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Violence Begets... #1
Violence Begets ...
After a tragic accident devastates his family, 16-year-old Rick St. James starts his junior year of high school without any friends in a suburb of Salt Lake City, Utah. When he meets Kevin Vincent, he’s too distracted by the promise of new friends to see that Kevin has secrets of his own.
Having created an environment where he's feared and admired by his classmates, Kevin finds pleasure in using his good looks and violence to control and manipulate those around him. Secretly, he cruises the gay club scene, turning tricks to earn money so he can party and get high.
As Rick’s dad becomes increasingly violent and abusive at home, the two form a surprising and volatile trust. In this battle of wills, their precarious friendship will either keep their lives from blowing up around them or possibly light the fuse that will cause the explosion.
Having created an environment where he's feared and admired by his classmates, Kevin finds pleasure in using his good looks and violence to control and manipulate those around him. Secretly, he cruises the gay club scene, turning tricks to earn money so he can party and get high.
As Rick’s dad becomes increasingly violent and abusive at home, the two form a surprising and volatile trust. In this battle of wills, their precarious friendship will either keep their lives from blowing up around them or possibly light the fuse that will cause the explosion.
293 pages, ebook
First published December 25, 2013
59 people are currently reading
1659 people want to read
About the author
P.T. Denys
2 books132 followersPT never imagined publishing a book. But, the story of Violence Begets… and the lives of Kevin and Rick had to be shared.
In addition to writing, PT spends times balancing family, work, attending theater, and reading.
Above all else PT loves being a parent to 2 amazing daughters (a teenager and a toddler).
PT believes that no one deserves to be intentionally hurt (physically or emotionally) by another and that behind nearly every bully is a story.
In addition to writing, PT spends times balancing family, work, attending theater, and reading.
Above all else PT loves being a parent to 2 amazing daughters (a teenager and a toddler).
PT believes that no one deserves to be intentionally hurt (physically or emotionally) by another and that behind nearly every bully is a story.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 295 reviews
July 12, 2017
5 Stars.
This one's free but I would have payed good money for it,without a doubt.For a debut novel it's pretty outstanding.I thought I'd left my dark side behind a long time ago-it turns out I just needed the right book to get back to it.
It's explosive in ways I can't even describe
I'm not going to even try and explain the story because I really don't think I could do it justice.I could just romanticize it and say it's a story of star crossed lovers but I can't.....
It's,
Raw,
Brutal,
The kind of book where you can see the head on collusion coming but,still,you hope it won't happen
And yet,
there's love.....
It definitely isn't pretty but,my god,it made me feel....
(...)I couldn't help but wonder if he was my saviour or the demon that would drag me to hell.(...)
"I wonder if there's a place for us?You know where we could just...."he trailed off(...)
"I mean,think about it,where we could kiss and hold hands without caring."
This one's free but I would have payed good money for it,without a doubt.For a debut novel it's pretty outstanding.I thought I'd left my dark side behind a long time ago-it turns out I just needed the right book to get back to it.
It's explosive in ways I can't even describe
I'm not going to even try and explain the story because I really don't think I could do it justice.I could just romanticize it and say it's a story of star crossed lovers but I can't.....
It's,
Raw,
Brutal,
The kind of book where you can see the head on collusion coming but,still,you hope it won't happen
And yet,
there's love.....
It definitely isn't pretty but,my god,it made me feel....
February 7, 2015
I needed a day to try and gather my thoughts. Process. I still don't think I can express the right combination of words in my review on why this book should be read.
Because it should be. It's not for everyone. It definitely has triggers, hard limits some won't cross.
I didn't cry but I was taken on a journey of emotions - ripped from anger to sadness to hope to utter devastation.
Brutal.
Raw.
Visceral.
Pain.
A lot of it.
For a first time writer, this author got the job done. This is a book first time writers should dream about writing - a book that will force the reader to feel something. Let it be horror-that child abuse could happen so easily on everyone's doorstep and nothing was done, or anguish-for a bitter(sweet?) ending or grief-you'll need to read to understand, I'm struggling not spoil.
My sincerest kudos to the author.
The story is not without flaws but there's beauty to be found in the imperfections. It's not just an abuse book. It's not just a story without a HEA. It's more than that.
The in between. Oh God, that was like a symphony.
Rick and Kevin and their love. What they did for one another? *stares and just smiles*
What they meant to one another? The care, the friendship.
How to describe Violence Begets?
It was sorta like Voldemort choosing Harry as his equal and taking him under his wing, if they were the same age.
Add in some Romeo and Juliet but nix the chick and make it another Romeo.
Put in a heavy dose of mindfuck.
And sprinkle some Mean Girls: Bullying Boys edition.
"Violence Begets" will put the reader through the wringer. I find myself relating to the main characters in certain aspects, they were so well written.
Rick is sixteen, recently moved from California and now lives with his father, his step-mom and little sister in Salt Lake City, Utah. His father hates him and blames the boy for the deaths in their lives. This creates a stigma for Rick. He's a loner and just wants to make it to 18 so he can get out of there. He's selected though by the local alpha-long-bully, Kevin to join his bunch of "friends" or else.
But the story opens with a different side of Kevin. So it's jarring to put both sides of him together. Then we get another part of him. Kevin recognizes his three sides or worlds and it's hard work to keep them separate. I get his need for control. But it comes crashing down. They start melding in with the excess of booze, drugs, power once he gets closer to Rick.
Victims.
They were victims.
I don't even think there are names for the type of torture I would perform on the parents in this book. Because it would take time for me to plan out the exquisite forms of pain they deserve. They are lower than bottom feeders. If shit could birth shit that even shit would revile, that would be them. The stepmother Sylvia, as a doctor, to ignore what was going on in your home? Rick's father? Kevin's father? *smh* Thinking about them just makes my blood boil.
All of the characters were integral to the plot. The plot is suspenseful and certainly will remain in my mind for sometime. The 'gay for you' was really great BTW. Believable, internal struggle. The tone very true to YA and easy to read. The boys.
I love it when a freebie was a great read. I'd have paid for this. Mad I waited until now.
Finally I have a favorite book in the new year.
Not recommended for the faint of heart or those with triggers. If you need a happy ending, move on.
I have quotes and passages marked down but I'm not sharing because it'll give it away and they were just that good.
I'm moved. Grateful to read this book. And mourning for the boys.
But.
Reflecting on the in-between, that's when I smile and remember their happiness.
This book earned every star I'm rating it. Every single one and then some.
Because it should be. It's not for everyone. It definitely has triggers, hard limits some won't cross.
I didn't cry but I was taken on a journey of emotions - ripped from anger to sadness to hope to utter devastation.
Brutal.
Raw.
Visceral.
Pain.
A lot of it.
For a first time writer, this author got the job done. This is a book first time writers should dream about writing - a book that will force the reader to feel something. Let it be horror-that child abuse could happen so easily on everyone's doorstep and nothing was done, or anguish-for a bitter(sweet?) ending or grief-you'll need to read to understand, I'm struggling not spoil.
My sincerest kudos to the author.
The story is not without flaws but there's beauty to be found in the imperfections. It's not just an abuse book. It's not just a story without a HEA. It's more than that.
The in between. Oh God, that was like a symphony.
Rick and Kevin and their love. What they did for one another? *stares and just smiles*
What they meant to one another? The care, the friendship.
How to describe Violence Begets?
It was sorta like Voldemort choosing Harry as his equal and taking him under his wing, if they were the same age.
Add in some Romeo and Juliet but nix the chick and make it another Romeo.
Put in a heavy dose of mindfuck.
And sprinkle some Mean Girls: Bullying Boys edition.
"Violence Begets" will put the reader through the wringer. I find myself relating to the main characters in certain aspects, they were so well written.
Rick is sixteen, recently moved from California and now lives with his father, his step-mom and little sister in Salt Lake City, Utah. His father hates him and blames the boy for the deaths in their lives. This creates a stigma for Rick. He's a loner and just wants to make it to 18 so he can get out of there. He's selected though by the local alpha-long-bully, Kevin to join his bunch of "friends" or else.
But the story opens with a different side of Kevin. So it's jarring to put both sides of him together. Then we get another part of him. Kevin recognizes his three sides or worlds and it's hard work to keep them separate. I get his need for control. But it comes crashing down. They start melding in with the excess of booze, drugs, power once he gets closer to Rick.
Victims.
They were victims.
I don't even think there are names for the type of torture I would perform on the parents in this book. Because it would take time for me to plan out the exquisite forms of pain they deserve. They are lower than bottom feeders. If shit could birth shit that even shit would revile, that would be them. The stepmother Sylvia, as a doctor, to ignore what was going on in your home? Rick's father? Kevin's father? *smh* Thinking about them just makes my blood boil.
All of the characters were integral to the plot. The plot is suspenseful and certainly will remain in my mind for sometime. The 'gay for you' was really great BTW. Believable, internal struggle. The tone very true to YA and easy to read. The boys.
I love it when a freebie was a great read. I'd have paid for this. Mad I waited until now.
Finally I have a favorite book in the new year.
Not recommended for the faint of heart or those with triggers. If you need a happy ending, move on.
I have quotes and passages marked down but I'm not sharing because it'll give it away and they were just that good.
I'm moved. Grateful to read this book. And mourning for the boys.
But.
Reflecting on the in-between, that's when I smile and remember their happiness.
This book earned every star I'm rating it. Every single one and then some.
July 16, 2017
Review updated 11/Jul/17
****4.5 Stars****
Jesus Fucking Christ.
I can't even.
Hey friends!
So many of you were asking me about this.
I’m sorry but I’m going to let you down this time. I don’t feel capable of writing about it.
It would be extremely time consuming and difficult for me to express my thoughts about this in English and to be quite honest, even in my mother language I would struggle. Therefore, I’m providing a link of a friend’s review where she did it beautifully.
Donna's review
As many of you know, I am not a conventional romance reader. I like reading provoking stories. I like a story that keeps me on the edge. I live for these kind of stories, stories that mess with my head, crush my heart and leave me destroyed trying to get my shit back together.
For those kind of readers who are looking for an escapism from the ugliness of real life, steer clear from it, because although it’s fiction, it couldn’t feel more real and horrific. It's a story that forces you to "feel" and face all the ugliness in life, you have nowhere to hide.
This story left a scar on my heart but I have no regrets.
Hats off to P.T.Denys
An incredible tale!
****4.5 Stars****
Jesus Fucking Christ.
I can't even.
Hey friends!
So many of you were asking me about this.
I’m sorry but I’m going to let you down this time. I don’t feel capable of writing about it.
It would be extremely time consuming and difficult for me to express my thoughts about this in English and to be quite honest, even in my mother language I would struggle. Therefore, I’m providing a link of a friend’s review where she did it beautifully.
Donna's review
As many of you know, I am not a conventional romance reader. I like reading provoking stories. I like a story that keeps me on the edge. I live for these kind of stories, stories that mess with my head, crush my heart and leave me destroyed trying to get my shit back together.
For those kind of readers who are looking for an escapism from the ugliness of real life, steer clear from it, because although it’s fiction, it couldn’t feel more real and horrific. It's a story that forces you to "feel" and face all the ugliness in life, you have nowhere to hide.
This story left a scar on my heart but I have no regrets.
Hats off to P.T.Denys
An incredible tale!
July 21, 2021
3.75 Stars
Told in dual POV, 1st person, it’s the first installment in the "Violence Begets…" series and it’s not a standalone novel. This was my first read by this author and it took me by surprise. I liked the writing, it’s full-on angsty, a bit emotional, and really dark. The ending was a bit too rushed but I think in the next book I’ll get some more explanation! They found love in the worst situation, but I wanted some more happy moments for them; moments they wouldn’t scare off each other or scare of the other people, moments they wouldn’t need to pretend, laugh freely, and hold each other without any pain. All in all, it was a good one, and hope you like it as well but proceed with caution!
Told in dual POV, 1st person, it’s the first installment in the "Violence Begets…" series and it’s not a standalone novel. This was my first read by this author and it took me by surprise. I liked the writing, it’s full-on angsty, a bit emotional, and really dark. The ending was a bit too rushed but I think in the next book I’ll get some more explanation! They found love in the worst situation, but I wanted some more happy moments for them; moments they wouldn’t scare off each other or scare of the other people, moments they wouldn’t need to pretend, laugh freely, and hold each other without any pain. All in all, it was a good one, and hope you like it as well but proceed with caution!
September 14, 2014
I just finished this book. I'm not sure I can put my thoughts in to words. I'm kind of wrecked right now. Dark, disturbing, raw, overwhelming, heartbreaking. Kevin and Rick's story is not an easy one to read. No rainbows and unicorns here! Their story is full of violence, manipulation and head games. But I couldn't put it down! I was sucked in to their world from the very first page. Very well written. Hope to see more from this author!
June 21, 2017
Audible
[could be a bit spoiler-ish]
I have a very strange feeling about this book.
The writing was really good, and I was hooked and invested in the story at the beginning.
But the more I read the more
I ended up to hate it, and I was considering even to DNF somewhere over 90%.
Violence Begets... is not a book "to enjoy". It made me pretty depressed. There seemed to be no end in violence that dominated a story-line.
What made me upset, is the absence of any positive insights, you know, this wonderful light at the end of the tunnel. I think the author wanted to attract attention to this problem, there are still too many domestic violence where children are certainly the most defenseless and exposed victims.
But what made me really furious, was to see how Kevin and Rick competed against each other in hiding from the whole world the truth, covering their abusers. How they took EVERY beating, every torture without struggle. Without any fight. And silently cleaned their punishment's surroundings from BLOOD- their blood.
Seventeen year old guys let these psychopaths-sociopaths, these wannabe-fathers beat themselves to death. And remained silent and obedient.
There is so much graphical illogical domestic violence in this book, especially in the second part, where also a sweet love story was relegated completely to the background.
And talking about the love story: if you give me so much graphical violence, I want to be compensated with an explicit sex content. If you give me so many details in beating, then give me also more intimate details of the love story. The healthy balance between these two different graphical conditions was non-present.
The ending didn't surprise me then, though I hoped to see a glimmer of hope at the end.
To the audio book.
I enjoyed the narrating style of Bryant Sullivan, even if his Kevin sounds like a war veteran of at least thirty years older than Kevin himself. But I understand why he did it: to show what a strong personality Kevin is, that he has everything under control and that his personal sexual experience is probably significantly exceeds an average sexual experience of every war veteran.
But even his narrating toward the end exhausted me. I think, because he created very real scenes and it was painful to listen to.
All in all:
I feel bad to rate it that low, but I just can't recommend it to any of my GR friends.
This book has raised anew questions about reading, and one of them is WHAT DO WE READ FOR? and WHY do we read at all?
July 8, 2017
Violence Begets by PT Denys
4.5 stars!!
Sometimes when you finish a book you look around and look at the others around you and think to yourself…why are you not upset? Why do you not look distraught? Why are you not crying? And then you realise that they haven’t read what you just have. I was stunned, I was speechless, I was bereft, I was in tears but one thing I knew was that I had read a really, really, really good book. This book sucks you in, you can sense the car crash but you cannot help but stay along for the ride and what a ride it was. It was harrowing, it was dark, it was gritty, it definitely wasn’t pretty but it was real.
Life is never black or white, there are many shades of grey, lines are made to be blurred and crossed over and this book certainly crosses some of those lines, but underneath the abuse, drugs and violence there was a beautiful story that was begging to be heard. A story about two boys, two boys whose histories were similar, two boys who couldn’t trust, who were not living but merely surviving, two boys who despite everything find a friendship in each other, a mutual respect and understanding of each other’s circumstances, two boys that were there for each other. One is gay, one is straight, but lines are meant to be blurred, meant to be crossed, there are shades of grey and what develops between these two was heart-warming and heart breaking all the same and this is one story that I am so glad I read.
This book is emotional and will have triggers for many people but I have a huge amount of respect for the author, not only is this a debut but this book screams I am brave, I will write what I want and how I want, it is my story and I will tell it how I want to, I will write from the heart, I will bleed onto the page, it won’t be pretty but it will be real and it is mine, my story. It isn’t generic, it is definitely not cookie cutter, it is unique and I loved every single word.
This book will put your emotions through the wringer from, sympathy, empathy, sadness, anger, hope, happiness to total and utter devastation but I lived this book and I knew it. My heart knew it, my head knew it, my family knew it and my friends knew it, because I couldn’t stop talking about it. This book makes you think, it makes you feel and for me, it made me cry…a lot. This book is like Romeo and Juliet, but the leads are Romeo and Romeo, Juliet doesn’t make an appearance. There are girl scenes to prove to the world that they are “normal” but there is no connection, the only connection and chemistry that oozes off the page in this book is when Romeo and Romeo are within ten feet of each other. It crackles, it fizzles, it is intense but no matter the fight it is real and cannot be ignored.
Rick has just moved to Utah with his family; to get away from bad memories the family ups sticks and moves and Rick is left to his own devices to get on with this life. Rick is hurting, grief and guilt are heavy burdens even if not warranted, but when your own family never let you forget and treat you like a leper you just cannot move on. Always living in his brothers shadow, Rick has never felt like he belonged or was loved, never having a mother figure and shouldering the blame for that too, his brother was all he had. New school, new memories, new friends but Rick is alone and he kind of likes it that way. He just needs to make it to eighteen and then he can move on.
Kevin, every school has one…the bad boy, the bully, he smokes, he drinks, he does drugs and yet he is revered by everyone. Everyone wants to be him and all the girls want to be with him. Kevin needs to be in control, he needs to exert his power and he picks his targets. He has his posse and is always looking for new recruits and Rick is a prime candidate.
We are treated to two sides of Kevin; the Kevin that Kevin wants everyone to see and the real Kevin that the state of Utah would never understand. He has needs and he does what he has to, to sate them. He makes his money to keep up the façade, the parties, the smokes, the alcohol, the drugs but behind closed doors Kevin is trapped, trapped by his life and trapped by his preferences, but it takes a friendship to open his eyes and even though he wasn’t looking for it, it found him, now what were they going to do about it?
I don’t really want to say anymore because you need to go into this book blind and read it as the author intended. To spoil it would be a travesty and that is not my style so all I am going to say is read it, if you love MM books then I am sure you will love it too, it is more YA but the emotions and the connection are extremely real and incredibly believable. The real life situation that many boys find themselves in, am I gay? Or am I just gay for you? It takes that one person, that one connection to make you question your sexuality but you know that bond, that connection must be special to make you even consider it. Some people know, they are born that way, but Rick wasn’t and he really had to come to terms with what his heart was telling him, not his head.
All I can say is read this book; it is a fantastic read and one that I will not be able to forget in a hurry. I am glad that I met the boys and while this book isn’t perfect, hence only a 4.5, it is those imperfections that make the book perfect and as real as the characters.
www.theromancecover.com
4.5 stars!!
“I’ve heard that violence begets violence, but in my world, violence begat love.”
Sometimes when you finish a book you look around and look at the others around you and think to yourself…why are you not upset? Why do you not look distraught? Why are you not crying? And then you realise that they haven’t read what you just have. I was stunned, I was speechless, I was bereft, I was in tears but one thing I knew was that I had read a really, really, really good book. This book sucks you in, you can sense the car crash but you cannot help but stay along for the ride and what a ride it was. It was harrowing, it was dark, it was gritty, it definitely wasn’t pretty but it was real.
Life is never black or white, there are many shades of grey, lines are made to be blurred and crossed over and this book certainly crosses some of those lines, but underneath the abuse, drugs and violence there was a beautiful story that was begging to be heard. A story about two boys, two boys whose histories were similar, two boys who couldn’t trust, who were not living but merely surviving, two boys who despite everything find a friendship in each other, a mutual respect and understanding of each other’s circumstances, two boys that were there for each other. One is gay, one is straight, but lines are meant to be blurred, meant to be crossed, there are shades of grey and what develops between these two was heart-warming and heart breaking all the same and this is one story that I am so glad I read.
“What we have is too good for this world.”
This book is emotional and will have triggers for many people but I have a huge amount of respect for the author, not only is this a debut but this book screams I am brave, I will write what I want and how I want, it is my story and I will tell it how I want to, I will write from the heart, I will bleed onto the page, it won’t be pretty but it will be real and it is mine, my story. It isn’t generic, it is definitely not cookie cutter, it is unique and I loved every single word.
This book will put your emotions through the wringer from, sympathy, empathy, sadness, anger, hope, happiness to total and utter devastation but I lived this book and I knew it. My heart knew it, my head knew it, my family knew it and my friends knew it, because I couldn’t stop talking about it. This book makes you think, it makes you feel and for me, it made me cry…a lot. This book is like Romeo and Juliet, but the leads are Romeo and Romeo, Juliet doesn’t make an appearance. There are girl scenes to prove to the world that they are “normal” but there is no connection, the only connection and chemistry that oozes off the page in this book is when Romeo and Romeo are within ten feet of each other. It crackles, it fizzles, it is intense but no matter the fight it is real and cannot be ignored.
“I promise that’s not who I am when I’m with you. You’re all that’s good...”
Rick has just moved to Utah with his family; to get away from bad memories the family ups sticks and moves and Rick is left to his own devices to get on with this life. Rick is hurting, grief and guilt are heavy burdens even if not warranted, but when your own family never let you forget and treat you like a leper you just cannot move on. Always living in his brothers shadow, Rick has never felt like he belonged or was loved, never having a mother figure and shouldering the blame for that too, his brother was all he had. New school, new memories, new friends but Rick is alone and he kind of likes it that way. He just needs to make it to eighteen and then he can move on.
Kevin, every school has one…the bad boy, the bully, he smokes, he drinks, he does drugs and yet he is revered by everyone. Everyone wants to be him and all the girls want to be with him. Kevin needs to be in control, he needs to exert his power and he picks his targets. He has his posse and is always looking for new recruits and Rick is a prime candidate.
We are treated to two sides of Kevin; the Kevin that Kevin wants everyone to see and the real Kevin that the state of Utah would never understand. He has needs and he does what he has to, to sate them. He makes his money to keep up the façade, the parties, the smokes, the alcohol, the drugs but behind closed doors Kevin is trapped, trapped by his life and trapped by his preferences, but it takes a friendship to open his eyes and even though he wasn’t looking for it, it found him, now what were they going to do about it?
I don’t really want to say anymore because you need to go into this book blind and read it as the author intended. To spoil it would be a travesty and that is not my style so all I am going to say is read it, if you love MM books then I am sure you will love it too, it is more YA but the emotions and the connection are extremely real and incredibly believable. The real life situation that many boys find themselves in, am I gay? Or am I just gay for you? It takes that one person, that one connection to make you question your sexuality but you know that bond, that connection must be special to make you even consider it. Some people know, they are born that way, but Rick wasn’t and he really had to come to terms with what his heart was telling him, not his head.
“Violence only begets violence when we allow it to. We always have a choice. Kevin chose me.”
All I can say is read this book; it is a fantastic read and one that I will not be able to forget in a hurry. I am glad that I met the boys and while this book isn’t perfect, hence only a 4.5, it is those imperfections that make the book perfect and as real as the characters.
www.theromancecover.com
November 1, 2015
I can't write a review, i'm emotionally devastated.
Read
June 18, 2016If any book deserves those stars it's this one. The characters were so beautifully crafted and you could feel every emotion. I got sucked in and couldn't stop until I finished it. Best books I've read. Ever. This is going to stay with me for a long time.
August 30, 2015
A review by The Blogger Girls.
Wow. I’m not even sure where to start on this one. I’ve had it on my TBR for a really long time, and although I’ve really wanted to read it, in fact, had many friends tell me I needed to read it, something kept keeping me from doing so. Maybe it is the YA aspect which I normally steer clear from. Another nudge and other circumstances making it possible, I dove in, and it didn’t take long for me to be glad I did.
This is an extremely intense, very violent and emotional story. From the tags, you’re probably thinking, why on earth would I want to read something that sounds so dark and depressing? Well, if you like reading about damaged characters and watching them endure and overcome, this one has it all.
First, we have Rick. He is devastated by the death of his brother (for which he blames himself), as well as the loss of his mom at his birth (for which he blames himself). If that isn’t bad enough, his father blames and has blamed him for these things as well. So, setting the current tragedy aside, Rick has been feeling no love from his dad for a very long time. Things don’t escalate though until a few years after his brother’s death. And when they do, they go bad pretty quick.
In the meantime, he is now in a new school, having to make new friends, etc., seemingly alone in the world. But then there is Kevin, who befriends him. Kevin is a whole nother story. On the outside, he is a bully. He manipulates all those around him to serve his own purposes. He keeps his small clan in line by providing drugs, parties, etc. and by pushing them around. He controls every situation from minute details to long term projects. Rick has become one of his long-term projects. He first sees Rick as an easy target to manipulate and bring into his small group of followers.
But, there is much more to Kevin than meets the eye, or that he lets others see. He hides a lot of things from everyone. His father makes Rick’s look like Mr. Rogers. Being in control of everything has enabled Kevin to mentally and physically deal with everything his father dishes out. But circumstances bring Rick and Kevin together in ways Kevin never saw coming. Ways that make him change his plans for Rick more than once. As bad as it all seems, you can easily see it is all about self-preservation for Kevin. Much like Rick, he has not had anyone who actually cared about him for a very long time.
There is a whole side issue going on with these two in that Rick not only doesn’t believe he can possibly be gay, but he is actually repulsed by the idea. Again, circumstances throw these two together. Physical feelings take over, emotional feelings cannot help but grow, no matter how much either one fights against them.
It is amazing how people only see what they want to see. How easy it can be to fall into the same roles of those from whom you are trying to escape. Many times things were very close, but these guys pulled each other through.
“Violence only begets violence when we allow it to. We always have a choice.“
There is really so much to this story that goes deeper, but suffice to say, I was riveted to every word. I was turning page after page, waiting for the shoe to drop, but not being able to slow or put it down. The dialog, the imagery, and overall intense emotional feel throughout were simply magnificent. I absolutely love a story that can make me feel, and this one certainly delivered.
I will warn that these guys do not ride off into the sunset singing Kumbayah. But, I was left feeling oddly satisfied and at peace with the way things turned out. I realize I’m a little late to this party, but is this really P.T. Denys’ only book? Why aren’t there more? There needs to be more if this is any indication, and I really hope to see some in the future.
February 9, 2014
I can't remember the last time a book has grabbed my heart and slowly squeezed with each soulful word until I was gasping for breath between the tears rolling down my face by the very end. Violence Begets Violence is a story of two teenage boys trying to survive behind the closed doors of physical abuse from each of their fathers in everyday suburbia. It is well told from two points of view. One is Rick, the new kid in school who is still reeling from guilt from a from a family tragedy and has to fit into a new school and crowd. The other is Kevin who is cool and controls a gang of boys through fear and supplying the best drugs and alcohol. They come together and find an unlikely friendship born from keeping each others home life secret. Desperate just to survive until they are eighteen and can leave their abusive homes, Rick and Kevin go through hardships and enlightening moments which develop into a bond of love with tragic results. It is a must read which I highly recommend.
November 28, 2016
Oh... my... frickin'... lord. Now, I like my reads to hurt, to really get up close and personal with how a character loves, hates, hurts, grieves--how the devastation that hits can completely knock the stuffing out of those characters. Life's never easy, with get-out-of-hell cards, and I don't want fiction I read to give me that excuse and run with a HEA most never see. Some novels hit a few of those, and I'm left satisfied with the ups and downs that characters face.
But sometimes, just sometimes, a novel comes along that hits all of those notes so hard, it leaves me stumbling about in the rubble, wondering what the hell just knocked me off my feet.
I loved, and I mean absolutely LOVED this novel. I think the only way to run with any description is just... beautiful devastation. No matter how much it hurts, you can't close to your eyes to anything Rick and Kevin go through. It has a damn tough ending, too, but I love Denys's brass balls and boldness to take readers into that.
I ended up buying this on audio even though I'd got the novel itself as a free read, and I think that made it worse (or better, I'm still stumbling a bit too much to decide, lol). I kept switching between audio and ebook to get a good taste of both, and when it comes to reading for pleasure, I'm slow in general, but with this one, it was so good to really slow it down and experience the emotions as they hit you. And they will hit. Hard.
Perfect. Just perfect!
I just need to go and give my 15 year old lad a hug now and let him I know I love him to bits....whilst peeking over Denys's shoulder to see if the sequel's done yet.
But sometimes, just sometimes, a novel comes along that hits all of those notes so hard, it leaves me stumbling about in the rubble, wondering what the hell just knocked me off my feet.
I loved, and I mean absolutely LOVED this novel. I think the only way to run with any description is just... beautiful devastation. No matter how much it hurts, you can't close to your eyes to anything Rick and Kevin go through. It has a damn tough ending, too, but I love Denys's brass balls and boldness to take readers into that.
I ended up buying this on audio even though I'd got the novel itself as a free read, and I think that made it worse (or better, I'm still stumbling a bit too much to decide, lol). I kept switching between audio and ebook to get a good taste of both, and when it comes to reading for pleasure, I'm slow in general, but with this one, it was so good to really slow it down and experience the emotions as they hit you. And they will hit. Hard.
Perfect. Just perfect!
I just need to go and give my 15 year old lad a hug now and let him I know I love him to bits....whilst peeking over Denys's shoulder to see if the sequel's done yet.
January 30, 2014
What an amazing journey.
This is a beautiful, heartbreaking story. I so wished for a different outcome at the end.
To be quite honest, I wasn't able to read the most climactic part at the end. I've finished this story a few hours ago and it still haunts me. I wish there would have been a warning about the way it ends, just so people can decide if they want to go on that journey, but it was so well written. The author is able to stir emotions in the reader through words and sentences that form clear pictures of the most despicable of human nature.
Like Kevin says, "the world isn't a nice place." It's true, beautiful Kevin, but those that live your story every day are too good for this world.
This is a beautiful, heartbreaking story. I so wished for a different outcome at the end.
To be quite honest, I wasn't able to read the most climactic part at the end. I've finished this story a few hours ago and it still haunts me. I wish there would have been a warning about the way it ends, just so people can decide if they want to go on that journey, but it was so well written. The author is able to stir emotions in the reader through words and sentences that form clear pictures of the most despicable of human nature.
Like Kevin says, "the world isn't a nice place." It's true, beautiful Kevin, but those that live your story every day are too good for this world.
January 5, 2014
This book has really rendered me speechless. It was like watching a train wreck from the very beginning. Kevin and Rick are both living a hell, their fathers are abusive and used to beat the shit out of them on regular basis. You might think now that it's going to be your typical kind of plot about two mistreated guys that will find a strength in love they are bounded to find together. Ok, you're not wrong there but it's very different than the others angst filled h/c stories. First of all there's is no naive character that is horribly suffering but is still able to maintain his innocence and pristine pureness of his soul. No, neither of them is weak or naive, they are strong willed, they are fighting to keep themselves together. I really enjoyed the way MCs were portrayed. Both of them are manipulative so they can easily see through each other's bullshit.
This book is full of violence, drug use and fights and it's interesting to watch MCs fighting their fates with all they have. As Kevin says, staying focused is what keeps them alive. But when you're falling in love, it's a pretty hard task to do. Though they know it's dangerous, they still decide to risk it all for their love .
If you are looking for more dark setting with real and raw love that isn't all teddy bears and roses, it's probably your kind of book. The passion between them is almost palpable and so is tension that is following them along. Those who love detailed sex scenes are probably going to be a little frustrated (since I was :D) from the lack of explicit on screen sex.
Warning: Spoiler .
This book is full of violence, drug use and fights and it's interesting to watch MCs fighting their fates with all they have. As Kevin says, staying focused is what keeps them alive. But when you're falling in love, it's a pretty hard task to do. Though they know it's dangerous, they still decide to risk it all for their love .
If you are looking for more dark setting with real and raw love that isn't all teddy bears and roses, it's probably your kind of book. The passion between them is almost palpable and so is tension that is following them along. Those who love detailed sex scenes are probably going to be a little frustrated (since I was :D) from the lack of explicit on screen sex.
Warning: Spoiler .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2017
I am a mess right now. This book tore me up. Some parts were so brutal to read that I almost put the book down. My stomach hurts, my chest hurts I just want to throw up right now from all the feelings roiling through me. The writing was superb. I could not put it down despite what it was putting me through. This was not a happy read. Not at all. So if you want a sweet and happy love story steer clear of this book. No it was not a happy read but boy was it a powerful one. This is a story that will stay with me for a very long time.
July 23, 2021
3.5 stars audio
1 fucked up ending I regret reading pissed off star story!
1 fucked up ending I regret reading pissed off star story!
June 27, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This has been, without a doubt, one of the most tragic things I have ever read.
Rick is suffering after he loses his brother. And then his father starts the physical abuse.
Kevin’s father is a monster wearing the garb of an upstanding citizen. In order to cope with how out of control his home life is, Kevin feels the need to exert his control over everything else in his life.
The minute he sees Rick, he feels like he’s found a new victim to exercise his control over, but then it seems he had made the wrong assumptions.
That is really where the balance is toppled and everything goes to hell.
These two boys have such a horrible life it literally made my heart ache. Kevin especially is a paradox, with his quick temper and cruel actions and his gentle manner at other times. He seems like a complete douche in the beginning (though his motivations become clearer later on, it still doesn’t excuse his actions), but the way he feels toward Rick and the fact that he had the balls to admit his initial intentions really made me feel for the guy.
Rick is basically a ‘good guy’. You know the type, the boy next door, the son most parents would be proud to have (but not his dad and step mom, oh no). But he can be just as devious when the situation warrants it, and when it happens, it’s shocking. He also thinks being homosexual is disgusting, but he can’t help the way he feels about Kevin.
They find each other and despite their situations and circumstances and all the demons they face, the ones in the past and the ones in their present, they fall in love with each other. There are a few impassioned speeches, but it's never cliche or trite, it's just raw and heart breaking. Despite their initial hangups and Rick's mistrust and Kevin's need to keep up appearances, they find happiness in each other. I found it especially hard that even this little bit of happiness was short lived, because god knows these boys deserve some light after all the darkness they have experienced.
By the time this book is done, you will feel like your heart has been ripped out and stomped on and put through a meat grinder. I freaking cried. Like I finished the last line and just flung my e-reader away and bawled into my hands because goddamnit this book is a painful and raw experience to undergo. The world is a cruel, evil place, and sometimes even the light gets snuffed out. Hope feels like nothing but an empty promise and what use is it when things are resolved but it's too late to do any good anyway?
The violence, drugs and overall despair just keeps escalating as the book draws to a close. At one point I had to put the book away and just breathe and get my thoughts sorted out. I’m generally not iffy about violence or blood letting but this was just intense and visceral and it hurt to read through their pain.
The ending just. AGH. Pure Agony, but so superbly executed that it deserves special kudos for so efficiently and completely shattering my heart with only three short sentences.
These boys grow, and develop, and learn, and love, and change to become better people. Their story is difficult, but it is beautiful and honest and will not make you regret picking it up.
Violence only begets violence when we allow it
to. We always have a choice. Kevin chose me.
*screams silently and punches a pillow*
This has been, without a doubt, one of the most tragic things I have ever read.
Rick is suffering after he loses his brother. And then his father starts the physical abuse.
Kevin’s father is a monster wearing the garb of an upstanding citizen. In order to cope with how out of control his home life is, Kevin feels the need to exert his control over everything else in his life.
The minute he sees Rick, he feels like he’s found a new victim to exercise his control over, but then it seems he had made the wrong assumptions.
That is really where the balance is toppled and everything goes to hell.
These two boys have such a horrible life it literally made my heart ache. Kevin especially is a paradox, with his quick temper and cruel actions and his gentle manner at other times. He seems like a complete douche in the beginning (though his motivations become clearer later on, it still doesn’t excuse his actions), but the way he feels toward Rick and the fact that he had the balls to admit his initial intentions really made me feel for the guy.
Rick is basically a ‘good guy’. You know the type, the boy next door, the son most parents would be proud to have (but not his dad and step mom, oh no). But he can be just as devious when the situation warrants it, and when it happens, it’s shocking. He also thinks being homosexual is disgusting, but he can’t help the way he feels about Kevin.
They find each other and despite their situations and circumstances and all the demons they face, the ones in the past and the ones in their present, they fall in love with each other. There are a few impassioned speeches, but it's never cliche or trite, it's just raw and heart breaking. Despite their initial hangups and Rick's mistrust and Kevin's need to keep up appearances, they find happiness in each other. I found it especially hard that even this little bit of happiness was short lived, because god knows these boys deserve some light after all the darkness they have experienced.
By the time this book is done, you will feel like your heart has been ripped out and stomped on and put through a meat grinder. I freaking cried. Like I finished the last line and just flung my e-reader away and bawled into my hands because goddamnit this book is a painful and raw experience to undergo. The world is a cruel, evil place, and sometimes even the light gets snuffed out. Hope feels like nothing but an empty promise and what use is it when things are resolved but it's too late to do any good anyway?
The violence, drugs and overall despair just keeps escalating as the book draws to a close. At one point I had to put the book away and just breathe and get my thoughts sorted out. I’m generally not iffy about violence or blood letting but this was just intense and visceral and it hurt to read through their pain.
The ending just. AGH. Pure Agony, but so superbly executed that it deserves special kudos for so efficiently and completely shattering my heart with only three short sentences.
These boys grow, and develop, and learn, and love, and change to become better people. Their story is difficult, but it is beautiful and honest and will not make you regret picking it up.
Violence only begets violence when we allow it
to. We always have a choice. Kevin chose me.
*screams silently and punches a pillow*
August 21, 2020
August 2020 re-read
Yeah, I read it again, but it's no longer painful now that there is the sequel. I started the 2nd one again too but stopped before ... well, everything. I just wanted to see them happy. This story isn't for the faint of heart. It's a tough read and after my first read, I was a mess. Bring the tissues you Violence Begets virgins!!
Quick Note - there is a sequel to Violence Begets - The Cycle - and it is currently available as a Free Read and Review via the MM Romance Group DBML program. Reviews are due by Oct 1st, but if you loved Violence Begets, you won't be able to put The Cycle down. And The Cycle isn't the end of the series, their is a cliffhanger.
*** Review***
So many emotions. Serious Book Hangover! Sobfest. OMG give me a happy book to read, quick! Highly, HIGHLY recommend this one and you need to bring the tissues.
Yeah, I read it again, but it's no longer painful now that there is the sequel. I started the 2nd one again too but stopped before ... well, everything. I just wanted to see them happy. This story isn't for the faint of heart. It's a tough read and after my first read, I was a mess. Bring the tissues you Violence Begets virgins!!
Quick Note - there is a sequel to Violence Begets - The Cycle - and it is currently available as a Free Read and Review via the MM Romance Group DBML program. Reviews are due by Oct 1st, but if you loved Violence Begets, you won't be able to put The Cycle down. And The Cycle isn't the end of the series, their is a cliffhanger.
*** Review***
So many emotions. Serious Book Hangover! Sobfest. OMG give me a happy book to read, quick! Highly, HIGHLY recommend this one and you need to bring the tissues.
May 15, 2020
That ending! WTF? Now I need a happy book...
October 3, 2015
Wow, I just don't even know where to begin with this book. I'm still reeling after reading it. Amazing doesn't even begin to start to cover it. It sucked me. It spit me out. I loved. I hated. I struggled. I cried. I haven't felt so deeply in quite awhile. This story covered so many areas that I don't even know exactly how to classify it: coming of age, first love, gay, child abuse, drug abuse, psychological disorder, prostitution, violence, friendship, life-lessons, struggles, death, family, tragedy. This is one of those devastatingly life-alterating stories, one that changes something about the way you think.
Rick has been his father's least favorite since birth. He lives his life avoiding everything, choosing to remain in the shadows, not partaking, a thin shade of a human. That is until Kevin comes into his life. Kevin throws Rick a metaphorical line, and Rick grasps on with both hands, willing to do anything to hang on to this new life that contains more than just a constant live-feed of bad memories and guilt.
I was sure every single person looked at me at least once, trying to guess what the new loner's story was. I could handle the laughter I saw on their faces, but the pity for me-the guy without any friends-reminded me of the looks I used to get
I stared at the flashing cursor on the blank page, it reminded me of my empty life-no words or thoughts to fill it up and make it complete.
Kevin's story really broke my heart. He plays the roll of the bully, the asshole. He lords over the weak, dominating and dictating the environment. No one knows what hell his life really is. Controlling everything on the outside is the only way that he can survive. When he strings Rick along, he never knew how immensely they will affect each other.
I glared at the guys sitting next to me; they thought they were my friends but I didn't have any friends.
I need to exercise my talents, my ability to focus and control.
So Rick and Kevin do what they have to do in order to make it through. They are the only ones that know the other's secrets. They hide, protect and challenge each other.
my fan pic
I just wanted to wrap Rick and Kevin up in a protective cocoon and save them from their lots in life, but sadly I couldn't. It did make me appreciate my own life, and hopefully it will help others with theirs.
Violence only begets violence when we allow it to.
Thank you P.T. Denys for this book.
January 11, 2014
If it was inspired by a true story, this would've got four or five stars from me, but reading the dedication page it seems it was not, therefore only three stars.
As it features such young characters I believe this story will have many readers similar to them. And it's clear enough the message the author delivers through this book. That's why I don't agree with the direction it took, I would've preferred an alternate development.
The protagonists, Rick and Kevin, are teenagers, both sixteen at the beginning. In no way this story should be classified as young adult. The book is challenging in matters of content and actions of the characters. It contains many on page scenes of violence, child abuse, drugs and alcohol abuse, prostitution. Not sex, though, that was glossed over, and this was one of my main "dislikes". If you present your protagonists the way you did why not show them in their sexual interactions as well? Especially as one important point is Rick's sexuality, and I think we needed to see as well how he reacts to his first gay experiences and the dynamic between Rick and Kevin in these moments. If you dare to bring on page such strong and uncomfortable themes, why not go all the way with your characters?
In terms of dislikes I could tell a few more:
In terms of likes, because there were despite my overall reaction: I appreciate authors who don't avoid portraying flawed characters, characters who act bad, make bad choices, try to survive psychically, psychologically and emotionally as their circumstances and means allow, and Kevin, with his background, his issues with control, aggressiveness, was the perfect example.
I appreciate when real problems are detailed and not looked over in a story.
And Rick and Kevin were beautiful together. They had many sensual, tender, emotional and some tensioned moments together. It was great to see Kevin and his game of seduction turning against him. It was a beautiful romance.
As it features such young characters I believe this story will have many readers similar to them. And it's clear enough the message the author delivers through this book. That's why I don't agree with the direction it took, I would've preferred an alternate development.
The protagonists, Rick and Kevin, are teenagers, both sixteen at the beginning. In no way this story should be classified as young adult. The book is challenging in matters of content and actions of the characters. It contains many on page scenes of violence, child abuse, drugs and alcohol abuse, prostitution. Not sex, though, that was glossed over, and this was one of my main "dislikes". If you present your protagonists the way you did why not show them in their sexual interactions as well? Especially as one important point is Rick's sexuality, and I think we needed to see as well how he reacts to his first gay experiences and the dynamic between Rick and Kevin in these moments. If you dare to bring on page such strong and uncomfortable themes, why not go all the way with your characters?
In terms of dislikes I could tell a few more:
In terms of likes, because there were despite my overall reaction: I appreciate authors who don't avoid portraying flawed characters, characters who act bad, make bad choices, try to survive psychically, psychologically and emotionally as their circumstances and means allow, and Kevin, with his background, his issues with control, aggressiveness, was the perfect example.
I appreciate when real problems are detailed and not looked over in a story.
And Rick and Kevin were beautiful together. They had many sensual, tender, emotional and some tensioned moments together. It was great to see Kevin and his game of seduction turning against him. It was a beautiful romance.
July 26, 2014
Okay. This is not a happy book. It's brutal and horrible. It's this visceral look into abuse of two boys close to graduation, both just hanging on until they turn 18 and can get away.
It also feels long, so when I was just at about 50%, I kind of just wanted it to end already. I stuck it out, and I'm glad I did. Though much of this sad story, I sort of detached myself from emotion. Similar to what Kevin does to get through the beatings. I read everything with sort of textbook voice in my head. If I didn't do that, I'm pretty sure I would never have finished, or it would have taken me weeks, and I'd not be able to see through the swollen and puffy eyes from tears. As it was, when the final culmination of events was coming to a close, I lost it.
Is it perfect? No. Is this realistic? I don't know. I hope not, but a part of my brain is telling me not to be so naive. I do think adults can be very blind to what's in front of them. Did this book my my heart hurt? Yeah. Yeah it did. The ache in my chest for these boys hurts.
I really would not recommend this to many. Defiantly not if you have trouble dealing with issues if abuse. The abuse is all there, right on the page. And it's horrific. I struggle to find the point in writing a book like this. What did the author think? What is their purpose for putting this out there? To show that in the face of everything that is awful, love can be found? Maybe. But the way this ends, I don't know if I can fully believe that.
I struggle with the rating. I didn't hate it. I didn't love it. But it sure made me think. Made me feel. I can't fault it for that, even if I don't like how things ended. So there you have it.
It also feels long, so when I was just at about 50%, I kind of just wanted it to end already. I stuck it out, and I'm glad I did. Though much of this sad story, I sort of detached myself from emotion. Similar to what Kevin does to get through the beatings. I read everything with sort of textbook voice in my head. If I didn't do that, I'm pretty sure I would never have finished, or it would have taken me weeks, and I'd not be able to see through the swollen and puffy eyes from tears. As it was, when the final culmination of events was coming to a close, I lost it.
Is it perfect? No. Is this realistic? I don't know. I hope not, but a part of my brain is telling me not to be so naive. I do think adults can be very blind to what's in front of them. Did this book my my heart hurt? Yeah. Yeah it did. The ache in my chest for these boys hurts.
I really would not recommend this to many. Defiantly not if you have trouble dealing with issues if abuse. The abuse is all there, right on the page. And it's horrific. I struggle to find the point in writing a book like this. What did the author think? What is their purpose for putting this out there? To show that in the face of everything that is awful, love can be found? Maybe. But the way this ends, I don't know if I can fully believe that.
I struggle with the rating. I didn't hate it. I didn't love it. But it sure made me think. Made me feel. I can't fault it for that, even if I don't like how things ended. So there you have it.
February 7, 2014
The title says it all. This was dark, disturbing, and painful, but it completely kept my attention. At some point I realized there's no way it could end well. I think this quote sums it up nicely.
"You see, people don't want to believe there are monsters living next door, that there are innocent kids screaming for help. They want to believe the story of the dashing businessman rising to the occasion after the drug-addicted mother runs away. Even to the fuckers who work in the system, it's just one more case to add to their already overworked asses. They don't fucking care. Nobody does."
This isn't my normal style of book, so that place inside that usually guides my rating is completely useless and honestly numb. I'm dumbfounded, but it deserves a rating. 5 speechless, painful stars
"You see, people don't want to believe there are monsters living next door, that there are innocent kids screaming for help. They want to believe the story of the dashing businessman rising to the occasion after the drug-addicted mother runs away. Even to the fuckers who work in the system, it's just one more case to add to their already overworked asses. They don't fucking care. Nobody does."
This isn't my normal style of book, so that place inside that usually guides my rating is completely useless and honestly numb. I'm dumbfounded, but it deserves a rating. 5 speechless, painful stars
February 10, 2016
This is an excellent story regards character building/situation horror even acceptance. It is dark, horrifying, devastating.
I feel traumatised by the ending.
So, so hoped for justice at the end as we humans often do but be warned, this is how the worst may be and not just.
Has elements of Romeo and Juliet tragedy though Kevin and Rick are the star crossed lovers.
It shows how cruel youth, how homophobic youth and society still can be.
Not a feel good story you have been warned and suggest strong, brave at hearts get tissues to hand too.
Yet, it would be wrong to denounce it for not ending as I would choose so borderline 5 star from me.
I feel traumatised by the ending.
So, so hoped for justice at the end as we humans often do but be warned, this is how the worst may be and not just.
Has elements of Romeo and Juliet tragedy though Kevin and Rick are the star crossed lovers.
It shows how cruel youth, how homophobic youth and society still can be.
Not a feel good story you have been warned and suggest strong, brave at hearts get tissues to hand too.
Yet, it would be wrong to denounce it for not ending as I would choose so borderline 5 star from me.
November 25, 2014
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
So, this is probably the most difficult book I have ever read. I requested it from Prism as I always do, by reading the blurb but not any reviews, and this is the one time I am thinking maybe I should have. There were numerous points at which I nearly stopped reading it. Why? I’m a mother. My youngest son is almost the same age as Rick and Kevin. It was extremely difficult not to mention painful to read the horror in this story.
I persevered but again I am still in two minds as whether that was the right thing to do. I finished it feeling hollowed out. I found myself clinging to the hope that even after all the darkness there would be some small chance that they would get their happy, that somewhere the universe would think these two boys were owed a chance to know more about love instead of the bleak horrors that were their lives. I won’t be giving anything away by telling you that is not the case.
Rick has only recently moved to Utah, his family are starting over after the death of his older brother, and after a couple of weeks at school spent alone as the new kid Kevin Vincent takes him under his wing. Ricks mother died in whilst giving birth to him and his father has always blamed him for it. When his older brother gets drunk one night and phones fourteen year old Rick to come and pick him up he stupidly agrees. Rick idolises his brother and can’t say no, he also can’t drive a car very well and when they crash Jason is dead on impact.
The guilt that Rick lives with is huge. He lost his brother, his one ally in a cold house and is plagued by nightmares. He can’t stop his tears. He is constantly re-living the crash, seeing Jasons dead body on the road. He has no one to talk to about his feelings; he never talks to any friends, not that he has many, and his father is too tied up in his own grief and hate to bother with him. When his father finally snaps one day he lets out that anger and grief on Rick in the form of physical violence and the cycle has begun. Rick is no longer safe in his home. His step mother chooses to ignore what is in front of her eyes, enabling the violence, and Rick’s life has gone from lonely to dangerous in the blink of an eye.
Kevin Vincent is far more difficult to work out and far more damaged. He sees the new boy who always looks as though he has been crying as a challenge. To his ‘friends’ he is the tough guy, the leader of the gang and the one everyone is afraid of. He earns their friendship through fear, keeps them loyal with drugs and booze and is careful not to let them see the other parts of him. He prostitutes himself in men’s bathroom stalls to enable him to afford to get into bars and pick up any man he wants but this is side that is hidden from his friends and father. His home life looks perfect to anyone outside, his father is always polite to his friends; he appears to everyone as strict but fair. Appearances can be deceiving. Vincent lives with a psychopath. The abuse he suffers is very different from Rick. His is well thought out and involves no emotion just pain and terror.
Both these boys live in fear and the violence on page is terrifying. They are drawn to each but their relationship is based on fear, hatred and mind games initially. It is certainly not a healthy relationship to begin with, I’m not even sure if it was healthy at the end but it did change along the way. Both these boys were desperate for affection and love and I hope that is at least part of what they got from each other whilst dealing with the hell of their families.
The ending killed me. Although I could see it coming in one form or another I still held hope that the author would give them their chance, just give them a tiny bit of happy and a reason to continue. Nope, your heart will be pulled out again.
My emotions are still all over the place after finishing it. It is a very stark reminder that the world can be a very dark place. This book is not for everyone, I’m still not sure if it was for me, and should come with some pretty big trigger warnings. It is not a story that will leave me quickly nor is it one I think I could re-read. You may wonder why 5 Stars? The writing deserved it. The story deserved it. Just because it made me uncomfortable, made me cry and wasn’t about the HEA…it was still worth it.
I will leave you with one final thought; never become that neighbour that looks the other way. If you suspect it then do something about it!
So, this is probably the most difficult book I have ever read. I requested it from Prism as I always do, by reading the blurb but not any reviews, and this is the one time I am thinking maybe I should have. There were numerous points at which I nearly stopped reading it. Why? I’m a mother. My youngest son is almost the same age as Rick and Kevin. It was extremely difficult not to mention painful to read the horror in this story.
I persevered but again I am still in two minds as whether that was the right thing to do. I finished it feeling hollowed out. I found myself clinging to the hope that even after all the darkness there would be some small chance that they would get their happy, that somewhere the universe would think these two boys were owed a chance to know more about love instead of the bleak horrors that were their lives. I won’t be giving anything away by telling you that is not the case.
Rick has only recently moved to Utah, his family are starting over after the death of his older brother, and after a couple of weeks at school spent alone as the new kid Kevin Vincent takes him under his wing. Ricks mother died in whilst giving birth to him and his father has always blamed him for it. When his older brother gets drunk one night and phones fourteen year old Rick to come and pick him up he stupidly agrees. Rick idolises his brother and can’t say no, he also can’t drive a car very well and when they crash Jason is dead on impact.
The guilt that Rick lives with is huge. He lost his brother, his one ally in a cold house and is plagued by nightmares. He can’t stop his tears. He is constantly re-living the crash, seeing Jasons dead body on the road. He has no one to talk to about his feelings; he never talks to any friends, not that he has many, and his father is too tied up in his own grief and hate to bother with him. When his father finally snaps one day he lets out that anger and grief on Rick in the form of physical violence and the cycle has begun. Rick is no longer safe in his home. His step mother chooses to ignore what is in front of her eyes, enabling the violence, and Rick’s life has gone from lonely to dangerous in the blink of an eye.
Kevin Vincent is far more difficult to work out and far more damaged. He sees the new boy who always looks as though he has been crying as a challenge. To his ‘friends’ he is the tough guy, the leader of the gang and the one everyone is afraid of. He earns their friendship through fear, keeps them loyal with drugs and booze and is careful not to let them see the other parts of him. He prostitutes himself in men’s bathroom stalls to enable him to afford to get into bars and pick up any man he wants but this is side that is hidden from his friends and father. His home life looks perfect to anyone outside, his father is always polite to his friends; he appears to everyone as strict but fair. Appearances can be deceiving. Vincent lives with a psychopath. The abuse he suffers is very different from Rick. His is well thought out and involves no emotion just pain and terror.
Both these boys live in fear and the violence on page is terrifying. They are drawn to each but their relationship is based on fear, hatred and mind games initially. It is certainly not a healthy relationship to begin with, I’m not even sure if it was healthy at the end but it did change along the way. Both these boys were desperate for affection and love and I hope that is at least part of what they got from each other whilst dealing with the hell of their families.
The ending killed me. Although I could see it coming in one form or another I still held hope that the author would give them their chance, just give them a tiny bit of happy and a reason to continue. Nope, your heart will be pulled out again.
My emotions are still all over the place after finishing it. It is a very stark reminder that the world can be a very dark place. This book is not for everyone, I’m still not sure if it was for me, and should come with some pretty big trigger warnings. It is not a story that will leave me quickly nor is it one I think I could re-read. You may wonder why 5 Stars? The writing deserved it. The story deserved it. Just because it made me uncomfortable, made me cry and wasn’t about the HEA…it was still worth it.
I will leave you with one final thought; never become that neighbour that looks the other way. If you suspect it then do something about it!
February 17, 2017
Review to come once I've recovered x
Right.....Two days after finishing and I think I can write my review.....This book broke me.....actually broke me...The day I finished it the whole book was going round and round in my head.....Pt Denys is a new author to me and I've had this on my kindle for a couple of years...I even bought the paperback last year too because some friends told me I'd love it and I love my dark reads...Well this is not that kind of dark....This is a devastating book but oh my god it is so well written....Firstly it is edited to the highest degree....I noted not one mistake....The book draws you in and keeps you turning the pages and you will not want to put it down....
Rick is devastated after the death of his brother Jason which he blames himself for.....He also blames himself for his mums death too at his birth.....His father...god how i hated his father....What he does to Rick is pure torture and leaves him lost until he meets Kevin.....Kevin has his own secrets and when you find them out you'll find that his father is ten times worse than Ricks as he beats and tortures Kevin simply for the pure hell of it...Kevin can not do anything right....He needs to control something in his life and he controls his friends....he controls his sex life in gay clubs and he also wants to control Rick...but Rick is his weakness....Some of the things that these two boys go through his heart wrenching.....The pure physical torture is something you wouldn't think anyone could survive....but all they want to do is survive till their 18th birthday so they can leave......I've only read two other books that have made me sob at the ending...and only one other book that I can't re-read (Antidote by Jack L Pyke)...this one might just be another one.....The ending will destroy you.....But.....It is a book that just has to be read....Be prepared to spend a couple of days recovering but you have to read this.You have to meet Kevin and Rick......The secondary characters although don't play a huge part in the book they are well liked...I especially liked Jessica.....who's family came to the rescue for Rick.......This book really does deserve 10 starts and it has it's own place on a new shelf for me on goodreads.....Perfect x
Right.....Two days after finishing and I think I can write my review.....This book broke me.....actually broke me...The day I finished it the whole book was going round and round in my head.....Pt Denys is a new author to me and I've had this on my kindle for a couple of years...I even bought the paperback last year too because some friends told me I'd love it and I love my dark reads...Well this is not that kind of dark....This is a devastating book but oh my god it is so well written....Firstly it is edited to the highest degree....I noted not one mistake....The book draws you in and keeps you turning the pages and you will not want to put it down....
Rick is devastated after the death of his brother Jason which he blames himself for.....He also blames himself for his mums death too at his birth.....His father...god how i hated his father....What he does to Rick is pure torture and leaves him lost until he meets Kevin.....Kevin has his own secrets and when you find them out you'll find that his father is ten times worse than Ricks as he beats and tortures Kevin simply for the pure hell of it...Kevin can not do anything right....He needs to control something in his life and he controls his friends....he controls his sex life in gay clubs and he also wants to control Rick...but Rick is his weakness....Some of the things that these two boys go through his heart wrenching.....The pure physical torture is something you wouldn't think anyone could survive....but all they want to do is survive till their 18th birthday so they can leave......I've only read two other books that have made me sob at the ending...and only one other book that I can't re-read (Antidote by Jack L Pyke)...this one might just be another one.....The ending will destroy you.....But.....It is a book that just has to be read....Be prepared to spend a couple of days recovering but you have to read this.You have to meet Kevin and Rick......The secondary characters although don't play a huge part in the book they are well liked...I especially liked Jessica.....who's family came to the rescue for Rick.......This book really does deserve 10 starts and it has it's own place on a new shelf for me on goodreads.....Perfect x
March 30, 2014
Violence begets...bullies. A tediously-violent transformative love story and bittersweet journey of a troubled 17-year-old 'bully' and the boy who dared to love him.
The writing reads as somewhat personal and very reminiscent of a young adult perspective. It's narrated in the first person with the MC's (Kevin/Aaron) alternating POV. This actually works well to lend a very self-reflective quality and insight into both the character's thoughts and mindset.
The violence remains paramount throughout the story's timeline. So much so that it really bludgeons the reader numb with indifference since both boys domestic homelife is ironically focused in it.
The second paramount element is the love story between Kevin and Aaron. It's relayed in some moving moments as it painfully and slowly develops. Their infrequent tender moments and Kevin's personal transformation drives the story..and considering the sexual content is kept at a minimum and off-page it was nicely done. Unfortunately, the lack of sexually intimate details are lost opportunities for further character development and reader investment (yeah-that's right-I want the f'ing goods).
The ending is brutally abrupt to the point of blunt decapitation to the reader..almost as if the writer is running out of time and has to pull the plug. It's a coup de grace of all endings and reads transparently botched and rushed..granting the reader little respite and no mercy.
★3★ stars for Kevin and Aaron's reflective moments and tender spirited love story. This gave me nothing else.
May 27, 2014
My initial reaction to this book -
I could not stop reading this book, it was brilliant and beautiful. It was also brutal and unbelievably sad and I won't forget it for a long time.
I may write a more extensive review once my head and heart have healed a little.
Well a week has passed but I'm still struggling to put into words how much I loved this book. Be warned, it is sad - it is more than sad, it's tragic - from the beginning to the end. Yet in the middle something beautiful blossoms. Have you ever seen a patch of weed with a pretty flower in the middle, well that is this book to me.
I'm not going to rehash the blurb or the story, there's no point. I will say at the start I HATED Kevin...just goes to show, don't judge a book by it's cover, or don't make assumptions til you know the full story. Yeah, it was one of those books that made you stop and think about your interactions and responses to people. Nobody knows what goes on behind closed doors. Instead of being preachy though, this story made me love the characters and because of that I felt every, single moment of their pain. Each and every one and it still hurts.
Not an easy read - but a must read. A real must read.
Previously reviewed at
July 29, 2014
Here's another book everyone loved but me.
I know, it's very dark and it deals with disturbing issues, but I have a feeling it was farfetched and unrealistic. But hey, it's me.
2 stars, since Violence Begets... had its moments.
I know, it's very dark and it deals with disturbing issues, but I have a feeling it was farfetched and unrealistic. But hey, it's me.
2 stars, since Violence Begets... had its moments.
July 12, 2017
2.5 stars
I had expected it to be a heart-wrenching read, but in reality, I felt absolutely nothing for the characters. I blame the amateur writing.
Too much angsty drama, too many gaps in logic.
I think Lisa Henry writes these kinds of stories much better.
I had expected it to be a heart-wrenching read, but in reality, I felt absolutely nothing for the characters. I blame the amateur writing.
Too much angsty drama, too many gaps in logic.
I think Lisa Henry writes these kinds of stories much better.
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