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Left To You
What would you do to save a loved one?
Robert’s mother, Helen, is ravaged with cancer. Every day could be her last, and Robert dreads losing the last member of his family. Robert’s friend and Holocaust survivor, Josef, tells him an unholy story and leaves him a way to save his dying mother. But, as with everything in life, the salvation comes with a steep price.
Will Robert accept what’s left to him and save his mother? Or will the cost be too high, weighing Robert’s soul down to the depths of Hell?
Robert’s mother, Helen, is ravaged with cancer. Every day could be her last, and Robert dreads losing the last member of his family. Robert’s friend and Holocaust survivor, Josef, tells him an unholy story and leaves him a way to save his dying mother. But, as with everything in life, the salvation comes with a steep price.
Will Robert accept what’s left to him and save his mother? Or will the cost be too high, weighing Robert’s soul down to the depths of Hell?
259 pages, ebook
First published January 22, 2024
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November 8, 2021
https://godless.com/products/left-to-...
Moving to the next level – this is more than a splatterpunk novel!
While I usually try to give lighter, humorous reviews for whatever I read, I am going in a different direction with this one.
I’m going to tell you a story which has nothing to do with the story in the book – if you get to the end of the review, you will (hopefully) understand why.
In my late twenties, I started playing in the Black Ball Pool League (8-ball). I worked nightshift every other week, so I was a part time player, and there were not a lot of people who knew me outside of my club. Now, I am not going to lie and tell you I was the best – I never was – but I had two things going for me when it came to the game:
I could ‘see’ nearly any angle for a bank shot (off the cushion) and I had the ability to snooker my opponents – a lot! I frustrated the guys who could sink the balls better to me into making mistakes.
That first year in the league I discovered something about myself – there was nothing I loved more than to beat these big-mouthed braggards. Your top 10 remained fairly consistent every year – as in any sport, really. And, since I was a nobody to them, but had enough of a game to take on most of them on a good day, I managed to do it a few times that year. The best game I ever played was against one such individual – he broke and didn’t sink anything, and I cleaned the table. The reason I see it as my best game? White ball control. I managed to line up my next shot perfectly after every ball I sank.
Even though my game improved with time, I’ve never had such a perfect game again. Best shot I ever played? From a snooker, three cushions into a snooker for my opponent. Yip, I could see the angles, it was my thing. It’s been more than I decade since I’ve stopped – circumstances beyond my control – and every now and then I get nostalgic when I think back on it. I was on a trajectory to make the state team in a few years, maybe, but now it is nothing more than a who-knows.
This book made me nostalgic, but not for the reason you might think...
When it comes to the horror genre, you have your few consistent best sellers (top 10) whose name alone sells their stories. Every now and then, a new horror author emerges, someone you’ve never heard of before, but who has the potential to take on the big guns and shows the skills and potential to tell a better story than some of them. While it might never happen – we all know how difficult the market is for any independent author – they can be on a trajectory to the top, if only given enough exposure.
And is especially rare for a sub-genre author to do so, but some of them really do have the chops, if not the opportunities. And Volpe is well on his way. While he is known as a splatterpunk author, this story is more (pardon the description, it is not meant to offend anyone) mature. This book has the potential to draw in ANY horror reader – personally, I will call this a horror story with background splatter.
Yes, there is some gore, although it is not close to his goriest. Yes, there is some blood, but not even close to his bloodiest. Most important of all, there is a STORY, and there is no denying it will appeal to a bigger audience. For me, the scenes in Auschwitz had more impact than any of the splatter.
I want to make an appeal to all horror readers to give this one a go – help this author reach his full potential, because he is that damn good. Give him the opportunity to show the big guns that they should never underestimate the power of talent. Show these big publishers that skill and determination will triumph over luck, and that the little guys may actually know what they are doing, too.
Don’t allow anything to halt his trajectory – this guy can make it in this very competitive world…and he deserves to.
Moving to the next level – this is more than a splatterpunk novel!
While I usually try to give lighter, humorous reviews for whatever I read, I am going in a different direction with this one.
I’m going to tell you a story which has nothing to do with the story in the book – if you get to the end of the review, you will (hopefully) understand why.
In my late twenties, I started playing in the Black Ball Pool League (8-ball). I worked nightshift every other week, so I was a part time player, and there were not a lot of people who knew me outside of my club. Now, I am not going to lie and tell you I was the best – I never was – but I had two things going for me when it came to the game:
I could ‘see’ nearly any angle for a bank shot (off the cushion) and I had the ability to snooker my opponents – a lot! I frustrated the guys who could sink the balls better to me into making mistakes.
That first year in the league I discovered something about myself – there was nothing I loved more than to beat these big-mouthed braggards. Your top 10 remained fairly consistent every year – as in any sport, really. And, since I was a nobody to them, but had enough of a game to take on most of them on a good day, I managed to do it a few times that year. The best game I ever played was against one such individual – he broke and didn’t sink anything, and I cleaned the table. The reason I see it as my best game? White ball control. I managed to line up my next shot perfectly after every ball I sank.
Even though my game improved with time, I’ve never had such a perfect game again. Best shot I ever played? From a snooker, three cushions into a snooker for my opponent. Yip, I could see the angles, it was my thing. It’s been more than I decade since I’ve stopped – circumstances beyond my control – and every now and then I get nostalgic when I think back on it. I was on a trajectory to make the state team in a few years, maybe, but now it is nothing more than a who-knows.
This book made me nostalgic, but not for the reason you might think...
When it comes to the horror genre, you have your few consistent best sellers (top 10) whose name alone sells their stories. Every now and then, a new horror author emerges, someone you’ve never heard of before, but who has the potential to take on the big guns and shows the skills and potential to tell a better story than some of them. While it might never happen – we all know how difficult the market is for any independent author – they can be on a trajectory to the top, if only given enough exposure.
And is especially rare for a sub-genre author to do so, but some of them really do have the chops, if not the opportunities. And Volpe is well on his way. While he is known as a splatterpunk author, this story is more (pardon the description, it is not meant to offend anyone) mature. This book has the potential to draw in ANY horror reader – personally, I will call this a horror story with background splatter.
Yes, there is some gore, although it is not close to his goriest. Yes, there is some blood, but not even close to his bloodiest. Most important of all, there is a STORY, and there is no denying it will appeal to a bigger audience. For me, the scenes in Auschwitz had more impact than any of the splatter.
I want to make an appeal to all horror readers to give this one a go – help this author reach his full potential, because he is that damn good. Give him the opportunity to show the big guns that they should never underestimate the power of talent. Show these big publishers that skill and determination will triumph over luck, and that the little guys may actually know what they are doing, too.
Don’t allow anything to halt his trajectory – this guy can make it in this very competitive world…and he deserves to.
April 2, 2022
I went into this one blind and wandered into the Holocaust. I was not prepared considering I just read Yellow Wife. Volpe's description was horrifying. The writing was so realistic it took my breath away. It takes a lot to make me pause and remember I need air. Indeed, a dark horror read from beginning to the end. I only recommend for people who already venture into the dark horror basements without a light.
February 7, 2023
I'd say this is his masterpiece, so far.
The writing is far superior, it's very clever storytelling.
It has well-developed, unforgettable characters.
It was a pleasure to read and it took me on a journey.
It's heartbreaking and horrific though.
We get an insight into the evil some people are capable of.
Loved the twist at the end.
The writing is far superior, it's very clever storytelling.
It has well-developed, unforgettable characters.
It was a pleasure to read and it took me on a journey.
It's heartbreaking and horrific though.
We get an insight into the evil some people are capable of.
Loved the twist at the end.
November 19, 2021
This book is powerful, and I applaud Daniel Volpe for penning such an intense and moving story. Two seemingly innocent men meet, and their stories and their relationship with all that it entails begins. Robert is heartbroken by his mother's cancer diagnosis and her oncoming death. The older Joseph has quite a history behind him, and a secret that he wants to pass on to his younger friend. There is little true selflessness involved in what follows, even if wishes do come true for periods of time. There is evil around every corner and in each act of betrayal. The greatest horror is that of the Holocaust, and the brutality of both the Nazis and their prisoners. But there are other horrors lurking amongst the pages, some of which are supernatural. There is practically no-one who can be taken for granted as a truly good person, and therein lies the true atrocity. This is an excellent and professionally told tale that I would recommend to any thinking horror fan. I am eager to see what Daniel Volpe comes up with next. I know I will love it.
June 2, 2025
I was really torn on this review. Daniel Volpe is a terrific writer, and this was no exception, but I did not care for the structure of the book at all. The premise sounded good and I’ve greatly enjoyed his other works, but this was not a positive experience. It was very long-winded and the premise wasn’t fully established until almost two thirds of the way in. The story opened up following Robert, who was a weak lead but still viable. Then it pivots to a series of flashbacks with Josef, making up a huge part of the content, and his experiences at Nazi death camps the primary focus. It eventually goes back to Robert, present day, as he aims to help his ailing mother via a demon, which Josef summons. We never really get a ton of depth on Robert, as the story spent too much time with Josef and his history, along with very forgettable side characters from his jobs. And Josef also had a bit of an unsatisfactory conclusion to his end of the book, too. Phegor, the demon, was kind of interesting, but it didn’t have a big enough presence, either. I’m not sure if I would assess that this would have been better as a two part series, initially focusing on Josef and then Robert, giving the needed room for both to have their unique tales before coming together. Or maybe this could left Robert out altogether and focused on Helen and Josef instead. I’m not sure how this could have been retooled, but the blueprint is flawed, which hurt every other aspect. I would highly recommend Volpe’s Talia or A Gift of Death for more finely tuned and enjoyable experiences.
November 30, 2021
Volpe ups his game with this one. He’s known for his extreme horror writing but this book would appeal to any horror reader. It’s a beautifully written, character driven story that will stay with me for a very long time. Left to You is one of the best books I’ve read this year and I give it my highest recommendation.
November 12, 2021
Wow just..... Ok this was raw, , gritty, gut wrenching and just such a vivid dark story. This was my last read on my Daniel J Volpe binge read and this is his best work to date. The only way I can describe this is.... Volpe has been giving us his writing, his style, and his storytelling talent much like a musician would Talia, Billy Silver, A Gift of Death, Awakened in Blood, these were all his singles giving us a taste. Left To You.. to me is like a first L.p. Left To You Gives us all the talent and ability that his other stories gave us but this story gives us so much more depth and maturity... But also what I think is just a taste, the tip of the iceberg of what Daniel J Volpe is capable of as a writer and storyteller. Left To You is beautifully written and will satisfy any horror fan guaranteed.
Daniel J Volpe I am a very big fan and I can't wait to read your books in the future.
Daniel J Volpe I am a very big fan and I can't wait to read your books in the future.
November 15, 2021
Horror Bookworm Reviews
https://horrorbookwormreviews.com/
Working several jobs and having to care for his dying mother, Robert’s life has become an extremely emotional struggle. Josef continues to live his life day to day while coping with tormented memories of his family being torn away while incarcerated in a concentration camp during World War II. As these two pained and tormented paths cross, the Kingdom of Heaven and the Bowels of Hell begin to surface as a lust for angelic battles take shape in the most unlikely of places.
Daniel Volpe’s hypnotic rendering of misery and suffering during the Jewish Holocaust is intensely captured as if black and white photos were placed within the pages of his novel, Left To You. Within these historic horrors of forced labor and mass murder emerges a harbinger of death based on religious ideologies. Otherworldly shadows become a beacon for inhumanity as Angels, Demons, God and Satan struggle from nightmarish realms and eternal spirits.
The author introduces social propaganda of evil sacraments and corruptive theology leading to an abundance of fear, pain and death. He cleverly demonstrates through his intellectual talent of sights, sounds and smells not only the various forms pure evil can become, but also sheds light on one of mankind’s deepest instinct…survival.
This novel blew me away to be honest. From the beautiful cover to the talented content, D&T Publishing has put together a five star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ product for readers to enjoy. If Stephen King’s Shawshank Redemption and William Peter Blatty’s The Exorcist had a baby…its name would be Daniel Volpe. A strong recommendation from the Horror Bookworm.
https://horrorbookwormreviews.com/
Working several jobs and having to care for his dying mother, Robert’s life has become an extremely emotional struggle. Josef continues to live his life day to day while coping with tormented memories of his family being torn away while incarcerated in a concentration camp during World War II. As these two pained and tormented paths cross, the Kingdom of Heaven and the Bowels of Hell begin to surface as a lust for angelic battles take shape in the most unlikely of places.
Daniel Volpe’s hypnotic rendering of misery and suffering during the Jewish Holocaust is intensely captured as if black and white photos were placed within the pages of his novel, Left To You. Within these historic horrors of forced labor and mass murder emerges a harbinger of death based on religious ideologies. Otherworldly shadows become a beacon for inhumanity as Angels, Demons, God and Satan struggle from nightmarish realms and eternal spirits.
The author introduces social propaganda of evil sacraments and corruptive theology leading to an abundance of fear, pain and death. He cleverly demonstrates through his intellectual talent of sights, sounds and smells not only the various forms pure evil can become, but also sheds light on one of mankind’s deepest instinct…survival.
This novel blew me away to be honest. From the beautiful cover to the talented content, D&T Publishing has put together a five star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ product for readers to enjoy. If Stephen King’s Shawshank Redemption and William Peter Blatty’s The Exorcist had a baby…its name would be Daniel Volpe. A strong recommendation from the Horror Bookworm.
September 16, 2022
Five figures stood in front of him, all of them wearing hooded black robes. Their faces were bathed in shadow and anonymity. A ring of candles burned on the floor. His eyes, finally starting to comprehend, drifted up, taking in the monster in the circle.
November 28, 2021
Well, I wasn't expecting the story to veer off in the direction it did. I can't say what that was without spoilers, but Daniel's wonderful writing kept me going and I devoured every last splattery morsel. This is a brilliantly written, powerful and very emotional read and is Daniel's best work to date imo. But, Daniel, why did you have to do that to poor Molly?! I'll never forgive you for this.
May 9, 2023
What would you do to save a loved one? Maybe more than you think!
'Parts of his demonic skin seemed to pulse with them. Fissures of his corrupted flesh split, spilling ichor and more vermin.'
Part of me wanted to rate this higher than I did. The story was really enjoyable until pretty close to the end when I felt things fizzled out a little. The parts set during the holocaust were the show's star for me, these seemed to have more depth than the rest of the story. Even though it's a horrific subject, these scenes were immersive, sensitively written and seemed as realistic as I could imagine. I felt the parts set in the modern day lacked any real emotion or urgency compared to the rest of the book.
Ultimately the writing lacked enough depth and emotion to get me to invest in the characters. Volpe's writing is clear and precise, although it lacks any flair. In fact, his writing is very matter-of-fact for the most part, which I generally do not get on with so well.
I seem to be in the minority for not loving this, but that's fine. We can't all like the same things.
'He could’ve been a lifeguard or school teacher. Instead, he was a harbinger of death.'
A good quality novel which had the potential to be great. Well worth checking out, despite my slightly low rating.
'Parts of his demonic skin seemed to pulse with them. Fissures of his corrupted flesh split, spilling ichor and more vermin.'
Part of me wanted to rate this higher than I did. The story was really enjoyable until pretty close to the end when I felt things fizzled out a little. The parts set during the holocaust were the show's star for me, these seemed to have more depth than the rest of the story. Even though it's a horrific subject, these scenes were immersive, sensitively written and seemed as realistic as I could imagine. I felt the parts set in the modern day lacked any real emotion or urgency compared to the rest of the book.
Ultimately the writing lacked enough depth and emotion to get me to invest in the characters. Volpe's writing is clear and precise, although it lacks any flair. In fact, his writing is very matter-of-fact for the most part, which I generally do not get on with so well.
I seem to be in the minority for not loving this, but that's fine. We can't all like the same things.
'He could’ve been a lifeguard or school teacher. Instead, he was a harbinger of death.'
A good quality novel which had the potential to be great. Well worth checking out, despite my slightly low rating.
May 16, 2023
Ugh. This was gruesome and utterly dark. I think this is the second time I read something about the holocaust and I couldn't help but feel terrible.
The vividly depressing recounts of the horrors in Auschwitz sent an army of needles in my heart and I couldn't stop crying. With each page spewing inhumane acts, the hunger, degradation and fear. This book is something out of a nightmare, one that could kill you in your sleep if you don't manage to wake up and slap yourself back to reality. So heartbreaking.
Added to one of my best reads this year. Left To You is scary, unholy and a sinful journey of salvation. There were a few scenes that would totally stick with you and would bring feelings of discomfort which I think is one of the reasons why I am into this book.
Really really good!
The vividly depressing recounts of the horrors in Auschwitz sent an army of needles in my heart and I couldn't stop crying. With each page spewing inhumane acts, the hunger, degradation and fear. This book is something out of a nightmare, one that could kill you in your sleep if you don't manage to wake up and slap yourself back to reality. So heartbreaking.
Added to one of my best reads this year. Left To You is scary, unholy and a sinful journey of salvation. There were a few scenes that would totally stick with you and would bring feelings of discomfort which I think is one of the reasons why I am into this book.
Really really good!
December 20, 2021
What an absolutely stunning, horrific, heartbreaking, brutal read! This is one extraordinary story by Daniel Volpe and his best book yet. This author has some serious talent and Left to You is definitely one of my favorite books of the year. I'm sure this one will be stuck in my head for a long time. Just a beautifully written, horrendous tale. A 5/5 skull read 💀
November 28, 2021
‘Absolutely brilliant!’
Quite simply one of the very best non-gothic mainstream horror stories that I have ever read.
A strong storyline, with wonderful characters, that flows naturally and effortlessly, providing plenty of grim and gruesome twists and turns along the way and all wrapped up by an unexpected ending that finished off the series of sinister events quite perfectly.
Purposely not provided any plot details as I would strongly recommend all true horror fans to just read and enjoy Robert, Josef, and the rest of the casts, black and demonic life journeys from beginning to end.
Yes, just loved it and eagerly looking forward to Daniel’s next adventure into the world of pure horror.
Rating: 5.2 black stars of sheer delight.
Note: If after reading this you can think of a horror story which you found even better then please contact me with its title. All suggestions gratefully received.
Quite simply one of the very best non-gothic mainstream horror stories that I have ever read.
A strong storyline, with wonderful characters, that flows naturally and effortlessly, providing plenty of grim and gruesome twists and turns along the way and all wrapped up by an unexpected ending that finished off the series of sinister events quite perfectly.
Purposely not provided any plot details as I would strongly recommend all true horror fans to just read and enjoy Robert, Josef, and the rest of the casts, black and demonic life journeys from beginning to end.
Yes, just loved it and eagerly looking forward to Daniel’s next adventure into the world of pure horror.
Rating: 5.2 black stars of sheer delight.
Note: If after reading this you can think of a horror story which you found even better then please contact me with its title. All suggestions gratefully received.
November 14, 2021
I literally devoured this book in 2 sittings, and I totally agree with others saying this is Volpe’s best book to date! This had two of my favorite types of books that I love to read (historical fiction (Holocaust and WWII) horror, and a bit of supernatural rolled into one. It had 2 great main characters (Robert and Josef) a boy, and a Holocaust survivor, that had me cheering for them and hoping that life would get better for them and their families. I could feel (and sometimes smell) everything they were feeling and the emotions they were going through, from heartbreak and suffering to hope and happiness.
This is an amazing and fantastic book that is going to stick with me for a long time.
This is an amazing and fantastic book that is going to stick with me for a long time.
January 9, 2022
Volpe’s best work yet. This story pulls at your heart, then rips it out. What would you do for someone you love who is dying? Volpe asks that question and answers it with temptation. The year is just beginning, I feel this will be one of my top 10 reads of 2022.
June 22, 2022
One of the best books I've read in some time. Seriously. This is a truly chilling read that leaves the reader guessing right from the beginning and delivers not only a well-crafted masterpiece of a story, but some serious gut punches along the way. Believe everything you've read or heard about Left To You. The buzz is absolutely true. It's a good book. No. It's a GREAT book!
December 25, 2021
Volpe killed it with this one! Going out on a line and say this is probably my favorite book of 2021. While it’s not as extreme as most of his work, the story line and subject matter is top notch. It truly has everything. It took twists and turns and I couldn’t stop!! I hope there is a second one for sure
January 18, 2022
So, I saw a lot of reviews for this book, saying how fantastic it was, but also how much it made people cry and what a nasty 'heart murderer' Daniel was for writing it! 😉
So, I put it off (my head just wasn't in the right place to be heartbroken!) and I put it off some more, and a little bit more..........and then I started to get Volpe withdrawal (that's really a thing) so, I dusted it off, opened it up, and didn't put it down again until I'd almost finished! Then I HAD to stop!! I had to take a few moments for stuff to sink in, to get over the shock that completely came out of nowhere, that made me shout out loud, that made me curse Daniel, oh did I curse Daniel! That left me sat shaking my head in disbelief for a good long while! I may even have cried..more than once! 😭
I honestly could kick myself for not reading this book as soon as I got it!
THIS BOOK IS OUTSTANDING! PHENOMENAL! AMAZING! 🖤
I loved every word, even THAT part! I loved the characters! I loved the stories! It starts off one way and then heads in another, both brilliant!
Daniels writing is fantastic, it flows so smoothly, it's hard to stop reading. I was absolutely hooked in from the very start!
It also resonated with me quite deeply as I lost my Mum to cancer when I was young, and it brought back some really tough memories, but, for me, that just made this story so much more real and relatable!
Your best book yet Daniel!! A solid 10/5 demons!! 😈😈😈😈😈😈😈😈😈😈
*This review doesn't do the book the justice it deserves, as I don't have the way with words to express just how great it is! Seriously, go buy it....and don't put off reading it like I did! 😉*
So, I put it off (my head just wasn't in the right place to be heartbroken!) and I put it off some more, and a little bit more..........and then I started to get Volpe withdrawal (that's really a thing) so, I dusted it off, opened it up, and didn't put it down again until I'd almost finished! Then I HAD to stop!! I had to take a few moments for stuff to sink in, to get over the shock that completely came out of nowhere, that made me shout out loud, that made me curse Daniel, oh did I curse Daniel! That left me sat shaking my head in disbelief for a good long while! I may even have cried..more than once! 😭
I honestly could kick myself for not reading this book as soon as I got it!
THIS BOOK IS OUTSTANDING! PHENOMENAL! AMAZING! 🖤
I loved every word, even THAT part! I loved the characters! I loved the stories! It starts off one way and then heads in another, both brilliant!
Daniels writing is fantastic, it flows so smoothly, it's hard to stop reading. I was absolutely hooked in from the very start!
It also resonated with me quite deeply as I lost my Mum to cancer when I was young, and it brought back some really tough memories, but, for me, that just made this story so much more real and relatable!
Your best book yet Daniel!! A solid 10/5 demons!! 😈😈😈😈😈😈😈😈😈😈
*This review doesn't do the book the justice it deserves, as I don't have the way with words to express just how great it is! Seriously, go buy it....and don't put off reading it like I did! 😉*
January 19, 2022
Absolutely loved this novel! Full review below
https://www.themorbidmama.com/post/le...
https://www.themorbidmama.com/post/le...
April 27, 2022
Breathless!!
There’s two words to sum up Daniel J Volpe, and that’s ABSOLUTELY PHENOMENAL!! He has a way of writing so beautifully, that you feel as though you are living within the story. This was truly heartbreaking for me firstly on a personal level, because it brought back tough memories of seeing my beautiful mom fading away from cancer, in front of my very eyes, and being robbed of having more time with her. Secondly, the way DJV explains the atrocities of the Holocaust is physically painful and I could feel my heart breaking, over and over again. This astounding author needs to be recognised for the absolute genius he is, because nobody can tell a story the way Daniel J Volpe can. This deserves a rating of 5 💔💔💔💔💔 stars!!
There’s two words to sum up Daniel J Volpe, and that’s ABSOLUTELY PHENOMENAL!! He has a way of writing so beautifully, that you feel as though you are living within the story. This was truly heartbreaking for me firstly on a personal level, because it brought back tough memories of seeing my beautiful mom fading away from cancer, in front of my very eyes, and being robbed of having more time with her. Secondly, the way DJV explains the atrocities of the Holocaust is physically painful and I could feel my heart breaking, over and over again. This astounding author needs to be recognised for the absolute genius he is, because nobody can tell a story the way Daniel J Volpe can. This deserves a rating of 5 💔💔💔💔💔 stars!!
October 30, 2021
I'm going to have to say this book is Daniel Volpe's best yet. It's not your typical Volpe though.
Imagine if you took a documentary about Auschwitz and spliced it with The Exorcist, but the exorcism goes wrong. That's what this book was for me.
The description of life in Auschwitz was brutal and I swear I could smell the odor of all the bodies crammed in the train. The twists just kept coming when I thought I finally figured out what direction it was going.
Imagine if you took a documentary about Auschwitz and spliced it with The Exorcist, but the exorcism goes wrong. That's what this book was for me.
The description of life in Auschwitz was brutal and I swear I could smell the odor of all the bodies crammed in the train. The twists just kept coming when I thought I finally figured out what direction it was going.
January 22, 2022
This book was amazing. There were spots in it that almost had me in tears. Josef’s story was so captivating and enjoyed where it went from there. Brilliant story.
November 23, 2021
Robert Sinclair is a good kid who has a lot on his plate, but he pushes through it all and remains good-natured and hard-working. Working multiple jobs, struggling to remain afloat while caring for a mother suffering the end-stage of cancer, Robert doesn't have much room in his life for anything else.
While working a dead-end job at L-Mart, Robert has developed a friendship with an elderly gentleman, Josef Lazerowitz. A former theology professor in Poland, Mr. Lazer is burdened by an unbelievable history, plagued with unspeakable secrets that will soon become Robert's burden to bear.
Both of these men, Robert and Josef, are decent and sympathetic characters forced to experience their individual, horrific torments separated by more than half a century. In the end, what they'll share is a terrible and shameful confidence that could destroy both of them and anything they hold dear.
Daniel Volpe constructs a captivating, mysterious tale that's so thick with atmosphere and depth that the reader can hardly keep from being immersed in the experiences brought to life on the page. His detailed exploration of Josef's life in 1940s Poland is gripping and profoundly vivid, almost painfully so. The author's unique portrait of the supernatural world and how it interacts with our own was fascinating. As the story delves into those things only near the latter half of the book, it still doesn't feel like the reader is short-changed or left wanting. I can't recommend this book enough, especially to those who enjoy a bit of historical fiction with their horror.
I will suggest that one scene in this book troubled me, and it involves a bit of a spoiler, but I'll do my best to dance around that by explaining a little bit about my own life, hopefully framing why I found it disturbing without telling you about the scene itself. I had a dog named Molly. She was a terrific, atypical chihuahua who was perpetually thrilled to meet new people. When she was seven years old, she was taken from me by cancer in her blood. That little girl died in my arms, in what I can only describe as a traumatic experience without going into detail. I now have a dog who is half golden retriever and half German shepherd and husky--funny enough, named Talia--who is two years old. She's been with me since December of 2019. Fans of Volpe's work might find that last bit to be a strangely serendipitous thing. Having a personal connection with both a golden retriever and a dog named Molly, there's a particular scene that I found difficult.
While working a dead-end job at L-Mart, Robert has developed a friendship with an elderly gentleman, Josef Lazerowitz. A former theology professor in Poland, Mr. Lazer is burdened by an unbelievable history, plagued with unspeakable secrets that will soon become Robert's burden to bear.
Both of these men, Robert and Josef, are decent and sympathetic characters forced to experience their individual, horrific torments separated by more than half a century. In the end, what they'll share is a terrible and shameful confidence that could destroy both of them and anything they hold dear.
Daniel Volpe constructs a captivating, mysterious tale that's so thick with atmosphere and depth that the reader can hardly keep from being immersed in the experiences brought to life on the page. His detailed exploration of Josef's life in 1940s Poland is gripping and profoundly vivid, almost painfully so. The author's unique portrait of the supernatural world and how it interacts with our own was fascinating. As the story delves into those things only near the latter half of the book, it still doesn't feel like the reader is short-changed or left wanting. I can't recommend this book enough, especially to those who enjoy a bit of historical fiction with their horror.
I will suggest that one scene in this book troubled me, and it involves a bit of a spoiler, but I'll do my best to dance around that by explaining a little bit about my own life, hopefully framing why I found it disturbing without telling you about the scene itself. I had a dog named Molly. She was a terrific, atypical chihuahua who was perpetually thrilled to meet new people. When she was seven years old, she was taken from me by cancer in her blood. That little girl died in my arms, in what I can only describe as a traumatic experience without going into detail. I now have a dog who is half golden retriever and half German shepherd and husky--funny enough, named Talia--who is two years old. She's been with me since December of 2019. Fans of Volpe's work might find that last bit to be a strangely serendipitous thing. Having a personal connection with both a golden retriever and a dog named Molly, there's a particular scene that I found difficult.
February 17, 2022
I really enjoyed this one. I found the first half of the book to be more enjoyable and I couldn't put it down and then I wasn't quite as captured by the second half but all the same it was a great story. Will check out more of Daniel's books through time.
December 21, 2021
This is a book that I think a lot of people are going to love. Personally, it was a split for me. I didn't care for Robert or any of the "now" characters, but the story itself was fantastic. Such a great idea.
The reason I'm giving it 4 stars is because of the sections about Josef and Kollmer. Volpe is to be applauded with how he handled such sensitive material. I loved these characters and their interactions, and action felt very authentic and real to me. Just...wow.
Overall, and this is just my opinion, the Josef sections were so brilliant that the current story taking place with Robert paled by comparison, making me wish LEFT TO YOU was just a novella about the life and times of Josef Lazerowitz.
I'm giving this one high praise, as being the second Volpe book I've checked out, this one showed me more of what this author is capable of, and I believe he'll continue to grow as a writer and take us to many special places in the future. I know he loves the extreme, but I definitely enjoyed (and prefer) reading his more realistic approach displayed throughout the middle of this book. I hope he'll dare to give us more like this one.
Highly recommended.
The reason I'm giving it 4 stars is because of the sections about Josef and Kollmer. Volpe is to be applauded with how he handled such sensitive material. I loved these characters and their interactions, and action felt very authentic and real to me. Just...wow.
Overall, and this is just my opinion, the Josef sections were so brilliant that the current story taking place with Robert paled by comparison, making me wish LEFT TO YOU was just a novella about the life and times of Josef Lazerowitz.
I'm giving this one high praise, as being the second Volpe book I've checked out, this one showed me more of what this author is capable of, and I believe he'll continue to grow as a writer and take us to many special places in the future. I know he loves the extreme, but I definitely enjoyed (and prefer) reading his more realistic approach displayed throughout the middle of this book. I hope he'll dare to give us more like this one.
Highly recommended.
December 6, 2021
This was so different from his other books. It's beautifully written. My emotions were put through the ringer here. I was sad, I was happy, I was downright mad. If this one doesn't throw Mr. Volpe into the spotlight, I don't know what will. Read this one.
December 22, 2021
Great story. I wasn't sure where this story was gonna go, but it took me by surprise. I have read all of Daniel's books. He keeps improving in his storytelling. His other books are way more extreme. Left For You is hard to put in a genre. It's a mix of a few genres. The last half is amazing.
August 19, 2022
There's no such thing as good and evil, there's only the Human Nature, and it resides in us all.
February 10, 2022
Supernatural Horror Historical Fiction
Left to You by Daniel J. Volpe is a very interesting read. Volpe seamlessly weaves two stories into one while incorporating horror, suspense, and some historical fiction as well. Being a more traditional type of horror story it was very intriguing to see Daniel write in this vein rather than his usual Splatterpunk/Extreme Horror. Having read other works such as Billy Silver, Awakened in Blood, and Talia I was curious how this story would compare.
Left to You is a tale about a young man, Robert, and his dying mother. He works two jobs to try and pay the bills and survive. Robert doesn’t devote much time to outside activities because he knows at any time his mother could pass.
When Robert meets an old man he calls Mr. Lazer his life is about to change drastically. Unbeknownst to Robert, Mr. Lazer has a dark past from his days in Auschwitz. The tremendous pain and agony Mr. Lazer endured is just the tip of the iceberg, and he is ready to share his story and secrets with Robert.
Daniel did an amazing job capturing the horror of a terminally ill loved one, watching them wither, and the grief associated with it. This was all too close to home, because I cared for my terminally ill mother. The way he wrote the suffering felt real.
Volpe also did a fantastic job with the historical aspects of the story. He obviously did his research, and it didn’t feel like regurgitated material from other sources. Daniel paints imagery with his words that breathes life into all of his books, and Left to You wasn’t any different.
Left to You has a slightly slower pace than Volpe’s usual fast paced grisly horror. Nevertheless, it didn’t feel as though filler was added. Everything had a purpose, and once the supernatural horror began it was very fast paced.
All in all, I give Left to You by Daniel J. Volpe four out of five stars. It was a fantastic book, Daniel wrote magnificently, and I never had it all figured out. I did struggle in the beginning, with the dying mother, but as I went on it was a page turner. As I stated before the beginning was just so real, much like what I went through, that it was upsetting at first. However, this is a book any supernatural horror fan, horror fan, or Daniel Volpe fan needs to pick up and read. Until next time, my friends.
Left to You by Daniel J. Volpe is a very interesting read. Volpe seamlessly weaves two stories into one while incorporating horror, suspense, and some historical fiction as well. Being a more traditional type of horror story it was very intriguing to see Daniel write in this vein rather than his usual Splatterpunk/Extreme Horror. Having read other works such as Billy Silver, Awakened in Blood, and Talia I was curious how this story would compare.
Left to You is a tale about a young man, Robert, and his dying mother. He works two jobs to try and pay the bills and survive. Robert doesn’t devote much time to outside activities because he knows at any time his mother could pass.
When Robert meets an old man he calls Mr. Lazer his life is about to change drastically. Unbeknownst to Robert, Mr. Lazer has a dark past from his days in Auschwitz. The tremendous pain and agony Mr. Lazer endured is just the tip of the iceberg, and he is ready to share his story and secrets with Robert.
Daniel did an amazing job capturing the horror of a terminally ill loved one, watching them wither, and the grief associated with it. This was all too close to home, because I cared for my terminally ill mother. The way he wrote the suffering felt real.
Volpe also did a fantastic job with the historical aspects of the story. He obviously did his research, and it didn’t feel like regurgitated material from other sources. Daniel paints imagery with his words that breathes life into all of his books, and Left to You wasn’t any different.
Left to You has a slightly slower pace than Volpe’s usual fast paced grisly horror. Nevertheless, it didn’t feel as though filler was added. Everything had a purpose, and once the supernatural horror began it was very fast paced.
All in all, I give Left to You by Daniel J. Volpe four out of five stars. It was a fantastic book, Daniel wrote magnificently, and I never had it all figured out. I did struggle in the beginning, with the dying mother, but as I went on it was a page turner. As I stated before the beginning was just so real, much like what I went through, that it was upsetting at first. However, this is a book any supernatural horror fan, horror fan, or Daniel Volpe fan needs to pick up and read. Until next time, my friends.
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