Book Reviews

Book Blurb

True devotion is surely worth waiting for

Steven Macklin wakes up in a ditch one morning in foul, wet weather with no idea where he is or how he came to be there. Seriously injured, he struggles across bleak heathland to find shelter. The only house he finds is weather-beaten and deserted, although he's too sensible a guy to fall for the cliche of a haunted mansion.

Isn't he?

When he collapses and is taken in by the handsome Eliot, Steven finds himself in a very disturbing situation—and in the bed of this strange, possessive man.

Steven desperately wonders about his lost memories, his fierce desires, and his growing bond with Eliot. From the beginning, he’s also thought constantly about his escape from Eliot’s house.

But is that what he really wants?

Author Note: This book is part of the After Midnight series of standalone stories, all with darker, bittersweet themes.

First edition published at JMS Books, July 2012.

Book Review

It doesn't matter if something is real or not; it's our perception of a situation which determines how we experience it. In 'His Gift' by Clare London, Steve Macklin's reality is challenged when he finds himself in what feels like a waking dream to him. Things aren't quite right but he can't understand why. As Steve grapples with this confusion, he discovers just how elusive reality can actually be.

 

Steve is confused for most of the story. When in a foreign situation, it takes a while to adjust and figure things out. Especially confusing is Eliot's obvious grasp on the situation, his ease in slipping right into the swing of things, but, after all, Eliot knows the whole story while all Steve has to go by are foggy memories and obscure clues.  Relieved that he had someone who appreciated him for himself and sad for the way he came about it, Steve's mind would not remain idle. He's determined to make sense of what is happening and the only way he can do that is to go back to the ditch from whence he came.  

 

Eliot is a fascinating character. He's beautiful, smart, gifted, and more than a little spooky. He alludes to having powers that frighten other people and it's what's caused his isolation. He's thrilled when Steve arrives at this front door; now he has someone to touch and talk to, and be with. He quickly adjusts to Steve being there and takes full advantage of his company. After all, you don't look a gift horse in the mouth. Eliot is in awe of Steve and amazed that he actually answered his call. 'You came.” were his first words to Steve. At first, he seemed overly possessive, but when he agreed to let Steve go in order to find answers to the questions that tortured him, I changed my mind about him. Eliot knew that Steve wouldn't stay unless he wanted to, even though he was bound to Eliot.

 

This is a dark, gothic tale full of suspense and intrigue. Our minds become entangled with Steve's as he battles his way through the fog. Since it's written in first person, we're not able to figure things out until he does, which, in itself, plays tricks on our perception of occurrences within the story. Like so many of Clare's stories, it's very well written and, overall, is deliciously different. It kept me on my toes, as I hung on to each clue and looked for more. And, along with all of the mystery and suspense, it's a beautiful, sensual love story. Even though it seems one-sided at times, I think both young men benefited from the relationship, and, even though it was an unusual ending, I'd like to believe that they are on the road to happiness. Thanks, Clare, this story will give me chills for a long time.

 

 

DISCLAIMER: Books reviewed on this site were usually provided at no cost by the publisher or author. The first edition of this book has been provided by the author for the purpose of a review.

Additional Information

Format	ebook
Length	Short Story, 56 pages
Heat Level
Publication Date	21-October-2025
Price	$2.99 ebook, $7.00 paperback
Buy Link	https://www.amazon.com/His-Gift-Clare-London-ebook/dp/B0FTW61P79