Posted first to Blog Critics as Book Review: 'Arcadia'-A Sci-Fi Fantasy by Iain Pears.
Arcadia by Iain Pears is a work of time travel, but not in the traditional sense. It creates alternate times and parallel places that are accessed by an incredible machine built by a mathematician named Angela Meerson. Secretive and elusive Angela holds the secrets and buries them in various places of the past and future, and then she goes about disappearing herself.
Unwittingly others are a part of her story, as Henry Lytten in the 60’s lives his world of teaching and espionage, while Rosie Wilson feeds his cat. She is entranced by the stories he writes, but she is also a curious girl who stumbles into a place she doesn’t know.
Then there is Jay, he lives in a very quiet and peaceful setting unrelated to the others. However, through the mode of this machine and the necessity of keeping it secret these characters find themselves intertwined with each other as Angela’s old company and enemies think they have found her in her new life.
Looking for clues in both the past and future, they have stumbled on what they think is the answer. Can more than one world exist in parallel time?
Pears has given us a Sci-Fi fantasy that keeps you looking for answers. It carries mystery, danger, suspense, and an overall array of genres to keep even the most die-hard reader engaged. His characters are charismatic and the ideas feel radical with a bit of realism. He makes the elusive Angela a strong and abrasive character. She knows she is hunted, and is haunted by her findings. She tries to align her characteristics with the different places she moves through in order to move with impunity. She knows there are those who would see her dead and use her discovery for evil, yet she must continue on her quest.
She must find a way to perfect what she has discovered before it is too late. By moving throughout the past and present as her enemies draw near she is able to stay clear of their manipulation. Henry, Rosie and Jay are all a very important group as they are catalysts to various moves and as the hunt reaches threatening proportions the characters find themselves in an array of dangerous happenings.
If you enjoy literary fiction, Sci-Fi and fantasy, mystery, suspense and danger you have found the right material to keep you interested. Creating a set of worlds and creating such an interesting array of lives Pears takes us into the unknown and shows us magic and danger in a way that makes it fun.
Rating 4/5
Showing posts with label disatopic. Show all posts
Showing posts with label disatopic. Show all posts
Saturday, March 19, 2016
Arcadia by Iain Pears
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Thursday, July 30, 2015
The Long Utopia by Terry Pratchett and Stephen Baxter
Posted first to Blog Critics as Book Review: 'The Long Utopia' by Terry Pratchett and Stephen Baxter.
Terry Pratchett and Stephen Baxter have taken us far into the future in The Long Utopia. As humans evolve and even Artificial Intelligence (AI) is left behind, the original Earth is failing and parallel Earths seem to hold the answer to the future. However, there is a strange shift in one of the parallel Earths. This planet is known for its simplicity and is where Lobsang, an elderly AI, has disguised himself as human and is living his life in obscurity.
Soon though, an new intelligent new life form, known simply as the Next, has been discovered by the children on this planet and seem to be friendly. They actively trade for rocks and junk while leaving nice gifts of jewelry in return. Along with this discovery, both Lobsang and his partner have found a strange anomaly creating uncomfortable changes in the sequence of time. While most humans do not feel a difference, it creates havoc with the AI’s internal clock. While the causes of the anomaly are unknown, the results appear to be shorter days.
Since travel among the planets is facilitated with a box for stepping (a form of moving between plants), even this procedure is at risk. There is a group of steppers, however, that are able to step between time and space without the use of the computer technology from the box, but they must remain hidden for they are deemed a danger to the world. Lobsang must come out of hiding and track down these hidden steppers, for with their abilities they may be the only way to save this world. The connection between the planets is at risk as Lobsang and his group discover that the Next are on a course to destroy the very core of their home. Can they find if this is the real intention and if so, can they save this planet before the Next find a way to destroy the entire human and AI race?
The late Pratchett was known for his works featuring alternate realities. In The Long Utopia he moves us into another realm of space and the unknown. With Baxter as a coauthor we can be sure this world will not sink into obscurity. The characters, both human and AI, are gentle and smart, but unprepared for what is about to happen. You find yourself drawn to them, with all their flaws and feelings. The differing forms of travel and abilities are unique and quite interesting, keeping you enthralled with the process of moving through time and space.
As we are introduced to the Next, we are unprepared for their part in the changing of the world. So when the real story comes to light, confusion and perplexity keeps you digging for answers. They seem to be a gentle race and for years barter with the children, yet both their motives and background are unknown. They are creatures of both nature and technology and are like insects with a hive mentality. They seem to communicate in much the same way, and once their intentions are known, the danger becomes very clear.
If you enjoy science fiction you will be pleased with this latest work by Pratchett and Baxter. This moves a little beyond the young adult fiction that Pratchett had been known for and takes us into Long Earth and an exciting new future.
Rating 3/5
Terry Pratchett and Stephen Baxter have taken us far into the future in The Long Utopia. As humans evolve and even Artificial Intelligence (AI) is left behind, the original Earth is failing and parallel Earths seem to hold the answer to the future. However, there is a strange shift in one of the parallel Earths. This planet is known for its simplicity and is where Lobsang, an elderly AI, has disguised himself as human and is living his life in obscurity.
Soon though, an new intelligent new life form, known simply as the Next, has been discovered by the children on this planet and seem to be friendly. They actively trade for rocks and junk while leaving nice gifts of jewelry in return. Along with this discovery, both Lobsang and his partner have found a strange anomaly creating uncomfortable changes in the sequence of time. While most humans do not feel a difference, it creates havoc with the AI’s internal clock. While the causes of the anomaly are unknown, the results appear to be shorter days.
Since travel among the planets is facilitated with a box for stepping (a form of moving between plants), even this procedure is at risk. There is a group of steppers, however, that are able to step between time and space without the use of the computer technology from the box, but they must remain hidden for they are deemed a danger to the world. Lobsang must come out of hiding and track down these hidden steppers, for with their abilities they may be the only way to save this world. The connection between the planets is at risk as Lobsang and his group discover that the Next are on a course to destroy the very core of their home. Can they find if this is the real intention and if so, can they save this planet before the Next find a way to destroy the entire human and AI race?
The late Pratchett was known for his works featuring alternate realities. In The Long Utopia he moves us into another realm of space and the unknown. With Baxter as a coauthor we can be sure this world will not sink into obscurity. The characters, both human and AI, are gentle and smart, but unprepared for what is about to happen. You find yourself drawn to them, with all their flaws and feelings. The differing forms of travel and abilities are unique and quite interesting, keeping you enthralled with the process of moving through time and space.
As we are introduced to the Next, we are unprepared for their part in the changing of the world. So when the real story comes to light, confusion and perplexity keeps you digging for answers. They seem to be a gentle race and for years barter with the children, yet both their motives and background are unknown. They are creatures of both nature and technology and are like insects with a hive mentality. They seem to communicate in much the same way, and once their intentions are known, the danger becomes very clear.
If you enjoy science fiction you will be pleased with this latest work by Pratchett and Baxter. This moves a little beyond the young adult fiction that Pratchett had been known for and takes us into Long Earth and an exciting new future.
Saturday, December 27, 2014
Stolen, Heart of Dread by Melissa De La Cruz and Michael Johnston
Posted first to Blog Critics as Book Review: Stolen, Heart of Dread by Melissa De La Cruz and Michael Johnston.
In Stolen, Heart of Dread by Melissa De La Cruz and Michael Johnston, we continue the saga of Nat And Wes begun in the first of the series, Frozen. Nat and Wes had parted and Nat has gone on to harness her powers. Having learned that the fire within is a part of who she is, at the same time she finds she is also the last of her kind. With the help of her friend Faix she learns to release the dragon and to use him in her fight of all that is wrong and those guilty of holding her planet in its frozen state.
Wes has gone on to find his sister, Eliza, rumored to be held in the golden domes of the Eldorado. Being back in New Vegas has its own dangers and what happens if Eliza doesn’t want to be found.
When Nat loses her dragon she and Wes reunite as it soon becomes obvious that both their quests are leading them in the same direction, directly into the dangerous cauldron of what has created their frozen world from the beginning. Where does Wes’s sister fit in, and why was she kidnapped from her family so long ago.
If you enjoy fantasy and danger, threaded with mystery and adventure you will love the characters in this tale. The second of a series it still reads well on its own, and you will find that Wes and his erstwhile friends are a mix of fear and courage. It is when they are all together the courage becomes fierce, and when one of their friends comes into trouble, you see what makes them who they are.
Nat is heartbroken for she fears she has lost her inner dragon, but finding Wes again sooths her being for her love is strong. Yet can she really overcome losing the primary part of her that has been her steady source of courage from the beginning?
Eliza is the question mark. Who is she really, is she a woman needing rescue or is she behind the plots to keep the world as it has become––frozen. Can Wes and Nat along with their friends find the answers before it is too late for them all?
If you enjoy romance, danger, fun and mystery you are sure to enjoy this work. A young Adult fantasy that reads a bit like a fairytale and holds you captive, it is also a tale for the young at heart.
While is reads well on its own, you will want to find Frozen to find out how it all comes together.
This is a wonderful find for your young adult reader, and a work that you will enjoy as an adult as well. It has just enough mystery and danger to keep all levels entertained.
Rating 4/5
This book was received free from the authors publicist. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
In Stolen, Heart of Dread by Melissa De La Cruz and Michael Johnston, we continue the saga of Nat And Wes begun in the first of the series, Frozen. Nat and Wes had parted and Nat has gone on to harness her powers. Having learned that the fire within is a part of who she is, at the same time she finds she is also the last of her kind. With the help of her friend Faix she learns to release the dragon and to use him in her fight of all that is wrong and those guilty of holding her planet in its frozen state.
Wes has gone on to find his sister, Eliza, rumored to be held in the golden domes of the Eldorado. Being back in New Vegas has its own dangers and what happens if Eliza doesn’t want to be found.
When Nat loses her dragon she and Wes reunite as it soon becomes obvious that both their quests are leading them in the same direction, directly into the dangerous cauldron of what has created their frozen world from the beginning. Where does Wes’s sister fit in, and why was she kidnapped from her family so long ago.
If you enjoy fantasy and danger, threaded with mystery and adventure you will love the characters in this tale. The second of a series it still reads well on its own, and you will find that Wes and his erstwhile friends are a mix of fear and courage. It is when they are all together the courage becomes fierce, and when one of their friends comes into trouble, you see what makes them who they are.
Nat is heartbroken for she fears she has lost her inner dragon, but finding Wes again sooths her being for her love is strong. Yet can she really overcome losing the primary part of her that has been her steady source of courage from the beginning?
Eliza is the question mark. Who is she really, is she a woman needing rescue or is she behind the plots to keep the world as it has become––frozen. Can Wes and Nat along with their friends find the answers before it is too late for them all?
If you enjoy romance, danger, fun and mystery you are sure to enjoy this work. A young Adult fantasy that reads a bit like a fairytale and holds you captive, it is also a tale for the young at heart.
While is reads well on its own, you will want to find Frozen to find out how it all comes together.
This is a wonderful find for your young adult reader, and a work that you will enjoy as an adult as well. It has just enough mystery and danger to keep all levels entertained.
Rating 4/5
This book was received free from the authors publicist. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
Friday, December 27, 2013
Far Shore, Book Three of the After Series by Traci L. Slatton
Posted First on Blog Critics as Book Review: 'Far Shore' by Traci L. Slatton.
'The heart wants what the heart wants' seems like such a redundancy. Yet there is that simple truth to the adage where there often seems to be no real choice in the matter. We can ignore it and yet there will always be that ‘what if?’
In Far Shore by Traci L. Slatton Book Three of the After Series
takes us further into the devastation of earth and the causes, yet it also creates a sort of yearning. With the damage, the abilities that follow seem strange, yet without them the suffering is even more extreme. Emma is home again and with her family, and yet her heart is not whole. Her friends are far away and she has no idea what is happening to Arthur.
When a sudden appearance of a small group of friends appear, only then does she learn of the danger Jeannie faces with her upcoming birth, and worse, Arthur is a prisoner of their worst enemy. Having unknowingly caused the death of Alexei’s wife, he has been tortured to near death. She must ride out to use her skills in Jeannie’s upcoming birth, and then she must go to Arthur’s rescue. Her husband Haywood does not see it that way and offers an ultimatum. Still, she has no choice, she must choose the path that can save the world and the man she loves beyond all reasoning.
Are her healing powers strong enough to bring him back from the brink of death? Can she arrive in time to save Jeannie’s unborn child. The outcomes of each act have far reaching consequences. The results can go either way, reducing the earth to rubble, or driving the mists away for good.
Slatton continues to give us a heart rending love, one that can tear apart a family. Yet she somehow imbues the situation with all the right reasons, so where the outcome could be tragic, there is somehow a bit of magic. The empathy and pain leap off the pages as you suffer with the characters. As some of Emma’s past comes to her in dreams, you miss the characters that have moved on. They are like friends and family and the loss creates a somber atmosphere. The horror of the acts perpetrated against Arthur creates anger, making you want to hate Alexei. There is much at stake with all the characters that comes into play with the telling.
The heat and passion that sizzles between Arthur and Emma does not abate even when they are at their wits end.
If you enjoy mystery, science fiction, heated romance, adventure and dystopia stories this is a shining example. Book Three of the After Series, you can read stand alone, but even better with the rest of the series. The amazing backdrop and dangerous situations will keep you enthralled and asking for more of these exciting characters.
Rating 5/5
This book was received free from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
'The heart wants what the heart wants' seems like such a redundancy. Yet there is that simple truth to the adage where there often seems to be no real choice in the matter. We can ignore it and yet there will always be that ‘what if?’
In Far Shore by Traci L. Slatton Book Three of the After Series
takes us further into the devastation of earth and the causes, yet it also creates a sort of yearning. With the damage, the abilities that follow seem strange, yet without them the suffering is even more extreme. Emma is home again and with her family, and yet her heart is not whole. Her friends are far away and she has no idea what is happening to Arthur.
When a sudden appearance of a small group of friends appear, only then does she learn of the danger Jeannie faces with her upcoming birth, and worse, Arthur is a prisoner of their worst enemy. Having unknowingly caused the death of Alexei’s wife, he has been tortured to near death. She must ride out to use her skills in Jeannie’s upcoming birth, and then she must go to Arthur’s rescue. Her husband Haywood does not see it that way and offers an ultimatum. Still, she has no choice, she must choose the path that can save the world and the man she loves beyond all reasoning.
Are her healing powers strong enough to bring him back from the brink of death? Can she arrive in time to save Jeannie’s unborn child. The outcomes of each act have far reaching consequences. The results can go either way, reducing the earth to rubble, or driving the mists away for good.
Slatton continues to give us a heart rending love, one that can tear apart a family. Yet she somehow imbues the situation with all the right reasons, so where the outcome could be tragic, there is somehow a bit of magic. The empathy and pain leap off the pages as you suffer with the characters. As some of Emma’s past comes to her in dreams, you miss the characters that have moved on. They are like friends and family and the loss creates a somber atmosphere. The horror of the acts perpetrated against Arthur creates anger, making you want to hate Alexei. There is much at stake with all the characters that comes into play with the telling.
The heat and passion that sizzles between Arthur and Emma does not abate even when they are at their wits end.
If you enjoy mystery, science fiction, heated romance, adventure and dystopia stories this is a shining example. Book Three of the After Series, you can read stand alone, but even better with the rest of the series. The amazing backdrop and dangerous situations will keep you enthralled and asking for more of these exciting characters.
Rating 5/5
This book was received free from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
Labels:
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apocalyptic,
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romantic fiction,
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Friday, July 12, 2013
Frozen: Heart of Dread, Book I by Melissa De La Cruz and Michael Johnston
Posted first on Blog Critics as Book Review: Frozen: Heart of Dread Book I by Melissa De La Cruz and Michael Johnston
Las Vegas has always been a Mecca to draw those who look for
the high life, and enjoy the bling and lights of the city. What if Las Vegas
became New Vegas, a city covered in crystals of snow and ice instead of the
usual glitter. In Book one of Frozen:
Heart of Dread by Melissa De Las Cruz, New Vegas is the new frontier, the major
city left after destruction of the world. A city that plays 24 hours a day, it still
draws the crowds looking for a stake.
Stories of sorcery and the rumors of a paradise called the
Blue abound, drawing those who are looking for something different. Natasha
Kestal, a blackjack dealer, with no evidence of a past is one of those seeking
to find this land of sunshine, or ready to die in the process. If anyone one
finds her secret she knows she will not survive. She carries a voice of death
and destruction in her mind, urging her to pursue the rumors of this magical
city.
She must find a way to leave the city, and has unearthed the
name of one who may help. As with all mercenaries, there is a chance this Ryan
Wesson will take her money and turn her in for the reward. Yet is it a chance
she must take. Handsome and bold, he heads a ragtag crew that makes a living
through protection as well as thieving.
Nat and Wes (Ryan) are drawn together by feelings they can’t
control, but there are too many lies between them. Can their love survive the
deceit of others and the anger of evil men as they try to destroy all that is
beautiful in an effort to control a world gone crazy?
De La Cruz has a knack of bringing you heroes and heroines that
are strong yet flawed. Their unusual beauty is offset by darkness or past that
creates a crossroads to making them more malleable as well as good. Her worlds
are uniquely interesting, often vulnerable or dangerous, much like the
characters she peoples them with. With an ever escalading volume of books De La
Cruz has kept her imagination in check, dredging another fascinating work of
fiction and fantasy. Never far from romance, this tome sparkles with the
beginnings of a powerful attraction, another hook to draw you into the fold.
If you enjoy mystery, magic, dystopian worlds, fantasy and
romance, this is a great find. As usual from the work I have followed she has
penned another volume that doesn’t disappoint.
Rating 4/5
This book was received from the authors publicist. All opinions are my own based on my reading and understanding of the material.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Days of Love and Blood by R.S.Carter
Article first published as Book Review: Days of Love and Blood by R.S. Carter on Blogcritics.
Can there be a post-apocalyptic world in stories these days
without zombies being the force of our enemies. With the popularity of the
zombie horde I found it refreshing to find a story just a bit different.
In Days of Love and Blood by R.S Carter, the world is
changed in short order. A virus with quick acting damage moves swiftly killing
or transforming those infected making them much different than who they were.
Cognizant of life they seek only to maim and kill, with no other focus. The
virus is still in play yet slow acting, creating creatures out of your
nightmares. Not zombies, for this new danger of lost souls are still
thinking and have brains, yet they have a single purpose and that is to kill.
As Carson, a young woman escapes with her son Ronan, she is
grief stricken with the brutal death of her husband. Looking for a new life,
she heads for the only safety she remembers––her parents farm. Can they have survived the Demon virus that
has decimated the entire world? As she makes her way, she uses all the skills
she has learned to fend off and kill her attackers, as they track her
mercilessly.
Protecting herself and her son, she finds a group of
uninfected people very close to where she is headed. Warning them of her pursuers,
she helps to fight and protect the group. Here she finds the human interaction
she needs. Can she find love again, in a world that has gone crazy?
Carter has put together a dangerous and unique love story,
filled with feeling and hope. Using characters that you can relate to, he draws
you in to the world, where you experience anger, fear, friendship and love.
Carson is strong and her shell is tough from her experiences, but she also has
cracks in her armor that make her likable. Her son gives her that human touch
that would be missing without his presence. She has skills with a sword and yet
is helpless with a gun, so the interactions are sometimes brutal. She is also
somewhat callus due to her experiences, but when the thaw comes you are
enchanted.
If you enjoy the post-apocalyptic venue, and are looking for
something beyond zombies, this is the book to take you there. If you enjoy
romance and camaraderie, and the adjustments that come with finding a home and
family in situations of daily struggle, you will enjoy the world created by R.S.
Carter.
Days of Love and Blood is a step away from the usual, yet
has the action and danger that keep you going. The challenges are tough and the
feeling are tougher, so be prepared to find time to read in one sitting. You
will find it difficult to put this down once you begin. You may find yourself
checking your doors and looking out your windows, making sure your own safety
is intact.
This would be a great book for a reading group, sending out
shoots of spiraling discussions dealing with the different issues and choices
that weave throughout the story.
Rating 5/5
This book was received free from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Revenge of the Mad Scientist by Lara Nance
Article first published as Book Review:Revenge of the Mad Scientist: Book One by Lara Nance on Blogcritics.
A bit archaic yet eminently popular, Steam Punk is a genre
of writing all on its own. Full of inventions or the possibility of inventions from
the early 19th century, writers have taken to using the backdrop for
novels of adventure and mayhem.
In Revenge of the Mad Scientist by Lara Nance we are
introduced to a world of steam power and gaslights, one of differing nations vying
for supreme power and the creation of chaos. When the Lord High Minister of
Urbannia is kidnapped just as their country is on the verge of signing a peace
agreement, blame is laid to rest on Gandiss, the very country in question. The
kidnapping is handled during the celebration of the event, directly after the
Minister’s daughter, Lady Arabella is introduced to the Lord of the realm in
question.
Once the kidnapping comes to light, Lord Ismatan is rushed
away by his men for safety reasons, but not before he assures Arabella of the innocence
of his country. Giving her a ring to wear and use in case of need, he disappears
before he can be arrested for the deed. Arabella is the only one who believes
that Ismatan is innocent while all suspicion falls directly on him and his
country of Gandiss. Knowing her father’s
life is in danger, she realizes that she must be the one to react.
Her faithful servant and her young charge, a boy she rescued
from abusive behavior because of his difference, become a part of her retinue
in her quest to find her father. It seems to be the only solution to head off a
war between the nations, and Arabella is well aware that no one else is looking
in the right direction.
As she finds the captain of a Steam airship that is willing
to take her to her destination, she unintentionally sets into motion a series
of events that will change the lives and destinies of all involved. She herself
is kidnapped by slavers and escapes with another only to find that her fellow
abductee is related to Lord Ismatan of Gandiss.
The coincidences continue to pile up as danger falls around the small
group that is beginning to grow. After
the crash of her hired aircraft, fate puts another complication in her life.
The only ship now available seems to be run by the man who left her at the
altar years before.
Can she trust her fate and the fate of her father to such a ruffian?
She knows she has no choice; her father’s life hangs in the balance. Can this
band of misfits rescue her father and put a stop to the war that is now
brewing?
The genre of steam punk is exciting and interesting. Nance
does a great job of modeling the circumstances and describing the machinery and
inventions that I find very interesting. In some novels the events of the story
overshadow the background, yet Nance continues to interject with the variety
and description of the steam punk props, whether it is the machinery, the
clothing or the other interesting gadgets that strike our interest. At the same
time she weaves a story that moves forward with purpose.
Interspace the entire event with knives and guns that also
set up visuals, the novel moves at a smooth pace. There is certain believability
about many of the modes of weapon and transport, much like those that carried
the likes of Jules Verne on his fantastic voyages.
Nance also delivers on characters that have flaws but draw
you in to their issues and problems. You find yourself cheering as they find
ways around the foibles that exist. If
you enjoy Steam Punk you would enjoy this world. It is a fascinating journey
into the unknown, and has the ability to take you there.
Rating 4/5
This book was received free from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
Sunday, August 5, 2012
The Mers by Ami Blackwelder
Article first published as Book Review:The Mers by Ami Blackwelder on Blogcritics.
Knowing who you are and believing in yourself are what most
believe create that inner feeling of completeness and possibly even happiness.
For those who do not know of their familial background, a quest for information
almost always begins.
In The Mers by Ami Blackwelder, the author takes us into
such a situation, one our heroine, Mira, can only guess at. Living among the Mers, a people that have
evolved after the Great Deluge, she understands she is not like them. They have
gills and webbed appendages, while she is not comfortable in the water and is
not equipped with the standard gills or webs. Her hair is another stand out, it
is bright cherry red and is not like that of any of her friends. Nonetheless she knows she is loved and she
loves her friends and family with abandon. She just feels a little like an
outcast because she is not like anyone else she knows. She thinks she may be more like the humans, but they are bad and she
does not want to think about them. They are dangerous and want nothing more
than to destroy the Mers.
After the flood, necessity caused many changes and when adaptions
such as the Mers possessed came to light it created fear and distrust. War
ensued and after peace was brokered, the Mers were allowed to live their lives
on Liberty Shore, the former Ellis Island, away from the humans. The Humans
kept New Jersey and life became more peaceful. The treaty worked for many
years, but things were beginning to change. Strange water waves and dangerous
sea creatures were now in evidence and threatening the lives and existence of
the Mers. While lives were lost among the Mers, it was the disappearances that
were the most disturbing. Life was becoming unbearable. Pirates were raiding
their shores looking for bounty but kidnapping Mers as well. What was behind
this new and sinister danger?
As the danger creeps even closer, Mira learns a small piece
of her past. She is a foundling, and her adopted parents believe she is human.
They want only what is best for her and fear for her safety. Mira decides to
break the rules and she and her best friend Nerin cross the border that separates
these two entities in an effort to find the answers she is searching for. Is she
really prepared for the answers? What they discover is both shocking and horrifying;
they must find a way to warn the Mers, but how? They have been captured, but
there is something very strange happening to Mira, she seems to be gaining the
ability to do small bits of mind control. When they are helped by the Kings own
son to escape, they find themselves in a fight for their lives to save their
family and friends. Even as this evil is raging on, Mira learns part of the
truth of her past. Can she live with what she learns of who she is?
Blackwelder has given us a dystopian world and created a
society of different people that have become survivors. As with all societies
she has built in the pettishness, and jealousy, as well as the fear of those
who are different. Through it all she has weaved a gentle twist of romance and
hope, and a love of family.
Her characters create feelings in the reader, the mostly
gentle ways of the Mer draw you to them, yet their strength makes you
understand their capabilities. The Humans have their own foibles and while most
are caring and loving, the class system that is in place separates them too
much. The distinctions are too extreme causing a feudal system with a King that
has proclaimed his power. Blackwelder has given us a wicked Monarch that is
easy to dislike, one who also has something to hide. Not because he is ashamed
but because he plans to win at all costs.
If you enjoy end of the world scenarios, as well as mystery,
romance and danger you will enjoy The Mers. There is beauty and abundance
littered with hope. But betrayal raises the stakes and the adventure keeps you
reading to find out how the Mers can survive, or even if they will.
Rating 4/5
This book was received as a free download from the author. All opinions are my own based on my reading and understanding of the material.
Rating 4/5
This book was received as a free download from the author. All opinions are my own based on my reading and understanding of the material.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Drayling by Terry J. Newman
Article first published as Book Review: Drayling by Terry J. Newman on Blogcritics.
The future often seems tied to peace and the efforts we make to develop such an accord. Fantasy novels often take us in varying directions, revealing a future world where in some cases a utopia occurrs or in others where the end of the world is the outcome. Each novel identifies the aftermath in various ways.
In Drayling by Terry J. Newman, we follow an extremely interesting scenario, where peace did reign supreme. Drayling, an area in Britain–in the future–is a peaceful and interesting place to live. Each of the area governments has their own part in making the transition smooth and to continue success. While a national government is in process, there are also groups of ordinary citizens that do their part to hold on to that success. Part of the success is that the differing areas do not communicate or compete thereby helping to continue in a peaceful existence. When the premier dies under suspicious circumstances, the death creates a change at the head of the national government, that seems to change the way everything is being done, and secrecy seems to sneak into the fray. All of a sudden the local governments find their hands tied, and uneasiness prevails.
Uri Graves is the local historian and recently became a Worthy, one of those consulted with questions. His intelligence is unquestionable and he is held in high regard by the townspeople as well as the other Worthy’s with whom he has become friends. Hi children are well adjusted and his son Marius has also been making a name for himself with his interest and studies.
When the changes to government begin to affect the lives of the people, first with the lies and then the disruption, the reprisal is not far behind. In an effort to make their concerns known, 16 young men are killed, by a security force that is unheard of in the world of Dunstan Heathfield, the founder of the utopia which now exists. His diplomacy achieved what violence could not. Now all of his teaching seemed to be set aside. Could a small group of ordinary people do what it took to protect their way of life? As they begin a mission of danger and suspense, can they reduce the damage being wrought? Will their disobedience and secrecy save their way of life, or distort it even further.
The characters are so laid back and positive, the story seemed to flow effortlessly. The government while a bit strange, seemed to have heralded a long lived peace, and yet appears to have held some of its own secrets, as it seems many governments do. The small group of individuals must make choices, but they must also trust, which does not seem as easy as it once was. Finding the right people to help them in their mission, they must also find those who feel as they do. Knowledge of computers is a must, and a strong will to do the right thing, whatever it takes also tops the list. Uri and his son Marius are smack in the middle of this conspiracy.
I really enjoyed the premise of the book. Newman do an excellent job of fleshing out a government that made sense, and his characters were quite real. With just a bit of over the top belief in what they learned, they also have a tough time realizing that everything may not be as they believed. The response from the outsiders, those from the other areas were possibly a little too honest, especially with the lack of address between the groups in the past. However, again trust was one of the main themes and with just a bit of explanation, there seemed to be an abundance of trust with little knowledge. The trust itself, in their own government also seems to have been a problem, never questioning, just accepting the information as they knew it. Yet this group was ready to fight to retain what they loved, their way of life. It is part of what people do best.
I would recommend this book for the science fiction fan, as well as those who appreciate a good story. The background leading up to the fracas is well written and thought out. If you enjoy history, even the fabricated stuff, you will also find this an interesting read. I believe it would be an excellent book for a discussion group; the intricacies of the belief system would be great fodder to discuss.
Rating 4/5
This book was received free from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
The future often seems tied to peace and the efforts we make to develop such an accord. Fantasy novels often take us in varying directions, revealing a future world where in some cases a utopia occurrs or in others where the end of the world is the outcome. Each novel identifies the aftermath in various ways.
In Drayling by Terry J. Newman, we follow an extremely interesting scenario, where peace did reign supreme. Drayling, an area in Britain–in the future–is a peaceful and interesting place to live. Each of the area governments has their own part in making the transition smooth and to continue success. While a national government is in process, there are also groups of ordinary citizens that do their part to hold on to that success. Part of the success is that the differing areas do not communicate or compete thereby helping to continue in a peaceful existence. When the premier dies under suspicious circumstances, the death creates a change at the head of the national government, that seems to change the way everything is being done, and secrecy seems to sneak into the fray. All of a sudden the local governments find their hands tied, and uneasiness prevails.
Uri Graves is the local historian and recently became a Worthy, one of those consulted with questions. His intelligence is unquestionable and he is held in high regard by the townspeople as well as the other Worthy’s with whom he has become friends. Hi children are well adjusted and his son Marius has also been making a name for himself with his interest and studies.
When the changes to government begin to affect the lives of the people, first with the lies and then the disruption, the reprisal is not far behind. In an effort to make their concerns known, 16 young men are killed, by a security force that is unheard of in the world of Dunstan Heathfield, the founder of the utopia which now exists. His diplomacy achieved what violence could not. Now all of his teaching seemed to be set aside. Could a small group of ordinary people do what it took to protect their way of life? As they begin a mission of danger and suspense, can they reduce the damage being wrought? Will their disobedience and secrecy save their way of life, or distort it even further.
The characters are so laid back and positive, the story seemed to flow effortlessly. The government while a bit strange, seemed to have heralded a long lived peace, and yet appears to have held some of its own secrets, as it seems many governments do. The small group of individuals must make choices, but they must also trust, which does not seem as easy as it once was. Finding the right people to help them in their mission, they must also find those who feel as they do. Knowledge of computers is a must, and a strong will to do the right thing, whatever it takes also tops the list. Uri and his son Marius are smack in the middle of this conspiracy.
I really enjoyed the premise of the book. Newman do an excellent job of fleshing out a government that made sense, and his characters were quite real. With just a bit of over the top belief in what they learned, they also have a tough time realizing that everything may not be as they believed. The response from the outsiders, those from the other areas were possibly a little too honest, especially with the lack of address between the groups in the past. However, again trust was one of the main themes and with just a bit of explanation, there seemed to be an abundance of trust with little knowledge. The trust itself, in their own government also seems to have been a problem, never questioning, just accepting the information as they knew it. Yet this group was ready to fight to retain what they loved, their way of life. It is part of what people do best.
I would recommend this book for the science fiction fan, as well as those who appreciate a good story. The background leading up to the fracas is well written and thought out. If you enjoy history, even the fabricated stuff, you will also find this an interesting read. I believe it would be an excellent book for a discussion group; the intricacies of the belief system would be great fodder to discuss.
Rating 4/5
This book was received free from the author. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Fallen by Traci L. Slatton
Posted first on The Romance Reviews
As the mists slowly rolled in, the beauty of the cloud like vapors belied the events that were soon to take place. As the poisonous gasses began to kill those encircled by the haze, those that had no chance but to breathe it in, there was no rhythm to when or how it moved to its next victims. From the beginning, I was enthralled with the story and Slatton’s voice. She has taken an end of the world scenario and created characters that are so real they make you feel. To arm such a story with the budding of a love of such heat and passion creates a crescendo of feeling that keeps you turning the pages to see what happens next.
Emma has escaped the destruction of the mist with her daughter Mandy. Trying to eke out an existence, she becomes a beacon to the other children who have lost their families. She has taken on the job of keeping them safe from further incidents of mist. While they have all become family, when her own daughter Mandy is threatened she is frantic, the pain is unbearable. Yet even as death begins to stalk her daughter, safety comes in the sound of the thrumming of horse’s hooves. The percussion of sound appears to drive off the mists temporarily. The rescuers are a group of rough men, and yet Emma has a feeling. This could be the safety net for her and her children; she is willing to do what it takes to find a place for them where they can be safe. Those that have survived the mists are fragile and yet each seems to have picked up a gift. Emma is able to heal with a touch, Newt can see the future, and Mandy can see shadows of things that have happened.
Following the leader into one of the homes where he is foraging she strikes a bargain for their safety. She will be his woman in return for the safety of his camp. Neither of them understands the ramifications of the impact this small promise will make. Even safety from the mist does not provide protection from the marauders that are also roaming the world. Can Emma and Arthur keep everyone safe in this world on the edge?
This is a remarkable story of the aftermath of the end of the Earth as we know it. The story itself and the world building are well thought out and quite descriptive. You find yourself in that place and that time as you become involved in the reading. The characters are amazingly well described; I could picture them and relate to them as though they were real.
What becomes so unexpected is the budding of romance that then grows into a consuming inferno of passion between Arthur and Emma. The heat is exceptional and you can feel the waves of passion as they dissipate from their bodies. The passion evolves into a love that reaches deep and connects in such a way that it will not let go.
This was an intense read and I found it difficult to put down. The premise of the story is intriguing, and there is longing and loss, romance and action, littered with just about every emotion you can imagine. Slatton has created an addictive read that will leave you looking for more.
Rating 5/5
Fallen
This book was received from the Author or their representative. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
As the mists slowly rolled in, the beauty of the cloud like vapors belied the events that were soon to take place. As the poisonous gasses began to kill those encircled by the haze, those that had no chance but to breathe it in, there was no rhythm to when or how it moved to its next victims. From the beginning, I was enthralled with the story and Slatton’s voice. She has taken an end of the world scenario and created characters that are so real they make you feel. To arm such a story with the budding of a love of such heat and passion creates a crescendo of feeling that keeps you turning the pages to see what happens next.
Emma has escaped the destruction of the mist with her daughter Mandy. Trying to eke out an existence, she becomes a beacon to the other children who have lost their families. She has taken on the job of keeping them safe from further incidents of mist. While they have all become family, when her own daughter Mandy is threatened she is frantic, the pain is unbearable. Yet even as death begins to stalk her daughter, safety comes in the sound of the thrumming of horse’s hooves. The percussion of sound appears to drive off the mists temporarily. The rescuers are a group of rough men, and yet Emma has a feeling. This could be the safety net for her and her children; she is willing to do what it takes to find a place for them where they can be safe. Those that have survived the mists are fragile and yet each seems to have picked up a gift. Emma is able to heal with a touch, Newt can see the future, and Mandy can see shadows of things that have happened.
Following the leader into one of the homes where he is foraging she strikes a bargain for their safety. She will be his woman in return for the safety of his camp. Neither of them understands the ramifications of the impact this small promise will make. Even safety from the mist does not provide protection from the marauders that are also roaming the world. Can Emma and Arthur keep everyone safe in this world on the edge?
This is a remarkable story of the aftermath of the end of the Earth as we know it. The story itself and the world building are well thought out and quite descriptive. You find yourself in that place and that time as you become involved in the reading. The characters are amazingly well described; I could picture them and relate to them as though they were real.
What becomes so unexpected is the budding of romance that then grows into a consuming inferno of passion between Arthur and Emma. The heat is exceptional and you can feel the waves of passion as they dissipate from their bodies. The passion evolves into a love that reaches deep and connects in such a way that it will not let go.
This was an intense read and I found it difficult to put down. The premise of the story is intriguing, and there is longing and loss, romance and action, littered with just about every emotion you can imagine. Slatton has created an addictive read that will leave you looking for more.
Rating 5/5
Fallen
This book was received from the Author or their representative. All opinions are my own based off my reading and understanding of the material.
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