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The moth and moon #2
The Lion Lies Waiting
Sequel to The Moth and Moon
Winter, 1780, and the solstice is fast approaching. Four months after the events of The Moth and Moon, burly fisherman Robin Shipp is preparing for his first Midwinter festival with his lover, the handsome baker Edwin Farriner. But when a letter arrives begging for help, they must travel with their friend, Duncan, to Port Knot on sinister Blackrabbit Island for a final confrontation with Edwin’s mother. Also visiting the island are Lady Eva and her wife Iris, with a stunning proposition that could change Robin and Edwin’s lives forever.
The snow-covered harbour town of Port Knot is a dangerous place. While there, Robin, Edwin, and Duncan explore the menacing rooftop settlement known as the Roost, mingle with high society in the magnificent splendour of Chase Manor, and uncover a violent conspiracy threatening the island’s entire way of life.
Old rivalries will flare, shocking secrets will be revealed, and as Duncan’s scandalous past finally catches up with him, will it ultimately destroy them all?
The men will be tested to their limits as they discover that on Blackrabbit Island, the lion lies waiting.
Winter, 1780, and the solstice is fast approaching. Four months after the events of The Moth and Moon, burly fisherman Robin Shipp is preparing for his first Midwinter festival with his lover, the handsome baker Edwin Farriner. But when a letter arrives begging for help, they must travel with their friend, Duncan, to Port Knot on sinister Blackrabbit Island for a final confrontation with Edwin’s mother. Also visiting the island are Lady Eva and her wife Iris, with a stunning proposition that could change Robin and Edwin’s lives forever.
The snow-covered harbour town of Port Knot is a dangerous place. While there, Robin, Edwin, and Duncan explore the menacing rooftop settlement known as the Roost, mingle with high society in the magnificent splendour of Chase Manor, and uncover a violent conspiracy threatening the island’s entire way of life.
Old rivalries will flare, shocking secrets will be revealed, and as Duncan’s scandalous past finally catches up with him, will it ultimately destroy them all?
The men will be tested to their limits as they discover that on Blackrabbit Island, the lion lies waiting.
ebook
First published December 14, 2018
About the author
Glenn Quigley
10 books65 followersGlenn Quigley is an author and artist originally from Tallaght in Dublin, Ireland, and now living in Lisburn, Northern Ireland with his partner of many years.
His first novel, The Moth and Moon, was published in 2018. When not writing, he paints portraits in watercolours and tweets too many photos of lighthouses. He maintains a website of his latest work at www.glennquigley.com
He has three novels to date, The Moth and Moon, The Lion Lies Waiting, and We Cry The Sea, all from Ninestar Press. His second novel, The Lion Lies Waiting, was runner-up in the 2019 Rainbow Awards list for Best Gay Book. His third novel, We Cry The Sea, was runner-up in the 2021 Rainbow Awards for Best Gay Book.
His first novel, The Moth and Moon, was published in 2018. When not writing, he paints portraits in watercolours and tweets too many photos of lighthouses. He maintains a website of his latest work at www.glennquigley.com
He has three novels to date, The Moth and Moon, The Lion Lies Waiting, and We Cry The Sea, all from Ninestar Press. His second novel, The Lion Lies Waiting, was runner-up in the 2019 Rainbow Awards list for Best Gay Book. His third novel, We Cry The Sea, was runner-up in the 2021 Rainbow Awards for Best Gay Book.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
January 12, 2019
The Lion Lies Waiting by Glenn Quigley is packed full of LGBTQ+ characters and has an undercurrent of romance, but its main focus is on the stunning historical fantasy world Mr. Quigley created and the many intriguing characters within it.
This is book two in a series put out by Ninestar Press. I’m usually a bit hesitant to read books in a series, unless it’s book one. However, I was thoroughly pleased to find this book did a wonderful job of standing alone. I didn’t find myself confused or left out of sorts because I’d missed the happenings from book one. Instead, the necessary information was carried forward (in a beautifully non-info dumpy kinda way) so I could enjoy book two while still recognizing the impact book one had on their story. In fact, it was done so well, I’m going to go back and read book one, The Moth and Moon, as a pleasure read. 😊
I cannot stress enough how amazing and in-depth Mr. Quigley’s world was built. I got lost in the lore and believed, with all my being, it was a true and real place. I also adored how his large and varied cast of characters intermingled in unexpected and creative ways. Their stories, while separate, always found their way back to one another so the story didn’t feel disjointed or out of sync with itself. I’ll admit, books with more than two POVs can often leave my head reeling and result in a decrease of connection between me and the characters. It’s hard to get into someone’s head and build a link that allows you to care about their experiences when there’s a plethora of characters to try and get to know. However, Mr. Quigley managed to mostly bypass that issue. I was able to “bond” with the main characters, and the scenes with those who didn’t fit that bill were short and informational.
I’ll let it be known, I even messaged Mr. Quigley during my read. My romance-centered heart was crying for the book to take a certain direction he decided not to travel, which of course meant I had to beg and plead to see a resolution in the third book… if such a thing is to exist. 😁😉
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical novels, especially of a fantasy origin. There is just enough adventure and intrigue to keep you turning the pages without detracting from the world and relationship building Mr. Quigley has such a knack for. In addition, his LGBTQ+ characters are written so beautifully and without an excess of outward forces aimed at unnecessarily discriminating or judging who they are as humans. I’m all for addressing the realities of life in fiction, but it’s also a welcome breath of fresh air when LGBTQ+ characters are given stories and adventures not focused on the adversities they face based on their gender/sexuality.
This is book two in a series put out by Ninestar Press. I’m usually a bit hesitant to read books in a series, unless it’s book one. However, I was thoroughly pleased to find this book did a wonderful job of standing alone. I didn’t find myself confused or left out of sorts because I’d missed the happenings from book one. Instead, the necessary information was carried forward (in a beautifully non-info dumpy kinda way) so I could enjoy book two while still recognizing the impact book one had on their story. In fact, it was done so well, I’m going to go back and read book one, The Moth and Moon, as a pleasure read. 😊
I cannot stress enough how amazing and in-depth Mr. Quigley’s world was built. I got lost in the lore and believed, with all my being, it was a true and real place. I also adored how his large and varied cast of characters intermingled in unexpected and creative ways. Their stories, while separate, always found their way back to one another so the story didn’t feel disjointed or out of sync with itself. I’ll admit, books with more than two POVs can often leave my head reeling and result in a decrease of connection between me and the characters. It’s hard to get into someone’s head and build a link that allows you to care about their experiences when there’s a plethora of characters to try and get to know. However, Mr. Quigley managed to mostly bypass that issue. I was able to “bond” with the main characters, and the scenes with those who didn’t fit that bill were short and informational.
I’ll let it be known, I even messaged Mr. Quigley during my read. My romance-centered heart was crying for the book to take a certain direction he decided not to travel, which of course meant I had to beg and plead to see a resolution in the third book… if such a thing is to exist. 😁😉
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical novels, especially of a fantasy origin. There is just enough adventure and intrigue to keep you turning the pages without detracting from the world and relationship building Mr. Quigley has such a knack for. In addition, his LGBTQ+ characters are written so beautifully and without an excess of outward forces aimed at unnecessarily discriminating or judging who they are as humans. I’m all for addressing the realities of life in fiction, but it’s also a welcome breath of fresh air when LGBTQ+ characters are given stories and adventures not focused on the adversities they face based on their gender/sexuality.
February 1, 2019
I had such a good time with Mr. Quigley's first novel, The Moth and The Moon, that I couldn't wait to get my hands on the second story that continues to follow the adventures of Robin Shipp. This historical fantasy set in the 18th Century revolves around a cast of characters in an age where the sexual orientation of the townsfolk isn't a scandalous item to be discussed. In other words, it's a common thing for same-sex relationships to exist. Folks are just as likely to pair with someone of the same gender, as they would be the opposite sex.
What's so refreshing about this is the total normalcy of everyone in their interaction with those bonded in a gay or lesbian pairing. In fact, it was rather hard reconciling this with my own life experience, and the book had me wishing I was living back in this fairytale type like setting. But this is just a side. The real meat of the tale is outlined below.
Quigley has outdone himself in several aspects of this book.
1.) The folklore and worldbuilding. It was pristine. I had absolutely no hesitancy in delving deep into this story as the backdrop, culture, folklore, customs, dress, speech and architecture was all so on-point that it was 100% believable.
2.) The characterization and development of each of the myriad of people in this tale are astonishing, and again, superbly crafted. The number of people dancing in and out of the story at different points and how they are portrayed, along with the changes in each leaves me exhausted as a writer. I can't imagine the amount of forethought and planning it took to achieve this.
3.) If I thought the characterization was well-crafted, then the tale itself was a masterpiece. Honestly, I'm not trying to over inflate this! This required Master Class status of skill to weave the people and their lives and make this believable. As the story bounces between two small, and often rival islands, it becomes completely possible to see how people moved back and forth between the two cities, and how lives become intertwined - even when the characters themselves are ignorant to the connections. Brilliant! My only question to the author is this: How many notebooks did you go through plotting this out?
4.) The political climate. I hate politics. Especially looking at our own world right now. It's full of hate and spite. I'd sooner climb into a deep hole than try and have any kind of debate with anyone who thinks differently than I do because today's lines between political parties are so deeply divided. But, Quigley created a city council ripe with strife and machinations, culture and history that made me turning the pages as fast as I possibly could to find out what happens next.
5.) The description of mental illness in this story left me agape. Not in a bad way. The metaphor used was utterly brilliant. I refuse to share it with you, you must read the story to discover it yourself. I honestly can't think of a more apt way to phrase how so many people in our world struggle daily. And remember, struggling doesn't mean failing. But imagine if they didn't have that extra battle every day? Well done, Mr. Quigley. That cut me to the core, and deeply, and won't be something I soon forget.
6.) And lastly, the fact that the story was about people like me. No, I'm not living life in the 1780s, (despite how attractive Mr. Quigley made it). No, I mean the book has bearish men - like me - who are involved in loving, caring, positive relationships - like me - who are well into their forties - like me. I could make several other comparisons - but the bottom line remains this: Representation and diversity in literature is essential, because when you find stories that contain people who you identify with, suddenly the story takes on a deeper level, a stronger connection, and the tale becomes one you hold dear and close to your heart.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know. I like my novels with magic and horns, tails and wings. That's not this. And it shouldn't be. It's perfect the way it is.
And now I can sit back and read these two books over and over and only hope, that at some point in the future, Mr. Quigley deems it necessary to take us back to Merryapple, to continue the tale of Robin Shipp and his lover Edwin, their very close and dear friend Duncan, and their soon to be extended family with the Ladies Wolfe-Chase.
What's so refreshing about this is the total normalcy of everyone in their interaction with those bonded in a gay or lesbian pairing. In fact, it was rather hard reconciling this with my own life experience, and the book had me wishing I was living back in this fairytale type like setting. But this is just a side. The real meat of the tale is outlined below.
Quigley has outdone himself in several aspects of this book.
1.) The folklore and worldbuilding. It was pristine. I had absolutely no hesitancy in delving deep into this story as the backdrop, culture, folklore, customs, dress, speech and architecture was all so on-point that it was 100% believable.
2.) The characterization and development of each of the myriad of people in this tale are astonishing, and again, superbly crafted. The number of people dancing in and out of the story at different points and how they are portrayed, along with the changes in each leaves me exhausted as a writer. I can't imagine the amount of forethought and planning it took to achieve this.
3.) If I thought the characterization was well-crafted, then the tale itself was a masterpiece. Honestly, I'm not trying to over inflate this! This required Master Class status of skill to weave the people and their lives and make this believable. As the story bounces between two small, and often rival islands, it becomes completely possible to see how people moved back and forth between the two cities, and how lives become intertwined - even when the characters themselves are ignorant to the connections. Brilliant! My only question to the author is this: How many notebooks did you go through plotting this out?
4.) The political climate. I hate politics. Especially looking at our own world right now. It's full of hate and spite. I'd sooner climb into a deep hole than try and have any kind of debate with anyone who thinks differently than I do because today's lines between political parties are so deeply divided. But, Quigley created a city council ripe with strife and machinations, culture and history that made me turning the pages as fast as I possibly could to find out what happens next.
5.) The description of mental illness in this story left me agape. Not in a bad way. The metaphor used was utterly brilliant. I refuse to share it with you, you must read the story to discover it yourself. I honestly can't think of a more apt way to phrase how so many people in our world struggle daily. And remember, struggling doesn't mean failing. But imagine if they didn't have that extra battle every day? Well done, Mr. Quigley. That cut me to the core, and deeply, and won't be something I soon forget.
6.) And lastly, the fact that the story was about people like me. No, I'm not living life in the 1780s, (despite how attractive Mr. Quigley made it). No, I mean the book has bearish men - like me - who are involved in loving, caring, positive relationships - like me - who are well into their forties - like me. I could make several other comparisons - but the bottom line remains this: Representation and diversity in literature is essential, because when you find stories that contain people who you identify with, suddenly the story takes on a deeper level, a stronger connection, and the tale becomes one you hold dear and close to your heart.
Yeah, yeah, yeah, I know. I like my novels with magic and horns, tails and wings. That's not this. And it shouldn't be. It's perfect the way it is.
And now I can sit back and read these two books over and over and only hope, that at some point in the future, Mr. Quigley deems it necessary to take us back to Merryapple, to continue the tale of Robin Shipp and his lover Edwin, their very close and dear friend Duncan, and their soon to be extended family with the Ladies Wolfe-Chase.
July 24, 2022
A character-driven plot which provided the backdrop to further explore the backstories of almost all the MCs (Edwin, Duncan, Robin, Eva). The premise of created-families comes through strongly with a fascinating system of government established on a coastal island population set in an alt-universe historical world. 3.5 stars (despite a couple of annoying typos).
December 17, 2018
The Lion Lies Waiting by Glenn Quigley
Sequel to The Moth and the Moon
Historical Fantasy set in a time that never was...or a time that was but never was as this book portrayed it. In this story 1780 was a time that allowed couples to form and live and love according to their own preferences without prejudice and with acceptance by those around them.
As for the story…
Edwin is called by his widowed sister-in-law to come deal with his difficult rather crazy sounding mother. He asks his partner, Robin, to come along and they in turn ask Duncan to join them. Duncan used to live where they are going and it is assumed he will be their guide.
Blackrabbit is governed by a group that was formed to provide stability. The use of masks they wear to give them credibility is an interesting twist. There are additional story lines dealing with issues such as corruption, treason, hurricane survivors being sidelined, mistreatment and incarceration of mentally unstable, poor prison conditions, dysfunctional families, and more.
The relationship between Edwin and Robin was sweet. The two definitely seemed to belong together just as did Eva and Iris. The proposition the women bring to Edwin was intriguing and required some thought by all four of them.
So much to this story – do not want to give it away. I will say that the overriding theme of this book seems to be family and the powerful impact it can have.
Did I like this book? Definitely
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and NineStar Press, LLC for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
Sequel to The Moth and the Moon
Historical Fantasy set in a time that never was...or a time that was but never was as this book portrayed it. In this story 1780 was a time that allowed couples to form and live and love according to their own preferences without prejudice and with acceptance by those around them.
As for the story…
Edwin is called by his widowed sister-in-law to come deal with his difficult rather crazy sounding mother. He asks his partner, Robin, to come along and they in turn ask Duncan to join them. Duncan used to live where they are going and it is assumed he will be their guide.
Blackrabbit is governed by a group that was formed to provide stability. The use of masks they wear to give them credibility is an interesting twist. There are additional story lines dealing with issues such as corruption, treason, hurricane survivors being sidelined, mistreatment and incarceration of mentally unstable, poor prison conditions, dysfunctional families, and more.
The relationship between Edwin and Robin was sweet. The two definitely seemed to belong together just as did Eva and Iris. The proposition the women bring to Edwin was intriguing and required some thought by all four of them.
So much to this story – do not want to give it away. I will say that the overriding theme of this book seems to be family and the powerful impact it can have.
Did I like this book? Definitely
Would I read more by this author? Yes
Thank you to NetGalley and NineStar Press, LLC for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4-5 Stars
September 15, 2020
After finishing the first novel The Moth and Moon I instantly jumped on the sequel The Lion Lies Waiting. What can be said about this novel that hasn’t already been said. The writing is spot on, the characters are enjoyable, the story is easy to follow and continues down a path you would expect.
In, The Lion Lies Waiting the story continues (with Robbin, Duncan and Edwin as well as a few other favorites including Lady Eva who I adore) and opens us up to the greater world that Author Glenn Quigley created for us. We are no longer on the claustrophobic Island of Merryapple. The story takes place on the much larger island Blackrabbit in the city of Port Knot. The novel also moves us ahead about four months to the Winter Solstice. All covered in the first few bits of the tale.
I enjoyed every part of this story including all the cultural details that Author Quigley created for the story and characters. Many authors will bypass holidays and other cultural events so they don’t have to spend any time figuring out the details or taking a detour from the story, but not so for The Lion Lies Waiting, the Solstice is as much a character in the book as the hurricane was in the previous novel.
If you want a cozy enjoyable series to read then pick up these books. The only announce I have with this book is not the story, but the trigger warning. There is nothing graphic (violence, sex or otherwise) in the book. Anyone can read this and feel comfortable in doing so. Ignore the warning and enjoy the book. This novel earned every one of it’s 5-stars.
In, The Lion Lies Waiting the story continues (with Robbin, Duncan and Edwin as well as a few other favorites including Lady Eva who I adore) and opens us up to the greater world that Author Glenn Quigley created for us. We are no longer on the claustrophobic Island of Merryapple. The story takes place on the much larger island Blackrabbit in the city of Port Knot. The novel also moves us ahead about four months to the Winter Solstice. All covered in the first few bits of the tale.
I enjoyed every part of this story including all the cultural details that Author Quigley created for the story and characters. Many authors will bypass holidays and other cultural events so they don’t have to spend any time figuring out the details or taking a detour from the story, but not so for The Lion Lies Waiting, the Solstice is as much a character in the book as the hurricane was in the previous novel.
If you want a cozy enjoyable series to read then pick up these books. The only announce I have with this book is not the story, but the trigger warning. There is nothing graphic (violence, sex or otherwise) in the book. Anyone can read this and feel comfortable in doing so. Ignore the warning and enjoy the book. This novel earned every one of it’s 5-stars.
January 11, 2019
Awww.... Love, love, love. So good! Especially the last quarter of the book. It kept gaining momentum, and ended really strong. So much love for our dear Robin Shipp - and Edwin, and Duncan, and everyone else in Blashy Cove. This book took some of the Merryapple folk on an adventure to Blackrabbit Island, and things got pretty intense! O.O
I adore the world building, and Mr. Quiqley's alternate universe version of these islands off the Cornish coast. There's some steampunk elements that are very cool, and a bit of fantasy woven in there, too. And, I completely love how he bucks gender norms, giving us female doctors and butlers and lawyers, and that diversity, inclusivity, and tolerance are what's known and expected.
Another gorgeous book! I can't wait for more from this author! <3 <3 <3
I adore the world building, and Mr. Quiqley's alternate universe version of these islands off the Cornish coast. There's some steampunk elements that are very cool, and a bit of fantasy woven in there, too. And, I completely love how he bucks gender norms, giving us female doctors and butlers and lawyers, and that diversity, inclusivity, and tolerance are what's known and expected.
Another gorgeous book! I can't wait for more from this author! <3 <3 <3
June 8, 2021
'the lion lies waiting' is a brilliant second book in the 'Moth and Moon' series and it follows on perfectly. It transports you right back to Merryapple to continue the story of Robin Shipp and the other amazing characters we met in 'the moth and moon' and also we get to meet new characters, all amazingly written once again. A soon as I began reading I was back there again and I had to carry on, page after page, I needed to be part of this story. It is an enthralling book, so vivid and so alive. Book Three in the series would be hard to wait for!
July 27, 2023
Another good read by Glenn Quigley – love, love, love this series.
This novel starts off a few months after where we left off at with The Moth and Moon novel, in the 1780s in a historical fantasy world. For this reason, I feel that to fully appreciate the story, you’re best to read the first novel of the series, but if you’re adamant, you could read this a standalone but you may have more questions.
We catch up with the three main characters - Robin, Edwin and Duncan following them through another adventure. Edwin received a letter from his sister in law about his crazed up mother, seeking help. The adventure takes us away from Merrapple Island and on to Black Rabbit, where my mind was blown. We were introduced to fantastic new characters along with learning more about the loving characters we know, traditions that mimic a cult to me and Duncan’s past seems to have found him!
This mystery of the story had me gripped from the start and just cannot wait to read the next of the trilogy. So far, from this book and the previous, I have been glued to the pages the story has been written on. The way Quigley writes the story is so descriptive, so much so, I couldn’t stop myself getting lost in the world of Merryapple and Black Rabbit. I don’t want to go into any further details about the novel to avoid spoilers, but I would recommend this novel to anyone that enjoys historical fantasy. So I think it is obvious to say that I have rated this 5 starts.
This novel starts off a few months after where we left off at with The Moth and Moon novel, in the 1780s in a historical fantasy world. For this reason, I feel that to fully appreciate the story, you’re best to read the first novel of the series, but if you’re adamant, you could read this a standalone but you may have more questions.
We catch up with the three main characters - Robin, Edwin and Duncan following them through another adventure. Edwin received a letter from his sister in law about his crazed up mother, seeking help. The adventure takes us away from Merrapple Island and on to Black Rabbit, where my mind was blown. We were introduced to fantastic new characters along with learning more about the loving characters we know, traditions that mimic a cult to me and Duncan’s past seems to have found him!
This mystery of the story had me gripped from the start and just cannot wait to read the next of the trilogy. So far, from this book and the previous, I have been glued to the pages the story has been written on. The way Quigley writes the story is so descriptive, so much so, I couldn’t stop myself getting lost in the world of Merryapple and Black Rabbit. I don’t want to go into any further details about the novel to avoid spoilers, but I would recommend this novel to anyone that enjoys historical fantasy. So I think it is obvious to say that I have rated this 5 starts.
March 28, 2021
An interesting story development and adventure
Taking the characters introduced in the first book, Glenn takes us on a rollicking adventure in neighboring Black Rabbit Island. Really great writing that has an urgency and fervor that matches the storyline this book is fast paced and, thanks to a cast that we have (mostly) already met, it is easy to follow and lose yourself in the experiences of the characters. Really nice use of suspense and giving the reader quick glancing views down the little gaps and dark alley ways branching off the primary story that winds and twists like the roads and Entries of Port Knot.
Taking the characters introduced in the first book, Glenn takes us on a rollicking adventure in neighboring Black Rabbit Island. Really great writing that has an urgency and fervor that matches the storyline this book is fast paced and, thanks to a cast that we have (mostly) already met, it is easy to follow and lose yourself in the experiences of the characters. Really nice use of suspense and giving the reader quick glancing views down the little gaps and dark alley ways branching off the primary story that winds and twists like the roads and Entries of Port Knot.
December 15, 2021
I'd have to repeat my review of the first book in this series: This is a strange story. Quirky, seemingly set in an alternative universe, with some steam punk happening on the side. I couldn’t quite get hold of the characters, but was involved enough to keep reading, and to buy the next book in the series.
February 24, 2023
"They entered into a dark antechamber between two sets of stairs. In front of them was a countertop and behind it an imperious woman stood. She wore a frilly bodice of musty lavender and her face was powdered bone-white, in what Duncan understood to be the fashion on the mainland. However, the powder, ill-applied as it was, dusted her hairline and a good stretch beyond, as if she had prepared for her day by simply planting herself face-first into a bag of flour. She held in her arms a tiny pug who yipped excitedly at the men.
'You must be Mrs. Reed. Sorry, I mean Mrs. Firebrace. We're from Blashy Cove, we know your brother?' Edwin said.
'Oh, yes. How is George?' she asked.
'He's well, he sends his love.'
'Does he?' she said, raising an eyebrow. 'How nice.'
8% in, Chapter Three, The Lion Lies Waiting by Glenn Quigley
Who else read that last line of dialogue in Tim Curry's voice?
This is part two of the Moth and Moon series, I have been itching to get to this one. Some of you may remember my review of the first book in the series although, my word, that was in 2019. My plan, should you be interested in my plan - no reason why you wouldn't be so I'll go ahead and tell you - is to read the series bit by bit and then, once I've got the lot, read, reviewed, etc. I plan to take a few days to myself and read them back to back. This is something I plan to do with all my favourite authors, and my word, Glenn Quigley is one of the best.
So, where we left off: Robin Shipp, burly fisherman and erstwhile misunderstood figure within his small community in 1780s fictionalised Cornwall, had managed to prove his late father's innocence and thus, lifted a massive weight from his own heart. The people of the village, having shunned the large and clumsy fisherman for most of his life, felt terrible, as well they should, and his relationship with baker, Edwin, was just starting to blossom. And I feel appalling for condensing the story that much; it's a delight, really - go and read it.
In The Lion Lies Waiting, also pleasingly named after a pub, Robin, Edwin and Robin's ex Duncan, have gone to the nearby, much more cut-throat Blackrabbit Island to help Edwin's sister-in-law with his mother. As the story unfolds, we discover the terrible circumstances in which Edwin's brother was lost and Robin has a few familial discoveries of his own to make. While the Ladies Wolf-Chase make a massive, life-altering decision which will, of course, have an impact on our heroes, Robin and Edwin, the political climate on the island, interfered with in no small part by Edwin's mother and Eva's father, as well as the man he'd planned for her to marry, is fit to explode. And it's all due to kick off during a night of revelry and organised mayhem. It is a rollercoaster of a story; I enjoyed every minute.
Not all my readers are known to me, but those of you who used to be my neighbours and are intrigued by the night of revelry and organised mayhem - there's a tar barrel parade. For those who weren't my neighbours - hi there, how's it going? There's a very famous tar barrel celebration, where locals carry flaming (yes, indeed, on fire) tar barrels on their backs and run through the streets of Ottery St Mary in Devon; this has been going on since around the 17th Century and is a yearly tradition that continues to this day. I know this because, until I moved eighteen months ago, it took place, approximately, three miles from my house. It can be quite stunning to read something you thought so particular to your own background and then, there are the words, printed, staring at you. My heart near stopped when I read the words 'tar barrel parade'. The action sequences were deftly told and beautifully captured, and that in a book with so much heart, was a pretty darn magical to this reader. Also, lovely little nods to local verbiage - backalong, bleddy, these are the sounds of the westcountry and planted the story firmly in place for me.
The novel is driven by character, and there are some super ones in this series. I adore Robin, he's just the kindest man, and a real hero. As with my reading of the first in the series, I love that there are quite a few same-sex relationships to which no other character bats an eyelid. If there are going to be arguments within the narrative, they'll be to do with everything else. That just makes me happy.
A good dose of humour, pathos and a further exploration of the characters, make for a delightful read. If you take my advice, you'll start from the beginning and then read them all. You'll not be disappointed.
'You must be Mrs. Reed. Sorry, I mean Mrs. Firebrace. We're from Blashy Cove, we know your brother?' Edwin said.
'Oh, yes. How is George?' she asked.
'He's well, he sends his love.'
'Does he?' she said, raising an eyebrow. 'How nice.'
8% in, Chapter Three, The Lion Lies Waiting by Glenn Quigley
Who else read that last line of dialogue in Tim Curry's voice?
This is part two of the Moth and Moon series, I have been itching to get to this one. Some of you may remember my review of the first book in the series although, my word, that was in 2019. My plan, should you be interested in my plan - no reason why you wouldn't be so I'll go ahead and tell you - is to read the series bit by bit and then, once I've got the lot, read, reviewed, etc. I plan to take a few days to myself and read them back to back. This is something I plan to do with all my favourite authors, and my word, Glenn Quigley is one of the best.
So, where we left off: Robin Shipp, burly fisherman and erstwhile misunderstood figure within his small community in 1780s fictionalised Cornwall, had managed to prove his late father's innocence and thus, lifted a massive weight from his own heart. The people of the village, having shunned the large and clumsy fisherman for most of his life, felt terrible, as well they should, and his relationship with baker, Edwin, was just starting to blossom. And I feel appalling for condensing the story that much; it's a delight, really - go and read it.
In The Lion Lies Waiting, also pleasingly named after a pub, Robin, Edwin and Robin's ex Duncan, have gone to the nearby, much more cut-throat Blackrabbit Island to help Edwin's sister-in-law with his mother. As the story unfolds, we discover the terrible circumstances in which Edwin's brother was lost and Robin has a few familial discoveries of his own to make. While the Ladies Wolf-Chase make a massive, life-altering decision which will, of course, have an impact on our heroes, Robin and Edwin, the political climate on the island, interfered with in no small part by Edwin's mother and Eva's father, as well as the man he'd planned for her to marry, is fit to explode. And it's all due to kick off during a night of revelry and organised mayhem. It is a rollercoaster of a story; I enjoyed every minute.
Not all my readers are known to me, but those of you who used to be my neighbours and are intrigued by the night of revelry and organised mayhem - there's a tar barrel parade. For those who weren't my neighbours - hi there, how's it going? There's a very famous tar barrel celebration, where locals carry flaming (yes, indeed, on fire) tar barrels on their backs and run through the streets of Ottery St Mary in Devon; this has been going on since around the 17th Century and is a yearly tradition that continues to this day. I know this because, until I moved eighteen months ago, it took place, approximately, three miles from my house. It can be quite stunning to read something you thought so particular to your own background and then, there are the words, printed, staring at you. My heart near stopped when I read the words 'tar barrel parade'. The action sequences were deftly told and beautifully captured, and that in a book with so much heart, was a pretty darn magical to this reader. Also, lovely little nods to local verbiage - backalong, bleddy, these are the sounds of the westcountry and planted the story firmly in place for me.
The novel is driven by character, and there are some super ones in this series. I adore Robin, he's just the kindest man, and a real hero. As with my reading of the first in the series, I love that there are quite a few same-sex relationships to which no other character bats an eyelid. If there are going to be arguments within the narrative, they'll be to do with everything else. That just makes me happy.
A good dose of humour, pathos and a further exploration of the characters, make for a delightful read. If you take my advice, you'll start from the beginning and then read them all. You'll not be disappointed.
February 2, 2023
This is book 2 in Glenn Quigley's The Moth and Moon series. While book 1 didn't end on any kind of cliffhanger (and neither does this), it's definitely a continuation of lives of those characters. Having read The Moth and Moon definitely helps with understanding the characters and some of the events that lead to their travels. This review may contain spoilers to the previous book.
I loved, loved, loved this book. Quigley's writing is so descriptive - the world building, emotions, suspense, mystery, adventure, and romance are all impeccable. It's a long book but really many smaller stories and events that come together to tell a wonderful story.
Robin, Edwin, & Duncan leave Merryapple and set sail for Blackrabbit Island to investigate the strange behavior of Edwin's mother. Eva & Iris are also there as Eva's father has fallen ill and isn't expected to make it. They run into old friends, make new acquaintances, and unwittingly uncover a nefarious plot. Family secrets are revealed (for numerous Merryapple residents), relationships are tested, and eventually found-family bonds are strengthened. A special request is made and it will change the lives of so many.
I don't know how to express how much I enjoyed this without spoiling anything. So many threads woven together to create such a beautiful story. Such a joy to read and I'm looking forward to We Cry the Sea
I loved, loved, loved this book. Quigley's writing is so descriptive - the world building, emotions, suspense, mystery, adventure, and romance are all impeccable. It's a long book but really many smaller stories and events that come together to tell a wonderful story.
Robin, Edwin, & Duncan leave Merryapple and set sail for Blackrabbit Island to investigate the strange behavior of Edwin's mother. Eva & Iris are also there as Eva's father has fallen ill and isn't expected to make it. They run into old friends, make new acquaintances, and unwittingly uncover a nefarious plot. Family secrets are revealed (for numerous Merryapple residents), relationships are tested, and eventually found-family bonds are strengthened. A special request is made and it will change the lives of so many.
I don't know how to express how much I enjoyed this without spoiling anything. So many threads woven together to create such a beautiful story. Such a joy to read and I'm looking forward to We Cry the Sea
June 15, 2019
A grand follow up to The Moth and The Moon, though perhaps not quite so engaging for me.
We still have the delightfully quirky island universe where there is no religion, same sex partnerships are accepted, marriage is for all, bits of fancy, bits of steampunk and definite hints of celtic festivals. As well as politics poverty and murder.
Robin and Edwin travel to Blackrabbit to sort out Edwin’s mum and sister in law and get pulled into alsorts which tests their feelings. Robin continues to be the man mountain you’d want on your side - compassion and brawn, though he prefers his simple life.
Edwin is torn between Robin and family and even the Wolff-Chase Lady’s. Duncan gets into all sorts of trouble and whilst the poor uprising get squashed, it does lead to a better solution.
Definitely grew on me this one but not quite as dramatic as the hurricane.
I like that the characters are older and not ripped specimens and have good values.it may be all a bit perfect for some but I did enjoy.
We still have the delightfully quirky island universe where there is no religion, same sex partnerships are accepted, marriage is for all, bits of fancy, bits of steampunk and definite hints of celtic festivals. As well as politics poverty and murder.
Robin and Edwin travel to Blackrabbit to sort out Edwin’s mum and sister in law and get pulled into alsorts which tests their feelings. Robin continues to be the man mountain you’d want on your side - compassion and brawn, though he prefers his simple life.
Edwin is torn between Robin and family and even the Wolff-Chase Lady’s. Duncan gets into all sorts of trouble and whilst the poor uprising get squashed, it does lead to a better solution.
Definitely grew on me this one but not quite as dramatic as the hurricane.
I like that the characters are older and not ripped specimens and have good values.it may be all a bit perfect for some but I did enjoy.
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