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The President's Son
The extraordinary, reflective, obscene, cruel, and violent story of Vincent Campbell, son of the President of the United States.
To the public eye, Vincent Campbell is seen as a controversial figure known for his bizarre behavior, offensive outbursts, and contrarian stances—on top of a number of legal issues. Unbeknownst to most of the world, however, he holds secrets far worse than derogatory remarks in his personal life. And when it catches up to him, he tells all to his psychologist, Lorraine Lynch, who has been assigned to find out why he has done what he has done.
Vincent speaks candidly about his life of utter depravity and extreme violence. He tells stories of lust and love, justice, and corruption, conspiracies and cover-ups, and criminals and crimes. He discusses his confidential travels through Asia, the Middle East, and other regions throughout the globe from his tour of carnage. But as their sessions continue and Vincent's stories grow more and more grotesque, Lorraine finds herself struggling to separate fact from fiction.
Who really is Vincent Campbell?
Jon Athan, the prolific author behind 'The Groomer' and 'The Girl in the Attic', presents his most disturbing and provocative novel to date. See the world through a bloody lens in this extreme horror epic.
✦ WARNING ✦ This novel contains graphic content. Reader discretion is strongly advised. Seriously.
To the public eye, Vincent Campbell is seen as a controversial figure known for his bizarre behavior, offensive outbursts, and contrarian stances—on top of a number of legal issues. Unbeknownst to most of the world, however, he holds secrets far worse than derogatory remarks in his personal life. And when it catches up to him, he tells all to his psychologist, Lorraine Lynch, who has been assigned to find out why he has done what he has done.
Vincent speaks candidly about his life of utter depravity and extreme violence. He tells stories of lust and love, justice, and corruption, conspiracies and cover-ups, and criminals and crimes. He discusses his confidential travels through Asia, the Middle East, and other regions throughout the globe from his tour of carnage. But as their sessions continue and Vincent's stories grow more and more grotesque, Lorraine finds herself struggling to separate fact from fiction.
Who really is Vincent Campbell?
Jon Athan, the prolific author behind 'The Groomer' and 'The Girl in the Attic', presents his most disturbing and provocative novel to date. See the world through a bloody lens in this extreme horror epic.
✦ WARNING ✦ This novel contains graphic content. Reader discretion is strongly advised. Seriously.
401 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 8, 2022
198 people are currently reading
962 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
August 12, 2022
It's what American Psycho should have been, seriously. Don't take the triggers warning for granted, its there for a good reason, there's some scene that will make you question your sanity. The main character is pretty interesting, at some moment you can almost feel empathy for that monster. The first quarter of the book was my favorite, I thought it was more brutal and disturbing, if I could give anyone a tip, know your conspiracy before reading this book, it's even more interesting that way. Sadly I didn't get that gloomy and dark vibe that most Jon Athan book have, always love to feel disgusting when I finish a book (for real), that's why I'm not giving it a 5 stars. But overall a really good book, the characters were interesting, the conspiracy theories were a good add to the book, it make me laugh. And kids remember ! Jeffrey Epstein didn't kill himself!
November 9, 2023
Jon Athan certainly doesn't hold back on anything in this book.Violence,murder and gore starts from the very beginning. It's extremely well written,explicit and had me shouting WHOA HANG ON THERE!!!on several occasions...as some scenes were shocking,stomach churning and dam well disgusting to put it mildly🤮🤮...Mr Athan never lets me down every time I pick up one of his books and they just keep on getting better and better...Blender Babies is my next choice....I just can't wait for my next "date" with this truly exceptional author 😉🖤🤗🖤 Thank You Jon...You keep me mentally sane!!!! Or maybe that should be insane????🥴🤪😜 5🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟's
November 28, 2022
I’ll just sit back and enjoy the shitshow. I mean, with or without me, that’s what it’s going to be: A total shitshow. The world’s just going to keep getting worse and worse. That’s the thing about civilization, isn’t it? It always leads to societal collapse.”
August 14, 2022
*This is an extreme horror novel- please pay attention to the warnings on this book before diving in, especially if you aren’t used to reading this type of work*
I want to start off by saying this book immediately made me think of American Psycho, but in a political campaign/environment. Fantastic!
I was so excited when my ARC arrived in the mail. I immediately dove in, and I was able to finish this one in less than 24 hours- I was unable to put it down! Jon Athan has done it again! Of all the books I’ve read by this author, this one definitely has some of the most disturbing scenes I’ve ever read- especially in the first 1/3 of the book. Most of the time I found myself sitting there staring at the pages with my eyes practically bulging out of my head with surprise/disgust (in a good way). I loved the way the author played on both realistic conspiracy theories and just completely bonkers conspiracy theories. People are crazy in today’s world.
The main character was fascinating to me… there were so many things going on in his head- it was super difficult to detect reality vs fiction in the stories he tells. For the most part, I don’t think the main character himself even truly knew what was real and what was fiction. And to imagine some of the stories actually being real… goodness. What’s crazy is I actually found myself almost sympathizing with the main character after a few of his stories from his childhood, but boy did my thinking change real quick!
I also really liked the forensic psychiatrist character. All of her emotions and responses were exactly what I was thinking every time she had a part. She was very easy to identify with.
Overall, fantastic job! Jon Athan never disappoints!
I want to start off by saying this book immediately made me think of American Psycho, but in a political campaign/environment. Fantastic!
I was so excited when my ARC arrived in the mail. I immediately dove in, and I was able to finish this one in less than 24 hours- I was unable to put it down! Jon Athan has done it again! Of all the books I’ve read by this author, this one definitely has some of the most disturbing scenes I’ve ever read- especially in the first 1/3 of the book. Most of the time I found myself sitting there staring at the pages with my eyes practically bulging out of my head with surprise/disgust (in a good way). I loved the way the author played on both realistic conspiracy theories and just completely bonkers conspiracy theories. People are crazy in today’s world.
The main character was fascinating to me… there were so many things going on in his head- it was super difficult to detect reality vs fiction in the stories he tells. For the most part, I don’t think the main character himself even truly knew what was real and what was fiction. And to imagine some of the stories actually being real… goodness. What’s crazy is I actually found myself almost sympathizing with the main character after a few of his stories from his childhood, but boy did my thinking change real quick!
I also really liked the forensic psychiatrist character. All of her emotions and responses were exactly what I was thinking every time she had a part. She was very easy to identify with.
Overall, fantastic job! Jon Athan never disappoints!
September 7, 2022
I was lucky to get an early copy from the author of his latest book. To say it knocked my socks off would be an understatement. It’s a splatter punk work of art!
Vincent Campbell, the president’s son, tells his story through the course of his sessions with a psychiatrist while he’s incarcerated. Vincent is an unreliable narrator which made the book even more interesting in my opinion. All we know for sure is that Vincent did something live on television that landed him in prison.
Athan is known for his extremely gory scenes and there’s plenty of those here. There are trigger warnings for almost everything I can think of so it’s not a book for everyone. Also, if political discourse makes you uncomfortable think twice before reading this one.
If you’re a regular reader of extreme horror you’re going to LOVE this one. I think this is Athan’s best work to date and that’s saying a lot because I’ve loved everything of his that I’ve read.
All the stars! Don’t miss this one!!
Thank you to the author for sending me this beautiful hardbound arc to read and review.
Vincent Campbell, the president’s son, tells his story through the course of his sessions with a psychiatrist while he’s incarcerated. Vincent is an unreliable narrator which made the book even more interesting in my opinion. All we know for sure is that Vincent did something live on television that landed him in prison.
Athan is known for his extremely gory scenes and there’s plenty of those here. There are trigger warnings for almost everything I can think of so it’s not a book for everyone. Also, if political discourse makes you uncomfortable think twice before reading this one.
If you’re a regular reader of extreme horror you’re going to LOVE this one. I think this is Athan’s best work to date and that’s saying a lot because I’ve loved everything of his that I’ve read.
All the stars! Don’t miss this one!!
Thank you to the author for sending me this beautiful hardbound arc to read and review.
June 14, 2025
THE PRESIDENT’S SON [2022] By Jon Athan
My Review 5.0 Stars
I read two of Jon Athan’s Author’s Enhanced Editions recently, including his debut novel originally released in 2016, renamed “Harbinger of Vengeance” [2023], and “Our Dead Girlfriend” [2025] first released in 2018. I really enjoyed both of them and it reminded me that I still had his 2022 release on my tablet, a fan favorite “The President’s Son”. I was aware that it was an epic extreme horror novel and a rather meaty read but recalled too that it was a dear friend’s favorite book the year to was released.
I found Jon Athan’s “Dear Reader” notes particularly illuminating with regard to his writing process for the novel and the confounding issues he tackled. The author referenced the “rise in conspiracy theories---ranging from the unproven to the downright whacky---as well as the spread of misinformation and disinformation through mainstream channels.” Jon Athan was faced with a dilemma, and he asked himself: “How can I mirror reality with this book when reality is breaking down for so many people?” His solution is so very close to my analysis of the book that I was mostly just gratified that I was right. So, what did Jon Athan decide to do? Well, he decided to blend it all together---blur the lines. Facts and fiction. “I took shards from everyone’s broken realities and pieced them together to create a new mirror---this story. And what I saw was madness.” Jon Athan added that he was” aiming to create a parody of modern politics” My own conclusions (before I read Jon Athan’s “Dear Reader” notes) was as follows: “He was writing his idea of a parody about different versions of events that occurred politically in our United States if you looked at the things that happened through a fun house distortion mirror.”
It is difficult to believe this was Jon Athan's 54th independently published novel and that he was in his twenties when he wrote it (to be fair 29). I was excited about the opportunity to Buddy Read the book on Splatterpunk with interested fellow members. I finished reading it today and I enjoyed the vehicle of how the reader was gradually exposed to the sadistic sociopath of Vincent, "the President's son", namely the successive interviews by the forensic psychiatrist Lorraine. There was not much to like about this wild excursion into truth as viewed in a funhouse mirror. Jon Athan writes extreme horror violence as well as any writer I have been privileged to read.
I am awarding the full 5 Stars because it is my opinion it is well deserved. I am not able to read as much as I would like but will try to make room for more of Jon Athan’s works!
ANOTHER ‘HOME RUN’ FOR JON ATHAN WITH “THE PRESIDENT’S SON!!!
My Review 5.0 Stars
I read two of Jon Athan’s Author’s Enhanced Editions recently, including his debut novel originally released in 2016, renamed “Harbinger of Vengeance” [2023], and “Our Dead Girlfriend” [2025] first released in 2018. I really enjoyed both of them and it reminded me that I still had his 2022 release on my tablet, a fan favorite “The President’s Son”. I was aware that it was an epic extreme horror novel and a rather meaty read but recalled too that it was a dear friend’s favorite book the year to was released.
I found Jon Athan’s “Dear Reader” notes particularly illuminating with regard to his writing process for the novel and the confounding issues he tackled. The author referenced the “rise in conspiracy theories---ranging from the unproven to the downright whacky---as well as the spread of misinformation and disinformation through mainstream channels.” Jon Athan was faced with a dilemma, and he asked himself: “How can I mirror reality with this book when reality is breaking down for so many people?” His solution is so very close to my analysis of the book that I was mostly just gratified that I was right. So, what did Jon Athan decide to do? Well, he decided to blend it all together---blur the lines. Facts and fiction. “I took shards from everyone’s broken realities and pieced them together to create a new mirror---this story. And what I saw was madness.” Jon Athan added that he was” aiming to create a parody of modern politics” My own conclusions (before I read Jon Athan’s “Dear Reader” notes) was as follows: “He was writing his idea of a parody about different versions of events that occurred politically in our United States if you looked at the things that happened through a fun house distortion mirror.”
It is difficult to believe this was Jon Athan's 54th independently published novel and that he was in his twenties when he wrote it (to be fair 29). I was excited about the opportunity to Buddy Read the book on Splatterpunk with interested fellow members. I finished reading it today and I enjoyed the vehicle of how the reader was gradually exposed to the sadistic sociopath of Vincent, "the President's son", namely the successive interviews by the forensic psychiatrist Lorraine. There was not much to like about this wild excursion into truth as viewed in a funhouse mirror. Jon Athan writes extreme horror violence as well as any writer I have been privileged to read.
I am awarding the full 5 Stars because it is my opinion it is well deserved. I am not able to read as much as I would like but will try to make room for more of Jon Athan’s works!
ANOTHER ‘HOME RUN’ FOR JON ATHAN WITH “THE PRESIDENT’S SON!!!
July 17, 2025
What a disturbing read!
This book was everything I was hoping it would be. A little shit of a president son caught to be investigated for some crimes. We’re not sure what he was caught doing at the start. We just know it was bad.
So a therapist is sent to evaluate the president son and she is told the story of all the distributing things he has done throughout his life. And man, dose it get dark! Each event is more gruesome than last and just rethink things can get more messed up they do.
This is the book that I would happily read over and over again. And with the inspiration for this book being as clear as it is, and how things are going in the world right now, I think I just might read this book again very soon.
This book was everything I was hoping it would be. A little shit of a president son caught to be investigated for some crimes. We’re not sure what he was caught doing at the start. We just know it was bad.
So a therapist is sent to evaluate the president son and she is told the story of all the distributing things he has done throughout his life. And man, dose it get dark! Each event is more gruesome than last and just rethink things can get more messed up they do.
This is the book that I would happily read over and over again. And with the inspiration for this book being as clear as it is, and how things are going in the world right now, I think I just might read this book again very soon.
September 21, 2022
How the fuck is he gonna top this book
August 29, 2022
Alright well what can I say that other reviews haven't already said.... This book is Jon Athan's Opus. To me this book shows all of his talents and abilities from the research, the development of the characters and the story to bringing the violence, the brutality, the vile and disgusting and I loved it all. This to me is his best work. Now if you are easily offended, triggered, entitled, or have a weak stomach ya better skip this one. My next thing is this book deals with all the political issues, conspiracy theories, fucked up rumors of the one percent from 9/11 to every fucked up thing that flooded the internet in recent years. It does so full throttle, in your face from the first page till the last. The characters and the way the story is set up and told is genius and keeps you wondering: Are the stories the main character is telling you real, or are they part of his psychosis. This book to me is gonna be in the "extreme" horror world. The equivalent of what Scarface\ The Godfather series is to movie fans, it's just EPIC. I can't recommend this book enough to extreme horror fans.Thank you Jon Athan for letting me read this phenomenal book.
February 14, 2025
Did I read this in one sitting? Yes.
This book is exactly what the title suggests—the president’s son—but with a horror satire twist that dives headfirst into real-world events. The story follows Vincent, a survivor of Epstein’s island, who rises to power in a world shaped by media, corruption, and political chaos.
What makes The President’s Son so compelling is how it weaves conspiracy theories and actual history into a brutal, unflinching narrative. The book tackles everything from the 2016 election, Pizzagate, racism, AIDS, homophobia, women’s rights, international policies, the economy, healthcare, immigration, school shootings, protests, the Pepsi ad (yes you read that right), the 2020 election, and even the insurrection. It’s a reflection of modern American politics—wrapped in extreme horror.
Athan presents events through Vincent’s perspective, showcasing how two people can interpret the same reality completely differently. While known for his extreme horror, Athan balances that element with sharp social commentary, making the horror feel disturbingly real. The most unsettling part? The author barely had to stretch the truth—daily headlines provided all the material he needed.
Given the subject matter, I can absolutely see how this could be a hit or miss for some readers. It’s dark, uncomfortable, and unrelenting—but that’s what makes it work.
It’s brutal, it’s darkly satirical, and it’s terrifyingly relevant.
This book is exactly what the title suggests—the president’s son—but with a horror satire twist that dives headfirst into real-world events. The story follows Vincent, a survivor of Epstein’s island, who rises to power in a world shaped by media, corruption, and political chaos.
What makes The President’s Son so compelling is how it weaves conspiracy theories and actual history into a brutal, unflinching narrative. The book tackles everything from the 2016 election, Pizzagate, racism, AIDS, homophobia, women’s rights, international policies, the economy, healthcare, immigration, school shootings, protests, the Pepsi ad (yes you read that right), the 2020 election, and even the insurrection. It’s a reflection of modern American politics—wrapped in extreme horror.
Athan presents events through Vincent’s perspective, showcasing how two people can interpret the same reality completely differently. While known for his extreme horror, Athan balances that element with sharp social commentary, making the horror feel disturbingly real. The most unsettling part? The author barely had to stretch the truth—daily headlines provided all the material he needed.
Given the subject matter, I can absolutely see how this could be a hit or miss for some readers. It’s dark, uncomfortable, and unrelenting—but that’s what makes it work.
It’s brutal, it’s darkly satirical, and it’s terrifyingly relevant.
August 7, 2022
****This is an EXTREME HORROR book, with scenes that are graphic, disturbing and not for the faint hearted. Please remember this before reading****
Vincent Campbell is president Percy Campbell's son. Vincent is set to run for president in the future years after Percy. Vincent is also thought to be a violent psychopath who's murders and horrific acts have been seen by many - but always covered up. Now Vincent has been locked up and a psychiatrist, Lorraine, is trying to delve into his mind and thoughts on behalf of his father and team. As Lorraine delves deeper into the horrific acts of Vincent, she struggles to separate fact and fiction.
One thing is for certain - every time Lorraine will think she's heard the most horrific, Vincent will always do something worse.
I was sent this ARC from the author and I was beyond ecstatic. I adore Jon Athan's work, he writes stories so brutal and disturbing and yet I just cannot stop reading them. He is brilliant, utterly brilliant. This is one of his most extreme, most disturbing yet and he has completely knocked it out the park with his brilliance. I am completely disturbed by the book and yet could not put it down. I raced through it in days. I started it as soon as it arrived. I would be sooooo ready for a sequel to it!
Jon Athan had completely outdone himself with this book, it's his best yet. I loved how much longer it was too, I can always read more of his books!
Fans of extreme horror, read this immediately - but please be aware it is disturbing and graphic, with very disturbing upsetting scenes. Be ready for this!
Vincent Campbell is president Percy Campbell's son. Vincent is set to run for president in the future years after Percy. Vincent is also thought to be a violent psychopath who's murders and horrific acts have been seen by many - but always covered up. Now Vincent has been locked up and a psychiatrist, Lorraine, is trying to delve into his mind and thoughts on behalf of his father and team. As Lorraine delves deeper into the horrific acts of Vincent, she struggles to separate fact and fiction.
One thing is for certain - every time Lorraine will think she's heard the most horrific, Vincent will always do something worse.
I was sent this ARC from the author and I was beyond ecstatic. I adore Jon Athan's work, he writes stories so brutal and disturbing and yet I just cannot stop reading them. He is brilliant, utterly brilliant. This is one of his most extreme, most disturbing yet and he has completely knocked it out the park with his brilliance. I am completely disturbed by the book and yet could not put it down. I raced through it in days. I started it as soon as it arrived. I would be sooooo ready for a sequel to it!
Jon Athan had completely outdone himself with this book, it's his best yet. I loved how much longer it was too, I can always read more of his books!
Fans of extreme horror, read this immediately - but please be aware it is disturbing and graphic, with very disturbing upsetting scenes. Be ready for this!
July 18, 2023
This is some brutal and I mean brutaaaallll stuff! A satire on the American political system around the 2016 election.
Noone and nothing is safe from satire in this no matter what side of politics you may lean. It's a violent and vile look at power and privilege. It has every trigger warning known. It follows the current Presidents Son who is locked up in a psychiatric facility who is telling his story of his childhood, life and subsequent arrest to a forensic psychiatrist.
It's a long book for a splatterpunk and extreme horror novel which I usually like it novella form or 200 pages or less but this does not out stay its welcome. Each chapter is like a new short story with the character delving into another unspeakable crime of his past. Its extreme to the max but if you know Jon's work you probably already knew that.
Noone and nothing is safe from satire in this no matter what side of politics you may lean. It's a violent and vile look at power and privilege. It has every trigger warning known. It follows the current Presidents Son who is locked up in a psychiatric facility who is telling his story of his childhood, life and subsequent arrest to a forensic psychiatrist.
It's a long book for a splatterpunk and extreme horror novel which I usually like it novella form or 200 pages or less but this does not out stay its welcome. Each chapter is like a new short story with the character delving into another unspeakable crime of his past. Its extreme to the max but if you know Jon's work you probably already knew that.
June 9, 2025
#️⃣2️⃣7️⃣7️⃣ Read & Reviewed in 2025 ⛈️⚡🚨
Date : 📢 Sunday, June 7, 2025 🍙⚔️
Word Count📃: 111k Words 🏕️
──★ ˙💥🪨💣🪨💥 ̟ ⋆✮˚.*⋆
ദ്ദി ≽^⎚˕⎚^≼ .ᐟ My 15th read in "Explosive Impactful Reads June"
2️⃣🌟, you failed me :(( you had the chance to do a little life version 2, but you hella failed.
——————————————————————
➕➖0️⃣1️⃣2️⃣3️⃣4️⃣5️⃣6️⃣7️⃣8️⃣9️⃣🔟✖️➗
So this book is separated into Parts
Part I was sooooo intense, it was like reading A Little Life all over again! We venture through Vincent who went through abusive fathers, suicidal mothers, literal child predators and many more times, it reminds me of what Jude went through. But what makes this interesting is because we know what his character is on the previous chapters before which is his interview to a forensic psychologist as he is being tested if he's applicable to present himself in a court case (since he kinda murdered someone). Now that we know who he is as a person, it's interesting to know what his reactions are to all of those traumatic experiences. It sets me up to a high expectations on what will happen on the parts later on but clearly this is a 2 star review...this didn't work out as i had expected.
Part II
I almost thought i was hallucinating because why does this part only feature two chapters??? And none of them add anything to the story, its purely fillers. So maybe its just a break, like a breather, a refresher because of the overlay dramatic scenes and the actions that are happening on the part beforehand, i appreciated this pace being slowed down even for just two chapters, but still it's fillers.
Part III
Part 3 is where i think the entire story breakdowns, i can summarize the entire part as "Amanda's Rape Scene" because thats literally just it...I know its disheartening, no one should be raped, i really feel bad for you Amanda but one question...
Who. The. Fuck. Are. You?????!?!
Like literally who are you????????
WHO TF IS AMANDA??????????? Why are we supposed to care about you all of a sudden????????? (i kinda forgot when Amanda's rape scene happened, maybe it happened before part III but everything just went south after that scene, it just went through ramblings and rambling on violence which is expected in a splatterpunk.,.,.,but since Part I was really really good, I expected everything else to also have the same quality as that and not just, violence all over the place). There was no well established world and no memorable characters either, it just went from violence directed another character to violence once again directed to another character whilst forgetting the previous characters beforehand.
Part IV
A FILLER??!!?!?!!?? AND IT'S NOT EVEN TRYING TO HIDE IT ANYMORE THE TITLE IS LITERALLY BATHROOM BREAK
THE CHAPTER TITLE IS LITERALLY TITLED "BATHROOM BREAK" IF THAT DOESN'T SCREAM FILLER THEN I DON'T KNOW WHAT IS
Part V
I have officially given up this book, Vincent goes through an Ultraviolence world tour not featuring Lana Del Ray, because he do be just showcasing the amount of violence that he can do. Murdering people, beating up people, you think of it, he already did it. HE EVEN WENT TO CHINA 😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱
AND ONE TIME HE ALSO MET 130 YEAR OLD HITLER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
bitch i don't even know what this book is supposed to be anymore, he suddenly met 130 year old Adolf Hitler like wtf is happening.
Part VI
Was a poor attempt to do a 'surprising plot twist that no one predicted' because YEAH,. NO ONE WILL PREDICT IT BECAUSE THIS BOOK IS NOT SUPPOSED TO HAVE A PLOT TWIST'Y GIMMICK,. THE HELLLL 😵😵😵, THIS IS NOT EVEN A MYSTERY NOVEL. Once again with the plot twist supposed to be revolving Farrah..
Wait what, who the fuck is Farrah????????????????????? First we went through Vincent's history, we watch Amanda getting raped, a literal bathroom break, violence world tour then a surprise related family member Farrah,. Respectfully once again... who the fuck are you??????
Part VII
I dont care about Part 7 and Part 8
PART VIII
I dont care about Part 7 and Part 8 (2)
And the epilogue is too long its not even doing anything 🥱🥱🥱
Date : 📢 Sunday, June 7, 2025 🍙⚔️
Word Count📃: 111k Words 🏕️
──★ ˙💥🪨💣🪨💥 ̟ ⋆✮˚.*⋆
ദ്ദി ≽^⎚˕⎚^≼ .ᐟ My 15th read in "Explosive Impactful Reads June"
2️⃣🌟, you failed me :(( you had the chance to do a little life version 2, but you hella failed.
——————————————————————
➕➖0️⃣1️⃣2️⃣3️⃣4️⃣5️⃣6️⃣7️⃣8️⃣9️⃣🔟✖️➗
So this book is separated into Parts
Part I was sooooo intense, it was like reading A Little Life all over again! We venture through Vincent who went through abusive fathers, suicidal mothers, literal child predators and many more times, it reminds me of what Jude went through. But what makes this interesting is because we know what his character is on the previous chapters before which is his interview to a forensic psychologist as he is being tested if he's applicable to present himself in a court case (since he kinda murdered someone). Now that we know who he is as a person, it's interesting to know what his reactions are to all of those traumatic experiences. It sets me up to a high expectations on what will happen on the parts later on but clearly this is a 2 star review...this didn't work out as i had expected.
Part II
I almost thought i was hallucinating because why does this part only feature two chapters??? And none of them add anything to the story, its purely fillers. So maybe its just a break, like a breather, a refresher because of the overlay dramatic scenes and the actions that are happening on the part beforehand, i appreciated this pace being slowed down even for just two chapters, but still it's fillers.
Part III
Part 3 is where i think the entire story breakdowns, i can summarize the entire part as "Amanda's Rape Scene" because thats literally just it...I know its disheartening, no one should be raped, i really feel bad for you Amanda but one question...
Who. The. Fuck. Are. You?????!?!
Like literally who are you????????
WHO TF IS AMANDA??????????? Why are we supposed to care about you all of a sudden????????? (i kinda forgot when Amanda's rape scene happened, maybe it happened before part III but everything just went south after that scene, it just went through ramblings and rambling on violence which is expected in a splatterpunk.,.,.,but since Part I was really really good, I expected everything else to also have the same quality as that and not just, violence all over the place). There was no well established world and no memorable characters either, it just went from violence directed another character to violence once again directed to another character whilst forgetting the previous characters beforehand.
Part IV
A FILLER??!!?!?!!?? AND IT'S NOT EVEN TRYING TO HIDE IT ANYMORE THE TITLE IS LITERALLY BATHROOM BREAK
THE CHAPTER TITLE IS LITERALLY TITLED "BATHROOM BREAK" IF THAT DOESN'T SCREAM FILLER THEN I DON'T KNOW WHAT IS
Part V
I have officially given up this book, Vincent goes through an Ultraviolence world tour not featuring Lana Del Ray, because he do be just showcasing the amount of violence that he can do. Murdering people, beating up people, you think of it, he already did it. HE EVEN WENT TO CHINA 😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱
AND ONE TIME HE ALSO MET 130 YEAR OLD HITLER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
bitch i don't even know what this book is supposed to be anymore, he suddenly met 130 year old Adolf Hitler like wtf is happening.
Part VI
Was a poor attempt to do a 'surprising plot twist that no one predicted' because YEAH,. NO ONE WILL PREDICT IT BECAUSE THIS BOOK IS NOT SUPPOSED TO HAVE A PLOT TWIST'Y GIMMICK,. THE HELLLL 😵😵😵, THIS IS NOT EVEN A MYSTERY NOVEL. Once again with the plot twist supposed to be revolving Farrah..
Wait what, who the fuck is Farrah????????????????????? First we went through Vincent's history, we watch Amanda getting raped, a literal bathroom break, violence world tour then a surprise related family member Farrah,. Respectfully once again... who the fuck are you??????
Part VII
I dont care about Part 7 and Part 8
PART VIII
I dont care about Part 7 and Part 8 (2)
And the epilogue is too long its not even doing anything 🥱🥱🥱
October 23, 2024
Brutal!!
Story 4/5
Narration 4/5
I enjoyed this depraved, irreverent, and gory satire by Jon Athan.
I highly recommend it, if you’re not easily offended and if you like ultra-violent stories.
Story 4/5
Narration 4/5
I enjoyed this depraved, irreverent, and gory satire by Jon Athan.
I highly recommend it, if you’re not easily offended and if you like ultra-violent stories.
August 23, 2022
The author was kind enough to send me an early ARC of his latest book, The President's Son! I've been hyped for this book for awhile and it did not disappoint! Funny, scathing, offensive, and SUPER gory. As always, Jon Athan delivers!
.
.
Vincent Campbell -the son of an extremely controversial President - tells his life story over the course of a few sessions with a psychiatrist. What unfolds is a nasty tale that lampoons American politics from 9/11 to the siege on the Capital Building.
.
.
I think it's important to note, if your easily offended by political discourse, or believe that such things should be kept far away from horror... you will be fuming by the end of this book. It directly mocks Donald Trump, Qanon, conspiracy theorists, backsliding dems, and national history. Not a single politician is spared from parody. Included in the books many themes, there's commentary on systemic racism, sexism... school shootings, gun laws, and even Epstien and his flight log.
.
.
If these things make you uncomfortable... good. That's the point of this book. You can tell that Athan is punching up rather than down though. He doesn't make fun of anyone that doesn't deserve it. His targets are politicians, celebrities, and the folks that think they are above human decency.
.
.
The author describes it as American Psycho meets Forrest Gump... but I'll throw another comparison in there. This is like South Park on crack. No one and nothing is off limits, and reality is expressed through absurdism. But Jon Athan's humor is even darker than the subversive show. For one, this book is superbly violent. So many babies get killed. So... many... babies. And there's a scene with a dead baby that makes Chandler Morrison's Dead Inside look downright polite.
.
.
This book is a big one, sitting right around 500 pages but it flies by at a rapid pace. Before you know it, we've gone from a Pizza Gate massacre to an insurrection/terrorist attack on the Capital Building. The structure of the narrative -told in flashbacks- only aides in the breakneck pace. I love when a book refuses to waste the readers time and dives right into it!
.
.
Vincent Campbell -the son of an extremely controversial President - tells his life story over the course of a few sessions with a psychiatrist. What unfolds is a nasty tale that lampoons American politics from 9/11 to the siege on the Capital Building.
.
.
I think it's important to note, if your easily offended by political discourse, or believe that such things should be kept far away from horror... you will be fuming by the end of this book. It directly mocks Donald Trump, Qanon, conspiracy theorists, backsliding dems, and national history. Not a single politician is spared from parody. Included in the books many themes, there's commentary on systemic racism, sexism... school shootings, gun laws, and even Epstien and his flight log.
.
.
If these things make you uncomfortable... good. That's the point of this book. You can tell that Athan is punching up rather than down though. He doesn't make fun of anyone that doesn't deserve it. His targets are politicians, celebrities, and the folks that think they are above human decency.
.
.
The author describes it as American Psycho meets Forrest Gump... but I'll throw another comparison in there. This is like South Park on crack. No one and nothing is off limits, and reality is expressed through absurdism. But Jon Athan's humor is even darker than the subversive show. For one, this book is superbly violent. So many babies get killed. So... many... babies. And there's a scene with a dead baby that makes Chandler Morrison's Dead Inside look downright polite.
.
.
This book is a big one, sitting right around 500 pages but it flies by at a rapid pace. Before you know it, we've gone from a Pizza Gate massacre to an insurrection/terrorist attack on the Capital Building. The structure of the narrative -told in flashbacks- only aides in the breakneck pace. I love when a book refuses to waste the readers time and dives right into it!
August 21, 2022
He's got more than 50 extreme horror books published, and I've read just about every one. Buckle up because THE PRESIDENT'S SON is headed your way September 8!
Extreme horror isn't for everyone, and I get that, but hear me out for a minute...we've *living* in extreme horror. A former President who divided the nation, Jeffrey Epstein and his disgusting island, the storming of the Capitol; we lived those events, and those events are threads in this book all woven together by Vincent Campbell, a sociopath whose bizarre behavior often requires "cleaners" and copious amounts of bleach. Now in an institution, he speaks openly and candidly to his psychologist Lorraine Lynch, who has been assigned to Vincent's case to get to the root of his behavior.
The absolute privilege that Vincent has, coupled with his propensity for barbaric, violent behavior, is stomach-turning. But as Vincent takes us through his blood-soaked tale, which he insists be told in chronological order, we are left to wonder how much is true and how much is the product of a deeply disturbed, psychotic brain. There are *multiple* trigger warnings, of course, but every scene is integral to the story; no gratuitous violence is to be found here.
What I love the most about Jon Athan's writing is that SO many of his books are connected to social issues, and his author's notes are a treasure trove of information. A sincere thank you to the author for gifting me a gorgeous hardbound ARC to read and review.
Extreme horror isn't for everyone, and I get that, but hear me out for a minute...we've *living* in extreme horror. A former President who divided the nation, Jeffrey Epstein and his disgusting island, the storming of the Capitol; we lived those events, and those events are threads in this book all woven together by Vincent Campbell, a sociopath whose bizarre behavior often requires "cleaners" and copious amounts of bleach. Now in an institution, he speaks openly and candidly to his psychologist Lorraine Lynch, who has been assigned to Vincent's case to get to the root of his behavior.
The absolute privilege that Vincent has, coupled with his propensity for barbaric, violent behavior, is stomach-turning. But as Vincent takes us through his blood-soaked tale, which he insists be told in chronological order, we are left to wonder how much is true and how much is the product of a deeply disturbed, psychotic brain. There are *multiple* trigger warnings, of course, but every scene is integral to the story; no gratuitous violence is to be found here.
What I love the most about Jon Athan's writing is that SO many of his books are connected to social issues, and his author's notes are a treasure trove of information. A sincere thank you to the author for gifting me a gorgeous hardbound ARC to read and review.
February 25, 2023
The President’s Son is a psychopathic killer. This is an extreme horror tale that mixes the real with conspiracy and fantasy. Parts triggering, gross, violent and funny. If you follow politics and/or conspiracy theories I think you’ll enjoy Jon Athan’s dark tale.
Trigger warnings.
Trigger warnings.
May 16, 2025
I had been stalling on reading this book because it was a thicccc one, but I decided to get the audiobook and follow along with the physical copy because why wouldn't I spend more money than is necessary?! But I am glad I did as it definitely was quite the immersive experience.
This is a tough book to review as there is just so much to say! What I thought was really cool is learning that Athan had started this about 10 years prior to its actual release in 2022. The amount of time, effort and research that Athan puts into his book is often unmatched and one of the reasons I find him to be set apart from so many other authors in this genre. Although I don't need to say it as Athan always makes it clear that his books are extreme and offensive, this one is the cake topper of trigger warnings! If you cannot handle torture, sexual assault, any sort of assault, violence, torture of children and babies, extensive drug use, suicide, school shootings, mass shootings, executions and some odd Adolf Hitler side quests - do not walk - RUN - far away from this book. Now I don't get offended too easily but this one had me saying "oh he's going there.. no.. NO.. awww not the baby!" and picture Athan saying "here, hold my beer" as he pushed another limit.
That all being said, Athan doesn't write extreme themes just to be extreme - the physical copy of this book is something like 520 pages long - but he knows how to really lay it out there. And with the current state of the world and the administration we have in the US, this book touches on highly sensitive topics that are happening right now. Athan takes an idea or conspiracy that has been put out in the world and amplifies it and makes it real in this book. So real that you may even question - is that actually happening right now? Maybe Pizza Gate is true? Got Adreno? (Blender Babies!) And so on. I am not one to get too carried away down those rabbit holes. But at every turn in this book, I had wondered "I wouldn't be surprised if that is really happening somewhere".
Even all the way up to the very last page I still don't have a clue what was real and what was lies spilling out of the MC's mouth. Were we all being gaslighted? I love the unknown and even though I didn't always know what to believe, I could tell that was the point of the story and the ending wrapped up some things very nicely.
I hope you read this book. And I hope you love it.
This is a tough book to review as there is just so much to say! What I thought was really cool is learning that Athan had started this about 10 years prior to its actual release in 2022. The amount of time, effort and research that Athan puts into his book is often unmatched and one of the reasons I find him to be set apart from so many other authors in this genre. Although I don't need to say it as Athan always makes it clear that his books are extreme and offensive, this one is the cake topper of trigger warnings! If you cannot handle torture, sexual assault, any sort of assault, violence, torture of children and babies, extensive drug use, suicide, school shootings, mass shootings, executions and some odd Adolf Hitler side quests - do not walk - RUN - far away from this book. Now I don't get offended too easily but this one had me saying "oh he's going there.. no.. NO.. awww not the baby!" and picture Athan saying "here, hold my beer" as he pushed another limit.
That all being said, Athan doesn't write extreme themes just to be extreme - the physical copy of this book is something like 520 pages long - but he knows how to really lay it out there. And with the current state of the world and the administration we have in the US, this book touches on highly sensitive topics that are happening right now. Athan takes an idea or conspiracy that has been put out in the world and amplifies it and makes it real in this book. So real that you may even question - is that actually happening right now? Maybe Pizza Gate is true? Got Adreno? (Blender Babies!) And so on. I am not one to get too carried away down those rabbit holes. But at every turn in this book, I had wondered "I wouldn't be surprised if that is really happening somewhere".
Even all the way up to the very last page I still don't have a clue what was real and what was lies spilling out of the MC's mouth. Were we all being gaslighted? I love the unknown and even though I didn't always know what to believe, I could tell that was the point of the story and the ending wrapped up some things very nicely.
I hope you read this book. And I hope you love it.
August 24, 2022
“Mankind was afflicted with a disease of evil, and that disease was getting stronger and stronger every day.”
In its almost 500 pages, this monster of a book presents us the shocking sessions between forensic psychologist Lorraine Lynch and Vincent Campbell, the son of the president of the United States with a gripping narrative style. It’s implied early on that Vincent had done something truly appalling on live television, hence his evaluation. However, what exactly happened is not revealed immediately. Using this structure was a risky choice but it pays off here because the novel manages to remain very interesting and it kept me guessing throughout. If Vincent openly talks about all the horrible things he's seen and done, just what could be the event that finally led to these conversations? It was very engrossing and definitely lived up to my expectations. (Also, finally, a book where I couldn’t guess the ending!)
Unlike Jon Athan's previous works that I have read, this novel’s main character is an unreliable narrator. It makes the book even more compelling because along with Lorraine, I also started doubting how much truth there is to Vincent’s words. Keep in mind that this book is political, it references many contemporary social, cultural, and political events from real life, some of which are not entirely confirmed to be true but we all might have heard about them. Just like in real life, sometimes it is hard to tell what the whole truth is.
My absolute favourite is that the book keeps pushing its boundaries and has witty self-reflecting parts with commentary on writing, art, and the book itself. It is very cleverly written without being overdone. These cheeky meta remarks aimed at the reader land well and provide some lighter moments in the midst of all the horror.
Regarding the horror aspect, there are literally no taboos in this book. The content warning is to be taken seriously because of the level of violence. The extreme horror scenes are very harrowing and detailed.
I'm rating this book 5/5. In my opinion, this is a real gem among extreme horror books and definitely Jon Athan's most mature novel. The quality of the writing is very impressive, the story is great and filled with horrifying scenes that I know will stay with me for a long time. Despite being quite a lengthy novel, it's a real page-turner so it was a surprisingly fast read. Whether you like reading thought-provoking books or you’re just in it for the gore, I'd equally recommend it because this book has it all. Thank you for reading and my biggest thanks to Jonny Athan because reading this novel was quite an experience!
Please allow me to say just one more amazing thing about the novel. There are many songs mentioned in it and some of them gave me such a nice nostalgic feeling that I decided to make a Spotify playlist of them. If you don’t mind this minor spoiler, feel free to check it out here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5sg...
Enjoy!
In its almost 500 pages, this monster of a book presents us the shocking sessions between forensic psychologist Lorraine Lynch and Vincent Campbell, the son of the president of the United States with a gripping narrative style. It’s implied early on that Vincent had done something truly appalling on live television, hence his evaluation. However, what exactly happened is not revealed immediately. Using this structure was a risky choice but it pays off here because the novel manages to remain very interesting and it kept me guessing throughout. If Vincent openly talks about all the horrible things he's seen and done, just what could be the event that finally led to these conversations? It was very engrossing and definitely lived up to my expectations. (Also, finally, a book where I couldn’t guess the ending!)
Unlike Jon Athan's previous works that I have read, this novel’s main character is an unreliable narrator. It makes the book even more compelling because along with Lorraine, I also started doubting how much truth there is to Vincent’s words. Keep in mind that this book is political, it references many contemporary social, cultural, and political events from real life, some of which are not entirely confirmed to be true but we all might have heard about them. Just like in real life, sometimes it is hard to tell what the whole truth is.
My absolute favourite is that the book keeps pushing its boundaries and has witty self-reflecting parts with commentary on writing, art, and the book itself. It is very cleverly written without being overdone. These cheeky meta remarks aimed at the reader land well and provide some lighter moments in the midst of all the horror.
Regarding the horror aspect, there are literally no taboos in this book. The content warning is to be taken seriously because of the level of violence. The extreme horror scenes are very harrowing and detailed.
I'm rating this book 5/5. In my opinion, this is a real gem among extreme horror books and definitely Jon Athan's most mature novel. The quality of the writing is very impressive, the story is great and filled with horrifying scenes that I know will stay with me for a long time. Despite being quite a lengthy novel, it's a real page-turner so it was a surprisingly fast read. Whether you like reading thought-provoking books or you’re just in it for the gore, I'd equally recommend it because this book has it all. Thank you for reading and my biggest thanks to Jonny Athan because reading this novel was quite an experience!
Please allow me to say just one more amazing thing about the novel. There are many songs mentioned in it and some of them gave me such a nice nostalgic feeling that I decided to make a Spotify playlist of them. If you don’t mind this minor spoiler, feel free to check it out here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5sg...
Enjoy!
December 17, 2024
Looking back at the books I read this year, I feel obligated to write a review for this one. Partly because it is probably the most offensive thing I've ever read, but also because it deserves every boost it can get. Jon Athan has had some amazingly successful extreme horror shockers and slashers, but this might be his masterpiece—and it's a political satire. Its crosshairs are on the American media, misinformation, disinformation, and conspiracy theories and I've never found another book like it. It's like an extreme horror South Park.
It seems like this book never really found an audience, and I've always thought maybe part of the problem is that both sides of the American political spectrum are going to find it difficult not to take this book personally. Everyone loves an offensive joke until it offends them, and modern political commentary is so often just an opportunity to dunk on the other side for validation. The President's Son on the other hand feels like it really does aim to offend everybody, and nobody is safe. If you're looking for something that is genuinely transgressive then I recommend this book....and I recommend that you recommend it too if you enjoyed it!
It seems like this book never really found an audience, and I've always thought maybe part of the problem is that both sides of the American political spectrum are going to find it difficult not to take this book personally. Everyone loves an offensive joke until it offends them, and modern political commentary is so often just an opportunity to dunk on the other side for validation. The President's Son on the other hand feels like it really does aim to offend everybody, and nobody is safe. If you're looking for something that is genuinely transgressive then I recommend this book....and I recommend that you recommend it too if you enjoyed it!
July 10, 2025
The story of Vincent Campbell is a complicated one. He’s lead a life of brutality, able to do anything he wants and get away with everything all thanks to being the presidents son. He finally does something so egregious he gets himself arrested and decides he wants to share his disturbing life story with the government appointed psychologist Lorraine. Is this really the end of the line for Vincent?
MY THOUGHTS
Presidents Son kinda reminds me of a twisted, dark, vicious version of Forrest Gump. Retelling of Vincent’s life through stories to his psychologist Lorraine that include his gruesome misdeeds and also major societal events in real life. Including 9/11, Epstein’s Island and the Capitol Insurgency.
Brutal. Gross. Chaotic. Ruthless. Barbaric. Psychotic. Savage. Disturbing and at times painful to read. Lots of cringing. Lots of gasps. Lots of deep breaths. Some of these recollections that Vincent shares are downright hard to read. This book has all the triggers and is not for the faint of heart.
A lot of privilege throughout this book and shows how some people truly are untouchable.
I weirdly enjoyed all the music references.
Vincent is a one of a kind character. How much is truth and how much is he manipulating Lorraine and his stories? And for what cause?
While it is about Vincent recalling his past leading up to imprisonment, you see a turn about two thirds thru where it becomes much more political and u see the book change a bit. This was a BIG book and held my attention the entire time.
MY THOUGHTS
Presidents Son kinda reminds me of a twisted, dark, vicious version of Forrest Gump. Retelling of Vincent’s life through stories to his psychologist Lorraine that include his gruesome misdeeds and also major societal events in real life. Including 9/11, Epstein’s Island and the Capitol Insurgency.
Brutal. Gross. Chaotic. Ruthless. Barbaric. Psychotic. Savage. Disturbing and at times painful to read. Lots of cringing. Lots of gasps. Lots of deep breaths. Some of these recollections that Vincent shares are downright hard to read. This book has all the triggers and is not for the faint of heart.
A lot of privilege throughout this book and shows how some people truly are untouchable.
I weirdly enjoyed all the music references.
Vincent is a one of a kind character. How much is truth and how much is he manipulating Lorraine and his stories? And for what cause?
While it is about Vincent recalling his past leading up to imprisonment, you see a turn about two thirds thru where it becomes much more political and u see the book change a bit. This was a BIG book and held my attention the entire time.
October 2, 2025
This was an epic story. Deranged, disgusting and unhinged. You really get to delve deep into the mind of a psychopath.
I was worried that the political element would put me off or derail my interest, but it didn't at all.
Loved the interview style format.
It's an intimidating one to pick up, as it is THICK!! But I'm so glad I took it on.
I was worried that the political element would put me off or derail my interest, but it didn't at all.
Loved the interview style format.
It's an intimidating one to pick up, as it is THICK!! But I'm so glad I took it on.
December 13, 2025
I think The President's Son is the longest extreme horror I've ever read. So gory and dark having so many triggers, murders and depraved behavior. Engaging and never felt to long.
October 15, 2022
Extreme
This is definitely one of Jon Athens books. He is amazing with his imaginatio, story telling. He brings a novel to life in the most harshest of ways and has you glued to every word written, all the while cringing and squirming in your seat at the hostility and brutality described. He is not afraid to go that extra step to take you into that extreme world of horror and have you on the brink of collapse at the sheer horror. It you just can't stop reading! Your engrossed, emerged into that world and it keeps you turning each page and reading each word. Why? Because he makes it so exciting to read that you just can't help it. This I definitely one of my favourites due to this and how it is written. The presidents son is ruthless and due to so much he doesn't care or seem to have feelings for anyone at from 1 person. And no holds are barred for anyone else or anyone whom is in the company of those who are against them. Young old he really doesn't care. The story of his life from a small boy and why he is the man he is today all is revealed in every detail. A fascinating brilliant read thoroughly enjoyed and definitely recommend!
This is definitely one of Jon Athens books. He is amazing with his imaginatio, story telling. He brings a novel to life in the most harshest of ways and has you glued to every word written, all the while cringing and squirming in your seat at the hostility and brutality described. He is not afraid to go that extra step to take you into that extreme world of horror and have you on the brink of collapse at the sheer horror. It you just can't stop reading! Your engrossed, emerged into that world and it keeps you turning each page and reading each word. Why? Because he makes it so exciting to read that you just can't help it. This I definitely one of my favourites due to this and how it is written. The presidents son is ruthless and due to so much he doesn't care or seem to have feelings for anyone at from 1 person. And no holds are barred for anyone else or anyone whom is in the company of those who are against them. Young old he really doesn't care. The story of his life from a small boy and why he is the man he is today all is revealed in every detail. A fascinating brilliant read thoroughly enjoyed and definitely recommend!
January 19, 2025
As a European, this is how I see US politics
February 15, 2023
I decided to try this book out even though I’m not a fan of politics in my horror books. Mainly because I love Jon Athans work but also because I know about all the conspiracies discussed in the book.
Vincent is an entitled psychopath who is most likely also mentally ill, he is the presidents son. So of course most of what he does in the book is forgiven or swept under the rug by his dad.
In the beginning of the book I had some sympathy for him as far as why he turned into the monster he did but as the book went on the sympathy vanished. He enjoyed his acts and lacked any empathy for people whatsoever to even be a redeemable human being.
Some people are born into psychopathy and some are created by trauma. He was created and possible did inherit some of the traits from his father. The ending was not a surprise for me considering his status in the book either.
But if all things this book does bring the question of what is real and what’s not in our society. With high end technology deep fakes are entirely possible and so is a cannibalistic cult who eats scared children and babies because of the adrenaline running through their blood. ANYTHING is possible now a days so don’t put the book away in your mind as complete fiction.
Vincent is an entitled psychopath who is most likely also mentally ill, he is the presidents son. So of course most of what he does in the book is forgiven or swept under the rug by his dad.
In the beginning of the book I had some sympathy for him as far as why he turned into the monster he did but as the book went on the sympathy vanished. He enjoyed his acts and lacked any empathy for people whatsoever to even be a redeemable human being.
Some people are born into psychopathy and some are created by trauma. He was created and possible did inherit some of the traits from his father. The ending was not a surprise for me considering his status in the book either.
But if all things this book does bring the question of what is real and what’s not in our society. With high end technology deep fakes are entirely possible and so is a cannibalistic cult who eats scared children and babies because of the adrenaline running through their blood. ANYTHING is possible now a days so don’t put the book away in your mind as complete fiction.
December 4, 2024
I have a new favourite Jon Athan book!
Despite the fact that reading too many novellas this year has negatively impacted my ability to get through longer books, I finished this one in under 3 days. If not for my weekend plans, I could easily have finished it in under 2 days, that's how fun and engaging it was from the very beginning!
I really enjoyed the psychological thriller elements in this story. While I will happily read extreme horror/splatterpunk books which are basically nothing but 200 pages of depravity, I far prefer stories like this one which, while containing just as much depravity, contains a bit more substance along with it.
I was also pleasantly surprised by the fact that this book doesn't only go for the easiest, lowest hanging fruit (which is what I had expected going into the book) in its mission to satirise US politics. It actually bothers to reach out a little bit at times, which is more than a lot of authors bother to do. GG.
Athan really outdid himself with this one, can't wait to read more from him!
Despite the fact that reading too many novellas this year has negatively impacted my ability to get through longer books, I finished this one in under 3 days. If not for my weekend plans, I could easily have finished it in under 2 days, that's how fun and engaging it was from the very beginning!
I really enjoyed the psychological thriller elements in this story. While I will happily read extreme horror/splatterpunk books which are basically nothing but 200 pages of depravity, I far prefer stories like this one which, while containing just as much depravity, contains a bit more substance along with it.
I was also pleasantly surprised by the fact that this book doesn't only go for the easiest, lowest hanging fruit (which is what I had expected going into the book) in its mission to satirise US politics. It actually bothers to reach out a little bit at times, which is more than a lot of authors bother to do. GG.
Athan really outdid himself with this one, can't wait to read more from him!
January 8, 2025
Hard to decide between 1 or 2 stars but ultimately I really didn't like it. Obviously I knew what the deal was, I didn't dislike it because of the violence. When I was almost done I started thinking to myself, what's the point? It's a parody/satire of various real people/events from the last 8 ish years but with the character of the president's son inserted ramping up the violence and absurdity in each situation. There's no real story and it's kind of boring. None of the characters are interesting at all. The psychiatrist doing the interview is literally the 😱 emoji as a person. If you just like shocking and violent content you might enjoy it but if you prefer having an actual story or interesting characters there's a chance you won't enjoy it.
October 24, 2025
this was such a good fucking read !! if you love conspiracies. messed up senarios. and violence to the extreme. this book is for you! I loved how it played on today's conspiracy theorys and blended all that into the book and how the darker side of the world is ran ! I love a indepth extreme horror story each chapter was either more or equally brutal than the last I loved it.
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