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Novel (49,000 words)
Genre(s): transgressive, psychopath, dark erotica, LGBT+/GSM
Fresh out of school, Dr. Crane takes on a new patient who both intrigues and unnerves him. Charming, manipulative, and amoral, Max has exactly the sort of mind Crane finds himself drawn to with fictional characters.
As Max weaves himself into Crane's life, Crane realizes that while fiction might be safe, Max certainly is not.
When the professional line between them thins, who gets to define where one man ends and the other begins?
Genre(s): transgressive, psychopath, dark erotica, LGBT+/GSM
Fresh out of school, Dr. Crane takes on a new patient who both intrigues and unnerves him. Charming, manipulative, and amoral, Max has exactly the sort of mind Crane finds himself drawn to with fictional characters.
As Max weaves himself into Crane's life, Crane realizes that while fiction might be safe, Max certainly is not.
When the professional line between them thins, who gets to define where one man ends and the other begins?
201 pages, ebook
First published September 30, 2016
About the author
Bey Deckard
26 books687 followersArtist, dog lover, and writer of very queer, very adult fiction.
Bey Deckard is the author of a number of novels including the Baal’s Heart books, Max, Beauty and His Beast, and Better the Devil You Know.
Bey lives in Montréal, Canada where he spends most of his time writing, doing graphic work, painting portraits, speaking French, cooking tasty vegetarian eats, or watching more movies than is good for him. If you’re the curious type, www.beydeckard.com is where you’ll find art and free stories by Bey as well as information on his published works.
Bey Deckard is the author of a number of novels including the Baal’s Heart books, Max, Beauty and His Beast, and Better the Devil You Know.
Bey lives in Montréal, Canada where he spends most of his time writing, doing graphic work, painting portraits, speaking French, cooking tasty vegetarian eats, or watching more movies than is good for him. If you’re the curious type, www.beydeckard.com is where you’ll find art and free stories by Bey as well as information on his published works.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 270 reviews
May 22, 2019
3.5 stars
Yay! I got my darky dark fix! I feel good.
I was intrigued by the characters from the beginning. I love me some Psychos and MAX, Dear Lawd!
I wish we had Max's POV. I would love to be in his head.
I liked Dr. Crane too but oh boy! I have never wanted to punch a character like i wanted to punch him. Oh the good kind of punch. To protect him and make him wake up and use his therapist brain. Then i realized these two psychos deserve each other.
Everything was good until somewhere towards the end
Overall! This was exactly what i needed, for a shorty it was good. I just wish it was longer and i could get some answers.
Yay! I got my darky dark fix! I feel good.
I was intrigued by the characters from the beginning. I love me some Psychos and MAX, Dear Lawd!
I wish we had Max's POV. I would love to be in his head.
I liked Dr. Crane too but oh boy! I have never wanted to punch a character like i wanted to punch him. Oh the good kind of punch. To protect him and make him wake up and use his therapist brain. Then i realized these two psychos deserve each other.
Everything was good until somewhere towards the end
Overall! This was exactly what i needed, for a shorty it was good. I just wish it was longer and i could get some answers.
October 12, 2016
A tag team review with Sara!
4.5 HEARTS--
Down the rabbit hole indeed...
What a twisted, psychological thrilling roller coaster of a ride Max turned out to be.
I'd rather warn potential readers there are triggers in here: rape, dubious consent, unethical practices, cheating, some violence. (A checklist of sorts that guaranteed me reading) And I don't consider this a trigger by any means, but there are readers who don't like vaginas in their fiction *gasp*...whelp, there are few in here (put to good use might I add. I mean it is a Bey Deckard title *grin*) Is Max dark? I don't think so. On a scale from 1-5, maybe 1 or 1.5? It's more a head game...a devious fucking head game.
Lying.
There's oodles and oodles of lies. And I've read this 1.5 times, and I'm trying to figure out where all the truths were.
Set in Montréal, Dr. Dennis Crane is a newly minted psychologist, married and seems to have a normal life. Enter his patient, young Max, who he can tell has a madness in his eyes, that Max is hiding something. But Dr. Crane is drawn to the younger man. Maybe he can diagnose him, fix Max. He doesn't even realize he's been ensnared in the spider's web and Max is running the show.
I believe I've made it known I enjoy reading the cray crays, especially when they're well written. Psychopaths, sociopaths, amoral puppet masters that treat others they encounter as their toys...I enjoy reading them.
This is Max.
He's a level 7 on my scale, 100%. And I was plugged in for his show. Really enjoyed that twisted fucker.
Reading Dr. Crane lose more of himself to the miasma of the depravity that reeks from Max, and you read it as Crane knows and still can't help himself. *claps hands wildly* That was everything. The story is told in a journal style, from Dr. Crane's POV. Max and Dr. Crane's interactions starts with sessions, and steadily moves from the doctor's practice, taking over Crane's life. A mild mannered man who develops kinks he didn't even know existed. The sex was scorching hot, while the lines between doctor and patient blurred, melded and made new definitions.
I had minor quibbles. I wanted to know more. What exactly happened during the missing days? There are hints, subtle hints dotted in between the lies. It's a little frustrating not knowing. Maybe there'll be a B-side to Max? Maybe not. Who knows if the world's ready to know what's going on inside that "lizard brain" of Max's. *wink*
The ending is...I'm still a little wide eyed after that ending. I don't know what else to define it other than a little sad, yet fitting.
Recommended for readers who like amoral liars, characters who don't care to define their sexuality and twisted psychological erotica.
Watch your step.
That rabbit hole, man...it's a helluva ride.
A copy provided for an honest review.
4.5 HEARTS--
There was no climbing back out of the rabbit hole; he was fucked and fucked good, but at least the company was interesting.
Down the rabbit hole indeed...
What a twisted, psychological thrilling roller coaster of a ride Max turned out to be.
I'd rather warn potential readers there are triggers in here: rape, dubious consent, unethical practices, cheating, some violence. (A checklist of sorts that guaranteed me reading) And I don't consider this a trigger by any means, but there are readers who don't like vaginas in their fiction *gasp*...whelp, there are few in here (put to good use might I add. I mean it is a Bey Deckard title *grin*) Is Max dark? I don't think so. On a scale from 1-5, maybe 1 or 1.5? It's more a head game...a devious fucking head game.
Lying.
There's oodles and oodles of lies. And I've read this 1.5 times, and I'm trying to figure out where all the truths were.
Set in Montréal, Dr. Dennis Crane is a newly minted psychologist, married and seems to have a normal life. Enter his patient, young Max, who he can tell has a madness in his eyes, that Max is hiding something. But Dr. Crane is drawn to the younger man. Maybe he can diagnose him, fix Max. He doesn't even realize he's been ensnared in the spider's web and Max is running the show.
"Are you afraid of me, Dennis? You shouldn't be. I'm trying my very best to make you understand that I like you. And I'm offering you the very thing you desire the most: me. You know I'm a fine specimen of amorality. I'm giving you the opportunity to look behind the curtain. No holding back."
I believe I've made it known I enjoy reading the cray crays, especially when they're well written. Psychopaths, sociopaths, amoral puppet masters that treat others they encounter as their toys...I enjoy reading them.
This is Max.
He's a level 7 on my scale, 100%. And I was plugged in for his show. Really enjoyed that twisted fucker.
Reading Dr. Crane lose more of himself to the miasma of the depravity that reeks from Max, and you read it as Crane knows and still can't help himself. *claps hands wildly* That was everything. The story is told in a journal style, from Dr. Crane's POV. Max and Dr. Crane's interactions starts with sessions, and steadily moves from the doctor's practice, taking over Crane's life. A mild mannered man who develops kinks he didn't even know existed. The sex was scorching hot, while the lines between doctor and patient blurred, melded and made new definitions.
"I've opened you up to a whole new range of experiences. Once you get acclimatized, you'll see it the way I do."
I had minor quibbles. I wanted to know more. What exactly happened during the missing days? There are hints, subtle hints dotted in between the lies. It's a little frustrating not knowing. Maybe there'll be a B-side to Max? Maybe not. Who knows if the world's ready to know what's going on inside that "lizard brain" of Max's. *wink*
The ending is...I'm still a little wide eyed after that ending. I don't know what else to define it other than a little sad, yet fitting.
Recommended for readers who like amoral liars, characters who don't care to define their sexuality and twisted psychological erotica.
Watch your step.
That rabbit hole, man...it's a helluva ride.
A copy provided for an honest review.
May 25, 2019
My latest dose of fictional depravity was really good, y’all. I felt a couple of things held it back from sheer greatness, but if you enjoy dipping a reading toe into the psychological dark arts, I can easily recommend this one for the elements where it shined.
The plot is basically a therapist/patient relationship gone horribly wrong… one that was, quite frankly, never right to begin with. It started as discomforting but interesting, even while it required a healthy portion of suspended disbelief. Then, as it got more and more twisted, I couldn't rip my attention away. If you’re a fan of stories where a mind and life get twisted to a psychopath’s will, there’s something in this one for you.
The books where I can glimpse a hidden masterpiece are the ones where I most hold a slight miss against them. None of these things made the book anywhere close to a fail for me, but I always want to tear my hair out when I spy that potential-of-brilliance slip away.
The elements in my spoiler tag would most likely have taken more pages, moving this from novella into full novel territory. However, Deckard's talent was super evident in both his narrative and creative plot, and I’m excited to have a new-to-me dark author's catalogue to explore.
The plot is basically a therapist/patient relationship gone horribly wrong… one that was, quite frankly, never right to begin with. It started as discomforting but interesting, even while it required a healthy portion of suspended disbelief. Then, as it got more and more twisted, I couldn't rip my attention away. If you’re a fan of stories where a mind and life get twisted to a psychopath’s will, there’s something in this one for you.
The books where I can glimpse a hidden masterpiece are the ones where I most hold a slight miss against them. None of these things made the book anywhere close to a fail for me, but I always want to tear my hair out when I spy that potential-of-brilliance slip away.
The elements in my spoiler tag would most likely have taken more pages, moving this from novella into full novel territory. However, Deckard's talent was super evident in both his narrative and creative plot, and I’m excited to have a new-to-me dark author's catalogue to explore.
May 19, 2019
**** 3.5 stars ****
**It might contain spoilers.
This is the kind of tale that raises all red flags in your brain as soon as it starts. It's a car wreck ready to happen since there is a driver, but he's blind.
As the blurb states, Dr Crane, fresh out of school, takes on a new patient.
God help him. He was so NOT prepared for Max, it's not even funny.
Max..., dear lawd! ... just bring the straightjacket.
Max, the patient, is a master in manipulating. He lures Dr Crane in his web and unleashes the beast hibernating inside Crane.
That was clever. Scary clever. Machiavellian kind of clever.
The result?
I just wanted to shout: Dr Crane, RUN FOR YOUR LIFE!
Did he listen?
Course not. He was fascinated by Max, not mention his attraction to him.
Dr Crane downfall was fascinating to watch, although a bit predictable since from the beginning, you see that Dr Crane doesn't stand a chance with Max.
Now, who was Max?
For me to fully enjoy this tale, I would have needed more from Max's character.
We see plenty of his acts, showing his abnormal behaviour, but we never get a peek inside his mad head. Perhaps more detail from his past, which was brushed off easily.
I had the strange feeling since the beginning, that the story started without me and I kept thinking that more background would be delivered as the story progressed, but nope.
Besides, (Pardon my degree from the movies 🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️ ), for some reason, this kind of psychotic behaviour should present a pattern, me thinkss???
Therefore, it's hard to believe Dr Crane was his first "victim". It's also hard to believe his family couldn't see who he was.
Having said all this, I still think that this story it's totally worth reading if you're able to hold disbelief every now and then.
Max is a fucked up, addictive, dirty, insane and edgy story.
I loved the darkness of it .
Perversion at its best.
Last but not least I wish the author had kept the end more real. It would have secured full 4 stars.
**It might contain spoilers.
This is the kind of tale that raises all red flags in your brain as soon as it starts. It's a car wreck ready to happen since there is a driver, but he's blind.
As the blurb states, Dr Crane, fresh out of school, takes on a new patient.
God help him. He was so NOT prepared for Max, it's not even funny.
Max..., dear lawd! ... just bring the straightjacket.
Max, the patient, is a master in manipulating. He lures Dr Crane in his web and unleashes the beast hibernating inside Crane.
That was clever. Scary clever. Machiavellian kind of clever.
The result?
I just wanted to shout: Dr Crane, RUN FOR YOUR LIFE!
Did he listen?
Course not. He was fascinated by Max, not mention his attraction to him.
Dr Crane downfall was fascinating to watch, although a bit predictable since from the beginning, you see that Dr Crane doesn't stand a chance with Max.
Now, who was Max?
For me to fully enjoy this tale, I would have needed more from Max's character.
We see plenty of his acts, showing his abnormal behaviour, but we never get a peek inside his mad head. Perhaps more detail from his past, which was brushed off easily.
I had the strange feeling since the beginning, that the story started without me and I kept thinking that more background would be delivered as the story progressed, but nope.
Besides, (Pardon my degree from the movies 🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️ ), for some reason, this kind of psychotic behaviour should present a pattern, me thinkss???
Therefore, it's hard to believe Dr Crane was his first "victim". It's also hard to believe his family couldn't see who he was. Having said all this, I still think that this story it's totally worth reading if you're able to hold disbelief every now and then.
Max is a fucked up, addictive, dirty, insane and edgy story.
I loved the darkness of it .
Perversion at its best.
Last but not least I wish the author had kept the end more real. It would have secured full 4 stars.
Read
October 3, 2016Buy links & Excerpt
Folks who dislike unhealthy relationships, are sensitive to consent ambiguity, or have eurotophobia should take a big step back from this story.
It's dark... ish and full of mindfuckery.
Substance abuse, pornography, violence, cheating, unprofessional behaviour, criminal intent, abuse... and good lord, the lies.
Folks who dislike unhealthy relationships, are sensitive to consent ambiguity, or have eurotophobia should take a big step back from this story.
It's dark... ish and full of mindfuckery.
Substance abuse, pornography, violence, cheating, unprofessional behaviour, criminal intent, abuse... and good lord, the lies.
February 9, 2019
4 stars (audiobook)
Well, I wanted to read something different, and this was definitely different. I don’t think I have read a book this dark before, and for some strange reason, I found it very hard to stop listening.
When Dr. Crane takes on a new patient, Max, he certainly is not ready to be attracted to him, and the more time they spend together, lines are crossed. What ensues is a crazy, dark and twisted story as Dr. Crane goes down the “rabbit hole” Besides being an absolute psychopath, Max is in total control and manipulates Dr. Crane to the point that Crane doesn’t even recognize who he is anymore and is completely at Max’s mercy to the very end.
This book is a total mindf*ck!! I couldn’t wrap my head around it sometimes and kept questioning the reason behind all the twisted head games.
This story is not for the faint of heart, so if you are a sensitive reader, please be warned.
Well, I wanted to read something different, and this was definitely different. I don’t think I have read a book this dark before, and for some strange reason, I found it very hard to stop listening.
When Dr. Crane takes on a new patient, Max, he certainly is not ready to be attracted to him, and the more time they spend together, lines are crossed. What ensues is a crazy, dark and twisted story as Dr. Crane goes down the “rabbit hole” Besides being an absolute psychopath, Max is in total control and manipulates Dr. Crane to the point that Crane doesn’t even recognize who he is anymore and is completely at Max’s mercy to the very end.
This book is a total mindf*ck!! I couldn’t wrap my head around it sometimes and kept questioning the reason behind all the twisted head games.
This story is not for the faint of heart, so if you are a sensitive reader, please be warned.
![Profile Image for Lilly [Hiatus due to School] .](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1663899589i/10381707._UX200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
January 1, 2024
"There was no climbing back out of the rabbit hole; he was fucked and fucked good, but at least the company was interesting."
That about sums up the story....because what the hell did I just read? What in the mind fuckery nonsense was that? I was reading the second half of the story while in a waiting room, and the number of different emotions I went through - I even thought to myself I should wait till I get home but nope, I couldn't put it down. I was appalled, shocked, laughed, and cringed.
There's not much else to say without spoiling the story, but if you want to give this book a go, please be prepared and check trigger warnings. Is there a HEA? It depends on how you define it. However, this is not a standard romance, at least in any sensible and socially acceptable way.
If you want to have an idea of what to expect check my highlights but be warned it has spoilers.
That about sums up the story....because what the hell did I just read? What in the mind fuckery nonsense was that? I was reading the second half of the story while in a waiting room, and the number of different emotions I went through - I even thought to myself I should wait till I get home but nope, I couldn't put it down. I was appalled, shocked, laughed, and cringed.
There's not much else to say without spoiling the story, but if you want to give this book a go, please be prepared and check trigger warnings. Is there a HEA? It depends on how you define it. However, this is not a standard romance, at least in any sensible and socially acceptable way.
If you want to have an idea of what to expect check my highlights but be warned it has spoilers.
November 23, 2016
Re the Audible version: I am giving Nick J. Russo 4 stars on his performance here. I think he could have done so much more with Crane so I'm disappointed about that. His Max was excellent and Russo surpassed my expectations with all the secondary characters.
Merged review:
That was crazy good. It was so much fun to watch Crane unravel and go through this journey. At every turn I was thinking, "oh god, Crane - don't do it!" and then something else would happen, a twist I totally wasn't expecting. A wonderful sense of foreboding and angst building through the whole story. Since I got the first half of it over the course of several months this summer as the author released it on his blog, the experience of waiting to find out what would happen next (and not knowing how long the story would be) was especially wonderful. I'm reading it again.
Merged review:
That was crazy good. It was so much fun to watch Crane unravel and go through this journey. At every turn I was thinking, "oh god, Crane - don't do it!" and then something else would happen, a twist I totally wasn't expecting. A wonderful sense of foreboding and angst building through the whole story. Since I got the first half of it over the course of several months this summer as the author released it on his blog, the experience of waiting to find out what would happen next (and not knowing how long the story would be) was especially wonderful. I'm reading it again.
October 5, 2019
If you're a fan of health care professionals who act the part, adults who display a modicum of sense or restraint this might no be for you. If on the other hand, like me, your up for a front row seat on how low or far someone will travel from safe and staid to what some might call depravity or others freedom, you've come to the right place. Dennis Crane is a man in need of liberating and Max is the right person for the job.
While I'm pretty over the omniscient and omnipotent MC, and wanted to smack Dennis upside the head with a cast-iron skillet to stop his stupidity, spinelessness, and claims of victimhood, I also had a blast with this made in Dark Heaven couple.
There are some things I could complain about but won't because Bey Deckard is my bae. The soundtrack he lists at the end is gold and perfectly captures the book:
David Bowie -"The Heart's Filthy Lesson"
Soft Cell -"Sex Dwarf"
Revolting Cocks -"Da Ya Think I'm Sexy"
Hawksley Workman -"Striptease"
Stiltskin -"Inside"
Jane's Addiction & Diamanda Galas -"Sex is Violent"
Boredoms -"Hachi"
Front 242 -"Headhunter (Funker Vogt)"
Rob Zombie -"Run, Rabbit, Run"
Drivin' N' Cryin' -"When You Come Back"
Miles Davis -"Générique"
Dope -"You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)"
Gravity Kills -"Guilty"
Michael Kamen -"Central Services / The Office"
Luis Alberto -"Estar contigo"
I also did the audio by Nick J. Russo, and though I love him, there were a few idiosyncratic pronunciations that had me doing a double take but not enough to deter my enjoyment.
Take a plunge. The water is warm.
While I'm pretty over the omniscient and omnipotent MC, and wanted to smack Dennis upside the head with a cast-iron skillet to stop his stupidity, spinelessness, and claims of victimhood, I also had a blast with this made in Dark Heaven couple.
There are some things I could complain about but won't because Bey Deckard is my bae. The soundtrack he lists at the end is gold and perfectly captures the book:
David Bowie -"The Heart's Filthy Lesson"
Soft Cell -"Sex Dwarf"
Revolting Cocks -"Da Ya Think I'm Sexy"
Hawksley Workman -"Striptease"
Stiltskin -"Inside"
Jane's Addiction & Diamanda Galas -"Sex is Violent"
Boredoms -"Hachi"
Front 242 -"Headhunter (Funker Vogt)"
Rob Zombie -"Run, Rabbit, Run"
Drivin' N' Cryin' -"When You Come Back"
Miles Davis -"Générique"
Dope -"You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)"
Gravity Kills -"Guilty"
Michael Kamen -"Central Services / The Office"
Luis Alberto -"Estar contigo"
I also did the audio by Nick J. Russo, and though I love him, there were a few idiosyncratic pronunciations that had me doing a double take but not enough to deter my enjoyment.
Take a plunge. The water is warm.
April 12, 2021
4.25 stars.
In a sense this is the MM equivalent of YOU by Caroline Kepnes. If you've read YOU, that's an endorsement enough. This book is chock full of twisted depravity, dark humour, twists & turns, a likable serial killer (I think?), written from the perspective of such an unreliable narrator I'm not sure what really happened. MM is not my go-to choice for reads, but after reading this I see myself potentially reading more. The only reason I picked this up was that a GR friend said they read this and it made them think of me (lol thanks? I'm not sure how to take that....). But no, big thanks to the GR friend who recced this to me. This was a fun read.
TW: Noncon, dubcon, drug use, violence, & an unethical patient/doctor relationship
In a sense this is the MM equivalent of YOU by Caroline Kepnes. If you've read YOU, that's an endorsement enough. This book is chock full of twisted depravity, dark humour, twists & turns, a likable serial killer (I think?), written from the perspective of such an unreliable narrator I'm not sure what really happened. MM is not my go-to choice for reads, but after reading this I see myself potentially reading more. The only reason I picked this up was that a GR friend said they read this and it made them think of me (lol thanks? I'm not sure how to take that....). But no, big thanks to the GR friend who recced this to me. This was a fun read.
TW: Noncon, dubcon, drug use, violence, & an unethical patient/doctor relationship
December 25, 2020
3 STARS
I’m never taking book recs from random facebook groups ever again.
TW: pretty much everything. Honestly, this wasn’t even romance. So messed up. But at the very least, I was entertained.
I’m never taking book recs from random facebook groups ever again.
TW: pretty much everything. Honestly, this wasn’t even romance. So messed up. But at the very least, I was entertained.
October 10, 2016
Review originally posted at Sinfully.
Be forewarned that this psycho-sexual thriller contains issues of consent, abuse, violence, cheating, doctor/patient improprieties, general depravity and a number of WTF moments. If you are sensitive to anything please tread carefully. If you love depraved mind-fucks and when it comes to your reading have few hard limits like me, you’re going to want to get that one-click finger ready.
From their first session Dr. Dennis Crane is completely intrigued by the young man. Max is good looking, charming and obviously intelligent, but there is something unsettling about him. About his expressions, the way he looks at Crane and the way he makes Crane feel. He’s also clearly manipulative and likely has issues that are far beyond the young doctor’s abilities, but Dr. Crane has always been fascinated by psychopaths.
Max is in charge from that very first meeting. Crane knows he is in over his head but Max has a Svengali-like hold over him and plays him for all he can. In no time at all, Crane’s boring, stable life is spiraling out of control. Doctor/patient lines are erased, the lies are piling up and he can’t resist the pull of Max. It doesn’t take long before Crane’s life as he knows it is crumbling around him.
Told solely from Crane’s point of view I was kept off balance along with Crane who is often in a state of recovering from being drugged or drunk. Images come and go, but he doesn’t know if he dreamed them, saw them in a film or they really happened. As Crane’s world narrows down to only Max and himself he doesn’t seem to know what’s happening, but he can’t deny that when he’s not afraid he’s enjoying being with Max. Is it love, obsession or a sort of Stockholm syndrome? Is Max that psychopath that Crane has always been fascinated by or is Crane descending into a madness of his own?
A fan of a number of the movies mentioned, my mind was spinning with possibilities throughout the story as Crane descends deeper and deeper into Max’s world. Every time I thought to myself hey, I’ve seen this movie, I know where this is going, Bey Deckard managed to prove me wrong.
I love these twisted tales where my stomach is turning even as my eyes are racing over the words. Bey Deckard has created an amazing psychopath in Max and a perfect patsy in Crane. While it may sound like Crane is nothing more than a victim, he definitely has a hand in his own demise. Crane has a moment or two where he gives as good as he gets, or maybe Max just wants it that way because ultimately, he is no challenge for Max’s brilliance and lack of morals.
Well written, fast paced and keeping me on the edge of my seat, I’d have to say my first Bey Deckard story was a huge win for me. No way is this going to be everyone’s cup of tea but if you love those charming liars and don’t mind a bit of violence and a lot of perversity, you’re going to love this one.
Be forewarned that this psycho-sexual thriller contains issues of consent, abuse, violence, cheating, doctor/patient improprieties, general depravity and a number of WTF moments. If you are sensitive to anything please tread carefully. If you love depraved mind-fucks and when it comes to your reading have few hard limits like me, you’re going to want to get that one-click finger ready.
Under ‘reason for seeking counselling’ on the intake sheet, Max had written ‘taedium vitae’, which translated to ‘tired of life’.
From their first session Dr. Dennis Crane is completely intrigued by the young man. Max is good looking, charming and obviously intelligent, but there is something unsettling about him. About his expressions, the way he looks at Crane and the way he makes Crane feel. He’s also clearly manipulative and likely has issues that are far beyond the young doctor’s abilities, but Dr. Crane has always been fascinated by psychopaths.
Are you afraid of me, Dennis? You shouldn’t be. I’m trying my very best to make you understand that I like you. And I’m offering you the very thing you desire the most: me. You know I’m a fine specimen of amorality. I’m giving you the opportunity to look behind the curtain. No holding back.
Max is in charge from that very first meeting. Crane knows he is in over his head but Max has a Svengali-like hold over him and plays him for all he can. In no time at all, Crane’s boring, stable life is spiraling out of control. Doctor/patient lines are erased, the lies are piling up and he can’t resist the pull of Max. It doesn’t take long before Crane’s life as he knows it is crumbling around him.
Told solely from Crane’s point of view I was kept off balance along with Crane who is often in a state of recovering from being drugged or drunk. Images come and go, but he doesn’t know if he dreamed them, saw them in a film or they really happened. As Crane’s world narrows down to only Max and himself he doesn’t seem to know what’s happening, but he can’t deny that when he’s not afraid he’s enjoying being with Max. Is it love, obsession or a sort of Stockholm syndrome? Is Max that psychopath that Crane has always been fascinated by or is Crane descending into a madness of his own?
A fan of a number of the movies mentioned, my mind was spinning with possibilities throughout the story as Crane descends deeper and deeper into Max’s world. Every time I thought to myself hey, I’ve seen this movie, I know where this is going, Bey Deckard managed to prove me wrong.
I love these twisted tales where my stomach is turning even as my eyes are racing over the words. Bey Deckard has created an amazing psychopath in Max and a perfect patsy in Crane. While it may sound like Crane is nothing more than a victim, he definitely has a hand in his own demise. Crane has a moment or two where he gives as good as he gets, or maybe Max just wants it that way because ultimately, he is no challenge for Max’s brilliance and lack of morals.
Well written, fast paced and keeping me on the edge of my seat, I’d have to say my first Bey Deckard story was a huge win for me. No way is this going to be everyone’s cup of tea but if you love those charming liars and don’t mind a bit of violence and a lot of perversity, you’re going to love this one.
Read
October 1, 2016Max is psych and power-play manipulation at its very, very best, and... Christ, this is perfection when it comes to getting up close and personal with dark and twisted minds.... You've got to like it dark, you've got to love fiction more than a little twisted, and if you do, then this is one that will hit all those get-me-inside-the-twisted-guys'-heads spots!
Disclaimer: I'm editor for Max, although this is the second novel that I wish I was the damn author of. :) Just Perfect!
Disclaimer: I'm editor for Max, although this is the second novel that I wish I was the damn author of. :) Just Perfect!
November 6, 2016
I liked the premise of the book, for me it just did not get there. The basis of the story was there, IMO it was lacking any character history leading to how this story got here. I really enjoy a good dark or twisted story but it needs some back up,for me this one was lacking that
October 9, 2022
4.5 Stars.
I knew this was going to be all sorts of messed up. And wow did it deliver!!! I loved it. I didn't even know what I was reading sometimes, but I was happily along for the ride. I cannot wait for the follow up book.
I knew this was going to be all sorts of messed up. And wow did it deliver!!! I loved it. I didn't even know what I was reading sometimes, but I was happily along for the ride. I cannot wait for the follow up book.
Read
April 12, 2017DNF @30%
Good book but too fucked up. Even for me. But seriously, good book.
Good book but too fucked up. Even for me. But seriously, good book.
February 15, 2021
What the hell did I just read?! Mind*ckery at its finest! Great story, very different, pretty dark.
January 6, 2023
Oh my, this is so absolutely dark … there are so many triggers … and it’s absolutely fucked up. Reading it was like watching a train wreck. You know it's going to be disastrous, but you can't look away. The author's warnings are, frankly, a bit laughable.
Folks who dislike unhealthy relationships, are sensitive to consent ambiguity, or have eurotophobia should take a big step back from this story. It's dark (ish?) and full of mindfuckery. Substance abuse, pornography, violence, cheating, unprofessional behaviour, criminal intent, abuse... and good lord, the lies. 😯😯😯
I thought to myself, yes it's ok, I can live with it. I'm not a big fan of some of these things, but it won't be that bad.
Haha, the joke was on me.
I can't say that I liked the book. I felt uncomfortable for most of the reading. The plot is not just dark and full of toxic relationship but quite simply sick.
In all its deranged display, it is a very well written book, otherwise I would not have been able to read this.
There was no climbing back out of the rabbit hole; he was fucked and fucked good, but at least the company was interesting. 🖤🖤🖤
There is something like a happy ending, the question remains whether you should be happy that Max and Crane are together. 😕😕😕
Folks who dislike unhealthy relationships, are sensitive to consent ambiguity, or have eurotophobia should take a big step back from this story. It's dark (ish?) and full of mindfuckery. Substance abuse, pornography, violence, cheating, unprofessional behaviour, criminal intent, abuse... and good lord, the lies. 😯😯😯
I thought to myself, yes it's ok, I can live with it. I'm not a big fan of some of these things, but it won't be that bad.
Haha, the joke was on me.
I can't say that I liked the book. I felt uncomfortable for most of the reading. The plot is not just dark and full of toxic relationship but quite simply sick.
In all its deranged display, it is a very well written book, otherwise I would not have been able to read this.
There was no climbing back out of the rabbit hole; he was fucked and fucked good, but at least the company was interesting. 🖤🖤🖤
There is something like a happy ending, the question remains whether you should be happy that Max and Crane are together. 😕😕😕
February 16, 2023
Reread - Feb 2023 - read this in one sitting this time, in prep for the sequel. Seriously seriously fucked up! Down the rabbit hole is spot on. Loved it though 🫣
Review
Woah that was crazy! The absolute unraveling of Cranes mind as he falls further into obsession over Max's manipulative ass. Crazy!
Yes I did enjoy that, it was all kinds of seriously fucked up so don't read this unless you have penchant for dark and depraved stories. It was an absolute mindfuck!
Whether I enjoy stories like this all depends on how they end. I had absolutely no idea how this would end, even to the last page I thought something else could change. I was scared it would be a bit of a Cheating Bastard ending, but it wasn't and that's all I'm telling you about that ;-). I actually really really like how this ended, I think it was perfect for these two fucked up men!
The only reason this is 4 not 5 stars is because I was so stressed throughout this book, not knowing how it was going to end. It was so good though!
Review
Woah that was crazy! The absolute unraveling of Cranes mind as he falls further into obsession over Max's manipulative ass. Crazy!
Yes I did enjoy that, it was all kinds of seriously fucked up so don't read this unless you have penchant for dark and depraved stories. It was an absolute mindfuck!
Whether I enjoy stories like this all depends on how they end. I had absolutely no idea how this would end, even to the last page I thought something else could change. I was scared it would be a bit of a Cheating Bastard ending, but it wasn't and that's all I'm telling you about that ;-). I actually really really like how this ended, I think it was perfect for these two fucked up men!
The only reason this is 4 not 5 stars is because I was so stressed throughout this book, not knowing how it was going to end. It was so good though!
March 12, 2022
"In my Lil boussi voice on the couch yelling
AYE!
BEY! BEY! BEY! 💃🏾
AYE!
BEY! BEY! BEY!💃🏾
AYE!
BEY!BEY!BEY!💃🏾
Bey you had me clutching my invisible pearls with this one! Ooweee.
This book right here!!!!! This novel right here!!! This MASTERPIECE RIGHT HERE!!!! Is literally the DDD. Decadence, Debauchery, Deliciousness I be looking for.
And Nick J. Russo.. congrats you just been inducted into My X Men of Narrators!! Which means I need to be claiming you on my taxes... js
So for the Novel... I was not prepared for the fuktary I listened to and I loved it!! Just watching Dennis fall lower into ther rabbit hole was the best. I wanted to be team Dennis but then I just kept wanting bad shyt to keep happening to him.
Max you depraved, deranged little pycho, lmmfo I just kept smirking because I thought I knew what he was going to do then he would do something else just even more depraved!!! And it made me love you more. 😍
Again. My taste in books are on the EXTREME DARK SIDE PERIODT! The darker, more deranged, decadent, depraved..The more Della!!!!
AYE!
BEY! BEY! BEY! 💃🏾
AYE!
BEY! BEY! BEY!💃🏾
AYE!
BEY!BEY!BEY!💃🏾
Bey you had me clutching my invisible pearls with this one! Ooweee.
This book right here!!!!! This novel right here!!! This MASTERPIECE RIGHT HERE!!!! Is literally the DDD. Decadence, Debauchery, Deliciousness I be looking for.
And Nick J. Russo.. congrats you just been inducted into My X Men of Narrators!! Which means I need to be claiming you on my taxes... js
So for the Novel... I was not prepared for the fuktary I listened to and I loved it!! Just watching Dennis fall lower into ther rabbit hole was the best. I wanted to be team Dennis but then I just kept wanting bad shyt to keep happening to him.
Max you depraved, deranged little pycho, lmmfo I just kept smirking because I thought I knew what he was going to do then he would do something else just even more depraved!!! And it made me love you more. 😍
Again. My taste in books are on the EXTREME DARK SIDE PERIODT! The darker, more deranged, decadent, depraved..The more Della!!!!
Read
October 17, 20164.5 HEARTS--
I'm nailing all sorts of first lately.
Totally popped my tag team cherry this with SRAL on this one!
I’ve said it more than once, I’ll read anything as long as it’s written well even if it’s dark, depraved and full of the folks being debased and this book, it’s written brilliantly.
This book is loaded with psycho sexuality, with moral ambiguity, with pure WTAF-ness and I couldn’t get enough. We begin the story with fresh faced and new to the practice, Dr. Dennis Crane with one Max. Crane wants to be the type of professional to be – professional – and yet when Max flirts with the chance to get an upfront and personal look into the workings of his mind, it’s an offer Crane can’t refuse.
I love that Dr. Crane has doubts but he also has the kind of curiosity that could very well kill the cat. That we know what movie and what character gave him the push to be a shrink of the minds and get inside people’s heads. When Max starts to twist things, to make Max want things he’s never wanted before, even I started to wonder…
Max is the type of character that always intrigues me. It’s a sick curiosity of the mentally twisted, the master manipulators and how they do it. I mean, to a point a good number of sexual predators and serial killers and a charming skill that lures their victims in and makes them vulnerable. Here, we have Max who uses his own knowledge of psychology, though a bit depraved and turns the tables on the Doc so much that you wonder who really is analyzing whom?
Though certain lines reminded me of movies and/or songs, the lyrics added to the unease of the unknown. At one point, I started to wonder if I was actually enjoying the story or if this was my reader’s version of dub-con. My own hearts filthy lesson at wanting to take a trip to the dark side. The twists in the story are amazing. Just when I thought I knew what was up, I would turn the page. Just when I thought I had a handle on what was the true reality, Crane would snap out of that one into another or he would get a text from someone I should not have forgotten about because, fuck! OMG!
There is a soundtrack to go along with the story that, as a professed music nerd, makes it even better. I mean, anyone who can make a playlist with Marc Almond singing about making scenes, being a team and making headlines sound like a dream, is a-fucking-okay in my book but music and books have always been the heart of my life so I love the soundtrack. Listening to it gave the story a cinematic quality reminiscent of some deep and disturbing films that I happen to find, interesting. I have to add a few lines from a song that wasn’t on it though because for me it was on repeat when I would think of how lost or maybe just how found Crane was becoming all because of Max. It’s a bit less, transcending than that on the soundtrack but, for me it’s that deep part of Crane that can’t figure out which side of the looking glass he is on.
Max is a twisted mind fuck of story that will have you guessing and more than likely getting it wrong each and every time. Toward the end I was lost and confused and really stuck with needing to know the truth just like David Mills needed to know what was in that box delivered to the middle of the desert. I needed to know and what I got… man, that end. I almost wish it went darker… yeah, I just said that but at least there is some sort of breathing room now that it’s over and maybe I can leave the dark side and go home too. No? Kay? I have friends on this side anyway and they have snacks.
I'm nailing all sorts of first lately.
Totally popped my tag team cherry this with SRAL on this one!
I’ve said it more than once, I’ll read anything as long as it’s written well even if it’s dark, depraved and full of the folks being debased and this book, it’s written brilliantly.
You liked it. I swear. I didn’t push you into anything. You wanted it.
This book is loaded with psycho sexuality, with moral ambiguity, with pure WTAF-ness and I couldn’t get enough. We begin the story with fresh faced and new to the practice, Dr. Dennis Crane with one Max. Crane wants to be the type of professional to be – professional – and yet when Max flirts with the chance to get an upfront and personal look into the workings of his mind, it’s an offer Crane can’t refuse.
I love that Dr. Crane has doubts but he also has the kind of curiosity that could very well kill the cat. That we know what movie and what character gave him the push to be a shrink of the minds and get inside people’s heads. When Max starts to twist things, to make Max want things he’s never wanted before, even I started to wonder…
… the mysteries of the human mind are both multitudinous and rather fascinating,n’est-ce pas, mon cher?
Max is the type of character that always intrigues me. It’s a sick curiosity of the mentally twisted, the master manipulators and how they do it. I mean, to a point a good number of sexual predators and serial killers and a charming skill that lures their victims in and makes them vulnerable. Here, we have Max who uses his own knowledge of psychology, though a bit depraved and turns the tables on the Doc so much that you wonder who really is analyzing whom?
Though certain lines reminded me of movies and/or songs, the lyrics added to the unease of the unknown. At one point, I started to wonder if I was actually enjoying the story or if this was my reader’s version of dub-con. My own hearts filthy lesson at wanting to take a trip to the dark side. The twists in the story are amazing. Just when I thought I knew what was up, I would turn the page. Just when I thought I had a handle on what was the true reality, Crane would snap out of that one into another or he would get a text from someone I should not have forgotten about because, fuck! OMG!
It was madness, but it was a beautiful fucking madness indeed.
There is a soundtrack to go along with the story that, as a professed music nerd, makes it even better. I mean, anyone who can make a playlist with Marc Almond singing about making scenes, being a team and making headlines sound like a dream, is a-fucking-okay in my book but music and books have always been the heart of my life so I love the soundtrack. Listening to it gave the story a cinematic quality reminiscent of some deep and disturbing films that I happen to find, interesting. I have to add a few lines from a song that wasn’t on it though because for me it was on repeat when I would think of how lost or maybe just how found Crane was becoming all because of Max. It’s a bit less, transcending than that on the soundtrack but, for me it’s that deep part of Crane that can’t figure out which side of the looking glass he is on.
Heaven help me for the way I am
Save me from these evil deeds before I get them done
I know tomorrow brings the consequence at hand
But I keep living this day like the next will never come
-“Criminal” by Fiona Apple
Max is a twisted mind fuck of story that will have you guessing and more than likely getting it wrong each and every time. Toward the end I was lost and confused and really stuck with needing to know the truth just like David Mills needed to know what was in that box delivered to the middle of the desert. I needed to know and what I got… man, that end. I almost wish it went darker… yeah, I just said that but at least there is some sort of breathing room now that it’s over and maybe I can leave the dark side and go home too. No? Kay? I have friends on this side anyway and they have snacks.
February 10, 2017
Audio review added 1/28/2017
Review by The Blogger Girls.
Wow! This story grabs you right from the get go as Max begins his sessions with new doctor Crane. It also quickly becomes clear Max has some major issues and is one smart cookie. He is in control from their very first conversation and uses that control to manipulate and play every piece of his puzzle/game with scary and intricate precision. Dr. Crane didn’t really ever stand a chance.
The story plays out as Max takes over more and more of Dr. Crane’s life basically turning it upside down in every bad way possible, and Dr. Crane is all but helpless to stop it. There is a point where you wonder who has bigger psychological issues that need dealing with, and every twist and turn of this story keeps you on your toes.
I found myself engrossed and searching for more details about Max, about what his true intentions were and what the end game was going to be, much like Dr. Crane. But, just when you think you’ve got an idea or think things are a little clearer, the rug is ripped out from under you and you’re left scratching your head wondering if you missed any clues. I was still in a bit of a state of disbelief at the end.
There are strong warnings with this story. It is dark and sometimes violent. But, if you can handle that, and like a story that keeps you on the edge, I strongly urge you to give this story a go. It is one heck of a jam-packed exciting ride.
Review – Audio: Nick Russo does another fabulous job bringing Mr. Deckard’s characters to life. If you read the book, you already know how deliciously creepy this story is, but the audio adds even more to the twistedness that is Max. He adds clarity to scenes that were already vividly laid out and adds life and another depth to the characters that you can’t help but care about, or at least care to see what happens to them. This story will keep you on the edge of your seat, guessing and trying to see the clues. If you are looking for something a little different, with a definite edge, be sure to add this one to your list. Max does not disappoint, and neither does Mr. Russo in his narration.
Review by The Blogger Girls.
Wow! This story grabs you right from the get go as Max begins his sessions with new doctor Crane. It also quickly becomes clear Max has some major issues and is one smart cookie. He is in control from their very first conversation and uses that control to manipulate and play every piece of his puzzle/game with scary and intricate precision. Dr. Crane didn’t really ever stand a chance.
The story plays out as Max takes over more and more of Dr. Crane’s life basically turning it upside down in every bad way possible, and Dr. Crane is all but helpless to stop it. There is a point where you wonder who has bigger psychological issues that need dealing with, and every twist and turn of this story keeps you on your toes.
I found myself engrossed and searching for more details about Max, about what his true intentions were and what the end game was going to be, much like Dr. Crane. But, just when you think you’ve got an idea or think things are a little clearer, the rug is ripped out from under you and you’re left scratching your head wondering if you missed any clues. I was still in a bit of a state of disbelief at the end.
There are strong warnings with this story. It is dark and sometimes violent. But, if you can handle that, and like a story that keeps you on the edge, I strongly urge you to give this story a go. It is one heck of a jam-packed exciting ride.
Review – Audio: Nick Russo does another fabulous job bringing Mr. Deckard’s characters to life. If you read the book, you already know how deliciously creepy this story is, but the audio adds even more to the twistedness that is Max. He adds clarity to scenes that were already vividly laid out and adds life and another depth to the characters that you can’t help but care about, or at least care to see what happens to them. This story will keep you on the edge of your seat, guessing and trying to see the clues. If you are looking for something a little different, with a definite edge, be sure to add this one to your list. Max does not disappoint, and neither does Mr. Russo in his narration.
December 17, 2021
This is 2nd time I've read this and it's still as good as the first time...amazingly dark read that will keep you turning the pages...Mr Deckard has an exceptional talent for dragging the reader into a dark world x
May 14, 2017
What in the actual fuck did I just read??! And why did I read it all in one sitting when I should have been asleep 3 hours ago?? .... I need to call my therapist now. Thanks, Deckard.
4 twisted as hell but awesome stars!
4 twisted as hell but awesome stars!
November 13, 2017
3,8. Totalmente crazy esse livro!!!!! Conseguiu segurar minha atenção nessa jornada louca dos personagens! Só achei que ficaram algumas coisas em aberto. Mas no geral foi uma boa leitura.
April 10, 2021
damn what a ride. i honestly wanted the truth to come out at the end but oh well... mexico is fine too i guess lmao
Read
November 2, 2016A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
Max. It’s the name of the book and it’s the name of an incredible character created by one of my favorite authors, Bey Deckard. Max could be put into the category of a neo-noir erotic thriller as it had a reminiscent vibe of past movies along the lines of Body Heat and The Last Seduction. Crane’s character remains consistent to those themes as he becomes trapped in difficult situations and then makes choices out of desperation.
The entire book takes place through Crane’s view, yet Max is consistently a well drawn, charismatic character. Max is a psychopath who invites us along on his dark and twisty ride as he dismantles the good doctor in every way. When Dr. Crane meets Max, he is so far in over his head he can’t even see it as Max plays him perfectly. Max’s patient intake sheet lists his reason for seeking treatment as essentially “tired of life,” and all I’ll say is that could be clue #1.
Deckard controls the story with tight reins as he only allows us to see exactly what he wants us to and when. At first, Max’s behavior is offered for shock value. Then, Crane can’t keep his thoughts off of Max and is highly conflicted as he welcomes Max’s mouth and hands on him. As Crane becomes aroused by Max both physically and intellectually, the lies start small at first until Crane is utterly fascinated with Max and the evil depravity that lives within him. Max delivers in almost every sense as from the moment he appears on page, all of the focus is on him and Deckard has created a form of literary edging as the story remains tightly wound with a sense of control all the way through.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
Max. It’s the name of the book and it’s the name of an incredible character created by one of my favorite authors, Bey Deckard. Max could be put into the category of a neo-noir erotic thriller as it had a reminiscent vibe of past movies along the lines of Body Heat and The Last Seduction. Crane’s character remains consistent to those themes as he becomes trapped in difficult situations and then makes choices out of desperation.
The entire book takes place through Crane’s view, yet Max is consistently a well drawn, charismatic character. Max is a psychopath who invites us along on his dark and twisty ride as he dismantles the good doctor in every way. When Dr. Crane meets Max, he is so far in over his head he can’t even see it as Max plays him perfectly. Max’s patient intake sheet lists his reason for seeking treatment as essentially “tired of life,” and all I’ll say is that could be clue #1.
Deckard controls the story with tight reins as he only allows us to see exactly what he wants us to and when. At first, Max’s behavior is offered for shock value. Then, Crane can’t keep his thoughts off of Max and is highly conflicted as he welcomes Max’s mouth and hands on him. As Crane becomes aroused by Max both physically and intellectually, the lies start small at first until Crane is utterly fascinated with Max and the evil depravity that lives within him. Max delivers in almost every sense as from the moment he appears on page, all of the focus is on him and Deckard has created a form of literary edging as the story remains tightly wound with a sense of control all the way through.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
April 21, 2017
Wow! Just plain ole mind fucking, head reeling and do not forget lurvvvveeee stricken Wow!
This book is not for the light hearted. And I don't mean to be patronising at all. This is depraved. It has characters :
Who are fucked up.
Who do fucked up things.
Who make fucked up scenarios and play them in a well fucked manner.
Who end up fucking each other in very grave fucked up ways.
Who fuck the life out of those around them.
Who finally end up fucked up! (Surprise-Surprise!)
(Oh! The ending is Happily Ever After. And that may be a spoiler for some cos it definitely was a big surprise for me.)
This novel is hella crazy. It has small small demographic elements from many mainstream fucked up characters and I won't bother connecting them. But it's a concoction worth reading if you want to ride a helluva ride. I loved it cos it was short, fast, crazy in the making, fuckery, fuckery...blah blah blah!
(I think I'll read this again when I'm old enough to handle liquor and not reel like crazy.)
This book is not for the light hearted. And I don't mean to be patronising at all. This is depraved. It has characters :
Who are fucked up.
Who do fucked up things.
Who make fucked up scenarios and play them in a well fucked manner.
Who end up fucking each other in very grave fucked up ways.
Who fuck the life out of those around them.
Who finally end up fucked up! (Surprise-Surprise!)
(Oh! The ending is Happily Ever After. And that may be a spoiler for some cos it definitely was a big surprise for me.)
This novel is hella crazy. It has small small demographic elements from many mainstream fucked up characters and I won't bother connecting them. But it's a concoction worth reading if you want to ride a helluva ride. I loved it cos it was short, fast, crazy in the making, fuckery, fuckery...blah blah blah!
(I think I'll read this again when I'm old enough to handle liquor and not reel like crazy.)
November 26, 2016
I has some issues with this book around the psychology of the characters. I still enjoyed what is a twisty book, something I like, but it could have been eerie and mind-blowing if certain areas were written in a more careful, in depth manner, in my opinion.
I still enjoyed it, Max gave me some things I like in my reading as well. Love/hate push/pull, that's how I felt reading the book. The first, probably, 15%-20% was the most frustrating for me.
So, it isn't quite a 3.5 star read an it isn't quite a 4 star read. It's a 3.75.
Review -
I still enjoyed it, Max gave me some things I like in my reading as well. Love/hate push/pull, that's how I felt reading the book. The first, probably, 15%-20% was the most frustrating for me.
So, it isn't quite a 3.5 star read an it isn't quite a 4 star read. It's a 3.75.
Review -
March 21, 2024
Well, that was a ride. This is more of a psychological thriller than genre romance. I love that Deckard does his own covers!
A new therapist gets too involved with his client. Not only is that thrilling and uncomfortable (the therapist is married), but I spent the entire time waiting for something bad to happen. And bad things kept happening, holy shit.
It's a mindfuck of a book, you know it's going to be twisted, you know the therapist is being an idiot, but you're not sure why he ends up fully on board the crazy train. Enjoyable, but do mind the CW's for this.
Author's CW's:
Substance abuse, pornography, violence, cheating, unprofessional behaviour, criminal intent, abuse... and good lord, the lies.
Author's Notes:
Folks who dislike unhealthy relationships, are sensitive to consent ambiguity, or have eurotophobia should take a big step back from this story. It's dark (ish?) and full of mindfuckery.
Highlights:
• “I wish you would stop doing that.” The words were spoken in a friendly tone, each syllable enunciated so precisely that they gave the impression of a foreign accent.
• “Mimicking my posture to make me feel more at ease,” replied Max, and he drummed a few beats with his fingertips against his calf as he looked around in distaste at the small shabby office Crane shared with the other therapists at the psychology clinic.
• “You have my word.” Max placed a hand over his heart.
“The word of a psychopath.”
Max’s dark brows shot up in amusement, and he clicked his tongue twice. “Ouch, Doc. You make it sound like such a bad thing. Besides… That’s not a real diagnosis.”
• “What are you doing?” He didn’t push Max away. No… It was more like both feet in the rabbit hole. “I’m going to unzip your pants, gently take your cock out, and put it in my mouth,” Max replied matter- of- factly as he reached for the zipper in Crane’s Dockers. (And so it begins!)
• He stood, a touch shaky. A man had given him a blowjob. And not just any man, one that was possibly criminally insane. And it was the best blowjob he’d ever had.
• “See ya, Doc. You’ve given me plenty to swallow. I’ll think about it at length later tonight and see what comes of it…” he said cheerfully, loud enough that anyone in the vicinity would hear.
• “What occurred to you?” asked Max, his expression neutral. “That I’m paying you two hundred bucks to give you head? Doesn’t seem fair, does it.” He snapped his gum like a surly teenager.
• Was he so far gone that he was relieved that it was just a psycho in his kitchen and not his wife about to catch him in his lie?
• Max wielded the kitchen knife with consummate skill, and Crane added “cooking” to the scant list of things he had learned about the young man during their last few blowjob- therapy- blowjob sessions.
•“Huhh.” There was a lovely euphoria uncoiling inside Crane’s chest, and his cock felt like a throbbing beacon of pleasure in Max’s grasp. The little psycho had indeed drugged him it seemed, but right then, he couldn’t bring himself to care. It just felt so good.
• “No drugs,” he warned, dropping his bag on the floor.
“Whatever you say, Doc.”
• Really, the question was: why wouldn’t Max lie, given that he lied about almost everything, but then… What did it matter? If it was fiction, at least it was really nice fiction.
A new therapist gets too involved with his client. Not only is that thrilling and uncomfortable (the therapist is married), but I spent the entire time waiting for something bad to happen. And bad things kept happening, holy shit.
It's a mindfuck of a book, you know it's going to be twisted, you know the therapist is being an idiot, but you're not sure why he ends up fully on board the crazy train. Enjoyable, but do mind the CW's for this.
Author's CW's:
Substance abuse, pornography, violence, cheating, unprofessional behaviour, criminal intent, abuse... and good lord, the lies.
Author's Notes:
Folks who dislike unhealthy relationships, are sensitive to consent ambiguity, or have eurotophobia should take a big step back from this story. It's dark (ish?) and full of mindfuckery.
Highlights:
• “I wish you would stop doing that.” The words were spoken in a friendly tone, each syllable enunciated so precisely that they gave the impression of a foreign accent.
• “Mimicking my posture to make me feel more at ease,” replied Max, and he drummed a few beats with his fingertips against his calf as he looked around in distaste at the small shabby office Crane shared with the other therapists at the psychology clinic.
• “You have my word.” Max placed a hand over his heart.
“The word of a psychopath.”
Max’s dark brows shot up in amusement, and he clicked his tongue twice. “Ouch, Doc. You make it sound like such a bad thing. Besides… That’s not a real diagnosis.”
• “What are you doing?” He didn’t push Max away. No… It was more like both feet in the rabbit hole. “I’m going to unzip your pants, gently take your cock out, and put it in my mouth,” Max replied matter- of- factly as he reached for the zipper in Crane’s Dockers. (And so it begins!)
• He stood, a touch shaky. A man had given him a blowjob. And not just any man, one that was possibly criminally insane. And it was the best blowjob he’d ever had.
• “See ya, Doc. You’ve given me plenty to swallow. I’ll think about it at length later tonight and see what comes of it…” he said cheerfully, loud enough that anyone in the vicinity would hear.
• “What occurred to you?” asked Max, his expression neutral. “That I’m paying you two hundred bucks to give you head? Doesn’t seem fair, does it.” He snapped his gum like a surly teenager.
• Was he so far gone that he was relieved that it was just a psycho in his kitchen and not his wife about to catch him in his lie?
• Max wielded the kitchen knife with consummate skill, and Crane added “cooking” to the scant list of things he had learned about the young man during their last few blowjob- therapy- blowjob sessions.
•“Huhh.” There was a lovely euphoria uncoiling inside Crane’s chest, and his cock felt like a throbbing beacon of pleasure in Max’s grasp. The little psycho had indeed drugged him it seemed, but right then, he couldn’t bring himself to care. It just felt so good.
• “No drugs,” he warned, dropping his bag on the floor.
“Whatever you say, Doc.”
• Really, the question was: why wouldn’t Max lie, given that he lied about almost everything, but then… What did it matter? If it was fiction, at least it was really nice fiction.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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