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Bottom Feeders
Would you recognize the Devil if you met him?
A decaying prison hides a dark secret. Robert Deville, the youngest prison warden in the history of the state, never expected to feel a supernatural connection in a prison. After discovering a diary, Robert learns a prisoner, rumored to be the Devil, was hidden away under his feet.
Was this prisoner responsible for a fire that killed hundreds of prisoners? Did he play a part in the murder of a local family years earlier? Robert must learn the prisoner’s true identity and unravel why he hasn’t aged in decades?
Surviving a relationship with an abusive ex-husband, Jenny Deville is dealing with the pain of her past. Noticing a sudden change in her son’s behavior, and his horrifying drawings of murders, no child should ever witness, she must discover the cause.
As local children mysteriously disappear, there is little time to prove who the killer really is.
A decaying prison hides a dark secret. Robert Deville, the youngest prison warden in the history of the state, never expected to feel a supernatural connection in a prison. After discovering a diary, Robert learns a prisoner, rumored to be the Devil, was hidden away under his feet.
Was this prisoner responsible for a fire that killed hundreds of prisoners? Did he play a part in the murder of a local family years earlier? Robert must learn the prisoner’s true identity and unravel why he hasn’t aged in decades?
Surviving a relationship with an abusive ex-husband, Jenny Deville is dealing with the pain of her past. Noticing a sudden change in her son’s behavior, and his horrifying drawings of murders, no child should ever witness, she must discover the cause.
As local children mysteriously disappear, there is little time to prove who the killer really is.
- GenresHorror
359 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 15, 2020
187 people are currently reading
360 people want to read
About the author
Jerry Roth
5 books112 followersJerry Roth is an award-winning author of Bottom Feeders, from Sunbury Press. Following up with this success, he released a psychological thriller, On the Tip of Her Tongue, one year later.
His writing career began with his award-winning screenplay, Gray Matter. Switching gears, Jerry created the critically successful Disc Golf website, Inkslingers DG and wrote for the Disc Golf Pro Tour in 2017.
His influences for writing can be traced backed to authors such as Anne Rice and Stephen King. Jerry’s upcoming literary projects include: a Gothic novel, Wish it away, and a Short Story novel, Throwing Shadows: a dark collection— Out now!
Instagram: https://bit.ly/2Y3zeLh
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
June 21, 2020
This book was a dark and twisted tale entwining the lives of several different characters. Engrossing and, at times, claustrophobic, the reader slowly unravels a web of lies and deceit, all the while questioning the supernatural elements presented.
Nothing is what it seems and the seemingly separate storylines slowly start to connect until the very end where the outcome is wholly unexpected.
At first, I had trouble in the beginning... trying to connect all of the characters to one another but by the middle of the book, I was hooked and started to see the connections. I loved the blending of crime/thriller and supernatural elements. The ending definitely caught me off guard and blew me away.
I received an e-copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I can honestly say that it's well worth the read.
Nothing is what it seems and the seemingly separate storylines slowly start to connect until the very end where the outcome is wholly unexpected.
At first, I had trouble in the beginning... trying to connect all of the characters to one another but by the middle of the book, I was hooked and started to see the connections. I loved the blending of crime/thriller and supernatural elements. The ending definitely caught me off guard and blew me away.
I received an e-copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I can honestly say that it's well worth the read.
July 28, 2022
Enter IF YOU DARE, Jerry Roth's world of the devilish, "takes place in a world you have never been b4", and scary assed excursion into the SICK mind of the worst kind of EVIL......the Human KIND! Get ready for 'Bottom Feeders'
*First off I wanted to personally thank Jerry Roth for sending me this book after a mess up with the USPS, and with that this does NOT affect how I rated and reviewed this book!*
Welcome to the 'life behind bars world of Reclamation Prison for the criminally insane!'....however you are also welcome to the lives of many, many people who come from different lifestyles, beliefs, and both good and the worst of EVIL! Welcome to Bottom Feeders. This book was such an incredibly violent, disturbing, creepy, scary as hell, AND heartbreaking all at once, and it throws into something you are not soon to forget! Trust Me! Now, this is coming from a man who has never been able to get thru the movie 'Pulp Fiction' because it was just 'way TOO confusing for me to stick with!' and just let me say; the story is only 304 pages long, but it comes at you like a speeding train that is off the tracks and bound for HELL! At first I thought; 'this is not going to be HORROR, it started off as a sick crime thriller, I was totally wrong!
The book starts with the most disturbing and creepy birth of a child that happens 30 years ago; then it jumps to two other stories and your first thought is....'what the hell is going on here?'
Roth's writing skills, (with this being his DEBUT novel, yet!) are so perfected that with all that is going on at one time, I would have loved to have seen how many pages of note taking he had to keep it all straight and non confusing!!! When you crack this book open, you need to go into it very open minded and not thinking about anything else, now that does not mean it is confusing because it is not, and all these story lines come together so flawlessly and well at the end, that you are just blown into a total head trip of evil, sadness and Horror!
Robert and his wife, Jenny have just moved with Jenny's son; Zack to a new town because of a new job as head warden that Robert has recently accepted. With Robert being the youngest ever warden in the prison's history, he goes into this with many fears and nerves wondering if he can really do the job well or not. Jenny's past is a doozy coming out of a marriage that was very abusive and demeaning and it all came from her husband.....Zacks father.
On Roberts first day he enters his new office headquarters in the old wardens office and notices the most 'disturbingly beautiful' solid hardwood desk, but this is no ordinary desk. It possesses Robert in a way that he is suddenly seeing horrific visions of flames, death, and feelings that 'something Evil is in the prison!'.. Upon opening a sort of hidden drawer he finds an old journal written by someone by the name of 'Joseph'. It is titled 'Joseph's Diary', and what is uncovered in this trascript will for ever change Roberts life as warden. From here you meet the prisoners, and let me tell you there are many that take place and are all important to this story, but dont try to think 'how am I going to keeep all this straight' because that is what I was feeling.....it all works out very well, and you are HOOKED! Upon discovering that there are local young boys in the town missing and being tortured Jenny immediately has weird thoughts that her ex husband has somthing to do with it.....is he, could she be right? Then Zack starts having the strangest 'artistic and visually disturbing visions of these acts of violence', and this is where Bottom Feeders starts you on a trip to the inner most evil place in your imagination........Reclamation Prison. What does this place have to do with 'the Devil living here', or is there a connection with someone in there that has to do with these horrific crimes against children? And what became of the infant birth at the beginning of the book? Crack open 'Bottom Fedders' by Jerry Roth. And, if you don't get a tear in your eye at the end......your not a human. Get ready......it's a fucking TRIP you are not going to soon forget.
** The following comment pertains ONLY to the Printed version of the book. **
Now for my rating of this novel......(I knew it was going to be a well earned 5 🔪🔪🔪🔪🔪 all the way) but there are the most messed up one line editing problems in a book that I have ever seen that just annoyed the hell out of me......there are random placed BOLD typed, and italicized words that show up all the time! Why? It never makes sense and comes across as an editing or proof problem. But this has got to be one of the most perfectly written; mind numbing books i have read in a LONG long time, and it deserved a 5 Stabby rating.
This is pertaining to the above comment.......everything has a reason. 🤫🤐
Thanks again Jerry!
Richard.
*First off I wanted to personally thank Jerry Roth for sending me this book after a mess up with the USPS, and with that this does NOT affect how I rated and reviewed this book!*
Welcome to the 'life behind bars world of Reclamation Prison for the criminally insane!'....however you are also welcome to the lives of many, many people who come from different lifestyles, beliefs, and both good and the worst of EVIL! Welcome to Bottom Feeders. This book was such an incredibly violent, disturbing, creepy, scary as hell, AND heartbreaking all at once, and it throws into something you are not soon to forget! Trust Me! Now, this is coming from a man who has never been able to get thru the movie 'Pulp Fiction' because it was just 'way TOO confusing for me to stick with!' and just let me say; the story is only 304 pages long, but it comes at you like a speeding train that is off the tracks and bound for HELL! At first I thought; 'this is not going to be HORROR, it started off as a sick crime thriller, I was totally wrong!
The book starts with the most disturbing and creepy birth of a child that happens 30 years ago; then it jumps to two other stories and your first thought is....'what the hell is going on here?'
Roth's writing skills, (with this being his DEBUT novel, yet!) are so perfected that with all that is going on at one time, I would have loved to have seen how many pages of note taking he had to keep it all straight and non confusing!!! When you crack this book open, you need to go into it very open minded and not thinking about anything else, now that does not mean it is confusing because it is not, and all these story lines come together so flawlessly and well at the end, that you are just blown into a total head trip of evil, sadness and Horror!
Robert and his wife, Jenny have just moved with Jenny's son; Zack to a new town because of a new job as head warden that Robert has recently accepted. With Robert being the youngest ever warden in the prison's history, he goes into this with many fears and nerves wondering if he can really do the job well or not. Jenny's past is a doozy coming out of a marriage that was very abusive and demeaning and it all came from her husband.....Zacks father.
On Roberts first day he enters his new office headquarters in the old wardens office and notices the most 'disturbingly beautiful' solid hardwood desk, but this is no ordinary desk. It possesses Robert in a way that he is suddenly seeing horrific visions of flames, death, and feelings that 'something Evil is in the prison!'.. Upon opening a sort of hidden drawer he finds an old journal written by someone by the name of 'Joseph'. It is titled 'Joseph's Diary', and what is uncovered in this trascript will for ever change Roberts life as warden. From here you meet the prisoners, and let me tell you there are many that take place and are all important to this story, but dont try to think 'how am I going to keeep all this straight' because that is what I was feeling.....it all works out very well, and you are HOOKED! Upon discovering that there are local young boys in the town missing and being tortured Jenny immediately has weird thoughts that her ex husband has somthing to do with it.....is he, could she be right? Then Zack starts having the strangest 'artistic and visually disturbing visions of these acts of violence', and this is where Bottom Feeders starts you on a trip to the inner most evil place in your imagination........Reclamation Prison. What does this place have to do with 'the Devil living here', or is there a connection with someone in there that has to do with these horrific crimes against children? And what became of the infant birth at the beginning of the book? Crack open 'Bottom Fedders' by Jerry Roth. And, if you don't get a tear in your eye at the end......your not a human. Get ready......it's a fucking TRIP you are not going to soon forget.
** The following comment pertains ONLY to the Printed version of the book. **
Now for my rating of this novel......(I knew it was going to be a well earned 5 🔪🔪🔪🔪🔪 all the way) but there are the most messed up one line editing problems in a book that I have ever seen that just annoyed the hell out of me......there are random placed BOLD typed, and italicized words that show up all the time! Why? It never makes sense and comes across as an editing or proof problem. But this has got to be one of the most perfectly written; mind numbing books i have read in a LONG long time, and it deserved a 5 Stabby rating.
This is pertaining to the above comment.......everything has a reason. 🤫🤐
Thanks again Jerry!
Richard.
May 15, 2020
Bottom Feeders is a dark and riveting read with a blend of horror and mystery, and I enjoyed this debut novel! It centers around the townsfolk of a small town called Pataskala. Robert Deville, is the new prison warden of Reclamation Correctional Facility and the stepdad to 6 year-old, Zack, when he marries Jenny Deville.
When Robert enters his office on his first day, he is mesmerized by the desk built by his predecessor, Joseph Hughes. He later on finds a diary belongs to Joseph and the more he reads it, the more he is obsessed with the things revealed in the diary to a point of believing that the devil may be living in the facility.
While Robert is enthralled by the diary, Jenny suspects her abusive ex-husband, Morris, has something to do with the missing children around the neighborhood. Her suspicions begins when she notices Zack's behaviour changes after spending time with Morris. She begins her own investigations with the help of her best friend, Liam.
This book has all the creepiness factor and the first chapter itself sends chills to my bones! It is intriguing for sure and at the same time I feel that there is quite a lot going on in this story, as we will also meet Gage and Victor, who are inmates of this facility with their own stories. There seemed to be no connection between these stories yet there are subtle clues that suggest otherwise. Interesting right?
Oh how I loved the writing! I enjoyed the descriptive writing with just the right amount of details here and there. It is definitely similar to Stephen King's writing style, so fans of King may enjoy this book. It is a slow-burn story and I find that the pace is just right.
I loved it when the mystery unfolds itself slowly through the multiple POVs, and speaking of characters, there are not a lot of endearing characters in this book. But I am a reader who likes flawed characters with issues. Jenny and Gage are characters that will grow on you, and I do wish that there is more about Jenny. She seemed to be too readily to accept the supernatural thing that is happening and I want to know the reason for it.
Let's talk about the ending. Don’t worry, no spoilers. All I have to say is that it blew my mind and I didn't see it coming at all! Super twisty and I absolutely loved it! Overall, I am actually quite impressed by this book and am looking forward to read more by this author!
***Thank you Jerry Roth for this gifted review copy in exchange for an honest review. All views expressed in this review are my own and was not influenced by the author, publisher or any third party.***
When Robert enters his office on his first day, he is mesmerized by the desk built by his predecessor, Joseph Hughes. He later on finds a diary belongs to Joseph and the more he reads it, the more he is obsessed with the things revealed in the diary to a point of believing that the devil may be living in the facility.
While Robert is enthralled by the diary, Jenny suspects her abusive ex-husband, Morris, has something to do with the missing children around the neighborhood. Her suspicions begins when she notices Zack's behaviour changes after spending time with Morris. She begins her own investigations with the help of her best friend, Liam.
This book has all the creepiness factor and the first chapter itself sends chills to my bones! It is intriguing for sure and at the same time I feel that there is quite a lot going on in this story, as we will also meet Gage and Victor, who are inmates of this facility with their own stories. There seemed to be no connection between these stories yet there are subtle clues that suggest otherwise. Interesting right?
Oh how I loved the writing! I enjoyed the descriptive writing with just the right amount of details here and there. It is definitely similar to Stephen King's writing style, so fans of King may enjoy this book. It is a slow-burn story and I find that the pace is just right.
I loved it when the mystery unfolds itself slowly through the multiple POVs, and speaking of characters, there are not a lot of endearing characters in this book. But I am a reader who likes flawed characters with issues. Jenny and Gage are characters that will grow on you, and I do wish that there is more about Jenny. She seemed to be too readily to accept the supernatural thing that is happening and I want to know the reason for it.
Let's talk about the ending. Don’t worry, no spoilers. All I have to say is that it blew my mind and I didn't see it coming at all! Super twisty and I absolutely loved it! Overall, I am actually quite impressed by this book and am looking forward to read more by this author!
***Thank you Jerry Roth for this gifted review copy in exchange for an honest review. All views expressed in this review are my own and was not influenced by the author, publisher or any third party.***
July 18, 2020
Bottom Feeders is an impressive debut horror novel that presents three storylines that twist around one another intriguingly and eventually tie themselves together into an unexpected but convincing conclusion. There were several plot twists that caught me by surprise. I thought Roth made some interesting choices in the book, particularly in utilizing a large cast of characters that, though mostly convincing, none of whom were particularly likable. We have Robert, a former police officer who has just become the new warden of a prison, who becomes caught up in investigating the history of the prison and his obsession with the former warden's journal. His wife is Jenny, the survivor of an abusive marriage, who fears for the safety of her son from that marriage due to the boy's crazed father, so she begins to investigate him with the help of her friend Liam. There have been a series of murders of children she fears he may have committed, so when the boy begins to act strangely she begins to worry. Finally we have Saint, an inmate of the prison who has been convicted after a robbery in which he was caught because he stayed behind to help someone who was injured due to the actions of an accomplice, Victor. He believes Victor is responsible for the death of his son, so he plots revenge when Victor unexpectedly arrives at the prison soon after the new warden does, having been convicted of a different crime. It's left as somewhat ambiguous throughout as to what may be coincidence and what may be the result of Satanic influence and what may be just because these are some weak or evil people. This is another interesting choice; the reader is left to their own speculation. (Is Zack devil-tainted? Why did Morris have collars in the garage? The teacher invited Jenny to her house?) Some of the points upon which the plot hinges stretch a little too thin (Would Saint really have left all of those letters unread and not known what happened? No one noticed the backyard excavation? The detective gave up and did what?), but it's all all right, much in the spirit of a convoluted Agatha Christie as opposed to a traditional horror novel. I enjoyed the story.
The one big drawback the book had was that it really, really needed the attention of a good line editor. There are a number of words that are randomly and mysteriously printed in bold italics, a couple of times where the tenses within a sentence don't agree, and way, way too many commas scatter-shotted in sentences that needed to be edited out. On page 160 "Jenny" is printed where "Karie" belongs, on page 175 we have "Hue" for Hefner, on the back cover of the book itself there's a non-interrogative statement that's ended with a question mark, etc., etc. It's a shame, because the story was good and didn't deserve to have such interruptions marring the narrative flow.
The one big drawback the book had was that it really, really needed the attention of a good line editor. There are a number of words that are randomly and mysteriously printed in bold italics, a couple of times where the tenses within a sentence don't agree, and way, way too many commas scatter-shotted in sentences that needed to be edited out. On page 160 "Jenny" is printed where "Karie" belongs, on page 175 we have "Hue" for Hefner, on the back cover of the book itself there's a non-interrogative statement that's ended with a question mark, etc., etc. It's a shame, because the story was good and didn't deserve to have such interruptions marring the narrative flow.
June 16, 2020
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 for Goodreads.
Bottom Feeders is so much more than a horror story, it masterfully weaves seemingly unrelated character driven stories together with intense elements of dark fantasy that will leave you completely titillated. I would describe this story as King's "Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption" meets Koontz's "Odd Thomas." The story is equally creepy and descriptively stunning. There are your standard gory, horror moments interspersed with powerful stories of domestic abuse, criminals seeking redemption and utterly intense questions of religion and spirituality. There are quite a few twists as you try to figure out who exactly are the "good" guys and who are the "bad" guys and if there is any real difference between the two.
The story develops through alternating points of view, not all of which are easy to root for. Robert has just accepted a job as a prison warden and is determined to straighten the jail out until he realizes the true horrors that lie within. His wife Jenny and her son, Zack, are recovering from a past of domestic abuse which have recently manifested in Zack drawing startlingly real images of kidnapped children. Gage is a prisoner in the facility paying for a crime he regrets. As each of these characters is forced to confront the evil staring them in the face, the lengths that they will go to will surprise you.
Thanks so much to Jerry Roth for providing me a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Bottom Feeders is so much more than a horror story, it masterfully weaves seemingly unrelated character driven stories together with intense elements of dark fantasy that will leave you completely titillated. I would describe this story as King's "Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption" meets Koontz's "Odd Thomas." The story is equally creepy and descriptively stunning. There are your standard gory, horror moments interspersed with powerful stories of domestic abuse, criminals seeking redemption and utterly intense questions of religion and spirituality. There are quite a few twists as you try to figure out who exactly are the "good" guys and who are the "bad" guys and if there is any real difference between the two.
The story develops through alternating points of view, not all of which are easy to root for. Robert has just accepted a job as a prison warden and is determined to straighten the jail out until he realizes the true horrors that lie within. His wife Jenny and her son, Zack, are recovering from a past of domestic abuse which have recently manifested in Zack drawing startlingly real images of kidnapped children. Gage is a prisoner in the facility paying for a crime he regrets. As each of these characters is forced to confront the evil staring them in the face, the lengths that they will go to will surprise you.
Thanks so much to Jerry Roth for providing me a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 5, 2020
*Thank you Jerry Roth for a review copy of Bottom Feeders for an honest review*
Summary:
Jenny has no idea what she is getting herself into when she begins to track down a child murderer in hopes of saving her son. Meanwhile, her husband, Robert, takes a new warden job at the local prison. There he discovers the prison may have once contained the devil himself and he becomes obsessed with uncovering the last warden's secrets.
A convict involved in a bank robbery gone bad gets a shot at redemption while serving his time. Things hardly ever seem to end well when the Devil's involved though.
Personal opinion:
This was a very entertaining thriller / mystery. It kept me guessing and there were a few twists I didn't see coming at all.
The opening chapter was a great beginning that had me excited to keep reading.The characters were well written, each with their own flaws and strengths. The point of view changed between 3 different characters to really give each side of the story and kept things interesting. My favorite was definitely Jenny. She goes through quite a bit and finally manages to overcome her past trauma to do what needs to be done. Gage, despite being a convict, was also a good character I connected with.
I was pleasantly surprised with how well written this book was description wise since this is the first book I have read by this author. The bigger twists were also well hidden until their reveal which I always enjoy in a book.
Overall, the story was a good thriller with a unique and entertaining plot. I would recommend to those who love a good mystery.
Summary:
Jenny has no idea what she is getting herself into when she begins to track down a child murderer in hopes of saving her son. Meanwhile, her husband, Robert, takes a new warden job at the local prison. There he discovers the prison may have once contained the devil himself and he becomes obsessed with uncovering the last warden's secrets.
A convict involved in a bank robbery gone bad gets a shot at redemption while serving his time. Things hardly ever seem to end well when the Devil's involved though.
Personal opinion:
This was a very entertaining thriller / mystery. It kept me guessing and there were a few twists I didn't see coming at all.
The opening chapter was a great beginning that had me excited to keep reading.The characters were well written, each with their own flaws and strengths. The point of view changed between 3 different characters to really give each side of the story and kept things interesting. My favorite was definitely Jenny. She goes through quite a bit and finally manages to overcome her past trauma to do what needs to be done. Gage, despite being a convict, was also a good character I connected with.
I was pleasantly surprised with how well written this book was description wise since this is the first book I have read by this author. The bigger twists were also well hidden until their reveal which I always enjoy in a book.
Overall, the story was a good thriller with a unique and entertaining plot. I would recommend to those who love a good mystery.
March 7, 2021
I didn't know what to expect before starting Bottom Feeders and I was pleasantly surprised. Upon finishing, I thought to myself, I want to read what Jerry Roth puts out next.
The story is full of thrills, surprises, vivid imagery, a good mystery, and an interesting take on good and evil and, of course, the Devil.
The lore of the Devil is a very unique take and gives the story its kick. The characters are real, and I enjoyed how they all read like real people.
If you want a novel with paranormal happenings, crime and mystery, then this is the book to read.
The story is full of thrills, surprises, vivid imagery, a good mystery, and an interesting take on good and evil and, of course, the Devil.
The lore of the Devil is a very unique take and gives the story its kick. The characters are real, and I enjoyed how they all read like real people.
If you want a novel with paranormal happenings, crime and mystery, then this is the book to read.
May 18, 2020
Review for 'Bottom Feeders' by Jerry Roth
Read and reviewed for Jerry Roth and Sunbury press
Released on May 15th (possibly earlier on Sunbury press website)
I have read books by this author before and have enjoyed them and he didn't fail me on this novel.
This novel started with an explosive, creepy and gripping beginning which dragged me straight into the storyline. However, it did ebb away during times but soon perked back up.
THE book starts 30 years ago and then goes into the 'present'. During the novel some chapters go back and forth over time periods as well as from different character perspectives and there were a few times I did become confused as to what was going on. I will admit half way through I thought there was too much going on and didn't understand how any of it linked together as it felt like 3 different storylines. However towards the end everything comes together nicely and it's left all tied up.
THE storyline itself is very unique and I absolutely loved the ending and didn't expect it at all. That is always a bonus as it drives me mad when I'm only half way through a book and have worked who did what out so this didn't fail to surprise me.
All the main characters were well described, realistic, strong and compelling. I would love to 'see' more of them and would look forward to this becoming a series.
The descriptions throughout the book were excellent and I really felt that I was' in' the book.
THE cover design is fantastically creepy and relates well with the storyline
THE novel is filled with crime, suspense, horror, mystery and the supernatural and I would recommend it to fans of these genres as well as thrillers.
312 pages
Rated 4/5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Co.uk and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads for more reviews
#BottomFeeders #JerryRoth #BookReview #Sunburypress
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
Read and reviewed for Jerry Roth and Sunbury press
Released on May 15th (possibly earlier on Sunbury press website)
I have read books by this author before and have enjoyed them and he didn't fail me on this novel.
This novel started with an explosive, creepy and gripping beginning which dragged me straight into the storyline. However, it did ebb away during times but soon perked back up.
THE book starts 30 years ago and then goes into the 'present'. During the novel some chapters go back and forth over time periods as well as from different character perspectives and there were a few times I did become confused as to what was going on. I will admit half way through I thought there was too much going on and didn't understand how any of it linked together as it felt like 3 different storylines. However towards the end everything comes together nicely and it's left all tied up.
THE storyline itself is very unique and I absolutely loved the ending and didn't expect it at all. That is always a bonus as it drives me mad when I'm only half way through a book and have worked who did what out so this didn't fail to surprise me.
All the main characters were well described, realistic, strong and compelling. I would love to 'see' more of them and would look forward to this becoming a series.
The descriptions throughout the book were excellent and I really felt that I was' in' the book.
THE cover design is fantastically creepy and relates well with the storyline
THE novel is filled with crime, suspense, horror, mystery and the supernatural and I would recommend it to fans of these genres as well as thrillers.
312 pages
Rated 4/5 (I enjoyed it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Co.uk and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads for more reviews
#BottomFeeders #JerryRoth #BookReview #Sunburypress
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
May 17, 2020
Would you recognize the Devil if you met him?
xx
Jerry Roth digs deep into a supernatural world where you didn’t know how dark a diary and a prison could get. Until now. Roth jumps into a world where you won’t know which way is the right way and which way is the way to turn back. With that being said, this story absorbed me and all my being. It was creepy but comforting because Roth’s writing is so unique and creative.
Not only does this story revolve around a supernatural presence but it also involves a woman, Jenny, who believes her abusive ex-husband is behind the children's disappearances in the city.
xx
I’m telling you, Jerry Roth’s debut novel is just the start of this author's journey. This story was riveting and from the first chapter to the last, I was watching the people find themselves in the mysteries of all mysteries! If you’re looking for a thrilling book that will keep you guessing and gives you a few unexpected twists and turns along the way!
This book was definitely one I looked forward to reading! Unfortunately, I missed the PUB day yesterday due to some personal things coming up, but here is this creepy story for you all to enjoy!
xx
Jerry Roth digs deep into a supernatural world where you didn’t know how dark a diary and a prison could get. Until now. Roth jumps into a world where you won’t know which way is the right way and which way is the way to turn back. With that being said, this story absorbed me and all my being. It was creepy but comforting because Roth’s writing is so unique and creative.
Not only does this story revolve around a supernatural presence but it also involves a woman, Jenny, who believes her abusive ex-husband is behind the children's disappearances in the city.
xx
I’m telling you, Jerry Roth’s debut novel is just the start of this author's journey. This story was riveting and from the first chapter to the last, I was watching the people find themselves in the mysteries of all mysteries! If you’re looking for a thrilling book that will keep you guessing and gives you a few unexpected twists and turns along the way!
This book was definitely one I looked forward to reading! Unfortunately, I missed the PUB day yesterday due to some personal things coming up, but here is this creepy story for you all to enjoy!
January 17, 2021
This one is somewhere between a 2.5 and 3 for me.
The story follows Robert Deville a prison warden that becomes enamored with the stories circulating that a prisoner within his walls my be the devil himself. Meanwhile, his wife Jenny, is also dealing with her abusive ex-husband whom she believes may be involved with some pretty abhorrent crime involving local missing children.
I really enjoy the premise of this story. Horror that largely takes place in a prison? I like where this may go. I mean, where could you go? However, there were a few things that kept my from getting really into it quite a few times. I usually enjoy and sort of mystery where the characters have to piece together facts of current situations based upon old documents, journal entries, found recordings etc. In Bottom Feeders, Robert finds a journal written by a previous warden and he dives into it many times. This gave quite a bit of insight to his current situation and helped him piece together who this prisoner is/was that everyone is so afraid of. However, some of these entries went on for way too long for me. I felt like I got what I needed, what Robert needed within a couple of pages and then would have a hard time focusing on the rest of it.
There were three story lines going here. Robert, Jenny and an inmate at the prison Robert heads. With the obvious relationships to one another set aside, I expected these stories to intertwine a little more than they did, before the end at least. I questioned at one point what one of the inmates stories really had to do with the larger mystery at hand until the end but, the converging felt a little rushed.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, it was mainly how some of it was structured that kept me from enjoying it more. However, I would definitely read more from this author and see what he does in the future.
The story follows Robert Deville a prison warden that becomes enamored with the stories circulating that a prisoner within his walls my be the devil himself. Meanwhile, his wife Jenny, is also dealing with her abusive ex-husband whom she believes may be involved with some pretty abhorrent crime involving local missing children.
I really enjoy the premise of this story. Horror that largely takes place in a prison? I like where this may go. I mean, where could you go? However, there were a few things that kept my from getting really into it quite a few times. I usually enjoy and sort of mystery where the characters have to piece together facts of current situations based upon old documents, journal entries, found recordings etc. In Bottom Feeders, Robert finds a journal written by a previous warden and he dives into it many times. This gave quite a bit of insight to his current situation and helped him piece together who this prisoner is/was that everyone is so afraid of. However, some of these entries went on for way too long for me. I felt like I got what I needed, what Robert needed within a couple of pages and then would have a hard time focusing on the rest of it.
There were three story lines going here. Robert, Jenny and an inmate at the prison Robert heads. With the obvious relationships to one another set aside, I expected these stories to intertwine a little more than they did, before the end at least. I questioned at one point what one of the inmates stories really had to do with the larger mystery at hand until the end but, the converging felt a little rushed.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, it was mainly how some of it was structured that kept me from enjoying it more. However, I would definitely read more from this author and see what he does in the future.
May 23, 2020
Are you ready to meet the devil?
~
After escaping from her abusive husband, Morris, Jenny becomes suspicious and thinks that Morris is behind all the child abductions. Her son Zack, is also acting quite on edge when she drops him off at Morris's house.
~
A diary written by a former warden, telling a chilling story.
~
Drama between the prisoners. How is this all connected? 🤔😍
~
~
Upon first reading this book, I was immediately interested as the first chapter had you wonder, what's going on?
~
Progressing through the book, there are many POV's and some of them you were wondering why has this person come up?
~
Towards the end of the book everything starts piecing together and you understood everyone's role. It was definitely quite interesting!
~
~
**TRIGGER WARNING**
This book contains details of r*pe, abuse, violence, child abductions, devilish activity and hallucinations. Please be aware of this before reading/purchasing.
~
Thank you Jerry Roth for sending me an e-copy to review.🤗
~
Also, this book is available to buy! Go grab your copy!
~
After escaping from her abusive husband, Morris, Jenny becomes suspicious and thinks that Morris is behind all the child abductions. Her son Zack, is also acting quite on edge when she drops him off at Morris's house.
~
A diary written by a former warden, telling a chilling story.
~
Drama between the prisoners. How is this all connected? 🤔😍
~
~
Upon first reading this book, I was immediately interested as the first chapter had you wonder, what's going on?
~
Progressing through the book, there are many POV's and some of them you were wondering why has this person come up?
~
Towards the end of the book everything starts piecing together and you understood everyone's role. It was definitely quite interesting!
~
~
**TRIGGER WARNING**
This book contains details of r*pe, abuse, violence, child abductions, devilish activity and hallucinations. Please be aware of this before reading/purchasing.
~
Thank you Jerry Roth for sending me an e-copy to review.🤗
~
Also, this book is available to buy! Go grab your copy!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2020
rounded from 4.5 stars
Robert is the youngest warden at the ——correctional institute. His predecessor, Joseph, leaves a diary that reveals a secret deep underneath the prison.
Jenny, who escaped her abusive ex-husband, sees changes in her sons behavior which are evident in his drawings. As children in the surrounding area start to disappear, Jenny suspects her ex. She sets off on a mission to find these children with her friend Liam.
I really loved the beginning of the book. It was completely engrossing. I found the characters interesting and loved watching their personalities unfold. The journal entries started to slow down my pace and I started to skim them. As the journal entries continued things started to happen and were revealed.
The ending of the book was completely unexpected and tied up the entire book very nicely. All the pieces fell together rather nicely and was completely unexpected.
Robert is the youngest warden at the ——correctional institute. His predecessor, Joseph, leaves a diary that reveals a secret deep underneath the prison.
Jenny, who escaped her abusive ex-husband, sees changes in her sons behavior which are evident in his drawings. As children in the surrounding area start to disappear, Jenny suspects her ex. She sets off on a mission to find these children with her friend Liam.
I really loved the beginning of the book. It was completely engrossing. I found the characters interesting and loved watching their personalities unfold. The journal entries started to slow down my pace and I started to skim them. As the journal entries continued things started to happen and were revealed.
The ending of the book was completely unexpected and tied up the entire book very nicely. All the pieces fell together rather nicely and was completely unexpected.
November 7, 2020
Started out very well, then became long and overly descriptive, causing me to half skim, half read paragraphs of unnecessary words the did nothing for the story.
What I could not get past was how badly dialogue was written, and how the separation of who was speaking was horrid.
I have shared a few of my many notes to highlight my issues with the dialogue confusion.
What I could not get past was how badly dialogue was written, and how the separation of who was speaking was horrid.
I have shared a few of my many notes to highlight my issues with the dialogue confusion.
July 27, 2020
What a corker!
I am astounded that this was Jerry Roth's first book. Its extremely well written. There are lots of times you think you've sussed out what's what ... only to find that's not the case at all!
I thoroughly enjoyed it & the ending is a JOY!!
I am astounded that this was Jerry Roth's first book. Its extremely well written. There are lots of times you think you've sussed out what's what ... only to find that's not the case at all!
I thoroughly enjoyed it & the ending is a JOY!!
June 26, 2020
2-yrs. previous. Cheryl (store mgr.) knew if she made a wrong move the robbers: Gage (career thief), Ricky (degenerate addict), Victor (Ricky’s brother), & Clyde (Ricky’s brother) would end her life as well as some of the customers.
Pataskala, Licking County, OH. Jenny Deville (wife/mother, nee Chaney) fixed Zack Chaney (son) & Warden Robert Deville (husband/stepfather) some breakfast.
Columbus, OH. Reclamation Correctional Facility. Day-1. Warden Robert Deville walked right in & laid into Guard Jake Shoeman (obese) about his diet.
Agatha (admin. asst.) introduced Associate Warden Reginald “Reggie” Williams to Warden Deville.
Rehabilitate not punishment.
The prisoners are locked down for 20 hrs. a day, 1 hr. for each meal & 1 hr. for exercise/leisure activities.
Some prisoners earn the privilege of laundry, cafeteria, & landscaping duties.
The 4th tier is for life sentenced & death row prisoners.
Guard Lucas Muldoon let the 2 of them in.
The Dante’s Inferno room is the lethal injection chamber.
Warden Deville was discussing pertinent information to Associate Warden Williams.
Warden Joseph Hughes (deceased) faked Damon “Devil” Torinson (lifetime inmate).
Warden Deville spoke with Guard Shoeman next; he had an important job for him.
Gage “Saint” (death row cellmate, prison kitchen, husband/father, manslaughter) was called to Warden Deville’s office.
Eddie (younger death row cellmate, prison laundry) was moved to a different cell & Damon is Gage’s new cellmate.
Jenny had her 1st parent/teacher conference with Zack’s teacher Mrs. Laura Jenkins.
Laura’s concern was about the 2-charcoal picture drawing’s Zack did.
Stephen (inmate, prison kitchen) found Gage, Eddie Fulson had been shanked & his body was lying on the freezer floor.
Margaret Salvo (Jenny’s mother) had some unfinished business.
Jenny received some startling news from the 2 Officers, Liam Walsh (friend) had passed away.
Jenny knew who was responsible for Liam’s death. It wasn’t a suicide.
Jenny went to see Morris Chaney (Jenny’s ex-husband/Zack’s biological father, alcoholic).
Gage went to pay Victor a visit.
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
Warning: This book contains descriptive accounts of extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material (pedophile, child verbal/mental/physical/sexual abuse) which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader. If you are especially sensitive to this type of material, it is strongly advised not to read any further.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written horror book. It was extremely easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. To be continued? This could also make another great creepy horror movie, or better yet a mini TV series. Wow, an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; ARR Hellbender Books; Sunbury Press, Inc.; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; PDF book.
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Pataskala, Licking County, OH. Jenny Deville (wife/mother, nee Chaney) fixed Zack Chaney (son) & Warden Robert Deville (husband/stepfather) some breakfast.
Columbus, OH. Reclamation Correctional Facility. Day-1. Warden Robert Deville walked right in & laid into Guard Jake Shoeman (obese) about his diet.
Agatha (admin. asst.) introduced Associate Warden Reginald “Reggie” Williams to Warden Deville.
Rehabilitate not punishment.
The prisoners are locked down for 20 hrs. a day, 1 hr. for each meal & 1 hr. for exercise/leisure activities.
Some prisoners earn the privilege of laundry, cafeteria, & landscaping duties.
The 4th tier is for life sentenced & death row prisoners.
Guard Lucas Muldoon let the 2 of them in.
The Dante’s Inferno room is the lethal injection chamber.
Warden Deville was discussing pertinent information to Associate Warden Williams.
Warden Joseph Hughes (deceased) faked Damon “Devil” Torinson (lifetime inmate).
Warden Deville spoke with Guard Shoeman next; he had an important job for him.
Gage “Saint” (death row cellmate, prison kitchen, husband/father, manslaughter) was called to Warden Deville’s office.
Eddie (younger death row cellmate, prison laundry) was moved to a different cell & Damon is Gage’s new cellmate.
Jenny had her 1st parent/teacher conference with Zack’s teacher Mrs. Laura Jenkins.
Laura’s concern was about the 2-charcoal picture drawing’s Zack did.
Stephen (inmate, prison kitchen) found Gage, Eddie Fulson had been shanked & his body was lying on the freezer floor.
Margaret Salvo (Jenny’s mother) had some unfinished business.
Jenny received some startling news from the 2 Officers, Liam Walsh (friend) had passed away.
Jenny knew who was responsible for Liam’s death. It wasn’t a suicide.
Jenny went to see Morris Chaney (Jenny’s ex-husband/Zack’s biological father, alcoholic).
Gage went to pay Victor a visit.
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
Warning: This book contains descriptive accounts of extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material (pedophile, child verbal/mental/physical/sexual abuse) which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader. If you are especially sensitive to this type of material, it is strongly advised not to read any further.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written horror book. It was extremely easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. To be continued? This could also make another great creepy horror movie, or better yet a mini TV series. Wow, an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; ARR Hellbender Books; Sunbury Press, Inc.; Goodreads; MakingConnections; Making Connections discussion group talk; PDF book.
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
June 21, 2020
Well, I didn’t see that coming!
The first chapter grabbed me by my ears and pulled my face towards the page, and wouldn’t allow me to stop reading.
There are three storylines, that appear to be unrelated, and if I’m honest I found myself confused at times by this, here’s a quick run down:
Robert Deville, Wife, Jenny & son Zack.
Zack is the son of Jenny’s abusive arsehole of an Ex-husband, Morris.
Robert becomes the new prison warden at a correctional facility, and after finding a diary left by his predecessor, starts to believe that the Devil himself maybe at the facility!
Jenny suspects her wrong en’ Ex, Morris maybe responsible for the disappearance of several children in the neighbourhood, and with Husband Robert, busy at his new place of work she and best friend Liam begin to investigate further.
We have inmate Gage and friend Eddie, who run into new inmate Victor, of whom Gage has, let’s say ‘history’ with!
A lot to take in right? If I hadn’t actually read the book I would say yes, however everything comes together nicely as the final chapters reach the climax.
You want creepy? The first chapter alone will satisfy all your needs.
And that ending!
Nope, didn’t see that coming!
This is an excellent debut novel, with some fantastic descriptive writing.
A solid 4/5 ⭐️
Thank you Jerry Roth for this gifted ebook in exchange for an honest review
The first chapter grabbed me by my ears and pulled my face towards the page, and wouldn’t allow me to stop reading.
There are three storylines, that appear to be unrelated, and if I’m honest I found myself confused at times by this, here’s a quick run down:
Robert Deville, Wife, Jenny & son Zack.
Zack is the son of Jenny’s abusive arsehole of an Ex-husband, Morris.
Robert becomes the new prison warden at a correctional facility, and after finding a diary left by his predecessor, starts to believe that the Devil himself maybe at the facility!
Jenny suspects her wrong en’ Ex, Morris maybe responsible for the disappearance of several children in the neighbourhood, and with Husband Robert, busy at his new place of work she and best friend Liam begin to investigate further.
We have inmate Gage and friend Eddie, who run into new inmate Victor, of whom Gage has, let’s say ‘history’ with!
A lot to take in right? If I hadn’t actually read the book I would say yes, however everything comes together nicely as the final chapters reach the climax.
You want creepy? The first chapter alone will satisfy all your needs.
And that ending!
Nope, didn’t see that coming!
This is an excellent debut novel, with some fantastic descriptive writing.
A solid 4/5 ⭐️
Thank you Jerry Roth for this gifted ebook in exchange for an honest review
July 17, 2020
Deliciously gruesome writing that gets its claws in you and doesn't let go.
Being a fan of the creepy religious horrors such as the Exorcist, Stigmata, the Da Vinci Code, etc., the description of this book intrigued me. I was not disappointed. Starting with the gruesome birth in the beginning all the way to the twist at the end, the story had me completely hooked. Then there was the amazing writing. Despite some errors in mechanics such as tense, grammar and punctuation, the writing is painfully detailed, unflinchingly bold, intensely disturbing and at times cringeworthy. It shatters all defenses and drags you relentlessly into the bowels of a world both appalling and gripping, and leaves you gasping with disbelief. Isn’t that why we read this stuff?
Being a fan of the creepy religious horrors such as the Exorcist, Stigmata, the Da Vinci Code, etc., the description of this book intrigued me. I was not disappointed. Starting with the gruesome birth in the beginning all the way to the twist at the end, the story had me completely hooked. Then there was the amazing writing. Despite some errors in mechanics such as tense, grammar and punctuation, the writing is painfully detailed, unflinchingly bold, intensely disturbing and at times cringeworthy. It shatters all defenses and drags you relentlessly into the bowels of a world both appalling and gripping, and leaves you gasping with disbelief. Isn’t that why we read this stuff?
September 13, 2020
What a fantastic debut! Bottom Feeders is a complex, fast-paced novel. I would classify this one as a crime thriller, with one of the primary settings being the Reclamation Correctional Facility. It has a lineup of colorful, vibrant characters, and all the markers of a truly great story. I especially enjoyed all the twists at the end (with one I didn't see coming), and the clever way the author was able to connect all the various story lines at the end and still be coherent. I'll definitely be on the lookout for new titles from Mr. Roth!
April 26, 2025
This author is in the same league as Steven king and dean koontz. I loved the way he told this story. It was terrifying up to the very end which was a plot twist I didn’t see coming. Jerry Roth is on my favorites list and I would read anything he wrote. I definitely recommend this book to all horror lovers.
May 30, 2020
The first chapter of this book caught me with a grappling hook to the chest and yanked my dark heart right into the pages.
The basic plot involves Jenny, her son Kyle, her husband Robert, her abusive ex-husband, as well as lots of other minor, but important, characters. Robert has just become the youngest warden at the Reclamation Correctional Facility. He finds a diary left behind by the previous warden (who obvs was a bit crazyyy) that details his belief that the actual Devil is in the prison. Then, there's the other facet of the story- there are children disappearing in the area. Jenny thinks that her ex has something to do with these disappearances/murders. Her son Kyle starts to behave in concerning and bizarre ways as well. Jenny is determined to keep her son safe and get to the bottom of these incidents with the help of her friend, Liam.
One critique that I have of this book is that the journal entries seems a little cumbersome at times. About half way through the book, the entries became more engrossing, but I found myself "pushing through" the read the first few. It almost seemed as if they were written in a different style, which was disjointed from the overall style. However, the later entries actually had me piecing things together and really worked to develop some revelations we wouldn't have gotten otherwise.
The ending impressed me the most. I DID NOT see this story playing out the way that it did. The last few chapters brought everything together and wrapped it up with a nice little bow- without being too overly perfectly put together.
🖤🖤🖤🖤/5- If you're a fan of suspense, horror, thrillers, mystery, and dark characters, you should definitely add this one to your TBR now!
**Thank you to Jerry Roth for providing me this copy in exchange for an honest review.**
The basic plot involves Jenny, her son Kyle, her husband Robert, her abusive ex-husband, as well as lots of other minor, but important, characters. Robert has just become the youngest warden at the Reclamation Correctional Facility. He finds a diary left behind by the previous warden (who obvs was a bit crazyyy) that details his belief that the actual Devil is in the prison. Then, there's the other facet of the story- there are children disappearing in the area. Jenny thinks that her ex has something to do with these disappearances/murders. Her son Kyle starts to behave in concerning and bizarre ways as well. Jenny is determined to keep her son safe and get to the bottom of these incidents with the help of her friend, Liam.
One critique that I have of this book is that the journal entries seems a little cumbersome at times. About half way through the book, the entries became more engrossing, but I found myself "pushing through" the read the first few. It almost seemed as if they were written in a different style, which was disjointed from the overall style. However, the later entries actually had me piecing things together and really worked to develop some revelations we wouldn't have gotten otherwise.
The ending impressed me the most. I DID NOT see this story playing out the way that it did. The last few chapters brought everything together and wrapped it up with a nice little bow- without being too overly perfectly put together.
🖤🖤🖤🖤/5- If you're a fan of suspense, horror, thrillers, mystery, and dark characters, you should definitely add this one to your TBR now!
**Thank you to Jerry Roth for providing me this copy in exchange for an honest review.**
May 22, 2020
Jerry Roth’s Bottom Feeders is a solid debut!
With great, descriptive writing, combined with a thrilling atmosphere, you can’t go wrong with this book. The pacing is top-notch, allowing the story to flow like a fine wine, leading you to the haunting conclusion that is quite creative.
If you’re a fan of horror, killers, or all-around thrillers, you’ll enjoy Bottom Feeders!
With great, descriptive writing, combined with a thrilling atmosphere, you can’t go wrong with this book. The pacing is top-notch, allowing the story to flow like a fine wine, leading you to the haunting conclusion that is quite creative.
If you’re a fan of horror, killers, or all-around thrillers, you’ll enjoy Bottom Feeders!
July 12, 2020
I quit reading it. Lost interest.
June 14, 2020
"I soon realized creation didn’t have depth or size. God held no more importance of planets and stars born over me. In his eyes, everything shared importance. That was comforting to me—we all played a part in equal amounts. Our massive sun, billion times my size, holds the same life-force I carry inside me. The discovery stunned and exhilarated me."
Thank you, author Jerry Roth, for providing me with an e-book in return for my honest review.
Set in Pataskala, the plot surrounds the events in the life of its people.
Jenny has survived from an abusive marriage with a 6-year-old son, Zach and is remarried to Robert Deville, the new & youngest warden to the town's prison, Reclamation Correctional Facility. She notices unusual behavioural changes in her son- his horrifying & realistic drawings, for a child, leading her to doubt if her ex-husband, Morris, has any part in this change. Soon, she finds herself entangled in a missing children's case that makes her realise that her son might be in danger and Morris might be behind this. She has no other choice but to step in and solve the mystery before her son becomes the next victim.
All while Robert starts his term as the new warden and stumbles across the previous warden, Joseph Hughes', diary. As he becomes obsessed with the dark events that took place in the prison along with its secrets, enfolded within its pages, he progresses to unfolding the mystery just to find out about a prisoner assumed to be 'The Devil' is currently hidden underneath the prison. Robert must learn the prisoner’s true identity and unravel his mystery.
Was the prisoner locked away for his protection or ours?
With electrifying suspense at every page-turn, Bottom Feeders is a highly gripping supernatural-psychological thriller that will have its readers on the edge of their seats. The plot is built conscientiously to reach a very much perfect climax that goes beyond one's expectation.
The characters are meticulously crafted. From the lead characters to the minor characters, each plays a stellar role in this promising debut. Jenny is a very strong woman and her portrayal was striking. Her best friend and partner-in-crime, Liam leads to the creation of one of the best duos in the genre! Each character is justifyingly portrayed and this aspect is applaud-worthy!
Jerry renders a highly promising debut with his arresting writing style that can be seen in its full glory in the dream sequences and the transitions between the scenes all while keeping the chilling suspense. With twists and turns that are portrayed in a brilliantly nerve-wracking way, Jerry is going to steal hearts of those with a sweet tooth for suspenseful reads.
Rarely do I read Supernatural/Paranormal and Horror books but I think I am developing a taste for Supernatural/Paranormal's and this book made my experience so far, so freakin' good! It has electric suspense buzzing over the psychological essence to it and we have made clear that I am a sucker for psychological suspense reads. With the added supernatural element, this turned out to be a very electrifying read for me! Everything about this book has given me all the reasons why I need to explore more works in the genre. I hope to read future works by Jerry and I will be recommending this to anyone who loves reads like this or not. Just read it already!
Thank you, author Jerry Roth, for providing me with an e-book in return for my honest review.
Set in Pataskala, the plot surrounds the events in the life of its people.
Jenny has survived from an abusive marriage with a 6-year-old son, Zach and is remarried to Robert Deville, the new & youngest warden to the town's prison, Reclamation Correctional Facility. She notices unusual behavioural changes in her son- his horrifying & realistic drawings, for a child, leading her to doubt if her ex-husband, Morris, has any part in this change. Soon, she finds herself entangled in a missing children's case that makes her realise that her son might be in danger and Morris might be behind this. She has no other choice but to step in and solve the mystery before her son becomes the next victim.
All while Robert starts his term as the new warden and stumbles across the previous warden, Joseph Hughes', diary. As he becomes obsessed with the dark events that took place in the prison along with its secrets, enfolded within its pages, he progresses to unfolding the mystery just to find out about a prisoner assumed to be 'The Devil' is currently hidden underneath the prison. Robert must learn the prisoner’s true identity and unravel his mystery.
Was the prisoner locked away for his protection or ours?
With electrifying suspense at every page-turn, Bottom Feeders is a highly gripping supernatural-psychological thriller that will have its readers on the edge of their seats. The plot is built conscientiously to reach a very much perfect climax that goes beyond one's expectation.
The characters are meticulously crafted. From the lead characters to the minor characters, each plays a stellar role in this promising debut. Jenny is a very strong woman and her portrayal was striking. Her best friend and partner-in-crime, Liam leads to the creation of one of the best duos in the genre! Each character is justifyingly portrayed and this aspect is applaud-worthy!
Jerry renders a highly promising debut with his arresting writing style that can be seen in its full glory in the dream sequences and the transitions between the scenes all while keeping the chilling suspense. With twists and turns that are portrayed in a brilliantly nerve-wracking way, Jerry is going to steal hearts of those with a sweet tooth for suspenseful reads.
Rarely do I read Supernatural/Paranormal and Horror books but I think I am developing a taste for Supernatural/Paranormal's and this book made my experience so far, so freakin' good! It has electric suspense buzzing over the psychological essence to it and we have made clear that I am a sucker for psychological suspense reads. With the added supernatural element, this turned out to be a very electrifying read for me! Everything about this book has given me all the reasons why I need to explore more works in the genre. I hope to read future works by Jerry and I will be recommending this to anyone who loves reads like this or not. Just read it already!
Read
November 23, 2020DNF
I think I may need to come back to this one at a later time. Either my mood reading is getting in the way of enjoyment for once or the writing style and thought process in this novel are not clicking with me. I enjoy deep, dark and twisted but 25% of the way in and I am not feeling a connection with the book yet. I read a lot of the glowing reviews and it sounds like there will come a point where all of the POVs merge together and maybe I just haven't reached it yet. So if you're reading this review, keep that in mind!
There's a hidden message in the text that I am intrigued by but outside of that deciphering I find that a lot of the paragraphs are descriptively wordy and some scenes just didn't fit for me. I am not connected with any of the characters and find some of their inner thoughts and feelings to be over the top for lack of a better phrase. Almost like purely for shock factor.
Nothing overly creepy has occurred at this point and the plot is still stitching itself together. There are precursory scenes for evil shenanigans but I am still in the character building stage it seems. Sadly, I am just not hooked enough to continue. I am going to put a hold on this one for now, if it sits in my mind maybe I'll pick it up and try again.
The author had reached out and offered a review copy in exchange for an honest review but I had snagged this from Amazon earlier on since some of my bookish buddies enjoyed it. I am still appreciative to have been considered as a reviewer and think others who enjoy this genre should give it a try. This is probably just not for me.
I think I may need to come back to this one at a later time. Either my mood reading is getting in the way of enjoyment for once or the writing style and thought process in this novel are not clicking with me. I enjoy deep, dark and twisted but 25% of the way in and I am not feeling a connection with the book yet. I read a lot of the glowing reviews and it sounds like there will come a point where all of the POVs merge together and maybe I just haven't reached it yet. So if you're reading this review, keep that in mind!
There's a hidden message in the text that I am intrigued by but outside of that deciphering I find that a lot of the paragraphs are descriptively wordy and some scenes just didn't fit for me. I am not connected with any of the characters and find some of their inner thoughts and feelings to be over the top for lack of a better phrase. Almost like purely for shock factor.
Nothing overly creepy has occurred at this point and the plot is still stitching itself together. There are precursory scenes for evil shenanigans but I am still in the character building stage it seems. Sadly, I am just not hooked enough to continue. I am going to put a hold on this one for now, if it sits in my mind maybe I'll pick it up and try again.
The author had reached out and offered a review copy in exchange for an honest review but I had snagged this from Amazon earlier on since some of my bookish buddies enjoyed it. I am still appreciative to have been considered as a reviewer and think others who enjoy this genre should give it a try. This is probably just not for me.
June 20, 2020
Must Read!
I was not expecting this book to go the way it did and I was pleasantly surprised! Great character development and loved the different POVs. It was almost as if I was reading three stories in one! I loved having the perspective of Jenny, her husband and an inmate Gage. They all dealt with their own demons but everything came together in the end.
Jenny was probably my favorite character. I really enjoyed her storyline as she searches for the killer of the town's missing children. All the while, protecting her son from her abusive ex-husband, whom she also believes may have something to do with the missing children.
Gage was also a favorite character of mine and had a great storyline, as well. I loved following the story of a convict who appeared to have a conscious and moral values. It really humanized him as opposed to a stereotypical, convict character. However, he still had his struggles with wanting revenge and balancing his moral compass, which was addicting to read.
What a surprise ending!!! I won't give away any spoilers but I absolutely loved the idea of three different POVs, with their own storylines all coming together in the end. Their lives are entangled throughout the story but the ending was such an awesome twist!
Totally recommend this to all you thriller lovers out there. Especially you Stephen King fans!
I was not expecting this book to go the way it did and I was pleasantly surprised! Great character development and loved the different POVs. It was almost as if I was reading three stories in one! I loved having the perspective of Jenny, her husband and an inmate Gage. They all dealt with their own demons but everything came together in the end.
Jenny was probably my favorite character. I really enjoyed her storyline as she searches for the killer of the town's missing children. All the while, protecting her son from her abusive ex-husband, whom she also believes may have something to do with the missing children.
Gage was also a favorite character of mine and had a great storyline, as well. I loved following the story of a convict who appeared to have a conscious and moral values. It really humanized him as opposed to a stereotypical, convict character. However, he still had his struggles with wanting revenge and balancing his moral compass, which was addicting to read.
What a surprise ending!!! I won't give away any spoilers but I absolutely loved the idea of three different POVs, with their own storylines all coming together in the end. Their lives are entangled throughout the story but the ending was such an awesome twist!
Totally recommend this to all you thriller lovers out there. Especially you Stephen King fans!
June 6, 2020
Jerry Roth's debut novel, Bottom Feeders, is a creep-tastic journey into the horror genre that not only chills the spine but makes the reader feel icky and awestruck at the same time. From the very disturbing first chapter, Bottom Feeders takes hold and doesn't let go until the very end.
The story primarily takes place at Reclamation Correctional Facility and weaves a complex web of its occupants and the characters outside. All storylines fit together and address the common thread that is stitched tightly into this plot...Would you know the devil if you met him? What would you be willing to sacrifice for things to go your way?
New warden, Robert Deville, is tasked with walking in his well-liked predecessor's shoes. During his transition to the new job, he realizes Reclamation holds some very dark secrets. When he finds the previous warden's journal, the prison's grim past starts to unfold. Around each corner and in the darkest depths of Reclamation, darkness waits.
Meanwhile, Jenny Deville, Robert's wife, is dealing with the demons of her abusive ex-husband and her son's peculiar behavior that leaves her concerned for his well-being.
Joseph Hughes' (the previous warder) journal entries are very detailed (as was the rest of the book), but they were a necessary evil to explore the mindset and understand the events that happened at Reclamation during his watch. I found myself engrossed in the details even though they sometimes kept me waiting.
As this story started to unfold, it kept me guessing nearly all the way through. I found myself waking up in the middle of the night, not only with Bottom Feeders weighing on my mind and creeping me out from the shadows in my own room but to wake and find out what was going to happen next.
Jerry Roth's writing style is reminiscent of Stephen King and Dean Koontz. If Bottom Feeders is any indicator, Jerry Roth is poised to be an author that horror fans need to keep an eye on!
The story primarily takes place at Reclamation Correctional Facility and weaves a complex web of its occupants and the characters outside. All storylines fit together and address the common thread that is stitched tightly into this plot...Would you know the devil if you met him? What would you be willing to sacrifice for things to go your way?
New warden, Robert Deville, is tasked with walking in his well-liked predecessor's shoes. During his transition to the new job, he realizes Reclamation holds some very dark secrets. When he finds the previous warden's journal, the prison's grim past starts to unfold. Around each corner and in the darkest depths of Reclamation, darkness waits.
Meanwhile, Jenny Deville, Robert's wife, is dealing with the demons of her abusive ex-husband and her son's peculiar behavior that leaves her concerned for his well-being.
Joseph Hughes' (the previous warder) journal entries are very detailed (as was the rest of the book), but they were a necessary evil to explore the mindset and understand the events that happened at Reclamation during his watch. I found myself engrossed in the details even though they sometimes kept me waiting.
As this story started to unfold, it kept me guessing nearly all the way through. I found myself waking up in the middle of the night, not only with Bottom Feeders weighing on my mind and creeping me out from the shadows in my own room but to wake and find out what was going to happen next.
Jerry Roth's writing style is reminiscent of Stephen King and Dean Koontz. If Bottom Feeders is any indicator, Jerry Roth is poised to be an author that horror fans need to keep an eye on!
November 11, 2024
We have a few characters in this story. They are connected to at least one other character and they all have some sort of baggage, but they are living their lives as needed. This is until they have one common person enter their lives and he claims to be the Devil. Then, all hell breaks loose.
I did have a hard time getting into it at first. There were sections that were too wordy for me. However, about halfway, I was hooked! This story kept me on my toes! I loved the twists at the end! Check the trigger warnings as there were a couple of parts that were hard to read, but they were quick.
Also, pay attention to the random words that are bold and italicized. The diary entries don’t count. It creates a message!
I did have a hard time getting into it at first. There were sections that were too wordy for me. However, about halfway, I was hooked! This story kept me on my toes! I loved the twists at the end! Check the trigger warnings as there were a couple of parts that were hard to read, but they were quick.
Also, pay attention to the random words that are bold and italicized. The diary entries don’t count. It creates a message!
October 18, 2020
It's October and Halloween is right around the corner - the perfect time for this dark, twisting horror debut. Centered around a prison where both inmates and wardens have secrets to hide, the narrative brings together a mysterious journal, a string of child abductions, and a prisoner rumored to be the Devil himself. Roth does a fantastic job weaving together a large cast of characters and storylines, all the while building up a creeping sense of dread. If you enjoy books that blend earthly and supernatural horror, check this one out!
July 7, 2020
Wow!
This book had so much going on. The husband, the new warden of the prison, and his wife and son. Then, the prisoners themselves. Add to the mix, some psychic powers of the son, seeing the kidnapped kids killed. This book will keep you guessing.
This book had so much going on. The husband, the new warden of the prison, and his wife and son. Then, the prisoners themselves. Add to the mix, some psychic powers of the son, seeing the kidnapped kids killed. This book will keep you guessing.
July 13, 2020
I love a horror book when I grin at the end! Good fun.
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