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Rusty Knob #1
Rusty Knob
The townsfolk of Rusty Knob, West Virginia, see the Gillettes as ignorant wastes of space– worthless drunk sponges. As the youngest, Wynn may be a Gillette, but he doesn’t act, nor think like one. At only seventeen, he studies hard, plays basketball harder, and works the hardest.
Wynn is numb to his core, no longer feeling the hits that keep knocking him down to the ground. He’s unable to see the bright future laid out before him. Royce Kennedy, a distant relative, tries all he can do to save the youngest generation of Gillettes from the dark shroud of bitter ignorance infecting them via their neglectful upbringing.
Wynn’s studying is to the backdrop of drunken chaos, his relationship with friends and family are tainted by a narrow world view, and his life is filled with more questions than answers. His every dollar earned is bled dry come payday, only to have his parents piss it down the toilet or blow caustic smoke to billow in the air.
A warped sense of loyalty forces Wynn to be his family’s enabler, and he’s paying the ultimate price. With the support system of Royce, the mentor of the school district’s LGBTQ online community, and Wynn’s friends, they try to prove to Wynn he deserves anything he needs, whether he earns it or not. Growing up in an ignorant wasteland, he never learned love, friendship, and respect are unconditional, can never be purchased, and should never be abused.
Wynn Gillette is at a crossroads. One thing’s for sure, he cannot continue on this destructive path. Wynn has to end the only life he’s ever known, breaking the bitter legacy passed down from one generation to the next. One way or the other. Permanently.
Rusty Knob is a M/M Coming of Age/New Adult Romance.
Wynn is numb to his core, no longer feeling the hits that keep knocking him down to the ground. He’s unable to see the bright future laid out before him. Royce Kennedy, a distant relative, tries all he can do to save the youngest generation of Gillettes from the dark shroud of bitter ignorance infecting them via their neglectful upbringing.
Wynn’s studying is to the backdrop of drunken chaos, his relationship with friends and family are tainted by a narrow world view, and his life is filled with more questions than answers. His every dollar earned is bled dry come payday, only to have his parents piss it down the toilet or blow caustic smoke to billow in the air.
A warped sense of loyalty forces Wynn to be his family’s enabler, and he’s paying the ultimate price. With the support system of Royce, the mentor of the school district’s LGBTQ online community, and Wynn’s friends, they try to prove to Wynn he deserves anything he needs, whether he earns it or not. Growing up in an ignorant wasteland, he never learned love, friendship, and respect are unconditional, can never be purchased, and should never be abused.
Wynn Gillette is at a crossroads. One thing’s for sure, he cannot continue on this destructive path. Wynn has to end the only life he’s ever known, breaking the bitter legacy passed down from one generation to the next. One way or the other. Permanently.
Rusty Knob is a M/M Coming of Age/New Adult Romance.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2015
2 people are currently reading
535 people want to read
About the author
Erica Chilson
42 books438 followersErica Chilson does not write in the 3rd person, wanting her readers to be her characters. Therefore, writing a bio about herself, is uncomfortable in the extreme.
Born, raised, and here to stay, the Wicked Writer is a stump-jumper, a ridge-runner. Hailing from North Central Pennsylvania, directly on the New York State border; she loves the changes in seasons, the humid air, all the mountainous forest, and the gloomy atmosphere.
Introverted, but not socially awkward, Erica prides herself on thinking first and filtering her speech. There are days she doesn’t speak at all. If it wasn’t for the fact that she lives with her parents, giving her a sense of reality, she would be a hermit, where the delivery man finds her months after expiration.
Reading was an escape, a way to leave a not-so pleasant reality behind. Reading lent Erica the courage she gathered from the characters between the pages to long for a different life. Writing was an instrument of change, evolving Erica into the woman she is today- a better, more mature, more at peace thinker.
Erica has a wicked mind, one she pours out into her creations. Her filter doesn’t allow all of it to erupt, much to her relief. Sarcastic, with a very dark, perverse sense of humor, Erica puts a bit of herself into every character she writes.
Born, raised, and here to stay, the Wicked Writer is a stump-jumper, a ridge-runner. Hailing from North Central Pennsylvania, directly on the New York State border; she loves the changes in seasons, the humid air, all the mountainous forest, and the gloomy atmosphere.
Introverted, but not socially awkward, Erica prides herself on thinking first and filtering her speech. There are days she doesn’t speak at all. If it wasn’t for the fact that she lives with her parents, giving her a sense of reality, she would be a hermit, where the delivery man finds her months after expiration.
Reading was an escape, a way to leave a not-so pleasant reality behind. Reading lent Erica the courage she gathered from the characters between the pages to long for a different life. Writing was an instrument of change, evolving Erica into the woman she is today- a better, more mature, more at peace thinker.
Erica has a wicked mind, one she pours out into her creations. Her filter doesn’t allow all of it to erupt, much to her relief. Sarcastic, with a very dark, perverse sense of humor, Erica puts a bit of herself into every character she writes.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 24, 2015
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
I sat down to read this thinking I would read a few chapters. HA that was a childish thought really. Four hours later I was reading the final words. I could not put it down. I loved the build up between the main characters. There was angst, but it was light-hearted, funny at times and sweet at others. It was sexy, and had sexual tension at high levels, but above all it felt real. The emotions that plagued the main character weren't manufactured. It was definitely an emotional read. Rusty Knob aimed for my emotions and got a direct hit pulling the feels out of me.
There were times I wanted to slap people throughout, but they are what shaped Wynn to who he was. For me, being an avid Chilson reader, it had a very Blended feel to it and I'm not saying that as a bad thing. At times I would read a paragraph or sentence and completely feel like it would be something Augustus Kline would say or do.
Ms. Chilson has always touched on the m/m genre but this is her first completely within this genre. This is somewhere she definitely belongs. I can't wait to see what happens in the rest of this series.
I sat down to read this thinking I would read a few chapters. HA that was a childish thought really. Four hours later I was reading the final words. I could not put it down. I loved the build up between the main characters. There was angst, but it was light-hearted, funny at times and sweet at others. It was sexy, and had sexual tension at high levels, but above all it felt real. The emotions that plagued the main character weren't manufactured. It was definitely an emotional read. Rusty Knob aimed for my emotions and got a direct hit pulling the feels out of me.
There were times I wanted to slap people throughout, but they are what shaped Wynn to who he was. For me, being an avid Chilson reader, it had a very Blended feel to it and I'm not saying that as a bad thing. At times I would read a paragraph or sentence and completely feel like it would be something Augustus Kline would say or do.
Ms. Chilson has always touched on the m/m genre but this is her first completely within this genre. This is somewhere she definitely belongs. I can't wait to see what happens in the rest of this series.
March 26, 2016
Book Hangover Alert!
Warning: May cause tears, emotional turmoil, an eye opener for sure. A forbidden romance, contains M/M.
5 stars isn't enough for this story. A tale of broken beginnings, lessons learned, and the ability to believe in yourself. Erica Chilson blew me away, I was unable to open a book for days after I finished.
The backwoods of society, the poverty, it gutted me. The struggle for freedom to be who you are, without abuse as the consequence. Rusty Knob touches the tough, yet real-life struggles of being who you were born to be, most don't see it or they ignore it. I won't go into too much of the story, you can read it for yourself.
This book, powerful. This story, I felt in my bones, the characters in my heart, and the meaning in my soul. I'm getting choked up as I write this. This is by far my favorite book written by Erica Chilson, I can't believe I'm saying this, but I haven't felt moved by a book in a very long time.
I'd recommend this book to Non-M/M readers. People who love a message within the pages. And definitely to all my twisted friends.
Best Books of 2015!
Warning: May cause tears, emotional turmoil, an eye opener for sure. A forbidden romance, contains M/M.
5 stars isn't enough for this story. A tale of broken beginnings, lessons learned, and the ability to believe in yourself. Erica Chilson blew me away, I was unable to open a book for days after I finished.
The backwoods of society, the poverty, it gutted me. The struggle for freedom to be who you are, without abuse as the consequence. Rusty Knob touches the tough, yet real-life struggles of being who you were born to be, most don't see it or they ignore it. I won't go into too much of the story, you can read it for yourself.
This book, powerful. This story, I felt in my bones, the characters in my heart, and the meaning in my soul. I'm getting choked up as I write this. This is by far my favorite book written by Erica Chilson, I can't believe I'm saying this, but I haven't felt moved by a book in a very long time.
I'd recommend this book to Non-M/M readers. People who love a message within the pages. And definitely to all my twisted friends.
Best Books of 2015!
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September 26, 2016Only 99 cents for the next few days at Amazon!
August 3, 2015
What can I say, Chilson outdoes herself with her latest and her first in this genre. I have been a huge advocate for all things Blended and her Mistresses & Masters series' but she outdid herself this time! I adored this book!
With a bang in the beginning and non stop hold on to your seat throughout, Rusty Knob took us on a bigoted, small town, gay fearing, redneck ride. Our main character, Wynn, is a sexually confused, big fish in a small pond, basketball wonderboy. His parents are low life scum, drinking and smoking their way to an early death and sapping Wynn dry both emotionally & financially. Wynn NEEDS to get out from Gillett Hollers before he does the absolute unthinkable. His coming of age story was emotional, heartrending and inspiring. These characters are written so well you think you already know them personally. Flawed but loveable or flawed and hated they spark something inside you and you have to keep reading just to get to know them better. A must read, truly awesome!
With a bang in the beginning and non stop hold on to your seat throughout, Rusty Knob took us on a bigoted, small town, gay fearing, redneck ride. Our main character, Wynn, is a sexually confused, big fish in a small pond, basketball wonderboy. His parents are low life scum, drinking and smoking their way to an early death and sapping Wynn dry both emotionally & financially. Wynn NEEDS to get out from Gillett Hollers before he does the absolute unthinkable. His coming of age story was emotional, heartrending and inspiring. These characters are written so well you think you already know them personally. Flawed but loveable or flawed and hated they spark something inside you and you have to keep reading just to get to know them better. A must read, truly awesome!
October 2, 2016
*I received a free copy to read & review for Wicked Reads Review Team*
Rusty Knob was an interesting, coming-of-age story (featuring a male who is questioning his sexuality)- which is a genre I'm not very familiar with.
Having said that, this story was very well written-it was witty, heart-warming, and sweet while at the same time it was realistic, sad, and depressing.
The characters were so real, they had good points and flaws, I liked every single one of them. I couldn't help but fall in love with Wynn Gillette. He's such a positive force in a negative world: the youngest in his family, he's trying to set an example for his Twin niece and nephew. Born to a set of abusive addicts, Wynn does his best to break the cycle of ignorance.
So much happens in this story of growing up, accepting your sexuality, and learning oneself.
Ignorance is bliss - or is it?
Rusty Knob was an interesting, coming-of-age story (featuring a male who is questioning his sexuality)- which is a genre I'm not very familiar with.
Having said that, this story was very well written-it was witty, heart-warming, and sweet while at the same time it was realistic, sad, and depressing.
The characters were so real, they had good points and flaws, I liked every single one of them. I couldn't help but fall in love with Wynn Gillette. He's such a positive force in a negative world: the youngest in his family, he's trying to set an example for his Twin niece and nephew. Born to a set of abusive addicts, Wynn does his best to break the cycle of ignorance.
So much happens in this story of growing up, accepting your sexuality, and learning oneself.
Ignorance is bliss - or is it?
August 24, 2015
In the interest of full disclosure, I will begin my review by telling you that I was one of the beta readers for Rusty Knob. For those of you who don’t know what a beta reader is, that means I was asked to read the book for storyline continuity, errors, flow, and my general impressions on it. As I have been a huge fan of Chilson’s writing since I stumbled upon her first book Restraint as a freebie three years ago, I was delighted for the opportunity to get my gritty little paws on Rusty Knob as it’s the author’s first venture in this genre – a full-fledged M/M coming of age novel. Although I typically read a book a day, I allotted myself several days for the beta read as I planned to read it twice because I wanted to help the author deliver you the best copy of her work possible. This turned out to be a good decision on my part because I found myself getting so caught up in the storyline that I forgot to look for errors – even on the second read through when I already knew what was going to happen. I was sucked in.
I absolutely loved Wynn and despised his parents and the life he was forced to live because of them. Yet because of it, Wynn knows who he is as a man even if he has no idea who he is as a sexual being. I identified with Wynn so much in this book – not the sexuality issue, but the wanting to do more with his life than tradition called for (and fortunately I had family support that he did not). Because Chilson presents the book from Wynn’s point of view, I felt and experienced his frustration, his confusion, his pain, his ah-ha moments, his relief once he became aware of his sexuality, his lust and love for that person, his anger, his elation, and his overwhelming love for his family (even those who didn’t deserve it). Chilson writes the first person point of view so beautifully that I find myself immersed in her characters (whatever the book) and I am loath for it to end, and Rusty Knob was no exception. Despite the maelstrom of emotions that Wynn experiences, I loved being in his head. Wynn is a good kid, a confused kid who has been forced to grow up long before he should have, but a good kid with a good heart who only wants the best for those he loves. But even Wynn has his breaking point and when he found his, I found myself grabbing for the tissues because I was bawling…on both reads. I repeat. I. Was. Sucked. In.
Now for your warnings. The beginning of Rusty Knob contains a lot of very authentic hillbilly speech, so if you are a reader who cannot deal with a book in which the dialogue is written as the words are spoken you may have an issue with early parts of the novel – but do soldier on because it’s so worth it. As someone who grew up in a redneck area, I recognized many of the ideals and misconceptions fostered by the older generations found in Rusty Knob and this added an authenticity to the book that will drive some readers bonkers because they won’t want to believe people still think and act this way. My final warning is borderline spoilerish so I’ll try to say it without spelling it out. Rusty Knob is a Coming of Age novel about a young man questioning his sexuality and as Wynn is a good kid, there are no full-on sex scenes. But don’t despair because this does not meant that the book is lacking in sexy fun times because what does occur once Wynn embraces his sexuality is HOT!
One of the many reasons I enjoyed Rusty Knob and Chilson’s writing in general is because she makes me laugh and cry and everything in between and it doesn’t matter whether it’s the first time I read the book or the fifth. For me, that’s the mark of a truly enjoyable book and a talented author. Thankfully I have a handful of authors whose writing affects me that way who I can call upon when I’m in need of a cathartic read. And in the case of Rusty Knob, Wynn’s journey is fraught with emotion and I enjoyed every single page of it. In case you haven’t figured it out, I loved Rusty Knob! While I am admittedly biased as Chilson is one of my favorite authors, I do so hope you take a chance and give it a read. As for me, I’m anxiously awaiting the beta read for its sequel and thanks to a rabid muse, I shouldn’t have too long to wait.
I absolutely loved Wynn and despised his parents and the life he was forced to live because of them. Yet because of it, Wynn knows who he is as a man even if he has no idea who he is as a sexual being. I identified with Wynn so much in this book – not the sexuality issue, but the wanting to do more with his life than tradition called for (and fortunately I had family support that he did not). Because Chilson presents the book from Wynn’s point of view, I felt and experienced his frustration, his confusion, his pain, his ah-ha moments, his relief once he became aware of his sexuality, his lust and love for that person, his anger, his elation, and his overwhelming love for his family (even those who didn’t deserve it). Chilson writes the first person point of view so beautifully that I find myself immersed in her characters (whatever the book) and I am loath for it to end, and Rusty Knob was no exception. Despite the maelstrom of emotions that Wynn experiences, I loved being in his head. Wynn is a good kid, a confused kid who has been forced to grow up long before he should have, but a good kid with a good heart who only wants the best for those he loves. But even Wynn has his breaking point and when he found his, I found myself grabbing for the tissues because I was bawling…on both reads. I repeat. I. Was. Sucked. In.
Now for your warnings. The beginning of Rusty Knob contains a lot of very authentic hillbilly speech, so if you are a reader who cannot deal with a book in which the dialogue is written as the words are spoken you may have an issue with early parts of the novel – but do soldier on because it’s so worth it. As someone who grew up in a redneck area, I recognized many of the ideals and misconceptions fostered by the older generations found in Rusty Knob and this added an authenticity to the book that will drive some readers bonkers because they won’t want to believe people still think and act this way. My final warning is borderline spoilerish so I’ll try to say it without spelling it out. Rusty Knob is a Coming of Age novel about a young man questioning his sexuality and as Wynn is a good kid, there are no full-on sex scenes. But don’t despair because this does not meant that the book is lacking in sexy fun times because what does occur once Wynn embraces his sexuality is HOT!
One of the many reasons I enjoyed Rusty Knob and Chilson’s writing in general is because she makes me laugh and cry and everything in between and it doesn’t matter whether it’s the first time I read the book or the fifth. For me, that’s the mark of a truly enjoyable book and a talented author. Thankfully I have a handful of authors whose writing affects me that way who I can call upon when I’m in need of a cathartic read. And in the case of Rusty Knob, Wynn’s journey is fraught with emotion and I enjoyed every single page of it. In case you haven’t figured it out, I loved Rusty Knob! While I am admittedly biased as Chilson is one of my favorite authors, I do so hope you take a chance and give it a read. As for me, I’m anxiously awaiting the beta read for its sequel and thanks to a rabid muse, I shouldn’t have too long to wait.
August 23, 2015
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads~~
Once again Ms Chilson strikes a chord with a book which brings to life a whole community, and has me wishing I could be there too. The pacing, the dialogue and the truths that are revealed make it almost impossible to stop turning the pages. Even the 'normal' is imbued with detail which is pertinent - even if the reader only gets to see that later. I know that I will need to read it a second, and maybe third time to get all the nuance, but even now, I am hooked, and can't wait to understand more of this fascinatingly disturbed town and its inhabitants.
The most dramatic and poignant moment of the book is breathtakingly painful, and yet from it come great things. Its impact is a bit like a pebble in a pond, with far reaching ripples that affect everyone in its reach. Very powerful writing.
I think that anyone over the age of 18 would find something in this book which resonated with them. It deals with some pretty harsh truths, and those decisions made by teens who believe they are adult enough, until they look back and know better!
Once again Ms Chilson strikes a chord with a book which brings to life a whole community, and has me wishing I could be there too. The pacing, the dialogue and the truths that are revealed make it almost impossible to stop turning the pages. Even the 'normal' is imbued with detail which is pertinent - even if the reader only gets to see that later. I know that I will need to read it a second, and maybe third time to get all the nuance, but even now, I am hooked, and can't wait to understand more of this fascinatingly disturbed town and its inhabitants.
The most dramatic and poignant moment of the book is breathtakingly painful, and yet from it come great things. Its impact is a bit like a pebble in a pond, with far reaching ripples that affect everyone in its reach. Very powerful writing.
I think that anyone over the age of 18 would find something in this book which resonated with them. It deals with some pretty harsh truths, and those decisions made by teens who believe they are adult enough, until they look back and know better!
August 25, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This coming of age story could be set in any small town across the nation. The hard knock life of Wynn Gillette is one for the books. His family is as dysfunctional as they come and for the life of him, Wynn can't figure out why no one else in his family doesn't want to get out of the overwhelming poverty that surrounds them.
After one spectacularly horrible day, Wynn makes a fateful decision and only due to the intervention of his older brother is it not fatal. Realizing that he can no longer live like this, he takes the hand he's offered and moves out of the Holler.
While this story is primarily about Wynn and his coming of age, it also sets the stage for the other characters in Rusty Knob to tell their stories, and I can't wait to hear them.
What worked: The feelings that the Wynn have are at once both childlike and/adult. He's had to be the only adult in his family since he could read and now he doesn't understand why he's unable to be treated like adult he feels he is, even though he's only 17 and never had a childhood.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
This coming of age story could be set in any small town across the nation. The hard knock life of Wynn Gillette is one for the books. His family is as dysfunctional as they come and for the life of him, Wynn can't figure out why no one else in his family doesn't want to get out of the overwhelming poverty that surrounds them.
After one spectacularly horrible day, Wynn makes a fateful decision and only due to the intervention of his older brother is it not fatal. Realizing that he can no longer live like this, he takes the hand he's offered and moves out of the Holler.
While this story is primarily about Wynn and his coming of age, it also sets the stage for the other characters in Rusty Knob to tell their stories, and I can't wait to hear them.
What worked: The feelings that the Wynn have are at once both childlike and/adult. He's had to be the only adult in his family since he could read and now he doesn't understand why he's unable to be treated like adult he feels he is, even though he's only 17 and never had a childhood.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
November 14, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
When we meet Wynn he is living in terrible conditions both physically and emotionally. At 17 he is working to keep his family fed while his neglectful parents sponge of his hard work. I wanted to pull Wynn out of there, hug him and make him safe. Oddly, like watching an episode of Hoarders, I also had the urge to mow my lawn and clean my house.
It was so easy to fall in love with Wynn. He is hard working, loyal and a good guy. Even though Wynn is dealing with big issues around is family, future and his sexuality, there are many funny moments in Rusty Knob. I could relate to the grey food and the Facebook conversation is brilliant.
I completely adored Wynn, Kade, Bren and the fun supporting cast. Rusty Knob is a fabulously entertaining story and I had a great time reading it. I didn't want it to end. I want to spend more time with the gang Rusty Knob.
When we meet Wynn he is living in terrible conditions both physically and emotionally. At 17 he is working to keep his family fed while his neglectful parents sponge of his hard work. I wanted to pull Wynn out of there, hug him and make him safe. Oddly, like watching an episode of Hoarders, I also had the urge to mow my lawn and clean my house.
It was so easy to fall in love with Wynn. He is hard working, loyal and a good guy. Even though Wynn is dealing with big issues around is family, future and his sexuality, there are many funny moments in Rusty Knob. I could relate to the grey food and the Facebook conversation is brilliant.
I completely adored Wynn, Kade, Bren and the fun supporting cast. Rusty Knob is a fabulously entertaining story and I had a great time reading it. I didn't want it to end. I want to spend more time with the gang Rusty Knob.
September 14, 2015
Okay to start this review I will say the prologue it started a little creepy for me and I was not sure if I wanted to keep going. Let me tell you keep going!! It all makes sense once you start reading this book and let me tell you this author pulled me in and I could not put this book down. Omg this book!!! It pulled at my heart so much. There were so many times I just wanted to hug Wynn for everything he had to go through and Kane for the same reason. Two such broken men with everything they went through growing up. The way the author portrayed all the struggles Wynn had to go through. There was one part I don't want to give any spoilers away but when Wynn was in his truck and he did something I was so unprepared for, I just started crying my eyes out. I will leave this review with I still have tears in my eyes writing this review and there may be some parts that might be hard for some to read. I would definitely recommended this book!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
March 17, 2016
Well, I suck at writing reviews, just saying that straight off. I never know quite what to say.
Anyway, right Rusty Knob. Rusty Knob is about young adult gay kid?(should I put kid in the same title with young adult, lmao) named Wynn, whose just trying to live his life peacefully, and NORMALLY but instead life has kicked him in the nuts by handing him dysfunction after dysfunction, he's having to take care of his family -supporting habits, & kids -life is unbearable, but Kaden may just be his saving grace, & with the help of his family & friends he finds away out of the ever sinking hole of dysfunction.
Love this book, I've read it twice before reviewing, and I would recommend this book to anyone age 15+. It does contain certain themes so I wouldn't recommend this to anyone below the age of 15, but it is a wonderful book for any age over.
Anyway, right Rusty Knob. Rusty Knob is about young adult gay kid?(should I put kid in the same title with young adult, lmao) named Wynn, whose just trying to live his life peacefully, and NORMALLY but instead life has kicked him in the nuts by handing him dysfunction after dysfunction, he's having to take care of his family -supporting habits, & kids -life is unbearable, but Kaden may just be his saving grace, & with the help of his family & friends he finds away out of the ever sinking hole of dysfunction.
Love this book, I've read it twice before reviewing, and I would recommend this book to anyone age 15+. It does contain certain themes so I wouldn't recommend this to anyone below the age of 15, but it is a wonderful book for any age over.
August 20, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All I can say is that I could not put this book down. Rusty Knob, WV is full of ignorant, backwoods hillbillies. This book tells the story of Wynn Gillette as he struggles to find himself. The author makes you feel for the characters. You love them and cry for them, hoping they find their way to happiness in the end. The struggles they face are real, and felt by many kids today who are unsure of themselves, afraid to come out and be who they really are. Bravo to Erica Chilson for a well written, thought provoking novel.
June 12, 2017
This one was rough. Not in the sense that it wasn't edited or it felt unfinished, etc. But in the sense that it was raw and unfiltered; no holds barred in its approach to the story it's trying to tell. It was a very atypical M/M romance novel: I was actually quite confused a few pages in, because it was unlike anything I've read in the genre before. It presented its charms just a few moments after, and I found myself immersed in a cruel world filled with unspeakable horrors, but somehow it's also a book of optimism, courage, finding yourself and being true to it. All in all, a great start to what is sure to be an interesting series.
February 19, 2016
As a fan of Erica Chilson's writing, I can tell you that I was itching to get to read this new series first book from her. I was elated to be lucky enough to beta-read for it. (A "beta reader" gets the story first, looks for errors, storyline interruptions, and gives feedback to author about how they felt about the book.)
I didn't know what to anticipate as this was something different from the author, a new type of story from her. As a fan of M/M and coming of age generes, my interests were defiunitely piqued. I was so absorbed in the world of Wynn Gillete, that I for got to look for any errors during my first read through.
This story-line, in my personal opinion, is something "out of the box". It's unique and full of situations that really pull at your soul, making you truly think, or re-think about how you'd feel in a similar position. I was impressed at how Ms.Chilson had me finding that my initial reactions, weren't as I had expected them to be. I found that some of my first reactions were not how I actually feel, but how I've been conditioned to respond by the reactions to those around me and those I grew up with. After actually thinking about the situations, I was a bit annoyed with myself for not realising this sooner. I grew up around some very close-minded people and I always vowed not to be like that and yet, I found that their opinionated ways did have an impact on how I instinctually think. I applaud Ms.Chilson for bringing this to my attention.
I love this author's ability to create characters that a reader falls head over heels in love with DESPITE any flaws or questionable actions they have or committ, and I was not let down by this book. I found myself very "in the moment", feeling the emotions of the characters as if I were them or there with them. Every happy moment, I was laughing, and the moments of despair had me in tears. The depth of emotion definitely keeps the reader hooked into the story.
The story mixes these characters, this deep, raw emotion, and interesting varying issues with society with sexy M/M romance that keeps you hooked from the start.
Rusty Knob wasn't what I had expected and I loved every second of it. I would highly recommend this if you are looking for something out of the ordinary, great characters, and a little controversy in the mix. I will eagerly be looking forward to more in this series!
I didn't know what to anticipate as this was something different from the author, a new type of story from her. As a fan of M/M and coming of age generes, my interests were defiunitely piqued. I was so absorbed in the world of Wynn Gillete, that I for got to look for any errors during my first read through.
This story-line, in my personal opinion, is something "out of the box". It's unique and full of situations that really pull at your soul, making you truly think, or re-think about how you'd feel in a similar position. I was impressed at how Ms.Chilson had me finding that my initial reactions, weren't as I had expected them to be. I found that some of my first reactions were not how I actually feel, but how I've been conditioned to respond by the reactions to those around me and those I grew up with. After actually thinking about the situations, I was a bit annoyed with myself for not realising this sooner. I grew up around some very close-minded people and I always vowed not to be like that and yet, I found that their opinionated ways did have an impact on how I instinctually think. I applaud Ms.Chilson for bringing this to my attention.
I love this author's ability to create characters that a reader falls head over heels in love with DESPITE any flaws or questionable actions they have or committ, and I was not let down by this book. I found myself very "in the moment", feeling the emotions of the characters as if I were them or there with them. Every happy moment, I was laughing, and the moments of despair had me in tears. The depth of emotion definitely keeps the reader hooked into the story.
The story mixes these characters, this deep, raw emotion, and interesting varying issues with society with sexy M/M romance that keeps you hooked from the start.
Rusty Knob wasn't what I had expected and I loved every second of it. I would highly recommend this if you are looking for something out of the ordinary, great characters, and a little controversy in the mix. I will eagerly be looking forward to more in this series!
August 28, 2015
I received an ARC from the author for an honest review.
As a relative new reader of Erica's work. I've been looking forward to this book and it did not disappoint. With her distinctive stye of writing I quickly became caught up in Wynn's life and I felt like I was there with him every moment as a little fly on his shoulder, matter of fact for every character that took the limelight I was there. The story drags you in and pulls to light the ugly truths that still resides in some small towns USA and probably a few more places in the world.
Wynn is a brilliant character, he's a teenager who's had to deal with a lot from a young age, but still manages to stay strong. His parents are abusive drunks, who uses him to fund their habit, so he sees himself as their enabler. He cannot understands why they don't want change or do better for themselves and he watches as his brother with his girlfriend start the cycle again. He also questions his sexuality as so far he's unable to decide which moniker describes him, and finds comfort and understanding in the online LGBT group his school and a few surrounding ones are in. When the pressure eventually comes to a head and his brother saves him from himself, he realises the friends he's made in his LGBTQ group and the family who loves him are there to stand by his side and he finally discovers who in the town makes him tick.
There are a lot of hard subjects discussed in this book and make for sometimes uncomfortable reading, but it's all handled well by the author. It's insightful and quite deep. I liked how Wynn was finally able to find himself throughout the book, I liked seeing Kaden's perspective as well. There are also some quite funny moments in the book that had me laughing out loud especially the scene of Wynn's doing the hands on with himself screaming the house down with head phones in.
The lingo for most of the book stays hill-billy you could say and may confuse readers not familiar with that, for myself not being American there were a few parts that did confuse me and had me re-reading, but being originally from a small village, I could understand what it is like being either or in a small place where everyone knows you and your family and decisions are made and based on your family.A great coming of age story that will resound with a lot of people. Good book and I'm looking forward to the next in this series.
As a relative new reader of Erica's work. I've been looking forward to this book and it did not disappoint. With her distinctive stye of writing I quickly became caught up in Wynn's life and I felt like I was there with him every moment as a little fly on his shoulder, matter of fact for every character that took the limelight I was there. The story drags you in and pulls to light the ugly truths that still resides in some small towns USA and probably a few more places in the world.
Wynn is a brilliant character, he's a teenager who's had to deal with a lot from a young age, but still manages to stay strong. His parents are abusive drunks, who uses him to fund their habit, so he sees himself as their enabler. He cannot understands why they don't want change or do better for themselves and he watches as his brother with his girlfriend start the cycle again. He also questions his sexuality as so far he's unable to decide which moniker describes him, and finds comfort and understanding in the online LGBT group his school and a few surrounding ones are in. When the pressure eventually comes to a head and his brother saves him from himself, he realises the friends he's made in his LGBTQ group and the family who loves him are there to stand by his side and he finally discovers who in the town makes him tick.
There are a lot of hard subjects discussed in this book and make for sometimes uncomfortable reading, but it's all handled well by the author. It's insightful and quite deep. I liked how Wynn was finally able to find himself throughout the book, I liked seeing Kaden's perspective as well. There are also some quite funny moments in the book that had me laughing out loud especially the scene of Wynn's doing the hands on with himself screaming the house down with head phones in.
The lingo for most of the book stays hill-billy you could say and may confuse readers not familiar with that, for myself not being American there were a few parts that did confuse me and had me re-reading, but being originally from a small village, I could understand what it is like being either or in a small place where everyone knows you and your family and decisions are made and based on your family.A great coming of age story that will resound with a lot of people. Good book and I'm looking forward to the next in this series.
September 11, 2015
ARC for honest review.
When I was given the ARC, I was told that it was different from all the other Chilson books I've read. And that was a fair warning. But what they also forgot to mention were the similarities: fabulous writing, awesome story line, great characters. And that's only naming a few. Chilson never ceases to amaze me with how she can write a book. She writes so well that while I'm reading a story about a gay hillbilly, I can help see this story vividly unfold in my mind.
Rusty Knob is a story that takes place in backwoods West Virginia. It follows a family of hillbilly siblings and their "golden boy" brother just trying to survive their bigoted town and hateful, abusive parents. The characters conquer physical, emotional, and drug abuse, attempted suiside, bigotry against what side of town you live on and your sexual orientation. But this book also shows how family and friend support you and will always have you back, it shows you first love and first kisses, and it shows how to stand up for yourself and to not let anyone walk all over you just because your preference for life may differ than theirs.
Rust Knob is an amazing story that I will recommend to anyone who is willing to listen to me and my favorite so far of Erica Chilsons!
When I was given the ARC, I was told that it was different from all the other Chilson books I've read. And that was a fair warning. But what they also forgot to mention were the similarities: fabulous writing, awesome story line, great characters. And that's only naming a few. Chilson never ceases to amaze me with how she can write a book. She writes so well that while I'm reading a story about a gay hillbilly, I can help see this story vividly unfold in my mind.
Rusty Knob is a story that takes place in backwoods West Virginia. It follows a family of hillbilly siblings and their "golden boy" brother just trying to survive their bigoted town and hateful, abusive parents. The characters conquer physical, emotional, and drug abuse, attempted suiside, bigotry against what side of town you live on and your sexual orientation. But this book also shows how family and friend support you and will always have you back, it shows you first love and first kisses, and it shows how to stand up for yourself and to not let anyone walk all over you just because your preference for life may differ than theirs.
Rust Knob is an amazing story that I will recommend to anyone who is willing to listen to me and my favorite so far of Erica Chilsons!
September 13, 2015
FiveStars
Okay to start this review I will say the prologue it started a little creepy for me and I was not sure if I wanted to keep going. Let me tell you keep going!! It all makes sense once you start reading this book and let me tell you this author pulled me in and I could not put this book down. Omg this book!!! It pulled at my heart so much. There were so many times I just wanted to hug Wynn for everything he had to go through and Kane for the same reason. Two such broken men with everything they went through growing up. The way the author portrayed all the struggles Wynn had to go through. There was one part I don't want to give any spoilers away but when Wynn was in his truck and he did something I was so unprepared for, I just started crying my eyes out. I will leave this review with I still have tears in my eyes writing this review and there may be some parts that might be hard for some to read. I would definitely recommended this book!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Kara
Okay to start this review I will say the prologue it started a little creepy for me and I was not sure if I wanted to keep going. Let me tell you keep going!! It all makes sense once you start reading this book and let me tell you this author pulled me in and I could not put this book down. Omg this book!!! It pulled at my heart so much. There were so many times I just wanted to hug Wynn for everything he had to go through and Kane for the same reason. Two such broken men with everything they went through growing up. The way the author portrayed all the struggles Wynn had to go through. There was one part I don't want to give any spoilers away but when Wynn was in his truck and he did something I was so unprepared for, I just started crying my eyes out. I will leave this review with I still have tears in my eyes writing this review and there may be some parts that might be hard for some to read. I would definitely recommended this book!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Kara
March 18, 2016
If you love a book that will make you think, make you open your mind, make you rage against the injustices in the world then this is the book for you. Wynn is smart, handsome, responsible, and kind. In the world of Rusty Knob he is an anomaly rather than the norm. The abuse and extreme poverty should have made him a different person. His family is apathetic and do not see any need to make changes in the lifestyle that they have lived in for generations. He is different though, in more ways than one. Wynn is questioning his sexuality. I loved this story and I loved Wynn. He is a beautiful person with a kind and loving heart. This book is also about the prejudices in a small, narrow minded town against people who do not fit into their categories of normal. This is my first book by Erica Chilson but it won't be my last!
August 25, 2015
I received this book for an honest review from the author.
Rusty Knob will just tear your emotions apart. There are jaw dropping events that you just won't believe happened. It will crush your heart with all these characters go through. The writing was so good the characters actually felt real.
I couldn't believe the hard life Wynn had and to be so young with all that responsibility. Royce was the good guy without him nothing would have been possible for those kids. I loved this line from the book: "To own our choices is to earn our consequences." That line just about sums up everything.
Definitely a good read looking forward to book 2.
Rusty Knob will just tear your emotions apart. There are jaw dropping events that you just won't believe happened. It will crush your heart with all these characters go through. The writing was so good the characters actually felt real.
I couldn't believe the hard life Wynn had and to be so young with all that responsibility. Royce was the good guy without him nothing would have been possible for those kids. I loved this line from the book: "To own our choices is to earn our consequences." That line just about sums up everything.
Definitely a good read looking forward to book 2.
August 29, 2015
Five+ stars!
I loved this book! I couldn't wait to start Rust Knob, and it didn't disappoint. All the characters felt so real to me. Ms. Chilson is amazing at writing dialog that is familiar, relatable and true to the characters. I got mad, sad and laughed ridiculously loud while reading. Especially during the Try Guys scene! I one click EVERYTHING Erica Chilson writes, but this is one book you should definitely read.
I loved this book! I couldn't wait to start Rust Knob, and it didn't disappoint. All the characters felt so real to me. Ms. Chilson is amazing at writing dialog that is familiar, relatable and true to the characters. I got mad, sad and laughed ridiculously loud while reading. Especially during the Try Guys scene! I one click EVERYTHING Erica Chilson writes, but this is one book you should definitely read.
September 15, 2015
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. This is not a book I would usually read the synopsis and buy, but I really enjoyed the book. Wynn is a confused teenager that has lived a rough life, who is going through self discovery and many life changes. Parts of this story broke my heart and then parts made me smile and laugh. This was my first m/m romance book and it was an interesting read, with a lot of hardships Wynn and his friends and family go through.
August 31, 2015
Erica has done it again.
From the first pages I was hooked.
I felt like I was right there and it was happening in front of me.
A very dysfunctional family to say the least but with hearts of gold.
This book hits on situations that are very real and happen everyday.
I absolutely love the character buildup and the history behind them.
I can not wait until the second it released.
From the first pages I was hooked.
I felt like I was right there and it was happening in front of me.
A very dysfunctional family to say the least but with hearts of gold.
This book hits on situations that are very real and happen everyday.
I absolutely love the character buildup and the history behind them.
I can not wait until the second it released.
August 25, 2015
Wow what a book!!!
I adored this story, even the small-minded people.
This author was very good in bringing every emotion to the surface and every moment, every feeling was perfect!!!
Can't recommend this book enough.
Funny, angsty, sweet and sexy too..This book has it all!
I adored this story, even the small-minded people.
This author was very good in bringing every emotion to the surface and every moment, every feeling was perfect!!!
Can't recommend this book enough.
Funny, angsty, sweet and sexy too..This book has it all!
September 9, 2015
Can't wait for the next book!
November 1, 2015
my first book by this author and i was floored...i totally loved it and i hated that it ended so quickly or maybe i read it 2 fast....
August 30, 2015
Wow
This author is New to me and I took a chance on her and I'm glad I did loved this book shows you don't have to be something everyone says you have to be.
This author is New to me and I took a chance on her and I'm glad I did loved this book shows you don't have to be something everyone says you have to be.
January 3, 2016
I just love Wynn!
September 24, 2015
First - there is no ending - REALLY?
Its was good reading material but when I got to the end I had mixed feelings about everything.
I feel a bit of disappointing and annoyed so.....
Its was good reading material but when I got to the end I had mixed feelings about everything.
I feel a bit of disappointing and annoyed so.....
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