Genre: M/M Romance, Paranormal Mystery
Published by: Riptide Publishing on October 15, 2012
Format: eARC
Pages: 250
Source: NetGalley
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Dr. Wyatt Case is never happier than when he’s walking the halls of his history museum. Playing wingman for his best friend at Gravedigger’s Tavern throws him way out of his comfort zone, but not as much as the eccentric man behind the bar, Ash Lucroix.
Ash is everything Wyatt doesn’t understand: exuberant, quirky, and elbow deep in a Gaslight lifestyle that weaves history into everyday life. He coordinates his suspenders with his tongue rings. Within hours, Wyatt and Ash are hooked.
But strange things are afoot at Gravedigger’s, and after a knock to the head, Ash starts seeing things that can’t be explained by old appliances or faulty wiring. Soon everyone at Gravedigger’s is wondering if they’re seeing ghosts, or just going crazy. The answer to that question could end more than just Wyatt and Ash’s fragile relationship—it might also end their lives.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
A fun, flirty and spooky romance that kept me on edge from beginning to end!
THE GRAVEDIGGER’S BRAWL is one of those books that reels you in with its eerie charm and alluring characters. I’m a sucker for a good mystery, especially if it involves the supernatural and this story has all that plus the creepy factor in spades. While the story drew me in with suspense, it’s the characters and their blossoming romance that became the real star of THE GRAVEDIGGER’S BRAWL.
Dr. Wyatt Case feels in his element when working as a museum curator for the Historical Society of Virginia and being surrounded by history. When his position at the museum is in jeopardy, Wyatt turns to his best friend and co-worker, Noah for some help. Noah doesn’t know how he can help with Wyatt’s work problem, but he has just the thing for his love life, a sexy bartender by the name of Ash Lucroix he plans to set him up with.
“You don’t like Wyatt?” he said to the empty room. “Well go fuck yourself. I’m keeping him.”
Sparks fly when Wyatt meets the sexy flairing bartender of Gravedigger’s Tavern, an attraction too strong too ignore. Wyatt is fascinated by Ash’s kohl rimmed eyes, pierced tongue and gaslight lifestyle. After a passionate night together, Ash wakes up to an empty bed which strains their potential relationship but soon finds himself with bigger problems on his hands. With the bar’s annual Halloween event, the Gravedigger’s Brawl approaching, Ash and the staff are busier than ever, but when appliances and radios repeatedly go haywire they are all convinced the tavern is haunted. With the help of Wyatt and Noah, Ash and the Gravedigger’s staff uncover the history of the old Victorian building that is now The Gravedigger’s Tavern and its long kept secrets.
I really enjoyed the mystery and supernatural elements but to my surprise it was the characters I really fell in love with. Wyatt and Ash are total opposites when it comes to their lifestyles but come together flawlessly. At first glance it might seem Ash is the more alpha of the two, but I was shocked to see the tables turn when they were behind closed doors, those two know how to fog up my ereader with their hotness! Their romance felt completely organic and had its ups and downs which make it more relatable. Wyatt’s curious nature and Ash’s honesty and sense of humor make for an entertaining pairing.
“Aw, they’re all cuddly. It’s like watching grizzlies mate.” ~ Ash on Noah and Caleb
The paranormal element was brilliantly woven into this story. There are a few creepy, hair raising moments that combined with the rich details of history really bring the story to life, I especially enjoyed the whole “gaslight” theme of the bar that really sets the mood for the plot. The supporting characters are just as fascinating. I love the little moments between Noah and Caleb and couldn’t get enough of their charismatic personalities, this goes for the entire cast of characters. THE GRAVEDIGGER’S BRAWL is a sexy read with enticing characters, vengeful ghosts and a steamy romance that will leave you all hot and bothered…I’m officially a fan of Abigail Roux!
*Note: This book contains explicit sexual content and situations that some readers may find objectionable: M/M sexual scenes.
I’m trying her cut & run series out…been hearing some great things about it & it would be my second m/m romance that i’ve read.
Loved the review. I may have to try this one out too!
Great review, sounds very interesting. I love paranormal in about any genre I read.