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A Good Man
Decades after a brutal childhood trauma, a famous novelist finds his life shattered once again, in this unsettling psychological mystery thriller.
After years of turmoil, Brooks Anderson is sober and has a stable life with his wife and two kids. He should be enjoying life, but the persistent nightmares and sleepwalking tell a different story.
As hard as he’s tried, Brooks can’t run away from the defining event of his life: the senseless murders of his mother and brother during a vacation in Montauk. An eight-year-old Brooks was the sole survivor of the carnage, which left him in a catatonic state. He buried his pain and eventually overcame his demons. Or so he believed.
Now an unscrupulous journalist is threatening to write about the deaths. Fearful that the truth will be twisted to suit sordid ends, Brooks decides to write his own book, despite the grave misgivings of his agent, wife, and father.
However, when the journalist is brutally killed, Brooks finds himself in the authorities’ crosshairs. To prove his innocence and exorcise the past, he digs deeper into his psyche and that fateful summer. His relentless pursuit of the truth soon leads Brooks down a slippery slope that challenges everything—and brings him face-to-face with the real monster of Montauk . .
After years of turmoil, Brooks Anderson is sober and has a stable life with his wife and two kids. He should be enjoying life, but the persistent nightmares and sleepwalking tell a different story.
As hard as he’s tried, Brooks can’t run away from the defining event of his life: the senseless murders of his mother and brother during a vacation in Montauk. An eight-year-old Brooks was the sole survivor of the carnage, which left him in a catatonic state. He buried his pain and eventually overcame his demons. Or so he believed.
Now an unscrupulous journalist is threatening to write about the deaths. Fearful that the truth will be twisted to suit sordid ends, Brooks decides to write his own book, despite the grave misgivings of his agent, wife, and father.
However, when the journalist is brutally killed, Brooks finds himself in the authorities’ crosshairs. To prove his innocence and exorcise the past, he digs deeper into his psyche and that fateful summer. His relentless pursuit of the truth soon leads Brooks down a slippery slope that challenges everything—and brings him face-to-face with the real monster of Montauk . .
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 18, 2023
46 people are currently reading
189 people want to read
About the author
P.J. McIlvaine
6 books90 followersPJ McIlvaine is a prolific author/screenwriter/writer/journalist.
PJ's middle-grade supernatural historical mystery adventure VIOLET YORKE, GILDED GIRL: GHOSTS IN THE CLOSET (Darkstroke Books, April 2022) is about a poor little rich girl in NYC 1912 who sees ghosts.
From Bloodhound Books, A GOOD MAN, a twisty, gritty adult contemporary psych thriller in the vein of SUCCESSION, BIG LITTLE LIES, and THE UNDOING.
THE CURIOUS CONUNDRUM OF CHARLEMAGNE CROSSE (Orange Blossom Books), is a young adult alternate history set in Victorian London.
PJ’s picture book LITTLE LENA AND THE BIG TABLE (June 2019, Big Belly Book Co.), with illustrations by Leila Nabih, is about a determined little girl tired of eating with her annoying cousins at the kid’s table, only to discover that the big table isn’t much better.
PJ's new picture book is NO SUCH THINGS AS DRAGONS (Roan & Weatherford), a zany romp about a new student who defies expectations about friendship.
PJ is also a co-host and founding member of #PBPitch, the premiere Twitter pitch party for picture book creators.
PJ has been published in numerous outlets including The New York Times and Newsday, and is a regular contributor for The Children’s Book Insider newsletter (paid firewall), writing about the path to publication and interviews with established and debut kid lit authors.
PJ lives on Long Island with her family and fur baby Luna.
PJ’s social media links:
PJ’s website: https://pjmacwriter.com
Twitter: @pjmcilvaine
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pj.mcilvaine
Instagram: @pjmcilvaine
PJ's middle-grade supernatural historical mystery adventure VIOLET YORKE, GILDED GIRL: GHOSTS IN THE CLOSET (Darkstroke Books, April 2022) is about a poor little rich girl in NYC 1912 who sees ghosts.
From Bloodhound Books, A GOOD MAN, a twisty, gritty adult contemporary psych thriller in the vein of SUCCESSION, BIG LITTLE LIES, and THE UNDOING.
THE CURIOUS CONUNDRUM OF CHARLEMAGNE CROSSE (Orange Blossom Books), is a young adult alternate history set in Victorian London.
PJ’s picture book LITTLE LENA AND THE BIG TABLE (June 2019, Big Belly Book Co.), with illustrations by Leila Nabih, is about a determined little girl tired of eating with her annoying cousins at the kid’s table, only to discover that the big table isn’t much better.
PJ's new picture book is NO SUCH THINGS AS DRAGONS (Roan & Weatherford), a zany romp about a new student who defies expectations about friendship.
PJ is also a co-host and founding member of #PBPitch, the premiere Twitter pitch party for picture book creators.
PJ has been published in numerous outlets including The New York Times and Newsday, and is a regular contributor for The Children’s Book Insider newsletter (paid firewall), writing about the path to publication and interviews with established and debut kid lit authors.
PJ lives on Long Island with her family and fur baby Luna.
PJ’s social media links:
PJ’s website: https://pjmacwriter.com
Twitter: @pjmcilvaine
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pj.mcilvaine
Instagram: @pjmcilvaine
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
September 8, 2023
the setup…
Brooks Anderson is a world famous writer, happily married to Cassie and father of two young children, Mark and Audra. He’s considerably older than his wife, only finding stability after years of self abuse with drugs and alcohol, seemingly caused by the trauma he experienced at eight years old when his mother and older brother were brutally murdered. But he’s also being plagued by nightmares after he decided to write about that period in his life to fend off another journalist’s attempt to craft an unauthorized biography. Seems that Brooks has suppressed memories that are battling to surface…and people who might pose a threat to the truth are dying off.
the heart of the story…
It’s pretty clear early on that Brooks’ memory of that horrible night has significant gaps and the circumstances of his mother’s and brother’s death are a bit murky. I settled in on who might be involved just as early but that wasn’t the point. It was all about Brooks figuring out truths and lies, who he could and couldn’t trust while managing to maintain his sobriety and keep his sanity. It’s a tricky path with lots of land mines, which I loved! There was a point where I found myself suspicious of everyone until the clues started aligning somewhat. I still missed some of the twists but nailed others.
the bottom line…
I had such a good time with this story! Brooks is an extremely wealthy man and that adds an interesting element as the consequences for him and others in his orbit weren’t necessarily the same as it would be for you or me. It’s one of the more intriguing stories I’ve read as I not only wanted the answers but soon became strongly invested in Brooks holding onto his sobriety. He’s one of the most imperfect fictional characters I’ve admired, his honesty and self awareness quite refreshing. There wasn’t much predictability in his path to the truth, the journey being everything. And, the title is perfect, something to question from the onset. Highly, highly recommend!
(Thanks to the author for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Brooks Anderson is a world famous writer, happily married to Cassie and father of two young children, Mark and Audra. He’s considerably older than his wife, only finding stability after years of self abuse with drugs and alcohol, seemingly caused by the trauma he experienced at eight years old when his mother and older brother were brutally murdered. But he’s also being plagued by nightmares after he decided to write about that period in his life to fend off another journalist’s attempt to craft an unauthorized biography. Seems that Brooks has suppressed memories that are battling to surface…and people who might pose a threat to the truth are dying off.
the heart of the story…
It’s pretty clear early on that Brooks’ memory of that horrible night has significant gaps and the circumstances of his mother’s and brother’s death are a bit murky. I settled in on who might be involved just as early but that wasn’t the point. It was all about Brooks figuring out truths and lies, who he could and couldn’t trust while managing to maintain his sobriety and keep his sanity. It’s a tricky path with lots of land mines, which I loved! There was a point where I found myself suspicious of everyone until the clues started aligning somewhat. I still missed some of the twists but nailed others.
the bottom line…
I had such a good time with this story! Brooks is an extremely wealthy man and that adds an interesting element as the consequences for him and others in his orbit weren’t necessarily the same as it would be for you or me. It’s one of the more intriguing stories I’ve read as I not only wanted the answers but soon became strongly invested in Brooks holding onto his sobriety. He’s one of the most imperfect fictional characters I’ve admired, his honesty and self awareness quite refreshing. There wasn’t much predictability in his path to the truth, the journey being everything. And, the title is perfect, something to question from the onset. Highly, highly recommend!
(Thanks to the author for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
dnf
July 29, 2024DNF @ 41% so no rating.
I was not jiving with this one at all. Slow moving with too many celebrity name drops and flashbacks.
I want to mention there is an animal death. While I hated it I do feel like it was kind of warranted , but wanted to give fellow animal lovers a heads up.
I was not jiving with this one at all. Slow moving with too many celebrity name drops and flashbacks.
I want to mention there is an animal death. While I hated it I do feel like it was kind of warranted , but wanted to give fellow animal lovers a heads up.
August 26, 2023
This was a debut book in the adult world for this usual middle school author and let me tell you it did not disappoint. Brooks is a 60 something year old novelist with a horrendous traumatic history when he was a survivor of a brutal murder that killed his mom and older brother and left him so traumatized he has no recollection of the events. After years of drugs and alcoholism he finally gets sober, marries and has two kids, is selling novels and making series out of them and life seems good until it’s derailed after he decides to write his own book on the murders of his mom and brother. Brooks finds himself in a downward spiral of secrets, lies, conspiracy, and loved ones are literally dropping dead all around him. The truth is a tough pill to swallow as he finally uncovers the horrible truth of his past. It was a dark and thrilling ride to read and I think this author surely has a great niche in the adult genre as well!
August 15, 2023
A Good Man follows the story of Brooks, a 65 year old man who, as a child, was the only survivor of a brutal murder. The book flips between present day and the past as Brooks struggles to hold his life together while discovering what really happened that summer in Montauk.
I enjoyed Brooks as a character. He was witty, loyal, and overall complex. It was fun to see him as a child and as an old man, with callbacks to other times in his life as well. His resilience really helped spur the story along. I enjoyed all the twists and turns. Some I saw coming, but most I didn't. Overall, it was a very enjoyable, fast-paced read.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for the ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all views expressed are my own
I enjoyed Brooks as a character. He was witty, loyal, and overall complex. It was fun to see him as a child and as an old man, with callbacks to other times in his life as well. His resilience really helped spur the story along. I enjoyed all the twists and turns. Some I saw coming, but most I didn't. Overall, it was a very enjoyable, fast-paced read.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for the ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all views expressed are my own
September 4, 2023
If only...
How do we silence our regrets about how things have turned out in our lives?
Brooks, a 65-year-old American yuppie, is born into an affluent family: a house in the right neighbourhood and with summers in the Hamptons. He seems to have a bright future ahead of him, however fate strikes when his mother and brother Palmer are murdered when he is eight years old.
He survives the killing by running into the dunes on his brother's advice. When he wakes up again in hospital, it turns out that both his mother and also his brother Palmer did not survive the incident. A Brit, one Julian Broadhurst, a 'colleague of his mother's' , turns out to be the killer.
After several marriages and drug use, Brooks seems to have found some peace in his life. He makes his living as a writer, is married to Cassie and together they have two children. His father is still alive and occasionally they get together for dinner and a good cigar. Brooks tells his father that he has decided to write a book about what used to happen to his mother and brother. He wants to investigate what really happened - many details he has forgotten or repressed.
The first part of the book is rather slow, with a simple, flat writing style - which is hypnotic, by the way. Not a whole lot happens, but I still wanted to read on because I felt in my bones that something wasn't quite right about Brooks' story after all; he comes across as an unreliable narrator, and certainly because of all the boasting and pretentious language, I found it hard from the start to take him at his word. Incidentally, during a therapy session, he describes himself as a 'pathetic, imperfect ass****
Initially, I found the abundant naming of films and books rather irksome, and had no idea in which direction the story would develop.
Brooks as a character is obviously great at everything, - better than anyone else- , slippery as an eel and bloody irritating to those around him. His wife sends him to a therapist, whom he immediately discards by saying she looks remarkably like Nicole Kidman; she parries the comment by saying she thinks he looks a bit like Richard Gere. Brooks thinks his whole life is one big joke. He has been in therapy before, and has pretty much the entire alphabet of diagnoses behind his name, - not that this matters to him, he finds it all rather amusing.
Halfway through the story however, the point of it all becomes evident, and there are also countless clues to be found in the book, provided you get the clue, of course, otherwise Brooks remains a very big mystery. What stands out above all else is MONEY. It is there in abundance. The houses, the therapists, the Hamptons, giving money to a nurse in the hospital, and as a child being given money by 'a friend of mummy's' who wants you to bugger off and get an ice cream.
Money sells everything and everyone in this story it seems. Look closely at Brooks' vastly materialistic life - 'money makes the world go round.' it seems. Even people seem like commodities. The whole setting screams superficiality, (American) consumerism, insecurity (of men in particular), and materialism. Issues are discussed with an overpriced therapist instead of your own wife!
And if you think this story is about a rather narcissistic man trying to write a book about a major trauma that happened to him in his childhood, I still think you haven't fully understood the book. This story tends a bit towards a remake of sorts, and the hints in this phenomenal story are numerous: the link between 'British' and 'American' really should be taken seriously, as should the 'sleepwalking' for that matter. Brooks as a character keeps up appearances for the reader just fine, but there is so much more going on. This is loosely based on a very well-known American story, which was compulsory reading during my American Studies classes; the story only became 'really well-known’' with the film adaptation. I'm not going to give any more hints, I may have already given too much away. So read it!
Enjoy the spectacle of the mystery unfolding before your eyes!
4.5 stars.
Review copy by Bloodhound Books. I leave this review voluntarily.
How do we silence our regrets about how things have turned out in our lives?
Brooks, a 65-year-old American yuppie, is born into an affluent family: a house in the right neighbourhood and with summers in the Hamptons. He seems to have a bright future ahead of him, however fate strikes when his mother and brother Palmer are murdered when he is eight years old.
He survives the killing by running into the dunes on his brother's advice. When he wakes up again in hospital, it turns out that both his mother and also his brother Palmer did not survive the incident. A Brit, one Julian Broadhurst, a 'colleague of his mother's' , turns out to be the killer.
After several marriages and drug use, Brooks seems to have found some peace in his life. He makes his living as a writer, is married to Cassie and together they have two children. His father is still alive and occasionally they get together for dinner and a good cigar. Brooks tells his father that he has decided to write a book about what used to happen to his mother and brother. He wants to investigate what really happened - many details he has forgotten or repressed.
The first part of the book is rather slow, with a simple, flat writing style - which is hypnotic, by the way. Not a whole lot happens, but I still wanted to read on because I felt in my bones that something wasn't quite right about Brooks' story after all; he comes across as an unreliable narrator, and certainly because of all the boasting and pretentious language, I found it hard from the start to take him at his word. Incidentally, during a therapy session, he describes himself as a 'pathetic, imperfect ass****
Initially, I found the abundant naming of films and books rather irksome, and had no idea in which direction the story would develop.
Brooks as a character is obviously great at everything, - better than anyone else- , slippery as an eel and bloody irritating to those around him. His wife sends him to a therapist, whom he immediately discards by saying she looks remarkably like Nicole Kidman; she parries the comment by saying she thinks he looks a bit like Richard Gere. Brooks thinks his whole life is one big joke. He has been in therapy before, and has pretty much the entire alphabet of diagnoses behind his name, - not that this matters to him, he finds it all rather amusing.
Halfway through the story however, the point of it all becomes evident, and there are also countless clues to be found in the book, provided you get the clue, of course, otherwise Brooks remains a very big mystery. What stands out above all else is MONEY. It is there in abundance. The houses, the therapists, the Hamptons, giving money to a nurse in the hospital, and as a child being given money by 'a friend of mummy's' who wants you to bugger off and get an ice cream.
Money sells everything and everyone in this story it seems. Look closely at Brooks' vastly materialistic life - 'money makes the world go round.' it seems. Even people seem like commodities. The whole setting screams superficiality, (American) consumerism, insecurity (of men in particular), and materialism. Issues are discussed with an overpriced therapist instead of your own wife!
And if you think this story is about a rather narcissistic man trying to write a book about a major trauma that happened to him in his childhood, I still think you haven't fully understood the book. This story tends a bit towards a remake of sorts, and the hints in this phenomenal story are numerous: the link between 'British' and 'American' really should be taken seriously, as should the 'sleepwalking' for that matter. Brooks as a character keeps up appearances for the reader just fine, but there is so much more going on. This is loosely based on a very well-known American story, which was compulsory reading during my American Studies classes; the story only became 'really well-known’' with the film adaptation. I'm not going to give any more hints, I may have already given too much away. So read it!
Enjoy the spectacle of the mystery unfolding before your eyes!
4.5 stars.
Review copy by Bloodhound Books. I leave this review voluntarily.
December 9, 2025
This taut crime thriller will keep you up late racing to the end. Keep a light on as you read!
August 10, 2023
An interesting premise about a famous novelist who is trying to find out what happened to him as a child and what is going on with those around him at the present time. It switches between the present and past life of Brooks, the main character. I particularly enjoyed learning about Brooks’ history and what happened years ago, as well as the humourous elements, but for me there wasn’t enough twists and turns to keep me interested throughout. There are lots of characters to remember which I found a bit confusing and I was unsure of some of the references to famous people. The conversation Brooks has with his therapist at one point didn’t quite make sense with her referencing something he didn’t actually say. The ending was the most enjoyable part for me with everything coming together, but I also found it a little predictable.
I received an ARC from BloodHound Books for an honest review, thank you, and all thoughts are my own.
I received an ARC from BloodHound Books for an honest review, thank you, and all thoughts are my own.
August 2, 2023
A cracker of a tale. Sharp, witty, fast-paced, very dark at times but splattered with lighter moments, especially the caustic comments from the storyteller, Brooks Anderson.
Lots of twists and turns with unexpected, eye-opening events that come at you thick and fast.
Brooks is a hugely successful novelist whose early life was a car crash of drugs and alcohol. Anything to stop him remembering the tragic events of his childhood, which resulted in the murders of his mother and brother. Clean and sober now for many years Brooks is determined to find out what actually happened when he was eight years old despite the reservations of his father, the Great and Powerful Bernard, whose work with world leaders and governments has elevated him to Godlike status.
I won't spoil the story from then on, but suffice to say nothing is as it seems.
This is a great book for which I thank Bloodhound Books for the opportunity to read and review.
Lots of twists and turns with unexpected, eye-opening events that come at you thick and fast.
Brooks is a hugely successful novelist whose early life was a car crash of drugs and alcohol. Anything to stop him remembering the tragic events of his childhood, which resulted in the murders of his mother and brother. Clean and sober now for many years Brooks is determined to find out what actually happened when he was eight years old despite the reservations of his father, the Great and Powerful Bernard, whose work with world leaders and governments has elevated him to Godlike status.
I won't spoil the story from then on, but suffice to say nothing is as it seems.
This is a great book for which I thank Bloodhound Books for the opportunity to read and review.
August 23, 2023
This is the first book I've read by this author but what a great first book!
When Brooks witnessed the brutal murder of his mother and brother whilst on holiday when he was 8, he went spiralling into grief fuelled frenzy of drugs and alcohol - indeed anything that would free him from the memories.
Now, although clean and sober, he still has nightmares about that time.
Now, a well known author, Brooks prepares to delve a little further and write a book about the deaths to stop a journalist sensationalising it, but when the journalist ends up dead, Brooks has even more reason to get to the bottom of things.
Brooks was a great main character as he was witness to the event, but having been so young at the time and since been addled by all sorts, it was hard to tell whether he was a reliable narrator or not? This left me in some doubt as I was reading, until more and more things came to light.
I love a book to grab me right from the start but found this a little slow as we are introduced to the story, but after the first few chapters, the lace really ramps up and it's then that you just can't stop reading.
The storyline was intriguing and had so many twists and turns throughout - the ending was also a shock moment which I enjoyed not having seen it coming.
Overall a great read and I'll definitely be keen to read more by this author.
When Brooks witnessed the brutal murder of his mother and brother whilst on holiday when he was 8, he went spiralling into grief fuelled frenzy of drugs and alcohol - indeed anything that would free him from the memories.
Now, although clean and sober, he still has nightmares about that time.
Now, a well known author, Brooks prepares to delve a little further and write a book about the deaths to stop a journalist sensationalising it, but when the journalist ends up dead, Brooks has even more reason to get to the bottom of things.
Brooks was a great main character as he was witness to the event, but having been so young at the time and since been addled by all sorts, it was hard to tell whether he was a reliable narrator or not? This left me in some doubt as I was reading, until more and more things came to light.
I love a book to grab me right from the start but found this a little slow as we are introduced to the story, but after the first few chapters, the lace really ramps up and it's then that you just can't stop reading.
The storyline was intriguing and had so many twists and turns throughout - the ending was also a shock moment which I enjoyed not having seen it coming.
Overall a great read and I'll definitely be keen to read more by this author.
August 15, 2023
This is a stylish and slick thriller, beautifully written with a credible, yet incredible, plot. The author also writes in different genres and for different age groups and there's real confidence in her writing.
I loved the first person narration from a bestselling author at the age of sixty five, and his memories from when he was just eight and witnessed a terrible crime.
The tone is gritty and outspoken with plenty of name dropping of real life celebrities and politicians. It is tense and suspenseful with plenty of clever twists. The characterisation is all razor-sharp and full of well-developed back stories. It also has plenty of black humour and great one liners which wouldn't look out of place in a Raymond Chandler classic.
I loved the first person narration from a bestselling author at the age of sixty five, and his memories from when he was just eight and witnessed a terrible crime.
The tone is gritty and outspoken with plenty of name dropping of real life celebrities and politicians. It is tense and suspenseful with plenty of clever twists. The characterisation is all razor-sharp and full of well-developed back stories. It also has plenty of black humour and great one liners which wouldn't look out of place in a Raymond Chandler classic.
August 16, 2023
I really enjoyed this book - I liked the way it was written and I was instantly hooked. A definite page turner, and although I correctly figured out 'whodunnit' there are plenty of twists and turns so you're never really sure who or what to trust.
Not quite five stars as there were a few things that didn't follow on/add up, but recommended nonetheless.
I received a free copy of this book via Bloodhound Books and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Not quite five stars as there were a few things that didn't follow on/add up, but recommended nonetheless.
I received a free copy of this book via Bloodhound Books and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 4, 2023
Unfortunately despite some great reviews this book just wasn’t for me. I found there was a lot happening in the book without anything actually happening. The author seemed on a mission to put as many famous names in this book as they possibly could, which got annoying and some what distracting after a while. The book has a decent ending and did bring the story together, but I just found the whole thing predictable.
August 1, 2024
I received an advance review copy of this book, to review as part of a tour with Rachel's Random Resources.
On first impressions, I found the protagonist, Brooks, struck me as difficult to like or warm to. In spite of that, I was intrigued by him. I think that sometimes the most unlikeable characters are the ones that interest us the most, because we want to understand why they articulate themselves as they do, or behave as they do. I found that, reading on, getting to know more about Brooks, I began to feel sorry about his difficulties and the issues he faced.
It became apparent that Brooks had a traumatic past, so this was a dark read. I found it gritty and absorbing. It's quite explicit, with crude language and violence, and it deals with dark themes such as substance abuse and mental illness, so it may not be for everyone. However, once I was drawn in by it, I was keen to read until the end.
Before I finished the book, I considered the title, ‘A Good Man', and thought again about my first impressions of Brooks as a protagonist. I thought about how sometimes, it may not be easy to distinguish between what is considered good or otherwise, and this book could speak to that.
Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
On first impressions, I found the protagonist, Brooks, struck me as difficult to like or warm to. In spite of that, I was intrigued by him. I think that sometimes the most unlikeable characters are the ones that interest us the most, because we want to understand why they articulate themselves as they do, or behave as they do. I found that, reading on, getting to know more about Brooks, I began to feel sorry about his difficulties and the issues he faced.
It became apparent that Brooks had a traumatic past, so this was a dark read. I found it gritty and absorbing. It's quite explicit, with crude language and violence, and it deals with dark themes such as substance abuse and mental illness, so it may not be for everyone. However, once I was drawn in by it, I was keen to read until the end.
Before I finished the book, I considered the title, ‘A Good Man', and thought again about my first impressions of Brooks as a protagonist. I thought about how sometimes, it may not be easy to distinguish between what is considered good or otherwise, and this book could speak to that.
Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
April 11, 2024
Brooks is this famous author who's got a pretty complicated past. He's been through a lot, dealing with some heavy stuff like drug and alcohol abuse, which seems to stem from this super traumatic event when he was just a kid—his mom and older brother were murdered. Now, he's all settled down with his wife Cassie and their two kids, Mark and Audra, but he's decided to open up some old wounds by writing about his past. And, let me tell you, it's not going smoothly. He's having these intense nightmares and there's a bunch of drama unfolding around him.
The story really pulls you in because there's so much mystery around what actually happened to his family. Brooks himself can't fully remember that night, and as he digs deeper, things start getting pretty murky. I caught on to a few potential suspects early on, but it was more about watching Brooks piece everything together. The suspense was real! I found myself suspecting just about everyone at some point until things started to click.
Honestly, this book was a blast to read. Brooks is super rich, which adds another layer to the story because the stakes feel different for him and the people around him. He's far from perfect, but I ended up really rooting for him, especially when it came to him staying sober. There's something about his journey and how raw and honest he is that really got me. The twists and turns kept me on my toes, and I have to say, the title of the book? Spot on. I'd definitely recommend giving it a read. It's not just about figuring out the mystery—it's about going on this intense journey with Brooks.
The story really pulls you in because there's so much mystery around what actually happened to his family. Brooks himself can't fully remember that night, and as he digs deeper, things start getting pretty murky. I caught on to a few potential suspects early on, but it was more about watching Brooks piece everything together. The suspense was real! I found myself suspecting just about everyone at some point until things started to click.
Honestly, this book was a blast to read. Brooks is super rich, which adds another layer to the story because the stakes feel different for him and the people around him. He's far from perfect, but I ended up really rooting for him, especially when it came to him staying sober. There's something about his journey and how raw and honest he is that really got me. The twists and turns kept me on my toes, and I have to say, the title of the book? Spot on. I'd definitely recommend giving it a read. It's not just about figuring out the mystery—it's about going on this intense journey with Brooks.
April 10, 2024
Brooks Anderson's story is one that grabs you by the collar and doesn't let go. He's a successful novelist and screenwriter now, but his past is dark, marked by the tragic murder of his mom and brother - a nightmare he alone survived. In an unexpected twist, Brooks decides to face his demons head-on by writing a biopic about the tragic event. And that's when things start to spiral out of control.
This book is a wild ride from start to finish. There are moments where you'll find yourself questioning the sanity of the plot twists - they're that out there. But the beauty of it is, Brooks himself is right there with you, shaking his head at the madness unfolding before him. It's like you're on this journey together, piecing the puzzle one crazy piece at a time.
Honestly, there were parts where I just had to suspend disbelief and go with the flow. But isn't that the fun of a good story? It keeps you on your toes, guessing at every turn. So if you're up for a story that's as unpredictable as it is gripping, dive into Brooks Anderson's world. Just be prepared for a bit of a rollercoaster ride.
This book is a wild ride from start to finish. There are moments where you'll find yourself questioning the sanity of the plot twists - they're that out there. But the beauty of it is, Brooks himself is right there with you, shaking his head at the madness unfolding before him. It's like you're on this journey together, piecing the puzzle one crazy piece at a time.
Honestly, there were parts where I just had to suspend disbelief and go with the flow. But isn't that the fun of a good story? It keeps you on your toes, guessing at every turn. So if you're up for a story that's as unpredictable as it is gripping, dive into Brooks Anderson's world. Just be prepared for a bit of a rollercoaster ride.
April 10, 2024
Brooks, who's pretty much nailed it in life - bestselling author, gorgeous family, swanky apartment in The Dakota... But, and there's always a but, right? His past is as dark as it gets. Think family vacation gone wrong in the Hamptons, with a murder mystery that's remained unsolved and has haunted him into his adult life.
So, this journalist decides to stir the pot and plans to drop a bombshell book on the murders. Brooks isn't having any of it and starts penning his own version to set the record straight. Let me tell you, it's a rollercoaster. Digging up the past ain't easy, and Brooks goes through the wringer trying to uncover the truth.
But here's the kicker - the ending. It's satisfying, justice is served, and Brooks manages to hold onto the good stuff in his life. It's got all the elements of a gripping read: mystery, drama, and a deep dive into the psyche of a man haunted by his past but determined to fight for his future.
So, this journalist decides to stir the pot and plans to drop a bombshell book on the murders. Brooks isn't having any of it and starts penning his own version to set the record straight. Let me tell you, it's a rollercoaster. Digging up the past ain't easy, and Brooks goes through the wringer trying to uncover the truth.
But here's the kicker - the ending. It's satisfying, justice is served, and Brooks manages to hold onto the good stuff in his life. It's got all the elements of a gripping read: mystery, drama, and a deep dive into the psyche of a man haunted by his past but determined to fight for his future.
April 11, 2024
First off, the setting - Brooks Anderson living it up in The Dakota, already you're hooked by the glamour. But then, McIlvaine doesn't just rest on the setting; no, she dives deep into Brooks's past, this tragic event in Montauk that's like a shadow hanging over everything. The way she weaves the past and present together is masterful, making Brooks's character something really special. He's not just a protagonist; he's someone you feel like you know, with all his flaws and sharp edges.
The plot? It's a labyrinth. Just when you think you've got a handle on it, it twists, and you're lost again, in the best possible way. And the writing - it's got this edge to it, this dark humor that catches you off guard. But what really got me was the psychological depth. This book makes you ponder the big stuff - truth, memory, what makes us who we are. It's not just a thriller; it's a journey into the human psyche, with all its murky depths and sudden, surprising bursts of light. Recommended!
The plot? It's a labyrinth. Just when you think you've got a handle on it, it twists, and you're lost again, in the best possible way. And the writing - it's got this edge to it, this dark humor that catches you off guard. But what really got me was the psychological depth. This book makes you ponder the big stuff - truth, memory, what makes us who we are. It's not just a thriller; it's a journey into the human psyche, with all its murky depths and sudden, surprising bursts of light. Recommended!
April 12, 2024
Brooks, who's pretty much nailed it in life - bestselling author, gorgeous family, swanky apartment in The Dakota... But, and there's always a but, right? His past is as dark as it gets. Think family vacation gone wrong in the Hamptons, with a murder mystery that's remained unsolved and has haunted him into his adult life.
So, this journalist decides to stir the pot and plans to drop a bombshell book on the murders. Brooks isn't having any of it and starts penning his own version to set the record straight. Let me tell you, it's a rollercoaster. Digging up the past ain't easy, and Brooks goes through the wringer trying to uncover the truth.
But here's the kicker - the ending. It's satisfying, justice is served, and Brooks manages to hold onto the good stuff in his life. It's got all the elements of a gripping read: mystery, drama, and a deep dive into the psyche of a man haunted by his past but determined to fight for his future.
So, this journalist decides to stir the pot and plans to drop a bombshell book on the murders. Brooks isn't having any of it and starts penning his own version to set the record straight. Let me tell you, it's a rollercoaster. Digging up the past ain't easy, and Brooks goes through the wringer trying to uncover the truth.
But here's the kicker - the ending. It's satisfying, justice is served, and Brooks manages to hold onto the good stuff in his life. It's got all the elements of a gripping read: mystery, drama, and a deep dive into the psyche of a man haunted by his past but determined to fight for his future.
August 12, 2024
3.5 stars
A Good Man is an interesting thriller. It grabbed my attention relatively quickly with an interesting premise. Events of the story kept me wanting to read to figure out the conclusion.
There are a lot of characters and, especially in the early parts of the story, I found them somewhat difficult to keep straight. And I found myself wondering whether all the people were necessary to the eventual outcome of the story.
The author uses a great deal of pop culture references and names of famous people throughout the story. I found that distracting at times and I would have enjoyed the book even more if there had been less of those throughout.
Overall, I enjoyed A Good Man and would recommend it to people who like psychological thrillers. I would read additional work by this author in the future.
A Good Man is an interesting thriller. It grabbed my attention relatively quickly with an interesting premise. Events of the story kept me wanting to read to figure out the conclusion.
There are a lot of characters and, especially in the early parts of the story, I found them somewhat difficult to keep straight. And I found myself wondering whether all the people were necessary to the eventual outcome of the story.
The author uses a great deal of pop culture references and names of famous people throughout the story. I found that distracting at times and I would have enjoyed the book even more if there had been less of those throughout.
Overall, I enjoyed A Good Man and would recommend it to people who like psychological thrillers. I would read additional work by this author in the future.
November 2, 2023
I received an E-ARC with a request for my honest review.
This mysterious psychological thriller follows Brooks Anderson, a famous writer who as a child witnessed a traumatic event in his family.
After many years of addiction, he is now sober and has a family he loves.
Suddenly, people who Brooks knows are being murdered and he wonders if it has any link with his childhood. He must try and delve into forgotten memories to work out the truth.
Will Brooks remember the events of that fateful night? Who was involved?
This psychological thriller keeps you guessing throughout as Brooks tries to solve the mystery behind his childhood trauma.
There are sections which provide a background to Brooks past, which sometimes assist with the mystery solving.
I did get a little lost with the links between some of the characters, but it didn’t take anything away from the storyline.
Overall, a mysterious psychological thriller where a famous author must unravel the mystery behind his childhood trauma.
This mysterious psychological thriller follows Brooks Anderson, a famous writer who as a child witnessed a traumatic event in his family.
After many years of addiction, he is now sober and has a family he loves.
Suddenly, people who Brooks knows are being murdered and he wonders if it has any link with his childhood. He must try and delve into forgotten memories to work out the truth.
Will Brooks remember the events of that fateful night? Who was involved?
This psychological thriller keeps you guessing throughout as Brooks tries to solve the mystery behind his childhood trauma.
There are sections which provide a background to Brooks past, which sometimes assist with the mystery solving.
I did get a little lost with the links between some of the characters, but it didn’t take anything away from the storyline.
Overall, a mysterious psychological thriller where a famous author must unravel the mystery behind his childhood trauma.
April 5, 2024
I've just finished reading P.J. McIlvaine's thriller, A GOOD MAN, and I have to say, it's one of the best books I've come across in a long time. And believe me, I've been reading a lot, especially with all this time during the recent years.
This isn't your typical thriller. Sure, it's got all the twists, suspense, and heart-pounding moments you'd expect, but it's more than just a gripping story. The book claims to be ""An intoxicating psychological crime thriller,"" and it truly lives up to that. The plot keeps you on your toes, and the stakes get higher as the story progresses.
But what really sets it apart is P.J.'s writing. It's deep and thoughtful, provoking me to think about my own life and feelings in ways I hadn't before. It's rare for a book to evoke such strong emotions, but this one did just that.
I don't usually make recommendations lightly, but I'm telling you, you should read this book. It's more than just a thriller; it's an experience.
This isn't your typical thriller. Sure, it's got all the twists, suspense, and heart-pounding moments you'd expect, but it's more than just a gripping story. The book claims to be ""An intoxicating psychological crime thriller,"" and it truly lives up to that. The plot keeps you on your toes, and the stakes get higher as the story progresses.
But what really sets it apart is P.J.'s writing. It's deep and thoughtful, provoking me to think about my own life and feelings in ways I hadn't before. It's rare for a book to evoke such strong emotions, but this one did just that.
I don't usually make recommendations lightly, but I'm telling you, you should read this book. It's more than just a thriller; it's an experience.
April 10, 2024
It's not your typical thriller; it's packed with twists and turns, lies, and secrets that kept me hooked till the very end. If you're into thrillers, you've gotta check this one out.
I've always had a thing for books about writers, and the protagonist in this one is on a wild ride digging up some heavy stuff from his past. It's the kind of journey that pulls you in and doesn't let go.
Stumbling upon this author was a treat for me. I hadn't read any of their work before, but I'm totally into their style now and can't wait to dive into more of their books. I'm tossing this one a solid 5 stars and would bet that it's gonna be a hit with other thriller lovers too.
I've always had a thing for books about writers, and the protagonist in this one is on a wild ride digging up some heavy stuff from his past. It's the kind of journey that pulls you in and doesn't let go.
Stumbling upon this author was a treat for me. I hadn't read any of their work before, but I'm totally into their style now and can't wait to dive into more of their books. I'm tossing this one a solid 5 stars and would bet that it's gonna be a hit with other thriller lovers too.
August 10, 2023
This book will grab your attention and leave you wanting to devour it! It is packed with so many unexpected events and twists. The author did a fantastic job of painting the main character, Brooks. I felt like I personally knew him, and my heart hurt for him throughout his journey for the truth!!! That ending was spectacular. Well done! Thank you to the publisher for my opportunity to read and review this book.
August 17, 2023
A good man…or is he? A gripping story that is a slow build-up and burn that story line grabs you and as it unfolds makes you think is anything as it seems? Are people who we think they are? A facade, a persona ? What secrets do people keep? A great thriller and a page turner thanks to Bloodhound Books for my ARC!
August 29, 2023
A really enjoyable read that hooked me right the start and wouldnt let me go. It is well written with a compelling storyline and well developed characters.
A fair amount of twists and unpredictability that meant I was kept guessing all the way through and was on the edge of my seat a few times.
A great read
A fair amount of twists and unpredictability that meant I was kept guessing all the way through and was on the edge of my seat a few times.
A great read
October 19, 2023
A really good read. Plenty of twists, mid-directions and clues and enough tension to really engage the reader.
McIlvaine really writes an intelligent story, that neatly wraps itself in a bow for the ending without cutting corners to do this.
Please, whatever your genre is, read this book- it will be enjoyable.
McIlvaine really writes an intelligent story, that neatly wraps itself in a bow for the ending without cutting corners to do this.
Please, whatever your genre is, read this book- it will be enjoyable.
April 9, 2024
This book was a trip! Brooks Anderson's journey from tragedy to unraveling his own past is nothing short of cinematic. There were moments I was like, 'No way, this can't be happening,' but then I remembered, it's Brooks's world, and we're just reading in it. Perfect for those who don't mind a bit of disbelief suspension for the sake of a gripping tale.
April 10, 2024
Diving into Brooks Anderson's world is like jumping into a whirlpool of twists and turns that seem out there, but hear me out, it's kinda the point. The deeper he digs into his past, the wilder things get, and we're on this discovery trip with him. It's bizarre, sure, but totally gripping. You'll be scratching your head right up until the dots connect. Buckle up, folks!
April 10, 2024
Brooks' story is heart-wrenching and totally engrossing. From living the high life in NYC to confronting his darkest demons, it's a rollercoaster. The whole scandal with the journalist had me on edge, and the ending? Satisfying AF. If you love a good thriller with lots of emotional depth, this one's for you. Definite thumbs up!
April 13, 2024
It's a solid thriller, filled with all the good stuff: lies, secrets, you name it. The main character's quest is super engaging. First time reading this author and I'm impressed. Will be checking out more. A well-deserved 5 stars.
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