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Black and Blue #1
The Mysterious and Amazing Blue Billings
Levi Black is at a crossroads. After suffering a loss and breaking up a long-term relationship, he’s looking for a change. When he receives the news he’s inherited a house in York, he seizes the opportunity to begin a new chapter in his life.
However, when he gets there, he finds a house that has never kept its occupants for very long. Either through death or disinclination, no one stays there, and after a few days of living in the place, Levi can understand why. Strange noises can be heard at all hours of the day and night, and disturbing and scary things begin to happen to him. He never believed in ghosts before, but when events take a sinister turn, he knows he must look for help. He finds it in the unlikely form of the blue-haired leader of a ghost tour.
Blue Billings is edgy, beautiful, and lost. Utterly lost. He conceals so many secrets that some days it’s a miracle he remembers his own name. He knows that he should ignore Levi because he threatens the tenuous grip Blue has on survival. But there’s something about the kind-eyed man that draws Blue to him. Something that demands he stay and fight for him when he would normally run in the opposite direction.
As the two men investigate the shocking truth behind Levi’s house, they also discover a deep connection that defies the short length of time they’ve known each other. But when events escalate and his life is on the line, Levi has to wonder if it was wise to trust the Mysterious and Amazing Blue Billings.
However, when he gets there, he finds a house that has never kept its occupants for very long. Either through death or disinclination, no one stays there, and after a few days of living in the place, Levi can understand why. Strange noises can be heard at all hours of the day and night, and disturbing and scary things begin to happen to him. He never believed in ghosts before, but when events take a sinister turn, he knows he must look for help. He finds it in the unlikely form of the blue-haired leader of a ghost tour.
Blue Billings is edgy, beautiful, and lost. Utterly lost. He conceals so many secrets that some days it’s a miracle he remembers his own name. He knows that he should ignore Levi because he threatens the tenuous grip Blue has on survival. But there’s something about the kind-eyed man that draws Blue to him. Something that demands he stay and fight for him when he would normally run in the opposite direction.
As the two men investigate the shocking truth behind Levi’s house, they also discover a deep connection that defies the short length of time they’ve known each other. But when events escalate and his life is on the line, Levi has to wonder if it was wise to trust the Mysterious and Amazing Blue Billings.
278 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 14, 2019
597 people are currently reading
3382 people want to read
About the author
Lily Morton
79 books3,319 followersLily is a bestselling gay romance author.
She lives in sunny England with her husband and two children, all of whom claim that they haven't had a proper conversation with her since she got her Kindle.
She has spent her life with her head full of daydreams, and decided one day to just sit down and start writing about them. In the process she discovered that she actually loved writing because how else would she get to spend her time with hot and funny men?
Her latest release is Under Gorse and Stone, which is a magical Christmas story about a centuries-old dragon and his human mate.
https://getbook.at/UnderGorseAndStone
You can keep up with Lily's latest releases and read the exclusive short stories '3 Dates' and ‘Best Love’ by subscribing to her newsletter: https://bit.ly/LilyMorton-Newsletter
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She lives in sunny England with her husband and two children, all of whom claim that they haven't had a proper conversation with her since she got her Kindle.
She has spent her life with her head full of daydreams, and decided one day to just sit down and start writing about them. In the process she discovered that she actually loved writing because how else would she get to spend her time with hot and funny men?
Her latest release is Under Gorse and Stone, which is a magical Christmas story about a centuries-old dragon and his human mate.
https://getbook.at/UnderGorseAndStone
You can keep up with Lily's latest releases and read the exclusive short stories '3 Dates' and ‘Best Love’ by subscribing to her newsletter: https://bit.ly/LilyMorton-Newsletter
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/SnarkSquad
Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=10000...
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lilymortonauthor
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lilymortonauthor
Pinterest: www.pinterest.co.uk/LilyAuthor
Bookbub: www.bookbub.com/profile/lily-morton
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 963 reviews
August 18, 2023
I loved this book so much. It totally exceeded my expectations.
It was different, refreshing and so well-written. I could literally visualize everything happening in the story and every place mentioned. I loved the characters, the setting, the storyline. The balance between romance and mystery was just about perfect.
I can't say who I adored more, Levi or Blue. Both equally, I guess. They are my favourite type of characters. Levi is a sweetheart, Blue is a bit prickly, but both of them are blunt, honest, funny, caring and kind. I loved the relationship between them. It was slow burn and it was so sweet, tender and natural. My favourite kind.
Tom and Will were pretty great as secondary characters. I enjoyed every scene with them and I hope they'll be in the next book, as well. There were some lovely ghosts, too.
I have read quite a few ghost stories and I have to say that this one might be my favourite. It felt very "realistic“ and believable and everything made sense. I really appreciated how the author managed to deliver such a spooky and suspenseful story without making it sound ridiculous or OTT, which is often the case with ghost/horror stories.
Although it was quite scary at times, I found this story to be so heartwarming and cozy. It gave me all the happy feels and I cannot count how many times I smiled reading it. Definitely one of my favourite reads this year.
*******
Re-read 3/2021
Re-read 8/2022: Still a favourite by this author. I read it while visiting York, mostly in Dean's Park, and it was such a great experience seeing the places mentioned in the book. It is definitely extra special to me now. 😊
Re-read 8/2023: Apparently I can't be in York and not read this book. 😅
It was different, refreshing and so well-written. I could literally visualize everything happening in the story and every place mentioned. I loved the characters, the setting, the storyline. The balance between romance and mystery was just about perfect.
I can't say who I adored more, Levi or Blue. Both equally, I guess. They are my favourite type of characters. Levi is a sweetheart, Blue is a bit prickly, but both of them are blunt, honest, funny, caring and kind. I loved the relationship between them. It was slow burn and it was so sweet, tender and natural. My favourite kind.
Tom and Will were pretty great as secondary characters. I enjoyed every scene with them and I hope they'll be in the next book, as well. There were some lovely ghosts, too.
I have read quite a few ghost stories and I have to say that this one might be my favourite. It felt very "realistic“ and believable and everything made sense. I really appreciated how the author managed to deliver such a spooky and suspenseful story without making it sound ridiculous or OTT, which is often the case with ghost/horror stories.
Although it was quite scary at times, I found this story to be so heartwarming and cozy. It gave me all the happy feels and I cannot count how many times I smiled reading it. Definitely one of my favourite reads this year.
*******
Re-read 3/2021
Re-read 8/2022: Still a favourite by this author. I read it while visiting York, mostly in Dean's Park, and it was such a great experience seeing the places mentioned in the book. It is definitely extra special to me now. 😊
Re-read 8/2023: Apparently I can't be in York and not read this book. 😅
November 12, 2019
This was such a fun story, with loads of intrigue and digging up the past, sometimes quite literally.
London resident and recently-single Levi needed a major life change, so after his partner cheated, he moved to York to fix up a (HAUNTED MURDER!!!) house that he'd recently inherited.
Then, as Levi began to realize the he was indeed the proud owner of a haunted murder house, that gave him the perfect opportunity to finally approach his blue-haired cutie crush, who led the local ghost tour, to ask for information on (and help with) his new home.
["My" interpretation of Blue...]
I adored Blue, and hearing his story of being homeless since age 13 was heartbreaking, so never having known real love, he was beyond wary of his developing feelings toward Levi.
This book had a bit more serious tone to it than some of Lily's very comedic reads, but it had a lot of feels and some funny moments. Like the "tea towel incident", which made me laugh extremely hard.
The horror elements were pretty spooky, although not all of the ghosts that Levi and Blue encountered were of the murdery variety, which was nice.
Like the kitchen scene where Levi's spirits inexplicably lightened and he found himself dancing to an old song from his childhood, but also doing much more at the same time. GAH! Touching scene was very touching.
The story had manageable levels of angst throughout, but I can happily report that there was no "Big Misunderstanding" driving the drama train here. That was handled nicely by a steady stream of ghost-related events that moved the story along at a decent pace.
In regards to steam, this book was an extremely slow burn, with any "real" steam being held off until around 80% or so (I think?)
As for the side characters, I totally fell in love with the old, fussy bookseller, Tom, and Blue's best friend, Will, and am dying to see where their stories go as the series proceeds, although Lily told me that the next book(s?) would be a continuation of Levi and Blue's story.
This story ended at a good place, but with a bit of a "WTF, Lily?" moment, so this wasn't a full-on HEA just quite yet, but I would anticipate that big step happening by the next book.
I'd rate this book at around 4.25 stars and kudos to the author for the inclusion of the Sam & Dean Winchester references, which made me laugh.
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My ARC copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
See All My Latest Reads (Review Quick-Links)
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August 11, 2020
I am gonna be honest here and say that so far 2019 has been a bit of a let down bookwise... Especially when it comes to the mm genre, I wasn't as blown away as I was the previous years. You know who absolutely didn't let me down? Lily Morton !! She wrote some pretty awesome books and I have to say that this book, it took the cake and it will definitely go on my "Top Reads of 2019" list.
Levi is moving to York, where he has inherited a house from some far-away family member. It actually comes at a perfect time, because he has just left his cheating boyfriend and he is ready for a new start. Had he known about the "state" of the house, he might have reconsidered.
It soon becomes clear that his new house isn't like any other house, and even being the skeptic that he is, he has to admit that something is amiss. When he finds out his (murder)house is part of a "ghost tour", the puzzle pieces start to fall together. How he finds out made me laugh my ass off.. poor Levi
.
All of this gives him the perfect excuse to chat up the ghost-tour guide, "the mysterious and amazing" Blue. I mean he has been having his eye on the man since he first saw him.
Turns out the amazing Blue is even more amazing than Levi thought and he comes with some very special abilities. Together they try to find out what is wrong with Levi's house and how to put a stop top it. Secrets are revealed and slowly the danger keeps on rising. Thankfully the love keeps on rising as well and it was wonderful to see these two men grow closer and closer and fall for one another.
This book is definitely a slow burn and the steam level is quite a bit lower than what I was used to from Lily Morton. That said, it had me on the edge of my seat from start to finish and really scared the crap out of me at times. I was totally invested right from the very first line. Blue and Levi were awesome characters and it really felt as if I was "living" this story right along with them, which caused me some serious palpitations.
It was very refreshing to read something different. I am very highly impressed and I really hope there will be more to come...
An ARC was provided to
in exchange for an honest review
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November 15, 2019
This was a pleasant surprise.Something very different from Lily Morton.Ghosts,things that go bump in the night,a plot that had me guessing and hanging on every word to get to the end and a blossoming romance between two highly likeable men.
Levi is ready for a fresh start after the end of a long term relationship.Moving from London to a new house in York he's inherited seems like the perfect solution.The house is in serious need of renovation and straight away the reader is pulled into it's mystery and secrets.
The city of York is the perfect setting here,let me tell you.It's a beautiful city,steeped in history with wonderful old buildings,it's quirky and quaint with loads of character.
The city has secrets which are used for many ghost tours( these tours actually do take place in York-in fact York is known as the world's most haunted city!).One such ghost tour has the enigmatic and rather flamboyant character,Blue in charge.Levi is drawn to him by his appearances initially but it's soon apparent that Blue is no ordinary tour guide....
Without giving too much away Levi and Blue join forces to try and uncover the secrets that surround Levi's house and along the way develop a lovely friendship that turns to so much more.This is a slow burn and I loved the progression of their relationship.
Some great supporting characters( even the ghosts!), and I'm hoping for more from some of them in upcoming books.
Thoroughly enjoyable and one I would recommend.
This review is posted on DirtyBooksObsession
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February 22, 2020
A ghost story is usually not my bag at all. Maybe because I have absolutely zero belief in ghosts. But, after reading this book, I can say with all honesty that I still don't believe in ghosts. And, I'm not going to be adding a "ghosts" book shelf to my goodreads shelves either.
Eh. Not so much. Sorry dudes.
But I liked the book!
It was a cute romance between a guy named Blue who gave ghost tours, and a guy named Levi who inherited a haunted house. The perfect combo! It was kismet!
So beautiful.
Levi enlists Blue to help him figure out what's the deal with all the haunting and shit. There is a super rude ghost living in his place who keeps opening all the windows and letting the heat out. Logic tells us that this is not the ghost of a dad, and you know how us girls get cold easily. It's a real head-scratcher.
That's a real shitty move on the ghost's part.
Of course the two guys fall in love while they try to exorcise the house. It's a romantic setting.
"You're watching a YouTube video on how to purify my house from vengeful spirits?" I nod and he shrugs. "My life is very weird."
Some couples Netflix and chill. Some couples YouTube and smudge. Tomato-tomato.
Noooooo! Not in front of Baby Yoda!
Eh. Not so much. Sorry dudes.
But I liked the book!
It was a cute romance between a guy named Blue who gave ghost tours, and a guy named Levi who inherited a haunted house. The perfect combo! It was kismet!
So beautiful.
Levi enlists Blue to help him figure out what's the deal with all the haunting and shit. There is a super rude ghost living in his place who keeps opening all the windows and letting the heat out. Logic tells us that this is not the ghost of a dad, and you know how us girls get cold easily. It's a real head-scratcher.
That's a real shitty move on the ghost's part.
Of course the two guys fall in love while they try to exorcise the house. It's a romantic setting.
"You're watching a YouTube video on how to purify my house from vengeful spirits?" I nod and he shrugs. "My life is very weird."
Some couples Netflix and chill. Some couples YouTube and smudge. Tomato-tomato.
Noooooo! Not in front of Baby Yoda!
November 13, 2019
Two things:
1 - If this hadn't been written by Lily Morton I would never have read it as I don't really do ghosts and ghouls any more.
2 - It was set in York, a city that was almost a second home to me in my younger days and which I love, living as I do only 35 miles away.
So, the book. As you can probably tell by my rating and where I've shelved it, I absolutely LOVED it. Lily is without doubt one of my absolute favourite authors, and this had all the hallmarks I'd expect from her, but it was also quite a departure in storytelling.
Not that all the Lily Morton elements aren't there. This book still has two characters who will steal your hearts. It's still full of British banter and snark and it still has a heart-meltingly good romance anchoring the narrative.
BUT helpful ghosts and malevolent spirits are not the usual fare from Lily.
Painful pasts and dickhead exes and a real sense of place, which is vividly drawn in the location and the interactions between the main characters and their surroundings, are her hallmarks and are executed with flair here.
Lily slowly builds up the tension as poor Levi's unexpected bequest of a house which overlooks Minster Yard (and OMG can I be jealous of a book character because those properties are stunning!) starts to feel just a little bit dangerous.
I do love a good ghost story, I just don't usually read them any more, or visit York Dungeon, or walk down spooky streets late at night, because I'm no longer the Devil may care young person I once was and I couldn't run away if something did pop out of a gravestone 🤣
But not only did I read this one, I read it all in one go, not finishing it until gone midnight and I couldn't put it down. Everything is perfectly placed.
The slow reveal of the mystery (and okay I guessed it at the start but that's just because I usually do - I think it comes from years of devouring Agatha Christie as a teenager) was so very well done. I loved the different feel of how all the spirits interacted with both Levi and Blue. My heart hurt a lot at times, but there's also great joy in this book.
And, can I say, as secondary characters go, Lily not only has such a knack with creating ones which linger in the conscious and make you want their own stories, but she crafts them so real you can totally visualise a small bookshop, tucked away in sight of the Minster, with a crotchety old man being rude to his customers but with a twinkle in his eye.
I LOVED Tom. I also vividly pictured Will and, while I know there's another book at least for Black and Blue (and can I just say I love this title!), I wouldn't be averse to seeing Will fall on his arse in love with someone (a rare breeds farmer would be perfect here, just saying Lily...)
If you hadn't considered this book because it's not Lily's usual fare, please, please pick it up and read it, I promise you won't regret it, because it pays homage to all the best things about this time of year.
And, if you're ever up in York, take yourself on a Ghost Walk, they're worth every penny to find out more about the secret side of this ancient and most beautiful cities. Pop in to the Minster while you're there too, the Undercroft is worth the entry price alone.
As ever, all gushing totally my own work. I will be in York seeing Lily and a lot of other lovely book peeps in a week or so and I cannot wait to spend time in one of my favourite places ❤
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
1 - If this hadn't been written by Lily Morton I would never have read it as I don't really do ghosts and ghouls any more.
2 - It was set in York, a city that was almost a second home to me in my younger days and which I love, living as I do only 35 miles away.
So, the book. As you can probably tell by my rating and where I've shelved it, I absolutely LOVED it. Lily is without doubt one of my absolute favourite authors, and this had all the hallmarks I'd expect from her, but it was also quite a departure in storytelling.
Not that all the Lily Morton elements aren't there. This book still has two characters who will steal your hearts. It's still full of British banter and snark and it still has a heart-meltingly good romance anchoring the narrative.
BUT helpful ghosts and malevolent spirits are not the usual fare from Lily.
Painful pasts and dickhead exes and a real sense of place, which is vividly drawn in the location and the interactions between the main characters and their surroundings, are her hallmarks and are executed with flair here.
Lily slowly builds up the tension as poor Levi's unexpected bequest of a house which overlooks Minster Yard (and OMG can I be jealous of a book character because those properties are stunning!) starts to feel just a little bit dangerous.
I do love a good ghost story, I just don't usually read them any more, or visit York Dungeon, or walk down spooky streets late at night, because I'm no longer the Devil may care young person I once was and I couldn't run away if something did pop out of a gravestone 🤣
But not only did I read this one, I read it all in one go, not finishing it until gone midnight and I couldn't put it down. Everything is perfectly placed.
The slow reveal of the mystery (and okay I guessed it at the start but that's just because I usually do - I think it comes from years of devouring Agatha Christie as a teenager) was so very well done. I loved the different feel of how all the spirits interacted with both Levi and Blue. My heart hurt a lot at times, but there's also great joy in this book.
And, can I say, as secondary characters go, Lily not only has such a knack with creating ones which linger in the conscious and make you want their own stories, but she crafts them so real you can totally visualise a small bookshop, tucked away in sight of the Minster, with a crotchety old man being rude to his customers but with a twinkle in his eye.
I LOVED Tom. I also vividly pictured Will and, while I know there's another book at least for Black and Blue (and can I just say I love this title!), I wouldn't be averse to seeing Will fall on his arse in love with someone (a rare breeds farmer would be perfect here, just saying Lily...)
If you hadn't considered this book because it's not Lily's usual fare, please, please pick it up and read it, I promise you won't regret it, because it pays homage to all the best things about this time of year.
And, if you're ever up in York, take yourself on a Ghost Walk, they're worth every penny to find out more about the secret side of this ancient and most beautiful cities. Pop in to the Minster while you're there too, the Undercroft is worth the entry price alone.
As ever, all gushing totally my own work. I will be in York seeing Lily and a lot of other lovely book peeps in a week or so and I cannot wait to spend time in one of my favourite places ❤
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
September 21, 2025
Astonishing!!!
This was the second MM Romance book I've read and it was the one that made me addicted go the genre!
It's absolutely fantastic it is in a very special place in my heart, this book is one of my favourites by far! 6 stars shelf!!!
I loved the spooky and fun atmosphere, I felt a little of inspiration from Buffy or Supernatural, and I Love that kind of ambiance, the plot was so intriguing, it grabbed me through every page, love the main characters, their romance was incredible, so sweet and the building was perfect, the love making scenes, exquisite, very well written, so much feelings, in a physical and emotional level, the passion and the love so mesmerising, the humor was in the right places and delightfully unexpected sometimes, the mystery and the spooky moments were spectacular, I was gasping for air several times! Congratulations to Lily Morton!!!
I've got this book also on Audible, exceptional perfomance from Joel Leslie, phenomenal acting, fulled committed, his skills to make different voices and accents are really remarkable!
Definitely one of my favourite narrators, high praises to him!!!
Kudos to Natasha Snow Design for the art cover and to Regina Wanba for the Photograp, marvellous job!!
6 🌟
This was the second MM Romance book I've read and it was the one that made me addicted go the genre!
It's absolutely fantastic it is in a very special place in my heart, this book is one of my favourites by far! 6 stars shelf!!!
I loved the spooky and fun atmosphere, I felt a little of inspiration from Buffy or Supernatural, and I Love that kind of ambiance, the plot was so intriguing, it grabbed me through every page, love the main characters, their romance was incredible, so sweet and the building was perfect, the love making scenes, exquisite, very well written, so much feelings, in a physical and emotional level, the passion and the love so mesmerising, the humor was in the right places and delightfully unexpected sometimes, the mystery and the spooky moments were spectacular, I was gasping for air several times! Congratulations to Lily Morton!!!
I've got this book also on Audible, exceptional perfomance from Joel Leslie, phenomenal acting, fulled committed, his skills to make different voices and accents are really remarkable!
Definitely one of my favourite narrators, high praises to him!!!
Kudos to Natasha Snow Design for the art cover and to Regina Wanba for the Photograp, marvellous job!!
6 🌟
August 20, 2023
This book was very praised by Snjez and she rarely gushes about books so I instantly became curious 😁 Thank you, Snjez, you were right, the book was extremely entertaining (it reminded me a bit of Tempting fools -Orion and Blue were a bit similar) .
4,5 stars rounded down because it dragged a bit towards the end and Levi annoyed me with his refusal to believe there were ghosts in his house (until way later into the book) . Also I wished it had been less of a rom com but I guess it wouldn’t be a Lily Morton book otherwise. It was also a smidge too insta but it worked perfectly here.
Now , let me tell you how much I loved these guys . Well, A FREAKING LOT !!! Blue was such a charming character. I was sorry to see him lose his aloofness and prickliness too early into the book. I loved him like that..mysterious, a bit snarky and quirky . Levi was amazing too and omg, he was a nurturer. He was exactly what Blue needed . The hurt-comfort, the sweetness of their interactions..swoony!
As for the paranormal plot ..well it was creepy as fuck and I was scared like hell. There’s a reason I don’t watch horror movies and this book reminded me of it 🫣😰🤣 Nevertheless,it was well done (if a bit predictable) and it was fabulously atmospheric.Goosebumps!
It’s been a long long time since my last Lily Morton book because lately they’re predictable and the humor is too forced but I enjoyed this one immensely ,one of the reasons being (as usual) the fantastic writing .
4,5 stars rounded down because it dragged a bit towards the end and Levi annoyed me with his refusal to believe there were ghosts in his house (until way later into the book) . Also I wished it had been less of a rom com but I guess it wouldn’t be a Lily Morton book otherwise. It was also a smidge too insta but it worked perfectly here.
Now , let me tell you how much I loved these guys . Well, A FREAKING LOT !!! Blue was such a charming character. I was sorry to see him lose his aloofness and prickliness too early into the book. I loved him like that..mysterious, a bit snarky and quirky . Levi was amazing too and omg, he was a nurturer. He was exactly what Blue needed . The hurt-comfort, the sweetness of their interactions..swoony!
As for the paranormal plot ..well it was creepy as fuck and I was scared like hell. There’s a reason I don’t watch horror movies and this book reminded me of it 🫣😰🤣 Nevertheless,it was well done (if a bit predictable) and it was fabulously atmospheric.Goosebumps!
It’s been a long long time since my last Lily Morton book because lately they’re predictable and the humor is too forced but I enjoyed this one immensely ,one of the reasons being (as usual) the fantastic writing .
December 13, 2019
4 Spooky Stars
I should start off by saying that I am a wimp. This book was spooky as hell and had me freakin out several times. However, that did not stop me from enjoying the story of Levi and Blue.
Levi Black inherits an old house and there are rumors that there is a big mystery surrounding the house. Levi ask the only person he thinks can help, a ghost tour operator, Blue Billings. Slowly, a relationship develops, even though Blue is struggling with a heartbreaking past. Meanwhile, scary things are happening at the house, and they are escalating.
As always, I thoroughly enjoyed the humor that I have come to expect from Lily Morton. The way she described York through the sights, sounds and description of the food, I could almost picture it in my head
I highly recommend this one and if you are a wimp like me, make sure you read it during the day.
I should start off by saying that I am a wimp. This book was spooky as hell and had me freakin out several times. However, that did not stop me from enjoying the story of Levi and Blue.
Levi Black inherits an old house and there are rumors that there is a big mystery surrounding the house. Levi ask the only person he thinks can help, a ghost tour operator, Blue Billings. Slowly, a relationship develops, even though Blue is struggling with a heartbreaking past. Meanwhile, scary things are happening at the house, and they are escalating.
As always, I thoroughly enjoyed the humor that I have come to expect from Lily Morton. The way she described York through the sights, sounds and description of the food, I could almost picture it in my head
I highly recommend this one and if you are a wimp like me, make sure you read it during the day.
October 16, 2024
This was THE perfect book for autumn and spooky season. I can’t imagine reading this in summer, it belongs to dark evenings, rain, hot tea and falling leaves 🍁🍂☔️🫖
I LOVED THIS BOOK.
The whole atmosphere it gave off with York and all its dark academia vibes, the ghost tours and stories, the bookshop with its towering book stacks everywhere, the rain and fog and snow - it was just so COZY. And of course: there is the house and all its spooky inhabitants! I’m normally such a wuss when it comes to scary stuff and while the things happening WERE creepy, I was never actually scared.
I also fell in love with Blue and Levi equally. Both were super unique, with complex and interesting backgrounds and just kind and honest and fierce. I loved their banter (Lily Morton writes amazing banter every single time!), loved their slowish development from strangers to friends to lovers, loved their sexy times, and just how much they cared for each other in general, loved how good they meshed with each other - emotionally and with the ghost hunting.
The whole book managed a perfect balance between romance/relationship development and the mystery and history surrounding the ghosts imo. I genuinely had such a good time with this, 4,5⭐️
PS: I wish I’d read this before visiting York because I’m pretty sure I’ll never look at this city the same again! Also: I really wanna book a flight and a spot on Blue‘s ghost tour RIGHT NOW. Who’s in? 👻
I LOVED THIS BOOK.
The whole atmosphere it gave off with York and all its dark academia vibes, the ghost tours and stories, the bookshop with its towering book stacks everywhere, the rain and fog and snow - it was just so COZY. And of course: there is the house and all its spooky inhabitants! I’m normally such a wuss when it comes to scary stuff and while the things happening WERE creepy, I was never actually scared.
I also fell in love with Blue and Levi equally. Both were super unique, with complex and interesting backgrounds and just kind and honest and fierce. I loved their banter (Lily Morton writes amazing banter every single time!), loved their slowish development from strangers to friends to lovers, loved their sexy times, and just how much they cared for each other in general, loved how good they meshed with each other - emotionally and with the ghost hunting.
The whole book managed a perfect balance between romance/relationship development and the mystery and history surrounding the ghosts imo. I genuinely had such a good time with this, 4,5⭐️
PS: I wish I’d read this before visiting York because I’m pretty sure I’ll never look at this city the same again! Also: I really wanna book a flight and a spot on Blue‘s ghost tour RIGHT NOW. Who’s in? 👻
December 8, 2024
Absolute perfection. Creepy and so atmospheric that I really found myself totally immersed in the story.
Also ... YORK ... oh, probably the most beautiful city in the world. Once you've been there, you get it, ah just like a dream.
The street is narrow and cobbled and the houses are, by and large, Georgian from the looks of them. But what strikes me most is the towering majesty of the Minster which is literally at the end of my street. I can see the huge arched windows and the massive entrance. If I squint, I can even see the intricately carved gargoyles. 😍😍😍
I've been wanting to read this book for ages, but ghost stories aren't really my favorite genre. I'm just a scaredy-cat. And yes, this one was really scary, I'm a little surprised I haven't had nightmares yet, because it's really damn well written. Thankfully not in an over the top way that just goes for the horror.
But my goodness, what a wonderfully perfect story.
The way the plot reveals more and more bit by bit and how the acquaintance and friendship between Levi and Blue are interwoven is masterfully done.
I also especially love how more develops between the two of them, but it is done in such a wonderfully light and careful way.
A small bookcase stands at the side of the bed with my books neatly lined up in it. A note is pinned to it and I reach over and grab it. He’s written in an elegant slashing script, “Plenty of room here for some more,” and underneath he’s drawn a tiny cartoon figure of me curled up in a big chair and reading.
I smile widely, feeling my cheeks hurt as I run my finger down the figure with wild blue hair and a frown of concentration on its small face. It’s rough and has obviously been drawn in a hurry, but his talent is obvious, as is his humour. 🫠🫠🫠
I don't think I want to say anything more about it, it's perfect the way it is. Just read it for yourself.
Also ... YORK ... oh, probably the most beautiful city in the world. Once you've been there, you get it, ah just like a dream.
The street is narrow and cobbled and the houses are, by and large, Georgian from the looks of them. But what strikes me most is the towering majesty of the Minster which is literally at the end of my street. I can see the huge arched windows and the massive entrance. If I squint, I can even see the intricately carved gargoyles. 😍😍😍
I've been wanting to read this book for ages, but ghost stories aren't really my favorite genre. I'm just a scaredy-cat. And yes, this one was really scary, I'm a little surprised I haven't had nightmares yet, because it's really damn well written. Thankfully not in an over the top way that just goes for the horror.
But my goodness, what a wonderfully perfect story.
The way the plot reveals more and more bit by bit and how the acquaintance and friendship between Levi and Blue are interwoven is masterfully done.
I also especially love how more develops between the two of them, but it is done in such a wonderfully light and careful way.
A small bookcase stands at the side of the bed with my books neatly lined up in it. A note is pinned to it and I reach over and grab it. He’s written in an elegant slashing script, “Plenty of room here for some more,” and underneath he’s drawn a tiny cartoon figure of me curled up in a big chair and reading.
I smile widely, feeling my cheeks hurt as I run my finger down the figure with wild blue hair and a frown of concentration on its small face. It’s rough and has obviously been drawn in a hurry, but his talent is obvious, as is his humour. 🫠🫠🫠
I don't think I want to say anything more about it, it's perfect the way it is. Just read it for yourself.
December 3, 2019
Solid 4 stars!
This was a bit of a departure from Lily Morton's norm. Still had her trademark humor/banter.
I don't often read paranormal, but it's nice for a change.
I found the story-line interesting and intriguing. I liked both MCs. There wasn't any un-necessary drama. There was some nice steam.
All in all an enjoyable, recommended read and I'm looking forward to seeing where this series goes.
This was a bit of a departure from Lily Morton's norm. Still had her trademark humor/banter.
I don't often read paranormal, but it's nice for a change.
I found the story-line interesting and intriguing. I liked both MCs. There wasn't any un-necessary drama. There was some nice steam.
All in all an enjoyable, recommended read and I'm looking forward to seeing where this series goes.
December 31, 2019
2.5 stars
While I liked this, this wasn’t the best ghost story I’ve ever read.
I was really into this and really loved the guys. But then ghost stuff started happening and the storyline started to make no sense at all. I like a little logic in my ghost stories, and that was sorely missing here.
If I read a ghost story I need some explanation about how the ghost(s) can be defeated. And if there is a sense of urgency, I need an explanation as to why things need to happen fast. But here I got neither.
I'm actually really surprised that no one else is commenting on this. It's the number one rule in ghost stories I would say.
---SPOILERS AHEAD---
Neither Levi nor Blue had any idea how to defeat the ghost and it never even crossed their minds to do research about how to vanquish it. They wanted to solve the case, and they did, but how did they know that uncovering the true murderer would defeat the evil ghost? They didn’t, so what they came up with was a plan to sneak into the haunted house, in the dark, on the anniversary of the murder, when the ghost would be most powerful. I kept thinking why couldn’t they simply wait til the following morning?? There was no need to go to the house that night to try to find the murderer’s possessions.
I really needed to know why Levi and Blue couldn’t wait another day. Or perhaps after they’d researched how to actually get rid of the ghost. Here they were just being kind of stupid.
I also figured out what was going on in the house and who was responsible in the first few pages. But neither Levi nor Blue were smart enough to come to this conclusion on their own. Which felt weird to me. I didn't think they were supposed to be unintelligent in any way, but they really needed everything spelled out for them.
So while I liked the romance, and the ghost story started out creepy enough, when things started to make less sense I got pulled out of the story and found myself thinking how sloppy the plot actually was..
While I liked this, this wasn’t the best ghost story I’ve ever read.
I was really into this and really loved the guys. But then ghost stuff started happening and the storyline started to make no sense at all. I like a little logic in my ghost stories, and that was sorely missing here.
If I read a ghost story I need some explanation about how the ghost(s) can be defeated. And if there is a sense of urgency, I need an explanation as to why things need to happen fast. But here I got neither.
I'm actually really surprised that no one else is commenting on this. It's the number one rule in ghost stories I would say.
---SPOILERS AHEAD---
Neither Levi nor Blue had any idea how to defeat the ghost and it never even crossed their minds to do research about how to vanquish it. They wanted to solve the case, and they did, but how did they know that uncovering the true murderer would defeat the evil ghost? They didn’t, so what they came up with was a plan to sneak into the haunted house, in the dark, on the anniversary of the murder, when the ghost would be most powerful. I kept thinking why couldn’t they simply wait til the following morning?? There was no need to go to the house that night to try to find the murderer’s possessions.
I really needed to know why Levi and Blue couldn’t wait another day. Or perhaps after they’d researched how to actually get rid of the ghost. Here they were just being kind of stupid.
I also figured out what was going on in the house and who was responsible in the first few pages. But neither Levi nor Blue were smart enough to come to this conclusion on their own. Which felt weird to me. I didn't think they were supposed to be unintelligent in any way, but they really needed everything spelled out for them.
So while I liked the romance, and the ghost story started out creepy enough, when things started to make less sense I got pulled out of the story and found myself thinking how sloppy the plot actually was..
January 15, 2024
Absolutely loved this.
I got actual shivers of fear reading this book, which I don't think has ever happened before and I've read some pretty dark, scary stuff!
I loved both characters and the plot was so engaging. If I hadn't started reading this at night and scared myself, I definitely would have finished this in one sitting 😂
Excited to read the next book, but I'm definitely not starting it until it's daylight because ghosts legit scare me, and I don't want another night of skittish sleep 😂🤦🏻♀️
I got actual shivers of fear reading this book, which I don't think has ever happened before and I've read some pretty dark, scary stuff!
I loved both characters and the plot was so engaging. If I hadn't started reading this at night and scared myself, I definitely would have finished this in one sitting 😂
Excited to read the next book, but I'm definitely not starting it until it's daylight because ghosts legit scare me, and I don't want another night of skittish sleep 😂🤦🏻♀️
April 3, 2021
Reread April 2021
I really like Levi and Blue. And I enjoyed my reread a lot.
Just one question jumped at me this time:
Original review
For some reason it took me quite a while to get to this one.
I think it was the 'ghosty' element I wasn't too sure about.
But I needn't have worried. I really enjoyed this.
As always, the banter between the MCs is brilliant. Lily Morton has a real knack for that, and for sarcy humour.
"Waiting for the government is preferable to waiting for death." He pauses. "Or at the least, it's remarkably similar."
"I just concentrate and don't talk. It's a dying talent in your generation."
"He'd watched one episode of East Enders (a show on British TV that's been going on for about 50 years and known for its endless tragedies...) in horrified silence before pronouncing that he'd rather live in a squat than watch another.
And I loved both, Blue and Levi.
Levi is so honest and steadfast and such a thoroughly good man, while Blue is all emotionally muddled and needs so much love you want to wrap him in cotton wool.
I guess more could have been made of their differences and insecurities, of Blue's past and his struggles, but the emphasis is on solving a puzzle here, one that involves a quite vicious ghost. I liked the mystery of it all, although it isn't too difficult to guess the identity of the violent otherworldy presence in Levi's house.
I was a bit underwhelmed at the final events, but liked the way the case was eventually resolved.
One highlight in this book is definitely Tom, whose snarky ways made me really chuckle.
Despite some elements of horror, this is a light and easy read, with a good amount of feels and action. Just perfect for a lazy weekend.
I really like Levi and Blue. And I enjoyed my reread a lot.
Just one question jumped at me this time:
Original review
For some reason it took me quite a while to get to this one.
I think it was the 'ghosty' element I wasn't too sure about.
But I needn't have worried. I really enjoyed this.
As always, the banter between the MCs is brilliant. Lily Morton has a real knack for that, and for sarcy humour.
"Waiting for the government is preferable to waiting for death." He pauses. "Or at the least, it's remarkably similar."
"I just concentrate and don't talk. It's a dying talent in your generation."
"He'd watched one episode of East Enders (a show on British TV that's been going on for about 50 years and known for its endless tragedies...) in horrified silence before pronouncing that he'd rather live in a squat than watch another.
And I loved both, Blue and Levi.
Levi is so honest and steadfast and such a thoroughly good man, while Blue is all emotionally muddled and needs so much love you want to wrap him in cotton wool.
I guess more could have been made of their differences and insecurities, of Blue's past and his struggles, but the emphasis is on solving a puzzle here, one that involves a quite vicious ghost. I liked the mystery of it all, although it isn't too difficult to guess the identity of the violent otherworldy presence in Levi's house.
I was a bit underwhelmed at the final events, but liked the way the case was eventually resolved.
One highlight in this book is definitely Tom, whose snarky ways made me really chuckle.
Despite some elements of horror, this is a light and easy read, with a good amount of feels and action. Just perfect for a lazy weekend.
December 22, 2019
This was a damn decent ghost story. For me, genuine creepiness is extremely difficult to do on page but Lily Morton succeeded admirably here. In addition, she really kept me guessing *though I really should have gotten it* as to what was behind the haunting, and why.
The romance was honestly secondary for me. I didn't feel much of a connection to the characters, though I did enjoy both Blue and Levi and was happy with how the story turned out for them.
Thank you again to Ivy Mistletoe for the awesome book, I very much enjoyed it! xx
*****
Thank you Ivy Mistletoe for the wonderful gift! I’m very much looking forward to reading it!! 😘
The romance was honestly secondary for me. I didn't feel much of a connection to the characters, though I did enjoy both Blue and Levi and was happy with how the story turned out for them.
Thank you again to Ivy Mistletoe for the awesome book, I very much enjoyed it! xx
*****
Thank you Ivy Mistletoe for the wonderful gift! I’m very much looking forward to reading it!! 😘
June 20, 2020
5 Stars
Spooky, sweet, and sexy! I loved this fantastic mix of mystery and romance, with Morton's trademark humor and sass. I have the biggest soft spot in my heart for her snarky characters who have a deep streak of vulnerability inside. They deserve all the warm cuddles and hugs by their love interests. I wish I lived close to Levi and Blue; wouldn't they make amazing friends?!
Thank you, Lily Morton, for stepping outside of your norm and treating us to this fabulous Gothic delight. I loved it!
Also, *high five* to Morton for sharing lots of love for the tv show Supernatural and my beloved Dean Winchester!! SPNFamily members are the best ;)
Highly recommend (but be sure you read it with the lights on--scary)!
Spooky, sweet, and sexy! I loved this fantastic mix of mystery and romance, with Morton's trademark humor and sass. I have the biggest soft spot in my heart for her snarky characters who have a deep streak of vulnerability inside. They deserve all the warm cuddles and hugs by their love interests. I wish I lived close to Levi and Blue; wouldn't they make amazing friends?!
Thank you, Lily Morton, for stepping outside of your norm and treating us to this fabulous Gothic delight. I loved it!
Also, *high five* to Morton for sharing lots of love for the tv show Supernatural and my beloved Dean Winchester!! SPNFamily members are the best ;)
Highly recommend (but be sure you read it with the lights on--scary)!
November 16, 2019
I love Lily Morton and I loved this.
It's different than her usual romance book and I absolutely loved it. I loved how she was able to deviate from her norm so well but still keep the romance as wonderful as she usually does - with some humor here and there, even if it was less than usual with what was going on in this book.
Having watched The Haunting of Hill House and having been thoroughly freaked out and scared shitless by that show, reading this reminded me greatly of the show - but with romance as a big focus as well ;)
And with one of the characters actually being psychic and able to see the ghosts. (A little different than the show in which any of them could see the ghosts, but still)
When Levi, who has been broken up with his boyfriend of five years for about a year, needs to get away and so decides to move from London into a house in York, he's excited and ready for change. But his solicitor acts weird when they get to the house and almost immediately they hear footsteps upstairs and Levi goes to investigate, thinking someone broke into his house.
But turns out, there's no one there. Levi laughs it off and thinks he's going a little crazy, but the solicitor is duly freaking the fuck out and Levi notices but isn't sure what to make of the behavior.
The house also needs repairs, and when the builder he's hired comes and urges him to stay in a hotel while they're fixing up the house, Levi agrees, and the story truly starts 6 months later when the renovations on Levi's house are done and he moves in, and also for the past week he's seen a striking man with Blue hair leading a Ghost tour group in victorian clothes - but then has also seen him around outside of the tour, in regular clothes, and Levi can't seem to take his eyes off him.
When Blue's tour leads him to Levi's house one afternoon - and the meeting is...quite interesting ;) - Levi hears Blue call it the Murder House and tries to learn more about why it is called that.
Thus starts a wonderful romance - absolutely loved their chemistry and sweetness and intimacy and love. These two are amazing together - and an escalation in the ghostly activities at the house...and a malevolent presence that is increasingly doing scary things in the house.
When Levi discovers that Blue is squatting and basically homeless, Levi offers to have him stay with him - and also Blue might be able to help Levi with the whole haunting thing - and they start to get closer, and closer to what really went on in that house and who the malevolent presence could be.
I loved this book. The haunting was sufficiently creepy as fuck, it was written so well, and the romance was top notch, as usual from Morton.
Blue has had a tough go of things in life, and so he's scared to love and be loved, and is scared of it failing - so this book had a pretty solid HFN ending, but not our usual HEA and showing them a few years in the future settled and happy we get from Morton's books. But that's okay, but I do believe we're getting another (maybe 3? Not sure) book of these two, so that means they still have a big to go get to their HEA, but I can't wait to read more and see how they get there. This ends with them only having been together 5 months, so much more growing to do in their relationship.
Two massive thumbs up from me, though. Absolutely loved this. Highly recommend! <333
It's different than her usual romance book and I absolutely loved it. I loved how she was able to deviate from her norm so well but still keep the romance as wonderful as she usually does - with some humor here and there, even if it was less than usual with what was going on in this book.
Having watched The Haunting of Hill House and having been thoroughly freaked out and scared shitless by that show, reading this reminded me greatly of the show - but with romance as a big focus as well ;)
And with one of the characters actually being psychic and able to see the ghosts. (A little different than the show in which any of them could see the ghosts, but still)
When Levi, who has been broken up with his boyfriend of five years for about a year, needs to get away and so decides to move from London into a house in York, he's excited and ready for change. But his solicitor acts weird when they get to the house and almost immediately they hear footsteps upstairs and Levi goes to investigate, thinking someone broke into his house.
But turns out, there's no one there. Levi laughs it off and thinks he's going a little crazy, but the solicitor is duly freaking the fuck out and Levi notices but isn't sure what to make of the behavior.
The house also needs repairs, and when the builder he's hired comes and urges him to stay in a hotel while they're fixing up the house, Levi agrees, and the story truly starts 6 months later when the renovations on Levi's house are done and he moves in, and also for the past week he's seen a striking man with Blue hair leading a Ghost tour group in victorian clothes - but then has also seen him around outside of the tour, in regular clothes, and Levi can't seem to take his eyes off him.
When Blue's tour leads him to Levi's house one afternoon - and the meeting is...quite interesting ;) - Levi hears Blue call it the Murder House and tries to learn more about why it is called that.
Thus starts a wonderful romance - absolutely loved their chemistry and sweetness and intimacy and love. These two are amazing together - and an escalation in the ghostly activities at the house...and a malevolent presence that is increasingly doing scary things in the house.
When Levi discovers that Blue is squatting and basically homeless, Levi offers to have him stay with him - and also Blue might be able to help Levi with the whole haunting thing - and they start to get closer, and closer to what really went on in that house and who the malevolent presence could be.
I loved this book. The haunting was sufficiently creepy as fuck, it was written so well, and the romance was top notch, as usual from Morton.
Blue has had a tough go of things in life, and so he's scared to love and be loved, and is scared of it failing - so this book had a pretty solid HFN ending, but not our usual HEA and showing them a few years in the future settled and happy we get from Morton's books. But that's okay, but I do believe we're getting another (maybe 3? Not sure) book of these two, so that means they still have a big to go get to their HEA, but I can't wait to read more and see how they get there. This ends with them only having been together 5 months, so much more growing to do in their relationship.
Two massive thumbs up from me, though. Absolutely loved this. Highly recommend! <333
April 2, 2020
4.5 Scared-out-of-my-mind-but-still-loved-it STARS!! 😱😱😍😍
I wasn't expecting such a scary book when I picked it up, but this was dark and very spooky in places. Definitely unlike anything I have read by this author. Nevertheless it was well written and despite the fact that the steam level was low in this book, the slow burn between the MCs and the sweet chemistry between them made up for it. Highly recommended!! 👍👍
I wasn't expecting such a scary book when I picked it up, but this was dark and very spooky in places. Definitely unlike anything I have read by this author. Nevertheless it was well written and despite the fact that the steam level was low in this book, the slow burn between the MCs and the sweet chemistry between them made up for it. Highly recommended!! 👍👍
March 11, 2024
Reread/Relisten #3: March 2024
Book 3 has just released soo obviously have to do a reread, and it’s still just as good as all the other reads!
Reread/Relisten #2: February 2023
In honor of The Sceptic coming out on audio (Feb 15, 2023), I am rereading the "Black and Blue" Series, because this is where we meet Will, and soon we will meet Jem in book two.
But really i just wanted to be back with Blue and Levi, I still love them as much as when i first picked up this book!
I will say the salt scene was by far the best haha it was hilarious, couldn't have written that better myself haha.
Reread/Relisten #1: March 2021
Like everything I said below it still applies. I can’t wait for a few days to get back to York with these two boys!
5 Stars: January 2020.
This was the perfect way to start the new year! This book has a great mix of adventure, love and paranormal. I think that it balanced everything that had to be mixed in to make this story work perfectly.
Levi just inherited an old Georgian Style house in York, England. He wasn't close to the person he inherited it from, but that didn't stop him from taking the house and deciding to moving in. That is when mysterious things start happening. He would hear footsteps upstairs when no one else should be in the house, door and windows would open, and there would be smells that would follow him.
Levi sees Blue throughout the town since Blue has you guessed it has blue hair. One of their first interactions is when Blue is doing his ghost tours, which happened to stop by Levi's house (which that scene in itself is perfect with a tea cloth, if you know you know ;) hehe). Levi decides to see what Blue is saying about his house on the tours and that sparks the friendship.
Blue and Levi are perfect for each other, their interactions and what they will do for each other is precious. You could see their chemistry from the beginning. Also the side characters throughout the book were great like Tom, Will, and Rosalind. There weren't too many interactions with them, but when they were in the scenes you didn't feel like they were just thrown in there.
The mystery of Levi's house that we are trying to solve throughout the book was great, I definitely didn't guess the ending, I had a small inkling, but I think I was enjoying reading about Levi and Blue that the mystery wasn't too important to me.
I can't wait to read more about their adventures. The book ended on a HFN, and it looks like this will be part of a series so I am excited to read more about this world.
Overall if you like MM romances, with a hint of ghosts then this is the book for you! I would recommend Lily Morton for any good MM romances, I believe that this is the 3rd book of hers I have read and is by far my favorite.
Book 3 has just released soo obviously have to do a reread, and it’s still just as good as all the other reads!
Reread/Relisten #2: February 2023
In honor of The Sceptic coming out on audio (Feb 15, 2023), I am rereading the "Black and Blue" Series, because this is where we meet Will, and soon we will meet Jem in book two.
But really i just wanted to be back with Blue and Levi, I still love them as much as when i first picked up this book!
I will say the salt scene was by far the best haha it was hilarious, couldn't have written that better myself haha.
Reread/Relisten #1: March 2021
Like everything I said below it still applies. I can’t wait for a few days to get back to York with these two boys!
5 Stars: January 2020.
This was the perfect way to start the new year! This book has a great mix of adventure, love and paranormal. I think that it balanced everything that had to be mixed in to make this story work perfectly.
Levi just inherited an old Georgian Style house in York, England. He wasn't close to the person he inherited it from, but that didn't stop him from taking the house and deciding to moving in. That is when mysterious things start happening. He would hear footsteps upstairs when no one else should be in the house, door and windows would open, and there would be smells that would follow him.
Levi sees Blue throughout the town since Blue has you guessed it has blue hair. One of their first interactions is when Blue is doing his ghost tours, which happened to stop by Levi's house (which that scene in itself is perfect with a tea cloth, if you know you know ;) hehe). Levi decides to see what Blue is saying about his house on the tours and that sparks the friendship.
Blue and Levi are perfect for each other, their interactions and what they will do for each other is precious. You could see their chemistry from the beginning. Also the side characters throughout the book were great like Tom, Will, and Rosalind. There weren't too many interactions with them, but when they were in the scenes you didn't feel like they were just thrown in there.
The mystery of Levi's house that we are trying to solve throughout the book was great, I definitely didn't guess the ending, I had a small inkling, but I think I was enjoying reading about Levi and Blue that the mystery wasn't too important to me.
I can't wait to read more about their adventures. The book ended on a HFN, and it looks like this will be part of a series so I am excited to read more about this world.
Overall if you like MM romances, with a hint of ghosts then this is the book for you! I would recommend Lily Morton for any good MM romances, I believe that this is the 3rd book of hers I have read and is by far my favorite.
December 29, 2019
I had the most gruesome dream in recent memory BEFORE i started this book. Strangely the scenes could have been from the book, of a woman getting her eyes gouged out and running bloody streaks from her face by a mad man who leapt around like Spider-Man (the latter is not in the book).
Anyway, seems like I was psychologically preparing myself for reading this then.
It was good. I liked the slow build romance between Levi and Blue. Blue reminds me of another tortured hero with somewhat similar background — orphaned, alone, used his body to get by, but fundamentally good. And boy do I have a soft spot for these kinds of characters!
The mystery and suspense was a nice touch but didn’t overwhelm the story. Just interesting enough to keep the pace going and somehow worked with the budding romance too...
I guess there will be more to this series since this is book #1.
I will definitely keep an eye out for it.
Anyway, seems like I was psychologically preparing myself for reading this then.
It was good. I liked the slow build romance between Levi and Blue. Blue reminds me of another tortured hero with somewhat similar background — orphaned, alone, used his body to get by, but fundamentally good. And boy do I have a soft spot for these kinds of characters!
The mystery and suspense was a nice touch but didn’t overwhelm the story. Just interesting enough to keep the pace going and somehow worked with the budding romance too...
I guess there will be more to this series since this is book #1.
I will definitely keep an eye out for it.
October 20, 2022
This one was truly creepy, the bumps, twists and turns kept me in the edge of my seat until the bitter end.
Levi just inherited a house in York just in the knick of time that he was roaring to get out of London, to start fresh.
From his first step in the house strange things started happening. Footsteps upstairs but with no one there to cause them. He had the whole place renovated and he learned stories of tools and equipment being trashed. There’s an almost constant smell of perfume that he can’t explain.
Then he overhears a blue haired man leading a ghost tour call his home ‘The Murder House.’ Turned out at the turn of the century that a widow murdered her brother and then hung herself in his home.
So Blue who’s a raw psychic helps Levi figure out what’s going on in his house. They have a few helping hands along the way and chemistry between them inevitably grows.
Lily did such a great job with the haunting, she sucked you right in until you felt like you were there. Several times I swore I saw something from the corner of my eye or heard something untoward.
The slow growing affection between Blue and Levi was also wonderful. You couldn’t help but love both of them no matter how different they are. Levi is sweet and open while Blue is a bit prickly and terribly independent to his own detriment.
The build up was done perfectly and you were drawn in deeper and deeper until it all culminated in the most explosive manner.
Definitely the spookiest book I’ve read this season.
Levi just inherited a house in York just in the knick of time that he was roaring to get out of London, to start fresh.
From his first step in the house strange things started happening. Footsteps upstairs but with no one there to cause them. He had the whole place renovated and he learned stories of tools and equipment being trashed. There’s an almost constant smell of perfume that he can’t explain.
Then he overhears a blue haired man leading a ghost tour call his home ‘The Murder House.’ Turned out at the turn of the century that a widow murdered her brother and then hung herself in his home.
So Blue who’s a raw psychic helps Levi figure out what’s going on in his house. They have a few helping hands along the way and chemistry between them inevitably grows.
Lily did such a great job with the haunting, she sucked you right in until you felt like you were there. Several times I swore I saw something from the corner of my eye or heard something untoward.
The slow growing affection between Blue and Levi was also wonderful. You couldn’t help but love both of them no matter how different they are. Levi is sweet and open while Blue is a bit prickly and terribly independent to his own detriment.
The build up was done perfectly and you were drawn in deeper and deeper until it all culminated in the most explosive manner.
Definitely the spookiest book I’ve read this season.
August 11, 2020
What a surprisingly delicious book.
Shame on me for hesitating despite all the raving reviews.
Definitely something so unlike the Lily Morton work I'm used to but still her signature style is ever present. Her characters aways pull at my heart strings, and it's the same here with Blue and Levi.
The terrifying presence in Levi's home definitely gave me the chills.
I'm quite certain that I now believe in ghosts 🤦🏽♀️
I really loved Blue & Levi. They fit together so perfectly.
Blue desperately needed someone to love, cherish and heal him. His past is not a pretty one.
"My life was dreary and dark and filled with so much fear, but I only recognise that now because of its absence. Now, I’m learning to look forward to a future rather than living firmly in the present."
Levi is definitely one of those men you look upon tenderly and say his momma raised him right .
He's kind, generous, open minded. A good man inside and out and it shines through beautifully.
The mystery of the hunted house was done wonderfully. At times it chilled me to the bone. The descriptions, Levi & Blue's reactions, all of it really came together in away that immersed me in the story. I was worried for them, terrified of the unknown entity and screaming at them to just leave.
“Everything washes clean in the end.”
“Does it?” He nods serenely.
“Oh, yes. Some things just take more effort.”
This was truly a wonderful story. Unearthing long forgotten truths. Overcoming grief and loss. Accepting love and security. Respecting trust and love.
My main deterrent for not reading this was the slow burn/low-steam aspect. I wasn't sure a horror story with ghosts and no smut would hold my attention.
Well it did. And despite the low-steam aspect there is actually quite a lot of moments of intimacy between Levi and Blue that are equally satisfying. Their friendship that blossoms into more is tender, careful, tentative and made it that much sweeter when they finally allow themselves to fall.
I really hope this is a same-couple series, can't wait for what Lily Morton has in store for the next book.
Great read!
Highly recommend!
Shame on me for hesitating despite all the raving reviews.
Definitely something so unlike the Lily Morton work I'm used to but still her signature style is ever present. Her characters aways pull at my heart strings, and it's the same here with Blue and Levi.
The terrifying presence in Levi's home definitely gave me the chills.
I'm quite certain that I now believe in ghosts 🤦🏽♀️
I really loved Blue & Levi. They fit together so perfectly.
Blue desperately needed someone to love, cherish and heal him. His past is not a pretty one.
"My life was dreary and dark and filled with so much fear, but I only recognise that now because of its absence. Now, I’m learning to look forward to a future rather than living firmly in the present."
Levi is definitely one of those men you look upon tenderly and say his momma raised him right .
He's kind, generous, open minded. A good man inside and out and it shines through beautifully.
The mystery of the hunted house was done wonderfully. At times it chilled me to the bone. The descriptions, Levi & Blue's reactions, all of it really came together in away that immersed me in the story. I was worried for them, terrified of the unknown entity and screaming at them to just leave.
“Everything washes clean in the end.”
“Does it?” He nods serenely.
“Oh, yes. Some things just take more effort.”
This was truly a wonderful story. Unearthing long forgotten truths. Overcoming grief and loss. Accepting love and security. Respecting trust and love.
My main deterrent for not reading this was the slow burn/low-steam aspect. I wasn't sure a horror story with ghosts and no smut would hold my attention.
Well it did. And despite the low-steam aspect there is actually quite a lot of moments of intimacy between Levi and Blue that are equally satisfying. Their friendship that blossoms into more is tender, careful, tentative and made it that much sweeter when they finally allow themselves to fall.
I really hope this is a same-couple series, can't wait for what Lily Morton has in store for the next book.
Great read!
Highly recommend!
August 13, 2024
Suspenseful and spooky, The Mysterious and Amazing Blue Billings is a Lily Morton original.
I loved Blue and Levi, and the ghost/mystery aspect kept me reading long into the night.
I'll be continuing with this series.
I loved Blue and Levi, and the ghost/mystery aspect kept me reading long into the night.
I'll be continuing with this series.
January 6, 2024
4.5 Stars
Goosebumps EVERY time I read this - there’s no way in hell, I would’ve slept in Levi’s house 😅
Goosebumps EVERY time I read this - there’s no way in hell, I would’ve slept in Levi’s house 😅
October 20, 2024
It seems I simply can't find a book that will truly work for me and I'm getting a bit desperate because I was counting on this one 😭 Let's try to unpack this because I have very conflicted feelings...
I loved the first hundred pages. I adored Levi's POV, and the autumn/winter spooky atmosphere was delicious. The haunted house situation was actually creepy at times and I enjoyed the scenes while reading in the dark, living alone 👻
Tom, the old bookseller, was probably my favorite character, I have a soft spot for these types of people (perhaps since I've read A Man Called Ove).
The romance between Levi and Blue...was sweet. I mean, they connected way too fast for me (sleeping in the same bed half naked after knowing each other for barely days is absolutely bonkers to me and my brain refuses the idea that they could've been that comfortable with each other right away. If I squint my eyes and accept it truly was necessary to sleep in the same bed - even though it really was not - why the hell would you not at least dress a bit 😭) but I got over it. I would've liked it more if it was from just Levi's point of view and Blue would remain a bit of a mystery but that is simply my preference, I like to attach myself to one character.
Also, an unpopular opinion I bet - in such a short book, one sex scene is more than enough (unless it's supposed to be pure smut ofc). I always end up skimming if there's more because I get bored and want the plot to move on.
Now, I wanted to love the ghost mystery (even though it wasn't that much of a mystery), the vibes were right at the beginning. Then it spiraled and completely lost me.
It struck me weird that Blue was in terror almost every time he saw a ghost in Levi's house because he'd seen them since forever - and even though the sight is often gruesome, he had seemed resigned and desensitized at the very beginning of the story. His terror later on didn't seem consistent.
I'm not even diving into the lack of research, but both Levi and Blue acting completely illogically regarding the malevolent ghost made me grind my teeth in frustration. There were many scenes where (and were it a horror movie I would), I wanted to shout about their stupidity and that they can die for all I care because apparently they have a death wish anyway 😩 For the last fifty pages I was bored, unfortunately, it should've been the climax and my heart should've been racing. Instead, it made no damn sense and the scene wasn't even spooky anymore, more like cartoonishly ridiculous.
...well 😅 This is just a case of me trying to bring logic where I'm probably supposed to toss it out the window and enjoy the ride. I understand why so many people liked it but it clearly didn't work for me and now I'm probably going to cry in the corner somewhere because I just want a five-star book I can absolutely, mindlessly adore 😭😭
I loved the first hundred pages. I adored Levi's POV, and the autumn/winter spooky atmosphere was delicious. The haunted house situation was actually creepy at times and I enjoyed the scenes while reading in the dark, living alone 👻
Tom, the old bookseller, was probably my favorite character, I have a soft spot for these types of people (perhaps since I've read A Man Called Ove).
The romance between Levi and Blue...was sweet. I mean, they connected way too fast for me (sleeping in the same bed half naked after knowing each other for barely days is absolutely bonkers to me and my brain refuses the idea that they could've been that comfortable with each other right away. If I squint my eyes and accept it truly was necessary to sleep in the same bed - even though it really was not - why the hell would you not at least dress a bit 😭) but I got over it. I would've liked it more if it was from just Levi's point of view and Blue would remain a bit of a mystery but that is simply my preference, I like to attach myself to one character.
Also, an unpopular opinion I bet - in such a short book, one sex scene is more than enough (unless it's supposed to be pure smut ofc). I always end up skimming if there's more because I get bored and want the plot to move on.
Now, I wanted to love the ghost mystery (even though it wasn't that much of a mystery), the vibes were right at the beginning. Then it spiraled and completely lost me.
It struck me weird that Blue was in terror almost every time he saw a ghost in Levi's house because he'd seen them since forever - and even though the sight is often gruesome, he had seemed resigned and desensitized at the very beginning of the story. His terror later on didn't seem consistent.
I'm not even diving into the lack of research, but both Levi and Blue acting completely illogically regarding the malevolent ghost made me grind my teeth in frustration. There were many scenes where (and were it a horror movie I would), I wanted to shout about their stupidity and that they can die for all I care because apparently they have a death wish anyway 😩 For the last fifty pages I was bored, unfortunately, it should've been the climax and my heart should've been racing. Instead, it made no damn sense and the scene wasn't even spooky anymore, more like cartoonishly ridiculous.
...well 😅 This is just a case of me trying to bring logic where I'm probably supposed to toss it out the window and enjoy the ride. I understand why so many people liked it but it clearly didn't work for me and now I'm probably going to cry in the corner somewhere because I just want a five-star book I can absolutely, mindlessly adore 😭😭
June 1, 2021
I'm not good at writing reviews, so I'll just say two words ...
AWE
SOME!!!
Great, original (not contrived) romance ...
a haunted house with multiple ghosts,
a murder mystery, laughs, cries, screams, chills,
...
oh ...
and did I mention a great romance?
FREAKIN' LOVED IT!
Can hardly wait to read the next one!
AWE
SOME!!!
Great, original (not contrived) romance ...
a haunted house with multiple ghosts,
a murder mystery, laughs, cries, screams, chills,
...
oh ...
and did I mention a great romance?
FREAKIN' LOVED IT!
Can hardly wait to read the next one!
February 8, 2024
Re-Read 2024
Even better this go round. Had this been my first read I would have for sure given this five stars. The frustration I felt below on my first read just didn't exist here. Maybe because I remembered a bit or maybe I was just focused differently, I'm not sure. But this read was nothing but an enjoyable ghost story, with an even more beautiful romance. I loved it.
I'm doing a full re-read of this series and the spin-off so I am fully prepared for the new, third book.
*******
I really enjoyed this. I loved the whole Ghost Whisperer type vibe and I absolutely loved the setting and all the history. York and the "Murder House" were like secondary characters in the story and I enjoyed reading about both as much as I enjoyed Levi and Blue.
And I really loved Levi and Blue. I loved the kind of person Levi was, I loved his honestly and just how good he was because we should all be good, no other reason just that he was. Blue's sort of story always gets to me no matter how often I read something similar. It killed me a little inside but he was so special regardless. His light was going to shine no matter what hand life dealt him and I love that he found his someone and finally, love.
The only thing I really struggled with honestly was the "investigation" and the vanquishing of the ghost. I was so frustrated with these boys for not figuring it out and for not researching enough! I like that Blue was learning a bit but I hope in the future books there is a lot more investigation and a lot more why.
I truly can't wait for more in this series. I am a huge fan of the author and love that she's dipped into the PNR side of things.
And lastly, thank you, thank you, thank you. As an owner and lover of very old houses full of history, I really appreciate the treatment of the house in this story. So often in stories the Haunted House and all its history doesn't survive. So, thank you for appreciating the house and doing right by it.
I'm very excited to see what is next for Levi and Blue!
Even better this go round. Had this been my first read I would have for sure given this five stars. The frustration I felt below on my first read just didn't exist here. Maybe because I remembered a bit or maybe I was just focused differently, I'm not sure. But this read was nothing but an enjoyable ghost story, with an even more beautiful romance. I loved it.
I'm doing a full re-read of this series and the spin-off so I am fully prepared for the new, third book.
*******
I really enjoyed this. I loved the whole Ghost Whisperer type vibe and I absolutely loved the setting and all the history. York and the "Murder House" were like secondary characters in the story and I enjoyed reading about both as much as I enjoyed Levi and Blue.
And I really loved Levi and Blue. I loved the kind of person Levi was, I loved his honestly and just how good he was because we should all be good, no other reason just that he was. Blue's sort of story always gets to me no matter how often I read something similar. It killed me a little inside but he was so special regardless. His light was going to shine no matter what hand life dealt him and I love that he found his someone and finally, love.
The only thing I really struggled with honestly was the "investigation" and the vanquishing of the ghost. I was so frustrated with these boys for not figuring it out and for not researching enough! I like that Blue was learning a bit but I hope in the future books there is a lot more investigation and a lot more why.
I truly can't wait for more in this series. I am a huge fan of the author and love that she's dipped into the PNR side of things.
And lastly, thank you, thank you, thank you. As an owner and lover of very old houses full of history, I really appreciate the treatment of the house in this story. So often in stories the Haunted House and all its history doesn't survive. So, thank you for appreciating the house and doing right by it.
I'm very excited to see what is next for Levi and Blue!
October 31, 2023
Levi heredo una casa antigua en el pueblo de York, cosa que le cayo de maravilla porque ya estaba cansado de vivir en Londres, y con su ex todavía fastidiándolo y su madre apenas fallecida, el cambio de aires le sentaría de maravilla. Y aunque la casa necesita muchas renovaciones, no es eso lo que lo inquieta, es la presencia, la energía que tiene la casa, se siente vigilado, acosado cuando esta dentro de ella. Así que cuando escucha a un joven dando un tour de "fantasmas famosos" de York frente a su casa, decide seguir al joven y averiguar un poco mas, y cuando mas sabe de la casa mas miedo le da, pero esta decido a no dejarse vencer por eso. Ahora con la ayuda de Blue (el joven del tour de fantasmas), intentaran limpiar la casa del espíritu que la posee para poder vivir en ella en paz.
Este libro fue muy divertido de leer, entretenido y lleno de emoción. Me gusto bastante el personaje de Blue y el de Tom (el viejo de la librería), la forma como ven los fantasmas e igual les tienen miedo es sumamente realista. El prota Levi sentí que le faltaba algo, tal vez era su incredulidad a los espíritus, o que no se sentía muy realista su personalidad, pero lo deje pasar porque Blue me gusto bastante. En cuanto al misterio, casi desde el principio (que contaron la historia de la casa) supe quien era el espíritu y porque los quería sacar de la casa, así que el descubrimiento al final me dejo como "meh".
En fin, me gusto bastante la historia así que voy a leer el próximo libro, quiero ver como avanza el romance entre la pareja y que otro fantasma se van a encontrar en el camino.
Este libro fue muy divertido de leer, entretenido y lleno de emoción. Me gusto bastante el personaje de Blue y el de Tom (el viejo de la librería), la forma como ven los fantasmas e igual les tienen miedo es sumamente realista. El prota Levi sentí que le faltaba algo, tal vez era su incredulidad a los espíritus, o que no se sentía muy realista su personalidad, pero lo deje pasar porque Blue me gusto bastante. En cuanto al misterio, casi desde el principio (que contaron la historia de la casa) supe quien era el espíritu y porque los quería sacar de la casa, así que el descubrimiento al final me dejo como "meh".
En fin, me gusto bastante la historia así que voy a leer el próximo libro, quiero ver como avanza el romance entre la pareja y que otro fantasma se van a encontrar en el camino.
December 8, 2019
3.5 stars
Ghost stories are not really my thing since I have a hard time keeping my eyes from rolling out of my head. But I was hoping for a good Lily Morton story and she delivered with this one. I adored every character I met. I enjoyed a slow burn romance story without the usual breakup scene and I'm looking forward to more of these two lovely men.
Ghost stories are not really my thing since I have a hard time keeping my eyes from rolling out of my head. But I was hoping for a good Lily Morton story and she delivered with this one. I adored every character I met. I enjoyed a slow burn romance story without the usual breakup scene and I'm looking forward to more of these two lovely men.
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