The Pike Boys

by Danny Cherry Jr.

It’s 1920 New Orleans and Jesse Pike is slowly ascending the New Orleans upper-class social scene. He’s the owner of the most popular brothel in the entire city, and rubs shoulders with businessmen, corrupt politicians, and stage stars alike. He’s also the leader of a violent street gang that pulls off the biggest heist of liquor since the beginning of prohibition. Jesse sets up a scheme to sell the booze, and use the profits to help him start a legitimate business. However, several obstacles get in his way: Clyde, the mentally disturbed oldest Pike sibling, is released from prison and takes issue with how Jesse runs things; Jesse's aging mentor refuses to let him leave behind crime; and an overzealous young DA decides to reopen an investigation into the liquor heist to increase his chances of being elected mayor. Jesse is forced to make a decision: does he walk away from a life of crime and his family forever? Or will he continue down the road of violence that has begun to erode his psyche, much as it has Clyde's?

The Pike Boys, according to a reviewer, is a "compelling story of the Pike family's struggles against poverty, violence, substance abuse, mental illness, and their quest to rise above it all while living in the crime-ridden New Orleans of the gangster era." It has all the thrills, plot twists, and quick pace of conventional gangster fiction, with the heart, depth, and nuance of a literary novel. In between the shootouts, violence, and debauchery, there is the overarching question of "can people actually change?" The reader will see that the answer is not so simple—especially when you live in a place like New Orleans.

(If you're a fan of The Sopranos, Peaky Blinders, Boardwalk Empire, or the Godfather then this book is for you!)

404 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 22, 2024

About the author

Hello!

I write political and personal essays; op-eds; novels; narrative nonfiction; and short stories.

ACCOLADES THUS FAR:

My story "Brief Life Story of Lila" (published originally by Fiyah Lit Mag) was added to the Locus Magazine recommended reading list for 2023, as well as the BEST AMERICAN SCI-FI & FANTASY 2023 notable stories list.


Non-fiction publications:

Buzzfeed News, Politico, The Daily Beast, Truly*Adventurous, Transformation Magazine, Ploughshares, & Antigravity Magazine.

Fiction:

X- ray Lit Mag, Fiyah Lit Mag, Apex Magazine, and Hexagon Magazine.

Reviews

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5! The detail shows that there was so much time and research put in before and while writing this story. Each character may be different but you fall and care about each on a different level. This was beautifully written.

I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review, all thoughts/opinions above are completely my own!

[karla_bookishlife · Rating 4 out of 5]

A gangster's paradise - New Orleans in 1920s is a mean hub of criminal activity and at its centre is Jesse Pike and his brothers. As own of the elite brothel in the city, he ties the criminal underbelly of the city's corrupt businessmen and politicians. However, his heart is increasingly elsewhere as he dreams of leaving a life of crime and retiring to something more socially acceptable. His associates disagree and while he wishes to leave, it doesn't wish to leave him. Is it so easy to walk away from a life of brutally lived? Searingly detailed and honest, this is the perfect read for fans of criminal fiction and screen, like The Godfather or Peaky Blinders.

[Tayla Megan Muller · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘You can either be a gangster or a businessman. You absolutely can’t do both.’

If you are a Peaky Blinders fan then this American gangster classic is for you. Set in a 1920’s New Orleans the Pike family do what they need to to build their empire but not without backlash.

The research that went into this novel is exceptional and makes the story that much more enjoyable. The characters, plot and sub-plots coming together so seamlessly at the end and I seriously recommend this book.

[Priyanka M · Rating 4 out of 5]

We are often forced to decide between work and our families.

Jesse Pike, the charming owner of a popular brothel and the savvy leader of the "Pike Boys" street gang. He likewise had to make such a choice, and the alternative was family, handing on charge to his brother, and living comfortably for the remainder of his life. However, this decision caused numerous hiccups in his life and did not proceed as planned.

What will the Pike brothers do when one path leads to payment and the other to disaster? We also have a gangster's fiercest opponent, a crime-crazed mentor, ex-reentry, unyielding sibling rivalry, and conscience.

Each character had flaws and committed mistakes, and that was what made them unique. As the story progressed, we had no choice but develop fondness for each of them. The work is thoroughly researched and well structured, as minor minute facts about the location and time are visible, which rose my reading experience.

The plot's twists and turns keep you curious throughout, and it's a terrific book to read for thriller and gangster fans. Overall, I loved the book, and as a thriller addict, I enjoyed reading much of it, but found a couple parts to be predictable and dull.

[Caitriona Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

If only Goodreads let me give a 3.5 but I feel this is so close to 4 stars, I don't hesitate to give it. Beautiful setting of NOLA in the 1920s, an excellent portrayal of the internal conflict of 'good men who do bad things', a nice twisty story with an abundance of vibrant characters suited to the time, place and story. Female characters are lacking a little but could see them getting their own story in a (hopeful) sequel. Thoroughly enjoyed.

[goblins and tea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stunning read!
The characters were well created and I had the feeling of being there in a different time and a different place. I love how well the atmosphere was described. Its a must read for anyone interested in historical fiction with characters you don’t normally find in books! 4,5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

[Dee (readaholic_dee) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Danny Cherry writes with aplomb, his story is beautifully descriptive, making New Orleans come alive whilst you are reading, as there is such amazing depth and knowledge of the era.

Fantastic characters, who we get to know so well. This is definitely a book to savour, absolutely marvellous.

Jesse Pike is the main protagonist, he has a dream to leave the gangster life and set himself on the straight and narrow, but this is not easy in the heart of New Orleans. There are too many temptations and problems to ensure a smooth transition. Being mentored by Big Sal from a young age, life get more and more complicated for Jesse, who is trying to rise above the seedy side of life. From the back streets to the higher echelons, you are fully immersed in the world of New Orleans in this enthralling story.

This is not one to be missed, if you love a thriller with detail, family feuds, loyalties tested, subterfuge, bribery, and corruption! Definitely a must read.

Highly Recommend, Happy Reading

[Jim Stanley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I give The Pike Boys a solid 3.5 stars, I liked the character development, even though many of the characters were not especially likable. The juxtaposition of Jesse, a “bad guy” struggling to find his better nature against all odds, and Cameron, a “good guy” struggling not to give in to his more carnal desires, was very effective. At times during the first two thirds of the book, I felt as though I was being taken through familiar territory of numerous other gangster stories and the vitality of the plot line did not break through. The last third of the book was stronger and I appreciated that the author did not take the easy way out with some aspects of the story resolution. The Epilogue clearly points to a sequel on the horizon, which detracted from the ending a bit for me.

Worth a read. I want to thank Book Sirens from providing an advance copy of this book in exchange for my evaluation.

[Casey Carter · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very well written book. There are so many details that just engross you into the story. It’s as if you’re right there watching everything that is happening. The characters, even though there are many, are well developed and it doesn’t make the story muddy. You can easily keep up with the plot and follow along. You feel close to the characters and root for them the whole way. It makes you not want to put the book down and race to find what is going to happen next. A definite must read if it catches your eye!



I received a free ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions/statements are my own.

[Amanda Mercedes · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s always so good to read a book set in New Orleans, actually written by someone from here. New Orleans really does have an air of mystique that it is known for, and it creeps through even in books that are just a crime fiction, versus an urban fantasy where you would expect that. New Orleans… she has been around a long time, and has seen it all. This city really does have a ugly side, and does not want to be changed. It has a personality of its own, and I think the author personified it really well.
I also enjoyed the authors note at the beginning, talking about churning this out initially sitting in a “tiny *ss dorm” at Southeastern which is exactly where my little brother is now. I can only imagine him creating a labor of love such as this one. So I went into this already with a fondness. I love to support indie authors, and there’s always that extra layer of love when they’re from a place you too call home.
This book had me hooked right from the beginning. Though set in the 1920s, you could have told me it was set in modern day and I would have believed you. Some things don’t change. I loved the depth each character had, and how Jesse Pike wanted to be better, as did Clyde in some moments, and did strive to be but sometimes it’s not possible. It hard to choose between work and family, and even harder when your work is your family.

Thank you to the author for a gifted copy of the book, I enjoyed this one!

[Amanda Koogler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start by thanking Danny for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book in return for an honest review. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Pike Boys and can honestly say that the author did an amazing job of developing the characters, creating and describing the scene so you truly felt like you were connected with the characters and could place yourself in New Orleans in the 1920s. The pages just kept turning as I felt connected and the need to continue to find out how everyone story would turn out. This is certainly a 10 out of 10 recommendation!

[Gail_T-M · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written and in-depth narrative of the shadier side of life in 1920s NOLA. The author has a true gift as a story teller. This book will transport you back in time.

ARC for my honest review - spoilers are not needed

[Tamela Gordon · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing book! I literally couldn’t put it down. Very well-written and researched while maintaining an engaging edge. Top notch writing.

[Terri Bain · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you like gangster crime novels, this book is for you. Thank you Danny for this advance copy of your debut novel. It comes out 1/22/24

Pike Boys- Danny Cherry Jr
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

Set in the 1920’s, New Orleans is a hotbed filled with prostitution, illegal liquor and corruption. Jesse Pike and his brothers are becoming major players in the vice businesses. But Jesse is having second thoughts because if he wants a path forward with Rose, who is the love of his life, then the gangster lifestyle has got to go. That’s easier said than done as he finds out.

As his brother Clyde Pike points out, “You can either be a gangster or a businessman. You absolutely can’t do both”

This book reminded me of Peaky Blinders mixed with Sopranos. It is fast paced and Pike Boys definitely has characters that you will care about. Some of the scenes are a bit gory, but you’d expect that in a gangster novel. I’ll be waiting to see where book 2 goes.

[Bookshelfenigma · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I know there's good in you, I've seen it, but just because you feel bad about the bad things you do and have done, doesn't make them go away. You want absolution, fine, but it won't be with me."

First and foremost, I express my sincere gratitude to Danny for allowing me to read and review this outstanding book. It was a true pleasure to read, and I'm delighted to share my honest thoughts.

Jesse Pike is the protagonist of this story, and he's undoubtedly a gangster. However, he's determined to find a way out of his current life. The story explores whether this is possible in 1920 and how Jesse navigates the various challenges that come his way. After leaving college, Jesse runs a brothel due to his brother's incarceration, which forces him to leave Rose, the love of his life, behind. Jesse feels he has no choice but to continue down this path-- he feels like he will never be able to leave.
Out of all the characters in the book, Jesse stood out to me the most, and I found myself rooting for him throughout the story.
The narrative is engaging, with each page-turning revealing new twists and turns in the plot. I was emotionally invested in each of the Pike boys, especially Clyde, and the struggles he faced. There were times when I wanted to reach out and hug him and other times when I wished I could shake some sense into him.
I must admit that I had some reservations about the book, but those were quickly dispelled as I became engrossed in the story. Danny's talents as a storyteller are evident in this book. He shares how he came up with the idea for the story, which adds an extra layer of intrigue to the narrative. His initial idea was to create a comic book character, Jesse "Quick Draw" Pike and Claude, a random 1920s gangster, to escape his existential fears. However, he transformed this idea into the compelling story of the Pike family's struggles against poverty, violence, substance abuse, mental illness, and their quest to rise above it all while living in the crime-ridden New Orleans of the gangster era.
Danny wrote this book when he was younger and acknowledges that he was less mature and more raw then. He admits he did not have the words for all the "big themes" yet. However, this is what makes this book so beautifully written. My review is very different because he shared this information.
I recommend 10/10

[Ale the feral reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️

Tags: 1920s New Orleans gang, historical fiction drama

Triggers: gun violence, mürder, drugs, prøstitution, gangs, r@cism, cheating, prison, alcoholism, @buse (all kinds),

I don’t even know where to start. This story had depth and heart with amazing details that painted a picture of every scene, setting, and character. You can tell Danny (the author) put a lot of thought, love, and research into this story and the characters.

I was born and raised in New Orleans and got my bachelor degree in Criminology so when Danny reached out to me about The Pike Boys, I knew it would be right up my alley.

I think a lot of people don’t understand the vicious cycle (both in individual lives and generationally) of a life of crime. We hope that people can change and, sometimes expect them to, but honestly that want for change isn’t enough. This book portrayed the fact that we live in a society (especially in the south) where you are born into a class and can rarely rise above it. It also exemplified the fact that just wanting to change and have a good, honest living doesn’t work out for everyone.

Each member of the Pike family had different vices that lead to a life of recidivistic crime. Poverty, mental health struggles, drugs, alcohol, and more were factors that played into their tendency to go back to old habits. I think this book amazingly portrayed the eternal struggle of each child’s goal to be better than their parents but being held back by generational trauma and situational circumstances.

It’s so easy for us to sit back and judge others for their life choices but can we judge them if that’s all they know? If that’s the only way they know how to survive? As you read this book, you become attached to the characters and want them to be better people. Sadly, though, like many people in real life, they have already walked down a path that you can’t come back from. We hope for change but sometimes it can’t happen if the same set of cards aren’t dealt to each person. You feel for the Pike boys and their inequality from others. How often do you root for gangster criminals in a book (besides a Mafia romance obvi)?

Big big thank you to Danny Cherry Jr. for providing me a copy of this book. I’m hoping each day it’s picked up by HBO cause this story would make one hell of a series! But, for now, grateful and excited for this book and his future stories.

[Melanie | addictedtobooks86 · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬:
A crime novel that has been compared to Peaky Blinders?! I was sold! This is the first book in a new series by the author, and I am already looking forward to the next book in the series! It takes place in the 1920s and centers around Jesse, who is the head of a gan in New Orleans, and owns a very popular brothel there as well. This story centers around power, corruption, crime, and dysfunctional family dynamics and rivalry. The author did such a fantastic job with the characters, the development, and the intricate and unique plot. I could definitely tell that there was a lot of research done in order to write this story and these characters, and the author did an amazing job! From the streets of NOLA, the flowing of the liquor, a buzzing hostel, and the street smart gang life in the 1920’s…this was such an interesting story told with depth and layers that were slowly peeled back layer by layer throughout the book. The author painted a vividly clear picture of life on the streets of NOLA during the 1920’s that played out like a movie in my head as I was reading the book, and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it!

𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐧𝐞?
For fans of The Sopranos, Peaky Blinders, The Godfather, Boardwalk Empire, the 1920’s time period, or NOLA may want to check this book out!

𝐌𝐲 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫4.25/5

[David Morgan · Rating 4 out of 5]

How hard is it to leave behind a life of crime?
That's the question that Jesse Pike must be asking himself every step of the way throughout this novel. The answer as you can imagine is it's VERY HARD. With well developed characters at its core, this novel explores the seedier underbelly of 1920's New Orleans. Jesse and his brothers run a brothel and liquor running business but Jesse longs for a different life. One that he can be proud of as a successful above board business man absent of drugs, revenge and murder. His journey is a captivating one and I thoroughly enjoyed going along for the ride. The writing and plot are well crafted and atmospheric. I was invested in Jesse and his brothers from the start and the story held my interest throughout. If you like your stories a bit raw and about the darker sides of life, I highly recommend this very entertaining novel.

Thank you to the author for the e-ARC for me to read, review and enjoy.

[Kera’s Always Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot wait for the world to meet Jesse Pike and the entire crew from this incredible first book in Danny Cherry Jr’s upcoming series.

This book completely brought me back to a time I have never experienced, but felt like I was there. Set in the 20s, it centers around Jesse and his brothers in New Orleans. He wants to go legit, leaving behind the grit and crime he is surrounded by, but it’s easier said than done. He runs a successful brothel and heads a gang, but he wants out. He wants out of this life of clawing himself out of poverty, out of the corruption of the influential and powerful elite of the city.

There is this great dysfunctional family dynamic, a little sibling rivalry , a stunning setting, the girl who got away, characters you will love and ones will despise. This book was superbly written! This NOLA atmosphere is thick and gritty. The entire book is turned on its head with an explosive ending, leaving me desperate for more.

[Kayla Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Prohibition Era New Orleans, Jesse Pike’s business is thriving. He owns the most popular brothel in town, and his gang just pulled off a massive liquor heist. But all Jesse really wants is to open his restaurant, reunite with his first love, and leave his life of crime and violence behind. It turns out that making the right choices may be even harder than making the wrong ones, and Jesse isn’t sure if he or his loved ones will survive.

Not for the faint of heart, this story throws you into the violent underbelly of 1920s New Orleans where danger lurks in every corner, and no one can be trusted. The author doesn’t flinch away from brutality in his writing, but morality sits at the heart of this story. We empathize with the characters in spite of their flaws. It’s a fast-paced ride full of unexpected twists and an ending I didn’t see coming.

Huge thanks to the author for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Patrick Webb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great book to read. I was originally looking for a reading pallet cleanser between genres, and I was not disappointed with this selection. This is conventional gangster/mob type story with illegal alcohol (it is set during the 1920's prohibition era), street crime, owing and collecting on favors, brothels, corrupt politicians and cops in New Orleans. Cherry did a great job in taking me back to that setting through vivid detail in houses, rooms, buildings, modes of transportation and electronic, or lack there of, equipment available.

As the story moves along, I felt myself connecting with several of the characters. And while I did not know what was going to happen next, Cherry provided enough depth in the action that I was telling the characters to watch out for......

A great read, and highly recommend if you are looking for something different from the sports romcom or romantasy genre.

[Alexandra A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Gangster Noir story with a whole lot of heart at the center. Cherry brings the grit and seediness of Prohibition-era New Orleans right to life, but I loved even more the strong characterizations at the center of the story. It had much more to offer than just the gangster thrills and spills, and the interiority of the main character, Jesse, was beautifully conveyed, with emotion and subtlety. I also loved the deeper themes that came into play, the larger currents and forces that our protagonist had to fight against to stay true to himself, and the sad possibility that New Orleans was a city that would never let you forget who you were. But is it the city or yourself that has kept you caught? Definitely a page turner and a great read. The ending suggests the possibility of this turning into a series and I’d definitely read on in this story to see what more happens.

[Roland Deschain · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very good book. Lots of details that build characters and lay a foundation of personalities that explains who they are and why they do what they do.
The beginning is mostly getting to know everyone, while part 2 is the meat and potatoes.
Part 3 is where it all comes together, also the most violent and fast paced. The twists and turns are very reminiscent of a Guy Ritchie film. (Think Snatch, but America’s version).
I’m really looking forward to the future stories to come from Mr Cherry. This is a fantastic debut novel and I’m so glad to have been selected to be an early reviewer.
If you like action, crime, and stories that go directions that you didn’t expect, this is the book for you!
Now I hope there are sequels to this story because I really want to know what happens next!

[Gracchus · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have finished the novel "The Pike Boys" by Cherry Danny Jr. I have read gangster epics by Mario Puzo and Dennis Lehane before. This novel is as good as the works by the aforementioned authors. We have been told the story of a brother gang, the Pike Boys. The backdrop is the 20s of New Orleans. Every or most protagonists and antagonists are ambivalent or bad. The main protagonist is plagued by his bad childhood. The story also enhanced such sparkling sentences as "Men, especially unhappy men, pillow-talked to prostitutes like they were shrinks in lace brassieres." These are the three features of a noir story, a superb one. The author puts a little bit more drama and fate in the novel than the other authors, because he can do it well.

[Red Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jesse Pike is slowly ascending the New Orleans upper class in 1920's. He owns a brothel, rubs shoulders with businessmen, corrupt politicians and stage stars alike. The one thing that Jesse is a leader in is a street gang and that gang pulled off the biggest heist of liquor since the beginning of prohibition. If any of you liked the Boardwalk Empire or Godfather then this book is for you. The author writes this so beautifully well and each and every character in this book you will care about in some way. Danny Cherry Jr captures the time period so well in this book. Highly Recommend this book to anyone! Thank you to the author for an ARC ebook of this! My opinion is my own with this.

[Annemarie · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is a story behind the story in this book.

Life was tough in the early nineteen hundreds. For a lot of folks, it was a dog-eat-dog existence. Gangsters were prevalent and corruption was rife in both the police force and the political arena. The IRA was also a force to be reckoned with.

All Jesse wanted was to have Rose back in his life and respectability. What he didn't realize until it was too late was, no matter how badly you wanted a normal life - wife, children, a home - you could never just walk away from "The Mob".

I received a free Advance Reader Copy of The Pike Boys through BookSirens and have chosen to leave a review.

[Cassie Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jesse Pike, a smart businessman that growing up in different circumstances could have had a very different life. This story follows the Pike family who due to those circumstances can not unravel themselves from a life of crime.
Any fan of the gangster genre will enjoy this one, the characters are very well developed and all have their strengths and weaknesses that gives them the depth you see in life.
Set in a different setting than most in the genre you are placed in 1920 New Orleans.
The way it left I can see room for a sequel and will be interested to pick it up.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kristen Morvant · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was blessed with the opportunity to read this book as it was being made and watch it grow into what it is today, a work of art from a beautiful mind. The writer is able to hold my attention and make me actually enjoy this genre, which is not one that I would typically go for. The book has such immense detail that you can tell the writer has spent a lot of time researching to ensure that each detail was time period and location sensitive. But most importantly, he makes you care about the characters and see their individual perspectives throughout the book. 10 out of 10 recommend!

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know a book is good when you are hoping it turns into a series. Danny Cherry Jr captured the essence of New Orleans and the intricacies of the mobster and gangster network. As well as the origin stories and hauntings of hardened criminals. I was unsure about keeping up with so many characters but their stories are woven into the book so well it makes you yearn for more books from this author. Will definitely be reading many more of his books.


I received a free ARC in exchange for my honest review. All opinions/statements are my own.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a sucker for a good gangsters book, and this one is a great read for fellow fans of the genre!

Not only is it well-written, but the research that went into that book is phenomenal. I really felt like I was in 1920's New Orleans, and you can tell the author poured love and attention into his work. The characters are well-developed, you can easily follow the plot without it being simplistic, and overall, I had a very good time!

I received a free ARC in exchange for my honest review, all thoughts and opinions above are my own.