White Trash Warlock

The Adam Binder Novels, Book 1

By: David R. Slayton

Narrated by: Michael David Axtell

Not all magicians go to schools of magic.

Adam Binder has the Sight. It’s a power that runs in his bloodline: the ability to see beyond this world and into another, a realm of magic populated by elves, gnomes, and spirits of every kind. But for much of Adam’s life, that power has been a curse, hindering friendships, worrying his backwoods family, and fueling his abusive father’s rage.

Years after his brother, Bobby, had him committed to a psych ward, Adam is ready to come to grips with who he is, to live his life on his terms, to find love, and maybe even use his magic to do some good. Hoping to track down his missing father, Adam follows a trail of cursed artifacts to Denver, only to discover that an ancient and horrifying spirit has taken possession of Bobby’s wife.

It isn’t long before Adam becomes the spirit’s next target. To survive the confrontation, save his sister-in-law, and learn the truth about his father, Adam will have to risk bargaining with very dangerous beings...including his first love.

©2020 David R. Slayton (P)2020 Blackstone Publishing

all signs point to Denver...

Adam Binder has had a tough life. Seriously, he grew up in a dysfunctional, abusive home. His father abandoned them and no one understood Adam’s gift. Imagine growing up gay, poor, seeing things that aren’t real, and being able to feel everyone’s emotions. Adam is an adult now, and his past has shaped him. He is on a quest for answers, and urban fantasy fans are going to love him.

Adam has the sight, a gift that allows him to see/feel magic, fairies, elves, gnomes, dragons and more that exist outside of our realm. He can also sense people’s feelings from sorrow to fear. This made things difficult for him as a teen, and his own brother institutionalized him.

He now lives in a trailer park with his Aunt. His Aunt has the gift and accepts Adam. He hasn’t spoken to his brother Bobby in years, which is why he is surprised when Bobby asks for help. It seems something is very wrong with Bobby’s wife (understatement of the year). Adam gets in his old Cutlass and heads to Denver.

I loved how this tale unfolded. Slayton filled us in on a need to know basis, giving the story a pleasant flow. Truth be told, Adam doesn’t know a lot about himself, which is why he is tracking the warlock making these magical items. As luck would have it that lead also points to Denver.


Trips to the spirit world, fairies, gods, reapers and more await you in this tale with its Supernatural and old-school vibe. The writing is vivid, suspenseful, and balanced against Adam’s dysfunctional family. Secondary characters from the gods to family were unique and developed. I am very interested in some key players in the other realm. Can I just say I loved Vic and hope for more?

There is some romance both past and present, and it was interesting witnessing the present and learning about the past. Adam’s concerns and emotions felt raw and genuine. This added depth and severed as a side dish to the malevolent spirit trying to enter our world. It was all quite clever.

The second point of view is that of Adam’s brother Bobby, who prefers Robert. He worries about his social status and has worked hard to leave the smudge of rural Oklahoma behind. He was complex, and over the course of the story we learn a great deal about Robert and what makes him who he is. I loved seeing strides made to heal the family dynamics, and the author did a stellar job of showing all sides.

I listened to the audiobook narrated by Michael David Axtell, who brought these characters and their emotions to life. He assigned unique voices to everyone. His voices for Adam captured our young protagonist from insecurities to benevolence. He enhanced an already brilliant story.

Exciting, imaginative, and complex

This book is a departure from my usual genre, but I'm so glad I gave it a chance. I now have a new author and narrator on my faves lists. Slayton's writing is so vivid, I could picture each scene as if it were on a screen. He shows deep compassion for his characters, whether protagonist or villain, creating a relatable kind of humanity and humility in each. The diversity of characters are organically constructed, never feeling forced or contrived. And Axtell beautifully brought each character to life with their own, unique voice. I especially love his accents. What a joy to listen to!

I am charmed.

The best blend of an interesting and compelling story driven by real emotional grit. I'm completely charmed by both the world as redefined and the drive of our hero to connect and identify in the midst of chaos. The narration was excellent and I am very much looking forward to the next installment and all future offerings 🤓

original yet familiar

honestly super enjoy the surprising magical journey. there were hints and elements reminding me of authentic pagan practices, which was a lovely bonus to hear. I hope that this is the start to a a series as I'm quite curious with the future holds for the protagonist.

I didn't know what to expect, and that's ok!

Everything about this book was a delight. I am always apprehensive when the paranormal is peppered in, and there are some odd moments in this story where you just have to let go and allow it wash over you. Once that happens, its a fun romp from a trailer park in Oklahoma to the suburbs of Denver.

I found the narration most enjoyable, Axtell was a great in all his characters - can't fault him for anything.

The story has a few hiccups - mostly dealing with the alternate reality of the "other world". Instead of worrying about that, allow the delightful and awkward main characters lead you through the labyrinth of evil spirits and friendly helpers.

Wow, just wow

I took a chance on this book, because you never know exactly what’s going to appeal to you in an urban fantasy. This is not only a keeper it’s one you’re going to want to read over and over. The characters are complex the story is engaging and I want to know more

Pleasantly surprised

I picked this up after a slew of disappointing audio books. Not at all my typical type of book choice but I wanted something to pass the time. I am invested now. Maybe it's because I'm a native of the state it's based in. maybe it's because I've lived in the double wides where the MC comes from. One way or the other I loved this book and the intertwined realities of each realm. Already have book 2 in my queue and happily going into the next adventure. I'm horrible at reviews, but needed to add my stars because I want more people to give this a go. It's absolutely worth it if you love urban fantasy!

Gay main character and magic, sign me up!

The book summary doesn’t do this story justice. It is a great mix of reality and gives a fun twist on what many think they know. Having a gay main character was just icing on the cake and pure perfection!

Entertaining

This was included in membership. For free, I felt it was an entertaining story to listen to.

Wonderful!

One of the best books I've ever heard. The writing is excellent, the reading is amazing. Absolutely recommend!