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The Monsters We Make
🎧Run Time = 8 hours and 50 min
It's August 1984, and paperboy Christopher Stewart has gone missing.
Hours later, twelve-year-old Sammy Cox hurries home from his own paper route, red-faced and out of breath, hiding a terrible secret.
Crystal, Sammy's seventeen-year-old sister, is worried by the disappearance but she also sees an opportunity: the Stewart case has echoes of an earlier unsolved disappearance of another boy, one town over. Crystal senses the makings of an award-winning essay, one that could win her a scholarship—and a ticket out of their small Iowa town.
Officer Dale Goodkind can't believe his bad luck: another town and another paperboy kidnapping. But this time he vows that it won't go unsolved. As the abductions set in motion an unpredictable chain of violent, devastating events touching each life in unexpected ways, Dale is forced to face his own demons.
Told through interwoven perspectives—and based on the real-life Des Moines Register paperboy kidnappings in the early 1980s—The Monsters We Make deftly explores the effects of one crime exposing another and the secrets people keep hidden from friends, families, and, sometimes, even themselves.
In the sweltering summer of 1984, paperboy Christopher Stewart vanishes from his small Iowa town — and 12-year-old Sammy Cox witnesses something he shouldn’t. Recognizing a disturbing pattern, Officer Dale Goodkind is desperate to unmask the kidnapper… before another boy is snatched. Based on true events, this thriller is “as twisty as it is terrifying”( Kimberly Belle, author of Dear Wife).
It's August 1984, and paperboy Christopher Stewart has gone missing.
Hours later, twelve-year-old Sammy Cox hurries home from his own paper route, red-faced and out of breath, hiding a terrible secret.
Crystal, Sammy's seventeen-year-old sister, is worried by the disappearance but she also sees an opportunity: the Stewart case has echoes of an earlier unsolved disappearance of another boy, one town over. Crystal senses the makings of an award-winning essay, one that could win her a scholarship—and a ticket out of their small Iowa town.
Officer Dale Goodkind can't believe his bad luck: another town and another paperboy kidnapping. But this time he vows that it won't go unsolved. As the abductions set in motion an unpredictable chain of violent, devastating events touching each life in unexpected ways, Dale is forced to face his own demons.
Told through interwoven perspectives—and based on the real-life Des Moines Register paperboy kidnappings in the early 1980s—The Monsters We Make deftly explores the effects of one crime exposing another and the secrets people keep hidden from friends, families, and, sometimes, even themselves.
Audible Audio
First published June 9, 2020
About the author
Kali White
1 book145 followersKali White is the author of the novel The Monsters We Make (as Kali White), and The Good Divide and The Space Between (as Kali VanBaale). She’s the recipient of an American Book Award, an Eric Hoffer Book Award, an Independent Publisher’s silver medal for fiction. Kali is a core faculty member of the Lindenwood University MFA Creative Writing Program and lives in Iowa with her family.
For book club resources please visit kaliwhite.com/book-clubs
For book club resources please visit kaliwhite.com/book-clubs
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 572 reviews
April 2, 2020
3.5 stars
This book is based on the real-life Des Moines Register paperboy kidnappings which happened in the early 1980s when the author was a young girl. Those kidnappings led her to think "Someone out there is stealing children." Imagine how frightening that thought must have been for her as a child. It's frightening for adults to comprehend.
In August 1984, paperboy Christopher Stewart has gone missing. Hours later Sammy Cox rushes home from his paper route, red-faced and out of breath hiding a horrible secret. Sammy's older sister, Crystal wants to go to college and be a writer. The boy's disappearance reminds her of an earlier case when another boy went missing. She begins to write an essay on their disappearance hoping that this essay will help her get a college scholarship.
Detective Dale Goodkind is haunted by the cases of the missing boys. He vows to find out the truth even if it means having to face his own demons.
"Sometimes, being a human was hard work."
These characters POV are told as they all try to come to terms with what is going on in their lives - their thoughts, their feelings, and their fears. Each is carrying a weight around with him/her.
"Whoever fights with monsters should see to it that he does not become a monster in the process. And when you gaze long into an abyss the abyss also gazes into you." - Nietzsche
This book deals with difficult subject matter. A detective is hunting a predator of children, a young boy with a horrible, terrible secret, and a young woman dreaming of a future. What happens when their lives collide? Who are the monsters? Does hunting a monster make you one also? Will the "bad guy" get caught?
Well thought out book that will have triggers for some. Well written and researched.
Thank you to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book is based on the real-life Des Moines Register paperboy kidnappings which happened in the early 1980s when the author was a young girl. Those kidnappings led her to think "Someone out there is stealing children." Imagine how frightening that thought must have been for her as a child. It's frightening for adults to comprehend.
In August 1984, paperboy Christopher Stewart has gone missing. Hours later Sammy Cox rushes home from his paper route, red-faced and out of breath hiding a horrible secret. Sammy's older sister, Crystal wants to go to college and be a writer. The boy's disappearance reminds her of an earlier case when another boy went missing. She begins to write an essay on their disappearance hoping that this essay will help her get a college scholarship.
Detective Dale Goodkind is haunted by the cases of the missing boys. He vows to find out the truth even if it means having to face his own demons.
"Sometimes, being a human was hard work."
These characters POV are told as they all try to come to terms with what is going on in their lives - their thoughts, their feelings, and their fears. Each is carrying a weight around with him/her.
"Whoever fights with monsters should see to it that he does not become a monster in the process. And when you gaze long into an abyss the abyss also gazes into you." - Nietzsche
This book deals with difficult subject matter. A detective is hunting a predator of children, a young boy with a horrible, terrible secret, and a young woman dreaming of a future. What happens when their lives collide? Who are the monsters? Does hunting a monster make you one also? Will the "bad guy" get caught?
Well thought out book that will have triggers for some. Well written and researched.
Thank you to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 19, 2019
I’m a sucker for a suspense novel crafted around real-life events, and Kali White’s The Monsters We Make had me hooked from page one. This is a story that creeps up the back of your neck, an intense, haunting tale that is as twisty as it is terrifying. A nail-biter with a dark, atmospheric heart.
December 5, 2020
Audio 3.75 Stars
Story 3 Stars
Story 3 Stars
April 27, 2021
We make our own monsters, then fear them for what they show us about ourselves."
Author Kali White's novel, The Monsters We Make, is a fictional dark, crime book based on real life events. The story centers on the disappearance in 1984 of paperboy Christopher Stewart.
Set in Des Moines, Iowa, a families worst nightmare comes true when 12-year-old Christopher doesn't return after his Sunday morning paper route. This would be scary enough to ponder as a work of fiction but in real life there were three cases of paperboys going missing in Des Moines in the early eighties.
White draws upon the real-life disappearances to tell the story and effects a crime like this has on the family, neighbors, friends and town.
The Monsters We Make isn't as strong a mystery as it is a thriller-drama story. It will always be the story of the missing Christopher but it is really the story of 12-year-old Sammy Cox and what secrets he is hiding. What does Sammy know about Christopher's disappearance.
It is also the story of Sammy's 18-year-old sister, Crystal. She is an aspiring journalist and dreams of attending college majoring in journalism.
Crystal is reminded of the disappearance of another boy a few years ago prior to Christophers and she sees an opportunity to write a college essay worthy of a scholarship. Will Crystal be able to piece together the clues to solve Christopher's disappearance and another boy a few years ago.
The Monsters We Make is also the story of Detective Dale Goodkind. He can't believe another paperboy has gone missing in his town. The unsolved disappearance of Matthew Klein has haunted Dale to this day, He has never forgotten Matthew, even when most people have. He vows to solve this mystery even if it costs him personally and professionally.
Three people with three different motives but one objective. Solve the disappearance of Christopher Stewart before another young boy goes missing.
Nietzche said, "Beware that, when fighting monsters, you yourself do not become a monster...."
The Monsters We Make is a quick read but given the subject matter, it will linger with you long after you turn the last page."
I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. #NetGalley #TheMonstersWeMake
Author Kali White's novel, The Monsters We Make, is a fictional dark, crime book based on real life events. The story centers on the disappearance in 1984 of paperboy Christopher Stewart.
Set in Des Moines, Iowa, a families worst nightmare comes true when 12-year-old Christopher doesn't return after his Sunday morning paper route. This would be scary enough to ponder as a work of fiction but in real life there were three cases of paperboys going missing in Des Moines in the early eighties.
White draws upon the real-life disappearances to tell the story and effects a crime like this has on the family, neighbors, friends and town.
The Monsters We Make isn't as strong a mystery as it is a thriller-drama story. It will always be the story of the missing Christopher but it is really the story of 12-year-old Sammy Cox and what secrets he is hiding. What does Sammy know about Christopher's disappearance.
It is also the story of Sammy's 18-year-old sister, Crystal. She is an aspiring journalist and dreams of attending college majoring in journalism.
Crystal is reminded of the disappearance of another boy a few years ago prior to Christophers and she sees an opportunity to write a college essay worthy of a scholarship. Will Crystal be able to piece together the clues to solve Christopher's disappearance and another boy a few years ago.
The Monsters We Make is also the story of Detective Dale Goodkind. He can't believe another paperboy has gone missing in his town. The unsolved disappearance of Matthew Klein has haunted Dale to this day, He has never forgotten Matthew, even when most people have. He vows to solve this mystery even if it costs him personally and professionally.
Three people with three different motives but one objective. Solve the disappearance of Christopher Stewart before another young boy goes missing.
Nietzche said, "Beware that, when fighting monsters, you yourself do not become a monster...."
The Monsters We Make is a quick read but given the subject matter, it will linger with you long after you turn the last page."
I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. #NetGalley #TheMonstersWeMake
September 19, 2020
The Monsters We Make is a fictional mystery based on the true life cases of three paperboys who went missing in the 80s. The book deals with sexual abuse, so if that is triggering for you, please be aware.
The book is narrated by three distinct characters. First is Sammy, a paperboy, his sister Crystal, and Dale Goodkind, who is investigating the cases of Matt Klein and Chris Stewart. Sammy is the main voice in the book as we see him navigate life in the city of Des Moines with his sister and single mom Tina. His sister knows he is harboring secrets and is troubled, but he won't tell her why.
Crystal, in her senior year of high school, dreams of becoming a journalist and believes an investigative article on the missing paperboys will help her get the scholarship she wants. While investigating the cases, she also tries to take care of Sammy and discover what his secret is.
Dale Goodkind investigated the case of Matt Klein, who disappeared in 1982 in West Des Moines and has since joined the Des Moines police department and is trying to settle in. He himself is harboring a secret from his own childhood that has taken a serious toll on his mental health. We see him trying to navigate the case, his mental health and keeping his therapy a secret from even his wife, and the toll that all this stress takes on him and his family. Will he be able to solve the case, find the missing boys, and bring these families closure?
All three characters are really well rounded and their voices are believable. You feel what both Sammy and Dale are going through and the anguish it causes. You root for both of them, as well as for Crystal to get her scholarship and to be able to help her brother.
The plotting and pacing are done beautifully. The tension builds throughout the novel as the leads diminish and Dale tries desperately to discover what happened. I found myself not wanting to put this book down and read it every chance I could.
My appreciation to Crooked Lane Books, Kali White, and NetGalley for gifting me a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The book is narrated by three distinct characters. First is Sammy, a paperboy, his sister Crystal, and Dale Goodkind, who is investigating the cases of Matt Klein and Chris Stewart. Sammy is the main voice in the book as we see him navigate life in the city of Des Moines with his sister and single mom Tina. His sister knows he is harboring secrets and is troubled, but he won't tell her why.
Crystal, in her senior year of high school, dreams of becoming a journalist and believes an investigative article on the missing paperboys will help her get the scholarship she wants. While investigating the cases, she also tries to take care of Sammy and discover what his secret is.
Dale Goodkind investigated the case of Matt Klein, who disappeared in 1982 in West Des Moines and has since joined the Des Moines police department and is trying to settle in. He himself is harboring a secret from his own childhood that has taken a serious toll on his mental health. We see him trying to navigate the case, his mental health and keeping his therapy a secret from even his wife, and the toll that all this stress takes on him and his family. Will he be able to solve the case, find the missing boys, and bring these families closure?
All three characters are really well rounded and their voices are believable. You feel what both Sammy and Dale are going through and the anguish it causes. You root for both of them, as well as for Crystal to get her scholarship and to be able to help her brother.
The plotting and pacing are done beautifully. The tension builds throughout the novel as the leads diminish and Dale tries desperately to discover what happened. I found myself not wanting to put this book down and read it every chance I could.
My appreciation to Crooked Lane Books, Kali White, and NetGalley for gifting me a digital copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 14, 2020
2.5 STARS
THE MONSTERS WE MAKE is billed as fictionalized story of the abduction of two paperboys from Iowa during the 1980s. The story focuses more on how the abduction affects a police detective Dale, another neighborhood paperboy Sammy, his teenager sister Crystal who wants to write about the kidnappings to get into college for journalism.
Vague Spoilers:
Though THE MONSTERS WE MAKE started off strong, for me the story fell apart at the resolution.
-Crystal and Sammy’s mother has a complete personality change after fighting with her kids.
-The kidnappings are never solved, like the real life abductions
-A self-defense killing takes place but the police don’t care due to a fire
-Several storylines are left hanging but not in a way that hints at a sequel
I felt really let down that the fate of the paperboys was never solved. While I understand that’s realistic for many missing children, that’s not why I wanted to read the book. I wanted a payoff, not a whimper at the end.
THE MONSTERS WE MAKE is billed as fictionalized story of the abduction of two paperboys from Iowa during the 1980s. The story focuses more on how the abduction affects a police detective Dale, another neighborhood paperboy Sammy, his teenager sister Crystal who wants to write about the kidnappings to get into college for journalism.
Vague Spoilers:
Though THE MONSTERS WE MAKE started off strong, for me the story fell apart at the resolution.
-Crystal and Sammy’s mother has a complete personality change after fighting with her kids.
-The kidnappings are never solved, like the real life abductions
-A self-defense killing takes place but the police don’t care due to a fire
-Several storylines are left hanging but not in a way that hints at a sequel
I felt really let down that the fate of the paperboys was never solved. While I understand that’s realistic for many missing children, that’s not why I wanted to read the book. I wanted a payoff, not a whimper at the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2020
The Monsters We Make
is a dark, crime fiction procedural novel that reminds me a bit of CJ Tudor's The Chalk Man. Set in Des Moines during the 1980s, we see a surge in reporting on this disappearance of local young boys. This book ventures into the world of pedophilia and has extremely dark moments that shed a light on this world of crime. The build-up is slow, but the ending comes fast, and sadly, abruptly ends. A fast read and definitely something that could trigger an emotional response.
February 8, 2022
Inspired by real life events, Kali White has written a remarkable book complete with dark themes and places where danger often hides in plain sight. The main characters, the missing paperboys, along with Dale, Sammy, Crystal and Tina all have problems of their own. Each has difficult decisions to make which will have far reaching consequences, but the question lingers throughout the story of will they make the right ones? As the story develops the reader quickly becomes drawn into this exquisitely layered novel that is based on an all too real event that rocked this community. If you like true crime stories you will find that without a doubt this is a read that will linger with you long after the last page is turned.
December 18, 2019
Finally, decent crime novel. Quite good actually. Based on real life kidnappings that several decades ago all but spelled out a certain shift in zeitgeist, the disappearance of a time of (at least perceived) innocence, when people were decent and children were safe. Set in Des Moines in the 80s, it has all the nostalgia of Stranger Things coupled with all the evils of stranger danger. Young boys are disappearing, paperboys, the community is terrified, the neighborhood will never be the same, because people finally realize that they can never really know their neighbors. The investigation is handled by a cop, for whom it’s all much too personal. So he starts unravelling, while still on active duty. But there are other perspectives too, crucially from one of the boys and his family. This might be a debut and for a debut especially, the author did a great job of recreating the time and place, her 80s are right on the money as is the small town vibe and the increasingly spiraling claustrophobic narratives of some of the leads, especially Officer Goodkind and Sammy. It isn’t really a mystery suspense thriller, it’s actually so nice to have something different, this one is more along the lines of a crime drama, there’s some suspense, but that aspect is very, very easy to figure out, it isn’t really a thriller either. It’s more about crime and its ramifications of the community and the way such things have the power to change popular mentality. The fact that the story is based on real life kidnappings only makes it all the more poignant and tragic. It’s also very compelling, the narratives draw you in, you care about the characters, there’s an emotional investment. Yeah, I wish it was less predictable, but then again maybe it wasn’t meant to be a suspense novel. Or maybe Officer Goodkind just wasn’t that great of an investigator, being too wrapped up in his own trauma. All in all, though, a pretty good story, a cautionary tale, if you will, because you never know people from monsters by casual impressions. I enjoyed reading this. Thanks Netgalley.
June 28, 2021
★★★ Three unenthusiastic stars
I saw that this novel was compared to Rene Denfeld's Naomi Cottle series, so I knew I had to give it a try. I am sad to report it was in the same basic genre, but it was more of a Holly Jackson young adult whodunit, but without much oomph.
Most disappointing was the overall reminiscent effort. I wish the author had taken the time to do some proper editing, which is vital with a realistic period piece. If you want to pull people back into the day-to-day of America's 1980s, make sure you're telling a true tale with authentic detail. For instance, if tasers weren't issued to police officers until the mid-1990s, don't refer to one being used in the late 1970s or early 1980s. Inaccuracies jar the reader out of the story, leaving him/her feeling betrayed.
I saw that this novel was compared to Rene Denfeld's Naomi Cottle series, so I knew I had to give it a try. I am sad to report it was in the same basic genre, but it was more of a Holly Jackson young adult whodunit, but without much oomph.
Most disappointing was the overall reminiscent effort. I wish the author had taken the time to do some proper editing, which is vital with a realistic period piece. If you want to pull people back into the day-to-day of America's 1980s, make sure you're telling a true tale with authentic detail. For instance, if tasers weren't issued to police officers until the mid-1990s, don't refer to one being used in the late 1970s or early 1980s. Inaccuracies jar the reader out of the story, leaving him/her feeling betrayed.
June 5, 2022
3.5 Stars
This was an intriguing mystery novel. It hit on a lot of tropes, but since they were ones I enjoy, I did not mind. This was an enjoyable read but I wonder how memorable it will be.
This was an intriguing mystery novel. It hit on a lot of tropes, but since they were ones I enjoy, I did not mind. This was an enjoyable read but I wonder how memorable it will be.
May 18, 2020
I couldn't put this down, read it from start to finish in just one sitting! The fact this fictional story is based off of true events immediately had my attention. I just wish these events had a better outcome.
Three narrators tell the story. Sammy (Paperboy), Crystal (Sammy's sister) and Dale (officer).
The Monsters We Make takes us back to the 1980's. Paperboy Christopher Stewart has gone missing during his paper route. Hours later, Sammy Cox rushes home to safety - hiding a terrible secret. Crystal, Sammy's older sister is worried about the disappearance but also finds opportunity. With research & investigation into the kidnappings she has the potential to write an award winning essay that could land her a scholarship and way out of town. Officer Dale Goodkind finds himself in a new town investigating yet another Paperboy kidnapping, vowing this one won't go unsolved.
An intense and absolutely gripping story with so many layers. I very much enjoyed Kali Whites writing style.
Huge thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for my review copy.
Three narrators tell the story. Sammy (Paperboy), Crystal (Sammy's sister) and Dale (officer).
The Monsters We Make takes us back to the 1980's. Paperboy Christopher Stewart has gone missing during his paper route. Hours later, Sammy Cox rushes home to safety - hiding a terrible secret. Crystal, Sammy's older sister is worried about the disappearance but also finds opportunity. With research & investigation into the kidnappings she has the potential to write an award winning essay that could land her a scholarship and way out of town. Officer Dale Goodkind finds himself in a new town investigating yet another Paperboy kidnapping, vowing this one won't go unsolved.
An intense and absolutely gripping story with so many layers. I very much enjoyed Kali Whites writing style.
Huge thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for my review copy.
September 5, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed "The Monsters We Make" by author Kali White. It is a fictional account based on a true crime case.
Set in the 1980's the novel explores the disappearances of two paperboys from a small midwestern town in Iowa. The abductions set in motion an unpredictable chain of vicious, devastating events that touch many lives in unforeseen ways.
Told from the perspective of a young boy, his sister who is an aspiring journalist and the detective on the case, it tells of a time when things felt safe and then they aren't.
An intense and gripping story!
Highly recommended!
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
Set in the 1980's the novel explores the disappearances of two paperboys from a small midwestern town in Iowa. The abductions set in motion an unpredictable chain of vicious, devastating events that touch many lives in unforeseen ways.
Told from the perspective of a young boy, his sister who is an aspiring journalist and the detective on the case, it tells of a time when things felt safe and then they aren't.
An intense and gripping story!
Highly recommended!
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
March 25, 2020
Growing up during the 80's I remember children disappearing and the pictures on the back of milk cartons. This book is based on a few of those real life cases as the author explains in the notes section.
This book was a bit difficult to read with all that is going on in the world at the moment. But I wanted to focus as much as I could and really give this book as much of my attention as I could and I am glad I did.
The story centers around a neighborhood in Des Moines, Iowa where paperboys are disappearing without a trace. As the mystery deepens and we are introduced to all the different characters and learn of their backstories we wonder who the monster is. This story shows how evil thrives and grows behind closed doors and we allow it to based on appearances.
I was given an eARC by the publisher Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley.
This book was a bit difficult to read with all that is going on in the world at the moment. But I wanted to focus as much as I could and really give this book as much of my attention as I could and I am glad I did.
The story centers around a neighborhood in Des Moines, Iowa where paperboys are disappearing without a trace. As the mystery deepens and we are introduced to all the different characters and learn of their backstories we wonder who the monster is. This story shows how evil thrives and grows behind closed doors and we allow it to based on appearances.
I was given an eARC by the publisher Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley.
July 28, 2020
Have you ever watched 𝗪𝐡𝐨 𝐓𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐉𝐨𝐡𝐧𝐧𝐲? It’s a documentary on a 30-year-old cold case about Johnny Gosch, a paper boy who went missing in West Des Moines, Iowa. He was the first child to ever appear on a milk carton because of his mother’s continual push to find her son.
I was born and raised in Des Moines, Iowa and my dad even went out on search parties for Johnny in the 80s. When I read the synopsis for this book and saw that it was inspired by Johnny Gosch and other teenage boys that went missing under similar circumstances, I knew I had to read it.
Johnny disappeared in the early hours on Sunday, September 5, 1982 while delivering the Des Moines Register in his neighborhood. Two years later, Eugene Martin disappeared on his paper route on August 12, 1984 again in the early hours of a Sunday morning. Marc Allen disappeared on Saturday, March 29, 1986 while walking to a friend’s house in the evening. All three boys are still missing and their families still don’t have any answers.
In this work of fiction, a paper boy, Christopher goes missing in August 1984 leaving behind his red wagon full of bundled papers. No one heard or saw anything in this quiet neighborhood.
Another paper boy, Sammy seems to know what happened to this teenage boy but is terrified to speak up. Sammy’s sister, Crystal notices his nervous behavior and starts going on his paper route with him to ensure he stays safe. Crystal also decides to investigate the disappearance of Christopher for her college essay. As she learns more about this possible abduction and takes a closer look at suspects- she begins to question her neighbors.
Meanwhile the police are doing everything they can to find Christopher. After failing to solve another teenage boy’s disappearance at his last precinct, Officer Goodkind vows to solve this case. He becomes laser focused on a suspect and goes rogue. He has demons of his own and he lets this case completely consume him.
This book was absolutely heartbreaking but also a nail biter- I couldn’t stop reading it. Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for this copy. This book will be published on 8/11/20.
I was born and raised in Des Moines, Iowa and my dad even went out on search parties for Johnny in the 80s. When I read the synopsis for this book and saw that it was inspired by Johnny Gosch and other teenage boys that went missing under similar circumstances, I knew I had to read it.
Johnny disappeared in the early hours on Sunday, September 5, 1982 while delivering the Des Moines Register in his neighborhood. Two years later, Eugene Martin disappeared on his paper route on August 12, 1984 again in the early hours of a Sunday morning. Marc Allen disappeared on Saturday, March 29, 1986 while walking to a friend’s house in the evening. All three boys are still missing and their families still don’t have any answers.
In this work of fiction, a paper boy, Christopher goes missing in August 1984 leaving behind his red wagon full of bundled papers. No one heard or saw anything in this quiet neighborhood.
Another paper boy, Sammy seems to know what happened to this teenage boy but is terrified to speak up. Sammy’s sister, Crystal notices his nervous behavior and starts going on his paper route with him to ensure he stays safe. Crystal also decides to investigate the disappearance of Christopher for her college essay. As she learns more about this possible abduction and takes a closer look at suspects- she begins to question her neighbors.
Meanwhile the police are doing everything they can to find Christopher. After failing to solve another teenage boy’s disappearance at his last precinct, Officer Goodkind vows to solve this case. He becomes laser focused on a suspect and goes rogue. He has demons of his own and he lets this case completely consume him.
This book was absolutely heartbreaking but also a nail biter- I couldn’t stop reading it. Thank you Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for this copy. This book will be published on 8/11/20.
February 9, 2021
Although I think the author missed an opportunity with the ending half - the cop being a major character who didn't get what I think is proper redemption or his involvement in the case bearing strong fruition which would have made more sense (trying to avoid spoilers here) - the story was well written and hard to put down. I also wanted to see more of a follow up with Curtis and the parents of the missing children - I think the story should have revealed more and not cut off abruptly without doing so. The story is a good one, but the different direction in the last quarter weakened it.
Sammy was a sweet kid and the point of view written through him was the most interesting; Crystal was a worthy heroine and I loved the ending article. Dale was the third, but his was iffy and disjointed. Having his point of view given so much time and then not mixing him heavier into the mix harmed the story and almost made his point of view being so dominant time-wise makes it seem almost pointless, but I do recommend the story.
The mystery isn't strong, it's more of a drama-thriller piece where you keep reading to see the next development, who will reveal what, and when it will be revealed. It's not a mystery where you're really trying to solve the culprit, and I think the author intended that, so that's fine and doesn't take away from the story's rating or enjoyment level.
Sammy was a sweet kid and the point of view written through him was the most interesting; Crystal was a worthy heroine and I loved the ending article. Dale was the third, but his was iffy and disjointed. Having his point of view given so much time and then not mixing him heavier into the mix harmed the story and almost made his point of view being so dominant time-wise makes it seem almost pointless, but I do recommend the story.
The mystery isn't strong, it's more of a drama-thriller piece where you keep reading to see the next development, who will reveal what, and when it will be revealed. It's not a mystery where you're really trying to solve the culprit, and I think the author intended that, so that's fine and doesn't take away from the story's rating or enjoyment level.
January 13, 2022
This is a thriller about kidnapped and murdered boys set in the early 80's. The writer pays attention to details of the time, and I didn't find any glaring anachronisms. It was surprising to me that there was such a lack of awareness of pedophiles in this time period.
The protagonist is an 17-year-old girl, Crystal, who lives with her younger brother, 12, and her mother, a hairdresser. She is focused on becoming a print journalist. In the 1980's, this was still a viable career, unlike now. Two newspaper boys in her town have disappeared. Worried about her brother, she starts going with him on his rounds. There are two suspects throughout the story, until the guilty man is discovered. The one detail that was "off" were Crystal's worries about financing for her college education. I am pretty sure even in the early 80's students could file FAFSA's for federal financial aid, and given her academic achievements, and her family's borderline poverty, she would have gotten more than $1000 a year from her university (cost was $4000 a year).
This was a satisfactory story. I rate it 3.5, but not enough for a 4 star rating.
The protagonist is an 17-year-old girl, Crystal, who lives with her younger brother, 12, and her mother, a hairdresser. She is focused on becoming a print journalist. In the 1980's, this was still a viable career, unlike now. Two newspaper boys in her town have disappeared. Worried about her brother, she starts going with him on his rounds. There are two suspects throughout the story, until the guilty man is discovered. The one detail that was "off" were Crystal's worries about financing for her college education. I am pretty sure even in the early 80's students could file FAFSA's for federal financial aid, and given her academic achievements, and her family's borderline poverty, she would have gotten more than $1000 a year from her university (cost was $4000 a year).
This was a satisfactory story. I rate it 3.5, but not enough for a 4 star rating.
August 17, 2020
Somebody should tell Officer Goodkind that the monster abducting young boys could not possibly be using a taser. The story takes place in 1984. Tasers were not invented and employed until 1993.
Too predictable.
Too predictable.
January 6, 2021
Based on true events that happened in the 80’s, this book had me hooked from the beginning. This is definitely one you could read in one sitting.
May 19, 2026
i don’t know man
this felt like a young adult book at times
nancy drew esque
but for adults bc the themes were … a lot
heavy stuff
real shi
but like
this feels complicated to talk about
i know it’s based on a true story
but that case is unsolved so it felt almost like
“hey you’ll never know what actually happened to your kid but this is what probably happened to them!!!” like a slap in the face bc the stuff in this book was rough
the emotions of helplessness, hopelessness, and loss were recurring amongst an array of characters
like this book ripped the veil of life off and held your eyes open wide on the reality
these things do happen
more commonly than should be possible but … well
here we are
the news speaks for itself
solved or unsolved this nasty shi keeps happening
this felt like a young adult book at times
nancy drew esque
but for adults bc the themes were … a lot
heavy stuff
real shi
but like
this feels complicated to talk about
i know it’s based on a true story
but that case is unsolved so it felt almost like
“hey you’ll never know what actually happened to your kid but this is what probably happened to them!!!” like a slap in the face bc the stuff in this book was rough
the emotions of helplessness, hopelessness, and loss were recurring amongst an array of characters
like this book ripped the veil of life off and held your eyes open wide on the reality
these things do happen
more commonly than should be possible but … well
here we are
the news speaks for itself
solved or unsolved this nasty shi keeps happening
September 27, 2022
A gripping thriller with convincing elements of real horror.
Based on the real-life Des Moines Register paperboy kidnappings in the early 1980's--The Monsters We Make explores the effects of one crime exposing another and the secrets people keep hidden from friends, families, and sometimes, even themselves. There are no shocking plot twists, no big reveals, no graphic scenes, but the action is more realistic and downbeat. It taps into the reader’s anxiety and the pain of the characters involved.
Following the disappearance of paperboy Christopher “Chris” Stewart in August 1984, we follow three contrasting perspectives who are all connected to the case: 12 y/o Sammy who is also a paperboy, his 17 y/o sister Crystal, and Officer Dale Goodkind. On the morning of the disappearance Sammy is seemingly running for his life. At first, he dips into a church to hide and then once the coast is clear he runs home using another longer route, he feels is safer. He’s sweating, and has peed himself, and you can feel his fear and stress bleeding off the page, but we don’t know what he’s scared about or fearful of. Then we cut to Crystal who overhears the news of Chris’s disappearance on the police scanner in the family’s kitchen while she should be washing dishes. As a budding journalist she begins her own investigation. She’s quite smart and makes many connections over the course of the story. Officer Dale Goodkind is just about to clock out for the night when Chris’s case is handed over to him. It’s a race against the clock and a battle of Goodkind’s own demons that propels him forward in the investigation. There may be some inaccuracies for the time period, but unless you’re looking for them or those things bother you in general, I don’t think they mess with the overall intent.
I was immediately immersed in the story and it had my attention from beginning to end. For me personally I think it could have been darker, with more on page scenes, but I think this is a good compromise for someone who doesn’t like super dark stuff to still be completely disturbed and chilled to the core.
Content warning(s): child abuse, pedophilia
Based on the real-life Des Moines Register paperboy kidnappings in the early 1980's--The Monsters We Make explores the effects of one crime exposing another and the secrets people keep hidden from friends, families, and sometimes, even themselves. There are no shocking plot twists, no big reveals, no graphic scenes, but the action is more realistic and downbeat. It taps into the reader’s anxiety and the pain of the characters involved.
Following the disappearance of paperboy Christopher “Chris” Stewart in August 1984, we follow three contrasting perspectives who are all connected to the case: 12 y/o Sammy who is also a paperboy, his 17 y/o sister Crystal, and Officer Dale Goodkind. On the morning of the disappearance Sammy is seemingly running for his life. At first, he dips into a church to hide and then once the coast is clear he runs home using another longer route, he feels is safer. He’s sweating, and has peed himself, and you can feel his fear and stress bleeding off the page, but we don’t know what he’s scared about or fearful of. Then we cut to Crystal who overhears the news of Chris’s disappearance on the police scanner in the family’s kitchen while she should be washing dishes. As a budding journalist she begins her own investigation. She’s quite smart and makes many connections over the course of the story. Officer Dale Goodkind is just about to clock out for the night when Chris’s case is handed over to him. It’s a race against the clock and a battle of Goodkind’s own demons that propels him forward in the investigation. There may be some inaccuracies for the time period, but unless you’re looking for them or those things bother you in general, I don’t think they mess with the overall intent.
I was immediately immersed in the story and it had my attention from beginning to end. For me personally I think it could have been darker, with more on page scenes, but I think this is a good compromise for someone who doesn’t like super dark stuff to still be completely disturbed and chilled to the core.
Content warning(s): child abuse, pedophilia
May 6, 2020
I received a free copy of this book from netgalley for an honest review. Where do I start? I do not want to give away any spoilers but let me just say this book may be intense for some people. There are a lot of triggers of child abductions and pornography and pedophiles. This book is Loosely based on the real Des Moines paper delivery boy abductions. None of the characters in this book are of those real people, but very similar situations in the same part of the world. It was really sad because the main character, Sammy was clearly crying out for help, literally hold two adults one being his own mother, that something was wrong and he needed help and no one did anything to help him. It was really sad this book I wanted to jump through the pages and help this kid. I had to keep telling myself it's just the book it's just the story. But it was a really touching book it was intense and sheds light on you never know who your neighbors are. Sometimes you never know what's going on in your own backyard. A lot of people in nice safe neighborhoods have their guards up, but when it comes to your children and their safety you can never be too sure. Also I believe a big lesson in this book is LISTEN TO YOUR CHILDREN. I am not a parent but I just don't know how a parent can be so blind that their child is blatantly crying out for help. Is really sad and I just would hope that things like this don't happen in real life and that people really pay attention to their kids a little bit more.
January 1, 2020
I must admit, one of the first things that drew me to this story was the era. I remember the 80s well.
The story takes us back to a time when notepads, library books, cassette tapes, and landlines were the norm. A time before we had the internet and cell phones at our fingertips. And more importantly, how prevalent paper runs were back then.
The story is told in third person and from a number of perspectives. (No head-hopping).
This is a whodunnit type story with a certain character painted so vividly as the villain, it was pretty clear to me it wasn't him. But was I right? I can't say.
I'm loath to give away spoilers but will say I enjoyed this for the most part. I did find it lagged in the middle, and the fact I couldn't stand Dale (Officer Goodkind) contributed to that.
If you enjoy thrillers, whodunnit type stories, I reckon you're can't go far wrong here.
My musing - why does a novel need the words 'A Novel' on the cover? Can't readers figure that out for themselves?
Copy provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.
The story takes us back to a time when notepads, library books, cassette tapes, and landlines were the norm. A time before we had the internet and cell phones at our fingertips. And more importantly, how prevalent paper runs were back then.
The story is told in third person and from a number of perspectives. (No head-hopping).
This is a whodunnit type story with a certain character painted so vividly as the villain, it was pretty clear to me it wasn't him. But was I right? I can't say.
I'm loath to give away spoilers but will say I enjoyed this for the most part. I did find it lagged in the middle, and the fact I couldn't stand Dale (Officer Goodkind) contributed to that.
If you enjoy thrillers, whodunnit type stories, I reckon you're can't go far wrong here.
My musing - why does a novel need the words 'A Novel' on the cover? Can't readers figure that out for themselves?
Copy provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.
March 26, 2020
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the free e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I'll be real: I struggled with this one. It struck me as a novel written by someone not at all comfortable with thrillers. There were obvious attempts to push the envelope, but they never reached their full potential. This book was like taking someone to a haunted house but in broad daylight and the house itself has 100 people in it: everything seems a lot less scary with that lens on.
A stand-out character was Crystal, Sammy's older sister. But I can't say I liked her, because I didn't really get to know her that well. In fact, all of the supposed main characters were written like secondary characters, never quite coming into focus as fully-formed individuals.
The rating gets bumped up a bit by the overall point that the plot makes: monsters in society aren't extraordinary, but living among us, coaching our kids' sports leagues, tutoring them, benignly asking for directions.
Ultimately though, I just didn't connect with this book.
2 1/2 stars out of 5
I'll be real: I struggled with this one. It struck me as a novel written by someone not at all comfortable with thrillers. There were obvious attempts to push the envelope, but they never reached their full potential. This book was like taking someone to a haunted house but in broad daylight and the house itself has 100 people in it: everything seems a lot less scary with that lens on.
A stand-out character was Crystal, Sammy's older sister. But I can't say I liked her, because I didn't really get to know her that well. In fact, all of the supposed main characters were written like secondary characters, never quite coming into focus as fully-formed individuals.
The rating gets bumped up a bit by the overall point that the plot makes: monsters in society aren't extraordinary, but living among us, coaching our kids' sports leagues, tutoring them, benignly asking for directions.
Ultimately though, I just didn't connect with this book.
2 1/2 stars out of 5
January 17, 2020
A haunting mystery that transcends the genre, because it gives the reader no easy out, no pat resolution, no sinister villain on which to pin our fears. It is an engrossing and powerful read about how when we as a community "give a criminal the label of 'evil,' or categorize them as 'monster,' we them power through camouflage. We allow them to hide in plain sight while doing what they behind closed doors, in secret." I do not want to give away the plot, but if you value realism in the mysteries/novels that you read, then this book is a must read, as it painstakingly details a painful cycle of abuse and denial and the scars it leaves on individuals and on the consciousness of a community.
Thank you to Net Galley, the publisher, and the author for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Thank you to Net Galley, the publisher, and the author for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 8, 2021
I hated this book. It makes me want to force the author to listen to all of the "You're Wrong About" Podcast so she understands the kind of false, moral panic narrative she is creating with this story centered around "stranger danger" where anyone could be guilty of heinous things at anytime.
I have 0 interest in a "hero cop breaks all kinds of laws but it's ok because he knows the truth" narrative and even less in one where the cop is shown how wrong he is and immediately does it again! In real life, that is how innocent people are killed or wrongly incarcerated and it is high time to stop glorifying those narratives in fiction.
0/5 stars
I have 0 interest in a "hero cop breaks all kinds of laws but it's ok because he knows the truth" narrative and even less in one where the cop is shown how wrong he is and immediately does it again! In real life, that is how innocent people are killed or wrongly incarcerated and it is high time to stop glorifying those narratives in fiction.
0/5 stars
April 29, 2025
THE MONSTERS WE MAKE is a well-written, gripping mystery set in the 1980s. When children working paper routes begin disappearing in a sleepy Midwestern town, a troubled police officer, desperate parents, and an aspiring journalist are in a race against time to solve the case.
This one isn't for everyone considering the dark subject matter of kidnapping, but it is a genuinely absorbing page-turner for mystery and crime readers.
This one isn't for everyone considering the dark subject matter of kidnapping, but it is a genuinely absorbing page-turner for mystery and crime readers.
February 20, 2020
Rating: 4 🔪
Author: Kali White
Publisher: Crooked Lane Books
Release Date: 9th June 2020
(Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the free early copy!)
Synopsis:
For fans of Rene Denfeld and Shari Lapena comes a rich, atmospheric family drama set in the 1980's following the disappearances of two paperboys from a small midwestern town.
It's August 1984, and paperboy Christopher Stewart has gone missing.
Hours later, twelve-year-old Sammy Cox hurries home from his own paper route, red-faced and out of breath, hiding a terrible secret.
Crystal, Sammy's seventeen-year-old sister, is worried by the disappearance but she also sees opportunity: the Stewart case has echoes of an earlier unsolved disappearance of another boy, one town over. Crystal senses the makings of an award winning essay, one that could win her a scholarship - and a ticket out of their small Iowa town.
Officer Dale Goodkind can't believe his bad luck: another town and another paperboy kidnapping. But this time he vows that it won't go unsolved. As the abductions set in motion an unpredictable chain of violent, devastating events touching each life in unexpected ways, Dale is forced to face his own demons.
Told through interwoven perspectives--and based on the real-life Des Moines Register paperboy kidnappings in the early 1980's--The Monsters We Make deftly explores the effects of one crime exposing another and the secrets people keep hidden from friends, families, and sometimes, even themselves.
My Thoughts:
The Monsters We Make is absolutely gripping. I have no words. The plot is twisted around a secret, within a secret, within a secret and centres around a group of young paperboys. The story plays out like one mystery is going to be the main plot, but then another one happens and then another one, until your sandwiched between so many mysterious events and crimes that you KNOW they’ve got to be related and pop on your detective hat to try and unravel the mystery. It caught me hook, line and sinker and despite my initial reservations, I couldn’t put it down!
Kali White writes wonderfully, her narrative had me guessing right away and questioning every new character and event trying to pinpoint the mystery. It was almost like reading an Agatha Christie, which is high praise cause I freaking treasure Dame Agatha. I can see this book becoming a hot topic once release day rolls around.
Now I was initially alarmed due to the crimes centring on children, that’s a trigger for me as a mother and always puts me on edge, I usually can’t finish a book with child victims but this one didn’t scare me away. It was subtle and White is clever with her presentation of such sensitive issues, avoiding any lurid or graphic descriptions and it really made an impact on me as a reader (and mother). I’m very impressed and am popping Kali White in my authors time watch out for list!
Author: Kali White
Publisher: Crooked Lane Books
Release Date: 9th June 2020
(Thank you NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the free early copy!)
Synopsis:
For fans of Rene Denfeld and Shari Lapena comes a rich, atmospheric family drama set in the 1980's following the disappearances of two paperboys from a small midwestern town.
It's August 1984, and paperboy Christopher Stewart has gone missing.
Hours later, twelve-year-old Sammy Cox hurries home from his own paper route, red-faced and out of breath, hiding a terrible secret.
Crystal, Sammy's seventeen-year-old sister, is worried by the disappearance but she also sees opportunity: the Stewart case has echoes of an earlier unsolved disappearance of another boy, one town over. Crystal senses the makings of an award winning essay, one that could win her a scholarship - and a ticket out of their small Iowa town.
Officer Dale Goodkind can't believe his bad luck: another town and another paperboy kidnapping. But this time he vows that it won't go unsolved. As the abductions set in motion an unpredictable chain of violent, devastating events touching each life in unexpected ways, Dale is forced to face his own demons.
Told through interwoven perspectives--and based on the real-life Des Moines Register paperboy kidnappings in the early 1980's--The Monsters We Make deftly explores the effects of one crime exposing another and the secrets people keep hidden from friends, families, and sometimes, even themselves.
My Thoughts:
The Monsters We Make is absolutely gripping. I have no words. The plot is twisted around a secret, within a secret, within a secret and centres around a group of young paperboys. The story plays out like one mystery is going to be the main plot, but then another one happens and then another one, until your sandwiched between so many mysterious events and crimes that you KNOW they’ve got to be related and pop on your detective hat to try and unravel the mystery. It caught me hook, line and sinker and despite my initial reservations, I couldn’t put it down!
Kali White writes wonderfully, her narrative had me guessing right away and questioning every new character and event trying to pinpoint the mystery. It was almost like reading an Agatha Christie, which is high praise cause I freaking treasure Dame Agatha. I can see this book becoming a hot topic once release day rolls around.
Now I was initially alarmed due to the crimes centring on children, that’s a trigger for me as a mother and always puts me on edge, I usually can’t finish a book with child victims but this one didn’t scare me away. It was subtle and White is clever with her presentation of such sensitive issues, avoiding any lurid or graphic descriptions and it really made an impact on me as a reader (and mother). I’m very impressed and am popping Kali White in my authors time watch out for list!
April 10, 2023
1.5 stars
I’ve been on a catch up mission to finish some older NG ebooks that slipped through the reading cracks. This book in particular was one that I was looking forward to starting. Sadly, it was a disappointing read for me.
The characters were incredibly one note and not interesting in the least. I was hoping the 1980’s timeframe would add some setting dimension but nope. The plot was too slow paced and the use of “secrets” really didn’t work for me. Despite the attempt to keep the plot cryptic, I knew where it was going early on. I really didn’t like the cat and mouse aspect. I felt more frustrated by the characters’ dialogues than enticed and more removed from the story than pulled in. This was a book I really wanted to like but didn’t work for me. I needed more reason to invest earlier on.
I received an ARC from NG in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve been on a catch up mission to finish some older NG ebooks that slipped through the reading cracks. This book in particular was one that I was looking forward to starting. Sadly, it was a disappointing read for me.
The characters were incredibly one note and not interesting in the least. I was hoping the 1980’s timeframe would add some setting dimension but nope. The plot was too slow paced and the use of “secrets” really didn’t work for me. Despite the attempt to keep the plot cryptic, I knew where it was going early on. I really didn’t like the cat and mouse aspect. I felt more frustrated by the characters’ dialogues than enticed and more removed from the story than pulled in. This was a book I really wanted to like but didn’t work for me. I needed more reason to invest earlier on.
I received an ARC from NG in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2020
Thank you to the publisher for sharing a copy of this one - all opinions are my own.
I LOVED this book - this is one of those wildly mesmerizing stories (specifically as its based on true events) that sucks you right in and holds you in complete suspense through the very last chapter.
I devoured this entire story whole, I loved the characters, and I LOVED that it was impossible to know who to trust. Even when you start really suspecting who the culprit is, the tension only increases because you KNOW that things are about to implode but you aren't sure how or how badly. This story unfolds at the perfect pace, sucking you in a little more each chapter and then flying into the final twists that leave you reeling.
This is a must read for thriller lovers this summer!
I LOVED this book - this is one of those wildly mesmerizing stories (specifically as its based on true events) that sucks you right in and holds you in complete suspense through the very last chapter.
I devoured this entire story whole, I loved the characters, and I LOVED that it was impossible to know who to trust. Even when you start really suspecting who the culprit is, the tension only increases because you KNOW that things are about to implode but you aren't sure how or how badly. This story unfolds at the perfect pace, sucking you in a little more each chapter and then flying into the final twists that leave you reeling.
This is a must read for thriller lovers this summer!
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