Although this book started out as promising, I have to say that it was just not my cup of tea. Along with the foul language and the tired old plot of hiding a homosexual affair, the characters all had such flaws that none of them was likable. Corey Halpern is a “have not” living in the wealthy enclave of the east end where his mother works as a maid for the super wealthy Sheffield family. Corey is bored and rebellious and breaks into the local mansions as a prank. Unfortunately for him, just before the summer season begins, he decides to break into the Sheffield mansion and there witnesses the horrible and accidental death of Leo’s partner Henry. Leo, a scion of a family and CEO of a company, could have easily called his lawyers and the story would have ended there. But, predictably, Leo decides to cover up Henry’s death and therein lies the conflict of the plot. The characters in this pseudo-thriller are desperately seeking happiness; Leo and Henry in their relationship and in drugs and alcohol; Gina, Corey’s mom, in alcohol and a destructive relationship; Tiffany, the Sheffield’s daughter, seems to lack any love or parenting and seeks solace in drinking, also. None of the characters has particularly redeeming characteristics since none seems able to really help themselves seek solutions to what they deem as their life’s problems. There was a lot of action but it all seemed to go too fast without much background information. This was meant to be an intense story with a great deal of social commentary, but for me it just never reached a level of satisfaction that would cause me to watch for this author’s novels in the future. The theme seemed to be one of total debauchery and a desire to forget your station in life, no matter what it was. Fans of thrillers might enjoy this book because it is a fast read.

Disclaimer

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

My friends, since I am part of the blog tour for this book, I am fulfilling my commitment to review it on my blog. But I cannot honestly recommend it. I might possibly give it 2.5 stars, but that would be a stretch. This book was not my cup of tea because it lacked a real story and morals. It is available now if you would like to try it for yourself.