018
I really enjoyed this tale of attraction infused with the supernatural.
Justin and Albert were very likeable characters, and it was great getting inside of their heads. I found that the calm psychic Justin was the perfect match for the darkly humorous and angry Albert, who was deep, deep, deep in the closet. When they got together, it was sexy and sweet.
Helping an angry spirit - who had every right to be really pissed off - and finding and bringing down the bad guy rounded out the story.
Justin and Albert were very likeable characters, and it was great getting inside of their heads. I found that the calm psychic Justin was the perfect match for the darkly humorous and angry Albert, who was deep, deep, deep in the closet. When they got together, it was sexy and sweet.
Helping an angry spirit - who had every right to be really pissed off - and finding and bringing down the bad guy rounded out the story.
August 12, 2018
A good with a medium who encounters a troubled spirit and love.
This book has a villain who preys on children. If this disturbs you, I suggest you do not read. I like the main characters and how the plot builds up suspense in parts of the story. It has some twists. I like how social issues of the day are discussed.
This book has a villain who preys on children. If this disturbs you, I suggest you do not read. I like the main characters and how the plot builds up suspense in parts of the story. It has some twists. I like how social issues of the day are discussed.
January 26, 2019
Not my fav but not bad!
Some of this was hard to read...not sure I would of picked it up given the subject matter (child abuse) if it hadn't been one of Bonnie's. But she handled the difficult stuff well, and the romance was soothing. I liked the characters well enough. I would have liked more of them in a weird way. But then I can never get enough of Bonnie's books so...
Some of this was hard to read...not sure I would of picked it up given the subject matter (child abuse) if it hadn't been one of Bonnie's. But she handled the difficult stuff well, and the romance was soothing. I liked the characters well enough. I would have liked more of them in a weird way. But then I can never get enough of Bonnie's books so...
November 18, 2018
I totally enjoyed this book.. I liked both MC’s and the plot was very engaging... I was sucked into this world with these amazing characters from the start...the story just flowed from beginning to end ....
I recommend !
I recommend !
June 21, 2018
Ok that was weird. Also, it should come with a pretty strong trigger warning because it talks extensively about child molestation.
August 20, 2018
Didn't want to end! Thought it was very good. Loved the characters! Another feather in Ms Dee's cap, as far as I'm concerned.
October 28, 2018
Gahh I absolutely hated the bad guy!!!!
May 17, 2020
CW: child sexual abuse
December 11, 2018
Sorry, but no
Too simplicistic
One of the MCs is a tightass in denial, and after a minute he's all "oh wait, I like men, let's try some gay sex"
And the ghost story? Not scary at all
A missed opportunity
December 16, 2018
I liked this one! I do not usually enjoy historical romances, as historically soceity has not been kind to LGBTQ persons. So, this was pleasant surprise. The blurb really got me interested and the sample made me want to find out what happens in the story. It had a lot of depths to the story, more than I thought there would be and I liked that.
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