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Belabour
The pitifully dysfunctional Paxton household isn't one to be envied. Ruled by the viciously corrupt Detective Sergeant Drake Paxton, served by his full-time domestic housewife, Amelia, and clung onto by Amelia's emotionally crippled, unemployable addict leech of a brother, Anton, nobody's come close to thriving for years.
Amelia's endured this dismal nightmare for nearly a decade. Once her parents were jailed for fraud, Drake took advantage of their destitution by taking the pair in and piling them with Valium. Neither have been allowed to leave Chester and see their dear hometown of Rhiwlas, North Wales since....
Everything was great, for all of six months before Amelia and Drake's wedding.
But when the harrowing physical and mental abuse began, leaving wasn't an option. As their sole Valium supplier, reluctant loyalty was already safely secured. After all, most reasons to linger come sealed in plastic strips or baggies.
Slowly stripped of all support, Amelia's prospects lay painfully thin on the ground as she nears thirty. But while scared for her life, some glimmers of hope can't be touched or snatched through domestic torture.
Everyone slips, but is the time worth biding?
--------------------------------------------------------------
Trigger warnings: Marital abuse/rape, drug use.
Amelia's endured this dismal nightmare for nearly a decade. Once her parents were jailed for fraud, Drake took advantage of their destitution by taking the pair in and piling them with Valium. Neither have been allowed to leave Chester and see their dear hometown of Rhiwlas, North Wales since....
Everything was great, for all of six months before Amelia and Drake's wedding.
But when the harrowing physical and mental abuse began, leaving wasn't an option. As their sole Valium supplier, reluctant loyalty was already safely secured. After all, most reasons to linger come sealed in plastic strips or baggies.
Slowly stripped of all support, Amelia's prospects lay painfully thin on the ground as she nears thirty. But while scared for her life, some glimmers of hope can't be touched or snatched through domestic torture.
Everyone slips, but is the time worth biding?
--------------------------------------------------------------
Trigger warnings: Marital abuse/rape, drug use.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 24, 2024
22 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
June 17, 2025
This fine novel works triumphantly through its author’s BELABOURING of the Hegelian insight that a Master/Slave dichotomy underpins all immature relationships!
For a mature outlook fully accepts the tragedy of our lives on earth. Being fallen, we cannot refuse Judgement.
George Veck has fully matured like fine wine. Be forewarned, however - this strong vintage may produce nausea, paranoia or other adverse side effects dependant upon the emotional maturity and resilience to worldly violence possessed by the reader.
Consume only with solid emotional support!
That having been said, the novel is a dark Masterpiece.
FIVE full stars, if you can survive its vivid trauma!
***
Through email correspondence, I have known George for some time.
His potential was obvious to me from the start.
His earlier books are redolent of my own shattered familial past...
But they had not achieved the summit of masterful intensity evinced by this one!
For this book ironically and humorously Distances itself from the Dark, which is not the case in his earlier works.
His characters fall into quirky patterns of dependence and tyranny.
We Recognize them in those closest to us, and we see they’re simply human!
No longer monsters, but "lost, violent souls" - Like us.
***
There is a very positive message here for mature readers who, throughout this awful storm of life, have nevertheless retained their faith in human nature...
The message is this:
As the late great writer and physician R.D. Laing said, No Knot in our psyche is Too Tight to be loosened -
And Every valley shall be exalted.
Whether the victim KNOWS it or not...
Even if that exaltation is only for now temporary blissful deliverance from intolerable evil.
***
Mr. Veck has done us a great service.
He has pinpointed the evil that lives at the heart of our fallen natures - like the giant Adenoids in Thomas Pychon's Gravity's Rainbow - they clog our media in this Dystopian Age with a terminal death wish.
They are lethal and they are us, a dying race. May I make a suggestion?
Don't divert your eyes from Veck's words.
He is only holding a mirror to our lost faces.
For a mature outlook fully accepts the tragedy of our lives on earth. Being fallen, we cannot refuse Judgement.
George Veck has fully matured like fine wine. Be forewarned, however - this strong vintage may produce nausea, paranoia or other adverse side effects dependant upon the emotional maturity and resilience to worldly violence possessed by the reader.
Consume only with solid emotional support!
That having been said, the novel is a dark Masterpiece.
FIVE full stars, if you can survive its vivid trauma!
***
Through email correspondence, I have known George for some time.
His potential was obvious to me from the start.
His earlier books are redolent of my own shattered familial past...
But they had not achieved the summit of masterful intensity evinced by this one!
For this book ironically and humorously Distances itself from the Dark, which is not the case in his earlier works.
His characters fall into quirky patterns of dependence and tyranny.
We Recognize them in those closest to us, and we see they’re simply human!
No longer monsters, but "lost, violent souls" - Like us.
***
There is a very positive message here for mature readers who, throughout this awful storm of life, have nevertheless retained their faith in human nature...
The message is this:
As the late great writer and physician R.D. Laing said, No Knot in our psyche is Too Tight to be loosened -
And Every valley shall be exalted.
Whether the victim KNOWS it or not...
Even if that exaltation is only for now temporary blissful deliverance from intolerable evil.
***
Mr. Veck has done us a great service.
He has pinpointed the evil that lives at the heart of our fallen natures - like the giant Adenoids in Thomas Pychon's Gravity's Rainbow - they clog our media in this Dystopian Age with a terminal death wish.
They are lethal and they are us, a dying race. May I make a suggestion?
Don't divert your eyes from Veck's words.
He is only holding a mirror to our lost faces.
September 11, 2024
This is a very gripping book, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. However, it's important to note that it includes themes of domestic abuse, violence, and sexual assault. If you’re sensitive to these topics, this might not be the book for you. But if you’re a fan of dark thrillers, this could be a great addition to your collection.
June 26, 2024
Trigger warnings for marital abuse/rape,
drug taking
New book by author and I read it in one sitting, as always a hard x100 hitting story, this time dealing with the above trigger warnings and meeting some unscrupulously hideous characters, the main one being Pax, you can’t help but loathe him
However I did like Amelia, her struggle was real and her almost ‘comfortable numbness’ sorrowful, I kinda half liked her Mum too, fresh out of a 10 stretch in jail
Probably my favourite re the authors writing ( and have liked them all ) it’s a domestic thriller that huts with full impact, full of consequences and terrible decisions
Did make me smile re the Macdonald’s orders ( a light in the dark tunnel of despair ) and kudos for the Stevie Nicks reference
George Veck does not pull punches but has an admirable talent for writing differently and with realism
drug taking
New book by author and I read it in one sitting, as always a hard x100 hitting story, this time dealing with the above trigger warnings and meeting some unscrupulously hideous characters, the main one being Pax, you can’t help but loathe him
However I did like Amelia, her struggle was real and her almost ‘comfortable numbness’ sorrowful, I kinda half liked her Mum too, fresh out of a 10 stretch in jail
Probably my favourite re the authors writing ( and have liked them all ) it’s a domestic thriller that huts with full impact, full of consequences and terrible decisions
Did make me smile re the Macdonald’s orders ( a light in the dark tunnel of despair ) and kudos for the Stevie Nicks reference
George Veck does not pull punches but has an admirable talent for writing differently and with realism
July 27, 2024
What a mind screw.
I wasn't sure I was going to like this in the beginning, the characters were so messed up. But the chapters were short and the characters were so dysfunctional it was hard to stop reading, so I went down the rabbit hole and before I knew it the book was over.
Happy Reading 📙📚📓📗📘📒📓📚📙📕📙📚📓📗📔📘📒📓📚📙📕📙📚📓📗📘📖
I wasn't sure I was going to like this in the beginning, the characters were so messed up. But the chapters were short and the characters were so dysfunctional it was hard to stop reading, so I went down the rabbit hole and before I knew it the book was over.
Happy Reading 📙📚📓📗📘📒📓📚📙📕📙📚📓📗📔📘📒📓📚📙📕📙📚📓📗📘📖
November 8, 2024
I loved Belabour. If you have no triggers then read this book!! I genuinely loved reading this! Belabour grabs you from the start and carries you quickly through the book, fast-paced and well-written, I'm only sad it had to end. Is it gutt wrenching, yes. Is it a hard read emotionally, yes. Does it have horrible things happen, yes. Are there hard topics covered, yes. Would I read it again, yes! If you don't like books that have triggers then don't read it because there are triggers, but personally, I can't wait to read more from this author!
September 11, 2024
George Veck reached out to me, recommending this read after seeing I enjoyed the 'Family Of Liars' series. With the way George described his book, I knew I had to read it.
Before I start this review, this book does have a list of trigger warnings: Marital abuse/rape, drug use.
You know those books that are kind of like a train derailment that you can’t look away from? Those books are one of my few guilty pleasures. Coming in at 255 pages, this is one of my new favorites. It was definitely a one sitting read for me.
Digesting the characters a little bit, Amelia was written to be real. She seemed like a real person and her struggle and situation was written in the sense that the reader could understand (and or relate to). For obvious reasons, I hated Drake, or Pax, as he goes by in the book. I think every interaction he had with anyone was so tainted for me due to the fact that he was always doing something to paint him in a negative light. He made his bed and he’ll lay in it. Pax is a gambler, a drug pusher, and an addict. Not to mention, he’s extremely paranoid and doesn’t allow Amelia to leave the house. He’d know if she did because he bugged the place with cameras. Let’s talk about Dianne. I think the way we were really introduced to her in chapter 10 peaked my interest. We know she’s had this 10 year stay in prison, but once again, she’s mild compared to Pax. When it comes to Amelia’s brother, Anton, he seems to be the most normal character of all. He holds the same characteristics as Amelia when it comes to being written so realistic.
While this is a painful read, the writing is so raw and well done that you cannot stop reading. While Belabour is a story that features dysfunctional family, abuse and addiction, it’s much more than that. George Veck really knocked it out of the park!
Before I start this review, this book does have a list of trigger warnings: Marital abuse/rape, drug use.
You know those books that are kind of like a train derailment that you can’t look away from? Those books are one of my few guilty pleasures. Coming in at 255 pages, this is one of my new favorites. It was definitely a one sitting read for me.
Digesting the characters a little bit, Amelia was written to be real. She seemed like a real person and her struggle and situation was written in the sense that the reader could understand (and or relate to). For obvious reasons, I hated Drake, or Pax, as he goes by in the book. I think every interaction he had with anyone was so tainted for me due to the fact that he was always doing something to paint him in a negative light. He made his bed and he’ll lay in it. Pax is a gambler, a drug pusher, and an addict. Not to mention, he’s extremely paranoid and doesn’t allow Amelia to leave the house. He’d know if she did because he bugged the place with cameras. Let’s talk about Dianne. I think the way we were really introduced to her in chapter 10 peaked my interest. We know she’s had this 10 year stay in prison, but once again, she’s mild compared to Pax. When it comes to Amelia’s brother, Anton, he seems to be the most normal character of all. He holds the same characteristics as Amelia when it comes to being written so realistic.
While this is a painful read, the writing is so raw and well done that you cannot stop reading. While Belabour is a story that features dysfunctional family, abuse and addiction, it’s much more than that. George Veck really knocked it out of the park!
August 4, 2024
A raw read, characters felt very real, while my heart broke for Amelia her husband Pax made me want to throat punch him! Fantastic read!
December 3, 2024
Belabour is a hard-hitting story that revolves around drug addiction, abuse and manipulation. Belabour is well written but just so bleak and brutal. All the characters are very unlikable, especially Pax, who is very cruel. I had trouble understanding some of the language/slang throughout the story but if you are looking for a raw, gritty novel then Belabour is for you. Thanks to the author for my copy of his latest novel. 3.5 stars.
July 12, 2024
Trigger warnings - this book contains scenes of drug use and abuse.
What a read. This is a warts and all book about a drug dealing cop who is abusing and controlling his wife and she has no way to escape him. She can’t even leave the house without his permission and as he gets more and more depraved this really is a painful read but well worth it for an honest look behind the door to how some people live in fear every single day.
What a read. This is a warts and all book about a drug dealing cop who is abusing and controlling his wife and she has no way to escape him. She can’t even leave the house without his permission and as he gets more and more depraved this really is a painful read but well worth it for an honest look behind the door to how some people live in fear every single day.
August 12, 2024
Don't do drugs
I made myself finish this drug-addled book.
All I can think of is how drugs destroy everyone you come to love.
I made myself finish this drug-addled book.
All I can think of is how drugs destroy everyone you come to love.
September 24, 2024
I flew through this one, like a train wreck that I couldn’t possibly look away from. My reading is often done in short stints in the evenings so to be done in less than 3 nights means this novel caught my attention.
Seedy cops, domestic abuse, severe drug use, are just a few of the triggers throughout this book. Sergeant Paxton (arrogantly refers to himself as the Pax man) runs a tight ship at home. Ten years ago when his now wife’s parents were sent to jail, Pax saw an opportunity and convinced their daughter Amelia to marry him. Now Amelia and her younger brother Anton both live in the house, their fates sealed due to the continuous supply of Valium that Pax supplies. The mental and physical abuse is just the icing on the cake.
Filling his days with light work and long stints at the pub, Pax is no stranger to life’s potential addictions. He soon finds himself on the dealing end as well.
The novel jumps around to multiple points of view, not just of the three individuals living in the Paxton house but also fellow cops, past acquaintances, and so forth. You may be living the high life for a bit but circumstances can change in an instant…
I have to admit the dialogue set me back at first, definitely not used to the Wales way of language. So glad I stuck with it, I became entranced and eager to see where these characters faults lead them. With the way this novel is written I can imagine it being made into a powerful film. Thoroughly enjoyed, well done George Veck!
Seedy cops, domestic abuse, severe drug use, are just a few of the triggers throughout this book. Sergeant Paxton (arrogantly refers to himself as the Pax man) runs a tight ship at home. Ten years ago when his now wife’s parents were sent to jail, Pax saw an opportunity and convinced their daughter Amelia to marry him. Now Amelia and her younger brother Anton both live in the house, their fates sealed due to the continuous supply of Valium that Pax supplies. The mental and physical abuse is just the icing on the cake.
Filling his days with light work and long stints at the pub, Pax is no stranger to life’s potential addictions. He soon finds himself on the dealing end as well.
The novel jumps around to multiple points of view, not just of the three individuals living in the Paxton house but also fellow cops, past acquaintances, and so forth. You may be living the high life for a bit but circumstances can change in an instant…
I have to admit the dialogue set me back at first, definitely not used to the Wales way of language. So glad I stuck with it, I became entranced and eager to see where these characters faults lead them. With the way this novel is written I can imagine it being made into a powerful film. Thoroughly enjoyed, well done George Veck!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2024
Amelia and Pax are married and he's physically abusive to her on a daily basis. But since Pax is a deputy inspector it's clear she probably won't be believed. Pax has his own demons: he's a gambler, a coke dealer (and user), and has installed hidden cameras all over the house. To add to the drama, Amelia's mother Dianne has been in prison and when released, comes to stay with them. And it goes downhill from there...! While it was fascinating, it was also very depressing so read at your own risk!
August 16, 2024
Painfully Good Read
This isn't a fluffy read. It's dark, painful, and intense but it is also interesting to read. I do suggest reading the trigger warnings for this before reading. It is definitely worth reading though.
This isn't a fluffy read. It's dark, painful, and intense but it is also interesting to read. I do suggest reading the trigger warnings for this before reading. It is definitely worth reading though.
January 3, 2025
I found it a struggle to get into, didn't like or could feel any sympathy for the characters and I'm still struggling to work out the plot. Seems to have lots of good reviews but sorry not for me.
June 28, 2024
Wow what a read I couldn’t put it down, where did this all come from? Yes we have the classic George Veck drug story but there is much more in this from crime to abuse and miscarriage got to be one of his best books a must read
September 17, 2025
I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Having read the blurb on the novel, I was prepared for the subjects contained within.
Trigger warnings for domestic violence, drug abuse, rape.
I haven't ever read a book quite like this one. I like to read genres like this, but the rawness and detailed descriptions in Belabour took this to another level. You get fully under the skin of what is going on. The graphic way the scenarios are played out , whether in the marital home, the favoured pubs, main characters' homes, or prison, feel very real, like a documentary in your mind! I almost feel bad saying I enjoyed reading it, given the themes.
I had to Google George Veck afterwards to check that this wasn't in some way semi autobiographical (it isn't!) due to the minute detail of many of the drug and prison related parts of the book.
Very gritty and raw. Do not read if you like softly, softly style books or those with happy endings!
Having read the blurb on the novel, I was prepared for the subjects contained within.
Trigger warnings for domestic violence, drug abuse, rape.
I haven't ever read a book quite like this one. I like to read genres like this, but the rawness and detailed descriptions in Belabour took this to another level. You get fully under the skin of what is going on. The graphic way the scenarios are played out , whether in the marital home, the favoured pubs, main characters' homes, or prison, feel very real, like a documentary in your mind! I almost feel bad saying I enjoyed reading it, given the themes.
I had to Google George Veck afterwards to check that this wasn't in some way semi autobiographical (it isn't!) due to the minute detail of many of the drug and prison related parts of the book.
Very gritty and raw. Do not read if you like softly, softly style books or those with happy endings!
December 5, 2024
Twenty-eight-year-old Amelia Paxton is trapped in an abusive marriage, used as a physical and psychological punchbag by her husband, Detective Sergeant Drake “Pax” Paxton, one of the most corrupt, degenerate coppers in Chester Police Force, and there are a few to choose from.
Pax has ensured that Amelia has become completely isolated, literally and figuratively, a forsaken state compounded by her crippling valium dependency for which Pax is the willing, controlling supplier…
Belabour is another tough, unfiltered story from Veck that plumbs the depth of human depravity, abuse, and addiction. If “rock bottom” had a basement, it would be where Veck’s characters dwell.
Like his previous novels*, Belabour requires an open mind, and its content is not for the faint-hearted. Personally, it’s a horribly compelling, darkly humorous, and thought-provoking read that I found difficult to put down.
Pax’s relentless abuse, which Amelia has been subjected to for nearly a decade, and her subsequent reliance on valium have rendered her a pitiful husk of a woman. Consequently, she could appear one-dimensional, and Veck could have written her into a stereotype.
However, he avoids this. Although the reader meets her in a miserable condition with little hope of salvation, tiny fragments of her undimmed personality flicker through. But Pax’s ten-year brutal, ironclad grip on every aspect of her life has destroyed any spirit.
She’s not without a touch of cunning, mainly deployed when obtaining and maintaining her supply of pills, and occasionally, her decision-making echoes with hints of a more forceful, emotionally intelligent woman than the addicted, beaten shell she has become.
Amelia’s feral younger brother, Anton, also under Pax’s coercion, is relatively useless due to his rampant drug problem, although odd moments of regret and guilt bubble up.
But it’s Pax who controls the narrative, or thinks he does, for at least three-quarters of the novel. Vicious, amoral, and psychopathic, he possesses no redeeming features yet is a pathetic figure in several respects. His barbaric behaviour stems from a severe inferiority complex, which is highlighted early on with an excruciating scene in a Chinese restaurant.
Notwithstanding, he elicits no sympathy, and neither do his self-serving acolytes, such as Fletcher, Konrad, and Steph. All turn a blind eye to Pax’s actions as they feed their own grubby habits and hustles. Amelia and Anton’s mum, Dianne, is a particularly loathsome example of derelict motherhood.
Veck’s pace is blistering and his writing crawls with visceral, skin-itching realism. Characters lurch from one wretched drink-fuelled, drug-addled grift to another, sinking lower into the morass as they do. Words spew onto the page. Occasionally, they trip over themselves and get a little scrappy, but their raw, authentic quality, riddled with jargon and scored with grim humour, is exactly what this story needs.
There is no main, propulsive plot but the scattered, trembling threads of various intentions and tangents that have consequences, some connected, some not, for the bulk of the cast. Given that the majority are unable of coherent thought, this sketchy narrative structure is both credible and complementary, and its unpredictability keeps the pages turning.
An amusing but poignant side-angle involving Larry and Solly residing in HMP Horn Cross is worthy of its own book. Larry is the only personality with a minuscule shred of drive and decency, but it’s a low bar, and his ending, well-intentioned though it is, puts pay to his ambitions.
Realistic, disturbing, and addictive, Belabour is another work of gritty genius from Veck. Highly recommended.
Pax has ensured that Amelia has become completely isolated, literally and figuratively, a forsaken state compounded by her crippling valium dependency for which Pax is the willing, controlling supplier…
Belabour is another tough, unfiltered story from Veck that plumbs the depth of human depravity, abuse, and addiction. If “rock bottom” had a basement, it would be where Veck’s characters dwell.
Like his previous novels*, Belabour requires an open mind, and its content is not for the faint-hearted. Personally, it’s a horribly compelling, darkly humorous, and thought-provoking read that I found difficult to put down.
Pax’s relentless abuse, which Amelia has been subjected to for nearly a decade, and her subsequent reliance on valium have rendered her a pitiful husk of a woman. Consequently, she could appear one-dimensional, and Veck could have written her into a stereotype.
However, he avoids this. Although the reader meets her in a miserable condition with little hope of salvation, tiny fragments of her undimmed personality flicker through. But Pax’s ten-year brutal, ironclad grip on every aspect of her life has destroyed any spirit.
She’s not without a touch of cunning, mainly deployed when obtaining and maintaining her supply of pills, and occasionally, her decision-making echoes with hints of a more forceful, emotionally intelligent woman than the addicted, beaten shell she has become.
Amelia’s feral younger brother, Anton, also under Pax’s coercion, is relatively useless due to his rampant drug problem, although odd moments of regret and guilt bubble up.
But it’s Pax who controls the narrative, or thinks he does, for at least three-quarters of the novel. Vicious, amoral, and psychopathic, he possesses no redeeming features yet is a pathetic figure in several respects. His barbaric behaviour stems from a severe inferiority complex, which is highlighted early on with an excruciating scene in a Chinese restaurant.
Notwithstanding, he elicits no sympathy, and neither do his self-serving acolytes, such as Fletcher, Konrad, and Steph. All turn a blind eye to Pax’s actions as they feed their own grubby habits and hustles. Amelia and Anton’s mum, Dianne, is a particularly loathsome example of derelict motherhood.
Veck’s pace is blistering and his writing crawls with visceral, skin-itching realism. Characters lurch from one wretched drink-fuelled, drug-addled grift to another, sinking lower into the morass as they do. Words spew onto the page. Occasionally, they trip over themselves and get a little scrappy, but their raw, authentic quality, riddled with jargon and scored with grim humour, is exactly what this story needs.
There is no main, propulsive plot but the scattered, trembling threads of various intentions and tangents that have consequences, some connected, some not, for the bulk of the cast. Given that the majority are unable of coherent thought, this sketchy narrative structure is both credible and complementary, and its unpredictability keeps the pages turning.
An amusing but poignant side-angle involving Larry and Solly residing in HMP Horn Cross is worthy of its own book. Larry is the only personality with a minuscule shred of drive and decency, but it’s a low bar, and his ending, well-intentioned though it is, puts pay to his ambitions.
Realistic, disturbing, and addictive, Belabour is another work of gritty genius from Veck. Highly recommended.
July 20, 2024
Belabour: A Psychological Crime Drama about Coercive Control
George Veck
Belabour is the story of a dysfunctional family, abuse and addiction. Pax and Amelia are married but it is not a happy marriage. He abuses her constantly. While my first thought is why does she stay; most abused people are afraid to leave; they have no self-confidence, no support and are terrified of what the abuser will do. In this book Pax is a man of authority. Often the abuser is police officer, firefighter or other person considered a “hero.” Pax is a deputy inspector. He is also a gambler, a drug pusher, and an addict. He refuses to allow his wife to leave the house. He has installed cameras to make sure she obeys his every rule. Amelia is an addict; Pax is her pusher. He provides her with just enough to keep her in line.
While I cannot say I like this book it does exactly what books are suppose to do, it moves me emotionally. Author George Veck has captured the essence of the abuser and the abused. This book brings pain for noone should have to face the brutality Amelia faced. I cannot imagine living such a nightmare.
I found the dialogue hard to understand but I think that may be because the author is from the UK.
The emotion that rolls off of this literary piece is disturbing. Some books are written to entertain, some to inform, while others are written to stir our emotions. We, meaning me would like to hide such brutality in a closet or sweep it under a rug but it can't be hidden that easily. When we look at others do we really see them? Recently, I saw a woman that I thought could be in an abusive situation. I did ask if she was ok, if I could do anything for her. She assured me all was well and I believed her. My point is are we looking? If someone had looked closer at Pax would they have recognized what he truly was. What if someone saw the abused on Amelia's face, could they have helped her. As a society we are terrified of saying the wrong thing. Let this book be a call to wake up.
George Veck
Belabour is the story of a dysfunctional family, abuse and addiction. Pax and Amelia are married but it is not a happy marriage. He abuses her constantly. While my first thought is why does she stay; most abused people are afraid to leave; they have no self-confidence, no support and are terrified of what the abuser will do. In this book Pax is a man of authority. Often the abuser is police officer, firefighter or other person considered a “hero.” Pax is a deputy inspector. He is also a gambler, a drug pusher, and an addict. He refuses to allow his wife to leave the house. He has installed cameras to make sure she obeys his every rule. Amelia is an addict; Pax is her pusher. He provides her with just enough to keep her in line.
While I cannot say I like this book it does exactly what books are suppose to do, it moves me emotionally. Author George Veck has captured the essence of the abuser and the abused. This book brings pain for noone should have to face the brutality Amelia faced. I cannot imagine living such a nightmare.
I found the dialogue hard to understand but I think that may be because the author is from the UK.
The emotion that rolls off of this literary piece is disturbing. Some books are written to entertain, some to inform, while others are written to stir our emotions. We, meaning me would like to hide such brutality in a closet or sweep it under a rug but it can't be hidden that easily. When we look at others do we really see them? Recently, I saw a woman that I thought could be in an abusive situation. I did ask if she was ok, if I could do anything for her. She assured me all was well and I believed her. My point is are we looking? If someone had looked closer at Pax would they have recognized what he truly was. What if someone saw the abused on Amelia's face, could they have helped her. As a society we are terrified of saying the wrong thing. Let this book be a call to wake up.
March 25, 2025
"Belabour" by George Vek is not a gentle read; it's a raw, unsettling plunge into the depths of domestic psychological thriller.
Vek crafts a narrative that grabs you with a vice-like intensity, refusing to let go until the final, chilling page.
Vek excels at creating an atmosphere of oppressive dread. The book doesn't rely on cheap jump scares; instead, it builds a slow, agonizing sense of unease. The reader becomes a reluctant witness to the insidious erosion of a person's spirit.
The portrayal of the central relationship is disturbingly realistic. It's not a cartoonish depiction of evil, but a nuanced exploration of control, manipulation, and the slow creep of psychological abuse.
The book delves into the very dark places of the human condition. It is a very real feeling portrayal, of a very difficult subject matter.
Vek doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of domestic abuse. The narrative is gritty and unflinching, which, while difficult to read at times, lends the story a powerful sense of authenticity.
Psychological Depth: The characters are more than just archetypes. Vek explores their motivations and vulnerabilities with a keen eye, creating complex and believable individuals.
Atmospheric Tension: The book is a masterclass in building tension. The reader is constantly on edge, never quite sure what will happen next.
Trigger warnings: Readers sensitive to depictions of domestic abuse may find Belabour difficult to read. The nature of the subject matter, makes this book not for everyone.
"Belabour" is a powerful and disturbing novel that is a testament to George Vek's skill as a storyteller, and a stark reminder of the dark side of human nature.
Vek crafts a narrative that grabs you with a vice-like intensity, refusing to let go until the final, chilling page.
Vek excels at creating an atmosphere of oppressive dread. The book doesn't rely on cheap jump scares; instead, it builds a slow, agonizing sense of unease. The reader becomes a reluctant witness to the insidious erosion of a person's spirit.
The portrayal of the central relationship is disturbingly realistic. It's not a cartoonish depiction of evil, but a nuanced exploration of control, manipulation, and the slow creep of psychological abuse.
The book delves into the very dark places of the human condition. It is a very real feeling portrayal, of a very difficult subject matter.
Vek doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of domestic abuse. The narrative is gritty and unflinching, which, while difficult to read at times, lends the story a powerful sense of authenticity.
Psychological Depth: The characters are more than just archetypes. Vek explores their motivations and vulnerabilities with a keen eye, creating complex and believable individuals.
Atmospheric Tension: The book is a masterclass in building tension. The reader is constantly on edge, never quite sure what will happen next.
Trigger warnings: Readers sensitive to depictions of domestic abuse may find Belabour difficult to read. The nature of the subject matter, makes this book not for everyone.
"Belabour" is a powerful and disturbing novel that is a testament to George Vek's skill as a storyteller, and a stark reminder of the dark side of human nature.
July 26, 2024
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Belabour by George Veck is a brutally real, dark and disturbing domestic thriller that will make your skin crawl and your blood run cold!
Let's start with a stunning cover! How beautiful is it! You can feel it will be not an easy read.
And now all the heavy things...
In some way, this book is like a manual in the drug world! As a person who never used any drugs but now working daily with homeless drug addicts (existing and recovering) I learned a lot. The way they think, do and act! The way they don't care and care too much! WOW! I will take a fair share of knowledge with me!
Pax ( a Detective Sargeant Drake Paxton) is the most hatable character I come across in a while! Can I scream how much I hate him? Men like him think they can do everything and anything and there are no limits... Someone, please stop the oxygen supply to this individual! Seriously, one of the most disgusting characters ever!
He is a paranoid and controlling, abusive coke-dealing addict and gambler who hides behind his badge!
Amelia, oh dear Amelia, run! Just run and never look back! It's heartbreaking to read of all the nightmares that are her daily life! This is the most dysfunctional family that I read about in a long time! I want to scream and cry and the violent side of me is poking out! Grrr!
Even though this is a heavy read and I needed to take a couple of breaks, McDonald's drive-through scene made me laugh so hard!
I like to challenge myself and try out heavy topics or books out of my daily preferences and I am happy for this as I am finding some real gems from time to time!
Definitely check trigger warnings!
Belabour by George Veck is a brutally real, dark and disturbing domestic thriller that will make your skin crawl and your blood run cold!
Let's start with a stunning cover! How beautiful is it! You can feel it will be not an easy read.
And now all the heavy things...
In some way, this book is like a manual in the drug world! As a person who never used any drugs but now working daily with homeless drug addicts (existing and recovering) I learned a lot. The way they think, do and act! The way they don't care and care too much! WOW! I will take a fair share of knowledge with me!
Pax ( a Detective Sargeant Drake Paxton) is the most hatable character I come across in a while! Can I scream how much I hate him? Men like him think they can do everything and anything and there are no limits... Someone, please stop the oxygen supply to this individual! Seriously, one of the most disgusting characters ever!
He is a paranoid and controlling, abusive coke-dealing addict and gambler who hides behind his badge!
Amelia, oh dear Amelia, run! Just run and never look back! It's heartbreaking to read of all the nightmares that are her daily life! This is the most dysfunctional family that I read about in a long time! I want to scream and cry and the violent side of me is poking out! Grrr!
Even though this is a heavy read and I needed to take a couple of breaks, McDonald's drive-through scene made me laugh so hard!
I like to challenge myself and try out heavy topics or books out of my daily preferences and I am happy for this as I am finding some real gems from time to time!
Definitely check trigger warnings!
August 21, 2024
Disclaimer: I received this book in exchange for an honest review. I really liked this book! It’s not the typical type of book i go for, but i was pleasantly surprised. It keeps you on the edge of your seat! It talks about rough topics like domestic violence, marital rape, and emotional abuse. I appreciated seeing the characters different perspectives in each chapter. I wish each chapter was longer though because sometimes it felt abrupt. I would also appreciate more inner dialogues to better understand the characters motives- sometimes it felt like i was just watching the scene like an outsider. However, I think the book did a great job of conveying those raw emotions of pain and helplessness. It was interesting because you wonder how the main character got herself into this mess but then you learn the backstory with her own mother and it makes it more understandable- when chaos is all you know, it’s what you’re going to seek out for yourself, fully showing the intergenerational nature of things like domestic violence and abuse. It was sad to see the police lack of involvement, which is pretty accurate because sometimes it poses more of a risk to the victim to get the police involved and they dont want to take that risk of things getting worse before it gets better. It was really disheartening to see the marital rape and my heart broke for the main character. There’s not a lot of books on these topics so it was an important read!
August 9, 2024
This book was my first introduction to George Veck and it did not disappoint. I look forward to reading more from him.
The story lays out the dynamic and complex life of each character. One of my favorite aspects of this book was how intertwined each character's story is with each other. It made me empathize with people who I wouldn't normally and lent understanding to why they did the things they did. It really gives you a different set of perspectives to consider which I quite enjoyed.
You have this abuser who's in a societal role of authority and is well-respected in certain circles. The author does an excellent job showing us the cracks in his facade (more like caverns but cracks none the same).
I'm not sure if this was the author's intended effect, but this story gives an arthouse film feel. You have domestic violence, drug use, misuse of authority, and the dynamic of living/staying with an abuser who's also your dealer, being aware enough to recognize it's not right but seeing no other way with your circumstances - it's a tough situation to be in.
This is not a light topic in the least bit and a book that deserves proper attention.
I was drawn into a gritty world that made me cringe with second-hand embarrassment and pain for the characters. So many times it felt as if I was in the room with them and wanted to help. There are few authors who can draw you in like that.
If you’re looking for a book like that, then you need to check this one out.
The story lays out the dynamic and complex life of each character. One of my favorite aspects of this book was how intertwined each character's story is with each other. It made me empathize with people who I wouldn't normally and lent understanding to why they did the things they did. It really gives you a different set of perspectives to consider which I quite enjoyed.
You have this abuser who's in a societal role of authority and is well-respected in certain circles. The author does an excellent job showing us the cracks in his facade (more like caverns but cracks none the same).
I'm not sure if this was the author's intended effect, but this story gives an arthouse film feel. You have domestic violence, drug use, misuse of authority, and the dynamic of living/staying with an abuser who's also your dealer, being aware enough to recognize it's not right but seeing no other way with your circumstances - it's a tough situation to be in.
This is not a light topic in the least bit and a book that deserves proper attention.
I was drawn into a gritty world that made me cringe with second-hand embarrassment and pain for the characters. So many times it felt as if I was in the room with them and wanted to help. There are few authors who can draw you in like that.
If you’re looking for a book like that, then you need to check this one out.
August 3, 2024
George Veck's Belabour is a dark and highly emotional story that focuses on a husband who extremely aabusive mentally, emotionally, and physically to his wife and brother-in-law, as well as making them dependent on Valium, Cocain, and other illicit drugs.
What makes the story worse is the fact that the husband is a police officer, and neither one of these people has a place to turn to because one wrong step, or worse, one wrong look, will have the other cops breathing down their necks or arresting them for pent charges so fast no one would know what to do.
Mr. Veck does such an outstanding job describing the lives of the lower social economic society, the people being abused, and those living off the different types of drugs. If one is unfamiliar with the author, they would truly believe based on the writing alone, he is quite familiar with the topics he brings to life in such gory, and dramatic details.
The readers hope by the end of the book the will be a happy resolution of some sort, but they quickly realize life does not work that way, and happy endings are things of fairytales. The best the readers can hope for, as well as the characters, is either the next best high or temporary sobriety.
What makes the story worse is the fact that the husband is a police officer, and neither one of these people has a place to turn to because one wrong step, or worse, one wrong look, will have the other cops breathing down their necks or arresting them for pent charges so fast no one would know what to do.
Mr. Veck does such an outstanding job describing the lives of the lower social economic society, the people being abused, and those living off the different types of drugs. If one is unfamiliar with the author, they would truly believe based on the writing alone, he is quite familiar with the topics he brings to life in such gory, and dramatic details.
The readers hope by the end of the book the will be a happy resolution of some sort, but they quickly realize life does not work that way, and happy endings are things of fairytales. The best the readers can hope for, as well as the characters, is either the next best high or temporary sobriety.
July 13, 2024
With elements of spousal abuse, rape, drug dealing and misuse, Veck gives us a brutal insight to the marriage of the Paxton family and their unethical lifestyle.
The Paxton's are by far the most disfunctional family I've read about in a while. Now I don't usually react so strongly to a character, but after my initial introduction to Drake Paxton, all I can think is he's an absolute piece of low life scum. Men like him think they can do anything and hide behind the guise of their job title, which in Drake's case is a Detective Sargeant, a pillar of the community. As for Amelia, why didn't she just leave, taking her brother with her?
I flew through the book this afternoon, it had me hooked from the opening pages and I was compelled to keep reading.
It's dark, disturbing and could well be real. You never know what's going on behind closed doors and appearances can be deceiving.
I look forward to reading more from Veck in the future.
The Paxton's are by far the most disfunctional family I've read about in a while. Now I don't usually react so strongly to a character, but after my initial introduction to Drake Paxton, all I can think is he's an absolute piece of low life scum. Men like him think they can do anything and hide behind the guise of their job title, which in Drake's case is a Detective Sargeant, a pillar of the community. As for Amelia, why didn't she just leave, taking her brother with her?
I flew through the book this afternoon, it had me hooked from the opening pages and I was compelled to keep reading.
It's dark, disturbing and could well be real. You never know what's going on behind closed doors and appearances can be deceiving.
I look forward to reading more from Veck in the future.
October 25, 2024
George Veck grips us with a tense and emotionally difficult domestic abuse thriller with Belabour! When Detective Paxton takes in Amelia and her younger brother, he sees an opportunity to take control of their lives. Using drugs and emotional (and physical) abuse to control them, there doesn’t seem to be any hope, but Amelia learns to be patient as she searches for a way out. Veck crafts powerful descriptions that instantly pulled me in and hit home the realism of Amelia’s hopeless situation. This is a hard look at domestic abuse and is honestly emotionally difficult to get through at times. But Amelia’s situation isn’t completely without hope as the novel does push towards a better ending. If you’re looking for an emotional thriller that hits you right in the heart, definitely come hold Amelia’s hand with Belabour!
October 26, 2024
I loved this book, and the character development. The story was gripping, and I definitely enjoyed reading through it. Though, at times, it did feel a little difficult and perhaps there was a bit of language barrier. There seemed to be a bit of a disconnect between the writing style and the non-British reader. There were definitely times I had to reread things to understand what was going on, and had to look up the occasional slang or phrase to understand it completely, which in turn made it take a little longer to read through.
However, with that being said, I felt it was a small price to pay for the story itself. Definitely worth it.
TW: domestic abuse, assault, sexual assault, drug use
**Thank you to George Veck for sending a copy of this book for review. All opinions are my own.**
However, with that being said, I felt it was a small price to pay for the story itself. Definitely worth it.
TW: domestic abuse, assault, sexual assault, drug use
**Thank you to George Veck for sending a copy of this book for review. All opinions are my own.**
December 24, 2024
The author, George Veck, reached out to me and suggested I read Belabour based on a review I had left on another book. He allowed me to have a free electronic copy in the return of an honest review.
After reading through a slew of psychological thrillers that were on my reading list, when I finally read through Belabour, it felt like my heart stopped. Thriller after thriller had kept me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what the mysteries had in store. This book was nothing like that. It had so many emotions that were full of gut punches and heartbreaks. The amount of abuse, control, and addictions were such tragic topics. I read through this one in a day because I had to know what the outcome would be. This will be a reread for sure and it is highly recommended to anyone looking for a book to change their mood from their normal reading genre.
After reading through a slew of psychological thrillers that were on my reading list, when I finally read through Belabour, it felt like my heart stopped. Thriller after thriller had kept me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what the mysteries had in store. This book was nothing like that. It had so many emotions that were full of gut punches and heartbreaks. The amount of abuse, control, and addictions were such tragic topics. I read through this one in a day because I had to know what the outcome would be. This will be a reread for sure and it is highly recommended to anyone looking for a book to change their mood from their normal reading genre.
July 28, 2024
Belabour
By: George Veck
4 Stars
This was not a book I would normally pick myself to read, but I was approached by the author in return for an honest review. With the content I was worried that I may not like this book. I was surprised at the depth and the realism that Mr. Veck was able to provide.
I was quickly immersed in this crazy world of drugs, drama, and abuse. This was a book that shows the horrors that can be hidden behind closed doors in a marriage. The characters were very simple to either love or hate. No in between really, in my opinion. The storyline is crazy, wild, and if I dare say, emotional, but it grabbed my attention easily, and with its short chapters, it was also a rather easy and quick read.
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Reviews
By: George Veck
4 Stars
This was not a book I would normally pick myself to read, but I was approached by the author in return for an honest review. With the content I was worried that I may not like this book. I was surprised at the depth and the realism that Mr. Veck was able to provide.
I was quickly immersed in this crazy world of drugs, drama, and abuse. This was a book that shows the horrors that can be hidden behind closed doors in a marriage. The characters were very simple to either love or hate. No in between really, in my opinion. The storyline is crazy, wild, and if I dare say, emotional, but it grabbed my attention easily, and with its short chapters, it was also a rather easy and quick read.
Stormi Ellis
Boundless Book Reviews
September 4, 2024
Belabour by George Veck was so good!! This is a dark story that deals with domestic abuse, drug use, and shady cops.
Paxton a sergeant for the police department is married to Amelia and her brother Anton live with them as well. Pax is abusive in every way possible to both Amelia and Anton, even going as far as getting them addicted to drugs. Amelia and Anton are stuck because their parents are in prison and if they try to leave he will have the cops after them. He is awful!!
I was blown away by this story. George is from North Wales so the dialogue was different but I caught on. George did not hold back describing the abuse Amelia went through and the different drugs they were addicted to. He wrote this story so well I was wondering if he was personally familiar with the events that’s happened in this story. I recommend this book it’s a quick read but packs a punch.
Paxton a sergeant for the police department is married to Amelia and her brother Anton live with them as well. Pax is abusive in every way possible to both Amelia and Anton, even going as far as getting them addicted to drugs. Amelia and Anton are stuck because their parents are in prison and if they try to leave he will have the cops after them. He is awful!!
I was blown away by this story. George is from North Wales so the dialogue was different but I caught on. George did not hold back describing the abuse Amelia went through and the different drugs they were addicted to. He wrote this story so well I was wondering if he was personally familiar with the events that’s happened in this story. I recommend this book it’s a quick read but packs a punch.
December 21, 2024
This doesn't fit any of my usual genres, but when the author reached out and asked if I'd be interested in reading it, I was hooked by the blurb. I'm the daughter of addicts, and there's not a day that goes by that I'm not grateful I've made the choice I have to not get involved with drugs or alcohol. To each their own, but books like this, even works of fiction, solidify that my decisions were the best ones for me personally. It is graphic, but so worth the read. I admit it took me a while to read, but only because I don't read a lot on my phone, so I had it when I was waiting at appointments or being antisocial on lunch breaks.
I appreciate the free copy of the book, it has no influence on my positive review. Sorry it took so long to post this review.
I appreciate the free copy of the book, it has no influence on my positive review. Sorry it took so long to post this review.
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