The Shriving Place

by Brian Patrick Edwards

Simon, a father of three and husband to the love of his life, can't stand it any longer. Where is Justice to be found in a world of cover-ups and payoffs? Are monsters to go unpunished? He will see Justice returned, by his own hands if it must. The sins of yesterday will spill forth with all revealed. What is a family man to do, knowing that predators continue to breathe? Will Justice be done?

113 pages, Paperback

Published December 18, 2020

About the author

Brian Edwards lives in Alabama. He hasn’t written anything since becoming a father. Maybe one day.

Reviews

[Brian Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

Greatest novella iv'e ever written/read. ;)

[M.A. Heiss · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I say this book captivated me, I am not being dramatic (well, maybe a little dramatic. I can’t help it.)

It was an incredibly quick read, with a little bit more than a hundred pages, and it was written very well. It has the ability, if you have the imagination for it, to transport you into the book, which a lot of other books lack. There’s a certain way it made me feel that I cannot describe, but it’s going to stick with me for awhile.

Our world is disgusting, we’re terrible people, and this book makes light of that. But it also showed the beauty of God and the Church. I’ve never been to a traditional Latin Mass and the closest I’ve gotten to a Church that loosely fit the description of the one in this book was a Cathedral I visited twice, and yet it felt like home, which is what I admire most in books (and churches).

I honestly never thought a book so short could have such an effect on me. I really liked it.

GOSH why is this review so sappy EW

[AJBooks241 · Rating 4 out of 5]

The writing in this book is spectacular, and every page draws you in. While this book made me uncomfortable at times, what I liked about it is that it focused on dark emotions and desires that normally aren't presented in a lot of books I read.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting read for these times...

This book captures these years perfectly, while keeping in perspective the abundance of God's Mercy and justice. It contains much of Catholic culture, while blending a thriller with a hint of romance.

[The Catholic Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a quick read.

It explores Simon, a husband and father, who has become disgusted with and fed up by the abuse and corruption in society, leading him to take matters into his own hands.

For Catholic fiction, this novella does delve into some dark subject matter, so I would keep that in mind before going into it. However, I do think this kind of story is necessary because it addresses issues within society as a whole, as well as the corruption of those who are meant to guide others.

I'm glad the story ended the way it did.

Although Simon is the POV character and you get to see his internal thoughts, I would say Mary was my favorite character.

[Kenneth Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great, short read, and a instant classic. I genuine enjoyed every moment. This book takes your emotions on the rollercoaster, leaving you wanting more. The dialogue was thought-provoking causing the reader to empathize with the protagonist and antagonist views. By the end of the book, you will choose a side.

[T. M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This MUST be made into a movie

Once you start this book, you can't put it down. It's best you go in to it blind because there's so many surprises that if I get into to much detail I might ruin it for you. It's basic premise is like a Catholic "Dexter" but there's a lot more to it than that.

[Mandy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is very well written but I hated it. I understand the religious message of this but it’s way too extreme for me. I never condone violence, either physical or verbal. I give it three stars because the writing is good and I can understand the appeal to the audience it’s written for, but I fear it could be used to inspire more violence against marginalized communities.

[Jed Pieniadz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good quick book

Great book. Did not expect the ending. Well done. Would like to read more novellas by Brian.

Need three more words

[Marlee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was happy for the ending. A quick read with somewhat gruesome and definitely provocative topics. The story will stick with me!

[Robert Richter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This books keeps suspense between two stories, yet they are the same. Leading up to a suspenseful and satisfactory ending. This book is not as the first chapter makes it out to be. Could not put it down