Col’s world is falling apart. His relationship has been exposed as a sham, he’s lost his home, and been fired from his job as a stonemason. Who says bad luck doesn’t come in threes? With no option but to move back in with his parents, and with his efforts to find a new job hitting a brick wall, Col’s life is going nowhere.
Theo, unwilling heir to the ancient Asquith Hall estate, is desperate to gain some independence from his overbearing family. Despite his efforts to live up to the role he never wanted, he’s constantly battling to earn his family’s respect. Being made to feel lacking takes its toll, and sometimes, it’s hard to stay happy.
When a near fatal accident forces their paths to cross, Col and Theo discover in each other the connection both have been craving. As their love story unfolds, so do the secrets and sadness hidden at the heart of Asquith Hall. The past can’t be changed, but with Col’s stonemasonry skills and Theo’s determination, they might just be able to restore what’s broken and find happiness.
Warning – past child abuse of a secondary character (no on-page detail), descriptions of violence, horrible parents and lovely parents, wayward brothers, a man who mends stone and hearts, and a young man who never has an unspoken thought.
The feeling of this story brought me back to my first reading of The Making of Jonty Bloom, which I *think* was my first book by her that I read. Interesting setting, story, characters and backgrounds. The story wasn’t rushed nor was there any suspension of reality necessary. There was even a bit of a subplot surprise that I totally didn’t see coming. I enjoyed it quite a bit.
I read quite a few British authors, so this wasn’t the first to feature an old castle or estate with aristocracy as main characters. It does always surprise me how these people generally aren’t wealthy and it takes A LOT to keep their estates running.
Lord Theo, Theo to most of us, is actually “the spare” as his older brother disappeared years ago. And for someone who takes the brunt of his parents depression and general unhappiness as well as the snide remarks he gets from the estate manager who is supposed to be training him, Theo is a pretty happy guy. He’d be happier if his parents weren’t trying to force him to marry a woman knowing he is gay.
Col has had a fairly difficult life. Abusive, neglectful, drug addicted parents. An older brother he practically worships in prison for killing them. He was in the system for a couple of years before ending up with the couple he lovingly calls mom and dad, although they never formally adopted him. And then he finds out his live in boyfriend is actually married and not taking care of his parents on the weekends, but going home from London to his wife and children. Ouch.
Theo and Col find each other when Col is working at the estate. There are quite a few obstacles in front of them but they take them one at a time and knock them down. Each wonder if they are good enough for the other. Each taking the others concerns to heart. Col really doesn’t mind that Theo talks. A lot. And Theo doesn’t care that Col comes from an ugly background. They worked to get to know each other AND unravel a bit of a mystery.
Then there are two epilogues which are very satisfying.
This one is fighting Jonty for my favorite Elsborg book.
4.5 pieces of eye candy
