What do you think?
Rate this book
Two Graves
Forty year old Preston Peterson, pudgy, myopic and socially inept, knows the terror of being bullied. From his earliest childhood memory, he has faced ridicule, name calling, harassment and beatings. Fear ruled his life, possessed him, controlled his every encounter with others.
Now, he has killed.
Now, rage rules his life.
Digging out his despised High School year book, Preston uses computer aged photographs to find and kill look-alikes of his persecutors.
The time has come for those who bullied him to pay the ultimate price for their torture.
Preston is getting even and everyone is a target.
But with a panicked city and Lieutenant Gregg Mann's task force looking for him, Preston should have remembered the Chinese proverb, "Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig TWO GRAVES."
Now, he has killed.
Now, rage rules his life.
Digging out his despised High School year book, Preston uses computer aged photographs to find and kill look-alikes of his persecutors.
The time has come for those who bullied him to pay the ultimate price for their torture.
Preston is getting even and everyone is a target.
But with a panicked city and Lieutenant Gregg Mann's task force looking for him, Preston should have remembered the Chinese proverb, "Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig TWO GRAVES."
ebook
First published June 22, 2011
49 people are currently reading
730 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
April 4, 2021
2.5 stars? Rounded up to 3 because I actually wanted to finish it.
This was an impulse purchase from an online used book seller. I'd been impressed by something, maybe the blurb, back in 2013 and added this title to my TBR. It was am impulse to clear the backlog, I guess.
It's not a bad book, which I know sounds like damning it with faint praise. Graystone is a decent writer, but I never got to sink into the story and forget that I was reading. I found a lot of the plot to be clichéd: the not-quite-straight-arrow cop, who is willing to bend the rules to get the bad guy; his reporter girlfriend; the zero who becomes a serial killer to wreck revenge on a society that never protected him from abuse; the self serving politicians that the police must endure; and, of course, the Mafioso who actually runs the city. It's the stuff of lots and lots of thrillers.
It's never a good sign when I'm editing as I read, but I'm happy to report only one matter of grammar that I would have changed, who's (the contraction of who is) to be replaced by whose (the possessive). But noticing that switched me into edit mode and I couldn't extract myself from it. The plotting was decent, but I didn't “feel” the conflicts. They were just items on a checklist, barriers that the characters must overcome, not really causing me any angst, as solutions just showed up automatically as required.
Now I must temper this lukewarm review by telling you that thrillers are not my thing, although I occasionally find one that grips me. Also, I am finding that I am less and less enamoured by books that include serial murderers. I really got into that genre ten years ago, but they're not my jam anymore. I guess what I'm saying is that your mileage may vary.
Another book that I can weed from my bookshelves and that's something I'm very pleased about.
Cross posted at my blog:
https://wanda-thenextfifty.blogspot.c...
This was an impulse purchase from an online used book seller. I'd been impressed by something, maybe the blurb, back in 2013 and added this title to my TBR. It was am impulse to clear the backlog, I guess.
It's not a bad book, which I know sounds like damning it with faint praise. Graystone is a decent writer, but I never got to sink into the story and forget that I was reading. I found a lot of the plot to be clichéd: the not-quite-straight-arrow cop, who is willing to bend the rules to get the bad guy; his reporter girlfriend; the zero who becomes a serial killer to wreck revenge on a society that never protected him from abuse; the self serving politicians that the police must endure; and, of course, the Mafioso who actually runs the city. It's the stuff of lots and lots of thrillers.
It's never a good sign when I'm editing as I read, but I'm happy to report only one matter of grammar that I would have changed, who's (the contraction of who is) to be replaced by whose (the possessive). But noticing that switched me into edit mode and I couldn't extract myself from it. The plotting was decent, but I didn't “feel” the conflicts. They were just items on a checklist, barriers that the characters must overcome, not really causing me any angst, as solutions just showed up automatically as required.
Now I must temper this lukewarm review by telling you that thrillers are not my thing, although I occasionally find one that grips me. Also, I am finding that I am less and less enamoured by books that include serial murderers. I really got into that genre ten years ago, but they're not my jam anymore. I guess what I'm saying is that your mileage may vary.
Another book that I can weed from my bookshelves and that's something I'm very pleased about.
Cross posted at my blog:
https://wanda-thenextfifty.blogspot.c...
March 26, 2012
My personal note: The fact that the serial killer in this book was a victim of bullying caught my attention. I am an activist for anti-bullying. This book illustrates just how deep the damage of bullying can go.
This was an incredibly well written novel. Mr. Graystone, you are a talented writer. Once I started reading- I was hooked. The storyline is profound, with a captivating subplot.
This book will keep you on your toes. The tension builds from the first page. The depth of the characters deepens your experience. The players are complex and may remind you of people that you actually know.
You will cringe as you live through the killer’s memories of torment and suffering. The abusive childhood created a rage so intense-it produced the serial killer. You may try to put yourself in his shoes. You may try to understand the motivation. But you may not like what you feel.
Your mind will race as the tension builds and the storylines meld. What is the connection with the serial killer and the mafia? Is the Kesle Police Department tied up with the mafia? Corruption is in the air.
How will it end?
“Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves.”
This was an incredibly well written novel. Mr. Graystone, you are a talented writer. Once I started reading- I was hooked. The storyline is profound, with a captivating subplot.
This book will keep you on your toes. The tension builds from the first page. The depth of the characters deepens your experience. The players are complex and may remind you of people that you actually know.
You will cringe as you live through the killer’s memories of torment and suffering. The abusive childhood created a rage so intense-it produced the serial killer. You may try to put yourself in his shoes. You may try to understand the motivation. But you may not like what you feel.
Your mind will race as the tension builds and the storylines meld. What is the connection with the serial killer and the mafia? Is the Kesle Police Department tied up with the mafia? Corruption is in the air.
How will it end?
“Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves.”
March 7, 2012
Two Graves
Two Graves is a great serial murderer novel. After a life of being bullied, brutally teased, of having his weakness exposed and his love spurned, this serial killer starts to mete out his revenge on those who hurt him so badly. His first killing is accidental but the power surge resulting from it breeds in this pitiful, pathetic loser an intense desire to feel the blood of his tormentors run through his hands.
Detective Mann is a good cop, an imperfect man and a thoroughly likeable character. He’s a bit of a pit bull about police work and once he sinks his teeth into a case, he can’t shake it off. His girlfriend just happens to be a reporter and although they don’t work closely with each other, both are important to the tale. There is a subplot about an organized crime boss that also runs through the book, and although his character is never really well developed, his presence is integral to some of the complicated twists and misdirections in the novel. The usual politicos are present and they are stereotypical. The denouement is totally unexpected and well done.
This is a” bloody” good book and I look forward to the prequel that Derek Graystone is writing. I predict that he will become a very well known novelist if he can keep the rest of his work at this caliber.
Two Graves is a great serial murderer novel. After a life of being bullied, brutally teased, of having his weakness exposed and his love spurned, this serial killer starts to mete out his revenge on those who hurt him so badly. His first killing is accidental but the power surge resulting from it breeds in this pitiful, pathetic loser an intense desire to feel the blood of his tormentors run through his hands.
Detective Mann is a good cop, an imperfect man and a thoroughly likeable character. He’s a bit of a pit bull about police work and once he sinks his teeth into a case, he can’t shake it off. His girlfriend just happens to be a reporter and although they don’t work closely with each other, both are important to the tale. There is a subplot about an organized crime boss that also runs through the book, and although his character is never really well developed, his presence is integral to some of the complicated twists and misdirections in the novel. The usual politicos are present and they are stereotypical. The denouement is totally unexpected and well done.
This is a” bloody” good book and I look forward to the prequel that Derek Graystone is writing. I predict that he will become a very well known novelist if he can keep the rest of his work at this caliber.
February 17, 2012
I really enjoyed Derek Graystone's book `Two Graves'. It's a complex read and I mean that in the greatest sense of the term. It is not a read you will get bored with, or lost in. It pulled me so far in, that I had real difficulty putting it down. If it weren't for taking care of my daughter, I probably wouldn't have. That's not all that common for me. It was a fascinating depiction of the mind of a killer, with solid writing that moved me swiftly through the pages. This is a clean read. If you ever wanted to step into the head of a real psycho, and also follow alongside the corruption of... (oops, sorry, no spoilers). Bottom line is, I highly recommend Two Graves. If you like psychological thrillers, YOU WANT THIS BOOK! It's the wet dream for Crime Drama readers as well. Great stuff! I will be following Derek Graystone's books. KILLER BOOK!
June 19, 2012
Really fantastic thriller and detective novel...but yeah, definitely disturbing! It's hard not to feel some empathy for the villain, Preston, who pretty much has been treated like garbage most of his life, and has let it twist him into a near demon-like character, lost in delusions and hiding behind a demeanor that most find more pathetic than dangerous. I found the idea of a serial killer growing out of severe and unrelenting bullying, all the way through from his childhood to adolescence to adulthood to be totally believable. The secondary storyline and characters, which follows more of a thriller/detective plotline, was also fascinating...it makes for an interesting combination of near horror, thriller and police procedural all in one. I don't usually read serial killer books, because when they're done well, they scare the pants off me, but they fascinate me too, so I will delve into this genre here and there. This book was no exception, for either extreme, so highly recommend, if you're into this kind of thing. Just prepare to be really creeped out...! I actually had trouble sleeping after reading this a few times, and that hasn't happened to me in a long time.
February 12, 2012
The memories of being bullied would not always fade away. Some people may nourish their rage and frustration until they snap. Such was the case with Preston Peterson and his warpath of revenge is chilling and breathtaking.
Reading this well-written novel, I felt like watching a good movie/thriller, horrified but unable to stop. I just HAD to find out what will happen and the tension kept mounting. I’m not into detective novels, but this one gripped me so firmly, I knew I was hooked from the very beginning. The well developed characters, their diversity and depth, the delightfully flowing language, the rich descriptions, all of those did the trick, keeping me on my toes up to the very end of this story.
They say ‘When you set out on revenge, dig two graves.’ Well, I’m afraid in this particular book two would be definitely not enough.
A highly recommended read!
Reading this well-written novel, I felt like watching a good movie/thriller, horrified but unable to stop. I just HAD to find out what will happen and the tension kept mounting. I’m not into detective novels, but this one gripped me so firmly, I knew I was hooked from the very beginning. The well developed characters, their diversity and depth, the delightfully flowing language, the rich descriptions, all of those did the trick, keeping me on my toes up to the very end of this story.
They say ‘When you set out on revenge, dig two graves.’ Well, I’m afraid in this particular book two would be definitely not enough.
A highly recommended read!
March 6, 2012
I reviewed this book for World Literary Cafe.
I give this book a 4 star rating. It started out great fast paced and loved it. Then in the middle it got slow. The ending picked up again.
Preston is a very sick individual. He was a victim of bullies as a child. As an adult he feels that murdering them is justified. A lot of people were bullied as a child. That doesn't give them a right to kill. Not to mention, his victims aren't even the right people!
The cops are looking all over the city for this killer. Are there dirty cops involved? Are all the cops team players?
I think the way they figured out that Preston was the killer was a little out there. It seemed a bit rushed to me. I was starting to think they would never catch him!
I give this book a 4 star rating. It started out great fast paced and loved it. Then in the middle it got slow. The ending picked up again.
Preston is a very sick individual. He was a victim of bullies as a child. As an adult he feels that murdering them is justified. A lot of people were bullied as a child. That doesn't give them a right to kill. Not to mention, his victims aren't even the right people!
The cops are looking all over the city for this killer. Are there dirty cops involved? Are all the cops team players?
I think the way they figured out that Preston was the killer was a little out there. It seemed a bit rushed to me. I was starting to think they would never catch him!
August 14, 2012
This book didn't sit all that well with me. While I always enjoy a good murder mystery or crime book this one didn't have a strong enough writing style or "hook" to make up for the crudeness of the main character. I enjoyed reading more about the detectives and their story than that of the focused character who was the murderer. I enjoyed the read, it was very quick but I'm glad it was free for my kindle and won't be a title to be seen on my shelves at home.
February 12, 2012
I was intrigued when the book began, but every time I would pick up where I left off, more new characters and plots. I couldn't follow along. I don't like to waste time, so put this one off to the side.
December 28, 2018
Sort of starts out with a boy in High School who was laughed at and bullied a lot because of his weight. This one time when a kid bullied him he threw his orange juice at him. The bullier went to run after the kid but slipped on the carton in the grass and fell hitting his head. He (Preston) got scared and run home. Next day it says the kid died from hitting his head on the rock. Preston started to think , gee I never killed no one in my life. He ends up taking revenge on all the kids in school that bullied him one by one . This also has a second story in it to involving police corruption. Got me kind of mixed up with the whose who in that part. I think if they would have left that part out it would have been better.
May 6, 2012
**This book was provided to me free-of-charge through a First Reads Goodreads giveaway.**
This thriller/suspense centres on a middle aged man, Preston Peterson, who was the victim of bullying throughout his life. Preston finally reaches his breaking point and snaps. Anger and revenge fill his heart as he uses computer aged photographs to brutally murder his past tormentors. Did I say “brutally”, what I meant was “BRUTALLY”!
I LOVE thrillers! I can even handle the grotesque, but this was over-the-top. Maybe I’m just getting more squeamish the older I get. The descriptions of the murder scenes just seemed a bit too gratuitous. I think the outcome of a murderous rage can still be effectively described without reverting to quite that much shock and awe. That being said, it’s not for me, but perhaps other people are not as bothered by it.
I take notes when I’m reading a book that I intend to review. In this case, I HAD to take notes because of the sheer number of characters involved! There are numerous detectives, the commissioner, the mob guys, the mayor, the hit guy, the suspect, the news reporter, the SOCU guys, and two names for every murder victim. I found myself flipping back and forth in my notes just to keep track of who was who.
Then there was, what I believe to be, a significant hole in the plot. It seems that Preston knew he was killing the wrong people. That came up a few times in the book. It especially made me think that there was a problem with the story when we revert to Preston’s point of view when there is a news clip after one of the murders (i.e., the father of the newborn). Watching the news clip, he expresses guilt, but he doesn’t see that the name being reported on the news clip isn’t the same as the person whom he thought he was killing!? Why does he keep referring to the victim by the name of his high school tormentor when the news story is using a different name for the victim. It just doesn’t make sense – even allowing that in his murderous rage, he becomes completely devoid of rational thought.
All that being said, I didn’t think I would finish this book because I didn’t like how women were being portrayed at the beginning of the book and the murders were so brutal, I didn’t think I could stomach much more, but there was enough in the book to keep me interested. I did end up finishing it, not because I felt obliged to, but because it was engaging enough.
This thriller/suspense centres on a middle aged man, Preston Peterson, who was the victim of bullying throughout his life. Preston finally reaches his breaking point and snaps. Anger and revenge fill his heart as he uses computer aged photographs to brutally murder his past tormentors. Did I say “brutally”, what I meant was “BRUTALLY”!
I LOVE thrillers! I can even handle the grotesque, but this was over-the-top. Maybe I’m just getting more squeamish the older I get. The descriptions of the murder scenes just seemed a bit too gratuitous. I think the outcome of a murderous rage can still be effectively described without reverting to quite that much shock and awe. That being said, it’s not for me, but perhaps other people are not as bothered by it.
I take notes when I’m reading a book that I intend to review. In this case, I HAD to take notes because of the sheer number of characters involved! There are numerous detectives, the commissioner, the mob guys, the mayor, the hit guy, the suspect, the news reporter, the SOCU guys, and two names for every murder victim. I found myself flipping back and forth in my notes just to keep track of who was who.
Then there was, what I believe to be, a significant hole in the plot. It seems that Preston knew he was killing the wrong people. That came up a few times in the book. It especially made me think that there was a problem with the story when we revert to Preston’s point of view when there is a news clip after one of the murders (i.e., the father of the newborn). Watching the news clip, he expresses guilt, but he doesn’t see that the name being reported on the news clip isn’t the same as the person whom he thought he was killing!? Why does he keep referring to the victim by the name of his high school tormentor when the news story is using a different name for the victim. It just doesn’t make sense – even allowing that in his murderous rage, he becomes completely devoid of rational thought.
All that being said, I didn’t think I would finish this book because I didn’t like how women were being portrayed at the beginning of the book and the murders were so brutal, I didn’t think I could stomach much more, but there was enough in the book to keep me interested. I did end up finishing it, not because I felt obliged to, but because it was engaging enough.
October 6, 2012
Two Graves is an exciting, gruesome thriller told from 2 points of view, the killer, and the lieutenant. With a couple different plots, this was a book I had a hard time putting down.
Right from the start we’re introduced to Preston. A man who has been bullied all his life, and even as an adult he is still easy prey. After being accosted by some teens, he finds one of them alone, and in an unfortunate accident that ends up with the death of the young boy, Preston finds pleasure in beating the already dead boy. This gives Preston his strength and courage to go on a killing spree of everyone who has ever bullied or humiliated him back in high school.
Preston is a character that I felt sorry for one minute, then despised the next. When he found his next victim, we’re taken back to the event in the past that caused his humiliation. This is where I had such sympathy. With bullying being such a hot topic in life, it was hard not to feel sorry for him. But then, we’re taken back to the present where Preston reaps his revenge. The stomach turning descriptions of the murders were quite unsettling. Much more detail than I like to read.
Lieutenant Mann is the man in charge of finding this serial killer. As well as working on this case, he’s also trying to get a top mob guy behind bars. There’s plenty of behind-the-scenes political influence taking place, and this side of the story gets quite confusing at times. There are a lot of characters involved, all with significant parts.
What I really enjoyed about this book was the fact that as we saw the investigation going on, they really had no clues to who it was. Most thrillers, they know who the suspect is, but can’t find them, but in Two Graves, there’s evidence, but no suspect. It was a clever angle, and seeing how things evolved to figure it out kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the book. I didn’t feel as if there was a surprise ending, but everything got wrapped up and left no questions unanswered.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
Right from the start we’re introduced to Preston. A man who has been bullied all his life, and even as an adult he is still easy prey. After being accosted by some teens, he finds one of them alone, and in an unfortunate accident that ends up with the death of the young boy, Preston finds pleasure in beating the already dead boy. This gives Preston his strength and courage to go on a killing spree of everyone who has ever bullied or humiliated him back in high school.
Preston is a character that I felt sorry for one minute, then despised the next. When he found his next victim, we’re taken back to the event in the past that caused his humiliation. This is where I had such sympathy. With bullying being such a hot topic in life, it was hard not to feel sorry for him. But then, we’re taken back to the present where Preston reaps his revenge. The stomach turning descriptions of the murders were quite unsettling. Much more detail than I like to read.
Lieutenant Mann is the man in charge of finding this serial killer. As well as working on this case, he’s also trying to get a top mob guy behind bars. There’s plenty of behind-the-scenes political influence taking place, and this side of the story gets quite confusing at times. There are a lot of characters involved, all with significant parts.
What I really enjoyed about this book was the fact that as we saw the investigation going on, they really had no clues to who it was. Most thrillers, they know who the suspect is, but can’t find them, but in Two Graves, there’s evidence, but no suspect. It was a clever angle, and seeing how things evolved to figure it out kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the book. I didn’t feel as if there was a surprise ending, but everything got wrapped up and left no questions unanswered.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
April 27, 2012
This is an exceptionally well-written thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. The story is about bullying and its lasting effects on the victim, namely Preston Peterson (“Preston”), who takes out his anger by killing individuals in horrific manners. Please note this book is not for the faint of heart as it contains very descriptive and gory details of the killings.
Preston is 40 years old; alone with no family or friends; ridiculed by his co-workers; scared and timid of everyone around him yet harbors such rage inside him. Preston was bullied throughout his entire school life with various forms physical abuse that sometimes led to broken bones; rumours and gossip about his sexuality; and hurtful and humiliating teasing, etc., all of which he endured on a daily basis. If that wasn’t bad enough, he also endured physical beatings by his father after school. Preston has never forgotten any of it. It’s not until one night he kills someone by accident that he discovers the euphoric feeling he gets from the individuals death. Preston releases his rage as he has begun his quest to punish all those who hurt him becoming a serial killer. Weeks go by with more and more victims piling up and the police are unable to find their suspect.
Graystone has created well-developed and realistic characters not just with Preston but also with Lieutenant Mann, Dani, the detectives and others (there are too many to be listed). He’s taken a very sensitive issue and weaved it into a gripping story. Graystone makes it even more interesting by interjecting a separate story about organized crime that includes a hit man, and corrupt cops.
I highly recommend this novel as it’s quite thought-provoking. The story of Preston really grabs yours attention with the horrors he endured as a child, which is so heart-wrenching. It is not an excuse to kill; however, his anger is understandable.
“Two Graves” is a gripping novel that all thrill-seekers should read. I look forward to Graystones’ next novel.
Preston is 40 years old; alone with no family or friends; ridiculed by his co-workers; scared and timid of everyone around him yet harbors such rage inside him. Preston was bullied throughout his entire school life with various forms physical abuse that sometimes led to broken bones; rumours and gossip about his sexuality; and hurtful and humiliating teasing, etc., all of which he endured on a daily basis. If that wasn’t bad enough, he also endured physical beatings by his father after school. Preston has never forgotten any of it. It’s not until one night he kills someone by accident that he discovers the euphoric feeling he gets from the individuals death. Preston releases his rage as he has begun his quest to punish all those who hurt him becoming a serial killer. Weeks go by with more and more victims piling up and the police are unable to find their suspect.
Graystone has created well-developed and realistic characters not just with Preston but also with Lieutenant Mann, Dani, the detectives and others (there are too many to be listed). He’s taken a very sensitive issue and weaved it into a gripping story. Graystone makes it even more interesting by interjecting a separate story about organized crime that includes a hit man, and corrupt cops.
I highly recommend this novel as it’s quite thought-provoking. The story of Preston really grabs yours attention with the horrors he endured as a child, which is so heart-wrenching. It is not an excuse to kill; however, his anger is understandable.
“Two Graves” is a gripping novel that all thrill-seekers should read. I look forward to Graystones’ next novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2011
CAUTION: This review contains spoilers.
If you are looking for a more complex mystery/crime drama, this is your book.
From the very beginning, readers are swept into the action and yet not spared good writing: intense imagery, developed characters, and a gritty, reality-driven plot line.
Graystone's characterizations ring truer than the old detective noir novels I grew up loving, and his imagery was every bit as rich. I love a good mystery and this was it. I especially liked Mann and Dani. I am heartened to learn that Graystone is working on a sequel to this, called Too Many Graves, due out in 2012. I will definitely be reading that.
Having said that, I was slightly disappointed with the overall development of some of the antagonists in the novel. The primary "villian," Preston Peterson, starts out as a complex character but in the end becomes more of a device of his role, and his motivations never become more complex. He is developed as a realized character. Yet I would expect a realized character to take more care than to just kill lookalikes. The idea he was somehow cleansing the world was a bit overwrought in my mind with the original development of the character. The other antagonists, Flem and Angelino, were not as developed and yet the last 20% of the novel was spent resolving their connection and existence. Flem appears two or three times and only once is Angelino actually introduced as anything more than a reference.
Yet overall, I enjoyed this book. The plot was not guessable, the twists not predicted, and this is a necessity for a good mystery, in my opinion. Rather than have simplistic heroes and foils, Graystone spent time developing his characters and depicting their histories and personalities. Many lesser mysteries do not do the reader this justice.
Well done, Mr Graystone.
If you are looking for a more complex mystery/crime drama, this is your book.
From the very beginning, readers are swept into the action and yet not spared good writing: intense imagery, developed characters, and a gritty, reality-driven plot line.
Graystone's characterizations ring truer than the old detective noir novels I grew up loving, and his imagery was every bit as rich. I love a good mystery and this was it. I especially liked Mann and Dani. I am heartened to learn that Graystone is working on a sequel to this, called Too Many Graves, due out in 2012. I will definitely be reading that.
Having said that, I was slightly disappointed with the overall development of some of the antagonists in the novel. The primary "villian," Preston Peterson, starts out as a complex character but in the end becomes more of a device of his role, and his motivations never become more complex. He is developed as a realized character. Yet I would expect a realized character to take more care than to just kill lookalikes. The idea he was somehow cleansing the world was a bit overwrought in my mind with the original development of the character. The other antagonists, Flem and Angelino, were not as developed and yet the last 20% of the novel was spent resolving their connection and existence. Flem appears two or three times and only once is Angelino actually introduced as anything more than a reference.
Yet overall, I enjoyed this book. The plot was not guessable, the twists not predicted, and this is a necessity for a good mystery, in my opinion. Rather than have simplistic heroes and foils, Graystone spent time developing his characters and depicting their histories and personalities. Many lesser mysteries do not do the reader this justice.
Well done, Mr Graystone.
December 11, 2012
I was bullied in school, but nowhere as bad as Preston Peterson. My bullying was more in my head than in reality, but I get how it can make you feel. I can understand how someone would want to get revenge.
In Two Graves, kind of by accident, Preston gets a taste of what it was like to strike back at the people who liked torturing the week. He got a taste for murder. And he liked it. At first I sympathised with Preston and how he wanted to get back at the bullies from his high school years, even though his revenge blinded him to the fact that he was killing people who only looked like the bullies. I was on Preston’s side right up until Benji. I dealt with the sick things this killer did. I cringed at the pain from one victim and I felt ready to vomit at what he did to the reporter, but once he killed Benji I was on Lt. Mann’s side.
As a second story Lt. Mann, a cop who put his own reputation on the line to weed out those who would soil the police force, had a strong hatred for the largest mafia family in town. When it becomes Southside Slasher vs. mafia hitman all bets were off.
Now for the honest side of things. With two, sometimes four, stories going on at once it occasionally was tricky to figure out which story I was on, but since my own novel is similar – who am I to bitch? I will say I was not a fan of the ending. It was like having a great season finale with a flop for a new season premier. You get all excited only to have it fall flat. But it was still a great read and I highly recommend it.
In Two Graves, kind of by accident, Preston gets a taste of what it was like to strike back at the people who liked torturing the week. He got a taste for murder. And he liked it. At first I sympathised with Preston and how he wanted to get back at the bullies from his high school years, even though his revenge blinded him to the fact that he was killing people who only looked like the bullies. I was on Preston’s side right up until Benji. I dealt with the sick things this killer did. I cringed at the pain from one victim and I felt ready to vomit at what he did to the reporter, but once he killed Benji I was on Lt. Mann’s side.
As a second story Lt. Mann, a cop who put his own reputation on the line to weed out those who would soil the police force, had a strong hatred for the largest mafia family in town. When it becomes Southside Slasher vs. mafia hitman all bets were off.
Now for the honest side of things. With two, sometimes four, stories going on at once it occasionally was tricky to figure out which story I was on, but since my own novel is similar – who am I to bitch? I will say I was not a fan of the ending. It was like having a great season finale with a flop for a new season premier. You get all excited only to have it fall flat. But it was still a great read and I highly recommend it.
February 10, 2012
originally appeared on:Bookshelf Confessions
* I won a free copy of this book from the Librarything Giveaway Program*
i always loved action/mystery/crime/detective books.. and two graves made it on my list.. The plot of the story was typical- a child who grew up into a man bearing all the pain and sorrows of him being bullied since he was a kid, a child who dreams to take the bullies down one day. But from that starting point Mr. Graystone made a wonderful impact by letting his readers know the reason behind the present action of the man-who became a serial killer ( actually by accident, but because of that first kill, he developed a surge of power and passion to kill those who bullied him). And so, the story reaches it's best, when he now, looks up and searched in the internet for the look-alikes of the persons who hurt him in the past and made them his target for the kill.
The story is amazing because it entices passion, sympathy towards the killer!!! yeah, that's how i feel, it also gives you a point-of-view from both the policemen and the criminal.
the story was well-written, the characters are developed so well, and every twist and turn in the events, make you brace yourself and to flip the pages more..
a good book! ( )
* I won a free copy of this book from the Librarything Giveaway Program*
i always loved action/mystery/crime/detective books.. and two graves made it on my list.. The plot of the story was typical- a child who grew up into a man bearing all the pain and sorrows of him being bullied since he was a kid, a child who dreams to take the bullies down one day. But from that starting point Mr. Graystone made a wonderful impact by letting his readers know the reason behind the present action of the man-who became a serial killer ( actually by accident, but because of that first kill, he developed a surge of power and passion to kill those who bullied him). And so, the story reaches it's best, when he now, looks up and searched in the internet for the look-alikes of the persons who hurt him in the past and made them his target for the kill.
The story is amazing because it entices passion, sympathy towards the killer!!! yeah, that's how i feel, it also gives you a point-of-view from both the policemen and the criminal.
the story was well-written, the characters are developed so well, and every twist and turn in the events, make you brace yourself and to flip the pages more..
a good book! ( )
May 8, 2012
Gregg Mann, Lieutenant at Southside Division in Kesle, Is uneasy when he views the first body. While to some it looks like a gang related murder, there is just something that doesn't sit well with Mann. Could this be the start of something else?
Preston Peterson, lonely, overweight and under-appreciated his entire life, has finally had enough. The first kill was an accident, technically not even a murder. Oh but the thrill, the rush, the feeling of power! Its not over until Preston Peterson says it is!
As Preston Peterson slips deeper into madness, the city becomes aware that there is a serial killer in their midst. What the people don't know however could kill them, kill them all!
The first book in the Kesle City Homicide novels, its a winner! An engrossing read from start to finish, its a true mystery/thriller. An amazing cast of characters, some good, some bad, all believable. With a secondary plot line that ties into the murders and to good cops gone bad, it will keep you guessing as to who is the ultimate traitor.
I received this copy through GoodReads and my review was unsolicited.
Preston Peterson, lonely, overweight and under-appreciated his entire life, has finally had enough. The first kill was an accident, technically not even a murder. Oh but the thrill, the rush, the feeling of power! Its not over until Preston Peterson says it is!
As Preston Peterson slips deeper into madness, the city becomes aware that there is a serial killer in their midst. What the people don't know however could kill them, kill them all!
The first book in the Kesle City Homicide novels, its a winner! An engrossing read from start to finish, its a true mystery/thriller. An amazing cast of characters, some good, some bad, all believable. With a secondary plot line that ties into the murders and to good cops gone bad, it will keep you guessing as to who is the ultimate traitor.
I received this copy through GoodReads and my review was unsolicited.
July 3, 2016
When you set out on revenge, dig two graves. - Confucius
Before you mistreat the geeky nerd in school, remember that he might come back to haunt you. Preston had been bullied one too many times and sets out for revenge. He leads an entire city on a manhunt for the next few months as he avenges himself. But this is really only half of the story.
When I started this story I thought it was only going to be about the manhunt for Preston. But while Preston is high on the list of people to rid the city of, he's not the only one or even the highest.
The author ties both story lines together well. My only complaint was the confusion with so many characters at first and the lack of details for the other story line. I would have liked to have seen more.
But overall this was a very well written, detailed (in a good way) and intriguing story. I couldn't put it down once I started. I can't wait to read more stories from this author.
Before you mistreat the geeky nerd in school, remember that he might come back to haunt you. Preston had been bullied one too many times and sets out for revenge. He leads an entire city on a manhunt for the next few months as he avenges himself. But this is really only half of the story.
When I started this story I thought it was only going to be about the manhunt for Preston. But while Preston is high on the list of people to rid the city of, he's not the only one or even the highest.
The author ties both story lines together well. My only complaint was the confusion with so many characters at first and the lack of details for the other story line. I would have liked to have seen more.
But overall this was a very well written, detailed (in a good way) and intriguing story. I couldn't put it down once I started. I can't wait to read more stories from this author.
November 12, 2012
This is a very readable book. Nothing particularly out of the ordinary in that it is the tale of a serial killer and his pursuit(and an organised crime side line). There are plenty of those about and this breaks no new ground and is not top of the class.
Our main cop is a heavy drinker but it does make a change that his poison is endless cans of Pepsi rather than the hard stuff.
The killings are brutal but the author does not dwell too long or go into too much gratuitous detail with each of the terrible murders.
The pace is kept up and although there are more characters named than is strictly necessary there is little problem following along. Characterisation is shallow overall but we have enough depth in the killer and the cop to accompany them on the journey. The plot (or two story lines) and procedure are a little weak in places but nothing that can't be glossed over in what is a decent holiday or airport waiting time read. I don't think it pretends to be more.
Our main cop is a heavy drinker but it does make a change that his poison is endless cans of Pepsi rather than the hard stuff.
The killings are brutal but the author does not dwell too long or go into too much gratuitous detail with each of the terrible murders.
The pace is kept up and although there are more characters named than is strictly necessary there is little problem following along. Characterisation is shallow overall but we have enough depth in the killer and the cop to accompany them on the journey. The plot (or two story lines) and procedure are a little weak in places but nothing that can't be glossed over in what is a decent holiday or airport waiting time read. I don't think it pretends to be more.
September 20, 2011
Two Graves begins as most crime novels do: a crime (in this case, murder) is committed and the reader is introduced to the murderer's violence, followed by meeting the police officers and detectives who are charged with hunting the criminal down. Unlike most crime novels, however, Graystone's story is good and keeps your attention throughout each changing perspective. The tale is not told from the point-of-view of one character or perspective, but from all sides; within a handful of chapters, you have gained insight into the murderer, the victims, and the lead detective, for example. I really enjoyed this book and found that the writing kept me focused on the story, even with the different sub-plots and perspectives. The story is told in an interesting and intelligent way, always keeping the reader thinking, always wondering what comes next and who is next on the killer's list.
October 23, 2011
A detective novel that has two investigations going on at the same time and that keep overlapping each other. The characters are well developed and the various subplots keeps the reader on their toes as to what is going to happen next and who is going to be the next victim. The book is built around a serial killer and his desire to step out of the shadows of being the victim of bullying for his entire life. He feels he can do this by using his intelligence against those that bullied him in school. How this gets tied into the major crime figure of the city is an interesting twist. Who actually gets the second grave?
The story line, the characters, and the subplots all work together to make this an interesting read for anyone. Graystone has done an excellent job in creating an interesting and fascinating book. ( )
The story line, the characters, and the subplots all work together to make this an interesting read for anyone. Graystone has done an excellent job in creating an interesting and fascinating book. ( )
January 15, 2014
Two Graves is a very intense serial killer novel. Poor invisible Preston, bullied all his life, teased, taunted, mistreated and pissed. He is now out to get revenge 25 years later. He's armed with the yearbook and some very hurtful memories - and remembers every one of his embarrassing moments compliments of his school aged tormenters.
The power of the mafia. They seem to be a step ahead of the police department. Angelino's powers and influence knows no boundary. Is there a rat on the force?
There were two simultaneous storylines that the Kesle PD was investigating. At times it was confusing, but if I reread the chapter, it made more sense. I was surprised how the two came together in the end - no spoiler here. But I strongly recommend this book if you like a good murder thriller.
The power of the mafia. They seem to be a step ahead of the police department. Angelino's powers and influence knows no boundary. Is there a rat on the force?
There were two simultaneous storylines that the Kesle PD was investigating. At times it was confusing, but if I reread the chapter, it made more sense. I was surprised how the two came together in the end - no spoiler here. But I strongly recommend this book if you like a good murder thriller.
August 29, 2011
Read this book when you have the time to finish it without putting aside for awhile. The story is rich, interesting, intriguing, addicting, powerful, etc. There are a lot of characters who are portrayed in such a way that the reader can feel them in the storyline. The story has several intertwined lines that are well balanced. I seriously enjoyed the book and highly recommend it. This is a very substantial read. I would like to give it 4.5 stars. I cannot give it five stars due to proofreading errors. I was reading along, immersed in the book, and wham there were missing or extra words that made me step back and wonder if I was mis-reading. I will look forward to his next non-Wiccan novel.
September 15, 2011
I won this book from the Member Giveaways on Library Thing.
This book was a very good crime novel. It is told from the point of view of the killer and also from the point of view of the cops.
Preston Peterson is a man who has been bullied and tortured his whole life. Years after high school, he decides that he has had enough and decides to "pay back" all of his high school abusers. He stakes out who he thinks are his former classmates and tortures and kills several of them, leading to his nickname "The Southside Slasher". Lieutenant Mann is the police officer in charge of the case and we go through all the steps it takes to finally catch this killer.
The book has lots of action and kept my attention. I would recommend this book to anyone liking crime novels.
This book was a very good crime novel. It is told from the point of view of the killer and also from the point of view of the cops.
Preston Peterson is a man who has been bullied and tortured his whole life. Years after high school, he decides that he has had enough and decides to "pay back" all of his high school abusers. He stakes out who he thinks are his former classmates and tortures and kills several of them, leading to his nickname "The Southside Slasher". Lieutenant Mann is the police officer in charge of the case and we go through all the steps it takes to finally catch this killer.
The book has lots of action and kept my attention. I would recommend this book to anyone liking crime novels.
December 20, 2012
This book was so intense, that it was hard to put down, when I did have to put it away I could not stop thinking about it. The characters were so real, that it was scary!!
When a man sets his goals on killing everyone from his high school class that bullied him 25 years earlier, the drama begins. He has their photos from the yearbook enhanced to show what they would look like 25 years later and then sit in the background and wait for them to show up in a variety of places. Problem is, these are not the people he went to school with.
Next Angelino the "Crime Boss" in town that has to have a snitch at the Police Department. The police have to figure out who it is before he finds out that they are onto him.
When a man sets his goals on killing everyone from his high school class that bullied him 25 years earlier, the drama begins. He has their photos from the yearbook enhanced to show what they would look like 25 years later and then sit in the background and wait for them to show up in a variety of places. Problem is, these are not the people he went to school with.
Next Angelino the "Crime Boss" in town that has to have a snitch at the Police Department. The police have to figure out who it is before he finds out that they are onto him.
May 13, 2013
The two story lines running at the same time was a little confusing. Usually when an author does this, it eventually ties them together and you say, "Oh, that's how this ties together." In this book, the two story lines seem to tie together by accident, by the serial killer being in the wrong place at the wrong time and the mafia guy seeing him as a possible witness. I was disappointed that the police had worked so hard and then didn't get the satisfaction of bringing the serial killer to justice themselves. I was just such an anticlimax to have the mafia guy kill him.
I would read another book by this author because I like his writing style, the way he develops his characters and the fact that he moves the plot along at a good pace.
I would read another book by this author because I like his writing style, the way he develops his characters and the fact that he moves the plot along at a good pace.
December 16, 2013
A fatal accident during a teen's attempted harassment of a man who has lived a life of being bullied becomes the final stressor in triggering a delusional vengeful serial killing spree, setting off a media-influenced panic in Kelse City and upending the mayor's re-election campaign. Lieutenant Gregg Mann finds his life complicated as he leads the task force, while secretly trying to find the mob-connected mole in the upper levels of the police force, a complication that increases dramatically as the two cases unexpectedly crosses paths. The crimes are very graphic, perhaps best enjoyed by fans of "Criminal Minds," but the suspenseful pacing is well maintained in this gritty police procedural.
March 24, 2012
A well paced Serial Killer novel with a Mafia side story thrown in - what's not to love?
I found this to be an interesting take on the serial killer genre as you get to see how the killer develops in his confidence as the story progresses. The killings get more gruesome as the bodies mount up. The characters in the Kesle Police Department are believable and all are given their own bit of background which keeps the story ticking along.
There were also a few moments which made me think "never saw that coming".
I know there is at least one more book to come featuring the Kesle PD, and I hope there will be more than that.
I found this to be an interesting take on the serial killer genre as you get to see how the killer develops in his confidence as the story progresses. The killings get more gruesome as the bodies mount up. The characters in the Kesle Police Department are believable and all are given their own bit of background which keeps the story ticking along.
There were also a few moments which made me think "never saw that coming".
I know there is at least one more book to come featuring the Kesle PD, and I hope there will be more than that.
July 25, 2016
The story in Two Graves seemed very relevant with the stories of revenge or suicides as a result of bullying. It didn't make the killer a sympathetic character, but at least I could understand his justification for killing. The book is a page-turner. The police are always just 2 minutes short of finding their killer, but in the end good simple police work wins out. Of course it's difficult to catch a killer when dealing with politics and dirty cops.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes.
I received a complimentary copy of this book for review purposes.
March 21, 2012
The author does a great job of building the novel and the suspense in the book. I really like his style of writing and will be checking out other books by him for sure. Now that being said I couldn't get into this book because of the way he described the killer reminded me of my husband and so for me I just couldn't get into the book because of the fact he reminded me of my husband.
I would think most people would love this book because he is a great writer and does develop his characters well. I do recommend this book to anyone who likes thrillers.
I would think most people would love this book because he is a great writer and does develop his characters well. I do recommend this book to anyone who likes thrillers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews