victorias_booknook's reviews
106 reviews

Carrie Anne's World: An Odyssey through Space and Time by Mark Whiteway

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2.0

Carrie Anne’s World: An Odyssey Through Space and Time
In the “real” world, Mike has just arrived in Thailand to volunteer for a 3-month stint. The program that he is working under is focused on studying and reporting changes in the environment; particularly climate changes and the events that are causing them. All of the evidence points to an impending worldwide catastrophe due to global warming caused by irresponsible and greedy human behavior.

In his dreams, Mike and the mysterious Carrie Anne are working together to unravel the mystery of their shared dreamland, as well as the mysterious but wise voice that Carrie Anne alone can hear. When he dreams, he dreams of her plane where the Saelek and Korzkah are introduced to the story. These races from different times and places are critical in the journey ahead, although the Korzkah have a very different agenda than Mike or Carrie Anne.

When Carrie Anne dreams, she dreams of the end of all things.

Together, they must not only derive the meaning of the cryptic phrase “6=3”, but also discover a way to make governing bodies listen. These authorities are caught up in their politics and market price wars and are so far unwilling to make real, lasting changes in order to save the environment before it is too late to save the world.

Will these different races be able to work together to bring about the changes that must happen in order to save this world?

With the help of the lead characters in the story, there may be some hope for this world, but it is a harrowing journey filled with many losses. The enigmatic Carrie Anne develops into one of the most likable child characters I’ve ever read. With her ancient wisdom and her wistful childlike wonder, she is a genuine asset to the way the story is told.

Mike, while a much more straightforward character, has a delightful grasp on intercultural communication and a brave heart that wins him the loyalty of allies of all different races. His determination to keep those around him safe is typical of the ‘hero’ of the story, but his internal struggles to make the right choices are unique to Whiteway’s writing style.

Mark Whiteway continues to develop fascinating new worlds with equally fascinating characters. While his writing style is very straightforward, his storylines are woven and layered together with a true mastery of his genre!
Hunted by Darcy Coates

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adventurous dark mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.0

I enjoyed the author's writing style and I will say she certainly isn't afraid to swiftly, brutally cull her characters to serve the plot. This book was definitely classic horror, the villain was a bit too on the nose for the genre for my tastes but it was a pretty good read otherwise. 
Nightfall in the Garden of Deep Time by Tracy L. Higley

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5.0

I really enjoyed this book, quite a bit. As an artist who sometimes struggles with inspiration to finish things, this book's message was one that I needed to hear. The main character was very relatable, likable, and believable. The story was absurdly fantastic and imaginative. There were a few twists at the end that I truly didn't see coming, which is always fun! There's a romance thread through out, but it doesn't choke out the rest of the story. I definitely recommend this book for a lighthearted read that will leave you feeling like anything is possible :)
Neighbors by Danielle Steel

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2.0

The story was alright, however, the author is VERY repetitive. It isn't in a clarity sort of way, or to make a point, either. It's more of a really awful 'fluff' writing tactic situation. It was a bit painful to read, honestly. I don't think the average reader needs to be reminded that someone is a bad person with bad intentions three times + in just 2 pages. If that's your jam though, grab a copy!