Blue River

Title:  Blue River

Author:  Theo Fenraven

Publisher:  Dreamspinner Press

Length:  92 pages

Rating:  B List

Quad Shot of Love

Blurb:  Photography genius Ethan Mars is out and living the fast life in Los Angeles until a mysterious mist in Topanga Canyon sends him back in time. There he meets Quinn Parker, a farmer who has hidden his homosexuality from everyone, even Margaret, his fiancée. Falling in love is the last thing Ethan expects, and the last thing Quinn can allow—in 1863, being gay can get him killed. When Ethan is unexpectedly offered a way home, he faces an impossible decision: go back… or stay?

2nd Edition
1st Edition published by MLR Press, 2011

A Timeless Dreams title: While reaction to same-sex relationships throughout time and across cultures has not always been positive, these stories celebrate M/M love in a manner that may address, minimize, or ignore historical stigma.

Review:  A charming time travel story. There was a lot of humor and a few little twists that made the novella feel fresh and original.

I felt like Ethan was expressing some of my doubts about living in older times, without running water, indoor plumbing, disinfectant and a complete refusal to maintain personal hygiene. Ethan actually dealt with it with a grace and humor that was admirable.

I liked Ethan. He cracked me up with his snark and showed himself to be more sensitive than he appeared in the beginning.

Poor, sweet and repressed Quinn. So innocent and open, he had no clue how to hide his thoughts and emotions. I wanted to hug him tight and tell him that he deserved to be happy and there was nothing wrong with him. Luckily, Ethan hugged and loved on Quinn for me.

This crazy trek through time forced Ethan to grow up a little. He had to take a look at some of his attitudes and found a new appreciation for a lot of things he took for granted, including his freedom to be himself and express his sexuality. I enjoyed my time with these men. They were so sweet together and deserved to somehow, someway, find their HEA.

Reviewed by Nina