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The Eleven
'The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo' meets 'Eyes Wide Shut' in this twisted, psychological thriller about a screenwriter's perilous descent into an age-old Hollywood cult.
For years, rumors have circulated amongst the Hollywood elite, whispers of a mysterious symbol veiled beneath the glitz and glamor of this town—XIIX. Many believe that the symbol leads the seeker to greatness, to golden statues, and unparalleled riches. The chance to become a Hollywood god. Others claim that the symbol brings tragedy and destruction upon those it finds. That it is a mark from the devil himself. Abandon all hope, ye who enter.
Good or evil, I’ll let you decide.
I have the story of a lifetime. A wild conspiracy that will bring this town to its knees. If only I live long enough to tell it.
SYNOPSIS:
Savannah Beck is missing, and the celebrity tabloid InsideJuice is eager for the scoop. Short on staffers, the site assigns intern Conner Daniels to follow up on a peculiar email from renowned screenwriter Kohl Reynolds, claiming to have only two days before a shocking secret goes with him to the grave.
Desperate for his big break, Conner tracks down the tormented writer, who has recently spiraled into drug-addled obscurity. But when the truth begins to emerge, and Reynolds becomes the primary suspect in Beck’s disappearance, the interview becomes the center of a national media circus.
To uncover the truth, Reynolds must reveal a lifetime of heartbreak and fame, of drugs and money, of muses and great loves, of powerful symbols and evil shadows hiding among the Hollywood elite.
In the end, Kohl’s testimony could uncover a century-old conspiracy, if only Conner can find the courage to confront his own mysterious connection to the screenwriter—and reveal the secret to the world.
For years, rumors have circulated amongst the Hollywood elite, whispers of a mysterious symbol veiled beneath the glitz and glamor of this town—XIIX. Many believe that the symbol leads the seeker to greatness, to golden statues, and unparalleled riches. The chance to become a Hollywood god. Others claim that the symbol brings tragedy and destruction upon those it finds. That it is a mark from the devil himself. Abandon all hope, ye who enter.
Good or evil, I’ll let you decide.
I have the story of a lifetime. A wild conspiracy that will bring this town to its knees. If only I live long enough to tell it.
SYNOPSIS:
Savannah Beck is missing, and the celebrity tabloid InsideJuice is eager for the scoop. Short on staffers, the site assigns intern Conner Daniels to follow up on a peculiar email from renowned screenwriter Kohl Reynolds, claiming to have only two days before a shocking secret goes with him to the grave.
Desperate for his big break, Conner tracks down the tormented writer, who has recently spiraled into drug-addled obscurity. But when the truth begins to emerge, and Reynolds becomes the primary suspect in Beck’s disappearance, the interview becomes the center of a national media circus.
To uncover the truth, Reynolds must reveal a lifetime of heartbreak and fame, of drugs and money, of muses and great loves, of powerful symbols and evil shadows hiding among the Hollywood elite.
In the end, Kohl’s testimony could uncover a century-old conspiracy, if only Conner can find the courage to confront his own mysterious connection to the screenwriter—and reveal the secret to the world.
358 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 11, 2024
About the author
Kyle Rutkin
9 books217 followersAuthor and Creative Ritualist. Follow my newsletter The Creative Ritual on Substack. https://creativeritual.substack.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
January 11, 2025
4.79 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you to Net Galley, Greater Path LLC, and Died Famous Productions for the advanced copy of this title. The Eleven is a shorter read at 356 pages, and the synopsis is dead on about the description, but let me add Suspiria (the 70s) version to that comparison.
There is a presence in this book. It focuses on a screenwriter's (Kohl Reynolds) journey into the depths of dark Hollywood as he descends into madness, searching for a strange symbol he can’t escape.
This story digs into the seedy, gritty, grimy side of Hollywood as told by actors, producers, directors, and, yes …screenwriters. Hollywood has always been depicted (in novels and movies) as a place where dreams come true, but the story makes a place where dreams come to die and innocence is lost.
Our protagonist is very insecure, with the maturation of a 13-year-old. He’s hit rock bottom so many times that it’s unnatural.
The story also depicts the nature of humans being thirsty for all things celebrity. We are a culture obsessed with what they are wearing, eating, drinking, saying, and or doing …it’s never enough to satiate our wanting to know every part of their lives, good and bad. We crave the despicable.
What’s unbelievable for me is made-up movies and screenplay pitches that are ridiculous plots deemed to block bluster-Oscar-worthy successes.
What I loved was the world created within Kohl’s dreamscapes between reality and a fever dream or drug-induced haze. In some instances, we don't know what’s real or the dream due to the way the story sets the context. It’s so imaginative in a 70s dream within a dream style. (Suspiria)
There are many BIG secrets revealed at the end, which I didn’t see coming. This reveal leaves everything in an open state of starting this story again with a different character and a new ending.
Thank you to Net Galley, Greater Path LLC, and Died Famous Productions for the advanced copy of this title. The Eleven is a shorter read at 356 pages, and the synopsis is dead on about the description, but let me add Suspiria (the 70s) version to that comparison.
There is a presence in this book. It focuses on a screenwriter's (Kohl Reynolds) journey into the depths of dark Hollywood as he descends into madness, searching for a strange symbol he can’t escape.
This story digs into the seedy, gritty, grimy side of Hollywood as told by actors, producers, directors, and, yes …screenwriters. Hollywood has always been depicted (in novels and movies) as a place where dreams come true, but the story makes a place where dreams come to die and innocence is lost.
Our protagonist is very insecure, with the maturation of a 13-year-old. He’s hit rock bottom so many times that it’s unnatural.
The story also depicts the nature of humans being thirsty for all things celebrity. We are a culture obsessed with what they are wearing, eating, drinking, saying, and or doing …it’s never enough to satiate our wanting to know every part of their lives, good and bad. We crave the despicable.
What’s unbelievable for me is made-up movies and screenplay pitches that are ridiculous plots deemed to block bluster-Oscar-worthy successes.
What I loved was the world created within Kohl’s dreamscapes between reality and a fever dream or drug-induced haze. In some instances, we don't know what’s real or the dream due to the way the story sets the context. It’s so imaginative in a 70s dream within a dream style. (Suspiria)
There are many BIG secrets revealed at the end, which I didn’t see coming. This reveal leaves everything in an open state of starting this story again with a different character and a new ending.
May 19, 2024
Thank you for taking the time to check out my novel! On the surface, it is a pulse-pounding thriller with shocking twists and enigmatic secrets about an age-old Hollywood cult. But to me, it’s so much more than that. It is by far my most personal novel to date. It is about heartbreak and fame; it is about pursuing your dream against all odds. It’s about great muses and loves, and the cost of chasing fame and fortune. But most of all, it is about going on a journey into the depths of one’s soul to discover the truth and the divine within us. I'd be honored if you'd add my novel to your TBR and give The Eleven a chance.
May 9, 2024
So truthfully a lot of the ending felt like I was the one being succumbed to a drug induced fever dream.
It was effective although not a pleasant journey for me.
I love what everything stood for though. I love that this is an exploration of self and trauma.
It was effective although not a pleasant journey for me.
I love what everything stood for though. I love that this is an exploration of self and trauma.
May 16, 2024
Savannah Beck. A beautiful actress who is missing. Kohl Reynolds. Hollywood’s bad boy and ex-boyfriend to Savannah. Connor. An intern at a top celebrity-gossip site. Soon these three lives will connect in a way no one saw coming.
Connor’s boss wants a story, but only Connor has access to Kohl. So begins the interview of a lifetime. It all has to mean something.
While reading this fabulous book, I kept thinking back to the “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.” The interview style in which the story is told from is very similar. Which coincidently, I’m reading another book, “Oriana,” that again, is very similar also - the narrative is told from an interview point. I just love this type of storytelling. So this book hooked me immediately.
As the story unfolds and we learn of all the back stories to Hollywood, Kohl, and Savannah the book just gets better and better. It’s an extremely well written book that I couldn’t put down.
What’s the meaning behind the number 11 - and what’s with this symbol XIIX? The answers lie within.
An intriguing and compelling ride that will not disappoint. I will def be buying all of this author’s books now!
You know how there are some books you read and just think wow this book deserves all of the attention? Well, this is one of those books. The storytelling is … just astounding.
Also, where many many, too many, books drop off in the middle of the story, this book gets better and the action picked up instead of dying off. All round 5 stars!
#theeleven
Connor’s boss wants a story, but only Connor has access to Kohl. So begins the interview of a lifetime. It all has to mean something.
While reading this fabulous book, I kept thinking back to the “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.” The interview style in which the story is told from is very similar. Which coincidently, I’m reading another book, “Oriana,” that again, is very similar also - the narrative is told from an interview point. I just love this type of storytelling. So this book hooked me immediately.
As the story unfolds and we learn of all the back stories to Hollywood, Kohl, and Savannah the book just gets better and better. It’s an extremely well written book that I couldn’t put down.
What’s the meaning behind the number 11 - and what’s with this symbol XIIX? The answers lie within.
An intriguing and compelling ride that will not disappoint. I will def be buying all of this author’s books now!
You know how there are some books you read and just think wow this book deserves all of the attention? Well, this is one of those books. The storytelling is … just astounding.
Also, where many many, too many, books drop off in the middle of the story, this book gets better and the action picked up instead of dying off. All round 5 stars!
#theeleven
August 25, 2024
5+⭐️
This book is SO intense. I found myself swallowed up, the pit of my stomach full of simultaneous intrigue, anticipation and dread. I was hanging on to every word until the end.
There is an intense looming darkness throughout, total Eyes Wide Shut vibes. A captivating story told by Kohl, a famous screen writer, while on the run from the law. He recounts his life-shattering obsession for unraveling the secrets of a mysterious symbol that has been haunting him for decades.
Memories of his past are blocked, while 3 hooded figures haunt his mind. Or are they truly following him? Do as they wish, and you will be rewarded.
Would you tango with the devil himself, to unearth your true greatness? “The monsters and demons needed liberation for genius to emerge”
An intense gothic psychological thriller, perfect for conspiracy fans. It will mess with your mind in beautifully dark ways. The number 11 may never have the same meaning. It begs the question, can evil things come from something created with good intentions?
“You shall decide what comes next… Make it count.”
Guys, this book was so beautifully written, it was a work of art. The author went to the depths of his fears, and poured it out in a journey for us, leading us through to the light. Read the Author’s Note at the End. I will be checking out his other books. And would love to see this as a 🎥 💕
This book is SO intense. I found myself swallowed up, the pit of my stomach full of simultaneous intrigue, anticipation and dread. I was hanging on to every word until the end.
There is an intense looming darkness throughout, total Eyes Wide Shut vibes. A captivating story told by Kohl, a famous screen writer, while on the run from the law. He recounts his life-shattering obsession for unraveling the secrets of a mysterious symbol that has been haunting him for decades.
Memories of his past are blocked, while 3 hooded figures haunt his mind. Or are they truly following him? Do as they wish, and you will be rewarded.
Would you tango with the devil himself, to unearth your true greatness? “The monsters and demons needed liberation for genius to emerge”
An intense gothic psychological thriller, perfect for conspiracy fans. It will mess with your mind in beautifully dark ways. The number 11 may never have the same meaning. It begs the question, can evil things come from something created with good intentions?
“You shall decide what comes next… Make it count.”
Guys, this book was so beautifully written, it was a work of art. The author went to the depths of his fears, and poured it out in a journey for us, leading us through to the light. Read the Author’s Note at the End. I will be checking out his other books. And would love to see this as a 🎥 💕
March 13, 2024
What would you do to become famous?
This is a amazing installment to Kyle Rutkins Died Famous series. These are amazing books to get into as they are more cult horror then gore. Cult Horror keeps you shocked by the storyline instead of relying on the gore factor.
They have an amazing storyline they keep you turning the page. Kyle makes you waver between thinking Kohl is crazy or a cold blooded killer looking for fame.
I love an ending that keeps you thinking after you finish the book.
If you love:
🔺Cult Horror
🔺Little to no gore
🔺Unreliable Narrator
Genre: Horror
APK: Ebook
Pages: 316 (paperback edition)
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Series or Standalone: Interconnected stand-alone in the Died Famous Series
Thank you NetGalley and Died Famous for sending me a free copy of this book for an honest review.
This is a amazing installment to Kyle Rutkins Died Famous series. These are amazing books to get into as they are more cult horror then gore. Cult Horror keeps you shocked by the storyline instead of relying on the gore factor.
They have an amazing storyline they keep you turning the page. Kyle makes you waver between thinking Kohl is crazy or a cold blooded killer looking for fame.
I love an ending that keeps you thinking after you finish the book.
If you love:
🔺Cult Horror
🔺Little to no gore
🔺Unreliable Narrator
Genre: Horror
APK: Ebook
Pages: 316 (paperback edition)
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Series or Standalone: Interconnected stand-alone in the Died Famous Series
Thank you NetGalley and Died Famous for sending me a free copy of this book for an honest review.
March 16, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and Greater Path LLC/Died Famous for my arc in exchange for my unbiased opinion.
"The Eleven" by Kyle Rutkin is an "Eyes Wide Shut"-inspired Hollywood mystery that's set off by the disappearance of actress Savannah Beck. Celebrity tabloid, InsideJuice.com, sends intern, Connor Daniels, to investigate a potential lead with screenwriter Kohl Reynolds. Once renowned, Kohl claims to have a world shattering story for Connor but he only has two days to give it.
This did remind me of "Eyes Wide Shut" but it also heavily reminded me of "Under the Silver Lake" which also takes place in Los Angeles and also looks at a mysterious cult that's behind the success of the Hollywood elite. I really enjoyed this. It was easy to get invested in the story and the mystery of everything but around the 60-70% mark, it kind of dragged for me. I just felt like a lot of information was being dumped on us through Kohl's recollection and I was kind of getting bored because he was literally info dumping everything that had happened. Yes, it mattered to the overall story, but it was just a lot all at once.
That said, I enjoyed reading this. It was creepy, interesting, and it totally reminded me of Los Angeles. As a Californian who grew up visiting family in LA who worked in the industry, I felt like this cult was plausible for sure.
"The Eleven" by Kyle Rutkin is an "Eyes Wide Shut"-inspired Hollywood mystery that's set off by the disappearance of actress Savannah Beck. Celebrity tabloid, InsideJuice.com, sends intern, Connor Daniels, to investigate a potential lead with screenwriter Kohl Reynolds. Once renowned, Kohl claims to have a world shattering story for Connor but he only has two days to give it.
This did remind me of "Eyes Wide Shut" but it also heavily reminded me of "Under the Silver Lake" which also takes place in Los Angeles and also looks at a mysterious cult that's behind the success of the Hollywood elite. I really enjoyed this. It was easy to get invested in the story and the mystery of everything but around the 60-70% mark, it kind of dragged for me. I just felt like a lot of information was being dumped on us through Kohl's recollection and I was kind of getting bored because he was literally info dumping everything that had happened. Yes, it mattered to the overall story, but it was just a lot all at once.
That said, I enjoyed reading this. It was creepy, interesting, and it totally reminded me of Los Angeles. As a Californian who grew up visiting family in LA who worked in the industry, I felt like this cult was plausible for sure.
April 29, 2024
"𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕'𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒇𝒖𝒏𝒏𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒃𝒓𝒐𝒌𝒆𝒏 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆: 𝒘𝒆 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒌𝒆𝒆𝒑 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒄𝒕."
HOLY FUCK.
This book surprised me in the best way possible. I had applied for the arc, because why not? It looked like a short novella and it was a mystery, and it seemed fun.
But then i actually read it.
And it was like the gates of hell opened before me the way i was sucked in and consumed with it. The Eleven deserves entirely more hype, and more importantly, deserves to be SEEN more because it’s SO GOOD.
There’s something to be said about books based in Hollywood surrounding a murder: they’re overused, constantly done, nothing different, yet this book manages to center itself from the rest. It’s also marketed terribly; if anything, this is 50s Hollywood aesthetic meets an A24 horror film.
The book does suffer from a slightly rushed and mediocre ending, and it could be longer to flesh out the characters more, but the general plot as well as the reveals are done so well that you can blink pass these.
I say give it a try. Why not? Undecim, after all.
HOLY FUCK.
This book surprised me in the best way possible. I had applied for the arc, because why not? It looked like a short novella and it was a mystery, and it seemed fun.
But then i actually read it.
And it was like the gates of hell opened before me the way i was sucked in and consumed with it. The Eleven deserves entirely more hype, and more importantly, deserves to be SEEN more because it’s SO GOOD.
There’s something to be said about books based in Hollywood surrounding a murder: they’re overused, constantly done, nothing different, yet this book manages to center itself from the rest. It’s also marketed terribly; if anything, this is 50s Hollywood aesthetic meets an A24 horror film.
The book does suffer from a slightly rushed and mediocre ending, and it could be longer to flesh out the characters more, but the general plot as well as the reveals are done so well that you can blink pass these.
I say give it a try. Why not? Undecim, after all.
April 18, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up.
I really loved this book and it’s by far my favorite in the Died Famous series. This is the same world as the previous books, but new characters. It can be read as a stand alone.
Think: Hollywood cult that sells their soul to the devil to become famous (mostly in their own mind). It gives Illuminati and dark creepy undertones in the Hollywood setting. It’s really timely and relevant for right now also. An easy read yet complicated storyline. Loved it. I need to gather my thoughts before my full review - thanks to Kyle for my gifted copy. 🖤 This author def deserves more hype (and to be shown off on the front tables in B&N). 😉
Look for my full review on my IG soon @ladybug_shirls
I really loved this book and it’s by far my favorite in the Died Famous series. This is the same world as the previous books, but new characters. It can be read as a stand alone.
Think: Hollywood cult that sells their soul to the devil to become famous (mostly in their own mind). It gives Illuminati and dark creepy undertones in the Hollywood setting. It’s really timely and relevant for right now also. An easy read yet complicated storyline. Loved it. I need to gather my thoughts before my full review - thanks to Kyle for my gifted copy. 🖤 This author def deserves more hype (and to be shown off on the front tables in B&N). 😉
Look for my full review on my IG soon @ladybug_shirls
November 8, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this as I picked it up on a whim as a recommendation. I was wowed by the emotions I felt throughout this. It was intense, I cried, I felt like I was in a haze for quite a bit of this. Watching Kohl’s story unravel was so vividly depicted that I felt like a character in his battle between good and evil. I’m not normally into culty books but this fascinated me! The drugs, the scandal, the cults, the Hollywood glitz and glam, what more could you ask for from a psychological thriller?! I really, really enjoyed this one and highly recommend it!
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this as I picked it up on a whim as a recommendation. I was wowed by the emotions I felt throughout this. It was intense, I cried, I felt like I was in a haze for quite a bit of this. Watching Kohl’s story unravel was so vividly depicted that I felt like a character in his battle between good and evil. I’m not normally into culty books but this fascinated me! The drugs, the scandal, the cults, the Hollywood glitz and glam, what more could you ask for from a psychological thriller?! I really, really enjoyed this one and highly recommend it!
May 12, 2024
Glitz, glam, a missing celebrity, and a Hollywood cult.
Conner is wanting to hit his big break as a journalist. He receives a peculiar email from renowned screenwriter Kohl Reynolds, who is about to reveal the biggest celebrity secret of all time. Told between Conner and Kohls POV, we go on a journey to discover what really goes on in the dark underworld of celebrities and fame.
My favorite thing about this book was the overall "darkness" that was felt through each chapter. It made this book have some major build up until the end. Which that ending was wildddd.
This book makes you question everything, what's real and what's not. Does this dark, Hollywood cult actually exist? Because this book kind of makes it sound like it could be a possibility...
Thank you to @kmrutkin for gifting me a copy of The Eleven for an honest review! I enjoyed the read!
Conner is wanting to hit his big break as a journalist. He receives a peculiar email from renowned screenwriter Kohl Reynolds, who is about to reveal the biggest celebrity secret of all time. Told between Conner and Kohls POV, we go on a journey to discover what really goes on in the dark underworld of celebrities and fame.
My favorite thing about this book was the overall "darkness" that was felt through each chapter. It made this book have some major build up until the end. Which that ending was wildddd.
This book makes you question everything, what's real and what's not. Does this dark, Hollywood cult actually exist? Because this book kind of makes it sound like it could be a possibility...
Thank you to @kmrutkin for gifting me a copy of The Eleven for an honest review! I enjoyed the read!
April 20, 2025
Nice story. I like the portrayal of grief, betrayal, and dreams and how they can be connected.
April 28, 2024
A dark noir story centered on the internal struggles/ conflicts of being an artist and trying to leave something worthwhile behind. I really enjoyed the pacing of this story, even if some of the circumstances felt a bit too tidy. I love to hate a character, so this did not disappoint. I could definitely see this as a TV limited series, the whole thing almost read like a screen play.
Fans of Rosemary’s Baby might also enjoy this one.
Thank you to Greater Path LLC, Net Galley and the author for providing me with an ARC!
Fans of Rosemary’s Baby might also enjoy this one.
Thank you to Greater Path LLC, Net Galley and the author for providing me with an ARC!
July 5, 2024
I finished this right before I went to sleep last night and I had so many thoughts. I was mad at how it ended, I was mad that I didn't like that ending. Even with the last little bits that literally made me gasp out loud. I even get it, outside the realm, I get the ending. I guess, I just don't like that trope. I would have rather it been different.
With that being said, the first 215 pages, I literally couldn't STOP reading, it was so good. Once the "twist" happened, I rolled my eyes and stopped reading. Finished it last night, the ending wasn't as good as the beginning. Rolling my eyes tip stuff, but... take that as you will. Most people would probably really enjoy this and I might, I need to let it marinate, it already went up from 3 stars last night to 4 this morning. So who knows. I JUST HATE THAT TROPE!
With that being said, the first 215 pages, I literally couldn't STOP reading, it was so good. Once the "twist" happened, I rolled my eyes and stopped reading. Finished it last night, the ending wasn't as good as the beginning. Rolling my eyes tip stuff, but... take that as you will. Most people would probably really enjoy this and I might, I need to let it marinate, it already went up from 3 stars last night to 4 this morning. So who knows. I JUST HATE THAT TROPE!
April 13, 2024
I'm very disappointed the I didn't love this book. Kyle Rutkin is normally a 4-5 star author but the Eleven just didn't do it for me. It is partly that the book wasn't for me, partly that I think it could have done with some editing.
To be completely fair, I do think some people would love The Eleven. It has an element of dark, personal mystery and a sort of Illuminati. If you enjoy unlikeable main characters and their descent to madness, then this book might be for you. Personally I couldn't remain interested in Kohl. He comes across as a fake deep man that believes himself to be a tortured artist but really is just an asshole and a bad dad. The mystery didn't peak my interest, and I found the ending a bit messy. Too much relationship drama for me.
To be completely fair, I do think some people would love The Eleven. It has an element of dark, personal mystery and a sort of Illuminati. If you enjoy unlikeable main characters and their descent to madness, then this book might be for you. Personally I couldn't remain interested in Kohl. He comes across as a fake deep man that believes himself to be a tortured artist but really is just an asshole and a bad dad. The mystery didn't peak my interest, and I found the ending a bit messy. Too much relationship drama for me.
October 21, 2024
***Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher and author for this ARC***
I tried kids. I really really did. I got 88% of the way through before I finally gave up. This just got too ridiculous and it dragged and dragged for page after page.
***SPOILERS AHEAD***
The "Undecim" thing was played out, the scenes were all repetitive and over the top and in the end it all became stale. It was just trope after trope and none of it felt original.
This book centers on a "famous" Hollywood screenwriter Kohl Reynolds, and a young and hungry writer named Conner trying to uncover the mystery of why Kohl may be involved in the disappearance of a famous actress.
Imagine "Skulls" and "Almost Famous," but repetitive and cliché: Kohl's "dark, drug addled Hollywood writer" bit is played out, a hyperbolic representation of the "ultimate" in tortured artist tropes, and I'm convinced the author has never worked in The Industry. (I have. For a long time.)
Kohl is just an amalgamation of worn out industry stereotypes, has no redeemable qualities, and for the sheer number of times he got drugged and dumped in some underground lair or seedy NoHo alleyway by this organization, you'd think he'd have learned by now. Nope!
The whole thing just felt boring, with scene after scene of blood drinking masked cult members, flashbacks to his traumatizing childhood, and "nobody loves me!" rants.
And Jacob Perry. Oh, MY GOD. "I SOLD MY ASS TO THE DEVIL SO I COULD PLAY HITLER!" FOR CRYING OUT LOUD. REALLY? REALLY???? He's so "method" this is what he did? Jesus. (No pun intended) I'm convinced anyone who gave this over two stars knows as much about acting and Hollywood as I do about rocket surgery. I know. "But it's fiction!" you cry. Sure. But the premise is all about how this *could* be and *could* have happened, and nothing in this book suggests that outside of Kohl's visit to The Getty. (Which is nice you should go if you're ever in LA)
Miss me with this.
The only two redeemable characters and story arcs are Conner and "Pips," and they're featured so infrequently as to be essentially afterthoughts, their stories mere subplots.
With every utterance of "UNDECIM!" and "I took a bunch of drugs and trashed a hotel room at the Beverly Wilshire" and "they lead me down a dark hallway and I could feel the evil within me," I could feel the boredom and annoyance within ME grow to the point that I wondered why I was still reading this.
It should've been shorter: you don't *need* UNDECIM scenes of underground cult meetings (see what I did there?) to get your point across. OKAY, IT'S A DEVIL CULT, WE GET IT.
I hate to do this to a small author just trying to get his book out there, but if you're looking for cult centered thrillers, horror mysteries etc, you're truly better off with a cookie cutter, unoriginal NY Times mystery "bestseller." If you're interested in dark Hollywood cults where you sell your soul for succes, you're much better served looking into Scientology: THAT'S THE ACTUAL Hollywood cult.
Don't believe? Work there for a couple years and then tell me different.
Two stars. Barely. DNF list.
I tried kids. I really really did. I got 88% of the way through before I finally gave up. This just got too ridiculous and it dragged and dragged for page after page.
***SPOILERS AHEAD***
The "Undecim" thing was played out, the scenes were all repetitive and over the top and in the end it all became stale. It was just trope after trope and none of it felt original.
This book centers on a "famous" Hollywood screenwriter Kohl Reynolds, and a young and hungry writer named Conner trying to uncover the mystery of why Kohl may be involved in the disappearance of a famous actress.
Imagine "Skulls" and "Almost Famous," but repetitive and cliché: Kohl's "dark, drug addled Hollywood writer" bit is played out, a hyperbolic representation of the "ultimate" in tortured artist tropes, and I'm convinced the author has never worked in The Industry. (I have. For a long time.)
Kohl is just an amalgamation of worn out industry stereotypes, has no redeemable qualities, and for the sheer number of times he got drugged and dumped in some underground lair or seedy NoHo alleyway by this organization, you'd think he'd have learned by now. Nope!
The whole thing just felt boring, with scene after scene of blood drinking masked cult members, flashbacks to his traumatizing childhood, and "nobody loves me!" rants.
And Jacob Perry. Oh, MY GOD. "I SOLD MY ASS TO THE DEVIL SO I COULD PLAY HITLER!" FOR CRYING OUT LOUD. REALLY? REALLY???? He's so "method" this is what he did? Jesus. (No pun intended) I'm convinced anyone who gave this over two stars knows as much about acting and Hollywood as I do about rocket surgery. I know. "But it's fiction!" you cry. Sure. But the premise is all about how this *could* be and *could* have happened, and nothing in this book suggests that outside of Kohl's visit to The Getty. (Which is nice you should go if you're ever in LA)
Miss me with this.
The only two redeemable characters and story arcs are Conner and "Pips," and they're featured so infrequently as to be essentially afterthoughts, their stories mere subplots.
With every utterance of "UNDECIM!" and "I took a bunch of drugs and trashed a hotel room at the Beverly Wilshire" and "they lead me down a dark hallway and I could feel the evil within me," I could feel the boredom and annoyance within ME grow to the point that I wondered why I was still reading this.
It should've been shorter: you don't *need* UNDECIM scenes of underground cult meetings (see what I did there?) to get your point across. OKAY, IT'S A DEVIL CULT, WE GET IT.
I hate to do this to a small author just trying to get his book out there, but if you're looking for cult centered thrillers, horror mysteries etc, you're truly better off with a cookie cutter, unoriginal NY Times mystery "bestseller." If you're interested in dark Hollywood cults where you sell your soul for succes, you're much better served looking into Scientology: THAT'S THE ACTUAL Hollywood cult.
Don't believe? Work there for a couple years and then tell me different.
Two stars. Barely. DNF list.
April 3, 2024
What caught my attention about this book was the beautiful cover. Both the title and the cover feel so eerie, this book could've been about anything. But what really caught my attention was the comparison to The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo (which I loved) and Eyes Wide Shut (which freaked me the fck out). Having these two comparisons in which I have consumed in the past didn't even prepare me for what to expect because this book was a ride itself!
The Eleven is about Kohl Reynold's, a screenwriter who has produced one of the best scripts for films, and what it told for him to ascend into his fame, as well as just how deep his downfall went. All books I've read that centered Hollywood painted this world as rainbows and butterflies with a few drama points to move the plot along. This book, however, took the theme of Hollywood into a darker path where we get to peak behind the curtains. With a narrator as unreliable as Kohl is once his madness begins to fester, we as readers don't know what's reality and what is a drug induced haze.
I started this book yesterday and the way this book is paced I was able to finish it today because I just had to find out what in the world was happening. There were times were I though Kohl was genuinely mad and committing crimes with no one behind the trigger, but boy was I wrong.
I wanted more answers at the end about certain parts that I feel like were left blank (or maybe I missed it), but overall, all the reveals at the end were worth it and if you're in the mood to read about Hollyweird (and this book is coming at a perfect time with all the downfall stuff happening in celebrity culture right now), pick this up! And it's such a nice cover I will be getting it for my shelf
Thank you NetGalley, Greater Path LLC/Died Famous, and Kyle Rutkin for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Eleven is about Kohl Reynold's, a screenwriter who has produced one of the best scripts for films, and what it told for him to ascend into his fame, as well as just how deep his downfall went. All books I've read that centered Hollywood painted this world as rainbows and butterflies with a few drama points to move the plot along. This book, however, took the theme of Hollywood into a darker path where we get to peak behind the curtains. With a narrator as unreliable as Kohl is once his madness begins to fester, we as readers don't know what's reality and what is a drug induced haze.
I started this book yesterday and the way this book is paced I was able to finish it today because I just had to find out what in the world was happening. There were times were I though Kohl was genuinely mad and committing crimes with no one behind the trigger, but boy was I wrong.
I wanted more answers at the end about certain parts that I feel like were left blank (or maybe I missed it), but overall, all the reveals at the end were worth it and if you're in the mood to read about Hollyweird (and this book is coming at a perfect time with all the downfall stuff happening in celebrity culture right now), pick this up! And it's such a nice cover I will be getting it for my shelf
Thank you NetGalley, Greater Path LLC/Died Famous, and Kyle Rutkin for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2024
Thank you to @kmrutkin for my copy of The Eleven. As far as covers go-I am obsessed. It fits the novel so perfectly and gives you just the right amount of creepy, noir, culty vibes. You all know I am obsessed with cults. This also takes place in Hollywood and the dark, underbelly of the gritty glamour of desperation.
This book is straight cinematic. I could not put it down. It grabbed ahold of me and did not loosen its grip. It felt like a fever dream of sorts. I think everyone is interested in Hollywood in some aspect. Seeing what the characters do to become successful and what they give up was powerful. I loved the way everything connected at the end. Its mystery, speculative and it’s also a story of finding one’s self within darkness. I really appreciated the authors note at the end. It was raw, open and really made the novel that much more impressive.
I found out this is part of the Died Famous series by Rutkin and I must read the rest! If you are curious about this-pick it up! You won’t be sorry!
This book is straight cinematic. I could not put it down. It grabbed ahold of me and did not loosen its grip. It felt like a fever dream of sorts. I think everyone is interested in Hollywood in some aspect. Seeing what the characters do to become successful and what they give up was powerful. I loved the way everything connected at the end. Its mystery, speculative and it’s also a story of finding one’s self within darkness. I really appreciated the authors note at the end. It was raw, open and really made the novel that much more impressive.
I found out this is part of the Died Famous series by Rutkin and I must read the rest! If you are curious about this-pick it up! You won’t be sorry!
March 8, 2024
“I was thirteen when the devil marked me on the chilly streets of San Francisco.”
When I started reading this book, I wasn't sure if I would like it, but as I continued reading, it drew me in. The story revolves around Connor, an intern at a celebrity tabloid who investigates a screenwriter to find out what happened to a missing actress. The screenwriter, Kohl Reynolds, turns out to be Connor's favourite author. Kohl shares a story that involves friendship, love, betrayal, and a Hollywood elitist cult. The symbol XIIX is a recurring theme throughout the book.
Reading this book felt like watching a movie. Kyle's writing style is engaging, and he doesn't rush to get to the end. The plot twists are subtle yet powerful, and the way everything and everyone is connected is impressive. The end of the book gives a sense of happiness despite the dark storytelling. I'm grateful that I found this book on Net Galley. Kyle has done an excellent job!
April 3, 2024
Kyle Rutkin's books always entertain me. As someone fascinated by Hollywood and cults, The Eleven was double the (dark) fun. Just suspend belief and enjoy the ride.
I like how Rutkin unapologetically leans into the darkness of fame and the people who crave it. While the plot was predictable, the surreal world that Rutkin creates makes it feel fresh. Or the dark and messed up equivalent of fresh - this is a compliment. The book would make a great miniseries and I look forward to reading Kyle Rutkin's next book.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the gifted e-arc.
I like how Rutkin unapologetically leans into the darkness of fame and the people who crave it. While the plot was predictable, the surreal world that Rutkin creates makes it feel fresh. Or the dark and messed up equivalent of fresh - this is a compliment. The book would make a great miniseries and I look forward to reading Kyle Rutkin's next book.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the gifted e-arc.
April 30, 2024
Another absolute masterpiece from Kyle, I still have one more to read but I think this might be my favorite so far. I devoured this book and connected so much to the author's note at the end.
✨Vibes✨
Cult Hollywood
Secret Society
Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo X Eyes Wide Shut
Unreliable narrator
✨Vibes✨
Cult Hollywood
Secret Society
Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo X Eyes Wide Shut
Unreliable narrator
May 16, 2025
This book started so so good. So good in fact that once I finished part one i resigned myself to finish the rest of it by the end of the night. Unfortunately, the second half dragged out immensely and I was left unsatisfied by the ending. What started as a thrilling and mysterious journey ventured into the absurd by the end of the book. Good read, but a bit disappointing.
October 15, 2024
Second Book Club Read! I’m proud of myself for finishing this thriller. It was a read that was out of my comfort zone which caused a bit of confusion and mystery but it all came together at the end. WARNING: Gets a little creepy in the middle
October 18, 2024
Stepped out of my comfort zone with this one and I was pleasantly surprised. I was absolutely enthralled the entire time, begging to find out more.
I will definitely read more novels from this author and would love to see a movie adaptation for this.
I will definitely read more novels from this author and would love to see a movie adaptation for this.
March 6, 2024
What a ride! The writing for this plot line is genius, and the characters all play off one another as the secrets of Hollywood are slowly unraveling. Thrilling yet mysterious!
May 21, 2024
I think this is my new favorite 🖤
May 28, 2024
Didn't hate it but also didn't looooove it. We folkow Khol's descent into madness pretty much and by the end I thought I was also going a bit mad, just because it felt like a loooot of info from his story was being thrown at me in a short space of time. I struggled to grasp what went on and why and how. However, I did like the first half of Khol's story, I would have happily listened to his retelling of his time in Hollywood, the glam and grime of it... The side we don't get to see really.
What does tie this book up nicely and makes it makes sense is that the author tells us at the end that it's a story of self healing amd taking that into consideration you kinda get it.
Think I'll be giving another title from the author a go because I did enjoy his writing style, was easy to digest and I did feel kike I was there with the characters.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the advance reading of this book.
What does tie this book up nicely and makes it makes sense is that the author tells us at the end that it's a story of self healing amd taking that into consideration you kinda get it.
Think I'll be giving another title from the author a go because I did enjoy his writing style, was easy to digest and I did feel kike I was there with the characters.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the advance reading of this book.
May 15, 2024
This story was unlike anything I’ve read before! It did take me a little bit to get into this one to wrap my brain around what it was exactly I was reading, but once I did I was hooked.
👉🏼 A short, binge worthy read with meaning like no other!
•The note from the author at the end was beyond inspirational and made me connect with the book even more! Truly should have been at the start of the book
👉🏼 A short, binge worthy read with meaning like no other!
•The note from the author at the end was beyond inspirational and made me connect with the book even more! Truly should have been at the start of the book
March 27, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Greater Path LLC for my early access to The Eleven, in exchange for a truthful review.
There’s a bunch of Paradise Lost references in The Eleven, but it reminded me more of Goethe’s Faust – combined with Ed Brubaker comics and a touch of True Detective. If all of that’s your jam, you’ll enjoy this, which has a slow start, but gets crazier and crazier, with the more surreal material worth the wait. There’s some fascinating stuff here about the source, and cost, of creativity – be that writing, or any ego-based / catharsis-driven activity that requires solitude – and the price paid for success (or failure!) in those fiery fields.
Pulp noir horror goodness.
There’s a bunch of Paradise Lost references in The Eleven, but it reminded me more of Goethe’s Faust – combined with Ed Brubaker comics and a touch of True Detective. If all of that’s your jam, you’ll enjoy this, which has a slow start, but gets crazier and crazier, with the more surreal material worth the wait. There’s some fascinating stuff here about the source, and cost, of creativity – be that writing, or any ego-based / catharsis-driven activity that requires solitude – and the price paid for success (or failure!) in those fiery fields.
Pulp noir horror goodness.
November 22, 2024
The Eleven
Kyle Rutkin
This conspiratorial horror novel that takes on the subject of Hollywood's seedy underbelly was an extremely entertaining read.
Well written, well paced, interesting characters ...
My only critique is that I found myself confused in a few parts ... In particular, the first quarter of the novel.
But this is a book that comes highly recommended by me.
4/5
Kyle Rutkin
This conspiratorial horror novel that takes on the subject of Hollywood's seedy underbelly was an extremely entertaining read.
Well written, well paced, interesting characters ...
My only critique is that I found myself confused in a few parts ... In particular, the first quarter of the novel.
But this is a book that comes highly recommended by me.
4/5
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