A review by the_novel_approach
Greater Love Hath No Man by Tinnean

4.0

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friend.” – The Bible.

When James Trevalyan fell in love, it was forever. But, life doesn’t always work out that way. Greater Love Hath No Man takes us through the loves, tragedies and family dynamics in James’s life, from 1948 to 1976. James is British and heir to the Pennington/Trevalyan fortune, but he really doesn’t care about the wealth. He just wants to be with Barbara. When parents interfere, however, his life falls apart.

James eventually meets schoolmate Jeremy Waters. As James and Jeremy begin a secret life together, we find there is no greater love than theirs. Jeremy is sweet and caring, but he’s also shy and lonely. He tries to please his father, but their relationship is estranged. Through Jeremy’s father, he and James become involved in the SIS (Secret Intelligence Service), but when tragedy strikes, James closes himself off for thirteen years. He becomes immersed in his job and is in control in all aspects of his life, but then, he meets another Jeremy—Jeremy Tanner—who’s confident, sure and rough around the edges, and James’s control starts to slip.

Tinnean has a unique way of writing that keeps you mesmerized throughout this story. The British wording sets the tone for this 20th century tale. This novel isn’t so much about espionage but more about James and Jeremy Waters’ life together, about how families and attitudes and behavior are different among the wealthy and common people. It’s also set during a time when being gay was a danger, as the Sexual Offenses Act was not a passed until 1967, decriminalizing homosexuality.

The star in this story is James Trevalyan. He is a man of morals, and when he loves, he loves forever and does it with his whole heart and soul.

Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.com/review-greater-love-hath-no-man-by-tinnean/