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Theory Unproven
Working with elephants in their natural habitat has always been Eric Phillips dream. Getting what he’s always desired introduces him to Tyaan Bouwer, the bush pilot that flies in his supplies, and Eric discovers the allure of South Africa goes beyond the wildlife and the scenery.
But in an area where bushveld prejudices and hatred bleed across the borders, realising their love will be a hard fought battle. Keeping hold of it might just kill them.
* * * * *
An unexpected job offer finds zoologist Eric Phillips transported from the elephant house at a zoo just outside London to the wildlife reserves in the South African bushveld. Being able to work with his own herd of elephants, and analysing their behaviour, more than makes up for the remote nature of the research station. The one bright spot on the horizon, quite literally if the sun hits it at the right angle, is the silver freight plane that brings his supplies and half an hour in the company of Tyaan, the gorgeous but taciturn pilot.
With wide open spaces and clear skies, Tyaan Bouwer is never be happier than when he’s flying over the bushveld, the landscape beneath him a changing vista of colour and texture. It’s that view and the freedom to be able to climb in his plane and fly that’s kept him in the small town where he was born and raised. South Africa might be a rainbow nation but in the northern regions where neighbouring countries are far from liberal minded, prejudices and hatred bleed across the borders. Tyaan’s not in the closet, not really. Get him to the city and with his strong, silent routine he can pull a guy without even trying. He’s fine with that as long as they don’t press him into trying to see them again. It’s not like he wants a relationship. And just maybe when he gets home he’s hovering in the doorway of that closet, but he’s never met anyone worth taking the risk for.
The day he’s sent to Limpopo to collect Eric that all changes. He tries to bury the feelings of want that Eric conjures in him, but he can’t resist the bonds of friendship that forms between them.
As a zoologist Eric likes to think that he’s adept at anticipating how a creature will react in any given situation, and they don’t come any more beautiful and skittish than Tyaan. Despite Tyaan’s jittery behaviour Eric has a theory they could be good together but when things go catastrophically wrong it appears their relationship will remain a theory unproven.
But in an area where bushveld prejudices and hatred bleed across the borders, realising their love will be a hard fought battle. Keeping hold of it might just kill them.
* * * * *
An unexpected job offer finds zoologist Eric Phillips transported from the elephant house at a zoo just outside London to the wildlife reserves in the South African bushveld. Being able to work with his own herd of elephants, and analysing their behaviour, more than makes up for the remote nature of the research station. The one bright spot on the horizon, quite literally if the sun hits it at the right angle, is the silver freight plane that brings his supplies and half an hour in the company of Tyaan, the gorgeous but taciturn pilot.
With wide open spaces and clear skies, Tyaan Bouwer is never be happier than when he’s flying over the bushveld, the landscape beneath him a changing vista of colour and texture. It’s that view and the freedom to be able to climb in his plane and fly that’s kept him in the small town where he was born and raised. South Africa might be a rainbow nation but in the northern regions where neighbouring countries are far from liberal minded, prejudices and hatred bleed across the borders. Tyaan’s not in the closet, not really. Get him to the city and with his strong, silent routine he can pull a guy without even trying. He’s fine with that as long as they don’t press him into trying to see them again. It’s not like he wants a relationship. And just maybe when he gets home he’s hovering in the doorway of that closet, but he’s never met anyone worth taking the risk for.
The day he’s sent to Limpopo to collect Eric that all changes. He tries to bury the feelings of want that Eric conjures in him, but he can’t resist the bonds of friendship that forms between them.
As a zoologist Eric likes to think that he’s adept at anticipating how a creature will react in any given situation, and they don’t come any more beautiful and skittish than Tyaan. Despite Tyaan’s jittery behaviour Eric has a theory they could be good together but when things go catastrophically wrong it appears their relationship will remain a theory unproven.
327 pages, ebook
First published January 30, 2015
About the author
Lillian Francis
16 books102 followersLillian Francis is an English writer who likes to dabble in many genres but always seems to return to the here and now.
Their name may imply a grand dame in pink chiffon and lace, but Lillian is more at home in jeans, Converse, and the sort of T-shirts that often need explaining to the populous at large but will get a fist bump at Comic-Con. Lillian is a self-confessed geek who likes nothing more than settling down with a comic or a good book, except maybe writing. Given a notepad, pen, her Kindle, and an infinite supply of chocolate Hob Nobs and they can lose themself for weeks. Romance was never their reading matter of choice, so it came as a great surprise to all concerned, including themself, to discover a romance was exactly what they’d written, and not the rollicking spy adventure or cosy murder mystery they always assumed they’d write. Luckily there's always room for romance no matter what plot bunny chooses to bite them, so never say never to either of those stories appearing.
Lillian lives in an imposing castle on a windswept desolate moor or in an elaborate shack on the edge of a beach somewhere, depending on their mood. And while they’d love for the heroes of their stories to either be chained up in the dungeon or wandering the shack serving drinks in nothing but skimpy barista aprons more often than not they are doing something far less erotic like running charity shops and shovelling elephant shit.
Drawn to the ocean, although not in a Reginald Perrin sort of way, Lillian would love to own a camper van and to live by the sea.
Their name may imply a grand dame in pink chiffon and lace, but Lillian is more at home in jeans, Converse, and the sort of T-shirts that often need explaining to the populous at large but will get a fist bump at Comic-Con. Lillian is a self-confessed geek who likes nothing more than settling down with a comic or a good book, except maybe writing. Given a notepad, pen, her Kindle, and an infinite supply of chocolate Hob Nobs and they can lose themself for weeks. Romance was never their reading matter of choice, so it came as a great surprise to all concerned, including themself, to discover a romance was exactly what they’d written, and not the rollicking spy adventure or cosy murder mystery they always assumed they’d write. Luckily there's always room for romance no matter what plot bunny chooses to bite them, so never say never to either of those stories appearing.
Lillian lives in an imposing castle on a windswept desolate moor or in an elaborate shack on the edge of a beach somewhere, depending on their mood. And while they’d love for the heroes of their stories to either be chained up in the dungeon or wandering the shack serving drinks in nothing but skimpy barista aprons more often than not they are doing something far less erotic like running charity shops and shovelling elephant shit.
Drawn to the ocean, although not in a Reginald Perrin sort of way, Lillian would love to own a camper van and to live by the sea.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 21, 2015
4,5 stars
The setting of this book is extraordinary and captured me immediately. South Africa, elephants, a hot bush pilot? Hell yesssss!!!
You can’t not fall in love with Eric, an open minded and carefree guy who is starting to work with elephants in their natural habitat in a wildlife preserve somewhere close to the Zimbabwe and Botswana borders. He’s a free spirit and his cheerfulness is contagious.
Tyann, a bush pilot is the typical broody-moody alpha-always-in-control-male. At first he appears hard and gruff but it doesn’t take long to see his sadness and the baggage he is troubled by, his life as a gay man in this region of South Africa has taken its toll. He has some experiences in his past which has left him cautious about having an open relationship with a man.
Both characters are just wonderfully elaborated, and they have this freaking hot chemistry, despite all the things popping up to mess with them. Lillian Francis did a wonderful job of conveying the heart and soul of these two guys, and when the heat turns up, it gets damn hot! It’s either slow and romantic, rough and steamy, or smoking hot and passionate.
Lillian’s writing is powerful, gripping, emotional and captivating, she creates enticing characters and a sexy, emotionally charged story line. I really appreciated that she works with alternating points of views. You get both Eric and Tyann’s perspective, a writing style I value because it’s just perfect to witness the thoughts of both main characters. I didn’t feel like I was watching from the side-line, I lived within the story, I felt the South African heat, smelled the elephants and tasted the dust on my tongue, I laughed, smiled and cursed with the guys. How they managed to overcome their challenges to form a deep and everlasting love and build such a strong relationship touched me deeply.
Highly recommended for those who want a well done, sweet, funny, suspenseful and delicious romance without too much angst.
July 20, 2019
*3,75 stars*
It was the unusual scenario that caught my attention here.
South Africa.
A bush pilot.
An elephant researcher.
What captivated me:
.) great (very) slow burn
.) the eye-opener about the situation of gay people in South Africa
.) the realism
.) the authenticity about life in the bush
.) I genuinely liked Eric and Tyaan.
.) Their relationship developed organically and felt totally real.
What niggled me:
.) Tyaan only ‘comes out’ to Eric as gay at 24%
.) some descriptions (of Eric’s work, nature, daily routine) are super detailed when (imo) it’s not necessary
.) Tyaan struggles with being out for very good reasons, and he is extremely hesitant about going for it with Eric. (that’s putting it mildly). After all his worries and anguish, his change of mind towards the end was almost a surprise. I would have liked to have his POV here to make me understand better why that happened.
A nice and thoughtful book. But be sure you like elephants before you embark on this journey.
It was the unusual scenario that caught my attention here.
South Africa.
A bush pilot.
An elephant researcher.
What captivated me:
.) great (very) slow burn
.) the eye-opener about the situation of gay people in South Africa
.) the realism
.) the authenticity about life in the bush
.) I genuinely liked Eric and Tyaan.
.) Their relationship developed organically and felt totally real.
What niggled me:
.) Tyaan only ‘comes out’ to Eric as gay at 24%
.) some descriptions (of Eric’s work, nature, daily routine) are super detailed when (imo) it’s not necessary
.) Tyaan struggles with being out for very good reasons, and he is extremely hesitant about going for it with Eric. (that’s putting it mildly). After all his worries and anguish, his change of mind towards the end was almost a surprise. I would have liked to have his POV here to make me understand better why that happened.
A nice and thoughtful book. But be sure you like elephants before you embark on this journey.
January 9, 2018
True rating ... 4.5 stars :-)!! WONDERFUL, WONDERFUL, WONDERFUL book <33333!! Absolutely unputdownable :-)!! Highly HIGHLY recommended!!
Lots of thoughts to come!! In the meantime, my updates tell a tale all their own ;-) ... there's a crap-ton of them :-D!!
It did feel like the ending was a bit rushed and I would have appreciated much more story where their HEA was concerned ... naturally I wanted more of them, but I feel like the story would have benefited GREATLY had the ending been longer, or if we had an Epilogue! I was very tempted to leave the rating as is but deduct a physical star [GR's rating] and leave it at 4 stars! BUT, the book in its entirety won out and I felt it was very deserving of the rating it got, which is why I am leaving it as is :-)!! On the flip-side to that, the semi rushed ending [don't worry, we get a glorious HEA regardless] is what kept me from giving this book a solid 5 stars as well, so I'm wavering between 4.5 and up, so the roundup is most definitely justified! Either way, I DO hope we get more of these glorious men (and elephants Jack & Ianto) By the way, did I miss the naming of the baby they adopted?!!?! It's little things like these that impact the rating unfortunately, but yeah, if we get more, I'll probably up my initial rating :-)!!
I want more ... I want Benedict & Mr. Cowdrey's story and I want Andrew's story and I want more of Ianto & Jack <333333333!!
Note: This author is definitely an author to watch ... waaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too under-acknowledged as far as I'm concerned :-)!!
Lots of thoughts to come!! In the meantime, my updates tell a tale all their own ;-) ... there's a crap-ton of them :-D!!
It did feel like the ending was a bit rushed and I would have appreciated much more story where their HEA was concerned ... naturally I wanted more of them, but I feel like the story would have benefited GREATLY had the ending been longer, or if we had an Epilogue! I was very tempted to leave the rating as is but deduct a physical star [GR's rating] and leave it at 4 stars! BUT, the book in its entirety won out and I felt it was very deserving of the rating it got, which is why I am leaving it as is :-)!! On the flip-side to that, the semi rushed ending [don't worry, we get a glorious HEA regardless] is what kept me from giving this book a solid 5 stars as well, so I'm wavering between 4.5 and up, so the roundup is most definitely justified! Either way, I DO hope we get more of these glorious men (and elephants Jack & Ianto) By the way, did I miss the naming of the baby they adopted?!!?! It's little things like these that impact the rating unfortunately, but yeah, if we get more, I'll probably up my initial rating :-)!!
I want more ... I want Benedict & Mr. Cowdrey's story and I want Andrew's story and I want more of Ianto & Jack <333333333!!
Note: This author is definitely an author to watch ... waaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too under-acknowledged as far as I'm concerned :-)!!
March 4, 2015
5 Hearts Reviewed by Prime
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews (Click the link for giveaway, ends 5th March 2015)
The setting of this book really makes the story and is a massive hook, particularly for me, to keep on reading. Though let’s face it, my knowledge of South Africa is limited to the World Cup and what I’ve picked up from my friend who grew up in Johannesburg.
Eric got a job on a wildlife preserve where he cares and studies for the herd of elephants. He’s signed on for a five year contract and so he’s completely picked up his life from England to South Africa. Life with his new job is fairly secluded except for a handful of people, including the local pilot contracted by the preserve to bring Eric his supplies. The pilot is Tyaan, on the outside he is a carefree man who enjoys his job flying his plane, Gilda, albeit he comes off rather surly. But there is more to Tyaan than meets the eye. He isn’t exactly closeted but away from the city being gay in South Africa can be fatal, especially near to the border of neighbouring countries where it is still illegal. He has some experiences in his past which has left his cautious about having a relationship outside of the city, though even when he went to the city that was just a quick trip to relieve his itch.
The story is simple enough, though the ideas involved are complex (probably due to cultural differences involved, though these were only briefly touched upon). The passion between Eric and Tyaan is both sweet and explosive. Eric is a warm and welcoming person and his biggest job in the story is to get Tyaan to open up. For a book this length there needs to be some sort of drama that is somewhere beyond simple hissy fits. There is this drama and I think it was tastefully done and not to the point of me internally yelling at the screen “I call bullshit!” The characters develop really nicely, particularly Tyaan who has more “growing up” to do than Eric. Additionally, I also like the fact that Tyaan’s reluctance to get into a “real relationship” or be “obvious” with Eric is not too over the top dramatic. It’s just there, a natural part of his character. That being said, the first half of the book is rather light hearted and relaxed before really going into the action.
I really got into this story from the start. There is a lot of sweetness to be had set in an amazing landscape with some pretty damn intelligent animals. In fact, a couple of the elephants, named Jack and Ianto by Eric, are minor characters in their own right and thoroughly enjoyable (though their involvement is rarely scientific at all!). A third of the way through when I came across the Torchwood (i.e. Jack and Ianto) reference followed by a Nirvana reference – amongst other pop culture references, the deal was sealed for me. Seriously, when the drama was happening and there was the briefest mention of Firefly, I was grinning.
After reading Tyaan and Eric’s story, I have to admit I’m suddenly very curious about Benedict, the PA to Eric’s mysterious boss, Mr Cowdrey, and the odd relationship going on there!
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews (Click the link for giveaway, ends 5th March 2015)
The setting of this book really makes the story and is a massive hook, particularly for me, to keep on reading. Though let’s face it, my knowledge of South Africa is limited to the World Cup and what I’ve picked up from my friend who grew up in Johannesburg.
Eric got a job on a wildlife preserve where he cares and studies for the herd of elephants. He’s signed on for a five year contract and so he’s completely picked up his life from England to South Africa. Life with his new job is fairly secluded except for a handful of people, including the local pilot contracted by the preserve to bring Eric his supplies. The pilot is Tyaan, on the outside he is a carefree man who enjoys his job flying his plane, Gilda, albeit he comes off rather surly. But there is more to Tyaan than meets the eye. He isn’t exactly closeted but away from the city being gay in South Africa can be fatal, especially near to the border of neighbouring countries where it is still illegal. He has some experiences in his past which has left his cautious about having a relationship outside of the city, though even when he went to the city that was just a quick trip to relieve his itch.
The story is simple enough, though the ideas involved are complex (probably due to cultural differences involved, though these were only briefly touched upon). The passion between Eric and Tyaan is both sweet and explosive. Eric is a warm and welcoming person and his biggest job in the story is to get Tyaan to open up. For a book this length there needs to be some sort of drama that is somewhere beyond simple hissy fits. There is this drama and I think it was tastefully done and not to the point of me internally yelling at the screen “I call bullshit!” The characters develop really nicely, particularly Tyaan who has more “growing up” to do than Eric. Additionally, I also like the fact that Tyaan’s reluctance to get into a “real relationship” or be “obvious” with Eric is not too over the top dramatic. It’s just there, a natural part of his character. That being said, the first half of the book is rather light hearted and relaxed before really going into the action.
I really got into this story from the start. There is a lot of sweetness to be had set in an amazing landscape with some pretty damn intelligent animals. In fact, a couple of the elephants, named Jack and Ianto by Eric, are minor characters in their own right and thoroughly enjoyable (though their involvement is rarely scientific at all!). A third of the way through when I came across the Torchwood (i.e. Jack and Ianto) reference followed by a Nirvana reference – amongst other pop culture references, the deal was sealed for me. Seriously, when the drama was happening and there was the briefest mention of Firefly, I was grinning.
After reading Tyaan and Eric’s story, I have to admit I’m suddenly very curious about Benedict, the PA to Eric’s mysterious boss, Mr Cowdrey, and the odd relationship going on there!
January 18, 2021
I enjoyed this romance novel, I liked the different setting and the challenges faced on a day to day basis in a remote situation. I found it sad that there was so much bigotry in the country and that Tyaan had to hide who he was because it could endanger his life if people knew he was gay. I liked the relationship that developed between Tyaan and Eric, they were both such different characters, but they complimented each other so well. There were plenty of struggles, both internal and external that they had to go through to get their happy ending, but I'm so glad they made it. I loved the el; elephants, they made for some extra entertainment and education. This is my first read by this author and I'll be checking out more of her books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 1, 2020
I loved it, the references to the Who 'verse, the elephants, the characters.
I....... I want a sequel, maybe different MCs, but in the same settings, and with Eric and Tyaan there too of course.
Reread, I STILL WANT THAT SEQUEL...
I....... I want a sequel, maybe different MCs, but in the same settings, and with Eric and Tyaan there too of course.
Reread, I STILL WANT THAT SEQUEL...
January 25, 2016
3.5
I loved the setting and the love story. I would have appreciated less ruminating from the two MCs.
I loved the setting and the love story. I would have appreciated less ruminating from the two MCs.
June 19, 2018
This is kind of a long, slower-moving book than I'm used to reading, but I enjoyed it quite a bit. Eric is pretty great, and he's wonderful with the elephants. I almost wish there was more elephant interaction, but it was already pretty long so...maybe not! Tyaan bugged me with his stoic avoidance, but as soon as I understood his background, I quit calling him a douche-canoe in my head. I'll be looking up more by this author, especially if she's written about Benedict and the boss!
January 17, 2021
What a slow burn
I thoroughly enjoyed this book it was really nice to read about a different country. And the elephants were super cute and I just want to go help in his experience. But what should’ve been an easy romance was frought with worry over what might happen. You’ve got Eric who was in South Africa working with his elephants enjoying life and he had no qualms about hiding his sexuality. Then you have Tyaan Who was a bush pilot who would take supplies around all the farms and areas he was also gay but felt the need to hide his sexuality because of things that happened in his past to friends that hadn’t tried to hide it. His attraction to Eric was exciting and explosive and scintillating but he tried to hide it where is Eric just didn’t want to hide it. Would Eric be able to talk Tyanne into maybe trying being together?? Or would he be so afraid of what might happen that he was willing to lose what he thought was an amazing man???
There is just so much going against them but when they are together everything feels right. They left me with goosebumps. A great read!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book it was really nice to read about a different country. And the elephants were super cute and I just want to go help in his experience. But what should’ve been an easy romance was frought with worry over what might happen. You’ve got Eric who was in South Africa working with his elephants enjoying life and he had no qualms about hiding his sexuality. Then you have Tyaan Who was a bush pilot who would take supplies around all the farms and areas he was also gay but felt the need to hide his sexuality because of things that happened in his past to friends that hadn’t tried to hide it. His attraction to Eric was exciting and explosive and scintillating but he tried to hide it where is Eric just didn’t want to hide it. Would Eric be able to talk Tyanne into maybe trying being together?? Or would he be so afraid of what might happen that he was willing to lose what he thought was an amazing man???
There is just so much going against them but when they are together everything feels right. They left me with goosebumps. A great read!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 12, 2021
Zoologist Eric Phillips was given a wonderful job offer to study elephants in their natural habitat. This was his dream come true! He would work in the wildlife reserves in the South African bushveld with his own herd of elephants. The remoteness of the locale even had him looking forward to the visits of the freight plane delivering his supplies and the quick visit with the bush pilot, Tyaan Bouwer. But Tyaan has some experiences in his past which have made him cautious about relationships. Would he hold back in fear of the all too real reaction from locals? Or would Eric convince him to take a chance?
With Eric appearing as a personable inviting person, the contrast with the more immature and closed up Tyaan becomes obvious, so much of the story will be devoted to winning him over. I did enjoy the story line, but I can’t say this one was one of my top favorites. (Great book cover, by the way!)
With Eric appearing as a personable inviting person, the contrast with the more immature and closed up Tyaan becomes obvious, so much of the story will be devoted to winning him over. I did enjoy the story line, but I can’t say this one was one of my top favorites. (Great book cover, by the way!)
Read
January 8, 2021I enjoyed this book set on a wildlife reserve in South Africa. One of the characters is deeply closeted because of the homophobic society and this is a cause of additional problems for the main characters.
I enjoyed the references to the elephants and would have wished to have more particular to the rescued baby elephant. I would recommend this book and look forward to reading more of this authors work.
I enjoyed the references to the elephants and would have wished to have more particular to the rescued baby elephant. I would recommend this book and look forward to reading more of this authors work.
Read
January 30, 2017Now re-released under my own label, Finally Love Press.
November 30, 2022
A gorgeous setting with my favourite animals , what's not to like . Will definitely look into more of her work
February 14, 2017
4.5 stars!
I loved so much about this book by Lillian Francis. First and foremost - the setting! Set in South Africa on a wildlife preserve, Theory Unproven is a unique and utterly fascinating story. Eric is a zoologist who just signed a contract to take care of the elephants on the reserve, as well as study them as he wishes. While mainly a romance, this book also had an underlying focus on Eric's work with the elephants. I enjoyed reading about his work and absolutely adored two of the elephants, Jack and Ianto. I don't know much about South Africa and I also loved learning more about the culture and people as well as elephants while reading.
I loved Eric from the start. He is unapologetically authentic and proud of who he is. He is also chatty, playful, adorably awkward at times, and highly intelligent. He is a character I could identify with in a lot of ways and made the story quite enjoyable. Tyaan is the seemingly aloof and grumpy bush pilot who delivers supplies to the reserve, but there is so much underneath the mask he shows the world. He is sweet (oh, the cookies!) and sexy and caring. The dynamic between Eric and Tyaan is entertaining from the start. It was amusing to see how Eric kept trying to get Tyaan to open up more with each visit. Of course, there is an underlying reason for Ty's standoffish attitude that is heartbreaking and sobering once it is revealed. The back-and-forth, hot-and-cold from Tyaan did get tiring after a while even as a reader, but it was understandable (yet also completely frustrating). Despite that, Eric and Tyaan are sweet together and there is quite a bit of heat between them. Things are not easy for the couple, though. There is some drama and angst on their road to their HEA, but when they do get there, it's everything I hoped for for them.
I loved Eric and Tyaan so much by the end that I was so sad it was over! I am REALLY hoping we will be getting a story about Benedict and the confounding Mr. Cowdrey. Can we have it, pretty please??
I loved so much about this book by Lillian Francis. First and foremost - the setting! Set in South Africa on a wildlife preserve, Theory Unproven is a unique and utterly fascinating story. Eric is a zoologist who just signed a contract to take care of the elephants on the reserve, as well as study them as he wishes. While mainly a romance, this book also had an underlying focus on Eric's work with the elephants. I enjoyed reading about his work and absolutely adored two of the elephants, Jack and Ianto. I don't know much about South Africa and I also loved learning more about the culture and people as well as elephants while reading.
I loved Eric from the start. He is unapologetically authentic and proud of who he is. He is also chatty, playful, adorably awkward at times, and highly intelligent. He is a character I could identify with in a lot of ways and made the story quite enjoyable. Tyaan is the seemingly aloof and grumpy bush pilot who delivers supplies to the reserve, but there is so much underneath the mask he shows the world. He is sweet (oh, the cookies!) and sexy and caring. The dynamic between Eric and Tyaan is entertaining from the start. It was amusing to see how Eric kept trying to get Tyaan to open up more with each visit. Of course, there is an underlying reason for Ty's standoffish attitude that is heartbreaking and sobering once it is revealed. The back-and-forth, hot-and-cold from Tyaan did get tiring after a while even as a reader, but it was understandable (yet also completely frustrating). Despite that, Eric and Tyaan are sweet together and there is quite a bit of heat between them. Things are not easy for the couple, though. There is some drama and angst on their road to their HEA, but when they do get there, it's everything I hoped for for them.
I loved Eric and Tyaan so much by the end that I was so sad it was over! I am REALLY hoping we will be getting a story about Benedict and the confounding Mr. Cowdrey. Can we have it, pretty please??
August 6, 2018
A wonderfully delightful read with a stunning setting - South Africa, in the bushveld. Evocative writing that took me in the heart of the homestead where Eric is a zoologist studying elephants. Tyaan is a bush pilot who delivers supplies. Great description of the country and the issues faced living in gay friendly South Africa but living in a town that borders on Zimbabwe and Botswana, where being gay is frowned upon. Very distinct voices in Tyaan and Eric who are great together. Strong writing, very engaging. The book hooked me immediately. Loved the focus on food, particularly the way the author weaves in the culture and customs. Got a little confused with the late entry of Benedict and his odd relationship to his employer and his um - flirting with Eric but still really enjoyed this author's voice. Though, as many Goodreaders are guilty of, I've had this book on my tbr forever, it never rose to the top. Will definitely unearth her other reads - which are, of course, also on my tbr :)!!
January 12, 2021
Eric Phillips get’s the chance to work for The Foundation. He’s in Africa putting his skills to work as a zoologist. He’s extremely taken with two male elephants that hardly leave each others side. They don’t follow the pack. Eric tries not to get close to the animals but he can’t help himself and names them Jack and Ianto.
Tyaan Bouwer has lived his life in Afrikaan. His best friend is Jessie who is the Flying-doctor of the area. Tyaan is very much closeted and has seen tragedy in his life that put him in that position. At times he goes into the city for a hook-up but that’s all it is, he never commits to anyone, he just can’t afford that mistake. Tyaan’s job is important he’s the local freight pilot and does all the essential deliveries in the area and his main one is to The Foundation reserve.
Tyaan and Eric’s meeting doesn’t go as well as Eric would have liked. But as time goes on Tyaan finds himself becoming more interested in Eric. Eric get’s him involved with some of his research and experiments with the elephants.
As Tyaan and Erics relationship starts to grow, Tyaan is deathly afraid that something awful could happen and he knows for a fact because it does. His fear for Eric grows and Tyaan does what he feels is best. But small towns with their prejudice and gossip cause damage in more ways than one. Although South Africa passed laws against intolerance it doesn’t matter because anyone can cross the counties and do harm or worse to anyone.
“Theory Uproven” is a well written and entertaining story from Lillian Francis. She does well in describing the land and climate of Africa. The subject matter of the study of elephants is interesting and I was hoping there would be more. Most importantly it looks at the intolerance and prejudice that exists no matter what laws were passed and it reflects on small towns making judgements.
I liked both characters of Eric and Tyaan. Eric is the more inquisitive and curious type which goes with his profession and being alone most of time on the reserve. But he doesn’t hide his sexuality. Tyaan is more brooding and that comes with what he’s experienced and fear of what could happen. Eric works hard to make Tyaan see things differently. There are several secondary characters that bring interesting side stories: Jessie and Paul; the illusive Mr. Crowdrey and Benedict Brookes his assistant.
This is the second novel I read from Lillian Francis and I’ll be looking forward to more from her.
Tyaan Bouwer has lived his life in Afrikaan. His best friend is Jessie who is the Flying-doctor of the area. Tyaan is very much closeted and has seen tragedy in his life that put him in that position. At times he goes into the city for a hook-up but that’s all it is, he never commits to anyone, he just can’t afford that mistake. Tyaan’s job is important he’s the local freight pilot and does all the essential deliveries in the area and his main one is to The Foundation reserve.
Tyaan and Eric’s meeting doesn’t go as well as Eric would have liked. But as time goes on Tyaan finds himself becoming more interested in Eric. Eric get’s him involved with some of his research and experiments with the elephants.
As Tyaan and Erics relationship starts to grow, Tyaan is deathly afraid that something awful could happen and he knows for a fact because it does. His fear for Eric grows and Tyaan does what he feels is best. But small towns with their prejudice and gossip cause damage in more ways than one. Although South Africa passed laws against intolerance it doesn’t matter because anyone can cross the counties and do harm or worse to anyone.
“Theory Uproven” is a well written and entertaining story from Lillian Francis. She does well in describing the land and climate of Africa. The subject matter of the study of elephants is interesting and I was hoping there would be more. Most importantly it looks at the intolerance and prejudice that exists no matter what laws were passed and it reflects on small towns making judgements.
I liked both characters of Eric and Tyaan. Eric is the more inquisitive and curious type which goes with his profession and being alone most of time on the reserve. But he doesn’t hide his sexuality. Tyaan is more brooding and that comes with what he’s experienced and fear of what could happen. Eric works hard to make Tyaan see things differently. There are several secondary characters that bring interesting side stories: Jessie and Paul; the illusive Mr. Crowdrey and Benedict Brookes his assistant.
This is the second novel I read from Lillian Francis and I’ll be looking forward to more from her.
July 22, 2017
Fear. Fear leads to hate leads to prejudice leads to a bunch of unhappy lives on both sides of the drawn lines. I will admit the stories that have a strong focus on that aren't my typical cup of tea. But I understand their place in our "fictional literary history," as it were. I understand what it unfortunately represents and hopefully helps eradicate and dissolve.
That said, there was more to this book than just that storyline. There was a romance, a man who really loved his plane and an elephant researcher. And, yes, I can always give specific titles but, really? Those folks spend their whole lives researching things (usually one subject) and so I mean no disrespect. In fact, I mean the opposite.
Yes, it did sometimes did seem the story took a backseat to the bashing worries and hatred fear and the closet keeping. But it was still well-written and interesting, if predictable.
I read a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy of this book & am voluntarily leaving an honest and unbiased review.
That said, there was more to this book than just that storyline. There was a romance, a man who really loved his plane and an elephant researcher. And, yes, I can always give specific titles but, really? Those folks spend their whole lives researching things (usually one subject) and so I mean no disrespect. In fact, I mean the opposite.
Yes, it did sometimes did seem the story took a backseat to the bashing worries and hatred fear and the closet keeping. But it was still well-written and interesting, if predictable.
I read a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy of this book & am voluntarily leaving an honest and unbiased review.
October 13, 2015
3.5 stars
I loved the setting of this book. To be so out there that you have to have your supplies flown in weekly sounds like heaven to me. Lonely but also so exciting. I loved the two young elephants!!
I jumped in feet first on this book because I read somewhere online that it was similar to "Red Dirt Heart" series (which is one of my top three favorite series) only to find out that unfortunately is not even close. I'm not saying it's not a good read because it is, it's a good love story that pulls you in and makes you want these two guys to work. You get where each are coming from the more you read but that doesn't make one right above the other. Loving someone will always mean wanting to keep them safe and that is what Tyaan is trying to do. In the end it's friends, elephants and a love that was meant to be that finally bring these two men together in a world that even the strongest of prejudices can't deny.
I loved the setting of this book. To be so out there that you have to have your supplies flown in weekly sounds like heaven to me. Lonely but also so exciting. I loved the two young elephants!!
I jumped in feet first on this book because I read somewhere online that it was similar to "Red Dirt Heart" series (which is one of my top three favorite series) only to find out that unfortunately is not even close. I'm not saying it's not a good read because it is, it's a good love story that pulls you in and makes you want these two guys to work. You get where each are coming from the more you read but that doesn't make one right above the other. Loving someone will always mean wanting to keep them safe and that is what Tyaan is trying to do. In the end it's friends, elephants and a love that was meant to be that finally bring these two men together in a world that even the strongest of prejudices can't deny.
March 1, 2015
I chose this story primarily for the South African setting and their speech. The setting was beautiful and the work with the elephants was amazing. The romance itself was pretty much a cookie cutter story which was a let down. I did not like Tyaan at all. I felt that he was both selfish and distant and I don't think that his personality was shaped by fear of homophobia. Eric was an enjoyable character who actually liked himself and was liked. The story had a good pace and was a easy read. I just wish that something different was done with the romance story as so many of them are getting boring.
June 26, 2018
3.5 stars. I can't decide if I like this story or not. Maybe it's because the whole "if he's gay, kill him" vibe kind of creeped me out. So sad to read about families not being accepting or people getting down on someone, but to see someone so proud of trying to kill someone for being gay is just sick.
I liked the characters but thought Tyaan was a little hard to like because he just avoided Eric instead of being honest with him. He finally came out but it took a crowbar and some good friends to help him.
I liked the characters but thought Tyaan was a little hard to like because he just avoided Eric instead of being honest with him. He finally came out but it took a crowbar and some good friends to help him.
January 27, 2017
This one was good.. but parts of it was very slow.. however overall I really enjoyed it.. I freakin loved the elephants.. they are amazing.. and sweet and they loved each other so much.. Some of the wordings I had to struggle with but thats only because it was different country and all that but overall I enjoyed it so much. The love between ty and eric was amazing.. I am very glad i got to review it
December 12, 2015
New to me author but I'll be reading more. I got sucked into this very quickly and spend several late nights reading as I couldn't put it down. Realistic characters, including side characters. Also loved the elephants - they were characters in their own right. The settings were well drawn, and helped to bring the story to life, very easy to imagine.
June 20, 2017
The theory: that something bad would happen if he came out in his hometown.
The proof: Johan getting beaten and in a coma for weeks. The boy in a wheelchair after being beaten. His plane getting tampered with and resulting in it crashing and him being injured.
Theory unproven: the town upset but saying that they wouldn't hurt someone/him for being gay
The proof: Johan getting beaten and in a coma for weeks. The boy in a wheelchair after being beaten. His plane getting tampered with and resulting in it crashing and him being injured.
Theory unproven: the town upset but saying that they wouldn't hurt someone/him for being gay
December 16, 2015
Theory Unproven by Lillian Francis: http://reviews-and-ramblings.dreamwid... 2015 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
January 1, 2021
I went into this one with high hopes. The premise of it was interesting but it just didn't live up to my expectations. As far as slow burns go this was agonisingly slow. There was talk of clever flirtatious banter in the first half of the book but I never got that with Tyann's more than obvious rebuffs to Eric's advances. Also, the idea of the strong silent type being compared to rude bugged me. Almost like Eric had zero concept of personal space, this whole dynamic of him talking too much versus the other guy not really responding didn't come off as clever and witty flirtations. He seemed a bit pushy. However once we got passed this and there was some real evidence of flirtation, it was fun. Entertaining, engaging, basically it was just good. That was when I started to enjoy the novel, once the main characters really began to be fleshed out I guess. Unfortunately, I was thirty percent or so into the novel when this happened. But it was definitely good enough to get me more than invested in the novel. Steamy flirtation awesome, that lead up to a delightfully fun steamy scene. Unfortunately, this was also shortlived.
After another thirty percent or so of reading a predictable thing happened which I was hoping would not happen until way close to the end of the book. Then the also predictable drama and tension and so on that these type of slow-burn romances entail happened. Even after the situation that caused the problem was resolved. I went from loving one character and relating to his situation to strongly disliking him. And as far as the plot goes there is a lot of pages left, I didn't have it in me to see how long Tyann would be stubborn, the strain this stupidity would put on his friendship and the possible deterioration of a budding relationship would take. It felt like a missed opportunity to delve into his worst fears happening and how this fear played out without the all too overused it's better if we end this plotline; coupled with 'I'm going to micromanage your life because I still want you to be with me and only me' and... I could go on. But diving deep into how this changed their relationship dynamic and how he pushed through with more panic and reverting back to clever banter and how Eric handled having to slowly open him back up again would've been a grittier, deeper and less cliche approach to the angst romance novels have.
Seriously, there has to be at least one man out there in a romance novel who doesn't end the relationship or forget to call, or pretend it's just sex and get caught joking about it with his buddies, the list is endless. With all the problems and hurdles life throws at us surely there's another way to drum up the tension than running away which was the mode for this book.
All in all, I couldn't like Tyann enough to read more pages of him micromanaging Eric's life but refusing to actually be in it, and then ruining a friendship with the one person who's actually taking care of him, so I couldn't finish this. For all I know in the next ten pages all of this might've solved itself but even still there would've been a third of the book left to go through. The assumption could be made Tyann would do something else stupid, or Eric would refuse to take him back once he came to his senses, a lot of page time to push the tension as far as humanly possible. But after not really being in it for the first third and then loving the second third a whole lot, this happening just passed the middle of the book took me out of the book and I started skimming to see when it would be resolved and it didn't look like it would happen fast enough for me.
Would I recommend this book? Yes and no. If I hadn't planned to write a review I doubt I would've made it to the parts I loved. But I did love them. And when you add up the type of drama this genre entails. Tyann's actions are textbook. Readers that are fans of romance will be all in, turning the pages with enthusiasm without overanalysing it and counting pages and making assumptions, whether right or wrong, about what could reasonably happen in that time and if they are willing to take the risk to find out. This book is definitely one of my not so good reviews that, in my opinion, hits the brief hard with the drama, tension, angst, and steam one would expect to be in this type of novel. On that end, it's not a hard sell at all. But for me, I've read so much romance that I guess I'm numb to these types of actions now especially when they happen in the middle of the book and not close to the end so I at least know it will be resolved quickly.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After another thirty percent or so of reading a predictable thing happened which I was hoping would not happen until way close to the end of the book. Then the also predictable drama and tension and so on that these type of slow-burn romances entail happened. Even after the situation that caused the problem was resolved. I went from loving one character and relating to his situation to strongly disliking him. And as far as the plot goes there is a lot of pages left, I didn't have it in me to see how long Tyann would be stubborn, the strain this stupidity would put on his friendship and the possible deterioration of a budding relationship would take. It felt like a missed opportunity to delve into his worst fears happening and how this fear played out without the all too overused it's better if we end this plotline; coupled with 'I'm going to micromanage your life because I still want you to be with me and only me' and... I could go on. But diving deep into how this changed their relationship dynamic and how he pushed through with more panic and reverting back to clever banter and how Eric handled having to slowly open him back up again would've been a grittier, deeper and less cliche approach to the angst romance novels have.
Seriously, there has to be at least one man out there in a romance novel who doesn't end the relationship or forget to call, or pretend it's just sex and get caught joking about it with his buddies, the list is endless. With all the problems and hurdles life throws at us surely there's another way to drum up the tension than running away which was the mode for this book.
All in all, I couldn't like Tyann enough to read more pages of him micromanaging Eric's life but refusing to actually be in it, and then ruining a friendship with the one person who's actually taking care of him, so I couldn't finish this. For all I know in the next ten pages all of this might've solved itself but even still there would've been a third of the book left to go through. The assumption could be made Tyann would do something else stupid, or Eric would refuse to take him back once he came to his senses, a lot of page time to push the tension as far as humanly possible. But after not really being in it for the first third and then loving the second third a whole lot, this happening just passed the middle of the book took me out of the book and I started skimming to see when it would be resolved and it didn't look like it would happen fast enough for me.
Would I recommend this book? Yes and no. If I hadn't planned to write a review I doubt I would've made it to the parts I loved. But I did love them. And when you add up the type of drama this genre entails. Tyann's actions are textbook. Readers that are fans of romance will be all in, turning the pages with enthusiasm without overanalysing it and counting pages and making assumptions, whether right or wrong, about what could reasonably happen in that time and if they are willing to take the risk to find out. This book is definitely one of my not so good reviews that, in my opinion, hits the brief hard with the drama, tension, angst, and steam one would expect to be in this type of novel. On that end, it's not a hard sell at all. But for me, I've read so much romance that I guess I'm numb to these types of actions now especially when they happen in the middle of the book and not close to the end so I at least know it will be resolved quickly.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 15, 2021
Love conquesr stubbornness.. Tyaan is a bush pilot, enjoying his friendly skies. Eric, is a zooligist able to study his beloved elephants. He is also immediately insanely attracted to Tyaan. Eric, does his best to get noticed by Tyaan. Tyaan tries to avoid Eric, but he is attracted. Homosexuality is frowned upon in the village. They risk a lot having a physical relationship. Are they willing to out themselves? Does the village react as expected? Are they termporary to scratch itches, or are they more longterm? Is Eric able to get his information for his elephants? Nice story, a bit long winded. I reeceived an ARC from Boosprout an am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 6, 2018
Gay male romance in rural South Africa. Fear keeps one party from committing. Great characters and setting.
Typos: some commas should be semicolons, led is spelled lead, a couple extra words, ascent spelled accent, ruining is (possibly) spelled running ("my secret is running your life too now").
Typos: some commas should be semicolons, led is spelled lead, a couple extra words, ascent spelled accent, ruining is (possibly) spelled running ("my secret is running your life too now").
January 18, 2021
Eric comes to Africa to study elephants. Tyaan is a pilot who delivers supplies to Eric. They are attracted to each other but Tyann is in the closet. He 's seen too many in his small town come out and then were brutalized. I enjoyed this book.
February 6, 2023
Instead of Africa and elephants, you get two MCs and their daily jerk-off sessions interspersed with some internal psychoanalysis. Way to make it boring.
October 19, 2015
Did I say I loved the writing? Well yes, I did, up to a certain point. Until it bored me to tears, which is actually a pity, because this book told a nice enough story.
What drew me to read it in the first place was the setting - South Africa! Elephants! Bush Pilots! With so many boxes checked nothing could go wrong, right?
Well...
Tyaan and Eric were actually likable, interesting characters, and I found they made a sweet couple. There were some interesting characters among the supportive cast that I wouldn't mind learning more about. The actual plot wasn't too new, but then again, what is ever? and their romance, particularly Tyaan's courtship, could've been one of those close-with-a-happy-sigh things.
If.
If not anything, from dialogue to fights to sex, would've been interspersed with long, rambling passages of internal musings, ruminations, reveries, whatever.
If one line of dialogue is at the top of the page and the next is at the bottom with tons of text in between (text that might actually be quite interesting but is just not really relevant right now), if when reading the answer I can't even remember the question because I was told so many other things in between the two - then I lose interest.
See what I mean btw? Can you still remember how the sentence above started?
Anyway, I guess I've found a new pet peeve. Too bad, because it spoiled an otherwise rather pleasant read for me.
What drew me to read it in the first place was the setting - South Africa! Elephants! Bush Pilots! With so many boxes checked nothing could go wrong, right?
Well...
Tyaan and Eric were actually likable, interesting characters, and I found they made a sweet couple. There were some interesting characters among the supportive cast that I wouldn't mind learning more about. The actual plot wasn't too new, but then again, what is ever? and their romance, particularly Tyaan's courtship, could've been one of those close-with-a-happy-sigh things.
If.
If not anything, from dialogue to fights to sex, would've been interspersed with long, rambling passages of internal musings, ruminations, reveries, whatever.
If one line of dialogue is at the top of the page and the next is at the bottom with tons of text in between (text that might actually be quite interesting but is just not really relevant right now), if when reading the answer I can't even remember the question because I was told so many other things in between the two - then I lose interest.
See what I mean btw? Can you still remember how the sentence above started?
Anyway, I guess I've found a new pet peeve. Too bad, because it spoiled an otherwise rather pleasant read for me.
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