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Pillbillies #1
Pillbillies
When paramedics discover three-year-old Lacey floating in the bathtub and Jared Vorcelli barely conscious in his parents’ living room, his addiction is put into the limelight and his pill-pushing days as a Kingpin of the Pocono Mountains come to a screeching halt.
Grief stricken once he’s out of prison and rehab, Jared plans to relocate with longtime girlfriend, Tina DeHaven, to wash himself of the drug-riddled town.
But Dex has other plans when he meets Jared. Lucrative plans. Plans that keep Jared pushing pills, hunting down dealers he blames for Lacey’s death and on the verge of relapse.
Grief stricken once he’s out of prison and rehab, Jared plans to relocate with longtime girlfriend, Tina DeHaven, to wash himself of the drug-riddled town.
But Dex has other plans when he meets Jared. Lucrative plans. Plans that keep Jared pushing pills, hunting down dealers he blames for Lacey’s death and on the verge of relapse.
171 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 28, 2014
About the author
K.L. Randis
5 books1,006 followersAuthor of bestselling novel Spilled Milk: Based On A True Story and new release Pillbillies. Lover of reading, writing, journaling, running and spending tons of time with family.
I love books that move me, make me think and allow powerful relationships with the characters in them. As my husband so eloquently puts it, I am 'Literally the only person he knows who will laugh out loud, gasp or cry while reading.'
I penned my first novel in the hopes to bring peace to myself and in turn have brought peace, healing and understanding to thousands. Thank you for your ongoing and enthusiastic support, it means the world to me.
I love books that move me, make me think and allow powerful relationships with the characters in them. As my husband so eloquently puts it, I am 'Literally the only person he knows who will laugh out loud, gasp or cry while reading.'
I penned my first novel in the hopes to bring peace to myself and in turn have brought peace, healing and understanding to thousands. Thank you for your ongoing and enthusiastic support, it means the world to me.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
June 3, 2014
Read it in a few hours of receiving it loved it really felt sorry for jared
January 8, 2015
Well, this was different! Good different!
I haven't been around drugs, but I am aware of the heartache, the addiction and what people and families go through, however, I have not experienced this first hand. I now feel that I have reading this book.
I think everyone should read this who has any relation with any family member with a drug addiction, its a complete real eye opener for me.
I just felt so bad when Lacey was found dead. How could her brother ever live with himself again?
I read this in one sitting. This book is fiction, but it also could be realism. It has its addiction of its own, I just had to stay with it until the final chapter.
My hat goes off to this author K L Randis for portraying a subject matter so brilliantly and sensitively but darn right blunt. The awful knock on effects were horrendous.
I haven't been around drugs, but I am aware of the heartache, the addiction and what people and families go through, however, I have not experienced this first hand. I now feel that I have reading this book.
I think everyone should read this who has any relation with any family member with a drug addiction, its a complete real eye opener for me.
I just felt so bad when Lacey was found dead. How could her brother ever live with himself again?
I read this in one sitting. This book is fiction, but it also could be realism. It has its addiction of its own, I just had to stay with it until the final chapter.
My hat goes off to this author K L Randis for portraying a subject matter so brilliantly and sensitively but darn right blunt. The awful knock on effects were horrendous.
May 15, 2016
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I felt like I was reading something a high school kid wrote. Really poorly written. I would not recommend this one.
I felt like I was reading something a high school kid wrote. Really poorly written. I would not recommend this one.
January 21, 2023
This book drew me in from the beginning. It was a quick, good, short read. I'm sad that it left off on a big cliffhanger but am curious to see how everything ends up playing out
March 5, 2019
Mistakes are so easy to make. Living with the consequences are what is not easy. This book pulls at your heart.
January 12, 2025
Wasn’t a fan of this one. I read it because I really enjoyed her book Spilled Milk. Short read but I won’t be reading part 2.
December 29, 2022
Pillibillies
After reading Spilled Milk I couldn't wait to read Randis's next book. It started fast and kept me interested all the way through. I especially loved the ending and love that it was unpredictable. I don't know what I was expecting but it wasn't this, what a great book with good writing. Starting the next book in this series now.
After reading Spilled Milk I couldn't wait to read Randis's next book. It started fast and kept me interested all the way through. I especially loved the ending and love that it was unpredictable. I don't know what I was expecting but it wasn't this, what a great book with good writing. Starting the next book in this series now.
April 14, 2026
Went in blind after reading spilled milk, and wow. I’m glad I did and omg so freaking good. Immediately starting laced now! 😅
March 3, 2019
Another great read!
This was another great read by K.L. Randis. Jared's story was a whirlwind. It grabbed my attention right off the bat.
This was another great read by K.L. Randis. Jared's story was a whirlwind. It grabbed my attention right off the bat.
December 16, 2014
Great read
Suspenseful....very exciting to read...loved it and can't wait to read the next one! I definitely recommend this book to others.
Suspenseful....very exciting to read...loved it and can't wait to read the next one! I definitely recommend this book to others.
December 22, 2018
Poor editing
The book itself was decent and I read it quickly. The editing bothered me at times . It was very poor grammar and the punctuation was lacking.
The book itself was decent and I read it quickly. The editing bothered me at times . It was very poor grammar and the punctuation was lacking.
August 1, 2021
Make sure you buy both books when you start reading this one. This is part of a series and will leave you ready for the 2nd book! This is a fast paced page turner!
July 25, 2019
This is so far out of my realm of normal reading! Welcome to the world of drug users and pushers. I don't even know the correct terminology. We start off with pills and move into heroin. There's jail time and recruiters and people with fake names that nobody ever meets and murder and it's all crazy. It's great fun, but it's crazy.
The most interesting part for me is that it took me to a world I'm not a part of, but I know is out there. I was able to experience the mental workings of these people and those that they'd touched in some way. As we watch the main character change throughout the book, we can't help but realize how close our own lives are...how easily this character could be us.
Even though I only gave the book three stars, it's mostly a personal preference. I enjoyed the book. It was a quick, thoughtful read. However, I don't plan to read anything similar in the future. It doesn't really pertain to me. I didn't really get a lot out of it other than an hour of entertainment. I kind of live in my own little bubble, so this world isn't one that I really have a keen interest in. There are a lot of people that have been touched by drugs in one way or another. There are a lot of people that interact with the drug world on a regular basis. There are lots of recovered people out there...those that still struggle..those that want to begin the struggle to get out of this world. To all of these people, I'd give this five stars. You'll enjoy the book and get a lot out of it. You'll probably identify heavily with one or more characters. The book is constructed well and the story is nicely told.
The most interesting part for me is that it took me to a world I'm not a part of, but I know is out there. I was able to experience the mental workings of these people and those that they'd touched in some way. As we watch the main character change throughout the book, we can't help but realize how close our own lives are...how easily this character could be us.
Even though I only gave the book three stars, it's mostly a personal preference. I enjoyed the book. It was a quick, thoughtful read. However, I don't plan to read anything similar in the future. It doesn't really pertain to me. I didn't really get a lot out of it other than an hour of entertainment. I kind of live in my own little bubble, so this world isn't one that I really have a keen interest in. There are a lot of people that have been touched by drugs in one way or another. There are a lot of people that interact with the drug world on a regular basis. There are lots of recovered people out there...those that still struggle..those that want to begin the struggle to get out of this world. To all of these people, I'd give this five stars. You'll enjoy the book and get a lot out of it. You'll probably identify heavily with one or more characters. The book is constructed well and the story is nicely told.
May 27, 2022
Addiction - what a wicked thing it can be! K.L. Randis did not hold back on telling this tale of addiction with spiraling twists and turns that take you as the reader for a wild, unexpected ride.
I as a reader have read a handful of books about addicts battling their addictions, however I have never read anything quite like "Pillbillies." From the beginning, your heart aches for Jared, his family, and his addiction. My heart completely shattered when Lacey was found dead and I did not know how Jared would continue after such a tragic loss or how he could even live with himself. I kept wondering in the back of mind with all the events taking place in Jared's life if he was going to relapse.
Typically I do not read a ton of books that are part of a series but I could not help but pick up the second book and start reading immediately after finishing "Pillbillies." Trust me, you'll want to grab both books at the same time. You will be left wanting more!
4/5 Stars - Loved this book, there were so many twists and turns that I found myself having to re-read some pages or flip back because I could not keep all the characters in line. (Some were mentioned in the very beginning and not spoke of again till the end) I wish this book had a glossary or an index you could refer to with the characters and who exactly they are. I did not enjoy having to go back and re-read quite a ways back to remember exactly who they are otherwise this book would've been a 5/5 for me!
I as a reader have read a handful of books about addicts battling their addictions, however I have never read anything quite like "Pillbillies." From the beginning, your heart aches for Jared, his family, and his addiction. My heart completely shattered when Lacey was found dead and I did not know how Jared would continue after such a tragic loss or how he could even live with himself. I kept wondering in the back of mind with all the events taking place in Jared's life if he was going to relapse.
Typically I do not read a ton of books that are part of a series but I could not help but pick up the second book and start reading immediately after finishing "Pillbillies." Trust me, you'll want to grab both books at the same time. You will be left wanting more!
4/5 Stars - Loved this book, there were so many twists and turns that I found myself having to re-read some pages or flip back because I could not keep all the characters in line. (Some were mentioned in the very beginning and not spoke of again till the end) I wish this book had a glossary or an index you could refer to with the characters and who exactly they are. I did not enjoy having to go back and re-read quite a ways back to remember exactly who they are otherwise this book would've been a 5/5 for me!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2020
I was rooting for a New Life for this Kid the Whole Time!
To put it mildly, I was shocked at how a middle class teenager could get so sucked up in the drug trade and ride to such a tank at an early age! He was obviously brilliant and full of potential! Then I think of where he lives and how opioid have ravaged Appalachia, especially in poor communities, where there is little hope. After his stint in prison and rehab, I had hope and was disappointed when the lure of quick money for him right back into a more dangerous situation! Things seemed to be looking up at the end, and I look forward to reading the sequel.
To put it mildly, I was shocked at how a middle class teenager could get so sucked up in the drug trade and ride to such a tank at an early age! He was obviously brilliant and full of potential! Then I think of where he lives and how opioid have ravaged Appalachia, especially in poor communities, where there is little hope. After his stint in prison and rehab, I had hope and was disappointed when the lure of quick money for him right back into a more dangerous situation! Things seemed to be looking up at the end, and I look forward to reading the sequel.
July 25, 2024
The ending leaves you wanting more..
SO MANY EMOTIONS!! So the beginning made me cry(I normally don't cry while reading) You really feel for the main character. I want him to get his life together and live a happy life but the ending was not the happy ending I was expecting. I'm truly hoping for a good ending in the second book! I read this book soo fast, I couldn't put it down. I'm from the Poconos so even though the story was a bit crazy and sad at times it was much easier to put myself into the story while reading it. I knew every town and road.. unlike any other book you have to use your imagination.
SO MANY EMOTIONS!! So the beginning made me cry(I normally don't cry while reading) You really feel for the main character. I want him to get his life together and live a happy life but the ending was not the happy ending I was expecting. I'm truly hoping for a good ending in the second book! I read this book soo fast, I couldn't put it down. I'm from the Poconos so even though the story was a bit crazy and sad at times it was much easier to put myself into the story while reading it. I knew every town and road.. unlike any other book you have to use your imagination.
April 29, 2025
I am a junior in High school who can't read books really because if they are too slow to catch my attention it makes it hard to read it so I give up on the book. The book Pillbillies is a great book that I recommend to everyone due to it teaches many life lessons. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction this book would be perfect for them to read due to it may make them realize they may be headed to the same path the main character went down and nobody would want that. I am so thankful to K.L Randis for all the good books that are made and I look forward to reading the next one.
February 6, 2018
This was a somewhere between “alright” and “good” read. I picked up this book because I had just finished reading “Spilled Milk” from this author. And that book was a great read! This book has its highs and lows of excitement and the ending leaves you turning the page expecting to read the next sentence when in fact you’ve already turned to the last page and the book has ended mid excitement forcing you to read the next book, “Laced” to find out what happens next.
June 24, 2018
Good read, short enough to read in one sitting.
I enjoyed this book because I am a recovering addict myself and I know how heroin can destroy lives. The idea of green heroin perplexes me because I have seen laced heroin and it’s never green. If it were green, I doubt I’d be willing to try it cuz I’d imagine something was very wrong. Other than that, I liked the book and eager to read the sequel.
I enjoyed this book because I am a recovering addict myself and I know how heroin can destroy lives. The idea of green heroin perplexes me because I have seen laced heroin and it’s never green. If it were green, I doubt I’d be willing to try it cuz I’d imagine something was very wrong. Other than that, I liked the book and eager to read the sequel.
August 27, 2020
Addiction is unfortunately becoming commonplace in today's society. This book gives us a glimpse into that world and how deep the addictions (whether it be drugs, alcohol, power or money) can go.
I found myself yelling at Jared many times as if I was a character in the book with him. I wanted to strangle him myself for some of his choices.
I read this book the same day I downloaded it in one sitting. It's very good and very hard to put down!!!
I found myself yelling at Jared many times as if I was a character in the book with him. I wanted to strangle him myself for some of his choices.
I read this book the same day I downloaded it in one sitting. It's very good and very hard to put down!!!
December 28, 2024
Pillbillies
I'll have to a admit I was drawn in by the title of this book. I'm glad I took a chance on it. I believe its perhaps full of second chances. Such an entanglement of characters and heartbreaking at times. Never thought I'd feel compassion for a drug user turned dealer but its there. Looking forward to reading the second in this series if only to see how it plays out. Twisted in its own special way.
I'll have to a admit I was drawn in by the title of this book. I'm glad I took a chance on it. I believe its perhaps full of second chances. Such an entanglement of characters and heartbreaking at times. Never thought I'd feel compassion for a drug user turned dealer but its there. Looking forward to reading the second in this series if only to see how it plays out. Twisted in its own special way.
April 13, 2025
Utterly disappointed. I’ve read another book by this same author and it was one of my favorites. I’m not sure how this book was so terrible. There were a few typos I noticed. It felt like a spark notes version of a longer novel. There was no gradual build up to coax the readers to come to a conclusion… there was a single bread crumb and then info dump. Like the author was rushing to get this done, or that this book was only allowed to be a certain number of pages.
September 22, 2019
Loving this author!
Very good book. Opens your eyes to the world of drug dealers and how hard it is to get out once you are in. How evil it can be. How it is an epidemic in our society and how quickly people get wrapped up in it. Also keeps you on your toes as you can't wait to see what happens next!
Very good book. Opens your eyes to the world of drug dealers and how hard it is to get out once you are in. How evil it can be. How it is an epidemic in our society and how quickly people get wrapped up in it. Also keeps you on your toes as you can't wait to see what happens next!
March 18, 2020
Stunning but abrupt
The story is gripping and the emotions portrayed believable. However, the plot rushes to a very emotional high and quits. Just quits. It was written for the presentation of a sequel which is not out yet. I would have waited to start the series of i had already known of this plot twist.
The story is gripping and the emotions portrayed believable. However, the plot rushes to a very emotional high and quits. Just quits. It was written for the presentation of a sequel which is not out yet. I would have waited to start the series of i had already known of this plot twist.
March 31, 2020
Short & Sweet
This book didn’t take long to get me hooked. K.L Randis has done it again. The book was short and took me just a little while to read. Pillbillies kept me on my toes, kept me wondering what could or would happen next. There’s one part I called, but it was a given. Other than that it was a whole lot of twists. Really opens your eyes on what could happen.
This book didn’t take long to get me hooked. K.L Randis has done it again. The book was short and took me just a little while to read. Pillbillies kept me on my toes, kept me wondering what could or would happen next. There’s one part I called, but it was a given. Other than that it was a whole lot of twists. Really opens your eyes on what could happen.
September 29, 2020
Ok read
The story line was good- but then all of a sudden this quick moving story just ends. I get that it’s part of a series...but the last page is dead smack in the middle of the pinnacle of the book! It’s very weird and reason for me not to want to read another book by the author. Reading is an investment of time- I feel I got cheated out of the wrap up of this story.
The story line was good- but then all of a sudden this quick moving story just ends. I get that it’s part of a series...but the last page is dead smack in the middle of the pinnacle of the book! It’s very weird and reason for me not to want to read another book by the author. Reading is an investment of time- I feel I got cheated out of the wrap up of this story.
July 22, 2021
Decent read
Pros: story has serious merit, plot, flow, real life struggles.
Con: the character pov changes were a bit confusing in each jump but usually within a few sentences the characters pov being read would fall back plumb for understanding. Honestly my only complaint was the rather sketchy character pov changes.
Pros: story has serious merit, plot, flow, real life struggles.
Con: the character pov changes were a bit confusing in each jump but usually within a few sentences the characters pov being read would fall back plumb for understanding. Honestly my only complaint was the rather sketchy character pov changes.
September 19, 2021
Horrific plot- pulled me in but the character development was weak
The topic of this book is horrific. A teenage boy gets high and his toddler sister drowns. The book had real promise but I felt that the characters were not completely developed. In the end it was a somewhat boring book.
The topic of this book is horrific. A teenage boy gets high and his toddler sister drowns. The book had real promise but I felt that the characters were not completely developed. In the end it was a somewhat boring book.
January 11, 2022
Short and sweet! I finished it in a few hours because of its length but also because I was drawn in! It was fast paced and made me want to know more. I felt for Jared losing his little sister but I’m still mad at him. However, I’m hoping he’ll wisen up in Laced.. I guess I’ll just have to wait and see!
October 29, 2023
Ack! It was like a middle schooler was assigned to write a soap opera. So bad! No character development or connection with any characters. Anything and everything happened in 150 pages. I kept wondering if this book was for YA, but I think it was meant as an adult book (I actually still have no idea).
Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews