The Tin Box

By: Kim Fielding

Narrated by: K.C. Kelly

William Lyon's past forced him to become someone he isn't. Conflicted and unable to maintain the charade, he separates from his wife and takes a job as caretaker at a former mental hospital. Jelley's Valley State Insane Asylum was the largest mental hospital in California for well over a century, but it now stands empty. William thinks the decrepit institution is the perfect place to finish his dissertation and wait for his divorce to become final. In town, William meets Colby Anderson, who minds the local store and post office. Unlike William, Colby is cute, upbeat, and flamboyantly out. Although initially put off by Colby's mannerisms, William comes to value their new friendship, and even accepts Colby's offer to ease him into the world of gay sex.

William's self-image begins to change when he discovers a tin box, hidden in an asylum wall since the 1940s. It contains letters secretly written by Bill, a patient who was sent to the asylum for being homosexual. The letters hit close to home, and William comes to care about Bill and his fate. With Colby's help, he hopes the words written 70 years ago will give him courage to be his true self.

©2013 Kim Fielding (P)2015 Dreamspinner Press

Most moving and inspiring book ...

Most moving and inspiring book I’ve read in quite some time.
I don’t have many, but this one is a “must read”.
Kelly was the perfect choice for narrator too.
One day I’ll read this one again.

Amazing!!!

What a wonderful story and so well portrayed. I too have fallen in love with Colby, really who couldn't? Would love a continuation of this story.

This book is so good

There are some very emotional aspects to this book, and I definitely shed some tears, but this book was very good. The story was believable. I don't want fo give anything away, but i highly recommend it. I also liked that the author did not go overboard with the sex scenes .

couldn't put it down

most of the time I listen in 30-60 minute sessions. I carried my phone around all day listening to this in one go.

An Absolute Jewel

I really like all of Kim Fielding's books, but this one is exceptional. The story, the message, the chemistry, the subtle nuances of pacing; everything worked for me. K.C. Kelly did a great job with the character's voices - I particularly liked the slight catch in his voice when Colby was being impish or vulnerable, and the longing in the voices of both of the Williams. This is one to treasure and re-listen to.