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The Starks Trilogy #1
When the Serpent Bites
Frederick Starks has it all—a gorgeous wife who was his high school sweetheart, three beautiful children, a mansion and cars others envy, millions in the bank, respected in his community, admired by his employees, loved and respected by loyal friends. He revels in the hard-earned power and control he’s acquired.
As the saying goes, “All that glitters is not gold,” which Starks discovers when gut-wrenching betrayal by his wife sends him over the edge and into a maximum security prison.
There, Starks is a new “fish,” stripped of nearly everything he’s always relied on. In that place, where inmates and guards have their own rules and codes of conduct, Starks is forced to face the darker side of life, and his own darker side, especially when the betrayals, both inside and outside the prison, don’t stop.
He must choose which path to follow when the line between right and wrong becomes blurred: one that leads to getting out of the physical and emotional hellhole he finds himself in or one that keeps him alive.
As the saying goes, “All that glitters is not gold,” which Starks discovers when gut-wrenching betrayal by his wife sends him over the edge and into a maximum security prison.
There, Starks is a new “fish,” stripped of nearly everything he’s always relied on. In that place, where inmates and guards have their own rules and codes of conduct, Starks is forced to face the darker side of life, and his own darker side, especially when the betrayals, both inside and outside the prison, don’t stop.
He must choose which path to follow when the line between right and wrong becomes blurred: one that leads to getting out of the physical and emotional hellhole he finds himself in or one that keeps him alive.
402 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 30, 2015
216 people are currently reading
1705 people want to read
About the author
Nesly Clerge
9 books280 followers
**INTERNATIONAL BOOK AWARD WINNER – GOLD MEDAL**
Readers' Favorite 2017 Best general fiction for When The Serpent Bites
**INTERNATIONAL BOOK AWARD WINNER – SILVER MEDAL**
Readers' Favorite 2017 Best general fiction for When The Dragon Roars
Nesly Clerge received his bachelor’s degree in physiology and neurobiology at the University of Maryland, and later pursued a doctoral degree in the field of chiropractic medicine. He is currently practicing as a board certified chiropractic physician. Although his background is primarily science-based, he has finally embraced his lifelong passion for writing. Clerge’s debut novel, When the Serpent Bites, explores choices, consequences, and the complexities of human emotions, especially when we are placed in a less-than-desirable setting. When he is not writing, Clerge manages several multidisciplinary clinics. He enjoys reading, chess, traveling, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with his significant other and his sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
November 3, 2015
It is because of books such as "When The Serpent Bites" by Nelsy Clerge that I read, it was more than words it was an experience into what it is to be human. What Clerge has written will have you thinking and questioning so many aspects of life. Whenever I put the book down, I found that I was still thinking about it...to me that is a sign of a great book!
The story revolves around the protagonist Fredrick Starks, who has the type of life that most people can only dream of. He marries his childhood sweetheart Kayla, he has three healthy children, a hugely successful business that he shares with his loyal High School best friend Jeffrey. Due to his business he has the respect of the community and employees. Of course with all this success, he has all the material things he and his family could want such as a beautiful mansion, top of the line vehicles, in fact top of the line everything. Starks has worked very hard for his success and maybe there has been a little luck along the way but the main thing that drives him is his love for his wife and children. There is nothing in his life that is insurmountable or is there?
Starks life begins to fall apart when he learns of his wife's infidelities, he is a utterly heartbroken. He feels that his life can not get any worse but he is sorely mistaken. Starks makes a decision that will change his whole life and his family's forever.
This decision lands Starks in Maximum Security Prison with the state's worst offenders. He becomes aware very quickly that life inside prison is even worse than he could have imagined. He is a new "fish" and needs to learn fast what the rules are inside the prison walls when it comes to both inmates and guards.
Who can he trust? Not just in the prison but also on the outside as Starks learns of more betrayals. If he is survive such a horrendous place, does he himself need to learn to do things that go against his moral compass? Is the dark side of him closer to surface than even he realised?
I found the counselling sessions between Starks and his counsellor Matthew Demoray to be compelling, thanks to Clerge's engaging writing. At times, I felt like I was a fly on the wall hearing all about Starks life, the negative, the positive and everything in between. A brilliant way for the reader to fully understand how the protagonist Starks became the person he is. And the real issues that caused him to be serving a substantial time in prison. We learn that there truly is a fine line between love and hate. It's interesting to see through these sessions how someone adapts and changes when put into a completely different environment.
The novel may be fiction but it reads more like a non-fiction book particularly when Starks is in prison.
I have watched many documentaries and read a number of biographies/memoirs of people that have been in prison and this book had the same feel to it. It is not overly exaggerated or an unnecessary amount of violence, thats not to say that it is a walk in the park but the situations are believable which to me makes it considerably more frightening.
The author Nesly Clerge's writing is wonderfully descriptive, it is easy to envision how the protagonist Fredrick Starks sees the world both physically and metaphorically. The reader doesn't need to agree with Stark's view and opinions but we can understand where he is coming from and how he got to the situation he finds himself in. Clerge's writing will have you thinking and questioning not just Starks but yourself such as..What is our breaking point? When are we no longer responsible for our actions?
From the very beginning until the end I was astounded that this is Clerge's debut novel! He is an extremely gifted writer, and I suggest that you keep your eyes on him because I feel that he has a huge future in the industry.
There is a sequel coming and I just hope it's sooner than later because I will be in the front of the queue!
I can say with absolute certainty that "When The Serpent Bites" makes it easily into my top 3 of 100 books I have read this year!
5 stars
Thank you to Nesly Clerge for inviting me to read an ARC copy, in exchange for an honest and fair review.
The story revolves around the protagonist Fredrick Starks, who has the type of life that most people can only dream of. He marries his childhood sweetheart Kayla, he has three healthy children, a hugely successful business that he shares with his loyal High School best friend Jeffrey. Due to his business he has the respect of the community and employees. Of course with all this success, he has all the material things he and his family could want such as a beautiful mansion, top of the line vehicles, in fact top of the line everything. Starks has worked very hard for his success and maybe there has been a little luck along the way but the main thing that drives him is his love for his wife and children. There is nothing in his life that is insurmountable or is there?
Starks life begins to fall apart when he learns of his wife's infidelities, he is a utterly heartbroken. He feels that his life can not get any worse but he is sorely mistaken. Starks makes a decision that will change his whole life and his family's forever.
This decision lands Starks in Maximum Security Prison with the state's worst offenders. He becomes aware very quickly that life inside prison is even worse than he could have imagined. He is a new "fish" and needs to learn fast what the rules are inside the prison walls when it comes to both inmates and guards.
Who can he trust? Not just in the prison but also on the outside as Starks learns of more betrayals. If he is survive such a horrendous place, does he himself need to learn to do things that go against his moral compass? Is the dark side of him closer to surface than even he realised?
I found the counselling sessions between Starks and his counsellor Matthew Demoray to be compelling, thanks to Clerge's engaging writing. At times, I felt like I was a fly on the wall hearing all about Starks life, the negative, the positive and everything in between. A brilliant way for the reader to fully understand how the protagonist Starks became the person he is. And the real issues that caused him to be serving a substantial time in prison. We learn that there truly is a fine line between love and hate. It's interesting to see through these sessions how someone adapts and changes when put into a completely different environment.
The novel may be fiction but it reads more like a non-fiction book particularly when Starks is in prison.
I have watched many documentaries and read a number of biographies/memoirs of people that have been in prison and this book had the same feel to it. It is not overly exaggerated or an unnecessary amount of violence, thats not to say that it is a walk in the park but the situations are believable which to me makes it considerably more frightening.
The author Nesly Clerge's writing is wonderfully descriptive, it is easy to envision how the protagonist Fredrick Starks sees the world both physically and metaphorically. The reader doesn't need to agree with Stark's view and opinions but we can understand where he is coming from and how he got to the situation he finds himself in. Clerge's writing will have you thinking and questioning not just Starks but yourself such as..What is our breaking point? When are we no longer responsible for our actions?
From the very beginning until the end I was astounded that this is Clerge's debut novel! He is an extremely gifted writer, and I suggest that you keep your eyes on him because I feel that he has a huge future in the industry.
There is a sequel coming and I just hope it's sooner than later because I will be in the front of the queue!
I can say with absolute certainty that "When The Serpent Bites" makes it easily into my top 3 of 100 books I have read this year!
5 stars
Thank you to Nesly Clerge for inviting me to read an ARC copy, in exchange for an honest and fair review.
August 30, 2022
Book Blog | Bookstagram
THIS IS MISOGYNISTIC, MAN-BABY TRASH.
I have never hated a book or main character so much in my life.
⭐ | 1 star
book source: Arc provided in exchange for a review.
THIS IS MISOGYNISTIC, MAN-BABY TRASH.
I have never hated a book or main character so much in my life.
⭐ | 1 star
book source: Arc provided in exchange for a review.
November 3, 2015
I have taken my time over this book. I have inhaled it, digested it but I have never spat it out. Its a tasty read that keeps your juices salivating as a bookworm, as anyone who likes a brilliant all round story.
When the serpent bites
What a fantastic title for a story.
I was kept wondering when this was coming to "bite me on the butt" because I just knew this title was going to be reasoned out somewhere..........
I had to just lay in wait for it.
Starks has it all. He has a lovely gorgeous wife, he has status and he has three children. A lovely home.
Starks and his wife were young lovers, they married and had a family.
To get where Starks is today, to provide for his wife and family, he had to work hard, and we all know that can take up a lot of family valuable time.
We see and hear of it eating into your daily private life.
This is what I took from this story at the beginning. His wife loved and adored spending the money but she was lonely.
But was she lonely from the marriage or did she have inclinations to 'wander off the straight and narrow towards lovers'.
Starks is not pure and angel white himself, he has had affairs, liasons with other women.
Starks is Jealous or besotted by his wife, which emotion you will have to decide for yourself, but it leads him down a path that alters his life in such a way he ends up arrested and then in court.
His wife speaks against him.
I felt like I was literally in that court house when the witnesses and his wife were giving evidence. I felt for Starks even though he harmed someone very badly.
Now follows his life in prison.
The scenes in the prison had me glued to my seat and I was resentful each time a member of my family interrupted me, I was annoyed when my eyes needed sleep. How dare they! I wants to read this, I was "into it".
Starks is now in prison.
I thought....
how is he going to manage in there! OMG he is used to controlling his life on the outside, hes a business man, he has status and power, the power that money can bring as well as respect.
He has one really true friend. We get to see him many times visiting and worrying about his mate Starks. He also manages his money on the outside.
I am not going to give more of the story away as I so want to....
but I don't want to do spoilers.
I can only say, "how the mighty fall"
but
"the mighty can raise again, but in different circumstances"
The thing is, not all the circumstances and the choices your are made to make are the moral and correct ones. Some need to be for survival.
Survival of the fittest.
We get to see the soft emotional side to Starks when it comes to his children. He worries about them with the mother on the outside, she's not the best at choosing new men in her life, and she is now pregnant again, but by whom.
When he does get to see his kids in prison, only two of them arrive as there are only three that can visit at one time, his wife came too. He wasn't happy with that fact, however, he did get to see his boys. He isn't comfortable with the replies from the boys when he asked a certain question of them. So you see how Sparks is devastated to think his children may not be being treated right.
I see some reviewers saying they didn't like Starks.
I did. I didn't like the choices he made, but I did understand them.
I could see he was driven by an emotion when his wife was found to be with other men eventhough he didn't see any wrong in himself being with other women.
I certainly found the time spent with the Counsellor for Starks in prison very interesting. I found the questions from the Counsellor very spot on, and his open viewpoints to allow Starks to think about his actions and his reasoning.
I learnt how Starks way of reasoning things were not always accurate.
We can all be at fault for that, we see something in one way, and others see it in another. We are good at making excuses for ourselves but not so good when making excuses for others. I saw this in Starks.
My jaw dropped to the floor when I got to the end. NO NO NO, it can't end like this....
I NEED book2
Have you not read this yet?
Why on earth not!
August 14, 2016
This book was a very unique read for me this year so far, I liked that it had a distinct plot and direction, I could not compare it to anything else. Fresh. Got to like that to start with right? Originality is sometimes hard to come by in the land of novels these days.
For me this is a very strong character driven book.It has an intense focus on the main character Starks, whom I loved to hate and had many conflicted thoughts and feelings about as the book weaved it's way from start to finish. It engaged me mentally, kept me alert and had me reading past the words on the page. I liked getting to know the changing head space of Frederick Starks.
Frederick Starks has it all, a gorgeous wife who was his high school sweetheart, three beautiful children, a mansion and cars others envy, millions in the bank, respected in his community, admired by his employees, loved and respected by loyal friends. He revels in the hard-earned power and control he’s acquired. As the saying goes, “All that glitters is not gold,” which Starks discovers when gut-wrenching betrayal by his wife sends him over the edge and into a maximum security prison.
There, Starks is a new “fish,” stripped of nearly everything he’s always relied on. In that place, where inmates and guards have their own rules and codes of conduct, Starks is forced to face the darker side of life, and his own darker side, especially when the betrayals, both inside and outside the prison, don’t stop. He must choose which path to follow when the line between right and wrong becomes blurred: one that leads to getting out of the physical and emotional hellhole he finds himself in or one that keeps him alive.
Starks is a man who has now hard lessons to learn, particularly that a moment in time, a snap decision can change your life forever, for better or worse, in his case most certainly for the worst. His actions land his backside in a seriously scary maximum security prison, a far cry from his lifestyle before a tiny cell was his new home.
The book is fascinating in the way we watch and hear Starks change during the course of the book, how could you be in prison and not be changed. His brain space is complex, dark at times, dangerous at best, conflicted, it's a challenging read for those that like something with depth.
There are some scenes in the book that made me really ponder whether his true nature was shining out OR had the environment and circumstances forced him to have to be something he really was not. Great stuff. He does some things that shocked me and I loved that. This is not a predictable read at all, I had NO idea where it was going to end up.
It's written really well and for a first novel is a cut above and well worth investing some reading time into. Always remember, every action has a consequence and you get to partake in watching this roll out in the life before incarceration and the life after incarceration for troubled man Frederick Starks.
4 paw prints from me for this book! A book I think many will enjoy, especially if you like to really get inside a character's head like I do. Light and shade with spatters of pitch black is our man Frederick.
For more of my reviews, books to win, author chat and more come over to:
https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
Follow me on Twitter: www.twitter.com/promotethatbook
I received a copy of this book thanks to the author, I am thankful for the opportunity to review and back this great read!
For me this is a very strong character driven book.It has an intense focus on the main character Starks, whom I loved to hate and had many conflicted thoughts and feelings about as the book weaved it's way from start to finish. It engaged me mentally, kept me alert and had me reading past the words on the page. I liked getting to know the changing head space of Frederick Starks.
Frederick Starks has it all, a gorgeous wife who was his high school sweetheart, three beautiful children, a mansion and cars others envy, millions in the bank, respected in his community, admired by his employees, loved and respected by loyal friends. He revels in the hard-earned power and control he’s acquired. As the saying goes, “All that glitters is not gold,” which Starks discovers when gut-wrenching betrayal by his wife sends him over the edge and into a maximum security prison.
There, Starks is a new “fish,” stripped of nearly everything he’s always relied on. In that place, where inmates and guards have their own rules and codes of conduct, Starks is forced to face the darker side of life, and his own darker side, especially when the betrayals, both inside and outside the prison, don’t stop. He must choose which path to follow when the line between right and wrong becomes blurred: one that leads to getting out of the physical and emotional hellhole he finds himself in or one that keeps him alive.
Starks is a man who has now hard lessons to learn, particularly that a moment in time, a snap decision can change your life forever, for better or worse, in his case most certainly for the worst. His actions land his backside in a seriously scary maximum security prison, a far cry from his lifestyle before a tiny cell was his new home.
The book is fascinating in the way we watch and hear Starks change during the course of the book, how could you be in prison and not be changed. His brain space is complex, dark at times, dangerous at best, conflicted, it's a challenging read for those that like something with depth.
There are some scenes in the book that made me really ponder whether his true nature was shining out OR had the environment and circumstances forced him to have to be something he really was not. Great stuff. He does some things that shocked me and I loved that. This is not a predictable read at all, I had NO idea where it was going to end up.
It's written really well and for a first novel is a cut above and well worth investing some reading time into. Always remember, every action has a consequence and you get to partake in watching this roll out in the life before incarceration and the life after incarceration for troubled man Frederick Starks.
4 paw prints from me for this book! A book I think many will enjoy, especially if you like to really get inside a character's head like I do. Light and shade with spatters of pitch black is our man Frederick.
For more of my reviews, books to win, author chat and more come over to:
https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...
Follow me on Twitter: www.twitter.com/promotethatbook
I received a copy of this book thanks to the author, I am thankful for the opportunity to review and back this great read!
November 27, 2015
I enjoyed "When the Serpent Bites" the debut novel by Nesly Clerge.
The story is about Frederick Starks. Starks makes the decision one night to confront his wife's ex lover. The circumstances that occur next drastically alters Starks life, and lands him in prison. Predominantly the story is set in the prison where Starks is trying to stay alive. It is also told through flashbacks and memories of Starks and his wife Kayla before the incident. Gradually we learn that perhaps Starks is not quite the victim of circumstances that he portrays himself to be.
I obviously didn't quite "get" this book as much as my other friends - who have rated it higher than I have. My main issue with the book is the main character Starks. At times I found Starks to be almost unreadable. I couldn't understand most of his actions or the rationales behind the majority of his thought processes. Just when I thought he might see the light, nope... Back to square one. I felt he made little to no personal development, and I just really disliked him. I have read a few reviews of people who totally disagree with my take on Starks, saying they can understand the choices he made, and how they feel sympathy for his character. I'm afraid I didn't. I understand that this is the first of a trilogy so hopefully his character will go through some major developments in subsequent books.
Apart from my dislike of the main character, I also I felt the book was a bit long and repetitive. I felt I was forever reading about the same thing, about how Starks was betrayed... and betrayed... At times I struggled to get through some of it.
HOWEVER... For a debut it was EXTREMELY well written! I especially enjoyed the courtroom scene and many of the jail scenes where he was plotting the demise of one character or another. I loved how he could just buy his way out of everything. Thankfully I don't know what prison life is like but I imagine it could be quite similar to the way Clerge describes it in this novel.
I enjoyed the majority of the counselling scenes. Even though Starks wouldn't take responsibility for any of his actions, they were insightful and well written.
I thought the other characters were all portrayed well, I enjoyed the interactions between the characters and the events that occurred in jail. Even though I found the twist at the end to be quite predictable, It was still well done. I am interested to know what happens in the continuation of Stark's story.
Overall Thoughts:
I liked it. I would be interested to see where he takes all of the characters in the next two books.
Thanks to Nesly Clerge via BookLover Catlady for a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
For more reviews visit my blog
www.booksbabiesbeing.com
Find me on Twitter
www.twitter.com/BBB_Mel
The story is about Frederick Starks. Starks makes the decision one night to confront his wife's ex lover. The circumstances that occur next drastically alters Starks life, and lands him in prison. Predominantly the story is set in the prison where Starks is trying to stay alive. It is also told through flashbacks and memories of Starks and his wife Kayla before the incident. Gradually we learn that perhaps Starks is not quite the victim of circumstances that he portrays himself to be.
I obviously didn't quite "get" this book as much as my other friends - who have rated it higher than I have. My main issue with the book is the main character Starks. At times I found Starks to be almost unreadable. I couldn't understand most of his actions or the rationales behind the majority of his thought processes. Just when I thought he might see the light, nope... Back to square one. I felt he made little to no personal development, and I just really disliked him. I have read a few reviews of people who totally disagree with my take on Starks, saying they can understand the choices he made, and how they feel sympathy for his character. I'm afraid I didn't. I understand that this is the first of a trilogy so hopefully his character will go through some major developments in subsequent books.
Apart from my dislike of the main character, I also I felt the book was a bit long and repetitive. I felt I was forever reading about the same thing, about how Starks was betrayed... and betrayed... At times I struggled to get through some of it.
HOWEVER... For a debut it was EXTREMELY well written! I especially enjoyed the courtroom scene and many of the jail scenes where he was plotting the demise of one character or another. I loved how he could just buy his way out of everything. Thankfully I don't know what prison life is like but I imagine it could be quite similar to the way Clerge describes it in this novel.
I enjoyed the majority of the counselling scenes. Even though Starks wouldn't take responsibility for any of his actions, they were insightful and well written.
I thought the other characters were all portrayed well, I enjoyed the interactions between the characters and the events that occurred in jail. Even though I found the twist at the end to be quite predictable, It was still well done. I am interested to know what happens in the continuation of Stark's story.
Overall Thoughts:
I liked it. I would be interested to see where he takes all of the characters in the next two books.
Thanks to Nesly Clerge via BookLover Catlady for a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
For more reviews visit my blog
www.booksbabiesbeing.com
Find me on Twitter
www.twitter.com/BBB_Mel
November 2, 2015
“When The Serpent Bites” is the debut novel for author Nesly Clerge, a story of tragedy and deceit, a novel about one man’s uneasy challenge to survive prison and choose the right path to a new life.
First I have to say that this book was not what I expected…it was so much more. And for a debut novel, it has blown me away! It was that good! This novel is hard to classify under the genres, as it has many elements to satisfy a wide range of readers from legal and crime lovers, to psychological thrillers.
The book is plot and character driven. The protagonist is flawed and although I wanted to hate him, at times I felt sorry for him. The characters in this novel are believable because they are not perfect. They all make mistakes…
This is the story of CAUSE and EFFECT and the consequences of your actions.
“Frederick Starks has it all—a gorgeous wife who was his high school sweetheart, three beautiful children, a mansion and cars others envy, millions in the bank, respected in his community, admired by his employees, loved and respected by loyal friends. He revels in the hard-earned power and control he’s acquired. As the saying goes, “All that glitters is not gold,” which Starks discovers when gut-wrenching betrayal by his wife sends him over the edge and into a maximum security prison. “
The protagonist, Frederick Starks confronted his wife’s lover, with the main purpose to embarrass the man in front of his wife. But unfortunately, this verbal exchange turned into a physical altercation. In just one moment in time…he made a mistake, and crossed the line, and for that he was sent to prison. There he has to learn to survive, while dealing with the emotional agony of his wife’s betrayal, and the past.
“There, Starks is a new “fish,” stripped of nearly everything he’s always relied on. In that place, where inmates and guards have their own rules and codes of conduct, Starks is forced to face the darker side of life, and his own darker side, especially when the betrayals, both inside and outside the prison, don’t stop. He must choose which path to follow when the line between right and wrong becomes blurred: one that leads to getting out of the physical and emotional hellhole he finds himself in or one that keeps him alive.”
The only thing that will probably make most readers upset is the fact that there was a major cliff hanger and therefore no resolution to the plot; the end however is very appropriate for the story. Looking forward to the sequel.
Many thanks to the author and Booklover Catlady Publicity who furnished a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
“Think Before You Act”.
First I have to say that this book was not what I expected…it was so much more. And for a debut novel, it has blown me away! It was that good! This novel is hard to classify under the genres, as it has many elements to satisfy a wide range of readers from legal and crime lovers, to psychological thrillers.
The book is plot and character driven. The protagonist is flawed and although I wanted to hate him, at times I felt sorry for him. The characters in this novel are believable because they are not perfect. They all make mistakes…
This is the story of CAUSE and EFFECT and the consequences of your actions.
“Frederick Starks has it all—a gorgeous wife who was his high school sweetheart, three beautiful children, a mansion and cars others envy, millions in the bank, respected in his community, admired by his employees, loved and respected by loyal friends. He revels in the hard-earned power and control he’s acquired. As the saying goes, “All that glitters is not gold,” which Starks discovers when gut-wrenching betrayal by his wife sends him over the edge and into a maximum security prison. “
The protagonist, Frederick Starks confronted his wife’s lover, with the main purpose to embarrass the man in front of his wife. But unfortunately, this verbal exchange turned into a physical altercation. In just one moment in time…he made a mistake, and crossed the line, and for that he was sent to prison. There he has to learn to survive, while dealing with the emotional agony of his wife’s betrayal, and the past.
“There, Starks is a new “fish,” stripped of nearly everything he’s always relied on. In that place, where inmates and guards have their own rules and codes of conduct, Starks is forced to face the darker side of life, and his own darker side, especially when the betrayals, both inside and outside the prison, don’t stop. He must choose which path to follow when the line between right and wrong becomes blurred: one that leads to getting out of the physical and emotional hellhole he finds himself in or one that keeps him alive.”
The only thing that will probably make most readers upset is the fact that there was a major cliff hanger and therefore no resolution to the plot; the end however is very appropriate for the story. Looking forward to the sequel.
Many thanks to the author and Booklover Catlady Publicity who furnished a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
“Think Before You Act”.
November 18, 2015
When Starks made the fateful decision to visit his wife’s ex-lover late one night “just for a chat”, the violence that erupted caused his life to catapult out of control. The ensuing court case and guilty verdict put him in “Sands”, a maximum security prison which had a deadly reputation and a lot of hardened criminals.
Frederick Starks was used to being in charge – the CEO of his own company which was worth millions; he had always had people on his side. He had met Kayla in high school and always known she was his future; his best friend Jeffrey he’d also known since then. Now Jeffrey was his business partner and Kayla was the mother of his three children, two boys and one girl. With the respect and admiration of many, his immediate fall from grace was an immense shock. Learning the ways of prison; the ruthless gangs, the cruel and sadistic guards, the guys on the take – he had no idea what he would do; if he could cope with it all.
As Starks gradually came to terms with how far his life had changed, his anger fuelled his rage. He was too emotional, he knew it – but rationality and logic had no place within the walls of “Sands”. He was in danger – but did he care? Was he going to resign himself to the inevitable or would he fight? Digging deeply within himself – going against the teachings his grandfather had always drilled into him – would he find the courage and fortitude he needed to stay alive? The odds weren’t good…
What a gripping psychological thriller! When the Serpent Bites is author Nesly Clerge’s debut novel and he has a winner in my opinion. Filled with twists and turns throughout, it kept this reader turning the pages well into the night! With a fast-paced plot, plenty of action plus the turmoil of trying to decide what is right and what is wrong, When the Serpent Bites had me hooked from the very first page. Though I didn’t know that this is book 1 of a series until near the end, I’m very much looking forward to book 2. Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
Frederick Starks was used to being in charge – the CEO of his own company which was worth millions; he had always had people on his side. He had met Kayla in high school and always known she was his future; his best friend Jeffrey he’d also known since then. Now Jeffrey was his business partner and Kayla was the mother of his three children, two boys and one girl. With the respect and admiration of many, his immediate fall from grace was an immense shock. Learning the ways of prison; the ruthless gangs, the cruel and sadistic guards, the guys on the take – he had no idea what he would do; if he could cope with it all.
As Starks gradually came to terms with how far his life had changed, his anger fuelled his rage. He was too emotional, he knew it – but rationality and logic had no place within the walls of “Sands”. He was in danger – but did he care? Was he going to resign himself to the inevitable or would he fight? Digging deeply within himself – going against the teachings his grandfather had always drilled into him – would he find the courage and fortitude he needed to stay alive? The odds weren’t good…
What a gripping psychological thriller! When the Serpent Bites is author Nesly Clerge’s debut novel and he has a winner in my opinion. Filled with twists and turns throughout, it kept this reader turning the pages well into the night! With a fast-paced plot, plenty of action plus the turmoil of trying to decide what is right and what is wrong, When the Serpent Bites had me hooked from the very first page. Though I didn’t know that this is book 1 of a series until near the end, I’m very much looking forward to book 2. Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
October 21, 2015
The first word that comes to mind is WOW! The second word that comes to mind is DOUBLE WOW! This is not what I expected just reading the blurb. It is so much more!
Frederick Starks is a man who just went over the edge. He has confronted his wife's ex-lover and when he is taunted by the man, brutally assaults him, putting him in a coma.
Starks is normally a fairly calm man, not given to outbursts of rage. He is a successful business man, makes a lot of money, supports his wife and kids in a manner worthy of his love for them. He is well respected in his business and the community.
So he's really, really upset when he's arrested, charged, and goes to trial. This is not a legal thriller at all, but the author has done his homework and gives us a shortened version of a trial that is totally believable.
What he doesn't believe is that he 'is' going to prison. Of course, he feels that he was justified in what he did ....
I can tell you up front, I don't like Starks! He feels entitled to anything and everything, anger and resentment and humiliation is seething just under the top layer of his skin. He is really an unlikeable character. But on the other hand, you can't help but feel a bit sorry for him.
This is the story of a man trying to survive prison. Of course, he angers another prisoner, one who seems to run things. Starks only thought he knew what fear was .... now it's paralyzing,
And now he has plenty of time to think back ... remember... what brought him to this point in his life.
This is a great story! Extremely well written. There is not one character that is not drawn to perfection. My emotions were all over the place. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys the psychological thrillers.
My thanks to the author and Booklover Catlady Publicity who furnished a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased opinion.
November 22, 2015
3.5 stars
Goaded by his wife’s lover Starks loses control and savagely attacks him. Now serving time for his crime Starks must learn to survive. Attack or be attacked.
When the Serpent Bites is a story of how a moment in time, one wrong decision, can change a life forever. How circumstances mould you and make you the person you become. It’s about trust and betrayal. How not letting go of anger can cause insurmountable problems. How pride can dictate your actions and the consequences of those actions.
Starks was a complex character and I don’t think I ever really got to like him. Sometimes I felt sorry for him as he could never see that he had done anything wrong. He was a proud man, as he quite often said himself, but his pride was misdirected.
This is a riveting story of one man’s fall from the top of the corporate ladder to the bowels of a maximum security prison. We slowly get to learn Starks’ story and not all is exactly as he would like us to believe at the start. He makes some crazy decisions throughout the novel and a major twist at the end has me wondering how he will react.
Looking forward to the next book!
With my thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
Goaded by his wife’s lover Starks loses control and savagely attacks him. Now serving time for his crime Starks must learn to survive. Attack or be attacked.
When the Serpent Bites is a story of how a moment in time, one wrong decision, can change a life forever. How circumstances mould you and make you the person you become. It’s about trust and betrayal. How not letting go of anger can cause insurmountable problems. How pride can dictate your actions and the consequences of those actions.
Starks was a complex character and I don’t think I ever really got to like him. Sometimes I felt sorry for him as he could never see that he had done anything wrong. He was a proud man, as he quite often said himself, but his pride was misdirected.
This is a riveting story of one man’s fall from the top of the corporate ladder to the bowels of a maximum security prison. We slowly get to learn Starks’ story and not all is exactly as he would like us to believe at the start. He makes some crazy decisions throughout the novel and a major twist at the end has me wondering how he will react.
Looking forward to the next book!
With my thanks to the author for my copy to read and review.
November 28, 2015
Frederick Starks is a very angry man and unable to cope knowing his wife Kayla and three children are living in the mansion he worked so hard to purchase to make her happy, is now inside with her latest lover enjoying the high life. But the one boyfriend Kayla had in the past which really stuck in his craw the most was Ozy, and Starks wanted to get even. As blind rage took over, he drove to Ozy’s home and confronted him where things soon escalated out of control. Not knowing or caring if Ozy lived or died, Starks was taken away in handcuffs. ‘When the Serpent Bites’ is a psychological thriller with Starks trying to survive in prison, and wondering how his once perfect life seemed to go all to hell.
*Thank you to NetGalley and IngramSpark publisher for my free copy.*
*Thank you to NetGalley and IngramSpark publisher for my free copy.*
October 3, 2015
My debut novel When The Serpent Bites is on goodreads. I had the opportunity to meet some very nice people on this site. I've posted the editorial reviews.
“From debut author Clerge comes a novel about one man’s quest to survive prison and find answers within himself. The prison fear is vivid, the odds insurmountable and the conclusion anyone’s guess, though it certainly won’t come easily. An arresting prison tale about penance.”
-Kirkus Reviews
5 STARS
"The characters have real depth―something I am big on―and the drama on the pages made me feel as though I was right there watching it. The book is fast paced and, in my opinion, downright amazing."
―Bobbie Grob, Readers' Favorite
4.5 STARS
"This character orientated drama benefits from a fully fleshed out protagonist, gritty writing, and psychological insight into a realistic psyche. The obvious sequel has a high bar to surpass……When the Serpent Bites is a fantastic read for legal buffs, crime lovers, and readers who love a great story."
―John Murray, Pacific book review
5 STARS
"Nesly Clerge spins a convoluted web of human dynamics and sinister situations in his debut novel. Clerge’s careful attention to character development and the cast’s interactions with Starks is a main ingredient that keeps his story flowing. Clerge’s cliffhanging chapters continually tickle the curiosity of thriller aficionados to keep turning pages to see what the final outcome will be. Clerge also maintains plot fluidity by alternating character scenes, backstories, and a plethora of twisted and suspenseful events."
―San Francisco Book Review
“From debut author Clerge comes a novel about one man’s quest to survive prison and find answers within himself. The prison fear is vivid, the odds insurmountable and the conclusion anyone’s guess, though it certainly won’t come easily. An arresting prison tale about penance.”
-Kirkus Reviews
5 STARS
"The characters have real depth―something I am big on―and the drama on the pages made me feel as though I was right there watching it. The book is fast paced and, in my opinion, downright amazing."
―Bobbie Grob, Readers' Favorite
4.5 STARS
"This character orientated drama benefits from a fully fleshed out protagonist, gritty writing, and psychological insight into a realistic psyche. The obvious sequel has a high bar to surpass……When the Serpent Bites is a fantastic read for legal buffs, crime lovers, and readers who love a great story."
―John Murray, Pacific book review
5 STARS
"Nesly Clerge spins a convoluted web of human dynamics and sinister situations in his debut novel. Clerge’s careful attention to character development and the cast’s interactions with Starks is a main ingredient that keeps his story flowing. Clerge’s cliffhanging chapters continually tickle the curiosity of thriller aficionados to keep turning pages to see what the final outcome will be. Clerge also maintains plot fluidity by alternating character scenes, backstories, and a plethora of twisted and suspenseful events."
―San Francisco Book Review
November 10, 2017
Dark, edgy and full of grit, When the Serpent Bites by Nesly Clerge is a suspenseful tale of one powerful man’s fall from grace and his slow metamorphosis into a man who found his way to the top of a far more deadly heap. Survival to Frederick Starks meant control, in the business world, his family life, and the community. He fought hard to get where he was and never expected his plummet would revolve around his own lack of control and place him firmly in the confines of a maximum security prison. Not one to back down from anyone, Starks doesn’t know the prison rules and becomes a target for death from the big dog himself. Gone are the fancy cars, people catering to his every whim, he is fresh meat and soon learns there is only one way to survive his time in prison.
Starks has every intention of being the big dog and will use his business savvy to and his wealth to gain allies on both sides of the bars. His journey is one of grit and darkness as he discovers just what he can be driven to do in order to maintain control and to stay alive. Will he discover the real man inside? Is there more evil than good?
Follow Starks as Nesly Clerge leads him down the rabbit hole to hell, on steps made up of betrayal, paybacks, rage and deceit, where fear brings respect and a man’s life is only as good as his words or the action he takes to back them up.
Nesly Clerge had me from page one, wondering if I was going to like Starks or not! There is no gentle easing into this tale, you will hit the ground and running as the strength of the characters and their personalities pull you along. Absolutely riveting dialogue, gruesome action at times and a feeling of being there, a fly on the wall as loyalties sway, deals are made and Starks seems to stay one step ahead of the pack at almost every turn. You want suspense? Get ready to grab the edge of your seat. You want drama and characters that come to life on each page? Looking to see a little payback? Just remember, When the Serpent Bites you’ll know it and there will be nothing you can do about it.
I received an ARC edition from Nesly Clerge in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: October 30, 2015
Publisher: IngramSpark
ISBN-10: 0996501703
ISBN-13: 978-0996501705
Genre: Suspense | Crime Fiction
Print Length: 445 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Starks has every intention of being the big dog and will use his business savvy to and his wealth to gain allies on both sides of the bars. His journey is one of grit and darkness as he discovers just what he can be driven to do in order to maintain control and to stay alive. Will he discover the real man inside? Is there more evil than good?
Follow Starks as Nesly Clerge leads him down the rabbit hole to hell, on steps made up of betrayal, paybacks, rage and deceit, where fear brings respect and a man’s life is only as good as his words or the action he takes to back them up.
Nesly Clerge had me from page one, wondering if I was going to like Starks or not! There is no gentle easing into this tale, you will hit the ground and running as the strength of the characters and their personalities pull you along. Absolutely riveting dialogue, gruesome action at times and a feeling of being there, a fly on the wall as loyalties sway, deals are made and Starks seems to stay one step ahead of the pack at almost every turn. You want suspense? Get ready to grab the edge of your seat. You want drama and characters that come to life on each page? Looking to see a little payback? Just remember, When the Serpent Bites you’ll know it and there will be nothing you can do about it.
I received an ARC edition from Nesly Clerge in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: October 30, 2015
Publisher: IngramSpark
ISBN-10: 0996501703
ISBN-13: 978-0996501705
Genre: Suspense | Crime Fiction
Print Length: 445 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
August 25, 2017
Thank you to the author for providing a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
When I started reading this book, I had no idea what to expect. I wanted to start and read a few chapters, but no. There is no going slow with this book. This was fast paced right from the beginning and I couldn't put it down even if I wanted to.
This was an absolute rollercoaster of a book. It never stopped moving. I could imagine everything that was being told and it was insane from the first word. Starks is a person that makes the reader feel. It's the best when a character can do that! The first chapter had me reading on because it really grabbed my attention.
It was really interesting that the author had Starks using his knowledge from one side to other side of the bars. He really knew his way around and it was awesome to see him doing so many different things.
My favorite thing about this book was how strong the characters were. The author really wrote their personalities to match their characters and it made them seem like they were coming to life. There was drama, action, excitement, and suspense and I really enjoyed every page. Thank you again to Nesly Clerge!
When I started reading this book, I had no idea what to expect. I wanted to start and read a few chapters, but no. There is no going slow with this book. This was fast paced right from the beginning and I couldn't put it down even if I wanted to.
This was an absolute rollercoaster of a book. It never stopped moving. I could imagine everything that was being told and it was insane from the first word. Starks is a person that makes the reader feel. It's the best when a character can do that! The first chapter had me reading on because it really grabbed my attention.
It was really interesting that the author had Starks using his knowledge from one side to other side of the bars. He really knew his way around and it was awesome to see him doing so many different things.
My favorite thing about this book was how strong the characters were. The author really wrote their personalities to match their characters and it made them seem like they were coming to life. There was drama, action, excitement, and suspense and I really enjoyed every page. Thank you again to Nesly Clerge!
December 14, 2015
Hopefully, my rating and/or review doesn't keep people from checking this novel out. It's written well, it just wasn't what I expected and, ultimately, desired it to be.
I was hoping for a gritty jail story. And there's some of that, just not nearly as much as I wanted. Every time the jail story got good, there'd be chapter upon chapter of backstory chronicling the death of a relationship. I could probably have dealt with it better if I didn't feel that both of the people in said relationship should have their heads cracked open for milk.
I think the problem is with me, my expectations, and my apparently unshared need to have main characters I give a shit about. Regardless, two stars means 'it was ok,' and.....eh.....it was ok.
I was hoping for a gritty jail story. And there's some of that, just not nearly as much as I wanted. Every time the jail story got good, there'd be chapter upon chapter of backstory chronicling the death of a relationship. I could probably have dealt with it better if I didn't feel that both of the people in said relationship should have their heads cracked open for milk.
I think the problem is with me, my expectations, and my apparently unshared need to have main characters I give a shit about. Regardless, two stars means 'it was ok,' and.....eh.....it was ok.
March 26, 2018
Frederick Starks and his wife are separated, but he's never forgiven her, or the man she had an affair. Starks confronts the man, and things get out of control. So out of control, Starks is arrested, tried, convicted, and sent to a maximum security prison. Starks is used to being the one who holds the power, but in prison, he faces a much darker side of life.
The 1st book in The Starks Trilogy by Nesly Clerge. This story ends in a way that made me want to read the next book.
The writing was great. A very engaging story of a privileged man ending up in a maximum security prison. The first part of the novel covers the trial and the second part is about prison life. Both were interesting. I liked that the trial part was included, but it wasn't the focus of the story. The focus is always Starks, and the decisions he has made in the past and how he reacts to his current situation. He likes to have a plan and have everything in order, and his life is turned upside down in a moment of violence. During his time in prison, he reflects upon his past, while still trying to maintain control.
Starks is not a likable man. He is an entitled, controlling misogynist. I kept waiting for him to gain some redeeming qualities, but he never did. My main complaint about Starks is that he never takes responsibility for his actions. It's always someone else's fault. However, I wanted to like Starks. I plan on reading the next book to see if I'm all wrong about him.
I received a digital copy of this book from Shayla Raquel in exchange for an honest review.
The 1st book in The Starks Trilogy by Nesly Clerge. This story ends in a way that made me want to read the next book.
The writing was great. A very engaging story of a privileged man ending up in a maximum security prison. The first part of the novel covers the trial and the second part is about prison life. Both were interesting. I liked that the trial part was included, but it wasn't the focus of the story. The focus is always Starks, and the decisions he has made in the past and how he reacts to his current situation. He likes to have a plan and have everything in order, and his life is turned upside down in a moment of violence. During his time in prison, he reflects upon his past, while still trying to maintain control.
Starks is not a likable man. He is an entitled, controlling misogynist. I kept waiting for him to gain some redeeming qualities, but he never did. My main complaint about Starks is that he never takes responsibility for his actions. It's always someone else's fault. However, I wanted to like Starks. I plan on reading the next book to see if I'm all wrong about him.
I received a digital copy of this book from Shayla Raquel in exchange for an honest review.
October 21, 2015
Starks had everything he wanted, a beautiful wife, three children and a comfortable lifestyle. He was the luckiest man in the world, until it is abruptly taken away and he snaps.
I have to first comment on the writing. It was amazing. This author threw everything into this novel, clever hooks, masterfully written characters and an extremely deep plot.
The main character Starks was to me very hard to like at times, but still you couldn't help but feel compassion for the man as he travels down a hard road, carrying him to a life he never thought would happen to him and does the best he can with the hand he has been dealt.
I can't generalize exactly what genre, I would place this book in, but if I had to comment on what I thought of it? I would say it is the most gripping, superbly written book I have ever read.
I have to first comment on the writing. It was amazing. This author threw everything into this novel, clever hooks, masterfully written characters and an extremely deep plot.
The main character Starks was to me very hard to like at times, but still you couldn't help but feel compassion for the man as he travels down a hard road, carrying him to a life he never thought would happen to him and does the best he can with the hand he has been dealt.
I can't generalize exactly what genre, I would place this book in, but if I had to comment on what I thought of it? I would say it is the most gripping, superbly written book I have ever read.
December 9, 2016
When the Serpent Bites is the first in a trilogy of books by Nesly Clerge. The book opens with Starks (our main character), still reeling from finding out that his wife cheated and makes the choice to confront the man she was cheating with, even though it was roughly a year later.
This seems to be the beginning of the end for our main character Starks. It is the beginning of a dark road that he ventures down and one can hope that he finds the light at the end of the tunnel. With that being said When the Serpent Bites does dive a bit deeper into the story line than I have found with other books. Not only does it look at Starks, but all the things that have moulded and shaped him into the person he became.
The story itself is very well written. Clerge took great care in not only creating his characters but also making them believable. While it is a work of fiction I could tell the research that was done and the hours taken to craft them in the way that best fits the story. Each character is very well thought out and the interaction, including flash backs, show how Starks views each encounter.
I will say that Starks does give the impression of being a control freak, everything in its place, he also can only see the way certain actions of his impact an entire situation. Even with that being said I was intrigued at the narrow minded view of the situations that Starks seemed to have, almost a victim mentality. This specific character is written in such a way that even when he begins to see that he has some fault in the situation, he is able to totally disregard it and return to placing blame on those around him. Will there be an “Ah HA” moment? Probably but not until the final book in the trilogy.
Each character plays its role well and helps the story move forward which keeps it from stagnating while the author tries to fill in the gaps until the end. There are very few lulls and even during those times you can feel the wheels turning to the next point in the story. What does bother me slightly is even with all of the things going on Starks does remind me of the old mobsters that still have the ability to move things on the outside from behind bars.
This is where it did become a strong fiction piece for me because while Starks seems to be careful with what he does, he is careless at the same time. Even with that though the story line is good, the characters are strong well written characters, and the interactions are rather believable. Will I read the rest of the books in the trilogy? Yes I will. Clerge has written one heck of a book and I hope the rest are just as good.
Book reviewed by Monica at www.whisperingstories.com
This seems to be the beginning of the end for our main character Starks. It is the beginning of a dark road that he ventures down and one can hope that he finds the light at the end of the tunnel. With that being said When the Serpent Bites does dive a bit deeper into the story line than I have found with other books. Not only does it look at Starks, but all the things that have moulded and shaped him into the person he became.
The story itself is very well written. Clerge took great care in not only creating his characters but also making them believable. While it is a work of fiction I could tell the research that was done and the hours taken to craft them in the way that best fits the story. Each character is very well thought out and the interaction, including flash backs, show how Starks views each encounter.
I will say that Starks does give the impression of being a control freak, everything in its place, he also can only see the way certain actions of his impact an entire situation. Even with that being said I was intrigued at the narrow minded view of the situations that Starks seemed to have, almost a victim mentality. This specific character is written in such a way that even when he begins to see that he has some fault in the situation, he is able to totally disregard it and return to placing blame on those around him. Will there be an “Ah HA” moment? Probably but not until the final book in the trilogy.
Each character plays its role well and helps the story move forward which keeps it from stagnating while the author tries to fill in the gaps until the end. There are very few lulls and even during those times you can feel the wheels turning to the next point in the story. What does bother me slightly is even with all of the things going on Starks does remind me of the old mobsters that still have the ability to move things on the outside from behind bars.
This is where it did become a strong fiction piece for me because while Starks seems to be careful with what he does, he is careless at the same time. Even with that though the story line is good, the characters are strong well written characters, and the interactions are rather believable. Will I read the rest of the books in the trilogy? Yes I will. Clerge has written one heck of a book and I hope the rest are just as good.
Book reviewed by Monica at www.whisperingstories.com
September 21, 2015
Review available on Pacific Book Review.
4.5 out of 5 Stars
The hero, or rather protagonist, of “When the Serpent Bites” is Frederick Starks. Starks is no hero, which should be made clear up front. He is a man who scrapped his way from the bottom to rule over his own successful business empire. Starks worked hard to provide for his wife and his new family, but he might not have always done so the right way. It is important to know Starks is not a perfect father or husband, or a moral businessman. Take note, he is a driven man.
Case in point, the story starts off with Starks succumbing to a deeply rooted rage and confronting the man his wife had an affair with, one of many it should also be noted. In an escalating fight, he winds up blindly beating the man into a coma. Starks is swiftly arrested, sent to jail, put on trial, and sentenced to a lengthy prison stay. There is when the story really shines and turns into a real page-turner. Starks confronts psychological demons in prison therapy and solitary while scrambling to avoid a nearly certain death at the hands of an infuriated inmate. Flashbacks help to sketch in details off Starks’s past and his roller-coaster relationship with his wife. While battling ruthless inmates, Starks formulates a plan to protect himself and his allies. As the story proceeds, Starks also meets with friends and enemies and learns the truth of how he wound up in prison with an unfaithful wife and a bleak future.
“When the Serpent Bites” is a fascinating read. Starks is no sympathetic character. In fact Clerge excels at revealing over the course of Starks’s prison stay. While he works to provide for his family, Starks cheats and lies. When he catches his wife doing the same thing, a rage begins to simmer. One that will eventually boil over and lead to his incarceration. The writing is engaging and fairly well polished. The biggest issue is the story is incomplete. Not only does the novel end on a cliffhanger, it doesn’t really provide closure. Starks begins a lengthy prison sentence and the story ends less than a year into that sentence. However, this character orientated drama benefits from a fully fleshed out protagonist, gritty writing, and psychological insight into a realistic psyche. The obvious sequel has a high bar to surpass, but “When the Serpent Bites” is a fantastic read for legal buffs, crime lovers, and readers who love a great story.
4.5 out of 5 Stars
The hero, or rather protagonist, of “When the Serpent Bites” is Frederick Starks. Starks is no hero, which should be made clear up front. He is a man who scrapped his way from the bottom to rule over his own successful business empire. Starks worked hard to provide for his wife and his new family, but he might not have always done so the right way. It is important to know Starks is not a perfect father or husband, or a moral businessman. Take note, he is a driven man.
Case in point, the story starts off with Starks succumbing to a deeply rooted rage and confronting the man his wife had an affair with, one of many it should also be noted. In an escalating fight, he winds up blindly beating the man into a coma. Starks is swiftly arrested, sent to jail, put on trial, and sentenced to a lengthy prison stay. There is when the story really shines and turns into a real page-turner. Starks confronts psychological demons in prison therapy and solitary while scrambling to avoid a nearly certain death at the hands of an infuriated inmate. Flashbacks help to sketch in details off Starks’s past and his roller-coaster relationship with his wife. While battling ruthless inmates, Starks formulates a plan to protect himself and his allies. As the story proceeds, Starks also meets with friends and enemies and learns the truth of how he wound up in prison with an unfaithful wife and a bleak future.
“When the Serpent Bites” is a fascinating read. Starks is no sympathetic character. In fact Clerge excels at revealing over the course of Starks’s prison stay. While he works to provide for his family, Starks cheats and lies. When he catches his wife doing the same thing, a rage begins to simmer. One that will eventually boil over and lead to his incarceration. The writing is engaging and fairly well polished. The biggest issue is the story is incomplete. Not only does the novel end on a cliffhanger, it doesn’t really provide closure. Starks begins a lengthy prison sentence and the story ends less than a year into that sentence. However, this character orientated drama benefits from a fully fleshed out protagonist, gritty writing, and psychological insight into a realistic psyche. The obvious sequel has a high bar to surpass, but “When the Serpent Bites” is a fantastic read for legal buffs, crime lovers, and readers who love a great story.
November 8, 2015
3.5 stars
My biggest complaint with this book is the length. Trimming it down 50 pages or so would have made the book tighter.
Other than that, this is a great examination of the choices we make. I have a brother who's a corrections officer. He always says, we're all just one bad decision from being behind bars. It's true, & this story is an exploration of Starks' bad decision, & how he handles the consequences.
We come to know the history of Starks and his doomed marriage through his sessions with his prison shrink. In hindsight it's clear that their life was unsustainable, & that Kayla was never truly happy. It just took 20 years for it all to unravel. And when it did, it went very badly.
Starks seems to be learning some truths in his discussions with the shrink, but it's not clear that they're the lessons the counselor is trying to impart. Then again, in his current environment, Starks may be simply learning the skills he needs to survive.
The author pulls you into Starks' world enough that you can understand his actions. Yet you know that these choices are setting up a life as unsustainable as - & far more dangerous than - the life he left behind.
At the core of both existences for Starks is pride, caring for his family & those who treat him right, loyalty ... Yet he sometimes fails to truly own how his actions have contributed to his downfall. He seems to understand, but then he'll get hung up on how a wife cheating is worse than a husband cheating, or some such technicality. It's as if he is the Walter White of the penitentiary: standing up to the kingpins, starting his own rackets, keeping a hand in lots of deals.
This is a debut novel by Clerge, & it comes together very well. Pick it up when you get a chance. My thanks to the author for a copy of this book.
My biggest complaint with this book is the length. Trimming it down 50 pages or so would have made the book tighter.
Other than that, this is a great examination of the choices we make. I have a brother who's a corrections officer. He always says, we're all just one bad decision from being behind bars. It's true, & this story is an exploration of Starks' bad decision, & how he handles the consequences.
We come to know the history of Starks and his doomed marriage through his sessions with his prison shrink. In hindsight it's clear that their life was unsustainable, & that Kayla was never truly happy. It just took 20 years for it all to unravel. And when it did, it went very badly.
Starks seems to be learning some truths in his discussions with the shrink, but it's not clear that they're the lessons the counselor is trying to impart. Then again, in his current environment, Starks may be simply learning the skills he needs to survive.
The author pulls you into Starks' world enough that you can understand his actions. Yet you know that these choices are setting up a life as unsustainable as - & far more dangerous than - the life he left behind.
At the core of both existences for Starks is pride, caring for his family & those who treat him right, loyalty ... Yet he sometimes fails to truly own how his actions have contributed to his downfall. He seems to understand, but then he'll get hung up on how a wife cheating is worse than a husband cheating, or some such technicality. It's as if he is the Walter White of the penitentiary: standing up to the kingpins, starting his own rackets, keeping a hand in lots of deals.
This is a debut novel by Clerge, & it comes together very well. Pick it up when you get a chance. My thanks to the author for a copy of this book.
December 30, 2018
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
I will admit that crime thrillers are not exactly my genre of choice, so there's that lol. What intrigued me about this book was the fact that the MC went to prison and, if anyone knows anything about me, they know I LOVE a prison story. There's something about witnessing someone's transformation from upstanding citizen (or not) who made a mistake, to cold blooded, calculating and 'will do whatever it takes to survive.' It just intrigues me, and needless to say I jumped in with both feet.
The book opens with a bang, and draws you in right from the start. Frederick Starks is out driving around, working himself into a frenzy because his estranged wife is living in a house that he's still paying for, with their kids that he's forced to be away from, and he's finally made up his mind to confront her (married) lover at his home in front of his wife. Things go awry and he ends up beating the guy comatose with a bowl. At this point I was front and center, with refreshments.
The trial is riveting. I was literally up at 4am, following the testimony. The verdict is handed down, and while Starks is acquitted of attempted murder (?) he is convicted of the lesser charges and is sentenced to 15 years. (None of this is spoiler info; you know he goes to prison from the blurb). Anyhoo, just imagine, a multi-millionaire reduced to strip searches, cold showers and soap that doesn't lather. More refreshments made their way to my bedside table. Tears of excitement sprang to my eyes as Starks boarded the prison bus to his new life. Within a few days he'd already mouthed off and found himself on the wrong side of Bo, one of the toughest gang leaders in the prison, and was a marked man. I was all abuzz with excitement...and then I started to struggle.
To be fair, I think I might have to shoulder some of the blame here. It's partly a case of 'it's not you; it's me,' but only partly. As I said, when I read books where an MC goes to prison, I'm all about how the fish (new inmate) deals with his CURRENT situation, so I was unprepared for the constant, never ending conversations, thoughts and flashbacks about Starks' estranged wife, Kayla. In theory, it makes sense. Her affair is, after all, the catalyst for the events that land him in prison. Starks also now has a lot of time to think about it, and her, and his life. So, on paper it makes sense. But it was so constant and repetitive that every time her name was mentioned I felt like my brain was in a vice grip. He mentioned her at every opportunity, and just as the story was starting to move ahead, we had to hear, yet again, how hard he'd worked and how much she'd betrayed him, and how she was a serial cheater, and it wasn't just one guy. We had to go back to high school and college and before babies, and after the babies, and ugh. And by the way, did he tell us that her betrayal cut so deep? Yes!! Yes, you did. You already told us fiftyleven times. I had to put the book down a few times and read something else because I just couldn't take it. I hated Kayla, if only because I had to hear about her so much. I was ready to force feed her some nutraloaf my damn self.
The sessions with the prison psychologist made me want to dig my eyes out with a dull spoon. Not only were his theories really simplistic sounding (I'm not trained, but even I was like huh?), his deductions just seemed so off and served to always give Kayla a pass. In one of my updates I asked if we could check if he was sleeping with her, sirrusly! It just defied logic. Dr. Demory went away for a while to deal with some family business and the story FINALLY reverted to the prison and we had some progress. As soon as he came back, we were back to talking about Kayla, and forgiveness and Starks's pride. I was in complete agreement with Starks about those sessions. They annoyed me as much as they did him.
To be clear, I get what the author was going for. Starks was by no means a saint. He and Kayla were both wrong in the marriage, and Starks refused to accept any responsibility. He also had some very chauvinistic ideas about women and fidelity, and felt that the fact that he paid for everything and gave Kayla a comfortable life should have been enough to show her he loved her. Yes, he was a proud man and Dr. Demory was right that he had to accept his part in the demise of his relationship, and really examine exactly what he was mad about when he was out there doing dirt too. Starks had to learn certain things about himself in order to grow and move on; we get all that. But I felt that the arc should have been tighter. A book has a finite number of pages and the reader needs to feel like the MC is actually making progress. We were still talking about Kayla, literally having the same conversation about her, right down to the end!
An attempt is made, when Starks *cough* suffers an injury in prison *cough*, to present Kayla's side of the story. We get to see exactly what Starks was out there doing, what she had to endure and how alone and unappreciated she felt. The problem is that it comes so late in the book that it does little to redeem her character. Starks had already been bashing her for a good 50%. Instead of showing that neither of them was completely at fault, for me it just made both characters unlikeable.
I'm all for complex characters, but I wasn't exactly sure what I was supposed to feel for Kayla when the first words out her mouth after hearing Starks was hurt was 'is the money ok?' (referring to the company). Really, chick? I'm supposed to feel bad about how neglected you felt?? Apart from that, I have little sympathy for women who insist on having the best, and living a life of extravagance, but are upset by their husband's long hours. How exactly do you think success happens??
There was the same push and pull with Starks. I'd empathize with him for getting the short end of the stick in terms of his marriage, but then he'd say something like 'Kayla should have known her place.' 'Scuse me? So the middle of the book is pretty much me wanting to beat both their heads in with a shovel. Kayla more so, but still.
Then, 'the incident' happens and Starks stops focusing on that skank for five seconds, remembers the few seasons of Oz he watched, and gets with the doggone program. I.WAS.IN.HEAVEN! He steps up, realizes he's going to be in prison for a while and looks FORWARD. And like his grandfather always told him, If you don't like where you are, move up. And move up he does. With his slowly growing band of trusty sidekicks, he moves to cement his place and as one final betrayal is revealed, we finally see him shed the last vestiges of his former self, and embrace the dark side.
The ending feels like it's a prelude to a second book, and you know where I'll be. Right up front, baby! Despite my struggle with the middle of the book, Mr. Clerge is clearly a very talented storyteller. The start of the book, Starks's indoctrination into the prison system (complete with trusting the wrong people and paying dearly for it), and his bid for power at the end are superbly done. The flashbacks (though they focused on Kayla) are seamless and never really took me out the story. Very few authors can do this effectively, and I appreciated not feeling jerked around by shifting timelines. The characters are fleshed out and multi-faceted. Editing was well done, a few errors here and there, nothing to write home about. I love this dark side of Starks that I see emerging and want to see more. I have complete faith in the author to do him justice.
Re my problems with this book, clearly I am in the minority here and it may be my lack of 'crime thriller' background that I didn't understand right off the bat that it would be a character study. However, a few things would have helped me:
The blurb is very forward-thinking. It doesn't give the impression that we'd be (extensively) looking back. A simple line about Starks contemplating his past actions, while looking ahead to blah blah would have better prepared me.
Kayla's thoughts should have been introduced earlier. Dual view points might be a bit cliché, but someone could have visited her when Starks was first imprisoned for us to get her side. It was included way too late for us to balance our empathy.
I would say less should have been included about Kayla, but I'm thinking that this is a series, and Book 1 was about Starks's reluctant acceptance and eventual crossover to the dark side. If that IS the case, it should have been made clear that this is Book 1 of x number of books. This would have gone a long way to help me understand the pacing. As it stood, I just kept seeing the page count increasing and not much changing.
All in all, this is a solid, enjoyable and well written debut novel. I enjoyed the beginning and last third immensely, and though I struggled with the middle I did not regret reading it. Looking forward to much more by this author. 3.75*
I will admit that crime thrillers are not exactly my genre of choice, so there's that lol. What intrigued me about this book was the fact that the MC went to prison and, if anyone knows anything about me, they know I LOVE a prison story. There's something about witnessing someone's transformation from upstanding citizen (or not) who made a mistake, to cold blooded, calculating and 'will do whatever it takes to survive.' It just intrigues me, and needless to say I jumped in with both feet.
The book opens with a bang, and draws you in right from the start. Frederick Starks is out driving around, working himself into a frenzy because his estranged wife is living in a house that he's still paying for, with their kids that he's forced to be away from, and he's finally made up his mind to confront her (married) lover at his home in front of his wife. Things go awry and he ends up beating the guy comatose with a bowl. At this point I was front and center, with refreshments.
The trial is riveting. I was literally up at 4am, following the testimony. The verdict is handed down, and while Starks is acquitted of attempted murder (?) he is convicted of the lesser charges and is sentenced to 15 years. (None of this is spoiler info; you know he goes to prison from the blurb). Anyhoo, just imagine, a multi-millionaire reduced to strip searches, cold showers and soap that doesn't lather. More refreshments made their way to my bedside table. Tears of excitement sprang to my eyes as Starks boarded the prison bus to his new life. Within a few days he'd already mouthed off and found himself on the wrong side of Bo, one of the toughest gang leaders in the prison, and was a marked man. I was all abuzz with excitement...and then I started to struggle.
To be fair, I think I might have to shoulder some of the blame here. It's partly a case of 'it's not you; it's me,' but only partly. As I said, when I read books where an MC goes to prison, I'm all about how the fish (new inmate) deals with his CURRENT situation, so I was unprepared for the constant, never ending conversations, thoughts and flashbacks about Starks' estranged wife, Kayla. In theory, it makes sense. Her affair is, after all, the catalyst for the events that land him in prison. Starks also now has a lot of time to think about it, and her, and his life. So, on paper it makes sense. But it was so constant and repetitive that every time her name was mentioned I felt like my brain was in a vice grip. He mentioned her at every opportunity, and just as the story was starting to move ahead, we had to hear, yet again, how hard he'd worked and how much she'd betrayed him, and how she was a serial cheater, and it wasn't just one guy. We had to go back to high school and college and before babies, and after the babies, and ugh. And by the way, did he tell us that her betrayal cut so deep? Yes!! Yes, you did. You already told us fiftyleven times. I had to put the book down a few times and read something else because I just couldn't take it. I hated Kayla, if only because I had to hear about her so much. I was ready to force feed her some nutraloaf my damn self.
The sessions with the prison psychologist made me want to dig my eyes out with a dull spoon. Not only were his theories really simplistic sounding (I'm not trained, but even I was like huh?), his deductions just seemed so off and served to always give Kayla a pass. In one of my updates I asked if we could check if he was sleeping with her, sirrusly! It just defied logic. Dr. Demory went away for a while to deal with some family business and the story FINALLY reverted to the prison and we had some progress. As soon as he came back, we were back to talking about Kayla, and forgiveness and Starks's pride. I was in complete agreement with Starks about those sessions. They annoyed me as much as they did him.
To be clear, I get what the author was going for. Starks was by no means a saint. He and Kayla were both wrong in the marriage, and Starks refused to accept any responsibility. He also had some very chauvinistic ideas about women and fidelity, and felt that the fact that he paid for everything and gave Kayla a comfortable life should have been enough to show her he loved her. Yes, he was a proud man and Dr. Demory was right that he had to accept his part in the demise of his relationship, and really examine exactly what he was mad about when he was out there doing dirt too. Starks had to learn certain things about himself in order to grow and move on; we get all that. But I felt that the arc should have been tighter. A book has a finite number of pages and the reader needs to feel like the MC is actually making progress. We were still talking about Kayla, literally having the same conversation about her, right down to the end!
An attempt is made, when Starks *cough* suffers an injury in prison *cough*, to present Kayla's side of the story. We get to see exactly what Starks was out there doing, what she had to endure and how alone and unappreciated she felt. The problem is that it comes so late in the book that it does little to redeem her character. Starks had already been bashing her for a good 50%. Instead of showing that neither of them was completely at fault, for me it just made both characters unlikeable.
I'm all for complex characters, but I wasn't exactly sure what I was supposed to feel for Kayla when the first words out her mouth after hearing Starks was hurt was 'is the money ok?' (referring to the company). Really, chick? I'm supposed to feel bad about how neglected you felt?? Apart from that, I have little sympathy for women who insist on having the best, and living a life of extravagance, but are upset by their husband's long hours. How exactly do you think success happens??
There was the same push and pull with Starks. I'd empathize with him for getting the short end of the stick in terms of his marriage, but then he'd say something like 'Kayla should have known her place.' 'Scuse me? So the middle of the book is pretty much me wanting to beat both their heads in with a shovel. Kayla more so, but still.
Then, 'the incident' happens and Starks stops focusing on that skank for five seconds, remembers the few seasons of Oz he watched, and gets with the doggone program. I.WAS.IN.HEAVEN! He steps up, realizes he's going to be in prison for a while and looks FORWARD. And like his grandfather always told him, If you don't like where you are, move up. And move up he does. With his slowly growing band of trusty sidekicks, he moves to cement his place and as one final betrayal is revealed, we finally see him shed the last vestiges of his former self, and embrace the dark side.
The ending feels like it's a prelude to a second book, and you know where I'll be. Right up front, baby! Despite my struggle with the middle of the book, Mr. Clerge is clearly a very talented storyteller. The start of the book, Starks's indoctrination into the prison system (complete with trusting the wrong people and paying dearly for it), and his bid for power at the end are superbly done. The flashbacks (though they focused on Kayla) are seamless and never really took me out the story. Very few authors can do this effectively, and I appreciated not feeling jerked around by shifting timelines. The characters are fleshed out and multi-faceted. Editing was well done, a few errors here and there, nothing to write home about. I love this dark side of Starks that I see emerging and want to see more. I have complete faith in the author to do him justice.
Re my problems with this book, clearly I am in the minority here and it may be my lack of 'crime thriller' background that I didn't understand right off the bat that it would be a character study. However, a few things would have helped me:
The blurb is very forward-thinking. It doesn't give the impression that we'd be (extensively) looking back. A simple line about Starks contemplating his past actions, while looking ahead to blah blah would have better prepared me.
Kayla's thoughts should have been introduced earlier. Dual view points might be a bit cliché, but someone could have visited her when Starks was first imprisoned for us to get her side. It was included way too late for us to balance our empathy.
I would say less should have been included about Kayla, but I'm thinking that this is a series, and Book 1 was about Starks's reluctant acceptance and eventual crossover to the dark side. If that IS the case, it should have been made clear that this is Book 1 of x number of books. This would have gone a long way to help me understand the pacing. As it stood, I just kept seeing the page count increasing and not much changing.
All in all, this is a solid, enjoyable and well written debut novel. I enjoyed the beginning and last third immensely, and though I struggled with the middle I did not regret reading it. Looking forward to much more by this author. 3.75*
September 24, 2015
Clerge’s Novel is a mind-blowing read. The book starts off with a confrontation between the protagonist and his wife’s lover. The confrontation turned violent and Starks brutally assaulted the man sending him into a coma. A trial took place which was about 1/7 of the book. It’s easy to think this book was a legal drama but it’s not. The author executed the trial scenes flawlessly. It feels as if you are in the actual courtroom. The main character is sentenced and goes to jail, and you will feel as if you are in prison with Starks. The descriptions of the prison and how he felt the first few days are very realistic. He is now isolated and has to face his emotions, the idea of a broken family, the humiliation, and the emotional torture of his wife’s betrayal, and of course he attempted suicide. Starks is a self-made man and he acquired his fortune the hard way. Starks and his wife experienced many financial troubles prior to attaining his wealth and opulent lifestyle. I’m really trying my best to not divulge more from the book, but let’s just say from this point, it’s impossible to really put this book down. Starks is now engaged in counseling sessions while in prison, and he’s able to cope with his emotions, somewhat.
Now, he has to learn the prison culture and the codes of conduct. He confronted a gang leader and that confrontation almost caused him his life. The story continues and it gets even more stimulating. The only thing that will probably make most readers angry is the fact that there was a major cliffhanger and therefore no resolution to the plot; the end however is very appropriate for the story. I just hope the sequel is near.
The book has strong characters and even the side characters are well-developed. The book is plot and character driven. The protagonist is flawed and although you want to hate him, the author had an uncanny way of making you cheer for him. Clerge did an awesome job by showing that Starks is not perfect, in fact he can be downright rotten, but he has a good heart. It’s rare to find three-dimensional characters such as Starks. He his complex and he is riddled with internal conflict. Here’s a passage to demonstrate this point:
“His cellmate had called Kayla a serpent: She was. But she’d loved him initially.
Was he absolutely sure of that, or did he need to believe it so that his entire life didn’t feel false, or so he didn’t have to face the fact he could be deceived so easily by others, and himself?
Kayla had deceived him from early on in their relationship. But there was no denying he’d put her through a lot as well. And his indiscretions had been more public, at least at first. The realization that his actions may have caused her to stop loving him stung.
Starks drifted off to sleep with one final thought: he and his wife were both serpents in their own way, and each had been poisoned by the other.”
I highly recommend this book. I think it would be a bestseller if it was written by a big name author.
Now, he has to learn the prison culture and the codes of conduct. He confronted a gang leader and that confrontation almost caused him his life. The story continues and it gets even more stimulating. The only thing that will probably make most readers angry is the fact that there was a major cliffhanger and therefore no resolution to the plot; the end however is very appropriate for the story. I just hope the sequel is near.
The book has strong characters and even the side characters are well-developed. The book is plot and character driven. The protagonist is flawed and although you want to hate him, the author had an uncanny way of making you cheer for him. Clerge did an awesome job by showing that Starks is not perfect, in fact he can be downright rotten, but he has a good heart. It’s rare to find three-dimensional characters such as Starks. He his complex and he is riddled with internal conflict. Here’s a passage to demonstrate this point:
“His cellmate had called Kayla a serpent: She was. But she’d loved him initially.
Was he absolutely sure of that, or did he need to believe it so that his entire life didn’t feel false, or so he didn’t have to face the fact he could be deceived so easily by others, and himself?
Kayla had deceived him from early on in their relationship. But there was no denying he’d put her through a lot as well. And his indiscretions had been more public, at least at first. The realization that his actions may have caused her to stop loving him stung.
Starks drifted off to sleep with one final thought: he and his wife were both serpents in their own way, and each had been poisoned by the other.”
I highly recommend this book. I think it would be a bestseller if it was written by a big name author.
November 8, 2015
Frederick Starks is a highly-successful, very wealthy CEO. He somewhat inexplicably confronts not his wife current but her once-removed lover, goes over the edge, puts him into a coma and ends up in jail as a result. Starks is a complicated man who suffers from some very conflicted feelings toward his wife. Perhaps love has been one of those feelings, but they mainly seem to be feelings of possession and he seems to suffer from wounded pride rather than true injury.
I am a little at a loss for what to say about this book. It is well-written and at moments enthralling. The prison atmosphere is stifling and (for someone like myself who has no first-hand knowledge of what prison is like) realistic. There were times when I thought Starks was a bit weird in his mental and emotional makeup, concentrating on some very peripheral issues when some very serious ones were at hand. His continued obsession with Kayla (the wife) is a bit hard to fathom in light of the long-term relationship that is revealed. Starks is a strong character who adapts quickly to change, which is essential in his circumstances. His evolution propels the story.
For me the story ends too abruptly, with far too many ends that I wanted to see tied up. It absolutely feels like it is the first installment in a series, but there is nothing to indicate this in the title. If it is not meant to be part of a series, it simply left me feeling it was incomplete and as if I had invested in a movie with a power failure cutting short the last 30 minutes.
Mr. Clerge has a great deal of skill as a storyteller. He writes in a genre that I do not frequently read, so he is no doubt very impressive to those who follow this genre. I think he has a good future in writing, despite my inability to applaud this novel in the way that some others have.
I am a little at a loss for what to say about this book. It is well-written and at moments enthralling. The prison atmosphere is stifling and (for someone like myself who has no first-hand knowledge of what prison is like) realistic. There were times when I thought Starks was a bit weird in his mental and emotional makeup, concentrating on some very peripheral issues when some very serious ones were at hand. His continued obsession with Kayla (the wife) is a bit hard to fathom in light of the long-term relationship that is revealed. Starks is a strong character who adapts quickly to change, which is essential in his circumstances. His evolution propels the story.
For me the story ends too abruptly, with far too many ends that I wanted to see tied up. It absolutely feels like it is the first installment in a series, but there is nothing to indicate this in the title. If it is not meant to be part of a series, it simply left me feeling it was incomplete and as if I had invested in a movie with a power failure cutting short the last 30 minutes.
Mr. Clerge has a great deal of skill as a storyteller. He writes in a genre that I do not frequently read, so he is no doubt very impressive to those who follow this genre. I think he has a good future in writing, despite my inability to applaud this novel in the way that some others have.
October 28, 2015
An episode of The Wire, jacked on meth and steroids, curb stomping Bonfire of the Vanities by Tom Wolfe.
This isn't a "read", it's an experience. A visceral one that deserves my strongest recommendation. Unquestionably looking forward to more from Mr. Clerge.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This isn't a "read", it's an experience. A visceral one that deserves my strongest recommendation. Unquestionably looking forward to more from Mr. Clerge.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 20, 2015
Quite taken by it
I was quite impressed with this book overall. The very first thing I liked is the adroitness the author showed in conjuring an atmosphere that seems quite relatable yet somewhat layered in mystery, so that it looks like an enchanted land. Indeed, the following passage brings to life the suburb in a way as you feel like you have lived there before; at the same time, it engulfs you with a fear of the unknown; perhaps this is the author's way of indicating the events that are about to befall the hero of the novel which would result in his 'fall':
"The moon was a pale sliver above him. Elm, cedar, willow, and holly trees, and anything else not under cover in the Boston suburb of Weston, were coated with frost that promised to be thicker by morning. The effect was one of an enchanted place, a serene place that sparkled in patches and swaths on the landscape. The stillness was broken only by the occasional nocturnal creature hunting prey. Scented smoke plumed from chimneys as fires below dwindled and died. Residents in this affluent town eagerly, or anxiously, contemplated plans for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday just two weeks away, while children dreamed of the holiday to follow. In so many ways, it was a perfect night in a perfect neighborhood. "
The character's emotions are brought to light in an equally skillful manner. His sense of being betrayed by his wife, his pride (“I own my businesses. He gets a paycheck."), are all brought out well. Indeed, the protagonist and his wife have their unique, eccentric ways to vent their individual frustrations.
All the while, I cannot help but thinking this would have been a masterpiece had the author used a first person rather than third person narrative. I also got the feeling that the main character too often came across as a self-pitying man - I think he should be proud of himself and what's achieved, rather than making his wife's deception his sole focus.
The dialogs are as gritty as they get. Starks' reaction toward the end of the novel is highly justifiable, considering what he's gone through:
"“I promise you that her lifestyle, which she likes not having to work for, is way more important to her than I am. She’s making a show, and I don’t appreciate it. The last thing I want is for her to come here weeping and wailing. The woman has no sense. She was a mistake. I bury my mis-takes.” Starks covered his face with his hands. “Oh God. I don’t mean that my son with her was a mistake. He was never a mistake.”
And thereby he had completely developed as a round character, especially when he acknowledges that 'She was a mistake. I bury my mis-takes' - yep, time to move on bro.
In the end, I have only one thing to say: that I cannot recommend this book enough for you. Go ahead and check it out: you will be glad you did!
I was quite impressed with this book overall. The very first thing I liked is the adroitness the author showed in conjuring an atmosphere that seems quite relatable yet somewhat layered in mystery, so that it looks like an enchanted land. Indeed, the following passage brings to life the suburb in a way as you feel like you have lived there before; at the same time, it engulfs you with a fear of the unknown; perhaps this is the author's way of indicating the events that are about to befall the hero of the novel which would result in his 'fall':
"The moon was a pale sliver above him. Elm, cedar, willow, and holly trees, and anything else not under cover in the Boston suburb of Weston, were coated with frost that promised to be thicker by morning. The effect was one of an enchanted place, a serene place that sparkled in patches and swaths on the landscape. The stillness was broken only by the occasional nocturnal creature hunting prey. Scented smoke plumed from chimneys as fires below dwindled and died. Residents in this affluent town eagerly, or anxiously, contemplated plans for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday just two weeks away, while children dreamed of the holiday to follow. In so many ways, it was a perfect night in a perfect neighborhood. "
The character's emotions are brought to light in an equally skillful manner. His sense of being betrayed by his wife, his pride (“I own my businesses. He gets a paycheck."), are all brought out well. Indeed, the protagonist and his wife have their unique, eccentric ways to vent their individual frustrations.
All the while, I cannot help but thinking this would have been a masterpiece had the author used a first person rather than third person narrative. I also got the feeling that the main character too often came across as a self-pitying man - I think he should be proud of himself and what's achieved, rather than making his wife's deception his sole focus.
The dialogs are as gritty as they get. Starks' reaction toward the end of the novel is highly justifiable, considering what he's gone through:
"“I promise you that her lifestyle, which she likes not having to work for, is way more important to her than I am. She’s making a show, and I don’t appreciate it. The last thing I want is for her to come here weeping and wailing. The woman has no sense. She was a mistake. I bury my mis-takes.” Starks covered his face with his hands. “Oh God. I don’t mean that my son with her was a mistake. He was never a mistake.”
And thereby he had completely developed as a round character, especially when he acknowledges that 'She was a mistake. I bury my mis-takes' - yep, time to move on bro.
In the end, I have only one thing to say: that I cannot recommend this book enough for you. Go ahead and check it out: you will be glad you did!
January 4, 2016
Frederick Starks, an extremely wealthy and respected businessman married to his high school love, one night chooses to confront his wife's ex-lover and then has to learn to live with the consequences, a stay in a maximum security prison. This first part of the trilogy takes us through the courtroom drama, episodes of Starks' life growing up and building his empire and the life-changing consequences of that one fateful night as Starks adjusts to prison life.
When The Serpent Bites was a profound and poignant, character driven book. Its strong point was definitely the depth of all the characters. Nesly Clerge is obviously an avid observer of people and their behavior and with his psychological insight into the human mind has managed to create a set of extremely interesting, believable and deeply flawed people. My feelings towards Starks kept going back and forth as I was reading. One minute I absolutely despised him for some of his stupid attitudes, the next minute I would actually feel quite sorry for him.
I really enjoyed how the different sides of each character were gradually revealed. It was certainly a book that made you think and ponder about relationships, trust and, as mentioned at the beginning, choices and consequences. If you are a psychology enthusiast you will definitely enjoy Stark's therapy sessions.
When I started this book, I wasn't aware it's part of a trilogy, so be aware, it ends on a bit of a cliff hanger. I thought the twist at the end was a little predictable, but nicely done nevertheless. The book is very well written, especially for a debut novel, but I felt some parts could have been condensed. Some of it felt repetitive as events where being retold to different characters. Nonetheless, I really enjoyed this, and it will be very interesting to see where the author takes his characters in the next part of this trilogy.
Thanks to Nesly Clerge and BookLover Catlady Publicity for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
When The Serpent Bites was a profound and poignant, character driven book. Its strong point was definitely the depth of all the characters. Nesly Clerge is obviously an avid observer of people and their behavior and with his psychological insight into the human mind has managed to create a set of extremely interesting, believable and deeply flawed people. My feelings towards Starks kept going back and forth as I was reading. One minute I absolutely despised him for some of his stupid attitudes, the next minute I would actually feel quite sorry for him.
I really enjoyed how the different sides of each character were gradually revealed. It was certainly a book that made you think and ponder about relationships, trust and, as mentioned at the beginning, choices and consequences. If you are a psychology enthusiast you will definitely enjoy Stark's therapy sessions.
When I started this book, I wasn't aware it's part of a trilogy, so be aware, it ends on a bit of a cliff hanger. I thought the twist at the end was a little predictable, but nicely done nevertheless. The book is very well written, especially for a debut novel, but I felt some parts could have been condensed. Some of it felt repetitive as events where being retold to different characters. Nonetheless, I really enjoyed this, and it will be very interesting to see where the author takes his characters in the next part of this trilogy.
Thanks to Nesly Clerge and BookLover Catlady Publicity for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
January 21, 2016
I had to wait a full day before I wrote my review, that is how flabbergasted I was by this read.
Totally unexpected beginning and equally unexpected ending BEGGING for a sequel.
The beginning softly meanders and BAM I was hit by the level of violence. You know when you are trying to figure out who the protagonist is, then the author hits you with this massive event before you'Ve figured out who's who in the zoo. Very clever angle at characterization.
The plot had so many twists and turns. Kept on alternating between present day and the past. Don't let the thickness fool you into thinking that there are hundreds of characters ala JK Rowling's "The Casual Vacancy", nope, only a few key characters whose roles were so meaty that I was totally floored.
Starks, the protagonist, is such a contrast and his gradual metamorphosis left me at "Hello". Kayla, as far as I could make out was the antagonist, all Starks' decisions were influenced by her.
Prison comes in all forms. Whether you are locked up literally or trapped by material success. Starks, a man who just wanted to provide for his family, driven by pride to beat a man within an inch of his life for a wife he no longer cared for, now behind bars and unable to take care of his family. Fighting for survival, both body and mind, in prison and trusting Jeffrey, his lifetime friend, to ensure that his family is taken care of. Will he see Jeffrey in a different light having learnt that he used to help himself to Starks'cookie jar?????
The ending was anticlimactic for me making a sequel quite necessary. What will happen to Starks' and Jeffrey's friendship? Eish, Jeffrey made an error of judgement as the youth does. He did not see Starks in his future.
Well written. The back and forth of Starks' state of mind gave the plot credibility.
4 big stars. Looking forward to the sequel.
Totally unexpected beginning and equally unexpected ending BEGGING for a sequel.
The beginning softly meanders and BAM I was hit by the level of violence. You know when you are trying to figure out who the protagonist is, then the author hits you with this massive event before you'Ve figured out who's who in the zoo. Very clever angle at characterization.
The plot had so many twists and turns. Kept on alternating between present day and the past. Don't let the thickness fool you into thinking that there are hundreds of characters ala JK Rowling's "The Casual Vacancy", nope, only a few key characters whose roles were so meaty that I was totally floored.
Starks, the protagonist, is such a contrast and his gradual metamorphosis left me at "Hello". Kayla, as far as I could make out was the antagonist, all Starks' decisions were influenced by her.
Prison comes in all forms. Whether you are locked up literally or trapped by material success. Starks, a man who just wanted to provide for his family, driven by pride to beat a man within an inch of his life for a wife he no longer cared for, now behind bars and unable to take care of his family. Fighting for survival, both body and mind, in prison and trusting Jeffrey, his lifetime friend, to ensure that his family is taken care of. Will he see Jeffrey in a different light having learnt that he used to help himself to Starks'cookie jar?????
The ending was anticlimactic for me making a sequel quite necessary. What will happen to Starks' and Jeffrey's friendship? Eish, Jeffrey made an error of judgement as the youth does. He did not see Starks in his future.
Well written. The back and forth of Starks' state of mind gave the plot credibility.
4 big stars. Looking forward to the sequel.
October 1, 2015
I was given this by the author in exchange for an honest review - I don't do any other kind!
I liked this book very much as it was a very gritty, but totally honest, read. The main character, Starks, is likable one minute, frustrating the next, and then making the reader feel downright angry for him being so stubborn. A man who adapts to his new way of life by doing what he has to in order to survive.
Don't start this book thinking that there are going to be good guys and bad guys, and a focus for all the blame. Mirroring life, Nesly Clerge has pulled together a stream of 'real' characters, all of whom have their own issues to bear. Nobody is more complex than Starks himself, his internal and external demons giving him no respite.
This is a very well characterised, exciting, and emotive book. It is a love story that didn't work out, with poignant life, betrayal, and extreme situations thrown in. What an ending! Just like me, you'll have to get the sequel.
I liked this book very much as it was a very gritty, but totally honest, read. The main character, Starks, is likable one minute, frustrating the next, and then making the reader feel downright angry for him being so stubborn. A man who adapts to his new way of life by doing what he has to in order to survive.
Don't start this book thinking that there are going to be good guys and bad guys, and a focus for all the blame. Mirroring life, Nesly Clerge has pulled together a stream of 'real' characters, all of whom have their own issues to bear. Nobody is more complex than Starks himself, his internal and external demons giving him no respite.
This is a very well characterised, exciting, and emotive book. It is a love story that didn't work out, with poignant life, betrayal, and extreme situations thrown in. What an ending! Just like me, you'll have to get the sequel.
October 26, 2015
What a book!! Starks is interned over an act of revenge on his pride- something he has been brought up to be proud of. Is he validated by doing so.. perhaps not the clean living person he thinks he is. Most of this book takes place during his incarceration, during which we learn of the man, his life, his marriage and his thoughts and previous acts. A book to make you think and really get into the mind of a character. The ending, despite me "always liking a good ending" wasn't perfect but didn't dissapoint me. The sequel will no doubt answer more questions but this book does stand alone. Not my usual type of read but still very enjoyable- a very in depth character and the world around him and how he copes.. or not.
December 14, 2015
Firstly, great title. One decision sends Stark's life into a devastating spin. He lives a great life, is a successful business man respected by all, has a gorgeous wife and three beautiful children. However infidelity has its way of ripping hearts apart, and Stark's heart is not happy. His wife is involved with another. Starks then makes the fateful decision to confront the man involved which then leads to a stay in a maximum security prison. Strong story and charactets, will not say more about the plot but I was very impressed with the book and will be looking out for the next.
November 24, 2015
When the serpent bites is a debut novel.
One night goaded by his wife's lover Stark loses control and attacks him and puts the man in hospital in a coma.
Stark lands himself in prison for doing this even though he is rich that doesn't help him get off.
In prison stark gets into trouble with another inmate and his life spirals our of control.
Great book I liked the descriptions of prison life.
Looking forward to book 2.
One night goaded by his wife's lover Stark loses control and attacks him and puts the man in hospital in a coma.
Stark lands himself in prison for doing this even though he is rich that doesn't help him get off.
In prison stark gets into trouble with another inmate and his life spirals our of control.
Great book I liked the descriptions of prison life.
Looking forward to book 2.
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