Jonathan St. Andrews has spent seventeen years content to live in his quiet, secluded world. Popularity never more than a passing thought, friendships would inevitably lead to disappointment when others realized he was every bit as awkward on the inside as he seemed on the outside. With high school graduation right around the corner, Jon sets his sights on a career in medicine, spending his evenings at his father’s side learning the family business.
One seemingly innocent encounter with Carla Edgewater, the most beautiful girl in school, changes everything. Softened by her distress, Jon agrees to help her, only to find himself hurling down a path he never could have anticipated. As Jon and Carla grow closer, the looming threat of her jealous, dangerous boyfriend, Lionel, is a bomb waiting to go off.
Circumstances swell into a perfect storm, crashing down toward a tragic, shocking conclusion that alters Jon’s life forever.
Sarah is the USA Today and International Bestselling Author of over forty contemporary and epic fantasy stories, and the creator of the Kingdom of the White Sea and Saga of Crimson & Clover universes.
Born a geek, Sarah spends her time crafting rich and multilayered worlds, obsessing over history, playing her retribution paladin (and sometimes destruction warlock), and settling provocative Tolkien debates, such as why the Great Eagles are not Gandalf's personal taxi service. Passionate about travel, she's been to over twenty countries collecting sparks of inspiration, and is always planning her next adventure.
Sarah and her husband live in a beautiful corner of SE Pennsylvania with their three tiny benevolent pug dictators.
Shame: The Story of Jonathan St. Andrews ( The House of Crimson & Clover) by Sarah M. Cradit is a 2015 publication. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Well, I have to say, I never saw this coming. As a long time fan of this series I must confess to not really liking Jon. His character was dark, brooding and felt dangerous, while his brother was the polar opposite and so much easier to like. So, I was taken aback a little by this background story on Jonathan. This story does indeed explain a lot, and it takes me back to that awful Maine winter Ana experienced.
Carla is the well connected, popular, rich girl with the perfect boyfriend. By all accounts Carla is lucky to have such a wonderful guy. But, she is really trapped by her parent's and societies expectations of her and in truth she is actually in an emotionally and mentally abusive relationship. When she needs help with her studies, the natural choice is Jonathan, the quiet and studious son of the local doctor. The more time they spend together, the nature of Carla and Jonathan's relationship begins to change. But, with Lionel always lurking and a unexpected kink in her plans, Carla is forced to make a choice. Either way someone is going to pay the price and Jonathan's life will never be the same.
This experience in Jon's young life, coupled with his difficult relationship with his father shapes him into the dark brooding character we will meet in later chapters of this series. At once a cautionary tale of abusive tendencies and an utterly shocking and heartbreaking story, it is also one that will leave a chill down your spine. For more on Jonathan and his story, read The Storm and the Darkness and continue from there. Once more this author has managed to defy my preconceived notions about a character, proving that there is always something lurking under the surface with people, some good, some bad. This story is a prime example of how looks can be deceiving and to think twice before passing judgment one way or the other. Well done! 5 stars!!
As part of the House of Crimson and Clover series, this is the back story of Jonathan St Andrews and helps us understand how and why Jon developed into the dark character we meet in The Storm and The Darkness. This can be read as a stand alone short story but if you enjoy family sagas with a difference, I highly recommend The House Of Crimson and Clover series.
Jon St Andrews is the antithesis of his younger brother, Finn. Jon, reserved and unpopular, with an inability to relate to people in general. Finn, easygoing, friendly and cheerful. At seventeen Jon also has a complicated relationship with his father, who assumes Jon will follow in his footsteps and become a doctor. Jon is torn, wanting to please his father but terrified of the close contact with people being a doctor would entail.
When Jon and Carla Edgewater, who he has known all his life but has always ignored him, form the unlikeliest of friendships it opens up a part of Jon that has always been ruthlessly suppressed. As their relationship develops the threat from Carla’s jealous and controlling boyfriend escalates and spirals towards an outcome none of them could ever have predicted.
Somber and compelling, this story highlights how Jon’s life was changed forever and why he evolved into the man he eventually became. But it does allow some empathy and compassion for Jon, the man. It’s a shocking tale of malicious intent causing untold and irreversible harm which has a knock on effect through the years.
If you haven't been reading this series, really you must. The House of Crimson and Clover Series is set in New Orleans and is a story of the Sullivan and Deschanel families. Each installment in the series has given the reader more insight into the inner workings of the families.
I have enjoyed every single book associated with this series. Some characters have been easier to relate to than others. One character I have loved to hate is Jonathan St. Andrews. As the son of the island's only doctor, Jon has been portrayed as brooding and dark. Shame gives the reader the opportunity to get to know Jon better...find out what makes him the way he is. Shame shows more of his relationship with Finn, his younger brother. But it also unfolds a beautiful story.
I disagree with the author that this is a totally stand alone book. While it is a great introductory story in the Crimson & Clover series, it also reveals some spoilers in other books. I would not read this as the first book. I really would start the series at the beginning and work my way through the books. But definitely read this story. It changes the way you look at Jon.
I was given an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review
In exchange for an honest review, I received a copy of the book from author Sarah M. Cradit. This is the first work I've read by this author.
Jon is to follow in his father's footsteps and become a doctor, but while he is smart, he is socially awkward. His little brother, Finn, on the other hand is great with people...and wants nothing to do with being a doctor.
Always made fun of, Jon is hesitant when Finn tells him that the prettiest girl in school - Clara - is out on their beach crying.
Clara, the local sweetheart and daughter of the guy who owns 1/2 the island, is dating Lionel. Lionel considers Clara his property, and fortune does not favor anyone who so much as looks at Clara sideways - even Clara herself!
Graduation is coming soon, and Clara needs to pass biology. She asks Jon for help, and it doesn't take her long to learn how strong her feelings for Jon have become, and she is terrified Lionel will find out.
One night, everything changes. The stalking begins, and lives will never be the same again. One event is all it takes.
I really liked Jon, but it took a little bit. I grew up with people like Jon and Finn, and could relate to them. Clara really needed a better backbone, but considering the hold Lionel has on not just Clara but everyone at school and their parents, I believed she had every reason to do what she could to protect herself and Jon.
While I didn't think the book rates in the top of those I've ever read, I did feel drawn to the characters, and the story kept me interested enough to reading. I am curious about the other books related to the town/characters, and would be happy to give them a try as well.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Anyone who has read the Storm and the Darkness knows the main character of Shame, Jon St. Andrews. We have known him as an adult. Life has turned Jon into a dark introvert. His work as a veterinarian keeps him secluded and he seldom has to interact with people. He prefers working with animals, they don't expect any more than he wants to give. His brother is the only one who understands him enough to put up with his flawed personality. Shame is the story of Jon's young life. We learn about Jon and the only true love he has ever known. Now we know why he has become a dark, brooding soul. I have come to sympathize with the man in The Storm and the Darkness, and more in Shattered. Jon was a lonely, obsessive boy. Circumstances brought him together with the secret love of his life. He was happier than any other time in his youth. She brought out the man that was ready to love and be loved, something he had never known. Tragedy strikes and his life will never be the same. If you haven't gotten into The House of Crimson and Clover series, now is the time. Since reading my first Sarah Cradit book I have been totally hooked. You will be too, her writing is outstanding. I can't seem to get enough.This is the best series I have read for a long time. I love the way she can weave a story of love and heartbreak that will bring you to tears. She writes of deep ties in a paranormal family that can't be broken. Shame is another 5 stars for me!!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Shame: The Story of Jonathan St. Andrews is a short story installment to the House of Crimson and Clover series by Sarah Credit. The series is primarily set in New Orleans, La, however, this short story and The Storm and the Darkness are set on a small island off the coast of Maine.
To appreciate this book to the fullest, you need to be fully vested in the House of Crimson and Clover series; to read Shame: The Story of Jonathan St. Andrews as a stand alone short story, will not do it justice.
Readers of the series first met Jonathan St. Andrews in The Storm and the Darkness. He is quiet and keeps to himself to the point of being hermit-like. He lacks social skills and prefers the animals in his veterinary practice to humans. Shame is Jonathan St. Andrews’ back story. The details behind how he became such a recluse with a harden heart.
The Storm and the Darkness was one of my favorite in the series, and I really appreciated the character insight that Shame: The Story of Jonathan St. Andrews gave me. Jonathan became a much more sympathetic character after reading this short story. Not only do readers get into Jonathan’s head, but there is some great development of an ancillary characters, Alex Whitman and Carla Edgewater.
Change. That’s what I’d say this House of Crimson & Clover Lagniappe is about. Shame gives us the opportunity to go back in time and delve into the life and psyche of Jon St. Andrews. The boy we meet in the beginning of this story is not the man we know from The Storm and the Darkness. The beauty of Shame is that we are treated to the back story, Jon’s story. We are privy to his roots and the events and people that shape him into the man he is to become. Without giving anything away, I’ll say that we witness the exact moments Jon disconnects from reality as he knows it, and we see his focus shift. That, ladies and gentlemen, is pretty awesome in a read.
Shame is not what most would expect from Cradit. Oh, it’s dark alright, but we get a taste of YA from her. And yes, it’s possible to love psychological thrillers, romance, paranormal and YA! No matter the label you bestow upon this one, it’s a page turner for sure. I devoured it in no time, unable to get through the chapters quick enough. I love Cradit’s shorter reads just as much as her full-lengths and as a die-hard fan, appreciate the closer look into characters’ lives.
* I received an Ebook in exchange for an honest review. *
I wanted to hate Jonathan ~ As a matter of fact he has been one of my least favorite characters in this series ~ and then his story came out....how can you hate him after what he has been through?!? I guess when you only see one side of the story you form an opinion and it may be the right one - or it may be the wrong one - however, after this novella I see some of the reasons for the things that he has done. He is still not my favorite character - not by a long shot, but his story does put things into perspective.
This story also makes the reader love Finn just a bit more (if that is possible) as well as gives some of the back story on the brother's and their abilities. It was a quick, smooth read that left the reader wanting more - just like all of Sarah's books do and it has the reader thinking about the characters long after they finish reading the book. It is a must read - but the stories should be read in order so that you don't miss out on anything - and because the books are just that good! I love Sarah's books and am already looking forward to my next fix. Add this to your TBR list and you won't regret it for a minute ~ Another amazing read!
Finally we learn why Jonathon St.Andrews acts the way he does. If I went through the same thing he went through I'd probably be the same type of person as him. I made the mistake of assuming that he was an ass and a creep from the get go, I never knew he was in love and was a decent person at one time who changed due to circumstances . I really love these little side stories that delve deeper into the characters and look backwards into their pasts. These seek peeks are awesome and really explain a lot about how the characters developed into who and what they are now. Sarah has me on the edge of my seat from the minute I pick up one of her books till I put it down. I cant wait for the next book in the series, I'm hooked and lucky me I'm a beta reader so I don't have to wait to long. Sarah you never disappoint me. Independent reviewer for PR&ATR.
As expected, Sarah M. Cradit's 'Shame,' is spot-on with its delivery of well-rounded, interesting, and consistent characters. For readers of her series, the story of Jonathan St. Andrews is backstory, chronicling years before 'The Storm and the Darkness' where we are first introduced to the St. Andrews' brothers. What impresses me every time I read Cradit's work is that ability to (even in their past) maintain the character's persona throughout each one of the books. Her beautiful use of prose throughout her stories takes you to the place where the action is - from the streets of New Orleans, Louisiana, all the way to Summer Island, Maine, as a reader, you are living, breathing, and moving with this eclectic families of the House of Crimson and Clover.
'Shame' may be read as a standalone, but for more insight into Jon and his little brother, Finn, pick up 'The Storm and the Darkness.'
I'd made up my mind not to like Jonathan St. Andrew and was hoping karma would step in to make him pay for his wrongs. Then I read Shame and learned about the wrongs that had been done to Jon. Never judge a book by its cover.
Parts of Jon's story were heart-rending, but I also learned how he discovered his career path in life and just how important his relationship with his brother, Finn, was to him. This author truly has a talent for character development and I appreciated this opportunity to delve into the tragic past of Jonathan St. Andrews and maybe feel a little more empathy for him. The House of Crimson and Clover series just continues to be more compelling.
I received a digital ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I love it when I get to read and learn more about a character from my favorite series. Anyone who is a fan of Sarah M. Cradit will love this look into the St. Andrews family. Anyone starting this series will get a look at how creative this author is. I loved to see Jonathan open up and blossom in love. It was a special time for him and his family loved the difference in him. I could picture the man he would of become if things would of been different. This book gave me a new insight to his character and his behavior in The Storm and the Darkness. I highly recommend every book in this series there is something here for everyone.
While reading the book The Storm and the Darkness, I wondered what had happened that made Jonathon St. Andrews turn into the bitter and disturbed man he was. All is revealed in this book, Shame. Sarah M. Cradit has a way with making these characters so real, so visceral that you can’t help but to fall into her books head first. I really felt for Jon and what he had gone through. I loved every bit of this La Famille Lagniappe, and thoroughly enjoyed being able to take a closer look into the fascinating lives of these memorable characters. I highly recommend this series. You won’t be disappointed!
After reading The Storm and the Darkness, I wondered why Jonathan St. Andrews felt such incredible darkness. After reading Shame, I understand why. "There is no meaning to be found in others...None. There is nothing but ourselves and our darkness. I knew this already, but I'll not ever let myself forget it again." (74) After Jon's story, I feel more empathy for him and his dark past. Once again, an excellent tale from Ms. Cradit!
A great dive into a character's past. Jon has never, and will never be a favorite character, but after reading this story it's easy to understand how he came to be the man I despise. The story is heart wrenching but told so well.
She does it again! Sarah M Cradit knows how to write a story so compelling and intimate it feels like a part of you. Her words touch every part of you, pulling and ripping at your soul while making you love even the worst (or so you thought) characters. I love this series.
Oh. My. God. So so good! So much so that I'm finding it hard to form coherent sentences. Shame by Sarah M. Cradit is pure satisfaction. There is no other author who can fit a whole novel into a short story quite the way that she does. I loved every single word of this story.
Jon has long been one of my favorite characters in this series and it is pretty great to finally get a closer look at the 'who', 'why', and 'how' of Jon St. Andrew. And as if that weren't enough of a reason to love this book, we also get another look at Alex from The Storm and the Darkness! I got such a rush of excitement 54% of the way in, (according to my kindle), when I started to connect the dots and character names!
Shame is an amazing story that is sure to be loved by followers of the series and newcomers alike. Thank you to Sarah M. Cradit for always making me feel like I just finished "the best book EVER"!
This is the story of Jonathan St. Andrews, and I have to admit that after reading it I can see why Jon is the way he is.... We get to dive into his story and see all that he went through and how he was treated by everyone around him and what transpired when it came to the one female that he loved dearly. What happens when one becomes tired of being a doormat for others? Will Jon take the steps needed to become what he truly wants to become ? Or is he destined to be what has always been laid out for him? is he destined to become the person his father wants him to be or will he be shown what the world has to offer him? to find out what Jon's story is then by all means check out this amazing story!!!!!!!
Jon St. Andrews is a kid just trying to graduate...better, yet, survive high school. He is bullied by none other than the most popular boy, Lionel Shepard. But what Lionel doesn't know, is while he has the most beautiful girl in school, on his arm, her mind could not be further from him. After a particularly bad fight between Carla and Lionel, Carla wonders down to the beach. By chance, it is Jon's beach. A chance meeting or did the fates intervene? A heartbreaking tale of love, betrayal, fear, and the biggest secret that may just tear Jon St. Andrews apart, lies ahead in Shame.
Shame, is a short story in which the author, Sarah M. Cradit gives her readers a look into Jon St. Andrews life. A period of time in his life in which he was the happiest and most miserable... It is the chain of events during this time that made Jon become the tormented soul we know and very much disliked, until now. I'm still not a big fan, but must admit... I'm more understanding... A must read for all House of Crimson & Clover readers! Five stars all the way...
Shame by Sarah M. Cradit is the story of Jonathan St. Andrews. I have never been a fan of Jon, thinking of him as cruel and hateful. I knew there was obviously a reason for his darkness, but never suspected the extent of his internal torture. Changed by love, destroyed by loss, will Jon ever be whole again?
Truly loved this Novella. After readinh the full series, Jon has always intrigued me. You knew bits and pieces of his past but not the full extent as to why he was so troubled. Love it and actuallu feel i bit sorry for him which i never ever thought i would say. Brilliant