What do you think?
Rate this book
Passing Through
Don’t waste a chance at happiness…
Leo is a lonely workaholic with no time for romance in his life. His job in London takes all his energy and commitment. When he goes to Cornwall to stay with his terminally ill uncle, Edwin, love is the last thing Leo expects to find.
Tris lives in a cottage on Edwin’s land. Gay, but still half in the closet, he and Leo bond over their affection for Edwin, and the pull of attraction between them proves too strong to ignore. In Tris’s arms, in the wilds of Cornwall, Leo finds a peace he’d forgotten existed.
On his return to London, Leo finds himself grieving for more than just the loss of his uncle. When some unexpected news gives Leo the chance to return to Cornwall, he’s afraid it will be too late to rekindle things with Tris. But having learned much from his stay with his uncle, Leo doesn’t want to look back and wish he’d done things differently.
It’s time to seize the day—if it’s not already too late.
Leo is a lonely workaholic with no time for romance in his life. His job in London takes all his energy and commitment. When he goes to Cornwall to stay with his terminally ill uncle, Edwin, love is the last thing Leo expects to find.
Tris lives in a cottage on Edwin’s land. Gay, but still half in the closet, he and Leo bond over their affection for Edwin, and the pull of attraction between them proves too strong to ignore. In Tris’s arms, in the wilds of Cornwall, Leo finds a peace he’d forgotten existed.
On his return to London, Leo finds himself grieving for more than just the loss of his uncle. When some unexpected news gives Leo the chance to return to Cornwall, he’s afraid it will be too late to rekindle things with Tris. But having learned much from his stay with his uncle, Leo doesn’t want to look back and wish he’d done things differently.
It’s time to seize the day—if it’s not already too late.
176 pages, Paperback
First published February 20, 2015
35 people are currently reading
1172 people want to read
About the author
Jay Northcote
51 books1,643 followersI don't hang out on 카지노싸이트 much, so if you'd like to connect with me then Twitter, Facebook or an email is usually best :) All my contact details are on .
Jay lives just outside Bristol in the West of England. He comes from a family of writers, but always used to believe that the gene for fiction writing had passed him by. He spent years only ever writing emails, articles, or website content.
One day, Jay decided to try and write a short story—just to see if he could—and found it rather addictive. He hasn’t stopped writing since.
Jay writes contemporary romance about men who fall in love with other men. Jay has five books published by Dreamspinner Press, and he also self-publishes under the imprint Jaybird Press. Many of his books are now available as audiobooks.
Jay is transgender and was formerly known as she/her.
Jay lives just outside Bristol in the West of England. He comes from a family of writers, but always used to believe that the gene for fiction writing had passed him by. He spent years only ever writing emails, articles, or website content.
One day, Jay decided to try and write a short story—just to see if he could—and found it rather addictive. He hasn’t stopped writing since.
Jay writes contemporary romance about men who fall in love with other men. Jay has five books published by Dreamspinner Press, and he also self-publishes under the imprint Jaybird Press. Many of his books are now available as audiobooks.
Jay is transgender and was formerly known as she/her.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 240 reviews
January 30, 2015
~~ The mass of men live
lives of quiet desperation. ~~
When Leo returns to his childhood haunts on the cliffs of Cornwall, he doesn't expect to find love.
Leo is lost. He's worked so hard for so long, he's forgotten how to live. He's detached and lonely . . . just passing through life.
Leo's beloved uncle Edwin is dying, and Leo, feeling guilty for all the time he's missed, decides to spend some time caring for him.
After a morning run, Leo finds a strange man rummaging through the fridge of Edwin's house.
That moment changes everything.
Tris is freshly divorced, newly out of the closet (to himself at least), and struggling. He is a gentle, kind-hearted man, but he's made mistakes.
Haven't we all?
I look forward to each of Jay Northcote's books because I know what to expect: a sexy, romantic, lighthearted read with pitch-perfect prose and a HEA.
And this book is certainly sexy and romantic. The writing is beautiful. But it isn't as lighthearted a read as Northcote's other books, and I loved it all the more for it.
Edwin is as much a part of this story as Leo and Tris. Edwin has lived a life filled with secrets . . . secrets he can finally share.
There is no melodrama in this book, no back and forth, no quibbling about trivial things.
Tris and Leo: they are the REAL thing.
They cuddle and make passionate love; they cook together and cry together. They TRUST. They KNOW. Tris is there for Leo. Always.
At 40 and 30-something, the MCs aren't boys; they are MEN.
Tris has a young son and a rising landscaping business.
Leo has a fast-paced existence in London focused on his marketing career.
Leo doesn't believe that he can change his life until Edwin reminds him that he has a choice. We ALL have a choice.
This story is heart-breaking. And heart-warming. It is as much Edwin's story as it is Tris and Leo's story.
The Cornwall setting, the cliffs, rain, and beaches, come alive.
Leo had no words. He wrapped his arms around Tris and held him tight. His heart felt too big for the space inside him.
The epilogue will make you cry.
TEARS OF JOY, people, tears of joy.
March 1, 2015
This is for sure my favorite Jay Northcote's book. If the other books I’ve read from her were more light, sexy and/or funny, this one was more touching. Needless to say, it was more emotional than I expected. As a reader I love a book that makes me feel. And this one really did. In my opinion for a short novel it was a solid read. The title of this book is perfect. If you’ll read it you will certainly know what I mean.
The story is told entirely from Leo’s POV (3rd POV), one of the main characters. Leo is a 40 years old, workaholic man. Leo doesn’t have a social life and being an workaholic doesn’t have much time for a relationship. All his life he kept people at a certain emotional distance. As her mother suggestion he returns in Cornwall to visits his terminally ill uncle Edwin. As a child Leo was very close to Edwin, but over the years they lost touch and now Leo is feeling guilty for all the time he’d missed with him. Edwin who loves Leo like a son is more than happy to have his only nephew around.
Leo never expected to find a strange man in his uncle’s kitchen. The stranger is Tris, a man who lives in Edwin’s cottage. Tris divorced recently after he admitted to his ex that he is gay. He is not out completely. His parents and his 8 years old son don’t know anything about it. He had only two partners since he figured out he is gay, but nothing serious.
What starts as an affair between the two men, very soon becomes much more, but what will happen when Leo has to return to London?
Leo and Tris are both great and together in and out of bed are fantastic. They felt real and relatable. They are perfect together and what each other needs. Their moments together are sweet and tender and just romantic and as the story progresses you can feel their love and their connection. I really liked their relationship with Edwin.
I loved Edwin! He’s so great with the other two men and accepting and I loved his personality. His side story is heartbreaking, but real and his role in Leo and Tris life and relationship is major. The message of this story is great – take a chance at life and happiness, fight for what you want, life every day at the fullest. The epilogue like the entire story was sweet and emotional and I was very happy with it.
I liked there’s no unnecessary drama or miscommunication between the two main characters. Somehow the story felt more real to me.
Overall, a great read!
July 16, 2015
When I was traveling throughout England, the first view I had was an endless horizon of green. It was August and I swear in August I usually have sun and not rains. But one day it was cloudless and we decided to have a go in Brighton and its beach. Serious mistake. There was no fine sand whatsoever, only rocks that stabbed my soles till I reached the water, and those same rocks that stabbed my soles when I came back. And those same rocks stabbed my butt when I sat down.
I'm pretty confident I remembered all my bloodline all day long.
My experience was traumatic at least. Natives surely thought Spaniards are crazy but hey, I thought the same of British. Some of them were lying on the rocks and even sleeping. How could they? O.O
But England offers more than bitch beaches, if you look well.
(That bitch, sorry, beach, had rocks like these)
I'm impressed by this author. A good reason I chose this book from hers was because of the cover. When I had the book in my hands I turned pages to find the artist and saw it was Garrett Leigh. I was delighted but not surprised, she's as awesome as that. I felt curiosity because Jay Northcote is a successful author, so it struck to me as weird she decided to self-publish her book when she was choices amongst the publishing houses (DSP, a big one).
Leo comes back to Cornwall to be with his beloved uncle in his last days. He meets Tris, who lives in the little cottage in the propriety. Leo has an unstoppable life, but not in the personal department: he works, he works and he works a little more. Being in the coast brings him good memories and a peace he had forgotten a long time ago. Also, he doesn't precisely reject his companionship in the middle of all the beauty of the views. Tris has a son, Ben, and has never been out of the closet until his ex found out he was . To say their lives are complicated is an understatement. To say that the chance of surpassing their problems to be together in the future is small is an understatement. Or is it?
The novel is short but well-built and neat. Ordinary people with ordinary problems lead to the error of thinking this is nothing out of the ordinary. Apparently nothing special but certainly nothing further from the truth. The plot is solid, the characters are likable, and you truly feel the main couple are made for each other.
Because when they meet you instantly know there is something there. You instantly know they fit. You instantly know it's so palpable like air, meaning, with no form but between them. And as they glance at each other, as they brush each other, you want something to bring form to that sentiment. And thank God, it happens.
Leo and Tris together lead to an wordless intimacy that keeps you trapped with them. When they kiss, you believe it. When they make love, you believe it. When they cry, you believe it. When they cuddle, you believe it. When they are naughty, you believe it. Every action of theirs was believable and every scene was warm and familiar.
I couldn't stop noticing now and then that no woman appeared on scene. Apart from the occasional visit of the nurse, the phone conversations with Leo's mother, and the mention of Tris's ex-wife, there was no feminine presence around, which is fine for me. There were only 3 characters: Leo, Tris, Edwin. Wise decision not to overload with multiple faces, it would have turned this into something quite different. Less intimate. Less memorable.
Finally, due to Edwin's story and his awesomeness I must pay homage to this great character:
And this:
And this:
He's the third leg of the table. Without him, the story would have been very different.
Seize the day.
March 2, 2015
Jay Northcote is an almost sure win for me. And this was another solid read.
Nothing over-the-top. A very sweet comfort story.
All Leo does is work. He's lonely, but doesn't even realize it. Not until he goes to visit his sick uncle Edwin and meets Tris.
Tris was living on Edwin's property. His marriage fell apart after his coming out.
Leo and Tris connect through Edwin. They comfort each other as Edwin's health declines.
One night together becomes two which becomes every night.
But what will happen once Edwin passes? Will Leo return to his job in London? Can he ever not be the workaholic he's grown accustomed to?
I found this one to be very quiet. It was a very easy read. No drama and angst. Some lovely chemistry. Very simple. Heart-warming. Touching. A story about two people who fall in love over the loss of another.
Nothing over-the-top. A very sweet comfort story.
All Leo does is work. He's lonely, but doesn't even realize it. Not until he goes to visit his sick uncle Edwin and meets Tris.
Tris was living on Edwin's property. His marriage fell apart after his coming out.
Leo and Tris connect through Edwin. They comfort each other as Edwin's health declines.
One night together becomes two which becomes every night.
But what will happen once Edwin passes? Will Leo return to his job in London? Can he ever not be the workaholic he's grown accustomed to?
I found this one to be very quiet. It was a very easy read. No drama and angst. Some lovely chemistry. Very simple. Heart-warming. Touching. A story about two people who fall in love over the loss of another.
February 21, 2015
It seems I've been attracted to emotional tales as of late. Recently, I pondered the differences between emotional and angst. I believe it varies from individual to individual. Some topics are automatic triggers for some and not necessarily to others. This certainly impacts the angst level…personal connection.
As a general rule, angst for me is drama. Angst is doubt and uncertainty. Angst hits in me in my tummy. The other side of the coin is emotive. Emotional is extremely painful due to sadness, which always hits me in the heart. This beautifully tragic tale was a bull’s-eye shot to the heart.
It hurt. But it hurt so good.
Despite the sorrow and grief there was hope and passion. It was equally balanced with heart-piercing moments and heart-mending moments. I never felt terrifying anxiety, only compassion for Leo. I wanted to hug him and then shield him from the hurt. I knew loss was a factor, it’s clearly stated in the blurb, and yet knowing, preparing and enduring are vastly different. Regardless of being primed, it still cut deep.
Leo returns to stand by his beloved Uncle’s side as he bravely faces death. His fight with cancer was courageous, but ultimately he concedes defeat is inescapable.
Edwin was a central star in Leo’s horizon. He adored his Uncle and held him close to his heart. A thriving career, many miles, and life kept Leo from sharing sunsets and glasses of wine with Edwin.
I felt numerous ‘messages in a bottle’ washed ashore on the banks of their cove, but life is precious was prominent.
Tris was an unexpected surprise. Don’t you love a good surprise? I do! Leo finds himself immediately drawn to the stranger and can’t help but notice Edwin might have some matchmaking skills up his sleeve.
The timing is all wrong. Fresh love is not supposed to occur during a time of mourning….is it? Another essential message screams, yes! Love gives you strength during the moments you think you can’t go on. The sweetest music during our darkness moments is laughter. We are meant to remember with fond smiles, we are meant to honor the life lost, we are meant to celebrate.
Leo needs Tris more than he believes he should. Tris quickly becomes an anchor for Leo, a constant in the rough waters. Tris is battling his own complex chaos. Recently divorced with a son, he is searching for his true self. Leo shines light on his dark path. They balance one another, ground each other. It’s beautiful.
The writing is striking. I felt the brisk salty air and sand in my toes. It was lovely.
The secrets are shocking. My chest ached with the possibilities. It was tragic.
The grab hold of your heart is inevitable. It was unforgettable.
Read it…you’ll be sad/glad you did.
*4.5 SEIZE THE DAY stars*
As a general rule, angst for me is drama. Angst is doubt and uncertainty. Angst hits in me in my tummy. The other side of the coin is emotive. Emotional is extremely painful due to sadness, which always hits me in the heart. This beautifully tragic tale was a bull’s-eye shot to the heart.
It hurt. But it hurt so good.
Despite the sorrow and grief there was hope and passion. It was equally balanced with heart-piercing moments and heart-mending moments. I never felt terrifying anxiety, only compassion for Leo. I wanted to hug him and then shield him from the hurt. I knew loss was a factor, it’s clearly stated in the blurb, and yet knowing, preparing and enduring are vastly different. Regardless of being primed, it still cut deep.
Leo returns to stand by his beloved Uncle’s side as he bravely faces death. His fight with cancer was courageous, but ultimately he concedes defeat is inescapable.
Edwin was a central star in Leo’s horizon. He adored his Uncle and held him close to his heart. A thriving career, many miles, and life kept Leo from sharing sunsets and glasses of wine with Edwin.
I felt numerous ‘messages in a bottle’ washed ashore on the banks of their cove, but life is precious was prominent.
Tris was an unexpected surprise. Don’t you love a good surprise? I do! Leo finds himself immediately drawn to the stranger and can’t help but notice Edwin might have some matchmaking skills up his sleeve.
The timing is all wrong. Fresh love is not supposed to occur during a time of mourning….is it? Another essential message screams, yes! Love gives you strength during the moments you think you can’t go on. The sweetest music during our darkness moments is laughter. We are meant to remember with fond smiles, we are meant to honor the life lost, we are meant to celebrate.
Leo needs Tris more than he believes he should. Tris quickly becomes an anchor for Leo, a constant in the rough waters. Tris is battling his own complex chaos. Recently divorced with a son, he is searching for his true self. Leo shines light on his dark path. They balance one another, ground each other. It’s beautiful.
The writing is striking. I felt the brisk salty air and sand in my toes. It was lovely.
The secrets are shocking. My chest ached with the possibilities. It was tragic.
The grab hold of your heart is inevitable. It was unforgettable.
Read it…you’ll be sad/glad you did.
*4.5 SEIZE THE DAY stars*
May 4, 2017
***3 Stars***
This was a quick, enjoyable and sweet read.
I loved the quaint English seaside setting. It really added to the vibe of the story.
Leo and Tris were endearing characters, but I didn't quite feel a connection with them. I just didn't feel any spark or passion. I can't put my finger on why, as all the pieces were there, but they didn't fully grab me. I was more drawn and enthralled with Edwin's history and life. His background really pulled at the heartstrings and I ate up every story and memory he shared. I'd love a novella or short story focusing on his life.
March 18, 2020
This is how I want a romance novel to make me feel. Although the plot was straight forward with no drama and was predictable, I totally enjoyed reading it. It was heavy hearted at times and I cried because I know that watching a relative slowly die everyday and knowing that there's nothing you can do is difficult. The emotional support between Leo and Tris is just.....amazing. For me those were moments that made this book so special. Not being afraid to cry, not being afraid to admit that you can't or don't want to go through something alone and having someone there who is always willing to help you....sighs. You don't have to have a dying relative to relate to the story. The story was realistic and completely believable. If you just want a sweet romantic story that tugs at your heart strings with an HEA then I totally recommend this book. If you want drama and angst and plot twists then no, this book is not for you.
Read
March 8, 2015This book is very close to my heart.
Writing it was my way of dealing with an impending bereavement in my own life.
As you can guess from the blurb, it’s much angstier than my usual relatively light reads. But I hope that if you give it a chance, you’ll ultimately feel uplifted.
Edited to say that this title is now available in paperback, so I'm running a 카지노싸이트 giveaway that ends on 8th April 2015
Writing it was my way of dealing with an impending bereavement in my own life.
As you can guess from the blurb, it’s much angstier than my usual relatively light reads. But I hope that if you give it a chance, you’ll ultimately feel uplifted.
He couldn’t believe that death was final. It might be the end of that person’s chapter, but people left an impression that remained long after they were gone. Ripples that spread and touched those still living.
Edited to say that this title is now available in paperback, so I'm running a 카지노싸이트 giveaway that ends on 8th April 2015
May 16, 2015
The path of life is full of obstacles, but love can light the way. All I ask is that next time you find yourself at a turning point, you consider your options carefully.
Don't waste a chance at happiness.
Leo is always busy with his job and it's hard for him to give any time to a relationship. He goes to Cornwall to spend some time with his beloved uncle, Edwin, who's dying. He was close to Edwin when he was a boy, but when he grew up their relationship had drifted. Leo feels guilty about it and now he would do anything he could to make up for the lost years. Also, he doesn't realize that he's lonely, until he finds a complete stranger in his unckle's kitchen.
Tris recently got divorced and he currently lives in a cottage on Edwin’s land. He has an eight years old son, Ben, and he's still half in the closet. He'd love to have a partner he could share his life with, but he can't imagine it yet, when he's not completely out. Things change when he meets Leo.
This story is beautiful. The love and connection between Leo and Tris is truly believable. There was a lot of moments that broke my heart and made me cry, but then there were the ones that put it back together and made it all warm. I loved Edwin and the memories and secrets he decided to share. Plus, that ending was just perfect.
February 24, 2015
....Emotional, touching, engaging and just a tad on the angsty side; what m/m books are all about for me. Really, really liked this read.
September 27, 2019
A wonderful British M/M romance !
A beautiful British tale of an overworked Londoner, Leo, 40, who travels to Cornwall to see his dying Uncle, Edwin. There he meets Landscaper, Tris, 30s, who lives in the cottage of Edwin’s property. Leo visits the beach,
cares for his Uncle and develops a sweet relationship with Tris, who has a 7 yr. old son living in the city.
There are many deep conversations and reflections from their younger years for Edwin and Leo. Leo and Tris have some exciting sexy times, and first time for Tris.
As Edwin’s health fails more and more, Edwin reveals his life long secret.
Edwin takes his life, quietly, doing it his way, and Leo and Tris have each other to lean on. They get through the next couple of weeks, but then Leo must get back to work. It’s a sad day, and the men keep in touch. Things change, Leo has a revelation and it’s a marvelous !
I loved these fabulous characters, the setting, the sentimental story, and the British-ness, too !
This author is fabulous. I loved The Law of Attraction and A Family for Christmas.
Highly recommended. Enjoy !
=======
Thank you dear Bo; it was your review that had me give this book a read.
=======
A beautiful British tale of an overworked Londoner, Leo, 40, who travels to Cornwall to see his dying Uncle, Edwin. There he meets Landscaper, Tris, 30s, who lives in the cottage of Edwin’s property. Leo visits the beach,
cares for his Uncle and develops a sweet relationship with Tris, who has a 7 yr. old son living in the city.
There are many deep conversations and reflections from their younger years for Edwin and Leo. Leo and Tris have some exciting sexy times, and first time for Tris.
As Edwin’s health fails more and more, Edwin reveals his life long secret.
Edwin takes his life, quietly, doing it his way, and Leo and Tris have each other to lean on. They get through the next couple of weeks, but then Leo must get back to work. It’s a sad day, and the men keep in touch. Things change, Leo has a revelation and it’s a marvelous !
I loved these fabulous characters, the setting, the sentimental story, and the British-ness, too !
This author is fabulous. I loved The Law of Attraction and A Family for Christmas.
Highly recommended. Enjoy !
=======
Thank you dear Bo; it was your review that had me give this book a read.
=======
February 28, 2015
Wow. Read it straight through, couldn't stop. Just a wonderfully gentle read, full of emotion, love and sadness. Discovering secrets and someone's lost love...finding love yourself when you least expect it, when you thought you'd never be able to cos you didn't have the time or the energy to devote to someone else...but you can!! Not sure this would have worked anywhere else but Cornwall, but it's a beautiful read Jay, and that ending was perfection. Many congrats, and I can and will give it 6 stars!! For an in-depth review, you can't do any better than read Dani's ARC, superb!!
February 19, 2015
OMG! Another book that has just reduced me to tears and had me snivelling buckets into my Kindle. This book evoked emotions in me that were so strong it left me reflecting on life for days. Absolutely beautiful writing from Jay Northcote that anyone who reads this book without getting the slightest lump in their throat have no feelings to talk about.
Leo is down in Cornwall to visit his terminally ill Uncle Edwin who is dying of lung cancer. Yes, I can appreciate this will not be everyone’s favourite subject but that is life and I love books that get to grips with life and its harsh realities. However, as bad as the scenario may seem there is also a joy and beauty to this story with a lesson to be learnt. Leo was always very close to his Uncle as a child but his high-powered job in London meant that he hasn’t visited his Uncle as much as he should have in recent years but now comes to spend the last few days with him. Leo loves his Uncle like the father he never had and intends to spend some quality time with him.
What Leo doesn’t reckon with is Tris the guy who is living in the cottage on Edwin’s land. He is living there as he has nowhere to go after his marriage broke down with his wife and he can't deny anymore that he is gay. A mistake that he severely regrets but he still isn’t ready to come out of the closet just yet. Tris helps out doing Edwin’s garden and maintenance work to pay for his rent.
Tris and Leo are grown men, mid-thirties to forty, but have just never been lucky in love. They are experienced but this makes them both the more reticent and possibly cynical about love having being through disastrous relationships before. But the longer they spend with each other the more the emotions deepen into something that neither men can no longer deny. But life and all its practicalities or realities are still weighing heavily on their shoulders and at least for a while there seems to be no way that these guys would be able to make a long lasting, steady relationship out of it. The sex is hot! When these guys get it on it isn’t flowery twink sex but full on man sex - phew!
So we have the three MCs in this story and oh how beautifully this all played out. Edwin is totally accepting of his nephew’s sexuality and also has no problem with Tris. He took Tris in because he knew he needed a home and not everyone was going to be so understanding. In actual fact he starts to play the matchmaker a little. I thought it was very unusual at first for this generation to be so open about this if not slightly amused by it all. He sees the attraction both Leo and Tris have for each other and decides to give them both a gentle shove. Well, it didn’t take much shoving but more’s to the point trying to make Leo realise that his job in London is slowly killing him with stress and overwork and that is not the only thing in life that will make you happy.
One evening Edwin decides to tell both boys his story, a story until now he has never told another living soul, but before he goes he feels the need to tell his story to Leo and Tris.Well, from here on in until the end of the book I was constantly in tears. OMG!!! This story really rips at the old heart strings but it’s all the more beautiful because of it. Edwin’s story also makes Leo reflect and start to think whether his current lifestyle is really the one he wants. Edwin sees him struggling with his internal conflicts and through his story tries to get Leo to make the right decision, no matter how difficult it may be. There are always options.
However, Uncle Edwin’s time arrives and he leaves three letters, one for Leo, one for Tris and one for Leo’s mother (his twin sister) after his departure. At this point I was literally CRYING BUCKETS into my Kindle!!!! The last third of this book took three times longer to read due to me having to constantly wipe away the tears. This sweet, sweet man trying to make Leo see and wishing for him all the things his generation could never have had. But he was never forceful or demanding of Leo, just trying to get Leo to open his eyes as it is Leo’s decision to take in the end. Gently making Leo realise that life is short and you need to enjoy every single day of it and love is something that you do not dismiss light heartedly, but grab onto it with both hands and never let go. I can’t say this will be an easy book to read for some, but through Edwin we can all learn something. Edwin passed on the wealth, hardship and experience of his life to make sure that Leo doesn’t make any mistakes he might end up regretting.
The title of this book is just so fitting, Passing Through, life is a journey and if that is the case every single one of us are just passing through. The key is whether we make it count or not; to write our own chapter to leave behind for others to remember us by. Uncle Edwin made it count at least as far as it was possible for his generation and he wanted to make damn sure his nephew did the same before he left. The book ends on a bittersweet note, although that doesn’t really describe the way I felt. It was more one of hope, mixed with reflection and a sprinkling of blessedness. In the words of Uncle Edwin and many others “SEIZE THE DAY” and Uncle Edwin definitely showed me the meaning of those words now for sure. This will be one book that will stay with me for a very long time to come. THANK YOU Jay for this truly touching story.
Leo is down in Cornwall to visit his terminally ill Uncle Edwin who is dying of lung cancer. Yes, I can appreciate this will not be everyone’s favourite subject but that is life and I love books that get to grips with life and its harsh realities. However, as bad as the scenario may seem there is also a joy and beauty to this story with a lesson to be learnt. Leo was always very close to his Uncle as a child but his high-powered job in London meant that he hasn’t visited his Uncle as much as he should have in recent years but now comes to spend the last few days with him. Leo loves his Uncle like the father he never had and intends to spend some quality time with him.
What Leo doesn’t reckon with is Tris the guy who is living in the cottage on Edwin’s land. He is living there as he has nowhere to go after his marriage broke down with his wife and he can't deny anymore that he is gay. A mistake that he severely regrets but he still isn’t ready to come out of the closet just yet. Tris helps out doing Edwin’s garden and maintenance work to pay for his rent.
Tris and Leo are grown men, mid-thirties to forty, but have just never been lucky in love. They are experienced but this makes them both the more reticent and possibly cynical about love having being through disastrous relationships before. But the longer they spend with each other the more the emotions deepen into something that neither men can no longer deny. But life and all its practicalities or realities are still weighing heavily on their shoulders and at least for a while there seems to be no way that these guys would be able to make a long lasting, steady relationship out of it. The sex is hot! When these guys get it on it isn’t flowery twink sex but full on man sex - phew!
So we have the three MCs in this story and oh how beautifully this all played out. Edwin is totally accepting of his nephew’s sexuality and also has no problem with Tris. He took Tris in because he knew he needed a home and not everyone was going to be so understanding. In actual fact he starts to play the matchmaker a little. I thought it was very unusual at first for this generation to be so open about this if not slightly amused by it all. He sees the attraction both Leo and Tris have for each other and decides to give them both a gentle shove. Well, it didn’t take much shoving but more’s to the point trying to make Leo realise that his job in London is slowly killing him with stress and overwork and that is not the only thing in life that will make you happy.
One evening Edwin decides to tell both boys his story, a story until now he has never told another living soul, but before he goes he feels the need to tell his story to Leo and Tris.Well, from here on in until the end of the book I was constantly in tears. OMG!!! This story really rips at the old heart strings but it’s all the more beautiful because of it. Edwin’s story also makes Leo reflect and start to think whether his current lifestyle is really the one he wants. Edwin sees him struggling with his internal conflicts and through his story tries to get Leo to make the right decision, no matter how difficult it may be. There are always options.
However, Uncle Edwin’s time arrives and he leaves three letters, one for Leo, one for Tris and one for Leo’s mother (his twin sister) after his departure. At this point I was literally CRYING BUCKETS into my Kindle!!!! The last third of this book took three times longer to read due to me having to constantly wipe away the tears. This sweet, sweet man trying to make Leo see and wishing for him all the things his generation could never have had. But he was never forceful or demanding of Leo, just trying to get Leo to open his eyes as it is Leo’s decision to take in the end. Gently making Leo realise that life is short and you need to enjoy every single day of it and love is something that you do not dismiss light heartedly, but grab onto it with both hands and never let go. I can’t say this will be an easy book to read for some, but through Edwin we can all learn something. Edwin passed on the wealth, hardship and experience of his life to make sure that Leo doesn’t make any mistakes he might end up regretting.
The title of this book is just so fitting, Passing Through, life is a journey and if that is the case every single one of us are just passing through. The key is whether we make it count or not; to write our own chapter to leave behind for others to remember us by. Uncle Edwin made it count at least as far as it was possible for his generation and he wanted to make damn sure his nephew did the same before he left. The book ends on a bittersweet note, although that doesn’t really describe the way I felt. It was more one of hope, mixed with reflection and a sprinkling of blessedness. In the words of Uncle Edwin and many others “SEIZE THE DAY” and Uncle Edwin definitely showed me the meaning of those words now for sure. This will be one book that will stay with me for a very long time to come. THANK YOU Jay for this truly touching story.
February 22, 2015
It was my absolute pleasure to be part of the production team for this book. Being the designer meant I got to pre read the manuscript before it even reached an editor, and even in it's raw form, this heartfelt, emotive piece of writing is one that will stay with me forever.
Passing Through is proof, if we ever needed it, that Jay Northcote is a gifted and versatile writer, who in Passing Through, has artfully crafted a tale that, sadly, is one many of us will have to face at one time or another.
Beautiful.
Passing Through is proof, if we ever needed it, that Jay Northcote is a gifted and versatile writer, who in Passing Through, has artfully crafted a tale that, sadly, is one many of us will have to face at one time or another.
Beautiful.
July 12, 2015
Passing Through isn't nearly so light as the rest of this author's books (and I've LOVED this author's other books). It illustrates, very well, the skill, talent and range that Jay Northcote possesses. I'm pretty sure every emotion was triggered in me, at least once - Jay even managed to surprise me, which I always love when I'm reading - and I loved every minute of my journey with this story. The angst in the story is completely organic. No melodrama, or contrived obstacles. You'll find happiness and heartache in these pages and it is beautiful, all of it.
Leo is 40 and single and has never taken the time to really invest in a relationship. He's a workaholic and has often used his job as an excuse to keep people at arms length. As a result, he is rather lonely. He has a great job that pays well, a posh flat in London, nice clothes and a nice car, but the older he gets, the more all the material possessions leave him feeling a bit empty, not having anyone to share it all with.
His uncle Edwin, who was more like a father to him, is dying, so Leo heads to Cornwall, at his mother's suggestion, to help care for Edwin in his last days. While I expected Edwin to be a catalyst to get Leo and Tris together, I didn't expect him to be so present in the story. He really added a depth that I have not often seen and he didn't hinder the story of Leo and Tris at all. In fact, Edwin helps both Tris and Leo to really grok the meaning of 'seize the day'. Edwin has lived his entire life with secrets, and now that he has come to the end, he wants, not just to remember, but to share. Life is finite, and all too short. Don't waste it on things that don't matter and don't let the things that do matter slip away.
Tris is a little younger than Leo and is a gardener/landscaper by trade. He found himself needing a place to live when his marriage fell apart and Edwin took him in. Tris is gay and is only just coming to terms with that, but he's not fully out. He has a young son that he doesn't get to see that often because his ex-wife is, in my ever so humble opinion, a bitch. She blames Tris for the failure of their marriage, completely overlooking the fact that she didn't exactly act honestly, herself. It takes two to tango, chica, and you two were not well suited on any level. It's awful, but own up to your own mistakes and learn to have some compassion. Even in modern times, coming out is not always easy. Even if your family and friends accept you, others may not. It shouldn't have to be this way.
Leo and Tris are the real thing. They suit each other so well, both in bed and out. They are exactly what each other needs. The love and tenderness they show each other, even before they admit to their feelings was so perfect.
I'm a little bit wrecked after finishing this book, but in the best of ways. While there is really only a small portion that is really sad, you know it is there, lingering in the background. Take Edwin's advice - if you have a chance at love, don't waste it, and if you've found it, don't squander it.
And the epilogue brought me to very, very happy tears.
Leo is 40 and single and has never taken the time to really invest in a relationship. He's a workaholic and has often used his job as an excuse to keep people at arms length. As a result, he is rather lonely. He has a great job that pays well, a posh flat in London, nice clothes and a nice car, but the older he gets, the more all the material possessions leave him feeling a bit empty, not having anyone to share it all with.
His uncle Edwin, who was more like a father to him, is dying, so Leo heads to Cornwall, at his mother's suggestion, to help care for Edwin in his last days. While I expected Edwin to be a catalyst to get Leo and Tris together, I didn't expect him to be so present in the story. He really added a depth that I have not often seen and he didn't hinder the story of Leo and Tris at all. In fact, Edwin helps both Tris and Leo to really grok the meaning of 'seize the day'. Edwin has lived his entire life with secrets, and now that he has come to the end, he wants, not just to remember, but to share. Life is finite, and all too short. Don't waste it on things that don't matter and don't let the things that do matter slip away.
Tris is a little younger than Leo and is a gardener/landscaper by trade. He found himself needing a place to live when his marriage fell apart and Edwin took him in. Tris is gay and is only just coming to terms with that, but he's not fully out. He has a young son that he doesn't get to see that often because his ex-wife is, in my ever so humble opinion, a bitch. She blames Tris for the failure of their marriage, completely overlooking the fact that she didn't exactly act honestly, herself. It takes two to tango, chica, and you two were not well suited on any level. It's awful, but own up to your own mistakes and learn to have some compassion. Even in modern times, coming out is not always easy. Even if your family and friends accept you, others may not. It shouldn't have to be this way.
Leo and Tris are the real thing. They suit each other so well, both in bed and out. They are exactly what each other needs. The love and tenderness they show each other, even before they admit to their feelings was so perfect.
I'm a little bit wrecked after finishing this book, but in the best of ways. While there is really only a small portion that is really sad, you know it is there, lingering in the background. Take Edwin's advice - if you have a chance at love, don't waste it, and if you've found it, don't squander it.
And the epilogue brought me to very, very happy tears.
August 14, 2019
Upping to 5 stars on the reread.
I really love this story.
I really love this story.
February 23, 2015
Very moving and well written. Jay Northcote's best!
February 24, 2015
*** 5 stars! ***
How many times one book could leaves you cry and feeling joy and smiling at the same time?
Not much.
But this one, did that. This is the story of three men, Leo, Tris and Edwin (Leo's uncle).
The setting is in the beautiful Cornwall, made me feel that I read on the right spot where Edwin spent years of his younger life with the love of his life, Tom. feel the breeze and the love.
And where Leo had finally found something worth more than loads of money he had in London, his Tris.
The chemistry was 'there' from the first time they met in Edwin's house. Tris was still on his inner battle to come out as gay after his hurtful divorced. And he found it in Leo.
I was really glad Edwin was a nosy and stubborn old man, and he won't stop until the two men he loved like his own children finally came to their senses.
Some of Edwin's line made me crying like a baby and it was ugly cries...
You have chances Tom and I never had. Don't waste a chance at happiness.
His letter to Leo..OMG! That man kept so much pain for so many years alone.
I'm not surprise why he wanted really bad for Leo and Tris to be together.
I was fortunate to live a long and happy life. I made some difficult choices, ones that I know many people would disapprove of. I could never regret having Tom in my life, and I’m glad we kept our love alive despite the difficulties we faced.
Things have changed so much in my lifetime for men like us. It was unimaginable to me in my youth that homosexual men would ever be allowed to marry. I would have given anything for me and Tom to be able to love each other without committing a crime in the eyes of the law at that time.
And Leo believe that Edwin, somehow, finally reached his own HEA with Tom
He was glad that Edwin and his lover had found a way to be together, even though the world was against them.
This is one hell of a beautiful story of life. You nailed it, .
I'm still crying.
A happy tears finally...
March 22, 2016
2.5 stars
I must be the only one of my GR friends who didn't like this book. All in all, it was a decent story, with a pervasive melancholy that suited the Cornwall background perfectly. However, the atmosphere was the only thing I enjoyed.
In my mind, this book was the male equivalent of chick-lit: it was mainly the story of a successful but lonely man, who prompted by his dying uncle and a brief romance while in Cornwall, decides to change his priorities in life and pursue a different road, with less professional success but more happiness. The romance itself was light, superficial, brushed over and -to me- incomplete; the change from lust to love happened in the blink of an eye, and without the reader being privy to any discussions or intimate scenes between those two to warrant that change. Besides, we get no notion of WHO these men are, besides their connection to Edwin: are they funny, stubborn, proud, cocky, reckless, loyal, adventurous, honest or what? Tris's character in particular is strictly two-dimensional IMO.
Generally, where the descriptions of the beach were trully beautiful, I found the dialogues the weak point of this book. More often than not, they failed to convey the depth of feeling and emotion the characters were supposedly feeling. For example, the phone call between Leo and his mother was one of the coldest I've read; you'd think his mother didn't care at all about her brother the way she reacted.
Verdict: Too superficial for me, and lacking character development.
I must be the only one of my GR friends who didn't like this book. All in all, it was a decent story, with a pervasive melancholy that suited the Cornwall background perfectly. However, the atmosphere was the only thing I enjoyed.
In my mind, this book was the male equivalent of chick-lit: it was mainly the story of a successful but lonely man, who prompted by his dying uncle and a brief romance while in Cornwall, decides to change his priorities in life and pursue a different road, with less professional success but more happiness. The romance itself was light, superficial, brushed over and -to me- incomplete; the change from lust to love happened in the blink of an eye, and without the reader being privy to any discussions or intimate scenes between those two to warrant that change. Besides, we get no notion of WHO these men are, besides their connection to Edwin: are they funny, stubborn, proud, cocky, reckless, loyal, adventurous, honest or what? Tris's character in particular is strictly two-dimensional IMO.
Generally, where the descriptions of the beach were trully beautiful, I found the dialogues the weak point of this book. More often than not, they failed to convey the depth of feeling and emotion the characters were supposedly feeling. For example, the phone call between Leo and his mother was one of the coldest I've read; you'd think his mother didn't care at all about her brother the way she reacted.
Verdict: Too superficial for me, and lacking character development.
March 1, 2015
4+ stars (ish).
I know, I know. I've given five stars as a rating and I'm saying four stars in the review/section, which sounds like a cop-out, but the sex was just wrong! Needless to say I wept, which is always a good sign that I enjoyed the story, the writing, the characters.
An incredibly emotional read. I read this novel in one afternoon, I couldn't stop....it is that good.
The setting was just perfect. The characters had that angsty sadness, the plot was so emotional, just the sex that jarred, for me. I personally felt that the sex did not need to be so descriptively written. I'm not saying it wasn't required, it is required on two different levels, (a) to further the plot and the main characters' relationship, and (b) to satisfy the majority readership, just not in such intimate detail. Thank you Ms Northcote for writing such amazingly warm characters.
Having lost a dear friend this week past, I probably wept more than was good for me.
Intermittent Horse, canter free, you are missed.
I know, I know. I've given five stars as a rating and I'm saying four stars in the review/section, which sounds like a cop-out, but the sex was just wrong! Needless to say I wept, which is always a good sign that I enjoyed the story, the writing, the characters.
An incredibly emotional read. I read this novel in one afternoon, I couldn't stop....it is that good.
The setting was just perfect. The characters had that angsty sadness, the plot was so emotional, just the sex that jarred, for me. I personally felt that the sex did not need to be so descriptively written. I'm not saying it wasn't required, it is required on two different levels, (a) to further the plot and the main characters' relationship, and (b) to satisfy the majority readership, just not in such intimate detail. Thank you Ms Northcote for writing such amazingly warm characters.
Having lost a dear friend this week past, I probably wept more than was good for me.
Intermittent Horse, canter free, you are missed.
March 4, 2015
4,5 stars.
I loved this one, the setting in Cornwall is just wonderfully done. I felt the salt and the wind on my skin, felt the sun and the rain, accompanied by the sound of the waves.
The characters are fresh, real and interesting, the story line sweet and sexy and the plot is romantic, delightful, painful and heartbreaking.
Oh my, how I loved Leo and Tris and their passionate romance, and even more Edwin, Leo’s uncle… I wept with him for the love of his life, Tom and the sacrifices they made in their younger days. When the inevitable happened… I think I cried buckets of tears.
Passing Through a heartfelt novel about finding oneself and shedding the past, about learning to trust and to finally... finally learn to love someone deeply. Tris and Leo’s story is simply amazing! And the epilogue... *deep sigh*... it’s just beautifully done!
I’m sure this story will stay with me for a long time. Thank you Jay, for giving us this gem.
February 23, 2015
Review to come.
February 23, 2015
This story proves to me what a talented writer Jay Northcote is. Every new book of hers i read, i find it better than the previous one.
Leo visits his dying uncle Edwin in Cornwall. There, he meets Tris and falls in love with him.Edwin is a huge part of the story, an amazing character who lived an intriguing life. His trip down memory lane interwined with our story and the result is breathtaking.
This is all i'm going to say because i don't want to spoil anything.
This book was different. It isn't the lighthearted-sexy- but -amazing i'm used to from the author. It is an angsty one, yet real and it left me a big sobbing mess.
The narrative pace is just perfect, no misunderstandings, no miscommunications and characters who know what they want and fight for it.
And the epilogue...oh man...the last paragraph almost killed me (in a good way).
Excellent read, highly recommended.
May 19, 2015
Superficial and clichéd.
Won't remember any of it in a few days.
April 24, 2016
*2,5 stars*
I'm so sad I didn't like this. I love Cornwall and I could just picture the cottage. But I just couldn't connect with Leo and Tris at all. It picked up a bit with Edwin's side story. Just not enough...
Bummer cause everyone else seemed to like it.
February 21, 2015
This was wonderful, in the middle a bit too much fairy-tale-like, too good to be true, but the the right amount of sad. And a very nice, satisfying and well-rounded happy ending.
April 8, 2020
Very sweet and uncomplicated. I would have wanted to “hear” more from Tris, dual POV’S would have been fantastic. A good, fun read.
February 27, 2015
5 "JAY NORTCHCOTE IS AMAZING" STARS
Seriously. This book.
I had very few words to actually say about this book. I held off reading this because I thought it would be a very sad book like with so much angst but it didn't. It was sad, yes, but it had its reasons and its purpose was for the greater good of the story.
I really loved the setting of the story. Wherever Cornwall is, I would like to have my place there. I love the beach and this one described the place so perfectly that it was really inviting.
I really loved Leo and Tris. I thought they were a perfect fit for each other. Their chemistry was on point and the sexual tension and steam was 100% there. It was super believable and I loved how it progressed. It was kind of fast if you would look at the timeline in the book but it made sense.
Edwin, Leo's uncle, was a big part of the story. He was almost like the backbone of the story and the relationship of Tris and Leo. I kind of guessed Edwin's revelation when I first read him (I don't know how but I did). I felt really bad for him but happy too since he could talk about it with Leo and Tris. I cried when the inevitable happened. Come on, we all knew it was coming but reading it, it was still a shock. Edwin was definitely a person who did things the way he liked it even at the end.
The epilogue? It made me tear up. It was so perfect. Then the last few paragraphs? Those gave me chills especially the last one.
This one was really something I would always remember. Jay Northcote's giving us some gems again.
Overall, a very wonderful read.
Seriously. This book.
I had very few words to actually say about this book. I held off reading this because I thought it would be a very sad book like with so much angst but it didn't. It was sad, yes, but it had its reasons and its purpose was for the greater good of the story.
I really loved the setting of the story. Wherever Cornwall is, I would like to have my place there. I love the beach and this one described the place so perfectly that it was really inviting.
I really loved Leo and Tris. I thought they were a perfect fit for each other. Their chemistry was on point and the sexual tension and steam was 100% there. It was super believable and I loved how it progressed. It was kind of fast if you would look at the timeline in the book but it made sense.
Edwin, Leo's uncle, was a big part of the story. He was almost like the backbone of the story and the relationship of Tris and Leo. I kind of guessed Edwin's revelation when I first read him (I don't know how but I did). I felt really bad for him but happy too since he could talk about it with Leo and Tris. I cried when the inevitable happened. Come on, we all knew it was coming but reading it, it was still a shock. Edwin was definitely a person who did things the way he liked it even at the end.
The epilogue? It made me tear up. It was so perfect. Then the last few paragraphs? Those gave me chills especially the last one.
This one was really something I would always remember. Jay Northcote's giving us some gems again.
"Although Leo didn't believe in God either, he couldn't believe that death was final. It might be the end of that person's chapter, but people left an impression that remained long after they were gone. Ripples that spread and touched those still living."
Overall, a very wonderful read.
June 20, 2016
Really sweet. Nicely fleshed out when often JN glosses over the characters - these guys' characters were beautifully done. Uncle Edwin was fantastic and the relationship that grows between Leo and Tris was just perfect. Great read.
August 11, 2016
Sorry, book: I'm just not that into you.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 240 reviews
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get help and learn more about the design.