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Butcher Boys #1
Devil You Know
Love.
How do you define it? I guess it’s up to the individual. Love can be a sweet gesture of flowers on your anniversary. Love can be a meal waiting at home after a long day at work. Love can be a gentle caress. Or the unspoken words in your lover’s eyes.
Love isn’t a backhand, given because of a warm beer. Love isn’t wearing long-sleeves to hide bruises from the ladies at the supermarket.
I thought I’d never experience love. Such emotion didn’t seem to fit with what I had—who I was.
But he stepped in, and showed me his.
He pulled me from the dark abyss I had lost myself to, and showed me the simple things which could bring such joy. Sun on my face. The smell of fresh coffee. Colours in the autumn leaves. All the little things.
He shows me these things, but he doesn’t share in them. He knows happiness, but he doesn’t feel it. He will give love, but never accept it.
He saved me. Now it’s my turn to return the favour …
How do you define it? I guess it’s up to the individual. Love can be a sweet gesture of flowers on your anniversary. Love can be a meal waiting at home after a long day at work. Love can be a gentle caress. Or the unspoken words in your lover’s eyes.
Love isn’t a backhand, given because of a warm beer. Love isn’t wearing long-sleeves to hide bruises from the ladies at the supermarket.
I thought I’d never experience love. Such emotion didn’t seem to fit with what I had—who I was.
But he stepped in, and showed me his.
He pulled me from the dark abyss I had lost myself to, and showed me the simple things which could bring such joy. Sun on my face. The smell of fresh coffee. Colours in the autumn leaves. All the little things.
He shows me these things, but he doesn’t share in them. He knows happiness, but he doesn’t feel it. He will give love, but never accept it.
He saved me. Now it’s my turn to return the favour …
278 pages, Paperback
First published February 2, 2015
399 people are currently reading
2503 people want to read
About the author
Max Henry
52 books1,010 followersFacebook -> http://bit.ly/2F4XrG3
Instagram -> http://bit.ly/2ruERF3
Newsletter -> http://www.maxhenryauthor.com/newsletter
Born and raised in Canterbury, New Zealand, Max now resides with her family in beautiful and sunny Queensland, Australia. Life with two young children can be hectic at times and, although she may not write as often as she would like, Max wouldn’t change a thing.
An avid lover of stories from a young age, she enjoys nothing more than to get lost in the pages while the characters dictate what direction she takes. Her favourite genre to write is new adult and the events in her stories may or may not be related to real life experiences (only she will ever know for sure).
In her down time, Max can be found at her local gym brainstorming through a session with the weights. If not, she’s probably out drooling over one of many classic cars on show that she wishes she owned.
Instagram -> http://bit.ly/2ruERF3
Newsletter -> http://www.maxhenryauthor.com/newsletter
Born and raised in Canterbury, New Zealand, Max now resides with her family in beautiful and sunny Queensland, Australia. Life with two young children can be hectic at times and, although she may not write as often as she would like, Max wouldn’t change a thing.
An avid lover of stories from a young age, she enjoys nothing more than to get lost in the pages while the characters dictate what direction she takes. Her favourite genre to write is new adult and the events in her stories may or may not be related to real life experiences (only she will ever know for sure).
In her down time, Max can be found at her local gym brainstorming through a session with the weights. If not, she’s probably out drooling over one of many classic cars on show that she wishes she owned.
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March 1, 2016
FREE on Amazon US today (2/29/2016)
HOT COVER ALERT! I want to be his hand, hehe.
Stand-alone book 1.
BLURB:
Sometimes love can be found in the most unlikely of places.
“It gives me strength to have somebody to fight for; I can never fight for myself, but, for others, I can kill.”
- Emilie Autumn
I should never have jumped that fence, and I most definitely should never have kissed her.
Living on the streets, I had to make some hard decisions to stay alive. I signed a contract with the devil, and because of that, I choose to live alone.
But after listening to my neighbors fight every night for years, it’s finally gotten to me. Now I’ve gone and done it - I’ve broken my only rule—never get involved.
I want to save the beautiful woman next door with the sad eyes from his abuse. I want to take her away from all of this, but what do I have to offer when my hands are stained with the sins I’ve committed?
How can I offer a broken woman peace and safety when those two things don’t exist in my world?
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00S...
FREEBIES are often good for MORE than one day, I have gathered all my FREEBIES on a special shelf: Kindle-freebies (currently over 500 books)
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August 6, 2015
*** 3.5 Stars ***
The first 18% was a little hum drum to me, but I am very glad that I stuck with it as it turned out to be one of those reads that I had a hard time putting down. I really enjoy the hero; Malice...and he has some friends that call themselves; "The Butcher Boys.." They are a neat group of men that grew on me right away. They all have a past of course, and I'm eager to check out each of their stories. I need to think on a review; but I just wanted to put up that I did enjoy this read, even though I did have a few little issues with it to bring my rating down a bit.
Review To Come!
The first 18% was a little hum drum to me, but I am very glad that I stuck with it as it turned out to be one of those reads that I had a hard time putting down. I really enjoy the hero; Malice...and he has some friends that call themselves; "The Butcher Boys.." They are a neat group of men that grew on me right away. They all have a past of course, and I'm eager to check out each of their stories. I need to think on a review; but I just wanted to put up that I did enjoy this read, even though I did have a few little issues with it to bring my rating down a bit.
Review To Come!
February 4, 2015
This was ok, it just didn't do much for me. I'll admit to being guilty of buying it because of the hot cover, but the blurb also drew me in. It just wasn't anything amazing. Both the characters were pretty messed up and the way they were written it made it hard to connect to them. I was just hoping for more I guess? Not the books fault.
Plus for some reason the next book is about Malice's dad who we only meet for like 5 seconds and he doesn't really endear himself to us. Instead of being about Malice's 2 best friends who we have spent time with and want to see happy? Why..?
Plus for some reason the next book is about Malice's dad who we only meet for like 5 seconds and he doesn't really endear himself to us. Instead of being about Malice's 2 best friends who we have spent time with and want to see happy? Why..?
June 3, 2015
Jane has been going through life at her husbands beck and call, trying to survive his abuse. She's at a point in her life where she doesn't care about her life and only wants to avoid the beatings her husband dishes out whenever he deems necessary. When her husband goes after their dog, Rocco, in a fit of rage she fights back, and gets the attention of her next door neighbor. Saving Rocco, the neighbor beats up her husband and then leaves, telling Jane that he will be there when she needs help. Soon after she knows she needs to take him up on his offer for help, or she may not survive. Malice takes her away from the abusive household and vows to protect her.
This is a really hard book for me to rate because my overall reaction to the story is mixed. It was an okay book with a good story but while I was reading it I just felt meh.
What I did like: The story itself was really well written and kept me interested to find out what would happen with Jane's husband and Malice's oh so secret job. I liked that a lot of the story focused on Jane's abuse and what she dealt with after getting out of that situation, and how she got help for it. It wasn't just passed over like I've read in a lot of books that have abused heroines.
What I didn't like: I couldn't feel the connection to Malice's character. There was a lot about him that was only skimmed over and didn't go into a lot of detail. When we finally find out about his job it's mentioned a lot and he explains it to Jane but we never actually get to see that part of his life, which is actually a huge part of the story, at least to me. There wasn't any chemistry between Malice and Jane that I could feel. There whole relationship felt pretty rushed and didn't feel real to me.
Overall, it was a good story it just could have been better. There were serious issues that were dealt with throughout the story that I feel made the story more realistic but I just couldn't connect to the story as a whole.
This is a really hard book for me to rate because my overall reaction to the story is mixed. It was an okay book with a good story but while I was reading it I just felt meh.
What I did like: The story itself was really well written and kept me interested to find out what would happen with Jane's husband and Malice's oh so secret job. I liked that a lot of the story focused on Jane's abuse and what she dealt with after getting out of that situation, and how she got help for it. It wasn't just passed over like I've read in a lot of books that have abused heroines.
Wake up, Jane. Nobody's going to save you. Knights in shining armor don't exist.
What I didn't like: I couldn't feel the connection to Malice's character. There was a lot about him that was only skimmed over and didn't go into a lot of detail. When we finally find out about his job it's mentioned a lot and he explains it to Jane but we never actually get to see that part of his life, which is actually a huge part of the story, at least to me. There wasn't any chemistry between Malice and Jane that I could feel. There whole relationship felt pretty rushed and didn't feel real to me.
Overall, it was a good story it just could have been better. There were serious issues that were dealt with throughout the story that I feel made the story more realistic but I just couldn't connect to the story as a whole.
December 25, 2017
«Me da fuerzas tener a alguien por quien pelear, nunca puedo luchar por mi mismo, pero por otros, puedo matar.»
Mi reacción al acabar el libro: ¿¡QUE COJONES ME ESTÁS CONTANDO!?
Así, sin más. Porque yo, que no me gusta empezar sagas que no están terminadas, siempre reviso si los siguientes libros son de los mismos personajes. Y habiendo revisado esta, el siguiente libro no era de ellos así que ¿contadme porque mierda el final ha sido abierto y el siguiente libro, aunque no con los personajes principales de este de protagonistas, continúa la trama? ¿Que queréis, joderme la vida?
Os cuento de qué va el libro:
Antes de empezar a contar quiero que sepáis que todo lo que voy a decir no tiene nada bueno que contar. Me refiero a que son cosas muy duras así que...
Nuestra protagonista se llama Jane, es una chica de 28 años que está casada con Dylan. Todo parece normal por lo que cuento pero la realidad es otra: Jane es maltratada, tanto física como psicologicamente, por su marido. Las escenas que describe el libro son muy descriptivas lo que me hacía ponerme enferma del estomago y me daban ganas de agarrar un bate y fundirle la cabeza a ese cabron. Y veréis, hay algo que me pone de muy mala leche y es esa gente que hace la vista gorda. Porque Jane vive en un precioso vecindario, un vecindario que tuvo que escuchar todo el ruido, los gritos y las súplicas de Jane, y que nunca hicieron nada para ayudarla. Imbeciles. Pero un día, cuando Dylan se vuelve majara perdido y le está dando una verdadera paliza a Jane, Rocco (el perro labrador de Jane) se lanza a por el hijo puta y lo muerde. Pero este se enfada más y va a por el perro. Jane grita y solloza porque no quiere que mate al perro. Es su única compañía en el mundo... pero de repente aparece alguien, al parecer su vecino de al lado, y Dylan recibe lo que merece. Jane cree haber encontrado a su héroe y salvador, aunque ella misma no se pueda salvar.
No os cuento más que lo destripo. Como veis es una historia muy dura... me he puesto enferma leyendo porque estos asuntos no me gustan nada. Como dato añadido, el vecino salvador y protagonista se llama Malice, solo para que lo sepáis. Así que Malice a mi me parece un buen chico, aunque luego Jane se vuelva loca juzgándolo y os digo de verdad, de todos los libros locos con protagonistas con trabajos cuanto menos "raros", no entiendo porque a ella le parecía tan mal trabajo. De hecho es de los más suaves que yo piense... bueno el caso es que la historia para mí ha quedado muy inconclusa. Me habéis dejado a medias. Malice tiene que contarle a Jane lo que ha hecho, si es lo que creo que ha pasado claro, porque eso tampoco me ha quedado muy claro. Y después leo la sinopsis del segundo libro que según entiendo es sobre el padre de Malice pero como que sigue el argumento del primero. Me repatea porque me obliga a leerlo ¿y que pasa si no me gusta el personaje? ¿O si no quiero saber su historia? Yo quería solo leer la de Malice, coño, odio estas cosas que te obligan a seguir la saga... bah.
No sé ni si recomendarla por esta estrategia estupida de dejar la trama para que continúe en el siguiente libro. Supongo que será para quien le guste. No es un mal libro, de hecho está bastante bien, pero me ha fastidiado esto último.
Mi reacción al acabar el libro: ¿¡QUE COJONES ME ESTÁS CONTANDO!?
Así, sin más. Porque yo, que no me gusta empezar sagas que no están terminadas, siempre reviso si los siguientes libros son de los mismos personajes. Y habiendo revisado esta, el siguiente libro no era de ellos así que ¿contadme porque mierda el final ha sido abierto y el siguiente libro, aunque no con los personajes principales de este de protagonistas, continúa la trama? ¿Que queréis, joderme la vida?
Os cuento de qué va el libro:
Antes de empezar a contar quiero que sepáis que todo lo que voy a decir no tiene nada bueno que contar. Me refiero a que son cosas muy duras así que...
Nuestra protagonista se llama Jane, es una chica de 28 años que está casada con Dylan. Todo parece normal por lo que cuento pero la realidad es otra: Jane es maltratada, tanto física como psicologicamente, por su marido. Las escenas que describe el libro son muy descriptivas lo que me hacía ponerme enferma del estomago y me daban ganas de agarrar un bate y fundirle la cabeza a ese cabron. Y veréis, hay algo que me pone de muy mala leche y es esa gente que hace la vista gorda. Porque Jane vive en un precioso vecindario, un vecindario que tuvo que escuchar todo el ruido, los gritos y las súplicas de Jane, y que nunca hicieron nada para ayudarla. Imbeciles. Pero un día, cuando Dylan se vuelve majara perdido y le está dando una verdadera paliza a Jane, Rocco (el perro labrador de Jane) se lanza a por el hijo puta y lo muerde. Pero este se enfada más y va a por el perro. Jane grita y solloza porque no quiere que mate al perro. Es su única compañía en el mundo... pero de repente aparece alguien, al parecer su vecino de al lado, y Dylan recibe lo que merece. Jane cree haber encontrado a su héroe y salvador, aunque ella misma no se pueda salvar.
No os cuento más que lo destripo. Como veis es una historia muy dura... me he puesto enferma leyendo porque estos asuntos no me gustan nada. Como dato añadido, el vecino salvador y protagonista se llama Malice, solo para que lo sepáis. Así que Malice a mi me parece un buen chico, aunque luego Jane se vuelva loca juzgándolo y os digo de verdad, de todos los libros locos con protagonistas con trabajos cuanto menos "raros", no entiendo porque a ella le parecía tan mal trabajo. De hecho es de los más suaves que yo piense... bueno el caso es que la historia para mí ha quedado muy inconclusa. Me habéis dejado a medias. Malice tiene que contarle a Jane lo que ha hecho, si es lo que creo que ha pasado claro, porque eso tampoco me ha quedado muy claro. Y después leo la sinopsis del segundo libro que según entiendo es sobre el padre de Malice pero como que sigue el argumento del primero. Me repatea porque me obliga a leerlo ¿y que pasa si no me gusta el personaje? ¿O si no quiero saber su historia? Yo quería solo leer la de Malice, coño, odio estas cosas que te obligan a seguir la saga... bah.
No sé ni si recomendarla por esta estrategia estupida de dejar la trama para que continúe en el siguiente libro. Supongo que será para quien le guste. No es un mal libro, de hecho está bastante bien, pero me ha fastidiado esto último.
February 2, 2015
This was a new author read for me. I've not read a book by Max Henry before, but I loved the sound of it, and really wanted to read it.
The start of the book is quite full on and extreme, Jane is in her mid to late 20's and married to a complete and utter waste of space, Dylan. You find out straight away that Jane is abused, and to quite an extreme standard, so if scenes of Domestic Violence hit a raw nerve or it's something you can't quite get on board with, in your books, this may shock or upset you. I did feel it was done well, and very emotional. It helped to start the story at Jane's lowest point.
Malice, lives next door to Jane, and can't bear to listen to what goes on next door any longer.
One night changes both of their lives forever.
I'm not going to summarise the story anymore as I feel I will probably end up, just spoiling it by telling too much of it. It needs to be unraveled by itself.
We get taken on a journey of recovery but also new fears, and issues are brought to light, and that is for all characters involved, not just Jane.
I really loved Malice's friends/team/brothers, a combination of all really. They are obviously all extremely close, and you can tell that they all have their stories to tell. They have grown up together through incredible hard times, and now work together. You have to wait until the end to really get the gist of what they do and how they are involved, but it's something that you know you want to learn more.
I actually found all the characters in this book were really addictive, and all had stories to tell, but Jane was such an incredible leading character. How on earth she managed to survive everything that was thrown at her, was unbelievable but it just made her such an admirable character. By the end of the book, she had grown so much, I didn't want their story to end. It felt like there was far more to their story that needed to be unraveled.
Malice and Jane, are most definitely a couple you 'need' to see get their happy ever after. Yet they aren't going to find that road easily. The chemistry that kicks in quite early on, is smoldering and you just know they would be so good for each other, if they could let go of what holds them back. Once things change, and they do give in to the desire that seems to sit heavily over them, it gets incredibly steamy.
The writing style of this book certainly had me gripped. It was dark and gritty and I just couldn't help but be addicted to each page, desperate to find out everything as quick as possible.
I can't wait to get on to the next book in the series. This is going to be an addictive series, I can tell already.
4.5 Stars.
**I was given an ARC of this book, in exchange for a fair and honest review**
The start of the book is quite full on and extreme, Jane is in her mid to late 20's and married to a complete and utter waste of space, Dylan. You find out straight away that Jane is abused, and to quite an extreme standard, so if scenes of Domestic Violence hit a raw nerve or it's something you can't quite get on board with, in your books, this may shock or upset you. I did feel it was done well, and very emotional. It helped to start the story at Jane's lowest point.
Malice, lives next door to Jane, and can't bear to listen to what goes on next door any longer.
One night changes both of their lives forever.
I'm not going to summarise the story anymore as I feel I will probably end up, just spoiling it by telling too much of it. It needs to be unraveled by itself.
We get taken on a journey of recovery but also new fears, and issues are brought to light, and that is for all characters involved, not just Jane.
I really loved Malice's friends/team/brothers, a combination of all really. They are obviously all extremely close, and you can tell that they all have their stories to tell. They have grown up together through incredible hard times, and now work together. You have to wait until the end to really get the gist of what they do and how they are involved, but it's something that you know you want to learn more.
I actually found all the characters in this book were really addictive, and all had stories to tell, but Jane was such an incredible leading character. How on earth she managed to survive everything that was thrown at her, was unbelievable but it just made her such an admirable character. By the end of the book, she had grown so much, I didn't want their story to end. It felt like there was far more to their story that needed to be unraveled.
Malice and Jane, are most definitely a couple you 'need' to see get their happy ever after. Yet they aren't going to find that road easily. The chemistry that kicks in quite early on, is smoldering and you just know they would be so good for each other, if they could let go of what holds them back. Once things change, and they do give in to the desire that seems to sit heavily over them, it gets incredibly steamy.
The writing style of this book certainly had me gripped. It was dark and gritty and I just couldn't help but be addicted to each page, desperate to find out everything as quick as possible.
I can't wait to get on to the next book in the series. This is going to be an addictive series, I can tell already.
4.5 Stars.
**I was given an ARC of this book, in exchange for a fair and honest review**
August 9, 2017
Voy a darle tres estrellas porque me gustó Malice.
Jane es completamente desesperante... e idiota. Y puedo entender que por lo que pasó quedará marcada, de alguna forma pero se pasaba de boba y ademas como que ella en realidad no quería salir de su vida abusiva. Prefería seguir llevando golpes que arriesgarse a buscar algo diferente. Pendeja.
Malice bueno... todavía me río con su nombre. También esperaba algo más de él, tanto drama entorno a su trabajo y la relación con su padre y la autora solo lo trato de pasadita. Al igual que el tema con Dylan, me sientoe estafada.
Pero le doy puntos por ser adictivo. Me llevo solo un día leerlo y eso porque tenia que ir a la sala de torturas mejor conocido como el consultorio del odontólogo.
Jane es completamente desesperante... e idiota. Y puedo entender que por lo que pasó quedará marcada, de alguna forma pero se pasaba de boba y ademas como que ella en realidad no quería salir de su vida abusiva. Prefería seguir llevando golpes que arriesgarse a buscar algo diferente. Pendeja.
Malice bueno... todavía me río con su nombre. También esperaba algo más de él, tanto drama entorno a su trabajo y la relación con su padre y la autora solo lo trato de pasadita. Al igual que el tema con Dylan, me sientoe estafada.
Pero le doy puntos por ser adictivo. Me llevo solo un día leerlo y eso porque tenia que ir a la sala de torturas mejor conocido como el consultorio del odontólogo.
February 21, 2015
Ok, not gonna lie, the cover sold me. Had to know what this was going to be about.
I still think Malice is pretty fuckin' hot, but the book itself was rather meh. This had the potential to be great, but it lacked emotion. And the emotion that was delivered seemed out of character to me.
Hopefully, Devil On Your Back (book 2), will bring more connection, cause really I should have loved this.
*Challenge: A book based entirely on its cover*
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April 8, 2025💝 FREE on Amazon today (11/25/2018)!💝
February 21, 2015
Sweet N Sassy Book A Holics Rating: 4.7
~~~~~~~~~~Michelle's ★★★★½ Review~~~~~~~~~~
WOW……This was my first book by Max Henry and I was beyond emotional (in a good way).
“Devil You Know” was an emotionally intense read but also one of the best books I have read. The emotion Henry puts into to this book leaves you feeling raw when reading it. Domestic abuse cannot be easy to write about (I know I would never be able to do it), but the way Henry wrote it was astonishing and heart wrenching ….We all want a book that reads so good that you feel the emotions that go along with it. When it comes to real subjects that we all deal with every day I don’t want it to be sugar coated – I want to be able to feel what the character is feeling and Henry does that without flaw….
I will forever be fan of Max Henry and I can’t wait to see what’s next. Kuddos to you Max Henry…..Fantastic job
~~~~~~~~~~Sara's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~~
Max Henry has done an excellent job with this one. I was in tears at times because it hit close to home. I was drawn in from the first page and didn’t put it down until I was done. The way he had you knowing exactly what was in Jane’s head and as an abused woman she felt. I was shaking at times it came so close to home. She is alone and just lives day to da. But then Malice steps in and makes her face her fears. While doing this they begin to feel for each other. He has some secret and when they come out Jane doesn’t know what to do. This is the first I have read from Max Henry and I can tell you that it won’t be the last. 5 stars!
~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
This story-line was such a complicated mix of intensity, mystery and deep emotions with a love story. Jane and Malice are two powerful, thoroughly damaged people. Especially Malice. So stubborn and so down on himself. It's a miracle that these two found the compassion needed to help each other face their fears and overcome the crushing burdens of their past and to bring sunshine into their dark lives.
As a reader, I was captured from the first page and simply could not put it down until completed. Seeing the changes of strength and purpose in Jane and the measure of peace that comes to Malice was a delight. Tension, secrets, suspicions and drama had me on the edge of my seat. I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. I highly recommend this story; it is both entertaining and time well spent. Five Stars!
~~~~~~~~~~Sharlene's ★★★★✰ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Max Henry does an excellent job in describing how an abused woman would think. Never having been in this situation myself, the way the author tells this story makes sense to me. It was also heartwarming to see someone help out another human in need without expecting anything in return.
Malice and Jane have their work cut out for them in the relationship arena though. Both are as screwed up as the other. The effort that they each put into making the relationship work is enormous. With Jane’s husband, Malices work and “brothers” and their combined pasts, this story has a lot of twists and turns and ups and downs. Enough to keep you captivated throughout the entire story.
The characters were fun to read and the storyline believable as well as easy to read. Perfect mix of narrative and conversation.
This book is a standalone and does have an HEA.
~~~~~~~~~~Zarah's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Wow! I loved this book. At times I found it very personal and difficult to read, Domestic violence is always an ugly subject but Max Henry really a fantastic job putting you into Janes head. She gives a perfect understanding of the internal and physical battles she faced. The feeling of loneliness, isolation and acceptance of how things are for her will break your heart.
Finally, FINALLY, someone steps in to help. Malice, who's name is nothing like his character (so it seems :-)) comes to the rescue making her take those hard first step on the road to her new life, and of course they make a connection. It might sound cliché, but I challenge anyone not to fall in love with this guy. What a sweetheart.
But then, it wouldn't be a really good story If he didn't have a few secrets of his own and they will rock Jane's world! Hence the name of the book "Devil you Know"
I loved the whole story line, the style of writing and the easy way it was to read. Absolutely Fantastic and I will be hunting out more of Max Henry's books.
~~~~~~~~~~Doris's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Jane and Malice meet one heated and terror filled night. Jane's husband is abusive and is chocking Rocco, her dog. Malice is the next door neighbor who intervenes on her behalf. Or is it for Rocco? She doesn't know and frankly she doesn't care. Jane is just thankful for a reprieve from her husband's abuse. Even if she does have to spend the night locked out of her house, because of her husband's anger and his way of punishing her.
This is how Jane and Malice meet. He has listened to the fighting and yelling and crying for over a year, and has finally decided to intervene. What kind of a man beats his wife at very opportunity he gets? What kind of a women stays for that kind of degradation and abuse? Jane just sees him as her rescuer, and is grateful that he saved her dog.
An intriguing book written about a subject that has been at the forefront of the media. A shining book that introduces two people that are as different as can be from each other. How two broken pieces of humanity can connect and together be made whole. I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. I give it 5 Stars!
~~~~~~~~~~Michelle's ★★★★½ Review~~~~~~~~~~
WOW……This was my first book by Max Henry and I was beyond emotional (in a good way).
“Devil You Know” was an emotionally intense read but also one of the best books I have read. The emotion Henry puts into to this book leaves you feeling raw when reading it. Domestic abuse cannot be easy to write about (I know I would never be able to do it), but the way Henry wrote it was astonishing and heart wrenching ….We all want a book that reads so good that you feel the emotions that go along with it. When it comes to real subjects that we all deal with every day I don’t want it to be sugar coated – I want to be able to feel what the character is feeling and Henry does that without flaw….
I will forever be fan of Max Henry and I can’t wait to see what’s next. Kuddos to you Max Henry…..Fantastic job
~~~~~~~~~~Sara's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~~
Max Henry has done an excellent job with this one. I was in tears at times because it hit close to home. I was drawn in from the first page and didn’t put it down until I was done. The way he had you knowing exactly what was in Jane’s head and as an abused woman she felt. I was shaking at times it came so close to home. She is alone and just lives day to da. But then Malice steps in and makes her face her fears. While doing this they begin to feel for each other. He has some secret and when they come out Jane doesn’t know what to do. This is the first I have read from Max Henry and I can tell you that it won’t be the last. 5 stars!
~~~~~~~~~~Dee's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
This story-line was such a complicated mix of intensity, mystery and deep emotions with a love story. Jane and Malice are two powerful, thoroughly damaged people. Especially Malice. So stubborn and so down on himself. It's a miracle that these two found the compassion needed to help each other face their fears and overcome the crushing burdens of their past and to bring sunshine into their dark lives.
As a reader, I was captured from the first page and simply could not put it down until completed. Seeing the changes of strength and purpose in Jane and the measure of peace that comes to Malice was a delight. Tension, secrets, suspicions and drama had me on the edge of my seat. I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. I highly recommend this story; it is both entertaining and time well spent. Five Stars!
~~~~~~~~~~Sharlene's ★★★★✰ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Max Henry does an excellent job in describing how an abused woman would think. Never having been in this situation myself, the way the author tells this story makes sense to me. It was also heartwarming to see someone help out another human in need without expecting anything in return.
Malice and Jane have their work cut out for them in the relationship arena though. Both are as screwed up as the other. The effort that they each put into making the relationship work is enormous. With Jane’s husband, Malices work and “brothers” and their combined pasts, this story has a lot of twists and turns and ups and downs. Enough to keep you captivated throughout the entire story.
The characters were fun to read and the storyline believable as well as easy to read. Perfect mix of narrative and conversation.
This book is a standalone and does have an HEA.
~~~~~~~~~~Zarah's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Wow! I loved this book. At times I found it very personal and difficult to read, Domestic violence is always an ugly subject but Max Henry really a fantastic job putting you into Janes head. She gives a perfect understanding of the internal and physical battles she faced. The feeling of loneliness, isolation and acceptance of how things are for her will break your heart.
Finally, FINALLY, someone steps in to help. Malice, who's name is nothing like his character (so it seems :-)) comes to the rescue making her take those hard first step on the road to her new life, and of course they make a connection. It might sound cliché, but I challenge anyone not to fall in love with this guy. What a sweetheart.
But then, it wouldn't be a really good story If he didn't have a few secrets of his own and they will rock Jane's world! Hence the name of the book "Devil you Know"
I loved the whole story line, the style of writing and the easy way it was to read. Absolutely Fantastic and I will be hunting out more of Max Henry's books.
~~~~~~~~~~Doris's ★★★★★ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Jane and Malice meet one heated and terror filled night. Jane's husband is abusive and is chocking Rocco, her dog. Malice is the next door neighbor who intervenes on her behalf. Or is it for Rocco? She doesn't know and frankly she doesn't care. Jane is just thankful for a reprieve from her husband's abuse. Even if she does have to spend the night locked out of her house, because of her husband's anger and his way of punishing her.
This is how Jane and Malice meet. He has listened to the fighting and yelling and crying for over a year, and has finally decided to intervene. What kind of a man beats his wife at very opportunity he gets? What kind of a women stays for that kind of degradation and abuse? Jane just sees him as her rescuer, and is grateful that he saved her dog.
An intriguing book written about a subject that has been at the forefront of the media. A shining book that introduces two people that are as different as can be from each other. How two broken pieces of humanity can connect and together be made whole. I was given this book in exchange for an honest review. I give it 5 Stars!
March 6, 2015
Ok... who bought the book because of the cover? I did. Who was dissappointed? I was. I felt like the whole middle section of the book was wash, rinse, repeat. I almost didn't finish reading this book at about 50%, but, I hate not finishing and thought it would redeem itself. Well, it really didn't.
I was really disgusted by the fact that our main character jumped from one abusive relationship to another (cause that's really what she did). And nothing is really resolved at the end of the book. I finished it and regretted the hours wasted reading it. Why give it more than 1 star then? Cause the cover is worth it lol. Will not be reading the next book in the series.
I was really disgusted by the fact that our main character jumped from one abusive relationship to another (cause that's really what she did). And nothing is really resolved at the end of the book. I finished it and regretted the hours wasted reading it. Why give it more than 1 star then? Cause the cover is worth it lol. Will not be reading the next book in the series.
December 12, 2015
This book started out with a good promise of being something great...the cover, the blurb all sucked me in and like I said, it started off really exciting.
I can read about a woman being abused by her husband when I know things will get better (she has a protector in her next door neighbor) but at times this book became so repetitive and Jane's wishy-washy back and forth between trusting Malice and wanting to run from him got old and the slow moving train became one that I wanted to jump off.
I finished the entire thing but was left feeling like I wasted my time (and I hate that feeling) and don't feel like I even care to read any of the other books in the series. Too much, too little, too late and although there were many parts in the book I enjoyed (when Jane and Malice are "together") the rest left me missing the spark that keeps my interest.
This author is a new one for me and although she can write well and is obviously from down under because of all the slang terms used, it just wasn't my cup of tea...not to say others won't like it better than I did.
**** 3.5 **** "running head first into another bad situation" stars
I can read about a woman being abused by her husband when I know things will get better (she has a protector in her next door neighbor) but at times this book became so repetitive and Jane's wishy-washy back and forth between trusting Malice and wanting to run from him got old and the slow moving train became one that I wanted to jump off.
I finished the entire thing but was left feeling like I wasted my time (and I hate that feeling) and don't feel like I even care to read any of the other books in the series. Too much, too little, too late and although there were many parts in the book I enjoyed (when Jane and Malice are "together") the rest left me missing the spark that keeps my interest.
This author is a new one for me and although she can write well and is obviously from down under because of all the slang terms used, it just wasn't my cup of tea...not to say others won't like it better than I did.
**** 3.5 **** "running head first into another bad situation" stars
February 5, 2015
The cover drew me in.
The first five or six chapters absolutely captured me.
Things kind of went downhill following that.
I wanted to love this story, but in the end I felt kind of let down.
Malice & Jane's story isn't exactly an easy one to read. It touches on some dark subjects of domestic abuse and violence. It was hard to watch Jane go through the motions day after day with her husband while it was still the best part of the book. I felt Jane during that time, I connected with her and was silently holding her hand throughout Dylan's abuse.
When Malice entered the story, it was kind of odd but I was hoping he was going to be her White Knight when I kind of thought he was just a really cute but selfish ass.
All in all, they got their HEA and that's wonderful but I was just hoping for more.
The first five or six chapters absolutely captured me.
Things kind of went downhill following that.
I wanted to love this story, but in the end I felt kind of let down.
Malice & Jane's story isn't exactly an easy one to read. It touches on some dark subjects of domestic abuse and violence. It was hard to watch Jane go through the motions day after day with her husband while it was still the best part of the book. I felt Jane during that time, I connected with her and was silently holding her hand throughout Dylan's abuse.
When Malice entered the story, it was kind of odd but I was hoping he was going to be her White Knight when I kind of thought he was just a really cute but selfish ass.
All in all, they got their HEA and that's wonderful but I was just hoping for more.
February 8, 2015
2.5-3 star rating
*sigh* I did it. I fell for the hot cover which absolutely has nothing to do with the story at all. There were parts that were really good and heartbreaking--such as the early chapters where Jane is being mentally and physically abused by her husband. I think things start falling apart around when Malice finally confesses his real "job". Umm...we waited all this time to figure it out-- and let me tell ya, I was thinking the worse-- and it really wasn't all that bad. It was a let down. And the way Jane flips her shit after she promised she would keep an open mind...yeah, hypocrite. Not sure where this serious is going, if we will be seeing more Jane and Malice (which makes sense since there were sooo many loose ends left) or if the series is going to shift to one of the other Butcher Boys. Hmm, guess we shall see.
*sigh* I did it. I fell for the hot cover which absolutely has nothing to do with the story at all. There were parts that were really good and heartbreaking--such as the early chapters where Jane is being mentally and physically abused by her husband. I think things start falling apart around when Malice finally confesses his real "job". Umm...we waited all this time to figure it out-- and let me tell ya, I was thinking the worse-- and it really wasn't all that bad. It was a let down. And the way Jane flips her shit after she promised she would keep an open mind...yeah, hypocrite. Not sure where this serious is going, if we will be seeing more Jane and Malice (which makes sense since there were sooo many loose ends left) or if the series is going to shift to one of the other Butcher Boys. Hmm, guess we shall see.
February 16, 2015
3.5 Stars. This was a total "cover pick"! Just LOOK at that cover! The story was one that could have been really great but it lacked something. I can't pinpoint exactly what it was?? The ending was a little abrupt. I will most likely read book 2.
Read
December 26, 2017DNF @ 26%
January 2, 2018
Nice to pass the time
April 6, 2018
Loved this book love alpha men so sexy
February 5, 2017
This was a good book. It didn't wow me but is was a nice story.
July 16, 2015
::: 3.5 Stars | Abusive husband | Book 1 in a series of standalones :::
“Why did I leave? Why did I trade the monster I know for the animal I don’t?” ~Jane
Being married for several years, Jane is used to the mental and physical abuse from her husband by now. One night when her husband goes after her dog—the only one Jane loves and that loves her back—she takes it as the final straw.
Fortunately, for her and her dog, the neighbor finally chooses to step in. That night is the very night Jane’s life begins to change, for the better.
Fearing the extremes her husband might go to now, Jane turns to Malice for shelter and comfort.
Over time they begin to form a friendship, but Malice keeps secrets he fears will have Jane running from him.
“I worry that if you get too close to me you’ll leave, and never look back. I’m kind of worried about what you’ll say when you get past the top layer—see the real me.”
“You mean so much to me, Jane, that if you left, I fear it’d be the thing that finally ruins me.” ~Malice
Abuse stories are always difficult to read through but it’s a subject I’m familiar with. This story started off really well. Within the first few pages I felt really connected with her. I understood her pain and her dejectedness from the situation she was stuck in.
What I couldn’t connect with however, was the relationship between her and Malice. It started as her being thankful for his help and I was waiting to see their relationship transition into more. I loved his protectiveness towards Jane and dedication to help her find herself again. It seemed as if there were holes in the relationship. That part of the story just didn’t translate well for me.
Towards the end of the story, there were several moments and scenes I felt needed more detail and explanation. Like Malice’s background for instance, which was choppy in description.
Overall, this was a decent read but I just wanted more detailing in certain areas of the story so that it felt more complete.
“I’ve been asleep for a long time,” she starts. “Mentally, not physically. This past day or so with you—it’s opened my eyes to how much of a coma I let myself slide into. By stepping away from that place, from his influence, it’s like you passed me a torch in a dark tunnel; I can see the way out now, and when I look back I can see how black that place truly was.” ~Jane
“Why did I leave? Why did I trade the monster I know for the animal I don’t?” ~Jane
Being married for several years, Jane is used to the mental and physical abuse from her husband by now. One night when her husband goes after her dog—the only one Jane loves and that loves her back—she takes it as the final straw.
Fortunately, for her and her dog, the neighbor finally chooses to step in. That night is the very night Jane’s life begins to change, for the better.
Fearing the extremes her husband might go to now, Jane turns to Malice for shelter and comfort.
Over time they begin to form a friendship, but Malice keeps secrets he fears will have Jane running from him.
“I worry that if you get too close to me you’ll leave, and never look back. I’m kind of worried about what you’ll say when you get past the top layer—see the real me.”
“You mean so much to me, Jane, that if you left, I fear it’d be the thing that finally ruins me.” ~Malice
Abuse stories are always difficult to read through but it’s a subject I’m familiar with. This story started off really well. Within the first few pages I felt really connected with her. I understood her pain and her dejectedness from the situation she was stuck in.
What I couldn’t connect with however, was the relationship between her and Malice. It started as her being thankful for his help and I was waiting to see their relationship transition into more. I loved his protectiveness towards Jane and dedication to help her find herself again. It seemed as if there were holes in the relationship. That part of the story just didn’t translate well for me.
Towards the end of the story, there were several moments and scenes I felt needed more detail and explanation. Like Malice’s background for instance, which was choppy in description.
Overall, this was a decent read but I just wanted more detailing in certain areas of the story so that it felt more complete.
“I’ve been asleep for a long time,” she starts. “Mentally, not physically. This past day or so with you—it’s opened my eyes to how much of a coma I let myself slide into. By stepping away from that place, from his influence, it’s like you passed me a torch in a dark tunnel; I can see the way out now, and when I look back I can see how black that place truly was.” ~Jane
February 9, 2016
The start of the book is quite full on and extreme, Jane is in her mid to late 20's and married to a complete and utter waste of space, Dylan. You find out straight away that Jane is abused, and to quite an extreme standard, so if scenes of Domestic Violence hit a raw nerve or it's something you can't quite get on board with, in your books, this may shock or upset you. I did feel it was done well, and very emotional. It helped to start the story at Jane's lowest point.
Malice, lives next door to Jane, and can't bear to listen to what goes on next door any longer.
One night changes both of their lives forever.
I'm not going to summarise the story anymore as I feel I will probably end up, just spoiling it by telling too much of it. It needs to be unraveled by itself.
We get taken on a journey of recovery but also new fears, and issues are brought to light, and that is for all characters involved, not just Jane.
I really loved Malice's friends/team/brothers, a combination of all really. They are obviously all extremely close, and you can tell that they all have their stories to tell. They have grown up together through incredible hard times, and now work together. You have to wait until the end to really get the gist of what they do and how they are involved, but it's something that you know you want to learn more.
I actually found all the characters in this book were really addictive, and all had stories to tell, but Jane was such an incredible leading character. How on earth she managed to survive everything that was thrown at her, was unbelievable but it just made her such an admirable character. By the end of the book, she had grown so much, I didn't want their story to end.
Malice and Jane, are most definitely a couple you 'need' to see get their happy ever after. Yet they aren't going to find that road easily. The chemistry that kicks in quite early on, is smoldering and you just know they would be so good for each other, if they could let go of what holds them back. Once things change, and they do give in to the desire that seems to sit heavily over them, it gets incredibly steamy. As much as I loved this book I think that I get the impression that Malice kills Dylan and if we continue their story I honestly think it would strain them as a couple all and all a good read.
February 9, 2017
I really got hooked on this book when I started it .. it was like nothing I have read before.. the story line is really good however I feel like so much was left out and there was so much going on with the extended characters and the main characters it became a little hard to stay hooked .. I know there is more books in this series however they are not about the main characters and I don't feel like we got a whole story from them.. and while the story line was good I feel like a lot could have been built up to be a little more climatic like it was in the beginning of this book ( if the book would have had the same kind of middle and ending as the beginning it definitely would have been a 5 star )
July 27, 2015
I have just finished experiencing 'Devil you Know' Max Henry's first book in her new series "The Butcher Boys" & let me just say... I AM SPEECHLESS!! Writing this review isn't easy, my words aren't coming forth. I have been putting this series off my to read list for a while now, but thought now was the time to read it. In all honesty, I didn't want the "Banjaxed" series to be out done, because to me that series was AMAZING! I wont go into that to deeply.
So what I expect from Max's story, after reading "Banjaxed" was what I got in 'Devil you Know'! Dark troubling subjects brought to light, writen so that you can feel the pain, the hurt, the need to fight just by reading the words. You get a glimps of a romance that is more life like than most other romance novels I have read before. You see that surviving & living for yourself, opening up & trusting again, does hurt, but also makes you become more than you ever where. I really hope this makes sense??
In true Max Henry fashion, she's written about this dark, distressing subject & molded it to her design. Sharing with the reader the struggles, the up's & down's, the self doubt... the cocoon the character/s wrap around themselves, just to get through their lives & what it takes to break free. Please NEVER stop writting Max, because I never want to stop reading your masterpieces. Bring on book 2 & the rest of the series.
So what I expect from Max's story, after reading "Banjaxed" was what I got in 'Devil you Know'! Dark troubling subjects brought to light, writen so that you can feel the pain, the hurt, the need to fight just by reading the words. You get a glimps of a romance that is more life like than most other romance novels I have read before. You see that surviving & living for yourself, opening up & trusting again, does hurt, but also makes you become more than you ever where. I really hope this makes sense??
In true Max Henry fashion, she's written about this dark, distressing subject & molded it to her design. Sharing with the reader the struggles, the up's & down's, the self doubt... the cocoon the character/s wrap around themselves, just to get through their lives & what it takes to break free. Please NEVER stop writting Max, because I never want to stop reading your masterpieces. Bring on book 2 & the rest of the series.
September 3, 2016
1 star
I wasn't impressed by this one.
Jane's been in an abusive marriage for years. The perfect wife serving her husband and taking a hit when he wants it, she knows this is a bad situation and yet she says she's too weak to do anything about it. One night David, the abusive husband takes it with her dog, she doesn't have children so the dog is her life and she feels the instinct to protect it yet she can't; that's where the neighbor appear, she doesn't seem to recognize him and yet he saves the dog and saves her for that night.
Malice has been hearing her screams and sobs for way too long and yet he always hesitated doing stepping up, how could he help somebody when he can't help himself? As a hit man, he knows violence and knows when to not stick your nose and yet he's too fascinated by the weak attractive woman who can't leave her husband. That night he makes the decision to help her and that changes everything for them.
I didn't like this 'cause I felt this didn't explore their feelings enough, the ingredients to make a great angtsy booth were there but the author didn't use it that well. They are both broken by life and by making it all flowers and rainbow, it disappointed me.
Also the end was too rush, out of the blue and left too many questions so... no.
I wasn't impressed by this one.
Jane's been in an abusive marriage for years. The perfect wife serving her husband and taking a hit when he wants it, she knows this is a bad situation and yet she says she's too weak to do anything about it. One night David, the abusive husband takes it with her dog, she doesn't have children so the dog is her life and she feels the instinct to protect it yet she can't; that's where the neighbor appear, she doesn't seem to recognize him and yet he saves the dog and saves her for that night.
Malice has been hearing her screams and sobs for way too long and yet he always hesitated doing stepping up, how could he help somebody when he can't help himself? As a hit man, he knows violence and knows when to not stick your nose and yet he's too fascinated by the weak attractive woman who can't leave her husband. That night he makes the decision to help her and that changes everything for them.
I didn't like this 'cause I felt this didn't explore their feelings enough, the ingredients to make a great angtsy booth were there but the author didn't use it that well. They are both broken by life and by making it all flowers and rainbow, it disappointed me.
Also the end was too rush, out of the blue and left too many questions so... no.
February 1, 2015
Wow, I really enjoyed reading Devil You Know. When we first met Jane she is a shell of who she used to be. She is in an abusive relationship. Her husband Dylan is an abusive jerk. Dylan has worn Jane down so much that she just lives with what Dylan dishes out to her. One night things change when a mysterious neighbor saves her dog Rocco from the hands of Dylan.
Her neighbor Malice is her saving grace. He is mysterious and you know their is a lot more to him. Jane takes the help he offers and finally breaks free of Dylan. We slowly see Jane became of herself. She still fears Dylan. Malice is very moody and sometimes has a bad temper but he would never hurt Jane.
Malice is not really forth coming with what his job is. He has a great group of friends but they push him to tell Jane what they do. I loved Malice's first description of what his job is but it made me think his job was a lot worse than it was.
I really enjoyed reading Jane and Malice's story. I can't wait to read the next one.
A copy was received for a review.
Her neighbor Malice is her saving grace. He is mysterious and you know their is a lot more to him. Jane takes the help he offers and finally breaks free of Dylan. We slowly see Jane became of herself. She still fears Dylan. Malice is very moody and sometimes has a bad temper but he would never hurt Jane.
Malice is not really forth coming with what his job is. He has a great group of friends but they push him to tell Jane what they do. I loved Malice's first description of what his job is but it made me think his job was a lot worse than it was.
I really enjoyed reading Jane and Malice's story. I can't wait to read the next one.
A copy was received for a review.
February 18, 2015
I have to admit after reading the first few pages I kind of had to force myself to continue reading this book as the content upset me, I mean everyone knows I'm a rainbows and roses type of girl, and for a book to start out that way just had me worried if I would like the book or not. I continued reading and honestly I'm glad I did because if I hadn't I wouldn't have met Malice and fell in love with the big brute, who's protective, "eff the doctor, I'm taking you to the E.R. I'd say you've got fractured ribs, Jane. The G.P. would probably send you there for an X-ray anyway." I mean he's so protective that killing comes on his mind, "another weeks and he would have killed her. Intentional or not. And that would have meant I had to kill him. Intentional or not." He'd literally do anything for his girl even the dreaded shopping, "I follow her into a woman's clothing store, and I swear to God I want to cry. Why? Why would she do this to me? I'm a guy, for eff's sake; we don't do dresses and s***." I enjoyed this book even though we didn't get off on to the right start
February 7, 2015
I bought this based on the cover and the blurb didn't sound terrible, I was mistaken. I think I know what the author wanted to do, but didn't pull it off, at least in my opinion.
The story is all over the place. Jane is abused by her husband and her neighbors turn a blind eye, everyone does. One night her POS husband is about to kill the dog and Malice, the neighbor finally steps in. wow. for the dog. This dude could have been amazing, but he has serious issues that I feel were never really worked out or addressed. Malice could've been a real hero, but he was a dud to me. I would've liked to have seen Jane do things on her own before they got all cuddly.
The story just fell flat.
The story is all over the place. Jane is abused by her husband and her neighbors turn a blind eye, everyone does. One night her POS husband is about to kill the dog and Malice, the neighbor finally steps in. wow. for the dog. This dude could have been amazing, but he has serious issues that I feel were never really worked out or addressed. Malice could've been a real hero, but he was a dud to me. I would've liked to have seen Jane do things on her own before they got all cuddly.
The story just fell flat.
January 6, 2016
The devil doesn't always have horns
Picked this up for free. Didn't think it would haunt me as much as it did. Had some stuff come up and had to take a break. Couldn't get the characters out of my head very long. I was itchy to get back.
Jane is a broken woman in a bad place. Malice (yes that's his name) is a man on a path to nowhere. He finds her at her lowest point. Gets her out. Mix in some angst, a dog,and some crazy shot and your got this book. I enjoyed it. I'm invested in the series now. You won't be disappointed.
Picked this up for free. Didn't think it would haunt me as much as it did. Had some stuff come up and had to take a break. Couldn't get the characters out of my head very long. I was itchy to get back.
Jane is a broken woman in a bad place. Malice (yes that's his name) is a man on a path to nowhere. He finds her at her lowest point. Gets her out. Mix in some angst, a dog,and some crazy shot and your got this book. I enjoyed it. I'm invested in the series now. You won't be disappointed.
July 11, 2016
The cover is hot...but the book was lacking. I can't stand a weak h, and Jane was weak and annoying. Then the fact that the H is a hitman, but doesn't kill her abusive ex like right off the bat...I mean, hell it's your 'dayjob' to kill people, but you let the woman you love be beat on by a man, and don't take care of business ASAP?? Unfortunately, I wasn't buying it....and that's a damn shame- cause the cover was hot.
July 24, 2015
Wasn't really to my liking a bit too much doom & gloom
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