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Purpose
Forty years ago the Spirit of Vengeance—a Purpose—took William Morgan as its host, demanding he avenge the innocent by killing the guilty. Since then, Will has retreated behind Gar, a façade he uses to avoid dealing with what he’s become. Cold, impassive, and devoid of emotion, Gar goes about his life alone—until his tidy, orderly world is upended when he meets Ryan, a broken young man cast out by his family. Spurred to action for reasons he can't understand, Gar saves Ryan from death and finds himself confronted by his humanity.
Spending time with Ryan helps Will claw out from under Gar’s shadow. He recognizes Ryan is the key to his reclaiming his humanity and facing his past. As Will struggles to control the Purpose, Ryan challenges him to rethink everything he knew about himself and the spirit that possesses him. In the process, he pushes Will to do something he hasn't done in care.
Spending time with Ryan helps Will claw out from under Gar’s shadow. He recognizes Ryan is the key to his reclaiming his humanity and facing his past. As Will struggles to control the Purpose, Ryan challenges him to rethink everything he knew about himself and the spirit that possesses him. In the process, he pushes Will to do something he hasn't done in care.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2013
14 people are currently reading
249 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Q. Gordon
22 books122 followersAfter a minor in creative writing in college, Andrew Q. Gordon decided to become old and stodgy and went to law school. At the urging of his partner, he returned to creative writing almost two decades later . Still working as a lawyer, he and his husband of seventeen years and their dogs live in the DC area. In 2011 they welcomed their daughter into their family. Andrew still manages to write after the last diaper is changed and he unwraps himself from his daughter's little finger.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
dnf
May 26, 2020Audio 5 Stars
Story dnf @ 35%
Story dnf @ 35%
July 1, 2013
Where, oh where do I begin with this review? I think my head is still spinning from this reading experience!
I guess I should start with a little summary:
For the last 40 years, Will has been avenging the deaths of innocent victims. He has been host to something he calls the Purpose, which he believes to be the Spirit of Vengeance. In order for Will to deal with all the death and violence, he has hidden behind another persona he refers to as Gar. Gar is unemotional and unaffected. He lives from day to day answering the calls of the innocent so he can keep the Purpose quiet and happy. It has also made Gar inhumanly strong and nearly immortal, along with giving him special powers of mind reading and mind control. Then, one night, Gar meets Ryan on the train, and something inside Ryan calls to Gar/Will; and vice versa. Gar feels the need to protect Ryan and keep him safe. Soon, Will starts emerging, bringing all his emotions and feelings to the surface. Is there something in Ryan that is affecting Gar/Will's Purpose? Or is Ryan just bringing out the human in him?
I really liked the whole idea of this story. I thought it was very unique and fresh; something that hasn't been done over and over again. In fact, I don't think I've ever read anything like this before. The plot was very convoluted and complicated, which is something I LOVE!! So that just worked for me. Some aspects were a little challenging to comprehend, but I feel that the author did a great job at making something so unbelievable...believable. And I really liked the twist at the end; it had me all anxious and freaking out. I don't want to spoiler anything, but I was totally duped!!
Now, on to what didn't work for me. I would have to say that my number one difficulty with this story was the romance. And I think what directly affected my issues with the romance was Ryan's character.
First of all, Ryan was needy and whiny and just plain annoying. He would never listen to Will when Will was trying to protect him, and they knew each other for all of two days when Ryan was trying to get Will to go against the Purpose and stop killing the guilty. I feel like I never got to know who Ryan really was since we get very little information about his past. I never really warmed up to him at all, even by the end of the story.
Second, I never felt any connection between Will and Ryan. Yes, all the sex was fade to black, but honestly that really isn't my complaint here. My big issue was the insta-commitment and zero sexual tension! I know that the Purpose did have some influence on the pull between Will and Ryan, and they made sure to tell me all about it, but I never felt any chemistry between them. Actually, I felt like I was being forced to accept their love for each other. Never once did I get that fluttery feeling in my chest that I look forward to when reading a romance.
Then there was Will and Ryan's new friend Jake; I'm not really sure why he was in the story at all. I'm sad to say this, but I was actually hoping at one point that Will would ditch Ryan and hook up with Jake! They had chemistry!!! Ah, but there was no "purpose".
Over all, this was a great concept, but the romance just wasn't there for me, and that really affected my enjoyment of the story.
3.5 Stars
Reviewed for The Blog of Sid Love
I guess I should start with a little summary:
For the last 40 years, Will has been avenging the deaths of innocent victims. He has been host to something he calls the Purpose, which he believes to be the Spirit of Vengeance. In order for Will to deal with all the death and violence, he has hidden behind another persona he refers to as Gar. Gar is unemotional and unaffected. He lives from day to day answering the calls of the innocent so he can keep the Purpose quiet and happy. It has also made Gar inhumanly strong and nearly immortal, along with giving him special powers of mind reading and mind control. Then, one night, Gar meets Ryan on the train, and something inside Ryan calls to Gar/Will; and vice versa. Gar feels the need to protect Ryan and keep him safe. Soon, Will starts emerging, bringing all his emotions and feelings to the surface. Is there something in Ryan that is affecting Gar/Will's Purpose? Or is Ryan just bringing out the human in him?
I really liked the whole idea of this story. I thought it was very unique and fresh; something that hasn't been done over and over again. In fact, I don't think I've ever read anything like this before. The plot was very convoluted and complicated, which is something I LOVE!! So that just worked for me. Some aspects were a little challenging to comprehend, but I feel that the author did a great job at making something so unbelievable...believable. And I really liked the twist at the end; it had me all anxious and freaking out. I don't want to spoiler anything, but I was totally duped!!
Now, on to what didn't work for me. I would have to say that my number one difficulty with this story was the romance. And I think what directly affected my issues with the romance was Ryan's character.
First of all, Ryan was needy and whiny and just plain annoying. He would never listen to Will when Will was trying to protect him, and they knew each other for all of two days when Ryan was trying to get Will to go against the Purpose and stop killing the guilty. I feel like I never got to know who Ryan really was since we get very little information about his past. I never really warmed up to him at all, even by the end of the story.
Second, I never felt any connection between Will and Ryan. Yes, all the sex was fade to black, but honestly that really isn't my complaint here. My big issue was the insta-commitment and zero sexual tension! I know that the Purpose did have some influence on the pull between Will and Ryan, and they made sure to tell me all about it, but I never felt any chemistry between them. Actually, I felt like I was being forced to accept their love for each other. Never once did I get that fluttery feeling in my chest that I look forward to when reading a romance.
Then there was Will and Ryan's new friend Jake; I'm not really sure why he was in the story at all. I'm sad to say this, but I was actually hoping at one point that Will would ditch Ryan and hook up with Jake! They had chemistry!!! Ah, but there was no "purpose".
Over all, this was a great concept, but the romance just wasn't there for me, and that really affected my enjoyment of the story.
3.5 Stars
Reviewed for The Blog of Sid Love
September 24, 2020
***Audio Review ***
Finished this a while ago, but forgot to review, sorry 🙄. Darcy Stark was wonderful as per usual, and I'm so glad that Andy chose him to narrate this. Every character was brought to life with Darcy's usual care and attention. Loved it.
***Book Review***
How do I write a review about the Spirit of Vengeance...very carefully, that's how!! I suppose we start at the very beginning, a very good place to start....No, no more Sound of Music quotes, let's get this show on the road folks. A wonderfully complex and intricate read. 5 stars and
Forty years ago, Will Morgan was taken as a host by the Spirit of Vengeance, the 'Purpose' of the book title. Now Will avenges the innocent who die, their souls call out to the Purpose for vengeance, and as Will is the Purpose's host, it is he that carries out the acts of revenge. The Purpose turns Will into a sort of superhuman being, a solitary man devoid of emotion, he becomes cold, unfeeling, and he uses a different name....becoming Gar, a 'creature' hell bent on revenge thanks to the guiding hand of the Purpose. He is travelling home one night after dispensing his own brand of justice when his inner 'Spirit' is drawn to a young man on the train, and he realises that he must 'save' the young man (Ryan) from the fate that awaits him, namely death at the hands of some thugs lying in wait as Ryan leaves the station. This meeting between the two of them changes things for both men.
Ryan helps Will to see that Gar is changing him, and definitely not for the better...he is losing his humanity, and the more time that Will spends with Ryan, the more he realises that his struggles to control the Purpose are not succeeding and that eventually the Spirit will control him, and not the other way around. Ryan is a great help to Will, he forces him to challenge everything he knows about himself, and in the process, Will comes to realise that yes, for the first time in 40 years, he does care about another person, this young man Ryan, and will protect him with his life. 'You gave me, Will, not Gar, a reason to live again. I don't want to screw that up.'
We discover a lot about Will's past including something about a previous lover that is extremely relevant to his relationship with Ryan today. As Will's tolerance for meting out justice wanes...again, something Ryan has a lot to do with, he is made aware that something is happening to Ryan too, something that will cause problems for the two of them in the future.
Will (Gar) starts working with the local police department helping them to solve the crimes that he has been called to as an avenging spirit, and finally comes to trust Detective Griffin, the guy he's been feeding clues to. Unfortunately, we also get to meet a rogue FBI agent...yes Barrington, I'm talking about you, you piece of ****, whose only interest in the case is catching Will, and he doesn't care how many innocents get caught up in the crossfire.
As is normal with Andy's stories, most of the sex is either off page or fade to black, and that doesn't bother me in the slightest, it means that you can concentrate more on the story (and you'll need to) than the possible bedroom Olympics taking place every other page.
I liked both characters, especially Ryan, and when....whoops, nearly gave the surprise away there. The ending is, as another reviewer has said, explosive, and I can't wait for the next installment!!
Finished this a while ago, but forgot to review, sorry 🙄. Darcy Stark was wonderful as per usual, and I'm so glad that Andy chose him to narrate this. Every character was brought to life with Darcy's usual care and attention. Loved it.
***Book Review***
How do I write a review about the Spirit of Vengeance...very carefully, that's how!! I suppose we start at the very beginning, a very good place to start....No, no more Sound of Music quotes, let's get this show on the road folks. A wonderfully complex and intricate read. 5 stars and
Forty years ago, Will Morgan was taken as a host by the Spirit of Vengeance, the 'Purpose' of the book title. Now Will avenges the innocent who die, their souls call out to the Purpose for vengeance, and as Will is the Purpose's host, it is he that carries out the acts of revenge. The Purpose turns Will into a sort of superhuman being, a solitary man devoid of emotion, he becomes cold, unfeeling, and he uses a different name....becoming Gar, a 'creature' hell bent on revenge thanks to the guiding hand of the Purpose. He is travelling home one night after dispensing his own brand of justice when his inner 'Spirit' is drawn to a young man on the train, and he realises that he must 'save' the young man (Ryan) from the fate that awaits him, namely death at the hands of some thugs lying in wait as Ryan leaves the station. This meeting between the two of them changes things for both men.
Ryan helps Will to see that Gar is changing him, and definitely not for the better...he is losing his humanity, and the more time that Will spends with Ryan, the more he realises that his struggles to control the Purpose are not succeeding and that eventually the Spirit will control him, and not the other way around. Ryan is a great help to Will, he forces him to challenge everything he knows about himself, and in the process, Will comes to realise that yes, for the first time in 40 years, he does care about another person, this young man Ryan, and will protect him with his life. 'You gave me, Will, not Gar, a reason to live again. I don't want to screw that up.'
We discover a lot about Will's past including something about a previous lover that is extremely relevant to his relationship with Ryan today. As Will's tolerance for meting out justice wanes...again, something Ryan has a lot to do with, he is made aware that something is happening to Ryan too, something that will cause problems for the two of them in the future.
Will (Gar) starts working with the local police department helping them to solve the crimes that he has been called to as an avenging spirit, and finally comes to trust Detective Griffin, the guy he's been feeding clues to. Unfortunately, we also get to meet a rogue FBI agent...yes Barrington, I'm talking about you, you piece of ****, whose only interest in the case is catching Will, and he doesn't care how many innocents get caught up in the crossfire.
As is normal with Andy's stories, most of the sex is either off page or fade to black, and that doesn't bother me in the slightest, it means that you can concentrate more on the story (and you'll need to) than the possible bedroom Olympics taking place every other page.
I liked both characters, especially Ryan, and when....whoops, nearly gave the surprise away there. The ending is, as another reviewer has said, explosive, and I can't wait for the next installment!!
October 4, 2015
I have considered for a while whether or not to ask for an ARC. It is no secret that I am not a big fan of paranormal genre. But I read some really good reviews on GR and the blurb of this book sounded interesting to me. Besides, having read several mysteries novels, one after another, I was looking forward for a change. AND it was my first read from this author, I was pretty excited about it, to be honest.
William Morgan spent the last 40 years of his life as a host for a sentient energy, The Spirit of Vengeance. His life is not his anymore, it belongs to It. He is driven by a purpose he can’t control: VENGEANCE. Every time someone innocent dies, he HAS to avenge the innocent by killing the guilty. It is how it has been for the last decades, and it is why he knows how to hide his emotions and feelings behind his second I- Gar. Gar was born the moment William died 40 years ago when the Spirit of Vengeance owned his body and took control over his life.
Everything changes the moment he meets Ryan, a homeless broken young man who’d been cast by a cruel and heartless family. Something magical happens when Will looks at Ryan’s eyes. This fateful encounter changes everything in their lives.
Well…Before I say something mean, I’d like to say something nice. The cover of this second edition is really good and atmospheric, I like it. Unfortunately I can’t say the same about the author’s writing style. I struggled with it from the very first page, and I would have probably never managed to finish this book, if I hadn’t promised myself to read all ARCs up to the end. I normally not that patient with books I purchase.
Honestly, it was hard for me to get through this story. Paranormal books are not my favorite, so I didn’t expect to love this book to pieces when I started it, but I also didn’t expect to dislike it. Along with the writing that didn’t work for me, I had my personal issues with the main and second characters. I just couldn’t get warm with any of them. There was no a single character in this book for me to like or to be interested of. A rough summary of the story on the most pages, without spoiling it: Will tries to protect Ryan (because he has his reasons), and Ryan tries to make Will’s job of protecting him as difficult as only possible. The long discussions between Ryan and Will about Purpose, and purpose of everyone’s Purpose, about motive to kill and not to kill, about justice and demand of vengeance, Ryan’s continuous self-deprecating and insecure, and stupid arguments…that was very boring and repetitive.
The romance in this book felt emotionless and flat, combined with the lacking any chemistry and sexual tension between Ryan and Will. Maybe it is why I don’t complain about the absence of sex scenes. It is impossible to enjoy a romance book if you don’t like the characters. I can’t say that I disliked Will, but Ryan annoyed me ENORMOUSLY. He was twenty-four when they met, but he talked and behaved like a thirteen year old boy. His character appeared immature and underdeveloped.
At the end I felt myself a bit guilty to think this way about Ryan, but I couldn’t help it: the ending left me cold and indifferent.
I hate to be that mean, and I really wanted to like this book.
However I can’t give anything but my honest review, and to be honest, I didn’t like this story.
I’m hoping though that others enjoyed this book more.
*This review has been crossed posted to Jessewave*
October 15, 2013
O: THIS SOUNDS SO GOOD.
please let it be good please let it be good please let it be good please let it be good please let it be good please let it be good please let it be good please let it be good please let it be good
post-read eta:
It was amazing.
I'm still quite mind-boggled by some of it. It's quite excellently crafted. I don't like how purposefully vague the ending is. It gives you a hint of what you want, but there's enough reasonable doubt, imo, that it's a bit hard to tell.
This is one of those that has me wishing it's possible to give extra credit to. There are so many beautiful subtle nuances to it. It's complex and rich and the characters are diverse and, in my opinion, believable.
There's a sense of development, which was both good and bad. At one point, I kind of started losing track almost. I kind of took a mental step back and looked at it and thought, "Wtf. Where the hell did I end up?" I mean that in the sense that this story took me on a journey and I didn't even realize it.
It's good.
please let it be good please let it be good please let it be good please let it be good please let it be good please let it be good please let it be good please let it be good please let it be good
post-read eta:
It was amazing.
I'm still quite mind-boggled by some of it. It's quite excellently crafted. I don't like how purposefully vague the ending is. It gives you a hint of what you want, but there's enough reasonable doubt, imo, that it's a bit hard to tell.
This is one of those that has me wishing it's possible to give extra credit to. There are so many beautiful subtle nuances to it. It's complex and rich and the characters are diverse and, in my opinion, believable.
There's a sense of development, which was both good and bad. At one point, I kind of started losing track almost. I kind of took a mental step back and looked at it and thought, "Wtf. Where the hell did I end up?" I mean that in the sense that this story took me on a journey and I didn't even realize it.
It's good.
October 22, 2015
Oh wow. What a ride!
I love the study of dual natures in a person, and boy did this book satisfy that craving. Gar, a PURPOSE, plodding ahead in life, devoid of emotion, hardened to his task. Will, the man he used to be until changed by circumstance.
Until the arrival of Ryan reminds him to live again.
I'm trying very hard not to give spoilers, and I'm so enthusiastic about this book that I want to tell everyone all about it, but I will refrain. I've read so many books that it's hard to find one unique and full of so many twists and turns that I don't get a sense of what's coming. And this time, I didn't want to. Instead I immersed myself in this world, turning page after page after page. Whenever I had a few minutes, back in I went.
Part crime drama, part sci-fi, part urban fantasy, with a touch of romance (though it's not a typical romantic story) I couldn't put it down, and immediately upon finishing contacted the author to see if there will be a sequel. (There will! Yippee! I can't wait!)
Highly recommended.
Oh, and I LOVE the cover!
I love the study of dual natures in a person, and boy did this book satisfy that craving. Gar, a PURPOSE, plodding ahead in life, devoid of emotion, hardened to his task. Will, the man he used to be until changed by circumstance.
Until the arrival of Ryan reminds him to live again.
I'm trying very hard not to give spoilers, and I'm so enthusiastic about this book that I want to tell everyone all about it, but I will refrain. I've read so many books that it's hard to find one unique and full of so many twists and turns that I don't get a sense of what's coming. And this time, I didn't want to. Instead I immersed myself in this world, turning page after page after page. Whenever I had a few minutes, back in I went.
Part crime drama, part sci-fi, part urban fantasy, with a touch of romance (though it's not a typical romantic story) I couldn't put it down, and immediately upon finishing contacted the author to see if there will be a sequel. (There will! Yippee! I can't wait!)
Highly recommended.
Oh, and I LOVE the cover!
April 13, 2015
More sci-fi than romance but still an excellent story. It would make a really great sci-fi film. Really enjoyed reading this.
June 21, 2013
4 1/2 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
Will/Gar has spent the last forty years exacting vengeance on the guilty for the innocents they have killed. His Purpose, Vengeance, demands it as payment for strength, youth and mental powers. Vengeance: an entity that feeds on the souls of the guilty. When Gar meets Ryan he begins to lose the cold shell he has encased himself in and Will begins to emerge, emotions and feelings he hasn’t felt in years shock him, so what is it about Ryan that has drawn Will out of his long sleep. Ryan has been cast out by his family and meets Gar, not quite sure what to make of the man, getting to know Gar and the real man behind the façade, Will, leads to Ryan discovering something about himself that he finds a hard time getting his head around. Ryan challenges Will to rethink what his Purpose wants, but when the FBI get involved Ryan might be in more danger than ever before.
This is a brilliant, unique, slightly dark, gritty story that you just can’t put down. Will was taken as a host by an entity nearly forty years ago, since then he has buried himself beneath a cold emotionless façade, Gar, to carry out the vengeance that he has been called to do. When Gar meets Ryan there is something about the young man that calls to him and Will begins to re-emerge. Ryan is confused by Will but can’t help falling for the man who saved his life, but when he discovers what his Purpose requires he asks if there is another way to give it what it wants. Things get more complicated when Will tries to discover what it is about Ryan that ease’s him, and then Will discovers he is being tracked by an overzealous FBI agent who will stop at nothing to get Will.
I have to admit to being dragged into this story from the very first page, the opening scenes grip you as it leads you straight into meeting Gar and his Purpose Vengeance. As we progress through the book we can see the changes in Gar/Will as Ryan breaks through his shell. We see Will, a man who buried his emotions to dull the pain of loss, still getting to grips with his Purpose and evolving his relationship with the entity and finally beginning to understand just what the entity needs and requires. With Ryan you see a man who still has a long way to go before he is confident and secure, but also someone who will sulk and act like a brat when he doesn’t get his own way, which causes problems for Will.
The police and FBI angle was really good and while Will is willing to bargain with Detective Griffin, he wants nothing to do with Agent Barrington, these are aspects of the story you do not want to miss. The characters bring this story alive giving us a darkish gritty story of vengeance and justice. There’s entities from other planes, the innocent demanding vengeance, justice and revenge, the guilty paying for their crimes and two men feeling an instant connection and finding more in common than they thought.
This isn’t a book to miss if you want a unique storyline, great characters, vengeance galore, confusion, love and a brilliant ending.
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
Will/Gar has spent the last forty years exacting vengeance on the guilty for the innocents they have killed. His Purpose, Vengeance, demands it as payment for strength, youth and mental powers. Vengeance: an entity that feeds on the souls of the guilty. When Gar meets Ryan he begins to lose the cold shell he has encased himself in and Will begins to emerge, emotions and feelings he hasn’t felt in years shock him, so what is it about Ryan that has drawn Will out of his long sleep. Ryan has been cast out by his family and meets Gar, not quite sure what to make of the man, getting to know Gar and the real man behind the façade, Will, leads to Ryan discovering something about himself that he finds a hard time getting his head around. Ryan challenges Will to rethink what his Purpose wants, but when the FBI get involved Ryan might be in more danger than ever before.
This is a brilliant, unique, slightly dark, gritty story that you just can’t put down. Will was taken as a host by an entity nearly forty years ago, since then he has buried himself beneath a cold emotionless façade, Gar, to carry out the vengeance that he has been called to do. When Gar meets Ryan there is something about the young man that calls to him and Will begins to re-emerge. Ryan is confused by Will but can’t help falling for the man who saved his life, but when he discovers what his Purpose requires he asks if there is another way to give it what it wants. Things get more complicated when Will tries to discover what it is about Ryan that ease’s him, and then Will discovers he is being tracked by an overzealous FBI agent who will stop at nothing to get Will.
I have to admit to being dragged into this story from the very first page, the opening scenes grip you as it leads you straight into meeting Gar and his Purpose Vengeance. As we progress through the book we can see the changes in Gar/Will as Ryan breaks through his shell. We see Will, a man who buried his emotions to dull the pain of loss, still getting to grips with his Purpose and evolving his relationship with the entity and finally beginning to understand just what the entity needs and requires. With Ryan you see a man who still has a long way to go before he is confident and secure, but also someone who will sulk and act like a brat when he doesn’t get his own way, which causes problems for Will.
The police and FBI angle was really good and while Will is willing to bargain with Detective Griffin, he wants nothing to do with Agent Barrington, these are aspects of the story you do not want to miss. The characters bring this story alive giving us a darkish gritty story of vengeance and justice. There’s entities from other planes, the innocent demanding vengeance, justice and revenge, the guilty paying for their crimes and two men feeling an instant connection and finding more in common than they thought.
This isn’t a book to miss if you want a unique storyline, great characters, vengeance galore, confusion, love and a brilliant ending.
Read
February 2, 2021I don’t often re-read books, but when Andrew Q. Gordon sent me an updated copy of his book Purpose, I dove back in right away. I had remembered enjoying the story the first time around and am always in the mood for something a little different.
Here’s the bit that hooked me the first time:
Forty years ago the Spirit of Vengeance—a Purpose—took William Morgan as its host, demanding he avenge the innocent by killing the guilty.
For forty years, William Morgan has been avenging the innocent. Every year as host for the Purpose has him withdrawing farther from his humanity. He has adopted a new name – Gar – and has had his emotions on lockdown for nearly as long. He exists merely to fulfil his purpose, his days filled with the training that makes him strong and capable, his nights filled with stalking the guilty. One evening, on the way home from delivering vengeance, he meets the young man who will challenge everything he has come to believe about his Purpose and the way in which he fulfils it.
From the beginning, there is something about Ryan that calls to William and Gar. Ryan feels like a victim, but he is alive. His soul is not crying out for vengeance. He is also obviously troubled. Surprising himself, William makes an attempt to befriend Ryan. After several miscommunications, the men go their separate ways. Immediately, William senses danger and is possessed by the need to save Ryan. He does. A friendship develops from there, one that quickly deepens into something more.
William’s relationship with Ryan is a complication in many ways. He has not used anything but the name Gar in decades and in revealing his real name to Ryan, he opens himself to inquiry and memories he’d rather not revisit. We get a peek of the man behind the Purpose. His past, how he came to be a host for the Spirit of Vengeance and what it has cost him. We also learn his humanity is not totally lost. It’s just been hidden and without purpose.
Further complications arise when the FBI expresses an interest in a series of unsolved crimes. William is aware of the attention. It’s why he moves on so often and tries so hard to make vengeance look as if it’s the work of balance rather than one man. Counting on gang rivalry and accidental confessions to out his perps and see them brought to justice or dead are are two of his favourite tricks.
Then there is Ryan. There’s something about Ryan. It’s more than the fact his eyes are sometimes familiar or that he’s widening the chinks in Gar’s armour, exposing William to daylight. He’s making William question everything: his Purpose, the way he fulfils it and the biggest one of all, why him? Why was he chosen and why was one of the first innocents he avenged directly tied to him?
Purpose is one of those stories that begins simply and complicates beautifully. Gordon answers all of these questions while challenging the reader with more. The third person narrative (from Gar/William’s point of view) is interspersed with journal entries written in first person. These are the chapters where Gar answers the calls of the innocent, delivering vengeance to the guilty. Increasingly, however, these journal entries become more complicated and, through these alone, we can track William’s evolution or revolution, if you will.
For action lovers, there is a lot to like here. The FBI plot is well developed and escalates quickly and believably. William’s inventiveness and experience holds off the inevitable for a while but, the introduction of Ryan into his life, gives him a weakness he’s fully aware of but isn’t given time to explore.
The relationship between William and Ryan is very sweet. Ryan is so very young and written with just the right balance between annoying and sympathetic. His past hurts are significant but not splashed across the page. What he does for William is very significant and written with careful beauty.
The part I like best, however, is the revelation of just what the Spirit of Vengeance is. This is the reason I picked up this book and the reason I re-read it. The concept is quite unlike anything I’ve read before. At first, I thought it might be a situation akin to Justice in the Dragon Age: Origins expansion Awakening. Spoiler alert: it’s not. But the real story is equal parts compelling and fascinating.
The end of the book leaves us with a very big question. It’s one readers can answer on their own and further adventures can be written in our own heads. I do hope Gordon returns to this world, as I believe there are more stories to tell. But if he doesn’t and, as a writer, I understand the drive to explore new territory, to tell the next story, Purpose is still an absolutely satisfying read that I recommend without hesitation.
Reviewed for SFCrowsnest.
Here’s the bit that hooked me the first time:
Forty years ago the Spirit of Vengeance—a Purpose—took William Morgan as its host, demanding he avenge the innocent by killing the guilty.
For forty years, William Morgan has been avenging the innocent. Every year as host for the Purpose has him withdrawing farther from his humanity. He has adopted a new name – Gar – and has had his emotions on lockdown for nearly as long. He exists merely to fulfil his purpose, his days filled with the training that makes him strong and capable, his nights filled with stalking the guilty. One evening, on the way home from delivering vengeance, he meets the young man who will challenge everything he has come to believe about his Purpose and the way in which he fulfils it.
From the beginning, there is something about Ryan that calls to William and Gar. Ryan feels like a victim, but he is alive. His soul is not crying out for vengeance. He is also obviously troubled. Surprising himself, William makes an attempt to befriend Ryan. After several miscommunications, the men go their separate ways. Immediately, William senses danger and is possessed by the need to save Ryan. He does. A friendship develops from there, one that quickly deepens into something more.
William’s relationship with Ryan is a complication in many ways. He has not used anything but the name Gar in decades and in revealing his real name to Ryan, he opens himself to inquiry and memories he’d rather not revisit. We get a peek of the man behind the Purpose. His past, how he came to be a host for the Spirit of Vengeance and what it has cost him. We also learn his humanity is not totally lost. It’s just been hidden and without purpose.
Further complications arise when the FBI expresses an interest in a series of unsolved crimes. William is aware of the attention. It’s why he moves on so often and tries so hard to make vengeance look as if it’s the work of balance rather than one man. Counting on gang rivalry and accidental confessions to out his perps and see them brought to justice or dead are are two of his favourite tricks.
Then there is Ryan. There’s something about Ryan. It’s more than the fact his eyes are sometimes familiar or that he’s widening the chinks in Gar’s armour, exposing William to daylight. He’s making William question everything: his Purpose, the way he fulfils it and the biggest one of all, why him? Why was he chosen and why was one of the first innocents he avenged directly tied to him?
Purpose is one of those stories that begins simply and complicates beautifully. Gordon answers all of these questions while challenging the reader with more. The third person narrative (from Gar/William’s point of view) is interspersed with journal entries written in first person. These are the chapters where Gar answers the calls of the innocent, delivering vengeance to the guilty. Increasingly, however, these journal entries become more complicated and, through these alone, we can track William’s evolution or revolution, if you will.
For action lovers, there is a lot to like here. The FBI plot is well developed and escalates quickly and believably. William’s inventiveness and experience holds off the inevitable for a while but, the introduction of Ryan into his life, gives him a weakness he’s fully aware of but isn’t given time to explore.
The relationship between William and Ryan is very sweet. Ryan is so very young and written with just the right balance between annoying and sympathetic. His past hurts are significant but not splashed across the page. What he does for William is very significant and written with careful beauty.
The part I like best, however, is the revelation of just what the Spirit of Vengeance is. This is the reason I picked up this book and the reason I re-read it. The concept is quite unlike anything I’ve read before. At first, I thought it might be a situation akin to Justice in the Dragon Age: Origins expansion Awakening. Spoiler alert: it’s not. But the real story is equal parts compelling and fascinating.
The end of the book leaves us with a very big question. It’s one readers can answer on their own and further adventures can be written in our own heads. I do hope Gordon returns to this world, as I believe there are more stories to tell. But if he doesn’t and, as a writer, I understand the drive to explore new territory, to tell the next story, Purpose is still an absolutely satisfying read that I recommend without hesitation.
Reviewed for SFCrowsnest.
June 26, 2013
4 Stars
This book was a toughie to review. I really enjoyed parts and found others repetitive and slow paced. The premise of the story was very interesting but for me the romantic element just didn’t deliver.
William Morgan was chosen as a host for the Purpose. He’s stronger, smarter, hasn’t aged in forty years and can control what people perceive to see and hear. Gar, as he calls himself now since Will was lost to him long ago, finds vengeance for innocent victims by finding ways for them to die. He’s in another city, just finishing up from another job when he runs into Ryan. He feels an instant connection to Ryan. He hasn’t felt anything remotely human like since his lover was killed but ignores the desire to spend more time with Ryan out of confusion and his need to keep others at a distance. Gar/Will feels a strong pull from his purpose and knows Ryan is in danger. He draws way too much attention to himself saving Ryan but he doesn’t care. The two jump into a relationship and slowly discover why they were so instantly drawn to each other.
The Purpose and it’s hosts part of the story was interesting and unique. I loved the idea of a vigilante hunting down the bad guy and making him pay for crimes committed. I bought into the idea of Gar’s character and thought that him manipulating people by playing with their minds was very well done. What I didn’t like was Ryan’s constant guilt trips about what Gar was. He was honest and warned him but Ryan just couldn’t accept it even though he instantly loved Will.
The romance between the couple never really grabbed me. It was too easy with very little conflict beyond Ryan feeling inferior or having problems with Gar killing people even though Gar explained that the Purpose compels him to do it. There was almost no on page sex and the couple were a little sweet for my tastes at times.
The action parts of the story were very good. I think those were my favorites parts of the story. Basically a lot of ups and downs in this story for me. I liked it but had no problem putting it down.
Whit's review can also be found at Live Your Life, Buy The Book
This book was a toughie to review. I really enjoyed parts and found others repetitive and slow paced. The premise of the story was very interesting but for me the romantic element just didn’t deliver.
William Morgan was chosen as a host for the Purpose. He’s stronger, smarter, hasn’t aged in forty years and can control what people perceive to see and hear. Gar, as he calls himself now since Will was lost to him long ago, finds vengeance for innocent victims by finding ways for them to die. He’s in another city, just finishing up from another job when he runs into Ryan. He feels an instant connection to Ryan. He hasn’t felt anything remotely human like since his lover was killed but ignores the desire to spend more time with Ryan out of confusion and his need to keep others at a distance. Gar/Will feels a strong pull from his purpose and knows Ryan is in danger. He draws way too much attention to himself saving Ryan but he doesn’t care. The two jump into a relationship and slowly discover why they were so instantly drawn to each other.
The Purpose and it’s hosts part of the story was interesting and unique. I loved the idea of a vigilante hunting down the bad guy and making him pay for crimes committed. I bought into the idea of Gar’s character and thought that him manipulating people by playing with their minds was very well done. What I didn’t like was Ryan’s constant guilt trips about what Gar was. He was honest and warned him but Ryan just couldn’t accept it even though he instantly loved Will.
The romance between the couple never really grabbed me. It was too easy with very little conflict beyond Ryan feeling inferior or having problems with Gar killing people even though Gar explained that the Purpose compels him to do it. There was almost no on page sex and the couple were a little sweet for my tastes at times.
The action parts of the story were very good. I think those were my favorites parts of the story. Basically a lot of ups and downs in this story for me. I liked it but had no problem putting it down.
Whit's review can also be found at Live Your Life, Buy The Book
August 20, 2013
Andrew Q. Gordon's "Purpose" is a strange book. Strange not in its writing - which is quickly-paced and capable - but in its premise. The idea of a mysterious entity possessing an unwilling human and forcing him to avenge the deaths of innocents - and then forty years later helping him find the very person he needs to revive his humanity - is as original a concept as I've ever read.
I liked both Will and Ryan a great deal; I enjoyed the dynamic of their relationship (talk about awkward ways to begin a romance!) and the way their evolving understanding of the Purpose forced them to adapt.
The story is by turns creepy and exciting, and always romantic without being soppy. It makes us question our own notions of justice and vengeance and the potential for cruelty that dwells in all of us.
I liked both Will and Ryan a great deal; I enjoyed the dynamic of their relationship (talk about awkward ways to begin a romance!) and the way their evolving understanding of the Purpose forced them to adapt.
The story is by turns creepy and exciting, and always romantic without being soppy. It makes us question our own notions of justice and vengeance and the potential for cruelty that dwells in all of us.
July 28, 2013
“Someone died tonight…I am driven by a purpose I can’t control.”
“Purpose” is not a genre I normally read but I read the excerpt and by the time I read the words above, I was drawn in, captivated by the character of Will (Gar) and his Purpose.
The story, the emotion contained within, unfolds at its own rapid pace, gathering momentum quickly which it sustains until the end, the story twisting this way and that, twisting you along with it. The sheer imaginativeness of “Purpose” astounded and delighted me. Gordon places the unimaginable, the impossible directly beside the ordinary, the expected, creating a world that is at once incredible and utterly believable.
In the end I did not suspend disbelief so much as come to believe.
“Purpose” is not a genre I normally read but I read the excerpt and by the time I read the words above, I was drawn in, captivated by the character of Will (Gar) and his Purpose.
The story, the emotion contained within, unfolds at its own rapid pace, gathering momentum quickly which it sustains until the end, the story twisting this way and that, twisting you along with it. The sheer imaginativeness of “Purpose” astounded and delighted me. Gordon places the unimaginable, the impossible directly beside the ordinary, the expected, creating a world that is at once incredible and utterly believable.
In the end I did not suspend disbelief so much as come to believe.
October 8, 2015
What an interesting premise.
Spirit of Vengeance. But is it really a spirit? The 'being' reminds me a bit of a combination of Meyer's The Host, Jordan L Hawk's SPECTR, and Libby Drew's 40 Souls To Keep. At about the halfway mark, I kept getting this sense of foreboding, even though it was encouraging to see Gar(Will) start 'feeling' again, and not be so mechanical and detached from his emotions and his body's actions.
A voiceless being, but a strong compulsion just the same. Empathy for victims, or just a job?
This story had me going in circles a bit. I will say it's an easy one to get lost in, as to the way 'It' communicates with Will/Gar. It wasn't by any means a typical romance, and so much happened in the last chapters that I'm still digesting my thoughts. It was definitely an interesting premise.
This story has a very scifi vibe, and as the reader you get a definite feel of something going on when he meets Ryan, but you just don't know what. I found it funny that Gar initially thought of Ryan as a kid, and seriously was thinking maybe he was a teenager the way Gar's mind described him. Then a few chapters later we find out he's 23 years old, and that Gar is in a 25 yr old's body. That there makes the cover picture seem a bit old for him. But I really liked the new cover.
As for the new cover design, I do believe it gives the story the right feel, with the dark and mysterious man split in two, but more so the character we are introduced to later in the story than the almost fresh, newly awakened Will we get to meet during the beginning chapters.
It was a journey, but one that left me thinking, a lot. It left me almost with more questions than answers. So much going on, and at the end, well, the reader is almost allowed to think anything they'd like. An interesting premise for sure. I'm glad I read this one and would recommend for the scifi fan.
Spirit of Vengeance. But is it really a spirit? The 'being' reminds me a bit of a combination of Meyer's The Host, Jordan L Hawk's SPECTR, and Libby Drew's 40 Souls To Keep. At about the halfway mark, I kept getting this sense of foreboding, even though it was encouraging to see Gar(Will) start 'feeling' again, and not be so mechanical and detached from his emotions and his body's actions.
A voiceless being, but a strong compulsion just the same. Empathy for victims, or just a job?
This story had me going in circles a bit. I will say it's an easy one to get lost in, as to the way 'It' communicates with Will/Gar. It wasn't by any means a typical romance, and so much happened in the last chapters that I'm still digesting my thoughts. It was definitely an interesting premise.
This story has a very scifi vibe, and as the reader you get a definite feel of something going on when he meets Ryan, but you just don't know what. I found it funny that Gar initially thought of Ryan as a kid, and seriously was thinking maybe he was a teenager the way Gar's mind described him. Then a few chapters later we find out he's 23 years old, and that Gar is in a 25 yr old's body. That there makes the cover picture seem a bit old for him. But I really liked the new cover.
As for the new cover design, I do believe it gives the story the right feel, with the dark and mysterious man split in two, but more so the character we are introduced to later in the story than the almost fresh, newly awakened Will we get to meet during the beginning chapters.
It was a journey, but one that left me thinking, a lot. It left me almost with more questions than answers. So much going on, and at the end, well, the reader is almost allowed to think anything they'd like. An interesting premise for sure. I'm glad I read this one and would recommend for the scifi fan.
July 2, 2013
When I was 2/3 of the way through this book, if you had asked me what I thought of it, I would have said it was a very nicely written character driven novel. The focus was primarily on the two MCs and their developing relationship. Ryan is down on his luck; thrown out on the streets by his family because he’s gay. Gar (Will) saves Ryan from street thugs intent on robbing and killing him. Gar has never intervened in a crime in progress before… his usual gig is seeking vengeance for the dead… the innocent. Ryan captivates him; reminds him of David, his dead lover from 40 years ago… prior to the Purpose. The Purpose normally creates chaos in Gar’s mind, but somehow Ryan calms it; quiets it. Gar still feels the pull of the innocent, but the compulsion to act is gone. He struggles to determine what this means.
The story of this budding relationship, in and of itself, is a great story. Ryan feeds (and reawakens) Will’s soul… gives him back his feelings and emotions. And Will gives Ryan acceptance and a sense of belonging; something that has been taken from him when his family kicked him out. And both are trying to figure out how the Purpose fits into their lives.
Ohhh, but that's not the end of the story. For at this point, the plot takes over... grabs you around the neck and slams you into the rollercoaster for the rest of the ride. There are twists and there are turns. First you convince yourself the story will end one way, but no it won't end like that at all...will it?? Eh, you'll just have to read it yourself.
Very nicely done, Andrew. This will go on my Favorites shelf.
The story of this budding relationship, in and of itself, is a great story. Ryan feeds (and reawakens) Will’s soul… gives him back his feelings and emotions. And Will gives Ryan acceptance and a sense of belonging; something that has been taken from him when his family kicked him out. And both are trying to figure out how the Purpose fits into their lives.
Ohhh, but that's not the end of the story. For at this point, the plot takes over... grabs you around the neck and slams you into the rollercoaster for the rest of the ride. There are twists and there are turns. First you convince yourself the story will end one way, but no it won't end like that at all...will it?? Eh, you'll just have to read it yourself.
Very nicely done, Andrew. This will go on my Favorites shelf.
April 5, 2014
Two important things wouldbe readers need to know about this novel: it's an excellent read, and if you are the sort of reader who assumes that all fiction categorised as "gay" is not for readers like you, then here is where you start to think again.
In short, the title of "Purpose" relates to the protagonist's symbiotic possession by a non-corporeal being seeking vengeance and his struggles to reconcile this against other factors that I won't mention here.
If you're looking for sex, go elsewhere, as this is not what this story is about. It is about romance to some extent, but that trivialises the driving force of love and connection behind the challenges the characters face.
What this book really is, is a thrilling "urban fantasy" that is deeply psychological and filled with suspense. The main character just happens to be gay on this occasion, hence the categorising of the novel as "GLBT" and "MM Romance". It's just a bloody good story.
It took me a couple of chapters to get properly hooked, but once I was I did struggle to put it down. A few tear-jerker moments towards the end, as well as some deeper explorations of the human psyche make this a story with depth and insight - something for most types of reader, I'd say.
All in all, an excellent read. I'll definitely read more from Andrew Q. Gordon and I'm off to look at his website for added extras I'm told are worth reading after reading the book.
In short, the title of "Purpose" relates to the protagonist's symbiotic possession by a non-corporeal being seeking vengeance and his struggles to reconcile this against other factors that I won't mention here.
If you're looking for sex, go elsewhere, as this is not what this story is about. It is about romance to some extent, but that trivialises the driving force of love and connection behind the challenges the characters face.
What this book really is, is a thrilling "urban fantasy" that is deeply psychological and filled with suspense. The main character just happens to be gay on this occasion, hence the categorising of the novel as "GLBT" and "MM Romance". It's just a bloody good story.
It took me a couple of chapters to get properly hooked, but once I was I did struggle to put it down. A few tear-jerker moments towards the end, as well as some deeper explorations of the human psyche make this a story with depth and insight - something for most types of reader, I'd say.
All in all, an excellent read. I'll definitely read more from Andrew Q. Gordon and I'm off to look at his website for added extras I'm told are worth reading after reading the book.
dnf-for-good
May 26, 202030% dnf
August 3, 2024
4.5 stars
A really unusual story, fabulously narrated by Darcy Stark.
Other reviews indicate there might have been a sequel - anyone know if it ever got written?
A really unusual story, fabulously narrated by Darcy Stark.
Other reviews indicate there might have been a sequel - anyone know if it ever got written?
July 25, 2013
Lucky's 5 sweet pea review appears at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
An innocent has died. The soul of this innocent has cried out for vengeance and Gar has answered violence with violence. His mission complete, he’s headed for home. While on board the train he runs into Ryan, a lost young man who has taken to turning tricks to survive. Something in the broken young man calls to Gar. He reminds him of someone from long ago. They strike up a conversation and Gar gives Ryan money when Ryan attempts to offer his services. He pleads with Ryan not to sell himself tonight. When Ryan gets off the train, a wave of fear hits Gar. Ryan is going to die.
This is the beginning of an incredible adventure from the mind of Andrew Q. Gordon, who I first met when I did the review for (Un)Masked where he teamed up with Anyta Sunday. The blurb grabbed me and held me tight. The story did the same.
Gar has been the spirit of vengeance for forty years. He’s had to give up his family, turn off his emotions, and exist solely to mete out justice to those who hurt innocent people. Ryan, however, calls to something in him. So much that Gar tells Ryan something that no one else knows: his true name.
Throughout the story Ryan and Will come closer together. The sex between the two is mostly fade to black, but that was okay with me, as it gave more time to develop the intricate story and the threads that weave between the men.
I like Ryan. When he finds out what Gar is he’s horrified and wants a better method to end the cycle of violence. Gar, for some unknown reason, starts seeking that path because he doesn’t want Ryan hurt.
During this time, Gar starts working with a police detective, promising to help him solve murders, but also to help Gar find out why a federal agent is searching for him.
There are revelations coming for Ryan and Gar. Some of them are very unpleasant. The ending of the book is explosive (yes, yes, I said it) and changes Will and Ryan’s lives forever.
An innocent has died. The soul of this innocent has cried out for vengeance and Gar has answered violence with violence. His mission complete, he’s headed for home. While on board the train he runs into Ryan, a lost young man who has taken to turning tricks to survive. Something in the broken young man calls to Gar. He reminds him of someone from long ago. They strike up a conversation and Gar gives Ryan money when Ryan attempts to offer his services. He pleads with Ryan not to sell himself tonight. When Ryan gets off the train, a wave of fear hits Gar. Ryan is going to die.
This is the beginning of an incredible adventure from the mind of Andrew Q. Gordon, who I first met when I did the review for (Un)Masked where he teamed up with Anyta Sunday. The blurb grabbed me and held me tight. The story did the same.
Gar has been the spirit of vengeance for forty years. He’s had to give up his family, turn off his emotions, and exist solely to mete out justice to those who hurt innocent people. Ryan, however, calls to something in him. So much that Gar tells Ryan something that no one else knows: his true name.
Throughout the story Ryan and Will come closer together. The sex between the two is mostly fade to black, but that was okay with me, as it gave more time to develop the intricate story and the threads that weave between the men.
I like Ryan. When he finds out what Gar is he’s horrified and wants a better method to end the cycle of violence. Gar, for some unknown reason, starts seeking that path because he doesn’t want Ryan hurt.
During this time, Gar starts working with a police detective, promising to help him solve murders, but also to help Gar find out why a federal agent is searching for him.
There are revelations coming for Ryan and Gar. Some of them are very unpleasant. The ending of the book is explosive (yes, yes, I said it) and changes Will and Ryan’s lives forever.
October 14, 2015
First things first: with many thanks, I received this from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
And I'm finding it hard to put that review into words with this book, for some reason.
On the one hand, "Purpose" is a perfectly acceptable (and even good!) entry into the already crowded "Urban Fantasy/Paranormal" genre, and I always appreciate books that bring LGBT characters and issues to the forefront (patricularly in this genre.)
In particular, I quite liked the premise of "Dual Identity" that's the core of the book, and it was executed rather well here, although (to be nit-picky), this book did a lot of "Telling" rather than "Showing" the struggle between Gar and Will. (As an aside, in the back of my head, as a long-time comics fan I just couldn't get comparisons to Ghost-Rider or the Spectre out of my head while reading this...)
Another point in it's favor is the new cover art (differnet than the one picutred here); it really stands out visually, and beuatifully illustrates the dichotomy of the light and dark that surrounds these characters.
On the other hand, while the plot was interesting (with enough twists to keep me reading), and the writing and dialogue were crisp and appropriate to the genre and characters, I felt the characters themeselves weren't as deftly handled as they could have been overall. In particular, I didn't get the sexual tension between Will and Ryan that's supposed to drive the book; they both seemed too caught up in their own issues [and granted, having a Purpose is a Major issue!], while at the same time being a bit too whiny for my tastes.
To sum up, I found this to be an solidly entertaining read, one that stands out in this crowded field. Unfortunately, it just didn't blow me away the way I had initially hoped it would.
3.5 Purposeful stars. (Rounded down to 3.)
And I'm finding it hard to put that review into words with this book, for some reason.
On the one hand, "Purpose" is a perfectly acceptable (and even good!) entry into the already crowded "Urban Fantasy/Paranormal" genre, and I always appreciate books that bring LGBT characters and issues to the forefront (patricularly in this genre.)
In particular, I quite liked the premise of "Dual Identity" that's the core of the book, and it was executed rather well here, although (to be nit-picky), this book did a lot of "Telling" rather than "Showing" the struggle between Gar and Will. (As an aside, in the back of my head, as a long-time comics fan I just couldn't get comparisons to Ghost-Rider or the Spectre out of my head while reading this...)
Another point in it's favor is the new cover art (differnet than the one picutred here); it really stands out visually, and beuatifully illustrates the dichotomy of the light and dark that surrounds these characters.
On the other hand, while the plot was interesting (with enough twists to keep me reading), and the writing and dialogue were crisp and appropriate to the genre and characters, I felt the characters themeselves weren't as deftly handled as they could have been overall. In particular, I didn't get the sexual tension between Will and Ryan that's supposed to drive the book; they both seemed too caught up in their own issues [and granted, having a Purpose is a Major issue!], while at the same time being a bit too whiny for my tastes.
To sum up, I found this to be an solidly entertaining read, one that stands out in this crowded field. Unfortunately, it just didn't blow me away the way I had initially hoped it would.
3.5 Purposeful stars. (Rounded down to 3.)
July 1, 2013
This is one of the most original books I've ever read. I don't think I've read anything quite like this before. As host to the Purpose, William is faster, stronger, smarter than any normal human, his wounds heal quickly and his reaction times are off the scale. He's been alone for the past forty years, but he doesn't look a day over twenty five.
He cut himself off from his family and expects to continue his mission of vengeance alone.
That all changes one night when he saves Ryan from being murdered during an attempted mugging. Ryan has nowhere else to go and Will (from his supernatural powers) knows that Ryan is going to attempt prostituting himself on the streets, so Will offers him a place to stay, no strings attached.
What Will hadn't counted on was how close the two of them become, and then Ryan starts feeling the 'pull' of the Purpose, those murdered innocent souls who demand vengeance.
I adored Will and Ryan. Ryan was so lost and confused and I really wanted to reach in and hug him when he says he's never had friends before. Although the romance between them happened fairly fast, it was believable within the context of the book. Most of it is told in third person POV from Will, with a few fist person POV journal entries by Will. I would have liked to have been inside Ryan's head for some of it, to see what he thought of things too. There are a few love scenes, mainly a bit of banter and foreplay before fading to black, but you have no doubt that they are lovers and not just friends.
It's a gritty, sometimes dark story, but always gripping and you keep reading wanting to know what happens next. I don't want to say too much else in case I spoil it, but it was a wonderful, engaging read.
Review copy supplied by publisher.
He cut himself off from his family and expects to continue his mission of vengeance alone.
That all changes one night when he saves Ryan from being murdered during an attempted mugging. Ryan has nowhere else to go and Will (from his supernatural powers) knows that Ryan is going to attempt prostituting himself on the streets, so Will offers him a place to stay, no strings attached.
What Will hadn't counted on was how close the two of them become, and then Ryan starts feeling the 'pull' of the Purpose, those murdered innocent souls who demand vengeance.
I adored Will and Ryan. Ryan was so lost and confused and I really wanted to reach in and hug him when he says he's never had friends before. Although the romance between them happened fairly fast, it was believable within the context of the book. Most of it is told in third person POV from Will, with a few fist person POV journal entries by Will. I would have liked to have been inside Ryan's head for some of it, to see what he thought of things too. There are a few love scenes, mainly a bit of banter and foreplay before fading to black, but you have no doubt that they are lovers and not just friends.
It's a gritty, sometimes dark story, but always gripping and you keep reading wanting to know what happens next. I don't want to say too much else in case I spoil it, but it was a wonderful, engaging read.
Review copy supplied by publisher.
September 10, 2014
3.5 stars. I had no idea where this was going but I enjoyed the ride. In some ways, I found some parallels with Jordan Hawk's SPECTR series where a "spirit" is hosted. There is also some nefarious authority figures and some scary moments. I liked Will and Ryan and I would have liked more time of them together I think. A lot of very interesting scenarios presented and quite a few moral dilemmas. This is definitely not the kind of book I usually read, but I liked it.
July 14, 2013
The main storyline is basically solid, but something was definitely missing here. I read it all and still till the end couldn't connect to both MC's. For me, the romance between Ryan and Will didn't exist. Sure they were drawn to each other from the start and actually stayed together till the end, but even so, nah, it just didn't feel emotionally real. Or maybe I couldn't accept the idea of being a host. Not my cup of tea.
October 24, 2013
3.5 stars
I don't really know how to rate this one. The writing was great, the characters were great. The issue is it's a bit....weird. And I'm not a fan of weird/wtf just happened/mindfuck plotlines. I also shelved it as age gap...but it's a bit paranormal so IDK if that even counts!!!!! Go forth and read!
I don't really know how to rate this one. The writing was great, the characters were great. The issue is it's a bit....weird. And I'm not a fan of weird/wtf just happened/mindfuck plotlines. I also shelved it as age gap...but it's a bit paranormal so IDK if that even counts!!!!! Go forth and read!
December 15, 2015
This was very different paranormal book for me. I have never read this author before, I would like o read more of his books. The story line of two separate beings looking for each other and then finally finding his other half he has the Police and the FBI after him. The story to me needed a little more sex. I needed more.
June 21, 2013
beware readers: Twists and turns may want you to tear your hair (or Q-man's)!
Love it to pieces!
Love it to pieces!
December 21, 2019
“Light is meaningful only in relation to darkness, and truth presupposes error. It is these mingled opposites which people our life, which make it pungent, intoxicating. We only exist in terms of this conflict, in the zone where black and white clash.” - Louis Aragon
The concept of duality, two seemingly opposite attitudes existing at the same time, is difficult to grasp, but without this phenomenon, we would have no point of reference between good and evil or light and darkness, etc. William Morgan, of ‘The Purpose’ by Andrew Q. Gordon, is well aware of this construct. He tries to be two people but finds it impossible to do so and carry out his mission of vengeance. Slowly but surely he buries Will, along with all of his emotions, and becomes Gar, an unfeeling machine, capable of doing whatever necessary to avenge the souls of the innocents who call out to him. Gar has been doing this “work” for forty years, since his lover was murdered. When Gar meets a young man named Ryan, a cord in his heart is touched. Gar is surprised because he thought his heart had turned to stone many years ago. The reaction makes Gar uncomfortable, but there's something about Ryan, a feeling he can't shake at first. Then Gar realizes that Ryan has his lover’s eyes. Through those eyes, Gar can see the tattered remnants of Will's soul.
At first Ryan is unaware of the effect he has on Gar, but when he asks Ryan to call him Will, it signifies a change in him from which there is no turning back. Will doesn't quite understand why, but he finds that Ryan has a way of calming him. Before they become too involved, Will explains what the Purpose is, as far as he understands it, and how he satisfies it. Ryan hates the idea that Will has to kill people to accomplish this goal and asks him not to. To satisfy Ryan, Will looks for a way to avoid taking a life. Instead of just barging into a situation when he receives a call and simply eliminating the transgressors, Will finds he can satisfy the Purpose without killing anyone; hence, he can bring justice to the innocent souls without ending lives. Granted, accomplishing this is more precarious, but if it pleases Ryan, it's worth the risk for Will.
Ryan is pleased when he discovers that Will has found a different way of dealing with his assignments, but he still doesn't grasp what it means for both of them. When Ryan discovers that he has a Purpose as well, he and Will try to figure out what the significance is and how they are able to interact efficiently together and begin training in earnest. Will knows Ryan's life depends upon it and can't bear to think about losing someone else he loves. Ryan, like most young men, is impatient to test himself. He becomes difficult to control, always wanting to go on missions with Will, even before he's properly trained to do so. Ryan thinks Will is being unreasonable, but Will knows Ryan is not only not prepared for what he may face, but will be a distraction. If Will has to worry about Ryan, he won't be totally focused on his assignment and it could, very literally, be a death sentence for one or both of them.
This is a very unusual book on many levels. It delves not only into the duality of life, but also into everything and its effects on us emotionally, spiritually, and physically. It's not a love story, but there is a definite romance between Ryan and Will and their amazing connection. Ryan's influence helps Will change by showing him how he can accomplish his goals and maintain his sanity and humanity at the same time, something he'd never considered possible before. This is not an easy read. It's a book I had to pay close attention to and even reread parts to comprehend it, but it was definitely worth the effort. If you enjoy paranormal, mysteries, suspense, redemption, and contemplation of deeper levels of existence, you may like this book. Thank you, Andrew, for challenging me to think even more deeply than usual.
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
The concept of duality, two seemingly opposite attitudes existing at the same time, is difficult to grasp, but without this phenomenon, we would have no point of reference between good and evil or light and darkness, etc. William Morgan, of ‘The Purpose’ by Andrew Q. Gordon, is well aware of this construct. He tries to be two people but finds it impossible to do so and carry out his mission of vengeance. Slowly but surely he buries Will, along with all of his emotions, and becomes Gar, an unfeeling machine, capable of doing whatever necessary to avenge the souls of the innocents who call out to him. Gar has been doing this “work” for forty years, since his lover was murdered. When Gar meets a young man named Ryan, a cord in his heart is touched. Gar is surprised because he thought his heart had turned to stone many years ago. The reaction makes Gar uncomfortable, but there's something about Ryan, a feeling he can't shake at first. Then Gar realizes that Ryan has his lover’s eyes. Through those eyes, Gar can see the tattered remnants of Will's soul.
At first Ryan is unaware of the effect he has on Gar, but when he asks Ryan to call him Will, it signifies a change in him from which there is no turning back. Will doesn't quite understand why, but he finds that Ryan has a way of calming him. Before they become too involved, Will explains what the Purpose is, as far as he understands it, and how he satisfies it. Ryan hates the idea that Will has to kill people to accomplish this goal and asks him not to. To satisfy Ryan, Will looks for a way to avoid taking a life. Instead of just barging into a situation when he receives a call and simply eliminating the transgressors, Will finds he can satisfy the Purpose without killing anyone; hence, he can bring justice to the innocent souls without ending lives. Granted, accomplishing this is more precarious, but if it pleases Ryan, it's worth the risk for Will.
Ryan is pleased when he discovers that Will has found a different way of dealing with his assignments, but he still doesn't grasp what it means for both of them. When Ryan discovers that he has a Purpose as well, he and Will try to figure out what the significance is and how they are able to interact efficiently together and begin training in earnest. Will knows Ryan's life depends upon it and can't bear to think about losing someone else he loves. Ryan, like most young men, is impatient to test himself. He becomes difficult to control, always wanting to go on missions with Will, even before he's properly trained to do so. Ryan thinks Will is being unreasonable, but Will knows Ryan is not only not prepared for what he may face, but will be a distraction. If Will has to worry about Ryan, he won't be totally focused on his assignment and it could, very literally, be a death sentence for one or both of them.
This is a very unusual book on many levels. It delves not only into the duality of life, but also into everything and its effects on us emotionally, spiritually, and physically. It's not a love story, but there is a definite romance between Ryan and Will and their amazing connection. Ryan's influence helps Will change by showing him how he can accomplish his goals and maintain his sanity and humanity at the same time, something he'd never considered possible before. This is not an easy read. It's a book I had to pay close attention to and even reread parts to comprehend it, but it was definitely worth the effort. If you enjoy paranormal, mysteries, suspense, redemption, and contemplation of deeper levels of existence, you may like this book. Thank you, Andrew, for challenging me to think even more deeply than usual.
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
September 3, 2013
For the last 40 years, Will has been the host body for what he calls The Spirit of Vengeance. His Purpose seems clear, he feels the pull from innocent souls demanding vengeance, therefore, delivering it is his Purpose. In order to do that, he had to become a killer himself. Will has kept his sanity by becoming a new man, Gar. Gar is heartless, emotionless, and can deliver vengeance in the cold blooded way Will could not.
My thoughts after finishing Purpose are all over the place. There were some things I really liked, and other things which I didn’t like at all. I guess the best way to start is by talking about the things I liked.
When I first read the blurb, it was the premise which intrigued me. After reading the story, I was completely won over by that. I loved the paranormal aspect of Will being host to his Purpose. How it drove Will to act on its needs and the reason it inhabited him worked very well. The action and adventure was also a big plus for me. Gar had been operating as a meticulous killer for decades. His actions had been noticed by law enforcement, and they were after him. I really enjoyed the action of those scenes, as well as the acts of deception both Will and the law enforcement officers engaged in.
What didn’t work for me was the romance. I didn’t feel any chemistry between Will and Ryan. The sex scenes were mostly fade to black, but I didn’t mind that because I never felt any passion between them anyway. My lack of belief in the romance made those parts of the book very slow. I’m sure it didn’t help that I wasn’t a fan of Ryan. He was too stubborn and put himself in harms way too often for my taste. He pushed me so many times that I finally ended up dubbing him as being “too stupid to live.” He annoyed the hell out of me and I could have cared less if he lived or died. The only reason I ended up hoping for an alive Ryan was because losing him would have destroyed Will.
My other issue with the book was that the mystery of figuring out the Purpose didn’t grab me. It seemed as though Will and Ryan spent much of their time stumbling around without any clear goals or plans. The wanted to figure out their connection as well as the requirements of the Purpose. I got that, but the way they went about it was too chaotic for me to enjoy. I found myself feeling confused and irritated.
I told you my thoughts were all over the place. I would give the paranormal 4.5 stars, the romance 1 star, and the mystery 2.5 stars. There was a lot going on and the different threads didn’t interconnect well for most of the book. Eventually, the paranormal and the mystery did come together, but I was still indifferent when it came to the romance.
My thoughts after finishing Purpose are all over the place. There were some things I really liked, and other things which I didn’t like at all. I guess the best way to start is by talking about the things I liked.
When I first read the blurb, it was the premise which intrigued me. After reading the story, I was completely won over by that. I loved the paranormal aspect of Will being host to his Purpose. How it drove Will to act on its needs and the reason it inhabited him worked very well. The action and adventure was also a big plus for me. Gar had been operating as a meticulous killer for decades. His actions had been noticed by law enforcement, and they were after him. I really enjoyed the action of those scenes, as well as the acts of deception both Will and the law enforcement officers engaged in.
What didn’t work for me was the romance. I didn’t feel any chemistry between Will and Ryan. The sex scenes were mostly fade to black, but I didn’t mind that because I never felt any passion between them anyway. My lack of belief in the romance made those parts of the book very slow. I’m sure it didn’t help that I wasn’t a fan of Ryan. He was too stubborn and put himself in harms way too often for my taste. He pushed me so many times that I finally ended up dubbing him as being “too stupid to live.” He annoyed the hell out of me and I could have cared less if he lived or died. The only reason I ended up hoping for an alive Ryan was because losing him would have destroyed Will.
My other issue with the book was that the mystery of figuring out the Purpose didn’t grab me. It seemed as though Will and Ryan spent much of their time stumbling around without any clear goals or plans. The wanted to figure out their connection as well as the requirements of the Purpose. I got that, but the way they went about it was too chaotic for me to enjoy. I found myself feeling confused and irritated.
I told you my thoughts were all over the place. I would give the paranormal 4.5 stars, the romance 1 star, and the mystery 2.5 stars. There was a lot going on and the different threads didn’t interconnect well for most of the book. Eventually, the paranormal and the mystery did come together, but I was still indifferent when it came to the romance.
December 30, 2015
Original review on Molly Lolly
Four and a half stars!
This story is so wonderful. Will/Gar is such an interesting character. And then how his Purpose handled things and how his whole perception changed after meeting Ryan. There was so much back and forth with the different personalities and it created an interesting struggle that was almost a good versus evil type of situation. At the same time it wasn’t. It was the difference between justice and vengeance and how they can be the same, yet not all at once. I loved how Will used Gar to get through the rough patches but ultimately wouldn’t let that personality take over with Ryan. There were some times when I wanted to yell at Ryan for making poor choices and putting himself in harms way. But he knew his Purpose and how it would work so everyone got what they wanted. That ending though! I was nervous until that very last line. I don’t want to give away too much because there’s a bit that can be left up to interpretation so I won’t say anything else on it. But holy moly I was floored when I was done with the story. I desperately need a sequel though I’m not sure how that would work with the ending. If Andrew can pull off a sequel I will love the heck out of it and read it the moment it releases.
Four and a half stars!
This story is so wonderful. Will/Gar is such an interesting character. And then how his Purpose handled things and how his whole perception changed after meeting Ryan. There was so much back and forth with the different personalities and it created an interesting struggle that was almost a good versus evil type of situation. At the same time it wasn’t. It was the difference between justice and vengeance and how they can be the same, yet not all at once. I loved how Will used Gar to get through the rough patches but ultimately wouldn’t let that personality take over with Ryan. There were some times when I wanted to yell at Ryan for making poor choices and putting himself in harms way. But he knew his Purpose and how it would work so everyone got what they wanted. That ending though! I was nervous until that very last line. I don’t want to give away too much because there’s a bit that can be left up to interpretation so I won’t say anything else on it. But holy moly I was floored when I was done with the story. I desperately need a sequel though I’m not sure how that would work with the ending. If Andrew can pull off a sequel I will love the heck out of it and read it the moment it releases.
June 24, 2013
The first time I heard about this book I was curious how the author could do a book in first and third person. I have to admit that Andrew has done an amazing job of this. Add in the fact that in one way, he was dealing with two people in one, it is a even greater accomplishment.
I immediately enjoyed Will as a person, yet had to question the spirit as he challenged my own feelings of right and wrong when it comes to justice and where lack of justice, vengeance. Add in the fact that Ryan enters the story and can speak to Will and his Purpose, adds a great dynamic to this book.
Definitely worth reading!
I immediately enjoyed Will as a person, yet had to question the spirit as he challenged my own feelings of right and wrong when it comes to justice and where lack of justice, vengeance. Add in the fact that Ryan enters the story and can speak to Will and his Purpose, adds a great dynamic to this book.
Definitely worth reading!
September 19, 2013
There were a lot of things I liked about this book. The plot was complex, original, and carefully thought out. There was a real sense of place, and enough details about law enforcement to be realistic yet not bog things down. And I loved how the romance between the two main characters was there for a real reason--not just advancing the plot, but also driving the growth of both characters. It's his growing love for Ryan that allows Will to rediscover his humanity. And it's his love for Will that allows Ryan to find courage and self-confidence.
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