What do you think?
Rate this book
Messiah
“I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.” C.S. LewisCurtis Stewart, is a man seeking adoration. To be the centre of attention. He has lived his life feeling abandoned, by a mother who sought her own pleasure in life. Although she loved him, he was brought up in care for his own welfare. The monks of Upton Abbey were the catalyst that drove his religious fervour and laid the foundation of a path that shaped who he would become.The lure of the city of Los Angeles in the times of free love, drugs and fame his preaching ground. A chance to gather a family of his own. To impart his own particular religion and vision, of a Utopian world where pleasure and love were the overriding factors. A time of suspicion of subversive groups would cause the FBI to assign a young man, fresh from the Academy, to investigate this new emerging Preacher. Was he a threat to National security? Or just another deluded Cult Leader who was in it for the money? That was the task given to Patrick Devlin. A devout Catholic and family man. What would he uncover on this first assignment? Would his faith hold strong or would he be like Peter from the Bible, and betray his teacher in the time of trial?This story of love, ambition and a blind sense of duty to a charismatic man, will question your own faith and beliefs. Even if we do not profess to be religious, we live our lives by a certain dogma. Would you be ready to submit to someone’s twisted view of the world? Only because it promises depravity and self-gratification?
216 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 5, 2019
2 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
February 25, 2019
I am struggling to even put down in words, what I have just read and how I feel about this book (and that is a bloody good thing).
This author paints such a vivid picture with his words that you see and feel everything whilst reading it! And believe me, I did! In parts, this book was not easy to read, it steals your breath and your mind.
Every time I go to write something, I find myself deleting it, in fear of somehow giving a spoiler! This book has made quite the impression on me, that I am still thinking about it today. Please, I highly recommend that you read it.
This author paints such a vivid picture with his words that you see and feel everything whilst reading it! And believe me, I did! In parts, this book was not easy to read, it steals your breath and your mind.
Every time I go to write something, I find myself deleting it, in fear of somehow giving a spoiler! This book has made quite the impression on me, that I am still thinking about it today. Please, I highly recommend that you read it.
February 25, 2019
The storyline is spot on.
In this day and age others being drawn into another's beliefs is not far fetched.
Curtis, the leader, lived a horrific childhood.
A mother whom only cared about her own self satisfaction.
Priests whom were abusive.
Seeking the attention he never received growing up, things are about to get extremely interesting in the life of Curtis.
Congratulations on your new venture Tom.
This is definitely a most intriguing read.
I highly recommend it.
In this day and age others being drawn into another's beliefs is not far fetched.
Curtis, the leader, lived a horrific childhood.
A mother whom only cared about her own self satisfaction.
Priests whom were abusive.
Seeking the attention he never received growing up, things are about to get extremely interesting in the life of Curtis.
Congratulations on your new venture Tom.
This is definitely a most intriguing read.
I highly recommend it.
February 25, 2019
Messiah is a powerful, fascinating book. The main character of Curtis Stewart is complex - he’s an enigma, charismatic but dangerous. Is it nurture or nature that shapes his path? His unique way of speaking with touches of the Old Testament draw one into this amazing well researched story. Curtis reminded me of various cult leaders over the years who can captivate but also manipulate their acolytes. This book is well written with stunning imagery that transports you to LA in the early 70s and then to Sebastopol and Curtis utopia. Mixed in with religion, child abuse, neglect and undercover agents is hot as Hades erotica. Curtis and Magdalene share a chemistry that’s mesmerising and scorches the pages! Messiah is an intoxicating cauldron and it hooked me from the first page right up until the finale. A well deserved five stars and I can’t wait to see what the author writes next
March 5, 2019
A thrilling read following Curtis, a man who had a troubled beginning and and is seeking devoted attention. I was fascinated by his charm and dark side. His newly assembled family of followers, are just as enamoured by the enigma of the man, his philosophies and go to great lengths to prove their loyalty to him. There are many thought-provoking moments throughout and the story certainly proved to be a real page turner.
March 5, 2019
Explosive, powerful and ever so persuasive…
There are books and authors that always leave you reeling and overwhelmed in thoughts.
WOW!! Tom E. Shelby is going to annihilate you with his debut, new release - MESSIAH. I do not really know where to start. It’s an overwhelming book. It’s explosive, powerful and ever so persuasive. Then, that’s the premise and mantra of lead character - Curtis Stewart. Using the power he garnered at a young age and wielding it to suit himself and his followers. Living and breathing a life of excess and cultish fervour. As children, our minds, so impressionable and open they can become dangerous when in the wrong hands.
You feel empathy at the beginning of Curtis’ young life. So much hurt and pain for that young boy. His innocence shaped and moulded by life’s harshest conditions, lack of love, and good parenting. A child should never have to know or live in such utter hopelessness. Add religious fervour, indoctrination, lack of parental support, even when they claim to love… it’s one nightmare after the other… for a young child to navigate and function.
Tom E. Shelby, has you captured from page one… it’s not a pretty journey… it’s a dark journey to it's conclusion. A blending of both past and present, light and dark, so many shadows of heartbreaking suspense and twisted turns, where excess and persuasive voice dominate. So reminiscent of a real life cult zealot from that time period.
It’s going to make you think hard about a whole range of moral, religious and social ethics. You will feel a gamut of emotions… sadness, hurt, anger, rage at the level of abuse one is able to inflict on the innocent, utterly helpless to see innocence destroyed.
The most dangerous thing
is not a gun
or gas or nuclear weapon;
it is an impressionable mind,
~ Roman Newell
The dichotomy of how does Curtis weild all of that power when he comes of age?
You can be shaped by circumstance, but it’s how you rise above, the decisions you formulate, the consequences of actions and how you learn to adapt - that is the most dangerous thing of all - how the mind is able to persuade and influence others.
I was shattered and left gasping for breath at times, at the words this author has written on the blank pages of his story. This book was particularly hard to read, not only through personal experiences of religious background but that of how the innocent cope within a world where the very essence of darkness and depravity, where evil manipulates and derives such pleasure in the torture of the flesh, mind, and soul of the one they claim to love. Oh yes… you will walk away often, just to take a breath of fresh air, to feel clean
Warning: this book will not be for everyone.
This book is filled with dark and disturbing content, that challenges every convention, moral value and ideal, it’s their journey and story to tell. For many, it’s a warning to proceed with the utmost of caution - read with an open mind. Those that pull themselves through the darker content... will see beyond, to those moments of caring compassion and empathy. Hope is fleeting, fragile at best but gives all incentive to always fight, to embrace our power and redefine our worth
There are books and authors that always leave you reeling and overwhelmed in thoughts.
WOW!! Tom E. Shelby is going to annihilate you with his debut, new release - MESSIAH. I do not really know where to start. It’s an overwhelming book. It’s explosive, powerful and ever so persuasive. Then, that’s the premise and mantra of lead character - Curtis Stewart. Using the power he garnered at a young age and wielding it to suit himself and his followers. Living and breathing a life of excess and cultish fervour. As children, our minds, so impressionable and open they can become dangerous when in the wrong hands.
You feel empathy at the beginning of Curtis’ young life. So much hurt and pain for that young boy. His innocence shaped and moulded by life’s harshest conditions, lack of love, and good parenting. A child should never have to know or live in such utter hopelessness. Add religious fervour, indoctrination, lack of parental support, even when they claim to love… it’s one nightmare after the other… for a young child to navigate and function.
Tom E. Shelby, has you captured from page one… it’s not a pretty journey… it’s a dark journey to it's conclusion. A blending of both past and present, light and dark, so many shadows of heartbreaking suspense and twisted turns, where excess and persuasive voice dominate. So reminiscent of a real life cult zealot from that time period.
It’s going to make you think hard about a whole range of moral, religious and social ethics. You will feel a gamut of emotions… sadness, hurt, anger, rage at the level of abuse one is able to inflict on the innocent, utterly helpless to see innocence destroyed.
The most dangerous thing
is not a gun
or gas or nuclear weapon;
it is an impressionable mind,
~ Roman Newell
The dichotomy of how does Curtis weild all of that power when he comes of age?
You can be shaped by circumstance, but it’s how you rise above, the decisions you formulate, the consequences of actions and how you learn to adapt - that is the most dangerous thing of all - how the mind is able to persuade and influence others.
I was shattered and left gasping for breath at times, at the words this author has written on the blank pages of his story. This book was particularly hard to read, not only through personal experiences of religious background but that of how the innocent cope within a world where the very essence of darkness and depravity, where evil manipulates and derives such pleasure in the torture of the flesh, mind, and soul of the one they claim to love. Oh yes… you will walk away often, just to take a breath of fresh air, to feel clean
Warning: this book will not be for everyone.
This book is filled with dark and disturbing content, that challenges every convention, moral value and ideal, it’s their journey and story to tell. For many, it’s a warning to proceed with the utmost of caution - read with an open mind. Those that pull themselves through the darker content... will see beyond, to those moments of caring compassion and empathy. Hope is fleeting, fragile at best but gives all incentive to always fight, to embrace our power and redefine our worth
March 3, 2019
"The pieces have been placed on the board and the game has begun. Who knows how this will end?"
This was amazing!! It's dark, and twisted, and erotic, and captivating!!
Curtis Stewart grew up devoid of unconditional love, of attention from a mother who found her own wants and needs far more important than that of her son. Too much for her to handle, he is sent to Upton Abbey. What he learns there puts him on a dark course, driven by a warped sense of duty, his twisted interpretation of scripture and his overwhelming desire to be loved. Well-practiced in the art of deception, he finds it easy to bend the minds and wills of a small group of followers to a life of pleasure and abandon - a world where both rewards and punishments are given through carnal acts. His true motive kept hidden. But one of his flock may be a wolf in sheep's clothing, threatening to topple his kingdom. Curtis will never allow that to happen.
Patrick Devlin is about to have his faith tested. A devout Catholic and strong in his beliefs, he was well suited for this assignment. But, is this Messiah, this teacher, the threat to national security they think he is? Is Curtis just a spiritual leader, hoping for a world without hate and violence? One night will make his decision an easy one - and it just may cost him everything.
I am a huge fan of dark, twisted stories. This one did not disappoint! The way this author depicted Curtis, you couldn't help but feel sympathy toward him. As twisted as he was, your heart still broke for him and what he had endured in his life. You can almost justify his actions -almost. And without spoiling anything, prepare to have some mixed emotions by the end. If you like a dark read as I do, I highly recommend this one!
This was amazing!! It's dark, and twisted, and erotic, and captivating!!
Curtis Stewart grew up devoid of unconditional love, of attention from a mother who found her own wants and needs far more important than that of her son. Too much for her to handle, he is sent to Upton Abbey. What he learns there puts him on a dark course, driven by a warped sense of duty, his twisted interpretation of scripture and his overwhelming desire to be loved. Well-practiced in the art of deception, he finds it easy to bend the minds and wills of a small group of followers to a life of pleasure and abandon - a world where both rewards and punishments are given through carnal acts. His true motive kept hidden. But one of his flock may be a wolf in sheep's clothing, threatening to topple his kingdom. Curtis will never allow that to happen.
Patrick Devlin is about to have his faith tested. A devout Catholic and strong in his beliefs, he was well suited for this assignment. But, is this Messiah, this teacher, the threat to national security they think he is? Is Curtis just a spiritual leader, hoping for a world without hate and violence? One night will make his decision an easy one - and it just may cost him everything.
I am a huge fan of dark, twisted stories. This one did not disappoint! The way this author depicted Curtis, you couldn't help but feel sympathy toward him. As twisted as he was, your heart still broke for him and what he had endured in his life. You can almost justify his actions -almost. And without spoiling anything, prepare to have some mixed emotions by the end. If you like a dark read as I do, I highly recommend this one!
March 4, 2019
What a fantastic read!! Tom has a real gift with words, managing to bring the book to life with his amazing descriptions throughout the whole book. It makes you feel like you are right there with the characters, experiencing everything they do!
The main character Curtis, is a troubled soul, who has had experiences, as a child, that no person should have to go through. As such, they have contributed to the person he is as an adult.
He has a gift if making the people around him, hang on every word he says, and are all willing to do whatever is asked of them.
Curtis and Magdalene have an undeniable chemistry between them that almost lights up the story and the pages it's written on and the scenes between them are beautiful, erotic and extremely hot!!
Will Curtis and his new family achieve the Utopia they want? You'll have to read the book to find out!
Fantastic debut book from this author and I can't wait to see what else he has up his sleeve!!
Highly recommended and worthy of more than 5 stars!
The main character Curtis, is a troubled soul, who has had experiences, as a child, that no person should have to go through. As such, they have contributed to the person he is as an adult.
He has a gift if making the people around him, hang on every word he says, and are all willing to do whatever is asked of them.
Curtis and Magdalene have an undeniable chemistry between them that almost lights up the story and the pages it's written on and the scenes between them are beautiful, erotic and extremely hot!!
Will Curtis and his new family achieve the Utopia they want? You'll have to read the book to find out!
Fantastic debut book from this author and I can't wait to see what else he has up his sleeve!!
Highly recommended and worthy of more than 5 stars!
March 12, 2019
Messiah delves into the psyche of the charismatic and manipulative person that is Curtis Stewart. The novel follows him from the drug fueled parties of the L.A. folk music scene to rural outskirts of northern California. During this time we learn the reason for his quest for adoration and the people he has manipulated into becoming his followers. As his past history is slowly revealed throughout the book, you start to question if you actually hate this person or if you're sympathetic to his cause. I enjoy books that make you question your morals and this book did just that.
March 5, 2019
Messiah is a sensational read! I was captivated from the start and it most definitely didn't disappoint. The storyline is unique and the characters are unbelievably intriguing. I found myself feeling sympathy for Curtis, even though he was so twisted. If you are a fan of dark and twisted reads, love a story that is filled with betrayal, sex and even love, then I highly recommend you pick up your copy today and read it for yourself, you won't be disappointed.
March 4, 2019
I was so completely captivated by this story , I felt like I was a follower as well. Tom E Shelby takes us on such an incredible journey. It’s a brilliantly written tale that makes you think about and question a lot of your own beliefs. I’ve never read anything like this before and I truly loved it. At first I was cautious but I became so mesmerized that I couldn’t stop reading. I definitely recommend this book and believe it is a must read !!
March 10, 2019
Messiah is such a deeply thought-provoking book! Curtis has had a difficult childhood, lacking in love and warmth. As a result, he has grown up to become a jaded man, seeking that which he has been missing all his life. I was so enthralled with this amazing piece, rich with sex and religious overtones, as well as brilliant dissection of Curtis' psyche. Curtis is a complicated individual, and getting inside his head was quite an adventure! I loved the insightful writing and the well turned phrases the dialogue brought forth. A truly provocative read!
March 7, 2019
Tom E. Shelby's debut book "Messiah", intrigued me first because of the title. I didn't keep up with his posts as he was writing this book. I wanted to delve into the characters and Tom E. Shelby's mind as I was reading and be surprised without having any preconceived thoughts. Which I was! Readers, you are in for a real treat as to the wordsman that Tom E. Shelby is. Curtis Stewart has had a hard life beginning as a child to shape who he is as a man. He is soft spoken in his speech, has darkness in his eyes, and is very charismatic. Curtis has the ability to manipulate and brainwash his followers to form "The Seekers of the Way". Many acts are preformed by his followers, that may not have been done otherwise. Will his followers be able to "wake up" before it is to late? How many of us have already played God, judge, and jury in the course of our many life situations? Tom E. Shelby is an author who is able to express his creative thoughts to entertain his readers. I am hoping the voices in Tom E. Shelby's mind, have already whispered his next book to him. 5++
March 8, 2019
I don’t have the words to tell you how much I liked this book. I couldn’t put it down. If you have not read this book. Buy it and read it.
Curtis had a horrible childhood and he coped as best as he could. He turned to the scriptures to deal with the horrific things that he faced. But as a child who suffered greatly, his views were skewed. His time in the Abbey changed him into the charismatic cult like holy man that he portrayed.
Curtis held deep secrets and no real connection to anyone. He used his followers for his own need for retribution. In the end, did he deserve what happened to him or should it have been considered justifiable? Read the book. It is very deep with a lot of relevance in today’s world.
Curtis had a horrible childhood and he coped as best as he could. He turned to the scriptures to deal with the horrific things that he faced. But as a child who suffered greatly, his views were skewed. His time in the Abbey changed him into the charismatic cult like holy man that he portrayed.
Curtis held deep secrets and no real connection to anyone. He used his followers for his own need for retribution. In the end, did he deserve what happened to him or should it have been considered justifiable? Read the book. It is very deep with a lot of relevance in today’s world.
March 6, 2019
This was a fascinating and exciting read . Curtis was a very complex character but so enigmatic that he drew people to him and he totally loved the adoration. The mix of religion and sex made for an interesting but very thought provoking story . I honestly couldn’t put this book down. From his neglected childhood , being raised by monks to his cult following in adulthood ,add in the FBI and Curtis and Magdalene’s sexual chemistry and it all adds up to a most wonderful plot . A very well deserved five stars and I can’t wait to see what this author comes up with next.
August 8, 2019
Journey Through the Mind of a Misguided Soul
An interesting trek through the mind of a charimatic, cult leading, serial killer. Learn how and why Curtis Stewart becomes the revered "Teacher".
An interesting trek through the mind of a charimatic, cult leading, serial killer. Learn how and why Curtis Stewart becomes the revered "Teacher".
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews