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The Bound Subject #1
Conflicted
Are monsters born? Or are they created?
Gabriel Valentino is certain of one thing—he wants Caleb Matthews. He asks for so little. But when Caleb refuses an offer that could change his future, Gabriel’s patience wears thin. Unaccustomed to rejection and incensed at Caleb’s disobedience, he takes the matter into his own hands.
Everything in life has a price. For Caleb the price of rejection is his freedom.
Imprisoned and alone with only his alluring captor for company, Caleb wants desperately to escape. But breaking free isn’t so simple. Awakened to a pleasure he’s never known, Caleb feels lost—conflicted. Can he escape? Or will the bonds of pleasure prove stronger than any lock and key?
Gabriel Valentino is certain of one thing—he wants Caleb Matthews. He asks for so little. But when Caleb refuses an offer that could change his future, Gabriel’s patience wears thin. Unaccustomed to rejection and incensed at Caleb’s disobedience, he takes the matter into his own hands.
Everything in life has a price. For Caleb the price of rejection is his freedom.
Imprisoned and alone with only his alluring captor for company, Caleb wants desperately to escape. But breaking free isn’t so simple. Awakened to a pleasure he’s never known, Caleb feels lost—conflicted. Can he escape? Or will the bonds of pleasure prove stronger than any lock and key?
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 28, 2017
About the author
Katze Snow
9 books241 followersAfter leaving school and renting a crummy flat at sixteen, bestselling author Katze Snow lives in Scotland with her wolf-dog and furbabies. Don't be fooled by how cute she looks out on the outside. Katze's writing is dark, twisted, and takes depravity to a whole new level.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
November 5, 2018
Ok after so much thought and seeking advice from friends (Thank you so much). And finding my original review. (Thanks Corrine and Google for the cache system) And now that GR insist that my review was “accidentally removed” from my books, Like for real? FOR REAL ok!
This has happened before!. It is the reason i found out there is something like Google Cache.
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Anyhoo. I need to let this shit go and the only way is to stand by my review. I feel censored, I bought the book with my OWN MONEY, it was not free. I spent MY TIME reading the book. And MY review is based on how I felt about the book. Not a reflection of the author at all and It should reflect on my shelf and my 2018 reading challenge.
I just realized after reading Suspicious Behavior that I can’t even bring myself to write a proper review for the book I LOVED, I usually go on a gushing spree for the books I loved, clearly this shit affected me. And to let it go and move on I need to see that a book I bought with my own money and read on my shelf. I can’t keep checking if it is back.
I read this book, and was really excited to read another dark book after reading the Flesh Cartel series. Unfortunately it did not deliver. It is a case of IT is ME not the BOOK.
When I started reading it, I couldn’t help but notice the similarities between the Plot for the FC series and this one. Where the Flesh Cartel series excelled in writing and execution this one did not deliver. There was a story but the delivery did not wow me.
I wanted to connect with the characters but I just couldn’t. When I read a dark book, I want to connect with the Villains but here Gabriel did nothing for me. I was not able to connect with Caleb’s character too.
Like I said in my Original review, if you have read the Flesh Cartel series you will notice the similarities, or not, It is ME! Other reviews also pointed that out. That is ok! I am in no way accusing the Author of plagiarism. I wrote the review in October and forgot about it, didn't even have the word plagiarism in my mind when i wrote it. I understand my wording would have been different, so as not to be misinterpreted, but English is not my first language, i should have known that wording makes a difference. I think in my language and put it down. The issue should have been handled differently. It is just that this book did not work out for ME! It clearly worked out for others.
I am lowering my rating to 1 star.
Note to self: Never go on FB after GR drama you will lose your mind for nothing.
I am leaving the Original review as it was, not editing anything.
**********************************************
That was that!!
I just couldn't do it and decided to take Moony and Xia's advice and let it goooooooo!
Time of death 60%
This one did not work for me at all;
- I could not connect with the characters.
- As the book progressed i realised, i have already read this story, because the plot is basically the plot for the The Flesh Cartel series. Where the Flesh Cartel excels in writing and character development this one fails. The story was there, the execution sucked!
- When i read a book like this one, i want to connect with the bad guy. I want to hug him and strangle him at the same time. Here Gabriel did nothing for me, he was just flat. Caleb was even worse, he was annoying. Also the high that i usually feel when reading a dark book was missing and that is also a deciding factor for me.
- Anyhoo don't mind me it is a case of, it is me not the book. But if you have read the The Flesh Cartel series , i am sure you will not miss the similarities. Also i believe this book and Dark Silence are the same, which is also basically the plot of the Flesh Cartel series. Maybe that was the inspiration.
I am rating the 60% 1.5 stars.
Edited to add: I thought maybe i was being unfair comparing the two books so i went on a cruise of other reviews and found out i was not the only one. Jamie's review points it out. Apparently Conflicted is the re-released version of Dark Silence.
This has happened before!. It is the reason i found out there is something like Google Cache.
https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Anyhoo. I need to let this shit go and the only way is to stand by my review. I feel censored, I bought the book with my OWN MONEY, it was not free. I spent MY TIME reading the book. And MY review is based on how I felt about the book. Not a reflection of the author at all and It should reflect on my shelf and my 2018 reading challenge.
I just realized after reading Suspicious Behavior that I can’t even bring myself to write a proper review for the book I LOVED, I usually go on a gushing spree for the books I loved, clearly this shit affected me. And to let it go and move on I need to see that a book I bought with my own money and read on my shelf. I can’t keep checking if it is back.
I read this book, and was really excited to read another dark book after reading the Flesh Cartel series. Unfortunately it did not deliver. It is a case of IT is ME not the BOOK.
When I started reading it, I couldn’t help but notice the similarities between the Plot for the FC series and this one. Where the Flesh Cartel series excelled in writing and execution this one did not deliver. There was a story but the delivery did not wow me.
I wanted to connect with the characters but I just couldn’t. When I read a dark book, I want to connect with the Villains but here Gabriel did nothing for me. I was not able to connect with Caleb’s character too.
Like I said in my Original review, if you have read the Flesh Cartel series you will notice the similarities, or not, It is ME! Other reviews also pointed that out. That is ok! I am in no way accusing the Author of plagiarism. I wrote the review in October and forgot about it, didn't even have the word plagiarism in my mind when i wrote it. I understand my wording would have been different, so as not to be misinterpreted, but English is not my first language, i should have known that wording makes a difference. I think in my language and put it down. The issue should have been handled differently. It is just that this book did not work out for ME! It clearly worked out for others.
I am lowering my rating to 1 star.
Note to self: Never go on FB after GR drama you will lose your mind for nothing.
I am leaving the Original review as it was, not editing anything.
**********************************************
That was that!!
I just couldn't do it and decided to take Moony and Xia's advice and let it goooooooo!
Time of death 60%
This one did not work for me at all;
- I could not connect with the characters.
- As the book progressed i realised, i have already read this story, because the plot is basically the plot for the The Flesh Cartel series. Where the Flesh Cartel excels in writing and character development this one fails. The story was there, the execution sucked!
- When i read a book like this one, i want to connect with the bad guy. I want to hug him and strangle him at the same time. Here Gabriel did nothing for me, he was just flat. Caleb was even worse, he was annoying. Also the high that i usually feel when reading a dark book was missing and that is also a deciding factor for me.
- Anyhoo don't mind me it is a case of, it is me not the book. But if you have read the The Flesh Cartel series , i am sure you will not miss the similarities. Also i believe this book and Dark Silence are the same, which is also basically the plot of the Flesh Cartel series. Maybe that was the inspiration.
I am rating the 60% 1.5 stars.
Edited to add: I thought maybe i was being unfair comparing the two books so i went on a cruise of other reviews and found out i was not the only one. Jamie's review points it out. Apparently Conflicted is the re-released version of Dark Silence.
June 2, 2018
Trigger warnings: Rape, Non-con/dub-con, Abuse, Extreme torture, Mind fuck, Childhood trauma, Long-term abuse, Capture
If any of this are triggers for you, simply avoid the book. 😌
This is a very VERY difficult review to write because I simply don’t have an idea what to say. 😁 This is the kind of story which you have to actually read yourself in order to feel it or understand it. First of all, this is my very first Katze Snow story and let’s just say I was very impressed. 😊 It truly is unique and very different even among the dark, twisted horror genre books. I thoroughly enjoyed it. That being said, the last 10% of the story was a real let-down for me. 😭 Until 90% of the story, this was at least a 4.5 stars read for me because it simply was just so good.
Gabriel is a monster but he was a monster created in a lab. Being broken and remade and reshaped uncountable times by his creator, his father and the master, all Gabriel knows in his life is to live and obey his father. And by obeying, it means that he has to live as a monster who preys on the innocents and breaks them as his father once did to him. Until, he met Caleb, a 21 years old American boy who has green eyes and a sweet shy smile. The plan was to capture Caleb, break him and make him reborn as his and his alone. It was not in the plan that Gabriel fell for the guy. Meanwhile, Caleb was ecstatic when he got an invitation letter to the world renowned gaming convention that will hold in Scotland. And to top that, a scholarship offer to the world’s prestigious Royale University? This just seems too good to be true. 😁 But he’d be a fool to look a gift horse in the mouth. Or not looking did indeed make him a fool? 😬
I loved the 90% of the story. It was very thoughtfully and beautifully written, albeit very gruesomely and savagely. This book is not for the feint of heart if that’s the question you were going to ask me. Anyhow, despite being really dark, really twisted and really REALLY fucked-up, I liked it because the author was able to portray the budding emotional relationship between Gabriel the monster and Caleb the prey. 😌 But as I said in the very beginning of this book, the last 10% of the book was very VERY rushed. I hoped it would have stopped at 90% mark. The plot twist was just out of the blue sudden and unthoughtful and unnecessary. It was cut short really abruptly without any logical explanation. I mean I get it and I still don’t get it at the same time. 😁 Sorry, if this review is confusing you but that’s how I really feel. In summary, we need to start a petition to Katze ASAP to write a sequel of this book because I now need a closure. 😌 A HEA or a tragedy, simply doesn’t matter, I just need a closure. 🙂 That being said, if you are looking to read an-out-of-the-box challenging book that’s very dark and twisted and brutal, by all means, give this a try. You won’t be disappointed. I’m looking forward to read more books of Katze Snow and again girl, I need a sequel or I promise I’m going to stalk you to death. 😂
Favorite excerpts from the novel: 💙
They called it inhumane. Cruel. Barbaric. Genius. Professor Gabriel Valentino was either admired or feared for his research.
The professor merely brought out a side of Caleb that he’d long suppressed. Lust. Longing. Desire.
When Gabriel Valentino looked at you, it wasn’t just a glance—it was a firm, calculating stare that ripped you of everything and left you naked and shivering.
Boiled rice, chicken, and a glass of water. Just like always. His stomach churned at the thought of eating. But the most frightening thing of all? He no longer felt the desire to eat. He tasted nothing.
He belonged to Gabriel, and he would pound that into the boy’s skull until he fully accepted that. After all, Gabriel would never accept anything less.
The Primitive was similar to a mother bonding with her child after birth. Or in Gabriel’s case, an owner bonding with his pet.
“Submit. Yielding to me will soon be all you can think about.”
For a researcher to desire his subject like this? It was categorically unheard of. Forbidden. And Gabriel couldn’t stop himself.
Age was irrelevant to a system that sold your soul to the devil.
You’re cleansed of every human weakness. Of the pain and sadness, of the instability and isolation, and the constant fear of being alone or suppressed by society. Everything that makes you you will be stored someplace else, and a better, stronger person will be born. That is what my father’s malleability theory is all about. Adaptability. Reprogramming. Rebirth.
“You are never to defy me again. Never question or go against my orders. To your last breath, you are my creation—an object which I control and can annihilate at any second. Am I perfectly understood?” “Yes, Father.”
“You’re mine now, boy,” Gabriel murmured, biting the side of his neck. “And I’ll kill anyone who tries to take you from me.”
“In time, you will love me, Caleb. And it will be all you can think about.” The most terrifying thing of all? Part of Caleb actually wanted that. He wanted Gabriel Valentino.
3.5 even monsters deserve some happiness and hope in life stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Disclaimer: An ARC of this book was provided by the author Katze Snow in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. 😌
If any of this are triggers for you, simply avoid the book. 😌
This is a very VERY difficult review to write because I simply don’t have an idea what to say. 😁 This is the kind of story which you have to actually read yourself in order to feel it or understand it. First of all, this is my very first Katze Snow story and let’s just say I was very impressed. 😊 It truly is unique and very different even among the dark, twisted horror genre books. I thoroughly enjoyed it. That being said, the last 10% of the story was a real let-down for me. 😭 Until 90% of the story, this was at least a 4.5 stars read for me because it simply was just so good.
Gabriel is a monster but he was a monster created in a lab. Being broken and remade and reshaped uncountable times by his creator, his father and the master, all Gabriel knows in his life is to live and obey his father. And by obeying, it means that he has to live as a monster who preys on the innocents and breaks them as his father once did to him. Until, he met Caleb, a 21 years old American boy who has green eyes and a sweet shy smile. The plan was to capture Caleb, break him and make him reborn as his and his alone. It was not in the plan that Gabriel fell for the guy. Meanwhile, Caleb was ecstatic when he got an invitation letter to the world renowned gaming convention that will hold in Scotland. And to top that, a scholarship offer to the world’s prestigious Royale University? This just seems too good to be true. 😁 But he’d be a fool to look a gift horse in the mouth. Or not looking did indeed make him a fool? 😬
I loved the 90% of the story. It was very thoughtfully and beautifully written, albeit very gruesomely and savagely. This book is not for the feint of heart if that’s the question you were going to ask me. Anyhow, despite being really dark, really twisted and really REALLY fucked-up, I liked it because the author was able to portray the budding emotional relationship between Gabriel the monster and Caleb the prey. 😌 But as I said in the very beginning of this book, the last 10% of the book was very VERY rushed. I hoped it would have stopped at 90% mark. The plot twist was just out of the blue sudden and unthoughtful and unnecessary. It was cut short really abruptly without any logical explanation. I mean I get it and I still don’t get it at the same time. 😁 Sorry, if this review is confusing you but that’s how I really feel. In summary, we need to start a petition to Katze ASAP to write a sequel of this book because I now need a closure. 😌 A HEA or a tragedy, simply doesn’t matter, I just need a closure. 🙂 That being said, if you are looking to read an-out-of-the-box challenging book that’s very dark and twisted and brutal, by all means, give this a try. You won’t be disappointed. I’m looking forward to read more books of Katze Snow and again girl, I need a sequel or I promise I’m going to stalk you to death. 😂
Favorite excerpts from the novel: 💙
They called it inhumane. Cruel. Barbaric. Genius. Professor Gabriel Valentino was either admired or feared for his research.
The professor merely brought out a side of Caleb that he’d long suppressed. Lust. Longing. Desire.
When Gabriel Valentino looked at you, it wasn’t just a glance—it was a firm, calculating stare that ripped you of everything and left you naked and shivering.
Boiled rice, chicken, and a glass of water. Just like always. His stomach churned at the thought of eating. But the most frightening thing of all? He no longer felt the desire to eat. He tasted nothing.
He belonged to Gabriel, and he would pound that into the boy’s skull until he fully accepted that. After all, Gabriel would never accept anything less.
The Primitive was similar to a mother bonding with her child after birth. Or in Gabriel’s case, an owner bonding with his pet.
“Submit. Yielding to me will soon be all you can think about.”
For a researcher to desire his subject like this? It was categorically unheard of. Forbidden. And Gabriel couldn’t stop himself.
Age was irrelevant to a system that sold your soul to the devil.
You’re cleansed of every human weakness. Of the pain and sadness, of the instability and isolation, and the constant fear of being alone or suppressed by society. Everything that makes you you will be stored someplace else, and a better, stronger person will be born. That is what my father’s malleability theory is all about. Adaptability. Reprogramming. Rebirth.
“You are never to defy me again. Never question or go against my orders. To your last breath, you are my creation—an object which I control and can annihilate at any second. Am I perfectly understood?” “Yes, Father.”
“You’re mine now, boy,” Gabriel murmured, biting the side of his neck. “And I’ll kill anyone who tries to take you from me.”
“In time, you will love me, Caleb. And it will be all you can think about.” The most terrifying thing of all? Part of Caleb actually wanted that. He wanted Gabriel Valentino.
3.5 even monsters deserve some happiness and hope in life stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Disclaimer: An ARC of this book was provided by the author Katze Snow in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. 😌
Read
June 27, 2018Review and rating removed. (But long story short, I don't recommend the book.)
Did Not Finish
July 14, 2017I am sorry but NO. You cannot copy a masterpiece and expect us to read it.
I was excited to see a Dark book released...I should have known better. So disappointing to say the least. If you have read The Flesh Cartel #1: Capture you will immediately see the similarities. I couldn't get past 15% ... and that's all I am going to say.
I was excited to see a Dark book released...I should have known better. So disappointing to say the least. If you have read The Flesh Cartel #1: Capture you will immediately see the similarities. I couldn't get past 15% ... and that's all I am going to say.
May 27, 2018
4.5 stars Ghaawd I’m just as conflicted as the title says. First to say, I loved this read, second.. I wanted it even to be more dark.
The concept is good! The intensity with ups and downs. Dark and raw.... only...I was waiting for something and I must confess I’m not sure for what.
Caleb's life turns into hell after he is kidnapped by Gabriel. We can witness how Gabriel wants to own Caleb and which recourses and measures he will use to reach his goal.
At one point when there was an uninvited visitor at Gabriel’s home and what happened after... that was amazingly done really a master work.. it came nearby that particular point I was waiting for....
Wonderful written, sometimes overwhelming harsh and unpredictable!
I did read it in one breath and when I was finished... I wasn’t satisfied... I can’t help it. There are so many things I wanted to know... but hey that’s why it’s a dark read!
I love some good dark and painful read and this was one of them!
Kindly received an arc from the author
The concept is good! The intensity with ups and downs. Dark and raw.... only...I was waiting for something and I must confess I’m not sure for what.
Caleb's life turns into hell after he is kidnapped by Gabriel. We can witness how Gabriel wants to own Caleb and which recourses and measures he will use to reach his goal.
At one point when there was an uninvited visitor at Gabriel’s home and what happened after... that was amazingly done really a master work.. it came nearby that particular point I was waiting for....
Wonderful written, sometimes overwhelming harsh and unpredictable!
I did read it in one breath and when I was finished... I wasn’t satisfied... I can’t help it. There are so many things I wanted to know... but hey that’s why it’s a dark read!
I love some good dark and painful read and this was one of them!
Kindly received an arc from the author
Read
August 13, 2018Same exact book as Dark Silence !!!!!!!!!!
I feel cheated. 😡
Only thing that's changed is character names and possibly Gabriel's history compared to Claude's in Dark Silence... although, I wouldn't know as I didn't get that far.
Dnf 17%
I feel cheated. 😡
Only thing that's changed is character names and possibly Gabriel's history compared to Claude's in Dark Silence... although, I wouldn't know as I didn't get that far.
Dnf 17%
December 6, 2018
1,5 actually
I love dark books and especially MM dark books. This one is pitch black. Which is my thing, but here it didn't work for me.
After all the madness and all the horrors, I still want a satisfying ending, and here I really didn't like the ending. I wanted much much more than what we got.
I love dark books and especially MM dark books. This one is pitch black. Which is my thing, but here it didn't work for me.
After all the madness and all the horrors, I still want a satisfying ending, and here I really didn't like the ending. I wanted much much more than what we got.
June 16, 2018
So this is a tough one to review - the concept was dark, extremely dark and while Gabriel was one twisted cold motherfucker there was an inch of light. Caleb was sadly the victim and his story was not so great. The ending really got me however and I would love to see a real conclusion. I have a feeling that even after freedom Caleb may go back to Gabriel...this is not a book for the feint of heart.
Did Not Finish
May 29, 2018DNF at 53%.
I'm soooorry! I can't finish it! Physical and psychological torture, on top of rape and humiliation is a bit too much for me, apparently. ;/
It's a really great book though, if you guys want something dark, dark, dark and demented.
Why poor Caleb is so naive, that's a mystery.
I'm soooorry! I can't finish it! Physical and psychological torture, on top of rape and humiliation is a bit too much for me, apparently. ;/
It's a really great book though, if you guys want something dark, dark, dark and demented.
Why poor Caleb is so naive, that's a mystery.
October 12, 2021
I'm stunned that so many of my dark romance loving friends didn't like this one!?! Wow, I thought it was great.
You've got to take the voyage the whole way through though - no skipping out early or you miss Caleb's journey in its entirety. Not to mention the explanations of everything that contributed to Gabriel's mental make-up. I thought it unravels brilliantly, and works the whole way through.
Hard to review it without spoilers, but fans of dark non-con erotica, trust me... I definitely think you'll enjoy Conflicted.
Audiobook lovers, go for the audio version, Tim Moore's performance is spectacular!
You've got to take the voyage the whole way through though - no skipping out early or you miss Caleb's journey in its entirety. Not to mention the explanations of everything that contributed to Gabriel's mental make-up. I thought it unravels brilliantly, and works the whole way through.
Hard to review it without spoilers, but fans of dark non-con erotica, trust me... I definitely think you'll enjoy Conflicted.
Audiobook lovers, go for the audio version, Tim Moore's performance is spectacular!
June 29, 2017
*This review may contain spoilers*
Yeah, the book is amazeballs, and no I have no idea if I am team Claude or team Tristan cause I was rooting for them both. The book is dark I won't lie I loved every minute of it. I was glued to my kindle reading as fast as I could to find out what was going to happen next and I read into the early morning to finish it. Katze Snow has out did herself with this book, and I hope that she will continue to write them. I loved the addition of Claude’s backstory about him and Benjamin. I loved being able to feel their pain, and I won’t lie, I may have teared up in the scene when Claude’s dad whipped Benjamin. However, it was equal parts the pain and pleading that Benjamin was doing and also how Claude was reacting by having to watch what was happening without being able to stop it or even have his father hear him pounding on the glass mirror. I got to the end of the book, and I was just like NO it’s over, but it can’t just end like that… So I loved the epilog and how it was two years later. I am so excited that you are going to be doing another book cause I can’t wait to see Tristan’s reaction to seeing Claude in Montana and what Tristan has gone through in the two years that he has been gone. How Jace and Connie reacted to his story about what happened and how long it took him to get back to some semblance of normalcy. Moreover, whether Claude has learned anything from his experience and how he broke Tristan the last time and whether he does anything differently. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Yeah, the book is amazeballs, and no I have no idea if I am team Claude or team Tristan cause I was rooting for them both. The book is dark I won't lie I loved every minute of it. I was glued to my kindle reading as fast as I could to find out what was going to happen next and I read into the early morning to finish it. Katze Snow has out did herself with this book, and I hope that she will continue to write them. I loved the addition of Claude’s backstory about him and Benjamin. I loved being able to feel their pain, and I won’t lie, I may have teared up in the scene when Claude’s dad whipped Benjamin. However, it was equal parts the pain and pleading that Benjamin was doing and also how Claude was reacting by having to watch what was happening without being able to stop it or even have his father hear him pounding on the glass mirror. I got to the end of the book, and I was just like NO it’s over, but it can’t just end like that… So I loved the epilog and how it was two years later. I am so excited that you are going to be doing another book cause I can’t wait to see Tristan’s reaction to seeing Claude in Montana and what Tristan has gone through in the two years that he has been gone. How Jace and Connie reacted to his story about what happened and how long it took him to get back to some semblance of normalcy. Moreover, whether Claude has learned anything from his experience and how he broke Tristan the last time and whether he does anything differently. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Did Not Finish
October 3, 2018Annoyed. DNF at 45%.
*No Rating*
*No Rating*
May 27, 2018
**4 stars**
The title is appropriate. Conflicted, torn.... that’s how I felt while reading this.
Ms. Snow has us get to know Caleb; an introvert with low self esteem. A perfect person to be selected and “molded” into a personal slave.
Enter Valentino. Antagonist of the most horrific kind. As we learn to hate him, we begin to understand him. We, the readers, are taken on a similar journey as Caleb. Love/hate/empathy/sorrow. Ugh. The gambit of emotions we go through.
This is not a romance. It ends on a cliffhanger. Multiple trigger warnings.... nail biting read. Let’s encourage Ms. Snow for book 2!!!!!
**Copy received in exchange for an honest review.**
The title is appropriate. Conflicted, torn.... that’s how I felt while reading this.
Ms. Snow has us get to know Caleb; an introvert with low self esteem. A perfect person to be selected and “molded” into a personal slave.
Enter Valentino. Antagonist of the most horrific kind. As we learn to hate him, we begin to understand him. We, the readers, are taken on a similar journey as Caleb. Love/hate/empathy/sorrow. Ugh. The gambit of emotions we go through.
This is not a romance. It ends on a cliffhanger. Multiple trigger warnings.... nail biting read. Let’s encourage Ms. Snow for book 2!!!!!
**Copy received in exchange for an honest review.**
July 4, 2017
This is a new author to me and after reading this deliciously dark book it confirms that the time I spend on social media isn't a waste of time as this is how I found this author.
Gabriel has been created by his heartless father to train slaves and sell them on. The only life he has known is what his father allows, that is until he sees Caleb. He will do anything he can to own him. However Caleb isn't the normal subject that Gabriel is used to and it changes everything.
This is a super good dark m/m read. Am I Team Gabriel or Team Caleb?? I loved both of them but my darker side has me jumping into Team Gabriel.
Looking forward to reading book two. I need to see what happens to these characters.
Gabriel has been created by his heartless father to train slaves and sell them on. The only life he has known is what his father allows, that is until he sees Caleb. He will do anything he can to own him. However Caleb isn't the normal subject that Gabriel is used to and it changes everything.
This is a super good dark m/m read. Am I Team Gabriel or Team Caleb?? I loved both of them but my darker side has me jumping into Team Gabriel.
Looking forward to reading book two. I need to see what happens to these characters.
June 6, 2018
This was previously published as Dark Silence which I read a year ago. I’ve got to admit when I read the newer version all the feels came back.
This is a new author to me and after reading this deliciously dark book it confirms that the time I spend on social media isn't a waste of time as this is how I found this author.
Gabriel Valentino is a heartless monster. He has been created by his heartless father to train slaves and sell them on. The only life he has known is what his father allows, that is until he sees Caleb Matthews. He will do anything he can to own him. However Caleb isn't the normal subject that Gabriel is used to and it changes everything.
This is a super good dark m/m read. Am I Team Gabriel or Team Caleb?? I loved both of them but my darker side has me jumping into Team Gabriel.
Looking forward to reading book two. I need to see what happens to these characters.
This is a new author to me and after reading this deliciously dark book it confirms that the time I spend on social media isn't a waste of time as this is how I found this author.
Gabriel Valentino is a heartless monster. He has been created by his heartless father to train slaves and sell them on. The only life he has known is what his father allows, that is until he sees Caleb Matthews. He will do anything he can to own him. However Caleb isn't the normal subject that Gabriel is used to and it changes everything.
This is a super good dark m/m read. Am I Team Gabriel or Team Caleb?? I loved both of them but my darker side has me jumping into Team Gabriel.
Looking forward to reading book two. I need to see what happens to these characters.
May 28, 2018
I loved this....Then again I love my dark reads.....This isn't as dark for me as some others but it's still an amazing read....Gabriel puts Caleb through hell until he eventually breaks him....The way he tortures him is pure hell...That white room...Omg...Caleb hated that white room.....Gabriel I'm not sure if he can even be redeemed....How can Caleb be truly happy if that's where it's heading...The ending will leave you wanting more but sadly we won't be getting it just yet..Hopefully one day we will....In the mean time I guess you can just hope that Caleb gets home and gets some of his life back after what's happened to him....x
June 3, 2018
DNF @ 10%. Maybe if I had stuck with this longer, I might have enjoyed it, but as it stands, I found both the writing and the characters came off somewhat juvenile, especially for a psychological thriller.
August 9, 2018
Ok so I’ve read quite a few dark captive stories in the past and usually enjoyed them, but I really did not like this one. In the past, authors have usually found a way for me to connect with the captor (even though I’m always on team captive), to somehow feel for the captor even though they’re committing such heinous actions. While Gabriel was provided with a backstory for his actions, it wasn’t enough to make me care, I loathed him from beginning to end. I failed to feel any other connection to him than simple hatred.
But then to sit through and read all these horrible things Caleb goes through only to be served with that ending? I’m not having it. There’s no resolution and the author’s note at the end claims there might not even be a second book. Umm nope, I did not just put myself through reading all of that to not see Caleb’s final outcome.
But then to sit through and read all these horrible things Caleb goes through only to be served with that ending? I’m not having it. There’s no resolution and the author’s note at the end claims there might not even be a second book. Umm nope, I did not just put myself through reading all of that to not see Caleb’s final outcome.
July 17, 2018
My heart!!!!!! I am so torn up over this freaking book!!!! I I've never read a dark M/M before but it will definitely not be my last nor will it be my last book by this author. In the beginning I didn't like Gabe at all but he totally won me over by the end. Caleb I loved from the first page. I cannot stop thinking about this book when I wasn't reading it and I could barely put it down when I was. I'm still such a mess over this book! Soooooo freaking amazing!! I neeeeeed more!!!!
00-mm-horrible-disaster-fail-dnf
November 5, 2018Frankly, I have absolutely ZERO interest in reading anything by this author (I never have and I never will), simply because I've always had ZERO interest in reading anything by this author!! Just not my cup of tea!! I won't shelve all these author's books as DNF simply for the sake of having them shelved, but they ARE all an automatic DNF!! Just ... MEH!! The only reason I shelved THIS one, is because I've seen it far too many times on my newsfeed not to!!
October 14, 2018
3.5 stars! This would have been a 5-star read for me until we got to the ending. It felt way too rushed and incomplete. The author included a note after the story that she was leaving it open for a second book, but she has no plans to write one any time soon :(
June 21, 2017
This book was so creepy and terrifying, and PLAUSIBLE, it has me questioning every social media post I’ve made, and made me want to message my children and tell them to pull down any photo, video and piece of information they have ever posted. No seriously.
Katze Snow has perfectly crafted a horrifyingly realistic scenario that terrified me, even as it pulled me into her the story. And Dark Silence is dark. Like Butterfly Garden, Hannibal, lock your doors and check all the closets and you still won’t feel safe dark.
Tristan is a stereotypical gamer, posting live videos of himself online gaming for his website followers. He’s cocky, arrogant, and only interested in his gaming future. Unfortunately, that’s how he catches the eye of Claude Galen. What transpires is a story so graphically shocking that I literally had to take a break at one point, and read something light, before going back in. I love horror. I love thrillers. I love mysteries. This checked off every block. At one point, I was so wrapped up in the story, I found myself yelling at Claude to trust Tristan – then I realized – WHAT THE HECK AM I DOING?! HE’S THE BAD GUY! Go ahead and judge me. You will too. It’s like Snow caused some kind of weird book Stockholm Syndrome. She made me CRY for the bad guy! That's just so wrong! And so utterly fantastic.
I can’t say I “enjoyed” Dark Silence. Because I feel that would make me creepy…and weird. However, I will say that I devoured this book in all its grotesque beauty.
I gave Dark Silence 5 stars, and I’m anxiously waiting for the next in the series. I’m just waiting with all the lights on. And my blanket pulled over my head.
Katze Snow has perfectly crafted a horrifyingly realistic scenario that terrified me, even as it pulled me into her the story. And Dark Silence is dark. Like Butterfly Garden, Hannibal, lock your doors and check all the closets and you still won’t feel safe dark.
Tristan is a stereotypical gamer, posting live videos of himself online gaming for his website followers. He’s cocky, arrogant, and only interested in his gaming future. Unfortunately, that’s how he catches the eye of Claude Galen. What transpires is a story so graphically shocking that I literally had to take a break at one point, and read something light, before going back in. I love horror. I love thrillers. I love mysteries. This checked off every block. At one point, I was so wrapped up in the story, I found myself yelling at Claude to trust Tristan – then I realized – WHAT THE HECK AM I DOING?! HE’S THE BAD GUY! Go ahead and judge me. You will too. It’s like Snow caused some kind of weird book Stockholm Syndrome. She made me CRY for the bad guy! That's just so wrong! And so utterly fantastic.
I can’t say I “enjoyed” Dark Silence. Because I feel that would make me creepy…and weird. However, I will say that I devoured this book in all its grotesque beauty.
I gave Dark Silence 5 stars, and I’m anxiously waiting for the next in the series. I’m just waiting with all the lights on. And my blanket pulled over my head.
June 29, 2017
Deliciously Depraved!!!
This twisted tale is a serious mind fuck that may make you question yourself.
Tristan, the victim, is a hapless gullible gamer. Claude, the monster, is an irredeemable modern day Dr Frankenstein who breaks and brings minds instead of bodies to his “enlightenment”. Or are they? No spoilers here, but I will admit that by the end I was yelling at Tristan to just understand Claude. You may think I’m crazy, but just wait till you read it!
Katze continues to improve with every book. Tristan has an amazing character progression. You can feel everything he’s experiencing, and really understand how plausible this could be. Claude is my favorite character, and I can’t tell you why without spoilers. Just know that while I love a good sadist…even monsters have demons!
Read this with your lights on and your doors locked!! I highly recommend if you enjoy some seriously dark pleasurable perversion. Can’t wait for the next one!
I beta read this book, and voluntarily reviewed final copy.
This twisted tale is a serious mind fuck that may make you question yourself.
Tristan, the victim, is a hapless gullible gamer. Claude, the monster, is an irredeemable modern day Dr Frankenstein who breaks and brings minds instead of bodies to his “enlightenment”. Or are they? No spoilers here, but I will admit that by the end I was yelling at Tristan to just understand Claude. You may think I’m crazy, but just wait till you read it!
Katze continues to improve with every book. Tristan has an amazing character progression. You can feel everything he’s experiencing, and really understand how plausible this could be. Claude is my favorite character, and I can’t tell you why without spoilers. Just know that while I love a good sadist…even monsters have demons!
Read this with your lights on and your doors locked!! I highly recommend if you enjoy some seriously dark pleasurable perversion. Can’t wait for the next one!
I beta read this book, and voluntarily reviewed final copy.
October 14, 2021
Wow, that was some book. Surprisingly the actual torture didn't bother me as much as the part Caleb breaks. I mean, not that the torture wasn't as fucked up but man I didn't expect him to break. But I can understand though. Some part of him did love Gabriel whether he liked it or not and right when he chose Gabriel over freedom he gets tortured for it.
I feel like they both loved each other in their own fucked up way but what they'd done to each other(more like what Gabe did to Caleb) was between them and they couldn't and shouldn't be asked to move past that.
I hope when he finally got free it was because Gabriel changed his mind because otherwise that ending- let's just say that was way too unbelievable.
Also during that last part I felt like Oliver and Dmitry were also the bad guys to some extent but it wasn't shown like that? Like all the blame was only on Gabriel. But at that point it was a fact that Caleb trusted and liked those two much better than Gabriel.
Having said that I did ship them, at least during the middle there, screwed up human that I am.
I feel like they both loved each other in their own fucked up way but what they'd done to each other(more like what Gabe did to Caleb) was between them and they couldn't and shouldn't be asked to move past that.
I hope when he finally got free it was because Gabriel changed his mind because otherwise that ending- let's just say that was way too unbelievable.
Also during that last part I felt like Oliver and Dmitry were also the bad guys to some extent but it wasn't shown like that? Like all the blame was only on Gabriel. But at that point it was a fact that Caleb trusted and liked those two much better than Gabriel.
Having said that I did ship them, at least during the middle there, screwed up human that I am.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to Read
July 6, 2017
June 29, 2017
Come to embrace and love your dark side
Claude Galen is a professor at the University of Edinburg. He’s specialist on the human behavior, especially how to recondition human behavior.
Tristan Kade, is 21 years, he lives with his best friend and his mom after his family throw him out in the street for being gay. When, he received an invitation from the University of Edinburg, Tristan sees an opportunity that he can’t refuse.
What Tristan doesn’t know is that he’s going to meet his worst nightmare…
How killed the monster under the bed when he’s alive, human and want you?
Claude is twist, crazy and really sadistic. I hated him, I've hated what he did to Tristan, I've hated how he justified his twisted behavior but most of all, I've hated to understand Why he did it. Because, yes, the more I've read about him, the more I learned about him and the more I understood why he is the way he is.
Tristan, is naïve, smart, sensible and strong, not physically maybe but mentally, I found him really really strong. I loved him, I've suffered with him, I've cried with him, my heart broke for him, and I’ve wanted to murder Claude for him. But don’t get me wrong, He's not the poor helpless victim, at least not as one thinks. Tristan is full of resources, and more powerful than we think, except that he's not aware of it
I've adored this book. And It was a huge surprise for me. I always read Dark Romance when it’s paranormal, not when it’s “normal”. So imagine my surprise when I couldn’t put the book away until I finish it? It was a great dark twisted story, as a reader you're the victim and the executioner and that's what makes this reading so interesting.
You'll love to hate Claude or you'll hate to love Claude, anyway, you'll learn that you're are as twisted and Dark than him or Tristan or the author or yes me (yeah I know, surprising, since I'm so amazing)
I recommend this book, and I look forward for book 2.
Claude Galen is a professor at the University of Edinburg. He’s specialist on the human behavior, especially how to recondition human behavior.
Tristan Kade, is 21 years, he lives with his best friend and his mom after his family throw him out in the street for being gay. When, he received an invitation from the University of Edinburg, Tristan sees an opportunity that he can’t refuse.
What Tristan doesn’t know is that he’s going to meet his worst nightmare…
How killed the monster under the bed when he’s alive, human and want you?
Claude is twist, crazy and really sadistic. I hated him, I've hated what he did to Tristan, I've hated how he justified his twisted behavior but most of all, I've hated to understand Why he did it. Because, yes, the more I've read about him, the more I learned about him and the more I understood why he is the way he is.
Tristan, is naïve, smart, sensible and strong, not physically maybe but mentally, I found him really really strong. I loved him, I've suffered with him, I've cried with him, my heart broke for him, and I’ve wanted to murder Claude for him. But don’t get me wrong, He's not the poor helpless victim, at least not as one thinks. Tristan is full of resources, and more powerful than we think, except that he's not aware of it
I've adored this book. And It was a huge surprise for me. I always read Dark Romance when it’s paranormal, not when it’s “normal”. So imagine my surprise when I couldn’t put the book away until I finish it? It was a great dark twisted story, as a reader you're the victim and the executioner and that's what makes this reading so interesting.
You'll love to hate Claude or you'll hate to love Claude, anyway, you'll learn that you're are as twisted and Dark than him or Tristan or the author or yes me (yeah I know, surprising, since I'm so amazing)
I recommend this book, and I look forward for book 2.
June 26, 2017
This is not my usual kind of book to read but I was really surprised. I usually like a HEA but I decided to read this book and I'm so glad I did. It's a dark book that brings forth a range of emotions that has you turned upside down at times. The ending was perfect and fit in with the plot of the book really well. It's well written and hard to put down once you start it. All the professors life has been about the experiment and he will let nothing stand in his way, until he meets Tristan. He has hope finally that he can retire and have a normal life. This book is about the relationship between these two men and it is fascinating to see that relationship from both sides the capture and the captive. The characters are interesting and you go through a vast range of emotions about them. If you like a dark reads then I recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
June 29, 2017
The end of this book made it absolutely perfect. This was definitely a very dark story and, as the foreward says, not entirely a romance.
Tristan was so very strong, and that strength showed the flaw in the whole maleability theory. He couldn't be moulded without his consent, and breaking him would only result in shattering everything that made him appealing to Professor Galen.
I loved how both Tristan and Claude were written so that we could relate to both characters without apologizing for the horrors that Tristan was subjected to. While I completely agree with all of Tristan's choices, I definitely place the greatest blame for everything that happened in this book squarely at Claude's father's feet.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Tristan was so very strong, and that strength showed the flaw in the whole maleability theory. He couldn't be moulded without his consent, and breaking him would only result in shattering everything that made him appealing to Professor Galen.
I loved how both Tristan and Claude were written so that we could relate to both characters without apologizing for the horrors that Tristan was subjected to. While I completely agree with all of Tristan's choices, I definitely place the greatest blame for everything that happened in this book squarely at Claude's father's feet.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
June 22, 2017
This book definitely lives up to its dark warning, a book not for the faint hearted. Katze Snow has written a truly original and addictive book. In the beginning of the story you just want to hurt Claude and rescue Tristan this poor innocent young gamer. As you read on as I did, you develop a love hate relationship with Claude (it happens even if you don't want it to) you love the twisted sick character and hate yourself for it. I found myself hoping things would work out in the end for this very dark man and poor broken Tristan. I'm eagerly waiting for the next book in this amazing dark series.
July 6, 2017
Reviewed by Jenn for Diverse Reader
Okay, let's talk about this book! Katze Snow and Susanna Hays warn us that this is not a love story and she is right! It is, however, a story of want, greed, and desire. This book is a psychological, erotic thriller. I like to step into the dark every now and then and this book definitely delivers.
Professor Claude Galen specializes in psychological science, but we soon learn that his specialties run much deeper than that. His focus is on the malleability theory at a University in Edinburgh, Scotland. He has been "monitoring" a potential "subject" Tristan Kade from Wyoming and has invited him to Edinburgh to enroll in the University.
Tristan Kade is a 21-year-old gamer, he runs a gaming channel with his best friend Jake. Tristan was kicked out of his parent's house at 13 when they discovered he was gay. No one in Tristan's life, including Jake and his mom who took Tristan in, know his secret. When Tristan is invited to Edinburgh to tour the University he seems much more interested in using the trip as a way to go to a large gaming con.
When Tristan meets with Professor Galen, he is intrigued and definitely attracted to the older professor. Tristan does seem to do everything to make a poor impression on the professor. What Tristan is unaware of is that Claude has chosen him personally, that Claude wants only him for his program. After the tour and interview, Tristan lets Claude know he'll think things over. When Tristan declines Claude's offer, plan B is put into effect.
Tristan is kidnapped and put through deprivation torture only to be "rescued" by Claude. As the two become friendly, and the attraction grows, Tristan thinks he's safe and that he's falling for Claude. Things start to go horribly wrong when Tristan discovers that his "hero" is really his "monster"
We learn a lot about why Claude is the way he is and Tristan even begins to care for him again. Unfortunately, Claude hurts Tristan too many times and finally seems to break Tristan. Finally, Tristan is able to escape his prison....or is he?
This book was a dark read, but it was a really good read. It's most definitely a thriller and there are some cringe worthy moments. If you're in the mood for something a little different and a little darker, I'd definitely recommend reading this. Katze Snow and Susanna Hays do an excellent job of making you question just how much the human mind and body can handle. The book, while dark is not gratuitous or over the top. I was curled up with my blanket and enjoyed the ride.
Okay, let's talk about this book! Katze Snow and Susanna Hays warn us that this is not a love story and she is right! It is, however, a story of want, greed, and desire. This book is a psychological, erotic thriller. I like to step into the dark every now and then and this book definitely delivers.
Professor Claude Galen specializes in psychological science, but we soon learn that his specialties run much deeper than that. His focus is on the malleability theory at a University in Edinburgh, Scotland. He has been "monitoring" a potential "subject" Tristan Kade from Wyoming and has invited him to Edinburgh to enroll in the University.
Tristan Kade is a 21-year-old gamer, he runs a gaming channel with his best friend Jake. Tristan was kicked out of his parent's house at 13 when they discovered he was gay. No one in Tristan's life, including Jake and his mom who took Tristan in, know his secret. When Tristan is invited to Edinburgh to tour the University he seems much more interested in using the trip as a way to go to a large gaming con.
When Tristan meets with Professor Galen, he is intrigued and definitely attracted to the older professor. Tristan does seem to do everything to make a poor impression on the professor. What Tristan is unaware of is that Claude has chosen him personally, that Claude wants only him for his program. After the tour and interview, Tristan lets Claude know he'll think things over. When Tristan declines Claude's offer, plan B is put into effect.
Tristan is kidnapped and put through deprivation torture only to be "rescued" by Claude. As the two become friendly, and the attraction grows, Tristan thinks he's safe and that he's falling for Claude. Things start to go horribly wrong when Tristan discovers that his "hero" is really his "monster"
We learn a lot about why Claude is the way he is and Tristan even begins to care for him again. Unfortunately, Claude hurts Tristan too many times and finally seems to break Tristan. Finally, Tristan is able to escape his prison....or is he?
This book was a dark read, but it was a really good read. It's most definitely a thriller and there are some cringe worthy moments. If you're in the mood for something a little different and a little darker, I'd definitely recommend reading this. Katze Snow and Susanna Hays do an excellent job of making you question just how much the human mind and body can handle. The book, while dark is not gratuitous or over the top. I was curled up with my blanket and enjoyed the ride.
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