What do you think?
Rate this book
The Introvert #1
The Introvert
A vacuum salesman by day, the introvert lives a quiet life alone with his dog until a work relationship and a dark secret from his past team up to create an uncomfortable imbalance in his otherwise ordered life, one that soon finds him squarely at the center of a murder investigation. With his thoughts continually urging him to make people “red and open” and to “achieve it” with his girlfriend Donna, what follows is a sometimes brutal, oftentimes hilarious, and absurdist account of the life of one very anti-social and unexpected anti-hero.
160 pages, Paperback
First published November 26, 2016
About the author
Michael Paul Michaud
4 books157 followersI am an American-Canadian citizen, criminal prosecutor, and author of BILLY TABBS (& THE GLORIOUS DARROW) (Bitingduckpress) and THE INTROVERT series (Black Opal Books).
I hold a B.A. in English from McMaster University, an Honors B.A. in Political Science (summa cum laude) from McMaster University, and a J.D. from The University of Western Ontario (with an international exchange completed at Washington & Lee).
I have won awards for both my community service and my work as a prosecutor.
I am a member of Crime Writers of Canada and International Thriller Writers, and have made regular appearances on SiriusXM’s Canada Talks.
Follow me at facebook.com/michaelpaulmichaud,
&
https://twitter.com/MichaelPMichaud
I hold a B.A. in English from McMaster University, an Honors B.A. in Political Science (summa cum laude) from McMaster University, and a J.D. from The University of Western Ontario (with an international exchange completed at Washington & Lee).
I have won awards for both my community service and my work as a prosecutor.
I am a member of Crime Writers of Canada and International Thriller Writers, and have made regular appearances on SiriusXM’s Canada Talks.
Follow me at facebook.com/michaelpaulmichaud,
&
https://twitter.com/MichaelPMichaud
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
March 19, 2019
"The Introvert" by Michael Paul Michaud......Oh how I loved this! I read it in just one sitting, there was just no way I was putting this down! I am growing to like this type of genre - black humour - more and more and found this quirky book just brilliant. It was so easy to read and follow and you find yourself engaging with the story and the main character immediately. You never find out his name which adds to the intrigue, he's such an adorable anti-social, anti-hero even when he's having his 'red and open' incidents. He's funny, awkward, serious and I loved the 'I see' moments in the book; truly funny but then there were so many funny moments like this. It's a well paced book that doesn't drag, isn't slow, just keeps going making you want to continue reading.
I could easily have read a full length novel based on "The Introvert" and hope one day Michael does develop this novella further. I highly recommend this book and award it 5 wonderful stars.
I could easily have read a full length novel based on "The Introvert" and hope one day Michael does develop this novella further. I highly recommend this book and award it 5 wonderful stars.
March 9, 2017
I love how even before the story starts, it says “For the weirdos”, which made me think, this sounds promising.
The Introvert is a novella about a man who generally keeps to himself, but has issues when it comes to controlling his urges to harm certain people. Luckily, he’s reasonably selective, making him more of an anti-hero. This story is a mix of crime and dark comedy, which I thought worked well. The main character is certainly a bit quirky. Oh how I love getting into the minds of weirdos.
As a dog lover, there were certain aspects of this story I could relate to, although I’ve never gone to quite the lengths described in the novella.
I also found it somewhat entertaining that this story reminded me to look up vacuum cleaners. I saw an advert on TV a week or two ago claiming that 3 out of 4 people preferred the Shark pet vacuum to the Dyson Animal. I meant to investigate this online, as I’ve never heard of Shark vacuums before, but completely forgot about it until reading this. An example of fiction crossing over into real life.
Overall, an enjoyable read. I read it in two sittings. Probably took me about two and a half hours, and I’m not a particularly fast reader, so this is ideal if you fancy a quick read between full length novels.
The Introvert is a novella about a man who generally keeps to himself, but has issues when it comes to controlling his urges to harm certain people. Luckily, he’s reasonably selective, making him more of an anti-hero. This story is a mix of crime and dark comedy, which I thought worked well. The main character is certainly a bit quirky. Oh how I love getting into the minds of weirdos.
As a dog lover, there were certain aspects of this story I could relate to, although I’ve never gone to quite the lengths described in the novella.
I also found it somewhat entertaining that this story reminded me to look up vacuum cleaners. I saw an advert on TV a week or two ago claiming that 3 out of 4 people preferred the Shark pet vacuum to the Dyson Animal. I meant to investigate this online, as I’ve never heard of Shark vacuums before, but completely forgot about it until reading this. An example of fiction crossing over into real life.
Overall, an enjoyable read. I read it in two sittings. Probably took me about two and a half hours, and I’m not a particularly fast reader, so this is ideal if you fancy a quick read between full length novels.
March 14, 2017
I love how even before the story starts, it says “For the weirdos”, which made me think, this sounds promising.
The Introvert is a novella about a man who generally keeps to himself, but has issues when it comes to controlling his urges to harm certain people. Luckily, he’s reasonably selective, making him more of an anti-hero. This story is a mix of crime and dark comedy, which I thought worked well. The main character is certainly a bit quirky. Oh how I love getting into the minds of weirdos.
As a dog lover, there were certain aspects of this story I could relate to, although I’ve never gone to quite the lengths described in the novella.
I also found it somewhat entertaining that this story reminded me to look up vacuum cleaners. I saw an advert on TV a week or two ago claiming that 3 out of 4 people preferred the Shark pet vacuum to the Dyson Animal. I meant to investigate this online, as I’ve never heard of Shark vacuums before, but completely forgot about it until reading this. An example of fiction crossing over into real life.
Overall, an enjoyable read. I read it in two sittings. Probably took me about two and a half hours, and I’m not a particularly fast reader, so this is ideal if you fancy a quick read between full length novels.
The Introvert is a novella about a man who generally keeps to himself, but has issues when it comes to controlling his urges to harm certain people. Luckily, he’s reasonably selective, making him more of an anti-hero. This story is a mix of crime and dark comedy, which I thought worked well. The main character is certainly a bit quirky. Oh how I love getting into the minds of weirdos.
As a dog lover, there were certain aspects of this story I could relate to, although I’ve never gone to quite the lengths described in the novella.
I also found it somewhat entertaining that this story reminded me to look up vacuum cleaners. I saw an advert on TV a week or two ago claiming that 3 out of 4 people preferred the Shark pet vacuum to the Dyson Animal. I meant to investigate this online, as I’ve never heard of Shark vacuums before, but completely forgot about it until reading this. An example of fiction crossing over into real life.
Overall, an enjoyable read. I read it in two sittings. Probably took me about two and a half hours, and I’m not a particularly fast reader, so this is ideal if you fancy a quick read between full length novels.
December 10, 2016
I have to admit to start with I found The Introvert slightly slow and didn’t really know if it would be for me. The further into it I got though the more interested I was and by the end I loved it.
The Introvert himself, we never actually find out his name, I found quite odd. He lives in an apartment with his cocker spaniel mix, Molly, and works as a vacuum salesman. He pretty much keeps himself to himself and doesn’t really like to talk a lot. To be honest you can understand why I wasn’t really gripped at first as even though odd, he is very boring. That soon changes though!
I couldn’t quite see the attraction myself, but Donna, the Introverts work colleague, has her sights set on him. She badgers him until he agrees to go out for a drink and then a relationship of sorts starts up between the two.
When his landlord goes missing the police seem to be very interested in the Introvert. The police seem very keen to keep chatting to him as well as Donna and his work colleagues. Even though he seems to be the prime suspect, nothing really seems to faze him.
By the end I have to admit to being totally won over by the Introvert. He certainly may be a bit of an odd ball but I just loved everything about him. He is sure to win readers over.
The Introvert, though a bit of a slow burner to start with, is a brilliantly clever tale. I have to admit to not quite expecting what was coming which thrilled and excited me. If you love a dark tale with an underlying sense of humour, you are going to simply devour and very much enjoy this book.
My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
The Introvert himself, we never actually find out his name, I found quite odd. He lives in an apartment with his cocker spaniel mix, Molly, and works as a vacuum salesman. He pretty much keeps himself to himself and doesn’t really like to talk a lot. To be honest you can understand why I wasn’t really gripped at first as even though odd, he is very boring. That soon changes though!
I couldn’t quite see the attraction myself, but Donna, the Introverts work colleague, has her sights set on him. She badgers him until he agrees to go out for a drink and then a relationship of sorts starts up between the two.
When his landlord goes missing the police seem to be very interested in the Introvert. The police seem very keen to keep chatting to him as well as Donna and his work colleagues. Even though he seems to be the prime suspect, nothing really seems to faze him.
By the end I have to admit to being totally won over by the Introvert. He certainly may be a bit of an odd ball but I just loved everything about him. He is sure to win readers over.
The Introvert, though a bit of a slow burner to start with, is a brilliantly clever tale. I have to admit to not quite expecting what was coming which thrilled and excited me. If you love a dark tale with an underlying sense of humour, you are going to simply devour and very much enjoy this book.
My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
October 4, 2019
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
A very quirky, sometimes gory but often funny little story. I wanted to give up after the first few pages but I'm glad I stuck with it. I read the entire book in one busy day! Not sure what it says about me that I was kind of rooting for the main character by the end, but, there it is.
A very quirky, sometimes gory but often funny little story. I wanted to give up after the first few pages but I'm glad I stuck with it. I read the entire book in one busy day! Not sure what it says about me that I was kind of rooting for the main character by the end, but, there it is.
March 13, 2017
They say the best things come in small packages, and that is certainly true in the case of this smashing little novella. With a penchant for 'achieving it' with his girlfriend, Donna, and wanting to see anyone who winds him up as 'red and open', The Introvert is a strangely likeable character. Gruesome, dark, funny; I was only disappointed that this wasn't twice as long! Loved it.
March 16, 2017
Well that was short and sweet but maybe that was part of its charm. When I'm reading first person it's really important to me that the voice sounds right and this was spot on. No surprise I suppose given that I am an introvert and while I don't ever think about making people "red and open" I could definitely relate to the idea of being "only quiet with my words" and "usually loud in my mind".
I like a quirky or oddball character but jeez Louise, The Introvert is all that and then some more.
I received a free copy of The Introvert via TBConFB and my thanks to the author for that.
I like a quirky or oddball character but jeez Louise, The Introvert is all that and then some more.
I received a free copy of The Introvert via TBConFB and my thanks to the author for that.
November 27, 2016
My thanks to the author and to Black Opal Books for an ARC of this novella.
Well OMFG! What a fantastically weird, twisted and absolutely quirky novella The Introvert was! So much so, I am not even sure where in the world to begin! The cover is simple, yet eye-catching and pretty much gives you a feel of the wickedly wonderful writing you will stumble across as you delve into the world of The Introvert!
The majority of this book takes place in either an office, The Introvert‘s home/neighbourhood or the local area – which pretty much gives you a clue about the way “The Introvert” does not do much outside of his comfort zone. Within the pages we find a twisted reality, where evil is done for good, where lust becomes love, where the unreal is…well real…or real in the mind of “The Introvert” himself.
The plot is well paced and builds up superbly to the WTAF moments! And there are a few of those! Believe me! I love things that are depraved and abnormal and figuritively grab you by the throat. This novella did just that! It was bizarre in the nicest possible way!
I really enjoyed the fact that it was not overloaded with characters and for a short novella, the ones that were included were well written and likeable. Even the anti-hero! I found myself drawn to him despite his inability to grasp that what he was doing was oh-so-wrong! A few stood out and are worthy of a mention. Donna Wintergrass– she is “The Introvert’s” girlfriend. I have to be honest, she annoyed the hell out of me at first. She is needy, comes across as desperate and frankly, quite naive! But as the story unfolds, these characteristics endear the reader to her. I wanted to shake her at times and scream “snap out of it lady!” – but then, I shrugged my shoulders and thought “more fool you” – sometimes we only see what we want to see, right!?
The Inspector was also another fab character. He played a cat-n-mouse game with The Introvert who always seemed to frustratingly outwit him! But it was The Introvert himself who stole the show. Dark, deep and down-right deviant, everything he said and did just repulsed and enthralled me at the same time! He is anti social, blends into society almost unnoticed, but he is someone you definitely need to take notice of! He has child-like qualities that instantly makes the reader protective of him and his love of animals pulls you in and makes you believe he is harmless. He is not!! See what I mean? WTAF is going on!
Would I recommend this wee novella? You bet your arse I would! I found it’s originality refreshing, it’s quirkiness addictive and the strangeness was absolutely awesome! Well worth checking out, #bookjunkies!
Well OMFG! What a fantastically weird, twisted and absolutely quirky novella The Introvert was! So much so, I am not even sure where in the world to begin! The cover is simple, yet eye-catching and pretty much gives you a feel of the wickedly wonderful writing you will stumble across as you delve into the world of The Introvert!
The majority of this book takes place in either an office, The Introvert‘s home/neighbourhood or the local area – which pretty much gives you a clue about the way “The Introvert” does not do much outside of his comfort zone. Within the pages we find a twisted reality, where evil is done for good, where lust becomes love, where the unreal is…well real…or real in the mind of “The Introvert” himself.
The plot is well paced and builds up superbly to the WTAF moments! And there are a few of those! Believe me! I love things that are depraved and abnormal and figuritively grab you by the throat. This novella did just that! It was bizarre in the nicest possible way!
I really enjoyed the fact that it was not overloaded with characters and for a short novella, the ones that were included were well written and likeable. Even the anti-hero! I found myself drawn to him despite his inability to grasp that what he was doing was oh-so-wrong! A few stood out and are worthy of a mention. Donna Wintergrass– she is “The Introvert’s” girlfriend. I have to be honest, she annoyed the hell out of me at first. She is needy, comes across as desperate and frankly, quite naive! But as the story unfolds, these characteristics endear the reader to her. I wanted to shake her at times and scream “snap out of it lady!” – but then, I shrugged my shoulders and thought “more fool you” – sometimes we only see what we want to see, right!?
The Inspector was also another fab character. He played a cat-n-mouse game with The Introvert who always seemed to frustratingly outwit him! But it was The Introvert himself who stole the show. Dark, deep and down-right deviant, everything he said and did just repulsed and enthralled me at the same time! He is anti social, blends into society almost unnoticed, but he is someone you definitely need to take notice of! He has child-like qualities that instantly makes the reader protective of him and his love of animals pulls you in and makes you believe he is harmless. He is not!! See what I mean? WTAF is going on!
Would I recommend this wee novella? You bet your arse I would! I found it’s originality refreshing, it’s quirkiness addictive and the strangeness was absolutely awesome! Well worth checking out, #bookjunkies!
November 1, 2016
Black humor is a genre which I started loving after reading the book Susanna's Seven Husbands. But after that, I have never actually picked any book of this genre. So when the author provided me an advance copy of this book to read and review then I can’t resist my joy. Big thanks to the author for giving me chance to read this book.
Plot summary:
The Introvert is the Vacuum Salesman, whose life revolves around work, completing the target, getting his dog Molly for a walk. He seldom talks to anyone but in his own words his mind ‘always keep talking’. His thoughts are sometimes funny but sometimes totally weird as he wants to see the people ‘Red and open’.
Even though he has absurd thought process but for some, he is an awesome man and one of them is Donna, his colleague. She fell in love with him, the introvert doesn’t confess any love to her but he loved it when she makes him to ‘achieve it’.
Things were going fine until one day the landlord of the Introvert disappeared in mysterious circumstances. He is the prime suspect and what unfurl next is a combination of humor, suspense, and brutality.
Writing style:
The language is very easy and you can read this book in one sitting. The author has not created many characters and that make this story a simple and seamless.
My perception:
I simply loved this book. One thing which I find interesting is that the author has managed to narrate the whole story without mentioning the name of the protagonist. This book narrates the story of anti-hero but you will simply fall in love with his character. At first, I thought that this book is like the American Psycho but after reading it entirely I’ve found that this is totally different. This book also reflects the other side of human persona. One star goes to the attractive and perfect cover page. This book is purely entertaining, thought provoking and ultimately beautiful! A perfect weekend read.
You can also read this book review on my blog The Introvert by Michael P. Michaud – Book review
Plot summary:
The Introvert is the Vacuum Salesman, whose life revolves around work, completing the target, getting his dog Molly for a walk. He seldom talks to anyone but in his own words his mind ‘always keep talking’. His thoughts are sometimes funny but sometimes totally weird as he wants to see the people ‘Red and open’.
Even though he has absurd thought process but for some, he is an awesome man and one of them is Donna, his colleague. She fell in love with him, the introvert doesn’t confess any love to her but he loved it when she makes him to ‘achieve it’.
Things were going fine until one day the landlord of the Introvert disappeared in mysterious circumstances. He is the prime suspect and what unfurl next is a combination of humor, suspense, and brutality.
Writing style:
The language is very easy and you can read this book in one sitting. The author has not created many characters and that make this story a simple and seamless.
My perception:
I simply loved this book. One thing which I find interesting is that the author has managed to narrate the whole story without mentioning the name of the protagonist. This book narrates the story of anti-hero but you will simply fall in love with his character. At first, I thought that this book is like the American Psycho but after reading it entirely I’ve found that this is totally different. This book also reflects the other side of human persona. One star goes to the attractive and perfect cover page. This book is purely entertaining, thought provoking and ultimately beautiful! A perfect weekend read.
You can also read this book review on my blog The Introvert by Michael P. Michaud – Book review
October 5, 2019
Well wham bam thank you mam….I mean man! This short read of just under 200 pages really packs a punch when it comes to impact. I was left stunned by the proceedings Michael Paul Michaud managed to cram into this book!
Our protagonist is just a wee bit nuts but endearing with it. He’s a strange man with a lot going on in his head but I loved it. Him achieving “it” with Donna was hilarious. Speaking of which I loved Donna!!! I have a liking to characters called Donna (my main fave being Donna Paulsen from Suits). But this Donna is a gem in the dark world of our anti-hero. She’s not afraid to toe the line and she goes after what she wants. She is so a rival for Ms Paulsen!!!
Oh my days! The company culture handbook 😱😱😱😱 So so glad we don’t have one of those at work…always stay positive????! I think I might be sacked on a number of occasions if that was implemented in our office….hmmmm I really hope none of my colleagues are reading this….
The Introvert is a dark take on one man’s journey in life selling vacuum cleaners and I thoroughly enjoyed delving into this intriguing man’s thoughts. He is definitely a unique character who I want to get to know slightly better in a kind of sick and twisted kind of way. I am really looking forward to reading The Introvert Confounds Innocence.
Our protagonist is just a wee bit nuts but endearing with it. He’s a strange man with a lot going on in his head but I loved it. Him achieving “it” with Donna was hilarious. Speaking of which I loved Donna!!! I have a liking to characters called Donna (my main fave being Donna Paulsen from Suits). But this Donna is a gem in the dark world of our anti-hero. She’s not afraid to toe the line and she goes after what she wants. She is so a rival for Ms Paulsen!!!
Oh my days! The company culture handbook 😱😱😱😱 So so glad we don’t have one of those at work…always stay positive????! I think I might be sacked on a number of occasions if that was implemented in our office….hmmmm I really hope none of my colleagues are reading this….
The Introvert is a dark take on one man’s journey in life selling vacuum cleaners and I thoroughly enjoyed delving into this intriguing man’s thoughts. He is definitely a unique character who I want to get to know slightly better in a kind of sick and twisted kind of way. I am really looking forward to reading The Introvert Confounds Innocence.
December 19, 2016
This is one of those books that you can both love and hate it at the same time. Ok, maybe hate is a strong word. More like a "what am I reading". This is a train wreck but it is so good that I can't stop reading. This book is told from the first person. I am mixed on first person books. Some I have read are good and others were not so good. This book is in the good category.
The main character is so socially awkward that again this was a situation where it was both painful and funny to watch how everything played out. However, my favorite parts were when the main character would be interacting with someone he could not stand and thoughts of killing them would play out in his head. The results were always the same “red and open”. The next time I watch a murder show or read a book with a murder scene I am going to think “red and open”. I enjoyed reading this book more then I thought I would and the end results were magical.
The main character is so socially awkward that again this was a situation where it was both painful and funny to watch how everything played out. However, my favorite parts were when the main character would be interacting with someone he could not stand and thoughts of killing them would play out in his head. The results were always the same “red and open”. The next time I watch a murder show or read a book with a murder scene I am going to think “red and open”. I enjoyed reading this book more then I thought I would and the end results were magical.
February 19, 2017
I won The Introvert from Goodreads and received a bookmark as well, and I must says, contest or no contest, The Introvert is wholly original. I found myself immediately immersed in the story of a man who truly loves animals, and perhaps takes that affection and care for their well-being a bit too far.
I found myself completely understanding the discordance of his exterior with what was going on in his head; it's pretty much how we all become socially acceptable and functioning human beings. The difference is, he acts out on what he wants to do, where most of the world does not.
In the long run, the animal lover learns to have his own special brand of compassion toward humans, too and....well, I don't want to include any spoilers but, read this and live in the mind of an honest psychopath for an hour or two.
I found myself completely understanding the discordance of his exterior with what was going on in his head; it's pretty much how we all become socially acceptable and functioning human beings. The difference is, he acts out on what he wants to do, where most of the world does not.
In the long run, the animal lover learns to have his own special brand of compassion toward humans, too and....well, I don't want to include any spoilers but, read this and live in the mind of an honest psychopath for an hour or two.
June 22, 2017
Now, I love an anti-hero and The Introvert is definitely one of those. A quiet, unassuming vacumn salesman who loves nothing more than keeping himself to himself and walking his rescue dog Molly. All is not as it seems and we have clues to this quite early on in the novella. With comments about imagining people "red and open" and a mysterious event that happened two years ago, I knew I was in for some surprises. There are laugh out loud moments and a little gore; I really enjoyed this book. A fantastic read - more please!!
January 19, 2021
Quirky, dark humoured and ‘for the weirdos’ so I knew I was going to like this story before I started it. I did feel I had to chastise myself for liking the lead character so much though, particularly when I started to realise he had a dark side. I loved the phraseology and whimsical way the anti hero thought and worryingly agreed with some of his thought processes, maybe it’s the feeling we all have sometimes that we’re on the outside looking in that made him easy to like in some ways. The matter of fact way death was dealt with made this simultaneously normalised but also terrifying- utterly brilliant!
October 2, 2017
I received this book in the mail today and have already read it cover to cover.
I love the writing style! I felt completely invested in the main character 'the introvert' and was taken in by how his inner thoughts could be both chaotic and yet strangely ordered at the same time.
I could be taken aback by his violent urges and his need to make someone 'open and red' but at the same time I found his feelings relateable. I suspect most people have secretly harboured similar thoughts at some point in their lives, perhaps buried deeper down and kept in the dark but there all the same.
The author lists George Orwell as his chief literary influence and this shows in his writing but he does have a very distinct style all his own which I am happy to recommend and I will certainly keep my eyes peeled for his next book.
I love the writing style! I felt completely invested in the main character 'the introvert' and was taken in by how his inner thoughts could be both chaotic and yet strangely ordered at the same time.
I could be taken aback by his violent urges and his need to make someone 'open and red' but at the same time I found his feelings relateable. I suspect most people have secretly harboured similar thoughts at some point in their lives, perhaps buried deeper down and kept in the dark but there all the same.
The author lists George Orwell as his chief literary influence and this shows in his writing but he does have a very distinct style all his own which I am happy to recommend and I will certainly keep my eyes peeled for his next book.
November 3, 2016
This is a quirky and quick read about a young mans quest to get through his life without causing too many dramas that upset him. Similar in vein to "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night time" where the protagonist is slightly dysfunctional and whose behaviour can be triggered by certain actions by others, leading to unexpected, possibly life changing events.
I would recommend it to people who like a bit of black humour, quirky characters and a plot where you are not really sure where you will go.
Thank you to Michael P. Michaud for reaching out to me to read and review your 2nd book. It was a pleasure!
I would recommend it to people who like a bit of black humour, quirky characters and a plot where you are not really sure where you will go.
Thank you to Michael P. Michaud for reaching out to me to read and review your 2nd book. It was a pleasure!
March 15, 2017
This story has left me confused... With myself. I found the writing style not to my taste at all, very repetitive and just a little uncomfortable yet the story had me intrigued, so much so, I started this an hour and half ago and I've finished it.
This is definitely different to anything I've ever read before and although I found the writing style difficult, that could just be me and this is why I've given this story 4 stars.
Thank you to TBC and the Author for sending me a copy of the book.
This is definitely different to anything I've ever read before and although I found the writing style difficult, that could just be me and this is why I've given this story 4 stars.
Thank you to TBC and the Author for sending me a copy of the book.
March 27, 2017
this is a very dark novella which I enjoyed lots. I started reading it last night and got to chapter 20 before I even realised it. it follows a man who has very dark thoughts about evil people and wants to make them open and red. at the start he lives alone with his dog in an apartment and works as a vacuum cleaner sales man but as the story progresses he meets a woman and dates her but his dark thoughts keep coming. it is a brilliant read which I enjoyed and would recommend
March 28, 2021
I enjoyed reading this short book. I like the writing style with the run on sentences of the main character’s thoughts as he’s thinking them. A good mixture of strange, dark, and funny.
September 29, 2019
What a totally awesome book! I love something a bit different and boy, was this different! As a self-confessed introvert, I was attracted to this book by its simple cover as I've never been afraid to stand apart from the crowd, in fact I much prefer it! Thankfully, I don't share any of the dark traits of our nameless anti-hero but, rather like my favourite serial killer, Dexter, he only makes people 'red and open' who deserve it.
I knew from the start that I was going to enjoy this book as the introvert comes up against bureaucratic red tape when he attempts to renew his drivers licence. After queuing for 40 minutes he leaves empty handed but with dark thoughts of stabbing the clerk with her own letter-opener. Don't get me wrong, this isn't a horror story; it's definitely more of a black comedy as I found myself giggling at the situations the introvert finds himself in, especially when he attracts the attention of his colleague, Donna. He finds that although he can 'achieve it' on his own, it's much better when Donna helps him.
I suppose seeing the more human side of him as his relationship with Donna progresses made it easier to take his side when things go spectacularly wrong. I actually found him a little naïve with almost a childlike innocence when the reasons behind his actions become apparent. He does have a good heart but he can't control his impulses for making people who deserve it 'red and open'.
As a very literal person, which my family and colleagues will attest to, I found it quite hilarious to see how the introvert interprets things. I don't think I'm quite as bad as him but there are some scenes with a police officer and police inspector that had me both sniggering at the audacity and silently applauding the literal brain of our anti-hero.
With an anti-hero you can't help rooting for and an intriguing storyline of a strange life and a murder investigation, The Introvert is impossible to put down once you pick it up. At only 160 pages long, it's so easy to read this original and quirky book in one sitting, which is what I did, but I really didn't want the story to end. Thankfully, it doesn't end there with Book 2: The Introvert Confounds Innocence already published and Book 3: The Introvert Bears Filthy Witness in the pipeline.
The Introvert may very well be my new guilty pleasure and it's definitely a book I'd read again as I'm sure I have missed some of the nuances of this wonderful and darkly charming anti-hero. It's the perfect book to pick up if you're at a loose end on a rainy Saturday afternoon. Highly recommended for fans of Dexter and black comedy.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
I knew from the start that I was going to enjoy this book as the introvert comes up against bureaucratic red tape when he attempts to renew his drivers licence. After queuing for 40 minutes he leaves empty handed but with dark thoughts of stabbing the clerk with her own letter-opener. Don't get me wrong, this isn't a horror story; it's definitely more of a black comedy as I found myself giggling at the situations the introvert finds himself in, especially when he attracts the attention of his colleague, Donna. He finds that although he can 'achieve it' on his own, it's much better when Donna helps him.
I suppose seeing the more human side of him as his relationship with Donna progresses made it easier to take his side when things go spectacularly wrong. I actually found him a little naïve with almost a childlike innocence when the reasons behind his actions become apparent. He does have a good heart but he can't control his impulses for making people who deserve it 'red and open'.
As a very literal person, which my family and colleagues will attest to, I found it quite hilarious to see how the introvert interprets things. I don't think I'm quite as bad as him but there are some scenes with a police officer and police inspector that had me both sniggering at the audacity and silently applauding the literal brain of our anti-hero.
With an anti-hero you can't help rooting for and an intriguing storyline of a strange life and a murder investigation, The Introvert is impossible to put down once you pick it up. At only 160 pages long, it's so easy to read this original and quirky book in one sitting, which is what I did, but I really didn't want the story to end. Thankfully, it doesn't end there with Book 2: The Introvert Confounds Innocence already published and Book 3: The Introvert Bears Filthy Witness in the pipeline.
The Introvert may very well be my new guilty pleasure and it's definitely a book I'd read again as I'm sure I have missed some of the nuances of this wonderful and darkly charming anti-hero. It's the perfect book to pick up if you're at a loose end on a rainy Saturday afternoon. Highly recommended for fans of Dexter and black comedy.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
September 11, 2019
Our unnamed protagonist, The Introvert, is a vacuum cleaner salesman, good at his job due to his direct manner on the telephone.
Donna, the admin assistant likes him as he’s quiet and doesn’t babble……little does she know he doesn’t really understand people and uses the company manual, The Company Culture Handbook as his reference guide…..following the rules such as ‘always diffuse discomfort ‘….
He lives with his dog, Molly……he gets angry sometimes and wants to make people red and open……but he has breathing exercises his counsellors taught him, that helps…..until his landlord mistreats a dog!
This has humour at its darkest, to make you cringe at the same time as laugh, you know you shouldn’t!….and animal rights at its heart….weird and wonderful.
Thank you to Sarah at Book On The Bright Side for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour and for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest, unbiased review.
Donna, the admin assistant likes him as he’s quiet and doesn’t babble……little does she know he doesn’t really understand people and uses the company manual, The Company Culture Handbook as his reference guide…..following the rules such as ‘always diffuse discomfort ‘….
He lives with his dog, Molly……he gets angry sometimes and wants to make people red and open……but he has breathing exercises his counsellors taught him, that helps…..until his landlord mistreats a dog!
This has humour at its darkest, to make you cringe at the same time as laugh, you know you shouldn’t!….and animal rights at its heart….weird and wonderful.
Thank you to Sarah at Book On The Bright Side for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour and for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest, unbiased review.
April 1, 2017
The Introvert
I loved this book! Dark, funny yet not funny. The story of an introvert but he is more, so much more, than that. He could be sitting across your work desk looking benignly at you but thinking that he would like to see you "red & open"!! To the outside world he is the mild mannered vacuum salesman who likes order and quiet; to be left alone to his ordered life and walks with his dog Molly.
In this short novel the introvert's life begins to unravel as event after event threaten to unmask what lies beneath! They say that still waters run deep and so it is with our anti-hero.
I recommend this book to fellow readers. It's a short book and I devoured it in one sitting.
I loved this book! Dark, funny yet not funny. The story of an introvert but he is more, so much more, than that. He could be sitting across your work desk looking benignly at you but thinking that he would like to see you "red & open"!! To the outside world he is the mild mannered vacuum salesman who likes order and quiet; to be left alone to his ordered life and walks with his dog Molly.
In this short novel the introvert's life begins to unravel as event after event threaten to unmask what lies beneath! They say that still waters run deep and so it is with our anti-hero.
I recommend this book to fellow readers. It's a short book and I devoured it in one sitting.
July 26, 2020
It’s short, sweet and a bit creepy. Picked this up when I was struggling to invest in reading and it helped me out of the pit, I just wish there was more depth to the story.
February 5, 2017
My thanks to the author and to Black Opal Books for an ARC of this novella.
Well OMFG! What a fantastically weird, twisted and absolutely quirky novella The Introvert was! So much so, I am not even sure where in the world to begin! The cover is simple, yet eye-catching and pretty much gives you a feel of the wickedly wonderful writing you will stumble across as you delve into the world of The Introvert!
The majority of this book takes place in either an office, The Introvert‘s home/neighbourhood or the local area – which pretty much gives you a clue about the way “The Introvert” does not do much outside of his comfort zone. Within the pages we find a twisted reality, where evil is done for good, where lust becomes love, where the unreal is…well real…or real in the mind of “The Introvert” himself.
The plot is well paced and builds up superbly to the WTAF moments! And there are a few of those! Believe me! I love things that are depraved and abnormal and figuritively grab you by the throat. This novella did just that! It was bizarre in the nicest possible way!
I really enjoyed the fact that it was not overloaded with characters and for a short novella, the ones that were included were well written and likeable. Even the anti-hero! I found myself drawn to him despite his inability to grasp that what he was doing was oh-so-wrong! A few stood out and are worthy of a mention. Donna Wintergrass– she is “The Introvert’s” girlfriend. I have to be honest, she annoyed the hell out of me at first. She is needy, comes across as desperate and frankly, quite naive! But as the story unfolds, these characteristics endear the reader to her. I wanted to shake her at times and scream “snap out of it lady!” – but then, I shrugged my shoulders and thought “more fool you” – sometimes we only see what we want to see, right!?
The Inspector was also another fab character. He played a cat-n-mouse game with The Introvert who always seemed to frustratingly outwit him! But it was The Introvert himself who stole the show. Dark, deep and down-right deviant, everything he said and did just repulsed and enthralled me at the same time! He is anti social, blends into society almost unnoticed, but he is someone you definitely need to take notice of! He has child-like qualities that instantly makes the reader protective of him and his love of animals pulls you in and makes you believe he is harmless. He is not!! See what I mean? WTAF is going on!
Would I recommend this wee novella? You bet your arse I would! I found it’s originality refreshing, it’s quirkiness addictive and the strangeness was absolutely awesome! Well worth checking out, #bookjunkies!
Well OMFG! What a fantastically weird, twisted and absolutely quirky novella The Introvert was! So much so, I am not even sure where in the world to begin! The cover is simple, yet eye-catching and pretty much gives you a feel of the wickedly wonderful writing you will stumble across as you delve into the world of The Introvert!
The majority of this book takes place in either an office, The Introvert‘s home/neighbourhood or the local area – which pretty much gives you a clue about the way “The Introvert” does not do much outside of his comfort zone. Within the pages we find a twisted reality, where evil is done for good, where lust becomes love, where the unreal is…well real…or real in the mind of “The Introvert” himself.
The plot is well paced and builds up superbly to the WTAF moments! And there are a few of those! Believe me! I love things that are depraved and abnormal and figuritively grab you by the throat. This novella did just that! It was bizarre in the nicest possible way!
I really enjoyed the fact that it was not overloaded with characters and for a short novella, the ones that were included were well written and likeable. Even the anti-hero! I found myself drawn to him despite his inability to grasp that what he was doing was oh-so-wrong! A few stood out and are worthy of a mention. Donna Wintergrass– she is “The Introvert’s” girlfriend. I have to be honest, she annoyed the hell out of me at first. She is needy, comes across as desperate and frankly, quite naive! But as the story unfolds, these characteristics endear the reader to her. I wanted to shake her at times and scream “snap out of it lady!” – but then, I shrugged my shoulders and thought “more fool you” – sometimes we only see what we want to see, right!?
The Inspector was also another fab character. He played a cat-n-mouse game with The Introvert who always seemed to frustratingly outwit him! But it was The Introvert himself who stole the show. Dark, deep and down-right deviant, everything he said and did just repulsed and enthralled me at the same time! He is anti social, blends into society almost unnoticed, but he is someone you definitely need to take notice of! He has child-like qualities that instantly makes the reader protective of him and his love of animals pulls you in and makes you believe he is harmless. He is not!! See what I mean? WTAF is going on!
Would I recommend this wee novella? You bet your arse I would! I found it’s originality refreshing, it’s quirkiness addictive and the strangeness was absolutely awesome! Well worth checking out, #bookjunkies!
March 15, 2017
At just over 100 pages The Introvert is a quick read that I got through in four easy sessions. Being so short, I wondered whether the story would be lacking or the characters shallow, but happily neither was the case.
Seen entirely through the eyes of the central character, the story is coloured by his quirky and twisted view of the world. He felt like the kind of character you could root for – unselfconscious, simple and naive, but his propensity to imagine people around him ‘red and open’ when they behave in a way he doesn’t like, sets the scene pretty early on! The Introvert (who remains nameless) appears to have a straightforward view of the world and is, in his own mind, good natured and reasonable. You’d believe that too if it wasn’t for the evidence presented to the contrary!
It’s difficult to say too much more without giving the story away, so I’ll just say this: The Introvert is an accomplished book that convincingly sucks you in to the point of view of a dangerous and bizarre personality. Brilliantly done - it’s a demonstration of first-rate characterisation.
This is an unbiased review written based on an ARC received via TBC.
Seen entirely through the eyes of the central character, the story is coloured by his quirky and twisted view of the world. He felt like the kind of character you could root for – unselfconscious, simple and naive, but his propensity to imagine people around him ‘red and open’ when they behave in a way he doesn’t like, sets the scene pretty early on! The Introvert (who remains nameless) appears to have a straightforward view of the world and is, in his own mind, good natured and reasonable. You’d believe that too if it wasn’t for the evidence presented to the contrary!
It’s difficult to say too much more without giving the story away, so I’ll just say this: The Introvert is an accomplished book that convincingly sucks you in to the point of view of a dangerous and bizarre personality. Brilliantly done - it’s a demonstration of first-rate characterisation.
This is an unbiased review written based on an ARC received via TBC.
May 3, 2019
This book is a WIN FROM THE GIVEAWAY CONTEST. . When i got it i looked at the title and thought hmmm a scientific book. I thought of all the different kinds of books that i have won and figured i could now add a scientific book to the list of murder, mystery, real life war stories, romance and yes even two i thought as xxx sex books. But what a surprise when i started reading. this book is about a man telling his story of what he thinks, how he wants to put his thoughts into action but knowing he cannot do what he would really like to do. he has a small son that is being bullied in preschool and try to use common sense to stop the bully and his father. then a friend of his lady partner gets abused and bullied by her boy friend which is something he doesn't approve of and this leads to a murder, mystery and how his world takes a twist from the peace that he thought he had earned. IN FACT the story keep getting better and better and it made me think what i would have wanted to do myself . When i started reading i couldn't put it down and read it all in one sitting.
March 26, 2017
The Introvert
By: Michael Paul Michaud
5 out of 5 stars
The story The Introvert by Michael Paul Michaud is a thrilling crime book. It tells the story a man we will call “The Introvert” through a time in his life when he is top at his job in sales, is starting a relationship and also has him right in the middle of a murder investigation. When reading this book I found myself smiling at both the main character and the actions that he takes. He has his own way of viewing the world and his own sense of justice. He is very good at his job, however, when it comes to the relationship with his girlfriend he seems to be out of sorts. He does have his moments when there is something driving him to make people “red and open.” He does his best to control himself. I enjoyed this look into the life of a man that has a very different point-of-view from the rest of the world. I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.
By: Michael Paul Michaud
5 out of 5 stars
The story The Introvert by Michael Paul Michaud is a thrilling crime book. It tells the story a man we will call “The Introvert” through a time in his life when he is top at his job in sales, is starting a relationship and also has him right in the middle of a murder investigation. When reading this book I found myself smiling at both the main character and the actions that he takes. He has his own way of viewing the world and his own sense of justice. He is very good at his job, however, when it comes to the relationship with his girlfriend he seems to be out of sorts. He does have his moments when there is something driving him to make people “red and open.” He does his best to control himself. I enjoyed this look into the life of a man that has a very different point-of-view from the rest of the world. I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.
January 5, 2018
I wasn't clear how to even categorise this book. It's a fairly quick read and at the outset I had a pretty low opinion of it. The title is misleading and that I think threw me. My view was that this is a book written by an extravert trying to portray what it's like to be an introvert. I still feel that to a degree. The writing is a bit clumsy in places.
However, the main character isn't an introvert really or maybe I'm just offended. He's more high functioning aspergers.
I've read comparisons to 'The Curious Incident of the dog in the nighttime', but it has little in common with that and more in common with 'American Psycho'.
If you find it slow, stick with it. It improves.
However, the main character isn't an introvert really or maybe I'm just offended. He's more high functioning aspergers.
I've read comparisons to 'The Curious Incident of the dog in the nighttime', but it has little in common with that and more in common with 'American Psycho'.
If you find it slow, stick with it. It improves.
March 20, 2017
This book is a dark comedy with a central character who is socially awkward, but who at the same time oddly charming and very endearing. Its a novella at just over a hundred and fifty pages and makes a perfect read between longer books. He prefers his own company but past events and his own dark urges to hurt people that anger him, leave him caught up in a murder investigation. He is the perfect anti hero. If you like your humour dark and your hero's flawed, then this is the book for you.
March 19, 2017
This is a short read, which I read in one sitting. A quirky dark-humoured story about the introvert, whose name we never discover.
Told in first person by the introvert himself, we discover he is not all he seems to be. An interesting read. And you can't help but like him, even with his vivid imagination that sometimes becomes reality.
Told in first person by the introvert himself, we discover he is not all he seems to be. An interesting read. And you can't help but like him, even with his vivid imagination that sometimes becomes reality.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews