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A Gabriel Church Tale #1
Rubble and the Wreckage
Everything Crumbles
Gabriel Church knows you can’t take a life without first understanding just how feeble it is. If you desire murder, you hold a life in your hand. Whether you release it to grant life or grip tighter to end it, it is at your command and discretion.
Gabriel is a serial killer with a story to tell.
Christian Maxwell studied abnormal psychology in college but chose instead to focus on a career in writing. His background comes in handy when he thinks of writing about a serial killer. He can’t think of anyone more qualified to write the story of Gabriel Lee Church and in the murderer’s own words.
It’s been done before, but never with a killer who has yet to be captured or convicted. With nothing more than a gentleman’s understanding between them, Christian records Gabriel’s life story. Gabriel doesn’t ask for his complicity, nor does he ask for his silence. Christian’s interest in the man, though, is fast becoming something more than academic.
When Christian and Gabriel become unexpected friends and then lovers, the question remains: What is Gabriel’s endgame…and why does he want his story told?
Gabriel Church knows you can’t take a life without first understanding just how feeble it is. If you desire murder, you hold a life in your hand. Whether you release it to grant life or grip tighter to end it, it is at your command and discretion.
Gabriel is a serial killer with a story to tell.
Christian Maxwell studied abnormal psychology in college but chose instead to focus on a career in writing. His background comes in handy when he thinks of writing about a serial killer. He can’t think of anyone more qualified to write the story of Gabriel Lee Church and in the murderer’s own words.
It’s been done before, but never with a killer who has yet to be captured or convicted. With nothing more than a gentleman’s understanding between them, Christian records Gabriel’s life story. Gabriel doesn’t ask for his complicity, nor does he ask for his silence. Christian’s interest in the man, though, is fast becoming something more than academic.
When Christian and Gabriel become unexpected friends and then lovers, the question remains: What is Gabriel’s endgame…and why does he want his story told?
280 pages, ebook
First published January 30, 2015
6 people are currently reading
396 people want to read
About the author
Rodd Clark
14 books42 followersRodd lives in Dallas, TX at the moment. Check out his web presence at RODDCLARK.COM. Interested in the M/M Mystery, Romance and Thriller genres but has a varied interest in many different kinds of books. His characters have darkly distinctive voices and all with a twisted bent in the story; as illustrated by his popular release "Rubble and the Wreckage". The follow-up sequel was just released titled "Torn and Frayed", and he has a third chapter in the Gabriel Church Tales out later in the year.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
May 30, 2015
2.5 stars. 3.5 stars for the first half and 1.5 stars for the second half. Review posted May 30, 2015
Me reading before this book:
Most of the books authors offer me to review don't sound half as good as this one. So...
Dear Book,
Don't fuck this up.
Thank you.
Me during the second half of the book:
WARNING
Die-hard m-m fans who don't want While we're on it, the smexin' in general (the "precious" few that was there) was a huge disappointment and the rest was fade to black anyway.
It started off really promising…
"This is why it's so easy to become a killer--" Gabe offered, waiving a hand to indicate the self-absorbed masses at his left and right--"because no one seems to be concerned with anything but their own mundane lives. None of these assholes have a life that warrants their constant connection to offices and friends. Nothing they have to offer is worthy of their inscrutable attentions. What did Ezra Pound say? 'Where the dead walked and the living were made of cardboard?'"
"An actual accounting? I suppose I can understand why that number might be important to you, but people who become victims, are not necessarily just numbers in my eyes. Think of it as a journey, and they're not people…but mile markers."
"Good is a relative term. I'm good at what I do, I don't hurt the ones I kill unnecessarily…so I suppose it's up for debate."
"I beg to consider, the families of your victims may not agree with you."
"Unbiased are we? You speak of morality now, but your question wasn't whether I consider myself moral or not, you asked if I was good."
"Semantics…"
(…)
"Morality is reserved for stupid men of the cloth. It doesn't suit the rest of us, those who crawled out of the mud, then learned to climb trees, all until we could stand upright, to fashion tools or weapons."
Gabe understood you couldn't take a life without first understanding just how feeble life is, how tentative and weak it stands alone. If you desire murder, you hold a life in your hand. Whether you release it to grant life or grip tighter to end it, it is at your command and discretion.
…but unfortunately my interest petered out during the second half. There was too much boring and meandering narrative, a totally predictable and annoying plot twist and my main issue:
Gabe's physique may be beautiful for all I care, he's still an extremely ugly and heinous creature and I didn't appreciate that pseudo frosting of a romance cloak squirted over a tale of a sociopathic killing machine. It made me seriously uncomfortable.
Also, this book is labeled as an erotic thriller which is not accurate at all. I have read many, many erotic books but Rubble and the Wreckage is a far cry from being erotic. It's not even particularly suspenseful.
http://www.drivenpress.net/#!rubble-a...
I went into the story with a firm belief that I neither would like the killer nor would I feel any empathy with him (bad childhood and all that, you know?). On the other hand, I was hoping that I would like the biographer but, unfortunately, he didn't appeal to me at all. I also felt a little bit bad for going in with a certain morbid fascination for the subject matter (serial killers is not something you read about while eating your breakfast). And I couldn't help and wonder how anyone would write a biography about a sociopath while said sociopath wasn't incarcerated yet. Instead of running off to the police, the writer happily went his merry way and wrote down his notes for his epic book. Well, when said writer was aware of the number of murders , a certain uneasiness befell him. Baba, you don't say? I, for one, was beyond shocked when I read the number and scrutinized said writer even more and at the same time my level of irritation grew. What kind of socially awkward (and unwittingly closeted) guy would want to meet up with a sick f@ck like Gabriel Lee Church (that name, the irony, right?) to tell his life story? Maybe you can imagine my surprise and incredulity when Gabe, who felt more than a little bit repelled by gay men, offered to sex it up with his biographer. And, even more astounding, his general reaction was that Christian was the one and only man with whom he would ever have sex. I have no degree in psychology and neither do I have any experience with serial killers (I'm not being sarcastic) but I could not for the life of me relate to Gabe's reaction.
Other quibbles
Reading about manhood etc. mentally transferred me back to the 80s and the 'glorious' *cough* Harlequin times.
Addressing Christian as the writer felt oddly off at times. I can't even explain why, it must be my slightly strange perception and my issue alone. That's why you should take that comment with a grain of salt.
"What's crazy is you asking that question!" The writer had already arranged cups on the counters, he'd pulled out sugar and cream, but his hands were empty and begged for something to do.
After a while I was fed up with all the rather excessively used analogies. It's possible that I wouldn't have minded if they had been stellar...
As each one did, it was laced with shame, dripping like heavy syrup from his tongue.
Christian's credulous nature came erupting out like a volcano full of lava.
is outdated. Or, at least, it doesn't appeal to me.
Barely done with their first fuck, they started to throw nicknames around. Baby here and babe there. Me not likey. And given the fact that one is a straight cold-blooded serial killer and the other an unwilling closet case, I've had an even harder time to buy into their 'affectionate' behavior.
I couldn't believe that Chris was so OTT delusional:
May I remind you that Gabe killed people? But, since Chris seemed to be infatuated with that psycho, everything was futile anyhow.
That's the position I wanted to throw in the towel because I just knew this would going to happen and I was so pissed off already.
@92%
(uh…no pun intended).
@93%
You don't say, Chris. You
I wonder where you left your last few brain cells. In your pants?
Bottom line, while the blurb did sound intriguing and the beginning was good, the story didn't meet my rather high expectations. I don't mind extensive narrative but if that's the case, then it must be excellent and captivating otherwise I will end up bored. I'm sorry to say that Rubble and the Wreckage didn't fully deliver in that department and some predictable plot twists did anything but win me over either. And last but not least the ending was too abrupt. I suppose there will be a sequel but, since I don't even like the supposedly good guy, the writer, I will not read the next installment.
**Review request of author Rodd Clark**
Me reading before this book:
Most of the books authors offer me to review don't sound half as good as this one. So...
Dear Book,
Don't fuck this up.
Thank you.
Me during the second half of the book:
WARNING
Die-hard m-m fans who don't want While we're on it, the smexin' in general (the "precious" few that was there) was a huge disappointment and the rest was fade to black anyway.
It started off really promising…
"This is why it's so easy to become a killer--" Gabe offered, waiving a hand to indicate the self-absorbed masses at his left and right--"because no one seems to be concerned with anything but their own mundane lives. None of these assholes have a life that warrants their constant connection to offices and friends. Nothing they have to offer is worthy of their inscrutable attentions. What did Ezra Pound say? 'Where the dead walked and the living were made of cardboard?'"
"An actual accounting? I suppose I can understand why that number might be important to you, but people who become victims, are not necessarily just numbers in my eyes. Think of it as a journey, and they're not people…but mile markers."
"Good is a relative term. I'm good at what I do, I don't hurt the ones I kill unnecessarily…so I suppose it's up for debate."
"I beg to consider, the families of your victims may not agree with you."
"Unbiased are we? You speak of morality now, but your question wasn't whether I consider myself moral or not, you asked if I was good."
"Semantics…"
(…)
"Morality is reserved for stupid men of the cloth. It doesn't suit the rest of us, those who crawled out of the mud, then learned to climb trees, all until we could stand upright, to fashion tools or weapons."
Gabe understood you couldn't take a life without first understanding just how feeble life is, how tentative and weak it stands alone. If you desire murder, you hold a life in your hand. Whether you release it to grant life or grip tighter to end it, it is at your command and discretion.
…but unfortunately my interest petered out during the second half. There was too much boring and meandering narrative, a totally predictable and annoying plot twist and my main issue:
Gabe's physique may be beautiful for all I care, he's still an extremely ugly and heinous creature and I didn't appreciate that pseudo frosting of a romance cloak squirted over a tale of a sociopathic killing machine. It made me seriously uncomfortable.
Also, this book is labeled as an erotic thriller which is not accurate at all. I have read many, many erotic books but Rubble and the Wreckage is a far cry from being erotic. It's not even particularly suspenseful.
http://www.drivenpress.net/#!rubble-a...
I went into the story with a firm belief that I neither would like the killer nor would I feel any empathy with him (bad childhood and all that, you know?). On the other hand, I was hoping that I would like the biographer but, unfortunately, he didn't appeal to me at all. I also felt a little bit bad for going in with a certain morbid fascination for the subject matter (serial killers is not something you read about while eating your breakfast). And I couldn't help and wonder how anyone would write a biography about a sociopath while said sociopath wasn't incarcerated yet. Instead of running off to the police, the writer happily went his merry way and wrote down his notes for his epic book. Well, when said writer was aware of the number of murders , a certain uneasiness befell him. Baba, you don't say? I, for one, was beyond shocked when I read the number and scrutinized said writer even more and at the same time my level of irritation grew. What kind of socially awkward (and unwittingly closeted) guy would want to meet up with a sick f@ck like Gabriel Lee Church (that name, the irony, right?) to tell his life story? Maybe you can imagine my surprise and incredulity when Gabe, who felt more than a little bit repelled by gay men, offered to sex it up with his biographer. And, even more astounding, his general reaction was that Christian was the one and only man with whom he would ever have sex. I have no degree in psychology and neither do I have any experience with serial killers (I'm not being sarcastic) but I could not for the life of me relate to Gabe's reaction.
Other quibbles
Reading about manhood etc. mentally transferred me back to the 80s and the 'glorious' *cough* Harlequin times.
Addressing Christian as the writer felt oddly off at times. I can't even explain why, it must be my slightly strange perception and my issue alone. That's why you should take that comment with a grain of salt.
"What's crazy is you asking that question!" The writer had already arranged cups on the counters, he'd pulled out sugar and cream, but his hands were empty and begged for something to do.
After a while I was fed up with all the rather excessively used analogies. It's possible that I wouldn't have minded if they had been stellar...
As each one did, it was laced with shame, dripping like heavy syrup from his tongue.
Christian's credulous nature came erupting out like a volcano full of lava.
is outdated. Or, at least, it doesn't appeal to me.
Barely done with their first fuck, they started to throw nicknames around. Baby here and babe there. Me not likey. And given the fact that one is a straight cold-blooded serial killer and the other an unwilling closet case, I've had an even harder time to buy into their 'affectionate' behavior.
I couldn't believe that Chris was so OTT delusional:
May I remind you that Gabe killed people? But, since Chris seemed to be infatuated with that psycho, everything was futile anyhow.
That's the position I wanted to throw in the towel because I just knew this would going to happen and I was so pissed off already.
@92%
(uh…no pun intended).
@93%
You don't say, Chris. You
I wonder where you left your last few brain cells. In your pants?
Bottom line, while the blurb did sound intriguing and the beginning was good, the story didn't meet my rather high expectations. I don't mind extensive narrative but if that's the case, then it must be excellent and captivating otherwise I will end up bored. I'm sorry to say that Rubble and the Wreckage didn't fully deliver in that department and some predictable plot twists did anything but win me over either. And last but not least the ending was too abrupt. I suppose there will be a sequel but, since I don't even like the supposedly good guy, the writer, I will not read the next installment.
**Review request of author Rodd Clark**
September 10, 2015
Cross-posted at Outlaw Reviews and at Shelf Inflicted
Can a man who has killed 40 people without a shred of remorse fall in love?
Can the socially awkward writer of his story separate his growing feelings for the killer from his ghastly deeds?
Christian Maxwell is a very smart guy. He’s college educated, has a way with words, and has exceptional research skills. By finding patterns in random killings around the country, he comes to the conclusion that they are the work of one man.
Gabriel Church is not well educated, but he is very shrewd, confident and charming. He is adept at reading emotions and body language, skilled at persuading people to his way of thinking, pursues his goals with ruthless determination, and so far, has eluded capture.
When the two men meet at a coffee shop and begin the work of recording Gabriel’s life and crimes, they are gradually changed in unexpected ways.
While I enjoyed the premise of this novel, the execution failed in many ways. Very little dialogue and lots of internal monologue really slowed down the story for me, causing me to abandon the book for an entire week. I enjoyed being privy to Christian’s and Gabriel’s thoughts and learning their history. I just wished the author had a better way of including their backstory while building dialogue and suspense to increase the pace of the story and make it more interesting for the reader. Grammatical errors, spelling errors, repetitive sentences, and awkward phrases abound. I believe this novel could have been an exceptional one if it had been fine-tuned by a good editor.
Nevertheless, I do not regret reading this. The story captured my interest and ended conclusively and plausibly, with no frustrating cliffhangers, or dangling loose ends. I am not convinced that Gabriel Church can change, but I am curious to see how his character develops and whether his story will be written.
*Book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
Can a man who has killed 40 people without a shred of remorse fall in love?
Can the socially awkward writer of his story separate his growing feelings for the killer from his ghastly deeds?
Christian Maxwell is a very smart guy. He’s college educated, has a way with words, and has exceptional research skills. By finding patterns in random killings around the country, he comes to the conclusion that they are the work of one man.
Gabriel Church is not well educated, but he is very shrewd, confident and charming. He is adept at reading emotions and body language, skilled at persuading people to his way of thinking, pursues his goals with ruthless determination, and so far, has eluded capture.
When the two men meet at a coffee shop and begin the work of recording Gabriel’s life and crimes, they are gradually changed in unexpected ways.
While I enjoyed the premise of this novel, the execution failed in many ways. Very little dialogue and lots of internal monologue really slowed down the story for me, causing me to abandon the book for an entire week. I enjoyed being privy to Christian’s and Gabriel’s thoughts and learning their history. I just wished the author had a better way of including their backstory while building dialogue and suspense to increase the pace of the story and make it more interesting for the reader. Grammatical errors, spelling errors, repetitive sentences, and awkward phrases abound. I believe this novel could have been an exceptional one if it had been fine-tuned by a good editor.
Nevertheless, I do not regret reading this. The story captured my interest and ended conclusively and plausibly, with no frustrating cliffhangers, or dangling loose ends. I am not convinced that Gabriel Church can change, but I am curious to see how his character develops and whether his story will be written.
*Book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
June 14, 2017
3.5 Stars
Well... I don't quite know how to categorize this book. It's sort of m/m, kinda double gfy, quite light on the smex, and somewhat a psychological suspense novel. Was that concrete enough?
So yes, as the blurb says, Gabriel Church is pretty much the classic serial killer. Painful, torturous past? Check. Cool, slick persona that adapts impressively when the situation calls for it? Check. Arrogant, shows no remorse, typically does not give a fuck about anyone's feelings? Check, check, and check. He's got a plan and definitely a purpose, and he wants his story told.
Enter Christian Maxwell. His interest in the psychology of murder gets him noticed by Church, and he truly believes he's the perfect person who can do this enigmatic killer justice. He also wants to bring some kind of closure to the victims' families, if only he can get the entire truth.
Once these two agree on parameters, what neither one of them expects is an inexplicable, unexplainable pull towards the other, setting off an intense affair. So of course there's feelings, feelings that are new and uncomfortable and amazing - so much so that it changes their goals and views.
You definitely see the internal struggle for both of these men. Christian tries to reconcile the horrible acts that Church has committed. Church tries to reconcile his lone wolf existence morphing into someone who actually is starting to care. He's pretty much dumbfounded by this revelation, and for the first time he starts to doubt the divine path he has so adamantly clung to.
As Christian falls further under Church's spell he realizes regardless, he is complicit in his crimes - and the age old notion thinking that we can change someone definitely comes to the fore. The more he learns the less he wants to know, but he's already caught, forever marked by this charismatic, dangerous man. He knows he's being seduced, he knows he's being charmed, and despite that he justifies, rationalizes, denies, and deflects.
In essence you're not going to get a grand romance of redemption and transformation. Admittedly there were times I was appalled and disturbed, but I think that's the point. I was also impressed and definitely intrigued. I worried and fretted and wondered how this could possibly have a satisfactory outcome. What stands out is the realization that love can make you do some pretty crazy things, things you didn't think were possible nor desirable, and especially seeing the lengths one will go to in acquiescing or sacrificing.
Props to Clark for inventing such a character. I was quite moved by the ending and it will be interesting to see how Church's future plays out, especially since his beliefs in his predestined conclusion is not forgone.
Thank you to the author for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
Well... I don't quite know how to categorize this book. It's sort of m/m, kinda double gfy, quite light on the smex, and somewhat a psychological suspense novel. Was that concrete enough?
So yes, as the blurb says, Gabriel Church is pretty much the classic serial killer. Painful, torturous past? Check. Cool, slick persona that adapts impressively when the situation calls for it? Check. Arrogant, shows no remorse, typically does not give a fuck about anyone's feelings? Check, check, and check. He's got a plan and definitely a purpose, and he wants his story told.
Enter Christian Maxwell. His interest in the psychology of murder gets him noticed by Church, and he truly believes he's the perfect person who can do this enigmatic killer justice. He also wants to bring some kind of closure to the victims' families, if only he can get the entire truth.
Once these two agree on parameters, what neither one of them expects is an inexplicable, unexplainable pull towards the other, setting off an intense affair. So of course there's feelings, feelings that are new and uncomfortable and amazing - so much so that it changes their goals and views.
You definitely see the internal struggle for both of these men. Christian tries to reconcile the horrible acts that Church has committed. Church tries to reconcile his lone wolf existence morphing into someone who actually is starting to care. He's pretty much dumbfounded by this revelation, and for the first time he starts to doubt the divine path he has so adamantly clung to.
As Christian falls further under Church's spell he realizes regardless, he is complicit in his crimes - and the age old notion thinking that we can change someone definitely comes to the fore. The more he learns the less he wants to know, but he's already caught, forever marked by this charismatic, dangerous man. He knows he's being seduced, he knows he's being charmed, and despite that he justifies, rationalizes, denies, and deflects.
In essence you're not going to get a grand romance of redemption and transformation. Admittedly there were times I was appalled and disturbed, but I think that's the point. I was also impressed and definitely intrigued. I worried and fretted and wondered how this could possibly have a satisfactory outcome. What stands out is the realization that love can make you do some pretty crazy things, things you didn't think were possible nor desirable, and especially seeing the lengths one will go to in acquiescing or sacrificing.
Props to Clark for inventing such a character. I was quite moved by the ending and it will be interesting to see how Church's future plays out, especially since his beliefs in his predestined conclusion is not forgone.
Thank you to the author for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
May 12, 2015
4.5 stars, rounded up.
This is a very unique story about two very unique characters. Gabriel is the serial killer who wants his story told. Christian is the writer who is eager to write the story. They develop a friendship of sorts that quickly turns sexual. Neither has ever been with another man, but this doesn't stop them from going hot and heavy. As time goes by, the relationship becomes more about the two men than what actually brought them together. Christian battles with his feelings. He has actually fallen in love with a remorseless serial killer. Gabe just goes with the flow and this allows a softer side to come out. Don't get me wrong, he's not ashamed of anything he's done and he is very manipulative. However, the author wrote him where the reader feels a bit of sympathy for him and might actually like him a little bit. I know that sounds bad, but I found myself liking the serial killer a lot more than I should have.
Overall, an excellent thriller. Go in expecting the unexpected and you will enjoy this. Note that there is one M/F sex scene on-page. I know that bugs a lot of M/M readers, so I feel that should be pointed out.
This book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Full review can be found at -
This is a very unique story about two very unique characters. Gabriel is the serial killer who wants his story told. Christian is the writer who is eager to write the story. They develop a friendship of sorts that quickly turns sexual. Neither has ever been with another man, but this doesn't stop them from going hot and heavy. As time goes by, the relationship becomes more about the two men than what actually brought them together. Christian battles with his feelings. He has actually fallen in love with a remorseless serial killer. Gabe just goes with the flow and this allows a softer side to come out. Don't get me wrong, he's not ashamed of anything he's done and he is very manipulative. However, the author wrote him where the reader feels a bit of sympathy for him and might actually like him a little bit. I know that sounds bad, but I found myself liking the serial killer a lot more than I should have.
Overall, an excellent thriller. Go in expecting the unexpected and you will enjoy this. Note that there is one M/F sex scene on-page. I know that bugs a lot of M/M readers, so I feel that should be pointed out.
This book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Full review can be found at -
did-not-finish
August 5, 2015DNF at 29%
I'm pretty fed up with cheesy prose, I don't care what badly written mischief those emotionally crippled characters will be up to next. Maybe one day, when the apocalypse destroys all books and only this one survives thanks to being at the very bottom of my "to read maybe never" pile, buried under the ashes of Alas Shrugged, 50 shades of grey, Mortal Instruments and the complete works of L. Ron Hubbard. Maybe then I'll finish it.
I'm pretty fed up with cheesy prose, I don't care what badly written mischief those emotionally crippled characters will be up to next. Maybe one day, when the apocalypse destroys all books and only this one survives thanks to being at the very bottom of my "to read maybe never" pile, buried under the ashes of Alas Shrugged, 50 shades of grey, Mortal Instruments and the complete works of L. Ron Hubbard. Maybe then I'll finish it.
July 5, 2015
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Christian Maxwell is an aspiring writer who has tracked down a serial killer named Gabriel Church. Planning to be the first to get his exclusive story in book form, he ignores the danger posed to him and approaches Gabriel to a detailed biography of his murders, his thought and feelings. With each passing meeting/interview, the two go from a interviewer and interviewee to something more.
I don't even know where I should start. When I first started the book the setup reminded me of Interview with a Vampire by Anne Rice. The book gave an interesting account and insight into the mind of a killer. Readers got the recollections of Gabriel's childhood, what hardships he had to face in his childhood and all the actions that built up and created the monster that is Gabriel Church. It was a bit disturbing to see how remorseless and uncaring he was about his actions and his frustration at wanting Chris to understand where he was coming from (err...his actions/murders). The time he spent with Christian did kind of painted him in a better light but not by much. I really didn't expect to like him as much as I did.
I don't really know what to make of Christian either. I was equal parts disturbed and awed at how he tracked down Gabriel before any law enforcement agency even knew about the crimes. The way he carried on with Gabe knowing all the dangers.
I was intrigued with the situation with Shea, with the way Gabe handled Chris and her actually meeting, Chris's behavior afterwards and what he did. The recourse Gabe had to take to rectify the situation was expected. The ending was a bit saddening but again expected. I did feel bad for Chris thinking he could have a different ending with Gabe...I do admit a little part of me was hoping Gabe would at least try.
Christian Maxwell is an aspiring writer who has tracked down a serial killer named Gabriel Church. Planning to be the first to get his exclusive story in book form, he ignores the danger posed to him and approaches Gabriel to a detailed biography of his murders, his thought and feelings. With each passing meeting/interview, the two go from a interviewer and interviewee to something more.
I don't even know where I should start. When I first started the book the setup reminded me of Interview with a Vampire by Anne Rice. The book gave an interesting account and insight into the mind of a killer. Readers got the recollections of Gabriel's childhood, what hardships he had to face in his childhood and all the actions that built up and created the monster that is Gabriel Church. It was a bit disturbing to see how remorseless and uncaring he was about his actions and his frustration at wanting Chris to understand where he was coming from (err...his actions/murders). The time he spent with Christian did kind of painted him in a better light but not by much. I really didn't expect to like him as much as I did.
I don't really know what to make of Christian either. I was equal parts disturbed and awed at how he tracked down Gabriel before any law enforcement agency even knew about the crimes. The way he carried on with Gabe knowing all the dangers.
I was intrigued with the situation with Shea, with the way Gabe handled Chris and her actually meeting, Chris's behavior afterwards and what he did. The recourse Gabe had to take to rectify the situation was expected. The ending was a bit saddening but again expected. I did feel bad for Chris thinking he could have a different ending with Gabe...I do admit a little part of me was hoping Gabe would at least try.
September 29, 2015
This was definitely not my usual read, so did I like it? Yes, I did. Was it what I was expecting? No, not really. Was it a romance? Yes, of sorts. This story for me was interesting in many ways. It took me out of my comfort zone, made me review many values and in many respects a real mind bender as I felt myself being fascinated, invested and pulled in by the attraction of a serial killer. Yes, I know! Every logical thought says that I should have hated a serial killer, somebody who is evil, the worst kind of sociopath but …….. I liked him - lol! Can you believe it? As I said a real mind blender.
Gabriel Church is a serial killer, a vagabond moving from state to state leaving a trail of horrific murders behind him. I should have hated him, been very afraid of him but instead I found him to be fascinating, sexy and hot!! But his main quality is seduction. He oozes sexual magnetism and I felt myself being drawn in by his charms just like his biographer Christian Maxwell. We learn about his horrendous childhood but does this really excuse his actions? A harrowing childhood, a cruel and abusive father, yes I felt so sorry for him but this could never ever excuse what he has done.
Christian wants to write a book, is drawn by the dark and twisted workings of the mind after his studies in psychology and therefore what better subject than a serial killer that hasn’t been caught yet. Dangerous? Yes! Foolhardy? Maybe. Risky? Most definitely. But the dark fascination that Christian has leads him to seek out Gabriel himself using his sharp mind to put together a chain of murders that the police have yet to connect. Here I must admit I couldn't quite put the dots together on who sought who out myself, Gabriel to have his story told or Christian to write his book. I would have wished for a little more detail on this aspect. However, it didn't really matter in the end. As the main thing was the writer wanting to interview the murderer and get behind the man in the mask.
Christian is immediately ensnared in the charm and animal magnetism of Gabriel. This is where I could so understand Christian's attraction. Drawn in like a moth to a flame and one that inevitably flies too close. The professional distance soon crosses the line that shouldn't be crossed and Christian finds himself caring and developing feelings for his subject that go well beyond anything his logic tells him. But with such a hot subject to study who couldn't but not fall for Gabriel? Man he is sex on legs. Gabriel professes not to be gay which is fine as it seems to me as he just isn't fussy about with whom he gets his rocks off. Sex is one thing, emotional attachment? Never. It’s all just sex to him. But oh my! For someone who says that he has never thought himself as being gay he can certainly raise the temperature in the bedroom for sure.
Their relationship intensifies and Christian starts to sketch out a possible future for them together in his mind if only he can convince Gabriel to stop killing. To dare think of running off together, finding a safe haven where they can leave everything behind them is really only a pipedream for Gabriel. This of course becomes a bone of contention between them, especially from Gabriel who sees things a little more realistically than Christian in my opinion. Gabriel until now has never let himself form any kind of attachment to anyone and has his own difficulty in dealing with this, always keeps sex and romantic inclinations separate but with Christian he has to revaluate things. He also finds himself developing an emotional attachment to Christian that he knows he can’t really allow. Can he give up killing? That is the question hanging in the air. This leads them to constant arguments, both storming off in opposite directions after they have met but the make up sex is just as intense.
There is one M/F sex scene in the book that is crucial to the plot but nothing so graphic that any hardcore M/M fan needs to worry about unnecessarily. If I could get through it then anyone can - lol! But this scene becomes both their nemesis and shows that there can be no future together and in a way also makes Christian complicit to murder. So a key scene too in many respects.
This is a well written character study and if you like books that get into the dark and twisted inner workings of the mind, finding out what drives people and the motivation behind their actions then this book is for you. It pushed my barriers so far that it messed with my mind where I was finding myself falling for and sympathising with a serial killer!!!! However, also being deeply concerned with worry about Christian flying too close in the face of danger, becoming entrapped in the hypnotic web that Gabriel builds who is still an extremely dangerous man.
Why does Gabriel kill? Well, this is also explained very well and believe it or not after reading about his childhood can understand where he’s coming from. Killers are not born, maybe they are a product of their childhood but also fate and a number of events mount up to lead him to his first killing. He is cold, calculating and remains totally detached from his actions when committing murder and this alone is chilling in itself. So how on earth can someone like this start to develop any kind of romantic, emotional attachment to another human being. Well, that is the anomaly that is Gabriel Church.
The first 50% of the book is mostly the interaction between Gabriel and Christian in a hotel room that Christian has paid for over several nights, trying to interview his subject on neutral grounds. The only change of scene is when the leave the room to go out for the evening somewhere. It could have got a little tedious and I must admit I did wonder where this story was going at first. It’s OK to read about Gabriel and his past to read about Christian and his motivation but where is the story or plot going with these two characters? We are taken out of this backdrop when Gabriel recollects his childhood and the murders he has committed to Christian. However, I did feel that the first half of the book for me personally could have moved just a little bit faster plot wise and could have been cut down a bit, but nonetheless it still keep my interest as I found the character of Gabriel absolutely fascinating. The writing is concise , provides a lot of detail and insight into the characters which is the thing that kept me invested in the book all the way through.
There is no happy ending to this book and to be honest I don't feel I would have wanted or expected one either. I don't think even my brain at this stage would have computed an HEA with a serial killer. In the words of Gabriel to Christian,
This is a good start to a series and would love to read the following books to see where Gabriel goes from here.
Gabriel Church is a serial killer, a vagabond moving from state to state leaving a trail of horrific murders behind him. I should have hated him, been very afraid of him but instead I found him to be fascinating, sexy and hot!! But his main quality is seduction. He oozes sexual magnetism and I felt myself being drawn in by his charms just like his biographer Christian Maxwell. We learn about his horrendous childhood but does this really excuse his actions? A harrowing childhood, a cruel and abusive father, yes I felt so sorry for him but this could never ever excuse what he has done.
Christian wants to write a book, is drawn by the dark and twisted workings of the mind after his studies in psychology and therefore what better subject than a serial killer that hasn’t been caught yet. Dangerous? Yes! Foolhardy? Maybe. Risky? Most definitely. But the dark fascination that Christian has leads him to seek out Gabriel himself using his sharp mind to put together a chain of murders that the police have yet to connect. Here I must admit I couldn't quite put the dots together on who sought who out myself, Gabriel to have his story told or Christian to write his book. I would have wished for a little more detail on this aspect. However, it didn't really matter in the end. As the main thing was the writer wanting to interview the murderer and get behind the man in the mask.
Christian is immediately ensnared in the charm and animal magnetism of Gabriel. This is where I could so understand Christian's attraction. Drawn in like a moth to a flame and one that inevitably flies too close. The professional distance soon crosses the line that shouldn't be crossed and Christian finds himself caring and developing feelings for his subject that go well beyond anything his logic tells him. But with such a hot subject to study who couldn't but not fall for Gabriel? Man he is sex on legs. Gabriel professes not to be gay which is fine as it seems to me as he just isn't fussy about with whom he gets his rocks off. Sex is one thing, emotional attachment? Never. It’s all just sex to him. But oh my! For someone who says that he has never thought himself as being gay he can certainly raise the temperature in the bedroom for sure.
Their relationship intensifies and Christian starts to sketch out a possible future for them together in his mind if only he can convince Gabriel to stop killing. To dare think of running off together, finding a safe haven where they can leave everything behind them is really only a pipedream for Gabriel. This of course becomes a bone of contention between them, especially from Gabriel who sees things a little more realistically than Christian in my opinion. Gabriel until now has never let himself form any kind of attachment to anyone and has his own difficulty in dealing with this, always keeps sex and romantic inclinations separate but with Christian he has to revaluate things. He also finds himself developing an emotional attachment to Christian that he knows he can’t really allow. Can he give up killing? That is the question hanging in the air. This leads them to constant arguments, both storming off in opposite directions after they have met but the make up sex is just as intense.
There is one M/F sex scene in the book that is crucial to the plot but nothing so graphic that any hardcore M/M fan needs to worry about unnecessarily. If I could get through it then anyone can - lol! But this scene becomes both their nemesis and shows that there can be no future together and in a way also makes Christian complicit to murder. So a key scene too in many respects.
This is a well written character study and if you like books that get into the dark and twisted inner workings of the mind, finding out what drives people and the motivation behind their actions then this book is for you. It pushed my barriers so far that it messed with my mind where I was finding myself falling for and sympathising with a serial killer!!!! However, also being deeply concerned with worry about Christian flying too close in the face of danger, becoming entrapped in the hypnotic web that Gabriel builds who is still an extremely dangerous man.
Why does Gabriel kill? Well, this is also explained very well and believe it or not after reading about his childhood can understand where he’s coming from. Killers are not born, maybe they are a product of their childhood but also fate and a number of events mount up to lead him to his first killing. He is cold, calculating and remains totally detached from his actions when committing murder and this alone is chilling in itself. So how on earth can someone like this start to develop any kind of romantic, emotional attachment to another human being. Well, that is the anomaly that is Gabriel Church.
The first 50% of the book is mostly the interaction between Gabriel and Christian in a hotel room that Christian has paid for over several nights, trying to interview his subject on neutral grounds. The only change of scene is when the leave the room to go out for the evening somewhere. It could have got a little tedious and I must admit I did wonder where this story was going at first. It’s OK to read about Gabriel and his past to read about Christian and his motivation but where is the story or plot going with these two characters? We are taken out of this backdrop when Gabriel recollects his childhood and the murders he has committed to Christian. However, I did feel that the first half of the book for me personally could have moved just a little bit faster plot wise and could have been cut down a bit, but nonetheless it still keep my interest as I found the character of Gabriel absolutely fascinating. The writing is concise , provides a lot of detail and insight into the characters which is the thing that kept me invested in the book all the way through.
There is no happy ending to this book and to be honest I don't feel I would have wanted or expected one either. I don't think even my brain at this stage would have computed an HEA with a serial killer. In the words of Gabriel to Christian,
"Stop thinking this romance would've ever had a happy ending. This cowboy rides alone."So Christian is left missing his killer but actually quite a selfless act from Gabriel to protect the man he came to care for and respect. Can we call it love? This is not a soppy, slushy, sentimental romance. So I guess as far as Gabriel is concerned this is as far as he goes on the “I love you” front for now maybe.
This is a good start to a series and would love to read the following books to see where Gabriel goes from here.
April 27, 2018
*Copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
2,5 stars
Gabriel Church is a serial killer who wants to tell his story through a book, he meets an author, Christian Maxwell, who is ready to take the story and write about Chruch's life and action. As the two men start to go through Chruch's early life and the murders he has committed, they develop a relationship which is first just a friendship but fastly turns into a romance.
When I read the back cover of this book, I was quite certain that it was going to be a good read. The concept of a killer who has yet to be caught telling his story to an almost stranger is really unique and something you don't see every day. The idea was there and the plot was well built around the romance between Christian and Gabriel but still, this just wasn't a book for me.
I had a hard time reading this, first, it was really interesting and it seemed to be good based on the first few chapters. However, the more I read the more uninterested I got. The plot circled around the same things over and over again, it felt like the plot was repeating itself through different events. But the thing is, I found this one to be a quite difficult to read because it had so much internal monologue and not many characters. Of course, there can be good books with only two characters in the spotlight but this didn't succeed in that field.
As a summary, the book wasn't something I would like to recommend to others but I must say that I was impressed by the way the book ends. It didn't leave any loose ends and it fit the story. I think that if you are looking something light to read and you just want to relax, this would be the book for that.
2,5 stars
Gabriel Church is a serial killer who wants to tell his story through a book, he meets an author, Christian Maxwell, who is ready to take the story and write about Chruch's life and action. As the two men start to go through Chruch's early life and the murders he has committed, they develop a relationship which is first just a friendship but fastly turns into a romance.
When I read the back cover of this book, I was quite certain that it was going to be a good read. The concept of a killer who has yet to be caught telling his story to an almost stranger is really unique and something you don't see every day. The idea was there and the plot was well built around the romance between Christian and Gabriel but still, this just wasn't a book for me.
I had a hard time reading this, first, it was really interesting and it seemed to be good based on the first few chapters. However, the more I read the more uninterested I got. The plot circled around the same things over and over again, it felt like the plot was repeating itself through different events. But the thing is, I found this one to be a quite difficult to read because it had so much internal monologue and not many characters. Of course, there can be good books with only two characters in the spotlight but this didn't succeed in that field.
As a summary, the book wasn't something I would like to recommend to others but I must say that I was impressed by the way the book ends. It didn't leave any loose ends and it fit the story. I think that if you are looking something light to read and you just want to relax, this would be the book for that.
August 23, 2015
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
This story talks about two MCs: Christian, the writer that wants to write a bestseller about a serial killer that neither the FBI or the police knows about, and Gabriel, the serial killer. Christian is tagged as a loner and a social awkward misfit. He feels that tinge of discomfort in being single out in the crowd. Their meeting is quite strange… it’s like Gabriel found Christian than vice versa. Their first chat is in a café and slowly, Christian starts to find out about Gabriel and his past. He has had an awful childhood and while reading about it, I think I cried with the little kid that just wanted to be loved by his daddy, but that monster of a father wanted to just enjoy seeing his family suffer. . The Carnival episode with his brutal father shows the pure evil that was inside of that man (if he can be called that). Gabriel talks about his victims and how he chose them . Christian even notices that Gabriel speaks louder than normal and when he asks the man about the people he murdered, he says: “They’re not people but mile markers”. I still have to say that I don’t understand how Christian could fall for him. They have sex many times and even G. not being gay, he’s attracted to the writer. It was like Christian forgot that he was sleeping with, spending his days with and enjoying his time with a serial killer. There are certain situations where I wanted to pinch Christian because of his foolish behavior. I was in a panic mode most of the times and that’s why I liked this story. The author made me feel like I was there, like Gabriel’s eyes were on me instead of on Christian and I’m glad that, in the end, we don’t see what many people wanted. .
This story talks about two MCs: Christian, the writer that wants to write a bestseller about a serial killer that neither the FBI or the police knows about, and Gabriel, the serial killer. Christian is tagged as a loner and a social awkward misfit. He feels that tinge of discomfort in being single out in the crowd. Their meeting is quite strange… it’s like Gabriel found Christian than vice versa. Their first chat is in a café and slowly, Christian starts to find out about Gabriel and his past. He has had an awful childhood and while reading about it, I think I cried with the little kid that just wanted to be loved by his daddy, but that monster of a father wanted to just enjoy seeing his family suffer. . The Carnival episode with his brutal father shows the pure evil that was inside of that man (if he can be called that). Gabriel talks about his victims and how he chose them . Christian even notices that Gabriel speaks louder than normal and when he asks the man about the people he murdered, he says: “They’re not people but mile markers”. I still have to say that I don’t understand how Christian could fall for him. They have sex many times and even G. not being gay, he’s attracted to the writer. It was like Christian forgot that he was sleeping with, spending his days with and enjoying his time with a serial killer. There are certain situations where I wanted to pinch Christian because of his foolish behavior. I was in a panic mode most of the times and that’s why I liked this story. The author made me feel like I was there, like Gabriel’s eyes were on me instead of on Christian and I’m glad that, in the end, we don’t see what many people wanted. .
May 11, 2015
This was so not your typical m/m romance...dare I even say romance? Could you, would you knowingly fall for a serial killer? Despite knowing the good and the bad of someone does it stop you from loving them or wanting to love them?
Meet Christian Maxwell a writer ready to write the story of all stories one that has never been done like this before. The true telling of a serial killer's deeds before the authorities and public even know there is a serial killer they need to fear. Meet Gabriel Church an unassuming man with a warm smile and a twinkle in his eye ready to unburden his story, his way, to the one person he thinks will tell it the right way. Gabriel has done his fair share of killing and he's ready to tell the world why.
The two men are drawn to each other even before meeting; Christian has picked up on Gabriel's patterns of kills and Gabriel realizes someone has figured out his kills. A gentlemen's agreement is met; Christian will write Gabriel's story in Gabriel's words and Gabriel will tell Christian everything from the first kill to the last. What the two did not expect was to fall for each other.
Tag along with Christian down Gabriel's memory lane from childhood, to his first kill, to his first seeing of the light. It was more than a crazy ride for me, I found myself rooting for Christian and Gabriel's relationship. Even after reading about all of Gabriel's exploits. The two men seem to really care about each other. But alas jealousy has a way of making the most rational person do the most irrational things...
I thought this story was very well written even though there were some parts that dragged with repetition. I also would have liked a more complete ending but the author promised the second book in the series is already at the publishers so hopefully not to long of a wait to see what becomes of Gabriel and Christian. And who might be unlucky enough to cross Gabriel's path giving off the light.
I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review
Meet Christian Maxwell a writer ready to write the story of all stories one that has never been done like this before. The true telling of a serial killer's deeds before the authorities and public even know there is a serial killer they need to fear. Meet Gabriel Church an unassuming man with a warm smile and a twinkle in his eye ready to unburden his story, his way, to the one person he thinks will tell it the right way. Gabriel has done his fair share of killing and he's ready to tell the world why.
The two men are drawn to each other even before meeting; Christian has picked up on Gabriel's patterns of kills and Gabriel realizes someone has figured out his kills. A gentlemen's agreement is met; Christian will write Gabriel's story in Gabriel's words and Gabriel will tell Christian everything from the first kill to the last. What the two did not expect was to fall for each other.
Tag along with Christian down Gabriel's memory lane from childhood, to his first kill, to his first seeing of the light. It was more than a crazy ride for me, I found myself rooting for Christian and Gabriel's relationship. Even after reading about all of Gabriel's exploits. The two men seem to really care about each other. But alas jealousy has a way of making the most rational person do the most irrational things...
I thought this story was very well written even though there were some parts that dragged with repetition. I also would have liked a more complete ending but the author promised the second book in the series is already at the publishers so hopefully not to long of a wait to see what becomes of Gabriel and Christian. And who might be unlucky enough to cross Gabriel's path giving off the light.
I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review
May 20, 2015
When I first started reading this novel I didn't think I would like it. Boy, was I wrong!! This is a brilliant piece of work by Rodd Clark which I feel puts him into a really unique category of MM Suspense, Murder, and Relationships. The story line was strong with many twists and turns delving into the mind of a serial killer, Gabriel Church, his victims, and the biographer, Christian Maxwell, who Gabriel chose to write His Story!! He wanted the readers to know he wasn't crazy and that his victims were predestined to die by a higher power (shown by a white light encompassing the victim). The characters were developed within the unique style of the author, showing the vast personalities/moods of Gabriel and the well-educated and loving Christian. These characters were two totally different men brought together in a very bizarre story of exposing the horrific past and killing spree that Gabriel wanted people to know and Christian who seemed to be the only man that Gabriel trusted, becoming friends and lovers. The details of the killings show a very dark part of the story that comes from the mind of a intense, intriguing, dangerous man which even in the present these characteristics come out. The two men form a very special sexual relationship as well as a close friendship. Christian was a gay man who never acted on those feelings, but Gabriel in his quest to tell his story, becomes close to Christian, enticing him into who he really was. Couldn't put this book down. So much was going on so it demanded your attention in every aspect. With Gabriel and Christian becoming emotionally involved it brings up the questions: Will Christian be able to tell the real story? Will he become an accessory since he doesn't tell the police at the beginning?? What will happen to these two men??? My heart went out to Christian.... Gabriel did not have a choice! Great Story!! Highly recommend this one. Great job! Well done! Intense, Dark... Awesome Read
February 25, 2015
Rodd Clark has published several novels, he grew up in Oklahoma and now lives in Dallas, Texas. He pens a dark and thrilling ride as he takes us readers into 'Rubble and the Wreckage'. An erotic romance thriller that sets the path for a second epic installment for Book 2 in this series.
The back drop begins with two men, 'Christian Mazwell' a writer whom studied abnormal psychology. A fitting subject since the main focus of his writing is to introduce a real life serial killer on to his pages. And a serial killer named 'Gabriel Church'. Two completely separate lives brought together as Gabriel needs his life story to be told and whom better than Christian to bring it to life and relive those precious events.
As the story thickens, they find themselves becoming friends, feelings develop and soon they become lovers - But many questions remain...
(no spoilers)
Both characters grew on me as the tale unfolded, well drawn out with much thought out realism. The killer gets up close and personable with Christian with disturbing innuendos. Some scenes were very creative, crude, and demented (though in a good way) as the author splashes remnants of pathological and insulting crimes. An extremely enjoyable read for the dark and broad spectrum of a serial killers deep underlying thoughts.
There is something surreal about books, movies, and docudramas that us "normal" people are fascinated with and this debut to a series is no exception. I couldn't put this book down. Highly recommended.
The back drop begins with two men, 'Christian Mazwell' a writer whom studied abnormal psychology. A fitting subject since the main focus of his writing is to introduce a real life serial killer on to his pages. And a serial killer named 'Gabriel Church'. Two completely separate lives brought together as Gabriel needs his life story to be told and whom better than Christian to bring it to life and relive those precious events.
As the story thickens, they find themselves becoming friends, feelings develop and soon they become lovers - But many questions remain...
(no spoilers)
Both characters grew on me as the tale unfolded, well drawn out with much thought out realism. The killer gets up close and personable with Christian with disturbing innuendos. Some scenes were very creative, crude, and demented (though in a good way) as the author splashes remnants of pathological and insulting crimes. An extremely enjoyable read for the dark and broad spectrum of a serial killers deep underlying thoughts.
There is something surreal about books, movies, and docudramas that us "normal" people are fascinated with and this debut to a series is no exception. I couldn't put this book down. Highly recommended.
February 11, 2016
Very solid and enjoyable read. Also VERY different - I like different! *grins* I'm looking forward to diving into book 2!
May 6, 2016
BLOODY BOOK HANGOVER!!!!
July 21, 2021
Rubble and the Wreckage is unlike anything I've ever read before because it's a M/M novel featuring a psychopathic serial killer, Gabriel, who sought out a writer, Christian, to write a book about him. Christian eventually falls for the confident and handsome killer during their engagement.
Having a serial killer for a main character just rubbed me off the wrong way but I was curious what the author is going to do with the story and the characters. It wasn't like the killings were justified in any way at all and there were a number of short stories on the victims that Gabriel killed which I found rather repetitive because they did not really offer much more insights into Gabriel's character.
There were quite a number of things that didn't sit well with me in the story. Gabriel is supposedly straight or maybe bi-curious and Christian was also new to his sexuality as a gay man and a virgin but apparently Christian could bottom like a champ without any preparation. The eagerness of Gabriel offering sex to Christian also didn't strike me as believable.
I was quite disappointed with the ending of the story but I didn't realise at the time that it wasn't a standalone book because it felt like one. However I did enjoy the author's writing that made me last till the end.
2.5 Stars
Having a serial killer for a main character just rubbed me off the wrong way but I was curious what the author is going to do with the story and the characters. It wasn't like the killings were justified in any way at all and there were a number of short stories on the victims that Gabriel killed which I found rather repetitive because they did not really offer much more insights into Gabriel's character.
There were quite a number of things that didn't sit well with me in the story. Gabriel is supposedly straight or maybe bi-curious and Christian was also new to his sexuality as a gay man and a virgin but apparently Christian could bottom like a champ without any preparation. The eagerness of Gabriel offering sex to Christian also didn't strike me as believable.
I was quite disappointed with the ending of the story but I didn't realise at the time that it wasn't a standalone book because it felt like one. However I did enjoy the author's writing that made me last till the end.
2.5 Stars
March 17, 2015
I won a paperback copy of this novel here on Goodreads..
OK..
this was interesting....
it started of a bit slow, i was starting to think that I may not finish it but as I won it, I thought I would give it a bit longer and I am pleased to say, I am glad I did..
Serial Killer,a reporter and an interview....
I know it sounds a bit off but idea works really well...
It was well written, like I said it started a bit slow but by chapter four I was enjoying it...
i cannot say that it enthralled me but it kept my interest, there were a couple of turns that I did not expect..
So all up it was well worth reading...
A good read..
OK..
this was interesting....
it started of a bit slow, i was starting to think that I may not finish it but as I won it, I thought I would give it a bit longer and I am pleased to say, I am glad I did..
Serial Killer,a reporter and an interview....
I know it sounds a bit off but idea works really well...
It was well written, like I said it started a bit slow but by chapter four I was enjoying it...
i cannot say that it enthralled me but it kept my interest, there were a couple of turns that I did not expect..
So all up it was well worth reading...
A good read..
March 15, 2015
Gabriel Church - The story teller
Christian Maxwell - The Writer
Gabriel Has a story he really need to explain and Christian will write it,
But it will take him down a road he was not expecting to take and falling in love with a murderer was not what he had in mind.
Looking forward to the next book to see where Christian and Gabriel will be taken on the rest of their Journey.
Reviewed on behalf of Isalovesbooks Blog
Christian Maxwell - The Writer
Gabriel Has a story he really need to explain and Christian will write it,
But it will take him down a road he was not expecting to take and falling in love with a murderer was not what he had in mind.
Looking forward to the next book to see where Christian and Gabriel will be taken on the rest of their Journey.
Reviewed on behalf of Isalovesbooks Blog
February 6, 2017
Rodd Clark sets himself a pretty daunting task with Rubble and Wreckage. Like vampires, there has been a lot written about serial killers. And after Dexter one might wonder if we really needed another story about a serial killer discovering his humanity.
Turns out we do. But first a side note. Just as I have an objection to reading about vampires not being such bad folk, I also have a hard time reading books that are sympathetic to serial killers. Both, you know, kill people and therefore IMHO can never really be redeemed and make me pretty uncomfortable reading about them. Yet, sometimes I still do when I think a writer has something truly worth reading to say.
Clark does at that, telling us the story of Gabriel and Christian, two men pulled together by circumstances, neither expecting to fall for the other. But they do and what could be utterly unbelievable in another writer's hands, Clark pulls off without missing a beat. Watching these two men change and change each other is one of this book's many pleasures.
Some reviews knock the book for having a lot internal monologues, but those passages were so well written (Clark's prose is beautiful) and interesting that my attention never flagged. And unlike too many books I read, the characters really pop as distinct, well-written, and believable individuals.
This book is well worth your time and I look forward to reading the sequels.
Turns out we do. But first a side note. Just as I have an objection to reading about vampires not being such bad folk, I also have a hard time reading books that are sympathetic to serial killers. Both, you know, kill people and therefore IMHO can never really be redeemed and make me pretty uncomfortable reading about them. Yet, sometimes I still do when I think a writer has something truly worth reading to say.
Clark does at that, telling us the story of Gabriel and Christian, two men pulled together by circumstances, neither expecting to fall for the other. But they do and what could be utterly unbelievable in another writer's hands, Clark pulls off without missing a beat. Watching these two men change and change each other is one of this book's many pleasures.
Some reviews knock the book for having a lot internal monologues, but those passages were so well written (Clark's prose is beautiful) and interesting that my attention never flagged. And unlike too many books I read, the characters really pop as distinct, well-written, and believable individuals.
This book is well worth your time and I look forward to reading the sequels.
July 23, 2015
This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Gabriel Lee Church is a serial killer without remorse. And the one thing that makes him less than human is that he whole-heartedly believes that all his murders are justified. But not only is Gabriel a murderer, he has also never experienced an ounce of love. But if one thing is set in concrete it is the fact that love is a powerful thing, while it might not make Gabriel change his ways it might just illuminate his path.
Christian Maxwell is an author who wants to write the next bestseller even if it compromises his morality. He is ready to justify the consequences but the one thing he was not ready to face was love.
Love is a powerful thing but the only problem with love is that it rarely comes alone, with it comes happiness, jubilation, jealousy, sadness, an increased awareness of loneliness with bouts of pining combined with restlessness. While love puts morality into question it also makes morality a secondary consideration. So while love makes the act of murder look evil it makes murder in the act of love that much simpler, that much easier.
While this book questions morality it also suffuses love through the very contents of the pages. While you never feel like you are reading a love story, the end makes you wonder if this was where the author wanted to lead you all along.
While we say that when you love someone, you love every part of that person, then does loving a murderer make you complicit in his acts. Christian struggles with his feelings a lot but the thing is while he struggles in his cage he never seems to realize that he himself is the incarcerator that keeps him in the cage. Because it is true, love is blind; love makes you blind; maybe to the very possibility that you can stop loving someone.
On the other hand Gabriel finds it hard to conform to society’s version of love. But when that very struggle to not conform leads to an even stronger desire to conform you wonder how this story will end.
This story put a lot of ideas into question and it discusses a lot of issues. Especially how Christian seems to turns a blind eye to Gabriel's past and doesn’t let that cloud his judgement, how he doesn’t question his own mortality in the hands of a murderer or how even a sliver of love can have such unexpected turn of events…
I personally love books that instead of just being a story become something more something that broadens the horizon and I guess the only thing that can stretch horizons beyond recognition is love, because we only accept what we love and reject anything else. While love is not always strong when it is, it is as formidable as a death blow…
I feel that this book would mean different things to different people maybe even mean different things to the same person at different times. This story like its characters has a lot of facets and the facet of this book that you see will be remarkably unique. I never even knew that this book would change the concept of love for me would make me question it because this book doesn’t even subtly put any emphasis on love and I really wonder if I am going about this book all wrong. But maybe this book just showed me part of me I never even knew about. Reading this book has been a journey and which has left me with a yearning to know more about these two people…
“I did fall in love . . . and I still find myself falling.”
Gabriel Lee Church is a serial killer without remorse. And the one thing that makes him less than human is that he whole-heartedly believes that all his murders are justified. But not only is Gabriel a murderer, he has also never experienced an ounce of love. But if one thing is set in concrete it is the fact that love is a powerful thing, while it might not make Gabriel change his ways it might just illuminate his path.
Christian Maxwell is an author who wants to write the next bestseller even if it compromises his morality. He is ready to justify the consequences but the one thing he was not ready to face was love.
Love is a powerful thing but the only problem with love is that it rarely comes alone, with it comes happiness, jubilation, jealousy, sadness, an increased awareness of loneliness with bouts of pining combined with restlessness. While love puts morality into question it also makes morality a secondary consideration. So while love makes the act of murder look evil it makes murder in the act of love that much simpler, that much easier.
While this book questions morality it also suffuses love through the very contents of the pages. While you never feel like you are reading a love story, the end makes you wonder if this was where the author wanted to lead you all along.
While we say that when you love someone, you love every part of that person, then does loving a murderer make you complicit in his acts. Christian struggles with his feelings a lot but the thing is while he struggles in his cage he never seems to realize that he himself is the incarcerator that keeps him in the cage. Because it is true, love is blind; love makes you blind; maybe to the very possibility that you can stop loving someone.
On the other hand Gabriel finds it hard to conform to society’s version of love. But when that very struggle to not conform leads to an even stronger desire to conform you wonder how this story will end.
This story put a lot of ideas into question and it discusses a lot of issues. Especially how Christian seems to turns a blind eye to Gabriel's past and doesn’t let that cloud his judgement, how he doesn’t question his own mortality in the hands of a murderer or how even a sliver of love can have such unexpected turn of events…
I personally love books that instead of just being a story become something more something that broadens the horizon and I guess the only thing that can stretch horizons beyond recognition is love, because we only accept what we love and reject anything else. While love is not always strong when it is, it is as formidable as a death blow…
I feel that this book would mean different things to different people maybe even mean different things to the same person at different times. This story like its characters has a lot of facets and the facet of this book that you see will be remarkably unique. I never even knew that this book would change the concept of love for me would make me question it because this book doesn’t even subtly put any emphasis on love and I really wonder if I am going about this book all wrong. But maybe this book just showed me part of me I never even knew about. Reading this book has been a journey and which has left me with a yearning to know more about these two people…
“I did fall in love . . . and I still find myself falling.”
June 26, 2015
We’re introduced to Christian Maxwell first, as he’s sitting in a cafe in Seattle interviewing serial killer, Gabriel Church. Now let’s break there for a moment. The religious elements to this story cannot be overlooked though they aren’t pervasive or preachy. As a matter of fact, they feel as though religion is used as a hidden compulsion of the characters. Christian is a self-professed atheist, yet is the morality in the story. (and no, you don’t have to be religious to be moral, he’s just the moral compass of the story, if you can call it that.) And though Gabriel is unclear of his true ideology, it makes me wonder if he picked Christian for some ideological reason that’s only known to him.
Back to the characters, Gabriel kills at random and with no know MO. And amazingly, Christian is the only one who figured out that he was the killer to those murders. And Gabriel wanted his story told, and Christian is the journalist to record it. And what starts out as two straight men (or mostly straight in Christian’s case) their affair starts off rather sudden and with no reticence on either man’s part. And as with all things, the emotional element complicates an already EXTREMELY complicated relationship. And both men upset and hurt the other.
I will say this does not have an HEA. This doesn’t end in a bang. It simply ends. Unsatisfactorily and without any real resolution. But isn’t that how life is? With as fantastical as this story was, it had a very human ending. I think it was the BEST possible ending that could have come out of it. It definitely didn’t end as horrible as I expected.
*****
MY REACTIONS
I’ll be honest, this is something different from my normal review. Because yeah, I have books I yell at. But probably not to the degree that I yelled at this one. I had to read this book while my 6yo son was sleeping because I couldn’t help screaming certain things out at the book, which is why it took me longer than expected to read it. But yeah, at one point, when I realized that an affair was imminent I was like “DUDE!!! Don’t!!!! He’s going to stab your brains with his though your eye socket!!!!” Among the typical “ARE YOU NUTS!!!” and then toward the end….“Well, you’re dead now, dumba@#!!!”
*****
Mr. Clark definitely has a way with words. There are some continuity issues and some minor grammar issues, but each character had a distinct voice, even if it wasn’t immediately clear when a character switch occurred. He also does an amazing job at creating a sympathetic, yet unapologetic “bad guy”, because regardless of how the character Gabriel feels about himself, he IS the bad guy. The homoerotic element to this wasn’t awkward or feel overtly showy, it felt like it truly was a natural progression, though it started as suddenly as it did. The sex wasn’t overly graphic either, not at all fade to black, but not harsh and graphic. This definitely couldn’t be labeled erotica, though it was erotic. So would I recommend...(https://textuallove.wordpress.com/201... the rest of the review behind the link.
Back to the characters, Gabriel kills at random and with no know MO. And amazingly, Christian is the only one who figured out that he was the killer to those murders. And Gabriel wanted his story told, and Christian is the journalist to record it. And what starts out as two straight men (or mostly straight in Christian’s case) their affair starts off rather sudden and with no reticence on either man’s part. And as with all things, the emotional element complicates an already EXTREMELY complicated relationship. And both men upset and hurt the other.
I will say this does not have an HEA. This doesn’t end in a bang. It simply ends. Unsatisfactorily and without any real resolution. But isn’t that how life is? With as fantastical as this story was, it had a very human ending. I think it was the BEST possible ending that could have come out of it. It definitely didn’t end as horrible as I expected.
*****
MY REACTIONS
I’ll be honest, this is something different from my normal review. Because yeah, I have books I yell at. But probably not to the degree that I yelled at this one. I had to read this book while my 6yo son was sleeping because I couldn’t help screaming certain things out at the book, which is why it took me longer than expected to read it. But yeah, at one point, when I realized that an affair was imminent I was like “DUDE!!! Don’t!!!! He’s going to stab your brains with his though your eye socket!!!!” Among the typical “ARE YOU NUTS!!!” and then toward the end….“Well, you’re dead now, dumba@#!!!”
*****
Mr. Clark definitely has a way with words. There are some continuity issues and some minor grammar issues, but each character had a distinct voice, even if it wasn’t immediately clear when a character switch occurred. He also does an amazing job at creating a sympathetic, yet unapologetic “bad guy”, because regardless of how the character Gabriel feels about himself, he IS the bad guy. The homoerotic element to this wasn’t awkward or feel overtly showy, it felt like it truly was a natural progression, though it started as suddenly as it did. The sex wasn’t overly graphic either, not at all fade to black, but not harsh and graphic. This definitely couldn’t be labeled erotica, though it was erotic. So would I recommend...(https://textuallove.wordpress.com/201... the rest of the review behind the link.
October 14, 2015
Blog Post: http://gaymediareviews.weebly.com/blo...
Rubble and the Wreckage (A Gabriel Church Tale #1) by Rodd Clark
Gabriel is a serial killer and he wants his story told. Trust me he most certainly has a story that needs to be told. Christian has a college background in psychology which will come in handy when dealing with Gabriel but his true passion is writing. The great twist here is that Gabriel has not yet been captured while Christian writes his story. Gabriel has not requested Christians help in any killings or his silence in order to give him the story. The writer and the killer soon find that lines have been crossed and they're becoming friends and lovers but what does Gabriel really want from Christian?
I love this genre of novels about serial killers but was never able to find one of gay characters so when the author asked me to review his novel, I was overly thrilled…come on...a gay serial killer.....I was hooked before I even opened the book. Please don't let the theme scare you off as you will be missing out on one of the best novels that you will ever come across. I love that this novel was a psychological thriller and a gay romance all-in-one and how the author pulled it off was so brilliant, I was just amazed. I quite enjoyed Rodd Clarks style of writing and I found it so refreshing and I was mesmerized and glued to each riveting page. I found that it started so smoothly and as he introduced characters that added a great depth to the story and he never confuses you by flipping from one character to the next.
I was so intrigued by the connection that Gabriel and Christian had from the very start. Then to realize that this interview/story-writing wasn't being done behind bars as Gabriel has yet to be arrested for his killings. I thought this was one of the greatest twist I've ever read and I couldn't wait to jump right into this heart pounding novel.
The character of Gabriel was so interesting for me as he lived his life in a very realistic and honest way but after meeting Christian he finds he has to evaluate his emotional connection to this guy as he has always been able to separate sex from romance and never form any kind of attachment to anyone but that was also before he met Christian. Does he think that he can stop killing for Christian or is his desire for murder gone too far? As you can tell I completely loved this novel Rubble and the Wreckage by Rodd Clark. I can't implore you enough to read this beautifully and creatively written novel as you will not be disappointed at all!!!
"Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review."
Reviewed by Paul at Gay Media Reviews
Rubble and the Wreckage (A Gabriel Church Tale #1) by Rodd Clark
Gabriel is a serial killer and he wants his story told. Trust me he most certainly has a story that needs to be told. Christian has a college background in psychology which will come in handy when dealing with Gabriel but his true passion is writing. The great twist here is that Gabriel has not yet been captured while Christian writes his story. Gabriel has not requested Christians help in any killings or his silence in order to give him the story. The writer and the killer soon find that lines have been crossed and they're becoming friends and lovers but what does Gabriel really want from Christian?
I love this genre of novels about serial killers but was never able to find one of gay characters so when the author asked me to review his novel, I was overly thrilled…come on...a gay serial killer.....I was hooked before I even opened the book. Please don't let the theme scare you off as you will be missing out on one of the best novels that you will ever come across. I love that this novel was a psychological thriller and a gay romance all-in-one and how the author pulled it off was so brilliant, I was just amazed. I quite enjoyed Rodd Clarks style of writing and I found it so refreshing and I was mesmerized and glued to each riveting page. I found that it started so smoothly and as he introduced characters that added a great depth to the story and he never confuses you by flipping from one character to the next.
I was so intrigued by the connection that Gabriel and Christian had from the very start. Then to realize that this interview/story-writing wasn't being done behind bars as Gabriel has yet to be arrested for his killings. I thought this was one of the greatest twist I've ever read and I couldn't wait to jump right into this heart pounding novel.
The character of Gabriel was so interesting for me as he lived his life in a very realistic and honest way but after meeting Christian he finds he has to evaluate his emotional connection to this guy as he has always been able to separate sex from romance and never form any kind of attachment to anyone but that was also before he met Christian. Does he think that he can stop killing for Christian or is his desire for murder gone too far? As you can tell I completely loved this novel Rubble and the Wreckage by Rodd Clark. I can't implore you enough to read this beautifully and creatively written novel as you will not be disappointed at all!!!
"Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review."
Reviewed by Paul at Gay Media Reviews
March 25, 2015
On one level, quite literal, author Rodd Clark gives us a unique story of a serial killer and his biographer. A man named Gabriel Church is a murderer, drawn by a mystical white light which appears almost like a nimbus or halo around the ones who become his victims. It's critical to note that the killer sees his acts as almost God-directed, because (in his mind) all life naturally ends in rubble. His biographer, Christian, is at once smitten with him and deeply repelled by the metaphoric—and real—“hole in his heart” which threatens to bring a grisly end to victim and destroyer alike. Killer and confessor become friends and lovers. The closer they become, the more the line between good and evil becomes blurred, distorted, changed.
An archangel, a church. A Christian confessor. A blinding white light, the sign of some almighty power. An epiphany, yet ironically the story of a serial killer bent on utter wreckage.
What does it all mean?
Is the killer a thoroughly evil man? Does his biographer share the guilt because he does not turn him in to the authorities—even loves him, shields him, fears for him? Does a cold killer deserve redemption?
The author asks a lot of hard questions, and the answers are not easy.
Apart from the lapses in grammar and style, this is a boldly written—even groundbreaking—novel. Clark’s deft creation of a killer is such that we almost lie at his side as his lover does, listening to the muffled sound of that hole in his heart, falling into the heaven of his eyes and wanting redemption for him. The sexual side of the book is handled well, yet almost offhandedly. Natural and easy, extremely visceral. It’s not at all difficult to see and feel these men falling first in lust and then feeling deep emotion for each other.
I thought I’d never give top marks to a writer who betrays such inattention to the basics of writing (style, grammar, those Harpies of every school marm). BUT ... BUT he writes in the kind of metaphorical style I envy, with images and words that strip language to its very bone and marrow. BUT he has created both a monster and a man of astonishing beauty. I am mesmerized by the style, the characters, the story, the bleak search for answers.
This writer deserves serious attention. With the creation of Gabriel, he has torn a hole in my heart too. Five stars for sheer brilliance, chutzpah, creativity. For a character I will honest to God never forget.
An archangel, a church. A Christian confessor. A blinding white light, the sign of some almighty power. An epiphany, yet ironically the story of a serial killer bent on utter wreckage.
What does it all mean?
Is the killer a thoroughly evil man? Does his biographer share the guilt because he does not turn him in to the authorities—even loves him, shields him, fears for him? Does a cold killer deserve redemption?
The author asks a lot of hard questions, and the answers are not easy.
Apart from the lapses in grammar and style, this is a boldly written—even groundbreaking—novel. Clark’s deft creation of a killer is such that we almost lie at his side as his lover does, listening to the muffled sound of that hole in his heart, falling into the heaven of his eyes and wanting redemption for him. The sexual side of the book is handled well, yet almost offhandedly. Natural and easy, extremely visceral. It’s not at all difficult to see and feel these men falling first in lust and then feeling deep emotion for each other.
I thought I’d never give top marks to a writer who betrays such inattention to the basics of writing (style, grammar, those Harpies of every school marm). BUT ... BUT he writes in the kind of metaphorical style I envy, with images and words that strip language to its very bone and marrow. BUT he has created both a monster and a man of astonishing beauty. I am mesmerized by the style, the characters, the story, the bleak search for answers.
This writer deserves serious attention. With the creation of Gabriel, he has torn a hole in my heart too. Five stars for sheer brilliance, chutzpah, creativity. For a character I will honest to God never forget.
July 5, 2015
A free copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I can honestly say I had no expectations when I started reading this book. I deliberately kept myself from envisioning the ending, or the possible romance between any of the characters, or the level of ghastliness Gabe’s stories might reveal. Still, I’m sure I got much more than I was prepared for.
The story starts off a little slow, but once it truly gets moving, it moves fast. Gabe’s character was revealed bit by bit by the stories he shared, and he was painfully honest with everything he had done, as well as the reasons for those actions. Christian’s motives were much more complex and confusing for me. I felt that throughout the book Gabe was the honest one, the one who was almost fair in some twisted way, even while speaking about his acts in a very cold, emotionless manner. His character was so frank and plain, completely unapologetic about the things he had done, that in my eyes he seemed to walk around with this self-proclaimed superiority over everybody else. As if he viewed the world on a whole other level, one no one else could reach. I think Christian was just a means to an end for Gabe, but then something changed. Something I really don’t understand. Which is why I decided to give this book four stars instead of five.
I admit; my favorable opinion of this book is largely due to Gabe’s character. Had he been less complex, less crude, less offensive, my rating would be a lot different. I still need more of these two, more of their relationship and their mutual attraction, to fully understand what exactly happened between Gabe and Christian for them to get so close to one another. I hope the sequel gives more insight on these men, so that maybe I can understand the attraction, too. I wouldn’t call this romance, but I would call this a love story of sorts. Anyone looking for a happy ending should first decide what happy means for these men, because I doubt it’s as simple as it seems.
I can honestly say I had no expectations when I started reading this book. I deliberately kept myself from envisioning the ending, or the possible romance between any of the characters, or the level of ghastliness Gabe’s stories might reveal. Still, I’m sure I got much more than I was prepared for.
The story starts off a little slow, but once it truly gets moving, it moves fast. Gabe’s character was revealed bit by bit by the stories he shared, and he was painfully honest with everything he had done, as well as the reasons for those actions. Christian’s motives were much more complex and confusing for me. I felt that throughout the book Gabe was the honest one, the one who was almost fair in some twisted way, even while speaking about his acts in a very cold, emotionless manner. His character was so frank and plain, completely unapologetic about the things he had done, that in my eyes he seemed to walk around with this self-proclaimed superiority over everybody else. As if he viewed the world on a whole other level, one no one else could reach. I think Christian was just a means to an end for Gabe, but then something changed. Something I really don’t understand. Which is why I decided to give this book four stars instead of five.
I admit; my favorable opinion of this book is largely due to Gabe’s character. Had he been less complex, less crude, less offensive, my rating would be a lot different. I still need more of these two, more of their relationship and their mutual attraction, to fully understand what exactly happened between Gabe and Christian for them to get so close to one another. I hope the sequel gives more insight on these men, so that maybe I can understand the attraction, too. I wouldn’t call this romance, but I would call this a love story of sorts. Anyone looking for a happy ending should first decide what happy means for these men, because I doubt it’s as simple as it seems.
April 18, 2015
4.5 heart review by Tidal
Christian Maxwell is quite astute in his studies of abnormal psychology. He wants to interview cold-blooded killer Gabriel Lee Church. Christian is so familiar with the criminal mind, in fact he finds the killer before the police do or so he thinks.
This is a wonderful book for the person who likes stories that offer in depth character studies of flawed people. Both men are very complicated and probably equally fragmented except on opposite sides of the law. Gabriel is straight but there is an attraction. Christian is drawn to the sensual killer like a moth to a flame. His attraction is not charismatic, it is a hypnotic pull that draws him to the killer.
Gabriel is a master at playing with people and their vulnerabilities. Christian often deludes himself with denial that he is in control and keeping his emotions in check. Lines are crossed, boundaries are blurred, and Christian is quickly plunged into a world that is no longer black and white. Christian soon learns that Gabriel has some redeeming qualities and is not 100% evil. Gabriel never forces anything on Christian but as the dance unfolds, they turn into lovers.
Rubble and the Wreckage is a sizzling read. Nothing is what it seems; nor is it so simplistic as a killer grooming a writer to be a patsy for murder like a predictable TV movie. The story unfolds slowly but the pace is never boring. It does not take long to feel a degree of empathy for all the characters as well as making the distinct observation that no one is completely monstrous. As much as I liked the story, I do not recall the last book that ended with such a satisfying conclusion. It was certainly one that I did not see coming.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
Christian Maxwell is quite astute in his studies of abnormal psychology. He wants to interview cold-blooded killer Gabriel Lee Church. Christian is so familiar with the criminal mind, in fact he finds the killer before the police do or so he thinks.
This is a wonderful book for the person who likes stories that offer in depth character studies of flawed people. Both men are very complicated and probably equally fragmented except on opposite sides of the law. Gabriel is straight but there is an attraction. Christian is drawn to the sensual killer like a moth to a flame. His attraction is not charismatic, it is a hypnotic pull that draws him to the killer.
Gabriel is a master at playing with people and their vulnerabilities. Christian often deludes himself with denial that he is in control and keeping his emotions in check. Lines are crossed, boundaries are blurred, and Christian is quickly plunged into a world that is no longer black and white. Christian soon learns that Gabriel has some redeeming qualities and is not 100% evil. Gabriel never forces anything on Christian but as the dance unfolds, they turn into lovers.
Rubble and the Wreckage is a sizzling read. Nothing is what it seems; nor is it so simplistic as a killer grooming a writer to be a patsy for murder like a predictable TV movie. The story unfolds slowly but the pace is never boring. It does not take long to feel a degree of empathy for all the characters as well as making the distinct observation that no one is completely monstrous. As much as I liked the story, I do not recall the last book that ended with such a satisfying conclusion. It was certainly one that I did not see coming.
A copy of this book was provided in exchange for an honest review. Please visit www.lovebytesreviews.com to see this and many more reviews, author interviews, guestposts and giveaways!
May 30, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
I have to admit, I’ve always been fascinated by serial killers. I watch tv shows about them, both documentary and fictionalized. They are the monsters who walk amongst us. To be completely honest with you, after reading the blurb I was hesitant to read this book. The idea of reading a book about someone falling for a serial killer was way outside my comfort zone, yet this book is so well written that I found myself falling for Gabriel despite knowing everything he’s done.
Nose in a book and a loner, Christian was voted most likely to be a school shooter by his fellow students in high school and college. Coming from a wealthy family and blessed with good looks, he managed to escape being totally ostracized in high school, but was always on the outside looking in. In college he excelled in psychology, but he didn’t want to be stuck listening to other people’s problems for the rest of his life so he focused on creative writing. When he decides to write a book from a serial killer’s point of view, he becomes so immersed in the mind of a killer that he is able not only to predict who the next victim might be, but also where the killer is going to strike next with shocking accuracy.
Gabriel’s killings have lost their thrill, and he’s determined that it’s time to confess his story. As Gabriel recounts his life and the murders, Christian finds that despite the evil that lurks within Gabriel, he has redeeming qualities. As the two become friends and lovers, I found myself rooting that Christian could convince Gabriel to walk away from his “calling” and start a new life, one with Christian.
Read Wendy’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
I have to admit, I’ve always been fascinated by serial killers. I watch tv shows about them, both documentary and fictionalized. They are the monsters who walk amongst us. To be completely honest with you, after reading the blurb I was hesitant to read this book. The idea of reading a book about someone falling for a serial killer was way outside my comfort zone, yet this book is so well written that I found myself falling for Gabriel despite knowing everything he’s done.
Nose in a book and a loner, Christian was voted most likely to be a school shooter by his fellow students in high school and college. Coming from a wealthy family and blessed with good looks, he managed to escape being totally ostracized in high school, but was always on the outside looking in. In college he excelled in psychology, but he didn’t want to be stuck listening to other people’s problems for the rest of his life so he focused on creative writing. When he decides to write a book from a serial killer’s point of view, he becomes so immersed in the mind of a killer that he is able not only to predict who the next victim might be, but also where the killer is going to strike next with shocking accuracy.
Gabriel’s killings have lost their thrill, and he’s determined that it’s time to confess his story. As Gabriel recounts his life and the murders, Christian finds that despite the evil that lurks within Gabriel, he has redeeming qualities. As the two become friends and lovers, I found myself rooting that Christian could convince Gabriel to walk away from his “calling” and start a new life, one with Christian.
Read Wendy’s review in its entirety here.
May 1, 2015
5 Scary Stars
*Copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Author Christian Maxwell's life will never be the same after his world collides with serial killer, Gabriel "Gabe" Lee Church.
Writer and Killer meet by chance and strike a deal. An exclusive tell all interview, that Chris will turn into a book. They start off with the interview at a local coffee shop in Downtown Seattle, and though neither man has ever been with a man before they eventually fall into bed.
This was such an interesting book. For years I have watched documentaries and T.V. Shows about serial killers. I think they are fascinating, but I couldn't imagine coming face to face with one. Chris is either very brave or very stupid, it's honestly a little of both probably. Reading this book was like watching one of those T.V. Programs.
Rodd is an amazing narrator and manages to weave a thrilling and intriguing tale of sex, lust, love, mystery and danger. Even though this book takes place over a short period of time, it was a long book and by the end I felt I Knew these characters. I rooted for them. I felt the love Chris and Gabe had for one another. I rooted for them to get their HEA. This says its book 1, so I'm really hoping Chris and Gabe's story hasn't ended yet! Can't wait for more!
I have never read anything like this. If you love serial killers, pick this up and you won't be disappointed.
*Just a note if you've never read or thought about reading a gay romance, please don't let that turn you off. There are no explicit sex scenes between the MC's*
*Copy provided by author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Author Christian Maxwell's life will never be the same after his world collides with serial killer, Gabriel "Gabe" Lee Church.
Writer and Killer meet by chance and strike a deal. An exclusive tell all interview, that Chris will turn into a book. They start off with the interview at a local coffee shop in Downtown Seattle, and though neither man has ever been with a man before they eventually fall into bed.
This was such an interesting book. For years I have watched documentaries and T.V. Shows about serial killers. I think they are fascinating, but I couldn't imagine coming face to face with one. Chris is either very brave or very stupid, it's honestly a little of both probably. Reading this book was like watching one of those T.V. Programs.
Rodd is an amazing narrator and manages to weave a thrilling and intriguing tale of sex, lust, love, mystery and danger. Even though this book takes place over a short period of time, it was a long book and by the end I felt I Knew these characters. I rooted for them. I felt the love Chris and Gabe had for one another. I rooted for them to get their HEA. This says its book 1, so I'm really hoping Chris and Gabe's story hasn't ended yet! Can't wait for more!
I have never read anything like this. If you love serial killers, pick this up and you won't be disappointed.
*Just a note if you've never read or thought about reading a gay romance, please don't let that turn you off. There are no explicit sex scenes between the MC's*
December 16, 2015
I was given a copy of this book free by the author in return for an unbiased review.
I wanted to read this book because the idea sounded exciting.
Writer tracks down a serial killer before he is on any police radars and writes a book about him.
Through the story as Gabe goes into the details of his life and the killings, the two men begin to fall in love.
Christian, the writer identified as gay his whole life but Gabe , the killer, was straight and Christian was his first gay encounter.
Although the idea of the book was excellent. I did find the long inner monologues and narratives very wordy. I found it was difficult to concentrate without splitting some of the passages up with dialogue.
However, there were 2 big No Nos for me and that's why I gave it 3 stars.
Firstly, about 75% in or so, there is MF sex. For me, MF sex in what is supposedly a MM book is a no no. If I wanted to read about MF sex I would buy a MF book.
I think I know why the author did it. I believe that Gabe's one night with Shea was the catalyst for the ending.
Secondly, I like at least a HFN to my stories. If I had the choice a HEA. This book had neither.
After Shea, Gabe takes off leaving Christian alone.
As this was book 1 of what I think will be a series, I did guess at the beginning that Gabe would not die, but the ending was underwhelming to say the least.
I wanted to read this book because the idea sounded exciting.
Writer tracks down a serial killer before he is on any police radars and writes a book about him.
Through the story as Gabe goes into the details of his life and the killings, the two men begin to fall in love.
Christian, the writer identified as gay his whole life but Gabe , the killer, was straight and Christian was his first gay encounter.
Although the idea of the book was excellent. I did find the long inner monologues and narratives very wordy. I found it was difficult to concentrate without splitting some of the passages up with dialogue.
However, there were 2 big No Nos for me and that's why I gave it 3 stars.
Firstly, about 75% in or so, there is MF sex. For me, MF sex in what is supposedly a MM book is a no no. If I wanted to read about MF sex I would buy a MF book.
I think I know why the author did it. I believe that Gabe's one night with Shea was the catalyst for the ending.
Secondly, I like at least a HFN to my stories. If I had the choice a HEA. This book had neither.
After Shea, Gabe takes off leaving Christian alone.
As this was book 1 of what I think will be a series, I did guess at the beginning that Gabe would not die, but the ending was underwhelming to say the least.
June 14, 2015
Christian Maxwell is smart, really smart. He single handedly figured out the country had a serial killer on the loose.
He even figured out when his next murder would take place. Then when it happens, he can think of only one thing, writing the story of a killer. A killer that has yet to be caught.
Gabriel Church is a killer, a man with no remorse. He feels his killings are justified, but Christian is having a hard time understanding how he feels this way. It can't be a result of his terrible childhood or the fact that he roams the country alone, a drifter, now his explanation and true belief can not be understood.
Christian was never afraid of spending time alone with Gabriel, in fact the two have become very close. But when Gabriel learns of Christians betrayal, he is beside himself. How could Christian do that to him? How could he do that to them? Didn't they mean more? What will this mean for the book and their relationship?
Rodd Clark is an inventive author who brings his books to life with his words. He keeps you right on the edge of your seat wondering what to expect next. This is the first time reading his stories and I hope to continue.
I'm looking forward to continue with Gabriel's next tale.
He even figured out when his next murder would take place. Then when it happens, he can think of only one thing, writing the story of a killer. A killer that has yet to be caught.
Gabriel Church is a killer, a man with no remorse. He feels his killings are justified, but Christian is having a hard time understanding how he feels this way. It can't be a result of his terrible childhood or the fact that he roams the country alone, a drifter, now his explanation and true belief can not be understood.
Christian was never afraid of spending time alone with Gabriel, in fact the two have become very close. But when Gabriel learns of Christians betrayal, he is beside himself. How could Christian do that to him? How could he do that to them? Didn't they mean more? What will this mean for the book and their relationship?
Rodd Clark is an inventive author who brings his books to life with his words. He keeps you right on the edge of your seat wondering what to expect next. This is the first time reading his stories and I hope to continue.
I'm looking forward to continue with Gabriel's next tale.
April 23, 2015
Original review on Molly Lolly
Four stars!
This book was so very interesting, and different from the things I normally read. I was intrigued by the book when it came through my inbox and knew I had to give it a chance. I’m so very glad I did. Gabriel Church is a serial killer that no one has realized exists. His murders are so vastly different, each case is on it’s own as opposed to being pieced together by some law enforcement somewhere. However Christian figured it out because he’s studied psychology and cold case files. I was fascinated how Christian was able to set aside Gabe’s killings only to be smacked in the face with it from some comment. He kept going around that circle of forgetting, falling for the man, then being reminded. I felt bad for the guy because you can’t help who you fall in love with, even if he’s a serial killer. Of course Gabe can’t stay and I was heartbroken at the end. I want for the two guys to have a happy ending, however I know it’s not possible for them. I can’t wait to see how the next book in the series goes!
Four stars!
This book was so very interesting, and different from the things I normally read. I was intrigued by the book when it came through my inbox and knew I had to give it a chance. I’m so very glad I did. Gabriel Church is a serial killer that no one has realized exists. His murders are so vastly different, each case is on it’s own as opposed to being pieced together by some law enforcement somewhere. However Christian figured it out because he’s studied psychology and cold case files. I was fascinated how Christian was able to set aside Gabe’s killings only to be smacked in the face with it from some comment. He kept going around that circle of forgetting, falling for the man, then being reminded. I felt bad for the guy because you can’t help who you fall in love with, even if he’s a serial killer. Of course Gabe can’t stay and I was heartbroken at the end. I want for the two guys to have a happy ending, however I know it’s not possible for them. I can’t wait to see how the next book in the series goes!
June 18, 2015
I haven't read another book like this one. It is a new perspective on relationships, on love, on trust.
Christian is writing Gabe's story, learning about the dead bodies. Gabe is opening up, for the first time talking about who he has killed and why. Along the way, it becomes more than sharing a story, having a drink. A friendship forms, leading to romance, a connection that is more than an author and confessor. But does a serial killer really get a HEA? Can you fall in love with a murderer and come out the other side unscathed?
Rodd Clark takes you into the mind and lives of Christian and Gabe. This isn't a quick, easy love story. It's deep, dragging you into the darkness of the mind.
Christian is writing Gabe's story, learning about the dead bodies. Gabe is opening up, for the first time talking about who he has killed and why. Along the way, it becomes more than sharing a story, having a drink. A friendship forms, leading to romance, a connection that is more than an author and confessor. But does a serial killer really get a HEA? Can you fall in love with a murderer and come out the other side unscathed?
Rodd Clark takes you into the mind and lives of Christian and Gabe. This isn't a quick, easy love story. It's deep, dragging you into the darkness of the mind.
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