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A Predator and A Psychopath
"The character at the heart of the novel is both terrifying and realistic. For fans of dark thrillers and crime fiction, this novel will not disappoint." Self-Publishing Review
"The characters are expertly drawn. The story builds toward an explosive conclusion." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
After Jason is committed to a mental institution, he begins to uncover things he never knew before or things his mind shut out to protect him. He finds himself questioning what's real and what's not. What happened to his wife, Lisa? Where is Lea? Why can't he remember what happened?
Meanwhile, Jerry is dangerous and unpredictable. He envisions a world where boundaries are broken down and he is free to enforce his narcissistic belief that he has a divine mission.
An explosive ending that is anything but expected, forgive yourself for shuddering throughout and after you close the book.
Drawing inspiration from real cases, and with well-researched, realistic characters, this thriller is not for the soft-hearted.
Readers speaking about A Predator and A Psychopath:
"A must read thriller that will have your head spinning.I'd definitely read another by this author, his imagination is wild, impressive, and addictive." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"It is a very intense book that will raise your curiosity." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Excellent thriller, in a creepy way. Well written with a vivid description of the attacker's motive and devices. I will remember this novel often, especially when a stranger knocks on my door." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"This author is brilliant at what he does and certainly kept me guessing." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Incredible Story. A fast-paced,gripping novel that will leave you breathless and absolutely taken." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"This is a wonderful story and I highly recommend it to everyone." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"A must read brilliant psychological thriller. An exciting experience getting inside a psychopath's mind."Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Wow... just wow. I am part terrified, part disturbed, and part amazed at this book." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I really enjoy thrillers and this one is absolutely exceptional, I can't wait to read more by Jay." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"A great book and actually really disturbing. It left a big impact on me and I couldn't stop thinking about it constantly for days."Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"One of those reads that I will never ever forget."Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"A tough subject to read... but wow! Jay is an excellent new entry to the thriller genre. I for one am glad to have found him."Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Holy Crap what a book! Very very disturbing and oh so hard to put down once you start this roller-coaster of a ride!" Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"A really heavy, twisted, psychological thriller.
"The characters are expertly drawn. The story builds toward an explosive conclusion." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
After Jason is committed to a mental institution, he begins to uncover things he never knew before or things his mind shut out to protect him. He finds himself questioning what's real and what's not. What happened to his wife, Lisa? Where is Lea? Why can't he remember what happened?
Meanwhile, Jerry is dangerous and unpredictable. He envisions a world where boundaries are broken down and he is free to enforce his narcissistic belief that he has a divine mission.
An explosive ending that is anything but expected, forgive yourself for shuddering throughout and after you close the book.
Drawing inspiration from real cases, and with well-researched, realistic characters, this thriller is not for the soft-hearted.
Readers speaking about A Predator and A Psychopath:
"A must read thriller that will have your head spinning.I'd definitely read another by this author, his imagination is wild, impressive, and addictive." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"It is a very intense book that will raise your curiosity." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Excellent thriller, in a creepy way. Well written with a vivid description of the attacker's motive and devices. I will remember this novel often, especially when a stranger knocks on my door." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"This author is brilliant at what he does and certainly kept me guessing." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Incredible Story. A fast-paced,gripping novel that will leave you breathless and absolutely taken." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"This is a wonderful story and I highly recommend it to everyone." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"A must read brilliant psychological thriller. An exciting experience getting inside a psychopath's mind."Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Wow... just wow. I am part terrified, part disturbed, and part amazed at this book." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I really enjoy thrillers and this one is absolutely exceptional, I can't wait to read more by Jay." Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"A great book and actually really disturbing. It left a big impact on me and I couldn't stop thinking about it constantly for days."Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"One of those reads that I will never ever forget."Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"A tough subject to read... but wow! Jay is an excellent new entry to the thriller genre. I for one am glad to have found him."Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Holy Crap what a book! Very very disturbing and oh so hard to put down once you start this roller-coaster of a ride!" Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"A really heavy, twisted, psychological thriller.
277 pages, ebook
First published July 9, 2019
571 people are currently reading
574 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
August 2, 2019
A Predator and A Psychopath by Jay Kerk is a dark psychological thriller based on sexual violence and abusive behavior. The author draws inspiration from real stories and sums up it in a mind-blowing way.
Jason Stankovic works in a Cyber firm as a Chief Financial Officer. He has a lovely wife named Lisa, and two kids, Lea and Matthew. The story starts when Jason found himself in a rehabilitation center and didn't remember the last few months of his life. He was accused of having an affair with someone close to him and murders his family when they found out. While Jason made a maiden attempt to run away from the facility; Dr. Thompson helped him to remember his past.
In the meantime, a man named Jerry, a handyman try to gain the trust to tenants and invade their personal space. Jerry is a pedophile. He doesn't feel any emotions and looking for her mate. He needs a strong, beautiful, and has a high sexual desire teenager who shared Jerry with other girls and carries his child.
Jason and Jerry's path crossed unexpectedly. While Jason tries to prove his innocence, Jerry is looking for his other prey. Both the characters are hateful, in their twisted way. The detailed description of Jerry's sick acts makes a person think twice in the future if someone is trustworthy or not. There are so many characters, but everyone placed at the right place, at the right time. The readers will certainly feel a lot of dark emotions while reading this book.
Jay Kerk maintains the suspense element until the end and leaves the readers with their assumptions. The story is woven around the misuse of technology, the betrayal of closed ones, unhealthy relationships, mental disorders, obsession, and childhood abuse. The narration is flawless, but I feel the cover page could have been better. The story is fast-paced. This book is for a particular set of people, who has the stomach to digest the brutal reality of our society. I recommend this gripping thriller novel to adults.
Read more here - https://www.bookscharming.com/2019/08...
Jason Stankovic works in a Cyber firm as a Chief Financial Officer. He has a lovely wife named Lisa, and two kids, Lea and Matthew. The story starts when Jason found himself in a rehabilitation center and didn't remember the last few months of his life. He was accused of having an affair with someone close to him and murders his family when they found out. While Jason made a maiden attempt to run away from the facility; Dr. Thompson helped him to remember his past.
In the meantime, a man named Jerry, a handyman try to gain the trust to tenants and invade their personal space. Jerry is a pedophile. He doesn't feel any emotions and looking for her mate. He needs a strong, beautiful, and has a high sexual desire teenager who shared Jerry with other girls and carries his child.
Jason and Jerry's path crossed unexpectedly. While Jason tries to prove his innocence, Jerry is looking for his other prey. Both the characters are hateful, in their twisted way. The detailed description of Jerry's sick acts makes a person think twice in the future if someone is trustworthy or not. There are so many characters, but everyone placed at the right place, at the right time. The readers will certainly feel a lot of dark emotions while reading this book.
Jay Kerk maintains the suspense element until the end and leaves the readers with their assumptions. The story is woven around the misuse of technology, the betrayal of closed ones, unhealthy relationships, mental disorders, obsession, and childhood abuse. The narration is flawless, but I feel the cover page could have been better. The story is fast-paced. This book is for a particular set of people, who has the stomach to digest the brutal reality of our society. I recommend this gripping thriller novel to adults.
Read more here - https://www.bookscharming.com/2019/08...
August 29, 2019
Let me start by saying the only thing I like about this book ... is the cover.
Jason is residing in a mental institution. He remembers nothing of how he got there ... or why. Supposedly his wife killed their daughter and he then killed his wife. A son is missing.
Jerry has a love/hate relationship with underage girls. He stalks, he manipulates, looking for his soulmate with a penchant for self-satisfying sex.
It's dark and disturbing and I could not relate to the characters at all. There were no redeeming qualities in either of them.
What happens when these two meet? Who cares?
Many thanks to the author / BooksGoSocial / Netgalley for the digital copy of this book. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
December 7, 2019
1.5 stars The first few chapters caught my attention. I was intrigued...a man with amnesia in a psychiatric centre. Something bad has happened to land him there...what is going on??? But then the circumstances are quickly revealed and a whole new (despicable and uninteresting) character is introduced. At first I was confused, then I was disgusted, and then I was bored. The writing felt rushed and superficial. Too much internal dialogue at times. Not enough suspense or character development. I felt like it needed more revisions to get where it needed to be. I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2019
'She attracted me, but I didn’t know if her magnetism was because I hadn’t had sex for a year. Like grocery shopping when you’re hungry—it’s not recommended.'
It took me a little while to finish A Predator and a Psychopath because I went on holiday for a week. I had every intention of continuing and finishing this while I was away, but due to very hot weather and far too much fun both in and out of the sun, I didn't pick it up again until I got back home.
I did read a handful of chapters on the plane en-route, and had to laugh because one of them was called 'Turbulence'! How very fitting!
A Predator and a Psychopath is one of those stories that I'd imagine many, many people would start, discover what one of the characters was like, and instantly stop out of sheer disgust. Normal people don't read this kind of thing surely.
To best describe my reading experience would be to compare it to a car crash that you know is up ahead. You know full well that there's fatalities, there could be graphic and unsettling scenes, stuff of nightmares that you'd rather not see. You look and stare regardless because you just can't help yourself.
This book was awful. The characters were awful. So much of this book was utterly awful. I cannot stress enough how awful this book was.
I loved it! Am I awful too? Perhaps.
What made this book worthy of a four star rating was the style in which it was written. It was so brilliantly put. So easy to follow. Each chapter flowed to the next with ease. My weeks break of not reading didn't have any effect on my reading enjoyment. Often if I have a break in reading something, I really struggle to get back into it. Not this. It was captivating, full of triggers, I made faces throughout reading, often asking myself , why do read such horrific stuff?
I feel like I shouldn't recommend this book to anyone at all. The subject matter is twisted and questionable and sickening. But it was written with such intelligence, clearly, lots of research went into writing this, and that really shines throughout the book.
To compare it to other books I've read, I'd say it has hints of Easton Ellis' American Psycho mixed with Frey's My Friend Leonard and Long's The Book of Paul.
Thank you to Book Sirens for providing me with a copy to read in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
It took me a little while to finish A Predator and a Psychopath because I went on holiday for a week. I had every intention of continuing and finishing this while I was away, but due to very hot weather and far too much fun both in and out of the sun, I didn't pick it up again until I got back home.
I did read a handful of chapters on the plane en-route, and had to laugh because one of them was called 'Turbulence'! How very fitting!
A Predator and a Psychopath is one of those stories that I'd imagine many, many people would start, discover what one of the characters was like, and instantly stop out of sheer disgust. Normal people don't read this kind of thing surely.
To best describe my reading experience would be to compare it to a car crash that you know is up ahead. You know full well that there's fatalities, there could be graphic and unsettling scenes, stuff of nightmares that you'd rather not see. You look and stare regardless because you just can't help yourself.
This book was awful. The characters were awful. So much of this book was utterly awful. I cannot stress enough how awful this book was.
I loved it! Am I awful too? Perhaps.
What made this book worthy of a four star rating was the style in which it was written. It was so brilliantly put. So easy to follow. Each chapter flowed to the next with ease. My weeks break of not reading didn't have any effect on my reading enjoyment. Often if I have a break in reading something, I really struggle to get back into it. Not this. It was captivating, full of triggers, I made faces throughout reading, often asking myself , why do read such horrific stuff?
I feel like I shouldn't recommend this book to anyone at all. The subject matter is twisted and questionable and sickening. But it was written with such intelligence, clearly, lots of research went into writing this, and that really shines throughout the book.
To compare it to other books I've read, I'd say it has hints of Easton Ellis' American Psycho mixed with Frey's My Friend Leonard and Long's The Book of Paul.
Thank you to Book Sirens for providing me with a copy to read in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
d-n-f
August 21, 2019I just can't do it. I cannot read this book which I have abandoned at 25%. I just don't care... *sigh*
December 31, 2019
This book was different from other books I have read. Unfortunately the ending left me wanting more. There were a lot of loose strings that needed to be resolved/cleaned up. Dispite that complaint, Jay Kert did an outstanding job of painting both the predator and the psychopath characters.
Jason has a large gape of memory missing. He had been accused of killing his wife, and sleeping with his daughter, killed by mom when she found out. We don't know what is true about these circumstances, but we do know his son is missing. Jason wants to find his son.
Jerry sees himself as a true predator, an alpha male, an Übermensch. He is superior to others. He loves underage girls, finding them easy to manipulate. He is a true nightmare to encounter.
Jason, in his madness attracts' Jerry's attention when Jason publically accuses the killer, who is Jerry, of killing his son or keeping him locked up somewhere. Jerry and Jason begin their interaction with each other. Jerry just wants to be left alone to his own devices.
A was given an advance copy in exchanged for an honest review.
Jason has a large gape of memory missing. He had been accused of killing his wife, and sleeping with his daughter, killed by mom when she found out. We don't know what is true about these circumstances, but we do know his son is missing. Jason wants to find his son.
Jerry sees himself as a true predator, an alpha male, an Übermensch. He is superior to others. He loves underage girls, finding them easy to manipulate. He is a true nightmare to encounter.
Jason, in his madness attracts' Jerry's attention when Jason publically accuses the killer, who is Jerry, of killing his son or keeping him locked up somewhere. Jerry and Jason begin their interaction with each other. Jerry just wants to be left alone to his own devices.
A was given an advance copy in exchanged for an honest review.
August 16, 2019
First of all big thanks to Jay Kerk for bringing this book to my attention.
I went into this not sure what to expect and after one chapter I was hooked.
It drew me in immediately. The characters were so well written. In fact the writing was perfect. I've been known to be a bit of a writing snob, so me not having any complaints is pretty big. There were no grammar mistakes and very few typos which made the book very easy to read. No re-reading to figure out what the sentence was supposed to say. It was truly effortless to read, which is always a pleasure.
Now the actual book. Big wauw. I kinda hope there will be a second book, cause I wanna see how that ending is gonna play out. I really enjoyed both Jason and Jerry. And it was interesting to get a look inside their minds. I know the author said they did a lol of research and it shows. I would honestly really like a book of just Jerry. He really drew me in even though he's a character I was supposed to dislike for his messed up view of the world.
And that ending wauw. I honestly thought I had it figured out but boy was I wrong.
All in all this leads to a phenomenal book. Everything a good thriller should have. And I know I've said it before, but that ending...
I went into this not sure what to expect and after one chapter I was hooked.
It drew me in immediately. The characters were so well written. In fact the writing was perfect. I've been known to be a bit of a writing snob, so me not having any complaints is pretty big. There were no grammar mistakes and very few typos which made the book very easy to read. No re-reading to figure out what the sentence was supposed to say. It was truly effortless to read, which is always a pleasure.
Now the actual book. Big wauw. I kinda hope there will be a second book, cause I wanna see how that ending is gonna play out. I really enjoyed both Jason and Jerry. And it was interesting to get a look inside their minds. I know the author said they did a lol of research and it shows. I would honestly really like a book of just Jerry. He really drew me in even though he's a character I was supposed to dislike for his messed up view of the world.
And that ending wauw. I honestly thought I had it figured out but boy was I wrong.
All in all this leads to a phenomenal book. Everything a good thriller should have. And I know I've said it before, but that ending...
July 27, 2019
This starts with Jason, he’s in a psychiatric hospital after an event he cannot remember. Gradually, with the help of Dr Thompson he starts to cope with the knowledge his daughter Lea had been shot by her mother, his wife, Lisa. Lisa was also killed….was it Jason?
The story then jumps to Jerry, and this is the most unpleasant part of the story. He is a sexual predator, with a liking for underage girls. He also manages to install cameras in student housing and spies and follows them constantly. There is a lot of graphic and gratuitous sex in this part that made for difficult and uncomfortable reading….not for anyone with a gentle disposition and I have to admit to skipping some of this.
However, the story is very clever and has a twisty plot…. how are Jason and Jerry linked? Who killed Lea and Lisa? Where is Jason’s missing son, Matthew? Can Jerry be stopped ?
Thank you to Jay Kerk for a copy of the ebook. This is my honest and unbiased review.
The story then jumps to Jerry, and this is the most unpleasant part of the story. He is a sexual predator, with a liking for underage girls. He also manages to install cameras in student housing and spies and follows them constantly. There is a lot of graphic and gratuitous sex in this part that made for difficult and uncomfortable reading….not for anyone with a gentle disposition and I have to admit to skipping some of this.
However, the story is very clever and has a twisty plot…. how are Jason and Jerry linked? Who killed Lea and Lisa? Where is Jason’s missing son, Matthew? Can Jerry be stopped ?
Thank you to Jay Kerk for a copy of the ebook. This is my honest and unbiased review.
August 4, 2019
This is a story of two converging lives. The protagonist awakens in a mental rehabilitation center. We follow him through the first quarter of the book as he makes uncertain progress. He is told that he had sex with his daughter, then eventually killed his wife after she killed the daughter. A son has mysteriously disappeared. He is convinced that he did not commit the crime and has to fake acceptance and recovery. He is eventually released as the books jumps to the antagonist. The jump happened so abruptly I first thought this might be and anthology and that I was beginning a new story.
The antagonist is a deeply sick individual. We hear his view of himself and the world through his sick filter in a method reminiscent of “Diary of a Mad House Wife”. We are probably half way through the book before we start to see any relationship with the story of the protagonist. Up until this point I was only marginally interested. Probably a 2 star review at this point. But when the connective lines began to form, tenuous as they were, I found myself drawn in. Unfortunately, the links never really shape up. Even parts that I was sure were for-shadowing never congealed. My hopes for the story climbed until we reached an unsatisfying ending.
I can’t shake the feeling that this is a second edition with a different ending and slightly altered focus from the original. I think I can see shadows of the original story, one I’d like to read and one that would probably get 4 stars, maybe 5.
The only other thing that bothered me was the author’s typical lack of knowledge of firearms. He mentions the wife buying a “silencer” as the gun dealer probably pressured her into it as an opportunity to sell her some expensive accessories. In fact, a suppressor (There really is no such thing as a silencer except in sales parlance, TV and Movies) requires a federal license, a substantial fee, a waiting period, and makes almost no money to the dealer. There are other accessories a dealer would push.
I can’t express this enough. If you are going to write about firearms, go to “The Pistol Forum.” ( https://pistol-forum.com/)
This site is largely LEO. Other members are gunsmiths EMTs and other first responders. They are always happy to help people new to the gun community. They are especially happy to help writers get it right. They won’t laugh at you questions. Bad information is quickly removed from the board. There is no better source for an author writing about firearms.
The antagonist is a deeply sick individual. We hear his view of himself and the world through his sick filter in a method reminiscent of “Diary of a Mad House Wife”. We are probably half way through the book before we start to see any relationship with the story of the protagonist. Up until this point I was only marginally interested. Probably a 2 star review at this point. But when the connective lines began to form, tenuous as they were, I found myself drawn in. Unfortunately, the links never really shape up. Even parts that I was sure were for-shadowing never congealed. My hopes for the story climbed until we reached an unsatisfying ending.
I can’t shake the feeling that this is a second edition with a different ending and slightly altered focus from the original. I think I can see shadows of the original story, one I’d like to read and one that would probably get 4 stars, maybe 5.
The only other thing that bothered me was the author’s typical lack of knowledge of firearms. He mentions the wife buying a “silencer” as the gun dealer probably pressured her into it as an opportunity to sell her some expensive accessories. In fact, a suppressor (There really is no such thing as a silencer except in sales parlance, TV and Movies) requires a federal license, a substantial fee, a waiting period, and makes almost no money to the dealer. There are other accessories a dealer would push.
I can’t express this enough. If you are going to write about firearms, go to “The Pistol Forum.” ( https://pistol-forum.com/)
This site is largely LEO. Other members are gunsmiths EMTs and other first responders. They are always happy to help people new to the gun community. They are especially happy to help writers get it right. They won’t laugh at you questions. Bad information is quickly removed from the board. There is no better source for an author writing about firearms.
October 2, 2019
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was one of the darkest things I have read at least all year. This story was emotionally hard hitting from start to finish. On top of some dismal characters, this plot follows a strange path. I personally found myself questioning all characters and what to believe, what was reality. It held dark, evil imagery and creates a sickness in your stomach the whole time you’re involved. The writing actually caused so many questionable plot points, I found myself asking impossible questions in order to try to grasp what this ending would entail. The end was in fact…deflating. While nothing was technically left unresolved and it was actually pretty realistic, the build was so strong in this that I suppose I just expected more of a punch. Instead I got a pretty generic feeling bitter sweet ending. I still really really enjoy this story and I hope others who enjoy delving into the whys of the darker sides of life would still pick up this creepy novel because I really do think it holds a lot to enjoy.
This was one of the darkest things I have read at least all year. This story was emotionally hard hitting from start to finish. On top of some dismal characters, this plot follows a strange path. I personally found myself questioning all characters and what to believe, what was reality. It held dark, evil imagery and creates a sickness in your stomach the whole time you’re involved. The writing actually caused so many questionable plot points, I found myself asking impossible questions in order to try to grasp what this ending would entail. The end was in fact…deflating. While nothing was technically left unresolved and it was actually pretty realistic, the build was so strong in this that I suppose I just expected more of a punch. Instead I got a pretty generic feeling bitter sweet ending. I still really really enjoy this story and I hope others who enjoy delving into the whys of the darker sides of life would still pick up this creepy novel because I really do think it holds a lot to enjoy.
September 9, 2019
I love a good psychological thriller, and Jay Kerk’s A Predator and A Psychopath seemed like the perfect book for me. I was eager to dive in and was sucked in by the first chapter.
The first chapter had me hooked, it opened my mind to so many possibilities. There were countless ways in which the story could play out, and I was desperate to see how everything came together. Although it was interesting and had me guessing, I found it difficult to get into the story.
I’m going to be honest and say I think it was a case of the writing style. I’m very picky about writing styles and this one didn’t do it for me. I couldn’t connect with the characters and the story, I was simply reading to see how everything came together. I was interested but not invested, which meant I wasn’t loving the story in the way I had hoped.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s an interesting story. I’m sure it will appeal to many, but this one wasn’t quite for me.
The first chapter had me hooked, it opened my mind to so many possibilities. There were countless ways in which the story could play out, and I was desperate to see how everything came together. Although it was interesting and had me guessing, I found it difficult to get into the story.
I’m going to be honest and say I think it was a case of the writing style. I’m very picky about writing styles and this one didn’t do it for me. I couldn’t connect with the characters and the story, I was simply reading to see how everything came together. I was interested but not invested, which meant I wasn’t loving the story in the way I had hoped.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s an interesting story. I’m sure it will appeal to many, but this one wasn’t quite for me.
June 26, 2025
A swing and a miss for me…
August 11, 2019
Note: aspects of this novel can be very disturbing. The following are mentioned, discussed, described in detail, or hinted at -- pedophilia, abuse, incest, rape, stalking, invasion of privacy, and sexual activity both on and off page. Much of it was extremely distasteful.
What it's about: This book is divided into narratives by two main characters, Jason and Jerry. Both speak in the first person so be sure to check which one is speaking. Jason Stankovic is confined to Jackson's Psychiatric Functional Rehabilitation Center for treatment after being found "not guilty by reason of insanity" after being accused of murdering his wife and incestuous relations with his daughter. He has a good lawyer, his best friend, Luke. The problem with Jason is that he can't remember anything about the crime and therapy and medication hasn't helped. He starts to make progress with a psychiatrist, Dr. Gary Thompson. Jerry is the worst of sexual predators and especially loves little girls. He's a stalker and is quite clever with his manipulation and covert activity. He's writing a manifesto explaining how superior men like him are and just how they will take over and transform the world. He intends to do his part to spread his seed. He's currently looking for a special alpha female to join him in creating this paradise. If I say too much more, it will be obvious and spoil the book for you so I'll have to stop here and wonder if you will come to the same conclusion as I did. In any event, at a point in the book, the story converges.
Should you read it? I don't know. It's quite long and drawn out and full of disgusting thoughts and behaviors. Jason and Jerry are repugnant and I detested both of them. But...oh, I can't say more except to tell you to look at the title. Read carefully for the clues, hints, claims. The thing is, the ending is so abrupt and leaves you hanging so you aren't even going to know for sure if you "got it" after all. I can't face the thought of a sequel as I wouldn't want to read more. I hope that the author's point for writing this was to provide a caution to parents to protect and monitor their children's interaction with other adults. All of them. There is depravity in this world and vigilance is a must.
Thank you to NetGalley and to the author for providing this e-book ARC to read and review. I need to go take a shower and find my happy place to get rid of the thoughts and images and worry in my head.
What it's about: This book is divided into narratives by two main characters, Jason and Jerry. Both speak in the first person so be sure to check which one is speaking. Jason Stankovic is confined to Jackson's Psychiatric Functional Rehabilitation Center for treatment after being found "not guilty by reason of insanity" after being accused of murdering his wife and incestuous relations with his daughter. He has a good lawyer, his best friend, Luke. The problem with Jason is that he can't remember anything about the crime and therapy and medication hasn't helped. He starts to make progress with a psychiatrist, Dr. Gary Thompson. Jerry is the worst of sexual predators and especially loves little girls. He's a stalker and is quite clever with his manipulation and covert activity. He's writing a manifesto explaining how superior men like him are and just how they will take over and transform the world. He intends to do his part to spread his seed. He's currently looking for a special alpha female to join him in creating this paradise. If I say too much more, it will be obvious and spoil the book for you so I'll have to stop here and wonder if you will come to the same conclusion as I did. In any event, at a point in the book, the story converges.
Should you read it? I don't know. It's quite long and drawn out and full of disgusting thoughts and behaviors. Jason and Jerry are repugnant and I detested both of them. But...oh, I can't say more except to tell you to look at the title. Read carefully for the clues, hints, claims. The thing is, the ending is so abrupt and leaves you hanging so you aren't even going to know for sure if you "got it" after all. I can't face the thought of a sequel as I wouldn't want to read more. I hope that the author's point for writing this was to provide a caution to parents to protect and monitor their children's interaction with other adults. All of them. There is depravity in this world and vigilance is a must.
Thank you to NetGalley and to the author for providing this e-book ARC to read and review. I need to go take a shower and find my happy place to get rid of the thoughts and images and worry in my head.
August 19, 2019
Jay Kerk brings a twisted and disturbing tale of thriller through Jason and Jerry. I appreciate the first few chapters on Jason, the protagonist who is accused of having sexual relation with his own daughter and murders of his wife and son. Lack of detailing yet the direct sucking to the plot holds my attention from the first page. The author very cleverly used Jason's chapter to attract the reader to his book.Jason claimed to be innocent and his lost memory regards the events makes the story very interesting.
The antagonist, Jerry is clearly the psychopath the title is pointing.He is twined with all kind of dark deeds like stalking, underage sex,rape and what not.It’s actually hard to digest how he thinks and acts. I actually don't enjoy reading chapters about him but do agree that Kirk has written Jerry's character better than Jason.
What bugs me is the unsatisfying ending. Thriller like this should not be ended at cliffhanger. I also think that when someone is telling a story from various point of view, using third person is appropriate. Here Jay Kirk has used first person for both Jerry and Jason but that fails me to relate with them or keeping track of them in the plot. Many characters seems to be overshadowed by the main two characters where I actually wanna know more about them.
A very dark themed book for adults. There should be caution on the cover so that people over 18 years only read this book. I don't like the book cover.It's should be something that express the gore and darkness the book offers.
I thank Jay Kirk for giving me the e book for free in exchange of an honest review.
The antagonist, Jerry is clearly the psychopath the title is pointing.He is twined with all kind of dark deeds like stalking, underage sex,rape and what not.It’s actually hard to digest how he thinks and acts. I actually don't enjoy reading chapters about him but do agree that Kirk has written Jerry's character better than Jason.
What bugs me is the unsatisfying ending. Thriller like this should not be ended at cliffhanger. I also think that when someone is telling a story from various point of view, using third person is appropriate. Here Jay Kirk has used first person for both Jerry and Jason but that fails me to relate with them or keeping track of them in the plot. Many characters seems to be overshadowed by the main two characters where I actually wanna know more about them.
A very dark themed book for adults. There should be caution on the cover so that people over 18 years only read this book. I don't like the book cover.It's should be something that express the gore and darkness the book offers.
I thank Jay Kirk for giving me the e book for free in exchange of an honest review.
September 5, 2019
So this was definitely worth the title, Jay did a really good job of bringing the characters to life and showing the inside of a pedophile’s mind how sick they really are. Jerry was one sick man with a God complex and I have to say I was glad that Jason found him in the end and put an end to his madness. Jason was framed for a crime I believe he didn’t commit and had to go through therapy. The pain he went through to remember what happened was heartbreaking and I felt it was unfair to him how he was judged when no one knew the full story. It came together for me that Jerry or someone he knew on the dark web had something to do with the death of Jason’s wife and daughter. I felt like the whole book was a couple of full episodes of Law & Order: SVU tied together. It totally brings to life how dangerous the world can be and we need to educate our children.
I would read another book from Jay as I liked his writing and how he developed his characters and brought the book to life.
I received this book from author in exchange for an honest review and my opinion is my own.
I would read another book from Jay as I liked his writing and how he developed his characters and brought the book to life.
I received this book from author in exchange for an honest review and my opinion is my own.
July 26, 2019
This is a hard book to review. There was so many things running through my mind while I was reading it. The ending had NO resolution to the main story. I was left perplexed as to Jay's main storyline...that his daughter and wife were murdered and his son taken.
Yet that was NOT the main story. It seemed like it was a sidenote and only used to push the main character along.
At the end, NOTHING was resolved.
Plus I felt that the author threw in the three women at the end without giving us a good frame of reference....ie...how they ended up wherever they were.
Overall, the story was graphic and dealt with rape and child molestation.
Yet, I couldn't stop reading the book. The author does set up the story...but the ending fell flat.
Yet that was NOT the main story. It seemed like it was a sidenote and only used to push the main character along.
At the end, NOTHING was resolved.
Plus I felt that the author threw in the three women at the end without giving us a good frame of reference....ie...how they ended up wherever they were.
Overall, the story was graphic and dealt with rape and child molestation.
Yet, I couldn't stop reading the book. The author does set up the story...but the ending fell flat.
July 19, 2019
A Predator and a Psychopath by Jay Kerk is a good book! Liked the character and overall story was interesting!
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an arc copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 4, 2019
WARNING: This book is NOT for the faint-hearted. It is filled with disturbing imagery and is basically a look into the mind of a psychopath. There is rape, murder, kidnapping, and pedophilia. It's a very harsh reminder of the horrors in the world.
Synopsis:
The book follows two men, Jason and Jerry.
It is told in parts, with Part 1 being Jason's perspective, Part 2 being Jerry's perspective, etc. There are 5 parts.
Jason wakes up in a mental facility with no recollection of how he got there. He last remembers being at work a few days before at a prestigious, profitable corporation.
His doctor reveals he has been a patient for months, and that when things become too much for him, his memory suddenly blanks because his body is trying to protect him.
Eventually, Jason finds out that his wife and daughter were murdered and his son is missing.
Jason was in the room with the bodies so the police believe he did it. The son is missing, but the police suspect that he murdered his son and hid the body.
Jason doesn't remember any of this happening. He is declared incompetent to stand trial and is admitted for treatment of what experts believe to be disassociated identity disorder (in Jason's case, a second personality).
Jason loved his family and doesn't believe he would have harmed them. The story illustrates his journey in uncovering the truth of what happened to his family.
Jerry is a twenty-something year old sex addict with a taste for young girls. He considers himself "elite" and "hyper-sexual" and masturbates 4-6 times per day, in addition to any sex he has with girlfriends. He is looking for a girl/young woman who can keep up with his urges.
Jerry feels like age maturity laws are a recent abomination, and are not how his ancestors in history (or other modern countries, even) treated fertility. In his opinion, whenever girls had their first periods, they were ripe for mating, and that underage laws are ridiculous.
He is a "maintenance man" at several apartment buildings, which he installed cameras in so he can watch young tenants in their apartments without their knowledge. He also talks to people on the deep web who encourage his need to spread his seed and build an "elite" community of hyper-sexual individuals like himself.
Jerry's story follows his descent further into madness, and features, sex, manipulation, obsession, and stalking. Jerry is a true predator, and the story does a great job putting the reader in the middle of his insanity.
Favorite quotes:
- "I belong to the elite hunters. In every tribe, in every nation, my ancestors fought savagely to protect their group. Nowadays, they have no more use for us. They’ve replaced us with tanks and drones. We’re castaways. But the drive remains within us, the few of us left. We have a massive lust, we’re hungry to mate and multiply, thirsty for blood."
- "If I could get one message across the world, it would be: 'Lady Death is sweet but misunderstood. When she visits you, she is eternally tender and soft. She does not inflict pain. She relieves you from the suffering. Embrace her as if she is your savior.'"
- "Tell me what you fear, and I tell you who you are. I fear nothing. I loathe weakness; I prey on the frail; I befriend death."
Final thoughts:
I feel like I need to give an obligatory warning -- this book has darkness to it that could be a trigger for some people.
WARNING: There is a dark theme with sex addiction, underage sex, rape, and murder.
I don't mind a good dark theme, but this book was hard for me to stomach. Consider it a horror-suspense book.
If you can stomach it, it's a fascinating, horror-filled read. But know what you're getting into before diving in.
Overall, it's a good horror read.
I gave it four stars because sometimes characters just appeared out of nowhere like we were supposed to recognize them (i.e. Jerry went from dating Vickie to dating Melanie without any introduction about Melanie). Also, some of the train of thought seemed random/out of place in some locations, like it wasn't something I thought the character necessarily would think about.
Jason and Jerry's stories are both fascinating, though there are unanswered questions at the end.
It is definitely an interesting look at the twisted mind of a predator.
Synopsis:
The book follows two men, Jason and Jerry.
It is told in parts, with Part 1 being Jason's perspective, Part 2 being Jerry's perspective, etc. There are 5 parts.
Jason wakes up in a mental facility with no recollection of how he got there. He last remembers being at work a few days before at a prestigious, profitable corporation.
His doctor reveals he has been a patient for months, and that when things become too much for him, his memory suddenly blanks because his body is trying to protect him.
Eventually, Jason finds out that his wife and daughter were murdered and his son is missing.
Jason was in the room with the bodies so the police believe he did it. The son is missing, but the police suspect that he murdered his son and hid the body.
Jason doesn't remember any of this happening. He is declared incompetent to stand trial and is admitted for treatment of what experts believe to be disassociated identity disorder (in Jason's case, a second personality).
Jason loved his family and doesn't believe he would have harmed them. The story illustrates his journey in uncovering the truth of what happened to his family.
Jerry is a twenty-something year old sex addict with a taste for young girls. He considers himself "elite" and "hyper-sexual" and masturbates 4-6 times per day, in addition to any sex he has with girlfriends. He is looking for a girl/young woman who can keep up with his urges.
Jerry feels like age maturity laws are a recent abomination, and are not how his ancestors in history (or other modern countries, even) treated fertility. In his opinion, whenever girls had their first periods, they were ripe for mating, and that underage laws are ridiculous.
He is a "maintenance man" at several apartment buildings, which he installed cameras in so he can watch young tenants in their apartments without their knowledge. He also talks to people on the deep web who encourage his need to spread his seed and build an "elite" community of hyper-sexual individuals like himself.
Jerry's story follows his descent further into madness, and features, sex, manipulation, obsession, and stalking. Jerry is a true predator, and the story does a great job putting the reader in the middle of his insanity.
Favorite quotes:
- "I belong to the elite hunters. In every tribe, in every nation, my ancestors fought savagely to protect their group. Nowadays, they have no more use for us. They’ve replaced us with tanks and drones. We’re castaways. But the drive remains within us, the few of us left. We have a massive lust, we’re hungry to mate and multiply, thirsty for blood."
- "If I could get one message across the world, it would be: 'Lady Death is sweet but misunderstood. When she visits you, she is eternally tender and soft. She does not inflict pain. She relieves you from the suffering. Embrace her as if she is your savior.'"
- "Tell me what you fear, and I tell you who you are. I fear nothing. I loathe weakness; I prey on the frail; I befriend death."
Final thoughts:
I feel like I need to give an obligatory warning -- this book has darkness to it that could be a trigger for some people.
WARNING: There is a dark theme with sex addiction, underage sex, rape, and murder.
I don't mind a good dark theme, but this book was hard for me to stomach. Consider it a horror-suspense book.
If you can stomach it, it's a fascinating, horror-filled read. But know what you're getting into before diving in.
Overall, it's a good horror read.
I gave it four stars because sometimes characters just appeared out of nowhere like we were supposed to recognize them (i.e. Jerry went from dating Vickie to dating Melanie without any introduction about Melanie). Also, some of the train of thought seemed random/out of place in some locations, like it wasn't something I thought the character necessarily would think about.
Jason and Jerry's stories are both fascinating, though there are unanswered questions at the end.
It is definitely an interesting look at the twisted mind of a predator.
July 28, 2019
Every now and again you stumble upon a rare find in a novel. And I’m happy to say that I’ve found that diamond in the rough.
Jason Stankovic is living a lie. Or what he perceives to be a lie. He’s been committed to a mental facility for reasons unknown to him. Of course, you aren’t just locked up in that type of facility for the hell of it, so why on earth was he committed there?
On the other side of town, take Jerry, who is a building handyman of sorts. His job isn’t that hard to do—in fact he finds what he does to be quite lucrative, but not in the money sense. Oh no, what Jerry does is find single mothers who are down on their luck to move into his building, and strange occurrences begin to happen. What strange occurrences, you ask? The sniffing of one’s underwear. Installing cameras and bugs throughout the apartment so someone can watch and listen to unsuspecting tenant’s every move. And as an added benefit, single mother’s daughters—quite ripe and ready for the picking!
Jason finally discovers the reason he’s been put into a mental facility and is now granted release. He’s been healed of what ailed him mentally, right? Once he gets out, his paranoia begins to get the best of him or is he being paranoid? His entire family is gone and he has no way of knowing where they are without any leads. The police don’t take him seriously, but there is one such person who shares Jason’s pain.
Are you confused? Well…you’ll have to read this very quirky and weird story to find out more. Actually, this is the type of read that I would have most likely ended up hating, but it was so out there, I couldn't get enough! Reader beware, though, this is not the type of story for the squeamish! Ooh no, quite the opposite. This story is for a very mature reader and one that can handle a grotesque subject matter. I have to say I enjoyed this story a great deal. Not exactly sure what that says about my taste in subject matters, but when an author can write such a good story and spin a tale so horrible, you’ve got to give your props!
As I mentioned at the top of my review that every now and again you stumble upon a rare novel, and this most definitely was one of them. I put this novel in the same class as some other greats such as Greg Levin’s In Wolves’ Clothing; Secondhand Smoke by Patty Friedman; Peter Hodges’ What’s Eating Gilbert Grape; and How I’m Spending My Afterlife by Spencer Fleury. Kerk is in great company! A story this horrible was that good and I couldn’t get enough! I kept tapping my Kindle waiting to find out what Jason and/or Jerry were going to do.
The ending wasn’t exactly what I expected, but I suppose as crazy as this story was, it was fitting. Overall, this was a weird ass story. OMG, that's an understatement for real! There isn’t any other way to put it other than the way I just stated. If you’re the type of reader that is ‘open minded’ and willing to receive something a little different and read outside the box, if you will, then I say this book is most definitely for you. Not every story you read is going to be presented in a perfect box adorned with a bow. In fact, for me, I look for new voices in the literary game that can take it up a notch, and Kerk did the damn thing! However, having said that, his story is not for everybody and some may find the story line to be vulgar and insensitive. But not this reader! I loved it!
The Sexy Nerd gives A Predator and a Psychopath five zany stars out of this world! This was one of those reads that I will never ever forget because Kerk’s choice in subject matter is one that most don’t like to touch. He executed the story well. There’s some real life’s lessons to be learned dealing with those types of shady characters.
To read original post, please go to: https://www.thesexynerdrevue.com/2019...
Thank you.
Jason Stankovic is living a lie. Or what he perceives to be a lie. He’s been committed to a mental facility for reasons unknown to him. Of course, you aren’t just locked up in that type of facility for the hell of it, so why on earth was he committed there?
On the other side of town, take Jerry, who is a building handyman of sorts. His job isn’t that hard to do—in fact he finds what he does to be quite lucrative, but not in the money sense. Oh no, what Jerry does is find single mothers who are down on their luck to move into his building, and strange occurrences begin to happen. What strange occurrences, you ask? The sniffing of one’s underwear. Installing cameras and bugs throughout the apartment so someone can watch and listen to unsuspecting tenant’s every move. And as an added benefit, single mother’s daughters—quite ripe and ready for the picking!
Jason finally discovers the reason he’s been put into a mental facility and is now granted release. He’s been healed of what ailed him mentally, right? Once he gets out, his paranoia begins to get the best of him or is he being paranoid? His entire family is gone and he has no way of knowing where they are without any leads. The police don’t take him seriously, but there is one such person who shares Jason’s pain.
Are you confused? Well…you’ll have to read this very quirky and weird story to find out more. Actually, this is the type of read that I would have most likely ended up hating, but it was so out there, I couldn't get enough! Reader beware, though, this is not the type of story for the squeamish! Ooh no, quite the opposite. This story is for a very mature reader and one that can handle a grotesque subject matter. I have to say I enjoyed this story a great deal. Not exactly sure what that says about my taste in subject matters, but when an author can write such a good story and spin a tale so horrible, you’ve got to give your props!
As I mentioned at the top of my review that every now and again you stumble upon a rare novel, and this most definitely was one of them. I put this novel in the same class as some other greats such as Greg Levin’s In Wolves’ Clothing; Secondhand Smoke by Patty Friedman; Peter Hodges’ What’s Eating Gilbert Grape; and How I’m Spending My Afterlife by Spencer Fleury. Kerk is in great company! A story this horrible was that good and I couldn’t get enough! I kept tapping my Kindle waiting to find out what Jason and/or Jerry were going to do.
The ending wasn’t exactly what I expected, but I suppose as crazy as this story was, it was fitting. Overall, this was a weird ass story. OMG, that's an understatement for real! There isn’t any other way to put it other than the way I just stated. If you’re the type of reader that is ‘open minded’ and willing to receive something a little different and read outside the box, if you will, then I say this book is most definitely for you. Not every story you read is going to be presented in a perfect box adorned with a bow. In fact, for me, I look for new voices in the literary game that can take it up a notch, and Kerk did the damn thing! However, having said that, his story is not for everybody and some may find the story line to be vulgar and insensitive. But not this reader! I loved it!
The Sexy Nerd gives A Predator and a Psychopath five zany stars out of this world! This was one of those reads that I will never ever forget because Kerk’s choice in subject matter is one that most don’t like to touch. He executed the story well. There’s some real life’s lessons to be learned dealing with those types of shady characters.
To read original post, please go to: https://www.thesexynerdrevue.com/2019...
Thank you.
September 1, 2019
THE BEST MIND FUCK BOOK I HAVE READ IN A WHILE!!!
I didn't know where to start with this review, because I didn't know in what state was my mind after I read it.
I knew I needed some time before I sat down and write my thoughts. I needed some time to think what I will write and how I will write it so I don't give anything away. I always try my reviews to be spoiler free so here, again I will try and do my best.
I gave myself a day to calm down my mind from what I read. All day my thoughts revolved around the plot of the book and I rethought everything I read again and again.
This book was so unbelievable good and fucked up with my mind in a way I could never imagined.
It was dark, intense, shocking psychological thriller with lots of twists.
This is not a read for the faint of hearts, because contains lots of triggers some may find very disturbing. Like child molesting, abuse and pedophilia.
I swear there were moments I was so angry and mad about I just wanted to throw my kindle to the wall.
Imagine what is to be in the head of a psychopat, a pedophil and you can see what he thinks about. Why he loves children and want to have sexual intercorse with them. This was so sick. I felt like I was him. All his actions he did I felt it through me. I WAS HIM.
I could not stop reading it even though I wanted to put it down coz I couldn't take it much, but I still kept reading. The author connect so good with you, that you feel you are in the skin of this psychopat, and you see everything through his eyes, and that fact itself says a lot. This without a doubt is one of the best books I have read so far.
I love psychological thrillers that fuck up with my mind in such a good way. And this was one of those books.
I found myself even talking about it with my husband and I never talk about books with him. Then we went out for dinner with friends and I could not stop talk about this story. A story that probably will stay in my head for a long time.
When the author contacted me and asked me if I would be interested to read his book I almost sayd No. He said it was available to read on NetGalley so I went to check it out.
I saw the cover and read the blurb and I got really intrigued so I downloaded it.
I didn't mean to read it stright away coz I had so many more on my list before this one, but every time I opened my kindle something was just pulling me to this book. My gut was telling me to read it. I am so glad I have listen to it now.
So in this story we meet two persons (or is it one?) The first is Jason. He wakes up in a mental institution where they treat him for a dissociative identity disorder, which is a mental disorder characterized by at least two distinct and relatively enduring personality states. This is accompanied by memory gaps beyond what would be explained by ordinary forgetfulness. So he doesn't remember the last few months of his life. They tell him that he killed his family, and that he had a sexual relationship with his 15 years old daughter. And then we meet Jerry. And you all will hate him...trust me.
A very captivating novel with mystery that only resolves itself at the end of the book.
If you are not scared to go into the very very dark place of your mind...read this book. It will open your eyes for so many things. I swear I feel so clever after reading it.
I would read anything by this author. This is his first book but you can't tell at all. Masterpiece in this genre. MUST READ. Hands down. Well done. 5 stars from me and much more.
Thank you NetGalley for this copy. I loved it.
I didn't know where to start with this review, because I didn't know in what state was my mind after I read it.
I knew I needed some time before I sat down and write my thoughts. I needed some time to think what I will write and how I will write it so I don't give anything away. I always try my reviews to be spoiler free so here, again I will try and do my best.
I gave myself a day to calm down my mind from what I read. All day my thoughts revolved around the plot of the book and I rethought everything I read again and again.
This book was so unbelievable good and fucked up with my mind in a way I could never imagined.
It was dark, intense, shocking psychological thriller with lots of twists.
This is not a read for the faint of hearts, because contains lots of triggers some may find very disturbing. Like child molesting, abuse and pedophilia.
I swear there were moments I was so angry and mad about I just wanted to throw my kindle to the wall.
Imagine what is to be in the head of a psychopat, a pedophil and you can see what he thinks about. Why he loves children and want to have sexual intercorse with them. This was so sick. I felt like I was him. All his actions he did I felt it through me. I WAS HIM.
I could not stop reading it even though I wanted to put it down coz I couldn't take it much, but I still kept reading. The author connect so good with you, that you feel you are in the skin of this psychopat, and you see everything through his eyes, and that fact itself says a lot. This without a doubt is one of the best books I have read so far.
I love psychological thrillers that fuck up with my mind in such a good way. And this was one of those books.
I found myself even talking about it with my husband and I never talk about books with him. Then we went out for dinner with friends and I could not stop talk about this story. A story that probably will stay in my head for a long time.
When the author contacted me and asked me if I would be interested to read his book I almost sayd No. He said it was available to read on NetGalley so I went to check it out.
I saw the cover and read the blurb and I got really intrigued so I downloaded it.
I didn't mean to read it stright away coz I had so many more on my list before this one, but every time I opened my kindle something was just pulling me to this book. My gut was telling me to read it. I am so glad I have listen to it now.
So in this story we meet two persons (or is it one?) The first is Jason. He wakes up in a mental institution where they treat him for a dissociative identity disorder, which is a mental disorder characterized by at least two distinct and relatively enduring personality states. This is accompanied by memory gaps beyond what would be explained by ordinary forgetfulness. So he doesn't remember the last few months of his life. They tell him that he killed his family, and that he had a sexual relationship with his 15 years old daughter. And then we meet Jerry. And you all will hate him...trust me.
A very captivating novel with mystery that only resolves itself at the end of the book.
If you are not scared to go into the very very dark place of your mind...read this book. It will open your eyes for so many things. I swear I feel so clever after reading it.
I would read anything by this author. This is his first book but you can't tell at all. Masterpiece in this genre. MUST READ. Hands down. Well done. 5 stars from me and much more.
Thank you NetGalley for this copy. I loved it.
August 3, 2019
Writing a novel has several aspects. The first is to have a good concept, and here Kerk, who is presenting his first book to the public, has an excellent concept, and the plot is such that it could have been a brilliant book. However, another part is execution, and this lets it down somewhat. This makes this review difficult to write because I have to remind myself that maybe I see too much of what might have been and should concentrate on what is. My first problem is with the title, which has ambiguity: does it mean there are two people, one a predator and one a psychopath (which I assumed after a little reading) or does it mean there is one who is both? Unfortunately, there is more ambiguity. The book is divided into parts, each of which follows nominally one of two characters. The next problem for me is they are both written first person with at times almost stream of consciousness style. We start with one, Jason, in a mental asylum, who has lost his memory, but has been accused of having incest with daughter and killing wife afer wife kills daughter. Is he a predator or a psychopath? Or neither? Could he be innocent? He clearly has deep mental issues, but what? Now, presenting events, clues, etc, that mislead is a great part of story-telling technique, but in my view, technical misrepresentation by the author is not a valid means of doing this.
When we get to the parts with the other character, Jerry, he is clearly the predator – he is a sex deviant. Unfortunately, with both written first person in styles that are very similar, we have the issue, could this be one person with two personas? That is actually suggested in places, rather bluntly, and I regard this as poor writing technique. As an aside, if this were written third person, the question of whether they were the same would have been quite valid. The trouble with first person is it draws the reader into the character, and it is hard to be so drawn into two different characters.
The sentence structure, etc, is well-written so Kerk can write. Overall it is gritty and at times stomach-churning if you are so inclined. I thought the sexual predator parts were a bit drawn out, as for that matter was Jason's recovery period, and the effects on other characters were put too much in the background; Jason and Jerry hog the story and the other characters are little better than stage props, which is a pity. The showing of the vileness of Jerry is brilliant, if carried on too long. Is he a psychopath? I am not a psychiatrist so I don't know for sure, but I did some reading for one of my characters in a novel, and I feel the answer is more no than yes. Psychotic, yes. The story comes to an interesting conclusion and the final scene starts extremely well, but then the story suddenly ends. Yes, the main problem is solved, but there are still some loose ends left dangling and for me a small wash-up part would have been desirable. This is an awkward book to grade. Given a good structural editor working it over, it would have been worth five stars, but I am sorry that it isn't.
When we get to the parts with the other character, Jerry, he is clearly the predator – he is a sex deviant. Unfortunately, with both written first person in styles that are very similar, we have the issue, could this be one person with two personas? That is actually suggested in places, rather bluntly, and I regard this as poor writing technique. As an aside, if this were written third person, the question of whether they were the same would have been quite valid. The trouble with first person is it draws the reader into the character, and it is hard to be so drawn into two different characters.
The sentence structure, etc, is well-written so Kerk can write. Overall it is gritty and at times stomach-churning if you are so inclined. I thought the sexual predator parts were a bit drawn out, as for that matter was Jason's recovery period, and the effects on other characters were put too much in the background; Jason and Jerry hog the story and the other characters are little better than stage props, which is a pity. The showing of the vileness of Jerry is brilliant, if carried on too long. Is he a psychopath? I am not a psychiatrist so I don't know for sure, but I did some reading for one of my characters in a novel, and I feel the answer is more no than yes. Psychotic, yes. The story comes to an interesting conclusion and the final scene starts extremely well, but then the story suddenly ends. Yes, the main problem is solved, but there are still some loose ends left dangling and for me a small wash-up part would have been desirable. This is an awkward book to grade. Given a good structural editor working it over, it would have been worth five stars, but I am sorry that it isn't.
August 8, 2019
Thank you so much to jay kerk for the pdf download of your book a predator a psychopath : A dark and twisted psychological thriller about the book .
"The plot is graphic and unapologetic....a novel for those who really have the stomach," Readers' Favorite.
After Jason is committed to a mental institution, he begins to uncover things he never knew before or things his mind shut out to protect him. Under the care of the facility's doctors, he finds himself questioning what's real and what's not. What is the truth? What happened to him? Is his mind playing tricks on him?
Wait a minute, what happened to his wife, Lisa? Where is Lea? Why can't he remember what happened?
Meanwhile, Jerry is dangerous and unpredictable. He envisions a world where boundaries are broken down and he is free to enforce his narcissistic belief that he has a divine mission. Technology allows him the freedom to use his position of trust to play with people's lives.
An explosive ending that is anything but expected, forgive yourself for shuddering throughout and after you close the book
Drawing inspiration from real cases, and with well-researched, realistic characters, A Predator and A Psychopath is not for the soft-hearted.
Get your copy now.
(now back to the review)
Your a great writer I was so happy you asked me If I could read it .
at first I thought Jason and jerry were the same person then I realized they were not the same person , the things jerry does is just so disgusting I really feel bad for Jason you could feel his emotion the story also changed from 2 points of view/stories jerry's and Jason's I was trying to figure out everything out in the beginning how all the pieces fit together in each story the characters were so realistic it was almost creepy I would never want to meet a guy like jerry he makes the hairs on my arm stand up . Jason on the other hand is just trying to figure everything out since coming from the mental institution it had a good amount of mystery for me and it kept me on the edge of my seat it took me 3 day's to read this story a thriller worth reading if you really have a stomach and can read this type of stuff you should because it was so good also I did not expect the book to end like that what a shock laura8759.
"The plot is graphic and unapologetic....a novel for those who really have the stomach," Readers' Favorite.
After Jason is committed to a mental institution, he begins to uncover things he never knew before or things his mind shut out to protect him. Under the care of the facility's doctors, he finds himself questioning what's real and what's not. What is the truth? What happened to him? Is his mind playing tricks on him?
Wait a minute, what happened to his wife, Lisa? Where is Lea? Why can't he remember what happened?
Meanwhile, Jerry is dangerous and unpredictable. He envisions a world where boundaries are broken down and he is free to enforce his narcissistic belief that he has a divine mission. Technology allows him the freedom to use his position of trust to play with people's lives.
An explosive ending that is anything but expected, forgive yourself for shuddering throughout and after you close the book
Drawing inspiration from real cases, and with well-researched, realistic characters, A Predator and A Psychopath is not for the soft-hearted.
Get your copy now.
(now back to the review)
Your a great writer I was so happy you asked me If I could read it .
at first I thought Jason and jerry were the same person then I realized they were not the same person , the things jerry does is just so disgusting I really feel bad for Jason you could feel his emotion the story also changed from 2 points of view/stories jerry's and Jason's I was trying to figure out everything out in the beginning how all the pieces fit together in each story the characters were so realistic it was almost creepy I would never want to meet a guy like jerry he makes the hairs on my arm stand up . Jason on the other hand is just trying to figure everything out since coming from the mental institution it had a good amount of mystery for me and it kept me on the edge of my seat it took me 3 day's to read this story a thriller worth reading if you really have a stomach and can read this type of stuff you should because it was so good also I did not expect the book to end like that what a shock laura8759.
August 22, 2019
This book reminds me of some of the books I've read before. But still, it was very interesting from start until the end.
I will try to keep this review spoiler-free.
This book has two main characters. Jason and Jerry. The Psychopath and the Predator.
Jason was confused. He couldn't remember things from his past. He was frustrated, because he couldn't remember what happened to his family. He was trying to move on with his life while trying to decipher who killed his family and trying to find where his missing son is.
I don't know what I will think about the character of Jason. There were a lot of questions left unanswered. I don't know if there will be a sequel, but it actually needed one. So, yes, looking forward to that one.
Jerry.. Jerry reminds me of Joe from Caroline Kepnes' You. His character was very disturbing and frightening at the same time. I was a little uncomfortable reading his point of view because it was really disturbing for me. Like, how could he do things like that? It was scary and really really creepy.
I actually predicted the ending so it was not surprising to me. I also have a hunch on what can happen next so I'm very excited for the next book. (if there is one)
But all in all, this was an amazing plot. It was a thought-provoking story, and gives me shivers knowing that those kind of people really do exist.
Check my other reviews at https://jdlreads.wordpress.com/
I will try to keep this review spoiler-free.
This book has two main characters. Jason and Jerry. The Psychopath and the Predator.
Jason was confused. He couldn't remember things from his past. He was frustrated, because he couldn't remember what happened to his family. He was trying to move on with his life while trying to decipher who killed his family and trying to find where his missing son is.
I don't know what I will think about the character of Jason. There were a lot of questions left unanswered. I don't know if there will be a sequel, but it actually needed one. So, yes, looking forward to that one.
Jerry.. Jerry reminds me of Joe from Caroline Kepnes' You. His character was very disturbing and frightening at the same time. I was a little uncomfortable reading his point of view because it was really disturbing for me. Like, how could he do things like that? It was scary and really really creepy.
I actually predicted the ending so it was not surprising to me. I also have a hunch on what can happen next so I'm very excited for the next book. (if there is one)
But all in all, this was an amazing plot. It was a thought-provoking story, and gives me shivers knowing that those kind of people really do exist.
Check my other reviews at https://jdlreads.wordpress.com/
July 28, 2019
Jason is in a psychiatric hospital because of the murder of his wife and daughter. He doesn't remember killing them and believes that he's innocent because he loved them and would never hurt them. He eventually remembers that he has a son through countless therapy lessons. What happened to his son? Did he kill him also?
Jerry is a sexual predator, a "hunter" of young children. To him the younger the better. He is obsessed with sex and needs a release MANY times a day. He stalks his victims, watches them in their own homes via cameras he's set up and then manipulates his way into their lives. He's always looking for that perfect Alpha partner.
How do these two souls get intertwined in each others lives. Are they one in the same? What happened to Mathew? Who killed Lisa and Lea?
I experience so many emotions reading this book. I felt sympathy, sadness, anger and disgust. That is result of great writing. I was never bored or felt like the story was dragging. I was consumed in the story and finding out what really happened and putting closure to all the horrible things that had happened throughout. As much as I had to say it, I loved this book up until the very end. I needed more. I was left with so many questions that I had hoped would be answered.
I will definitely look for more books by Jay Kerk.
Jerry is a sexual predator, a "hunter" of young children. To him the younger the better. He is obsessed with sex and needs a release MANY times a day. He stalks his victims, watches them in their own homes via cameras he's set up and then manipulates his way into their lives. He's always looking for that perfect Alpha partner.
How do these two souls get intertwined in each others lives. Are they one in the same? What happened to Mathew? Who killed Lisa and Lea?
I experience so many emotions reading this book. I felt sympathy, sadness, anger and disgust. That is result of great writing. I was never bored or felt like the story was dragging. I was consumed in the story and finding out what really happened and putting closure to all the horrible things that had happened throughout. As much as I had to say it, I loved this book up until the very end. I needed more. I was left with so many questions that I had hoped would be answered.
I will definitely look for more books by Jay Kerk.
September 23, 2019
Jason finds himself confined to a psychiatric institution. he has lost memory of the past months. Soon, he finds out that his wife, Lisa, and daughter, Lea, have been killed. His doctor leads him to the conclusion that he (Jason) has been more aware of what has been going on than he thinks. Also, Jason and Lea may have been having an intimate relationship...
Then we meet Jerry - a "hypersexual" misfit who likes his girls young. Jerry uses the dark web for a number of things - among them talking to a shrink who lost her license and a nutter that tells him to stop selling his sperm. Better yet, to become the father of 15-16 children - a tribe of sorts.
How are the two of them linked? Or are they?
Who killed Jason's wife and daughter?
Where is Jason's son, Mathew?
Does Jason suffer from multiple personalities?
A quick trip downward to alcohol, sex crimes and (of course) psychiatric problems.
I just want to know if Jay Kerk is planning a next book. There are too many questionable (unresolved?) areas that the reader wants answered.
A good start, Jay! The only thing I would suggest is a bit less time on Jerry...
Many Thanks to the Publisher and NetGalley for a rather poignant story.
Then we meet Jerry - a "hypersexual" misfit who likes his girls young. Jerry uses the dark web for a number of things - among them talking to a shrink who lost her license and a nutter that tells him to stop selling his sperm. Better yet, to become the father of 15-16 children - a tribe of sorts.
How are the two of them linked? Or are they?
Who killed Jason's wife and daughter?
Where is Jason's son, Mathew?
Does Jason suffer from multiple personalities?
A quick trip downward to alcohol, sex crimes and (of course) psychiatric problems.
I just want to know if Jay Kerk is planning a next book. There are too many questionable (unresolved?) areas that the reader wants answered.
A good start, Jay! The only thing I would suggest is a bit less time on Jerry...
Many Thanks to the Publisher and NetGalley for a rather poignant story.
September 27, 2019
I don't know how Kerk did it, but the characters of Jason and Jerry are expertly crafted. In the first part of the book, you are lead to believe that Jason is institutionalized for the murder of his family and the picture painted is all too believable. Next, the reader is presented with the predator Jerry, his conversations with his therapist and graphic details of him acting out. There was a whole section of the book where I could not figure out what was happening or how these two would be brought together.
I won't say anymore about the the plot but the ending was just a thriller and took me by surprise. It's been a long time since I've been engrossed in a book that I've been able to get through it in two days. The level of detail about Jason and Jerry really draw you in to the minds of the predator and the psychopath - this is not a book for the faint of heart, but for those that get through it, you will be richly rewarding with a thrilling reading experience. I wonder what else Kerk has written.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I won't say anymore about the the plot but the ending was just a thriller and took me by surprise. It's been a long time since I've been engrossed in a book that I've been able to get through it in two days. The level of detail about Jason and Jerry really draw you in to the minds of the predator and the psychopath - this is not a book for the faint of heart, but for those that get through it, you will be richly rewarding with a thrilling reading experience. I wonder what else Kerk has written.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 25, 2019
Not for the soft hearted is certainly an accurate description of this book. It is gritty and intense in its descriptions of Jerry and Jason and how their lives unfold. We first meet Jason as he is in a session with a doctor in a psychiatric ward and trying to figure out his missing memories and how he ended up there. Pretty quickly, it is established that something is amiss. And slowly he convinces himself that he is fulfilling a higher purpose. When we meet Jerry, he is portrayed as a hypersexual predator who is angered and bitter over his lot in life. He moves from underage girl to underage girl, obsessing over them until he “conquers” them and moves on, all the while arguing over his superiority with a Dr Anna.
The novel overall is disturbing, but then getting into the mindset of a predator as well as a psychopath will be like that. You will have to remember, that this does go on in life and people are too trusting of perceived figures of authority. It was very well written but the context of the topic might be difficult for people to read.
The novel overall is disturbing, but then getting into the mindset of a predator as well as a psychopath will be like that. You will have to remember, that this does go on in life and people are too trusting of perceived figures of authority. It was very well written but the context of the topic might be difficult for people to read.
July 28, 2019
This starts with Jason, he’s in a psychiatric hospital after an event he cannot remember. Gradually, with the help of Dr Thompson he starts to cope with the knowledge his daughter Lea had been shot by her mother, his wife, Lisa. Lisa was also killed….was it Jason?
The story then jumps to Jerry, and this is the most unpleasant part of the story. He is a sexual predator, with a liking for underage girls. He also manages to install cameras in student housing and spies and follows them constantly. There is a lot of graphic sex in this part that made for difficult and uncomfortable reading….not for anyone with a gentle disposition and I have to admit to skipping some of this.
However, the story is very clever and has a twisty plot…. how are Jason and Jerry linked? Who killed Lea and Lisa? Where is Jason’s missing son, Matthew? Can Jerry be stopped ?
Thank you to Jay Kerk and NetGalley for a copy of the ebook. This is my honest and unbiased review.
The story then jumps to Jerry, and this is the most unpleasant part of the story. He is a sexual predator, with a liking for underage girls. He also manages to install cameras in student housing and spies and follows them constantly. There is a lot of graphic sex in this part that made for difficult and uncomfortable reading….not for anyone with a gentle disposition and I have to admit to skipping some of this.
However, the story is very clever and has a twisty plot…. how are Jason and Jerry linked? Who killed Lea and Lisa? Where is Jason’s missing son, Matthew? Can Jerry be stopped ?
Thank you to Jay Kerk and NetGalley for a copy of the ebook. This is my honest and unbiased review.
July 30, 2019
A Predator and A Psychopath: A Dark and Twisted Psychological Thriller is more than just a thriller or horror book to read about some warped individual. Jay Kerk wrote this novel with an end game and a message that should scare anyone. Jason is in a mental hospital and he has been there much longer than he realized. He finds out his mind has been blocking out horrible events that happened. Then we have Jerry, he has warrior genes that he can’t deny. At one point Jason and Jerry grasp the connection they have, and it isn’t a good one.
I loved that Jay Kerk wanted a thriller that was unique so he wrote one. A Predator and A Psychopath isn’t written about something we enjoy thinking about, a predator within our company, but it shows how persuasive someone can be to harm a trusting person. Well written with a vivid description of the attacker’s motive and devices. I will remember this novel often, especially when a stranger knocks on my door.
I loved that Jay Kerk wanted a thriller that was unique so he wrote one. A Predator and A Psychopath isn’t written about something we enjoy thinking about, a predator within our company, but it shows how persuasive someone can be to harm a trusting person. Well written with a vivid description of the attacker’s motive and devices. I will remember this novel often, especially when a stranger knocks on my door.
August 10, 2019
A Predator and a Psychopath by Jay Kerk
Holy Crap what a book! Very very disturbing and oh so hard to put down once you start this roller-coaster of a ride! This book is about exactly what the title promises you , you will meet Jason a man who is in a psych hospital for killing his wife, who after supposedly finding out he is sleeping with his daughter she kills her in a fit of rage only problem Jason remembers nothing....then there is Jerry who likes young girls and has a libido of......I'm not sure but boy does he have libido! Disturbing topics, disturbing descriptions but what a read with twists and enough going on you just have to finish! I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving my honest opinion for you!
Holy Crap what a book! Very very disturbing and oh so hard to put down once you start this roller-coaster of a ride! This book is about exactly what the title promises you , you will meet Jason a man who is in a psych hospital for killing his wife, who after supposedly finding out he is sleeping with his daughter she kills her in a fit of rage only problem Jason remembers nothing....then there is Jerry who likes young girls and has a libido of......I'm not sure but boy does he have libido! Disturbing topics, disturbing descriptions but what a read with twists and enough going on you just have to finish! I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving my honest opinion for you!
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