Shane T. Clark’s debut novel The Devil Won’t Keep Us Apart is a dark and enthralling tale, it seamlessly weaves together the lives of Adrian Franklin and Conner Wallace, narrated by Elmer Ray. The author Shane T. Clark obviously has drawn from his background in Criminal Justice and this shows in his crafting of a haunting crime thriller with its psychological depth and edge-of-your-seat storytelling.
The Devil Won’t Keep Us Apart is a blend of a coming-of-age journey, a psychological thriller, and suspense. Clark melds together elements of trauma, friendship, and the haunting impact of childhood experiences on shaping individuals’ lives.
The story is told through two distinct voices, Adrian and Conner, each navigating their own traumas and challenges. Adrian’s harrowing experiences of abuse and loss are depicted vividly, really showcasing the profound effects of childhood trauma on shaping one’s path. Meanwhile, Conner’s enigmatic persona gradually reveals layers of depth, and readers experience an exploration of his character.
Clark has a unique approach to plot development. Instead of the typical “whodunit” narrative, the focus lies on “why did they do it.” Each page gradually unravels the motives behind the characters’ actions, keeping readers engaged to uncover that “why.” Clark’s writing lets the story organically evolve, his style allows the reader to visualize what is happening vividly. His approach of a dual-genre narrative, with Adrian’s coming-of-age tale intertwined seamlessly with Conner’s thrilling storyline keeps you interested, always wondering what’s coming next.
Shane T. Clark’s writing defied my expectations, this was a very distinctive experience within the psychological thriller genre for me. Even though it was his first novel it didn’t feel that way. The narrative was unique and fresh and I greatly appreciated it. The Devil Won’t Keep Us Apart is an electrifying and emotionally-resonant thriller that leaves a mark on you as the reader. Clark’s intricate character dynamics, coupled with the story’s relentless suspense, was very captivating. An unforgettable read!
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The Devil Won’t Keep Us Apart
Some vendettas can never be forgotten…
When Sherman Rehabilitation Center suffers its first murder in decades, authorities race to find a motive as the media swarms. The brutality is unprecedented, even in a prison setting. One week later, eighty-seven-year-old Elmer Ray walks into the local Ohio Highway Patrol Post, claiming he has the answers. First, they need to hear about the two most interesting people in the world: Adrian Franklin and Conner Wallace.
Adrian Franklin, the young neighbor of Elmer Ray, lived a troubled life of neglect and abuse. He had a bad haircut and a worst nickname. The older man tries to take the boy under his wing in a way no one else has ever done. For Adrian, most see a quick temper and lost soul. Elmer sees something different in him, a sense of loyalty and a yearning to feel loved.
Conner Wallace, a British National, a drifter on a motorcycle, and a pugilist with a quick wit, roamed the west and lived by an unbreakable moral code that got him in more trouble than he bargained for. After a five-year bit in a Nevada prison, he finds a safe haven in the underground fight scene on the shores of the Pacific Ocean.
What does a young boy and foreigner have to do with a brutal prison murder in the sleepy town of Sherman, Ohio? Only Elmer Ray knows the answers. And he isn’t giving them until the Post Commander hears how their lives converge with an Appalachian drug dealer, a sexual predator, and a mob boss to influence the brutality in that prison cell.
The Devil Won’t Keep Us Apart is a shocking and raw account combining a coming-of-age tale with a disturbing psychological thriller.
