Nothing Here is Real

by Matt Bindig

When Grady Pickett hears that the lost paintings of Ward Gregory have recently been discovered, he decides to abandon his long time girlfriend and the life he has made for himself in Massachusetts and return home to Apollo, New York, certain that if he unravels the central mystery of his childhood he will be able to make sense of his greatest loss. In the tailspin of events that follow, Grady must choose between the two lives laid out before him. Will he reclaim himself and the past he once called his own from the grips of his brother Emile’s elaborate distortions or will he submit to the temptation of vengeance and forever lose all he once was? In Nothing Here is Real, Matt Bindig explores the power of family myths and the costs that come with striking out on your own.

348 pages, Paperback

Published April 22, 2016

About the author

Matt Bindig was educated at Hobart College and Harvard University and lives in the Buffalo New York area with his wife and children.

Reviews

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's always a good sign when I finish a book within a week. Every chance I got, I found myself reading instead of doing all the other things on my list. The writing was excellent, and I was really drawn into the story. I do wish a few more plot threads were resolved, but I think the lack of resolution was part of the point.

[Mark Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

I raced through this little gem in three days. It was an easy read. The ending left me with a lot of questions.

This might come out of left field, but there was an element of paranormal (subtle) in the novel. I felt like I was reading the early chapters of a Steven King novel. The novel "Rose Madder" came to mind. I love the way that Steven King introduces something paranormal in a subtle way. But then continues to build on the paranormal narrative slowly. This keeps you from being shocked when the preternatural narrative is revealed. This novel went the other way, rather than building to a paranormal conclusion, it leaves you wondering whether or not something unearthly caused the course of events. In the end, these open questions are the point of this novel.

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't read much mystery-thriller books. I like stories with a some likable characters (this one does not.) But this story was well written and not predictable with many twists and turns. I wish the ending did not leave so many questions-a sequel coming perhaps?

[Colleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

So amazingly written with twists and turns and teasers. But I still have so many questions... But I guess that is what makes a great book - one that leaves you thinking and wondering. I can't wait for your second novel, Matt Bindig.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating. Couldn't put it down. Found a new favorite author!

[Kathleen Gilman · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disturbing story of abuse and how it affects people .