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Angels Bleed
This is an alternate cover edition of ISBN#
1494298643
24 Hours
A remote country house.
A dead body in a blood spattered drawing room.
A 6ft square container next to the body.
24 hours
A padded cell.
A single chair bolted to the floor.
A woman bound hand and foot to the chair.
DI Saul has just 24 hours to find out who the killer of the dead body is.
24 Hours to work out how the woman in the cell is linked with the murder.
24 hours in which at every turn, his own life seems to be inextricably linked with the events that unfold.
24 hours before the container in the room explodes....
Warning: Adult Content and Sexually Explicit Material.
1494298643
24 Hours
A remote country house.
A dead body in a blood spattered drawing room.
A 6ft square container next to the body.
24 hours
A padded cell.
A single chair bolted to the floor.
A woman bound hand and foot to the chair.
DI Saul has just 24 hours to find out who the killer of the dead body is.
24 Hours to work out how the woman in the cell is linked with the murder.
24 hours in which at every turn, his own life seems to be inextricably linked with the events that unfold.
24 hours before the container in the room explodes....
Warning: Adult Content and Sexually Explicit Material.
Paperback
First published November 18, 2012
45 people are currently reading
666 people want to read
About the author
Max Hardy
6 books24 followersMax lives in the Scottish Borders with his wife, family, two cats and two dogs.
In 2008 he rediscovered a pile of notebooks in a box in a cupboard. They were full of poems, drawings, short stories and other scribbles that he had written as a child and during his teens. He decided it was time to pick up where he had left off in his teens and in 2009, compiled his first poetry collection, ‘Soul Whispers’, as a Christmas present for his wife Lilibeth.
In 2010 he started working on his first novel, picking up some ideas from the old notebooks. Over the next three years he fleshed out the storylines for a trilogy and in 2013, published the first part, ‘Angels Bleed’. ‘Her Moons Denouement’ was published in 2014 and the final part of the trilogy, ‘Murder Path’ was published in 2015.
He has also published a further two poetry collections, ‘My Dark Disease’ in 2012 and ‘The Alchemy Of Swaying Hips’ in 2014.
His next projects are a new poetry collection entitled ‘Catching Reflections’ and a new DCI Jeremiah Strange psychological thriller entitled ‘Voodoo Blood’.
In 2008 he rediscovered a pile of notebooks in a box in a cupboard. They were full of poems, drawings, short stories and other scribbles that he had written as a child and during his teens. He decided it was time to pick up where he had left off in his teens and in 2009, compiled his first poetry collection, ‘Soul Whispers’, as a Christmas present for his wife Lilibeth.
In 2010 he started working on his first novel, picking up some ideas from the old notebooks. Over the next three years he fleshed out the storylines for a trilogy and in 2013, published the first part, ‘Angels Bleed’. ‘Her Moons Denouement’ was published in 2014 and the final part of the trilogy, ‘Murder Path’ was published in 2015.
He has also published a further two poetry collections, ‘My Dark Disease’ in 2012 and ‘The Alchemy Of Swaying Hips’ in 2014.
His next projects are a new poetry collection entitled ‘Catching Reflections’ and a new DCI Jeremiah Strange psychological thriller entitled ‘Voodoo Blood’.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
November 4, 2015
This one was a shocker!
Angels Bleed is the first book in a trilogy. All three are available in print, but Angels Bleed is the only one on audio at the moment.
D.I. John Saul is sent to a murder scene in a secluded country house. It turns out to be a set-up. An unknown caller gives Saul 24 hours to present the murderer of the body displayed. If he doesn't, a box wired to explode in 24 hours, will kill the unknown person contained in that box. Twisted, right? It gets more complicated.
Rebecca Angus has already confessed to the evil murder and is incarcerated in a psychiatric facility.
In alternating chapters, Rebecca's horrifying story is gradually revealed from her point of view while D.I. John Saul races against the clock to uncover the truth. Saul is a complex character, and his personal life is a mess. But it's going to get a whole lot worse.
Angels Bleed is a well executed crime / psychological thriller with excellent, well developed characters. It has lots of twists and turns and keeps you guessing all the way through. The ending was totally unexpected. It left me with more questions than answers though, and I am now desperately waiting for the audio release of Her Moons Denouement, book 2 in the series.
A word of warning: this is the sort of book that you have to go into with an open mind and a willingness to suspend disbelief.
It is sexually explicit containing scenes of voyeurism and sadomasochism. However, the scenes are all relevant to the story. Reading/Listening to a lot of thrillers and also erotic romances, I am not easily flustered. But there were a couple of scenes here that were stomach churning. If you can cope with the extremely dark side of human nature, however, then this is a great thriller. The author also publishes poetry, and that was apparent in his lyrical descriptions.
The narration of the audiobook was ok. It took me a while to get into it because it was difficult to tell the characters apart. I had to really focus on who was saying what. For Rebecca's part especially, I would have liked a more female sounding voice. But I know that's a personal preference, as some listeners like narrators who don't act but just narrate. The narrator has a crystal clear Scottish tone that was easy to understand and pleasant to listen to, and his pace was excellent.
Overall, not for the fainthearted, but well worthwhile if you enjoy dark, gritty and fast paced and if you can cope with some sordid scenes.
A free copy of the audiobook was provided by audiobookreviewer.com in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks to the author and to Audiobookreviewer.
Angels Bleed is the first book in a trilogy. All three are available in print, but Angels Bleed is the only one on audio at the moment.
D.I. John Saul is sent to a murder scene in a secluded country house. It turns out to be a set-up. An unknown caller gives Saul 24 hours to present the murderer of the body displayed. If he doesn't, a box wired to explode in 24 hours, will kill the unknown person contained in that box. Twisted, right? It gets more complicated.
Rebecca Angus has already confessed to the evil murder and is incarcerated in a psychiatric facility.
In alternating chapters, Rebecca's horrifying story is gradually revealed from her point of view while D.I. John Saul races against the clock to uncover the truth. Saul is a complex character, and his personal life is a mess. But it's going to get a whole lot worse.
Angels Bleed is a well executed crime / psychological thriller with excellent, well developed characters. It has lots of twists and turns and keeps you guessing all the way through. The ending was totally unexpected. It left me with more questions than answers though, and I am now desperately waiting for the audio release of Her Moons Denouement, book 2 in the series.
A word of warning: this is the sort of book that you have to go into with an open mind and a willingness to suspend disbelief.
It is sexually explicit containing scenes of voyeurism and sadomasochism. However, the scenes are all relevant to the story. Reading/Listening to a lot of thrillers and also erotic romances, I am not easily flustered. But there were a couple of scenes here that were stomach churning. If you can cope with the extremely dark side of human nature, however, then this is a great thriller. The author also publishes poetry, and that was apparent in his lyrical descriptions.
The narration of the audiobook was ok. It took me a while to get into it because it was difficult to tell the characters apart. I had to really focus on who was saying what. For Rebecca's part especially, I would have liked a more female sounding voice. But I know that's a personal preference, as some listeners like narrators who don't act but just narrate. The narrator has a crystal clear Scottish tone that was easy to understand and pleasant to listen to, and his pace was excellent.
Overall, not for the fainthearted, but well worthwhile if you enjoy dark, gritty and fast paced and if you can cope with some sordid scenes.
A free copy of the audiobook was provided by audiobookreviewer.com in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks to the author and to Audiobookreviewer.
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October 12, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/12/2021)! 🎁
January 16, 2015
Usually I'm a little suspect about free e-books, but I am glad to say I was pleasantly surprised by this one.
A top class police suspense thriller that kept me hooked from start to finish.
Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
A top class police suspense thriller that kept me hooked from start to finish.
Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
June 6, 2019
Stunned, that's how this story left me feeling. It is a dark, very twisted, psychological thriller, that left me both disgusted, yet totally enraptured.
Do you think they'll make it in time before that container explodes? Maybe.
There's sex, BDSM, murder, loneliness, excitement... fancy any of those? Then devour each page immediately.
Stunning tale for only the most twisted individual.
Do you think they'll make it in time before that container explodes? Maybe.
There's sex, BDSM, murder, loneliness, excitement... fancy any of those? Then devour each page immediately.
Stunning tale for only the most twisted individual.
September 18, 2024
Wow!
I read a lot of psychological thrillers but this book is something else. Literally jaw dropping in places. Really dark, gnarly, emotionally disturbing and that is what makes it stand out. In parts I was saying "omg no no no" out loud and I honestly can't recall the last time a story caused me to react so strongly. Can't wait to read the next one even though I may need therapy after!
I read a lot of psychological thrillers but this book is something else. Literally jaw dropping in places. Really dark, gnarly, emotionally disturbing and that is what makes it stand out. In parts I was saying "omg no no no" out loud and I honestly can't recall the last time a story caused me to react so strongly. Can't wait to read the next one even though I may need therapy after!
January 3, 2018
I won't go into detail but I have read the whole series and enjoyed them all.
January 20, 2014
“Angels Bleed” was a hard book to get through purely because of the subject matter. The writing was okay although much of the dialog seemed stiff and mannered as if this were some outing for Masterpiece Theater. Set within the confines of a “24 hour to solve the mystery” type of story, this police thriller sets a pace and keeps at it relentlessly. Basically this is a “Mysterious Caller has the police dancing to his tune” kind of thing, but the execution is well done. A body is found in a puzzling room next to a six-foot square box that has been wired with explosives. Video feeds show a person assumed to be trapped in the box and if the police, specifically DI Saul, do not do as directed, BOOM!!!
The killer already having confessed, been tried for the murder and committed to a mental institution complicates the search for the killer. Complications arise and the story takes an evil turn when the realm of S & M goes on display, leather, whips, domination and submission, torture and forbidden intercourse make their way into the three quarters of the story. Reading this nearly poetic representation of the bizarre side of human interactions made my skin crawl and made me wonder about the author’s likes and dislikes.
A tough read to get through due to the subject matter, and it only got darker the further in I went. As far as the resolution: I was left feeling cheated as many of the things that had to have happened for the story to unreel as it did would have been impossible to set up.
This was a disturbing Goodreads win and I wonder what the future will bring from this author. Will it be more of the dark alleys of the human psyche or something more main stream?
I'm not certain on how to rate this book. The writing was adequate but the subject gave me the heeby-geebies, so I'm going with a high 2.75 stars, making it a three star review. I liked it but do not recommend it.
The killer already having confessed, been tried for the murder and committed to a mental institution complicates the search for the killer. Complications arise and the story takes an evil turn when the realm of S & M goes on display, leather, whips, domination and submission, torture and forbidden intercourse make their way into the three quarters of the story. Reading this nearly poetic representation of the bizarre side of human interactions made my skin crawl and made me wonder about the author’s likes and dislikes.
A tough read to get through due to the subject matter, and it only got darker the further in I went. As far as the resolution: I was left feeling cheated as many of the things that had to have happened for the story to unreel as it did would have been impossible to set up.
This was a disturbing Goodreads win and I wonder what the future will bring from this author. Will it be more of the dark alleys of the human psyche or something more main stream?
I'm not certain on how to rate this book. The writing was adequate but the subject gave me the heeby-geebies, so I'm going with a high 2.75 stars, making it a three star review. I liked it but do not recommend it.
January 7, 2014
This story takes you into the dark regions of the human mind most keep locked up tight. It shares with us the thoughts and actions of those who delight in inflicting pain and instilling fear. A mission of life and death is delegated, and we can literally hear the tick-tock of the clock as the countdown nears completion.
These are characters you must become acquainted with, and their story is one you must share. Once you are pulled into their world of depravity and torment, it is only they who may release you.
Purchase your ticket and fasten your seatbelt securely. This is one journey you must undertake to its ultimate destination. But be warned. Once your journey starts, and you begin turning these pages, there are no rest stops along the way. You won't seek them anyway because you will need to see all and you will need to know all.
I strongly recommend reading Angels Bleed in the bright light of day. Really...
These are characters you must become acquainted with, and their story is one you must share. Once you are pulled into their world of depravity and torment, it is only they who may release you.
Purchase your ticket and fasten your seatbelt securely. This is one journey you must undertake to its ultimate destination. But be warned. Once your journey starts, and you begin turning these pages, there are no rest stops along the way. You won't seek them anyway because you will need to see all and you will need to know all.
I strongly recommend reading Angels Bleed in the bright light of day. Really...
August 1, 2018
This could do with proof reading a bit more, a few mistakes which nearly made me delete the book at around the second chapter!! That got better as the book went on but then a couple of times the writer had got the names muddled up, but if you knew what was going on it could be worked out simply enough. However, it was the storyline which kept me going, it was BRILLIANT!! A story I wouldn't normally go for, so glad I didn't delete it.
March 5, 2014
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
This story started out a little slow, maybe it had to deal with getting an understanding of the Police Structure of the UK. It was an interesting story and it moved along pretty well. The ending was a little confusing. I am not sure what exactly happened or the significance of the reveals at the end. All in all a pretty good book with a disappointing ending.
This story started out a little slow, maybe it had to deal with getting an understanding of the Police Structure of the UK. It was an interesting story and it moved along pretty well. The ending was a little confusing. I am not sure what exactly happened or the significance of the reveals at the end. All in all a pretty good book with a disappointing ending.
November 21, 2015
The blurb sounded fascinating: a murder investigation in a baroque mansion and a crazy lady in the loony bin. Somehow, both plots are intertwined and DI Saul has 24 hours to clear the crazy lady, who was accused of murder. The plot held my interest and made me cringe (in a good way - many things that happen in this book would make a grown man cry). But overall I was disappointed, as I saw most of the twists coming but then I didn't get the ending. I guess that it was just not my cup of tea.
January 21, 2016
This was an exciting and intense story right up to the end. The threads were all resolved, but the motivation for this elaborate scheme is totally unclear.
I finished the book in a state of confusion.
Alex More's accent lends atmosphere and authenticity to the story. His performance is quite satisfactory. I just wish the ending was as good as the rest
of the story.
NOTE: I received a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for this unbiased review.
I finished the book in a state of confusion.
Alex More's accent lends atmosphere and authenticity to the story. His performance is quite satisfactory. I just wish the ending was as good as the rest
of the story.
NOTE: I received a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for this unbiased review.
May 5, 2015
This wasn't as good as 'Her Moons Decnouncment' not sure if this is because I read them out of sequence. What really let the story down, and by the end just became damn annoying was all incorrect spelling, typos, to the extent that in places it changed the whole sentence. It really pays to edit, edit, edit.
June 11, 2016
WOW!!!
What a book I gave this 5stars as I read it in 3days could not put it down,
This is first modern day murder I have read,wasn't disappointed as I usually read historical murders.
Was very dark,sexual and had twists that kept me turning pages,cannot wait to start the next story to see how it developed....surely loved this book.
What a book I gave this 5stars as I read it in 3days could not put it down,
This is first modern day murder I have read,wasn't disappointed as I usually read historical murders.
Was very dark,sexual and had twists that kept me turning pages,cannot wait to start the next story to see how it developed....surely loved this book.
February 27, 2014
A can't put down edge of your seat psychological thriller. Angels Bleed is a raw and dark world that will crawl under your skin. Very we'll written with a great creepy story. I really enjoyed it.
I won this book through goodreads.
I won this book through goodreads.
January 14, 2015
Its a long time since i read a book that i didnt want to put down, but this is gripping, its a shame that whoever transcribed it to Kindle, made so many mistakes, missed words/ wrong words, which shows how good the story was to keep me reading, onto "Her Moons Denouement" now :)
March 23, 2015
Strange, but good.
I almost stopped reading this book about a fourth of the way through because of some parts being hard to handle. I'm glad I persevered because it ended up being a great mystery/thriller with no hint as to how it would end.
I almost stopped reading this book about a fourth of the way through because of some parts being hard to handle. I'm glad I persevered because it ended up being a great mystery/thriller with no hint as to how it would end.
August 8, 2014
a little hard to get into but once you're in there's no going back! gritty dirty and twisty! a great read as long as you persist!
October 18, 2017
I'm really unsure on my feelings of this book.
So I've had this book sitting on my kindle for a while now, so I though I would give it a try. I love a good old murder mystery. But this book was a little different. I found it slow starting and with the different characters POVs I couldn't get into the story properly. I found I also couldn't connect with the characters, which was disappointing.
But for some reason I kept reading, I kept turning those pages because I needed to find out who was the real killer in all this.
But I have to say I was really disappointed and confused by the ending. It didn't explain who this mystery woman was and it left me with more questions then answers in the end. I cant say I enjoyed the book enough to warrant me reading the next one.
So I've had this book sitting on my kindle for a while now, so I though I would give it a try. I love a good old murder mystery. But this book was a little different. I found it slow starting and with the different characters POVs I couldn't get into the story properly. I found I also couldn't connect with the characters, which was disappointing.
But for some reason I kept reading, I kept turning those pages because I needed to find out who was the real killer in all this.
But I have to say I was really disappointed and confused by the ending. It didn't explain who this mystery woman was and it left me with more questions then answers in the end. I cant say I enjoyed the book enough to warrant me reading the next one.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews