What do you think?
Rate this book
Rehab
Summer Byrnes had a privileged life, but her love for the drink has ripped it apart.
Isolated in an artificial world of rules and punishment, Summer’s looks and wealth make her the target of lust and jealousy at Eden Creek Rehab.
They’ve made her life a living hell.
But it’s nothing compared to what her eight-year-old son will unleash on anyone who hurts his mummy.
REHAB contains sexual and physical violence. Some content may disturb
Isolated in an artificial world of rules and punishment, Summer’s looks and wealth make her the target of lust and jealousy at Eden Creek Rehab.
They’ve made her life a living hell.
But it’s nothing compared to what her eight-year-old son will unleash on anyone who hurts his mummy.
REHAB contains sexual and physical violence. Some content may disturb
- GenresHorror
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2021
13 people are currently reading
229 people want to read
About the author
Ryder Kinlay
6 books93 followersA bit about me ...
I'm from Australia's Outback where we don't have running water, ride kangaroos to work, and still listen to the wireless each Friday for entertainment. I enjoy wrestling my pet crocodile, Brutus, and playing with my dingo when I'm not out hunting buffaloes and feral pigs while swigging moonshine.
Don't believe me ...
Alright, I enjoy telling stories and read all sub-genres of horror. I'm a big fan of Richard Laymon, may he Rest In Peace, and like nearly everyone else on the f**king planet I love good ol' Uncle Stevie.
If you let me ... I have plenty more stories up my sleeve ... but for now I'll toddle back to wrangle that stray buff out in my paddock.
I'm from Australia's Outback where we don't have running water, ride kangaroos to work, and still listen to the wireless each Friday for entertainment. I enjoy wrestling my pet crocodile, Brutus, and playing with my dingo when I'm not out hunting buffaloes and feral pigs while swigging moonshine.
Don't believe me ...
Alright, I enjoy telling stories and read all sub-genres of horror. I'm a big fan of Richard Laymon, may he Rest In Peace, and like nearly everyone else on the f**king planet I love good ol' Uncle Stevie.
If you let me ... I have plenty more stories up my sleeve ... but for now I'll toddle back to wrangle that stray buff out in my paddock.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
December 30, 2024
This, I believe, was Ryder Kinlay’s debut novel. And let me just say that there is a lot of talent and big things on the horizon for this horror author. So I have quite a few critiques, which are not meant to dishearten or discourage Kinlay, but are aimed at helping her continue her rise to eventual literary greatness. I had a horrible experience publishing book 1 of my Preternatural trilogy. My editor was horrendous, my cover artist was extremely difficult, and I ended up having to do 95% of the work myself. This is why it is so much more raw and unpolished, as compared to the subsequent two books. So I’m bringing all this up, because I completely relate to the stresses and challenges of publishing your first book. But you learn, evolve, and improve, and I have little reason to believe that Ryder Kinlay won’t do just that. Back to Rehab…I thought there was a ton of excessive focus on sex, which didn’t need to be cut out, but rather reduced, leaving room to develop certain underdeveloped aspects like Richie/Robbie, Jack’s and Samson’s grief, Larry’s entire presence, and what would become of certain characters after the story concluded, including Chris. I’m being very vague here, as to not reveal any spoilers. The story also has a very hard pivot just before the halfway mark, which wasn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, it needed to be more ‘peppered’ throughout the earlier parts of the story, in order to not feel so abrupt and maintain a smoother transition. I also felt that the focus on the actual rehabilitation process for each character took a backseat to the social aspect and inner rumblings amongst the patients, which made the setting of Eden Creek seem like a bit of an afterthought. But for the smaller parts where that was explored, I did enjoy that a great deal, and feel this is a unique concept that I have not seen from any other horror stories. The writing quality is really good, the characters were also all given their time to shine, and I like how the focus was kept on a select few. Kinlay didn’t fall victim to hosting an overabundance of people. Sorry for such a long review here, but Ryder Kinlay is definitely an author to keep a close eye on. And on a side note, I love how interactive she is on social media, and on Bookbub and Goodreads. She is always quick to respond to people and is very pleasant, even against criticisms. I see so many authors cease to exist, aside from their name, and ignore their fellow authors and readers alike, which I don’t agree with or fully understand. Anyway, from one horror author to another, awesome job and keep on truckin’, Ryder Kinlay!!
June 17, 2021
Ryder Kinlay’s debut novel REHAB packs quite a punch. While there were some flaws, the Australian author shows a lot of promise for good things to come.
Summer Byrnes is an alcoholic, so she goes to Eden Creek Rehab. She is a target of lust and jealousy, with her good looks and privileged life counting against her. Kate will be her best friend and Samson will become more than that, even while she claims to be happily married to Jack and adore her boy Robbie – with whom she shares a special, supernatural bond. So what will happen to the man who dares to hurt his mommy?
There is character development which is very well done, but the fact that she could cheat on her husband (again) made me dislike Summer more than the author probably intended for the reader. I have a hard time getting past the fact that she begged her husband for forgiveness, yet gave in to her carnal desires despite loving him. It did not influence my rating, however.
The death scene toward the halfway mark hits hard – it is as extreme as most things I have read. Also, some of the things that has happened to other residents in the past pushes this book toward the extreme genre, but even with the supernatural element, I am struggling with the idea of calling this a horror story – at least not in the traditional sense. There is a large romance/erotic element present and the over-all feel is much more of a drama with horrific things happening.
Like nearly all new authors, there will be a learning curve for Kinlay. In my opinion, there are two major flaws to this story.
The first is pace – the story started off really strong and held my interest, but then the ‘love-story’ started and it felt like too many pages were spent on it. By the time I reached the very graphic and brutal murder (kudo’s to the author, it was rough to read), my interest had waned a fair bit. After the murder, the pace picks up again, but toward the end things start to feel a little stretched out. Again, I will state that I am a horror reader and, because of these changes of pace, the impact of the horror element felt diluted.
The second is the killer. When the police question this particular suspect, everything points to him being the killer. I think the author missed a trick here by not using it as a misdirection. To add more mystery, it would have helped with the suspense and might have enhanced the horror element of the story. The fact that he turned out to be the killer after all made the ending feel further away than it was.
It’s difficult not to recommend this one, though – there was some things that were really well done, especially for a debut. It did get an emotional response from me, which is what any author strives to do, so I have to say that despite the flaws, this story shows tremendous promise for good things to come from this author. Not exactly sure I can recommend it for the splatterpunk crowd, but something worth checking out for an optimist.
PLEASE NOTE: While this is a 3.5 STAR book, I need to downgrade it to three on GR...
Summer Byrnes is an alcoholic, so she goes to Eden Creek Rehab. She is a target of lust and jealousy, with her good looks and privileged life counting against her. Kate will be her best friend and Samson will become more than that, even while she claims to be happily married to Jack and adore her boy Robbie – with whom she shares a special, supernatural bond. So what will happen to the man who dares to hurt his mommy?
There is character development which is very well done, but the fact that she could cheat on her husband (again) made me dislike Summer more than the author probably intended for the reader. I have a hard time getting past the fact that she begged her husband for forgiveness, yet gave in to her carnal desires despite loving him. It did not influence my rating, however.
The death scene toward the halfway mark hits hard – it is as extreme as most things I have read. Also, some of the things that has happened to other residents in the past pushes this book toward the extreme genre, but even with the supernatural element, I am struggling with the idea of calling this a horror story – at least not in the traditional sense. There is a large romance/erotic element present and the over-all feel is much more of a drama with horrific things happening.
Like nearly all new authors, there will be a learning curve for Kinlay. In my opinion, there are two major flaws to this story.
The first is pace – the story started off really strong and held my interest, but then the ‘love-story’ started and it felt like too many pages were spent on it. By the time I reached the very graphic and brutal murder (kudo’s to the author, it was rough to read), my interest had waned a fair bit. After the murder, the pace picks up again, but toward the end things start to feel a little stretched out. Again, I will state that I am a horror reader and, because of these changes of pace, the impact of the horror element felt diluted.
The second is the killer. When the police question this particular suspect, everything points to him being the killer. I think the author missed a trick here by not using it as a misdirection. To add more mystery, it would have helped with the suspense and might have enhanced the horror element of the story. The fact that he turned out to be the killer after all made the ending feel further away than it was.
It’s difficult not to recommend this one, though – there was some things that were really well done, especially for a debut. It did get an emotional response from me, which is what any author strives to do, so I have to say that despite the flaws, this story shows tremendous promise for good things to come from this author. Not exactly sure I can recommend it for the splatterpunk crowd, but something worth checking out for an optimist.
PLEASE NOTE: While this is a 3.5 STAR book, I need to downgrade it to three on GR...
February 25, 2023
I’m not reviewing this book. I wouldn’t dare as it’s my debut, my baby! But wanted any of my followers know it’s here! Out now on godless. Soon on Amazon 😊😊😊
May 26, 2021
Ryder’s in your face, brutal and dirty prose secures her position as a future star of Indie Horror.
If you thought America had some grade A psychos, wait and see what we have down under.
If you thought America had some grade A psychos, wait and see what we have down under.
July 17, 2021
4.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/✨
Ryder Kinley has written a good debut Novel.
But it wasn’t what I expected. For my taste the love story was a little bit too developed and It was a little bit too emotional. This part could have been shortened.
The story isn’t flawless, but the characters were very interesting.
However for each of them there was something missing in their development. For example, i wanted to know what happened to Chris after he went back to jail.
And what really happened to Chomper ?
The romantic moments almost turned this horror story into a dark romance. But there was very disturbing and brutal moments that have placed this novel into the horror genre. Those moments were my favorite.
I’ll read Ryder Kinley next story with pleasure.
Ryder Kinley has written a good debut Novel.
But it wasn’t what I expected. For my taste the love story was a little bit too developed and It was a little bit too emotional. This part could have been shortened.
The story isn’t flawless, but the characters were very interesting.
However for each of them there was something missing in their development. For example, i wanted to know what happened to Chris after he went back to jail.
And what really happened to Chomper ?
The romantic moments almost turned this horror story into a dark romance. But there was very disturbing and brutal moments that have placed this novel into the horror genre. Those moments were my favorite.
I’ll read Ryder Kinley next story with pleasure.
June 9, 2021
The author came out of the gate swinging with this debut. I liked the strong, regional tones, the author did a great job submerging the reader in the nuances of the culture. Solid character development and a well-paced storyline kept me entertained throughout. I look forward to the author's next release.
October 14, 2021
Man what a fucked up rehab center😆😆😆😆😆😆😆😆. I liked this book. I liked the way that I could see the author's influences in the way she writes. This book reminded me of the shining a little bit with a feel of a Laymon novel. This to me is a good horror with some brutal scenes not necessarily a "extreme" horror but a damn good intense read. This is a damn good debut novel and I am really looking forward to reading more from Ryder Kinlay. I have a feeling even though this was a solid debut this is only a taste of what she is capable of as a writer.
June 2, 2021
This was a great debut novel from Ryder Kinlay. Supernatural, creepy, horrific and brutal. I love the way Robbie got his revenge, I wasn't expecting it, great fun!! I did have trouble with some of the dialogue, but once I started reading it in an Aussie accent, it soon flowed!! 😉 I'm looking forward to the sequels, which will be instant buys from me!! 🖤
July 15, 2021
Brutal. No other word for it. I first read this before it was edited and already thought it had great potential, but reading the final version, for a debut novel Ryder nailed it!
Horrific, brutal, chilling scenes occuring constantly in the Rehab centre the book is set at, with an added dose of paranormal behaviour thrown in. All the characters are well-developed and you will either love them or, with others, truly hate them and hope they get what they deserve.
No one is saved from the terrible events that unfold behind these walls, which makes for a constant page-turner, often cringe-worthy as certain scenes are described in vivid, explicit detail.
Definitely recommended for those that love dark, gripping stories with nothing left to the imagination. Not for the faint of heart!
Horrific, brutal, chilling scenes occuring constantly in the Rehab centre the book is set at, with an added dose of paranormal behaviour thrown in. All the characters are well-developed and you will either love them or, with others, truly hate them and hope they get what they deserve.
No one is saved from the terrible events that unfold behind these walls, which makes for a constant page-turner, often cringe-worthy as certain scenes are described in vivid, explicit detail.
Definitely recommended for those that love dark, gripping stories with nothing left to the imagination. Not for the faint of heart!
May 24, 2021
Ryder Kinlay has written a gruesome and graphic horror story that you won't be able to put down until it's finished.
The book is set in a Drug & Alcohol Rehab facility in Outback Australia. The author explores the dark and violent past of the inmates, so much so you may feel squeamish (that might just be me). My heart was racing during the second half of Rehab as the story twists and turns unexpectedly.
Love, sex, violence and murder with a supernatural element!
A great first book by Ryder Kinlay. Can't wait to read more from this Aussie author.
April 2, 2022
This author's debut is a smack in the face with gruesome scenes - reader beware. Without going into too much detail about the plot, something terrible happens in a rehab clinic and revenge is sweet. This novel has everything; mystery, suspense, paranormal aspects, and very extreme in parts (hence the 'reader beware' warning). The characters were relatable, some you loved, some you hated, and some you loved to hate. The overall story is enjoyable for horror fans. Highly recommended.
June 8, 2021
Rehab is a slow burn that will lull you into a false sense of security before gutting you and taking you for everything you've got! Ryder Kinlay does a fantastic job at getting the reader to really care for Summer, Samson, Kate, and the rest of the main cast, making sure to give you the time to get to know each of them intimately. I'm glad this is going to become a series because I became emotionally invested in a few of the characters!
Rehab is the story of Summer Brynes, a woman who has lead a privileged up until her love of alcohol starts to destroy her marriage and threatens to rip apart her life. She checks into Eden Creek Rehab, where she meets Samson and Kate, who befriend her almost immediately. Things do not go as well as they may seem though, as Summer becomes a target of lust and jealousy. When she is hurt, her son takes revenge on those that dared to lay a hand on his mother.
When Rehab shows it's ruthless side, it really goes all out. Sexual violence is a big theme of this book, and some of the scenes (especially the main one) are described in great detail and really made my skin crawl. I felt disgusted with it, but in the sense that Ryder did such a good job at detailing it in such a brutal way that it gave me strong emotions. Robbie's revenge is a whole other can of worms. His relentlessness and savageness was unexpected and left me at a loss for words. He is not a kid I would ever want to cross!
The Australian lingo took me a minute to get used to, but otherwise the book flows brilliantly. I couldn't put this book down for the life of me and it felt refreshing to have so much character development in an extreme horror novel. It took it's time on the violence and it paid off. Rehab is a solid first book from Ryder and I'm excited to see where the series goes from here.
Rehab is the story of Summer Brynes, a woman who has lead a privileged up until her love of alcohol starts to destroy her marriage and threatens to rip apart her life. She checks into Eden Creek Rehab, where she meets Samson and Kate, who befriend her almost immediately. Things do not go as well as they may seem though, as Summer becomes a target of lust and jealousy. When she is hurt, her son takes revenge on those that dared to lay a hand on his mother.
When Rehab shows it's ruthless side, it really goes all out. Sexual violence is a big theme of this book, and some of the scenes (especially the main one) are described in great detail and really made my skin crawl. I felt disgusted with it, but in the sense that Ryder did such a good job at detailing it in such a brutal way that it gave me strong emotions. Robbie's revenge is a whole other can of worms. His relentlessness and savageness was unexpected and left me at a loss for words. He is not a kid I would ever want to cross!
The Australian lingo took me a minute to get used to, but otherwise the book flows brilliantly. I couldn't put this book down for the life of me and it felt refreshing to have so much character development in an extreme horror novel. It took it's time on the violence and it paid off. Rehab is a solid first book from Ryder and I'm excited to see where the series goes from here.
June 8, 2021
The writing is so good can't believe this is a first novel for Ryder. I wasn't sure what kind of story this was gonna be, but I was surprised by how original the plot was. Rehab starts slow to get to know the characters. You really feel like you are at the Rehab alongside this group. Some really bad stuff happens don't wanna spoil anything. Do yourself a favor and buy this book. I can't wait for her next novel.
June 14, 2021
For quite a few months now I have had the pleasure of following Ms. Kinlay's Journey as she put together this story. And for all of those Months of anticipation, it was worth every second of the wait. For her 1st novel, I thought this was absolutely fantastic! The character development was great. So much so that there was one particular character in the book that was supposed to be hated from the beginning. Yet You were still able to feel sympathy for him. There were a couple of characters that I wish had been elaborated on. And one that I would rather have been introduced earlier. But that wasn't enough to take away from my other enjoyment of this book. I will be just as eagerly awaiting her next novel 😁
June 6, 2021
What a debut! Kinlay’s first published novel is a brutal, gory and explicit look at what dark elements may lurk in the background, wanting to destroy us, to hurt those we love. Summer enters rehab to heal her family, for her husband and her beautiful son, Robbie. How could she have known her days were numbered, that the end was closer than she thought? Someone wanted Summer for themselves, someone not willing to take no for answer. In the end karma wins out, revenge is sweet. I’m looking forward to more from this feisty Aussie author. Hopefully we get revisit these characters later on, see if anyone else gets their just deserts. Bravo, Ryder, you did it , chick. Rehab is brilliant.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
June 5, 2021What a fantastic debut from Ryder Kinlay,had me hooked from the get go,had all the stuff i enjoy in my horror books.So looking forward to her next offering,certainly set a high standard for herself.
April 18, 2022
Amy Winehouse famously sang, “They tried to make go to rehab but I said, “No, no, no.” Having read Rehab by Ryder Kinlay, I can understand Winehouse’s reluctance.
Ryder Kinlay writes with a distinctive Australian accent that makes every syllable feel strong, brutal and uncompromising: exactly what you need in a horror writer. You can see the influences of Stephen King and Richard Laymon in her work through the vivid depictions of characters, to the uber-real feel of the violence, and into the suggestion of paranormal activity.
All the way through, this is strong writing that holds a tight plot and some delicious scenes that will work for horror readers. I’m not going to include any spoilers about Summer’s story in this review. I will just say this title is highly recommended for those who like good horror, good writing and good doses of karma.
Ryder Kinlay writes with a distinctive Australian accent that makes every syllable feel strong, brutal and uncompromising: exactly what you need in a horror writer. You can see the influences of Stephen King and Richard Laymon in her work through the vivid depictions of characters, to the uber-real feel of the violence, and into the suggestion of paranormal activity.
All the way through, this is strong writing that holds a tight plot and some delicious scenes that will work for horror readers. I’m not going to include any spoilers about Summer’s story in this review. I will just say this title is highly recommended for those who like good horror, good writing and good doses of karma.
July 30, 2022
This is Ryder Kinlay’s debut novel and this author will definitely deliver some more amazing stories in the future!
The story follows Summer who goes to Rehab for her drinking. And Rehab is nothing for the weak. She has a hard time at first making friends but finally finds a friend in Kate. She becomes lovers with Sam despite the fact that both of them are married. No one knows though that danger lures within the walls of the facility.
The story contain graphic sexual and physical violence, and supernatural elements.
The story follows Summer who goes to Rehab for her drinking. And Rehab is nothing for the weak. She has a hard time at first making friends but finally finds a friend in Kate. She becomes lovers with Sam despite the fact that both of them are married. No one knows though that danger lures within the walls of the facility.
The story contain graphic sexual and physical violence, and supernatural elements.
June 23, 2021
This is for sure an author to watch. Her debut novel gripped me and wouldn't let go. The way she gives backgrounds on some of the main characters really had you caring for them.
There's mystery, murder and supernatural powers that will blow you away.
There's mystery, murder and supernatural powers that will blow you away.
May 23, 2022
Catching up on reading time due to injury. I enjoyed this ride. Great pacing. Great characters. I knew where it was going, but I still enjoyed it. Pretty Brutal!
June 1, 2021
“Rehab” is a gritty, violent journey through an Australian detox facility as Summer tries to overcome her battle with alcoholism, with some other unfortunate souls, including several ex-cons, a fresh from prison patient, named Chris, who is crass, vulgar, and violent, and young, bubbly Kate, who befriends Summer the moment she arrives.
Sam is the senior peer who is “in-charge” of the other patients and is entrusted to lead meetings, handle disputes, and otherwise, keep things orderly when staff is not readily available. Summer is young, beautiful and is struggling to maintain her sobriety and keep her family intact, for the love of her young son, Robbie.
An instant connection to Sam is just the start of Summer’s problems, even as she begins to feel stronger and heal from her drinking issues. Other issues arise as a result of her burgeoning relationship with Sam and jealousy from Chris, who relentlessly pursues her and Kate both for sexual relationships. Weeks and months pass as relationships and bonds strengthen between Summer and Kate, Sam and Summer and even Sam and Summer’s sons, as they begin a friendship while visiting their parents on guest weekends.
When violence inevitably ensues, chaos rips through the facility as answers are sought and investigations are underway, but no one is prepared for the wrath of the innocent as this case unfolds. This is a very intense story, full of violence and gritty characters straight from the Australian underground. I give this 4 solid stars for a riveting debut by Ryder Kinlay.
Sam is the senior peer who is “in-charge” of the other patients and is entrusted to lead meetings, handle disputes, and otherwise, keep things orderly when staff is not readily available. Summer is young, beautiful and is struggling to maintain her sobriety and keep her family intact, for the love of her young son, Robbie.
An instant connection to Sam is just the start of Summer’s problems, even as she begins to feel stronger and heal from her drinking issues. Other issues arise as a result of her burgeoning relationship with Sam and jealousy from Chris, who relentlessly pursues her and Kate both for sexual relationships. Weeks and months pass as relationships and bonds strengthen between Summer and Kate, Sam and Summer and even Sam and Summer’s sons, as they begin a friendship while visiting their parents on guest weekends.
When violence inevitably ensues, chaos rips through the facility as answers are sought and investigations are underway, but no one is prepared for the wrath of the innocent as this case unfolds. This is a very intense story, full of violence and gritty characters straight from the Australian underground. I give this 4 solid stars for a riveting debut by Ryder Kinlay.
June 13, 2021
Rehab is Ryder Kinlay’s first book and she has a hit right out of the gate! That first sentence grabbed me right in, I knew this was my kind of book. I like to watch and read horror so I am not easily triggered but some of you may be by the explicit violent and sexual scenes. As far as I’m concered, the more of it the better. She was so descriptive in her scenes that I didn’t want them to end. She has the knack of getting you to really care about her characters.
The story takes place at a rehab facility for drug and alcohol abuse. Some are there by choice, some by mandate. Everyone has there own sad or disturbing reason for being there. She takes you through each of their stories so well, that you really get to feel for them. The author had me trying to figure out how she was going to resolve Summer’s internal conflict when she added a surprising element to the story. It had me not wanting the book to end. I’m hoping for a follow up book.
I was going to give this book 4 1/2 stars because I thought the disturbing scenes needed to be longer but in thinking about this, I think she did such a great job in bringing me there. She made me feel like I was there watching from the shadows. It made me realize I was just being greedy, I really just didn’t want any of the scenes to end. Maybe she can keep us there longer in her next book. This 5 star book has definitely made me a fan of Ryder Kinlay and I’m eagerly awaiting her next release.
The story takes place at a rehab facility for drug and alcohol abuse. Some are there by choice, some by mandate. Everyone has there own sad or disturbing reason for being there. She takes you through each of their stories so well, that you really get to feel for them. The author had me trying to figure out how she was going to resolve Summer’s internal conflict when she added a surprising element to the story. It had me not wanting the book to end. I’m hoping for a follow up book.
I was going to give this book 4 1/2 stars because I thought the disturbing scenes needed to be longer but in thinking about this, I think she did such a great job in bringing me there. She made me feel like I was there watching from the shadows. It made me realize I was just being greedy, I really just didn’t want any of the scenes to end. Maybe she can keep us there longer in her next book. This 5 star book has definitely made me a fan of Ryder Kinlay and I’m eagerly awaiting her next release.
July 15, 2021
This story is INTENSE! Ryder sure knows how to draw you into her world. Great characters, great plot, and fantastic supernatural twist. Will be looking for her next book on godless. WOW!
April 1, 2022
Great job!
Story was spot on… I loved the interactions between the characters and loved that it really didn’t go where I expected it to go.
2nd book of Ryder’s I’ve read… am I already a fan?
I think so…
Story was spot on… I loved the interactions between the characters and loved that it really didn’t go where I expected it to go.
2nd book of Ryder’s I’ve read… am I already a fan?
I think so…
June 24, 2021
Wow! It’s been a long time since I’ve read a book I couldn’t put down till done! From the heart, emotionally rage inducing! Awesome debut!
October 14, 2021
Look, I can't believe this was a debut.
Before anyone leaps into this, you have to be aware that there is some serious genre bending going on. I was expecting super-visceral extreme horror, with a whole bunch of sex chucked in - which I got - but there is so much more here to unpack. Drama. Yes, drama. This book has ... emotional heart.
Which is weird for something I was expecting to just be a novel of strung together sexual assault and punching.
But I digress.
Aside from some minor structural issues, the novel has a decent set up, flows well, and has not only heart, but squick and splatter in all the right places. Also, and I add this because of how much indie writing I read ... this thing is edited perfectly. Perfectly.
I was going to give it four stars, then I read the last four chapters. Five stars. Fucking loved.
Before anyone leaps into this, you have to be aware that there is some serious genre bending going on. I was expecting super-visceral extreme horror, with a whole bunch of sex chucked in - which I got - but there is so much more here to unpack. Drama. Yes, drama. This book has ... emotional heart.
Which is weird for something I was expecting to just be a novel of strung together sexual assault and punching.
But I digress.
Aside from some minor structural issues, the novel has a decent set up, flows well, and has not only heart, but squick and splatter in all the right places. Also, and I add this because of how much indie writing I read ... this thing is edited perfectly. Perfectly.
I was going to give it four stars, then I read the last four chapters. Five stars. Fucking loved.
April 30, 2022
After seeing the title and cover art for this book, I knew I wanted to check it out. A rehab center seemed like an awesome setting for a horror novel and I didn't know of anyone who had done it yet. So, after having this on my tbr pile for a while, I finally got into it.
To me, this book is part super dark drama, part horror novel. I really love the interactions between the characters, a lot of which I feel are very realistic and believable, especially the quiet moments like Summer and Kate having a smoke together, or the conversations at meal time. Those touches bring the characters to life and give the book a refreshing depth that compliments the heavy subject matter. This is one of the few books I've read where I truly sympathized with and cared about the characters.
The plot didn't take the path I was expecting, and that was refreshing as well! This is an excellent debut effort and I'm looking forward to reading more by Ryder Kinlay!
To me, this book is part super dark drama, part horror novel. I really love the interactions between the characters, a lot of which I feel are very realistic and believable, especially the quiet moments like Summer and Kate having a smoke together, or the conversations at meal time. Those touches bring the characters to life and give the book a refreshing depth that compliments the heavy subject matter. This is one of the few books I've read where I truly sympathized with and cared about the characters.
The plot didn't take the path I was expecting, and that was refreshing as well! This is an excellent debut effort and I'm looking forward to reading more by Ryder Kinlay!
May 23, 2021
Loved it...far too polished and good for a first novel
April 2, 2022
This was my first Ryder Kinlay book, and it certainly won’t be the last! Her slow burn storytelling style really allows us to get into the heads of the characters and develop that emotional attachment. Which makes the turmoil of the characters that much more impactful, and Ryder certainly puts them through it!
It’s a great insight into addiction and its spiralling nature, but also explores human morality with a supernatural element thrown in for good measure.
Rehab is a brutal, tragic, violent tale full of twists and turns that will keep you on your toes. If you like your horror extreme and depraved, this is the book for you! I’ll certainly be keeping an eye out for more books!
It’s a great insight into addiction and its spiralling nature, but also explores human morality with a supernatural element thrown in for good measure.
Rehab is a brutal, tragic, violent tale full of twists and turns that will keep you on your toes. If you like your horror extreme and depraved, this is the book for you! I’ll certainly be keeping an eye out for more books!
June 23, 2022
This is my first from Ryder, and definitely not my last. A detailed look at life in rehab, just that alone made it interesting to me. But then you have the characters. Each of the characters in this book were well fleshed out, each with distinctive and dynamic personalities. The story was gripping and the flow kept me hungry for the next chapter to see where it's going. And it went in some wild directions, let me tell you. Dark and disturbing, to say the least, and I highly recommend it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews