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Dyed Souls
Charlie Lyle loves science, natural history and the world of the mind, and these are his refuge as he copes with his drug addicted mother and a world of circumstances beyond his he grasp. Baffled by how he has ended up in residential treatment, he turns to the works of Charles Darwin to understand his predicament, his fellow residents - and to find a way out. Against all odds, he falls in love and it is this cataclysmic relationship that propels him on a cross-country journey and a collision course with his own history.
More a work of philosophy than psychology, Dyed Souls explores a dystopian world where narcissism subsumes wisdom, and Orwellian doublethink supplants reason.
More a work of philosophy than psychology, Dyed Souls explores a dystopian world where narcissism subsumes wisdom, and Orwellian doublethink supplants reason.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 28, 2018
3 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
August 26, 2018
Dyed Souls was nothing like I expected. With that being said, the book was amazing!! Charlie was a character that I feel in love with, especially because he needed that love. The entire book he was trying to fit in and find himself, yet he was always the odd boy it seemed. But, this could also be because of his lack of self-confidence about himself, especially his hands.
Charlie’s mother was never the hero in this story, and from the beginning we can tell that she is in a lot of pain, and she tends to take out a lot of that pain on him. It makes the reader want to know why she is so upset at him. It makes the reader want to know why he has to endure where he lives and the pain that she has put him through by stripping him away from everything he knows.
The author did a great job in introducing us to a world that I never would have thought existed. The emotions that I felt while reading this book were so intense that I felt like I knew all of the main characters personally. Creating all of these complex characters, even if they were not the main ones, still let the reader explore why those characters were so important to Charlie’s life and his story. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good read. However, I would just like to point out that they might go through a box of tissues or two.
Charlie’s mother was never the hero in this story, and from the beginning we can tell that she is in a lot of pain, and she tends to take out a lot of that pain on him. It makes the reader want to know why she is so upset at him. It makes the reader want to know why he has to endure where he lives and the pain that she has put him through by stripping him away from everything he knows.
The author did a great job in introducing us to a world that I never would have thought existed. The emotions that I felt while reading this book were so intense that I felt like I knew all of the main characters personally. Creating all of these complex characters, even if they were not the main ones, still let the reader explore why those characters were so important to Charlie’s life and his story. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good read. However, I would just like to point out that they might go through a box of tissues or two.
May 20, 2019
This is the story of Charlie, a young man staying in a residential treatment centre for troubled youths and kids with dysfunctional families. He's sent back early after having a weekend pass, by his mother, who quite frankly it's very easy to dislike, intensely.
It's told in first person narrative, through the eyes of Charlie, and we sit next to him and watch his struggles finding his way through this system, which demands he bows to certain behavioural codes. My heart aches for Charlie - he's a very intelligent kid - much more so than the rest of the kids in the centre. But he comes from a family struggling with it's own troubles. He wants to get back to his grandparents, the singular loving stable relationship he has ever known, after being dragged away from them by his drug-addict mother. They've taught him about pyschology, philosophy, and there's nods towards the major theorists dotted throughout the story as we hear Charlie navigate his way through.
I found it heartbreaking to hear the staff at the facility talking about Charlie and the other residents, but unsurprising. It's a story from the 80's, the kids are dosed up on injections of Thorazine to keep them subdued. The rest of the kids gossip about the usual adolescent stuff like sex, sport, games, while Charlie would rather think and feed the horses. He's isolated with his intelligence and frustration, but he holds a soft spot for one girl, Margo.
It's sometimes difficult to read about their experiences, but this was the social care system in those days. But I cheered Charlie on as he escaped for a few hours to get some time to himself, and use his wits to survive in the centre. This is a coming of age book with a difference - it's edgy, at times upsetting, as Santorella covers (very tactfully, but with honesty), issues of abuse, child neglect, broken families and that first ping of romantic attraction and rejection.
Charlie makes a break for it, wanting to see his grandparents again. I won't say what happens for the rest of the story because I don't want to spoil it for you.
I'd certainly recommend this book to young adults and adults alike, as I think there are some important themes explored throughout. This is the story of the 'other'childhood, the darker side of growing up. It's tough to read at times, because you feel so much sympathy/empathy for Charlie, but I enjoyed it very much.
It's told in first person narrative, through the eyes of Charlie, and we sit next to him and watch his struggles finding his way through this system, which demands he bows to certain behavioural codes. My heart aches for Charlie - he's a very intelligent kid - much more so than the rest of the kids in the centre. But he comes from a family struggling with it's own troubles. He wants to get back to his grandparents, the singular loving stable relationship he has ever known, after being dragged away from them by his drug-addict mother. They've taught him about pyschology, philosophy, and there's nods towards the major theorists dotted throughout the story as we hear Charlie navigate his way through.
I found it heartbreaking to hear the staff at the facility talking about Charlie and the other residents, but unsurprising. It's a story from the 80's, the kids are dosed up on injections of Thorazine to keep them subdued. The rest of the kids gossip about the usual adolescent stuff like sex, sport, games, while Charlie would rather think and feed the horses. He's isolated with his intelligence and frustration, but he holds a soft spot for one girl, Margo.
It's sometimes difficult to read about their experiences, but this was the social care system in those days. But I cheered Charlie on as he escaped for a few hours to get some time to himself, and use his wits to survive in the centre. This is a coming of age book with a difference - it's edgy, at times upsetting, as Santorella covers (very tactfully, but with honesty), issues of abuse, child neglect, broken families and that first ping of romantic attraction and rejection.
Charlie makes a break for it, wanting to see his grandparents again. I won't say what happens for the rest of the story because I don't want to spoil it for you.
I'd certainly recommend this book to young adults and adults alike, as I think there are some important themes explored throughout. This is the story of the 'other'childhood, the darker side of growing up. It's tough to read at times, because you feel so much sympathy/empathy for Charlie, but I enjoyed it very much.
July 31, 2018
Charlie is a good boy who struggles to remain so after the bad things that have happened to him. He hasn’t had the easiest life, and sadly, his mom is at the head of his torment. The one woman who is supposed to love him more than anything in the world.
This was a very hard book to read, in spite of the masterful writing but because as a mother it’s hard for me to read such things, yet Charlie persevered even after all the heartbreak, loss and disappointment he endures throughout the novel.
It’s quite shocking how the story delved into some topics that you wouldn’t expect and in such an effortless way. Charlie is a bright boy, and as such he questions everything, even if there is a God, which since he has suffered so much, it’s understandable for a young boy to wonder.
He finds consolation in a very pretty girl called Margo who seems to be the one one who understands him, but who sadly eventually betrays him and it is this heartbreak I believe what ultimately pushes Charlie into running away, and trying to find the only people who he felt truly understood him. I don’t want to give away too much, but I recommend this book to get in touch with a younger you, who hopefully didn’t have to go through the same rough situations but at least to be reminded to always be kind to children and teens, they’re not quite full grown people yet, they’re still growing, learning and it depends on the people around them to help them be good human beings.
This was a very hard book to read, in spite of the masterful writing but because as a mother it’s hard for me to read such things, yet Charlie persevered even after all the heartbreak, loss and disappointment he endures throughout the novel.
It’s quite shocking how the story delved into some topics that you wouldn’t expect and in such an effortless way. Charlie is a bright boy, and as such he questions everything, even if there is a God, which since he has suffered so much, it’s understandable for a young boy to wonder.
He finds consolation in a very pretty girl called Margo who seems to be the one one who understands him, but who sadly eventually betrays him and it is this heartbreak I believe what ultimately pushes Charlie into running away, and trying to find the only people who he felt truly understood him. I don’t want to give away too much, but I recommend this book to get in touch with a younger you, who hopefully didn’t have to go through the same rough situations but at least to be reminded to always be kind to children and teens, they’re not quite full grown people yet, they’re still growing, learning and it depends on the people around them to help them be good human beings.
April 10, 2019
This is a marvellously written story of a young man called Charlie.
He had to go to the Hawthorne Residential Treatment Centre for troubled young people. Charlie is very intelligent and reads constantly, this makes him different amongst his peers.
His drug addicted mother, tends to treat him badly as though she feels he is to blame somehow for her situation….but he’s very close to his grandparents..
This story tells of Charlie’s life at Hawthorne, there are many incidents, even Charlie fighting with another child.
But then he meets Margo, a pretty girl he falls in love with and he feels a happiness he hasn’t known before…..but will this end well?
This is a coming of age story which is wonderfully written, heartbreakingly sad at times but a compelling read….
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour and for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest, unbiased review.
He had to go to the Hawthorne Residential Treatment Centre for troubled young people. Charlie is very intelligent and reads constantly, this makes him different amongst his peers.
His drug addicted mother, tends to treat him badly as though she feels he is to blame somehow for her situation….but he’s very close to his grandparents..
This story tells of Charlie’s life at Hawthorne, there are many incidents, even Charlie fighting with another child.
But then he meets Margo, a pretty girl he falls in love with and he feels a happiness he hasn’t known before…..but will this end well?
This is a coming of age story which is wonderfully written, heartbreakingly sad at times but a compelling read….
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour and for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest, unbiased review.
April 9, 2019
Now and again you get a gem of a book that comes along and takes you by surprise. With the kind of story that is so poignant you can hear the sound of it breaking walls as it penetrates the consciousness of readers.
This is the story of a teenage boy, who has spent his entire life being bandied about and abused by a mother who forgets him in a moments notice, as she seeks self-gratification in an attempt to forget her own misery.
Charlie feels the need to protect his mother on some level, despite the neglect and abuse he suffers at her hands, words and actions. She is the only one, bar his grandparents, who appears to have any interest in him.
The employees of Hawthorne are paid to inspect and dissect his life and emotional well-being like a bug under a microscope. Only the occasional person will feel and exhibit true compassion. In their defence, social workers or people working in the care system have to find a way to deal with the tragic reality of children in their care. The frustration of help or rescue being beyond their remit is often debilitating.
Santorella delivers a work of literary perfection. There are no moments of superfluous details or scenes, which are often added to give a story an added layer of attraction. It’s just the life and emotional turbulence of a teenager laid bare, as he navigates the obstacles of neglect, abuse, coming-of-age and confusion of mutual attraction.
It’s compelling literary fiction, written with an ease of memories flowing from the recesses of the mind to fingers eager to voice. A brief moment of time encapsulating the pain and fear that cements the pathway of an entire lifetime. Experiences that drive a vulnerable and troubled young person to pick a path of self-destruction or one with some semblance of peace and happiness.
It truly is a sublime read.
*I received a courtesy copy*
This is the story of a teenage boy, who has spent his entire life being bandied about and abused by a mother who forgets him in a moments notice, as she seeks self-gratification in an attempt to forget her own misery.
Charlie feels the need to protect his mother on some level, despite the neglect and abuse he suffers at her hands, words and actions. She is the only one, bar his grandparents, who appears to have any interest in him.
The employees of Hawthorne are paid to inspect and dissect his life and emotional well-being like a bug under a microscope. Only the occasional person will feel and exhibit true compassion. In their defence, social workers or people working in the care system have to find a way to deal with the tragic reality of children in their care. The frustration of help or rescue being beyond their remit is often debilitating.
Santorella delivers a work of literary perfection. There are no moments of superfluous details or scenes, which are often added to give a story an added layer of attraction. It’s just the life and emotional turbulence of a teenager laid bare, as he navigates the obstacles of neglect, abuse, coming-of-age and confusion of mutual attraction.
It’s compelling literary fiction, written with an ease of memories flowing from the recesses of the mind to fingers eager to voice. A brief moment of time encapsulating the pain and fear that cements the pathway of an entire lifetime. Experiences that drive a vulnerable and troubled young person to pick a path of self-destruction or one with some semblance of peace and happiness.
It truly is a sublime read.
*I received a courtesy copy*
August 4, 2018
I don’t know why but for some reason this narrative reminds me of many sci-fi stories I have read, yet it has no inkling of science fiction. I suppose it is the characters in this and such stories have similar arcs. But at its core it is a coming of age story.
I will be up front with you, this is going to be a difficult read, but not to any poor writing. It is very well written, well told and well paced, if not some very minor errors in just a few places. The difficulty however, comes from the content. You will have your emotions both; up down, anger, mystery if that can even be called an emotion but you will see what I mean when you read this, but in saying that it is still in important read if not saddening at times. Kind of in the vein of “Catcher in the Rye” but with more heart to be honest. In following with the Catcher in the Rye comparison, I can say there is a coming of age story with in, that is very reminiscent of and episode of Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG, S01 E11 · Portraitz. Which does have a connection to Catcher in the Rye, but this story certainly lacks the cybernetics of that world, but what it may lack in science fiction. It has in character study even more so. And there is a good big of a character study via some social darwinism, as well as straight evolution logic.
Also I am noting some similarities to the beginning of Ender’s Game, once again I don’t know where the sci-fi is coming from but it is just what my experience reading it is leading me to. Maybe yours will be similar if not the same, or maybe it will be totally different.
I will be up front with you, this is going to be a difficult read, but not to any poor writing. It is very well written, well told and well paced, if not some very minor errors in just a few places. The difficulty however, comes from the content. You will have your emotions both; up down, anger, mystery if that can even be called an emotion but you will see what I mean when you read this, but in saying that it is still in important read if not saddening at times. Kind of in the vein of “Catcher in the Rye” but with more heart to be honest. In following with the Catcher in the Rye comparison, I can say there is a coming of age story with in, that is very reminiscent of and episode of Ghost in the Shell: S.A.C. 2nd GIG, S01 E11 · Portraitz. Which does have a connection to Catcher in the Rye, but this story certainly lacks the cybernetics of that world, but what it may lack in science fiction. It has in character study even more so. And there is a good big of a character study via some social darwinism, as well as straight evolution logic.
Also I am noting some similarities to the beginning of Ender’s Game, once again I don’t know where the sci-fi is coming from but it is just what my experience reading it is leading me to. Maybe yours will be similar if not the same, or maybe it will be totally different.
December 22, 2018
Dyed Souls was nothing like I expected. With that being said, the book was amazing!! Charlie was a character that I feel in love with, especially because he needed that love. The entire book he was trying to fit in and find himself, yet he was always the odd boy it seemed. But, this could also be because of his lack of self-confidence about himself, especially his hands.
Charlie’s mother was never the hero in this story, and from the beginning we can tell that she is in a lot of pain, and she tends to take out a lot of that pain on him. It makes the reader want to know why she is so upset at him. It makes the reader want to know why he has to endure where he lives and the pain that she has put him through by stripping him away from everything he knows.
The author did a great job in introducing us to a world that I never would have thought existed. The emotions that I felt while reading this book were so intense that I felt like I knew all of the main characters personally. Creating all of these complex characters, even if they were not the main ones, still let the reader explore why those characters were so important to Charlie’s life and his story. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good read. However, I would just like to point out that they might go through a box of tissues or two.
Charlie’s mother was never the hero in this story, and from the beginning we can tell that she is in a lot of pain, and she tends to take out a lot of that pain on him. It makes the reader want to know why she is so upset at him. It makes the reader want to know why he has to endure where he lives and the pain that she has put him through by stripping him away from everything he knows.
The author did a great job in introducing us to a world that I never would have thought existed. The emotions that I felt while reading this book were so intense that I felt like I knew all of the main characters personally. Creating all of these complex characters, even if they were not the main ones, still let the reader explore why those characters were so important to Charlie’s life and his story. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good read. However, I would just like to point out that they might go through a box of tissues or two.
April 16, 2019
From the moment my stomach lurched with Charlie’s and I felt every swerve of the car as he is driven to the residential treatment centre I knew this author had written one of those books that stays with you for a lifetime. I was not wrong. I loved this hard-hitting, gritty sometimes disturbing novel. All the kids have troubled backgrounds, and it does not shy away from the consequences of these. For those who look for trigger warnings this may not be the book for you but the depth of all the characters and use of language is wonderful and gives an eye opening insight into their lives. It was refreshing to read a male perspective of a screwed up childhood and Charlie’s voice leapt off the page giving the emotional connection a book needs. He is intelligent, and he uses his love of Darwin to make sense of his chaotic world as he discovers love for the first time and who he is. Usually I would say “grab a box of tissues” but this novel is too intense for that, I was gripped to the end and I could not help feeling I was a different person after closing the book. It is hard to believe this is a debut fiction novel and look forward to discovering what Gary Santorella writes next.
April 15, 2019
What a book!
Poor Charlie! Pulled from his loving grandparents, living in a home for troubled teens and a Mother…. well, I have a few choice names for her !!
This story has me happy, sad, smiling, sad, a couple of tears and at moments curing a character or two.
It just goes to show that not everyone’s life is perfect, in fact some have the very crappy end of the stick and that things can be put on for show….. you never really know what goes on behind closed doors.
I highly recommend Dyed Souls, in fact my teen has just downloaded it onto her kindle!
Poor Charlie! Pulled from his loving grandparents, living in a home for troubled teens and a Mother…. well, I have a few choice names for her !!
This story has me happy, sad, smiling, sad, a couple of tears and at moments curing a character or two.
It just goes to show that not everyone’s life is perfect, in fact some have the very crappy end of the stick and that things can be put on for show….. you never really know what goes on behind closed doors.
I highly recommend Dyed Souls, in fact my teen has just downloaded it onto her kindle!
April 6, 2019
It is difficult growing up anywhere, anytime. In Santorella’s minutely observed and dynamically written novel, it is nearly impossible for Charles. The expectations and behaviours in 1980s California were difficult to cope with for anyone who was different, and we discover that in certain ways, even among a challenging group of young people, Charles is very different as the novel begins. A tough but sometimes touching account of life in an ill assorted group as adolescence, abandonment and attitudes all make life difficult, and this novel is about the survival of the individual by acts of bravery. While the major players are young adults, this is a novel where everyone will recognise the troubles of growing up, and I was interested to receive a copy to read and review.
The book opens with Charles being returned to the Hawthorne Residential Treatment Village early from a weekend pass. As his mother drives him, the reader learns that she is not a loving and concerned parent, but has always been moving on, smoking heavily and drinking, having many ill advised relationships and probably earning money from prostitution. She has been inconsistent in her relationship with her only child, at one point leaving him with her parents for some time, then just as suddenly tearing him away. She flirts with Ted, one of the staff, not really explaining why she has brought Charles back early. He finds this painful, even shaming as it suggests that he is not wanted publicly. We discover that he is considered a loner, preferring to spend his time reading intellectual books and pondering the mysteries of life inspired by his grandfather. There is a conversation that is given verbatim when he and his grandfather discuss the origins of life, the possibility of God and look at the stars. Charles is an intelligent young man who has ended up in an institution for disturbed children and those with dysfunctional families, allocated carers who vary alarmingly in their attitudes, in a system which demands certain behaviour. Charles first person narrative reflects his struggles to come to terms with his lot; as he overhears what the staff think about him and the other young people, as he escapes at night for a few hours alone, as he uses his wit to bend the rules. He develops a relationships with others as he realises that he is not alone in suffering, but always with him is a desperate urge to return to his grandparents, to return to the only reliable home and relationship he has ever known.
This is a thoughtful and sometimes brutal novel as Charles struggles not only to survive, but discover his identity in a time and place which seems to oppose him. He works the system, striving to meet the demands of a world where he appears to be stuck indefinitely. He can be obsessive over such things as meals, but has flashes of inspiration and bravery. He feels a guilty responsibility regarding his mother, even while realising her choices have damaged him and effectively led her down a self destructive path. This is a brutally honest book about families and the lack of them, the damage people do to others and to themselves, and how survival is sometimes not straightforward. It is a painfully honest book of coming of age, asking deep questions about life and ultimately death, opening the reader’s eyes to the truth of a boy’s life.
The book opens with Charles being returned to the Hawthorne Residential Treatment Village early from a weekend pass. As his mother drives him, the reader learns that she is not a loving and concerned parent, but has always been moving on, smoking heavily and drinking, having many ill advised relationships and probably earning money from prostitution. She has been inconsistent in her relationship with her only child, at one point leaving him with her parents for some time, then just as suddenly tearing him away. She flirts with Ted, one of the staff, not really explaining why she has brought Charles back early. He finds this painful, even shaming as it suggests that he is not wanted publicly. We discover that he is considered a loner, preferring to spend his time reading intellectual books and pondering the mysteries of life inspired by his grandfather. There is a conversation that is given verbatim when he and his grandfather discuss the origins of life, the possibility of God and look at the stars. Charles is an intelligent young man who has ended up in an institution for disturbed children and those with dysfunctional families, allocated carers who vary alarmingly in their attitudes, in a system which demands certain behaviour. Charles first person narrative reflects his struggles to come to terms with his lot; as he overhears what the staff think about him and the other young people, as he escapes at night for a few hours alone, as he uses his wit to bend the rules. He develops a relationships with others as he realises that he is not alone in suffering, but always with him is a desperate urge to return to his grandparents, to return to the only reliable home and relationship he has ever known.
This is a thoughtful and sometimes brutal novel as Charles struggles not only to survive, but discover his identity in a time and place which seems to oppose him. He works the system, striving to meet the demands of a world where he appears to be stuck indefinitely. He can be obsessive over such things as meals, but has flashes of inspiration and bravery. He feels a guilty responsibility regarding his mother, even while realising her choices have damaged him and effectively led her down a self destructive path. This is a brutally honest book about families and the lack of them, the damage people do to others and to themselves, and how survival is sometimes not straightforward. It is a painfully honest book of coming of age, asking deep questions about life and ultimately death, opening the reader’s eyes to the truth of a boy’s life.
June 9, 2019
Written with a respectful awareness of the subject matter and establishing well rounded and realistic characters, Dyed Souls was not quite what I was expecting it to be. A coming of age novel it is perhaps targeted at a young adult audience. Despite being rather over that age bracket myself though I thoroughly enjoyed this book too. I connected with the main character, Charlie, in a sympathetic manner. His emotions were raw and powerful. I felt an almost motherly instinct towards him. I especially liked that the story, his story, took a few chapters to really evolve. As a reader we are given nuggets of information to pull together in order to make some sense of Charlie’s world. The absence of an overload of background detail within the first few pages made both the plot and characters feel realistic. As a reader I appreciated that we weren’t handed every important piece of information on a plate before the story got going, but we picked up the pertinent details along the way. We grow in understanding as Charlie moves through the tribulations that he faces and I liked the parallels between the reader and character in that respect.
Set in the 1980s we find Charlie, a well-read and thoughtful but troubled teenager, residing in Hawthorne Residential Treatment Village. He has a difficult relationship with his mother and has been taken abruptly from his grandparents, the only adults he seems to have had a stable relationship with, without understanding why. The story unfolds to explore the damage family relationships or perhaps rather the lack of them and family secrets can have on a child. Charlie is just one of many teenagers experiencing difficulties that should face no child but sadly do across the globe. At one point he refers to the treatment center as “The Children’s Home for the Survival of the Unfit” but of course whilst the weight of the world may rest uneasily on these young people’s shoulders, the responsibility for resolving their troubles should not. Charlie falls in love at Hawthorne but, having his heart broken, he is desperate to reconcile with his grandparents. Written in the first person narrative we are swept up in his journey not only in finding the people he trusts, but in his search for himself. When he does find the depths of himself he is also propelled into his own adulthood in one strong jolt.
The characterisation in this novel is superb. Not only is it realistic but each individual has their place in the story, none are shoved in to satisfy an otherwise difficult subplot. Each one emerges from the pages as a truly believable person. The depth of feeling and thought in Charlie in particular is very moving.
Dyed Souls is one of those novels that will stay with me, the story being turned over in my mind and pondered over long after the last lines have been read. It is intense but thoughtful, and I would recommend this to anyone who is a fan of mindful literature that twists and turns and leaves you wanting more.
Set in the 1980s we find Charlie, a well-read and thoughtful but troubled teenager, residing in Hawthorne Residential Treatment Village. He has a difficult relationship with his mother and has been taken abruptly from his grandparents, the only adults he seems to have had a stable relationship with, without understanding why. The story unfolds to explore the damage family relationships or perhaps rather the lack of them and family secrets can have on a child. Charlie is just one of many teenagers experiencing difficulties that should face no child but sadly do across the globe. At one point he refers to the treatment center as “The Children’s Home for the Survival of the Unfit” but of course whilst the weight of the world may rest uneasily on these young people’s shoulders, the responsibility for resolving their troubles should not. Charlie falls in love at Hawthorne but, having his heart broken, he is desperate to reconcile with his grandparents. Written in the first person narrative we are swept up in his journey not only in finding the people he trusts, but in his search for himself. When he does find the depths of himself he is also propelled into his own adulthood in one strong jolt.
The characterisation in this novel is superb. Not only is it realistic but each individual has their place in the story, none are shoved in to satisfy an otherwise difficult subplot. Each one emerges from the pages as a truly believable person. The depth of feeling and thought in Charlie in particular is very moving.
Dyed Souls is one of those novels that will stay with me, the story being turned over in my mind and pondered over long after the last lines have been read. It is intense but thoughtful, and I would recommend this to anyone who is a fan of mindful literature that twists and turns and leaves you wanting more.
July 10, 2018
“Dyed Souls” by Gary Santorella was not an easy book to read, because it takes us into a dark but real world most of us know very little about. 13-year-old Charlie has been taken from his drug-addicted mother and is now doing time at Hawthorne Residential Treatment Village, a reform school where they administer high-dosage injections of thorazine to keep the teens under control. Charlie is a bookworm, and spends as much time as possible with his nose in a book to escape his reality. We are privy to his thoughts as he mulls over the meaning of life, considers Darwin’s philosophies, and questions the existence of God.
The only normal adult relationship Charlie has ever experienced is with his grandparents. But for some unknown reason, Charlie has been separated from them, and they’re not allowed to communicate with him. In addition, his mother has pulled her disappearing act again, and he is unable to leave the school for home visits. The other teens at the treatment village are self-centered and cruel, having never developed the attributes of empathy, sympathy, or kindness. So Charlie keeps his distance from them as much as possible. The only person at the school he can even remotely call a confidante is Margo, a girl with whom he falls in love, but who alternately befriends, berates, and betrays him.
Finally, at age 14, Charlie has had enough and he runs away from the school. Will he try to reconnect with his grandparents? Will the school authorities or the police catch up with him? Will he ever see Margo again? Although this is YA fiction, teens and adults alike will be on the edge of their seat to find out how Charlie fares after his break for freedom.
The only normal adult relationship Charlie has ever experienced is with his grandparents. But for some unknown reason, Charlie has been separated from them, and they’re not allowed to communicate with him. In addition, his mother has pulled her disappearing act again, and he is unable to leave the school for home visits. The other teens at the treatment village are self-centered and cruel, having never developed the attributes of empathy, sympathy, or kindness. So Charlie keeps his distance from them as much as possible. The only person at the school he can even remotely call a confidante is Margo, a girl with whom he falls in love, but who alternately befriends, berates, and betrays him.
Finally, at age 14, Charlie has had enough and he runs away from the school. Will he try to reconnect with his grandparents? Will the school authorities or the police catch up with him? Will he ever see Margo again? Although this is YA fiction, teens and adults alike will be on the edge of their seat to find out how Charlie fares after his break for freedom.
August 7, 2018
Twists and turns abound in Gary Santorella's book Dyed Souls. Yes, it is a coming of age story and yes it is indeed "gritty." It's packed with heartache and triumph along with all the other parts and pieces of life you learn along the way.
I thought this book would be a quick read, and I suppose someone who's more disciplined with their reading time would still have made it through the text quickly, but I could not. Dyed Souls pulled at my heartstrings and stole my attention for a few days longer than anticipated. And I would say the extra time spent was enjoyable, and it was, but most of the starkly honest content is painful to read. Charlie, the main character, views life through a filter of deep ponder. He's a well-read teenager who readily exposes his vulnerability to the reader, no matter the content.
Charlie learns how to interact with love, friendship, betrayal, and trust. He pushes at life and it constantly pushes back. The well-written storyline leaves nothing to the imagination and entrances with its easily provided details. Although the list of characters may seem short, they are all entirely engaging. You'll find yourself rooting for Charlie as he maneuvers through relationships of friendship, lust, and family ties and never stops questioning the "why" behind each interaction. You may also find yourself constantly torn between savoring every morsel of information and skimming over the painful portions. I was left with the distinct feeling that all of these events were inspired by reality and stories that needed to be shared with the world.
August 28, 2018
I was highly impressed with this novel and was completely hooked within the first few pages. It is a complex narrative of a young teenager, Charlie, who is dealing with demons in his head due to his upbringing and life experiences which unfold throughout the novel. The author does an incredible job of weaving in many unexpected twists into the book to keep the reader fully engaged but also to create a lot of depth in the characters and it all comes together nicely in a multidimensional tale. I highly recommend this novel to adults and mature teens as there are some elements of Charlie's situation that are important to the impact of the story, and not sensationalized, but are on the darker side of experiences in life. I am still reflecting on this book and enjoyed it very much.
June 24, 2018
This was a tough one. Good story but difficult to read about the hardships kids go through simply because of the poor choices made by their parents. Not only Charlie, whose drug addicted mother ripped him from the stability of his grandparents' home, but also the also kids at the residential facility where he now finds himself. His struggles are many, both physically and emotionally. Hard to get through but worth it.
August 4, 2018
Dyed Souls by Gary Santorella has received a Chill with a Book Readers' Award.
www.chillwithabook.com
"It shows you a different view of life and causes you to look more kindly at people who don’t follow your own way of doing things, of what you think is right. I recommend this book."
"Being an avid reader it will take a long time to find a book that is up to the standard of Dyed Souls."
Pauline Barclay
Founder of Chill with a Book Awards
www.chillwithabook.com
"It shows you a different view of life and causes you to look more kindly at people who don’t follow your own way of doing things, of what you think is right. I recommend this book."
"Being an avid reader it will take a long time to find a book that is up to the standard of Dyed Souls."
Pauline Barclay
Founder of Chill with a Book Awards
April 3, 2018
Or Catcher in the Cuckoo's Nest.
For the teen it has a galling coming-of-age, redemption quest. For the adult it has that, as well as a literary look at a singular fictional life.
For all of my 4.5 star review, please feel free to click through:-
http://www.thebookbag.co.uk/reviews/i...
For the teen it has a galling coming-of-age, redemption quest. For the adult it has that, as well as a literary look at a singular fictional life.
For all of my 4.5 star review, please feel free to click through:-
http://www.thebookbag.co.uk/reviews/i...
July 21, 2018
A coming-of-age story that will tug at your heartstrings!
In 1981, thirteen-year-old Charlie Lyle has a hard-knock life- his mother is addicted to both drugs and cigarettes, he stuck at a reform halfway house for troubled teens without any friends, and his grandparents aren't allowed to see him. Reading Darwin, Socrates, and Plato is the only solace Charlie has to relieve the tedium at Hawthorne Residential Treatment Village, until Margo, The only person there who isn’t cruel, falls in love with him. He has had a crush on Margo ever since he first laid eyes on her, but she’s not exactly the most faithful girlfriend in the world. Unfortunately, Margo breaks his heart, leaving him totally devastated, And incapable of ever finding true love again. I told you this was an emotionally heavy book, but it does get better, marginally! After losing the love of his life, Charlie goes on a cross country trip and reconnects with his grandparents, especially his grandfather, who is one of the few people who understood and spent time with him. His grandmm father taught Charlie how to ponder the questions of life: why are we here?, Is God real?, is Darwins theory of evolution the truth? You will laugh, you will cry and probably want to throw your hands up in the air while sighing in frustration. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys unique stories that make you think, even if The subject matter is sometimes intense. Warning: some strong language.
In 1981, thirteen-year-old Charlie Lyle has a hard-knock life- his mother is addicted to both drugs and cigarettes, he stuck at a reform halfway house for troubled teens without any friends, and his grandparents aren't allowed to see him. Reading Darwin, Socrates, and Plato is the only solace Charlie has to relieve the tedium at Hawthorne Residential Treatment Village, until Margo, The only person there who isn’t cruel, falls in love with him. He has had a crush on Margo ever since he first laid eyes on her, but she’s not exactly the most faithful girlfriend in the world. Unfortunately, Margo breaks his heart, leaving him totally devastated, And incapable of ever finding true love again. I told you this was an emotionally heavy book, but it does get better, marginally! After losing the love of his life, Charlie goes on a cross country trip and reconnects with his grandparents, especially his grandfather, who is one of the few people who understood and spent time with him. His grandmm father taught Charlie how to ponder the questions of life: why are we here?, Is God real?, is Darwins theory of evolution the truth? You will laugh, you will cry and probably want to throw your hands up in the air while sighing in frustration. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys unique stories that make you think, even if The subject matter is sometimes intense. Warning: some strong language.
August 2, 2019
Dyed Souls is a coming of age story packed with troubles, pain, love, betrayal, pain, trust, and triumph. Gary Santorella does an amazing job. The characters, though few, are engaging and wel-developed. The story revolves around Charlie, who is a troubled 13-year-old. His drug-addicted mother takes him away from his grandmother.
Charlie is a well-read teenager. We are privy to him pondering about Darwin's philosophies, meaning of life, and God's existence. Charlie falls in love with Margo as he does time in a therapy home known as Hawthorne Residential Treatment Village. Unfortunately, Margo betrays him and breaks his heart. Charlie runs away to reconnect with his grandparents, where he learns bitter truth.
It is a good read if you love thought-provoking novels that blend philosophy and fiction. The story is interesting and well-crafted, albeit emotional. It will steal your attention as you find yourself turning one page after the other. This award-winning book is ideal for both young and adult readers.
Charlie is a well-read teenager. We are privy to him pondering about Darwin's philosophies, meaning of life, and God's existence. Charlie falls in love with Margo as he does time in a therapy home known as Hawthorne Residential Treatment Village. Unfortunately, Margo betrays him and breaks his heart. Charlie runs away to reconnect with his grandparents, where he learns bitter truth.
It is a good read if you love thought-provoking novels that blend philosophy and fiction. The story is interesting and well-crafted, albeit emotional. It will steal your attention as you find yourself turning one page after the other. This award-winning book is ideal for both young and adult readers.
April 15, 2019
I love when you go into a book without really knowing what you’re getting into and it delieveres an incredible story! That’s what happened with Dyed Souls. I read the Blurb, but the cover made me interested. I wasn’t sure if this would be my style of novel, but it was!
I relate to Charlie so well. He lacks self-confidence which often leaves him the odd one out. He is trying to find himself and fit in. I loved him, he was such a well written character. I just wanted to get inside the book and tell him he had a friend in me. Gary Santorella is very talented in his character building and I’m throughouly impressed.
I highly recommend checking out Dyed Souls. I think you will be as pleasantly surprised as I am. Fantastic story with fantastic characters. I’m looking forward to reading more by Gary Santorella.
*I read this book as part of a blog tour hosted by Rachel's Random Resources. All opinions are my own.*
I relate to Charlie so well. He lacks self-confidence which often leaves him the odd one out. He is trying to find himself and fit in. I loved him, he was such a well written character. I just wanted to get inside the book and tell him he had a friend in me. Gary Santorella is very talented in his character building and I’m throughouly impressed.
I highly recommend checking out Dyed Souls. I think you will be as pleasantly surprised as I am. Fantastic story with fantastic characters. I’m looking forward to reading more by Gary Santorella.
*I read this book as part of a blog tour hosted by Rachel's Random Resources. All opinions are my own.*
July 21, 2018
“Dyed Souls” a novel by author Gary Santorella, is a touching story about main character thirteen-year-old Charlie, and his tough childhood. He is taken from his grandparents’ care and ends up in some type of group therapy home called a “treatment village.”
This very thought-provoking story is not easy to read, due to the story itself. It is heart wrenching and saddening in places. “Dyed Souls” is certainly dark and difficult in spots. It’s one of those books that is both emotional and entrapping. You won’t want to put the book down, even though reading it is ‘hard’, if you understand what I mean.
The quality of the writing is very good. I was impressed with Mr. Santorella’s grasp of the depth of the events, especially since they were coming from his imagination, and, hopefully, not from any real experiences. I always love a novel that is so well done that you wonder if it is a novel or a true story. This one will leave you guessing that, as it did me.
This is truly a well-crafted, interesting story, and one you will easily become emotionally invested in. I am happy that I purchased the book and recommend it to anyone who loves serious and slightly dark fiction.
This very thought-provoking story is not easy to read, due to the story itself. It is heart wrenching and saddening in places. “Dyed Souls” is certainly dark and difficult in spots. It’s one of those books that is both emotional and entrapping. You won’t want to put the book down, even though reading it is ‘hard’, if you understand what I mean.
The quality of the writing is very good. I was impressed with Mr. Santorella’s grasp of the depth of the events, especially since they were coming from his imagination, and, hopefully, not from any real experiences. I always love a novel that is so well done that you wonder if it is a novel or a true story. This one will leave you guessing that, as it did me.
This is truly a well-crafted, interesting story, and one you will easily become emotionally invested in. I am happy that I purchased the book and recommend it to anyone who loves serious and slightly dark fiction.
October 26, 2020
What a book!
Poor Charlie! Pulled from his loving grandparents, living in a home for troubled teens and a Mother…. well, I have a few choice names for her 😡😠 !!
This story has me happy, sad, smiling, sad, a couple of tears and at moments curing a character or two.
It just goes to show that not everyone’s life is perfect, in fact some have the very crappy end of the stick and that things can be put on for show….. you never really know what goes on behind closed doors.
I highly recommend Dyed Souls, in fact my teen has just downloaded it onto her kindle!
Poor Charlie! Pulled from his loving grandparents, living in a home for troubled teens and a Mother…. well, I have a few choice names for her 😡😠 !!
This story has me happy, sad, smiling, sad, a couple of tears and at moments curing a character or two.
It just goes to show that not everyone’s life is perfect, in fact some have the very crappy end of the stick and that things can be put on for show….. you never really know what goes on behind closed doors.
I highly recommend Dyed Souls, in fact my teen has just downloaded it onto her kindle!
July 18, 2019
“You have to be tough to make it in this world.”
Author Gary Santorella is a writer of substance, an important fresh novelist who deserves wide attention. He does not offer biographical information, but while it appears that DYED SOULS is his only novel, his other book – LEAN CULTURE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY - suggests his career. It seems obvious that with an increased exposure to readers he will gain the stature he deserves!
Gary opens his impressive novel with Charlie’s mother driving him to the halfway house that will become his ‘home’: “My mom isn’t saying anything. Then again, most times she doesn’t have to. She’s evolved a silent language all her own that can paralyze my tongue as well. The sagebrush ad scrub oak race past the corner of my eye and I stare out the windshield, swallowing down the scream that’s rising in my throat…It’s stiflingly hot, but we ride with the windows up. It isn’t because my mom wants everyone to think that we’ve air conditioning this time. She wants me to sweat for what I did…’ In that brief passage the relationship between the broken mother and the needy son is made clear, and we are off on one of the most sensitively written novels exploring the dark avenues of weakly constructed families and the vulnerability of the coming of age rite that has been written!
Attempting to condense the story is a challenge, but to hopefully secure more readers of this fine novel, the following attempt is made: ‘Charlie is 13 years old, very bright (his interests include Darwin, Socrates, and Plato and authors Steinbeck, Maugham, Dostoyevsky), and is entering the coming of age realm of life in a world that seems incompatible: his mother is an addict, he has been placed in the Hawthorne Residential Treatment Village where he is prevented from visits with his beloved grandparents, he falls in love with a lass named Margo who disappoints him, and he flees to seek meaning and happiness, both of which are elusive. Charlie learns surprises about his family, ‘connects’ with his mother in a horrifying way, and lives with his grandparents as the only path to stability.
The magic of Gary’s writing, as well as his sensitivity to philosophy is beautifully scripted in a passage toward book’s end. Words from Charlie’s grandfather: ‘Charlie, men are like icebergs; the deepest and most important parts of them lie buried under their own weight, in cold, dark waters. The measure of a man is just how much of himself he can hold above the surface. In a world where so much is taken from us, it is important that you remember the givers, because they’re the ones who’ve helped us keep our heads above water.’
This is a novel of the highest quality, one that pleads to be read and experienced by young adults who face similar barricades, but also one that will impress readers of fine literature. Simply put, it is brilliant! Highly recommended.
Author Gary Santorella is a writer of substance, an important fresh novelist who deserves wide attention. He does not offer biographical information, but while it appears that DYED SOULS is his only novel, his other book – LEAN CULTURE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY - suggests his career. It seems obvious that with an increased exposure to readers he will gain the stature he deserves!
Gary opens his impressive novel with Charlie’s mother driving him to the halfway house that will become his ‘home’: “My mom isn’t saying anything. Then again, most times she doesn’t have to. She’s evolved a silent language all her own that can paralyze my tongue as well. The sagebrush ad scrub oak race past the corner of my eye and I stare out the windshield, swallowing down the scream that’s rising in my throat…It’s stiflingly hot, but we ride with the windows up. It isn’t because my mom wants everyone to think that we’ve air conditioning this time. She wants me to sweat for what I did…’ In that brief passage the relationship between the broken mother and the needy son is made clear, and we are off on one of the most sensitively written novels exploring the dark avenues of weakly constructed families and the vulnerability of the coming of age rite that has been written!
Attempting to condense the story is a challenge, but to hopefully secure more readers of this fine novel, the following attempt is made: ‘Charlie is 13 years old, very bright (his interests include Darwin, Socrates, and Plato and authors Steinbeck, Maugham, Dostoyevsky), and is entering the coming of age realm of life in a world that seems incompatible: his mother is an addict, he has been placed in the Hawthorne Residential Treatment Village where he is prevented from visits with his beloved grandparents, he falls in love with a lass named Margo who disappoints him, and he flees to seek meaning and happiness, both of which are elusive. Charlie learns surprises about his family, ‘connects’ with his mother in a horrifying way, and lives with his grandparents as the only path to stability.
The magic of Gary’s writing, as well as his sensitivity to philosophy is beautifully scripted in a passage toward book’s end. Words from Charlie’s grandfather: ‘Charlie, men are like icebergs; the deepest and most important parts of them lie buried under their own weight, in cold, dark waters. The measure of a man is just how much of himself he can hold above the surface. In a world where so much is taken from us, it is important that you remember the givers, because they’re the ones who’ve helped us keep our heads above water.’
This is a novel of the highest quality, one that pleads to be read and experienced by young adults who face similar barricades, but also one that will impress readers of fine literature. Simply put, it is brilliant! Highly recommended.
May 26, 2018
Heartbreaking. This book is emotional and deep and not for the faint of heart. Although it's a turn from my normal light-hearted novels, I was pulled into the gloomy and often dark world of Charlie and I couldn't escape from its magnetism of brokenness and resilience.
I think I may have connected with the book on such a relatable level because the setting was so familiar to me. At one time I worked at a treatment facility just like the one in the book, with kids just like those in the book, with protocol and structure just like that in the book. It was like taking a step back in time. Charlie could have been a number of kids that I worked with back then.
Right from the beginning, it is very apparent that this child has had a difficult life. His mother has placed him on the outskirts of her life, only to be picked up when she wants something to play with. And just when you think that Charlie's life is already crummy enough, it gets 100 times worse.
The characters were all very well-written. They were realistic and each person made an impact in the story. The author was able to blend every personality together to weave a very tragic story.
The only flaw for me was the prolonged "interruptions" about Darwinism theory that Charlie either related to his life or had flashbacks of. I get that it was a large part of his personality and correlated with how Charlie viewed his current life situation, but it became very lengthy at times and I found myself skipping pages to get back to the "action" of the story.
Overall, this was a very engaging, well-written book with characters who all conveyed tangible tragedy and despair. I give it a rating of 4.5/5 with a slight detraction for the constant swing back to science and evolution, only because I was so invested in the forward progress of the book and that hit the pause button on it for me.
*I received a free ARC by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
I think I may have connected with the book on such a relatable level because the setting was so familiar to me. At one time I worked at a treatment facility just like the one in the book, with kids just like those in the book, with protocol and structure just like that in the book. It was like taking a step back in time. Charlie could have been a number of kids that I worked with back then.
Right from the beginning, it is very apparent that this child has had a difficult life. His mother has placed him on the outskirts of her life, only to be picked up when she wants something to play with. And just when you think that Charlie's life is already crummy enough, it gets 100 times worse.
The characters were all very well-written. They were realistic and each person made an impact in the story. The author was able to blend every personality together to weave a very tragic story.
The only flaw for me was the prolonged "interruptions" about Darwinism theory that Charlie either related to his life or had flashbacks of. I get that it was a large part of his personality and correlated with how Charlie viewed his current life situation, but it became very lengthy at times and I found myself skipping pages to get back to the "action" of the story.
Overall, this was a very engaging, well-written book with characters who all conveyed tangible tragedy and despair. I give it a rating of 4.5/5 with a slight detraction for the constant swing back to science and evolution, only because I was so invested in the forward progress of the book and that hit the pause button on it for me.
*I received a free ARC by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 13, 2019
The story is told in the first person by Charles/Charlie --he prefers the dignity of Charles, the name of his hero Charles Darwin, though people tend to address him with the somewhat belittling Charlie. Charles is Aspergerish, very bright (IQ of 157, he reveals) but has trouble figuring out people, and figuring out himself. We are dropped right down in his current world, the residential treatment center in southern California without knowing exactly why he's there. Though he has trouble forming friendships with others, he is good company as he shares his thoughts and his observations of the cast of troubled adolescents and stressed out social workers/therapists at the center. Charles is a science nerd and throughout the book he gives quotes by Charles Darwin and others (Marcus Aurelius, Plato). He is somewhat comical in trying to apply the teachings of these philosophers to the mayhem and messed up people around him. The author does a great job of choosing these quotes and through Charles bringing up interesting philosophical questions--why DO people act the way they do? Shouldn't Natural Selection have gotten rid of some of the most obnoxious people and self-defeating character traits?
The book is well paced, little by little we learn more about Charles' life and his messed up family. These kids have a lot of dark stories, but we really like Charles we want to see if he's going to pull through and how. The author does a great job depicting the enclosed world of the treatment center with its cliques and jealousies, it's nicknames and baiting, the mixture of boredom and struggle that goes on there. The author dedicates the book to "the hundreds of kids I've worked with over the years" and he clearly knows what he's writing about.
While the stories are certainly heavy, the fast moving incidents and the vivid characterizations make it pass quickly. The main thing you will remember is the fascinating central character, Charles, the funny kid ("funny" both a little strange, and also somewhat comic) trying to figure things out. It is a terrific read, you won't be sorry you got it.
The book is well paced, little by little we learn more about Charles' life and his messed up family. These kids have a lot of dark stories, but we really like Charles we want to see if he's going to pull through and how. The author does a great job depicting the enclosed world of the treatment center with its cliques and jealousies, it's nicknames and baiting, the mixture of boredom and struggle that goes on there. The author dedicates the book to "the hundreds of kids I've worked with over the years" and he clearly knows what he's writing about.
While the stories are certainly heavy, the fast moving incidents and the vivid characterizations make it pass quickly. The main thing you will remember is the fascinating central character, Charles, the funny kid ("funny" both a little strange, and also somewhat comic) trying to figure things out. It is a terrific read, you won't be sorry you got it.
July 23, 2018
Dyed Souls is a coming of age story where the young hero is unfortunately too special for his own good. Charlie Lyle is an anomaly among his peers – he’s incredibly intelligent. Too intelligent. He’s out of place, different and weird. The rest of the kids at Hawthorne Residential Treatment Village are focused on sexual attraction, the inconsequential and the vulgar - normal teen stuff – but Charlie is focused on something more important, at least for him (he still can’t help but gawk at the girls, though). What’s even more unsettling is that the boys and girls that live with Charlie at Hawthorne are all there for their own tragic reasons, and Charlie is no exception. No matter how special Charlie is, he is still a victim to the things he cannot control.
In this novel, the author aims to integrate the complexity of classical humanities into the life of a troubled boy, and I am one to say that he is successful overall, and in an especially interesting way. It is Charlie’s one positive source of family structure, his grandfather, whom introduces critical thinking into his life. And, like any good coming of age story, the young hero must apply his newly acquired resource(s) to overcome the obstacles – usually the other kids and staff members who have no idea who Nietzsche is, let alone his ideas.
At times, the author’s voice is bogged down by the voices of other writers, and the story lost its pacing. At other times, dialogue scenes would remain static, with two characters repeating themselves, ultimately losing the focus of the conversation.
All in all, Dyed Souls is a uniquely interesting read. It challenges the reader to think as Charlie thinks, and even sympathize with the worst of individuals. Well done!
In this novel, the author aims to integrate the complexity of classical humanities into the life of a troubled boy, and I am one to say that he is successful overall, and in an especially interesting way. It is Charlie’s one positive source of family structure, his grandfather, whom introduces critical thinking into his life. And, like any good coming of age story, the young hero must apply his newly acquired resource(s) to overcome the obstacles – usually the other kids and staff members who have no idea who Nietzsche is, let alone his ideas.
At times, the author’s voice is bogged down by the voices of other writers, and the story lost its pacing. At other times, dialogue scenes would remain static, with two characters repeating themselves, ultimately losing the focus of the conversation.
All in all, Dyed Souls is a uniquely interesting read. It challenges the reader to think as Charlie thinks, and even sympathize with the worst of individuals. Well done!
July 20, 2018
"Dyed Souls" by Gary Santorella is a captivating novel. The author has given us a story, that although fiction, manages to break our hearts and think about how harsh life can actually be.
Charlie, the thirteen year old focus of this story, allows us into his thoughts. The difficult existence that he has been forced to live is saddening and hard for a reader to swallow. As a father, I wanted nothing more than to reach into the pages and just hug the boy. From a druggie mother, to a reform school, Charlie's life is certainly not one that most of us could identify with. Maybe that's why, despite the dark scenario, I could not put this book down. It truly did lock me in.
Although few, if any of us, would ever find ourselves, or our family members, in the tough particulars of Charlie's life, I believe that we find some of the boy's struggle in each of us. The bitterness of losing contact with his grandparents, the disappearance of his mother and the rejection by Margo, a love interest, are emotions we all may have dealt with at some time. Charlie also faces what many consider to be the ultimate question about life. He questions the existence of God. How many of us have wondered how a loving God could allow so much evil, especially in the life of a child.
In conclusion, this is a very sad story, but one that is well written and totally engrossing. "Dyed Souls" comes highly recommended by me.
Charlie, the thirteen year old focus of this story, allows us into his thoughts. The difficult existence that he has been forced to live is saddening and hard for a reader to swallow. As a father, I wanted nothing more than to reach into the pages and just hug the boy. From a druggie mother, to a reform school, Charlie's life is certainly not one that most of us could identify with. Maybe that's why, despite the dark scenario, I could not put this book down. It truly did lock me in.
Although few, if any of us, would ever find ourselves, or our family members, in the tough particulars of Charlie's life, I believe that we find some of the boy's struggle in each of us. The bitterness of losing contact with his grandparents, the disappearance of his mother and the rejection by Margo, a love interest, are emotions we all may have dealt with at some time. Charlie also faces what many consider to be the ultimate question about life. He questions the existence of God. How many of us have wondered how a loving God could allow so much evil, especially in the life of a child.
In conclusion, this is a very sad story, but one that is well written and totally engrossing. "Dyed Souls" comes highly recommended by me.
April 23, 2019
I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect with this book, as the blurb doesn’t give too much away, but something about it caught my attention, so I thought I would give it a try. In all honesty, it took me a couple of attempts to get into it, but once I did I was completely drawn in. I fell hard for all the troubled kids living at Hawthorne, and I felt deeply invested in each of their stories. I could have happily followed any one of them to see what happened, and would actually love to know how each of them turned out. But this was not their story, it was Charlie’s.
As Charlie begins his journey into adulthood, we see him encounter the best and worst people that society has to offer. This is not a book that is always comfortably reading, and there are parts that I found quite harrowing, but they were filled with such raw emotion that at no time did I feel that anything had been added simply to get a reaction from the reader. Everything that happens does so for a reason that shapes Charlie and the way he lives his life.
Although this is very much a coming of age tale, there is so much more to it than that. The depth given to each of the characters, even those encountered only briefly, breathes a whole life into the writing, and results in an almost philosophical view on life.
I am really struggling to find the right words to say to do justice to this book, so I will leave you with this. Just read it. You won’t regret it.
As Charlie begins his journey into adulthood, we see him encounter the best and worst people that society has to offer. This is not a book that is always comfortably reading, and there are parts that I found quite harrowing, but they were filled with such raw emotion that at no time did I feel that anything had been added simply to get a reaction from the reader. Everything that happens does so for a reason that shapes Charlie and the way he lives his life.
Although this is very much a coming of age tale, there is so much more to it than that. The depth given to each of the characters, even those encountered only briefly, breathes a whole life into the writing, and results in an almost philosophical view on life.
I am really struggling to find the right words to say to do justice to this book, so I will leave you with this. Just read it. You won’t regret it.
April 21, 2019
This is a hard read, but completely absorbing. It is a brilliant book that it is brutal in its honesty about the world.
Charlie lives in a residential centre due to the fact that his drug addicted mother can’t or won’t cope with him. Written in the first person, Charlie describes his life there, living with the other residents, who have their own demons. His love for his grandparents and the effect that his grandfather has had upon his life.
Charlie is well read thanks to his father and has a book by Darwin, throughout he uses Darwin’s work to try and explain the life he is living and to use his philosophies to survive.
Dyed Souls is an excellent read that pulls no punches, and is definitely one of those books that stays with you.
Highly recommended.
Charlie lives in a residential centre due to the fact that his drug addicted mother can’t or won’t cope with him. Written in the first person, Charlie describes his life there, living with the other residents, who have their own demons. His love for his grandparents and the effect that his grandfather has had upon his life.
Charlie is well read thanks to his father and has a book by Darwin, throughout he uses Darwin’s work to try and explain the life he is living and to use his philosophies to survive.
Dyed Souls is an excellent read that pulls no punches, and is definitely one of those books that stays with you.
Highly recommended.
April 6, 2018
This is one of those books that you never want to end. It captures your heart and soul from cover to cover on so many levels. It is filled with scenes and quotes that will keep you thinking long after you finish the last amazing chapter. This is a must read and deserves five stars
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