Parhelion

Like a snapshot of the past, this story charmed me with its understated descriptions and between-the-lines hints at all kinds of things going on behind the scenes. It is a great description of the 50s and some of the issues and concerns gay men had to deal with at that time.

Jack is young and impulsive, but he is also intellectually curious and able to think on his feet. His love of books, and ability to blend into the bookshop he takes refuge in when the police raid the bar he'd been a customer of, save him from being arrested. He has great fun talking to the bookstore owner, Mr. Cooley, and even the somewhat more intimate scene that soon plays out doesn't interrupt the gentle flow of prose.

If you like historicals that give you a feeling of being 'there', and if you enjoy a bit of intellectual banter as the main character figures out how to save himself from the police and being recognized a 'subversive', you will probably like this story.



NOTE: This book was provided by Torquere Press for the purpose of a review.… (mere)