Stormhaven

Whyborne & Griffin #3

by Jordan L. Hawk

Mysterious happenings are nothing new to reclusive scholar Percival Endicott Whyborne, but finding one of his colleagues screaming for help in the street is rather unusual. Allan Tambling claims he can’t remember any of the last hour—but someone murdered his uncle, and Allan is covered in blood.

Whyborne’s lover, dashing ex-Pinkerton detective Griffin Flaherty, agrees to prove Allan’s innocence. But when Allan is deemed insane and locked away in the Stormhaven Lunatic Asylum, Griffin finds himself reliving the horrifying memories of his own ordeal inside a madhouse.

Along with their friend Christine, the two men become drawn deeper and deeper into a dark web of conspiracy, magic, and murder. Their only clue: a missing artifact depicting an unknown god. Who stole the artifact, and why can’t Allan remember what happened? And what is the truth behind the terrible experiments conducted on Stormhaven’s forbidden fourth floor?

It will take all of Whyborne’s sorcery and Griffin’s derring-do to stop the murderers and save Allan. But first, they must survive an even greater challenge: a visit from Griffin’s family.

Genres: Historical, M M Romance, Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance, Mystery, Historical Fiction

176 pages, ebook

First published December 1, 2013

About the author

Jordan L. Hawk is a trans author from North Carolina. Childhood tales of mountain ghosts and mysterious creatures gave him a life-long love of things that go bump in the night. When he isn’t writing, he brews his own beer and tries to keep the cats from destroying the house. His best-selling Whyborne & Griffin series (beginning with Widdershins) can be found in print, ebook, and audiobook.

Reviews

[Shile (Hazard's Version) on-hiatus · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.35 stars

Another awesome addition to this paranormal series.

The writing is pectacular, that it makes these books readable and enjoyable.

The mystery part keeps getting creepy and i am here for all that. I will continue sounding like a broken record by repeatedly saying, this is the best paranormal series i have ever read.

The relationship between Whyborne and Griffin continues to make me all gooey. These two are perfect for eachother and dorky Whyborne is one of the best characters ever.

Griffin's back story is heartbreaking. The fact that we don't get his POV but still get to know him well through Whyborne is amazing and just proves JLH knows her shit.

Thank you, Cristina, Ele, Gabi, Linda, Moony, Rosa, Teal and Xia for another awesome giant buddy read.

[K.J. Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would write a proper review but the dead gods sing to me from their fathomless palaces and also I'm on my phone. Sexy Lovecraftian fun with plenty of tension and real horror. Our boy Whyborne is learning to kick some arse. Highly satisfying.

[Simone - on indefinite hiatus - · Rating 4 out of 5]

My feelings for the mystery part here:

It's official now, I'm a wuss. Yeah, please don't judge me, but I could basically feel every single hair standing on end sometimes...

My feelings for the romance:

Oooh, this was lovely and absolutely balanced out all sorts of creepiness...

My feelings for Ival and Griffin:

*activating tackle-hug-alert*

... aaaaand bounce! ;-)

[Sun · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this was the last book of the series and I almost cried! But, turns out there are at least 2 more books...so I'm doing my happy dance (don't look...it's disturbing and all kinds of unattractive but it's mine!)

Stormhaven had a fantastic story, disturbing beyond (anything w/ asylums kinda freaks me out...), and lots and lots of our favorite trio (yes trio, no not menage)...of Whyborne, Griffin, and Christine!

If you haven't read this series, let me just tell you why you should:

-Percival Endicott Whyborne is one of my favorite characters EVER! He's awkward and geeky and bookish and grouchy and hates people for the most part, but can't help but run into danger when someone needs him...and he's always losing his hat (which breaks my heart) and getting scuffed up and hurt (which breaks my heart) but he's the LEADING MAN in this series. And I lurve him!

-Griffin Flaharty is swoon-worthing and dashing and broken and damaged. But he's kind and he loves himself some Whyborne (pet name "Ival"). And it's this LOVE between them that is fierce and loyal and consuming and "you complete me"...and lovely, just lovely.

-DOCTOR Christine Putnam...kicks ass and tells it like it is. And she's a great friend to Whyborne. And I'd high-five her all day long!

-Supernatural mystery plots that are creepy and dangerous and really, really entertaining.


Book 3 is as good as the rest. Bring on 4 & 5 (and more!)

READ THIS SERIES!!!!

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am having a splendid time and I want to gush and squee about the book I just finished but then I want to surge ahead and read the next. How many are left? Wait! Don’t tell me. I want to blissfully ride along for as long as possible. I’m typically a solid multi-tasker but this is proving to be difficult. So, I must stop myself before I get too far ahead and my fangirling blends together. I gotta tell ya, this is quite the dilemma! *rubs hands together* Okay, here we are in the third book and yowza, what a kickoff. My guys are settled in their groove and blissfully minding their own business until…they stumble upon a heinous scene. Murder. In all its bloody fashion and of course, without crucial evidence. Whyborne’s college is blamed (or framed?) and locked away without due process at the local asylum. Griffin knows something is amiss and refuses to walk away from this case. It’s going to get personal and force him to unlock memories and demons he’s struggled to bottle away. But if there’s one thing Griffin refuses to accept, it’s unjustified damnation. There’s a crackle in the air and this mental institution is certainly not a safe haven. A storm’s brewing and I’m equally thrilled and terrified….do you mind if I hold your hand??

What's to like: I do believe it’s rather important to read these marvelous stories in proper order. They pick up and continue with the monster muddled lives of our dear Percival Endicott Whyborne and his dapper detective, Griffin. Their relationship is growing and their bonds are tangling tighter…despite having to conceal their true feelings to the outside world. Griffin’s parents have announced they wish to come for a visit and Griffin is desperate to show them how happy he is. He would love to share the source of his joy but isn’t confident in the loyalty of their love for him. It’s tragic really. Made my tummy sick and my heart hurt. To have conditions on one’s love isn’t something I’ve ever understood. And when unfortunate circumstances required a decisive decision be made I was both pained and proud. *sigh* The murder mystery held my interest but true to form, it was the couple that brought this story from great to glorious.

What's to love: Whyborne has been elegantly charming us from the start but he’s coming into himself with a new sense of purpose and pride…and I am loving it! Griffin inadvertently pushes him to greater heights and then races to his side, drawn to him with a magnetic force. They lift one another and that is one of my all-time favorite things. At this moment in their timeline, Whyborne needs to buck up and fight for Griffin, especially when he loses focus on the present. Hideous horrors from the past threaten to reclaim his future and Whyborne simply won’t have it. He’s finally found his heart’s desire and he’s not about to lose him to some nasty villain from the past or present. He’s a formidable scholar and blast it all, he won’t let anyone take his love from him. Gahhhh! I was sitting on the edge of my seat during their battles, both with foe and family. I was anxious, scared, and swept away. They continue to surprise me and astound me. And despite the gruesome gore, there is humor, courage, and romance. Well done Hawk, well done.

Beware of: Harrowing minds-eye moments flash forward. Courage bubbles over. And powers crest…or maybe only for now? I’m pretty sure Whyborne is just getting started…with both his devotion to Griffin and his craft. Time will tell and I simply can’t wait to find out and check out Egypt next!

This book is for: Whyborne and Griffin fans…and if you’re not part of this elite group….why not? Seriously, hop on this marvelously manic adventure, it’s too good to miss.

[Barbara➰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was another awesome installment in this series. It put me through every emotion.

All the asylum stuff was CREEPY and had me shivering more than once. And boy, is Whyborne a magnet for the supernatural and weird!

There were definitely some sweet and swoon-worthy moments.

"I’m yours, for as long as you want me.” He stilled and pulled back, his face revealed to me in the soft glow of the night candle. “What if I want you forever?”

“Yes.” I kissed the nearest patch of exposed skin within reach, on his arm. “Yes. I-I wish to be with you until the breath leaves my body, until the last stars burn out and the earth falls into the dying sun.”

There's plenty of hot moments that had me fanning myself.

“I love rubbing against you, and sucking you, and fucking you, and I love it when you suck and fuck me. I cannot get enough of you.”

But, oh man. Finding out just some of what Griffin has suffered in the asylum had me cringing and my stomach clinching. It definitely shed a new light on him and some of his previous behavior. I truly felt bad for him and wanted all those involved punished right along with Whyborne! I kept screaming DO IT! DO IT! But that's not who he is. Griffin broke my heart with his parents too. How can they not love him unconditionally? Thankfully Whyborne is there to do just that.

I am thoroughly enjoying this series and can't wait to see what's up next!

[Ami · Rating 4 out of 5]

There was murder in the first chapter – the suspected killer covered in blood and couldn’t remember anything … and THAT was how you hooked your readers.

The 3rd book in Whyborne and Griffin series was definitely my favorite to date. It had the great combination of mystery, romance, a dash of humor (Whyborne was grumpy about the progress of electricity coming to Whiddershin, it was adorable!!), emotional angst (oh Griffin, poor Griffin), and horror (seriously, stories in an asylum where they treat the crazy always give me the creeps!).

Let me tell you why this was my favorite to date – first, Whyborne and Griffin’s relationship. Griffin took the case and it brought him back to Stormhaven, the asylum where he was kept when he was deemed insane, and it shook him to the core. I loved that this book gave more backstory about Griffin and what happened to him. And for me, how Whyborne handled the emotional Griffin was wonderful. Their love towards one another was palpable and it was clear that this event would strengthen their relationship.

Then Whyborne … oh, how the gentle Ival progressed. From the shy and socially inept in book one, Dr. Percival Endicott Whyborne was now embracing the power of performing spells and sorcerous incantations from Liber Arcanorum to fight the villains. Whyborne showed that he got spine!

The portrayal of the asylum here was quite vividly creepy … I got chills. Imagine all the insane people, combined with ritual sacrifice to call a sea god by possessing men, in a dark and mysterious floor of an asylum… SHUDDERS!! Not a place I want to visit anytime soon, that’s for sure.

I must admit that I was slightly irritated with Christine in this book though. Previously, I always thought that she was such a rock star in a book filled with men – but here, she was a bit too crass and insensitive when it came to Griffin’s inability to tell his parents about his sexual orientation. She annoyed me in that sense … because really, she didn’t know the whole story. In addition, not everyone could tell easily their loved ones about this issue, no matter what time-period they live in.

Bottom line, I really enjoy this series and I can’t wait to read the next one...


** READ MY INTERVIEW WITH JORDAN L. HAWK **



The ARC is provided by the author for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.

[Ingie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written June 22, 2014

4.3 Stars - Partly adventurous and scary but at the other end incredibly intensely hot and grandly about earnestly grand male love

Book #3

Stormhaven is the third part in the Whyborne & Griffin series. Historical crime and a bit paranormal spooky adventures featureing a wonderful couple of lovebirds.

I enjoyed - another good one in this series.

***********************************************************

The former Pinkerton Detective, Mr Griffin Flaherty, is a quite newcomer (a year ago) in the small, a bit strange, town Widdershins. A very experienced gentleman, with thick skin and a dramatic, slightly dark past history from the big city. His lover, is a lovely tall slender younger man, Dr Percival Endicott Whyborne (aka Ival).

About the MC's, events etc before this third part:

Griffin and Whyborne first met at The Ladysmith Museum where Whyborne works as an comparative philologist when Griffin needed help to decipher an ancient scripture. Then, they started together to solve a creepy paranormal mystery adventure.

Pretty soon it became romantic and steaming hot and #1 Widdershins (4 stars) ended up with a nice HEA. In the second book, #2 Threshold (4.5 stars) their lovestory went on and grew into an intensely hot steamy addiction.

~ These stories are told from Whyborne's POV. (Except the free Valentine Day novella #1.5 Eidolon (4 stars).) ~


I really believed in their love and attraction after reading two books. These charming gentlemen are just fantastic together.

“Ival”
“Yes?”
“Stop arguing, accept what I say, and let me drag you to bed and make you scream my name.”

***********************************************************

There is a place called Stormhaven Lunatic Asylum...

An old man is murdered (lots of stabbings) and one of Whyborne's colleagues is shortly thereafter thrown in to Stormhaven Lunatic Asylum. The young man, Allan Tambling, claims his innocence. Allan can’t remember anything—but someone murdered his uncle, and Allan was covered in blood and acted in a strange way.

There is also a missing artifact depicting an unknown god and the big question is why Allan can’t remember what happened that evening in his uncle's house.

Griffin agrees to prove Allan’s innocence. But when his investigation leads to a first visit to Stormhaven Asylum finds Griffin himself reliving the horrifying memories of his own ordeal inside a madhouse. It was horrible and both I and Whyborne felt, suffered and sobbed with him. We get to know more about Griffins terrible experiences in a similar place a few years ago and, in addition, it now appears that the person responsible for this asylum is the same man (Zeiler) Griffin fear.

In the middle of this VERY creepy "Sea & Eye Cult" investigation arrives Griffin’s family for a Widdershins vistit. ~ As so often in life, crashes it all together in one big annoying mess!

...Perhaps should also explanations be given to Griffin's visiting parents. Or should some of these (manloving) circumstances be kept secret?

Along with their very amusing friend Christine (...an adorable clever woman), are Griffin and Whyborne deeper and deeper involved into a dark thriller of conspiracy, magic, and murder. Yet again.

***********************************************************

I'm the first one to admit that I actually didn't understand all of this spooky crime parts, or the mysterious 'dweller' stuff, or what really was happening at all times —but anyway all together was it an exciting adventure-journey with a lot of speedy suspense parts. I don't want to think a single second more about all these poor patients and the awful hard and sometimes inhumane conditions in mental hospitals at that time. ~ Awfully for a lot of poor 'sick' men and women.

Not to forget, I've to mention the superintendent, Mr Zeiler. He was a creepy 'horror-movie' character in a white (bloody) doctor's coat. ~ You've all seen it some time, right?

***********************************************************

I'll not write a long post about the situation for 'men who loved men' in the associated time. I just want to point out that I was so d@mn proud of our hero Griffin in the end.

It is easy to choose the cowardly route and so tough to walk with a high head forward on the other. ~ Great, a thousand kisses for your words, dear Griffin.

“You chose tonight. Chose me. And I just wanted to say I choose this, too. A life with you.”

I just wish Whyborne hadn't such a low self-esteem sometimes. (I think I mentioned that in my review for the second book as well...) How many times must Griffin have to say that he loves him before Whyborne accepts and really deep down believe in it. ~ Jeez, this guy's pretty and attractive but he way to often just sees his own shortcomings.

“Although I wouldn't mind seeing you in one of those bathing costumes.”
“Good heavens! I'd look a complete fool." Griffin would no doupt cut a fine figure so attired, but I was all angles and bone.
“I disagree,” he said.’

Just as in the last book is Griffin using “my dear” and other sweet endearments a lot. I know some readers here don't always like that, but I love it. Endearments like these make this series to something different and they make these stories immediately more (rightly) old-fashioned. (Though perhaps more like a British way of being than an American?!)

...it was a sweet shooting scene also.

***********************************************************

I'll try to wrap up and finish my, again short and concise (yeah...), reflection. It's so hard, so very hard for me when it is so much that should be said.

Anyway, these mens growing lovestory is wonderful to follow. This male couple have it all, and they (the writer) make me feel it as well. It crackles, burns and sparkles around them when they are together. (Keep in mind that there could be this hot and intense even at that time, despite the secrecy.)

“Yes.” I kissed the nearest patch of exposed skin within reach, on his arm. “Yes. I-I wish to be with you until the breath leaves my body, until the last stars burn out and the earth falls into the dying sun.”

Grand!! Magnificently beautiful to read. ~ I just want more. And there is one more: #4 - Necropolis.

I LIKE - Burning hot in midst of creepy moments


****************

...a creepy read

# BR with Bev and Sofia (our thread). Thanks Ladies!

# The Whyborne & Griffin series:

#1 #1.5 #2 #3 #4

[Ms. Smartarse · Rating 3 out of 5]

You've been dating for almost a year now, things are just fine, and you're even living together. Granted, you may have to get a bit creative when it comes to fooling the maid, but this is the 19th century and your relationship isn't exactly legal. In any case, it's now time to meet your boyfriend's parents... and not tell them anything of importance. They have some rather incriminating antecedents.



But then the parents show up with a fiance-candidate in tow, you start having lucid hallucinations during the most inconvenient of situations... and of course there's a mysterious murder that needs to be investigated as well.

The third installment of the series left me with mixed feelings.
I loved the chemistry between the two main characters as usual, especially when I got to see them support one other in their most frail moments. And there was this one scene where Griffin has a surprisingly "modern" view of what it means to be comfortably secure in a relationship. Actually, that got even me wondering if I could ever share his stance on the subject.



The aspect that I was not too keen on, was the supernatural entity of the day episode. Obviously, whenever one is reading a work of fantasy, a certain amount of disbelief needs to be suspended, in order to fully enjoy the atmosphere. Creepy insect-like aliens, and terrible chimeras are right up my alley, but this time the monster du jour was a bit harder to swallow... so to speak; possibly due to my knee-jerk instinct to dismiss anything that has even a whiff of religious fanaticism in it.

Score: 3/5 stars

The writing style is engaging, our heroes' relationship evolves in a positive direction yet again, and the "monster of the episode" doesn't detract too much from my overall enjoyment. Bring on the next book!

===================================
Review of book 1: Widdershins
Review of book 1.5: Eidolon
Review of book 2: Threshold
Review of book 3.5: Remnant: A Caldwell & Feximal/Whyborne & Griffin Mystery
Reviews of book 4: Necropolis
Review of book 5: Bloodline
Review of book 6: Hoarfrost
Review of book 7: Maelstrom
Review of book 8: Fallow
Review of book 8.5: Undertow
Review of book 9: Draakenwood
Review of book 10: Balefire
Review of book 11: Deosil

[Moony Eliver · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my favorite volume yet. I've completely failed to review the books in this series, and I won't do much better this time. But I love this universe, I love Whyborne's voice, I love his and Griffin's relationship, all of it. Next!

[Gerbera_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fabulous book from Jordan L. Hawk. This time trouble finds Whyborne and Griffin not far from home. The simple murder case takes mysterious turns that lead to the halls of Stormhaven, Widdershins own lunatic asylum, which brings forth agonizing memories for Griffin. There is always someone with desire for world domination, and Whyborne, Griffin and Christine face off against a group of cultists with a deranged power hungry scientist at its head.

Apart from the danger, Griffin's parents' visit puts a strain on their relationship since Griffin tries to conceal his affair with Whyborne. Even with all the efforts the house of cards tumbles spectacularly when Whyborne's life is in danger. There is anguish, pain and in the end loss by choice - but Whyborne has become Griffin's family and the love he has for him is endless, so the choice is no choice at all.

I loved the humor (Christine as always was the Queen of sarcasm), I loved Griffin and Whyborne's relationship ups and downs, their continuous mutual support and how well they worked together. More of Griffin's past is revealed, and both men have to relive it to help Griffin purge it all out of his mind. The story is engrossing, intense and action-packed. I highly recommend it!

[Nemo ☠️ (pagesandprozac) · Rating 5 out of 5]

have you ever wanted h.p. lovecraft but with longer stories and more gay?? of course you have!!! well, now you can live your dreams with the whyborne & griffin series by jordan l. hawk, which is fast becoming one of my favourite fantasy series ever.

if you don't read it, cthulhu will drag you into the deep and you will never be seen again. you have been warned.

[Kaje Harper · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series continues to be one great ride, with a nice blend of adventure, paranormal, and period romance. This installment brings Griffin face to face with an echo of his greatest nightmares, an insane asylum like the one in which he was unjustly imprisoned before coming to Widdershins. As he works on the case of a murdered man, despite the looming shadows of that experience, he encounters one of the very men who kept him there, and must face difficult memories.

Whyborne has troubles of his own. New nightmares chase him, puzzling dreams of undersea buildings and creatures, and a sense of doom that he can't explain. As those dreams begin to spill over into the waking world, he needs Griffin's support just as much as the reverse.

This is a more emotional installment in some ways, as both the MCs battle fears, for themselves and for each other. The arrival of Griffin's parents throws a bit of mundane stress in the middle of the paranormal. And once again Christine is there, to provide her own indomitable assistance and unquenchable desire for equality based on her abilities and not her sex.

Whyborne is changing, becoming more sure of himself on the adventure and magic front, although still at times self-deprecating. His willingness to embrace violence is more practical than ever, and occasionally more blase than I would have expected from him, but his talents are shaping up nicely. The plot had some surprises, and the action moved swiftly. There were some sweetly romantic moments too. The period details are well done, and the asylum setting was almost more chilling than the paranormal threat, based as it was in the reality of the day. I'll look forward to another adventure from these wonderful characters.

[Mir · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid, although dealing with too many serious issues (abuse of patients in asylums, the grief of people who are rejected by their families for homosexuality, women's difficulty in obtaining education) to be classed as a fun light read.

[Meags · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

Herein lies another fun, spooky and wildly romantic addition to the Whyborne & Griffin series.

This installment follows Whyborne, Griffin, and the always fierce and fabulous Christine, as they work to save a museum colleague, after he is arrested for the murder of his uncle and locked away in the terrible Stormhaven asylum.

The asylum setting proved adequately creepy, as well as troublesome for poor, dear Griffin, who was forced to relive many of his own horrible and traumatic memories from his own time locked away. Whyborne proved to be a loyal and ever supportive presence through all of the drama, and the two grew closer and more in love than ever.

This sequel supplied more spooky fun, featuring mental cultists and some sea-dwelling monsters, as well as the perfect amount of relationship development between these two memorable characters.

I can't wait to see what happens next!

[Richard Derus · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Young Gentleman Caller buys me these. He does it because 1) it earns him major points against problematic behaviors elsewhere and B) he gets to read them too. All readers of romance do it because it's a way of deriving satisfaction not ordinarily available in the real world.

I’m here because I wish to be. Because I love you as you are, right now, today.

Everyone breathing wants to hear that. How many of you have? Ever? And here it is in black and white, clear and unambiguous. Stated as fact from one lover to another. Fantasy fulfilled.

I brought this up to him as we were discussing this book. It is a simple need, the need to be loved; by simple, I mean instantly recognizable and easily understood by all. Why is it so complicated in real life, so difficult to find another who fulfills it?

Rules.

Party of the first part: Flawed and unable to change. Deal with it. Party of the second part: Godlike in possessing all the abilities of a mindreader, psychologist, alchemist, trillionaire, world-class athlete, martyr, saint, and sex toy. Must possess exactly the fantasy of perfect looks on the day Party of the first part is looking at them. Must be able to change genders/sex roles/needs as Party of the first part changes whims. Must love/hate the same foods/drinks/social attitudes as Party of the first part.

Book-lovers are better than meat-lovers, who have a regrettable tendency to fart, have morning breath, leave their hair in the shower drain, forget to buy (soy/almond/2%) milk, then get annoyed/upset/offended by being taken to task for these hideous, disfiguring failings. Because they are Party of the first part in their contract with you.

Books are so much easier.

So reading, as always, comes to the rescue! Maybe not so much...who hasn't seen the memes around the text "Boys in books are just better"? Of course they are! They're your fantasy, created for you by someone made of meat and with the same fantasy life you have. It's like porn!

It IS porn. Unrealistic expectations of reality fostered...check. Perverting the consumer into expecting fantasy to come alive in reality...check. Deeply obnoxious and unpleasant stereotyping of the object of the reader's fantasy...check. Disdained by the overculture as a "lesser and unworthy" form of entertainment that remains HUGELY popular and profitable...check.

Speaking of "lesser and unworthy" forms of entertainment, in this Platinum Age of episodic entertainment (I am a resolute cord-cutter who ONLY consumes episodes on ad-free streaming, so can't call it TV anymore, while the YGC is not yet so infuriated by the vileness of advertising) we're experiencing, my Young Gentleman Caller and I indulged our fantasy of being filmmakers unafraid to make gay-male Lifetime movies out of this series of romantic paranormal novels (to call them mysteries is to misrepresent their specific strength as stories). It turns out that Boys in our Books blogger Ami asked Author Hawk about that subject several years ago:

A: If the Whyborne and Griffin series was made into TV series, who do you imagine playing the characters?

JLH: I really don’t know! It’s funny, but my characters are so vivid to me it’s difficult to imagine anyone in their places. That said, I’m sure if it did ever happen, I’d be delighted to see an actor’s interpretation.

Our only choice for Whyborne lacks brown eyes, though contacts are perfectly acceptable:

Tall, beautiful, deeply sexy but seemingly unaware of just how stunningly desirable he is. Yay Armie Hammer for being willing to play gay in Call Me By Your Name, although the role didn't require him to, errrmmm, cavort with the toothsome morsel that is Timothée Chalamet. I mean, wow, doesn't that porno play in your head the instant you see those two together on screen!

No? Straight people. How very odd y'all are.

When it came to Griffin, we had similar unanimity. Our only choice for the role was, in fact, indicative of the reason I enjoy our conversations so much. He proposed:

The choice of James Franco was perfect for me, since I'd been thinking the same thing. I was opening my mouth to mention coloring when out he came with, "I think we should just switch the coloring descriptions and leave the actors as they are." This is exactly what I was thinking. I have known very few people in this life who say what I'm thinking before I can get it out, and it's always so much fun to find another one.

Is that why I enjoy the series so much? Because the lad I'm lovin' up gives them to me, reads them with me, plays mental games with me after reading them? No. Not solely that, anyway. I am a fan of the Lovecraft mythos. Author Hawk uses it as a story enhancement. I could do with it being used more, in fact. Also enjoyable to me is the love affair between broken men fighting fears and flaws in themselves while each is surprised that their lover doesn't think they are unworthy and unlovable because of these gigantic, disfiguring flaws. It mirrors my own life experience, flaws so huge the flawed think they're forever undesirable and the loving partner saying, "what's the fuss? I think you're amazing." I am not quite sure where Author Hawk is taking this series in terms of the supernatural elements. I like the Lovecraft mythos because the Elder Gods aren't personal, humanistic gods, they don't even see humans as we are so small and unimportant. We call them gods because their "powers" or abilities are so vastly superior to our own. We even call Cthulhu, explicitly not one of the Elder Gods, a god because his powers are godlike...though he is simply a superior life form in the mythos itself.

Author Hawk isn't creating a quasi-religious fantasy in the series. Whyborne, the sorcerous intellectual, specifically says he doesn't believe in a god in this entry into the series. He doesn't know why his speaking of spells works but he rejects the idea that it's due to some god giving him a gift. That's exactly what I want to hear. That's exactly what I myownself believe. There are things we don't know, questions we can't answer yet, but there's no reason to believe there is A Divine Plan made by A Divine Planner *for*our*benefit*— in fact there's a metric shit-ton of evidence that's absurdly wrongheaded.

So that is the fundamental reason I am Author Hawk's fan. I feel that the stories are aimed at me, designed to fill my specific needs for story-making. And I receive this gift gratefully from the stranger who created the stories for their own reasons, to fulfill their own needs.

Also from a certain lovely blond lad who both wants and knows how to please his old man.

[* A Reader Obsessed * · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

Thoroughly enjoyable series that has so far, consistently delivered on the mystery, the fear factor, and the smart writing. What also counts significantly is the relationship between Whyborne and Griffin, which is only further strengthened, the depth of their feelings now firmly known and cemented in this installment.

This go around Whyborne and Griffin, along with the unflappable Christine, try to prove a man’s innocence in a most suspicious murder. Nobody does prim and proper better than Whyborne, making this extra fun as he gets himself into one scrape after the other. Despite his huge reluctance to get involved, he reassuringly comes through quite triumphantly.

Griffin here, is horribly and devastatingly affected by his past and his current familial struggles, but thankfully he draws on his relationship with Whyborne for strength and fortitude. He puts his detective skills to work under the pressure of his even stronger sense of justice, and he and Whyborne uncover a sinister plan of revenge that will of course, destroy the world if it comes to fruition.

So yes, this gradually builds towards an explosive finish. It was entertaining and surprisingly (and always appreciated) more sexy and heartfelt than the last. The emotional weight of the interpersonal and external struggles these two go through only enriched the reading experience. I definitely look forward to more of this great duo.

[Ben Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Yes." I kissed the nearest patch of exposed skin within reach, on his arm. "Yes. I-I wish to be with you until the breath leaves my body, until the last stars burn out and the earth falls into the dying sun."

- me and who?

Stormhaven has Whyborne and Griffin investigating a murder, in order to exonerate one of Whyborne's colleagues. The accused is being held in Stormhaven Lunatic Asylum, and the investigation keeps pointing back there, to something sinister going on within its walls. The mystery quickly leads the two to another cult and a mysterious Lovecraftian underwater creature, that calls out to the minds of those on land.

On top of all this, Griffin's parents are visiting. The strain of having to keep their relationship hidden is reaching a tipping point; not helped by the fact his parents have, not so subtly, arrived with a woman they wish him to marry.
__
Thank you, Resting Grinch Face Elf for the gift!!! <3 :D

[Amy Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore Griffin and Whyborne, and their freaky, supernatural nexus of a town. The historical details were spot on and the characters both charmed me and moved me. I love this series, and I adore this author's deft touch and quirky mind.

[Vivian · Rating 3 out of 5]

All about Griffin.

The third saga of Whyborne and Griffin has the usual chills and thrills with a gruesome murder that leads them to try and prove a colleague's innocence. A relic, some supernatural shenanigans and a family visit all keep one entertained. But, their relationship is tested and words are spoken.

Words are spoken. Yeah, Whyborne's been meddling with his spells again and--Whammy! Good times. Nice take on the foe in this one. Who's the monster???

Wished there was more action and less pontificating about feelings and all that, but I'm sure others adore the mushy. Me? Back to the body count, boys. Those were my happy times.

Overall, a bit slower, but it forwards them emotionally so... okay O_o

3.5 Stars

Favorite quote:

Once something changes, it doesn’t ever really go back.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed enjoying this paranormal/ historical series. I really feel for Whybourne & Griffin that they can't express their love for each other in public due to the scandal that would be caused in these times but I'm glad that both men have now clearly chosen each other rather than their small minded families. This episode revolved around Stormhaven - the lunatic asylum and really brought back some terrible memories for Griffin. Of course drama and magic prevails and these two find their way with the support of their trusty feminist friend Christine- rock on, that chick is a badass !

[Jenni Lea · Rating 5 out of 5]

These just keep getting better and better.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy hell!!! This was one freaking good read!!!

Ok so here's me roaring through these books dealing with the whole aliens, monsters and who knows what that are coming at me and I'm enjoying it...a lot! Or at least I thought I was and then I read 'Stormhaven' and now I know. I've just been reading the warm up.

This for me was superb!!! I loved it. Oh there were still monsters, demons or whatever you want to call them. Only this time they were more abstract and only made a very small appearance in reality. There was a lot more Whyborne and Griffin relationship...sort of, Griffin's family shows up and can I just say that was a little tense.

There was definitely a stronger psychological component to the bad guy/monster issue than we've had in previous books and about this I am not going to say anything more because I really don't know how to express it without giving away parts of the story and this story to me is just to damned good to spoil for anyone.

Before I go on about our MC's can I just say "Christina you are the best, you are a rock and conceivably the perfect friend, you are honest in your opinions and not afraid to call a spade a spade, you tell your friends what they need to hear which is hard because it's not always what they want to hear, but at the end of it all you have their back and are there for them, especially Whyborne even when you are telling him he's wrong you're in his corner and you are steadfastly his best friend. I adore you for this. For being the kind of friend that we all need."

So now about our MCs. I have thought that Whyborne and Griffin were a sweet, sexy, melt my heart couple from the get go because of each of their circumstances and the times that they live in it won my heart to see them find happiness together but the last 25 to 30 percent of this book left me a sappy little puddle of mushy happiness curled up in my bed quietly wiping tears from eyes.

I honestly can't conceive that this series could get any better than this but I am so willing to keep reading to find how if it does and how in the world this could possibly happen.

[Sofia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good to be back with Why and Griff.

Quite a creeepppy come back with Whybourne in the grip of hypnotic siren call of the underwater depths and Griffin having to face his past at each turn.

I enjoyed reading this very worthy instalment in this series. Together with deep sea exploration, we also delved deeper in the inner workings of their relationship. To see them dealing with circumstances, which hit them where it hurts, and flared up their insecurities. The places where, doubts and jealousy prevail and where finally standing up and saying this is who I am, counts.

“How could I chain him in the shadow with me?”

Whybourne in the last quarter of the book was awesome. These peeks of him without his insecurities, shyness and manners, down to the basics Why, was great. I would love to know what Griffin was thinking during most of the book’s and some of the stuff must have touched him in very tender places.



BR with Ingela and Bev - enjoyed this ladies!

[Tara♥ {MindforBooks} · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Screams and howls rose from every room, the madmen struggling against their bindings or slamming into the doors, as if in a panic to get out before the monster in their dreams erupted into reality.”

See this one was always going to freak me out. Asylums and the 1800’s? Scary!! Add a new cult, nightmares from the sea, more information about Griffin and a trip from his parents?



‘Stormhaven’ had a lot going on and I think this one is another favourite in the series for me, not least of all because this one gave me big feelz.

Griffin and Whybornes relationship is really quite lovely and their little moments make me all gushy and silly.



I even like when Griffin calls Whyborne ‘my dear’ now, in fact I found myself waiting for it. It was one of the things I really disliked in the first book and now I’m waiting for it. How. Did. This. Happen? I’m turning into some kind of sappy sap.

So I may have shed a few tears but it was hard not to, they go through a lot in this and a lot of feelings are felt and a lot of things are said.

"Say you won’t leave me,” he begged. “I’m broken and scarred and selfish, but I swear, you’re the most important thing in the world to me.”



Griffin broke my heart at times. Absolutely broke it. But I was so proud of Whyborne, he is a fuddy-duddy and he can be far too proper but he is loyal and once he loves he loves with every single part of his being. I thought in the first book that Griffin would be good for Whyborne, would help him, but how wrong I was, how wrong everyone was about Whyborne in fact (even Whyborne) he is the one that is there for Griffin, he is incredibly strong.



Of course Griffin is still Whybornes cornerstone and when Whyborne sometimes loses his way Griffin I feel, will always be there to help guide him back.

"What is between us is fire, and passion, and a need I have never felt before."

As usual Christine was amazing and in her own Christine way she showed how much she cares for these two men, Whyborne in particular. She is just a total badass.


I'll say it again. So much happened in this book. Griffin and Whyborne may well be an established couple but I really don’t think there is any fear of them becoming boring. I think (or more I hope) that they will overcome whatever obstacles they come up against, it may take a little work but I’m sure they will find their around it in their own unique way.

"I may not be able to take you dancing, or bring an armful of flowers to your office, or hire a carriage for a romantic ride through the park, but I can at least do this," he said. "Give you something to carry with you, so you'll always have a reminder of how much I love you."



Goodness I’d love to see them dance.

[Elena · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Another solid book for this series. This time the story is more Griffin-centered, with both the case and his family’s visit.
While I appreciate getting to know more about Griffin's past, I wasn’t happy to learn the details of his time in the asylum, it was even worse than I imagined. It was a good thing that it all came out in the open though, especially considering that Whyborne was the first and only person to whom Griffin could talk about it and still feel accepted.
I really like seeing them growing closer with every book, the relationship’s progress is realistic and I really appreciated that there wasn’t any misunderstanding this time. A little frustration and some doubts on Whyborne’s part, but it was all resolved without drama.

Griffin’s family is what you could expect given the historical moment, so I wasn’t very surprised by their reaction. Still, poor Griffin.
Rose seems like an interesting, smart young woman, I hope she’ll be back later in the series.

Speaking of smart women, Christine has a less prominent role in this story, but she makes it count and I love how protective she is of Whyborne in her blunt, direct way. Maybe she could’ve been a little more understanding with Griffin, but her heart was in the right place and Whyborne needs someone strong who’s unconditionally on his side, given his family.

Whyborne’s powers storyline is being handled well so far, I’m curious to see how it’ll develop in the following books.

[❧ *´¸. Gwendolyn ❧ A Purely Organic BookOwl‘•´¸.* · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stormhaven Sweetness!


-


The Pocket Watch and oOh My Gosh♥

My review disappeared this is a re-cap of what I remember.

I love this book...

Because, this is really true love story with a sweet diversity intertwined in the tale.

♥ The Writing was Tight

♥ The Plot was Solid~

♥ The MC's and their Romance was Adorable and Beautifully Written.

♥And again in this book, my favorite part was the romance and the gift of the pocket watch...you'll see....and oOh my gosh, when he said...

"I may not be able to take you dancing, or bring an armful of flowers to your office, or hire a carriage for a romance ride....so you'll always have a reminder of how much I love you"

Gosh, I want a Griffen for me!

[Natalia · Rating 5 out of 5]

3rd re-read July 2021

[Ariana (mostly offline) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third book in the series came with a lot more Whyborne and Griffin compared to #2 which was greatly appreciated.
We don't only see their relationship evolve into something of a more serious nature, we also get a notion how they function as a couple, and that in particular was great fun to read: Griffin trying to teach Whyborne to cook - lol (his 'horrified' comments are rather amusing), both men supporting each other in time of need - there was a lot of that, and I loved the genuine affection that shines through that, the increasing intimacy between them - not necessarily in a physical way (they had that pretty much from the start), but opening up to each other more.

Then there was the whole carry-on with Griffin parents visiting and him trying to keep up appearances for them. I must say I do understand where he is coming from (and I'm not sure why Christine gave Griffin such a hard time about it - I know she has Whyborne's happiness at her heart first and foremost, but imo she was a bit harsh towards Griffin for his charade).
In a time when being gay was illegal and a serious offence, one that Griffin knows will insult his parents and damage his relationship with them, he chooses to pretend, and asks Whyborne to go along. Little does Griffin realize that his behaviour releases an avalanche of insecurity in Whyborne and causes him to doubt himself and their bond yet again. I loved that little bit of tension and it made the epilogue even sweeter! And the ending was utterly adorable, I can tell you!

As for the plot - well, there must be something in sea-creatures the author finds absolutely horrendous - after the evil crustaceans in book 2 we are faced with creepy starfish (??? I like starfish) and a magical sea god (now that did remind me of book 1), but somehow I didn't mind the rather debatable story-line. It still makes me grin in a good way. What I did love though was the unfolding of Whyborne's magical powers. Slowly, but surely he is starting to be able to command the elements, and I can't wait to see how this is going to develop further.
We also got a pretty big hint that he might have inherited his gift for magic from his mother The fact that his grandfather wanted to cut his mother's embryo out of his grandmother's body was quite a clue that something was going on there we will find out about in the future.
So, a very enjoyable instalment in the series!

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

The exhilarating ride continues in book 3 of this series. How many OMG’s can I write and not have them sound tired, but I really do love this series. OMG OMG OMG!

In this book Whyborne, Griffin and Christine run into a friend of Whyborne’s running down the street screaming for help covered in blood and not knowing how it got there. Well the local police to put the man in an Asylum, (Stormhaven) deciding he is mad because he can’t remember what happened. The man’s brother reaches out to Griffin for help and this brings up Griffin’s terror and fear to the surface. And let’s be honest here…Asylum..scary, creepy stuff! And Whyborne is having strange dreams that leave him scared and worried, Griffin and his night terrors are increasing, there is danger afoot, more creepy stuff, magic, mysteries and Griffin’s family has arrived for a visit!

I was worried that reading these 3 books back to back cause the story to get old and lose it’s luster and excitement for me. Well I was wrong, YAY! Once again, I am buried in this world, these characters, i get this creepy feeling across my skin every time they go to the asylum….

I love this book for so many reasons, the love between Whyborne and Griffin of course. Watching their relationship grow and their determination to always support each other. Whyborne and his internal musing just make me smile, he can be insecure, moody, antisocial, but ever loyal with a huge heart. I just love this man!!! Love I tell you!! Griffin is well….yummy, handsome, clever and hurt, damaged and still looking for his family’s approval and acceptance. My heart just broke for the guy and I just wanted to hug him. And of course there is my fav female character Christine! Tough as nails, outspoken, surging headfirst into all situations, I just want to hang with Christine!

Overall, this has been a wonderful ride and i can’t wait for more and more….Give me more!!