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The East End
THE EAST END is an atmospheric debut novel of family secrets and scandal, of love and heartbreak, of working class struggle versus the privileges of the super wealthy, all set in a place whose incredible beauty means both pleasure and pain – a place where people will die for love, kill for truth, and dream of escaping forever.
THE EAST END opens with Corey Halpern, a Hamptons local from a broken home who breaks into mansions at night for kicks. He likes the rush and admittedly, the escapism. One night just before Memorial Day weekend, he breaks into the wrong home at the wrong time: the Sheffield estate where he and his mother work. Under the cover of darkness, their boss Leo Sheffield -- billionaire CEO, patriarch, and owner of the vast lakeside manor -- arrives unexpectedly with his lover, Henry. After a shocking poolside accident leaves Henry dead, everything depends on Leo burying the truth. But unfortunately for him, Corey saw what happened and there are other eyes in the shadows.
Hordes of family and guests are coming to the estate the next morning, including Leo's surly wife, all expecting a lavish vacation weekend of poolside drinks, evening parties, and fireworks filling the sky. No one can know there’s a dead man in the woods, and there is no one Leo can turn to. With his very life on the line, everything will come down to a split-second decision. For all of the main players—Leo, Gina, and Corey alike—time is ticking down, and the world they’ve known is set to explode.
Told through multiple points of view, THE EAST END highlights the socio-economic divide in the Hamptons, but also how the basic human need for connection and trust can transcend class differences. Secrecy, obsession, and desperation dictate each character’s path. In a race against time, each critical moment holds life in the balance as Corey, Gina, and Leo approach a common breaking point. THE EAST END is a propulsive read, rich with character and atmosphere, and marks the emergence of a talented new voice in fiction.
THE EAST END opens with Corey Halpern, a Hamptons local from a broken home who breaks into mansions at night for kicks. He likes the rush and admittedly, the escapism. One night just before Memorial Day weekend, he breaks into the wrong home at the wrong time: the Sheffield estate where he and his mother work. Under the cover of darkness, their boss Leo Sheffield -- billionaire CEO, patriarch, and owner of the vast lakeside manor -- arrives unexpectedly with his lover, Henry. After a shocking poolside accident leaves Henry dead, everything depends on Leo burying the truth. But unfortunately for him, Corey saw what happened and there are other eyes in the shadows.
Hordes of family and guests are coming to the estate the next morning, including Leo's surly wife, all expecting a lavish vacation weekend of poolside drinks, evening parties, and fireworks filling the sky. No one can know there’s a dead man in the woods, and there is no one Leo can turn to. With his very life on the line, everything will come down to a split-second decision. For all of the main players—Leo, Gina, and Corey alike—time is ticking down, and the world they’ve known is set to explode.
Told through multiple points of view, THE EAST END highlights the socio-economic divide in the Hamptons, but also how the basic human need for connection and trust can transcend class differences. Secrecy, obsession, and desperation dictate each character’s path. In a race against time, each critical moment holds life in the balance as Corey, Gina, and Leo approach a common breaking point. THE EAST END is a propulsive read, rich with character and atmosphere, and marks the emergence of a talented new voice in fiction.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published May 7, 2019
67 people are currently reading
4024 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 263 reviews
March 30, 2019
A Binge-Read-Sleep Stopper....
Debut author - Jason Allen - is a mean human being.
Hasn’t he read the reports of the essentials of sleep?
My trail hike this morning- is definitely going to be an upward climb.
Instead of sleeping- I compulsively ‘had’ to keep reading. Is it the best book on the planet? Of course not.....
but it’s got ‘something’ going for it!! Seriously something unique is going on here.
“The East End”, is the best anti-murder- intrigue- meshuggah - novel on crack. We’re taken on a wild trip!
It has a few flaws..but so do some of my favorite songs ..
Thinking of the song:
“Who Put The Bomp ”, by Barry Mann.
Lots I can say about this debut gem- many themes worth a book discussion- but rather than write one of my ‘god-awful’ long winded reviews -
I’ll just say - this thriller has heart...
There is an underline feeling of sadness that will stay with me -
that slowing went into my body like an IV drip.
This Jason Allen guy has an artistic flair for painting atmospheric- psychedelic-type-psychological scenes...with characters we will remember.
I liked it!! I’d read a sequel!!! Or Jason’s next book!!
Thank you Harlequin Trade,
Netgalley, and Jason Allen
4.5
Debut author - Jason Allen - is a mean human being.
Hasn’t he read the reports of the essentials of sleep?
My trail hike this morning- is definitely going to be an upward climb.
Instead of sleeping- I compulsively ‘had’ to keep reading. Is it the best book on the planet? Of course not.....
but it’s got ‘something’ going for it!! Seriously something unique is going on here.
“The East End”, is the best anti-murder- intrigue- meshuggah - novel on crack. We’re taken on a wild trip!
It has a few flaws..but so do some of my favorite songs ..
Thinking of the song:
“Who Put The Bomp ”, by Barry Mann.
Lots I can say about this debut gem- many themes worth a book discussion- but rather than write one of my ‘god-awful’ long winded reviews -
I’ll just say - this thriller has heart...
There is an underline feeling of sadness that will stay with me -
that slowing went into my body like an IV drip.
This Jason Allen guy has an artistic flair for painting atmospheric- psychedelic-type-psychological scenes...with characters we will remember.
I liked it!! I’d read a sequel!!! Or Jason’s next book!!
Thank you Harlequin Trade,
Netgalley, and Jason Allen
4.5
May 10, 2019
scandalous. Compulsive. Chaotic.
Jason Allen has written an addictive, frantic, fast-paced thriller that will completely suck you in. This book takes you to the Hamptons and shows you the dark side. The book is completely disturbing, highly absorbing, and left me feeling a bit dirty. All the characters in this book are pretty much a HOT mess! It was one of those books that completely consumed me, then when I was done I started thinking, what the **** did I just read? Screwed up people, doing messed up things, and it was oh SO entertaining!
This book really highlighted the Socio economic disparities in the Hamptons between full-time residence and vacationers. The story was told from multiple perspectives and I found this extremely impactful. Cory is a full-time resident who gets his kicks from breaking into the big fancy mansions. Not to steal things, just to mess with the occupants, and for a bit of an escape. Gina his mother works as a housekeeper. She is a recovering alcoholic on the verge of falling off the wagon. Leo is a owner of one of the ritzy mansions a billionaire CEO. He arrives in the Hamptons with his elicit male lover. After a night of drugs and drinking a terrible accident occurs. BUT Leo is not the only witness, Cory had been carrying on his late night activity and saw everything happen, along with Leo’s daughters BFF. What transpires is disturbing, diabolical, and extremely absorbing. This was not the book I was expecting when I pick this up, but I have to admit I enjoyed every single page! 7/10
🎧🎧🎧 I was fortunate enough to have an audio copy of this to review and can I just say BRAVO Angelo DI Loreto! He really added so much to the story. His voice has a bit of an ominous quality to it that just really emphasized the disturbing nature of this book. He is really one of those narrators I could listen to all day!
*** thank you so much to Park Row and Harper audio for my copy of this book ***
Jason Allen has written an addictive, frantic, fast-paced thriller that will completely suck you in. This book takes you to the Hamptons and shows you the dark side. The book is completely disturbing, highly absorbing, and left me feeling a bit dirty. All the characters in this book are pretty much a HOT mess! It was one of those books that completely consumed me, then when I was done I started thinking, what the **** did I just read? Screwed up people, doing messed up things, and it was oh SO entertaining!
This book really highlighted the Socio economic disparities in the Hamptons between full-time residence and vacationers. The story was told from multiple perspectives and I found this extremely impactful. Cory is a full-time resident who gets his kicks from breaking into the big fancy mansions. Not to steal things, just to mess with the occupants, and for a bit of an escape. Gina his mother works as a housekeeper. She is a recovering alcoholic on the verge of falling off the wagon. Leo is a owner of one of the ritzy mansions a billionaire CEO. He arrives in the Hamptons with his elicit male lover. After a night of drugs and drinking a terrible accident occurs. BUT Leo is not the only witness, Cory had been carrying on his late night activity and saw everything happen, along with Leo’s daughters BFF. What transpires is disturbing, diabolical, and extremely absorbing. This was not the book I was expecting when I pick this up, but I have to admit I enjoyed every single page! 7/10
🎧🎧🎧 I was fortunate enough to have an audio copy of this to review and can I just say BRAVO Angelo DI Loreto! He really added so much to the story. His voice has a bit of an ominous quality to it that just really emphasized the disturbing nature of this book. He is really one of those narrators I could listen to all day!
*** thank you so much to Park Row and Harper audio for my copy of this book ***
May 8, 2019
2.5 stars, rounding up.
This was a crazy book, very different than what I was expecting!
Corey Halpern is a townie, living in the Hamptons with his mother and brother, struggling to make ends meet, and watching the rich people parade in and out during the season. He dreams of nothing more than leaving, of starting a new life far away from the people he resents, far from his alcoholic mother and his drug-addicted, violent stepfather.
Just before Memorial Day weekend, where he's scheduled to work with his mother at the wealthy Sheffields' mansion, he decides to partake in one of his favorite pastimes—breaking into other mansions. He's not all that interested in taking anything; he enjoys the illicit feeling of sneaking in, of taking risks even when the homeowners are asleep while he's there.
Still riding his buzz from one break-in, he heads for the Sheffields'. He is surprised when their youngest daughter, Tiffany, arrives home with her best friend, Angelique, a girl who has caught Corey's eye many times before, but he figures she has written him off because of their different financial situations. He's able to escape their attention, but he decides to hang around and watch Angelique for a while.
Unexpectedly, Leo Sheffield, the billionaire CEO and Tiffany's father, decides to arrive at the house the evening before the rest of his family is scheduled to take up residence. He is joined by Henry, his much younger (and emotionally unstable) lover, for one last rendezvous before he must spend the summer with his family. Under the influence of a great deal of alcohol and cocaine, a freak accident occurs, and Henry winds up dead.
Leo is unsure what his next move is—how can he get caught in this situation when his wife already suspects him of having an affair, albeit not with a man? He's utterly unprepared for the fact that both Corey and Angelique saw at least some of what happened, and for how he'll react to that fact.
What happens over the course of the next 24 hours will change all of their lives, including Gina, Corey's mother. It's a crazy series of events, incorrect assumptions, and threats; people will lose control; and no one is quite sure how things will wind up.
The East End is a well-written but chaotic look at the haves and the have-nots, and how barriers to happiness exist for everyone. There's a lot—almost too much—going on in this book, and I really wondered how Jason Allen would tie everything together in the end. I thought he raised some very interesting issues on which the story could turn, but as it raced toward a breakneck conclusion, I didn't feel as if any of the threads were fully resolved.
I love the way Allen uses language and imagery; his descriptions of Corey's break-ins made me feel the tension right alongside of him, and I could see some of the scenery he described. I just really wasn't a fan of any of these characters—while each had issues that made me feel sympathy for them, their actions were so odious at times I quickly lost those feelings. But still, there is a lot to ponder here.
I'm honored to be part of the blog tour for The East End . NetGalley, HARLEQUIN, and Park Row Books provided me an advance copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks for making it available!
This book will be published May 7, 2019.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2018 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2019/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2018.html.
You can follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
This was a crazy book, very different than what I was expecting!
Corey Halpern is a townie, living in the Hamptons with his mother and brother, struggling to make ends meet, and watching the rich people parade in and out during the season. He dreams of nothing more than leaving, of starting a new life far away from the people he resents, far from his alcoholic mother and his drug-addicted, violent stepfather.
Just before Memorial Day weekend, where he's scheduled to work with his mother at the wealthy Sheffields' mansion, he decides to partake in one of his favorite pastimes—breaking into other mansions. He's not all that interested in taking anything; he enjoys the illicit feeling of sneaking in, of taking risks even when the homeowners are asleep while he's there.
Still riding his buzz from one break-in, he heads for the Sheffields'. He is surprised when their youngest daughter, Tiffany, arrives home with her best friend, Angelique, a girl who has caught Corey's eye many times before, but he figures she has written him off because of their different financial situations. He's able to escape their attention, but he decides to hang around and watch Angelique for a while.
Unexpectedly, Leo Sheffield, the billionaire CEO and Tiffany's father, decides to arrive at the house the evening before the rest of his family is scheduled to take up residence. He is joined by Henry, his much younger (and emotionally unstable) lover, for one last rendezvous before he must spend the summer with his family. Under the influence of a great deal of alcohol and cocaine, a freak accident occurs, and Henry winds up dead.
Leo is unsure what his next move is—how can he get caught in this situation when his wife already suspects him of having an affair, albeit not with a man? He's utterly unprepared for the fact that both Corey and Angelique saw at least some of what happened, and for how he'll react to that fact.
What happens over the course of the next 24 hours will change all of their lives, including Gina, Corey's mother. It's a crazy series of events, incorrect assumptions, and threats; people will lose control; and no one is quite sure how things will wind up.
The East End is a well-written but chaotic look at the haves and the have-nots, and how barriers to happiness exist for everyone. There's a lot—almost too much—going on in this book, and I really wondered how Jason Allen would tie everything together in the end. I thought he raised some very interesting issues on which the story could turn, but as it raced toward a breakneck conclusion, I didn't feel as if any of the threads were fully resolved.
I love the way Allen uses language and imagery; his descriptions of Corey's break-ins made me feel the tension right alongside of him, and I could see some of the scenery he described. I just really wasn't a fan of any of these characters—while each had issues that made me feel sympathy for them, their actions were so odious at times I quickly lost those feelings. But still, there is a lot to ponder here.
I'm honored to be part of the blog tour for The East End . NetGalley, HARLEQUIN, and Park Row Books provided me an advance copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. Thanks for making it available!
This book will be published May 7, 2019.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2018 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2019/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2018.html.
You can follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
May 21, 2019
Atmospheric, messy & scandalous!
THE EAST END by JASON ALLEN is a disturbing, wicked, suspenseful, evocative and entertaining novel that was filled with quite the unusual and interesting characters. This was definitely a rapid-paced read for me but there was something about it that didn’t always sit all that well with me. I was loving it one moment and then the next not so much.
JASON ALLEN delivers quite the atmospheric, gripping, compelling and well-written read here that was extremely vividly descriptive. I’m not normally a visual reader but this one definitely gave me a lot of visual scenes throughout that I could easily see playing out in my mind.
There is lots going on here and plenty of themes to ponder. I’m not sure if there was a little too many for me or if certain themes affected me in an unfavourable way. I’m thinking it was the latter.
This was an entertaining, wild and frantic read from start to finish!
I’m extremely honoured to be a part of the blog tour for THE EAST END. Thank you so much to NetGalley, Park Row / Harlequin and Jason Allen for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Blog tour post can also be found on our blog:
https://twosisterslostinacoulee.com/
THE EAST END by JASON ALLEN is a disturbing, wicked, suspenseful, evocative and entertaining novel that was filled with quite the unusual and interesting characters. This was definitely a rapid-paced read for me but there was something about it that didn’t always sit all that well with me. I was loving it one moment and then the next not so much.
JASON ALLEN delivers quite the atmospheric, gripping, compelling and well-written read here that was extremely vividly descriptive. I’m not normally a visual reader but this one definitely gave me a lot of visual scenes throughout that I could easily see playing out in my mind.
There is lots going on here and plenty of themes to ponder. I’m not sure if there was a little too many for me or if certain themes affected me in an unfavourable way. I’m thinking it was the latter.
This was an entertaining, wild and frantic read from start to finish!
I’m extremely honoured to be a part of the blog tour for THE EAST END. Thank you so much to NetGalley, Park Row / Harlequin and Jason Allen for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Blog tour post can also be found on our blog:
https://twosisterslostinacoulee.com/
May 10, 2019
Favorite Quotes:
Time passed as Leo sat cockeyed on one of the lounge chairs beside the pool with an elbow on one knee and the bag of ice pressed to the back of his head, staring at the water, his vision like that of an old television set with poor reception, blurring between two channels.
They stared at each other, locked in that tension like animals at a watering hole— one predator, one prey, but who could say which was which now?
The water kept on running, the pills still cradled in her palm. This loneliness, she thought, should be classified as a disease.
The thing about regrets, Corey— it’s much better to regret something you have done than something you haven’t done.
My Review:
I am in need of a spa day after reading this brilliantly crafted suspense/thriller. It was masterfully written, taut with tension, devilishly paced, and cast with an intriguing set of deeply flawed and fractured characters who were reaching a peak period of crisis or transition, and I couldn’t help but root for them. Each riveting storyline was thrumming with stress and the disses – dismay, despair, discontent, and distress. This tale had a bit of everything; abuse of all types from people to substances, a gamut of personality disorders and vices, blackmail, adultery, bribery, rich vs. poor, and a closeted gay who had more than that one skeleton in his closet.
The writing was simply stellar. Mr. Allen’s writing style was lushly descriptive with evocative and emotive word choices that conjured keen visuals and kept me on edge. I was chewing my lower lip and feeling rather conflicted as while I wanted to savor every well-chosen word, I also felt as if I couldn’t read fast enough as I sensed the build-up to a shattering crescendo. I am doubly impressed since noticing this was his first novel. I hope the cunning Mr. Allen isn’t easily frightened as he now has a rather rabid fangirl…
Time passed as Leo sat cockeyed on one of the lounge chairs beside the pool with an elbow on one knee and the bag of ice pressed to the back of his head, staring at the water, his vision like that of an old television set with poor reception, blurring between two channels.
They stared at each other, locked in that tension like animals at a watering hole— one predator, one prey, but who could say which was which now?
The water kept on running, the pills still cradled in her palm. This loneliness, she thought, should be classified as a disease.
The thing about regrets, Corey— it’s much better to regret something you have done than something you haven’t done.
My Review:
I am in need of a spa day after reading this brilliantly crafted suspense/thriller. It was masterfully written, taut with tension, devilishly paced, and cast with an intriguing set of deeply flawed and fractured characters who were reaching a peak period of crisis or transition, and I couldn’t help but root for them. Each riveting storyline was thrumming with stress and the disses – dismay, despair, discontent, and distress. This tale had a bit of everything; abuse of all types from people to substances, a gamut of personality disorders and vices, blackmail, adultery, bribery, rich vs. poor, and a closeted gay who had more than that one skeleton in his closet.
The writing was simply stellar. Mr. Allen’s writing style was lushly descriptive with evocative and emotive word choices that conjured keen visuals and kept me on edge. I was chewing my lower lip and feeling rather conflicted as while I wanted to savor every well-chosen word, I also felt as if I couldn’t read fast enough as I sensed the build-up to a shattering crescendo. I am doubly impressed since noticing this was his first novel. I hope the cunning Mr. Allen isn’t easily frightened as he now has a rather rabid fangirl…
January 29, 2019
I won this in the giveaway! This was an awesome read that was well-written and entertaining enough to distract me from my troubles.
February 6, 2019
I had the great fortune of snagging an ARC of Allen's THE EAST END recently, and it's been an incredibly intense and outstanding read. From the opening line that counts down to Corey's break-in at a Hamptons estate through to the explosive climax, I loved reading about these characters' engines.
As in what drives Corey to commit these small crimes, or what motivates his mother, Gina, to weather the abuses made by her volatile ex. Or what forces her employer, Leo, into hiding his own secrets away from the prying eyes of his affluent neighbors. Allen provides these amazing, piercing looks into the mechanisms of people who work so hard and endure such incredible risks for their own tiny outlets of sanity, and I loved reading about what each of these people has suffered and forfeited in their lives.
It's a brilliant book, not just because Allen is one of those poets who can expertly craft the language of their novels -- think Alice Sebold, Ben Lerner, Anne Carson, for example -- but also because it's fascinating to watch what happens when social classes collide violently, and when the upper class expects to survive these collisions unscathed.
That said, I'm looking very, very forward to Allen's future adventures in prose.
As in what drives Corey to commit these small crimes, or what motivates his mother, Gina, to weather the abuses made by her volatile ex. Or what forces her employer, Leo, into hiding his own secrets away from the prying eyes of his affluent neighbors. Allen provides these amazing, piercing looks into the mechanisms of people who work so hard and endure such incredible risks for their own tiny outlets of sanity, and I loved reading about what each of these people has suffered and forfeited in their lives.
It's a brilliant book, not just because Allen is one of those poets who can expertly craft the language of their novels -- think Alice Sebold, Ben Lerner, Anne Carson, for example -- but also because it's fascinating to watch what happens when social classes collide violently, and when the upper class expects to survive these collisions unscathed.
That said, I'm looking very, very forward to Allen's future adventures in prose.
April 29, 2019
What follows is going to be an outlier opinion. In re-reading the book description, I'm not sure why I requested to read this as it really isn't something I normally would choose. Please take everything below with a grain of salt!
The East End is a story of a young, working class local named Corey who works with his mom, Gina cleaning the house of a rich family (The Sheffield's) in the Hampton's. For fun, Corey breaks into the homes of the rich and commits small, harmless pranks as a way to get back at the families that swarm the Hampton's and generally make the lives of the locals miserable. On the night that Corey decides to prank the Sheffield house, he stumbles upon a major event that "changes lives forever". (I say that in quotes because it sounds so cheesy, but that's the best way to describe it.)
Unfortunately, within a few pages I knew I wasn't going to like this book. The characters are all miserable people with very little to redeem themselves, the amount of drugs and alcohol consumed is way over the top and I honestly dreaded reading this at every turn. The writing was pretty good, but this story just wasn't for me and I shouldn't have requested it. I was hoping this would be something like "Big Little Lies" or something equally as fun (yet with substance) and I just couldn't get there. I normally would have DNF this, but I felt obligated to finish it and write a review since I was given an ARC.
Thank you to Netgalley, Harlequin, and Jason Allen for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review of this book.
Publication Date: 5/7/19
Review Date: 4/28/19
The East End is a story of a young, working class local named Corey who works with his mom, Gina cleaning the house of a rich family (The Sheffield's) in the Hampton's. For fun, Corey breaks into the homes of the rich and commits small, harmless pranks as a way to get back at the families that swarm the Hampton's and generally make the lives of the locals miserable. On the night that Corey decides to prank the Sheffield house, he stumbles upon a major event that "changes lives forever". (I say that in quotes because it sounds so cheesy, but that's the best way to describe it.)
Unfortunately, within a few pages I knew I wasn't going to like this book. The characters are all miserable people with very little to redeem themselves, the amount of drugs and alcohol consumed is way over the top and I honestly dreaded reading this at every turn. The writing was pretty good, but this story just wasn't for me and I shouldn't have requested it. I was hoping this would be something like "Big Little Lies" or something equally as fun (yet with substance) and I just couldn't get there. I normally would have DNF this, but I felt obligated to finish it and write a review since I was given an ARC.
Thank you to Netgalley, Harlequin, and Jason Allen for the opportunity to read and provide an honest review of this book.
Publication Date: 5/7/19
Review Date: 4/28/19
May 6, 2019
Corey is a high school senior living in the Hamptons with his mother. Together they live a modest life supporting the millionaires who frequent the area. They are currently employed by the Sheffield family maintaining their summer house. Corey has an unusual habit of breaking into vacant homes and snooping through rooms then launching pranks on the unsuspecting residents. He is driven by his hate for the disparity between the rich and working-class people. He cannot wait to leave Long Island.
The night before Memorial day, Corey breaks into the Sheffield home. He believes it is empty but finds the Sheffield daughter, Tiffany, and her best friend enjoying the house before her parent's arrival. Later that evening the patriarch of the family, arrives with a much younger gentleman. Leo and his secret lover are spending one last evening together while indulging in drugs. Eventually, an accident takes place that shifts the balance between the two social classes.
The East End is a debut novel by Jason Allen. It is suspenseful and tense book with a unique view of social distinctions. Regardless of your roots, no one is immune from dysfunction and drama.
The night before Memorial day, Corey breaks into the Sheffield home. He believes it is empty but finds the Sheffield daughter, Tiffany, and her best friend enjoying the house before her parent's arrival. Later that evening the patriarch of the family, arrives with a much younger gentleman. Leo and his secret lover are spending one last evening together while indulging in drugs. Eventually, an accident takes place that shifts the balance between the two social classes.
The East End is a debut novel by Jason Allen. It is suspenseful and tense book with a unique view of social distinctions. Regardless of your roots, no one is immune from dysfunction and drama.
February 5, 2019
When a horrible accident at a wealthy family's estate threatens to bring uncomfortable secrets to light, a young man who was in the wrong place at the right time must make some life-changing choices- and quickly. This drama will keep readers glued to the page with its urgency, sympathy, and subtle social commentary.
March 27, 2019
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Publishers for this powerful, gripping and suspenseful novel, which focuses on socioeconomic disparity. It shows both the super-wealthy as well as the townspeople who labour in their elaborate mansions can be trapped by circumstances and haunted by their past.
I found the characters to be memorable but unlikeable, mostly existing in a haze of alcohol and drugs. Nevertheless, I found myself caring about their outcome. I was riveted to the pages throughout, engrossed in the drama and the suspense of how the story would be played out.
Written in atmospheric prose, and with remarkable character insight and development, I hope to read more of the author's books. This intense story covers a couple of days at a billionaire's Hampton mansion. A tragedy occurs which has escalating fallout involving the distraught homeowner and an unhappy housekeeper and her son who work for him. All are regretting the unhappy prospects facing them and hoping for a better life.
Recommended for those interested in a well-written novel which concerns the fabulously wealthy, and those struggling financially nearby, who are envious and dreaming of a more rewarding and freer lifestyle.
I found the characters to be memorable but unlikeable, mostly existing in a haze of alcohol and drugs. Nevertheless, I found myself caring about their outcome. I was riveted to the pages throughout, engrossed in the drama and the suspense of how the story would be played out.
Written in atmospheric prose, and with remarkable character insight and development, I hope to read more of the author's books. This intense story covers a couple of days at a billionaire's Hampton mansion. A tragedy occurs which has escalating fallout involving the distraught homeowner and an unhappy housekeeper and her son who work for him. All are regretting the unhappy prospects facing them and hoping for a better life.
Recommended for those interested in a well-written novel which concerns the fabulously wealthy, and those struggling financially nearby, who are envious and dreaming of a more rewarding and freer lifestyle.
May 1, 2019
Enter the crazy world of the have and have-nots in the Hamptons. Billionaires own the mansions but it's the poor townies who keep everything running smoothly for them for pitifully little pay.
In Jason Allen's well-written debut thriller, his main character Corey is a townie who is graduating high school and trying to decide whether to go off to college or stay and take care of his younger brother and mother, who has a major drinking and pill problem and a soon-to-be ex-husband who can be abusive and unpredictable.
For now, Corey knows he will be working alongside his mother on the Sheffield estate this summer. He stays sane by playing a game: he sneaks into the summer homes and gets petty revenge against the uber-rich by the mischievous pranks he pulls, such as putting salt in their milk or rearranging paintings.
As the story opens, Corey sneaks into the Sheffield home, believing that the family is scheduled to arrive the next day and he can have some fun. But he is almost caught! Tiffany, the Sheffield's daughter, arrives with her best friend, Angelique--the girl Corey has had a major crush on for the past two summers. He spies on them until Tiffany passes out in her bed. And just when he decides it's time to make his escape, Mr Sheffield arrives and he's not alone!
It is fated to be a night of tragedy and regrets and somehow both Corey and Angelique are drawn in and must figure out what is the right thing to do for everyone involved. See if you agree with their choices.
Jason Allen's writing is often beautifully descriptive. Here's a taste: "The first burst of fireworks--streaks of green, branches of red, concussive shots pop, pop, popping along flashing veins of chemical reactions, shimmering, crackling, a bright gold willow-tree-shaped explosion, flecks glittering down and sizzling before they faded. Then another crack, a burst, a series of booms followed by purple and green asterisks tearing open the sky, thunderclaps echoing off the lake, the whole sequence so violent and yet beautiful enough to mesmerize."
I found the characters pretty appalling, both rich and poor. Is this what our society has come to?
"Is that all there is, is that all there is
If that's all there is my friends, then let's keep dancing
Let's break out the booze and have a ball
If that's all there is..." said Peggy Lee.
I always found that so depressing.
I received an arc of this book from the publisher via NetGalley after an honest review. Many thanks for the opportunity.
In Jason Allen's well-written debut thriller, his main character Corey is a townie who is graduating high school and trying to decide whether to go off to college or stay and take care of his younger brother and mother, who has a major drinking and pill problem and a soon-to-be ex-husband who can be abusive and unpredictable.
For now, Corey knows he will be working alongside his mother on the Sheffield estate this summer. He stays sane by playing a game: he sneaks into the summer homes and gets petty revenge against the uber-rich by the mischievous pranks he pulls, such as putting salt in their milk or rearranging paintings.
As the story opens, Corey sneaks into the Sheffield home, believing that the family is scheduled to arrive the next day and he can have some fun. But he is almost caught! Tiffany, the Sheffield's daughter, arrives with her best friend, Angelique--the girl Corey has had a major crush on for the past two summers. He spies on them until Tiffany passes out in her bed. And just when he decides it's time to make his escape, Mr Sheffield arrives and he's not alone!
It is fated to be a night of tragedy and regrets and somehow both Corey and Angelique are drawn in and must figure out what is the right thing to do for everyone involved. See if you agree with their choices.
Jason Allen's writing is often beautifully descriptive. Here's a taste: "The first burst of fireworks--streaks of green, branches of red, concussive shots pop, pop, popping along flashing veins of chemical reactions, shimmering, crackling, a bright gold willow-tree-shaped explosion, flecks glittering down and sizzling before they faded. Then another crack, a burst, a series of booms followed by purple and green asterisks tearing open the sky, thunderclaps echoing off the lake, the whole sequence so violent and yet beautiful enough to mesmerize."
I found the characters pretty appalling, both rich and poor. Is this what our society has come to?
"Is that all there is, is that all there is
If that's all there is my friends, then let's keep dancing
Let's break out the booze and have a ball
If that's all there is..." said Peggy Lee.
I always found that so depressing.
I received an arc of this book from the publisher via NetGalley after an honest review. Many thanks for the opportunity.
May 28, 2019
The East End is Jason Allen's debut novel. A story full of dysfunctional people repeatedly making bad choices .
Set over a couple of days at a Hampton mansion the main characters are the billionaire home owner, his housekeeper and her teenage son.
A tragedy occurs where we witness, trapped by circumstances, social classes colliding.
A crazy series of events, resulting in a surprising conclusion, make this a riveting read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin/Park Row for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
Set over a couple of days at a Hampton mansion the main characters are the billionaire home owner, his housekeeper and her teenage son.
A tragedy occurs where we witness, trapped by circumstances, social classes colliding.
A crazy series of events, resulting in a surprising conclusion, make this a riveting read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin/Park Row for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
March 21, 2019
Ive experienced the side of the area Allen writes of first hand. He paints a tapestry of rich,and poor of the wallet,and soul that is amazing. Sometimes the most interesting people are overlooked. While we strive to be people who have less day to day struggles Allen makes me grateful for the perspective they bring. Cheers to him ,and his sacrifices!
February 4, 2019
There is absolutely nothing I liked about this book. It had a preposterous plot, unlikable characters and so many cringe inducing moments. Please don't waste your time like I did reading this.
March 24, 2019
I thought this was such an amazing, quick read. While not my normal thriller, I still found myself completely immersed in what I was reading and had a hard time shutting it and reading others, or even going to bed. It’s more of a drama, and a book that really delves into the socioeconomic differences, in areas where the poor tend to stay at a place year round, and the very wealthy tend to visit for summers or even weekends; which I thought was very well done and interesting. I thought the author did a good job, of setting up a great suspense book, which really hit on some realities many face in a way that I think many could learn from. I’ve read quite a few of the upcoming 2019 PARKROW PUBLISHING HOUSE/HARPERCOLLINS books and I will tell you that they have an absolutely MASSIVE amount of STELLAR books headed readers, the thrillers including this, will blow any thriller lover out of the water! A huge hit for me and one I will definitely be recommending.
Will use in a challenge, review, and highly recommend in Chapter Chatter Pub and other places I see it mentioned! Thank you for the chance to read an arc!
Will use in a challenge, review, and highly recommend in Chapter Chatter Pub and other places I see it mentioned! Thank you for the chance to read an arc!
May 7, 2019
The perfect summer suspense! Cory Halpern is a high schooler from a troubled home. He sneaks in the mansions in the Hamptons. Just before Memorial Day he sneaks into the wrong mansion at the wrong time. The estate where he and his mother work. When Leo,a rich CEO shows up with a guest there is a ragic accident. Leo needs to bury the truth before his family and friends come for the holiday. Cory saw everything but so did other peeping eyes. A story of secrets,the haves and the have-nots. The characters so real. The twists so suspenseful. The writing compelling and lyrical. It was hard to put down. The perfect summer suspense. I definitely want to read more from this author. Excellent read.
Dawnny-BookGypsy
Novels N Latte Review
Novels N Latte Book Club
Hudson Valley NY
Dawnny-BookGypsy
Novels N Latte Review
Novels N Latte Book Club
Hudson Valley NY
February 12, 2019
I was oh so lucky to win this book in a Goodreads Giveaway, it is a different read for me and I really got into it, hating when I had to put it down. I enjoyed the characters, although I didn’t have to good an idea what some of them looked like. I really felt for Corey and some of the horrible situations he faced, and yet got a kick out of some of his pranks, and deep down I was rooting for him.
Yes it hit me with something I did not expect and I was captivated so I will be recommending to friends.
Yes it hit me with something I did not expect and I was captivated so I will be recommending to friends.
April 3, 2019
A big problem with this book is that there's no real tragedy, conspiracy, or deep dark secret. Men like Leo have lawyers or fixers that could have solved his problem discretely. Henry's death was an OD so Leo committed no crime. Hiding the body because he wanted to keep his sexuality a secret was not the smartest move but it's not a felony. Any Manhattan lawyer gets him off with a fine and a slap on the wrist..
Another problem with this book is hiding your sexuality from the outside world is old. That story line isn't interesting anymore. Tim Cook the CEO of Apple is gay. Hasn't stopped him from being one of the wealthiest men on earth.
Plus Leo's wife Sheila was nasty. He should have divorced her years ago. His children would have been understanding and proud of their father coming out.
This book just didn't work. Gina and her sons story were boring and add to that an ending that made no sense i have to say skip this.
Another problem with this book is hiding your sexuality from the outside world is old. That story line isn't interesting anymore. Tim Cook the CEO of Apple is gay. Hasn't stopped him from being one of the wealthiest men on earth.
Plus Leo's wife Sheila was nasty. He should have divorced her years ago. His children would have been understanding and proud of their father coming out.
This book just didn't work. Gina and her sons story were boring and add to that an ending that made no sense i have to say skip this.
May 31, 2019
I did not like this book. I felt uneasy while reading it... but it's so well written that I felt compelled to finish it and couldn't put it down. I needed to know what was going to happen and SO MUCH IS HAPPENING IN A SINGLE WEEKEND!!! It's all catastrophic and I kept telling myself that it will get better... and then I didn't even try to convince myself and just went with the flow.
Many thanks to the publisher for my e-copy of this book through NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Many thanks to the publisher for my e-copy of this book through NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2019
Book Description
THE EAST END is an atmospheric debut novel of family secrets and scandal, of love and heartbreak, of working-class struggle versus the privileges of the super wealthy, all set in a place whose incredible beauty means both pleasure and pain – a place where people will die for love, kill for truth, and dream of escaping forever.
THE EAST END opens with Corey Halpern, a Hamptons local from a broken home who breaks into mansions at night for kicks. He likes the rush and admittedly, the escapism. One night just before Memorial Day weekend, he breaks into the wrong home at the wrong time: the Sheffield estate where he and his mother work. Under the cover of darkness, their boss Leo Sheffield -- billionaire CEO, patriarch, and owner of the vast lakeside manor -- arrives unexpectedly with his lover, Henry. After a shocking poolside accident leaves Henry dead, everything depends on Leo burying the truth. But unfortunately for him, Corey saw what happened and there are other eyes in the shadows.
Hordes of family and guests are coming to the estate the next morning, including Leo's surly wife, all expecting a lavish vacation weekend of poolside drinks, evening parties, and fireworks filling the sky. No one can know there’s a dead man in the woods, and there is no one Leo can turn to. With his very life on the line, everything will come down to a split-second decision. For all of the main players—Leo, Gina, and Corey alike—time is ticking down, and the world they’ve known is set to explode.
Told through multiple points of view, THE EAST END highlights the socio-economic divide in the Hamptons, but also how the basic human need for connection and trust can transcend class differences. Secrecy, obsession, and desperation dictate each character’s path. In a race against time, each critical moment holds life in the balance as Corey, Gina, and Leo approach a common breaking point.
My Thoughts
As someone who grew up on the east end of Long Island, I can attest that there is a huge disparity between the year-round residents, and the ‘summer folk’( as I am sure anyone who is a year-round resident of a tourist town will agree). Whether you make your living from the ‘rich people’ or not, you can’t avoid seeing the disparity between those who arrive every summer, open up their opulent homes, and then depart when the season ends.
Jason Allen’s The East End paints a vivid picture of what a summer in the Hamptons is like. While the book description piqued my interest( I am a sucker for all thing Hamptons), it was the characters who kept me reading( and the background of the Hamptons is definitely a character). Corey, his mother Gina, his crush and love, Angelique, and of course, the wealthy Sheffield family, all combine to make this a binge-worthy read. The publication date in the US is May 7th, and some years, I would say this would be a perfect beach read. However, the weather has been dreary and rainy, so while this may be more of a rainy day in May read(on Long Island, at least), you never know when the sun will come out and the Hamptons will call! A fun read and a really good debut! I will definitely look to see what Jason Allen writes next!
I received a DRC from Harlequin-Trade Publishing-Park Row through NetGalley.
THE EAST END is an atmospheric debut novel of family secrets and scandal, of love and heartbreak, of working-class struggle versus the privileges of the super wealthy, all set in a place whose incredible beauty means both pleasure and pain – a place where people will die for love, kill for truth, and dream of escaping forever.
THE EAST END opens with Corey Halpern, a Hamptons local from a broken home who breaks into mansions at night for kicks. He likes the rush and admittedly, the escapism. One night just before Memorial Day weekend, he breaks into the wrong home at the wrong time: the Sheffield estate where he and his mother work. Under the cover of darkness, their boss Leo Sheffield -- billionaire CEO, patriarch, and owner of the vast lakeside manor -- arrives unexpectedly with his lover, Henry. After a shocking poolside accident leaves Henry dead, everything depends on Leo burying the truth. But unfortunately for him, Corey saw what happened and there are other eyes in the shadows.
Hordes of family and guests are coming to the estate the next morning, including Leo's surly wife, all expecting a lavish vacation weekend of poolside drinks, evening parties, and fireworks filling the sky. No one can know there’s a dead man in the woods, and there is no one Leo can turn to. With his very life on the line, everything will come down to a split-second decision. For all of the main players—Leo, Gina, and Corey alike—time is ticking down, and the world they’ve known is set to explode.
Told through multiple points of view, THE EAST END highlights the socio-economic divide in the Hamptons, but also how the basic human need for connection and trust can transcend class differences. Secrecy, obsession, and desperation dictate each character’s path. In a race against time, each critical moment holds life in the balance as Corey, Gina, and Leo approach a common breaking point.
My Thoughts
As someone who grew up on the east end of Long Island, I can attest that there is a huge disparity between the year-round residents, and the ‘summer folk’( as I am sure anyone who is a year-round resident of a tourist town will agree). Whether you make your living from the ‘rich people’ or not, you can’t avoid seeing the disparity between those who arrive every summer, open up their opulent homes, and then depart when the season ends.
Jason Allen’s The East End paints a vivid picture of what a summer in the Hamptons is like. While the book description piqued my interest( I am a sucker for all thing Hamptons), it was the characters who kept me reading( and the background of the Hamptons is definitely a character). Corey, his mother Gina, his crush and love, Angelique, and of course, the wealthy Sheffield family, all combine to make this a binge-worthy read. The publication date in the US is May 7th, and some years, I would say this would be a perfect beach read. However, the weather has been dreary and rainy, so while this may be more of a rainy day in May read(on Long Island, at least), you never know when the sun will come out and the Hamptons will call! A fun read and a really good debut! I will definitely look to see what Jason Allen writes next!
I received a DRC from Harlequin-Trade Publishing-Park Row through NetGalley.
May 6, 2019
2.5 Stars rounded up to 3!
I wanted to like this book so much because the synopsis sounded interesting and I was truly intrigued. However, this novel was not a good fit for me. I loved the writing, I thought it was actually brilliant, and thanks to the author’s skill with the written word this books deserves 3 stars. On the other hand, the story itself was unremarkable. I wanted so much more from this book, and I think that it could have been a great read if the plot was more developed. There was not much of a mystery, action, or even character development. Yes, we got a good insight into each of the character's miserable life, but I did not connect with any of them. It almost felt like the characters had no emotions and they moved through the story in a zombie-like trance, either high on drugs and alcohol or extremely tired due to the lack of sleep. I don’t even quite understand how any of them were able to function well enough to get out of bed let alone do any clear thinking, decision making or perform their daily work.
Overall, this book deserves 5 stars for the writing and only 2 stars for the story. I wish I could love it more, but I just can not rate this novel higher than 3 stars.
Thank you NetGalley, Park Row Books, and the author for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
I wanted to like this book so much because the synopsis sounded interesting and I was truly intrigued. However, this novel was not a good fit for me. I loved the writing, I thought it was actually brilliant, and thanks to the author’s skill with the written word this books deserves 3 stars. On the other hand, the story itself was unremarkable. I wanted so much more from this book, and I think that it could have been a great read if the plot was more developed. There was not much of a mystery, action, or even character development. Yes, we got a good insight into each of the character's miserable life, but I did not connect with any of them. It almost felt like the characters had no emotions and they moved through the story in a zombie-like trance, either high on drugs and alcohol or extremely tired due to the lack of sleep. I don’t even quite understand how any of them were able to function well enough to get out of bed let alone do any clear thinking, decision making or perform their daily work.
Overall, this book deserves 5 stars for the writing and only 2 stars for the story. I wish I could love it more, but I just can not rate this novel higher than 3 stars.
Thank you NetGalley, Park Row Books, and the author for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 23, 2019
I couldn’t put it this one down, nor did I want it to end!
This was a story unlike anything I’ve read before, and kept me thinking about it long after I finished it.
The story is set in the Hampton’s. The main character Corey is so spent on working for the rich. He can’t stand the wealthy and hates how they treat his mother.
To rebel and blow off some steam, he occasionally breaks into the empty homes he and his mom are employed to clean, not to steal anything, just for the thrill of getting away with it. On this one night before Memorial Weekend, Corey sneaks into a home that is not even close to being empty. He witnesses way more than he can handle and gets more involved than he anticipated.
I loved Corey’s character in the story along with his mother, Gina and Mr Sheffield who owns the home. Everyone in the story is dealing with their own life altering dilemma and it really makes you wonder what you would do in their shoes.
This story takes a few chapters to get into but once the action starts it is impossible to put down! So good!
My review will post on my blog May 1, 2019.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin for this advanced copy.
This was a story unlike anything I’ve read before, and kept me thinking about it long after I finished it.
The story is set in the Hampton’s. The main character Corey is so spent on working for the rich. He can’t stand the wealthy and hates how they treat his mother.
To rebel and blow off some steam, he occasionally breaks into the empty homes he and his mom are employed to clean, not to steal anything, just for the thrill of getting away with it. On this one night before Memorial Weekend, Corey sneaks into a home that is not even close to being empty. He witnesses way more than he can handle and gets more involved than he anticipated.
I loved Corey’s character in the story along with his mother, Gina and Mr Sheffield who owns the home. Everyone in the story is dealing with their own life altering dilemma and it really makes you wonder what you would do in their shoes.
This story takes a few chapters to get into but once the action starts it is impossible to put down! So good!
My review will post on my blog May 1, 2019.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin for this advanced copy.
March 15, 2019
I won this book from GoodReads! This suspenseful story had me turning pages in the wee hours in order to finish the book.
July 30, 2019
I loved this. LOVED it.
In a weird way, it felt a little like a Dennis Lehane novel. The tone is obviously quite different, but the way Allen wrote his characters reminds me of Lehane’s flawed but infinitely lovable, complex protagonists. Somehow, despite their imperfections and mistakes, you end up rooting for almost everyone in the story.
Allen’s writing isn’t flowery, but it’s beautiful anyway, and the character-driven story kept me up WAY past my bedtime because I couldn’t put it down.
In a weird way, it felt a little like a Dennis Lehane novel. The tone is obviously quite different, but the way Allen wrote his characters reminds me of Lehane’s flawed but infinitely lovable, complex protagonists. Somehow, despite their imperfections and mistakes, you end up rooting for almost everyone in the story.
Allen’s writing isn’t flowery, but it’s beautiful anyway, and the character-driven story kept me up WAY past my bedtime because I couldn’t put it down.
May 9, 2019
Finished reading: May 6th 2019
"It's much better to regret something you have done than something you haven't done. Remember that."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Park Row Books in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
March 29, 2019
The East End is Jason Allen’s debut novel. Corey, just out of high school, lives in the Hamptons in a working-class neighborhood. His mom Gina, is the head housekeeper for billionaire Leo Sheffield at his massive estate in the Hamptons. Bored and full of angst about rich Hamptonites, Corey has started breaking into their mansions and playing pranks on them. One night he decides to break into the Sheffield mansion and sees something he should not. From here the story turns into a game of cat and mouse. The whole novel takes place over the course of a few days. It is told from the perspective of Leo, Corey, Gina, and Angelique. Angelique is best friends with Leo’s daughter Tiffany and was also at the mansion and witnessed the horrific act that Corey also saw. This is a very fast-paced read. It is also disturbing in a good way. I will definitely read more of this author’s books. Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for the copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2019
I never managed to get into the book or feel connected to the characters, unfortunately. It was one big rush, like being at a crossroad without signs or lights, and everyone races over it without caring for any other. And, I'm so sorry, none of the characters was likeable or that interesting that I got something else.
Sad because the plot sounded so good to me and I was really looking forward to the read and happy when the publisher and Netgalley offered it.
Sad because the plot sounded so good to me and I was really looking forward to the read and happy when the publisher and Netgalley offered it.
July 9, 2019
Lets be honest. I picked up this book at first solely based on the BEAUTIFUL cover! A gorgeous cover always gets me! I’m a sucker! The East End was a good solid summer beach read. It was definitely a bit slower paced then I am used too....but isn’t everything in summer?!? So I’ll let that slide ;) I very much enjoyed the story line! A affluent family kicking off summer with their friends and family at their Hamptons estate. Its a crazy start to the summer and who knows what is lurking around when they arrive....Lets just say...what happens in the Hamptons doesn’t necessarily stay in the Hamptons!
3-stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️
3-stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 24, 2019
This whole book read like a black out fever dream of something you'd experience in delirium tremens but I can't fault the writing or the plot if you're willing to suspend disbelief for a couple of days worth of reading time. Briefly, rich dude is hiding his love affair with another man and brings the lover to his Hamptons estate. While he's upstairs getting goodies together, younger man does WAY too much blow on top of gallons of booze, has some kind of catastrophic fit and falls face first into the pool. Older guy doesn't make it out there in time for CPR to make a difference, although I don't think it would have anyway, because I think he OD'd. This sets off a chain of events in which his daughters friend, who wasn't even supposed to be at the house sees him with the dead body, the maids son helps daughters friend escape when older guy chases her down to try to "explain" things, the maid, who has been cleaning up his messes for years even though she's an alcoholic and pill addict as well, gets dragged into it, and her ex is chasing everyone around with a gun. It all builds to a crescendo at the end of that holiday weekend with blackmail, guns, kids that don't know any better and a stand off in the rain. Grossly entertaining, but highly implausible, still fun for a quick read.
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