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Black Machetes
Violence and impending hope collide in Ryan K. Howard’s edgy, controversial, and addictive debut.
For Benjamin Wilder, it was just another day in the life of a twelve-year-old boy...
- Waking up with a fresh black-eye, compliments of the Rabid CHECK
- Taking care of his drunken mother before CHECK
- Risking life-and-limb to sneak out for a sleepover (and getting caught): CHECK
- Witnessing two psychopaths commit unspeakable CHECK
- Running for his life and assuming a new identity in the CHECK
- Living happily ever YEAH, NOT EXACTLY
Black Machetes is a powerful, page-turning psychological thriller—at times both shocking and endearing—written with gritty cinematic tones that paint a painfully intimate portrait of a world framed by abuse, tragedy, and inhibited love.
Review Stats as of 2/10/2015...
4.6 avg (29 reviews)
4.4 avg (32 ratings)
Barnes& 5.0 avg (2 reviews)
Book Synopsis...
Benjamin Wilder grew up with sparse shelter, infested provisions, and constant abuse dealt to him by his Jessup—a.k.a. the Rabid Dog. Without a sober mother to defend him from the Rabid Dog’s wrath, Ben finds reprieve and adventure in a club of misfit boys called the Black Machetes. But the world as Ben knows it comes to an end when he witnesses an act so psychologically appalling that it forces him to run for his life. He travels as far away as he can until fate steps in and guides him to a small town where he finds the help he needs to assume a new identity and live a life he could only imagine before.
Years after trying to bury the demons from his past, Ben seems to finally settle into a sense of normalcy. But his world continually gets turned upside-down by a series of discoveries, revealing that the evil from his childhood has never stopped cursing him—having over the years destroyed everyone he ever cared for. When the ticking time-bomb within Ben’s psyche finally detonates with a fumed vengeance, it pushes his wife and unborn child into the very clutches of the same malevolence that has forever haunted him. In the end, Ben must again face those demons from his past in order to save his true love, and ultimately his own sanity.
Take the "Page-Turner Challenge" and see how far you get into Black Machetes before you can put it down.
For Benjamin Wilder, it was just another day in the life of a twelve-year-old boy...
- Waking up with a fresh black-eye, compliments of the Rabid CHECK
- Taking care of his drunken mother before CHECK
- Risking life-and-limb to sneak out for a sleepover (and getting caught): CHECK
- Witnessing two psychopaths commit unspeakable CHECK
- Running for his life and assuming a new identity in the CHECK
- Living happily ever YEAH, NOT EXACTLY
Black Machetes is a powerful, page-turning psychological thriller—at times both shocking and endearing—written with gritty cinematic tones that paint a painfully intimate portrait of a world framed by abuse, tragedy, and inhibited love.
Review Stats as of 2/10/2015...
4.6 avg (29 reviews)
4.4 avg (32 ratings)
Barnes& 5.0 avg (2 reviews)
Book Synopsis...
Benjamin Wilder grew up with sparse shelter, infested provisions, and constant abuse dealt to him by his Jessup—a.k.a. the Rabid Dog. Without a sober mother to defend him from the Rabid Dog’s wrath, Ben finds reprieve and adventure in a club of misfit boys called the Black Machetes. But the world as Ben knows it comes to an end when he witnesses an act so psychologically appalling that it forces him to run for his life. He travels as far away as he can until fate steps in and guides him to a small town where he finds the help he needs to assume a new identity and live a life he could only imagine before.
Years after trying to bury the demons from his past, Ben seems to finally settle into a sense of normalcy. But his world continually gets turned upside-down by a series of discoveries, revealing that the evil from his childhood has never stopped cursing him—having over the years destroyed everyone he ever cared for. When the ticking time-bomb within Ben’s psyche finally detonates with a fumed vengeance, it pushes his wife and unborn child into the very clutches of the same malevolence that has forever haunted him. In the end, Ben must again face those demons from his past in order to save his true love, and ultimately his own sanity.
Take the "Page-Turner Challenge" and see how far you get into Black Machetes before you can put it down.
ebook
First published June 1, 2014
About the author
R.K. Howard
3 books12 followersHowdy, I'm Ryan Keith and I'm the author of Black Machetes, Error Code, The Aparting, The Express, and a short-list finalist of the 2015 Eric Hoffer Award.
When I'm not writing or marketing my fiction, odds are I'm probably incubating gnarly software in Seattle where I reside with my beautiful wife and teenage kiddos.
Learn more by visiting my official author site at https://www.ryankeith.online
When I'm not writing or marketing my fiction, odds are I'm probably incubating gnarly software in Seattle where I reside with my beautiful wife and teenage kiddos.
Learn more by visiting my official author site at https://www.ryankeith.online
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 12, 2014
Let me first start by saying I’m not the drama type. I don’t generally go out looking for the type of book that Black Machetes turned out to be, but I can’t stress enough how happy I am to have come across it.
Ben Wilder is your protagonist, a tortured soul living with his drunken mother Angela, his abusive demon of a step-father that he so tenderly refers to as the “Rabid Dog” and his idiot step brother Tommy. I don’t normally like to read too much about a book before I read it for myself because I like to create my own, unadulterated opinion of it, so naturally I didn’t really know where the book was going when I began it. I initially thought it would be along the ranks of “Stand By Me” being that Ben and his three best friends, Demarcus, Octavio and Scooter, aka The Black Machetes, like to head out into the woods to build their secret fort and have adventures.
But what I got instead was a disturbing look into the lives of sociopathic grown men and the sadistic pain and suffering that they inflict on others. That is all you’ll get from me. I mean it. I can in no way give away any of the events of the book because the reader must come across them on their own in order for the shock to hit them in the face like a ton of bricks. I was deeply disturbed by some of the scenes in the book and I will give a fair warning to anyone who is offended by scenes of brutal rape that there are some parts you’ll want to skip. However, this book in its entirety is a gritty and compelling tale of triumph in the face of adversity, and the horrors that some have to deal with and overcome to get there.
There are a few parts of the book that become dull and in my opinion were put there for filler, however, I was never lost in unnecessary dialogue or plotline. I pressed on and turned page after page, never wanting Ben Wilder’s experiences to come to an end. The book reads like a movie, and an exciting one at that. I hope to one day watch this on the silver screen and I will be happy to proclaim “I read the book!”
Ben Wilder is your protagonist, a tortured soul living with his drunken mother Angela, his abusive demon of a step-father that he so tenderly refers to as the “Rabid Dog” and his idiot step brother Tommy. I don’t normally like to read too much about a book before I read it for myself because I like to create my own, unadulterated opinion of it, so naturally I didn’t really know where the book was going when I began it. I initially thought it would be along the ranks of “Stand By Me” being that Ben and his three best friends, Demarcus, Octavio and Scooter, aka The Black Machetes, like to head out into the woods to build their secret fort and have adventures.
But what I got instead was a disturbing look into the lives of sociopathic grown men and the sadistic pain and suffering that they inflict on others. That is all you’ll get from me. I mean it. I can in no way give away any of the events of the book because the reader must come across them on their own in order for the shock to hit them in the face like a ton of bricks. I was deeply disturbed by some of the scenes in the book and I will give a fair warning to anyone who is offended by scenes of brutal rape that there are some parts you’ll want to skip. However, this book in its entirety is a gritty and compelling tale of triumph in the face of adversity, and the horrors that some have to deal with and overcome to get there.
There are a few parts of the book that become dull and in my opinion were put there for filler, however, I was never lost in unnecessary dialogue or plotline. I pressed on and turned page after page, never wanting Ben Wilder’s experiences to come to an end. The book reads like a movie, and an exciting one at that. I hope to one day watch this on the silver screen and I will be happy to proclaim “I read the book!”
November 29, 2019
A strong four stars. Equal parts shocking and touching, it paints one boy's struggle to escape abuse and the ramifications of said abuse has on others. Add to the mix two homicidal sociopaths and you have a good story brewing.
February 20, 2016
Won in a goodreads giveaway for an honest review
Loved it was awesome must read!!
Loved it was awesome must read!!
June 12, 2017
I really enjoyed this book.
The storyline kept me interested the whole time. The ending was not what I had imagined. I look forward to more books written by this author.
The storyline kept me interested the whole time. The ending was not what I had imagined. I look forward to more books written by this author.
April 2, 2021
First book I’ve read by this Author- didn’t disappoint.
Throughly enjoyed the story, reminded me of Stephen King towards the start, dealt with the violent parts well not needing to be overly gory.
Some twists and turns throughout to keep you turning the pages.
Throughly enjoyed the story, reminded me of Stephen King towards the start, dealt with the violent parts well not needing to be overly gory.
Some twists and turns throughout to keep you turning the pages.
July 14, 2017
Should be called...Everyone Dies.
March 6, 2022
Well written revenge and violence porn.
September 15, 2014
Posted first to Blog Critics as Book Review:'Black Machetes' by Ryan K. Howard.
We often hear how our young years are the formative years and yet many have a youth of distress and horror and must delve and find deep within themselves the strength to move up and overcome the pain of their past. At the same time, others are not so able to find the inner resistance and continue on a path that was not their own choosing in the beginning.
In Black Machetes by Ryan K. Howard, we follow the life and exploits of Benjamin Wilder, a kid who escaped his abusive home life with a daily dose of close friends. A group of kids very like him with their own problems, although most were not as dire as his own. Yet it was here that he felt the comfort and camaraderie as did his friends. To seal their adventures and to form a stronger bond they formed the group and named themselves the Black Machetes. The bond became everything, and home was just a painful memory only to become a nightmare as the day was done and reality intruded.
After one such painful reality Benjamin finds the strength to run away. His stepfather, known as Rabid Dog, and his friend have been capable of some horrible and heinous things including a rape which Ben had inadvertently witnessed. He even had the audacity of sneaking into the cabin and rescuing the new born baby that became of result of the torture and eventual killing of this young woman. Leaving the new baby at the hospital entrance, he knew that he had to get away—and now. Yet Ben was very sure there was more, many young women were disappearing and he felt his Stepfather might well be a part of the problem. Without proof he knew his only safety was in leaving everything he knew and disappearing before he too disappeared in another way.
Finding himself in a small town, appropriately named hope, he stumbles onto the right man who seems to understand his fear. Morgan River had seen a lot of things in his time on earth and he knew immediately when he saw a soul in need of saving. Finding this youngster in need of hope and courage, he took him under his wing, and they began an unlikely family, but family all the same. Soon father and son in the eyes of all that matters it appears as though finally, all would be right with the world again.
Yet the past can never be truly extinguished, and the anger and rage he engendered by leaving became a palpable thing. Unbeknownst to himself he had also put his closest friends, The Black Machetes in jeopardy in his jump to freedom. Inexorably the past would follow him, could he survive the hit.
Howard has giving us a suspense filled story of possibilities and change. His characterizations of the protagonists are both horror filled and often desperate. Yet there is a discipline to the danger and madness that permeates and holds. As Benjamin grow, learns and evolves, we are with him every step of the way. We hurt for his friends and his memories, and begin to take his problems on as personally as though they were our own. It is difficult to separate Ben into the two very differing lives that shape him and yet they are why he is who he is. The timeline and continued intrusion of Rabid Dog’s exploits, creates a chill as you wonder where it will all go wrong.
If you like suspense, romance and friendship stories you will find this a very satisfying read with a chill of terror that occasionally rears its head.
This would be a great find for a book club or reading group, with numerous issues of the day to discuss.
We often hear how our young years are the formative years and yet many have a youth of distress and horror and must delve and find deep within themselves the strength to move up and overcome the pain of their past. At the same time, others are not so able to find the inner resistance and continue on a path that was not their own choosing in the beginning.
In Black Machetes by Ryan K. Howard, we follow the life and exploits of Benjamin Wilder, a kid who escaped his abusive home life with a daily dose of close friends. A group of kids very like him with their own problems, although most were not as dire as his own. Yet it was here that he felt the comfort and camaraderie as did his friends. To seal their adventures and to form a stronger bond they formed the group and named themselves the Black Machetes. The bond became everything, and home was just a painful memory only to become a nightmare as the day was done and reality intruded.
After one such painful reality Benjamin finds the strength to run away. His stepfather, known as Rabid Dog, and his friend have been capable of some horrible and heinous things including a rape which Ben had inadvertently witnessed. He even had the audacity of sneaking into the cabin and rescuing the new born baby that became of result of the torture and eventual killing of this young woman. Leaving the new baby at the hospital entrance, he knew that he had to get away—and now. Yet Ben was very sure there was more, many young women were disappearing and he felt his Stepfather might well be a part of the problem. Without proof he knew his only safety was in leaving everything he knew and disappearing before he too disappeared in another way.
Finding himself in a small town, appropriately named hope, he stumbles onto the right man who seems to understand his fear. Morgan River had seen a lot of things in his time on earth and he knew immediately when he saw a soul in need of saving. Finding this youngster in need of hope and courage, he took him under his wing, and they began an unlikely family, but family all the same. Soon father and son in the eyes of all that matters it appears as though finally, all would be right with the world again.
Yet the past can never be truly extinguished, and the anger and rage he engendered by leaving became a palpable thing. Unbeknownst to himself he had also put his closest friends, The Black Machetes in jeopardy in his jump to freedom. Inexorably the past would follow him, could he survive the hit.
Howard has giving us a suspense filled story of possibilities and change. His characterizations of the protagonists are both horror filled and often desperate. Yet there is a discipline to the danger and madness that permeates and holds. As Benjamin grow, learns and evolves, we are with him every step of the way. We hurt for his friends and his memories, and begin to take his problems on as personally as though they were our own. It is difficult to separate Ben into the two very differing lives that shape him and yet they are why he is who he is. The timeline and continued intrusion of Rabid Dog’s exploits, creates a chill as you wonder where it will all go wrong.
If you like suspense, romance and friendship stories you will find this a very satisfying read with a chill of terror that occasionally rears its head.
This would be a great find for a book club or reading group, with numerous issues of the day to discuss.
January 8, 2015
A very tough novel to read - but one that draws you back into it eventually
Ryan K. Howard debuts with a novel that is so immersing and deeply troubling that this reader read it a few months ago, put it aside out of self preservation of the psyche, only to be drawn back into the book to re-evaluate the initial impact and consider the talent of the writer.
Ryan writes on his website, `For two evil psychopaths, horror is a delectable hobby...For a good-hearted kid, life is little more than abuse in motion...and for anyone fateful enough to intersect the three, even God won't be able to help.'
He then offers hi sown synopsis of the tough story, ` Benjamin Wilder is a gentle natured, dirt-poor kid who grew up with sparse shelter, infested provisions, and constant abuse dealt to him by his vile stepfather Jessup--a.k.a. the Rabid Dog - until one day the abuse boils over into a psychopathic reality. Without a sober mother to defend him from the Rabid Dog's wrath, Ben finds reprieve and adventure in a club of misfit boys called the Black Machetes. But the world as Ben knows it comes to an end when he witnesses an act so psychologically appalling that it forces him to run for his life. He travels as far away as he can until fate steps in and guides him to a small town where he finds the help he needs to assume a new identity and live a life he could only imagine before. Years after trying to bury the demons from his past, Ben seems to finally settle into a sense of normalcy. But his world continually gets turned upside-down by a series of discoveries, revealing that the evil from his childhood has never stopped cursing him--having over the years destroyed everyone he ever cared for. When the ticking time bomb within Ben's psyche finally detonates with a fumed vengeance, it pushes his wife and unborn child into the very clutches of the same malevolence that has forever haunted him. In the end, Ben must again face those demons from his past in order to save his true love, and ultimately his own sanity.'
As said above, this book is at first terrifying, yet returning to it for a second reading the brilliance of the author shines through. Yes, the evil is incomprehensibly challenging, but once past the stabs of madness Ryan shows his reader his skill at comic relief with a humor that is biting yet soothing. This is a very powerful accomplishment and one that hopefully will be followed closely by other publications. Ryan K. Howard is a name to watch.
Ryan K. Howard debuts with a novel that is so immersing and deeply troubling that this reader read it a few months ago, put it aside out of self preservation of the psyche, only to be drawn back into the book to re-evaluate the initial impact and consider the talent of the writer.
Ryan writes on his website, `For two evil psychopaths, horror is a delectable hobby...For a good-hearted kid, life is little more than abuse in motion...and for anyone fateful enough to intersect the three, even God won't be able to help.'
He then offers hi sown synopsis of the tough story, ` Benjamin Wilder is a gentle natured, dirt-poor kid who grew up with sparse shelter, infested provisions, and constant abuse dealt to him by his vile stepfather Jessup--a.k.a. the Rabid Dog - until one day the abuse boils over into a psychopathic reality. Without a sober mother to defend him from the Rabid Dog's wrath, Ben finds reprieve and adventure in a club of misfit boys called the Black Machetes. But the world as Ben knows it comes to an end when he witnesses an act so psychologically appalling that it forces him to run for his life. He travels as far away as he can until fate steps in and guides him to a small town where he finds the help he needs to assume a new identity and live a life he could only imagine before. Years after trying to bury the demons from his past, Ben seems to finally settle into a sense of normalcy. But his world continually gets turned upside-down by a series of discoveries, revealing that the evil from his childhood has never stopped cursing him--having over the years destroyed everyone he ever cared for. When the ticking time bomb within Ben's psyche finally detonates with a fumed vengeance, it pushes his wife and unborn child into the very clutches of the same malevolence that has forever haunted him. In the end, Ben must again face those demons from his past in order to save his true love, and ultimately his own sanity.'
As said above, this book is at first terrifying, yet returning to it for a second reading the brilliance of the author shines through. Yes, the evil is incomprehensibly challenging, but once past the stabs of madness Ryan shows his reader his skill at comic relief with a humor that is biting yet soothing. This is a very powerful accomplishment and one that hopefully will be followed closely by other publications. Ryan K. Howard is a name to watch.
September 3, 2017
This is by far, without a doubt, no questions asked, an incredible book. I could have easily consumed this book in a day if all those pesky disturbances known as life didn't distract me. But every free moment I could get was spent trying to finish this book. The villains are so sickening and evil that you immediately cleave to poor, innocent Ben and root for him in his life long battle to overcome these human demons. Even though the big shocker of the book smacks you in the face right in the beginning, the author still includes the villains in the story as we watch Ben grow up away from their vile influence. Ben's story turns out to be pretty interesting in and of itself, but it's nice that we don't really stray away from what hooked us into this story in the first place. Bottom line, from page one to page four hundred and one this author has crafted both a crazy evil and touching story in one book that I don't want to spoil in the least for you.
The only thing that might irk some readers is the content of the book. What Jessup and his friend Wade do is unforgivable and rough to read. It's depressing, dark, and disturbing and that can be a bit much for some readers. I'm not one of those readers and I had no problem with this, but I thought this was worth noting. I even applaud the author for writing the story in a way where the content does not come off as vulgar and it actually feels believable. With the things that you see on the news these days, you can easily imagine this happening in real life.
I strongly urge you to pick up this book. It knocked my socks off and I want this author to take off because I want to read more from this guy! You will experience a roller coaster of emotions from this story. I'm so impressed with how much this story surprised me and I can't gush about it enough....so I'll stop now because I think I've made it clear; you need to read this book.
*I received a free copy of this book for this review from the author.
The only thing that might irk some readers is the content of the book. What Jessup and his friend Wade do is unforgivable and rough to read. It's depressing, dark, and disturbing and that can be a bit much for some readers. I'm not one of those readers and I had no problem with this, but I thought this was worth noting. I even applaud the author for writing the story in a way where the content does not come off as vulgar and it actually feels believable. With the things that you see on the news these days, you can easily imagine this happening in real life.
I strongly urge you to pick up this book. It knocked my socks off and I want this author to take off because I want to read more from this guy! You will experience a roller coaster of emotions from this story. I'm so impressed with how much this story surprised me and I can't gush about it enough....so I'll stop now because I think I've made it clear; you need to read this book.
*I received a free copy of this book for this review from the author.
August 3, 2016
This was not an easy book to listen to, as some of the violence was rather graphic, but I actually enjoyed the story by the time it ended. Benjamin Wilder is a 12 year old boy from a broken home. His alcoholic mother is living with a truly terrible man that Ben has nicknamed "Rabid Dog". The events that unfold are very difficult to hear, but eventually Ben finds an escape and gets away from his hometown completely, meeting a very nice elderly man in a small town and taking on an assumed name so that he can never be tracked down by Rabid Dog.
POTENTIALLY DISTURBING CONTENT:
Sex: graphic rape, violent sex
Violence: graphic violence toward women, an infant, and young boys, teenagers fighting, graphic descriptions of war
Language: graphic language contained throughout entire novel
Normally, I leave the Potentially Disturbing Content until the end, but any reader should be forewarned that the content of this book is VERY graphic. It is not gore, but very violent. Rabid Dog and his friend are very bad men, and they do very bad things, including rape and murder.
With all of that said, though, the book actually is one of hope. Hope that its possible for someone to rise above their circumstances and make something of the life that is given. Ben is a very well written character, and he goes through tremendous character growth throughout the book. Twists and turns happen often in this book, making the end both expected in some respects and yet completely unexpected in others.
I do recommend this to readers who are not put off by violence, though, because in the end, the story was good.
Peter Berkrot did a good job with the narration, his voice is somewhat calming which is a nice contrast to some of the awful things being narrated.
This audiobook was given to me for free by Audioboom in exchange for an honest review.
POTENTIALLY DISTURBING CONTENT:
Sex: graphic rape, violent sex
Violence: graphic violence toward women, an infant, and young boys, teenagers fighting, graphic descriptions of war
Language: graphic language contained throughout entire novel
Normally, I leave the Potentially Disturbing Content until the end, but any reader should be forewarned that the content of this book is VERY graphic. It is not gore, but very violent. Rabid Dog and his friend are very bad men, and they do very bad things, including rape and murder.
With all of that said, though, the book actually is one of hope. Hope that its possible for someone to rise above their circumstances and make something of the life that is given. Ben is a very well written character, and he goes through tremendous character growth throughout the book. Twists and turns happen often in this book, making the end both expected in some respects and yet completely unexpected in others.
I do recommend this to readers who are not put off by violence, though, because in the end, the story was good.
Peter Berkrot did a good job with the narration, his voice is somewhat calming which is a nice contrast to some of the awful things being narrated.
This audiobook was given to me for free by Audioboom in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2015
Story Line: Painful, heartbreaking, gut wrenching, but also hopeful and funny. Black Machetes story is incredible. It will take you to the deepest, darkest parts of the human soul...unearthing horrific cruelty, but also heroic courage and bravery. This book was incredible and I am so very thankful I got the opportunity to read it. Thank you Ryan Howard for sending me your book.
Writing: Ryan's writing voice is really good. I love how he makes the narrative voice reflect the actual character he is writing about. Its almost like reading a first person in a third person format. For a debut novel he pulled off writing in Omniscient Third Person extremely well! I am definitely picking up Ryan's other books.
Characters: The characters are loveable, realistic, and feel like real people. They all have their own distinct voices and dialect. I love how Ryan gave a number of characters a catch phrase. I will never forget "Hooah!", "Hora-le", or the ever dreaded "yup." Having such a deep attachment to the characters, this book was sometimes hard to read with all the awful stuff that happened, but it was so worth it to hear their story. Benjamin Wilder is a awesome protagonist.
Humor: This book is very dark and gritty. However I laughed out loud (at work mind you) a number of times. I love Maddie's humor and her sass and Ben's narrative voice and way of describing things is humorous. Gotta love that "dork" ;)
Journey: A very quick read. It will make you laugh, cry, cringe,and every thing in between. A real emotional roller coaster. Read this book!!
Writing: Ryan's writing voice is really good. I love how he makes the narrative voice reflect the actual character he is writing about. Its almost like reading a first person in a third person format. For a debut novel he pulled off writing in Omniscient Third Person extremely well! I am definitely picking up Ryan's other books.
Characters: The characters are loveable, realistic, and feel like real people. They all have their own distinct voices and dialect. I love how Ryan gave a number of characters a catch phrase. I will never forget "Hooah!", "Hora-le", or the ever dreaded "yup." Having such a deep attachment to the characters, this book was sometimes hard to read with all the awful stuff that happened, but it was so worth it to hear their story. Benjamin Wilder is a awesome protagonist.
Humor: This book is very dark and gritty. However I laughed out loud (at work mind you) a number of times. I love Maddie's humor and her sass and Ben's narrative voice and way of describing things is humorous. Gotta love that "dork" ;)
Journey: A very quick read. It will make you laugh, cry, cringe,and every thing in between. A real emotional roller coaster. Read this book!!
May 15, 2015
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. You want a page-turner? Then Black Machetes is the book for you! I am so glad I read this book. Definitely fits into my top 10 favorite books of all time. The story is about how dirt poor scrappy abused boy named Ben was able to rise above his upbringing and abuse to become an honorable man who did not let his unfortunate past define his goals and future. As a kid his only escape from his abusive home was his group of friends known as the Black Machetes. After Ben runs away from his abuse and sadly the Black Machetes he meets a man named Morgan River. Morgan (aka Gramps) took Ben in with no questions asked and became the only father figure and family Ben has really ever known. Through Gramps and others along Ben’s journey into adulthood Ben perseveres and soaks in the best traits from everyone to become the man he thinks he should be. Every time you turn a page in this book or start a new chapter you don’t know what to anticipate. Horrible things befall the Black Machetes group and you know at some point this is going to catch up to Ben. This is such a well-written book that the story just comes alive and you can’t stop turning the pages. You become so close to many of these characters that you get angry when horrid things happen and joyous at the wonderful things. I cannot wait to see what else this author will write.
July 3, 2016
Really good intense, gritty and disturbing.
A well written dark, intense and twisted story not for the faint of heart, squeamish or those easily offended. This book covers a variety of vile acts such as rape, murder, kidnapping and child abuse to name a few. So be forewarned. I had to stop my iPod several times and take a breath before continuing. The story pulls you in quickly and once you start listening you can't stop.
The story continually moves forward through a roller-coaster of events that effect all of the Black Machetes in different ways. Despair, heartbreak, hope, humor, survival, suspense and triumph. You can't help but get emotionally attached to Ben, Octavio, Demarcus and Scooter. While this is a hard story to listen to at times, it is well worth your time.
R.K Howard you have gained another fan and I will definitely be putting you on my list of authors I recommend.
Peter Berkrot did an awesome job with the narration. Great voice's for all the character's. He didn't just read the story, he made the character's and their emotions come to life. He is one of the best narrator's I have listened to. It was scary how well he portrayed the Rabid Dog and Wade.
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBoom.com
A well written dark, intense and twisted story not for the faint of heart, squeamish or those easily offended. This book covers a variety of vile acts such as rape, murder, kidnapping and child abuse to name a few. So be forewarned. I had to stop my iPod several times and take a breath before continuing. The story pulls you in quickly and once you start listening you can't stop.
The story continually moves forward through a roller-coaster of events that effect all of the Black Machetes in different ways. Despair, heartbreak, hope, humor, survival, suspense and triumph. You can't help but get emotionally attached to Ben, Octavio, Demarcus and Scooter. While this is a hard story to listen to at times, it is well worth your time.
R.K Howard you have gained another fan and I will definitely be putting you on my list of authors I recommend.
Peter Berkrot did an awesome job with the narration. Great voice's for all the character's. He didn't just read the story, he made the character's and their emotions come to life. He is one of the best narrator's I have listened to. It was scary how well he portrayed the Rabid Dog and Wade.
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBoom.com
May 21, 2015
TITLE~ Black Machetes
AUTHOR~ Ryan K. Howard
GENRE~ Fiction-Suspense-Thriller
PUBLISHED~ June 1st 2014 by Ryan K. Howard
PURCHASED/COST~ Copy for Review
MY RATING~ 5/5
MY THOUGHTS~
I was provided with a copy of this book to review.
To start with, I have to say this is NOT at all within my normally preferred genres, so I’m having difficulty in writing this review. With that said, I’m so glad that the author approached me through my blog to review Black Machetes! Otherwise, I likely would have passed this book up without a second glance. That would have been an absolute shame.
Author Ryan K. Howard did an amazing job with this book. The writing was impeccable. The story was very long and detailed and as such, we got to know each character very well. The bonds and relationships between the characters were well described and truly felt real.
The story flowed well for the most part. Some areas got a bit confusing trying to keep up with the time-line and also discerning whose point of view we were reading here and there. None of that really took away from the story though.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Black Machetes and once I really got into it, I didn’t want to put it down.
AUTHOR~ Ryan K. Howard
GENRE~ Fiction-Suspense-Thriller
PUBLISHED~ June 1st 2014 by Ryan K. Howard
PURCHASED/COST~ Copy for Review
MY RATING~ 5/5
MY THOUGHTS~
I was provided with a copy of this book to review.
To start with, I have to say this is NOT at all within my normally preferred genres, so I’m having difficulty in writing this review. With that said, I’m so glad that the author approached me through my blog to review Black Machetes! Otherwise, I likely would have passed this book up without a second glance. That would have been an absolute shame.
Author Ryan K. Howard did an amazing job with this book. The writing was impeccable. The story was very long and detailed and as such, we got to know each character very well. The bonds and relationships between the characters were well described and truly felt real.
The story flowed well for the most part. Some areas got a bit confusing trying to keep up with the time-line and also discerning whose point of view we were reading here and there. None of that really took away from the story though.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Black Machetes and once I really got into it, I didn’t want to put it down.
August 19, 2014
Ben Wilder lives with his alcoholic mother and his brutally cruel step-father and step-brother. Every day is a perilous walk through the minefield of a highly dysfunctional household. His one respite comes from his friendship with his diverse, but small group of friends. When Ben witnesses a horrible and depraved act committed by his step-father and his step-father’s best friend, he knows he must run or be killed. He finds himself in a small town, where he meets and elderly man who takes him in and raises him with love and kindness. But with every step forward Ben is constantly haunted by the known and unknown acts of his step-father, who brutalizes and kills (and in some cases, rapes) everyone that Ben loves.
Ben’s journey through life brings triumph and tragedy, but you never stop rooting for him. A suspenseful thriller that keeps you turning the pages until the very end! It should be noted, there are scenes that are very disturbing and heartbreaking.
This book was provided to me for free for an honest and unbiased review (see all our reviews at http://www.bookexplosions.com/)
Ben’s journey through life brings triumph and tragedy, but you never stop rooting for him. A suspenseful thriller that keeps you turning the pages until the very end! It should be noted, there are scenes that are very disturbing and heartbreaking.
This book was provided to me for free for an honest and unbiased review (see all our reviews at http://www.bookexplosions.com/)
August 4, 2014
I was lucky to receive a promo copy of this book. It is a great summer thriller and would be a great summer movie too. (I picture something like Jack Nicholson's character from "the Shining" when I think of Wade and Jessup) It is a coming of age, cheer for the underdog story laced with brutality and obstacles that Ben must overcome. Whenever Ben seems to be moving on to a good life, his past brings him back to the pain of his childhood and challenges him again keeping the reader engaged. The details in descriptions such as Atari games in the 80s, the racial tension in the South and rigors of West Point added realism to the novel. The end tied many pieces together for a satisfying conclusion.
July 10, 2014
Black Machetes by Ryan K Howard
Our hero is Benjamin Wilder, a hugely likeable boy and you find yourself immediately empathizing with his situation, which continues as he grows to manhood. His story is raw, challenging and at times disturbing. He has many obstacles to face in his life which he meets head on, but evil is always lurking in the background in the shape of his evil stepfather and his depraved friend. I won't give the plot away here, but this book is a "page turner" - I couldn't put it down - the style of writing was clear and sharp, and the story well-woven. There were perhaps one too many "convenient co-incidences" for my liking, but overall it was a very enjoyable read. I certainly look forward to more from this pen.
Our hero is Benjamin Wilder, a hugely likeable boy and you find yourself immediately empathizing with his situation, which continues as he grows to manhood. His story is raw, challenging and at times disturbing. He has many obstacles to face in his life which he meets head on, but evil is always lurking in the background in the shape of his evil stepfather and his depraved friend. I won't give the plot away here, but this book is a "page turner" - I couldn't put it down - the style of writing was clear and sharp, and the story well-woven. There were perhaps one too many "convenient co-incidences" for my liking, but overall it was a very enjoyable read. I certainly look forward to more from this pen.
March 20, 2015
Black Machetes was not a story that I expected. The read starts out very dark: child neglect, abuse, alcoholism, rape, murder with two demented, unintelligent men as the main characters. This story shows humanity, struggle and goodness. Ben, the main character of the story, has a good heart. As I read the story, I have to wonder how he held up through the years of abuse, despair and poverty. Friendships, strangers, and the goodness of others is what kept me positive while reading and I kept hoping for a good ending. I would definitely recommend Black Machetes. At times the story is a bit of a stretch (where is law enforcement?) and sometimes there is a lot of "story telling" that could be eliminated but the points of the story were well made.
May 21, 2015
I can certainly understand why this book was called an "edgy, controversial and addictive debut" by GOODREADS. This is a story of life's great opposites; evil vs goodness, hope vs despair. The author grabs you in the beginning by describing horrible acts of child and spousal abuse and continues from there. At first I wasn't sure I would continue reading this book. However, as it continues to delve into the life of the protagonist, Ben, his friends and family, and those who support Ben as he grows older, it kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next. I do not want to add information about the storyline. I would rather the reader experience that first hand. I will say it is not for the faint of heart. I will also say I will definitely read Mr. Howard again.
July 20, 2014
I was lucky to win this in Goodreads First Reads and what a treat this book was! The last book I read was focused on plot and hardly anything on the characters. This book managed to cover all bases so well, there is nothing I can suggest to improve. The story was constantly moving, the characters constantly building. I could not put this book down. It was believable, heartbreaking, funny, tragic and heartwarming. All that Ryan Howard promised in the synopsis of his book he delivered on. I can't wait until his next book! Thanks Goodreads and Ryan Howard.
May 13, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Without giving much away, the story is about a kid and the terrible things that happen in his childhood and throughout his life. This was a phenomenal book. I couldn't put it down. Even though it was filled with some horrifying scenes, parts of it were so moving and heartwarming that it could be considered uplifting. I felt like the overall theme was the fight of the human spirit in the face of the absolute worst odds. Ryan Howard is an amazing writer and I will be first in line for his next book.
Without giving much away, the story is about a kid and the terrible things that happen in his childhood and throughout his life. This was a phenomenal book. I couldn't put it down. Even though it was filled with some horrifying scenes, parts of it were so moving and heartwarming that it could be considered uplifting. I felt like the overall theme was the fight of the human spirit in the face of the absolute worst odds. Ryan Howard is an amazing writer and I will be first in line for his next book.
May 28, 2016
This was a really good book, but the subject matter is highly disturbing (ex. serial rape, murder, racism, etc.). It is very dark and if you are sensitive, I probably would not recommend this. That being said, the book is well-written and really holds your attention. I listened to the Audible audio version, and the narration was really good. There is good character differentiation and good emotional connection. This is the third book I have read by R.K. Howard, and I am definitely hooked. As dark and disturbing as the books can be, they are addictive.
September 15, 2016
I've encountered personifications of evil in literature before, but none are as loathsome as the character of Wade. Make no mistake: this book "goes there". I found myself unsure, during some of the darkest moments of this narrative, if I was going to get through the harrowing scenes. However, R.K. Howard infuses the Black Machetes with heart and depth, bringing an almost spiritual element to the story I hadn't anticipated.
My review at Audiofile Magazine:
http://www.audiofilemagazine.com/revi...
My review at Audiofile Magazine:
http://www.audiofilemagazine.com/revi...
October 17, 2014
This was a good story, but I wish it had been told better. There are inconsistencies in the story, a lot of coincidences, and the characters frustrated me because they were kind of dumb - they didn't fight. Two characters are going around doing terrible things, but no one says anything or does anything. One of the friends is accused of rape and murder, and no one even asks him about it, everyone just seems to assume he did it. And the dialogue wasn't the best I've read, either.
July 3, 2015
This novel is about the life of the main character Ben. Ben grew up in an abusive home. His step-father was physically abusive and his mother was an alcoholic who neglected him. He witnesses a very traumatic event when he was 12 that caused him to disappear from his old life and make a new life for himself. A hard to read book at times it was well worth it!
* I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
* I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2016
This is quite obviously a contrived story, but it's realistic and suspenseful. The good characters are almost too good and the bad characters are definitely too bad. Peter Berkrot delivers a respectable performance. He gives distinctive voices to the characters, although his accents aren't perfect. This is a gritty thriller and exciting listen.
NOTE: I received a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for this unbiased review.
NOTE: I received a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for this unbiased review.
August 24, 2014
Wow I was so touched reading this story
The rated this story five stars due to all the child neglect in the work. To. be a product of rape, only to have your child to endure the abuse with you. I did blame Ben mom because she was a victim, plus he understood in the end. Thumbs up to a brave little boy that finally fought back and won. I cried as much as Benji.
The rated this story five stars due to all the child neglect in the work. To. be a product of rape, only to have your child to endure the abuse with you. I did blame Ben mom because she was a victim, plus he understood in the end. Thumbs up to a brave little boy that finally fought back and won. I cried as much as Benji.
August 15, 2015
Coming of age first-rate human horror
This is an excellent first novel and I found myself holding my breath while reading.
The author does an amazing job of telling the story of four teenage boys growing up in a world of terror. I will be looking forward to the next novel Mr. Howard!
This is an excellent first novel and I found myself holding my breath while reading.
The author does an amazing job of telling the story of four teenage boys growing up in a world of terror. I will be looking forward to the next novel Mr. Howard!
July 9, 2014
I absolutely love this book I loved the concept of the story and the characters I couldn't put the book down definitely would recommend this book to you if you hadn't read it and Iam so looking forward to reading more books by Ryan K. Howard in the near future.
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