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The Clearwater Mysteries #1
Deviant Desire
The Ripper casts a long shadow in the fearful streets of the Victorian East End as he preys on vulnerable rent boys. Among them is Silas Hawkins, a nineteen-year-old struggling to survive the harsh realities of life on the streets with his best friend, a Ukrainian refugee, Andrej. Little does Silas know his fate is about to take a dramatic turn when he meets Archer, a captivating and affluent young viscount. Archer, The Viscount Clearwater, stands as a beacon of hope amidst the gloom, living a double life as an adventuring philanthropist and a homosexual in a society that shuns his true desires. When Archer suspects the Ripper's gruesome murders are a twisted ploy to draw him into a deadly confrontation, he risks his reputation and life to thwart the madman's reign of terror. In a world where secrets must be guarded and lovers protected, Archer and Silas embark on a thrilling and perilous journey, one that will lead them to their greatest adventure yet—love. Set in an imagined London of 1888, "Deviant Desire" blends mystery, romance, and adventure into a captivating narrative. This debut novel introduces readers to "The Clearwater Mysteries" series, where themes of loyalty and love, bromance and friendship intertwine in a society where homosexuality is a criminal offense. Prepare to be swept away by the whirlwind of instant attraction, passionate romance, and the relentless pursuit of justice in this compelling series by Jackson Marsh, hailed for his meticulous research and unconventional storytelling. Say goodbye to clichés and embrace a tale filled with rich character development, authentic dialogue, and unpredictable plots that will leave you yearning for more. "Deviant Desire" delivers a powerful mix of mystery, murder, and love, inviting readers to immerse themselves in a world where the heart's desires dare to defy societal norms.
303 pages, Paperback
First published March 7, 2019
124 people are currently reading
317 people want to read
About the author
Jackson Marsh
43 books84 followersJackson Marsh is a British born author of novels and screenplays. He has won awards for his gay erotic writing and currently writes for several adult websites. In 2007, Jackson won an EGPA for his writing and in 2017 won awards for his screenplay writing. He is married and lives in Greece.
You can reach Jackson at his website jacksonmarsh.com
You can reach Jackson at his website jacksonmarsh.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
February 10, 2025
There is no sweeter innocence than our gentle sin (Take Me to Church - Hozier).
Well, well, well, if it isn't it. I've found it! The mystery where everything worked for me! And though this may have taken me a while to finish, it’s really only because I didn’t want to rush through anything! The fact that it had dynamic and nuanced characters, an engaging and dangerous game of cat-and-mouse, and last but not least… it was so damn unapologetically queer! Man, I loved every little thing about this book! As for the plot, we follow Viscount Archer Clearwater (who’s basically Sherlock Holmes with all the eccentricities but without the callousness) and Silas Hawkins (who’s basically the "Watson" and also my favorite character) as they work together to catch “The Ripper,” a serial killer who targets male prostitutes. There’s some pretty heavy stuff here, and as someone who’s go-to mystery tends to be more of the “cozy” variety, I have to admit that it was refreshing to read something that didn’t shy away from the grittier details. And while I still love a cozy mystery, I noticed that by their own function, the genre as a whole can feel a little impersonal at times. A little too clean, too distant, if you know what I mean. That's not the case here, and what made Deviant Desire such a powerful story to me was that it always had empathy and never let the names of the victims be forgotten. It wasn’t just a passing curiosity for the viscount, and I appreciated how he didn't make a game of it. And because every character had an integral role to play in solving the mystery, it helped give the story a sense of urgency and tension that you don’t get all that often. It's a very tight novel, where nothing felt like an afterthought, and I couldn't help but be as invested in the story as the characters were.
Speaking of the characters, another one of the many accomplishments this book had going for it was that I always liked them, even when they weren’t very likeable. I feel like this is pretty rare for me (especially in mysteries), because I feel like I'm always complaining about character motivations and whatnot, but I had no issues with that here. Must have been the impeccable writing! For example, there are many times when Archer (the Viscount) would request to those “below” his status to treat him as their equal and not a lord... but he’s always the first one to bring up his title when things don’t go his way. This immaturity was actually what was most interesting about him, and growing out of this particular ignorance and false humbleness is a large part of his character arc. Moving on though, other than a wonderful mystery packed full of suspense and danger, this was also just a wonderful historical-fiction novel. A lot of them tend to paint an overly idyllic picture of the past in the same vein as, “ah those were the good old days,” without a second thought about the marginalized peoples whose days weren’t so good. I thought it was nice how this book shined a spotlight on the darker corners of history, and painted on a more realistic canvas of the era, in all its uncomfortable clarity. And despite all the terrible things depicted, it's all the more impactful when the core message of the story posits that there is still happiness to be found, even after everything they wen through. When I tell you I could cry. As for the romance, normally I’d say that Silas and Archer probably fall in love a little too quick, but their chemistry was so electric and the mystery so engaging, that I’ll just chalk it up to heightened emotions and all that. Besides, there’s something incredibly special about reading about those who can’t help but wear their hearts on their sleeves!
“It was mildly amusing.”
“You sound like a bad review of a good tragedy."
Well, well, well, if it isn't it. I've found it! The mystery where everything worked for me! And though this may have taken me a while to finish, it’s really only because I didn’t want to rush through anything! The fact that it had dynamic and nuanced characters, an engaging and dangerous game of cat-and-mouse, and last but not least… it was so damn unapologetically queer! Man, I loved every little thing about this book! As for the plot, we follow Viscount Archer Clearwater (who’s basically Sherlock Holmes with all the eccentricities but without the callousness) and Silas Hawkins (who’s basically the "Watson" and also my favorite character) as they work together to catch “The Ripper,” a serial killer who targets male prostitutes. There’s some pretty heavy stuff here, and as someone who’s go-to mystery tends to be more of the “cozy” variety, I have to admit that it was refreshing to read something that didn’t shy away from the grittier details. And while I still love a cozy mystery, I noticed that by their own function, the genre as a whole can feel a little impersonal at times. A little too clean, too distant, if you know what I mean. That's not the case here, and what made Deviant Desire such a powerful story to me was that it always had empathy and never let the names of the victims be forgotten. It wasn’t just a passing curiosity for the viscount, and I appreciated how he didn't make a game of it. And because every character had an integral role to play in solving the mystery, it helped give the story a sense of urgency and tension that you don’t get all that often. It's a very tight novel, where nothing felt like an afterthought, and I couldn't help but be as invested in the story as the characters were.
Speaking of the characters, another one of the many accomplishments this book had going for it was that I always liked them, even when they weren’t very likeable. I feel like this is pretty rare for me (especially in mysteries), because I feel like I'm always complaining about character motivations and whatnot, but I had no issues with that here. Must have been the impeccable writing! For example, there are many times when Archer (the Viscount) would request to those “below” his status to treat him as their equal and not a lord... but he’s always the first one to bring up his title when things don’t go his way. This immaturity was actually what was most interesting about him, and growing out of this particular ignorance and false humbleness is a large part of his character arc. Moving on though, other than a wonderful mystery packed full of suspense and danger, this was also just a wonderful historical-fiction novel. A lot of them tend to paint an overly idyllic picture of the past in the same vein as, “ah those were the good old days,” without a second thought about the marginalized peoples whose days weren’t so good. I thought it was nice how this book shined a spotlight on the darker corners of history, and painted on a more realistic canvas of the era, in all its uncomfortable clarity. And despite all the terrible things depicted, it's all the more impactful when the core message of the story posits that there is still happiness to be found, even after everything they wen through. When I tell you I could cry. As for the romance, normally I’d say that Silas and Archer probably fall in love a little too quick, but their chemistry was so electric and the mystery so engaging, that I’ll just chalk it up to heightened emotions and all that. Besides, there’s something incredibly special about reading about those who can’t help but wear their hearts on their sleeves!
“It was mildly amusing.”
“You sound like a bad review of a good tragedy."
March 9, 2026
5.0 stars ...
Enthralling,
checks all the boxes for me!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
(Let me add that you will enjoy this even more if you read the prequel novel #0, 'Banyak and Fecks' Banyak & Fecks first to get the backstory of the two main characters and what led them to this point. This novel, #1, begins exactly where #0 ends.)
Enthralling,
checks all the boxes for me!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
(Let me add that you will enjoy this even more if you read the prequel novel #0, 'Banyak and Fecks' Banyak & Fecks first to get the backstory of the two main characters and what led them to this point. This novel, #1, begins exactly where #0 ends.)
January 10, 2020
this was absolutely FECKING AMAZING and it looks like i have another author to add to my Must Read Everything They've Ever Written list...
yes, it was quite instalovey. yes, the whole portrait thing was a bit farfetched. but the writing and the character explorations were so good that i didn't care, and seeing as i usually like instalove about as much as i like cockroaches in my cheesecake, that's saying something.
yes, it was quite instalovey. yes, the whole portrait thing was a bit farfetched. but the writing and the character explorations were so good that i didn't care, and seeing as i usually like instalove about as much as i like cockroaches in my cheesecake, that's saying something.
March 30, 2021
A gripping read for the most part. And surprisingly I was not reading it for the romance.
I never thought I would be reading a book based on the Ripper and would enjoy it, but here we are.
I loved the setting and the whole vibe of the book. A little mysterious but also funny at times. The story starts with Silas and we follow him along; his everyday life as a rentboy, how he tries to turn a trick and just get a penny for food or a place in a mollyhouse to sleep on a rope. Despite his profession I found his character funny and laidback, like he accepted what life dealt to him and he tries to make the best of it. Along with his Ukranian friend, Fecker. They're one strange and entertaining pair. They're not too concerned about the killer slashing the rentboys, or at least not more than they're usually are when turning tricks.
On the other side of the city, Archer, the Viscount of Clearwater House is plotting. Someone is killing rentboys and the police doesn't seem to care or know what to do.
And that's about all I can tell without spoilers.
It takes a while for Silas and Archer to meet. Past the halfway point. Up until then it was a really entertaining and enlightening read. But the reviews were right there is insta-love, it just came way later in the story than I expected, only coz it took a while for the author to set up the right circumstances for it. Well if you ask me, there is no "right" way to implement insta-love but I'm trying not to judge.
The romantic element actually lessened the enjoyment for me. Not necessarily because of the insta-love, but the way they were behaving all lovey-dovey was a bit off-putting and it drew away the focus from the mystery.
Written in 3rd person, we get 4 povs. Mainly Archer and Silas. We also have Thomas, Archer's footman. At first I didn't know what was the purpose for Tom's pov, if there was any. But I kind of liked his character the best. Which is weird I know. I just loved his internal struggles, it was funny and concerning at the same time. The story introduces the society perfectly, which now that I think about it, that must be where Thomas's role is most important.
The book ends on a little cliffy, tho I'd like to think of it more as a setup for the next book.
3.5 stars
I never thought I would be reading a book based on the Ripper and would enjoy it, but here we are.
I loved the setting and the whole vibe of the book. A little mysterious but also funny at times. The story starts with Silas and we follow him along; his everyday life as a rentboy, how he tries to turn a trick and just get a penny for food or a place in a mollyhouse to sleep on a rope. Despite his profession I found his character funny and laidback, like he accepted what life dealt to him and he tries to make the best of it. Along with his Ukranian friend, Fecker. They're one strange and entertaining pair. They're not too concerned about the killer slashing the rentboys, or at least not more than they're usually are when turning tricks.
On the other side of the city, Archer, the Viscount of Clearwater House is plotting. Someone is killing rentboys and the police doesn't seem to care or know what to do.
And that's about all I can tell without spoilers.
It takes a while for Silas and Archer to meet. Past the halfway point. Up until then it was a really entertaining and enlightening read. But the reviews were right there is insta-love, it just came way later in the story than I expected, only coz it took a while for the author to set up the right circumstances for it. Well if you ask me, there is no "right" way to implement insta-love but I'm trying not to judge.
The romantic element actually lessened the enjoyment for me. Not necessarily because of the insta-love, but the way they were behaving all lovey-dovey was a bit off-putting and it drew away the focus from the mystery.
Written in 3rd person, we get 4 povs. Mainly Archer and Silas. We also have Thomas, Archer's footman. At first I didn't know what was the purpose for Tom's pov, if there was any. But I kind of liked his character the best. Which is weird I know. I just loved his internal struggles, it was funny and concerning at the same time. The story introduces the society perfectly, which now that I think about it, that must be where Thomas's role is most important.
The book ends on a little cliffy, tho I'd like to think of it more as a setup for the next book.
3.5 stars
May 16, 2025
Silas ha vivido en las calles desde los 16 años, aprendiendo a sobrevivir viviendo del sexo, y durmiendo en broteles. Junto con su amigo Andrej, ha aprendido todo lo que se puede para sobrevivir en las calles de la ciudad. Pero nunca imagino verse dentro de una casa de un Lord "explicándole" como es la vida en la calle y lo que chicos como él necesitan. Sin embargo, tampoco imagino que estaría ayudándolo a atrapar al asesino de jóvenes prostitutos, a quien ni la policía ni los "misioneros" habían logrado ubicar. Pero podrán capturar al asesino? Que pasará después? Silas podrá tener una mejor vida? Que pasará con la "ayuda" que les quiere dar el Lord?
Es un libro que comienza muy complejo, diferentes puntos de vista, diferentes personajes y todos protagonistas de una forma u otra. Un universo muy realista para la época, y un lenguaje bastante difícil de leer por la cantidad de manerísmos que incluye. Además, el tema de la formalidad al hablar y la cantidad de modismos que emplean, me costo un poco entender los diálogos en algunos momentos. Por otro lado, la historia comienza lenta, muy lenta, y después de la mitad se entiende hacia donde va el drama y cual es la verdadera pareja protagonista.
En fin, fue un buen libro, entretenido, diferente, voy a continuar con la serie esperando que me resulten mas sencillos que este.
Es un libro que comienza muy complejo, diferentes puntos de vista, diferentes personajes y todos protagonistas de una forma u otra. Un universo muy realista para la época, y un lenguaje bastante difícil de leer por la cantidad de manerísmos que incluye. Además, el tema de la formalidad al hablar y la cantidad de modismos que emplean, me costo un poco entender los diálogos en algunos momentos. Por otro lado, la historia comienza lenta, muy lenta, y después de la mitad se entiende hacia donde va el drama y cual es la verdadera pareja protagonista.
En fin, fue un buen libro, entretenido, diferente, voy a continuar con la serie esperando que me resulten mas sencillos que este.
September 2, 2024
The setting and general idea of the book were interesting, especially the part revolving around the Ripper investigation. At first I was really intrigued by the unusual set of characters and their interactions, but the more the book progressed, the more I became aware of the parts of it that didn’t quite work for me. The romance was basically love at first sight and that was about it as far as relationship development goes. The reader gets told that Archer and Silas are instantly (and inexplicably) in love with each other, and I don’t see why that had to be so, since there was the time and means to make them get to know each other first. Something similar seemed to happen, on different levels, with other relationships between the MCs and the secondary characters, with the writing just saying that there was a deep connection forged, instead of letting the reader see it.
After the romance lost my interest, the mystery/investigation held it for a good part of the book, until the identity of the culprit was revealed and then I just had to struggle to finish because, without any real investment on the characters’ lives, I didn’t care much about what was left to settle.
I think the story had good bones, but the writing, while not being overtly bad—with the noticeable exception of the lack of editing (if I never see another no one written with a hyphen it will be too soon)—didn’t completely make it work for me.
After the romance lost my interest, the mystery/investigation held it for a good part of the book, until the identity of the culprit was revealed and then I just had to struggle to finish because, without any real investment on the characters’ lives, I didn’t care much about what was left to settle.
I think the story had good bones, but the writing, while not being overtly bad—with the noticeable exception of the lack of editing (if I never see another no one written with a hyphen it will be too soon)—didn’t completely make it work for me.
August 4, 2024
I really enjoyed the world building, plot and mystery but was a wee bit disappointed by the truly instalove between Silas and Archer. Marsh makes it work but I feel like it wouldn’t have been hard to grow the relationship from meeting to love a little more slowly and organically and I couldn’t stop thinking about that. From a ‘romance’ standpoint, the relationship building was underwhelming but aside from that aspect, the rest of the story building was captivating and engaging.
4 stars. I’m all in for good queer stories and this fit that criteria for me even if a slower romance progression would have bumped the story from 4 stars to 5.
4 stars. I’m all in for good queer stories and this fit that criteria for me even if a slower romance progression would have bumped the story from 4 stars to 5.
April 23, 2020
Rounding up from 2.5
First, the positives:
Stylistically, this is very well written. The prose is engaging and realistic for the setting/period, and it has some great dialogue and characters. Speaking of the period, it was obviously intensively researched, which I will never not appreciate. The background story was interesting enough to keep me involved through the whole thing - I love a good twist on a trope (or historical story) even more than I love a good mystery, so the Ripper-hunting-rentboys was right in my wheelhouse.
Now, the...less positives (spoilers ahead, but I'll try to keep them soft):
Though I loved the characters individually, I never once felt they gelled *together*. Which is very disappointing in a romance. This, I think, is a problem of pacing. I read another review which mentioned the insta-love between Silas and Archer and, in hopes the reviewer was the nitpicky sort, discarded it, but it turned out to be absolutely on the money. Archer (the viscount), and Silas (the rentboy) meet each other all of twice - both times in rather impersonal fashions - before they realize they're in love. (Note: when I say 'impersonal' I don't mean 'for paid sex'; I mean, 'for interviews where there are several people at the table'.) Before this, the writer took the time to build up such a sense of involvement between Archer and Thomas (his first footman), and a sense of sexual interest between Silas and Thomas, that I thought he was setting up a poly relationship between the three men. And then, BAM: Silas and Archer see each other, and it's all over. They are In Love. Honestly, this nearly ruined the story for me, and I genuinely can't understand why Marsh went there. Simply having Archer and Silas think to themselves how impossible it is to love someone after meeting them twice doesn't excuse the writing of it.
And in regards to Thomas, Marsh could have easily established an abiding friendship between him and Archer, without the sexual element, and perhaps a flirtation between him and Silas (given Silas' profession), and the book would have been so much stronger for it. But this threw the relationship dynamics completely out of whack. I kept getting the sense that Marsh had a lot of ideas but, upon editing, had cut the wrong ones. Thomas was a great character; Silas, just as good; Archer, my least favorite. All three of them in the same room...a convoluted mess, but one that could have been very cool if done right.
(While I'm on the subject of convoluted messes, let me insert here that the plot I was so eager to read, which was introduced so well, fell apart to such a degree I felt like I was staring at a mosaic someone had taken a sledgehammer to. There was an overwhelmning abundance of red-herringed 'clues' about the Ripper, most of which were introduced only to be dismissed with a handwave four paragraphs later. There was no set up for the "twist ending". None. To be fair, I think Marsh *tried* to set it up in one instance, but missed the mark entirely. I think some writers just honestly don't *know* what makes a good plot twist, and mistakenly write an out-of-nowhere ending in an attempt to do it; it's in the establishing of breadcrumbs that you can look back upon with wide eyes that makes a proper plot twist. Little or big moments to which the readers can return and shake their heads at themselves for having not cottoned on.)
The sex was...meh. Mostly fine, but the weakest writing - as opposed to the weak plotting - in the book, graphic though it was.
I wanted to like this more; it was just too contradictory. Smart, interesting characters who make wholly stupid decisions (looking at Archer in particular, who served in the Navy but also comes out of this frequently making decisions that a 12 year old would make?), mediocre sex, a romance that could have been fantastic Marsh had put as much effort into it as he clearly did with research but that fizzled because he didn't, bland spaces where twists might have helped and twists introduced where they were unnecessary - and on top of all that, unbelievably, Marsh leaves us with a cliffhanger.
I won't be finishing this series. But the writing itself (excepting the sex) was good enough to keep me reading this book, and for that alone it deserved a couple of stars.
First, the positives:
Stylistically, this is very well written. The prose is engaging and realistic for the setting/period, and it has some great dialogue and characters. Speaking of the period, it was obviously intensively researched, which I will never not appreciate. The background story was interesting enough to keep me involved through the whole thing - I love a good twist on a trope (or historical story) even more than I love a good mystery, so the Ripper-hunting-rentboys was right in my wheelhouse.
Now, the...less positives (spoilers ahead, but I'll try to keep them soft):
Though I loved the characters individually, I never once felt they gelled *together*. Which is very disappointing in a romance. This, I think, is a problem of pacing. I read another review which mentioned the insta-love between Silas and Archer and, in hopes the reviewer was the nitpicky sort, discarded it, but it turned out to be absolutely on the money. Archer (the viscount), and Silas (the rentboy) meet each other all of twice - both times in rather impersonal fashions - before they realize they're in love. (Note: when I say 'impersonal' I don't mean 'for paid sex'; I mean, 'for interviews where there are several people at the table'.) Before this, the writer took the time to build up such a sense of involvement between Archer and Thomas (his first footman), and a sense of sexual interest between Silas and Thomas, that I thought he was setting up a poly relationship between the three men. And then, BAM: Silas and Archer see each other, and it's all over. They are In Love. Honestly, this nearly ruined the story for me, and I genuinely can't understand why Marsh went there. Simply having Archer and Silas think to themselves how impossible it is to love someone after meeting them twice doesn't excuse the writing of it.
And in regards to Thomas, Marsh could have easily established an abiding friendship between him and Archer, without the sexual element, and perhaps a flirtation between him and Silas (given Silas' profession), and the book would have been so much stronger for it. But this threw the relationship dynamics completely out of whack. I kept getting the sense that Marsh had a lot of ideas but, upon editing, had cut the wrong ones. Thomas was a great character; Silas, just as good; Archer, my least favorite. All three of them in the same room...a convoluted mess, but one that could have been very cool if done right.
(While I'm on the subject of convoluted messes, let me insert here that the plot I was so eager to read, which was introduced so well, fell apart to such a degree I felt like I was staring at a mosaic someone had taken a sledgehammer to. There was an overwhelmning abundance of red-herringed 'clues' about the Ripper, most of which were introduced only to be dismissed with a handwave four paragraphs later. There was no set up for the "twist ending". None. To be fair, I think Marsh *tried* to set it up in one instance, but missed the mark entirely. I think some writers just honestly don't *know* what makes a good plot twist, and mistakenly write an out-of-nowhere ending in an attempt to do it; it's in the establishing of breadcrumbs that you can look back upon with wide eyes that makes a proper plot twist. Little or big moments to which the readers can return and shake their heads at themselves for having not cottoned on.)
The sex was...meh. Mostly fine, but the weakest writing - as opposed to the weak plotting - in the book, graphic though it was.
I wanted to like this more; it was just too contradictory. Smart, interesting characters who make wholly stupid decisions (looking at Archer in particular, who served in the Navy but also comes out of this frequently making decisions that a 12 year old would make?), mediocre sex, a romance that could have been fantastic Marsh had put as much effort into it as he clearly did with research but that fizzled because he didn't, bland spaces where twists might have helped and twists introduced where they were unnecessary - and on top of all that, unbelievably, Marsh leaves us with a cliffhanger.
I won't be finishing this series. But the writing itself (excepting the sex) was good enough to keep me reading this book, and for that alone it deserved a couple of stars.
July 5, 2019
I was a bit concerned about reading the slasher murders but thankfully, the gore is kept to a minimum. The author skillfully sets up the contrast between seedy slum streets and upscale high society townhouse. The main character pair as well as some secondary characters are wonderfully drawn with great dialogue / banter going throughout. Methinks this Victorian series will give other authors like K J Charles a run for their money. These Clearwater books are part of a three book arc so should definitely be read in order.
January 27, 2022
The first half of this book had me hooked. Really nice character development and I loved the friendship between Silas and Fecks. The story idea is over the top, but the author describes it as alternative history so I was willing to go there. The instalove was the first warning for me. But unfortunately the second half with the plot twists and romance just didn’t work for me. Enough so that while the characters feel real to me I don’t think I can read more of the series.
February 18, 2020
I don’t think I’m supposed to ship Silas and Fecker.
November 13, 2022
I liked the first half well enough and enjoyed the setting for the mystery. I had my issues with Archie (mostly, that he was asking the impossible from Thomas, and was a terrible and selfish thing to ask) but I was willing to wait and see how the story went.
Regarding the mystery, it went quite nicely. I resented a bit the twist at the end because wasn't fair play for the readers, but, okay, I can deal with it.
Now, the romance? That, I can't. It's not only instalove, it's the worst kind of instalove. Cinderella-style, overly sugary, and not-in-your-fucking-life instalove. Yes, I hated it. Yes, it'll probably prevent me for keep reading this series.
I only liked Thomas here. And Feker, for the little bit we had it. But I really disliked Archer. He's such a spoiled brat! Take for example this bit:
Yes, Tripp is stiff and a bit wooden but he's a man proud of doing his job the right way, and loyal to the core, not a shallow man, you asshat!
And then, we have this:
After knowing the man for a couple of hours? Really? *bangs head against wall*
So yes, entertaining mystery, but the shallow romance ruined it for me.
Regarding the mystery, it went quite nicely. I resented a bit the twist at the end because wasn't fair play for the readers, but, okay, I can deal with it.
Now, the romance? That, I can't. It's not only instalove, it's the worst kind of instalove. Cinderella-style, overly sugary, and not-in-your-fucking-life instalove. Yes, I hated it. Yes, it'll probably prevent me for keep reading this series.
I only liked Thomas here. And Feker, for the little bit we had it. But I really disliked Archer. He's such a spoiled brat! Take for example this bit:
Flattery always worked with Tripp. He was a shallow man.
Yes, Tripp is stiff and a bit wooden but he's a man proud of doing his job the right way, and loyal to the core, not a shallow man, you asshat!
And then, we have this:
Silas’ joy at seeing him brought Archer to the edge of tears. Short of breath, he swallowed an involuntarily sob and growled the emotion from his throat.
After knowing the man for a couple of hours? Really? *bangs head against wall*
So yes, entertaining mystery, but the shallow romance ruined it for me.
June 21, 2022
3.5 stars
Mystery/historical romance set in 19th-century London.
A decent read but could have been better. I didn't find the main couple appealing. They're kind of bland. The plot and the mystery kept me entertained though.
Mystery/historical romance set in 19th-century London.
A decent read but could have been better. I didn't find the main couple appealing. They're kind of bland. The plot and the mystery kept me entertained though.
April 3, 2019
I really wanted to love this book. Like I REALLY wanted to. But I just didn’t. It dragged and dragged. There was a major insta love between the two main characters (like after only two days). The story was interesting. And for me to say it had the potential to be awesome is a slight on the author. That, I feel, is a personal preference of mine and in no way the fault of the author. The one thing I really loved was the dynamic between Silas and Fecker.
January 20, 2023
O bother, now I've got a new author to follow
I read too many m/m romances for my own good. When I find one that is as historically accurate and intriguing as this one I'm forced to write a review.
Most m/m historical romance is fantasy, but this author writes from a perspective that realizes what actual horrors could happen to gay men prior to the 21st century. And still spin the story into a HEA with the grace of a flamenco dance.
I read too many m/m romances for my own good. When I find one that is as historically accurate and intriguing as this one I'm forced to write a review.
Most m/m historical romance is fantasy, but this author writes from a perspective that realizes what actual horrors could happen to gay men prior to the 21st century. And still spin the story into a HEA with the grace of a flamenco dance.
October 13, 2019
What a spectacular mystery!
I love gothic mystery romance. Victorian is my favorite setting. This book has it all from the Molly's and street rats to the wealthier that do their best to help. Feck is gonna be my favorite character. I hop he is in all the books.
I love gothic mystery romance. Victorian is my favorite setting. This book has it all from the Molly's and street rats to the wealthier that do their best to help. Feck is gonna be my favorite character. I hop he is in all the books.
December 25, 2021
The Ripper and the
Confused, dull Victorians.
Twee sex; instalove.
Confused, dull Victorians.
Twee sex; instalove.
May 4, 2019
Archer Riddington, Viscount of Clearwater, is working on a plan to help the less fortunate, that survive in the East End of London, especially the “renters”. Archer is different, in more ways than one, he want’s to move on from the old ways of living. While the East End is plagued with the “Ripper” murders of “renters”, Archer has his own theories and is looking deeper into solving the horrific murders.
Thomas Payne, footman, to Archer, have known each other since a very young age. Even though their stations in life are very different Archer want’s to build a friendship with Thomas. Thomas, too has secrets, but he reluctantly becomes Archers friend and finds himself caught up in Archers theories of the murders.
Silas Hawkins and his best friend Andrej live on the streets in the East End. They are both “renters” and do their best to survive. Andrej is loyal to Silas and has made it his job to protect Silas. Both Silas and Andrej have to be very careful living in the East End, as they know they could be the “Rippers” next victim.
As Archers plan starts to unfold, the first task is to have Thomas carry out his request. It takes Thomas into the East End to persuade Silas to come with him to Clearwater. After much chaos, Silas and Andrej find themselves on the way to Clearwater and are curious to find what lays in-store for them.
As Archer reveals his plans to this unique group of men, they form a bond. As they all strive to catch the Ripper, is there someone else in their midst that can reveal their secrets and destroy their lives?
I totally enjoyed this first time read for me by Jackson Marsh. He created a classic murder mystery with a twist and I was stumped a few times in trying to figure out who the “Ripper” is. The plot is also suspenseful, with danger, action and loaded with great and interesting characters. He takes us back to the East End of London in 1888 and gives a very vivid description of what life is like on the streets and the people who have to do what they need to survive. The colorful language peppered throughout also lends to the time frame of the story.
As for the characters the author gives an in-depth look at them all. I really liked Archer, who has good intentions when it comes to helping people less fortunate than him. He’s also creative in his process to help solve the murders. Silas is somewhat of a jokester and flirt even though he’s had a hard life. As the relationship grows between him and Archer there’s some very emotional moments.
For me, “Deviant Desire” was a page-turner and a well written mystery. I’m ready for book two “Twisted Tracks” to see where Jackson Marsh takes these likable characters. I hope he has more planned for “The Clearwater Mysteries”.
Thomas Payne, footman, to Archer, have known each other since a very young age. Even though their stations in life are very different Archer want’s to build a friendship with Thomas. Thomas, too has secrets, but he reluctantly becomes Archers friend and finds himself caught up in Archers theories of the murders.
Silas Hawkins and his best friend Andrej live on the streets in the East End. They are both “renters” and do their best to survive. Andrej is loyal to Silas and has made it his job to protect Silas. Both Silas and Andrej have to be very careful living in the East End, as they know they could be the “Rippers” next victim.
As Archers plan starts to unfold, the first task is to have Thomas carry out his request. It takes Thomas into the East End to persuade Silas to come with him to Clearwater. After much chaos, Silas and Andrej find themselves on the way to Clearwater and are curious to find what lays in-store for them.
As Archer reveals his plans to this unique group of men, they form a bond. As they all strive to catch the Ripper, is there someone else in their midst that can reveal their secrets and destroy their lives?
I totally enjoyed this first time read for me by Jackson Marsh. He created a classic murder mystery with a twist and I was stumped a few times in trying to figure out who the “Ripper” is. The plot is also suspenseful, with danger, action and loaded with great and interesting characters. He takes us back to the East End of London in 1888 and gives a very vivid description of what life is like on the streets and the people who have to do what they need to survive. The colorful language peppered throughout also lends to the time frame of the story.
As for the characters the author gives an in-depth look at them all. I really liked Archer, who has good intentions when it comes to helping people less fortunate than him. He’s also creative in his process to help solve the murders. Silas is somewhat of a jokester and flirt even though he’s had a hard life. As the relationship grows between him and Archer there’s some very emotional moments.
For me, “Deviant Desire” was a page-turner and a well written mystery. I’m ready for book two “Twisted Tracks” to see where Jackson Marsh takes these likable characters. I hope he has more planned for “The Clearwater Mysteries”.
June 2, 2019
I love Victorian historical novels and boy did I love this one. Everything felt real and as I imagine life was back in the 1800’s. The author paints a vivid picture of life on the streets of renters (rent boys) and other street workers. He vividly paints the fog and smog that envelopes the street of heavy industry. And the luxury of the aerostats with they velvet curtains and plush furnishings. But it is not just the visual picture he paints. The smells are also perfectly described and add to your senses.
Archer is a young Viscount Clearwater. Recently given the title and his fathers estate. Archer wants to change things; he sees the wrongs of the class society. He firmly believes that he was simply lucky to be born on the right side of the class divide, and he could as easily have been born by pure parents. He could be the one having to sell his body to feed himself, putting himself at great risk of disease and the terrors of street life.
Silas is a renter who sells his body for sex, to be able to feed himself and if he is lucky to have somewhere to lay his head at night. Living on the filthy streets is hard and yet he keeps going with the help of his friend Fecker a Ukrainian renter. The banter between the two is superb. Fecker’s act first think later attitude is funny at times, especially when the boys meet with Archer.
There are two other characters that also stand out, The Footman Thomas who has loved the Viscount all his life and would be his best friend if they were from the same class. Archer manages to make that happen at least in private and they confide in each other.
The old butler is the other minor character who stands out, he cannot adjust to his new master’s ways and finds it undignified that his Master is bringing street boys to the mansion. It is fun watching the subtle fights between the butler and Archer.
The main plot revolves around the Ripper murders that is happening to rent boys. Archer believes the murderer could be his mad brother who has been in a mental asylum for years. Wanting to stop his brother and not see him hang, after all it is his brother. He tries to find and lure his brother into a trap with the help of Silas and Fecker and of course his trusted footman, much to the butler’s horror.
There is a instant spark between Archer and Silas, and its interesting seeing them work their way through what divides them and find common ground, and find ways around the rules of upper society.
This is a thrilling read with a few twists and turns along the way. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story and will be reading book two very soon to catch up with the characters.
Archer is a young Viscount Clearwater. Recently given the title and his fathers estate. Archer wants to change things; he sees the wrongs of the class society. He firmly believes that he was simply lucky to be born on the right side of the class divide, and he could as easily have been born by pure parents. He could be the one having to sell his body to feed himself, putting himself at great risk of disease and the terrors of street life.
Silas is a renter who sells his body for sex, to be able to feed himself and if he is lucky to have somewhere to lay his head at night. Living on the filthy streets is hard and yet he keeps going with the help of his friend Fecker a Ukrainian renter. The banter between the two is superb. Fecker’s act first think later attitude is funny at times, especially when the boys meet with Archer.
There are two other characters that also stand out, The Footman Thomas who has loved the Viscount all his life and would be his best friend if they were from the same class. Archer manages to make that happen at least in private and they confide in each other.
The old butler is the other minor character who stands out, he cannot adjust to his new master’s ways and finds it undignified that his Master is bringing street boys to the mansion. It is fun watching the subtle fights between the butler and Archer.
The main plot revolves around the Ripper murders that is happening to rent boys. Archer believes the murderer could be his mad brother who has been in a mental asylum for years. Wanting to stop his brother and not see him hang, after all it is his brother. He tries to find and lure his brother into a trap with the help of Silas and Fecker and of course his trusted footman, much to the butler’s horror.
There is a instant spark between Archer and Silas, and its interesting seeing them work their way through what divides them and find common ground, and find ways around the rules of upper society.
This is a thrilling read with a few twists and turns along the way. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story and will be reading book two very soon to catch up with the characters.
March 13, 2019
🙄
I really thought I found a good Victorian romance but this is just a bunch of standard cliches despite the interesting beginning. Of course the street urchin is the spitting image of the long lost love and of course the best friend seemingly becomes the latest murder victim only to have it revealed that he’s actually safe. People fall in love after two brief meetings all the time. Happened to my neighbor just last Thursday. The guy is a male hooker because he’s so poor and desperate he has to be but it’d be way too insulting to be a kept man so he runs away. It’s just too much. It’s like every romance cliche all wrapped in one book 🙄
I really thought I found a good Victorian romance but this is just a bunch of standard cliches despite the interesting beginning. Of course the street urchin is the spitting image of the long lost love and of course the best friend seemingly becomes the latest murder victim only to have it revealed that he’s actually safe. People fall in love after two brief meetings all the time. Happened to my neighbor just last Thursday. The guy is a male hooker because he’s so poor and desperate he has to be but it’d be way too insulting to be a kept man so he runs away. It’s just too much. It’s like every romance cliche all wrapped in one book 🙄
August 13, 2022
** 4.5 Stars **
Great Victorian thriller with a strong sense of time and place!
Great Victorian thriller with a strong sense of time and place!
May 20, 2022
While the premise is great and some of the characters are intriguing the author was clearly not interested in writing the book I wanted to read.
November 17, 2023
A desire to read more about this deviant world
Deviant Desire is a period piece which expertly draws a realistic picture of what life must have been like in the East End of London during the19th century. It follows two male prostitutes who are drawn into the world of Viscount Clearwater when he requests their help setting up a charitable foundation for East End rent boys whilst also helping him find a serial killer who is terrorising the East End.
This is an incredible book and a lucky find for me, as I had never heard of the author or this series. I find that you can often get lost following some of the more well known authors in this genre and become quite jaded with their writing style and lack of courage in taking chances - knowing what sells and sticking with that. Had I not gone down the rabbit hole of Goodreads to look at other peoples list of favourite books, I might never have discovered this gem.
The author Jackson Marsh is someone who dares to write a social commentary on sexuality, the poor, and the class system in 19th century England, whilst wrapping it all up in the guise of a brilliant mystery romance with heart stopping adventure. Something most other authors wouldn't even try. Indeed some would struggle to add anything close to a subtext. Here though, not only does he manage to achieve this, but in doing so he produces a book that stands head and shoulders above the rest of his peers.
There are so many things about this book to admire. One is how the author changes his style of prose when he writes from each of the different character's perspective. For Archer he writes in a floral, verbose Dickensian style, which is often quite laboured and difficult to unpick. For Silas and Thomas it is more guttural and heartfelt, easier to read and connect with. Even the way his characters think is carefully crafted to reflect the life they've led. In those sections told from Silas' point of view you see him struggle as he tries not to think in innuendo or respond to everything with automatic sexual advances. That's all he has known for most of his life and it's been the currency of his communication and the way he's survived on the streets. In his internal monologue you see him struggle to stop his natural inclinations in order to present himself in a way that is more befitting the Viscount's household.
Another thing I admire is how the author weaves together scenes of humour, action and terror, stitching everything together with perfect precision. For example, when Archer begins planning his first undercover mission into the East End, the author writes some gloriously funny scenes as Archer and the gang try to work out what to wear for their trip and what names each of them should go by. But that frivolity is soon forgotten once we arrive in the East End. Suddenly the writing style shifts and the air around you feels dank, foul smelling and thick, as Silas makes his way to the site of the latest murder. Even describing his walk through the streets, Jackson Marsh still manages to capture the squalor of subterranean life as Silas leads us deeper into the dragon's lair.
I must also commend the author for being brave enough to write from the killer's point of view. In doing this he has created passages that are quite terrifying to read and also sickeningly uncomfortable. Thankfully those sections are short and it’s not long before you find yourself coming back up for a refreshing gulp of air. Jackson achieves this by letting you feel the grief Archer himself feels when he visits the places each of the victims’ bodies were found. It allows you to work cathartically through the pain of seeing into the mind of the killer. Because even the most lowly of people, the most poor and destitute, still touches Archer’s incredibly beautiful heart. Archer clearly sees the loss of each of these boy's potential, taken away from them when their poor lives were brutally cut short.
This can be a tough book to read given the gritty reality of the world they all inhabit, but it's so worth it when you are surrounded by such wonderfully complex characters, masterfully brought to life by this amazing author. Given there are already 10 books in this series, I know there will probably be some that won't quite hit the mark or live up to the incredibly high standards set by this first entry in this series, but I'm in this for the long run, if not for the adventure, the excitement or the page turning plot, then for the incredible writing form this wonderful new author.
Deviant Desire is a period piece which expertly draws a realistic picture of what life must have been like in the East End of London during the19th century. It follows two male prostitutes who are drawn into the world of Viscount Clearwater when he requests their help setting up a charitable foundation for East End rent boys whilst also helping him find a serial killer who is terrorising the East End.
This is an incredible book and a lucky find for me, as I had never heard of the author or this series. I find that you can often get lost following some of the more well known authors in this genre and become quite jaded with their writing style and lack of courage in taking chances - knowing what sells and sticking with that. Had I not gone down the rabbit hole of Goodreads to look at other peoples list of favourite books, I might never have discovered this gem.
The author Jackson Marsh is someone who dares to write a social commentary on sexuality, the poor, and the class system in 19th century England, whilst wrapping it all up in the guise of a brilliant mystery romance with heart stopping adventure. Something most other authors wouldn't even try. Indeed some would struggle to add anything close to a subtext. Here though, not only does he manage to achieve this, but in doing so he produces a book that stands head and shoulders above the rest of his peers.
There are so many things about this book to admire. One is how the author changes his style of prose when he writes from each of the different character's perspective. For Archer he writes in a floral, verbose Dickensian style, which is often quite laboured and difficult to unpick. For Silas and Thomas it is more guttural and heartfelt, easier to read and connect with. Even the way his characters think is carefully crafted to reflect the life they've led. In those sections told from Silas' point of view you see him struggle as he tries not to think in innuendo or respond to everything with automatic sexual advances. That's all he has known for most of his life and it's been the currency of his communication and the way he's survived on the streets. In his internal monologue you see him struggle to stop his natural inclinations in order to present himself in a way that is more befitting the Viscount's household.
Another thing I admire is how the author weaves together scenes of humour, action and terror, stitching everything together with perfect precision. For example, when Archer begins planning his first undercover mission into the East End, the author writes some gloriously funny scenes as Archer and the gang try to work out what to wear for their trip and what names each of them should go by. But that frivolity is soon forgotten once we arrive in the East End. Suddenly the writing style shifts and the air around you feels dank, foul smelling and thick, as Silas makes his way to the site of the latest murder. Even describing his walk through the streets, Jackson Marsh still manages to capture the squalor of subterranean life as Silas leads us deeper into the dragon's lair.
I must also commend the author for being brave enough to write from the killer's point of view. In doing this he has created passages that are quite terrifying to read and also sickeningly uncomfortable. Thankfully those sections are short and it’s not long before you find yourself coming back up for a refreshing gulp of air. Jackson achieves this by letting you feel the grief Archer himself feels when he visits the places each of the victims’ bodies were found. It allows you to work cathartically through the pain of seeing into the mind of the killer. Because even the most lowly of people, the most poor and destitute, still touches Archer’s incredibly beautiful heart. Archer clearly sees the loss of each of these boy's potential, taken away from them when their poor lives were brutally cut short.
This can be a tough book to read given the gritty reality of the world they all inhabit, but it's so worth it when you are surrounded by such wonderfully complex characters, masterfully brought to life by this amazing author. Given there are already 10 books in this series, I know there will probably be some that won't quite hit the mark or live up to the incredibly high standards set by this first entry in this series, but I'm in this for the long run, if not for the adventure, the excitement or the page turning plot, then for the incredible writing form this wonderful new author.
August 21, 2025
So the premise sounded like a lot of fun. Your classic Jack the Ripper story but in this universe the serial killer targets rent boys rather than female prostitutes. There was potential for a great mystery here; the anonymous nature of the real Jack the Ripper leaves endless possibilities to be explored in fiction. Unfortunately, the killer became obvious as soon as their profession was revealed and they dismissed the murders as mere coincidence, and subsequent attempts at misdirection did not succeed in throwing me off the scent.
I can forgive a weak mystery if I am intrigued by the setting and characters and, at first, I was! The first few chapters paint a bleak portrait of life in the Victorian East End for its impoverished people and I was impressed by the honest depiction of the dosshouse and the public baths frequented by our renter characters, Silas and Fecker. Fecker immediately caught my attention. A blonde, long-haired Ukrainian lacking social decorum but boasting a fierce protective spirit and emergency apples in his greatcoat? Sign me up. Silas was also endearing - pragmatic and experienced in sex, but ignorant to the world outside of his immediate scope. He also secretly yearns for his supposedly "straight" best friend, Fecker.
"Straight? Yeah right!" I thought, anticipating a beautifully-crafted, slow-burn relationship between these two characters. Except it turns out Fecks really is straight. And it follows that Silas isn't destined for his best friend but rather for the Viscount Clearwater. Clearwater himself I erroneously assumed to be in love with his footman, Thomas, and honestly I still maintain that they would have made a far more interesting couple than the one we got in Archer and Silas. It's strange. I usually like a good upper class/lower class romance, where the characters must overcome entrenched social divisions in order to be together.
The frustrating thing is that this could have been Archer and Thomas! Just read this excerpt of a conversation between the two of them and try to tell me Archer has more chemistry with Silas, the man he's known for two days by this point, than with Thomas:
They had talked about their pasts, how they were brought up together and yet apart, separated
by convention in later years. His footman reminded him of incidents long forgotten. Mild misdemeanours long since blanketed beneath education, both intellectual and social, and it had been uplifting to be reminded of them.
The worst thing about Archer and Silas' relationship is how contrived their first meeting is. Archer plans to set up a charity for rent boys in the East End and to do so he must first consult one of them to make sure such a thing would even be helpful. A noble project, tainted by his decision to draw his idea of the perfect renter on a sheet of paper and demand his footman (poor Thomas) find someone who 'looks like that', so he doesn't have to sit through a conversation with a rent boy he finds unattractive. Of course he falls in love with Silas the moment their eyes meet. He literally conjures the man into existence. And of course, when Archer does confess his love, Silas has to reject his advances for a bit, not because he doesn't love him - how could he not? It's been two whole days - but because he feels impure and undeserving of love. Really?
I wished this first book worked for me, because there are nine more in the series that I really would have liked to sink my teeth into had I any interest in the canon pairings whatsoever. The premise is great! The humour is funny! The writing is good! (Aside from a few clumsy punctuation choices that result in characters sighing or panting or laughing or gasping out full sentences.)
Part of me thinks I'm being unfair and this just wasn't my preference, but when the most compelling character in your gay romance is straight then surely you've missed a trick, no?
I can forgive a weak mystery if I am intrigued by the setting and characters and, at first, I was! The first few chapters paint a bleak portrait of life in the Victorian East End for its impoverished people and I was impressed by the honest depiction of the dosshouse and the public baths frequented by our renter characters, Silas and Fecker. Fecker immediately caught my attention. A blonde, long-haired Ukrainian lacking social decorum but boasting a fierce protective spirit and emergency apples in his greatcoat? Sign me up. Silas was also endearing - pragmatic and experienced in sex, but ignorant to the world outside of his immediate scope. He also secretly yearns for his supposedly "straight" best friend, Fecker.
"Straight? Yeah right!" I thought, anticipating a beautifully-crafted, slow-burn relationship between these two characters. Except it turns out Fecks really is straight. And it follows that Silas isn't destined for his best friend but rather for the Viscount Clearwater. Clearwater himself I erroneously assumed to be in love with his footman, Thomas, and honestly I still maintain that they would have made a far more interesting couple than the one we got in Archer and Silas. It's strange. I usually like a good upper class/lower class romance, where the characters must overcome entrenched social divisions in order to be together.
The frustrating thing is that this could have been Archer and Thomas! Just read this excerpt of a conversation between the two of them and try to tell me Archer has more chemistry with Silas, the man he's known for two days by this point, than with Thomas:
They had talked about their pasts, how they were brought up together and yet apart, separated
by convention in later years. His footman reminded him of incidents long forgotten. Mild misdemeanours long since blanketed beneath education, both intellectual and social, and it had been uplifting to be reminded of them.
The worst thing about Archer and Silas' relationship is how contrived their first meeting is. Archer plans to set up a charity for rent boys in the East End and to do so he must first consult one of them to make sure such a thing would even be helpful. A noble project, tainted by his decision to draw his idea of the perfect renter on a sheet of paper and demand his footman (poor Thomas) find someone who 'looks like that', so he doesn't have to sit through a conversation with a rent boy he finds unattractive. Of course he falls in love with Silas the moment their eyes meet. He literally conjures the man into existence. And of course, when Archer does confess his love, Silas has to reject his advances for a bit, not because he doesn't love him - how could he not? It's been two whole days - but because he feels impure and undeserving of love. Really?
I wished this first book worked for me, because there are nine more in the series that I really would have liked to sink my teeth into had I any interest in the canon pairings whatsoever. The premise is great! The humour is funny! The writing is good! (Aside from a few clumsy punctuation choices that result in characters sighing or panting or laughing or gasping out full sentences.)
Part of me thinks I'm being unfair and this just wasn't my preference, but when the most compelling character in your gay romance is straight then surely you've missed a trick, no?
September 24, 2021
I am on a roll here, reading historical novels like a maniac, and as such, I've discovered the books of Jackson March. And I couldn't be happier.
Deviant Desire was the first book in the Clearwater Mysteries series. It told the story of Silas, rent boy in London's East End during 1888. He was starving in the streets, living a life of absolute hell, when he was contacted by Lord Clearwater to assist with a charity. Meanwhile, Archer (the Viscount Clearwater) had his own troubles. He was gay, a crimes punishable by two years hard labour, and has acquired a vicious enemy. For Silas and Archer it was love at first sight, but they had a lot of obstacles in their way to happiness, including a need for secrecy, a deep class divide, and to make things even worse, the Ripper was killing young men in the East End.
I was fascinated with this book (and I am currently binge-reading the series). So much research went onto this book, and I was fascinated with life in the streets of 1888 London. Some readers may find the pacing too slow, but I loved the attention to detail and the slower pace. I also liked the characters: Silas Hawkins was a rent boy living in pitiful conditions, but he never lost his cheerful disposition, he was smart, resourceful and resilient. Archer was harder to get to know, he is kind, generous and forgiving, but he was brought up a snob although he tried is best not to be, and he was at times behaving childish. But that made the characters so great - they are all flawed and therefore, relatable. I also loved the mix of facts with fiction.
Although this book had romantic elements, it is foremost a mystery, so the focus of the book was on plot development and descriptions. That bring said, the love between Archie and Silas was real and it left me wanting more 😍 There are currently ten books in the series and I intend to read them all.
Deviant Desire was the first book in the Clearwater Mysteries series. It told the story of Silas, rent boy in London's East End during 1888. He was starving in the streets, living a life of absolute hell, when he was contacted by Lord Clearwater to assist with a charity. Meanwhile, Archer (the Viscount Clearwater) had his own troubles. He was gay, a crimes punishable by two years hard labour, and has acquired a vicious enemy. For Silas and Archer it was love at first sight, but they had a lot of obstacles in their way to happiness, including a need for secrecy, a deep class divide, and to make things even worse, the Ripper was killing young men in the East End.
I was fascinated with this book (and I am currently binge-reading the series). So much research went onto this book, and I was fascinated with life in the streets of 1888 London. Some readers may find the pacing too slow, but I loved the attention to detail and the slower pace. I also liked the characters: Silas Hawkins was a rent boy living in pitiful conditions, but he never lost his cheerful disposition, he was smart, resourceful and resilient. Archer was harder to get to know, he is kind, generous and forgiving, but he was brought up a snob although he tried is best not to be, and he was at times behaving childish. But that made the characters so great - they are all flawed and therefore, relatable. I also loved the mix of facts with fiction.
Although this book had romantic elements, it is foremost a mystery, so the focus of the book was on plot development and descriptions. That bring said, the love between Archie and Silas was real and it left me wanting more 😍 There are currently ten books in the series and I intend to read them all.
September 17, 2024
I love the world that Jackson Marsh has created and the complex and compelling characters that inhabit it. I was introduced to the author through his most recent series, The Delamere Files. I was really impressed with the effortlessness of the writing, the crafting of the story and most specifically the appeal and intrigue of the characters. I circled back to the Clearwater Mysteries to start at the beginning. I was really surprised at how quickly this first book in the series got things moving. Relationships were quickly created while big changes were underway for the main protagonists. I was initially caught off guard by this but quickly fell under the spell of the mystery and adventure. I was able to understand that establishing the new and close connections while exploring existing relationships was essential to creating a complex collaboration of the characters in solving problems incentivized for different reasons. I love all the personalities in this book and their well-developed individualities. I found myself pulled in by their regard, and disregard, for one another. So much is dependent on their emotions, trust and motivation. I love how these books begin with an unclear yet compelling mission or goal. As things progress, mysteries are solved, and pieces are put together. I was genuinely caught off guard by some of the story developments and found myself thoroughly entertained for the entirety of the book. This novel was truly delightful in its ability to combine romance, thriller, whodunit and “bromance”. I feel so connected to this author and these books because of my relating to the m/m perspective combined with all types of interesting and intriguing characters of all types. I have said it before, but it bears worth mentioning, find a new and prolific author to love is like finding a gold mine. I have so much to explore and am excited for the journey.
Want to read
January 15, 2024DNF at 26%. Consent is a thing. I get it wasn't in Victorian London, but that doesn't mean I want to read about MCs who ignore it. Repeatedly fondling/grabbing someone's ass and cock and kissing them after they have said no multiple times and physically tried to throw you off was, at best, uncomfortable to read. I don't care if their cock got hard, that's sexual assault and it's still bothering me hours later.
The writing up til that point had been fine to good. (solid 3.5-4 star) The plot seemed interesting. It took 60 pages to get the reader caught up to the situation so I wasn't really sure how much I liked the story or not. It was just getting going.
Even that had already had me questioning consent, though. The Lord had brought the molly boy/sex worker to his home just to talk. Only it became obvious to the reader the closer that came to happening that that was not all he wanted. If the Lord wanted to hire the sex worker fine, but to say he only wanted to talk and then switch...the sex worker would not only have the social status difference, but be in the Lord's house and away from assistance. That's not really consent, but okay, I was rolling with it. We knew the Lord meant well and it was a different time period.
Obviously everyone gets together in the end, but honestly I don't want anything to do with these characters now. I was surprised as this book had been recommended to me a few times. So maybe I'm the one shoving my modern concept of consent onto this Victorian book. I just think potential readers should know in advance.
The writing up til that point had been fine to good. (solid 3.5-4 star) The plot seemed interesting. It took 60 pages to get the reader caught up to the situation so I wasn't really sure how much I liked the story or not. It was just getting going.
Even that had already had me questioning consent, though. The Lord had brought the molly boy/sex worker to his home just to talk. Only it became obvious to the reader the closer that came to happening that that was not all he wanted. If the Lord wanted to hire the sex worker fine, but to say he only wanted to talk and then switch...the sex worker would not only have the social status difference, but be in the Lord's house and away from assistance. That's not really consent, but okay, I was rolling with it. We knew the Lord meant well and it was a different time period.
Obviously everyone gets together in the end, but honestly I don't want anything to do with these characters now. I was surprised as this book had been recommended to me a few times. So maybe I'm the one shoving my modern concept of consent onto this Victorian book. I just think potential readers should know in advance.
February 4, 2025
Ooof the premise of this one was so good and I loved the first part of the story with rent-boy Silas surviving out on the streets with only his best friend Fecks for company. I loved the background of the city, with the bleak descriptions of what the street-rats had to live though.
What I struggled with was the romance aspect… initially I thought that Silas was going to end up with queer(ish… still questioning) footman Tom, and I absolutely loved that. But actually he ends up with Viscount Clearwater (which, had I read the dang blurb properly I’d have figured out quicker ahaha). And eh… I really didn’t like Archer a lot. He’s got a saviour complex going on and falls in love with Silas almost instantly upon seeing him. I just didn’t buy Archer’s ‘we can all be friends’ mentality with his servants and I just couldn’t understand how he and Silas ‘fell in love’ so quickly? Idk.
The ‘Jack the ripper’ style storyline was compelling and I didn’t see the ‘bad guy’ reveal coming, so still 3 stars from me… but I don’t think I’ll continue the series. Although I do hope Tom gets his happy ending at some point along the way, and that Fecks gets with housemaid Lucy!
What I struggled with was the romance aspect… initially I thought that Silas was going to end up with queer(ish… still questioning) footman Tom, and I absolutely loved that. But actually he ends up with Viscount Clearwater (which, had I read the dang blurb properly I’d have figured out quicker ahaha). And eh… I really didn’t like Archer a lot. He’s got a saviour complex going on and falls in love with Silas almost instantly upon seeing him. I just didn’t buy Archer’s ‘we can all be friends’ mentality with his servants and I just couldn’t understand how he and Silas ‘fell in love’ so quickly? Idk.
The ‘Jack the ripper’ style storyline was compelling and I didn’t see the ‘bad guy’ reveal coming, so still 3 stars from me… but I don’t think I’ll continue the series. Although I do hope Tom gets his happy ending at some point along the way, and that Fecks gets with housemaid Lucy!
March 16, 2019
This was an interesting read by this author. The story is steeped deep in the bowels o historical London's poor section where prostitution is the name of the game to keep your body alive though not necessarily your soul. It was a slow start at first, but the MCs had to be introduced and their way of life Silas is a male prostitute as is his friend, Fecker. Lord Clearwater is trying to get a charity started to help these young men out of the hell they live in. Others who are MCs are Trip, the butler and Thomas a footman. the main story is wrapped around the murder of several of the male "Rents" by a man who is called the "Ripper." Unfortunately the Ripper is a "Rip-off" of the famous "Jack the Ripper" who killed women who were prostitutes and alcoholics. Otherwise the story was really good and has action, danger, fear and angst enough to keep the reader entertained. There will be follow up story in May and am eagerly awaiting it to see what happens as this story ends on a cliff hanger. I voluntarily read and reviewed this ARC book.
September 27, 2024
This was a surprise read for me. I mean let’s be honest I never thought I’d read a book about the Ripper.
But Guardians of the Poor caught my attention. And someone suggested reading the Clearwater Mysteries first so here I am.
I lost myself in this book very quickly. And I absolutely love Silas and Andrej. I’ve just noticed book 0 Banyak & Fecks so I suppose I’ll move that forward and read it next.
But Guardians of the Poor caught my attention. And someone suggested reading the Clearwater Mysteries first so here I am.
I lost myself in this book very quickly. And I absolutely love Silas and Andrej. I’ve just noticed book 0 Banyak & Fecks so I suppose I’ll move that forward and read it next.
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