What happens when one day you are standing up to bullies, and the next day you must face your father’s murder? What happens when you are a smart kid with a conscious, but a tragedy turns you cold and merciless? Michael Kelso tells us in his thriller One on One. This is one book you won’t want to put down.

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  • Title: One on One
  • Author: Michael Kelso
  • Publisher: Wordcrafts Press On August 30, 2017
  • Genre: Crime Thriller
  • Pages: 278
  • Format: Paperback
  • Rating: 5/5

Many thanks to Michael Kelso for gifting me a free copy of One on One in exchange for an honest review.

Trigger Warnings: Violence, Murder, Rape

Available Now order on Amazon

Synopsis of One on One

Corrections Officer Emil Sorn believed the inmates at Larsan State Prison were coddled by the system, had too many rights, and never received any real punishment for their crimes. As sergeant in charge of the evening shift, disrespect or disobedience in any form was dealt with swiftly, severely, and quietly.

The idea started in a bar after a couple of drinks, and like most ideas so conceived, it should’ve stayed there. If the accused is granted the right to face their accuser, then the victim should have the right to confront the perpetrator. An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a life for a life.

There is a fine line between Justice and Revenge. Emil Sorn is about to cross it.

Quoted from Goodreads

My Review

Kelso introduces us to Emil Sorn as a kid. He worships his father but knows that he has a stressful job. He understands the warning signs that his father had a bad day, so he should be careful on those days. Yet, he believes his father can do no wrong. When the unthinkable happens, Emil refuses to believe the reason why. This refusal stays with him all his life and forms his attitude toward prisoners.

Fast forward to adulthood, and Emil becomes an officer at the same prison where his father met his end. Unfortunately, his need for “justice” outweighs his need to be a decent human being.

Yet, Emil’s need for justice is where the water gets murky. Some may agree with his methods, but are they right? Does a vigilante get to decide the fate of other human beings? If so, are Emil’s ways admirable? The decision is yours.

All I know for sure is that I couldn’t put this book down. I was so caught up in the story that time lost all meaning. I was so completely engrossed that I read the whole thing in one night. Repulsed at times, I even cried through some parts, but underlying every bit is the promise of hope. You may not see it through the cruelty, but the hope is there.

I am happy to award One on One a full 5 out of 5 stars. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys crime dramas or thrillers. You will face harsh realities, but the end is worth it. I promise.

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