When the Dragon Roars

The Starks Trilogy #2

by Nesly Clerge

Secrets and lies force their way to the surface in Nesly Clerge’s newest novel of deception, crime, and buried history.

Frederick Starks thought he’d already lost as much as one man could: A beautiful family, the luxurious life wealth provides, success, admiration—all stripped from him in one moment of madness that resulted in a fifteen-year sentence in a maximum security prison. Certain that life has gotten as bad as it can get, Starks contrives a way to rise to the top of the inmate hierarchy. But his assumption is wrong.

Amid stunning revelations, betrayals, and violence, Starks faces one challenge after another, until a life-altering event forces him into the most brutal confrontation of all: the truth about himself.

Genres: Thriller, Dark, Fiction, Psychological Thriller

354 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 27, 2016

About the author

**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.

Reviews

[Maxine (Booklover Catlady) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blinking Brilliant! FREDERICK STARKS IS BACK!



Featuring outstanding characters and one of only three books ever to bring tears to my eyes. That's a feat in itself. If you have not yet read the first book in this great series make sure you do as it gives you a fantastic background to this second novel, especially around the fantastic main character Frederick Starks. You can find the first book When the Serpent Bites here -

Please note: I have ebook copies of When the Serpent Bites available to anyone who is keen to read and review it on Goodreads and Amazon! Email: booklovercatlady@gmail.com to request your copy.

Okay, so I LOVE the cover of this book.Meet Frederick Starks, a complex man who is serving time in prison for going ballistic on the lover of his ex-wife, is he innocent or not? One needs to read the book to really know for sure. Starks is one of my all-time favourite book characters EVER. He is one of those characters that has me fluctuating in my feelings towards him all the time, one minute I detest his hard, violent side, then I will admire his smart, savvy planning and plotting brain. Ultimately I love the man because underneath that hard, damaged exterior and walled-off heart is a good guy deep down (I think?). *Tease *Tease - This is a book that very much reveals the impact of environment on a person's psyche and soul. Very realistically I might add.



The novel has so much going for it. Starks is doing his best to not just survive his time in prison with threats all around him, but thrive - he is ready to be top dog, the alpha wolf, the king of the concrete and nothing is going to stop him from getting there. This is a dog eat dog world where watching your back becomes a matter of life and death and it's not just the prisoners who are corrupted from the inside out. Starks manages to gather a fascinating bunch of men around him and I have got to really express how brilliantly written each and every one of them is!

Each character is unique, clearly defined and despite quite a few characters at play in this novel you won't lose track or get confused about who is who. There are those you will detest, those you will love, those that will creep you out and those that simply blow you away. I am not going to mention names but there were a couple of characters in this sequel in addition to Starks that I absolutely loved. Nesly Clergy has a keen ability to really get under the skin and into the minds of these characters and then paint the picture on the page for you. The book was like watching a movie in my mind and in fact I would not be surprised to find this series on TV one day in the not so distant future, it's ripe for it. I now know more about prison life than ever before.

There are some riveting plot twists in this book, a couple of them I would not see coming at all and they left me quite speechless. I actually cried real tears with two different scenes in this book and nothing gets to me like that, I had a lump in my throat for ages. That is powerful writing. Writing that moves you.



Don't make the mistake of thinking this is a book just for the boys either. Sure it's set in a men's prison and features violent characters and unsavoury moments but the interesting plot, the appeal of Starks and the others and the many twists plus the emotional undercurrent makes this book (and the first one) a book that female readers will enjoy also.

Starks is away from his children, his life as a successful business man outside has gone, his ex-wife is still seriously pissing him off and he himself has undergone powerful changes. He is on one hell of a journey both externally and internally. He is a meaty interesting character and I loved walking this journey with him though the extreme highs and lows. A powerful plot backs up the brilliant character writing, what more can I say? This is really interesting fiction and I happily recommend this book and the series.

Nesly Clerge is very much an author to watch. Oh yes indeed. It won't surprise me to see him hitting the best-seller charts at some point in his career and I am keenly supporting that process with interest. I cannot get enough of Frederick Starks, I mean I am happy to admit his bad boy appeal is pretty obvious. The ending of the book is outstanding and I am so excited and eager for the next instalment in this thrilling series. 5 stars for When The Dragon Roars - it's time you met Starks in person.

I received a copy of this book with many thanks from the author Nesly Clergy and was honoured to beta read it also.

Frederick Starks - I think I love you.



Thanks for reading my review! For more of my book reviews, plenty of awesome books to win, author interviews and features come over to join me for book fun at: https://www.facebook.com/BookloverCat...

To follow me on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/promotethatbook

To enquire about joining my reviewers team: http://goo.gl/forms/GWMOvlofZg

Finally to enquire about my book publicity services: http://goo.gl/forms/eVwa2HFKnK

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frederick Starks thought the only way to survive the fifteen years in the maximum security prison “Sands” was to take over control of the inmates. But to do that he had to ride roughshod through the other gangs already in place. He needed to be the one everyone respected, even feared – to that end he had himself tattooed with a dragon from wrist to shoulder; and he shaved his head completely. Starks looked different – so different those closest to him didn’t immediately recognise him. The old Starks was gone…

As Starks gradually got his crew together with the help of his cellmate Jackson, the old saying of “money talks” went a long way to assure things went in the direction he wanted. But not everything did - the violence continued, a lot of it being the fault of Starks’ volatile temper. His short fuse was known and the taunting from enemies always managed to fire him up.

The stress of maximum security hit everyone hard from the young to the seasoned – but Starks seemed to have more than his fair share. And when violent death and betrayal broadsided him, along with a terrible look into a bleak future, Starks was sure he couldn’t take any more. But - more was to come…

When the Dragon Roars by Nesly Clerge is the second in the Starks Trilogy and boy! did it pack a punch! How the author manages to make the reader feel sympathy for a man like Starks is beyond me, but that’s how I felt. The ending blew me away! I didn’t expect it and am looking forward to book 3 very much! Filled with fast-paced action, thrills and chills and a mess of twists, When the Dragon Roars is highly recommended. But please read When the Serpent Bites first…

With thanks to the author for this copy to read in exchange for my honest review.

[Nesly Clerge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm extremely grateful to all the folks who read, reviewed, and are still reviewing my book, When The Dragon Roars. The first book in the series, When The Serpent Bites, is performing extremely well on Amazon—thank you, goodreads fans, reviewers, authors, and bloggers!

5 STARS – Readers’ Favorite

If I hadn’t checked Nesly Clerge’s bio, I might have concluded that When The Dragon Roars was written by someone with a degree in psychology and criminal studies, or that the author was at least a therapist of some kind. But the brilliant Nesly Clerge has emerged from a science-based background to continue following his lifelong passion of writing with this second book in a trilogy about one Frederick Starks in When the Dragon Roars.

In the first book, When the Serpent Bites, the lifestyle of the super-wealthy Starks comes to a crashing end when he is sentenced to prison for 15 years to face a world that is no longer his oyster. Six months after his incarceration, the Starks we meet in When the Dragon Roars has attempted suicide twice, been sliced mercilessly and beaten into a coma by other inmates. Now recovered, he shaves his head and tattoos his body with a dragon, an exterior symbol of new resolve to survive the next 14 1/2 years, using the smarts he acquired as a businessman. What he learns as When the Dragon Roars unfolds is that it will take a lot more than his business acumen to battle the challenges of dangerous cons with murder on their minds, guards whose protection must be purchased, and friends whose loyalties are never guaranteed. But the biggest challenge of all is the one he least wants to face: that of being honest with himself and admitting that he too is responsible for all that has happened to him. To his surprise, it is the con men themselves that best help him recognize his faults.

When the Dragon Roars is an absolutely riveting read, full of surprising twists and turns and brilliant writing. The chapters are short; the dialogue realistic; the characters believable and the plot gripping. But, for me, it’s Frederick Starks’ reflections on human nature that are the most engaging. As eager as I was to turn each page to see what happens next, I found myself lost in thought along with Starks. While Starks reflects and analyses what he is learning about himself, I found myself doing the same about myself. I couldn’t help but think how much Starks is like me and possibly everyone else out there. How hard is it for any of us to face the truth about ourselves? The answer is obvious.

The one thing that did disconcert me was the last few lines at the end of the book. I turned the page only to realize the book had ended! What? I must have missed something. I re-read that last page and smiled. Of course! When the Dragon Roars is book 2 of a trilogy. I’m going to have to read the third and final book to see what Starks ultimately decided to do. Clever, Nesly Clerge ... very clever. I hope you don’t keep this reader waiting too long for Book 3 of The Starks Trilogy.
—Viga Boland


5 STARS Pacific Book Review

When The Dragon Roars is the middle book of a trilogy by author Nesly Clerge. The reader need not be familiar with the first novel to understand and appreciate this one. Some catching up with the previous storyline is necessary, but it’s more or less provided as things unfold in this second installment.

All of the action takes place within the walls of a maximum-security prison. The protagonist, Starks, is incarcerated for killing a man who had been his wife’s lover—one of many as it turns out. The killing was in self-defense, but a lie regarding the weapon has landed Starks in this hell on earth. While the aforementioned is necessary for the plot and placement, it’s really just the stripe in the middle of the road that Clerge takes you down in this psychologically intense thriller.

Clerge’s novel is first and foremost about survival. It certainly concerns itself with physical survival in an environment where every waking hour is consumed with potential danger from other inmates, but it’s also about surviving mentally and the choices that must be made to do so. As this book opens, Starks’ body is already marked with scars from earlier life-and-death encounters, but he chooses to make a further statement by shaving his head and having a huge dragon tattoo run from the back of his hand up the entirety of his arm. In so doing, he is proclaiming his emergence from the man he was on the outside, to the warrior he has become on the inside. He is also using his new look as a daily motivation. He knows that if he doesn’t rise to the top of the food chain in this jungle, he will most certainly be consumed by it

As the plot unspools, Starks uses courage and cunning to methodically put together his own crew. A crew formidable enough to withstand potential violence from other prison gangs. Simultaneously, he directs people and events outside the prison walls to do what he can to aid his children and keep his philandering wife from squandering everything he managed to build before his raging emotions landed him behind bars.

Clerge’s story explores the darkness that surrounds a man’s psyche when he’s forced to constantly juggle sensibility and savagery. Is it possible to maintain a degree of honor and humanity when deceit and depravity are his constant companions? Can he secure his life without losing his soul?

With tight, crisp prose and realistic dialogue, the author keeps the pace of his tome moving at highway speed. His characters are finely etched both physically and emotionally. Clerge knows the story he wants to tell, and he tells it in a way that is both involving and entertaining. Plus, in the best tradition of trilogies, he ties up most, but not all the loose ends—creating anticipation for the final installment.
—Joe Kilgore

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wealthy and successful businessman strikes out in rage and his wife’s lover is dead and Frederick Starks will spend the next fifteen years of his life in prison. A thinker, a man who likes to solve problems, a man used to being in control, Starks has found that the only way to stay alive is to gain power and respect among the hardened men he now lives with. A few “gifts” here, a few bribes there, fulfilled promises and a gang of his own give Starks a false sense of security.

Starks has remade himself after the last attack on his life, he no longer looks the part of the man he was, and he has become hard, edgy and manipulating. He also has vowed to stop prison bullies from taking advantage of the weak. But life isn’t always fair and power behind bars does not mean the rest of the world stops until he is released. His divorce is ongoing, his wife spending his money like its water, another man living in the home he paid for, and his children? He feels all he has done is for them, but even as a parent he knows he has failed the day he walked through the prison doors.

His friends on the outside are growing thin, lies, betrayals and heartbreaking revelations send him reeling into damage control mode, but is it too late? Who can he trust? What can he believe? But it is an event in prison that will bring the mighty Starks to his knees and the truth of who Frederick Starks really is comes slamming down like a freight train, leaving him a raw and bloody mass with no substance.

Nesly Clerge continues the story of Frederick Starks in When the Dragon Roars as this damaged man’s heavy armor is pierced and his heart is laid bare to the world as this anti-hero proves he is as human as any man with a heart that is bigger than he will let on. Mr. Clerge has given us characters that breathe, atmosphere that is desperate and many, many reasons to feel everything from joy to tears. Sometimes harsh, sometimes cold, every page is magnetic with intrigue. It takes a lot of talent to create so much turmoil and make it feel real. Nesly Clerge has that talent and it shines through brilliantly.

I received an ARC edition from Nesly Clerge in exchange for my honest review.

Trilogy: The Starks Trilogy - Book 2
Publisher: Clerge Books, LLC (October 10, 2016)
Publication Date: October 10, 2016
Genre: Crime | Thriller | Suspense
Print Length: 400 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[ReadAlongWithSue ★⋆. ࿐࿔catching up · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author has continued from book one to book 2 of this series with great gusto.
This has been a book I have longed to read after reading book 1 by this author who to my mind has great talent. Hes managed to keep me completely emerged within the pages and feel emotions about characters that became so real to me.

He breathes life into them.

We met Frederick in the first book, he likes very much to be in control of everything, hes a business man, father and husband.

His life behind bars could go two ways, but the only way for Frederick is to be powerful and gain control. No weakness shown.

We saw him gain power over his inmates from the last book, but only a little insight to what really happens within the next installment.

Will the mighty fall.....
I absolutely love this authors style and his first book was a hooker for my attention, this one has equaled it.

I was kindly given a copy of this book if I would like to read it for my pleasure.

[J. Kahele · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to come. I need a moment to gather myself together. Very intense book!

This book all I can say is….
I could honestly write a thesis of this book, but I will keep it simple.
This is the second book in the series and in the first book When the Serpent Bites which you can find here (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...). We are introduced to the character Starks. I didn’t like Starks at all I thought he was a narcissistic asshole, who allowed his jealousy and temper to rule his world and it put him where I felt he belonged in prison.
In the opening of this book, Starks is a changed man, prison life has made him hard and vengeful. He is out for retribution and is willing to get it at all costs. Again, I was shaking my head through the book wishing quite honestly that someone would put him in his place. But then the author did something that not only shocked me, but threw me for a loop. He revealed something I never thought I would see in Starks. His heart.

I was all over the place after that and saw that under that hard shell, arrogant demeanor was a man with a true heart.
Loved the book, love Nesly’s writing and look forward to reading more by this author in the future.

[Linda Strong · Rating 5 out of 5]

The last time we saw Frederick Starks (WHEN THE SERPENT BITES), he was being sent to prison for nearly beating to death his wife's lover. His sentence -- 15 years in maximum security.

He's lost just about everything ... his children, his lifestyle, success, and most of his wealth.

Thinking to gain a way to rise to the top again, he changes his appearance. He changes his way of walking the yard. He starts gathering his own followers. But is that going to be enough?

This book takes the reader behind prison walls where violence and savagery reign supreme. The guards can be bought for a small price. Loyalty is highly treasured. But loyalty may not mean loyalty forever.

And then comes the day that Starks finally confronts something he has forgotten ... the truth about himself.

This is such a well-written book! Although the second in this series, it does quite well as a stand-alone. I highly recommend reading WHEN THE SERPENT BITES first. The contrast between the before and after prison is strikingly compelling.

Starks himself is a complex man. He's not all bad, not all good. His choices in life define who he is. Behind bars those lines blur. The author has brought Starks to rip-roaring life. The secondary characters, from prison inmates and guards to friends and helpers on the outside are uniquely fleshed out.

Once the reader begins this part of Starks' journey, they won't want to put the book down until the very last shocking page.

Many thanks to the author who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest, unbiased review and his representative, Booklover Catlady Publicity.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

WHEN THE DRAGON ROARS by Nesly Clerge is his follow-up debut thriller to WHEN THE SERPENT BITES. I would suggest reading the books in sequence in this amazing trilogy.

In the first book, When the Serpent Bites, our protagonist, Frederick Starks life comes to a sudden halt when he is sentenced to 15 years in prison.

“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. “

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.

Now in WHEN THE DRAGON ROARS, we meet up with Starks six months after his incarceration, after he has attempted suicide twice, and has been beaten into a coma by other inmates. Now in order to survive, Stark shaves his head and tattoos his body with a dragon. But this is a far cry from being a successful business. Now he has to deal with dangerous cons and guards that have to be paid in order to provide him with protection, and friends that can never be trusted.

This is the story of CAUSE and EFFECT and the consequences of your actions.

Stark must come to terms with acceptance and responsibility of his past actions and recognise his mistakes. This is a man that is used to being in control…and the only way to stay alive is to achieve power and respect among the cons he now lives with.

The author has managed to outdo himself in this 2nd novel in the trilogy. I enjoyed this novel even more than his first. The drama is non-stop with twists and turns throughout, the short chapters crank up the suspense, with engaging characters and dialogue. Anxious to read the next novel in the trilogy.

I received a copy of this book from Booklover Catlady Publicity and the author in exchange for a fair and honest book review, many thanks.

“Think Before You Act”.

[Darinda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Frederick Starks is in prison serving a 15-year sentence in a maximum security prison. He is used to being in control, and he is determined to rise to the top of the inmate hierarchy.

The 2nd book in The Starks Trilogy. I recommend reading the first one (When the Serpent Bites) before this one. A lot happens in the first book that is helpful to know before reading the second one.

In the first book, Starks is faced with violence in prison, and that continues into the second book. He also faces some new revelations that impact his personal life.

Starks is still unlikable in this book, but he seems to be realizing that not everything is someone else's fault. That was my main complaint about Starks in the first book, so it was good to see that during his time in prison he had a chance to reflect on how his life had gone and his role in everything. Granted, he was not entirely at fault for some things, but he was completely responsible for his own actions.

I enjoyed the first one more than this one, but this was a good read and I plan on reading the final book in the trilogy.

[Petra · Rating 5 out of 5]

When The Dragon Roars is the follow-up to Nesly Clerge's debut thriller When the Serpent Bites which should ideally be read prior to this one. The books follow Frederick Starks, a wealthy businessman, who ended up in a maximum security prison following a fateful choice he made when he found out about his wife's affair. Having spent six months behind bars with plenty of physical and emotional scars to show for it, Stark has realized he needs to adopt a new identity if he is to survive 15 years in the place. A head shave and a dragon tattoo later, Starks is ready to employ his assets - his financial resources and business expertise - to his advantage.
I was slightly apprehensive whether a "prison book" would pull me in and hold my attention all the way, but there wasn't one dull moment while reading this. Last year, I criticized Nesly's debut because I felt it could have been more condensed, less repetitive. There is none of that this time round. The writing is taut and to-the-point, with realistic dialogue, and the plot moves along at a fast pace. Most of the books I've been reading lately have had multiple perspectives. I found it really refreshing to have a single third-person perspective here, which allowed me to focus on the main character. My feelings towards Starks remain ambivalent. He behaves like a complete jerk at times and I kept wanting to shout at him to start thinking before acting. But the guy just can't seem to get over his pride. Then again he has moments where he shows real compassion and understanding. But whatever you feel towards him, you can't help but admire his obvious business sense and ingenious plotting in his quest to rise to the top of the inmate hierarchy.
I initially thought I would miss the therapy sessions that were a big part of the first book, but then Stark got to know other inmates in this one and we have 'quasi-therapy' with a character Stark becomes closer with. Cleverly done by the author. All the old and new characters are really well drawn. Some I really loved though I probably shouldn't. (But Ethan was just brilliant!)
Others I hated for what they did. The twists and turns kept coming and the ending left me eager for the last part of this trilogy. After that, the movie would be great. 4.5 stars.
Many thanks to Nesly Clerge for providing me with an ARC.

[Lynn Mccarthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the dragon Roars is the second book I have read by Nesley Cole the first being When the Serpent Bites. When the Dragon Rors is the follow up to the first book.

WOW WOW WOW
I just loved this book I would say the first book was really good but this one is even better.
Starks is now in Sands Correctional Facility and is learning how to survive in there.Starks wants to be the top guy so he forms his own gang he shaves his head and gets a tattoo of a dragon on his arm.
This book would make a great movie as well I loved the character of Stark all his ups and downs in prison I was cheering him on all the way.
The ending was sad I felt sorry for Stark not going to say anymore about that you will have to read it to find out.

Well Nesley Cole you have done it again the book is superb your writing gets better and better I hope I don't have to wait to long for no 3.

Thank you for a copy of this book to review.

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Full disclosure:
This was a beta read for me, and the author kindly thanks me.

That being said...

If this is your genre, you should definitely be reading Nesly Clerge's Starks Trilogy.

The second installment finds Starks fully ensconced in his life as an inmate. He adopts the look; he's got guards on the payroll; and he's making moves to run the show. As a man accustomed to making things happen on the outside, he's not content to leave the course of his time inside to the whims of the system, or fate. It's scary how easily he gets in on the games being run. Clerge writes him in such a way that he's clearly a hardened man. I imagine that if a reader hadn't first read When the Serpent Bites, it would be difficult to root for Starks; he comes off as just a shade better than his fellow inmates on many occasions.

I fear for Starks at this point. The progress he made with his shrink is gone, and his new mentor isn't quite the kindly con we sometimes find in movies. Starks IS looking for some guidance. But I don't know that he has it on the inside. And if he keeps adapting himself to his environment, he won't be fit for life outside. Of course, the reader is hoping he finds himself free much sooner than the length of his 14-year sentence. But given the dfrastic actions he takes in the short amount of time covered in When the Dragon Roars, it might be too late for Starks to find balance, peace, and happiness when he gets out.

And that is, IF he gets out. There are more things conspiring to keep him inside forever than to earn him an early release, and Starks may turn out to be his own worst enemy. We'll just have to wait for the third book to find out what Clerge has in store for Starks next...

[Nile Princess · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. Review to follow.

[Tony Parsons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frederick Starks had thought he had lost it all; his best friend died, his CEO postion at Tendum Enterprises (engineering co.) went down the drain, & now the ex-wife Kayla who took everything else of value they owned; + their 3 children: Blake (13, son) Nathan (11, son) Kaitlin (7, daughter), he would probably never see for a while.
But to top it all off he been sentenced to 15 yrs. at the Sands Correctional Facility (Massachusetts maximum security prison), for trying to kill Kalya’s current lover Ozy.
Mike “Weasel” Lawson (former cellmate) had been killed.
Frederick (39, inmate) 1st. confrontation was with Boen “Big Bo” Jones (gang leader).
However, the Warden & guards couldn’t pin anything on him.

Hector Sanchez (aka The Razor, Los Hermanos prison gang leader) had wanted to shank him.
Ronald Jackson (AA) was his cellmate.
Looking back on his life Kayla had been banging Ozy Hessinger for 3 yrs.
CO Luke Roberts wanted to talk with Frederick.
CO Woodson, & 4 other guards escorted Frederick to the Investigative Council room.
Tony Spencer was the head investigator, John Bentley & James Kratz.
They were trying to pin the murders of Boen Jones & Mike Lawson on him.
He was no behind bars what could he do about Jeffrey Davis (business partner)?

Frederick called Michael Parker (attorney).
Frederick & Paco (older inmate) worked for Sam Carson (prison librarian) in the prison library.
Skullars Bailey (Jamaican, inmate) had been brutally stabbed because he was not going to be anybodys bootie. He was taken to Grace Hospital.
Ronald Jackson (cell mate) was supposed to be Frederick’s friend.
There were 4 other inmates who were part of Feared Brotherhood (prison gang, Crazy D’s crew).
They made sure Frederick (aka Dragon, Dragon Lord) got plenty of bruises/bumps.
CO Luke Roberts & CO Brandon Simmons came running to see what the prison compound yard confrontation was all about.
Dr. Troy was examining Frederick again.
Then he was on to the prison Segregated Housing Unit (SHU).
Skullars didn’t make it.

Ronald (kitchen detail) warned Frederick he was on Darren “Crazy D” Williams (inmate) list.
Tank, Stinky, Pete, & Tommy, Jackson (go-to-guy) were in Frederick’s gang.
Crazy D confronted Frederick & all hell broke loose out in the yard.
CO Simmons & CO Roberts peppered sprayed & broke up the inmates ruckus.
Tony Spencer put Fredrick (Type O) in the SHU for 5 days.
Crazy D was put in isolation.

Dr. Garrett Hall the new prison Dr. was very concerned about Frederick’s health conditions.
Hector & 2 of his boys Miguel & Antonio came to meet with Frederick & Jackson in D-Block cell.
Trevor Morgan (new inmate, aka minnow), & Kane Sandler (19, new inmate)
had now joined Frederick’s gang.
Jeffrey had brought Kaitlin & Blake to see their Daddy.
Kane was now Frederick’s cellmate. Jackson was moved in the cell next door.

IO Bently & IO Kratz brought Frederick to see Tony again.
Seems Crazy D is no longer a member of the prison population.
Come to find out Ethan Greene or maybe even Trevor could have taken him out.
Frederick got a very surprise visit from Margaret Hessinger (Ozy’s wife).
& then low/behold Kayla shows up.
Parker (Birnhaum, Bailey, & Todd attorney's at law) also came to see him.
Kane had been killed.

Gabriele “Gabe” Bianchi (inmate, former mob boss) had become Frederick’s confident. A very wise old man.

Survival of the fittest, that’s all I’m saying.

Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive to some readers.

I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.

A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. Wow, a very well written life-behind bars thriller book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a large set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great prison movie, or better yet a mini TV series. To be contuned. A very easy rating of 5 stars.

Thank you for the free Goodreads; Author; Clerge Books, LLC; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)

[Lorraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I see a third book on the horizon. The ending was not an ending but a beginning of the last chapter on Stark's journey.

I liked how this book continued from where the first book left off. I was relieved that Jeffrey didn't betray Starks. Starks needed people like Jeffrey in his corner to survive his incarceration. The plot was riddled with twists and turns, as all thrillers should, and "Life behind bars" was unveiled as it is. It takes a whole lot to survive prison. It helps when you have money.

Nesly didn't skimp on the gory details of everyday prison life. Prison is supposed to rehabilitate a person but I found it to be more violent, brutal and very harsh. It is bad enough that Starks was cut off from everything he knew. His life. His family. His children. THAT is hard enough to live through but fighting to survive one day at a time, is harder.

Nesly's account of prison life and the psychology behind it was so real. So believable it literally broke my heart. The introduction of Kane in Stark's story took the plot to another level. The man never catches a break!!!!! I loved Gabe and Stark's relationship. In our life's journey. we all need mentors irrespective of where we are at any given point. It is always comforting to know that there is someone older who has made him/herself available to you as a guide. Older people are more rational and non-judgemental because they've been there before you and are able to steer and guide your footsteps.

A very sad tale about how the decision we make at a spur of the moment can change our lives irrefutably.

I look forward to the end. The reason I am emphasizing the END is because Starks has been beaten, kicked in the shins and left bloodied by life, the only way for him is up. Like a phoenix, he MUST rise and fight. Fight his emotions. Fight to remain sane. Fight for his freedom. Fight to pry his mother's claws from his children. Fight to raise his kids and support them emotionally because life as they know it is about to change. Fight to mourn Kane. Fight to wholly accept Kyle.

It is true that prison changes a person. Because the environment is what it is, negative, violent, one truly begins to take stork of one's life. Living one day at a time, one begins to appreciate one's family and naturally will want to make amends because "Your life flashes right before your eyes" daily.

Nesly's delivery is smooth. The chapters short designed to keep you turning the pages. The diction so "street cred" with short sentences. In prison, as much as you are serving time. time is not something you have the luxury of. With a tight schedule, the prisoners have no time for lengthy conversations and are always in a hurry to the next thing of nothingness. Nesly kept the conversations short and to the point with a measure of hurriedness.

Highly recommended.

[Rajalakshmi Prithviraj · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I read the first book in this series, I was intrigued. There were a lot of questions that were left unanswered. So when I did get a chance to read this book, I did not let it go. And to be honest, I was not at all disappointed. This book is even better than the first one. I couldn't help but finish reading it in one sitting. It is unputdownable.

This story is about Starks but also about human struggles. In fact, the most difficult thing to come to terms with is the mistakes we make in our lives. This story is about Stark's journey inwards through introspection and self-realization.

Introspection is not easy, especially when you know that the fault is yours too. The process of acceptance, of understanding the truth, is a personal one. This has been so beautifully brought out in this story. Also, there is a limit to submission and being on the receiving end. Through Starks, the author has subtly hinted that there is a dragon within every person. The onus is on the individual to accept the presence of this dragon and give it the freedom to roar.

Nesly has a way with words. He can make you squirm and feel really uncomfortable with his writing. He will make you empathise yet feel happily sadistic, hate yet love the character of Starks. And the way he narrates this story, you will end up feeling that there a mental movie that is continuously going on in your mind. Lovely imageries that appeal to all senses (though they are all not very pleasant).

As stated earlier, this is Stark's story, yet there are many other characters. Each one has a role to play and that makes their presence vital to the plot. The emotions are raw yet realistic. The characters are as real as can be.

To sum up, if you do not have a weak heart and are ok with violence, then this book is meant for you. It is an awesome read because along with action there is a strong storyline that keeps you engrossed throughout. A definite must-read.

P.S - I chose to read this book based on the recommendations by Booklover Catlady Publicity and the review is an unbiased opinion. The Dragon Roared after the Serpent Bit. What next???

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the Dragon Roars, is the much-anticipated sequel to When the Serpent Bites. It does not disappoint!! After learning about a shocking betrayal, Starks alters his appearance to serve as a physical reminder (to himself and others) that his “game-plan” had changed, He wanted to put the other inmates on notice. “This place needed a major shake-up. It needed to be restructured, at least as far as inmate hierarchy went, and he was the man to do it. Beyond these walls was his former empire; what existed inside them was about to become his kingdom (loc. 183 Kindle).” Starks emerges from the dust with razor sharp focus. His savvy business sense comes through as he plans the ultimate “take-over” within the concrete walls.

Once again, the second book in the series is a strong character-driven novel. It is easy to understand the qualities that made Starks successful in the outside world but he soon realizes that the same rules don’t always apply. The stakes are higher and nothing is guaranteed. While reading, the level of suspense was high as I eagerly anticipated what the outcome would be to each decision that Stark made. I felt like I was on a roller coaster ride without a seatbelt!

Starks finds an unlikely mentor who isn’t afraid to tell him the truth. He also receives advice and warnings from others inside the prison including his crew. He must decipher what advice to heed and what information could be deadly. Nothing is ever cut and dried in prison and Starks must navigate all of the complex issues of prison culture. One message of this book stands out clearly: Prison changes a person and shows the world what you are really made of. Being stripped down to nothing (both literally and figuratively) exposes strengths, weaknesses, attributes, faults and all of the complexities that make up human nature. I’ve enjoyed watching the metamorphosis of Frederick Starks. I would highly recommend this book!! Many thanks to Nesly Clerge for providing me with an ARC!!

[C.p. Bialois · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the pleasure to read the first book, which left me waiting to see the outcome of Starks’ revelation. I have to admit, I loved his physical transformation. It was the perfect way to symbolize to the reader as well as Starks’ fellow inmates that something traumatic had happened. It was refreshing to see something so drastic happen instead of a dozen pages explaining his change through attitude shifts and so on.

With his physical change, Starks is also forced to further deal with his personal demons. One of which was heartbreaking, but it set up the third book perfectly. We get to see him stubbornly grow while dealing with various levels of depression, embarrassment, and anger. Every time he seemed to make progress, something major would happen to derail his plans, forcing him to adapt. In doing this, the author did a phenomenal job of taking me out of my comfort zone as I didn’t know what to expect from chapter to chapter. He even fooled me at one part, getting me to buy in, and that’s not an easy thing to do.

With the characters so well thought out, it’s no wonder the description was perfect. With each turning page, I could feel and smell Starks’ environment. I even got hungry for some packaged sandwiches and sweet rolls. Lol

The biggest difference between this and the previous book, in my opinion, was it didn’t focus as much on claustrophobia and isolation as much. It did, however, take the isolation mentality in an entirely different direction, and that only enhanced the story. Instead, the scope of the story revolved around Starks’ internalizing issues while dealing with the enormity of rising within the prison’s hierarchy. It was a cool balancing act that served the story well.

As with this book, I will impatiently wait for the third installment. If you love prison dramas/thrillers, this is the perfect series for you.

[Kimberlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another hardcore awesome addition to the Starks trilogy.

This book kept me awake way past my bedtime multiple nights, it must have been glued to my hands because it was impossible to put down.

I started When The Dragon Roars with a sense of excitement, I couldn't wait to find out how the shocking revelation at the end of When The Serpent Bites was going to change things. This is a continuation of a story about a man trying to survive in a maximum security prison while dealing with violence, betrayal of the worst kind, gangs, a masochistic doctor, corrupt guards, and attempts on his life.

Starks is a new man. He long ago stopped taking any shit, but now he's letting everyone know it ... except just as quickly as everything has fallen into place it all starts to fall apart. Once things start going bad the hits just keep coming from every direction. He's busy picking up the pieces and working to get to the top when he gets devastating news. The book ends with a bang, a mind blowing twist I didn't see coming.

The realistic setting, the many layered characters, the nonstop action, and the shocking twists and turns make for a hell of a ride.

If these books are ever made into movies I will be the first one in line to buy tickets. I just can't get enough of this story, now having to wait for the third book is going to be torture. If you can't decide if you want to read the Starks Trilogy or not, I promise you, YOU DO!

I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Misfits farm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Starks is incarcerated for his crimes which he is now beginning to think differently about. Due to his former standing and mostly wealth he can command respect with some of the prisoners and soon gets his own group. Whilst inside various incidents happen some of which hark back to his time outside. He also gets to reflect on his life and priorities and at times surprises himself especially when he sees how out of control he is getting. This in number 2 in a series and I think would be too confusing if you hadn’t read the first one to know Stark’s past. A well written gritty novel that pulls no punches (although there are quite a few thrown in the first few chapters!). Set totally in a prison there are some harsh scenes of what goes on behind closed doors. There are some wise words on the philosophy of life along the way. Although not totally my kind of read this is very well written and is more about a person and their realisation of life than a story of life behind bars.
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased

[Dee Cherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the second part of this trilogy, I found Starks to be a more intriguing character. While bombarded with all types of news, there were instances it seemed Starks might lose control. I felt a great job was shown displaying his emotions. Storyline remained on point as his & some of Kayla's actions continued to haunt him. Changes in his appearance and friendship testing made this book quite interesting as he tried to hold it together behind the walls. The addition of new characters enhanced the story as I found myself rapidly reading to see what would happen next. I felt the title represented the content. Very well written & another enjoyable read that I highly recommend to all!
An electronic copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.

[Lesley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Please be aware, if i review a book at all, it's to help me remember what I thought and let my actual friends know my opinion. Sorry, no plot summaries from me.

I liked this a bit less than the first books bc honestly how much drama can you throw at one character?? Mid-way I was frustrated with Starks as being too pigheaded and stubborn to be a nuanced character. Plus, the guy literally lives through every conceivable tragedy - it's over the top. By the end, Starks is finally changing and shows a shadow of promise for book three. I'm invested enough to read the final book but I hope there is less of an As Prison Turns feel bc it's getting on my nerves.

(Swear to God, I'll give it one star if the final book ends with his whole family reconciling and living happily ever after, scars, tattoos and all.)

[Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

When The Dragon Roars is a such a great read: It's relentless, it's fun, it's twisty, it's turny, it's prisony, and it's utterly uncompromising; Nesly continues to torment his characters, flinging every piece of bad news, bad luck and bad karma at them in any way he can. You can almost imagine him chuckling away to himself at his computer as he thinks up some new personal tragedy to befall our anti-hero and his chums. As it's a prison drama some of it is predictable, there's only so many ways this type of story can be told I guess, but he does it with such style and confidence it really doesn't matter. Nesly's ear for dialogue and his descriptions of prison life really immerse you into his world. I loved it and I can wait to see how it all finishes in the final book When The Phoenix Rises.

 

[Steve · Rating 3 out of 5]

Forced, Terrible Actions on a Daily Basis

This 2nd book of the Starks Trilogy mostly describes prison life.
It is not necessarily accurate, but is probably a good approximation (or compilation of several different prison environments). Truthfully, this book contains accounts of multiple deaths, gangs that run wild, inmates who buy and own prison guards, prisoners who have daily access to HUGE purchases from their Commissary [ie: no restrictions on quantities or amount of money spent] ... The Reader needs to determine how much of this they are willing to believe can or does occur.

[David Z Hirsch · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Ultimate betrayal changes a person...”

Starks is back and he is a changed man. Raw and ruthless, Starks intends to run the prison and run down anyone who gets in his way. But will his rage be is undoing or can he find redemption before it is too late?

Nesly Clerge is in top form with another wild page-turner of a novel. Once again, he blends gritty realism and thoughtful human psychology to create a complex plot and vivid characters. And now…on to The Phoenix!

[Jeanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! I thoroughly enjoyed the first book and immediately began this book. I couldn't wait to get to the last book and found that it hasn't been released yet!!! Bummer. Oh well, I an anxiously waiting for that day to come.

[Bernard Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping prison drama with a heavy emotional bomb as a twist. An upgrade to When the Serpent Bites (The Starks Trilogy Book 1). Highly recommend it.

I have received a review copy from the author at no cost and with no obligations toward the author.

[Matthew · Rating 4 out of 5]

A worthy continuation of this series. The life in prison, scheming and anti-heroic behavior continued. I would like to read the conclusion to this trilogy.

[Rea · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series is so gritty and surprising! I am loving the Dragon even more as each book goes by.

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book

This second installment is just as good as they first. I had a hard time putting it down. I can’t wait to see what happens next.