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Guntram de Lisle #2
The Substitute
Constantin Repin is well dead but Alexander Kuragin lives for you, my angel. I clearly said that you were closing a part of your life and I was opening another. I love you too much to deny you this opportunity. A fresh new start, away from Lintorff and all the others.
Frustrated and disgusted with his life as Lord Consort of one of the most terrifying secret societies known to mankind, a new world opened for artist Guntram de Lisle, away from the man he loved but had hurt him like no one else before. Would he take the opportunity to raise a family on his own? Would Konrad von Lintorff let him go? Would Alexander Kuragin keep his word?
Frustrated and disgusted with his life as Lord Consort of one of the most terrifying secret societies known to mankind, a new world opened for artist Guntram de Lisle, away from the man he loved but had hurt him like no one else before. Would he take the opportunity to raise a family on his own? Would Konrad von Lintorff let him go? Would Alexander Kuragin keep his word?
692 pages, Paperback
First published May 5, 2012
51 people are currently reading
405 people want to read
About the author
Tionne Rogers
9 books160 followersI was born many years ago, but not that many, in Buenos Aires. I studied Political Science with a Master in Defence Studies. I live in Madrid since 6 years, married and with one child. Author (yes, I plead guilty) of "The Substitute", "Do not Feed the Platypus, please" and "Into the Lion's Den". Those are Slash Novels for adults... so little children, go home!
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
March 14, 2013
An amazing, shattering read.
Weeks after I completed the first reading, I still can't bring myself to review, or even think about this properly. Instead, individual moments from the book come to mind throughout the day, as my mind drifts from mundane tasks; stopped at a traffic light, waiting for the photocopier or microwave, whenever I see the word "Argentina", the other day when someone named "von Kleist" was in the news...
I think if you have read any of Tionne Rogers' work and liked it at all, then you must read this, her masterpiece.
Weeks after I completed the first reading, I still can't bring myself to review, or even think about this properly. Instead, individual moments from the book come to mind throughout the day, as my mind drifts from mundane tasks; stopped at a traffic light, waiting for the photocopier or microwave, whenever I see the word "Argentina", the other day when someone named "von Kleist" was in the news...
I think if you have read any of Tionne Rogers' work and liked it at all, then you must read this, her masterpiece.
February 7, 2017
Reread for the X times, still loving this series very much.
First read 2012 May
First read 2012 May
February 23, 2016
If there’s one thing Ms Rogers does well, it’s create an inventive, compelling plot. What she can’t do is write it down in English.
Why no one has mentioned the deplorable grammar, misuse of words, mindless spellings or indecipherable sentences in a review is beyond me. Did everyone else get a different version of this book than I did? Mine has some thought provoking sentences like:
-“He is thought.” (He is ‘tough’?...or could it be that the guy thinks things through?)
-When asking about the safety of his children, the MC is told not to worry, “The Executioners look after them now.” (Executors?)
Within a few sentences, she writes: “…walking his child around the Christmas tree.” Then comes, “….as his tree months old boy was looking with big eyes the brilliant balls…” (sic)
Then there numerous times she uses the word ‘what’ for ‘that’ (i.e. “Tell me all what you know.”), etc., etc. I could go on but I'll spare you.
I would expect something like this on say, Nifty, but even there I doubt they would sit still for grammar the likes of this.
On the other hand, the plot can be compelling at times. At other times it’s wordy and redundant. For instance, Rogers shows us important events that happen to the MC during a visit to a reindeer farm. Then she has the MC tell the story to another character, who in turn tells it to yet another character. At some point later on, it’s told again. She shows, then tells, tells and tells again, bogging the story down and frustrating the reader, who wants to move on.
Technically, literally and grammatically, the book is an affront to good literature everywhere or, as Donald Trump might say, ‘A total DISASTER!’. Not total exactly, because the intricate and inventive plot kept me sloughing through all 700 pages. Or was it the outrageous $35 price tag on this paperback that made me determined to wring every cent of my wasted money out of it?
Plot: 4 stars
Writing: 1 star
Total: 2.5 stars
Why no one has mentioned the deplorable grammar, misuse of words, mindless spellings or indecipherable sentences in a review is beyond me. Did everyone else get a different version of this book than I did? Mine has some thought provoking sentences like:
-“He is thought.” (He is ‘tough’?...or could it be that the guy thinks things through?)
-When asking about the safety of his children, the MC is told not to worry, “The Executioners look after them now.” (Executors?)
Within a few sentences, she writes: “…walking his child around the Christmas tree.” Then comes, “….as his tree months old boy was looking with big eyes the brilliant balls…” (sic)
Then there numerous times she uses the word ‘what’ for ‘that’ (i.e. “Tell me all what you know.”), etc., etc. I could go on but I'll spare you.
I would expect something like this on say, Nifty, but even there I doubt they would sit still for grammar the likes of this.
On the other hand, the plot can be compelling at times. At other times it’s wordy and redundant. For instance, Rogers shows us important events that happen to the MC during a visit to a reindeer farm. Then she has the MC tell the story to another character, who in turn tells it to yet another character. At some point later on, it’s told again. She shows, then tells, tells and tells again, bogging the story down and frustrating the reader, who wants to move on.
Technically, literally and grammatically, the book is an affront to good literature everywhere or, as Donald Trump might say, ‘A total DISASTER!’. Not total exactly, because the intricate and inventive plot kept me sloughing through all 700 pages. Or was it the outrageous $35 price tag on this paperback that made me determined to wring every cent of my wasted money out of it?
Plot: 4 stars
Writing: 1 star
Total: 2.5 stars
February 22, 2015
HOLY SHIT! What a ride! My main thought when I finished was that if there is ever a third book, Guntram needs to have a easy time of it because in this book, that was about as far as you could get from an easy time. Good grief the kid was put through a lot. I was so ready to strangle Konrad until, I feel, he totally redeemed himself. Goran is awesome. I love that Guntram has someone on his side. Excellent, excellent, excellent! Just WOW!
December 27, 2013
The best book I've ever read, and I'll always be looking for one in the same style
May 20, 2012
If I could, I would give it a 5+ stars. Readers, don't let the length (736 pages) intimidate you because the journey is definitely worth it. What I find remarkable is I would always find myself waiting for more so 736 was still not enough for me (a bit greedy). I'm sure many have said it before but the characters and their developments in TS are what pulls the story. I am absolutely in love with the characters, especially Goran! There are no 'heroes' or necessarily 'villains' in TS since they all have their share of power and money in secret organizations, but that only seems much more realistic to me.
Although Guntram's fate took a turn for the worse, I think it was necessary because there were too much things left unsaid after the first book. However, I must warn the readers that this book will be much darker than before. There are a lot of angst and tears because I had to put the book down at certain points and pull myself together to continue. So what can you do when you are Guntram who is surrounded by lies and treachery? I doubt I would have survive like he did.
I can only applaud Tionne for writing such a wonderful series. Hopefully and from my selfish wishes, Tionne will expand the TS's world at a later time.
Although Guntram's fate took a turn for the worse, I think it was necessary because there were too much things left unsaid after the first book. However, I must warn the readers that this book will be much darker than before. There are a lot of angst and tears because I had to put the book down at certain points and pull myself together to continue. So what can you do when you are Guntram who is surrounded by lies and treachery? I doubt I would have survive like he did.
I can only applaud Tionne for writing such a wonderful series. Hopefully and from my selfish wishes, Tionne will expand the TS's world at a later time.
June 9, 2012
Actually more of a 3.5 stars because there are a few instances that I feel it's impossible to execute and had WTF moments with the characters but over all it's a GREAT Sequel.
I like that Tionne is not afraid to kill off her characters even though I didnt want them to die. I know parts of ItLD would be incorporated into TS 2 but it just went a step further than my expectation. The gruesome action packed that had me bringing the book back to my office to complete it just show how good the story plot is.
It's a pity that one had to buy the hard copy instead of a pdf version to enjoy it. It's really a HEAVY BOOK.
Tionne, The Substitute 3, please?
PS : Please buy the hard cover instead of paper back. Why? The paper back in my case can't seem to hold the pages ( 700 plus pages ) properly and the first few pages are coming out after 1 read. T__T
I like that Tionne is not afraid to kill off her characters even though I didnt want them to die. I know parts of ItLD would be incorporated into TS 2 but it just went a step further than my expectation. The gruesome action packed that had me bringing the book back to my office to complete it just show how good the story plot is.
It's a pity that one had to buy the hard copy instead of a pdf version to enjoy it. It's really a HEAVY BOOK.
Tionne, The Substitute 3, please?
PS : Please buy the hard cover instead of paper back. Why? The paper back in my case can't seem to hold the pages ( 700 plus pages ) properly and the first few pages are coming out after 1 read. T__T
June 8, 2012
I don't really do reviews, but this book is a first class read, and possibly one of my favourites ever. Definitely in my top five, and I’ve read a lot of books. What I liked most is how this world drew me in 100%. Most of the banking stuff went over my head, but I’m thoroughly convinced this author knows her stuff. Incidentally, I have a slight crush on the mass-murdering torturer Goran. He deserves a book all of his own.
I demand a sequel. And a movie :)
I demand a sequel. And a movie :)
July 15, 2014
I love this story so much. Not for the light of heart. Although people should keep in mind that the author is not a native English speaker, but it works as the main character's main language is not English. I don't care I would rather read her wonderful story with mistakes then not to have it at all.
She gave a Christmas link check it out while its still up!
http://tionne74.blogspot.com/2013/12/...
She gave a Christmas link check it out while its still up!
http://tionne74.blogspot.com/2013/12/...
September 19, 2014
I was hoping this book would be released electronically eventually, but I finally got tired of the wait and bought it from Amazon. This book is huge and the text is kind of small. --Now moving on. I really liked this book. It was told from several different viewpoints instead of just from Guntram's diary.
After reading the Lion's Den, I was interested in seeing how they would introduce the special character--i don't want to ruin it for anyone who hasn't read it yet. This one definitely had alot more violence in this book which is expected when a story isn't being told by a naive 19yr old boy.
So this story takes off basically from where The Substitute I ended. Guntram is obliviously in love with Konrad and Konrad is still controlling his life. Guntram tries to rebel and even rents a place from Goran when Konrad cheats on him again. It was annoying how easy it was for Konrad to shed a few tears and then Guntram forgives him. Guntram does go against Konrad's wishes and attends a friend's wedding in Argentina along with bodyguards and afterwards the real drama starts. Guntram gets kidnapped...again, but this time he is missing for 3 years! During this time period Konrad and Goran are desperately looking for Guntram, while hoping against hope that he is actually still alive.
I love the interaction with his children. They were getting on Konrad's case for not finding Guntram and demanding that Konrad bring him home. They were some of the most heart breaking conversations.
Konrad let his people off their leash and things got bloody real fast. We get an up close look at Goran's methods of persuasion. They not only tortured people, but displayed their corpses in public places as a warning. We get to see Fefo again and he admits he was in love with Guntram. It was hinted at in the first book, but in this one he admits he was in love with him. (Like just about every guy that meets Guntram). Fefo is now some sort of intelligence agent and also gets involved with finding Guntram. He is pretty bad ass now that he has matured.
Throughout this forced separation we really get to see the real Konrad and you get a better understanding of how much Guntram means to him and how much he's brought to his life. I was really glad he stayed true to him. Konrad essentially falls apart without him and its' interesting to see how he copes without him. One of the only good things to come out of all this is Guntram finally has heart surgery and restored to better health.
The book does end on a high note so, after slogging through all the not so happy parts, there is payoff at the end.
After reading the Lion's Den, I was interested in seeing how they would introduce the special character--i don't want to ruin it for anyone who hasn't read it yet. This one definitely had alot more violence in this book which is expected when a story isn't being told by a naive 19yr old boy.
So this story takes off basically from where The Substitute I ended. Guntram is obliviously in love with Konrad and Konrad is still controlling his life. Guntram tries to rebel and even rents a place from Goran when Konrad cheats on him again. It was annoying how easy it was for Konrad to shed a few tears and then Guntram forgives him. Guntram does go against Konrad's wishes and attends a friend's wedding in Argentina along with bodyguards and afterwards the real drama starts. Guntram gets kidnapped...again, but this time he is missing for 3 years! During this time period Konrad and Goran are desperately looking for Guntram, while hoping against hope that he is actually still alive.
I love the interaction with his children. They were getting on Konrad's case for not finding Guntram and demanding that Konrad bring him home. They were some of the most heart breaking conversations.
Konrad let his people off their leash and things got bloody real fast. We get an up close look at Goran's methods of persuasion. They not only tortured people, but displayed their corpses in public places as a warning. We get to see Fefo again and he admits he was in love with Guntram. It was hinted at in the first book, but in this one he admits he was in love with him. (Like just about every guy that meets Guntram). Fefo is now some sort of intelligence agent and also gets involved with finding Guntram. He is pretty bad ass now that he has matured.
Throughout this forced separation we really get to see the real Konrad and you get a better understanding of how much Guntram means to him and how much he's brought to his life. I was really glad he stayed true to him. Konrad essentially falls apart without him and its' interesting to see how he copes without him. One of the only good things to come out of all this is Guntram finally has heart surgery and restored to better health.
The book does end on a high note so, after slogging through all the not so happy parts, there is payoff at the end.
July 14, 2013
I'm so fucking excited, just ordered the book after looking for it everywhere!!
Let me calm down my fangirling for a minute.
This book is absolutely amazing because it completely consumes you. The complex plot and characters send you through a kaleidoscope of emotions.
I can't wait to dive back into the world of rich and possessive gay men, mobsters, secret societies, crime, betrayal, and romance. Until then, I will have to wait three agonizing days, daydreaming about what will happen next.
April 12, 2013
Heart-breaking, almost a tear-jerkers kind of reading, i feel you papi, i feel you ..
July 31, 2017
I live for this book. It was everything that I ever wanted and more.
It's my selfish opinion but I wanted a few more chapters after ya know the return.
But still, I love you Tionne Rogers.
It's my selfish opinion but I wanted a few more chapters after ya know the return.
But still, I love you Tionne Rogers.
October 13, 2017
The best emotional rollercoaster I've ever experienced.
November 30, 2019
Amasing, wonderful story! Can't stop reading till the last translated in russian chapter! Thank f lot to the author!
January 28, 2020
I recommend this book
April 11, 2021
The best book ever, thanks..
March 3, 2014
The story is like a roller coaster of bittersweet moments between Konrad and Guntram. But this second book is darker than the first. There are new & interesting characters in this book, but Goran & Alexei are still my favorites! Sometimes when Konrad was being a total bastard, i really wish Guntram would end up falling for Goran & they run away together :p
However i enjoy the story very much even I feel the ending was written a bit in a rush. There are few things left hanging. Is that a hint for a third book?? ;)
However i enjoy the story very much even I feel the ending was written a bit in a rush. There are few things left hanging. Is that a hint for a third book?? ;)
June 29, 2012
This book comes out in 3 days! yay!
March 9, 2018
review to follow...
Want to read
September 10, 2016Will this book ever be released electronically!?
June 16, 2015
It seems that naivety goes through family. As father as son... But who is the Big Bad Wolf who wants an innocent lamb only for himself?
July 25, 2012
attacks of the PLOTS_Ka DOTS ^o^ still waiting my Zaa to finished hers so i can make my review XD
October 9, 2014
I'll never forgive you for killing Heindrik Hologersen.
December 6, 2018
ONLY MY EMOTIONS THROUGH PICs....NO WORDS...
At first few chapters....
When Guntram kidnapped....
When Guntram put to DO what he didn't want to DO
ANd then the baby comes and all after pages...and Guntram's health...
Guntram's escape...pages,...though they were bearable STILL
When Guntram meet GORAN AND KONARD....
and feeling like this for Guntram...
and their marriage....and Konrad's love for Koner, Guntram's baby boy...
BUT
at the end there's more...?
BUT
Although the whole story was Like
At first few chapters....
When Guntram kidnapped....
When Guntram put to DO what he didn't want to DO
ANd then the baby comes and all after pages...and Guntram's health...
Guntram's escape...pages,...though they were bearable STILL
When Guntram meet GORAN AND KONARD....
and feeling like this for Guntram...
and their marriage....and Konrad's love for Koner, Guntram's baby boy...
BUT
at the end there's more...?
BUT
Although the whole story was Like
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews