Most prisoners believe their punishment is unfair, but for Ryan Tarkett, it’s true. While serving his sentence, an attack sets off a chain of events and forces Ryan to speed up the timeline on an insane escape plan. Spurring him on are memories of his past, his one love, who he met in juvie, and the driving desire for freedom. When Ryan believes he has nothing left to lose, escape from prison becomes the only option.
Ryan’s desperate journey isn’t easy as he tries to evade capture. Past regrets and confusion about his sexual orientation dog him as he deals with the loss of Thomas. When a stranger gives Ryan the chance at a new life, somewhere he might begin to feel safe, he may learn to trust again.
But in his mountain hideaway, Ryan feels as if he is being watched. Something lurks in the surrounding woods. Flashes of a figure give the impression he is being followed or, worse, hunted. Alone and lonely, Ryan fears he is losing his mind. When his new shadow seems intent on sticking around, Ryan starts to suspect this is no ordinary Wolf.
Prisoner is a different kind of love story, where a mystery waits to unfold.
4.25 stars rounded up. I had a heck of a time putting this one down. I’m already half way through book 2 in the series at the moment and can’t put that one down either.
I discovered Prisoner listening to episode 9 of Maz Maddox and Kirt Graves’ Hoof & Fang podcast with the author, GiGi DeGraham. I found the entire conversation between Maz, Kirt and GiGi about the book intriguing and fascinating, it totally hooked me. Great episode from start to finish. Great podcast in general.
Review to come… maybe.
Edited to add: Prisoner does not have an HEA or even an HFN. It also ends on a cliffhanger so I was highly invested in jumping straight into book two. After finishing book two, Fugitive, I’m not sure if I’ll continue the series. If you’re like me and hesitate to start a series without having a sense of whether the series sequels live up to the first installment, you may want to check the reviews for Fugitive before investing in Prisoner.
Prisoner is the first book in the Steele Pack series from author GiGi DeGraham. It’s a heavy-hitting saga that focuses mostly on two parts of Prisoner 793’s life: his time behind bars and his time after he escapes. (Note, I refer to the MC as 793 because I also love the way DeGraham uses his name as a device to mark different stages in the story, and I don’t want to spoil that effort in my review.) That said, the storytelling is anything but linear. We are first introduced to 793 a short time before he executes his escape plan, but there are a few flashbacks to his time in juvenile detention that flesh out what kind of person he is in prison and how he meets Thomas. These vignettes continue after 793 meets Tristan and starts serving as caretaker for Tristan’s remote cabin. Not only do both realities have brutal survival themes at their core, they are made bearable and bittersweet by 793’s relationship and memories of Thomas. There are two additional themes that crop up once 793 starts his caretaker role. One is his complex connection to Tristan and the other is the ubiquitous presence of a gray wolf.
A book causing emotional whiplash is definitely a thing, I got taught that while reading this book. Make sure you have tissues nearby. I wasn't prepared nor was I ready for the overwhelming emotions this book, along with these characters made me feel.
Ryan has never had an easy life; his parents died, then him and his twin sister ended up at a not so great foster home, and after they ran away a man tried to s3xually assault his sister. So, Ryan defended his sister by hitting the man with a rock... Repeatedly. After that incident his life was never the same again, he got arrested, got life in prison even though he was a minor at the time of the crime, and his best friend/boyfriend died in custody. He just can't take being in prison anymore, it's going to kill him. He plans his escape and when he got the opportunity to he took it, and succeed.
After escaping he knew he would never be able to stop moving, he wouldn't be safe, and he would always have to look over his shoulder. He was not going back to prison.
His luck turns around when he meets high as a kite Tristan. Tristan doesn't believe what the news is saying about Ryan, he's not a killer or dangerous. So, Tristan helps him out and continues to help Ryan survive alone at Tristan's parents cabin. That act of kindness forever changed Ryan's life, as well as changing Tristan's.
I... Have no words, which is a problem cause I need to write this review. This was so stunning to read and I'm honestly floored. I'll be honest, when I first started this I was apprehensive due to the writing style. That and the perspective the book was written in. I'm really glad I stuck with the book and these characters cause if I just stopped reading, I would've missed out on a really great book.
This is a very slow paced book, but there's a reason for it. The author is building up backstory, characters, and most importantly dialogue and plot. I wasn't sure if this was a happy ever after, or a happy for now... I wasn't sure but took a chance anyway. I'm here to tell you that it's neither of those. It leaves off on a massive cliffhanger and is definitely set up for another book. Which I hope comes out very soon! The characters drew me in, I loved Thomas. He was in juvie but still tried to keep not only himself thinking positive thoughts but he also tried to keep Ryan thinking positive. I cried for these two boys who got dealt a bad hand. I wish that didn't happen to them, and that they didn't have to go through what they did.
Tristan is so nice, his parents would definitely be proud!!
This felt like I was in a movie, I could picture everything that was going on and I was invested!
While there were romantic elements this doesn't have a lot of romance in it. It's mentioned but not the main part of the story. It was honestly a different type of story for me, and I loved it. Completely unique and special. I'm really glad I read this. I'm so excited and eager for (hopefully) the next book.
*I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.*
This was a pageturner, and my only annoyance was the amount of time spent with flashbacks to the prison. It took me reading the blurb of book #2, to stop skimming all the thoughts about Thomas and enjoying them. I had to wait until the last paragraph for this to become a shifter story. I really read this with the wrong expectations, but in the end, it was a 'Did Not Sleep' experience.
This is a really impressive debut. Definitely heed the CWs, and I’ll add that there is non-explicit sex between two minors in the book. Not my jam, but it was tastefully done, as it is not written as smut, but to show the nature of the relationship between the two. And generally I would say just age up your characters, but I’m not sure that could be done in this circumstance.
I had my suspicions about where this was going, but later wrote them off, and I admit I was fooled! I’m kicking myself for reading this before the series, or at least the second book, had been completed, because holy cliffhanger.
It’s also a glacial slowburn. I love a slow burn, but I would have thought this almost too slow were there not so many other things to keep my interest. There were times I couldn’t put this book down, and there were times I had to take a step away, as the emotional parts were *really* emotional.
2,5-2,75/5 So many mixed feelings about this one! I feel like it was mostly about surviving, loss and grief than anything else. Romance? Not really. Paranormal? I mean it's call The Steele Pack book one but once again not really: the two last minutes at normal speed is where the paranormal element happens. This book wasn't really for me because I feel like I was promised romance when it wasn't really there. and let's not forget the sex scenes which were 99% flashbacks of a teenage mc having sex with his teenage boyfriend... Anyways, the book was different but not the kind of different I like. I've also read the blurb of book 2 and WTF!!?? Book 1 and book 2 seem to be worlds apart!
I was very surprised by this. It is definitely a very slow burn, and a lot of inner monologues but the ending was a big surprise even though I should've seen it coming. I'm very eager to see the sequel and how it progresses.
The only quibble I have is how convenient Tristan was. Without giving anything away, I felt that it was hard to believe how lucky and too convenient for Ryan to come across Tristan and for his reaction/response to Ryan. And for the whole cabin setup. Just too convenient.
Prisoner 793, sentenced to prison for murder, a teenager who wouldn’t see the outside till he was sixty. He had to leave his best friend and boyfriend Thomas at the juvenile detention center when he aged out and was sent to prison. His next few years were scary, terrifying and incredibly hard. When he escaped he thought of himself as Seven, having forgotten his real name was Ryan. His escape, a miracle in its self. Then he was discovered by Tristan and his second miracle happened.
Amazing story. Heartbreakingly beautiful, gritty, dark, sweet, and ultimately unforgettable. Most of the book was Ryan’s inner dialogue. He didn’t speak, hadn’t for over ten years so his thought processes were interesting and complete. The author gave him a strong inner voice. When he did start speaking again he wasn’t comfortable with it and had to basically relearn to communicate.
I loved all of the main characters. They each had such an impact on Ryan’s life. Rylee, Thomas, his prison cell mates, and Tristan all had something to teach him. His life, as restrictive as it had been, was actually well rounded enough for him to be able to survive on his own (with help from Tristan).
Thomas was the love of his life but I’d call this a romance light. His love for Thomas was still in the beginning stages (even though they were “together” for three years as inseparable friends).
I very seldom reread a book as soon as I finish it, but this one called to me. Not even through January yet but I’ve found my second top ten book of the year. The story starts out slowish but give it a chance, it really deserves to be read.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
Prisoner 793 came to only accept that as his name. With an unfortunate, trauma inducing crime, protecting his twin sister, he was sentenced. He was sent to juvenile detention center at the young age of 14. This is where he met Thomas and took him under his protection. They grew close and a special relationship developed between them. Unfortunately when 793 turned eighteen, he had to leave Thomas behind. Being tried as and adult at his young age and now turning eighteen, he was transferred to maximum security prison. Now, separated from Thomas, he looked forward to the day when Thomas would also be transferred to maximum security prison and they could be together again.
793 at twenty-seven had served twelve years of his sentence and had thirty-eight years left to serve. He had two cell mates that he learned from: Big Bastard and the strange Leander.
In order to not bring attention to himself 793 kept his head down, did what he was told and talked to no one. He always thought of Thomas and wrote to him and waited for for the day they would be together again. But a tragic turn left 793 devastated. It only left 793 with one thought and that was to move up his plan. By the skin of his teeth, his plan works, but it leaves him alone and on the run in a world he’s not used too.
793 is now desperate to find a place he can live and hide before the authorities find him. He’s always on the move until one time he takes a chance to steal away on a yacht. When the yacht docks at a waterfront house, he makes his escape. But he’s caught by a young man, Tristan Steele. Tristan is an orphan, a graduate student and wealthy due to the loss of his parents. Tristan makes an unbelievable offer to 793 as he believes it’s the right thing to do. Tristan offers so much help to 793 and it will open up 793 with just his name.
Gigi DeGraham creates a very dark theme story of prison life. It will follow prisoner 793 through stages from juvenile detention and maximum prison. The author doesn’t hold back at what prison life is like for so many. She also brings out the unfairness of the justice system and how they convicted a juvenile as an adult. I have to commend the author for the in-depth look at the prison, prison guards, rules and regulations that are overlooked and all that’s involved in the way of prison life.
The author also brings an interesting look at how, 793, Thomas and Tristan all deal with their feelings and conflicts in the way of love and sexuality. Tristan is a life saver as he shows a kindness and help that gives freedom and a new life to 793.
For me, the one character that stood out is Leander Morel. He was one of 793’s cell mates for a time. It seemed other prisoners never approached Leander. He was known for the unexplainable, hexes, curses, visions and dark magic. It has me wondering if somehow Leander had something to do with the shocking ending of this novel.
At the beginning of each chapter, the author has interesting quotes by famous individuals, they are thought provoking and fit each chapter perfectly.
I highly recommend “Prisoner” the start of the new series “Steele Pack” by Gigi Graham. The novel was gripping from the very start, it’s suspenseful, and emotional on so many levels. I couldn’t put it down!
Prisoner 793 came to only accept that as his name. With an unfortunate, trauma inducing crime, protecting his twin sister, he was sentenced. He was sent to juvenile detention center at the young age of 14. This is where he met Thomas and took him under his protection. They grew close and a special relationship developed between them. Unfortunately when 793 turned eighteen, he had to leave Thomas behind. Being tried as and adult at his young age and now turning eighteen, he was transferred to maximum security prison. Now, separated from Thomas, he looked forward to the day when Thomas would also be transferred to maximum security prison and they could be together again.
793 at twenty-seven had served twelve years of his sentence and had thirty-eight years left to serve. He had two cell mates that he learned from: Big Bastard and the strange Leander.
In order to not bring attention to himself 793 kept his head down, did what he was told and talked to no one. He always thought of Thomas and wrote to him and waited for for the day they would be together again. But a tragic turn left 793 devastated. It only left 793 with one thought and that was to move up his plan. By the skin of his teeth, his plan works, but it leaves him alone and on the run in a world he’s not used too.
793 is now desperate to find a place he can live and hide before the authorities find him. He’s always on the move until one time he takes a chance to steal away on a yacht. When the yacht docks at a waterfront house, he makes his escape. But he’s caught by a young man, Tristan Steele. Tristan is an orphan, a graduate student and wealthy due to the loss of his parents. Tristan makes an unbelievable offer to 793 as he believes it’s the right thing to do. Tristan offers so much help to 793 and it will open up 793 with just his name.
Gigi DeGraham creates a very dark theme story of prison life. It will follow prisoner 793 through stages from juvenile detention and maximum prison. The author doesn’t hold back at what prison life is like for so many. She also brings out the unfairness of the justice system and how they convicted a juvenile as an adult. I have to commend the author for the in-depth look at the prison, prison guards, rules and regulations that are overlooked and all that’s involved in the way of prison life.
The author also brings an interesting look at how, 793, Thomas and Tristan all deal with their feelings and conflicts in the way of love and sexuality. Tristan is a life saver as he shows a kindness and help that gives freedom and a new life to 793.
For me, the one character that stood out is Leander Morel. He was one of 793’s cell mates for a time. It seemed other prisoners never approached Leander. He was known for the unexplainable, hexes, curses, visions and dark magic. It has me wondering if somehow Leander had something to do with the shocking ending of this novel.
At the beginning of each chapter, the author has interesting quotes by famous individuals, they are thought provoking and fit each chapter perfectly.
I highly recommend “Prisoner” the start of the new series “Steele Pack” by Gigi Graham. The novel was gripping from the very start, it’s suspenseful, and emotional on so many levels. I couldn’t put it down!
I don’t even know what to say. This book made me weep and it really doesn’t happen often. And it made me sad, and then hopeful, and then grieving. And I loved every second of it. It’s not actually action packed, it’s really slow-paced and has many trips down the memory lane. It also reminded me of those survivalists stories where men learn to survive in the wilds. But the feelings, omg. I really was dumbstruck at the ending, like I felt a bit deceived and also very excited. There is a HUGE cliffhanger at the end so proceed with caution. I’m so invested in the continuation of the story in Fugitive (the second book of the series).
Ryan has been a prisoner since he was 15. He carries so much heartache in his past, and his youth was ripped away. A whirlwind escape sends him to a man who will become his first friend, and a big grey wolf that won’t stop following him. As you learn more about Ryan, you find that the story is really just starting.
The bomb that was dropped at the end! Ok, so I kinda figured something was up, and I kinda guessed it, but I was soooo excited when that bomb was dropped! This audio had me totally hooked from the start, and I am hoping the rest of the series comes out in audio, because it’s a need. Kirt does an incredible job bringing life to this story, but no one is surprised there. Check your triggers, listen to this book! 😍
Wow, this book got to me in a lot of unexpected ways, and I think that's what I liked about it so much. The paranormal elements are included with the right blend of subtlety and deviation from worn out tropes to have the reader second guessing their predictions all the way to the end. My only complaint is that the second book isn't out right this instant, because holy moly, what a cliffhanger!!!
I really love this story and the way it is written. It is very original. If you want romance, it is very sloooow. But i really couldn't put this book down. It ends with a cliffhanger. Luckily the second book is already published. I can't wait the the third one.
What a complete delight this book was for me. Even though a lot of the book takes place in prison, it’s surprisingly sweet. I fell in love with Ryan’s story and his pursuit for freedom. Cannot wait to read the second one!
I listened to the audiobook and was hooked from the start. Kirt said it best when he said it was the vibes of Wolfsong, if Ox was adult, didn’t have his mother and it was a bit darker. It’s a journey, and the ending left me needing the next one IMMEDIATELY. I hope they do the audiobook for all books in this series (if there ends up being more than 2), but there’s NO WAY I can wait.
I can’t believe this was this authors debut. That’s insane. It’s a crime this isn’t more popular.
I was blown away by this book. I would not have picked it up if it were not suggested to me because it is not my normal genre, but I would have missed out on an amazing book! I was blown away at how flawlessly all the plot twists in this book were written. This author did a fabulous job at keeping things suspenseful and interesting. I do not typically read books with MM but it was beautifully written and I fell in love with the MC. While yes he is a prisoner who escaped I couldn’t help but root for him and cheer him on along the way. I had so many emotions while reading this and I CANNOT wait for book two to be released. That cliffhanger KILLED me!