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Lawyer David Thompson #2
Caged to Kill
In April, 2021, this novel helped free a man from solitary confinement after 34 years and helped change criminal justice laws in New York State.
"Suspenseful, chilling, and important."--Pulitzer Prize winner and New York Times bestselling author, Gilbert King.
"One of the best clean mysteries I've read in a long time. This author is just as good as John Grisham if not better."--Amazon Reviewer.
A "must read. Rarely does a book, with the exception of those penned by . . . Michael Connelly leave me with a feeling of excitement and anticipation at the end of each chapter."--Shain Thomas, Medium Entertainment.
A novel for our times inspired by true events . . .
PRISON COULDN'T BREAK HIM. BUT FREEDOM JUST MIGHT
After 30 yrs of solitary in a cell the size of a small bathroom, Phillip Dawkins is a survivor. Finally cleared of his wrongful conviction for murdering a cop, he's determined to live as a free man. He turns to his only friends--his lawyer, David Thompson, and Thompson's wife and son--for help with the transition.
Modern life for a man all alone since the 1980s is stressful enough. But when Phillip perceives that the government is after him, he's pushed to his breaking point. He fears "they're" out to put back in his cell or to put him 6 feet under. He begins to doubt his sanity and innocence. And it's getting harder to resist his inner voice urging him to kill David, and maybe his family too . . .
David finds himself in a race to solve the mystery that is Phillip Dawkins. The courtroom, prison officials, the FBI, the CIA, are all fair game in his frantic search for answers.
Can David discover the truth in time to save himself and his family or will shadowy forces unleash a killer first?
Caged to Kill is the second standalone book in the Lawyer David Thompson Thriller Series. If you like psychological suspense, engaging characters, and twists and turns, then you'll love Tom Swyers' gripping novel.
Buy your copy of Caged to Kill today!
Tom Swyers is a multi-award winning and Amazon bestselling author enjoyed by readers of great writers like John Grisham, Mark Nolan, Michael Connelly James Patterson, David Baldacci, Scott Pratt, Scott Turow, Victor Methos, Sheldon Siegel, Paul Levine, John Ellsworth, and Thomas Benigno.
TOP REASONS TO READ IT.
1. Gripping Story. Readers say:
"If I could give this book 10 stars, I would do so gladly! I was completely hooked by page 10 & hated to put it down for other commitments...like eating, sleeping & breathing. . . . A thriller with twists and turns to the end".
"Awesome Writer! Literally could not put it down until finished. May even read it again."
"Impossible to put down."
"Awesome book with great storytelling. It's a great read!"
"A fascinating page-turner. I highly recommend."
"Caged to Kill is compelling and well written & each chapter draws you into the struggle for truth . . . . This is a must read."
"Read it! Excellent book. Very hard to put down. Highly recommend."
2. Great Writing.
"Swyers' writing style is easygoing & entertaining. He is a storyteller. Once I picked the book up is was impossible to put down."
"Read it and you won't be disappointed--if you like great writing & getting really involved in a story."
"Tom Swyers has a masterful use of language."
3. Wonderful Characters.
"I was able to identify with all of the main characters, good & bad.".
"His characters come to life so vividly you feel you are right there with them."
"I love the Thompson family."
4. Quality Editing.
"I enjoyed this story enough to give it 5-stars, which I rarely do. It was well-written, not a typo in the entire book, & the story kept me turning the pages."
"Kudos for top-notch proofreading--I found no errors . . ."
"Excellent editing made for good reading!"
"Great! If you have not read the other two standalone books, I encourage you to. Tom Swyers is an author of epic proportion."
Get your copy of Caged to Kill now!
"Suspenseful, chilling, and important."--Pulitzer Prize winner and New York Times bestselling author, Gilbert King.
"One of the best clean mysteries I've read in a long time. This author is just as good as John Grisham if not better."--Amazon Reviewer.
A "must read. Rarely does a book, with the exception of those penned by . . . Michael Connelly leave me with a feeling of excitement and anticipation at the end of each chapter."--Shain Thomas, Medium Entertainment.
A novel for our times inspired by true events . . .
PRISON COULDN'T BREAK HIM. BUT FREEDOM JUST MIGHT
After 30 yrs of solitary in a cell the size of a small bathroom, Phillip Dawkins is a survivor. Finally cleared of his wrongful conviction for murdering a cop, he's determined to live as a free man. He turns to his only friends--his lawyer, David Thompson, and Thompson's wife and son--for help with the transition.
Modern life for a man all alone since the 1980s is stressful enough. But when Phillip perceives that the government is after him, he's pushed to his breaking point. He fears "they're" out to put back in his cell or to put him 6 feet under. He begins to doubt his sanity and innocence. And it's getting harder to resist his inner voice urging him to kill David, and maybe his family too . . .
David finds himself in a race to solve the mystery that is Phillip Dawkins. The courtroom, prison officials, the FBI, the CIA, are all fair game in his frantic search for answers.
Can David discover the truth in time to save himself and his family or will shadowy forces unleash a killer first?
Caged to Kill is the second standalone book in the Lawyer David Thompson Thriller Series. If you like psychological suspense, engaging characters, and twists and turns, then you'll love Tom Swyers' gripping novel.
Buy your copy of Caged to Kill today!
Tom Swyers is a multi-award winning and Amazon bestselling author enjoyed by readers of great writers like John Grisham, Mark Nolan, Michael Connelly James Patterson, David Baldacci, Scott Pratt, Scott Turow, Victor Methos, Sheldon Siegel, Paul Levine, John Ellsworth, and Thomas Benigno.
TOP REASONS TO READ IT.
1. Gripping Story. Readers say:
"If I could give this book 10 stars, I would do so gladly! I was completely hooked by page 10 & hated to put it down for other commitments...like eating, sleeping & breathing. . . . A thriller with twists and turns to the end".
"Awesome Writer! Literally could not put it down until finished. May even read it again."
"Impossible to put down."
"Awesome book with great storytelling. It's a great read!"
"A fascinating page-turner. I highly recommend."
"Caged to Kill is compelling and well written & each chapter draws you into the struggle for truth . . . . This is a must read."
"Read it! Excellent book. Very hard to put down. Highly recommend."
2. Great Writing.
"Swyers' writing style is easygoing & entertaining. He is a storyteller. Once I picked the book up is was impossible to put down."
"Read it and you won't be disappointed--if you like great writing & getting really involved in a story."
"Tom Swyers has a masterful use of language."
3. Wonderful Characters.
"I was able to identify with all of the main characters, good & bad.".
"His characters come to life so vividly you feel you are right there with them."
"I love the Thompson family."
4. Quality Editing.
"I enjoyed this story enough to give it 5-stars, which I rarely do. It was well-written, not a typo in the entire book, & the story kept me turning the pages."
"Kudos for top-notch proofreading--I found no errors . . ."
"Excellent editing made for good reading!"
"Great! If you have not read the other two standalone books, I encourage you to. Tom Swyers is an author of epic proportion."
Get your copy of Caged to Kill now!
413 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2019
684 people are currently reading
197 people want to read
About the author
Tom Swyers
6 books42 followersHe's often called "Tom Sawyer," but he is not the Mark Twain character, though he did marry Becky Thatcher and his best friend is Huck Finn. He lives in a nice home with his family near the Mohawk River in Upstate New York and writes from behind a locked basement door when Becky has had enough of him.
Saving Babe Ruth was his first novel and these are some of the awards it has received:
Gold Winner, "Best First Book: Fiction," 2015 Independent Book Publishers Association's Benjamin Franklin Book Awards.
Silver Winner, "Best Popular Fiction," 2015 Independent Book Publishers Association's Benjamin Franklin Book Awards.
Readers Views, "Best Regional Fiction 2014/2015: Northeast."
Finalist, "Best New Fiction," 2014 USA Best Book Awards.
Saving Babe Ruth was his first novel and these are some of the awards it has received:
Gold Winner, "Best First Book: Fiction," 2015 Independent Book Publishers Association's Benjamin Franklin Book Awards.
Silver Winner, "Best Popular Fiction," 2015 Independent Book Publishers Association's Benjamin Franklin Book Awards.
Readers Views, "Best Regional Fiction 2014/2015: Northeast."
Finalist, "Best New Fiction," 2014 USA Best Book Awards.
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
July 5, 2019
I've never thought about the death penalty, or life on the inside of prison, or solitary confinement. Phillip Dawkins has maintained his innocence for over twenty years, when he is released. How do you step out of prison and adapt to being free. You have no skills, no money, your family is gone and you're totally alone. The only person you know, is the attorney you'd were corresponding with. This book has it all! It was definitely an eye opener. The author Tom Sayers writes with love, with integrity. It's well worth your time to read. But be aware, keep tissues nearby!
I received this book through ARC for an honest review.
I received this book through ARC for an honest review.
November 21, 2019
Earlier this year I read Saving Babe Ruth by Tom Swyers. It was the first of the Lawyer David Thompson Thriller Legal Series. The writing and storytelling were first-rate but the theme lost a little on me ... baseball hardly ranks in Australia and wouldn't be in our top ten sports. Accordingly, it was hard for me to relate to the passion and persistence expressed.
That said, when one of my readers recommended Caged to Kill, the second book in the David Thompson Thriller Legal Series, I was quick to buy a copy. It is a superb edge of your seat story about the mistreatment of a prisoner confined to solitary for 30 years.
The inspiration is the real-life confinement of a prisoner for 32 years, but readers are not informed of this until the Afterword. The Afterword was initially the Preface and should have remained so, but some readers complained that it negatively impacted their reading experience. I don't get it?
Surely, knowing that a novel was founded on truth adds to the enjoyment and reading experience?
If you're looking for a gripping read that will also educate you about the U.S. penal system, Caged to Kill is the book for you. Great read.
That said, when one of my readers recommended Caged to Kill, the second book in the David Thompson Thriller Legal Series, I was quick to buy a copy. It is a superb edge of your seat story about the mistreatment of a prisoner confined to solitary for 30 years.
The inspiration is the real-life confinement of a prisoner for 32 years, but readers are not informed of this until the Afterword. The Afterword was initially the Preface and should have remained so, but some readers complained that it negatively impacted their reading experience. I don't get it?
Surely, knowing that a novel was founded on truth adds to the enjoyment and reading experience?
If you're looking for a gripping read that will also educate you about the U.S. penal system, Caged to Kill is the book for you. Great read.
July 12, 2019
There are some elements in this novel that I found worked well, and there were other elements that just didn't. I think this novel just bit off more than it could chew.
For about the first half of the novel, I felt that this was trying to be an examination of the psychological effects of incarceration (especially solitary confinement) on the individual, as well as the struggle to reintegrate into society without adequate support and transitional assistance. I was really liking where that was going! It seemed that Phillip's struggle WAS the story and I was really pulling for him to succeed.
Then, I turned a page, and found myself in a whole different book - a weird cross between psychological thriller and something akin to a spy thriller (or was it a chronicle of the descent into madness?), which I found to be a real disappointment. Many of the theories/developments stretched my credulity to the breaking point and completely took me out of the story. Other developments weren't well contextualized - the research was clearly there when it came to the prison system, but medical and psychological elements didn't demonstrate the same attention to detail. (Many didn't come across as remotely plausible to me).
The preface should have been an afterword. It set up a set of expectations for me that ended up hurting the reading experience. I'm all for fiction with a message, but this particular set up made the book political before I even started the story. I think moving it to the end would have allowed me to appreciate the story on its own merits. (I may have concluded it was too preachy in spite of this change, but there's no question that is my opinion with the preface included).
The pacing was uneven and choppy and this did not come across as being an intentional choice. Partly, this is due to the abrupt genre switch, with the first half being a bit slower to develop and the latter being a sprint. Another component is the near-repetition that's used in the writing. I think more variation in sentence length, as well as finding ways to use characters' first names a bit less often, would have helped make the prose flow better and may have softened the rough edges in pacing.
The character development was also lacking for me. I think this had to do with the choice to write this in the third person. To alternate chapters between Phillip and David's perspectives (first-person in both cases) would have really personalised Phillip's fractured mental state and allowed the reader to share in his confusion and fear about life outside prison. David's narration would have also allowed the reader to see Phillip through his eyes and experience his fears and uncertainties in a visceral way. The third-person narration, I found, put a barrier between the characters and I - I was being told what they were experiencing rather than shown. I also felt that the female characters were not well executed both in terms of their roles in the story and in their deficiencies of development. The women read as flat to me, with no real identity outside their proximity to the male characters. What a shame.
As a bit of a side note, I spent about half the novel under the impression that Phillip was African-American - I'm not sure how that happened. (This may say more about me and my cultural conditioning than it does about the prison system or the novel). When I finally clued in that Phillip is Caucasian, I found that considerations related to race came to the forefront of my mind and have remained there. I suspect this was not something the author intended. I'm not sure whether the story would have been more poignant had my assumption been correct. I'm not sure whether the author even considered race in the development of the story, although I do believe (from my Canadian understanding) that any discussion of the US prison system shouldn't exclude systemic racism since it's inherent on so many levels.
Having said all that, I don't have regrets for taking the time to read the novel. It's given me a lot to think about and consider (both about myself and my preconceptions as well as the cultural messaging I've absorbed vis a vis humane treatment, rehabilitation, and so on).
I received a copy of this book through Voracious Readers Only.
For about the first half of the novel, I felt that this was trying to be an examination of the psychological effects of incarceration (especially solitary confinement) on the individual, as well as the struggle to reintegrate into society without adequate support and transitional assistance. I was really liking where that was going! It seemed that Phillip's struggle WAS the story and I was really pulling for him to succeed.
Then, I turned a page, and found myself in a whole different book - a weird cross between psychological thriller and something akin to a spy thriller (or was it a chronicle of the descent into madness?), which I found to be a real disappointment. Many of the theories/developments stretched my credulity to the breaking point and completely took me out of the story. Other developments weren't well contextualized - the research was clearly there when it came to the prison system, but medical and psychological elements didn't demonstrate the same attention to detail. (Many didn't come across as remotely plausible to me).
The preface should have been an afterword. It set up a set of expectations for me that ended up hurting the reading experience. I'm all for fiction with a message, but this particular set up made the book political before I even started the story. I think moving it to the end would have allowed me to appreciate the story on its own merits. (I may have concluded it was too preachy in spite of this change, but there's no question that is my opinion with the preface included).
The pacing was uneven and choppy and this did not come across as being an intentional choice. Partly, this is due to the abrupt genre switch, with the first half being a bit slower to develop and the latter being a sprint. Another component is the near-repetition that's used in the writing. I think more variation in sentence length, as well as finding ways to use characters' first names a bit less often, would have helped make the prose flow better and may have softened the rough edges in pacing.
The character development was also lacking for me. I think this had to do with the choice to write this in the third person. To alternate chapters between Phillip and David's perspectives (first-person in both cases) would have really personalised Phillip's fractured mental state and allowed the reader to share in his confusion and fear about life outside prison. David's narration would have also allowed the reader to see Phillip through his eyes and experience his fears and uncertainties in a visceral way. The third-person narration, I found, put a barrier between the characters and I - I was being told what they were experiencing rather than shown. I also felt that the female characters were not well executed both in terms of their roles in the story and in their deficiencies of development. The women read as flat to me, with no real identity outside their proximity to the male characters. What a shame.
As a bit of a side note, I spent about half the novel under the impression that Phillip was African-American - I'm not sure how that happened. (This may say more about me and my cultural conditioning than it does about the prison system or the novel). When I finally clued in that Phillip is Caucasian, I found that considerations related to race came to the forefront of my mind and have remained there. I suspect this was not something the author intended. I'm not sure whether the story would have been more poignant had my assumption been correct. I'm not sure whether the author even considered race in the development of the story, although I do believe (from my Canadian understanding) that any discussion of the US prison system shouldn't exclude systemic racism since it's inherent on so many levels.
Having said all that, I don't have regrets for taking the time to read the novel. It's given me a lot to think about and consider (both about myself and my preconceptions as well as the cultural messaging I've absorbed vis a vis humane treatment, rehabilitation, and so on).
I received a copy of this book through Voracious Readers Only.
July 11, 2021
I have to admit, when I was looking for something to read and I read the brief description of "Caged to Kill" I almost "passed" on the book. However, I always look reviews just to see what others have said. I remember reading one comment that said, in effect, "You must read this. . ." So I did and I am very glad that I did. Like the author, I am a lawyer and of my 48 years of practice, the last 33 years or so have been as a solo practitioner. I have done a few criminal cases - minor cases - some on referral or by courrt appointment, but never a serious felony. I never gave much thought to the concept of "solitary confinement" but I have thought about the death penalty and whether or not the state has the right to inflict that. Now, having been acquainted with the fictional characters the author has created and the rather detailed story he created, my perspective has changed. The characters in this novel portray what I would describe is 'real people.' As a lawyer, David Thompson, the protagonist, was, like myself and like Mr. Swyers, a solo attorney just trying to do a job. As I read and the characters were developed, the story began taking on the "aura" (probably not a great word to use) of a real "thriller." I wanted to know about Phillip Dawkins, the character in the novel who had been incarcerated for over thirty years. I won't say anything else so I don't "spoil" the read, but to parrot the other reviewer, your MUST read this novel, if nothing else it will give you a greater appreciation for human nature and of what being "locked in a cage" does to that nature.
August 14, 2019
The author does an outstanding job in enlightening us on the evils and shameful prison system in New York (as this was most recently evidenced by the death of Jeffrey Epstein in the hands of the prison system). This legal thriller is enthralling and captivating as it visits the punishment of solitary confinement. This book will elicit strong feelings as it examines and reveals the horrors endured by prisoners within the system. Although this is a work of fiction, it highlights the inhumanity that the prisoners must endure, as if prison was not enough, and this comes from a certain believer of you do the crime you do the time and a proponent of the death penalty. Thrilling, captivating, with intriguing characters that will keep you riveted to the book until the very last word. This book is not for the faint of heart and is from the point of view of a prisoner who might have benefitted more from being put to death, than the "death" sentence of 30 years in solitary. This book is certainly worth reading and leaves you questioning human morality and behavior. I received a complimentary copy of this book and am providing my honest, unsolicited review.
April 12, 2019
Solitary confinement
This book is based on treatment at a prison in my home state of New York, whose liberal views don't always have good results on the general public. There's no death sentence in the state, since they abolished the practice decades ago, just life imprisonment. I have heard stories about the prison system and population from a former CO who quit the job after being injured in a prison riot. This book is the first story that tells you the view of life behind bars from a prisoner point of view.
When reading this book and getting the facts presented about the use of electro neuron stimulus,I had to check to make sure that I hadn't suddenly switched books. The fact that this based on reality made it more potent and explains why it is so hard to re-habitualize former long term prisoners into society. Change is definitely needed.
This book is based on treatment at a prison in my home state of New York, whose liberal views don't always have good results on the general public. There's no death sentence in the state, since they abolished the practice decades ago, just life imprisonment. I have heard stories about the prison system and population from a former CO who quit the job after being injured in a prison riot. This book is the first story that tells you the view of life behind bars from a prisoner point of view.
When reading this book and getting the facts presented about the use of electro neuron stimulus,I had to check to make sure that I hadn't suddenly switched books. The fact that this based on reality made it more potent and explains why it is so hard to re-habitualize former long term prisoners into society. Change is definitely needed.
May 11, 2019
Wow, what a skilfully written piece of work that blends reality with a work of fiction.
A heavy and hard going read at the beginning as the author describes the realities of, not only prison life, but life in the extremely inhumane practice that is solitary confinement.The characters are all so well written that you feel that you know them and feel their range of emotions as the story gathers pace to its shocking conclusion.
I received a copy of this novel through Voracious Readers in exchange for an honest review and thought I was getting a story about the injustice of the penal system in regards to solitary confinement but what a surprise when the plot got a lot darker and more tangled as defenceless souls within the system are exploited by those in positions of power. It’s not paranoia if they really are out to get you!
A heavy and hard going read at the beginning as the author describes the realities of, not only prison life, but life in the extremely inhumane practice that is solitary confinement.The characters are all so well written that you feel that you know them and feel their range of emotions as the story gathers pace to its shocking conclusion.
I received a copy of this novel through Voracious Readers in exchange for an honest review and thought I was getting a story about the injustice of the penal system in regards to solitary confinement but what a surprise when the plot got a lot darker and more tangled as defenceless souls within the system are exploited by those in positions of power. It’s not paranoia if they really are out to get you!
September 27, 2020
Eye Opener
Seeing a lot of injustices in the world, this story is one of the best written but saddest I have read. Having had a love one in the penile system and listening to their stories the injustices in our prison system needs a major Revolution immediately. Just the fact that it is the word of guard versus the inmate needs addressing. The raping alone by the guards is a sin and a crime. When the guard is found out , he is sent to another prison to start all over. A hand slap. On the outside for that crime you go to prison. I can’t imagine 30+ years in solitary. That is inhumane. I hope through this book justice can be served for these inmates. May God be with each and every one . I recommend every person should read this book . Maybe then someone in a high up position can make the changes that need to be made . Very well written
Seeing a lot of injustices in the world, this story is one of the best written but saddest I have read. Having had a love one in the penile system and listening to their stories the injustices in our prison system needs a major Revolution immediately. Just the fact that it is the word of guard versus the inmate needs addressing. The raping alone by the guards is a sin and a crime. When the guard is found out , he is sent to another prison to start all over. A hand slap. On the outside for that crime you go to prison. I can’t imagine 30+ years in solitary. That is inhumane. I hope through this book justice can be served for these inmates. May God be with each and every one . I recommend every person should read this book . Maybe then someone in a high up position can make the changes that need to be made . Very well written
May 31, 2019
A very well plotted novel that takes you into a world of consequences from solitary confinement as the antihero readjusts to life, and possible revenge, on the outside. Though the lawyer had a somewhat nasty habit of dragging the reader into his own fears and self justification, the story was gripping and very hard to put aside when real life duties intruded. If you have a hankering for wormhole paranoia burrowing its way through your formerly complacent imagination, Swyers will definitely put the shiver up your spine. Well paced and laced with surprising twists, this Voracious Readers Only author is more than worthy of your leisure reading time.
June 5, 2020
Not what I expected
Not having read much of the reviews, I anticipated another rousing serial killer on the run. Engrossing, breathless, startling, inspiring, sad are a just a few words to describe what I felt reading this story.
The author says this is his last work which saddens me as his work is superb. The subject matter is timely, characters well developed, and the plot is one rarely talked about. He makes you feel the atrocities done to one person who society threw away to forget. Yet he survives. The author dares you to put yourself in the same situation. What would you do? Will you take up the cause?
Not having read much of the reviews, I anticipated another rousing serial killer on the run. Engrossing, breathless, startling, inspiring, sad are a just a few words to describe what I felt reading this story.
The author says this is his last work which saddens me as his work is superb. The subject matter is timely, characters well developed, and the plot is one rarely talked about. He makes you feel the atrocities done to one person who society threw away to forget. Yet he survives. The author dares you to put yourself in the same situation. What would you do? Will you take up the cause?
July 12, 2021
If you ever had questions about solitary confinement in the American prison system then you should read this book. In fact, everyone should read this book. It is a fictional horrific story based on a real man confined in solitude for 30 years in a New York prison. At times I could not believe what I was reading, but then remembered that 'power' can and does cause corruption. The callousness of people can truly be shocking and this story really had me thinking. There needs to be enforcement of the Mandela Rules relating to solitary confinement.
Thank you Tom Swyers for writing this book. Looking forward to reading more of your books.
Thank you Tom Swyers for writing this book. Looking forward to reading more of your books.
May 25, 2019
I received a complimentary copy of Cage to Kill from Voracious Readers Only and the author.
What a well written, thought provoking, amazing story. This story makes you care for Philip from the first time he is introduced. David and his family are also great characters Anna a very caring family. They take Philip in become his family.
Philip's story is so thought provoking. And even though his story is a fictional story, it was written because of man who had to stay on solitary confinement for many years. I can't imagine what that would be like.
What a well written, thought provoking, amazing story. This story makes you care for Philip from the first time he is introduced. David and his family are also great characters Anna a very caring family. They take Philip in become his family.
Philip's story is so thought provoking. And even though his story is a fictional story, it was written because of man who had to stay on solitary confinement for many years. I can't imagine what that would be like.
March 30, 2020
Different and definitely gripping says it all
Wow what a twisty turny novel. This is a must read for people who are interested in seeing change in prisons. I identified with the wife and son most. They really showed me how we need to see good, not all bad. At first, I was put off by her sweet nature, but as i neared the conclusion she really proved herself strong and tough. And Christy was simply an amazing character. While the storyline was not at all lighthearted it was moving and beautiful in its own way.
Wow what a twisty turny novel. This is a must read for people who are interested in seeing change in prisons. I identified with the wife and son most. They really showed me how we need to see good, not all bad. At first, I was put off by her sweet nature, but as i neared the conclusion she really proved herself strong and tough. And Christy was simply an amazing character. While the storyline was not at all lighthearted it was moving and beautiful in its own way.
April 2, 2020
Great indictment on our prison system, overwhelmingly unrealistic plot
I wish this story was more realistic. The underlying story of the inhuman nature of solitary confinement, got lost in the over the top, bizarre and wildly dystopian nature of this novel. I’d give some examples, but I don’t want to spoil the story for others. Although the dialogue tended to the amateur, and despite the above, the author sheds important light on the need for prison reform. The latter is why I awarded two, instead of one star.
I wish this story was more realistic. The underlying story of the inhuman nature of solitary confinement, got lost in the over the top, bizarre and wildly dystopian nature of this novel. I’d give some examples, but I don’t want to spoil the story for others. Although the dialogue tended to the amateur, and despite the above, the author sheds important light on the need for prison reform. The latter is why I awarded two, instead of one star.
June 28, 2021
Informative and Heartbreaking
Like many people, I am sure, I have misconceptions about convicted criminals. Yes, if they have been proven guilty, they should!d be punished. Punished, not tortured. Human rights are for all humans, even humans who do horrible things. All humans deserve human rights, one of which is the right to be free from torture. This book helped me too see another side to what goes on inside prisons. I was pulled into the story immediately and could barely stop reading even to go to sleep.
Like many people, I am sure, I have misconceptions about convicted criminals. Yes, if they have been proven guilty, they should!d be punished. Punished, not tortured. Human rights are for all humans, even humans who do horrible things. All humans deserve human rights, one of which is the right to be free from torture. This book helped me too see another side to what goes on inside prisons. I was pulled into the story immediately and could barely stop reading even to go to sleep.
September 20, 2021
Breathe While You Can
This novel starts off slowly, but once it gets going, look out. Phillip Dawkins is a convicted murderer who spent three decades in solitary confinement before being released on the basis of new evidence. Asea in the outside world, he contacts David Thompson who corresponded with him in prison and campaigned for prison reform as a private citizen. The book is well written, the characters are well formed, and the plot hangs together. A lot of what I read was disturbing, especially the afterword. Don't forget to read the afterword.
This novel starts off slowly, but once it gets going, look out. Phillip Dawkins is a convicted murderer who spent three decades in solitary confinement before being released on the basis of new evidence. Asea in the outside world, he contacts David Thompson who corresponded with him in prison and campaigned for prison reform as a private citizen. The book is well written, the characters are well formed, and the plot hangs together. A lot of what I read was disturbing, especially the afterword. Don't forget to read the afterword.
December 30, 2021
Great and thought provoking read
It's not often that you find a book that holds your interest throughout but also makes you aware of and question something that up until now I had no reason to think about. The story was both believable and edgy making me always wondering what' was coming next. However once I finished the story I realized there was a more to this book than the story; it has made me question my beliefs on crime and punishment. In short this book did it all: it entertained and challenged me at the same time.
It's not often that you find a book that holds your interest throughout but also makes you aware of and question something that up until now I had no reason to think about. The story was both believable and edgy making me always wondering what' was coming next. However once I finished the story I realized there was a more to this book than the story; it has made me question my beliefs on crime and punishment. In short this book did it all: it entertained and challenged me at the same time.
April 13, 2019
I was definitely intrigued with the story behind this novel of an inmate's life in solitary confinement and wasn't disappointed when I read the way it was incorporated into David Thompson's newest adventure. Caged to Kill is compelling and well written and each chapter draws you into the struggle for truth for both David and Phillip Dawkins. This is a must read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 14, 2019
Tom Swyers’ smalltown New York lawyer David Thompson is back for a third outing, this time in a page turner centred around the real issue of solitary confinement in New York State prisons. This was eminently readable, covering not just innocence and guilt, but manipulation and distortion of human life. As always with this author the phrase thought provoking barely seems adequate. I’d highly recommend this.
April 15, 2019
Thought provoking
This is a work of fiction that gives reality to life in prison, in particular solitary confinement. We are a society where there is no value placed on inmates and prisons are only punitive with very few resources for anyone trying to become a better person. Prisons are a money making industry so rehabilitation is not cost effective. I believe in the death penalty only because it is more humane than solitary confinement.
This is a work of fiction that gives reality to life in prison, in particular solitary confinement. We are a society where there is no value placed on inmates and prisons are only punitive with very few resources for anyone trying to become a better person. Prisons are a money making industry so rehabilitation is not cost effective. I believe in the death penalty only because it is more humane than solitary confinement.
May 13, 2020
Timely Subject
I was grateful to learn more about the prison system, considering all the political talk at this time. I knew how I felt, but that was based on pure emotion. While reading this, I became educated on the subject. I was disappointed however, to learn that Mr. Sawyer isn’t planning on writing anymore. This is the second of his books that I’ve read and plan on reading the rest as well.
I was grateful to learn more about the prison system, considering all the political talk at this time. I knew how I felt, but that was based on pure emotion. While reading this, I became educated on the subject. I was disappointed however, to learn that Mr. Sawyer isn’t planning on writing anymore. This is the second of his books that I’ve read and plan on reading the rest as well.
May 19, 2020
A good read with a powerful message about the prison system in this country and particularly the inhumane use of solitary confinement. I recommend it to those who like good plots with characters who have a heart despite there awfUl experiences.
A good read with a powerful message about prison systems and the inhumane use of solitary confinement. Recommended for those who like a good plot with characters who have a good heart despite awful circumstances
A good read with a powerful message about prison systems and the inhumane use of solitary confinement. Recommended for those who like a good plot with characters who have a good heart despite awful circumstances
August 24, 2020
Very compelling
This was my first Tom Swyers read. I was pleasantly surprised. The writing is well done and the characters nicely fleshed out. It got a little “out there” at times but stayed just within the believability line. I think, with time, this author will settle down and rein in the weirdness factor. I should have expected the ending, but I didn’t. Yeah, I cried a little bit.
Well done!
This was my first Tom Swyers read. I was pleasantly surprised. The writing is well done and the characters nicely fleshed out. It got a little “out there” at times but stayed just within the believability line. I think, with time, this author will settle down and rein in the weirdness factor. I should have expected the ending, but I didn’t. Yeah, I cried a little bit.
Well done!
August 5, 2021
This book will keep your attention riveted to the plot until the end. The story follows a man who is released from prison after decades in solitary confinement. He seeks out for assistance a lawyer who was one of the few people who reached out to him in prison, and begins his difficult transition to normal life. Together they come to the realization that his many years in solitary confinement are only part of the horrors inflicted upon him. It is fascinating to follow the development of his character as he strives to become a free and independent person while unraveling the mystery of what happened to him in prison. This is a great book that handles a number of dark themes well, and one you will thoroughly enjoy!
August 24, 2021
Fiction Fighting for Real World Injustice Change
I admire author’s passion for changing an unjust aspect of our penal system. Embedded (or disguised) in a crime thriller, he not only entertained me, he educated me to an injustice. It would appear that the story he told had some impact on the practice of solitary confinement. You don’t normally see such important humanitarian changes being fruits of works of fiction. Kudos!
I admire author’s passion for changing an unjust aspect of our penal system. Embedded (or disguised) in a crime thriller, he not only entertained me, he educated me to an injustice. It would appear that the story he told had some impact on the practice of solitary confinement. You don’t normally see such important humanitarian changes being fruits of works of fiction. Kudos!
September 26, 2022
A lawyer tries to help a convict, who has been released from prison. The man had been in solitary confinement for 30 years. The lawyer had been trying to get solitary reduced to 15 months, but different people in the Bureau of Prisons were working to prevent that. Even after his release, he was being harassed. With the help of an FBI friend, the lawyer was able to figure out the culprits. Have Kleenex handy for the ending.
April 21, 2019
This book was a disappointment for me. First the author adds a preface that explains the story. This ruined the book for me.
The writing was redundant, saying the same thing over and over. Also, the author switched POV endlessly, sometimes in the same paragraph.
I liked the premise of the story, but thought it was poorly executed.
The writing was redundant, saying the same thing over and over. Also, the author switched POV endlessly, sometimes in the same paragraph.
I liked the premise of the story, but thought it was poorly executed.
August 8, 2020
Such a twist!
I enjoyed seeing how gracious David and his family were toward Philip, knowing he was an ex-con. To see how much Philip tried to turn his life around and to be thwarted reminds me of the challenges many leaving jail or prison face. I was thoroughly unprepared for the ending but found it very fitting.
I enjoyed seeing how gracious David and his family were toward Philip, knowing he was an ex-con. To see how much Philip tried to turn his life around and to be thwarted reminds me of the challenges many leaving jail or prison face. I was thoroughly unprepared for the ending but found it very fitting.
October 11, 2020
Great read
This book grabbed me from the first chapter to the last. A subject that I knew very little about, but also never knew the time frame some institutions consider acceptable. The characters David and Philip just draw you into their friendship, and situations. I recommend this book, you won't be disappointed!
This book grabbed me from the first chapter to the last. A subject that I knew very little about, but also never knew the time frame some institutions consider acceptable. The characters David and Philip just draw you into their friendship, and situations. I recommend this book, you won't be disappointed!
April 18, 2021
A Heartbreaking, Gripping Story
I didn't quite know what to expect when I started reading this book, but just a few hours later I'm in tears at its conclusion. I echo the sentiments of Annie, not all people in prison are bad to the core, but regardless, no one deserves decades of torture. This is not justice, but cruelty.
I didn't quite know what to expect when I started reading this book, but just a few hours later I'm in tears at its conclusion. I echo the sentiments of Annie, not all people in prison are bad to the core, but regardless, no one deserves decades of torture. This is not justice, but cruelty.
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