REVIEW: Bluebeard's Key by David Gray (Ferry Vale #1)

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BLUEBEARD’S KEY

Ferry Vale - Book One

by David Gray

Release Date: October 19, 2026

Review

A tall tale indeed.


This is fairy tale rather than traditional romance. It’s told by multiple perspectives, where Bluebeard is the central figure, but around it Thomas and Zayan find love, and overcome the evil man!


It’s a lot of fun. Fantastical, evil, twisted, and still love reigns.


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Synopsis

About the Series

The town of Ferry Vale waits on the seaside, a quaint jewel with touristic charm, but for those the eyes to see, Ferry Vale is a gateway to enchantment and mystical lands. THE TALES OF FERRY VALE presents nine MM retellings of traditional fairy tales, filled with intrigue and romance. Each story is a standalone tale, some sweet and some spicy, but all with the magic that comes from a fairytale happy ending.

In BLUEBEARD’S KEY, enter a world of evil alchemists and brave apprentices, of perilous affection and fairytale kisses.

Mage Bluebeard creates the Elixir of Life from the blood of his wives, but after centuries of forbidden alchemy, his power is waning. He has devised a plan to ensnare two new apprentices to rekindle his talent, so now Thomas and Zayan must use their burgeoning love to thwart their master’s plan and claim Bluebeard’s castle for their own.

BLUEBEARD’S KEY is a stand-alone novel with gay romance and a happy ending, inspired by the traditional French fairy tale “Bluebeard,” as written by Charles Perrault in 1697. This retelling builds on the tradition of dark fairy tales, so heed these warnings. The story includes murder and misogyny, suicidal thoughts, and physical and verbal abuse. Be heartened as well, for what is a fairy tale without the defeat of a villain and a happily ever after for the heroes?

decidedly dark ~ grumpy sunshine ~ rogue to hero ~ closed door spice ~ fairytale happily ever after


About David Gray

David Gray is a retired scientist who finally has time to explore the adventure of writing fiction. His novels and short stories live somewhere in the intersection between romance, fantasy, and science fiction, with cozy themes and happy endings. He lives with his husband in sunny San Diego, where they dote on their jungle kitty Bagheera.


Books by David Gray are written without the use of generative AI.


Where to find them:


Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Amazon | Instagram | BookBub | Facebook Group | Newsletter | TikTok

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