“The past has a way of walking around in the present, behaving as if it were alive.” ― Anatol Lieven
After reading the blurb, I quickly snatched this up to read. With all the stories written about gay men in the past, we don’t come across too many stories set in the 1800’s. I’m a history buff, so I knew this one was going to be a treat.
Gregory and Frank met while fighting in the War Between the States, the Civil War. After the war, they’ve decided to head West to claim their land and live life together. I was amazed by how beautifully written this story was. The author brings you right into the story. You feel as though you are right there, on the plains seeing this beautiful unspoiled country. We are taken on this amazing journey with the two characters from the beginning of their travels, to the people they meet along the way, to the trials and tribulations of trying to make a home on the wild prairie.
I absolutely loved Gregory and Frank. Their relationship is one that almost everyone can relate too. Throughout the story, they have their ups and downs, tender moments, time when they disagree, but overall they are just like any other couple out there who love each other. Two men who, against all odds, determined to have a life together.
The secondary characters in this story were truly a blessing. They accepted these men for who they were and welcomed them into their lives without judgment. When tragedy rears its ugly head, we find out just how much Gregory and Frank are trusted and perceived in the eyes of their new friends.
This is very much a character driven story. Even though the time is set after the Civil War, and during the big rush to claim land in the West, this story doesn’t go deep into the politics of the times nor does it read like a history lesson. I appreciated the fact that the author hit the key points of the times without going into too much detail.
This is ultimately a love story. A love story between two men set in a world that is simply not ready for them.
Highly recommended.
You can buy A Place to Call Their Own here:
Lisa, Today, you’ve had some great picks. I’ll never catch up with my “must read” list. This sounds like another terrific story. Okay, on my list it goes. :)
OOPS, sorry, Lynn. But what I said about my list still stands. :) Paul
Boy, Paul, I don’t mind telling you that my “must read” list is growing right along with yours. I read all these great reviews and it makes me jealous I didn’t get to the books first. :)
Thank you for reading #APTCTO!