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The Faller
A Story from the Warmest Dreamspinner Press 2018 Advent Calendar
Being caught with another man sends Charlie Young fleeing his family to the forests of southwestern Australia to scrape together steamer-passage to the big smoke of London. But life as a timber faller isn't easy and it’s made worse when the men he works with are brash, bigoted, and often brutal. All except Jack Tapper, who’s the kind of gentle giant that sets Charlie’s heart racing.
While the other men head into town for Christmas, it’s just Charlie and Jack and acres of forest. But trees tell no tales and a few days alone is the perfect opportunity to indulge a bourgeoning passion. When the men return and find things not as they once were, Charlie and Jack have to make the hard decisions about whether to stay where they are or run for their lives.
A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2018 Advent Calendar "Warmest Wishes."
Being caught with another man sends Charlie Young fleeing his family to the forests of southwestern Australia to scrape together steamer-passage to the big smoke of London. But life as a timber faller isn't easy and it’s made worse when the men he works with are brash, bigoted, and often brutal. All except Jack Tapper, who’s the kind of gentle giant that sets Charlie’s heart racing.
While the other men head into town for Christmas, it’s just Charlie and Jack and acres of forest. But trees tell no tales and a few days alone is the perfect opportunity to indulge a bourgeoning passion. When the men return and find things not as they once were, Charlie and Jack have to make the hard decisions about whether to stay where they are or run for their lives.
A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2018 Advent Calendar "Warmest Wishes."
46 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2018
10 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Daniel de Lorne
21 books102 followersDaniel de Lorne writes about men, monsters and magic.
In love with writing since he wrote a story about a talking tree at age six, his first novel, the romantic horror Beckoning Blood, was published in 2014. At the heart of every book is a romance between two men, whether they’re irresistible vampires, historical hotties, or professional paramours.
If you take your LGBT romance fiction with supernatural, urban fantasy or contemporary flavoring, Daniel de Lorne delivers.
In his other life, Daniel is a professional writer and researcher in Perth, Australia, with a love of history and nature. All of which makes for great story fodder.
And when he’s not working, he and his husband explore as much of this amazing world as they can, from the ruins of Welsh abbeys to trekking famous routes and swimming with whales.
To get to the real heart of the matter, visit danieldelorne.com.
In love with writing since he wrote a story about a talking tree at age six, his first novel, the romantic horror Beckoning Blood, was published in 2014. At the heart of every book is a romance between two men, whether they’re irresistible vampires, historical hotties, or professional paramours.
If you take your LGBT romance fiction with supernatural, urban fantasy or contemporary flavoring, Daniel de Lorne delivers.
In his other life, Daniel is a professional writer and researcher in Perth, Australia, with a love of history and nature. All of which makes for great story fodder.
And when he’s not working, he and his husband explore as much of this amazing world as they can, from the ruins of Welsh abbeys to trekking famous routes and swimming with whales.
To get to the real heart of the matter, visit danieldelorne.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
January 3, 2020
4.5 Hearts
This short holiday historical packs a punch!
Charlie is scared, exhausted, and losing hope he’ll ever make enough money to escape his past.
It doesn't help that his coworkers put him on edge with neither a kind word or a helping hand. When left alone with the intimidating Jack over the holidays, Charlie just tries to keep his head down and off the guy’s radar. Thing is, Jack’s already noticed him.
Simply, a full of feels, angsty story with a large dose of hurt comfort going both ways and a gentle giant whom I absolutely adored. These two sweetly connect, and their newfound happiness is a hard fought, harrowing journey but a joy to witness! Read.
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
For more reviews on this week’s Advent releases, please check out the blog!!
This short holiday historical packs a punch!
Charlie is scared, exhausted, and losing hope he’ll ever make enough money to escape his past.
It doesn't help that his coworkers put him on edge with neither a kind word or a helping hand. When left alone with the intimidating Jack over the holidays, Charlie just tries to keep his head down and off the guy’s radar. Thing is, Jack’s already noticed him.
Simply, a full of feels, angsty story with a large dose of hurt comfort going both ways and a gentle giant whom I absolutely adored. These two sweetly connect, and their newfound happiness is a hard fought, harrowing journey but a joy to witness! Read.
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
For more reviews on this week’s Advent releases, please check out the blog!!
December 20, 2021
Short historical romance set it the 1910s in Australia.
Feel like this needed to be just a bit longer to make this story feel complete. Loved the setting in a logging camp it added a lot to the story. All in all this was an enjoyable short read.
Feel like this needed to be just a bit longer to make this story feel complete. Loved the setting in a logging camp it added a lot to the story. All in all this was an enjoyable short read.
December 18, 2021
oh! Daniel de Lorne is offering this for free right now: https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Lumb...
I read it a few years ago in Dreamspinner Press' 2018 Advent Anthology titled The Faller. It's a lovely story, and a wonderful author, so I'm posting my review from that:
Intrigued by the idea of Australian lumberjacks, and phrases like ‘burgeoning passion’ in the blurb, The Faller had me at “hello”. Daniel de Lorne’s gritty holiday offering about a young man fleeing his family’s scorn, trying to live with the guilt over his perceived affliction, touched me with vulnerable characters and an overall feeling of hope.
Since I know practically nothing about chopping down trees in rural Australia I had to do a bit of research to understand the technicalities, and here’s what I’ve got: A jarrah is a tall and hearty variety of eucalyptus, a sleeper is a railroad tie, and, of course, a faller is a lumberjack (and the fantasy may commence).
In the forests of southwestern Australia, early 20th century, de Lorne paints a vivid picture of the logging camp. The lack of amenities: no latrines, eating their food from tins, and a two day hike from civilization that almost sounds like heaven compared to descriptions of the bugs, the heat, and deadly tree limbs falling from 100 foot tall timber. *shudders*
Physically and mentally worn out, and down to the last of his supplies, eighteen-year-old Charlie is reaching the end of his rope. Veteran faller (and walking perfection with an axe), Jack sees the melt-down and steps up to give Charlie some guidance…. When that big, burly man wraps his arms around Charlie to show him just how to do it right? Well, the passion we were promised? Oh yes, here’s where it starts!
The Faller isn’t just about affection though, with everything these men go through, it’s a good reminder not to take our blessings for granted, and that love and healing can be found in the most unexpected places.
If you’re looking for a seasonal read that’s not the usual sweet and simple tale, The Faller is an excellent choice. In fact, since I enjoyed Daniel de Lorne’s writing so much I started looking into what this talented man is about. On his website he promises his readers stories with: ruin, romance, and redemption. Well that’s the formula, and it works here. de Lorne has a wonderful way with words, and builds a very nice story. It’s not likely you’ll find a more unique and thoughtful holiday book, especially in under 50 pages.
I read it a few years ago in Dreamspinner Press' 2018 Advent Anthology titled The Faller. It's a lovely story, and a wonderful author, so I'm posting my review from that:
Intrigued by the idea of Australian lumberjacks, and phrases like ‘burgeoning passion’ in the blurb, The Faller had me at “hello”. Daniel de Lorne’s gritty holiday offering about a young man fleeing his family’s scorn, trying to live with the guilt over his perceived affliction, touched me with vulnerable characters and an overall feeling of hope.
Since I know practically nothing about chopping down trees in rural Australia I had to do a bit of research to understand the technicalities, and here’s what I’ve got: A jarrah is a tall and hearty variety of eucalyptus, a sleeper is a railroad tie, and, of course, a faller is a lumberjack (and the fantasy may commence).
In the forests of southwestern Australia, early 20th century, de Lorne paints a vivid picture of the logging camp. The lack of amenities: no latrines, eating their food from tins, and a two day hike from civilization that almost sounds like heaven compared to descriptions of the bugs, the heat, and deadly tree limbs falling from 100 foot tall timber. *shudders*
Physically and mentally worn out, and down to the last of his supplies, eighteen-year-old Charlie is reaching the end of his rope. Veteran faller (and walking perfection with an axe), Jack sees the melt-down and steps up to give Charlie some guidance…. When that big, burly man wraps his arms around Charlie to show him just how to do it right? Well, the passion we were promised? Oh yes, here’s where it starts!
The Faller isn’t just about affection though, with everything these men go through, it’s a good reminder not to take our blessings for granted, and that love and healing can be found in the most unexpected places.
If you’re looking for a seasonal read that’s not the usual sweet and simple tale, The Faller is an excellent choice. In fact, since I enjoyed Daniel de Lorne’s writing so much I started looking into what this talented man is about. On his website he promises his readers stories with: ruin, romance, and redemption. Well that’s the formula, and it works here. de Lorne has a wonderful way with words, and builds a very nice story. It’s not likely you’ll find a more unique and thoughtful holiday book, especially in under 50 pages.
Read
December 5, 20185 Hearts
Yup! This was so good. I love historicals and this had the right amount of angst to it that made my heart skip beats. Jack and Charlie are so lovely and I may have a few stories floating around my head about what they got up to after this story ended.
Review on the blog and then here!
We Unicorns take the holiday spirit seriously and we're here to help you get into it!
Join us in the weeks to follow as we review all 31 stories from Dreamspinner Press's annual Advent calendar "Warmest Wishes", The Unicorn Way.
Yup! This was so good. I love historicals and this had the right amount of angst to it that made my heart skip beats. Jack and Charlie are so lovely and I may have a few stories floating around my head about what they got up to after this story ended.
Review on the blog and then here!
We Unicorns take the holiday spirit seriously and we're here to help you get into it!
Join us in the weeks to follow as we review all 31 stories from Dreamspinner Press's annual Advent calendar "Warmest Wishes", The Unicorn Way.
November 23, 2020
I saw the word lumberjack and *clicked* this one on home! My BUY button finger never moved so fast. I love a big guy with an axe! :)
No real surprises here. A conflict, a few bad guys, and two sweet characters to root for in Charlie and Jack. I loved the forest setting though. Jack, our gentle-giant lumberjack, nailed it when he called the woods “enchanted”. I do have to confess to being a tad disappointed a decorated tree didn’t take shape anywhere in the tale. I mean come on! Haha…But that’s me being corny.
My favorite part was seeing and hearing Jack crash through the trees in search of Charlie. The man can make the ground shake!
Christmas with the Lumberjack is a giant cuddle with a sweet message….
“Don’t let your fear of them stop you from doing what you want to do.”
Off to find more lumberjacks and words by Daniel de Lorne.
December 21, 2021
2.5*
There's a lot that's the setting and while I liked the characters they were the only people in the woods which detracted from it being a great romance. Charlie's exhaustion came over well, it's not an overly emotional narration. With the bad guys there didn't seem enough build up to show the threat.
Overall I just wanted things fleshed out a little more, a little more of an ending to know where they go from here.
There's a lot that's the setting and while I liked the characters they were the only people in the woods which detracted from it being a great romance. Charlie's exhaustion came over well, it's not an overly emotional narration. With the bad guys there didn't seem enough build up to show the threat.
Overall I just wanted things fleshed out a little more, a little more of an ending to know where they go from here.
November 18, 2018
The Faller takes place at the end of 1912 in Western Australia. Charlie Young, who was thrown out of his home when discovered with another man, has come to the jarrah forest in southwestern Australia to try his hand at being a sleeper cutter. He lives in a camp with four other men, one of whom is Jack Tapper, a giant who doesn't say much but has a heart of gold and a connection with Charlie.
The Faller is from Charlie's single POV, and has some really lovely moments, but ends with such uncertainty (did they make it out? did they have a happy life together? An epilogue would have gone a long way) that it almost ruined the whole story for me. Because of the ending, the story felt unfinished, mostly because I expect a happy ending when reading a holiday romance.
2.5 Stars
NOTE: Purchase the whole Dreamspinner Press 2018 Advent Calendar - Warmest Wishes anthology and get a story delivered automatically to your bookshelf each day in December. More than 400,000 words of romantic fiction in 31 stories. Buy the package early and save. *Sale of packages for daily delivery ends Nov. 25. Beginning December 1, stories will be available individually as priced or as a bulk package.
Advanced Review Galley copy of The Faller provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
The Faller is from Charlie's single POV, and has some really lovely moments, but ends with such uncertainty (did they make it out? did they have a happy life together? An epilogue would have gone a long way) that it almost ruined the whole story for me. Because of the ending, the story felt unfinished, mostly because I expect a happy ending when reading a holiday romance.
2.5 Stars
NOTE: Purchase the whole Dreamspinner Press 2018 Advent Calendar - Warmest Wishes anthology and get a story delivered automatically to your bookshelf each day in December. More than 400,000 words of romantic fiction in 31 stories. Buy the package early and save. *Sale of packages for daily delivery ends Nov. 25. Beginning December 1, stories will be available individually as priced or as a bulk package.
Advanced Review Galley copy of The Faller provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
December 9, 2018
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars because still no 1/2 stars here on GR and I have to say not being a fan of historical I still quite enjoyed this one and reading it was no hardship.
Let's go back in time...imagine...
it's 1912 and Charlie Young is working as a timber faller in the forest of southwestern Australia trying to earn enough money to escape his family and get to London, England where he can start his life over again. He’s not working in the safest of places for a young man with his proclivities during the early 1900’s…he’s working with men who are ‘brash, bigoted and brutal’… homophobic. But there’s one man among them who’s not like this…Jack Tapper isn’t like the other men…he’s quiet and keeps to himself, works hard and Charlie sees a gentle side to him…a side that makes him wish…
Charlie chooses to remain behind at the camp for the holidays in the hope that he can maybe get some more logs cut earning him extra money and getting him to England as soon as possible. What Charlie doesn’t realize is that he’s not the only one staying behind in the camp…his gentle giant is also there.
It’s during these days alone that Charlie and Jack get to now each other and grow closer leading their fledgling friendship to bloom all the deeper and stronger. It’s only too soon that the other men return to camp and bring with them mistrust and accusations.
What ‘The Faller’ wasn’t was a light and fluffy holiday story, but at the same time it was a well-crafted story that drew me in giving me a setting in a time frame that I was easily able to visualize. The story is given entirely from Charlie’s perspective and while it would have added to things to have some of Jack’s perspective given the length of the story for me it would have felt a bit overwhelming to have to take in the perspective of two people during such a short read. Undoubtedly for me, my favorite part of the story were the few days that Charlie and Jack spent together alone in the camp getting to know each other…becoming friends and lovers. It was a sweet and poignant time made even more so by the cruel and harsh behaviour of men during that time and especially upon their return to the camp.
While the part that kept this from being a stronger read for me was the ending. I was left wondering exactly what became of Charlie and Jack whether they remained in Australia, made their way to England. For me the ending was a possible HFN and it’s a bit of a personal preference thing but when it comes to story endings, I like something a bit more clear cut. I admit this is a holiday story so of course a nice happily ever after or a strong happy for now leaning towards an HEA would be my first choice but in general I can even handle a ‘not so great’ ending as long as the big questions are dealt the ending of this one just felt vague and maybe an epilogue or some kind of 6 months or 1 year later type note would have felt better.
*************************
A copy of ‘The Faller’ was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Let's go back in time...imagine...
it's 1912 and Charlie Young is working as a timber faller in the forest of southwestern Australia trying to earn enough money to escape his family and get to London, England where he can start his life over again. He’s not working in the safest of places for a young man with his proclivities during the early 1900’s…he’s working with men who are ‘brash, bigoted and brutal’… homophobic. But there’s one man among them who’s not like this…Jack Tapper isn’t like the other men…he’s quiet and keeps to himself, works hard and Charlie sees a gentle side to him…a side that makes him wish…
Charlie chooses to remain behind at the camp for the holidays in the hope that he can maybe get some more logs cut earning him extra money and getting him to England as soon as possible. What Charlie doesn’t realize is that he’s not the only one staying behind in the camp…his gentle giant is also there.
It’s during these days alone that Charlie and Jack get to now each other and grow closer leading their fledgling friendship to bloom all the deeper and stronger. It’s only too soon that the other men return to camp and bring with them mistrust and accusations.
What ‘The Faller’ wasn’t was a light and fluffy holiday story, but at the same time it was a well-crafted story that drew me in giving me a setting in a time frame that I was easily able to visualize. The story is given entirely from Charlie’s perspective and while it would have added to things to have some of Jack’s perspective given the length of the story for me it would have felt a bit overwhelming to have to take in the perspective of two people during such a short read. Undoubtedly for me, my favorite part of the story were the few days that Charlie and Jack spent together alone in the camp getting to know each other…becoming friends and lovers. It was a sweet and poignant time made even more so by the cruel and harsh behaviour of men during that time and especially upon their return to the camp.
While the part that kept this from being a stronger read for me was the ending. I was left wondering exactly what became of Charlie and Jack whether they remained in Australia, made their way to England. For me the ending was a possible HFN and it’s a bit of a personal preference thing but when it comes to story endings, I like something a bit more clear cut. I admit this is a holiday story so of course a nice happily ever after or a strong happy for now leaning towards an HEA would be my first choice but in general I can even handle a ‘not so great’ ending as long as the big questions are dealt the ending of this one just felt vague and maybe an epilogue or some kind of 6 months or 1 year later type note would have felt better.
*************************
A copy of ‘The Faller’ was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
December 4, 2018
Charlie Young becomes a tree faller in Australia's jarrah forest to earn enough money for steamer passage to London. He's young and inept and worries that he'll never put together enough money to escape. When three of the five-man camp go into town for Christmas, Charlie stays behind with Jack Tapper, an expert faller who has never said more than a few words to him.
In a few short days, the men start a romance and decide to throw their lot in together, but when the other fallers return to camp, their plans go awry. We only get Charlie's POV here and I would have liked to get Jack's viewpoint as well. Also, the story ends almost mid-stride and we are left wondering and hoping that these two men make a life together. A brief epilogue would have been greatly appreciated! 3 stars.
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
In a few short days, the men start a romance and decide to throw their lot in together, but when the other fallers return to camp, their plans go awry. We only get Charlie's POV here and I would have liked to get Jack's viewpoint as well. Also, the story ends almost mid-stride and we are left wondering and hoping that these two men make a life together. A brief epilogue would have been greatly appreciated! 3 stars.
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
December 13, 2018
Intrigued by the idea of Australian lumberjacks, and phrases like ‘burgeoning passion’ in the blurb, The Faller had me at “hello”. Daniel de Lorne’s gritty holiday offering about a young man fleeing his family’s scorn, trying to live with the guilt over his perceived affliction, touched me with vulnerable characters and an overall feeling of hope.
Since I know practically nothing about chopping down trees in rural Australia I had to do a bit of research to understand the technicalities, and here’s what I’ve got: A jarrah is a tall and hearty variety of eucalyptus, a sleeper is a railroad tie, and, of course, a faller is a lumberjack (and the fantasy may commence).
In the forests of southwestern Australia, early 20th century, de Lorne paints a vivid picture of the logging camp. The lack of amenities: no latrines, eating their food from tins, and a two day hike from civilization that almost sounds like heaven compared to descriptions of the bugs, the heat, and deadly tree limbs falling from 100 foot tall timber. *shudders*
Physically and mentally worn out, and down to the last of his supplies, eighteen-year-old Charlie is reaching the end of his rope. Veteran faller (and walking perfection with an axe), Jack sees the melt-down and steps up to give Charlie some guidance…. When that big, burly man wraps his arms around Charlie to show him just how to do it right? Well, the passion we were promised? Oh yes, here’s where it starts!
The Faller isn’t just about affection though, with everything these men go through, it’s a good reminder not to take our blessings for granted, and that love and healing can be found in the most unexpected places.
If you’re looking for a seasonal read that’s not the usual sweet and simple tale, The Faller is an excellent choice. In fact, since I enjoyed Daniel de Lorne’s writing so much I started looking into what this talented man is about. On his website he promises his readers stories with: ruin, romance, and redemption. Well that’s the formula, and it works here. de Lorne has a wonderful way with words, and builds a very nice story. It’s not likely you’ll find a more unique and thoughtful holiday book, especially in under 50 pages.
Since I know practically nothing about chopping down trees in rural Australia I had to do a bit of research to understand the technicalities, and here’s what I’ve got: A jarrah is a tall and hearty variety of eucalyptus, a sleeper is a railroad tie, and, of course, a faller is a lumberjack (and the fantasy may commence).
In the forests of southwestern Australia, early 20th century, de Lorne paints a vivid picture of the logging camp. The lack of amenities: no latrines, eating their food from tins, and a two day hike from civilization that almost sounds like heaven compared to descriptions of the bugs, the heat, and deadly tree limbs falling from 100 foot tall timber. *shudders*
Physically and mentally worn out, and down to the last of his supplies, eighteen-year-old Charlie is reaching the end of his rope. Veteran faller (and walking perfection with an axe), Jack sees the melt-down and steps up to give Charlie some guidance…. When that big, burly man wraps his arms around Charlie to show him just how to do it right? Well, the passion we were promised? Oh yes, here’s where it starts!
The Faller isn’t just about affection though, with everything these men go through, it’s a good reminder not to take our blessings for granted, and that love and healing can be found in the most unexpected places.
If you’re looking for a seasonal read that’s not the usual sweet and simple tale, The Faller is an excellent choice. In fact, since I enjoyed Daniel de Lorne’s writing so much I started looking into what this talented man is about. On his website he promises his readers stories with: ruin, romance, and redemption. Well that’s the formula, and it works here. de Lorne has a wonderful way with words, and builds a very nice story. It’s not likely you’ll find a more unique and thoughtful holiday book, especially in under 50 pages.
December 22, 2018
Picture (in this case) : 1912 Western Australia ... but it could be anytime and anyplace because
forbidden love is all times and over big parts of the world.
Charlie can’t live at home anymore, so to have a chance to leave and travel to England he has to generate money. He now works in the forest as a timber faller, with four other men.
There is one big impressive but delicious looking trunk... it isn’t even made of wood... and Charlie is afraid he gives away how he feels. The guys will kill him if they suspect!
Jack is one enormous and impressive looking guy, he’s quiet and hard working.
When Jack and Charlie stay behind in the forest for the holidays, something kind of sweet grows between them. But... holidays don't last forever.
This all nicely written with plausible woven sentences and sometimes it felt kind of mellow.
Even with the small development this story says a lot. It shows how love can’t be love, but also how strong love can be, how people can rise by love, how there always will be love at any time and any place, between two people of the same gender.
The year says 1912 ... and I want to cry out loud because more then a hundred years later nothing changed, in great parts of the world it’s still not allowed to love who you want to love. And with some wrong people at the top nowadays, it seems to get worse and the homophobia growing even stronger and going backwards to 1912 again.
But with the Christmas spirit on the background and at the threshold of a new year they have (thank goodness) a future... together <3
Read and Reviewed for Diverse Reader
forbidden love is all times and over big parts of the world.
Charlie can’t live at home anymore, so to have a chance to leave and travel to England he has to generate money. He now works in the forest as a timber faller, with four other men.
There is one big impressive but delicious looking trunk... it isn’t even made of wood... and Charlie is afraid he gives away how he feels. The guys will kill him if they suspect!
Jack is one enormous and impressive looking guy, he’s quiet and hard working.
When Jack and Charlie stay behind in the forest for the holidays, something kind of sweet grows between them. But... holidays don't last forever.
This all nicely written with plausible woven sentences and sometimes it felt kind of mellow.
Even with the small development this story says a lot. It shows how love can’t be love, but also how strong love can be, how people can rise by love, how there always will be love at any time and any place, between two people of the same gender.
The year says 1912 ... and I want to cry out loud because more then a hundred years later nothing changed, in great parts of the world it’s still not allowed to love who you want to love. And with some wrong people at the top nowadays, it seems to get worse and the homophobia growing even stronger and going backwards to 1912 again.
But with the Christmas spirit on the background and at the threshold of a new year they have (thank goodness) a future... together <3
Read and Reviewed for Diverse Reader
October 6, 2020
Western Australia in 1912 was not exactly a safe place for a man to fall in love with another man, and as this story shows, the consequences were brutal. Charlie was caught kissing a male friend, ended up disowned by his family, and suddenly only has himself to rely on. Without any skills he ends up as a timber faller – a wonderful old word I looked up just to find out its history – and exposed to a group of rough-and-tumble men who are not just homophobic but ready to be cruel about it. But Charlie is determined to stick it out and make enough money to buy passage on a steamboat to London. That is probably as far away as he can imagine and he figures it will be easier to hide in a big city.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
December 10, 2018
Meh. I was engaged in the story until the end then I felt a bit let down. A little more would have gone a long way as it felt unfinished. Also, I feel like the last couple of books I have read were "settling" kind of romances. I want my MCs to be with who they want to be with, not just settling for who is conveniently in the same place at the same time.
January 1, 2021
Oh, that was simply lovely! A huge amount of background and setting in not many words at all. Gotta remember this author...
FYI, this is the same story as The Faller
FYI, this is the same story as The Faller
December 4, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.25 stars
I got caught up early on in this story of young Charlie, completely out of his element, trying to earn some money to make a new life. He is ill-equipped to be a tree faller and since the men are paid by the amount of work they turn in, no one will help Charlie improve his skills. I found the initial set-up learning about what Charlie was working on interesting and the setting of the forest lent atmosphere to the story.
A lot of time is then spent on Charlie’s work, however. We get glimpses of his old life and then his attraction to Jack. The men spend the briefest of time together and then have to hide their relationship from the other men. We are not given Jack’s motivation and I needed more from him to round the story out for me. The ending is rushed from the relationship side and it had the feeling of these guys being together more out of loneliness and another scene at the end could have polished the romance. The title of this year’s advent collection is “warmest wishes” and I was not left feeling that here, which was unfortunate as the story had promise earlier on.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3.25 stars
I got caught up early on in this story of young Charlie, completely out of his element, trying to earn some money to make a new life. He is ill-equipped to be a tree faller and since the men are paid by the amount of work they turn in, no one will help Charlie improve his skills. I found the initial set-up learning about what Charlie was working on interesting and the setting of the forest lent atmosphere to the story.
A lot of time is then spent on Charlie’s work, however. We get glimpses of his old life and then his attraction to Jack. The men spend the briefest of time together and then have to hide their relationship from the other men. We are not given Jack’s motivation and I needed more from him to round the story out for me. The ending is rushed from the relationship side and it had the feeling of these guys being together more out of loneliness and another scene at the end could have polished the romance. The title of this year’s advent collection is “warmest wishes” and I was not left feeling that here, which was unfortunate as the story had promise earlier on.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
April 5, 2019
What a story. Life was so hard back in earlier days. It's hard enough now dealing with homophobia, but back then it was even worse. Charlie already had to run once for being caught. He tried to stay away from people and just do his job, but another Faller attracted him. And he finally got his wish to be in the man's arms. But the other fallers found out and Charlie's life was in serious danger. I hate that people are the way they are now. One even go to links like this. It's such a shame. Fortunately, love and a big man came to the rescue.
November 30, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
For a short story this had a lot of detail which set the scene in the woods really well. And whilst the roles may be more from 1912, the situation sadly could have been from 2012.
Charlie is trying to raise the funds to leave Australia and the family that rejected him behind. To do this he is hidden out in a forest making railway sleepers with a group of rather hard men. One of them, Jack, stays behind when the others go to celebrate Christmas in town. Somewhat unexpectedly Jack and Charlie are kindred spirits, and pass the festive season enjoying each other.
Some rather dramatic events led to an ending which gave us hope for their future together, but I would have loved to know what happened next!
For a short story this had a lot of detail which set the scene in the woods really well. And whilst the roles may be more from 1912, the situation sadly could have been from 2012.
Charlie is trying to raise the funds to leave Australia and the family that rejected him behind. To do this he is hidden out in a forest making railway sleepers with a group of rather hard men. One of them, Jack, stays behind when the others go to celebrate Christmas in town. Somewhat unexpectedly Jack and Charlie are kindred spirits, and pass the festive season enjoying each other.
Some rather dramatic events led to an ending which gave us hope for their future together, but I would have loved to know what happened next!
November 25, 2018
The Faller (2018 Advent Calendar Daily - Warmest Wishes) by Daniel de Lorne
3.5 stars
M/M Romance
Triggers: homophobia
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Charlie is caught with another man and for that, his father throws him out and threatens his life. Knowing that he needs to get out of dodge, he heads for the only job he knows will pay well and get him to his end destination, which is London. But, Charlie is HORRIBLE at being a timber faller and despite wanting it more, he just can't seem to get his technique down.
Jack is the loner in camp. He is amazing at being a timber faller and everyone envies his technique and quickness. Despite being the best, he lost someone years ago and hasn't really gotten over it. When he sees Charlie in camp, he knows that he has to stay away. Charlie is too tempting.
When the other timber fallers are away on holiday, Jack and Charlie find each other - kindred spirits. They are blissfully happy for a few days before everyone comes back. But prejudices and hatred come back to camp with everyone else and Charlie and Jack have no other choice but to run from them if they want to be happy. This is a quick read about finding yourself and not letting someone else dictate your happiness. It was sweet.
3.5 stars
M/M Romance
Triggers: homophobia
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Charlie is caught with another man and for that, his father throws him out and threatens his life. Knowing that he needs to get out of dodge, he heads for the only job he knows will pay well and get him to his end destination, which is London. But, Charlie is HORRIBLE at being a timber faller and despite wanting it more, he just can't seem to get his technique down.
Jack is the loner in camp. He is amazing at being a timber faller and everyone envies his technique and quickness. Despite being the best, he lost someone years ago and hasn't really gotten over it. When he sees Charlie in camp, he knows that he has to stay away. Charlie is too tempting.
When the other timber fallers are away on holiday, Jack and Charlie find each other - kindred spirits. They are blissfully happy for a few days before everyone comes back. But prejudices and hatred come back to camp with everyone else and Charlie and Jack have no other choice but to run from them if they want to be happy. This is a quick read about finding yourself and not letting someone else dictate your happiness. It was sweet.
December 10, 2018
3.5 stars
I am quite intrigued with the book summary of The Faller from new-to-me author, Daniel de Lorne because it says to be located in Southwestern Australia. I was a little bit surprised when I started reading that it was set in a historical era – 1912 to be exact – but I guess it added the element of difference from my usual reading of this genre.
I liked de Lorne’s writing – when Charlie finally has the time to be together with Jack, just the two of them, it provides some lovely and sweet moments. BUT, because of the era, there’s also a sense of impending danger that will happen if the other timber fallers know about their sexuality.
So, after the trouble that these two men are having near the end, I was expecting more of a “HAPPY EVER AFTER” rather than “happy for now”. It’s a HOLIDAY story, for God’s sake. At least gives me a cheerful closure so I finish the book with a smile rather than anxiety!
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
I am quite intrigued with the book summary of The Faller from new-to-me author, Daniel de Lorne because it says to be located in Southwestern Australia. I was a little bit surprised when I started reading that it was set in a historical era – 1912 to be exact – but I guess it added the element of difference from my usual reading of this genre.
I liked de Lorne’s writing – when Charlie finally has the time to be together with Jack, just the two of them, it provides some lovely and sweet moments. BUT, because of the era, there’s also a sense of impending danger that will happen if the other timber fallers know about their sexuality.
So, after the trouble that these two men are having near the end, I was expecting more of a “HAPPY EVER AFTER” rather than “happy for now”. It’s a HOLIDAY story, for God’s sake. At least gives me a cheerful closure so I finish the book with a smile rather than anxiety!
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
December 17, 2018
I was really anxious to read The Faller and appreciated the MC’s equally just a few pages in. While the story is from Charlie’s POV, Jack is the type of strong, silent character that always intrigues me. There’s understandable conflict and stress in this short story and I felt a little strung out while I was reading it. There’s just as much action and danger as there is love and romance and the author did a good job of balancing the two, but I did want a little bit more fuzzy love being that this was a Christmas story. I think the rather abrupt ending and HFN left me feeling that way. It’s probably way more realistic how it did end though, but I wanted, at the least, a plan for them so that I could picture it in my head. Which shows me that I was invested in their happiness which says a lot for Charlie and Jack.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
October 6, 2020
Western Australia in 1912 was not exactly a safe place for a man to fall in love with another man, and as this story shows, the consequences were brutal. Charlie was caught kissing a male friend, ended up disowned by his family, and suddenly only has himself to rely on. Without any skills he ends up as a timber faller – a wonderful old word I looked up just to find out its history – and exposed to a group of rough-and-tumble men who are not just homophobic but ready to be cruel about it. But Charlie is determined to stick it out and make enough money to buy passage on a steamboat to London. That is probably as far away as he can imagine and he figures it will be easier to hide in a big city.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
January 1, 2021
My review is under the currently available version, Christmas with the Lumberjack: A Gay Christmas Short Story
December 9, 2022
This short story sucked me right in. It’s a bit high-angst, not like what I usually read, but I loved these MCs. My only wish was that there would have been an epilogue, so we could see their happy ending.
December 24, 2021
Enjoyed the unique setting. Did a good job of making me feel Charlie's despair. And the sweat, aches, and exhaustion of the backbreaking labor.
January 8, 2022
"I love Jack Tapper, and there's nothing you can do to
change that, you ignorant piece of shit.”
This book stole my heart. Short, sweet and straight to the point. I usually get distracted when reading but sat still and read this quickly! I rooted for Jack and Charlie to have a happy ending.
Jack being a big teddy bear and loving Charlie to the fullest even to the point where he wanted to run off with him with no hesitation warmed my heart.
Another heartstring tugging quote towards the end:
“As it turned out, they'd kill. Fear knew no bounds when it came together with ignorance.”
^^^this broke my heart because of how true it was. Charlie was fearful for good reason. Fred, Doug and Sam were cruel and unapologetic over how ignorant they were. Even to a point where they were eager to murder Charlie with their axes!
I’m so relieved that Jack and Charlie were able to get away and start a new life together, even though I wouldn’t mind a widowmaker falling on Fred, Doug and Sam 😌
change that, you ignorant piece of shit.”
This book stole my heart. Short, sweet and straight to the point. I usually get distracted when reading but sat still and read this quickly! I rooted for Jack and Charlie to have a happy ending.
Jack being a big teddy bear and loving Charlie to the fullest even to the point where he wanted to run off with him with no hesitation warmed my heart.
Another heartstring tugging quote towards the end:
“As it turned out, they'd kill. Fear knew no bounds when it came together with ignorance.”
^^^this broke my heart because of how true it was. Charlie was fearful for good reason. Fred, Doug and Sam were cruel and unapologetic over how ignorant they were. Even to a point where they were eager to murder Charlie with their axes!
I’m so relieved that Jack and Charlie were able to get away and start a new life together, even though I wouldn’t mind a widowmaker falling on Fred, Doug and Sam 😌
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2019
Short historical, where we learn about the hard life that lumber men had in 1912 - add in being gay and it is doubly hard.
Told from Charlie’s pov as a green young man trying to earn passage to England - and he chose a hard, new to him job!
He keeps to himself though being alone in camp over Christmas with the strong silent Jack does lead to them getting together. The return of the other workers does illustrate the issues men like Charlie and Jack faced.
The do walk off into the unknown, but together.
Told from Charlie’s pov as a green young man trying to earn passage to England - and he chose a hard, new to him job!
He keeps to himself though being alone in camp over Christmas with the strong silent Jack does lead to them getting together. The return of the other workers does illustrate the issues men like Charlie and Jack faced.
The do walk off into the unknown, but together.
December 15, 2018
This story is packed with emotion and in many ways is very bittersweet. Love in a way has won but they also had to give up so much.
December 3, 2020
Too grim for my tastes.
January 9, 2022
4.5 stars - I read this bc when I was clearing out my Kindle home page of holiday books, I had just read the above Keira Andrews book and thought “hmm, let’s compare two books with similar titles, shall we?” They are not similar, at all, and in fact, the original title for this was The Faller. It takes place in 1912 Australia, in a small camp of lumberjacks. Charlie is out of his element, just trying to earn enough for a passage to England to escape his horrible family, and Jack is the gruff top lumberjack that everyone is trying to be like. The rest of the camp goes into town for Christmas, and Charlie stays behind to try and make more progress on his wood pile, and discovers Jack has stayed as well.
The atmosphere in this is top tier; the writing is just good. It’s already hot, but they’re doing backbreaking work on top of that. We get a little respite from things, but when the other men return from town, things become very tense and dangerous. This book goes there, and while we’re left with the characters on their way to another adventure, both we and they have no idea where it will be, just that they’re going together. Really wonderful novella.
The atmosphere in this is top tier; the writing is just good. It’s already hot, but they’re doing backbreaking work on top of that. We get a little respite from things, but when the other men return from town, things become very tense and dangerous. This book goes there, and while we’re left with the characters on their way to another adventure, both we and they have no idea where it will be, just that they’re going together. Really wonderful novella.
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