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Monsters #3
Born or Bred: Pigs and Monsters
Claire Peterson was born into a toxic, abusive family. Unwanted and unloved by practically everyone, taunted and bullied by kids at school. Then she suffers a head injury after falling down the stairs and something in her changes. But for the better or worse?
Depends who you ask. Because from now on, things are going to change. And no one is going to bully her anymore.
This is Claire's story.
An extreme horror novel .
Depends who you ask. Because from now on, things are going to change. And no one is going to bully her anymore.
This is Claire's story.
An extreme horror novel .
- GenresHorrorSplatterpunk
263 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2023
181 people are currently reading
674 people want to read
About the author
J. Boote
20 books184 followersJ. Boote is the alter-ego of Justin Boote, author of horror and dark fiction. J. Boote writes primarily extreme horror, not for the faint-hearted or easily offended.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
August 11, 2023
Ok... I am not sure where to begin with this one because BIG OOF!
First of all: His monster series is getting better and better (or should I say worse lol) with every story. However I feel like I need to read a romance novel now. As a cleanser - to clean my palette..
This is the 3rd installment in the monster series and honestly, I had put my kindle down a few times and walk away. The whole scene with Tania.. it was pushing my boundaries, boundaries I didn't think I had.
This is one brutal book. I highly recommend it but beware of the fact, If you have a trigger that involves animals or small humans.. you might want to skip this one. Or dive in and push that your trigger.
This book is a reminder that mental health prevention and diagnosis should begin in early childhood. If you're born into the wrong family, you might just end up like Claire (the protagonist of this story). Born into a family that despises her, where she gets emotionally and physically abused by her parents, bullied in school, starved, and sexually assaulted, it is no wonder she turns out the way she does. One day she makes a new friend. A neighbor boy named Michael. She visits his house daily and finally realizes what a normal family is supposed to be like. Her cloud darkens though as Michael's mother Kathleen gives birth to a baby girl. Claire, unable to understand that babies need a lot attention, gives into her raging jealousy and does something unspeakable. And everyone's live will never be the same.
So in the end, the reader is torn between the question: are some people born evil or bred evil?
And thank you J.Boote for allowing me to be part of your ARC team and read it before every else.
First of all: His monster series is getting better and better (or should I say worse lol) with every story. However I feel like I need to read a romance novel now. As a cleanser - to clean my palette..
This is the 3rd installment in the monster series and honestly, I had put my kindle down a few times and walk away. The whole scene with Tania.. it was pushing my boundaries, boundaries I didn't think I had.
This is one brutal book. I highly recommend it but beware of the fact, If you have a trigger that involves animals or small humans.. you might want to skip this one. Or dive in and push that your trigger.
This book is a reminder that mental health prevention and diagnosis should begin in early childhood. If you're born into the wrong family, you might just end up like Claire (the protagonist of this story). Born into a family that despises her, where she gets emotionally and physically abused by her parents, bullied in school, starved, and sexually assaulted, it is no wonder she turns out the way she does. One day she makes a new friend. A neighbor boy named Michael. She visits his house daily and finally realizes what a normal family is supposed to be like. Her cloud darkens though as Michael's mother Kathleen gives birth to a baby girl. Claire, unable to understand that babies need a lot attention, gives into her raging jealousy and does something unspeakable. And everyone's live will never be the same.
So in the end, the reader is torn between the question: are some people born evil or bred evil?
And thank you J.Boote for allowing me to be part of your ARC team and read it before every else.
April 9, 2025
Well, Claire never stood a chance.
At first, I felt a mix of emotions for her. No child should ever have to live the life she had. She went through hell at a young age, raised by horrible parents. Some people should never, ever have children.
However, as the story progressed, I felt like Claire became her parents. I understand that what she endured at the hands of those around her was unimaginable, but I was hoping for some kind of redemption in her narrative. I wanted a happy ending for her. Yes, this is extreme horror, and brutality is at the heart of it, but I still would’ve loved a different outcome for her.
Still, this is a solid read—especially for fans of the series.
At first, I felt a mix of emotions for her. No child should ever have to live the life she had. She went through hell at a young age, raised by horrible parents. Some people should never, ever have children.
However, as the story progressed, I felt like Claire became her parents. I understand that what she endured at the hands of those around her was unimaginable, but I was hoping for some kind of redemption in her narrative. I wanted a happy ending for her. Yes, this is extreme horror, and brutality is at the heart of it, but I still would’ve loved a different outcome for her.
Still, this is a solid read—especially for fans of the series.
September 1, 2023
Well shit I’m not really sure where to begin with this review. I will first start by saying thank you to Justin for gifting me an arc of this book. This is the third book in the monster series and this is honestly the first time I can say that each book in the series not only keeps getting more brutal, but gets continuously better. This is a story of a little girl named Claire, who grew up with two parents by the name of Jean and Kenny in reality,Claire should’ve never been born. Neither of them wanted her. So in turn Claire grows up, being beaten, starved , sexually assaulted, and that’s some of the better of it. Claire is really only seeking attention, and Jean and Kenny are so busy being alcoholics and running a farm they failed to realize they are raising a sociopath. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys the darkest and most extreme books. I will say that this does contain an excessive amount of animal and child abuse. I seriously can’t wait for book 4 🙌🏻 🐷🩸
June 9, 2024
Since BIRTH, Clarie has lived such a fucked up life. Her daddy loved her in the worst way and her mom hated her guts. They lived on their farm where things would just get worse for Claire. She had no friends, never got fed, and got made fun of constantly. Down the road she meets Michael and his parents and Claire is instantly in love with them. She wants them to be her new family but once they have a new baby, Claire is left out. A nasty fall to the head changes Clarie and at just 7 years old, Claire does the unthinkable
🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯
I'm blown away! This book was fucking heavy but it was also incredible! At SEVEN years old, for a child to have so many sinister acts is intense! The book starts off as an interview style, Claire is interviewed later on. We get to hear about her extremely fucked up life and also the things she does. The way Boote describes the intestines, the innards is my favourite! Similar to scenes in book 1, I loved that so much!
The easter eggs within each book is great! They all are intertwined so i do suggest you read them all in order to catch them. I think this may be my favourite of the series but the rest are excellent also, it's hard to choose! I cannot talk enough about this series! One of the best out there! If you haven't read it, READ IT! But proceed with caution! Can't wait for book 4!
🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯
I'm blown away! This book was fucking heavy but it was also incredible! At SEVEN years old, for a child to have so many sinister acts is intense! The book starts off as an interview style, Claire is interviewed later on. We get to hear about her extremely fucked up life and also the things she does. The way Boote describes the intestines, the innards is my favourite! Similar to scenes in book 1, I loved that so much!
The easter eggs within each book is great! They all are intertwined so i do suggest you read them all in order to catch them. I think this may be my favourite of the series but the rest are excellent also, it's hard to choose! I cannot talk enough about this series! One of the best out there! If you haven't read it, READ IT! But proceed with caution! Can't wait for book 4!
April 10, 2025
These get better but so much more sickening each time. If you like gory horror, then you’ll like this.
September 19, 2023
I have absolutely loved this series so far, it's become one of my favourite extreme horror series ever! Boote goes hard on the shock, horror and brutality, but he goes equally as hard on the research he puts into these stories too, making them so much more in depth, captivating and powerful reads!
Claire is reliving her extremely disturbing childhood, explaining how she came to believe that everything she did was right and just, because that's all she ever knew. She's grown up surrounded by abuse, neglect and bad behaviour, that's why she is how she is, she could never be any other way. It all started with the birds, and progressed to the events with her pig of a father, and beyond. Way beyond….
Reading her telling her story to her therapist will almost leave you needing a therapist of your own! It's heartbreaking, horrifying and shocking!
Bullied at school for her dirty appearance and even dirtier clothes, she's wary when Gayle is friendly towards her, and when Gayle insists on visiting the farm where she lives, she's terrified of the consequences. And rightfully so. The friendship is brief and one day when Claire wanders as far as her nearest neighbour, she has a second chance at friendship, although it's somewhat reluctant on his part, with the son, Michael. But jealousy soon starts to creep in and Claire starts to manipulate the family, until that is, their baby girl is born and she is finally pushed away, and pushed past her limits…
When she is locked in her room during the school holidays as a punishment, she is given a long period of time to think and reflect on her life so far, her conflicting emotions about right and wrong hit hard, and also, her realisation and resentment for her parents and what they've put her through. Then, after a “fall” down the stairs, resulting in a short stay in the hospital, things change drastically for her! She's not going to stand for any abuse or bullying anymore, and she's not going to sit around and be ignored either!
What starts with the fascination and curiosity with a headless chicken develops into something so much darker and more sinister, her fascination with Death becomes all encompassing. She just wants to be noticed, to be loved and cared for. Why does nobody like her? She's just a little girl! When she is fully rejected by her new family, as she sees it, that's when she finally and totally snaps, with the most shocking, horrifying and chilling consequences!! It makes her evil, sick, twisted and psychopathic and she is eventually locked up!
On her release from the rehabilitation centre at the age of 18, all the abuse she suffered at the hands of her parents hits so much harder, especially now that she understands just what they did, making her need for vengeance so much more powerful, brutal, sadistic, and sexual! Whilst incarcerated, she also learnt the skills of butchery and cookery, and it's about to be put to good use! And when the distraught family find out that Claire has returned to her childhood home, they realise that the justice system has let them down and decide to take matters into their own hands. Resulting in a brutal standoff that is dangerous for everyone in the vicinity!
THIS BOOK RIPPED MY HEART AND SOUL RIGHT OUT OF ME FROM PAGE ONE!!!!
It's tragic, heartbreaking, psychological and thought provoking! I had to keep putting the book down for a few moments, it gets to you, gets right under your skin and burrows down deep, it will leave a lasting impression for sure!
It shows us the innocence of children in the scariest way. The way they believe adults to be all knowing and the most trustworthy, whatever they tell them, or make them do! And it shows the other side too, when the innocence is then taken, in the most horrific, abusive and frightening ways. It shows us what it can do to a child's mind, how it can fester and mutate into something awful, until they are completely broken and go on to seek vengeance the only way they know how! From the devastation and mental trauma of being abused, to the devastation and mental trauma that is then, in turn, being dished out when becoming the abuser.
Deeply dark and completely brilliant, with a surprising and interesting conclusion!
Claire is reliving her extremely disturbing childhood, explaining how she came to believe that everything she did was right and just, because that's all she ever knew. She's grown up surrounded by abuse, neglect and bad behaviour, that's why she is how she is, she could never be any other way. It all started with the birds, and progressed to the events with her pig of a father, and beyond. Way beyond….
Reading her telling her story to her therapist will almost leave you needing a therapist of your own! It's heartbreaking, horrifying and shocking!
Bullied at school for her dirty appearance and even dirtier clothes, she's wary when Gayle is friendly towards her, and when Gayle insists on visiting the farm where she lives, she's terrified of the consequences. And rightfully so. The friendship is brief and one day when Claire wanders as far as her nearest neighbour, she has a second chance at friendship, although it's somewhat reluctant on his part, with the son, Michael. But jealousy soon starts to creep in and Claire starts to manipulate the family, until that is, their baby girl is born and she is finally pushed away, and pushed past her limits…
When she is locked in her room during the school holidays as a punishment, she is given a long period of time to think and reflect on her life so far, her conflicting emotions about right and wrong hit hard, and also, her realisation and resentment for her parents and what they've put her through. Then, after a “fall” down the stairs, resulting in a short stay in the hospital, things change drastically for her! She's not going to stand for any abuse or bullying anymore, and she's not going to sit around and be ignored either!
What starts with the fascination and curiosity with a headless chicken develops into something so much darker and more sinister, her fascination with Death becomes all encompassing. She just wants to be noticed, to be loved and cared for. Why does nobody like her? She's just a little girl! When she is fully rejected by her new family, as she sees it, that's when she finally and totally snaps, with the most shocking, horrifying and chilling consequences!! It makes her evil, sick, twisted and psychopathic and she is eventually locked up!
On her release from the rehabilitation centre at the age of 18, all the abuse she suffered at the hands of her parents hits so much harder, especially now that she understands just what they did, making her need for vengeance so much more powerful, brutal, sadistic, and sexual! Whilst incarcerated, she also learnt the skills of butchery and cookery, and it's about to be put to good use! And when the distraught family find out that Claire has returned to her childhood home, they realise that the justice system has let them down and decide to take matters into their own hands. Resulting in a brutal standoff that is dangerous for everyone in the vicinity!
THIS BOOK RIPPED MY HEART AND SOUL RIGHT OUT OF ME FROM PAGE ONE!!!!
It's tragic, heartbreaking, psychological and thought provoking! I had to keep putting the book down for a few moments, it gets to you, gets right under your skin and burrows down deep, it will leave a lasting impression for sure!
It shows us the innocence of children in the scariest way. The way they believe adults to be all knowing and the most trustworthy, whatever they tell them, or make them do! And it shows the other side too, when the innocence is then taken, in the most horrific, abusive and frightening ways. It shows us what it can do to a child's mind, how it can fester and mutate into something awful, until they are completely broken and go on to seek vengeance the only way they know how! From the devastation and mental trauma of being abused, to the devastation and mental trauma that is then, in turn, being dished out when becoming the abuser.
Deeply dark and completely brilliant, with a surprising and interesting conclusion!
September 14, 2023
“It all started with a pig. Two pigs. Both literally and metaphorically. One was a big, fat bastard; the other a big, fat monster. I’ll let you decide which is which.”
Yikes! I thought the previous Monsters books were horrific, but this one was the worst by far!!! I was actually shaking reading some of the scenes and had to take breaks to get through this story.
It scared me, it haunted my mind, definitely what you want from an extreme horror story. The graphic nature is not for everyone, so be forewarned!!
Claire was a character that I simultaneously pitied and felt repulsed by. I didn’t know what would happen to her as I read the pages, I just knew it wouldn’t be good. It was great to see the return of a character from previous stories; I love that the author made this a series of stories that can be read standalone or consecutively.
I can’t wait for the next book in the series! Each one is progressively more evil, so I’m looking forward to it, but am also terrified!
Yikes! I thought the previous Monsters books were horrific, but this one was the worst by far!!! I was actually shaking reading some of the scenes and had to take breaks to get through this story.
It scared me, it haunted my mind, definitely what you want from an extreme horror story. The graphic nature is not for everyone, so be forewarned!!
Claire was a character that I simultaneously pitied and felt repulsed by. I didn’t know what would happen to her as I read the pages, I just knew it wouldn’t be good. It was great to see the return of a character from previous stories; I love that the author made this a series of stories that can be read standalone or consecutively.
I can’t wait for the next book in the series! Each one is progressively more evil, so I’m looking forward to it, but am also terrified!
May 9, 2025
I was already warned, and it's true. This series gets better and better, and I like the little nods back here and there to previous books.
Boy... Poor Claire, absolutely everything in her short life was against her, and she was not given a break once. I'm convinced that when suffering such immense trauma, something worse is bound to happen.
This was again a great book. The writing style is on point, drawing me in and refusing to let me go. I'm looking forward to the next installment.
Boy... Poor Claire, absolutely everything in her short life was against her, and she was not given a break once. I'm convinced that when suffering such immense trauma, something worse is bound to happen.
This was again a great book. The writing style is on point, drawing me in and refusing to let me go. I'm looking forward to the next installment.
August 31, 2023
Born or Bred: Pigs and Monsters is the third installment of Bootes Monster Novella series. I have said it before, and I will say it again. This series just keeps getting better.
This review is going to focus heavily on what I took from the book and the thoughts and feelings it provoked within me rather than just detailing the storyline. Do you want that? Go read the synopsis. To be frank, this isn't something you simply sum up without giving too much away. This is just one of those things you have to see it to believe it. Don't take my word, though. Go grab a copy and spiral into Claire's world of depravity on your own...
All of these novellas are brutal in nature and offer a glimpse into true evil. A lot of what he writes is inspired by real-life events. It's quite obvious that he takes his art seriously and researches these topics thoroughly. By doing this, Boote is able to produce horror that is both horrifying and thought-provoking. For me personally, this writing style is a perfect blend of genres. As someone who loves both horror and true crime, I found myself eagerly devouring this series, and I can not wait to see what events or people he draws inspiration from next.
While reading Born or Bred, it provoked similar thoughts as his previous release, "Am I A Monster?" Are monsters born, or are they made? I think it's fair to assume that in many cases, predisposition AND environment can be detrimental in determining who we become as individuals. In the case of our MC, she sustained years of abuse and neglect at the hands of her equally vile parents. One could argue that she was born bad. After all, how could someone born to parents like hers ever be anything more than a monster themselves? Don't get me wrong, many people have shitty parents and even shittier upbringings and don't turn into the next Dahmer or Ramirez. But most of these "monsters " usually don't have childhoods full of rainbows and unicorn farts.
This book also brought up the excellent topic of rehabilitation. Can criminals truly be rehabilitated? Do people deserve the chance to be rehabilitated? At what cost? Is it worth the risk to others? What about therapy? Is it effective? In this case, the answer was no. But what do you think?
The world failed Claire. Her parents, teachers, other students, and neighbors all failed her miserably. I was appalled and disgusted by her character, but I was equally heartbroken for her. Boote did a phenomenal job of writing her story in a way that made you stop and see her... truly see her. In many ways, I found myself rationalizing her "whys" and the choices she made. It's quite impressive to have your readers bounce between despising and sympathizing with your characters, so brazo. Multiple times, I had to stop and check myself...thats sad but still no excuse to carve up a b.....whoops almost gave something away!
Oftentimes, with extreme horror, the books stay with me for a long time. I find myself stuck on some horrifying or disgusting thing that I read. But these books hit differently. If you want shocking and horrific gore coupled with brutal torture scenes, these books can easily satiate that. But they will offer so much more, they provide horror with substance...horror that makes you think.... and because of that, I will NEVER stop promoting and praising Bootes work.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This review is going to focus heavily on what I took from the book and the thoughts and feelings it provoked within me rather than just detailing the storyline. Do you want that? Go read the synopsis. To be frank, this isn't something you simply sum up without giving too much away. This is just one of those things you have to see it to believe it. Don't take my word, though. Go grab a copy and spiral into Claire's world of depravity on your own...
All of these novellas are brutal in nature and offer a glimpse into true evil. A lot of what he writes is inspired by real-life events. It's quite obvious that he takes his art seriously and researches these topics thoroughly. By doing this, Boote is able to produce horror that is both horrifying and thought-provoking. For me personally, this writing style is a perfect blend of genres. As someone who loves both horror and true crime, I found myself eagerly devouring this series, and I can not wait to see what events or people he draws inspiration from next.
While reading Born or Bred, it provoked similar thoughts as his previous release, "Am I A Monster?" Are monsters born, or are they made? I think it's fair to assume that in many cases, predisposition AND environment can be detrimental in determining who we become as individuals. In the case of our MC, she sustained years of abuse and neglect at the hands of her equally vile parents. One could argue that she was born bad. After all, how could someone born to parents like hers ever be anything more than a monster themselves? Don't get me wrong, many people have shitty parents and even shittier upbringings and don't turn into the next Dahmer or Ramirez. But most of these "monsters " usually don't have childhoods full of rainbows and unicorn farts.
This book also brought up the excellent topic of rehabilitation. Can criminals truly be rehabilitated? Do people deserve the chance to be rehabilitated? At what cost? Is it worth the risk to others? What about therapy? Is it effective? In this case, the answer was no. But what do you think?
The world failed Claire. Her parents, teachers, other students, and neighbors all failed her miserably. I was appalled and disgusted by her character, but I was equally heartbroken for her. Boote did a phenomenal job of writing her story in a way that made you stop and see her... truly see her. In many ways, I found myself rationalizing her "whys" and the choices she made. It's quite impressive to have your readers bounce between despising and sympathizing with your characters, so brazo. Multiple times, I had to stop and check myself...thats sad but still no excuse to carve up a b.....whoops almost gave something away!
Oftentimes, with extreme horror, the books stay with me for a long time. I find myself stuck on some horrifying or disgusting thing that I read. But these books hit differently. If you want shocking and horrific gore coupled with brutal torture scenes, these books can easily satiate that. But they will offer so much more, they provide horror with substance...horror that makes you think.... and because of that, I will NEVER stop promoting and praising Bootes work.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 14, 2024
Another tough read by J. Boote. Each monster book gets more and more uncomfortable but that's the point. These stories are based on true crimes that have been committed and J. Boote has clearly done his research. This book was very hard to read at times like his other two in the series but so well-written. J. Boote is such a great story teller and his books keep getting better as I go along. Job well done, sir!
May 16, 2024
(3 of 4 for the series)
The stories keep getting more gory and more disgusting. But it doesn’t matter because they are good. I still recommend this series if you’re a splatter punk reader! I might need a little bit of a break between this and the 4th one.
This really makes you think. Are psychopaths born or bred? I think it’s both. I think Claire could’ve been a normal person if she didn’t experience what she did as a child. But I guess we’ll never know!
The stories keep getting more gory and more disgusting. But it doesn’t matter because they are good. I still recommend this series if you’re a splatter punk reader! I might need a little bit of a break between this and the 4th one.
This really makes you think. Are psychopaths born or bred? I think it’s both. I think Claire could’ve been a normal person if she didn’t experience what she did as a child. But I guess we’ll never know!
August 24, 2023
What.The.Heck. This book is brutal. Strong, strong stuff. If you read extreme horror, it's heaven; if not, you should still read this book: it will make you think, it will make you angry, it will stay with you for a long time.
Claire is a seven-year-old girl abused daily by her own parents since her birth. Boote describes the prolonged abuse in detail and quite graphically. All kinds of abuse. Claire is kind-hearted and wants to feel loved. She gets bullied instead in school and at home. Claire meets her neighbors. They're a kind family, with a boy close to Claire's age, and the mother is expecting. Claire feels welcomed. Then Claire's mother throws her down the stairs, Claire hits her head, and her personality changes. Claire no longer wants to cuddle. Her downward spiral begins, and the book goes into incredibly dark places: everyone suffers, from animals to kids to old people.
This is not a slow-burn. Boote's narrative turns fast into a realistically described carnival of horrors, and we are invited to traverse the landscape of the young psychopath's mind in all its horrific aspects. The true horror, however, may be that, thanks to Boote's amazing storytelling skills, as things escalate Claire herself keeps making sense: we understand her reasoning, her choices, her needs, her character. We know where she comes from. We feel where she's going. The tension, the pace, the fear, the disgust -familiar to some degree from true crime documentaries- all contribute to a sense of tragedy. The difficulty of assigning blame (the dilemma made worse by the appearance of another tragic Boote character right before the end) is palpable.
It was impossible for me not to get emotionally involved. But I also wondered and started thinking about how to deal with the situations described: does "rehabilitation" make sense in such cases as Claire's? Does retribution or vigilante justice fit better her case?
In any case, Boote hasn't written merely an extreme horror book, but one that will make you think. Highly recommended!
Claire is a seven-year-old girl abused daily by her own parents since her birth. Boote describes the prolonged abuse in detail and quite graphically. All kinds of abuse. Claire is kind-hearted and wants to feel loved. She gets bullied instead in school and at home. Claire meets her neighbors. They're a kind family, with a boy close to Claire's age, and the mother is expecting. Claire feels welcomed. Then Claire's mother throws her down the stairs, Claire hits her head, and her personality changes. Claire no longer wants to cuddle. Her downward spiral begins, and the book goes into incredibly dark places: everyone suffers, from animals to kids to old people.
This is not a slow-burn. Boote's narrative turns fast into a realistically described carnival of horrors, and we are invited to traverse the landscape of the young psychopath's mind in all its horrific aspects. The true horror, however, may be that, thanks to Boote's amazing storytelling skills, as things escalate Claire herself keeps making sense: we understand her reasoning, her choices, her needs, her character. We know where she comes from. We feel where she's going. The tension, the pace, the fear, the disgust -familiar to some degree from true crime documentaries- all contribute to a sense of tragedy. The difficulty of assigning blame (the dilemma made worse by the appearance of another tragic Boote character right before the end) is palpable.
It was impossible for me not to get emotionally involved. But I also wondered and started thinking about how to deal with the situations described: does "rehabilitation" make sense in such cases as Claire's? Does retribution or vigilante justice fit better her case?
In any case, Boote hasn't written merely an extreme horror book, but one that will make you think. Highly recommended!
December 6, 2023
Disturbing is definitely the perfect word for this book. I just loved the ending so much. Perfection as always Mr. Boote. If you have any triggers you might want to reconsider reading this. But if you're like me, always looking for the worst of the worst in term of content, you must buy this.
October 15, 2023
Oh My Stars, loved this book, he is definitely an author that I will keep reading!!!
April 16, 2024
Born or Bred is the third book in J. Bootes Monster Series and I have never read anything more disturbing or difficult. I read the trigger warnings and thought I knew what I was getting myself into but I was still absolutely shocked! I'm a mother of 6, my youngest being 6 months old, I really felt like it hit close to home. It had my nerves all over the place and I swear I had a nightmare of pigs last night 😭💀
With THAT being said, yall have to read this book. J. Boote NEVER disappoints!
With THAT being said, yall have to read this book. J. Boote NEVER disappoints!
November 12, 2024
J. Boote was one of my first introductions to extreme horror and I instantly fell in love. This series is no different.
With this particular story... hits close to home for me. I had a rougher childhood than Claire did......this story could have just as easily been about me. I was one of the lucky few who got out, completely damaged, but not quite yet broken like Claire.
TWs: SA, CA, gore gallor!
With this particular story... hits close to home for me. I had a rougher childhood than Claire did......this story could have just as easily been about me. I was one of the lucky few who got out, completely damaged, but not quite yet broken like Claire.
TWs: SA, CA, gore gallor!
December 15, 2025
Born or Bred: Pigs and Monsters by J. Boote is a wild, unflinching ride. This book is the epitome of female rage. Claire wants nothing more than to be loved, but neglect and cruelty follow her at every turn, until she finally snaps. Her revenge is brutal, unapologetic, and completely without remorse.
While the violence is intense, it’s only a small part of what makes this story so powerful. The real impact comes from the emotional weight, the anger, and the unsettling way the story makes you understand Claire’s choices. Dark, raw, and unforgettable, this book does not hold back.
While the violence is intense, it’s only a small part of what makes this story so powerful. The real impact comes from the emotional weight, the anger, and the unsettling way the story makes you understand Claire’s choices. Dark, raw, and unforgettable, this book does not hold back.
May 23, 2025
This book was rough! The FMC's childhood was so heartbreaking! I felt so bad for her even when she grew up to do some awful things. Then Tania happened, and my reading pace slowed way down after that. This book will forever live in my mind.
February 13, 2025
Lord...they get worse as they go on. Each book is more brutal and jarring than the one before but I can't stop reading them!
July 3, 2025
Ready for a horror ride like no other? ‘Pigs and Monsters’, Book 3 in ‘the monster’ series, is a deeply unsettling, shocking, and masterful Splatterpunk/Horror novel. J.Boote’s writing will haunt you! 👌🏻 Proceed with caution - and check those trigger warnings! 💀
August 13, 2023
Do I have a 4,000 word paper due? Yes. Did I stop working on it to read Justin’s new book? Also yes. Do I have regrets? None.
This is the third book in the Monster series and probably the most brutal. When the realization of what was going to happen hit me, I had to set the book down for a minute (you’ll know when you get to it).
I was equal parts horrified and heartbroken. I couldn’t help but feel sorry for Claire. There was blood and gore throughout, all necessary parts of the story to truly understand Claire, but not for the faint of heart.
This book truly makes you question: Born or Bred. Are people born evil, or do they become evil?
Thank you Justin for helping me avoid my paper a little longer! 😂
5⭐️
This is the third book in the Monster series and probably the most brutal. When the realization of what was going to happen hit me, I had to set the book down for a minute (you’ll know when you get to it).
I was equal parts horrified and heartbroken. I couldn’t help but feel sorry for Claire. There was blood and gore throughout, all necessary parts of the story to truly understand Claire, but not for the faint of heart.
This book truly makes you question: Born or Bred. Are people born evil, or do they become evil?
Thank you Justin for helping me avoid my paper a little longer! 😂
5⭐️
August 12, 2023
There were so many things that gave me the chills in this story and made me just sit still in absolute shock when they happened. I won’t ruin any but you will know when you get to them.
Again Mr Boote shows how much time and effort he has put into researching the minds of killers as the way Claire’s actions escalate is pretty much textbook.
Some of the kills and the stuff that came after was breathtaking and I hope not something that ever really happened. There’s the usual recurrence and variations from the previous books to do with ahem cacti.
Finally the ending was spectacular. I always try to figure them out but I never get it quite right. Already looking forward to the next one.
Again Mr Boote shows how much time and effort he has put into researching the minds of killers as the way Claire’s actions escalate is pretty much textbook.
Some of the kills and the stuff that came after was breathtaking and I hope not something that ever really happened. There’s the usual recurrence and variations from the previous books to do with ahem cacti.
Finally the ending was spectacular. I always try to figure them out but I never get it quite right. Already looking forward to the next one.
August 10, 2023
The series just keeps getting more brutal. I definetly believe this is the most extreme out of the three.
The animal abuse for example.. There was a lot. And I hate it. BUT I do find it has a purpose in the story. Which didn't make it any less awful to read, but it was worth reading to understand Claire. Or the drink for dad! Not me wanting to vomit. Safe to say this book was fucking brutal and I can't wait for the fourth book!
The animal abuse for example.. There was a lot. And I hate it. BUT I do find it has a purpose in the story. Which didn't make it any less awful to read, but it was worth reading to understand Claire. Or the drink for dad! Not me wanting to vomit. Safe to say this book was fucking brutal and I can't wait for the fourth book!
August 17, 2023
“It all started with a pig. Two pigs. Both literally and metaphorically. One was a big, fat bastard; the other a big, fat monster. I’ll let you decide which is which.”
While the word “pig” came to mind often (for more reasons than one) when I was reading this latest installment of J. Boote’s ‘Monsters Series’, the words “monster” and “bastard” seemed more apropos.
As I read an early beta of this one, I planned to give it a quick skim; just to see what has changed and to refresh my memory for this review.
— Well, you know what they say about the best laid plans —
Once again, our dear author stole hours of precious sleep from me.
Once again, I read moments so extreme that I had to stop for a moment to process.
Once again, I devoured this author’s horrific nightmare of a tale in one damn sitting, with these questions running through my brain…
Have you ever questioned nature vs nurture?
Have you ever wondered how one gets to the point where they are a serial killer?
Have you ever wanted to know how it feels, in every sensory system and emotion, to kill? To devour another human? Not once, but over and over…
Have you ever pondered if evil is “Born or Bred”?
The narrative between our protagonist, Claire, and her therapist, replete with insights into both of their minds and hearts, drew me into a world that I couldn’t quite escape.
The intimate family portraits were so masterfully detailed that I felt like I knew these family’s from the inside out. That I was one of them.
Claire’s musings, while pithy, were also brutally and deeply heartfelt…
I have to say, J. Boote gets better and better with each new book he puts out… his research into the extreme macabre is in depth and right on point with inspiring his plots.
“… would you call yourself a monster?”
“I dunno. We’re all monsters. You tell me.”
So, now my bookish friends, read this and let me know … “would you call yourself a monster?”
Honestly, I think I’d call myself one.
While the word “pig” came to mind often (for more reasons than one) when I was reading this latest installment of J. Boote’s ‘Monsters Series’, the words “monster” and “bastard” seemed more apropos.
As I read an early beta of this one, I planned to give it a quick skim; just to see what has changed and to refresh my memory for this review.
— Well, you know what they say about the best laid plans —
Once again, our dear author stole hours of precious sleep from me.
Once again, I read moments so extreme that I had to stop for a moment to process.
Once again, I devoured this author’s horrific nightmare of a tale in one damn sitting, with these questions running through my brain…
Have you ever questioned nature vs nurture?
Have you ever wondered how one gets to the point where they are a serial killer?
Have you ever wanted to know how it feels, in every sensory system and emotion, to kill? To devour another human? Not once, but over and over…
Have you ever pondered if evil is “Born or Bred”?
The narrative between our protagonist, Claire, and her therapist, replete with insights into both of their minds and hearts, drew me into a world that I couldn’t quite escape.
The intimate family portraits were so masterfully detailed that I felt like I knew these family’s from the inside out. That I was one of them.
Claire’s musings, while pithy, were also brutally and deeply heartfelt…
I have to say, J. Boote gets better and better with each new book he puts out… his research into the extreme macabre is in depth and right on point with inspiring his plots.
“… would you call yourself a monster?”
“I dunno. We’re all monsters. You tell me.”
So, now my bookish friends, read this and let me know … “would you call yourself a monster?”
Honestly, I think I’d call myself one.
August 13, 2023
𝐏𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐛𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐡𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝. 𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧 𝐚 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐝𝐢𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐭𝐨𝐨.
With book three I have reached a temporary limit and am currently reading a thriller to take a break. Even hardened readers of extreme horror have triggers or content that they deem unpalatable, so be forewarned that graphic animal violence is a part of this story; however, the author did his research, and it's a vital part of the story.
Claire Peterson should never have been born. Her parents didn't want her, and because they feared repercussions for giving her away, they kept her and abused her instead. It was maddening to read about the teachers and other adults who questioned her bruises and lack of proper lunch but did nothing. When a new family moves in down the road from her parents' pig farm, Claire finally feels like she belongs until she inevitably wears out her welcome. Her need is too great, and the family has just welcomed a new baby. There is no love to spare for Claire.
When Claire suffers a head injury at the age of seven after falling down the stairs at home, something changes in her...she's tired of being bullied and mistreated. And she means to do something about it. Her acts of rage left me gaping at the pages. A child just couldn't be capable of such depravity, could she?
The author's notes reference two names I was very familiar with; Beth Thomas and Eric Smith. Trust me when I tell you that the rabbit holes you will go down are completely worth your time and will make the fictional events in this book have some perspective. Anxiously awaiting book four, which will take place in the world of hurtcore.
BORN OR BRED: PIGS AND MONSTERS will release September 1, 2023. Thank you to the author for my place on his ARC team and for my early copy.
With book three I have reached a temporary limit and am currently reading a thriller to take a break. Even hardened readers of extreme horror have triggers or content that they deem unpalatable, so be forewarned that graphic animal violence is a part of this story; however, the author did his research, and it's a vital part of the story.
Claire Peterson should never have been born. Her parents didn't want her, and because they feared repercussions for giving her away, they kept her and abused her instead. It was maddening to read about the teachers and other adults who questioned her bruises and lack of proper lunch but did nothing. When a new family moves in down the road from her parents' pig farm, Claire finally feels like she belongs until she inevitably wears out her welcome. Her need is too great, and the family has just welcomed a new baby. There is no love to spare for Claire.
When Claire suffers a head injury at the age of seven after falling down the stairs at home, something changes in her...she's tired of being bullied and mistreated. And she means to do something about it. Her acts of rage left me gaping at the pages. A child just couldn't be capable of such depravity, could she?
The author's notes reference two names I was very familiar with; Beth Thomas and Eric Smith. Trust me when I tell you that the rabbit holes you will go down are completely worth your time and will make the fictional events in this book have some perspective. Anxiously awaiting book four, which will take place in the world of hurtcore.
BORN OR BRED: PIGS AND MONSTERS will release September 1, 2023. Thank you to the author for my place on his ARC team and for my early copy.
August 21, 2023
Born or Bred (Pigs and Monsters) by J. Boote.
I was graciously provided with an arc of this book by the author in return for an honest review. Thanks!!!
Well, I dipped my toes into the extreme horror world with this one. This book was disgusting, depraved, revolting, sick, and shocking. It was also captivating, well written, imaginative, and original. It also sheds light on mental health issues and the potential effects of trauma on children and adults.
The author did an amazing job with the characters. He brought them to life and made them feel real. We were able to get an inside look at many of their perspectives throughout the story. We also learned the backstory of many of the characters giving insight into what makes them tick. This created a full picture of what was going on during the events of the book and hooks the reader in. The author was extremely descriptive, and I could, fortunately or unfortunately, vividly experience everything that was going on. It takes a great imagination a lot of research to come up with some of the scenes that took place in this book
This book was well done, and I could not put it down. The author expertly tells a horrific story that was inspired by some true events. It was so much more than just a series of depraved events with no plot, a common misconception about extreme horror. This had everything a good book needs. But it is most certainly not for everyone. Make sure to check your triggers before you check this out. If you can handle it, you are in for a great story.
I'm giving this a 4.5 ⭐️ (rounded up when needed). I didn't think I would like this as much as I did. So I was pleasantly surprised. Though, it It will be a while before I read another extreme horror book. I need to go wash my hands or shower or something...
I was graciously provided with an arc of this book by the author in return for an honest review. Thanks!!!
Well, I dipped my toes into the extreme horror world with this one. This book was disgusting, depraved, revolting, sick, and shocking. It was also captivating, well written, imaginative, and original. It also sheds light on mental health issues and the potential effects of trauma on children and adults.
The author did an amazing job with the characters. He brought them to life and made them feel real. We were able to get an inside look at many of their perspectives throughout the story. We also learned the backstory of many of the characters giving insight into what makes them tick. This created a full picture of what was going on during the events of the book and hooks the reader in. The author was extremely descriptive, and I could, fortunately or unfortunately, vividly experience everything that was going on. It takes a great imagination a lot of research to come up with some of the scenes that took place in this book
This book was well done, and I could not put it down. The author expertly tells a horrific story that was inspired by some true events. It was so much more than just a series of depraved events with no plot, a common misconception about extreme horror. This had everything a good book needs. But it is most certainly not for everyone. Make sure to check your triggers before you check this out. If you can handle it, you are in for a great story.
I'm giving this a 4.5 ⭐️ (rounded up when needed). I didn't think I would like this as much as I did. So I was pleasantly surprised. Though, it It will be a while before I read another extreme horror book. I need to go wash my hands or shower or something...
September 8, 2023
5/5 Stars and I highly recommend reading it!
I received an ARC of Born or Bred by J. Boote. Even though you can read this as a stand-alone, it's best to read the others first. Plotwise, they are all tied together, as well as the ideas he conveys. His Monster series tries to tackle the nature vs. nurture debate and problems within the justice system. In Born or Bred, we meet Claire, who is abused by both parents since the day she was born and becomes a serial killer. I felt absolutely terrible for the things Claire had gone through. However, there is no excuse for the evil things she starts doing. As a child, Claire suffers from a head injury. Her thoughts spiral out of control and so does her behavior.
Claire becomes horrifying and disgusting very fast. It’s common for people to have significant personality changes after getting concussions. Still, something tells me that she would turn into a serial killer either way.
Claire’s joy, sadism, and lack of remorse make her a terrifying character. This book is very suspenseful, and the foreshadowing in each chapter made me want to read further. I had a slight feeling about where Claire’s behavior was going, but it was hard to admit that a young child could become so evil. I had to read more and more to see for myself. I really liked how it was mostly told from Claire’s point of view to her psychiatrist. It made it even more intense, as if I were face-to-face with a true monster. You can definitely tell J. Boote has done extensive research into the minds of killer children and their horrific cases. I highly recommend this book, especially for those interested in forensic psychology.
I received an ARC of Born or Bred by J. Boote. Even though you can read this as a stand-alone, it's best to read the others first. Plotwise, they are all tied together, as well as the ideas he conveys. His Monster series tries to tackle the nature vs. nurture debate and problems within the justice system. In Born or Bred, we meet Claire, who is abused by both parents since the day she was born and becomes a serial killer. I felt absolutely terrible for the things Claire had gone through. However, there is no excuse for the evil things she starts doing. As a child, Claire suffers from a head injury. Her thoughts spiral out of control and so does her behavior.
Claire becomes horrifying and disgusting very fast. It’s common for people to have significant personality changes after getting concussions. Still, something tells me that she would turn into a serial killer either way.
Claire’s joy, sadism, and lack of remorse make her a terrifying character. This book is very suspenseful, and the foreshadowing in each chapter made me want to read further. I had a slight feeling about where Claire’s behavior was going, but it was hard to admit that a young child could become so evil. I had to read more and more to see for myself. I really liked how it was mostly told from Claire’s point of view to her psychiatrist. It made it even more intense, as if I were face-to-face with a true monster. You can definitely tell J. Boote has done extensive research into the minds of killer children and their horrific cases. I highly recommend this book, especially for those interested in forensic psychology.
February 12, 2024
Born or Bred by @justinboote ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Claire has been unlucky since she was born, having parents who neglect and abuse her severely she’s never stood a chance…but how do you feel about a victim when they become the perpetrator?
I struggled to rate this because the book was split into 2 parts - the first half I would’ve given 4.5⭐️ and the second half I would’ve given 2⭐️ here’s why….
The first half focused on Claire’s upbringing and childhood, there were extremely graphic scenes which were difficult to read and so lots of sympathy was evoked through the reading. You couldn’t help but get behind Claire and hope she could turn her life around. The added feature in this part of the book was the presence and dialogue of the psychologist which gave us confirmation that what we were feeling for the MC was valid.
The second part of the book takes place 10 years later, after a significant event in Claire’s life. For me this part really slowed down the pace and there wasn’t nearly as much suspense with a lot of the story focusing on the psychological torture of another family and Claire’s hatred for the world growing stronger. It felt a bit repetitive at times and so my reading pace really slowed down. However I do appreciate that the relationship between Claire and said family was of significance and needed not to be rushed.
Overall, a solid read. Not my favourite of the 3 Monster books I’ve read in the series but I’m eagerly anticipating the 4th 👏🏻
#justinboote #extremehorror #bornorbred #lovetoread #needtoread #bookstagram #bookworm #readingreviews #booklover #bookrecommendations
Claire has been unlucky since she was born, having parents who neglect and abuse her severely she’s never stood a chance…but how do you feel about a victim when they become the perpetrator?
I struggled to rate this because the book was split into 2 parts - the first half I would’ve given 4.5⭐️ and the second half I would’ve given 2⭐️ here’s why….
The first half focused on Claire’s upbringing and childhood, there were extremely graphic scenes which were difficult to read and so lots of sympathy was evoked through the reading. You couldn’t help but get behind Claire and hope she could turn her life around. The added feature in this part of the book was the presence and dialogue of the psychologist which gave us confirmation that what we were feeling for the MC was valid.
The second part of the book takes place 10 years later, after a significant event in Claire’s life. For me this part really slowed down the pace and there wasn’t nearly as much suspense with a lot of the story focusing on the psychological torture of another family and Claire’s hatred for the world growing stronger. It felt a bit repetitive at times and so my reading pace really slowed down. However I do appreciate that the relationship between Claire and said family was of significance and needed not to be rushed.
Overall, a solid read. Not my favourite of the 3 Monster books I’ve read in the series but I’m eagerly anticipating the 4th 👏🏻
#justinboote #extremehorror #bornorbred #lovetoread #needtoread #bookstagram #bookworm #readingreviews #booklover #bookrecommendations
March 24, 2024
Rewrite this book review: Ok... I am not sure where to begin with this one because BIG OOF!
First of all, his monster series is getting better and better (or should I say worse, lol) with every story. However, I feel like I need to read a romance novel now. As a cleanser to clean my palette..
This is the 3rd installment in the monster series, and honestly, I had put my Kindle down a few times and walked away. The whole scene with Tania.. it was pushing my boundaries and boundaries I didn't think I had.
This is one brutal book. I highly recommend it, but beware of the fact that if you have a trigger that involves animals or small humans.. you might want to skip this one. Or dive in and push that your trigger.
This book is a reminder that mental health prevention and diagnosis should begin in early childhood. If you're born into the wrong family, you might just end up like Claire (the protagonist of this story). Born into a family that despises her, where she gets emotionally and physically abused by her parents, bullied in school, starved, and sexually assaulted, it is no wonder she turns out the way she does. One day, she makes a new friend. A neighbor boy named Michael. She visits his house daily and finally realizes what a normal family is supposed to be like. Her cloud darkens, though, as Michael's mother Kathleen gives birth to a baby girl. Claire, unable to understand that babies need a lot of attention, gives into her raging jealousy and does something unspeakable. And everyone's lives will never be the same.
So, in the end, the reader is torn between the question: Are some people born evil or bred evil?
First of all, his monster series is getting better and better (or should I say worse, lol) with every story. However, I feel like I need to read a romance novel now. As a cleanser to clean my palette..
This is the 3rd installment in the monster series, and honestly, I had put my Kindle down a few times and walked away. The whole scene with Tania.. it was pushing my boundaries and boundaries I didn't think I had.
This is one brutal book. I highly recommend it, but beware of the fact that if you have a trigger that involves animals or small humans.. you might want to skip this one. Or dive in and push that your trigger.
This book is a reminder that mental health prevention and diagnosis should begin in early childhood. If you're born into the wrong family, you might just end up like Claire (the protagonist of this story). Born into a family that despises her, where she gets emotionally and physically abused by her parents, bullied in school, starved, and sexually assaulted, it is no wonder she turns out the way she does. One day, she makes a new friend. A neighbor boy named Michael. She visits his house daily and finally realizes what a normal family is supposed to be like. Her cloud darkens, though, as Michael's mother Kathleen gives birth to a baby girl. Claire, unable to understand that babies need a lot of attention, gives into her raging jealousy and does something unspeakable. And everyone's lives will never be the same.
So, in the end, the reader is torn between the question: Are some people born evil or bred evil?
August 9, 2023
🤦
I loved it, he did it again! Plenty of "Oh my God" moments, lots of blood, and the brilliant weaving of the characters inner dialogue as they are experiencing and trying to figure out themselves and the world, both morally and how they fit into it, (and even the "why?!" at times).
"Another 5/5 ⭐!
This series is Insanely good! Gripping, realistic and detailed, plenty of bl*od and go*re and astonished faces! GO GET YOURSELF THIS BOOK!!!!!
This Is the third book in J. Justin Boote 's Monsters series, and I was completely absorbed into this story! This details the experience of a young girl, Claire, who is abused and neglected, and how she is understanding and adapting to her experience of the world. There is plenty of gore, plenty of heartbreak, and the details and situations are fascinating, a train wreck you can't look away from and need to see more and more of, ground and intense!
This book could be a standalone, but you do get an extra bang for your buck if you read them in order. Great writing style, chapter flow, and insight into the minds of characters and why they do what they do (misunderstood? Evil? Innocent?).
Go get yourself this book!!! As Soon as I finished it, I am impatiently waiting to read a fourth!!!!!
**This is Extreme Horror; TW: Child and animal a**se; s**ual viol*nce; graphic descriptions of some horrific setups. Do Not pick up this book if you are not prepared for graphic details."
I loved it, he did it again! Plenty of "Oh my God" moments, lots of blood, and the brilliant weaving of the characters inner dialogue as they are experiencing and trying to figure out themselves and the world, both morally and how they fit into it, (and even the "why?!" at times).
"Another 5/5 ⭐!
This series is Insanely good! Gripping, realistic and detailed, plenty of bl*od and go*re and astonished faces! GO GET YOURSELF THIS BOOK!!!!!
This Is the third book in J. Justin Boote 's Monsters series, and I was completely absorbed into this story! This details the experience of a young girl, Claire, who is abused and neglected, and how she is understanding and adapting to her experience of the world. There is plenty of gore, plenty of heartbreak, and the details and situations are fascinating, a train wreck you can't look away from and need to see more and more of, ground and intense!
This book could be a standalone, but you do get an extra bang for your buck if you read them in order. Great writing style, chapter flow, and insight into the minds of characters and why they do what they do (misunderstood? Evil? Innocent?).
Go get yourself this book!!! As Soon as I finished it, I am impatiently waiting to read a fourth!!!!!
**This is Extreme Horror; TW: Child and animal a**se; s**ual viol*nce; graphic descriptions of some horrific setups. Do Not pick up this book if you are not prepared for graphic details."
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