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Rusty Knob #2
Tarnished
Royce Kennedy believes he has the town of Rusty Knob and its citizens in the palm of his hand. For altruistic reasons, of course. A real man takes care of his land and the people on it, whether they want to accept the help or not.
After fostering an orphan, adopting underprivileged kids, creating businesses to bring jobs back to the area, donating his time, energy, and money by founding the Community Growth: Life Skills Center, people are beginning to wonder if the man is running a campaign to earn the status of a saint.
Royce’s family is getting frustrated by idly watching their patriarch spread himself too thin, because he won’t allow them to shoulder his burdens or their own. Drastic measures are taken before the man can see reason. When the dust finally settles, Royce realizes he’s been taking care of everyone but himself.
But there’s a problem with sorting out your issues, with the clarity of mind, you can’t hide from the good, bad, and downright filthy secrets buried in the depths of your past.
With dark, violent, depraved skeletons, Rusty Knob’s patriarch isn’t as pure of soul as he appears to be. Will he finally surrender and accept the help to buff the tarnish away?
Just because it’s the moral thing to do, doesn’t mean it’s the right thing for you.
After fostering an orphan, adopting underprivileged kids, creating businesses to bring jobs back to the area, donating his time, energy, and money by founding the Community Growth: Life Skills Center, people are beginning to wonder if the man is running a campaign to earn the status of a saint.
Royce’s family is getting frustrated by idly watching their patriarch spread himself too thin, because he won’t allow them to shoulder his burdens or their own. Drastic measures are taken before the man can see reason. When the dust finally settles, Royce realizes he’s been taking care of everyone but himself.
But there’s a problem with sorting out your issues, with the clarity of mind, you can’t hide from the good, bad, and downright filthy secrets buried in the depths of your past.
With dark, violent, depraved skeletons, Rusty Knob’s patriarch isn’t as pure of soul as he appears to be. Will he finally surrender and accept the help to buff the tarnish away?
Just because it’s the moral thing to do, doesn’t mean it’s the right thing for you.
237 pages, Paperback
First published October 13, 2015
About the author
Erica Chilson
43 books437 followersErica Chilson does not write in the 3rd person, wanting her readers to be her characters. Therefore, writing a bio about herself, is uncomfortable in the extreme.
Born, raised, and here to stay, the Wicked Writer is a stump-jumper, a ridge-runner. Hailing from North Central Pennsylvania, directly on the New York State border; she loves the changes in seasons, the humid air, all the mountainous forest, and the gloomy atmosphere.
Introverted, but not socially awkward, Erica prides herself on thinking first and filtering her speech. There are days she doesn’t speak at all. If it wasn’t for the fact that she lives with her parents, giving her a sense of reality, she would be a hermit, where the delivery man finds her months after expiration.
Reading was an escape, a way to leave a not-so pleasant reality behind. Reading lent Erica the courage she gathered from the characters between the pages to long for a different life. Writing was an instrument of change, evolving Erica into the woman she is today- a better, more mature, more at peace thinker.
Erica has a wicked mind, one she pours out into her creations. Her filter doesn’t allow all of it to erupt, much to her relief. Sarcastic, with a very dark, perverse sense of humor, Erica puts a bit of herself into every character she writes.
Born, raised, and here to stay, the Wicked Writer is a stump-jumper, a ridge-runner. Hailing from North Central Pennsylvania, directly on the New York State border; she loves the changes in seasons, the humid air, all the mountainous forest, and the gloomy atmosphere.
Introverted, but not socially awkward, Erica prides herself on thinking first and filtering her speech. There are days she doesn’t speak at all. If it wasn’t for the fact that she lives with her parents, giving her a sense of reality, she would be a hermit, where the delivery man finds her months after expiration.
Reading was an escape, a way to leave a not-so pleasant reality behind. Reading lent Erica the courage she gathered from the characters between the pages to long for a different life. Writing was an instrument of change, evolving Erica into the woman she is today- a better, more mature, more at peace thinker.
Erica has a wicked mind, one she pours out into her creations. Her filter doesn’t allow all of it to erupt, much to her relief. Sarcastic, with a very dark, perverse sense of humor, Erica puts a bit of herself into every character she writes.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
June 11, 2016
4.5 Stars!
I recommend reading Rusty Knob before Tarnished. Rusty Knob sets the background for all the characters and their stories. I absolutely loved Rusty Knob, it hit me like a ton of bricks. Tarnished is Royce and Willa's story, told from Royce's POV, we revisit the past while working on the future. Some scenes may be disturbing to sensitive readers. A brutal scene (not in full detail) could be disturbing to some. The heroine is 15 in the chapters from the past. Beware.
Erica Chilson added a new look to Rusty Knob with this one. Not everything is what it seems. It wouldn't be a Chilson book without twisted beginnings, nothing ordinary about this book. I was in awe of every truth that was revealed. I had to put my kindle down, look out and replay everything out in my head. What is going on? Like, what did I just read?? This was a wild ride filled with devastation, deviance, and growth. I never expected the turns this story would take, I'm left with my mouth hanging wide open. Since it had been so long since the first book, I had to rethink, remember each character to form my attachment to them. The story has bit and pieces from the side characters, foreshowding for upcoming books. I was rubbing my hands with delight. There's a underlying purpose, a meaning that comes with each story I read by Erica Chilson. I feel it within my soul, I can't wait to see what's next.
I recommend reading Rusty Knob before Tarnished. Rusty Knob sets the background for all the characters and their stories. I absolutely loved Rusty Knob, it hit me like a ton of bricks. Tarnished is Royce and Willa's story, told from Royce's POV, we revisit the past while working on the future. Some scenes may be disturbing to sensitive readers. A brutal scene (not in full detail) could be disturbing to some. The heroine is 15 in the chapters from the past. Beware.
Erica Chilson added a new look to Rusty Knob with this one. Not everything is what it seems. It wouldn't be a Chilson book without twisted beginnings, nothing ordinary about this book. I was in awe of every truth that was revealed. I had to put my kindle down, look out and replay everything out in my head. What is going on? Like, what did I just read?? This was a wild ride filled with devastation, deviance, and growth. I never expected the turns this story would take, I'm left with my mouth hanging wide open. Since it had been so long since the first book, I had to rethink, remember each character to form my attachment to them. The story has bit and pieces from the side characters, foreshowding for upcoming books. I was rubbing my hands with delight. There's a underlying purpose, a meaning that comes with each story I read by Erica Chilson. I feel it within my soul, I can't wait to see what's next.
October 13, 2015
5 Stars
I received a copy to read and review for Twisted Sisters Book Reviews
Thank you!
Thank you Ms. Chilson for another fabulous look into to your creative mind.
This story takes place in the Rusty Knob.
A town stricken with a fallen economy and failing businesses.
A town where most people would try to leave or never attempt to even enter.
One man tries to save it all.
Royce.
While dealing with his own demons and secrets he tries to save a town from total collapse.
Having dreams of building it back to a thriving community, many won't support him because they are too proud to say they need help or enjoy taking the money from others because they are unable to find solutions to simple problems.
He wants his family to live in a place they can be proud of.
Family.
This family has got to be one of the most dysfunctional families I have ever read about.
They are all freaking bananas.
But they all have been dealt with a crap life.
Royce tries to fix them all.
Doing the best he can with the life he was given he tries.
He tries his hardest.
How much can a man take?
How much of himself must he sacrifice to finally be happy?
Who will stand by him when he falls?
Will any one pick him up?
And when they do what will be left?
Erica has such a way with words that you feel like you are there.
I felt like I was in the stands looking at the rainbow gown.
I laughed like an idiot.
I felt like I was in the room with Royce when he freed himself of his biggest fear.
His pain and fear was felt in my heart.
Erica if there is anything you ever do one should be to never stop writing these beautifully twisted tales!
I received a copy to read and review for Twisted Sisters Book Reviews
Thank you!
Thank you Ms. Chilson for another fabulous look into to your creative mind.
This story takes place in the Rusty Knob.
A town stricken with a fallen economy and failing businesses.
A town where most people would try to leave or never attempt to even enter.
One man tries to save it all.
Royce.
While dealing with his own demons and secrets he tries to save a town from total collapse.
Having dreams of building it back to a thriving community, many won't support him because they are too proud to say they need help or enjoy taking the money from others because they are unable to find solutions to simple problems.
He wants his family to live in a place they can be proud of.
Family.
This family has got to be one of the most dysfunctional families I have ever read about.
They are all freaking bananas.
But they all have been dealt with a crap life.
Royce tries to fix them all.
Doing the best he can with the life he was given he tries.
He tries his hardest.
How much can a man take?
How much of himself must he sacrifice to finally be happy?
Who will stand by him when he falls?
Will any one pick him up?
And when they do what will be left?
Erica has such a way with words that you feel like you are there.
I felt like I was in the stands looking at the rainbow gown.
I laughed like an idiot.
I felt like I was in the room with Royce when he freed himself of his biggest fear.
His pain and fear was felt in my heart.
Erica if there is anything you ever do one should be to never stop writing these beautifully twisted tales!
October 16, 2015
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the second in a series - and would make more sense if you read Rusty Know first, and why would you not, as that is a really good read too.
I read about this town and its inhabitants with a level of incredulity, yet recognising that such things surely do happen. An eye opener for a fairly sheltered Brit as I am. I find it fascinating and disturbing as a background to an amazingly deep and honest love story. The story drags you in and it is impossible not to find yourself seeing the charcaters in front of you, as they are brilliantly described and brought to life. A life that mixes every day with a mission to make life better. Royce is not your standard hero, and Willa isn't your usual romantic heroine, but together they tell a story which grabs the heart and which has you rooting for them through the darkness. The other characters also get their say in how life evolves in Rusty Knob, and I await some of their stories with great interest. There are some major surprises, which have you reconsidering your dislike of some, and possibly reinforcing it for others. Compulsive reading at its best!
This is the second in a series - and would make more sense if you read Rusty Know first, and why would you not, as that is a really good read too.
I read about this town and its inhabitants with a level of incredulity, yet recognising that such things surely do happen. An eye opener for a fairly sheltered Brit as I am. I find it fascinating and disturbing as a background to an amazingly deep and honest love story. The story drags you in and it is impossible not to find yourself seeing the charcaters in front of you, as they are brilliantly described and brought to life. A life that mixes every day with a mission to make life better. Royce is not your standard hero, and Willa isn't your usual romantic heroine, but together they tell a story which grabs the heart and which has you rooting for them through the darkness. The other characters also get their say in how life evolves in Rusty Knob, and I await some of their stories with great interest. There are some major surprises, which have you reconsidering your dislike of some, and possibly reinforcing it for others. Compulsive reading at its best!
October 13, 2015
Once again, in the interest of full disclosure I will begin my review of Tarnished by letting you know that I was one of the beta readers for this book. Yes, despite the fact that I got so sucked into Rusty Knob that I missed errors (I know this because of comparing notes with the betas), Ms. Chilson graciously allowed me to take part in the beta read for Tarnished. Needless to say, I was beside myself with glee because upon finishing Wynn’s story, I was dying to learn Royce’s. Again, I got sucked into the story so fully that despite reading it twice, I’m sure that I missed errors that the other betas caught. But let me tell you folks, I blame Ms. Chilson for writing a tale that is so engaging that I forgot my duty and immersed myself once again in the town of Rusty Knob.
A few things you need to know about Tarnished. Unlike Rusty Knob and the remaining books of the series, it is an M/F romance. Before the strictly M/M readers ick out and bail ship, you should know that first and foremost, Tarnished is a romantic suspense novel. This means the focus is on the secrets from Royce’s past and the suspense that accompanies their revelations. Yes, there is a romantic element and there are sex scenes – and they are seriously hot – but you can skim past them if you’re a strict M/M reader because this is NOT a book to be missed. While Royce’s romantic parts are M/F, the LGBTQ theme is continued in this installment as we get to see Wynn and Kade’s relationship continue to develop as well as learn of what they have endured since their “coming out” to the town’s residents. And let me tell you that Wynn’s valedictorian speech is not to be missed, but make sure you have your tissues handy when you hit the graduation scene because I bawled both times. The author also gives us more insight into Bren as she lays the foundation for his book in such a way that I was left with my mouth hanging open. Literally. Thank goodness there were no flies around.
Next, Royce’s story is a darker read than Wynn’s. If you picked up on Royce’s reactions and statements in book one, you would expect it to be so this shouldn’t be a surprise. It was clear in Rusty Knob that Royce loves his sons fully whether they are his by blood, adoption, or foster care and their sexuality is not an issue for him nor does it diminish his love for them whatsoever. This point is made even clearer in Tarnished even as the author reveals the events from Royce’s past that could have easily made him feel differently. To be clear, while this book certainly has darker tones to it, the author reveals the incidents via memories and therapy sessions in such a way that the reader knows what happened without having to relive every horrific detail with Royce. So while I know what happened to Royce and how it has affected him, Ms. Chilson didn’t subject me to graphic and grisly details of his past simply to shock me as the reader – which considering the tone set by Wynn’s story – would have been a serious case of whiplash.
And speaking of Wynn, Tarnished reveals that there is so much more going on in the lives of the people of Rusty Knob than Wynn knew. In blog and Facebook posts, Chilson has reiterated time and time again that books written in the first person (her style of writing) are meant to suffer from the faulty narrator, meaning that you can only know what the narrator knows. Despite having read almost every book she’s published, I never appreciated this concept as fully as I did once I finished reading Tarnished. If you read my review of Rusty Knob you know that I despised, hated, loathed, and detested Wynn’s parents. Yet by the end of Tarnished I had not only changed my opinion of Wynn’s father, but I actually cried for Corbin. Granted, Wynn was 16 year-old kid who couldn’t possibly know everything about the adults in his life, but as memories are revisited and facts are unveiled, we learn that there was more going on in Rusty Knob than even Royce knew and my entire viewpoint of Corbin Gillette has changed, which makes me rabid for more of the series to find out who else has me and the narrators fooled. Willa definitely fell into this category as well because there was so much more going on in her life that Wynn wasn’t privy to and rightly shouldn’t have been in the know about.
The hardest part about writing my review for Tarnished is not spilling the beans because there are a LOT of secrets revealed in this installment. I found myself shocked, dismayed, angered, flabbergasted, relieved, devastated, and over-the-moon happy as I read this book. I laughed, I cried, I squirmed, I groaned, and I fell in love once again with the characters as well as the author’s writing. I’ve said it before and I’m sure I will say it again, Ms. Chilson writes the first person point of view beautifully and her skill improves with each book she writes. I don’t feel as though I’m being told a story, but rather that I am living the character’s life in that moment. Tarnished was no exception as I got to experience Royce’s fear, hate, happiness, passion, and love as it occurred. This is yet another of the author’s books to be added to my reread shelf and I’m looking forward to reading Rusty Knob and Tarnished back-to-back and can only hope that the West Virginia muse comes a-knockin’ on the author’s door sooner rather than later so I can get my hands on the next book in the series, Stainless.
A few things you need to know about Tarnished. Unlike Rusty Knob and the remaining books of the series, it is an M/F romance. Before the strictly M/M readers ick out and bail ship, you should know that first and foremost, Tarnished is a romantic suspense novel. This means the focus is on the secrets from Royce’s past and the suspense that accompanies their revelations. Yes, there is a romantic element and there are sex scenes – and they are seriously hot – but you can skim past them if you’re a strict M/M reader because this is NOT a book to be missed. While Royce’s romantic parts are M/F, the LGBTQ theme is continued in this installment as we get to see Wynn and Kade’s relationship continue to develop as well as learn of what they have endured since their “coming out” to the town’s residents. And let me tell you that Wynn’s valedictorian speech is not to be missed, but make sure you have your tissues handy when you hit the graduation scene because I bawled both times. The author also gives us more insight into Bren as she lays the foundation for his book in such a way that I was left with my mouth hanging open. Literally. Thank goodness there were no flies around.
Next, Royce’s story is a darker read than Wynn’s. If you picked up on Royce’s reactions and statements in book one, you would expect it to be so this shouldn’t be a surprise. It was clear in Rusty Knob that Royce loves his sons fully whether they are his by blood, adoption, or foster care and their sexuality is not an issue for him nor does it diminish his love for them whatsoever. This point is made even clearer in Tarnished even as the author reveals the events from Royce’s past that could have easily made him feel differently. To be clear, while this book certainly has darker tones to it, the author reveals the incidents via memories and therapy sessions in such a way that the reader knows what happened without having to relive every horrific detail with Royce. So while I know what happened to Royce and how it has affected him, Ms. Chilson didn’t subject me to graphic and grisly details of his past simply to shock me as the reader – which considering the tone set by Wynn’s story – would have been a serious case of whiplash.
And speaking of Wynn, Tarnished reveals that there is so much more going on in the lives of the people of Rusty Knob than Wynn knew. In blog and Facebook posts, Chilson has reiterated time and time again that books written in the first person (her style of writing) are meant to suffer from the faulty narrator, meaning that you can only know what the narrator knows. Despite having read almost every book she’s published, I never appreciated this concept as fully as I did once I finished reading Tarnished. If you read my review of Rusty Knob you know that I despised, hated, loathed, and detested Wynn’s parents. Yet by the end of Tarnished I had not only changed my opinion of Wynn’s father, but I actually cried for Corbin. Granted, Wynn was 16 year-old kid who couldn’t possibly know everything about the adults in his life, but as memories are revisited and facts are unveiled, we learn that there was more going on in Rusty Knob than even Royce knew and my entire viewpoint of Corbin Gillette has changed, which makes me rabid for more of the series to find out who else has me and the narrators fooled. Willa definitely fell into this category as well because there was so much more going on in her life that Wynn wasn’t privy to and rightly shouldn’t have been in the know about.
The hardest part about writing my review for Tarnished is not spilling the beans because there are a LOT of secrets revealed in this installment. I found myself shocked, dismayed, angered, flabbergasted, relieved, devastated, and over-the-moon happy as I read this book. I laughed, I cried, I squirmed, I groaned, and I fell in love once again with the characters as well as the author’s writing. I’ve said it before and I’m sure I will say it again, Ms. Chilson writes the first person point of view beautifully and her skill improves with each book she writes. I don’t feel as though I’m being told a story, but rather that I am living the character’s life in that moment. Tarnished was no exception as I got to experience Royce’s fear, hate, happiness, passion, and love as it occurred. This is yet another of the author’s books to be added to my reread shelf and I’m looking forward to reading Rusty Knob and Tarnished back-to-back and can only hope that the West Virginia muse comes a-knockin’ on the author’s door sooner rather than later so I can get my hands on the next book in the series, Stainless.
October 20, 2015
Okay just wow... How to start this review.
This book was like a emotional rollercoaster that left my head reeling and I do not mean that in a bad way at all because so much from the first book that you never found out is explained in this one. Every detail of what happened to Royce which is why now I will give a warning for some this may be hard to read. It does not go into exact detail but it is implied enough were you get what happened and you feel heartbroken for him to have gone through something so terrible like what was done to him. I honestly cried so much when I read that part it was so hard to read and to also read what Willa had gone through it was horrible. This book was equal parts painful for all these two MC's had to go through and beautiful to see them come together to work through their pain and hurt.
This author did a amazing job of telling Royce and Willa's story with everything they went through and how they grew closer as a family. I don't want to give to much away because this one you really need to read for yourself because this book was amazing. You really felt everything these two went through.
Now I will be the first to admit I don't read a lot of M/F books but once I heard there was going to be another book after Rusty Knob I jumped on the chance to read this because I had to know what was happening with my favorite characters and I am so glad I read this. I learned so much from this book about what each of these characters have gone through from the MC's Willa and Royce to the characters from the first book Wynn and Kade. Plus so much more about other characters like Bren and others which by the way this ending ugh I can't even I have to know what is going on with Bren after that bombshell.
So I have to tell you this was such a emotional read the way my head is spinning even now as I write this review and there are even now tears in my eyes thinking about everything these two have been through. I have to say I do love Royce and Willa's characters and the way they are together.
So I want to leave this review with I 100% percent loved this book!
I would definitely recommend this series!
Let me also add I would defiantly read the first book in this series first I would not recommend this as a stand alone because I feel like I would have been lost if I had not already known what was going on with these characters.
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
This book was like a emotional rollercoaster that left my head reeling and I do not mean that in a bad way at all because so much from the first book that you never found out is explained in this one. Every detail of what happened to Royce which is why now I will give a warning for some this may be hard to read. It does not go into exact detail but it is implied enough were you get what happened and you feel heartbroken for him to have gone through something so terrible like what was done to him. I honestly cried so much when I read that part it was so hard to read and to also read what Willa had gone through it was horrible. This book was equal parts painful for all these two MC's had to go through and beautiful to see them come together to work through their pain and hurt.
This author did a amazing job of telling Royce and Willa's story with everything they went through and how they grew closer as a family. I don't want to give to much away because this one you really need to read for yourself because this book was amazing. You really felt everything these two went through.
Now I will be the first to admit I don't read a lot of M/F books but once I heard there was going to be another book after Rusty Knob I jumped on the chance to read this because I had to know what was happening with my favorite characters and I am so glad I read this. I learned so much from this book about what each of these characters have gone through from the MC's Willa and Royce to the characters from the first book Wynn and Kade. Plus so much more about other characters like Bren and others which by the way this ending ugh I can't even I have to know what is going on with Bren after that bombshell.
So I have to tell you this was such a emotional read the way my head is spinning even now as I write this review and there are even now tears in my eyes thinking about everything these two have been through. I have to say I do love Royce and Willa's characters and the way they are together.
So I want to leave this review with I 100% percent loved this book!
I would definitely recommend this series!
Let me also add I would defiantly read the first book in this series first I would not recommend this as a stand alone because I feel like I would have been lost if I had not already known what was going on with these characters.
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
October 14, 2015
I actually had the opportunity to beta read this book. I was excited for it after reading the first book Rusty Knob, but I was blown right out of the water with this one. I know I was so absorbed that I probably didn't catch many errors. This second installment to the series left me applauding Erica Chilson's brilliant mind yet again. I absolutely loved this book. It had such a complex bag of goodies that kept me entertained until the end. You can bet I didn't put it down until I had finished.
Although it is a M/F based book in a M/M dominated series, it is not one to skip. Royce Kennedy's story is truly one to behold. Royce is truly a noble man that has been through more than most people could ever imagine. He has the emotional baggage to prove it, but he spends every waking second trying to better the world for his loved ones. Even if that means putting himself last. Anyone who read Rusty Knob would understand that it has a darker element to it, but even though I was expecting it, I was still riding an emotional roller coaster throughout the entire book. I felt excited, relieved, devastated, amused, joyful, shocked, angry, and baffled all in the course of one book. I really enjoyed the feeling of being right there in the character's lives. I'm having a hard time writing this review without spoilers.
For the fans of the other Rusty Knob characters introduced in book one, you won't feel disappointed. Tarnished involves Wynn and Kade as well as others such as Royce's son Bren and Wynn's siblings, Willa and Wade, and the twins Hayden and Hailey throughout it's story line. Their lives are all interwoven in wickedly brilliant and even shocking ways at times. Ms.Chilson even leads us into Bren's story line whilst finishing Royce's, and I can almost guarantee that I'm not the only one dying to get my hands on Stainless, the next book!
~Beta reviewed with Wicked Reads Review Team~
Although it is a M/F based book in a M/M dominated series, it is not one to skip. Royce Kennedy's story is truly one to behold. Royce is truly a noble man that has been through more than most people could ever imagine. He has the emotional baggage to prove it, but he spends every waking second trying to better the world for his loved ones. Even if that means putting himself last. Anyone who read Rusty Knob would understand that it has a darker element to it, but even though I was expecting it, I was still riding an emotional roller coaster throughout the entire book. I felt excited, relieved, devastated, amused, joyful, shocked, angry, and baffled all in the course of one book. I really enjoyed the feeling of being right there in the character's lives. I'm having a hard time writing this review without spoilers.
For the fans of the other Rusty Knob characters introduced in book one, you won't feel disappointed. Tarnished involves Wynn and Kade as well as others such as Royce's son Bren and Wynn's siblings, Willa and Wade, and the twins Hayden and Hailey throughout it's story line. Their lives are all interwoven in wickedly brilliant and even shocking ways at times. Ms.Chilson even leads us into Bren's story line whilst finishing Royce's, and I can almost guarantee that I'm not the only one dying to get my hands on Stainless, the next book!
~Beta reviewed with Wicked Reads Review Team~
October 12, 2015
~I'm happy to say that I Beta-read this story (provided feedback to the author prior to publication)~
I feel like Rusty Knob, WV could be a small town in Anywhere, USA.
These characters are real, they face serious life-issues but still hold an amazing inner-strength.
Where Rusty Knob was a "coming-of-age", New-Adult story - Tarnished - is an adult story with dark, suspenseful moments.
Tarnished resumes where Book 1 left off, but with through the character of Royce Kennedy. What we learned in the first book, was only a tiny bit of Royce's story - he's been dealt heart-break and misery, but has made a positive out of a serious negative. While trying to educate the ignorant and provide necessary knowledge to his hometown, he's neglecting himself.
Willa Gillette (Wynn's older sister) has had her share of tragedy, but has found solace in Royce. Together they prove to be a team that's dedicated to providing the backbone for their family.
The journey they take to heal themselves may be the most difficult, but it will prove to be the most rewarding.
I feel like I knew what their story was, but I was SO off base it wasn't even funny. (This is the main reason I enjoy Erica Chilson's stories!)
Learning about their back-story was heart-wrenching, soul-clenching, but yet it was at times humorous and sweet. Their story isn't easy to read. It's NOT hearts and flowers and unicorn glitter but it is beautiful.
The series story-line is advanced and I, seriously, CAN NOT WAIT for Bren's story. PERIOD> need to know what happens.
I need to learn more about all of these characters, because what I've read so far is only the tip of the proverbial iceberg!
~Beta Copy reviewed for Wicked Reads~
I feel like Rusty Knob, WV could be a small town in Anywhere, USA.
These characters are real, they face serious life-issues but still hold an amazing inner-strength.
Where Rusty Knob was a "coming-of-age", New-Adult story - Tarnished - is an adult story with dark, suspenseful moments.
Tarnished resumes where Book 1 left off, but with through the character of Royce Kennedy. What we learned in the first book, was only a tiny bit of Royce's story - he's been dealt heart-break and misery, but has made a positive out of a serious negative. While trying to educate the ignorant and provide necessary knowledge to his hometown, he's neglecting himself.
Willa Gillette (Wynn's older sister) has had her share of tragedy, but has found solace in Royce. Together they prove to be a team that's dedicated to providing the backbone for their family.
The journey they take to heal themselves may be the most difficult, but it will prove to be the most rewarding.
I feel like I knew what their story was, but I was SO off base it wasn't even funny. (This is the main reason I enjoy Erica Chilson's stories!)
Learning about their back-story was heart-wrenching, soul-clenching, but yet it was at times humorous and sweet. Their story isn't easy to read. It's NOT hearts and flowers and unicorn glitter but it is beautiful.
The series story-line is advanced and I, seriously, CAN NOT WAIT for Bren's story. PERIOD> need to know what happens.
I need to learn more about all of these characters, because what I've read so far is only the tip of the proverbial iceberg!
~Beta Copy reviewed for Wicked Reads~
October 17, 2015
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
Tarnished is the second book in the Rusty Knob Series. I highly recommend reading book one, Rusty Knob. You get more of an understanding of the town and it's occupants, plus it's a great coming of age, coming out read.
Rusty Knob, WV is a small, backward, poor, bigoted town. A town that holds secrets that have people wanting to break free of. Royce seems to be the only man fighting for the town, trying to rebuild, trying to help the ones he knows need it the most. He's trying to help everyone else, when he's battling his own demons.
I loved getting Royce's back story. It's a darker read than Rusty Knob but for reasons it has to be. Royce and Willa's past is dark and twisted but the way Ms. Chilson writes scenes from the past it's not in graphic detail, doing so would have made this a much darker read. Even with the dark undertones, she kept a sweetness and humor about it too.
I cannot wait for Bren's story. The build up within Tarnished has me begging for his story.
Tarnished is the second book in the Rusty Knob Series. I highly recommend reading book one, Rusty Knob. You get more of an understanding of the town and it's occupants, plus it's a great coming of age, coming out read.
Rusty Knob, WV is a small, backward, poor, bigoted town. A town that holds secrets that have people wanting to break free of. Royce seems to be the only man fighting for the town, trying to rebuild, trying to help the ones he knows need it the most. He's trying to help everyone else, when he's battling his own demons.
I loved getting Royce's back story. It's a darker read than Rusty Knob but for reasons it has to be. Royce and Willa's past is dark and twisted but the way Ms. Chilson writes scenes from the past it's not in graphic detail, doing so would have made this a much darker read. Even with the dark undertones, she kept a sweetness and humor about it too.
I cannot wait for Bren's story. The build up within Tarnished has me begging for his story.
October 16, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Royce sons are preparing to go off to collage, everyone is working on opening the Life Skills Centre and Willa and Royce are in therapy. The therapy sessions lead us to scenes from their past where we learn about how Royce met Willa, (scenes that had me feeling like a total pervert), and the horrifying events that lead to the jailing of Royce's brother Donny.
This story is full of twists and turns and revelations about the inhabitants of Rusty Knob. Ideas I had about certain characters and their motivations are turned on their head. I feel like I'm feeding my brain and my soul when I read Ms Chilson's books because she uses her characters to challenge and confront the reader. I loved it.
Tarnished has an absolutely killer ending that had my mouth hanging open followed by a few rude words. I'm dying to read Brennan's story, Stainless.
Royce sons are preparing to go off to collage, everyone is working on opening the Life Skills Centre and Willa and Royce are in therapy. The therapy sessions lead us to scenes from their past where we learn about how Royce met Willa, (scenes that had me feeling like a total pervert), and the horrifying events that lead to the jailing of Royce's brother Donny.
This story is full of twists and turns and revelations about the inhabitants of Rusty Knob. Ideas I had about certain characters and their motivations are turned on their head. I feel like I'm feeding my brain and my soul when I read Ms Chilson's books because she uses her characters to challenge and confront the reader. I loved it.
Tarnished has an absolutely killer ending that had my mouth hanging open followed by a few rude words. I'm dying to read Brennan's story, Stainless.
September 19, 2015
The second in this new series and what a great installment! Royce & Willa's book mostly with all our favorite LGTBQ teens in the mix as well. This book gives us some wonderful background story as well as new events leading us into the next book, which you're gonna want as soon as you finish Tarnished. Royce's story is a sad one and it's his to tell, even though he has to relive all the horrifying details. These characters have such depth and heart, you'll laugh with them while you're crying for them. Royce is a wonderful alpha male, who cares for his & theirs and will protect at any cost. Willa overcoming such a horrible childhood to be there for Royce in his time of reconciliation draws us right into their stories. In the meantime Brennan and the college bound friends of Rusty Knob are having to say their goodbyes and find their own ways, while Brennan finds himself at a crossroads that leaves us groaning in the end! Great read, completely enjoyed every minute!
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October 5, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
Tarnished is the second in the series Rust Knob which takes place in a backwoods town on West Virginia. It centers on Royce and his struggles while he pushes his own needs aside to take care of his family.
It continues from where Rusty Knob left off, but from Royce's point of view. The struggles he faces day to day, coming to terms with an attack that changes his life nine years ago, and the live he has for his family, the author makes you feel right along with Royce.
The town of Rusty Knob is full of ignorant, backwoods hillbillies who are stuck in the same rut as their parents and grandparents. Royce believes he can help every single one of them, and open a Life Center to teach them all the skills they need to succeed in the real world.
Royce and Willa, his brother's ex wife, have a dark secret that needs to be outed for the sake of the family, but Royce doesn't handle this too well. He's worried over his sons' futures, and the general well being of the family.
It's not often that a book makes me angry enough at the characters to want to smack them, or devastated enough about a past encounter that I want to cry, but this one has it all. You fall right into the story and laugh, cry, and yell right along with Royce, Willa, Bren, Wynn and the others. All in all, a fantastic tale and I cannot wait to dig into book 3.
Tarnished is the second in the series Rust Knob which takes place in a backwoods town on West Virginia. It centers on Royce and his struggles while he pushes his own needs aside to take care of his family.
It continues from where Rusty Knob left off, but from Royce's point of view. The struggles he faces day to day, coming to terms with an attack that changes his life nine years ago, and the live he has for his family, the author makes you feel right along with Royce.
The town of Rusty Knob is full of ignorant, backwoods hillbillies who are stuck in the same rut as their parents and grandparents. Royce believes he can help every single one of them, and open a Life Center to teach them all the skills they need to succeed in the real world.
Royce and Willa, his brother's ex wife, have a dark secret that needs to be outed for the sake of the family, but Royce doesn't handle this too well. He's worried over his sons' futures, and the general well being of the family.
It's not often that a book makes me angry enough at the characters to want to smack them, or devastated enough about a past encounter that I want to cry, but this one has it all. You fall right into the story and laugh, cry, and yell right along with Royce, Willa, Bren, Wynn and the others. All in all, a fantastic tale and I cannot wait to dig into book 3.
October 24, 2015
ARC for honest review.
Ok, so you are going to have to be patient with me about this review. I just cant find the words to say how much I loved this book! I'll think of something though! ;)
When I was given this book to read and review, I didn’t have much to go on. Just the description. And let me tell you, the description does not do this book justice. “What I've lost can never be found. What I've tarnished, I’m trying to reclaim.” It is so much more!
Tarnished is about more than just Royce and the troubled past that he has had. It is about the love and support that you can get from you family, about the deep gratifying love that you find when you are in the deepest of despairs, about the connection you fine when you discover you are not alone, about the importance of protecting you family but also about giving them the opportunity of letting them make their own mistakes!
This series is becoming one of this years most favorite for me! Erica Chilson has a real gift when writing a story that she makes you think it is real life. And that is what I like most about this series, the fact that it can be real. It isn’t some fluff piece when you are reading it thinking that “that wouldn’t really happen” because she makes you think it could. And that is what makes and amazing writer! I urge you to read this series and this book, you won't regret it!
Ok, so you are going to have to be patient with me about this review. I just cant find the words to say how much I loved this book! I'll think of something though! ;)
When I was given this book to read and review, I didn’t have much to go on. Just the description. And let me tell you, the description does not do this book justice. “What I've lost can never be found. What I've tarnished, I’m trying to reclaim.” It is so much more!
Tarnished is about more than just Royce and the troubled past that he has had. It is about the love and support that you can get from you family, about the deep gratifying love that you find when you are in the deepest of despairs, about the connection you fine when you discover you are not alone, about the importance of protecting you family but also about giving them the opportunity of letting them make their own mistakes!
This series is becoming one of this years most favorite for me! Erica Chilson has a real gift when writing a story that she makes you think it is real life. And that is what I like most about this series, the fact that it can be real. It isn’t some fluff piece when you are reading it thinking that “that wouldn’t really happen” because she makes you think it could. And that is what makes and amazing writer! I urge you to read this series and this book, you won't regret it!
November 1, 2015
I'm just crazy about this author and so far everything she writes is GOLD. Tarnished takes you on a journey to the other side of the tracks where there's a definite divide in money, education, & upbringing. A place so backwards yet oddly identifiable you can't helped but be sucked in. Characters so beautifully flawed and real, their aura sticks to your soul. This holds true with ALL Erica's books, a strong emotional attachment and connection to her characters is just inevitable. Tarnished takes on Royce's story. How he bridges the gap to not only save his family but his community and self as well. It unleashes the details of a horrific and tragic past and his connection to those he lives to protect. Already some major twists have been put in play paving the way for a highly anticipated 3rd installment. Deals with very current themes and always a message. Disturbing, light-hearted, shocking yet tender, this book has it all.
March 26, 2016
Tarnished is book two in the Rusty Knob series and, in my opinion, is even better than the first one. I loved Rusty Knob and the story of Wynn and Kade. I could not put down Tarnished. This is Royce's story and we finally get to find out what happened that night that Royce and Willa almost died. The night that sent Royce's brother Donny to prison and left Donny's friend Sean dead. Royce is tormented by the secrets from that night and feels like he can never be the man that everyone in his life deserves. He never feels like he can do enough or be good enough for his family and friends. As Willa begins to heal and move on with her future, Royce is staying stuck in the past. I loved getting to know Royce better and to see the things that has shaped him into the man that he is. I also loved getting to spend more time with Willa, Wynn, Warren, Kade, the twins, and Bren. This series has me hooked and I cannot wait to read Bren's story next.
October 23, 2015
I received an ARC copy of this book for an honest review.
Well I was looking forward to Tarnished after reading Rusty Knob, and I was not disappointed. Royce whom we met in the first book, a man who's always been there for his family, a man who tries to help his community a man with so much hidden hurt, one who tries to do his best despite his own tragedies. His story is emotional and as we see him and Willa try to heal themselves. I love Willa, the girl who's had personal tragedies, but slowly builds herself up and becomes recognizable. It was also great to see all the other familiar characters in Rusty Knob again, their continuing stories, graduating high school and looking at college. The changes, the revelations and the surprises all come together to make this book an emotional and enlightening read. Cannot wait for Bren's story now. Highly recommend this series.
Well I was looking forward to Tarnished after reading Rusty Knob, and I was not disappointed. Royce whom we met in the first book, a man who's always been there for his family, a man who tries to help his community a man with so much hidden hurt, one who tries to do his best despite his own tragedies. His story is emotional and as we see him and Willa try to heal themselves. I love Willa, the girl who's had personal tragedies, but slowly builds herself up and becomes recognizable. It was also great to see all the other familiar characters in Rusty Knob again, their continuing stories, graduating high school and looking at college. The changes, the revelations and the surprises all come together to make this book an emotional and enlightening read. Cannot wait for Bren's story now. Highly recommend this series.
October 10, 2015
I received an ARC of Tarnished from the author, in exchange for an honest review. When I read Rusty Knob, Royce Kennedy was a character that intrigued me, so I was excited that Tarnished was going to be his story. Royce's story was no where close to what I had thought it might be, but I enjoyed seeing how he became the man that he is. I also enjoyed touching base with all of the family from Rusty Knob.
October 12, 2015
The second book in the series,if you weren't hooked by the first book this one will definitely do it. I didn't think it could get better than the first book in all honesty. It brings out all your emotions, I cried, laughed, yelled a little and got mad.
Truly an amazing book that leaves you wanting more, looking forward to the next book!
Truly an amazing book that leaves you wanting more, looking forward to the next book!
October 15, 2015
Wonderful!!
Was fantastic beyond words! I truly cannot find the words to express how wonderful it was to read. Sages cameo was brilliant. You must read it yourself to understand how much I'm loving this book and series.
Was fantastic beyond words! I truly cannot find the words to express how wonderful it was to read. Sages cameo was brilliant. You must read it yourself to understand how much I'm loving this book and series.
October 25, 2015
Wow
So much told in this book and so much more to come out in book 3 I can feel it and see it and can't wait to get my hands on it I am loving this series more and more
So much told in this book and so much more to come out in book 3 I can feel it and see it and can't wait to get my hands on it I am loving this series more and more
August 16, 2016
review to come
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