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The Schwarzschild Radius
Rachel, an 18-year-old Columbia University student, descends into the netherworld of runaways and predators to find her sister, Olivia, who has suddenly disappeared.
After getting a job in a strip joint where Olivia worked, then doing private shows in the homes of rich clients, Rachel discovers that Olivia has been abducted by a killer who auctions the deaths of young girls in an eBay of agony.
As she closes in on the killer who has taken Olivia, Rachel becomes his next target.
After getting a job in a strip joint where Olivia worked, then doing private shows in the homes of rich clients, Rachel discovers that Olivia has been abducted by a killer who auctions the deaths of young girls in an eBay of agony.
As she closes in on the killer who has taken Olivia, Rachel becomes his next target.
292 pages, Paperback
First published September 23, 2014
82 people are currently reading
858 people want to read
About the author
Gustavo Florentin
4 books13 followersGustavo Florentin was born in Queens, New York and received a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from the Polytechnic University of New York. He spent a decade in the defense industry working on the F-14 fighter jet and classified electronics projects. After the fall of the Soviet Union, many thought America wouldn't need weapons anymore, so while others waited for the peace dividend, he moved on to the financial sector in New York where he is currently a network engineer. His passions include violin, travel to exotic places and exploring worldwide conspiracies. He lives in New Jersey where he is working on his third novel. His thriller, In the Talons of the Condor, won the following awards:
WUACADEMIA--Prix d'Or Best Novel
The Verb First Chapter Contest--First Prize
Mount Arrowsmith Best Novel 4th place
The Writing Show--Second Prize best first chapter of a novel.
16th Annual International Latino Book Awards--Second Prize
WUACADEMIA--Prix d'Or Best Novel
The Verb First Chapter Contest--First Prize
Mount Arrowsmith Best Novel 4th place
The Writing Show--Second Prize best first chapter of a novel.
16th Annual International Latino Book Awards--Second Prize
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
July 4, 2015
This book was a really good surprise package, it was far better than I thought it would be and took me to places I did not imagine in a million years. Very much a book that is a page turner and enjoyable yet disturbing all at the same time. I was not bored for a moment and was eager to get more of the story.
This book touches on the sheer evil in the human heart, I am a hard core crime/serial killer and horror reader and used to some distressing scenes and images but some in here? Literally made me squint and turn my head slightly. Not for the weak stomached crowd this one. It not only touches on but highlights child prostitution, pedophilia, and sadism. But it's all part of a very interesting plot. So don't shy away just yet.
Rachel, an 18-year-old Columbia University student, descends into the netherworld of runaways and predators to find her sister, Olivia, who has suddenly disappeared.
After getting a job in a strip joint where Olivia worked, then doing private shows in the homes of rich clients, Rachel discovers that Olivia has been abducted by a killer who auctions the deaths of young girls in an eBay of agony.
When she finds Olivia, Rachel becomes the killer’s next target.
Imagine a room where online bidders (viewing online) can bid on a human life, not only bid on that life, but bid on how that life is extinguished. Not only how the life ends but what methods of torture and abuse are used prior. The highest bidder wins the prize and the show begins.
This is evil in it's purest form, men with hearts that are black with darkness, corruption, men that show no mercy and enjoy the sadism before their eyes. This, ladies and gentlemen is human suffering eBay. It's a truly unique book angle and it really does grab you and shake you around a bit.
Rachel is awesome, (and a VERY mature minded eighteen year old), what a gritty character she is. Determined to find her sister who seems to have vanished into the underworld of private sex parties and rich clientele who pay for every inch of young flesh on offer. To do this, Rachel too enters this dark world, by golly that takes guts, she surrenders so much of herself because she loves her sister and wants to find her. It was riveting but so sad, this book really exposes some very dark sides of the billion dollar sex industry.
Private peep show rooms transition to private parties, but all with a purpose. Rachel thinks one of these clients knows where her sister is and she uses her clever use of technology, computers, hacking to get some answers. She's a smart cookie this one, with guts and lot of courage to go where she goes. If I had a sister, I would want one like Rachel.
There is a interesting sub-plot in this book that I won't mention as it's a massive spoiler, but it's really well written and runs parallel at times to the main story, and is important to the book overall. I really liked this element of the book a lot.
All of this puts her at massive risk. The police are also looking for Rachel, girls are turning up with horrendous torture marks on their bodies, bags of limbs are left behind, girls dismembered, and it looks like it was done whilst they are alive. The police realise Rachel has entered this dark world when she goes missing on the trail.
There is a fantastically paced plot, gritty and flawed characters, a unique story to be told and the writing is very good. This is a book with some oomph behind it. I found the whole thing fascinating but it's also disturbing, no doubt the majority of the fictional lines in this book DO happen somewhere in the world.
It broaches on horror with the torture and kill scenes, all filmed for posterity to the highest bidder. You will NOT imagine the things that the winning bidders come up with to be done. I thought I had read it all, apparently not. Seriously dark stuff. You would not wish it on your worst enemy.
The end scenes are dramatic and run at a cracking pace, you will be on the edge of your seat as the pages turn and the words jump from page to brain cells. I loved the rawness of this book, the way it doesn't hold back, doesn't recoil from the darkness, in fact, pushes it out on you, the reader until you feel slightly tainted by the journey.
The final outcome? Not all books have a happy ending, does this one? Not for me to tell. But I highly recommend this one. A surprising find and a brilliant debut novel. Easy five stars from me, could not stop reading it until the very last word.
I received a copy of this book thanks to the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This book touches on the sheer evil in the human heart, I am a hard core crime/serial killer and horror reader and used to some distressing scenes and images but some in here? Literally made me squint and turn my head slightly. Not for the weak stomached crowd this one. It not only touches on but highlights child prostitution, pedophilia, and sadism. But it's all part of a very interesting plot. So don't shy away just yet.
Rachel, an 18-year-old Columbia University student, descends into the netherworld of runaways and predators to find her sister, Olivia, who has suddenly disappeared.
After getting a job in a strip joint where Olivia worked, then doing private shows in the homes of rich clients, Rachel discovers that Olivia has been abducted by a killer who auctions the deaths of young girls in an eBay of agony.
When she finds Olivia, Rachel becomes the killer’s next target.
Imagine a room where online bidders (viewing online) can bid on a human life, not only bid on that life, but bid on how that life is extinguished. Not only how the life ends but what methods of torture and abuse are used prior. The highest bidder wins the prize and the show begins.
This is evil in it's purest form, men with hearts that are black with darkness, corruption, men that show no mercy and enjoy the sadism before their eyes. This, ladies and gentlemen is human suffering eBay. It's a truly unique book angle and it really does grab you and shake you around a bit.
Rachel is awesome, (and a VERY mature minded eighteen year old), what a gritty character she is. Determined to find her sister who seems to have vanished into the underworld of private sex parties and rich clientele who pay for every inch of young flesh on offer. To do this, Rachel too enters this dark world, by golly that takes guts, she surrenders so much of herself because she loves her sister and wants to find her. It was riveting but so sad, this book really exposes some very dark sides of the billion dollar sex industry.
Private peep show rooms transition to private parties, but all with a purpose. Rachel thinks one of these clients knows where her sister is and she uses her clever use of technology, computers, hacking to get some answers. She's a smart cookie this one, with guts and lot of courage to go where she goes. If I had a sister, I would want one like Rachel.
There is a interesting sub-plot in this book that I won't mention as it's a massive spoiler, but it's really well written and runs parallel at times to the main story, and is important to the book overall. I really liked this element of the book a lot.
All of this puts her at massive risk. The police are also looking for Rachel, girls are turning up with horrendous torture marks on their bodies, bags of limbs are left behind, girls dismembered, and it looks like it was done whilst they are alive. The police realise Rachel has entered this dark world when she goes missing on the trail.
There is a fantastically paced plot, gritty and flawed characters, a unique story to be told and the writing is very good. This is a book with some oomph behind it. I found the whole thing fascinating but it's also disturbing, no doubt the majority of the fictional lines in this book DO happen somewhere in the world.
It broaches on horror with the torture and kill scenes, all filmed for posterity to the highest bidder. You will NOT imagine the things that the winning bidders come up with to be done. I thought I had read it all, apparently not. Seriously dark stuff. You would not wish it on your worst enemy.
The end scenes are dramatic and run at a cracking pace, you will be on the edge of your seat as the pages turn and the words jump from page to brain cells. I loved the rawness of this book, the way it doesn't hold back, doesn't recoil from the darkness, in fact, pushes it out on you, the reader until you feel slightly tainted by the journey.
The final outcome? Not all books have a happy ending, does this one? Not for me to tell. But I highly recommend this one. A surprising find and a brilliant debut novel. Easy five stars from me, could not stop reading it until the very last word.
I received a copy of this book thanks to the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
November 5, 2014
Oh my.
What can I write in my review that's not already been said.
HUGE, big, ENORMOUS, Gigantic story.
I have to say I read a lot of it peeping through my fingers. The deaths were not good.
I just find it hard to explain what I have just read, its good, really good, but its stomach churning in places, so if you are easily put off.....
I text my book buddy after I read this, she had read it previously.
This is one unique read, I've not read one like this before, ever. Its dark, dingy, its captivating, its one you need to read until the end, but you curdle inside too. If you know what I mean.
I'm easily spooked, but I did enjoy it.
I received this from Curiosity Quills Press via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
What can I write in my review that's not already been said.
HUGE, big, ENORMOUS, Gigantic story.
I have to say I read a lot of it peeping through my fingers. The deaths were not good.
I just find it hard to explain what I have just read, its good, really good, but its stomach churning in places, so if you are easily put off.....
I text my book buddy after I read this, she had read it previously.
This is one unique read, I've not read one like this before, ever. Its dark, dingy, its captivating, its one you need to read until the end, but you curdle inside too. If you know what I mean.
I'm easily spooked, but I did enjoy it.
I received this from Curiosity Quills Press via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
October 20, 2014
(I got a copy courtesy of NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.)
3.5 stars, veering towards a 4.
Very graphic in parts, and not shying away from dealing with the darkest recesses of the human soul. This might turn off some people, so if depictions of child pornography rings, sex slaves and peep-show practices are something a reader doesn't want to read about, then better not pick up this novel. Personally, I found it fascinating in a trainwreck way: you can't help but watch, even though it's disgusting, and it makes you think about all those people, about depravity, about how low a human being can fall.
Rachel struck me as a resourceful young woman with guts, and overall smart enough to discover a lot on her own quickly enough to avoid falling down as well—because things seemed to move fast, and I have no doubt that once caught in such a spiral, every day spent in it would've made it harder and harder for her to go back, as well as to keep the peep show sessions and private parties to a "manageable" level. She was determined to find her sister at all costs; also, she cared about Achara, which was very humane. The one qualm I have with her is that the mistake that made everything speed up was, frankly, a pretty basic one, and I'm still wondering if she shouldn't have been able to avoid it, considering how savvy she was overall. But I'm not sure either (even though, when the first tell-tale sign occurred, I immediately thought "something's wrong here"), and I wouldn't consider that as "too stupid to live" syndrome in any case.
The main female characters in general did what they could with what they had. It may not have been much, but when they had an opportunity to do something (try to escape, help each other, try to hurt the culprit...), they seized it. That it worked or not didn't matter: they still tried, even though their trials were a very dire ones and they could've given up a long time ago. Each of them turned out strong in her own way, fighting until the end.
The plot itself moved at a fast enough pace, with a lot of suspense. Some events that appeared as strange actually made a lot of sense a couple of chapters later, and I liked how the author managed to "trap" me here the same way he did the characters. It was an interesting process to go through.
On the downside, I found the narrative a bit disjointed at times, as if it was trying to get faster to the next part, with the seams somewhat forgotten along the way. The writing style felt the same in a few places. Nothing terribly annoying, but still enough that I noticed it. I also wished it dealt more with Olivia's actions: what exactly happened to make her go from volunteering to the underworld? (Obviously she was in for the money for a reason I won't spoil, obviously she didn't choose to be picked by the Webmaster, and was no doubt abducted, but while we're given clear reasons about Rachel's behaviour leading her exactly in the same situation—she was investigating and looking for her sister, after all—Olivia's were more muddled. As if there was another, hiden reason that was never revealed. It may be a false impression on my part, only considering all the trouble Rachel went through, I definitely would've wanted to learn more.)
3.5 stars, veering towards a 4.
Very graphic in parts, and not shying away from dealing with the darkest recesses of the human soul. This might turn off some people, so if depictions of child pornography rings, sex slaves and peep-show practices are something a reader doesn't want to read about, then better not pick up this novel. Personally, I found it fascinating in a trainwreck way: you can't help but watch, even though it's disgusting, and it makes you think about all those people, about depravity, about how low a human being can fall.
Rachel struck me as a resourceful young woman with guts, and overall smart enough to discover a lot on her own quickly enough to avoid falling down as well—because things seemed to move fast, and I have no doubt that once caught in such a spiral, every day spent in it would've made it harder and harder for her to go back, as well as to keep the peep show sessions and private parties to a "manageable" level. She was determined to find her sister at all costs; also, she cared about Achara, which was very humane. The one qualm I have with her is that the mistake that made everything speed up was, frankly, a pretty basic one, and I'm still wondering if she shouldn't have been able to avoid it, considering how savvy she was overall. But I'm not sure either (even though, when the first tell-tale sign occurred, I immediately thought "something's wrong here"), and I wouldn't consider that as "too stupid to live" syndrome in any case.
The main female characters in general did what they could with what they had. It may not have been much, but when they had an opportunity to do something (try to escape, help each other, try to hurt the culprit...), they seized it. That it worked or not didn't matter: they still tried, even though their trials were a very dire ones and they could've given up a long time ago. Each of them turned out strong in her own way, fighting until the end.
The plot itself moved at a fast enough pace, with a lot of suspense. Some events that appeared as strange actually made a lot of sense a couple of chapters later, and I liked how the author managed to "trap" me here the same way he did the characters. It was an interesting process to go through.
On the downside, I found the narrative a bit disjointed at times, as if it was trying to get faster to the next part, with the seams somewhat forgotten along the way. The writing style felt the same in a few places. Nothing terribly annoying, but still enough that I noticed it. I also wished it dealt more with Olivia's actions: what exactly happened to make her go from volunteering to the underworld? (Obviously she was in for the money for a reason I won't spoil, obviously she didn't choose to be picked by the Webmaster, and was no doubt abducted, but while we're given clear reasons about Rachel's behaviour leading her exactly in the same situation—she was investigating and looking for her sister, after all—Olivia's were more muddled. As if there was another, hiden reason that was never revealed. It may be a false impression on my part, only considering all the trouble Rachel went through, I definitely would've wanted to learn more.)
September 23, 2014
Disclaimer: I received an electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The above quote is from Joules, Rachel's BFF in the book. He describes what you're about to experience as you journey with Rachel on her quest to find her missing sister. This book will run you through emotion after emotion. Sorrow, fear, disgust, horror, sympathy, empathy, heartbreak, and bitter relief. I honestly had no idea what I was getting into when I agreed to review this book and it was quite the amazing surprise. Bit by bit, piece by piece, more and more is revealed, and more and more is appalling, and you will be holding your breath in anticipation, and fear, as to what could be revealed next.
Rachel is one hell of a character. Brave, strong, determined, loyal, intelligent, gutsy...you can't help but admire her and and be envious of Olivia and the devotion and love her sister holds for her. Even if you're totally loved and adored by your family, Rachel's love is POWERFUL. And you will gasp and grip your kindle tightly as Florentin weaves this story around and around.
An excellent read. I don't know if I could read it again as some descriptions were truly horrifying, but I'm glad I read it this time around. Definitely thrilling, definitely consuming, definitely a breath stealer and kindle bruiser.
"When a star about two or three times the size of our sun dies, it collapses until the entire mass of the star is concentrated at one point -- a singularity -- a black hole. As it's collapsing, it becomes denser and its gravitational attraction increases until nothing can escape its surface. In the case of the Earth, the escape velocity is seventeen-thousand miles an hour. But when the gravitational attraction is billions of times greater, the escape velocity exceeds the speed of light. Nothing can travel faster than light, so nothing can escape the surface of such an object. When the collapsing star reaches that size where its gravitational attraction is so great that nothing, not even light can escape, it's reached its Schwarzschild Radius."
The above quote is from Joules, Rachel's BFF in the book. He describes what you're about to experience as you journey with Rachel on her quest to find her missing sister. This book will run you through emotion after emotion. Sorrow, fear, disgust, horror, sympathy, empathy, heartbreak, and bitter relief. I honestly had no idea what I was getting into when I agreed to review this book and it was quite the amazing surprise. Bit by bit, piece by piece, more and more is revealed, and more and more is appalling, and you will be holding your breath in anticipation, and fear, as to what could be revealed next.
Rachel is one hell of a character. Brave, strong, determined, loyal, intelligent, gutsy...you can't help but admire her and and be envious of Olivia and the devotion and love her sister holds for her. Even if you're totally loved and adored by your family, Rachel's love is POWERFUL. And you will gasp and grip your kindle tightly as Florentin weaves this story around and around.
An excellent read. I don't know if I could read it again as some descriptions were truly horrifying, but I'm glad I read it this time around. Definitely thrilling, definitely consuming, definitely a breath stealer and kindle bruiser.
November 3, 2014
I read lots and I get a lot of books to review. This is not my normal kind of read so it's a pure fluke that I signed up to review it. This book took me a few days to read. Longer than it normally takes I felt I needed a breather as this is no light read.
This book seriously pulled me apart and played with my emotions. It's a real eye opener. With my heart thumping and beating fast this is a gripping read from start to finish.
This is the raw and gritty story of Rachel who goes in search for her sister Olivia who has mysteriously disappeared.
I really can't put into words how superb this story is. It has a unique storyline that will have you gripped. My daughters eighteen. If she were to read this I feel as if I'd want to hold her hand while reading this. Definitely a re read for me.
This book seriously pulled me apart and played with my emotions. It's a real eye opener. With my heart thumping and beating fast this is a gripping read from start to finish.
This is the raw and gritty story of Rachel who goes in search for her sister Olivia who has mysteriously disappeared.
I really can't put into words how superb this story is. It has a unique storyline that will have you gripped. My daughters eighteen. If she were to read this I feel as if I'd want to hold her hand while reading this. Definitely a re read for me.
October 12, 2014
(I received a copy of this book courtesy of NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.)
Check out my blog for more review.(http://book-blog-of-books.blogspot.com/)
The Schwarzschild Radius is a really amazing book with a gripping and terrifying plot that I knew from the get go was not going to be all glitter and roses, let’s face it there was no glitter and roses in this at all. From the opening scene in this book you will know what the tone of the book is going to be and it is not a pretty one on this Ebay of snuff films.
So when Olivia Wallen goes missing it is initially treated as a kidnapping by the police but the reader knows that this is not the case, now Rachel Wallen goes looking for her missing adopted sister by following in her sisters footsteps and retracing her actions. She then starts stripping in booths for lonely men and then after meeting Sonia she starts entertaining clients in their homes in the hopes of gathering information via hacking their computers with a RAT. Now these clients are far from innocent they are all what appears to be normal rich and influential men but they all hold a secret they are all prefer their women or should I say girls underage, yes they are all pedophiles.
Detective McKenna is on the case and is desperately trying to find Olivia before it is to late especially after Kirsten Shrodinger turns up dead and defiled with evidence of a long period of torture and rape. He starts to suspect that there is something worse going on here and investigates Transcendence House and it’s Resident Father , Father Massey and any involvement of the house with the dead and missing girls.
Father Massey is not really a bad man he did his good deeds and helped the community but he was also a pedophile and was involved sexually with minors constantly. I was really suspicious of Father Massey from the moment he was introduced, he just seemed like the likely culprit but his scheming and later confrontation with the ebay of tortures webmaster drowned that thought.
This book has a lot of point of view with the majority of them being Rachel and the rest of Detective McKenna and Father Massey and also the men Rachel entertained and the webmaster.
Rachel is a smart and strong female lead that I just kept on cheering for and cringing at times, but the sibling love in this and the love she holds for her younger sister and later her sisters twin knows no bounds which is proven by the length she goes to, to find Olivia and the culprit she goes to the point of attracting the attention of the webmaster and ending up on auction in this slaughterhouse and the struggle to escape his torture chamber.
While I liked McKenna’s character I felt that he was a bit absent in this book until the end because when he showed up to try and stop the webmaster.
The Schwarzschild Radius is an amazing book that deals with some heavy and depressing and quite frankly terrifying subject material and the author interprets this perfectly and while it isn’t that descriptive in the torture scenes it leaves a lot to the imagination and the imagination can conjure up some gruesome and horrid things when you dwell on the subject. After reading this book I kept thinking of it even while I was still reading it, it just stayed with me the whole time and I just wanted to know what happens next.
I enjoyed the writing style and the story. I recommend this to anyone up to the challenge of reading this and suggest no one under 18 read this unless they are mature enough to handle the information in this.
I really liked this book and will be looking for other books by this author.
5 Stars
Check out my blog for more review.(http://book-blog-of-books.blogspot.com/)
The Schwarzschild Radius is a really amazing book with a gripping and terrifying plot that I knew from the get go was not going to be all glitter and roses, let’s face it there was no glitter and roses in this at all. From the opening scene in this book you will know what the tone of the book is going to be and it is not a pretty one on this Ebay of snuff films.
So when Olivia Wallen goes missing it is initially treated as a kidnapping by the police but the reader knows that this is not the case, now Rachel Wallen goes looking for her missing adopted sister by following in her sisters footsteps and retracing her actions. She then starts stripping in booths for lonely men and then after meeting Sonia she starts entertaining clients in their homes in the hopes of gathering information via hacking their computers with a RAT. Now these clients are far from innocent they are all what appears to be normal rich and influential men but they all hold a secret they are all prefer their women or should I say girls underage, yes they are all pedophiles.
Detective McKenna is on the case and is desperately trying to find Olivia before it is to late especially after Kirsten Shrodinger turns up dead and defiled with evidence of a long period of torture and rape. He starts to suspect that there is something worse going on here and investigates Transcendence House and it’s Resident Father , Father Massey and any involvement of the house with the dead and missing girls.
Father Massey is not really a bad man he did his good deeds and helped the community but he was also a pedophile and was involved sexually with minors constantly. I was really suspicious of Father Massey from the moment he was introduced, he just seemed like the likely culprit but his scheming and later confrontation with the ebay of tortures webmaster drowned that thought.
This book has a lot of point of view with the majority of them being Rachel and the rest of Detective McKenna and Father Massey and also the men Rachel entertained and the webmaster.
Rachel is a smart and strong female lead that I just kept on cheering for and cringing at times, but the sibling love in this and the love she holds for her younger sister and later her sisters twin knows no bounds which is proven by the length she goes to, to find Olivia and the culprit she goes to the point of attracting the attention of the webmaster and ending up on auction in this slaughterhouse and the struggle to escape his torture chamber.
While I liked McKenna’s character I felt that he was a bit absent in this book until the end because when he showed up to try and stop the webmaster.
The Schwarzschild Radius is an amazing book that deals with some heavy and depressing and quite frankly terrifying subject material and the author interprets this perfectly and while it isn’t that descriptive in the torture scenes it leaves a lot to the imagination and the imagination can conjure up some gruesome and horrid things when you dwell on the subject. After reading this book I kept thinking of it even while I was still reading it, it just stayed with me the whole time and I just wanted to know what happens next.
I enjoyed the writing style and the story. I recommend this to anyone up to the challenge of reading this and suggest no one under 18 read this unless they are mature enough to handle the information in this.
I really liked this book and will be looking for other books by this author.
5 Stars
January 26, 2015
In his second novel, The Schwarzschild Radius
, Gustavo Florentin drags us at breakneck pace into the seedy underworld of paedophilia, prostitution and snuff films.
Olivia Wallen, an over-achieving 16 year old with Harvard in her sights, is in the hands of the "Webmaster", the latest object in his "eBay of agony". Her naked image is broadcast to bidders across the world who will determine which depraved tortures she will be subjected to, and then how she will die.
Rachel Wallen is 18 yrs old, a bright over-achiever and a Columbia student; she is also Olivia's sister.
"What can she do that the police can't do better?"
Rachel can think of at least two things... and so starts her journey into "the world that had swallowed Olivia". A world that, once it has a grip on her, just like with her sister, won't allow her to escape that easily - the Schwarzschild Radius.
The reader, just like Rachel, is left to wonder why a smart girl like Olivia, with a good life and great prospects ahead, would end up disappearing in New York, away from home, and tangled up in such a terrible business.
The author does provide a clear motivation for Rachel, and in part for Olivia, but I feel that it remains unclear why Olivia did not cut the ties and return to her normal life as soon as she had the opportunity (we are offered a very quick explanation, but it does not seem enough).
Florentin's writing style is fluid and he manages to make complex topics accessible to anyone. The story is full of suspence and I ended up reading the whole novel in one sitting - I simply had to turn the page to find out more!
The narration is made from the view points of the various characters that we meet and that end up merging in a breath-taking finale.
Although the subjects covered are very strong, they are approached sensitively and without any excessive or gratuitous gore. The story felt genuine and accurate, with just one minor gripe with regard to the lightening fast onset of ketoacidosis; the most imminent danger with type 1 diabetes is being too low (hypoglacemia) and swiftly ending up in a diabetic coma because you have been deprived of food or because you have injected too high a dose of insulin. Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) would only become life-threatening after weeks of abuse. If someone who is diabetic is unwell, as a first aid, please give them glucose (think Lucozade), not insulin! - ideally use their testing kit and find out what is happening!
I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who is into thrillers and crime fiction (adult audience only).
I am now looking forward to reading Mr Florentin's first book, the award winning, In the Talons of the Condor
.
[ARC received via Netgalley]
, Gustavo Florentin drags us at breakneck pace into the seedy underworld of paedophilia, prostitution and snuff films.Olivia Wallen, an over-achieving 16 year old with Harvard in her sights, is in the hands of the "Webmaster", the latest object in his "eBay of agony". Her naked image is broadcast to bidders across the world who will determine which depraved tortures she will be subjected to, and then how she will die.
Rachel Wallen is 18 yrs old, a bright over-achiever and a Columbia student; she is also Olivia's sister.
"What can she do that the police can't do better?"
Rachel can think of at least two things... and so starts her journey into "the world that had swallowed Olivia". A world that, once it has a grip on her, just like with her sister, won't allow her to escape that easily - the Schwarzschild Radius.
The reader, just like Rachel, is left to wonder why a smart girl like Olivia, with a good life and great prospects ahead, would end up disappearing in New York, away from home, and tangled up in such a terrible business.
The author does provide a clear motivation for Rachel, and in part for Olivia, but I feel that it remains unclear why Olivia did not cut the ties and return to her normal life as soon as she had the opportunity (we are offered a very quick explanation, but it does not seem enough).
Florentin's writing style is fluid and he manages to make complex topics accessible to anyone. The story is full of suspence and I ended up reading the whole novel in one sitting - I simply had to turn the page to find out more!
The narration is made from the view points of the various characters that we meet and that end up merging in a breath-taking finale.
Although the subjects covered are very strong, they are approached sensitively and without any excessive or gratuitous gore. The story felt genuine and accurate, with just one minor gripe with regard to the lightening fast onset of ketoacidosis; the most imminent danger with type 1 diabetes is being too low (hypoglacemia) and swiftly ending up in a diabetic coma because you have been deprived of food or because you have injected too high a dose of insulin. Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) would only become life-threatening after weeks of abuse. If someone who is diabetic is unwell, as a first aid, please give them glucose (think Lucozade), not insulin! - ideally use their testing kit and find out what is happening!
I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who is into thrillers and crime fiction (adult audience only).
I am now looking forward to reading Mr Florentin's first book, the award winning, In the Talons of the Condor
.[ARC received via Netgalley]
October 13, 2014
The Schwarzschild Radius is not only a chilling and realistic portrayal of child prostitution, pedophilia, and sadism but also a wonderful illustration of the intrinsic power of familial bonds.
Rachel Wallen is 18 years old and starting her freshman year at Columbia University in New York when her 16-year-old adopted sister, Olivia, mysteriously disappears. Rachel disguises herself as an underage runaway and visits Transcendence House, a shelter for runaways in downtown Manhattan, where her sister has been working as a volunteer. Father Evan Massey, the founder of the shelter, can offer no information on Olivia’s whereabouts, but Rachel thinks he is hiding something and becomes even more determined to track down her sister. Rachel is horrified to learn Olivia is living the life of a prostitute and making porn movies. However, that is not Rachel’s only appalling discovery. Olivia also has a twin sister, who is living in Thailand as an underage sex slave, and Rachel is resolved to rescue her.
Detective John McKenna is assigned to Olivia’s case. He is worried Olivia might be one of the next victims of the depraved party responsible for the gruesome killings of underage prostitutes. He warns Rachel not to get involved in the search for Olivia, but Rachel refuses to give up her quest and ends up making the tough decision to take a job as a stripper in the same sex club where Olivia once worked. She is hoping that Sonia, one of the strippers acquainted with Olivia, can provide clues on her whereabouts. However, in order to glean information from Sonia, Rachel is forced to make the odious decision of posing as an underage stripper in the homes of pedophiles. Because Rachel is repulsed by the actions of the perverts and looking for any clue as to where Olivia might be, she decides to hack into the home computers of the men where she is stripping. This action puts her life in imminent danger. It becomes a harrowing race against time to see if Rachel can succeed in saving both herself and her sisters from the maniacal monsters who are pursuing them.
Readers are kept guessing until the author reveals the fiend behind the horrible and unimaginable atrocities suffered by the teenage girls. The title of the book has a clever tie-in to the story, and the ability to remotely access computer files is described in detail for readers unfamiliar with computer hacking.
Gustavo Florentin has skillfully written an edge of your seat story that is both disturbing and inspiring. The graphic descriptions of sadistic torture and murder of teenage girls is a key element in the story for illustrating just how dangerous it can be for teenage prostitutes, whether they have chosen a life of prostitution or been forced into it. The story depicts the emotional attachment between pedophiles and the children they are abusing. The powerful connections that bind a family together and the inner courage it takes not to give up in the face of abhorrent and terrifying circumstances is an underlying theme of the book.
Rachel Wallen is 18 years old and starting her freshman year at Columbia University in New York when her 16-year-old adopted sister, Olivia, mysteriously disappears. Rachel disguises herself as an underage runaway and visits Transcendence House, a shelter for runaways in downtown Manhattan, where her sister has been working as a volunteer. Father Evan Massey, the founder of the shelter, can offer no information on Olivia’s whereabouts, but Rachel thinks he is hiding something and becomes even more determined to track down her sister. Rachel is horrified to learn Olivia is living the life of a prostitute and making porn movies. However, that is not Rachel’s only appalling discovery. Olivia also has a twin sister, who is living in Thailand as an underage sex slave, and Rachel is resolved to rescue her.
Detective John McKenna is assigned to Olivia’s case. He is worried Olivia might be one of the next victims of the depraved party responsible for the gruesome killings of underage prostitutes. He warns Rachel not to get involved in the search for Olivia, but Rachel refuses to give up her quest and ends up making the tough decision to take a job as a stripper in the same sex club where Olivia once worked. She is hoping that Sonia, one of the strippers acquainted with Olivia, can provide clues on her whereabouts. However, in order to glean information from Sonia, Rachel is forced to make the odious decision of posing as an underage stripper in the homes of pedophiles. Because Rachel is repulsed by the actions of the perverts and looking for any clue as to where Olivia might be, she decides to hack into the home computers of the men where she is stripping. This action puts her life in imminent danger. It becomes a harrowing race against time to see if Rachel can succeed in saving both herself and her sisters from the maniacal monsters who are pursuing them.
Readers are kept guessing until the author reveals the fiend behind the horrible and unimaginable atrocities suffered by the teenage girls. The title of the book has a clever tie-in to the story, and the ability to remotely access computer files is described in detail for readers unfamiliar with computer hacking.
Gustavo Florentin has skillfully written an edge of your seat story that is both disturbing and inspiring. The graphic descriptions of sadistic torture and murder of teenage girls is a key element in the story for illustrating just how dangerous it can be for teenage prostitutes, whether they have chosen a life of prostitution or been forced into it. The story depicts the emotional attachment between pedophiles and the children they are abusing. The powerful connections that bind a family together and the inner courage it takes not to give up in the face of abhorrent and terrifying circumstances is an underlying theme of the book.
September 8, 2014
Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
5 INTENSE STARS!!!
WOW…
I can’t even describe the intensity of this book and how thoroughly I enjoyed reading it. The Schwarzschild Radius is a story of survival, perseverance, depravity and compassion.
Rachel is an 18 year old brilliant student at Columbia University whose life is turned upside down when her adopted sister Olivia mysteriously disappears. Frustrated with slow-moving and failed police efforts Rachel takes it upon herself to investigate the events leading up to Olivia’s disappearance; events that immerse Rachel into a world of prostitution, abuse, manipulation, pedophilia and some of the most inhumane, evil and vile behavior that you can fathom. She is in way over her head and sinking fast. In her pursuits for the truth she meets various individuals that will impact the choices leading to a fight for her own life. Father Massey, a man who preaches safety and compassion for homeless or runaway youth but holds a dark secret that he would kill to protect, Sonia a lost soul who sells her body for money to make ends meet, and Detective McKenna who will do anything in his power to stop whoever is behind the abduction and murders of the young girls.
This book is a rollercoaster of emotion, from fear to anger to disgust to sorrow and to bitter relief. The acts described in this book are not for the faint of heart but shows a side of mankind that while unfortunate and repulsive is easily believable. Florentin does an amazing job of keeping your heart racing throughout this book as well as keeping you guessing at who the mastermind is. With every new clue or sequence another layer is peeled back in this mystery and the reader falls further down the rabbit hole right alongside Rachel. I found myself many times clutching my kindle or holding my breath waiting for what would happen next. The writing in this story is fascinating and descriptive. Florentin describes the world of internet deviance and hacking with fine precision that doesn’t confuse the reader but rather enthralls them. This book is the ultimate story of survival and the bonds between family. Rachel does everything in her power to find her sister no matter the consequence; never losing hope and never turning back. She is both admirable and brave and I don’t think I have ever rooted more for a character then I did for Rachel. Her determination and fortitude is remarkable and only makes the reader that much more invested in plight to find her sister and stay alive in the process.
The Schwarzschild Radius is a thrilling, intense and emotional read that I could not put down.
5 INTENSE STARS!!!
WOW…
I can’t even describe the intensity of this book and how thoroughly I enjoyed reading it. The Schwarzschild Radius is a story of survival, perseverance, depravity and compassion.
Rachel is an 18 year old brilliant student at Columbia University whose life is turned upside down when her adopted sister Olivia mysteriously disappears. Frustrated with slow-moving and failed police efforts Rachel takes it upon herself to investigate the events leading up to Olivia’s disappearance; events that immerse Rachel into a world of prostitution, abuse, manipulation, pedophilia and some of the most inhumane, evil and vile behavior that you can fathom. She is in way over her head and sinking fast. In her pursuits for the truth she meets various individuals that will impact the choices leading to a fight for her own life. Father Massey, a man who preaches safety and compassion for homeless or runaway youth but holds a dark secret that he would kill to protect, Sonia a lost soul who sells her body for money to make ends meet, and Detective McKenna who will do anything in his power to stop whoever is behind the abduction and murders of the young girls.
This book is a rollercoaster of emotion, from fear to anger to disgust to sorrow and to bitter relief. The acts described in this book are not for the faint of heart but shows a side of mankind that while unfortunate and repulsive is easily believable. Florentin does an amazing job of keeping your heart racing throughout this book as well as keeping you guessing at who the mastermind is. With every new clue or sequence another layer is peeled back in this mystery and the reader falls further down the rabbit hole right alongside Rachel. I found myself many times clutching my kindle or holding my breath waiting for what would happen next. The writing in this story is fascinating and descriptive. Florentin describes the world of internet deviance and hacking with fine precision that doesn’t confuse the reader but rather enthralls them. This book is the ultimate story of survival and the bonds between family. Rachel does everything in her power to find her sister no matter the consequence; never losing hope and never turning back. She is both admirable and brave and I don’t think I have ever rooted more for a character then I did for Rachel. Her determination and fortitude is remarkable and only makes the reader that much more invested in plight to find her sister and stay alive in the process.
The Schwarzschild Radius is a thrilling, intense and emotional read that I could not put down.
November 7, 2014
In this book Rachel’s sister Olivia goes missing. She is determined to figure out what happened to her. She copies her sister’s hard drive and starts looking at all her sister’s emails and instant messages. She pretends to be a run away and goes to the shelter were her sister used to volunteer to see if she could find anything out there. She then looks for a girl that her sister was linked to by one of the other volunteers. She finds out this girl works at a peep show place. Rachel gets a job there when she finds out her sister worked there also. She begins doing everything her sister did in hopes to find out what happened to her. She keeps the detective on her sister’s cause up to date as she finds things out. She also asks her friend to help her at one point. She figures out that someone is hosting auction where bidders get to pick the torcher the victims will go through.
This book isn’t my normal read but I couldn’t put it down. I really liked this book. I couldn’t wait to see what happened next. The things that are done to the girls on the website are horrible. Things I couldn’t even begin to imagine. Rachel’s devotion to find out what happened to her sister is nothing short of amazing. Most people would have sat at home waiting for the police to figure things out. Maybe hung some flyers set up a hotline. What Rachel did went above and beyond. This book tugged at me so much. I felt for Rachel and Olivia and the others along the way. This could have and probably would have kept on going for a long time if not for the girls.
I recommend this book as a must read. I will be looking for other books by this author.
This book isn’t my normal read but I couldn’t put it down. I really liked this book. I couldn’t wait to see what happened next. The things that are done to the girls on the website are horrible. Things I couldn’t even begin to imagine. Rachel’s devotion to find out what happened to her sister is nothing short of amazing. Most people would have sat at home waiting for the police to figure things out. Maybe hung some flyers set up a hotline. What Rachel did went above and beyond. This book tugged at me so much. I felt for Rachel and Olivia and the others along the way. This could have and probably would have kept on going for a long time if not for the girls.
I recommend this book as a must read. I will be looking for other books by this author.
November 9, 2014
In Gustavo Florentin's brilliant thriller, The Schwarzschild Radius, he takes plot twists to a new level, along with original use of computer hacking to advance the story. Using the New York city abandoned subway tunnels as a setting is as original as it is terrifying.The writing is superb and spare, at times transcending the thriller genre. As the barefoot Rachel is escaping her captor through the catacombs of New York, the author writes, "Rachel understood now why POWs and discalced nuns had to surrender their shoes––few things humbled a person as much. A sliver of glass or a sharp pebble had the power to stop a man. It made you give respect to small things you had always crushed underfoot."
There is a subplot that is as compelling as the main story and which converges perfectly with it, both storylines becoming more than the sum of their parts. Florentin has done here what is supremely difficult in this genre--to make an amateur sleuth plausible and believable. Yet it makes perfect sense. The main character, Rachel is eighteen years old and she can go places and do things the police cannot. She can hack into a computer without a warrant. She can mix with street kids in a homeless shelter and she can dance in the homes of perverts in search of her sister, Olivia, none of which the NYPD can do very well. Five easy stars for this one and I hope to see more from Gustavo Florentin. Bravo.
There is a subplot that is as compelling as the main story and which converges perfectly with it, both storylines becoming more than the sum of their parts. Florentin has done here what is supremely difficult in this genre--to make an amateur sleuth plausible and believable. Yet it makes perfect sense. The main character, Rachel is eighteen years old and she can go places and do things the police cannot. She can hack into a computer without a warrant. She can mix with street kids in a homeless shelter and she can dance in the homes of perverts in search of her sister, Olivia, none of which the NYPD can do very well. Five easy stars for this one and I hope to see more from Gustavo Florentin. Bravo.
October 22, 2014
I received a free copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I don't read a lot of thrillers but the description on Netgalley piqued my interest so I decided to give this book a shot. I can say that it was gripping from cover to cover. Rachel is an 18 year old getting ready to start at Columbia University when her sister goes missing. Faced with the helplessness that all missing persons' families feel, Rachel believes that she can do more to find Olivia. Tracing her adopted sister's footsteps takes her down a deadly rabbit hole of depravity and evil, starting at a homeless shelter, passing through the lives of sex trade workers, and finally to the doorstep of a killer.
There were times when I wanted to yell at Rachel for all the risks she was taking, but the author really did a nice job helping me feel her desperation and to understand how someone's life can easily spiral out of control.
The story was well thought out, with some great twists and turns. I enjoyed the point of views switching from the different characters, allowing us to see into the minds of Rachel, Detective McKenna, and even the various suspects. I enjoyed reading this book a lot and would recommend it to anyone who can stomach some darkness and violence.
I don't read a lot of thrillers but the description on Netgalley piqued my interest so I decided to give this book a shot. I can say that it was gripping from cover to cover. Rachel is an 18 year old getting ready to start at Columbia University when her sister goes missing. Faced with the helplessness that all missing persons' families feel, Rachel believes that she can do more to find Olivia. Tracing her adopted sister's footsteps takes her down a deadly rabbit hole of depravity and evil, starting at a homeless shelter, passing through the lives of sex trade workers, and finally to the doorstep of a killer.
There were times when I wanted to yell at Rachel for all the risks she was taking, but the author really did a nice job helping me feel her desperation and to understand how someone's life can easily spiral out of control.
The story was well thought out, with some great twists and turns. I enjoyed the point of views switching from the different characters, allowing us to see into the minds of Rachel, Detective McKenna, and even the various suspects. I enjoyed reading this book a lot and would recommend it to anyone who can stomach some darkness and violence.
October 27, 2014
The Schwarzschild Radius is shocking, raw and riveting. I was awestruck with the story line. I cannot believe this could possibly happen. However I know this is a possibility it may be based off true events. My heartbeat was going a million miles an hour.
The plot was fantastic. The book was well written and gives the details needed to make it so you know all the characters. I don't know if I can explain all of what happens. There are many stories in one that all come together in the end.
There are unimaginable things that happen to the sisters and other girls. When the end was near in the book, I was sitting at the edge of my seat with a lump in my throat..
Amazing and gritty. I cannot do The Schwarzschild Radius justice explaining how I feel about the book. It is refreshing to read a book that is unique and it will remain one I will always remember.
I rate the book a 4.5.
The plot was fantastic. The book was well written and gives the details needed to make it so you know all the characters. I don't know if I can explain all of what happens. There are many stories in one that all come together in the end.
There are unimaginable things that happen to the sisters and other girls. When the end was near in the book, I was sitting at the edge of my seat with a lump in my throat..
Amazing and gritty. I cannot do The Schwarzschild Radius justice explaining how I feel about the book. It is refreshing to read a book that is unique and it will remain one I will always remember.
I rate the book a 4.5.
October 3, 2014
REVIEW: THE SCHWARZSCHILD RADIUS by Gustav Florentin
Caution: THE SCHWARZSCHILD RADIUS pulls very few punches! It is down-and-dirty, gritty, explicit, dealing with some of the very worst dregs of inhuman humanity. If you're faint of heart or weak of stomach, grossly disturbed by human trafficking, sexual slavery, pedophilia, and torture porn (and murder), you will find this book.tremendously disturbing. On the other hand, it is excellently written and ingeniously plotted. The character delineations are deep, and this is so in a high populace of characters. Some elicited immediate empathy; some I wanted eradicated from the face of the earth. Certainly, THE SCHWARZSCHILD RADIUS will linger on in my memory.
Caution: THE SCHWARZSCHILD RADIUS pulls very few punches! It is down-and-dirty, gritty, explicit, dealing with some of the very worst dregs of inhuman humanity. If you're faint of heart or weak of stomach, grossly disturbed by human trafficking, sexual slavery, pedophilia, and torture porn (and murder), you will find this book.tremendously disturbing. On the other hand, it is excellently written and ingeniously plotted. The character delineations are deep, and this is so in a high populace of characters. Some elicited immediate empathy; some I wanted eradicated from the face of the earth. Certainly, THE SCHWARZSCHILD RADIUS will linger on in my memory.
October 28, 2014
This is an exciting and suspenseful book that is also very educational about two most ancient and persistent evils - child sexual exploitation and human trafficking. Mr. Florentin's novel has very well developed characters, despite their youth (late adolescence). The dialogue moves smoothly, and the plotting is thrilling enough to be a true page turner. And the bad guys are really nasty. Very good.
The most important point of this book is about the sexual exploitation of children (teenagers in this novel). This is an excellent way of educating people who would never have any contact with these sorts of situations. What better way to enlighten than through entertainment.
The most important point of this book is about the sexual exploitation of children (teenagers in this novel). This is an excellent way of educating people who would never have any contact with these sorts of situations. What better way to enlighten than through entertainment.
October 21, 2014
What a mind tingling thriller!! It completely had me at the edge of my seat from the very first page. This book is very well written and could easily be turned into a movie. The authors writing style is very descriptive, with great imagery, that really makes the scenery and characters come to life. The storyline is very well thought out and develops into a great climactic finish. I don't like to give away story lines as I would never want to ruin a good read for another reader. But if you like thrillers and mysteries as much as I do then I guarantee you will love this book. 5 big stars.
October 25, 2014
September 24, 2014
I was blown away by this book. Not only was it the most unique story I've read all year but because it blends so many genres together perfectly. Superbly written, The Schwarzchild radius is a non-stop thriller with a supernatural edge. Fast paced and very exciting from cover to cover. If you are looking for a story that is a little different and will hook you on page one, then look no further. I highly recommend
I was blown away by this book. Not only was it the most unique story I've read all year but because it blends so many genres together perfectly. Superbly written, The Schwarzchild radius is a non-stop thriller with a supernatural edge. Fast paced and very exciting from cover to cover. If you are looking for a story that is a little different and will hook you on page one, then look no further. I highly recommend
November 6, 2014
Really, great story. If you like to read a thriller story, this book is for you. That is incredible, thrilling and suspenseful story of Gustavo Florentin. This book starts about two most ancient and persistent evils which do with child sexual exploitation and human trafficking. There are many interesting characters in this book. Rachel is an 18 year old brilliant student and Rachel is the main character. “The Schwarzschild Radius” is a very enjoyable book. I love to read this book.
October 30, 2014
This is a very well written story which delves into the difficult themes involving child prostitution, sadism and it is a complex portrayal of sometimes disturbing subjects. The characters are intriguing and the book evoked emotions and is very thrilling from start to finish. Definitely better than I expected, it was an unforgettable journey and I am glad I found this book. Highly recommended.
November 23, 2019
Full review to come!
June 7, 2021
Great read
While I found parts of this book a bit hard to read, I was also intrigued. The way it was written, the way the characters were portrayed, the situations in which they found themselves, it all just came together for a great read.
While I found parts of this book a bit hard to read, I was also intrigued. The way it was written, the way the characters were portrayed, the situations in which they found themselves, it all just came together for a great read.
October 7, 2014
I would like to thank Curiosity Quills Press for granting me a copy of this e-book to read in exchange for an honest review. Though I received this e-book for free that in no way impacts my review.
Goodreads Blurb:
"Rachel, an 18-year-old Columbia University student, descends into the netherworld of runaways and predators to find her sister, Olivia, who has suddenly disappeared.
After getting a job in a strip joint where Olivia worked, then doing private shows in the homes of rich clients, Rachel discovers that Olivia has been abducted by a killer who auctions the deaths of young girls in an eBay of agony.
When she finds Olivia, Rachel becomes the killer’s next target."
This book will take you for a ride that you'll want to get off, but you just can't tear yourself away from it until you know how it all turns out. Initially I wasn't too sure what to make of this book, but about an eighth of the way in it really picked up and the storyline became much clearer. This book has strong female protagonists who survive in some of the worst conditions and depravity known to humans. The question is, can they survive long enough to get themselves out, using only their wits, and relying on each other when possible?
Rachel is absolutely brilliant. At 18 she goes to Columbia University and is fast-tracked for a Nobel Prize according to everyone who knows her. And her adopted sister is just as brilliant, set to enroll in Harvard at the tender age of 16. These two girls have the world at their feet, and are extremely close. Or so Rachel thought, until Olivia disappears and all kinds of strange things come to light. But Rachel doesn't care what her sister has gotten herself tangled up in, she's determined to find her before it's too late.
Rachel is a fount of strength, which she must rely on if she's going to survive the shock and horror of retracing, and following in, Olivia's steps. Her first time stripping in a peepshow joint is almost too much for her, but thoughts of what might be happening to Olivia keep her going, and coming back shift after shift. Especially because she knows Olivia is on borrowed time. As a diabetic on insulin she needs regular shots to stay alive, and she only ever carries enough for one day.
As Rachel delves deeper and deeper into the seedy underbelly of NYC and the depraved men who live there, she learns more than she wants to know about what Olivia was doing. And eventually she understands why, which leads her to take up where Olivia left off. Now Rachel is struggling to save not one life but two. Will her own life be hanging in the balance before all is said and done?
Florentin has done an excellent job of developing the raw emotions of predator and prey in this mentally stimulating story. He does an incredible job of defining the antagonists, how they think, and in at least one case, how he became who he is by the time Olivia crosses his path. The horror of what goes on is very visceral, and sadly it probably has its roots in reality, if it isn't happening in similar ways as I write this review.
The arc of the story is well blended to match the character development, as well as the pacing of the increasing levels of suspense. Without a doubt this book will keep you up late at night, unable to set it down until you've read the very last page. It may keep you up well after that, but that is an entirely different issue. . . Or is it? While this is rated for teens and young adults, I wouldn't want my soon to be 14-year-old niece reading this anytime soon. I'd say 18 would be about the youngest I'd recommend for this book, but that's just one woman's opinion. Maybe it would be good for younger girls who are more prone to become runaways or slip through the cracks - hopefully they might think twice about trying it on their own after reading this. That's not to say this book should be rated differently, but it does contain some very disturbing scenes. On the other hand it also demonstrates the power of love and of human perseverance, so it balances out fairly evenly. Regardless, it is a powerful read, and one well worth your time if you enjoy suspense, strong characters, and excellent pacing.
Goodreads Blurb:
"Rachel, an 18-year-old Columbia University student, descends into the netherworld of runaways and predators to find her sister, Olivia, who has suddenly disappeared.
After getting a job in a strip joint where Olivia worked, then doing private shows in the homes of rich clients, Rachel discovers that Olivia has been abducted by a killer who auctions the deaths of young girls in an eBay of agony.
When she finds Olivia, Rachel becomes the killer’s next target."
This book will take you for a ride that you'll want to get off, but you just can't tear yourself away from it until you know how it all turns out. Initially I wasn't too sure what to make of this book, but about an eighth of the way in it really picked up and the storyline became much clearer. This book has strong female protagonists who survive in some of the worst conditions and depravity known to humans. The question is, can they survive long enough to get themselves out, using only their wits, and relying on each other when possible?
Rachel is absolutely brilliant. At 18 she goes to Columbia University and is fast-tracked for a Nobel Prize according to everyone who knows her. And her adopted sister is just as brilliant, set to enroll in Harvard at the tender age of 16. These two girls have the world at their feet, and are extremely close. Or so Rachel thought, until Olivia disappears and all kinds of strange things come to light. But Rachel doesn't care what her sister has gotten herself tangled up in, she's determined to find her before it's too late.
Rachel is a fount of strength, which she must rely on if she's going to survive the shock and horror of retracing, and following in, Olivia's steps. Her first time stripping in a peepshow joint is almost too much for her, but thoughts of what might be happening to Olivia keep her going, and coming back shift after shift. Especially because she knows Olivia is on borrowed time. As a diabetic on insulin she needs regular shots to stay alive, and she only ever carries enough for one day.
As Rachel delves deeper and deeper into the seedy underbelly of NYC and the depraved men who live there, she learns more than she wants to know about what Olivia was doing. And eventually she understands why, which leads her to take up where Olivia left off. Now Rachel is struggling to save not one life but two. Will her own life be hanging in the balance before all is said and done?
Florentin has done an excellent job of developing the raw emotions of predator and prey in this mentally stimulating story. He does an incredible job of defining the antagonists, how they think, and in at least one case, how he became who he is by the time Olivia crosses his path. The horror of what goes on is very visceral, and sadly it probably has its roots in reality, if it isn't happening in similar ways as I write this review.
The arc of the story is well blended to match the character development, as well as the pacing of the increasing levels of suspense. Without a doubt this book will keep you up late at night, unable to set it down until you've read the very last page. It may keep you up well after that, but that is an entirely different issue. . . Or is it? While this is rated for teens and young adults, I wouldn't want my soon to be 14-year-old niece reading this anytime soon. I'd say 18 would be about the youngest I'd recommend for this book, but that's just one woman's opinion. Maybe it would be good for younger girls who are more prone to become runaways or slip through the cracks - hopefully they might think twice about trying it on their own after reading this. That's not to say this book should be rated differently, but it does contain some very disturbing scenes. On the other hand it also demonstrates the power of love and of human perseverance, so it balances out fairly evenly. Regardless, it is a powerful read, and one well worth your time if you enjoy suspense, strong characters, and excellent pacing.
December 27, 2014
Review first publiushed on Carole Finds Her Wings as part of The Schwarzschild Radius Review Tour.
You can tell straight from the blurb that The Schwarzschild Radius isn’t going to be a rollercoaster of laughs but it is certainly a rollercoaster. Not one for the faint of heart, either.
The very first chapter sets the scene in a way that clearly lets you know that Olivia is in big trouble and not the sort that is easily solved. The Webmaster is cool, collected and utterly merciless as he displays Olivia like a prize cow and encourages the bids in on whatever forms of pain and torture the clients desire – highest bidder gets to choose the next move. There is no limit to the depravity – it is whatever the clients can imagine up, so long as they pay then the Webmaster will arrange it and film it for them. The final stage of the auction comes when the girl can take no more and then they bid on who gets to choose how she dies.
Most of the story is told from Olivia’s sister Rachel’s perspective as she desperately tries to follow her sister’s last known footsteps and finds herself in places she never thought she’d see and doing things she never thought she would do. But desperation can give you courage and Rachel sets her limits and sticks to them, giving herself the chance to dig up some secrets from the dirty minded men who may well have been the last people to see Olivia alive.
Rachel is a great character, she is intelligent and well-grounded and doesn’t easily slip into her sister’s secret second life. She has major reservations about what she is capable of and has very natural reactions to the situations she finds herself in. There is a heavy weight of fear over the whole book but perhaps mostly in the chapters from Rachel’s view – she knows why Olivia was doing what she was doing but it is not a world Rachel is naturally equipped to survive in.
Detective John Mckenna is running the missing person case on Olivia. He is ex-army and was an excellent sniper – this makes him excellent at spotting tiny details that other people overlook but can make him seem very detached when he really gets into a case. His own marriage fell apart after he left the army and he hasn’t seen his own daughter for years so Olivia’s case really strikes a chord with him and he goes all out to solve the case.
Focused as he was, I didn’t find McKenna a particularly striking character. He was key in the end but most of the footwork seemed to be done by Rachel, almost to the point where I forgot he was around at times.
There are other viewpoints in the book, mostly of the men Rachel finds herself performing private strip shows for. These men are mostly lonely and sad, they are all rich enough to afford these shows and to tip in the hundreds but they all share a similar taste – they like their girls underage. Rachel spends most of her time pretending to be a fourteen year old to satisfy their primal urges – and the chapters written in their voices, explaining their feelings about their desires and the like are deeply unsettling. They all sound rational and normal aside from their disturbing fantasies about children – more than fantasies in some cases.
It is not an easy subject matter but Gustavo Florentin handles it brilliantly – you feel uneasy but never to the point of putting the book down. Instead some of the most engaging and interesting characters are the ones you want to hate because of their depravity. There is some very clever characterisation and it makes for some very compulsive reading, The Schwarzschild Radius was incredibly hard to put down and stayed on my mind whenever I stopped reading and well after I finished the book.
There are some very graphic scenes and it is not for anyone with a delicate disposition but as a look into the darker side of humanity and a cleverly twisting mystery thriller it is a fantastic read. I thought I had it all worked out but was proved completely wrong at the last turn, something I love in a book.
You can tell straight from the blurb that The Schwarzschild Radius isn’t going to be a rollercoaster of laughs but it is certainly a rollercoaster. Not one for the faint of heart, either.
The very first chapter sets the scene in a way that clearly lets you know that Olivia is in big trouble and not the sort that is easily solved. The Webmaster is cool, collected and utterly merciless as he displays Olivia like a prize cow and encourages the bids in on whatever forms of pain and torture the clients desire – highest bidder gets to choose the next move. There is no limit to the depravity – it is whatever the clients can imagine up, so long as they pay then the Webmaster will arrange it and film it for them. The final stage of the auction comes when the girl can take no more and then they bid on who gets to choose how she dies.
Most of the story is told from Olivia’s sister Rachel’s perspective as she desperately tries to follow her sister’s last known footsteps and finds herself in places she never thought she’d see and doing things she never thought she would do. But desperation can give you courage and Rachel sets her limits and sticks to them, giving herself the chance to dig up some secrets from the dirty minded men who may well have been the last people to see Olivia alive.
Rachel is a great character, she is intelligent and well-grounded and doesn’t easily slip into her sister’s secret second life. She has major reservations about what she is capable of and has very natural reactions to the situations she finds herself in. There is a heavy weight of fear over the whole book but perhaps mostly in the chapters from Rachel’s view – she knows why Olivia was doing what she was doing but it is not a world Rachel is naturally equipped to survive in.
Detective John Mckenna is running the missing person case on Olivia. He is ex-army and was an excellent sniper – this makes him excellent at spotting tiny details that other people overlook but can make him seem very detached when he really gets into a case. His own marriage fell apart after he left the army and he hasn’t seen his own daughter for years so Olivia’s case really strikes a chord with him and he goes all out to solve the case.
Focused as he was, I didn’t find McKenna a particularly striking character. He was key in the end but most of the footwork seemed to be done by Rachel, almost to the point where I forgot he was around at times.
There are other viewpoints in the book, mostly of the men Rachel finds herself performing private strip shows for. These men are mostly lonely and sad, they are all rich enough to afford these shows and to tip in the hundreds but they all share a similar taste – they like their girls underage. Rachel spends most of her time pretending to be a fourteen year old to satisfy their primal urges – and the chapters written in their voices, explaining their feelings about their desires and the like are deeply unsettling. They all sound rational and normal aside from their disturbing fantasies about children – more than fantasies in some cases.
It is not an easy subject matter but Gustavo Florentin handles it brilliantly – you feel uneasy but never to the point of putting the book down. Instead some of the most engaging and interesting characters are the ones you want to hate because of their depravity. There is some very clever characterisation and it makes for some very compulsive reading, The Schwarzschild Radius was incredibly hard to put down and stayed on my mind whenever I stopped reading and well after I finished the book.
There are some very graphic scenes and it is not for anyone with a delicate disposition but as a look into the darker side of humanity and a cleverly twisting mystery thriller it is a fantastic read. I thought I had it all worked out but was proved completely wrong at the last turn, something I love in a book.
January 8, 2015
The Schwarzchild Radius by Gustavo Florentin is a 2014 Curiosity Quills publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I had no idea what this book would be like when I started reading it. So, I was totally taken by surprise by this book.
Rachel's adoptive sister Olivia has gone missing. When Rachel discovers what has happened to her, she sets out to find her, which means working undercover on the fringes of the sex trade and putting herself in incredible danger. Getting close to these scumbag pedophiles in the only way to locate Olivia. The depravity of some people is accurately depicted and eye opening since I live in my plain vanilla world untouched by this kind of life. I do advocate more attention being drawn to the sex slave industry and the more the spotlight shines on it, the more we can educate and raise awareness. But, this book is not a preachy sermon. It doesn't have to be. Young women being brutally tortured and raped, bought, sold, exposed to disease, and murdered for entertainment purposes is enough to turn your stomach and then some.
Rachel is a character who is super smart with a huge college load who gets fed up at how slowly the wheels are churning in the hunt for her sister and decides she will need to take matters into her own hands, thus beginning a dangerous game that puts her at risk on a number of levels. Rachel has many close calls and the suspense ratchets up to a fever pitch before all is said and done. Rachel's friend Joules is a big help to her as well as technology itself, although it has it's flaws and is a double edged sword. A determined detective is also on the case, but the monsters they are dealing with are a formidable opponent and the odds are not in their favor.
To say this story is dark is an understatement. It's very graphic and violent and holds nothing back. If brutality toward women, rape, or the sex industry bothers you, which of course it does, but if you can't handle hearing about it or reading about it, then this book is not for you. Now, that I have given you sufficient warning, these scenes do not dominate the entire story. In fact the worst of the graphic violence is only described a few times. The main focus is on Rachel and her fly by the seat of her pants investigation. Talk about thinking fast- Rachel was once sharp cookie even if she was out of her element. However, she's not perfect, she makes mistakes and pays dearly for them.
The “Webmaster” is one of the most diabolical villains I've encountered recently. The identity of this person is not one you will guess, adding yet another layer of unbearable suspense.
So, while the subject matter here is a difficult one, I thought the author did an outstanding job of keeping the pace even, building suspense, cleverly plotting, and giving us an all out heart stopping climax.
I recommend this to those who enjoy dark, gritty, super creepy realistic fiction with tense edge your seat suspense. 4.5 rounded to 5
I had no idea what this book would be like when I started reading it. So, I was totally taken by surprise by this book.
Rachel's adoptive sister Olivia has gone missing. When Rachel discovers what has happened to her, she sets out to find her, which means working undercover on the fringes of the sex trade and putting herself in incredible danger. Getting close to these scumbag pedophiles in the only way to locate Olivia. The depravity of some people is accurately depicted and eye opening since I live in my plain vanilla world untouched by this kind of life. I do advocate more attention being drawn to the sex slave industry and the more the spotlight shines on it, the more we can educate and raise awareness. But, this book is not a preachy sermon. It doesn't have to be. Young women being brutally tortured and raped, bought, sold, exposed to disease, and murdered for entertainment purposes is enough to turn your stomach and then some.
Rachel is a character who is super smart with a huge college load who gets fed up at how slowly the wheels are churning in the hunt for her sister and decides she will need to take matters into her own hands, thus beginning a dangerous game that puts her at risk on a number of levels. Rachel has many close calls and the suspense ratchets up to a fever pitch before all is said and done. Rachel's friend Joules is a big help to her as well as technology itself, although it has it's flaws and is a double edged sword. A determined detective is also on the case, but the monsters they are dealing with are a formidable opponent and the odds are not in their favor.
To say this story is dark is an understatement. It's very graphic and violent and holds nothing back. If brutality toward women, rape, or the sex industry bothers you, which of course it does, but if you can't handle hearing about it or reading about it, then this book is not for you. Now, that I have given you sufficient warning, these scenes do not dominate the entire story. In fact the worst of the graphic violence is only described a few times. The main focus is on Rachel and her fly by the seat of her pants investigation. Talk about thinking fast- Rachel was once sharp cookie even if she was out of her element. However, she's not perfect, she makes mistakes and pays dearly for them.
The “Webmaster” is one of the most diabolical villains I've encountered recently. The identity of this person is not one you will guess, adding yet another layer of unbearable suspense.
So, while the subject matter here is a difficult one, I thought the author did an outstanding job of keeping the pace even, building suspense, cleverly plotting, and giving us an all out heart stopping climax.
I recommend this to those who enjoy dark, gritty, super creepy realistic fiction with tense edge your seat suspense. 4.5 rounded to 5
February 5, 2015
I received this book from Curiosity Quills Publishing for an honest review.
Racheal is an eighteen year old with a bright future ahead of her. Her younger, adopted sister Olivia has been kidnapped after taking to a life of stripping and prostitution. Her kidnappers run what is dubbed as a "eBay of agony" where wealthy clients from all of the world bid on ways to maim, torture and kill the victims (basically, think Eli Roth's HOSTEL.) When the cops keep coming up empty handed on Olivia's whereabouts, Rachael takes matter into her own hands, diving into the a world of prostitution and pedophilia in hopes of finding her sister alive.
One word to describe this book: disturbing! There is a wealth of sick and depraved people and situations in this book and I oftentimes questioned why I didn't just stop reading it. It's not that the writing was bad, because it was written well for the most part, but reading this was like taking a beating. Every character is either flawed, extremely warped, to down right vile. There is no saving grace here. I'm drained after reading this and need some light reading now.
Despite some repetition and redundancy with some of the initial situations that Rachael finds herself in after plunging into the seedy underworld, the story moves along at a rapid pace. Almost every plot thread that you think is going to pan out, comes unraveled by surprises that will keep you guessing until the end; an ending that is very intense!
My biggest complaint with the book is how the "eBay of agony" isn't well represented in this book. It's mentioned in the synopsis as a main plot point, but really it's not. The people who seduce and manipulate those who are kidnapped is the main focus of the book, with the "eBay of agony" not really playing a huge role until the last quarter of the book.
Pedophilia isn't an easy subject to read about and that is mainly what this book deals with. It doesn't get overly sexually explicit in this regard, but as a warning, it's heavy on showing the seducing of the young that is associated with it and explaining what drives these evil people.
This book is real life horror to me. This isn't some made up supernatural zombie vampire romp, this is a very real book, despite being non-fiction. This one won't be for everybody, so read at your own caution. I give this one 3.5/5
Racheal is an eighteen year old with a bright future ahead of her. Her younger, adopted sister Olivia has been kidnapped after taking to a life of stripping and prostitution. Her kidnappers run what is dubbed as a "eBay of agony" where wealthy clients from all of the world bid on ways to maim, torture and kill the victims (basically, think Eli Roth's HOSTEL.) When the cops keep coming up empty handed on Olivia's whereabouts, Rachael takes matter into her own hands, diving into the a world of prostitution and pedophilia in hopes of finding her sister alive.
One word to describe this book: disturbing! There is a wealth of sick and depraved people and situations in this book and I oftentimes questioned why I didn't just stop reading it. It's not that the writing was bad, because it was written well for the most part, but reading this was like taking a beating. Every character is either flawed, extremely warped, to down right vile. There is no saving grace here. I'm drained after reading this and need some light reading now.
Despite some repetition and redundancy with some of the initial situations that Rachael finds herself in after plunging into the seedy underworld, the story moves along at a rapid pace. Almost every plot thread that you think is going to pan out, comes unraveled by surprises that will keep you guessing until the end; an ending that is very intense!
My biggest complaint with the book is how the "eBay of agony" isn't well represented in this book. It's mentioned in the synopsis as a main plot point, but really it's not. The people who seduce and manipulate those who are kidnapped is the main focus of the book, with the "eBay of agony" not really playing a huge role until the last quarter of the book.
Pedophilia isn't an easy subject to read about and that is mainly what this book deals with. It doesn't get overly sexually explicit in this regard, but as a warning, it's heavy on showing the seducing of the young that is associated with it and explaining what drives these evil people.
This book is real life horror to me. This isn't some made up supernatural zombie vampire romp, this is a very real book, despite being non-fiction. This one won't be for everybody, so read at your own caution. I give this one 3.5/5
November 30, 2014
A Predator Who Sells Live Deaths
This book is not something to read late at night or before bed unless you want nightmares. It is dark and twisted and very realistic. The darker sides of the human condition are explored with intricate detail leaving nothing to the imagination. A true thriller horror story if I have ever read one... But with real life monsters instead of mutants or supernatural ones. I really enjoyed it but I will definitely be reading light and fluffy for a while to get over this book!
Rachel loves her adopted sister with all her being. Then Olivia disappears without a trace and Rachel decides to take the search over knowing that the police will never be able to find the kind of information that she can if she just follows Olivia's lead. The world she uncovers when she searches for her missing sister is terrifying and oh so very wrong on so many levels. The underworld of pedos and underage prostitutes is much more vast than anyone could ever even imagine. So Rachel stays at Transcendence House and poses as a 16 year old runaway to investigate. ... But that just leads her further down the rabbit hole. How will she find someone who knows Olivia well enough to know her real secrets? Will she (an 18 year old college student) be able to successfully pull off posing as a desperate underage runaway living on the streets? Will she ever find Olivia? Will either of them survive to live their normal lives again?
This book was incredibly well written and completely believable. A parent's worst nightmare brought to life in exquisite detail. When I started reading it and realized how intense it was I thought about not finishing the book but it was already too late... I was sucked in and completely invested in the characters and just had to know how it ended! It was a terrifying thrill ride full of intrigue and suspense ... Depravity and horror. It is well worth a read if your constitution is up for the journey!
***This book is suitable for adult readers who are fans of graphic and realistic horror ... Not for the weak of stomach or feint of heart as it contains explicit and graphic torture/rape/murder/abuse scenes.
This book is not something to read late at night or before bed unless you want nightmares. It is dark and twisted and very realistic. The darker sides of the human condition are explored with intricate detail leaving nothing to the imagination. A true thriller horror story if I have ever read one... But with real life monsters instead of mutants or supernatural ones. I really enjoyed it but I will definitely be reading light and fluffy for a while to get over this book!
Rachel loves her adopted sister with all her being. Then Olivia disappears without a trace and Rachel decides to take the search over knowing that the police will never be able to find the kind of information that she can if she just follows Olivia's lead. The world she uncovers when she searches for her missing sister is terrifying and oh so very wrong on so many levels. The underworld of pedos and underage prostitutes is much more vast than anyone could ever even imagine. So Rachel stays at Transcendence House and poses as a 16 year old runaway to investigate. ... But that just leads her further down the rabbit hole. How will she find someone who knows Olivia well enough to know her real secrets? Will she (an 18 year old college student) be able to successfully pull off posing as a desperate underage runaway living on the streets? Will she ever find Olivia? Will either of them survive to live their normal lives again?
This book was incredibly well written and completely believable. A parent's worst nightmare brought to life in exquisite detail. When I started reading it and realized how intense it was I thought about not finishing the book but it was already too late... I was sucked in and completely invested in the characters and just had to know how it ended! It was a terrifying thrill ride full of intrigue and suspense ... Depravity and horror. It is well worth a read if your constitution is up for the journey!
***This book is suitable for adult readers who are fans of graphic and realistic horror ... Not for the weak of stomach or feint of heart as it contains explicit and graphic torture/rape/murder/abuse scenes.
September 25, 2014
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review).
(This review may contain spoilers).
I should have expected it, but this book was much darker than I originally thought. That’s possibly due to the fact that was an awful lot of abuse going on that was involving underage characters…
I liked the family aspect of this book and that Rachel was trying to find her sister. I was a bit confused about why Olivia was doing all of the things she did, though. I felt the author didn’t go into enough detail about why she had such a secret life.
The parts of the book that were in the POV of the killer were scary and creepy… but when he appeared in person, I felt that a lot of the creepiness was lost. I wasn’t actually sure who he was when his identity was revealed.
I wasn’t really sure what the title had to do with the book itself, though I did like the fact that it was explained. I just wasn’t completely sure what relevance the title had to the plot and I felt it could have been utilised a bit better.
I really liked how accepting Rachel was of Olivia’s twin. It was a really nice thing that the sister bond came through so well, even though the rest of the family relationships weren’t as detailed as they could have been.
Quite a few of the scenes did make me cringe, especially when it came to the bidding ones. It was interesting that the author didn’t describe all of the horrible things. I’m of the opinion that less is often more, but I do have a rather overactive imagination…
I found myself avidly reading this book to see what would happen next. I would definitely read more books by this author in the future.
(This review may contain spoilers).
I should have expected it, but this book was much darker than I originally thought. That’s possibly due to the fact that was an awful lot of abuse going on that was involving underage characters…
I liked the family aspect of this book and that Rachel was trying to find her sister. I was a bit confused about why Olivia was doing all of the things she did, though. I felt the author didn’t go into enough detail about why she had such a secret life.
The parts of the book that were in the POV of the killer were scary and creepy… but when he appeared in person, I felt that a lot of the creepiness was lost. I wasn’t actually sure who he was when his identity was revealed.
I wasn’t really sure what the title had to do with the book itself, though I did like the fact that it was explained. I just wasn’t completely sure what relevance the title had to the plot and I felt it could have been utilised a bit better.
I really liked how accepting Rachel was of Olivia’s twin. It was a really nice thing that the sister bond came through so well, even though the rest of the family relationships weren’t as detailed as they could have been.
Quite a few of the scenes did make me cringe, especially when it came to the bidding ones. It was interesting that the author didn’t describe all of the horrible things. I’m of the opinion that less is often more, but I do have a rather overactive imagination…
I found myself avidly reading this book to see what would happen next. I would definitely read more books by this author in the future.
November 4, 2014
Wow, what a hard book for me to review. I love this. Like really, really love this. For me this is a book that hits all of the murder/mystery high points and then some. This book goes above and beyond that. It goes into some major darkness in the human world. It would be any girls worst nightmare. I would give this 5 stars but, I have to be honest and say that this is not for everyone. In this genre, this is a 5 star read and then some. I think some of the very graphic details might turn some away. For me it just drags me in more. I think this is just amazing for a debut novel. Florentin creates a world that I love to hate here. Rachel is amazing. It is hard to imagine a character so strong and put together is 18. I was blown away by her character and the journey she takes in this book. I have never read a character quite like her and I love her. This plot is so jam packed with gruesome darkness that I hope no one would ever have to endure. I was on the edge of my seat the whole ride. You will be too. This is not a book you will want to put down, so be prepared when you pick it up. A page turner if there ever was one. I think crime and mystery lovers everywhere will be pulled in and took on the ride of their lives in this book. AMAZING!!!
~Lisa
~Lisa
December 31, 2014
Book Review originally published here: http://www.iheartreading.net/book-tou...
In The Schwarzschild Radius, Rachel, an 18-year-old university student wants to find her sister Olivia. Olivia disappeared suddenly after working in a strip joint, and Rachel fears the worst. She goes undercover in the world Olivia once belonged to. She gets a job in the strip joint she once worked, and discovers that Olivia was abducted by a killer who auctions murders on eBay. But closing in on the killer means she may become his next target…
This is a fast-paced, suspenseful thriller, and definitely not for the faint of heart. The world Rachel descends into is filled with mayhem and madness and people so wicked they made me nauseous. But the writing is excellent, the characters shine, in particular Rachel. She’s one of the most resourceful heroines I’ve ever read about, determined to find her sister against all cost, no matter what it takes.
The stakes are very high – Rachel’s own life is at stake – and the book is relentless in that the suspense never slows down. Simply amazing, and recommended to all thriller fans.
In The Schwarzschild Radius, Rachel, an 18-year-old university student wants to find her sister Olivia. Olivia disappeared suddenly after working in a strip joint, and Rachel fears the worst. She goes undercover in the world Olivia once belonged to. She gets a job in the strip joint she once worked, and discovers that Olivia was abducted by a killer who auctions murders on eBay. But closing in on the killer means she may become his next target…
This is a fast-paced, suspenseful thriller, and definitely not for the faint of heart. The world Rachel descends into is filled with mayhem and madness and people so wicked they made me nauseous. But the writing is excellent, the characters shine, in particular Rachel. She’s one of the most resourceful heroines I’ve ever read about, determined to find her sister against all cost, no matter what it takes.
The stakes are very high – Rachel’s own life is at stake – and the book is relentless in that the suspense never slows down. Simply amazing, and recommended to all thriller fans.
September 27, 2014
(I received a copy from Netgalley in exchange for a review)
What a page turner! From the very first page I was hooked and I was desperate to know how this story was going to end.
This book is about sixteen year old Olivia Wallen. When she goes missing her sister Rachel goes on a journey into very dark, morbid places to find her.
I have to say that there are some really disturbing things in this story that may deeply upset you. I was able to get past it and keep reading.
The author gets straight to the point from the beginning and it continues through the end. It's refreshingly fast paced and keeps the readers attention.
There are moments when I was on the edge of my seat, saying "go, go, get out of there!"
What a page turner! From the very first page I was hooked and I was desperate to know how this story was going to end.
This book is about sixteen year old Olivia Wallen. When she goes missing her sister Rachel goes on a journey into very dark, morbid places to find her.
I have to say that there are some really disturbing things in this story that may deeply upset you. I was able to get past it and keep reading.
The author gets straight to the point from the beginning and it continues through the end. It's refreshingly fast paced and keeps the readers attention.
There are moments when I was on the edge of my seat, saying "go, go, get out of there!"
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews