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Doorways #1
Doorways
When Zachary Black discovers a door set between two giant cliffs, he realises he has never seen anything so peculiar. Unable to resist the doorway, Zach opens it to find that he is looking into Endra.
Have you ever had someone say to you that they have seen your double? Well, that is your 'reflection' from Endra who has sneaked through one of the doorways. Not usually a problem if they go back, but what if they decided to stay? What if they decided to change something? What if they were trying to kill the person you love?
With the help of a beautiful Vampire named Neanna and a werewolf called William, Zachary's journey takes him across the vast plains of Endra, through the streets of London and across the Atlantic Ocean as they pass back and forth through the doorways in a race against time. But the doorways have the power to change you - altering your appearance and abilities as you pass between the two worlds.
Have you ever had someone say to you that they have seen your double? Well, that is your 'reflection' from Endra who has sneaked through one of the doorways. Not usually a problem if they go back, but what if they decided to stay? What if they decided to change something? What if they were trying to kill the person you love?
With the help of a beautiful Vampire named Neanna and a werewolf called William, Zachary's journey takes him across the vast plains of Endra, through the streets of London and across the Atlantic Ocean as they pass back and forth through the doorways in a race against time. But the doorways have the power to change you - altering your appearance and abilities as you pass between the two worlds.
234 pages, Paperback
First published March 8, 2011
18 people are currently reading
397 people want to read
About the author
Tim O'Rourke
212 books1,044 followersTim is the author of over sixty books including the No 1 bestselling 'Kiera Hudson Series', 'Samantha Carter - Vampire Seeker Series', 'The Sydney Hart Mysteries', 'The Moon Trilogy, and 'The Mechanic' among other titles.
Tim is currently working on new Kiera Hudson books and other works.
Don't be shy; feel free to contact Tim at any of the following:
Email: Kierahudson91@aol.com
Website: www.timorourkeauthor.com
Tim O'Rourke Fan club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/offic...
Tim is currently working on new Kiera Hudson books and other works.
Don't be shy; feel free to contact Tim at any of the following:
Email: Kierahudson91@aol.com
Website: www.timorourkeauthor.com
Tim O'Rourke Fan club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/offic...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
November 9, 2011
This book brought me back to my middle school years when I read adventures about young kids having to take on rather large responsibilities because the adults couldn't handle the job.
This is one of those.
'Doorway's is an amazing tale of extraordinary friendships between a boy, a vampire, and a werewolf set out to save the world of Endra and thus save Zach's sister's life.
Told in a marvelous 3rd pov, you get to adventure into the world of Endra and then back into our own through Doorways that are housed in the oddest of spots. Through the eyes of Zach you get to see the colorful creatures that inhabit the reflection world and through the eyes of Neanna and William you get to see just how dark and scary our wold can be to beings that we would consider monsterous.
I really did love this tale. It reminded me of Lemoney Snicket and The Spiderwick Chronicles with the detail of a Neil Gaimen novel. It has all the aspects to become the next great classic.
I do feel that it should be made into a middle grade book instead of a YA. Maybe a little more humor tossed here and there. But otherwise that, this story is surely one to treasure.
If I was a little kid, I would definitely want to be a Peacekeeper when I grew up :)
This is one of those.
'Doorway's is an amazing tale of extraordinary friendships between a boy, a vampire, and a werewolf set out to save the world of Endra and thus save Zach's sister's life.
Told in a marvelous 3rd pov, you get to adventure into the world of Endra and then back into our own through Doorways that are housed in the oddest of spots. Through the eyes of Zach you get to see the colorful creatures that inhabit the reflection world and through the eyes of Neanna and William you get to see just how dark and scary our wold can be to beings that we would consider monsterous.
I really did love this tale. It reminded me of Lemoney Snicket and The Spiderwick Chronicles with the detail of a Neil Gaimen novel. It has all the aspects to become the next great classic.
I do feel that it should be made into a middle grade book instead of a YA. Maybe a little more humor tossed here and there. But otherwise that, this story is surely one to treasure.
If I was a little kid, I would definitely want to be a Peacekeeper when I grew up :)
September 9, 2014
ABR's full Doorways: A Book of Vampires, Werewolves, & Black Magic audiobook review can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
This is one of the most unique stories I have listened to for a while, and it get marks for that. Imagine a parallel dimension where all of the typical horror story "badguys" are the regular folk, and that you might have a double there too.
The only way to get to this other world is through magical doorways that no one ever know where there will appear in either world. Allowing for travel back and forth. Hence where the real world vampires, werewolves and the like came from.
This was a story of Jack Black a young man who walks through a doorway and goes to the other world. Meeting up with friendly vampires and werewolves. That finds himself on a mission to save the double of someone he loves. All the while fighting off the evil zombies and other creatures of the night.
For me there were too many characters to keep track of. Making it difficult for me to keep attention. While it was full of adventure, it wasn't quite for me.
There is adventure, blood and gore, fantastical characters, that will bring you back to your younger years. When you had unimaginable friendships with non-human beings. So, if you are looking for something new and different in the fantasy world, Doorways: A Book of Vampires, Werewolves, & Black Magic is sure to be right up your alley.
Fred Wolinsky did what he could with this one. He really tried to create unique sounding characters, I do appreciate that, but there were just too many.
He was able to inject real emotion into his performance, truly making the sinister characters sound as evil as he could. There were some points were I had to rewind because I couldn't catch what he was saying. While simultaneously keeping Jack Black sounding young and innocent.
Based on the performance I will be looking for more from Wolinsky. I think he might do better with fewer characters. And a more straight forward storyline.
Audiobook provided for review by narrator.
This is one of the most unique stories I have listened to for a while, and it get marks for that. Imagine a parallel dimension where all of the typical horror story "badguys" are the regular folk, and that you might have a double there too.
The only way to get to this other world is through magical doorways that no one ever know where there will appear in either world. Allowing for travel back and forth. Hence where the real world vampires, werewolves and the like came from.
This was a story of Jack Black a young man who walks through a doorway and goes to the other world. Meeting up with friendly vampires and werewolves. That finds himself on a mission to save the double of someone he loves. All the while fighting off the evil zombies and other creatures of the night.
For me there were too many characters to keep track of. Making it difficult for me to keep attention. While it was full of adventure, it wasn't quite for me.
There is adventure, blood and gore, fantastical characters, that will bring you back to your younger years. When you had unimaginable friendships with non-human beings. So, if you are looking for something new and different in the fantasy world, Doorways: A Book of Vampires, Werewolves, & Black Magic is sure to be right up your alley.
Fred Wolinsky did what he could with this one. He really tried to create unique sounding characters, I do appreciate that, but there were just too many.
He was able to inject real emotion into his performance, truly making the sinister characters sound as evil as he could. There were some points were I had to rewind because I couldn't catch what he was saying. While simultaneously keeping Jack Black sounding young and innocent.
Based on the performance I will be looking for more from Wolinsky. I think he might do better with fewer characters. And a more straight forward storyline.
Audiobook provided for review by narrator.
October 10, 2014
3.0 stars
I received a free copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I like stories of heroes in the making, or a good fantasy, and this book is promising both. The book starts off a little rusty, but the second part gets better. The premise is interesting enough, but I feel there's not enough character development. Zach for instance, doesn't really show any signs of grief, and the subtle romance in the novel is very abrupt. Some descriptions are a little off, to say the least. The Hollow Child "shot through the air like a shower of vomit." Seriously, that's disgusting.
The narrator of the audiobook has a very unique and clear voice.
Unfortunately, it didn't work for me. The voices didn't fit most of the characters, in my opinion, which made it a little harder for me to focus on the story. I hate to write a somewhat negative review, but I have to be honest. I have read other people's reviews who loved it, so I think it's simply an either-love-or-hate-it kind of case. One man's meat is another man's poison.
To see if I would like the book differently if I would read it myself, I read a few chapters of the ebook. I really wish I hadn't done that. I saw a couple of spelling mistakes and other typos, like 'we'll' instead of 'well', and 'your' instead of 'you're'. My English isn't nearly perfect, but there were just a little too many mistakes for my taste.
Overall, I liked the story and I'm interested in the sequels, but it definitely has its flaws. If you're looking for a fun fantasy read, I'd say: give it a try! But don't expect too much of it.
I received a free copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
I like stories of heroes in the making, or a good fantasy, and this book is promising both. The book starts off a little rusty, but the second part gets better. The premise is interesting enough, but I feel there's not enough character development. Zach for instance, doesn't really show any signs of grief, and the subtle romance in the novel is very abrupt. Some descriptions are a little off, to say the least. The Hollow Child "shot through the air like a shower of vomit." Seriously, that's disgusting.
The narrator of the audiobook has a very unique and clear voice.
Unfortunately, it didn't work for me. The voices didn't fit most of the characters, in my opinion, which made it a little harder for me to focus on the story. I hate to write a somewhat negative review, but I have to be honest. I have read other people's reviews who loved it, so I think it's simply an either-love-or-hate-it kind of case. One man's meat is another man's poison.
To see if I would like the book differently if I would read it myself, I read a few chapters of the ebook. I really wish I hadn't done that. I saw a couple of spelling mistakes and other typos, like 'we'll' instead of 'well', and 'your' instead of 'you're'. My English isn't nearly perfect, but there were just a little too many mistakes for my taste.
Overall, I liked the story and I'm interested in the sequels, but it definitely has its flaws. If you're looking for a fun fantasy read, I'd say: give it a try! But don't expect too much of it.
May 30, 2011
What a great book! This was the third book that I've read by this author and I have to say it was wonderfully written. I've read books about vampires, werewolves, magic, faeries, and the like but this one was different than anything else I've ever read. There are a number of different character and the transitions from character to character are smooth and the timing between them is perfect. Sometimes when you read a book and there is this person or that person, the author spends so much time on one that by the time you get back to that person you have to remind yourself what was going on with them but you will not find that in the pages of Zachary Black. I couldn't wait to find out what happened next as it held my attention through the whole book. I am 33 years old and enjoyed it but I really think pre-teens and teens that like to read fantasy books would love this one!! I can't wait for the second book to come out. Also, on Mr. O'Rourke's website, there are some pictures of some of the characters and having seen those, it really helped picture them while reading. Check out www.ravenwoodgreys.com and also on facebook.com. you can find out more at my book blog cantputitdown.blog.com!
May 2, 2012
For anyone who has ever read ANY of Tim O'Rourkes books, nothing Im about to tell you will come as a surprise.
Once again Mr. O'Rourke has delivered a story that will sink its "fangs" into you & wont let go till long after your finished reading.
Doorways is a Fantastical new world that would give Narnia a run for its money. Its filled with everything I have come to expect from O'Rourke. A non-stop action-packed adventure full of blood & gore (maybe not as much as usual, but still some ewwww gross moments), Villians that put Hannibal Lector to shame, Mythological creatures so descriptive you can almost see them, with twists & turns around every corner.
Another excellent read. You definitely want to follow this Author. His books will keep you up at nite on the edge of your seat trying to figure out what will happen next (but you never will-believe me, Ive tried LMAO) and BTW, I totally wanna be Neanna Cera when I grow up (I'd even settle on being her "Reflection") =]
Once again Mr. O'Rourke has delivered a story that will sink its "fangs" into you & wont let go till long after your finished reading.
Doorways is a Fantastical new world that would give Narnia a run for its money. Its filled with everything I have come to expect from O'Rourke. A non-stop action-packed adventure full of blood & gore (maybe not as much as usual, but still some ewwww gross moments), Villians that put Hannibal Lector to shame, Mythological creatures so descriptive you can almost see them, with twists & turns around every corner.
Another excellent read. You definitely want to follow this Author. His books will keep you up at nite on the edge of your seat trying to figure out what will happen next (but you never will-believe me, Ive tried LMAO) and BTW, I totally wanna be Neanna Cera when I grow up (I'd even settle on being her "Reflection") =]
May 31, 2011
This is a great novel for all ages, but especially MG and YA. I really enjoyed reading it and the idea of the alternate universe was original and refreshing. O’Rourke has created a unique, well-developed world, and the story pulled me in immediately as it drops right into the action. I thoroughly enjoyed O’Rourke’s explanations of the creatures on Endra and the many changes they undergo as they pass back and forth through the doorway between the worlds in hopes of saving the world as we know it.
This novel has a little something for everyone, and I feel like this adventure story and the writing style are similar to that of Tolkien and Lemony Snicket.
To read my full review (7/2):
http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...
This novel has a little something for everyone, and I feel like this adventure story and the writing style are similar to that of Tolkien and Lemony Snicket.
To read my full review (7/2):
http://bookvacations.wordpress.com/20...
June 8, 2012
It usually takes me a day to read one of Tim's books,but this book my 10 yr.old son had to read to me. I loved the expression on his face while he read to me. I had a hard time leaving the bookmark where my son would stop reading and me read on. But I couldn't do that to my son. This was a great read and some very good quality time. As always Tim pulls you into a new world of wonder and excitement.
October 6, 2014
6 STARS I would give if I could.
I'm again lost for words ...
So I looked for a song how to express what I feel ...
This is the song, the beat, the way it makes me feel;
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4aob...
I'm again lost for words ...
So I looked for a song how to express what I feel ...
This is the song, the beat, the way it makes me feel;
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4aob...
January 15, 2012
As always this book had great action from beginning to end, the story format going from one characters adventures to another was amazing.
August 11, 2019
Action-packed & imaginative storyline. I found the language to be... lacking... in spots, but I think preteen boys would enjoy it immensely. Needs an editor. Won't trouble myself with reading the rest of the series.
November 20, 2023
Great adventure
This was a fun, exciting adventure that would be perfect for middle school ages...adults too! It has a Lemony Snicket vibe to it. Character and world development were spot on.
This was a fun, exciting adventure that would be perfect for middle school ages...adults too! It has a Lemony Snicket vibe to it. Character and world development were spot on.
February 21, 2013
BOOK REVIEW by Michelle 14th February 2013:
RATING: 5 ENORMOUSLY CREATIVE STARS!!
What a fantastic read.
I was swept away into Tim's rich world of imagination. If you enjoyed Lemony Snicket, The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe, you will love Tim's tale of imagination and colorful characters.
16 year old Zach Black loves to run, loves to race the tide. A doorway appears protruding from the sand and Zach opens it and enters the world of Endra.
Endra is Earth’s twin. What a wonderful idea. It is its reflection. Not everybody or every living thing, but some have reflections, if they happened upon a doorway and went through it, they could very well have a reflection on the otherside.
Zach and his dying sister Anna, live with their cruel Uncle Fandel. Zach has gone for a run on the beach and finds himself in Endra. A coincidence I think not.
Enter William the Wolf Weaver, a Noxas, galloping along on his stagecoach with a difference, racing to scoop Zach up who finds out he is a Peacekeeper.
Enter a whole menagerie of interesting and colourful characters, some fighting for good, some battling for evil.
This is a magical world that Tim brings to life with Radan’s, Slaths, Dammed Bandits ( kind of reminds me of spaghetti western Tim style the way they talk), Spiderpedes ( visually these would look both creepy and awesome),Demonic Guardians , Cathedral Knights , the Hollow Child ( ooo creeepppy) and Inferno Berries , now these are a blast, pun intended .
Zach is the guy to save both Endra and Earth. He has to stop the worlds overlapping and he needs help from William and Neanna Cera, the slath.
Throat is a suitable villain using Fandel as his puppet in the human world.
The Queen of Endra must be saved and Zach is the guy for the job. A quest is embarked on to find the key to The Heart of Endra. This trio must survive what is thrown at them, Tim style.
Tim loves to have his characters fighting, and he does it well.
Neanna I really like. She is selfless and puts her life at risk on occasions to save Zach.
This is not a story of romance, it is a fantasy and a fantastic one at that. I mix it between middle grade and a bit older. I could so easily see this book on school library shelves.
I really loved seeing certain characters reflections when they entered the human world. I had a great time between doorways, between worlds, the doors popping up in random places.
Now it would be unforgivable of me not to mention THE DELF! I think there should be a T-shirt for, THE DELF. She needs a drum roll, she is quite disgusting with her snot and maggots hanging off her. Every time I read a scene with the Delf in it, I got a very good visual in my head. Tim writes her like a little boy who enjoys all things gooey and icky.
Visually this would be an AWESOME kids movie based on the character descriptions and the locations Tim will take you.
Trains, planes and automobiles, and spells, spiky tablets of pain, all add to this story. It is these added details that make where Tim takes us and what he does to his characters a great read.
If you are a fan of Tim’s writing you will notice the subtle crossovers that pop up.
I raise my eyebrow at Tim... Declan Tanner. White handlebar moustache, he walks through a doorway into a western setting.
*raises eyebrow*
Sound like someone I know??
FAVE QUOTE:
Tanner observed him with a disgusted look on his face and snapped, “What’s got into you, man? Die with some dignity can’t you!”
Michelle
RATING: 5 ENORMOUSLY CREATIVE STARS!!
What a fantastic read.
I was swept away into Tim's rich world of imagination. If you enjoyed Lemony Snicket, The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe, you will love Tim's tale of imagination and colorful characters.
16 year old Zach Black loves to run, loves to race the tide. A doorway appears protruding from the sand and Zach opens it and enters the world of Endra.
Endra is Earth’s twin. What a wonderful idea. It is its reflection. Not everybody or every living thing, but some have reflections, if they happened upon a doorway and went through it, they could very well have a reflection on the otherside.
Zach and his dying sister Anna, live with their cruel Uncle Fandel. Zach has gone for a run on the beach and finds himself in Endra. A coincidence I think not.
Enter William the Wolf Weaver, a Noxas, galloping along on his stagecoach with a difference, racing to scoop Zach up who finds out he is a Peacekeeper.
Enter a whole menagerie of interesting and colourful characters, some fighting for good, some battling for evil.
This is a magical world that Tim brings to life with Radan’s, Slaths, Dammed Bandits ( kind of reminds me of spaghetti western Tim style the way they talk), Spiderpedes ( visually these would look both creepy and awesome),Demonic Guardians , Cathedral Knights , the Hollow Child ( ooo creeepppy) and Inferno Berries , now these are a blast, pun intended .
Zach is the guy to save both Endra and Earth. He has to stop the worlds overlapping and he needs help from William and Neanna Cera, the slath.
Throat is a suitable villain using Fandel as his puppet in the human world.
The Queen of Endra must be saved and Zach is the guy for the job. A quest is embarked on to find the key to The Heart of Endra. This trio must survive what is thrown at them, Tim style.
Tim loves to have his characters fighting, and he does it well.
Neanna I really like. She is selfless and puts her life at risk on occasions to save Zach.
This is not a story of romance, it is a fantasy and a fantastic one at that. I mix it between middle grade and a bit older. I could so easily see this book on school library shelves.
I really loved seeing certain characters reflections when they entered the human world. I had a great time between doorways, between worlds, the doors popping up in random places.
Now it would be unforgivable of me not to mention THE DELF! I think there should be a T-shirt for, THE DELF. She needs a drum roll, she is quite disgusting with her snot and maggots hanging off her. Every time I read a scene with the Delf in it, I got a very good visual in my head. Tim writes her like a little boy who enjoys all things gooey and icky.
Visually this would be an AWESOME kids movie based on the character descriptions and the locations Tim will take you.
Trains, planes and automobiles, and spells, spiky tablets of pain, all add to this story. It is these added details that make where Tim takes us and what he does to his characters a great read.
If you are a fan of Tim’s writing you will notice the subtle crossovers that pop up.
I raise my eyebrow at Tim... Declan Tanner. White handlebar moustache, he walks through a doorway into a western setting.
*raises eyebrow*
Sound like someone I know??
FAVE QUOTE:
Tanner observed him with a disgusted look on his face and snapped, “What’s got into you, man? Die with some dignity can’t you!”
Michelle
February 21, 2013
BOOK REVIEW by Michelle 14th February 2013:
RATING: 5 ENORMOUSLY CREATIVE STARS!!
What a fantastic read.
I was swept away into Tim's rich world of imagination. If you enjoyed Lemony Snicket, The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe, you will love Tim's tale of imagination and colorful characters.
16 year old Zach Black loves to run, loves to race the tide. A doorway appears protruding from the sand and Zach opens it and enters the world of Endra.
Endra is Earth’s twin. What a wonderful idea. It is its reflection. Not everybody or every living thing, but some have reflections, if they happened upon a doorway and went through it, they could very well have a reflection on the otherside.
Zach and his dying sister Anna, live with their cruel Uncle Fandel. Zach has gone for a run on the beach and finds himself in Endra. A coincidence I think not.
Enter William the Wolf Weaver, a Noxas, galloping along on his stagecoach with a difference, racing to scoop Zach up who finds out he is a Peacekeeper.
Enter a whole menagerie of interesting and colourful characters, some fighting for good, some battling for evil.
This is a magical world that Tim brings to life with Radan’s, Slaths, Dammed Bandits ( kind of reminds me of spaghetti western Tim style the way they talk), Spiderpedes ( visually these would look both creepy and awesome),Demonic Guardians , Cathedral Knights , the Hollow Child ( ooo creeepppy) and Inferno Berries , now these are a blast, pun intended .
Zach is the guy to save both Endra and Earth. He has to stop the worlds overlapping and he needs help from William and Neanna Cera, the slath.
Throat is a suitable villain using Fandel as his puppet in the human world.
The Queen of Endra must be saved and Zach is the guy for the job. A quest is embarked on to find the key to The Heart of Endra. This trio must survive what is thrown at them, Tim style.
Tim loves to have his characters fighting, and he does it well.
Neanna I really like. She is selfless and puts her life at risk on occasions to save Zach.
This is not a story of romance, it is a fantasy and a fantastic one at that. I mix it between middle grade and a bit older. I could so easily see this book on school library shelves.
I really loved seeing certain characters reflections when they entered the human world. I had a great time between doorways, between worlds, the doors popping up in random places.
Now it would be unforgivable of me not to mention THE DELF! I think there should be a T-shirt for, THE DELF. She needs a drum roll, she is quite disgusting with her snot and maggots hanging off her. Every time I read a scene with the Delf in it, I got a very good visual in my head. Tim writes her like a little boy who enjoys all things gooey and icky.
Visually this would be an AWESOME kids movie based on the character descriptions and the locations Tim will take you.
Trains, planes and automobiles, and spells, spiky tablets of pain, all add to this story. It is these added details that make where Tim takes us and what he does to his characters a great read.
If you are a fan of Tim’s writing you will notice the subtle crossovers that pop up.
I raise my eyebrow at Tim... Declan Tanner. White handlebar moustache, he walks through a doorway into a western setting.
*raises eyebrow*
Sound like someone I know??
FAVE QUOTE:
Tanner observed him with a disgusted look on his face and snapped, “What’s got into you, man? Die with some dignity can’t you!”
Michelle
RATING: 5 ENORMOUSLY CREATIVE STARS!!
What a fantastic read.
I was swept away into Tim's rich world of imagination. If you enjoyed Lemony Snicket, The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe, you will love Tim's tale of imagination and colorful characters.
16 year old Zach Black loves to run, loves to race the tide. A doorway appears protruding from the sand and Zach opens it and enters the world of Endra.
Endra is Earth’s twin. What a wonderful idea. It is its reflection. Not everybody or every living thing, but some have reflections, if they happened upon a doorway and went through it, they could very well have a reflection on the otherside.
Zach and his dying sister Anna, live with their cruel Uncle Fandel. Zach has gone for a run on the beach and finds himself in Endra. A coincidence I think not.
Enter William the Wolf Weaver, a Noxas, galloping along on his stagecoach with a difference, racing to scoop Zach up who finds out he is a Peacekeeper.
Enter a whole menagerie of interesting and colourful characters, some fighting for good, some battling for evil.
This is a magical world that Tim brings to life with Radan’s, Slaths, Dammed Bandits ( kind of reminds me of spaghetti western Tim style the way they talk), Spiderpedes ( visually these would look both creepy and awesome),Demonic Guardians , Cathedral Knights , the Hollow Child ( ooo creeepppy) and Inferno Berries , now these are a blast, pun intended .
Zach is the guy to save both Endra and Earth. He has to stop the worlds overlapping and he needs help from William and Neanna Cera, the slath.
Throat is a suitable villain using Fandel as his puppet in the human world.
The Queen of Endra must be saved and Zach is the guy for the job. A quest is embarked on to find the key to The Heart of Endra. This trio must survive what is thrown at them, Tim style.
Tim loves to have his characters fighting, and he does it well.
Neanna I really like. She is selfless and puts her life at risk on occasions to save Zach.
This is not a story of romance, it is a fantasy and a fantastic one at that. I mix it between middle grade and a bit older. I could so easily see this book on school library shelves.
I really loved seeing certain characters reflections when they entered the human world. I had a great time between doorways, between worlds, the doors popping up in random places.
Now it would be unforgivable of me not to mention THE DELF! I think there should be a T-shirt for, THE DELF. She needs a drum roll, she is quite disgusting with her snot and maggots hanging off her. Every time I read a scene with the Delf in it, I got a very good visual in my head. Tim writes her like a little boy who enjoys all things gooey and icky.
Visually this would be an AWESOME kids movie based on the character descriptions and the locations Tim will take you.
Trains, planes and automobiles, and spells, spiky tablets of pain, all add to this story. It is these added details that make where Tim takes us and what he does to his characters a great read.
If you are a fan of Tim’s writing you will notice the subtle crossovers that pop up.
I raise my eyebrow at Tim... Declan Tanner. White handlebar moustache, he walks through a doorway into a western setting.
*raises eyebrow*
Sound like someone I know??
FAVE QUOTE:
Tanner observed him with a disgusted look on his face and snapped, “What’s got into you, man? Die with some dignity can’t you!”
Michelle
October 26, 2014
In a dreary isolated house somewhere in the UK, 16 year old Zach Black hates his uncle Thandel and wishes his sick sister, Anna, would recover swiftly. Zach and Anna recently lost their parents and were placed in the care of their bachelor uncle who is rather creepy. Zach stumbles upon a doorway into another world and is swept off to adventure by a very hairy man, the werewolf William Weaver. Once in Endra, a mirror of Earth, Zach is off and running for his life as zombies chase William and his companions, including the injured and unconscious vampire Neanna. Once they reach relative safety, they explain to Zach that their queen is dying and that Zach must help save her as she is the mirror twin of Zach’s own sister; if the Endra queen dies so does Anna.
Plenty of action follows Zach around as he tries to figure out the rules to Endra and search out a key and a box with a heart in it. Back home, Zach is merely a 16 year old kid but in Endra he is a Peacekeeper, complete with magically reloading crossbows. Lots of vile forces work against Zach and his friends, but the worst of them is Throat. He oversees the care of the dying queen and also directs Thandel’s ministrations of the weakening Anna. He also has spidepedes (spelling?) that are pretty creepy, even for this bug lover. Neanna, once she wakes up, and William are both forces to be reckoned with and are loyal friends to Zach. Their adventures take them back into Earth at one point (and it was quite fun to see their mere appearance terrorize the populace), through a haunted graveyard, and to a prison. William has a pretty detailed family background and he was the most in-depth character in the novel. I quite enjoyed learning about his motivations, past injuries, his shame, and his family.
I think this story is geared more for teens as some of the imagery was pretty simple. For example, referring to what would be a graveyard on Earth as a Gray Yard in Endra. However, while some things lacked imagination, there were plenty of beasties that did require the author’s imagination – such as the spidepedes. We get to know Zach through his actions and don’t get a whole lot on his back story. There are 3 female side characters and all 3 start off needing rescuing. Eventually, Neanna rallies and becomes a force in action and wit. For much of the book, Anna is a character to be pitied and hopefully rescued, though she does get to do a little independent action late in the book. The queen must still be rescued. There are 1 or 2 other minor female roles but they didn’t stand out. So most of the action is carried out by the males. I would have liked to see this more balanced. It’s a fantasy world, equality could happen. Still, I enjoyed it enough to check out Book 2 in the series.
The Narration: Fred Wolinsky did a pretty good job with this book. He had a variety of voices, both male and female, both human and nonhuman, and each was distinct. I especially liked his voice for William, which had a werewolfish burr to it and the occasional howl. He also threw in some special effects, such as for the ghosts. They were well placed and weren’t overdone. He gave some of the ghosts a Scottish burr and some ghouls a Hispanic accent. While I personally felt the Hispanic accent was a little overdone (I hear Spanish weekly if not daily), it will probably work for most folks. I do have to say that most of the time the voice for Zach sounded more like a 12 year old boy instead of one for a boy on the cusp of manhood.
Plenty of action follows Zach around as he tries to figure out the rules to Endra and search out a key and a box with a heart in it. Back home, Zach is merely a 16 year old kid but in Endra he is a Peacekeeper, complete with magically reloading crossbows. Lots of vile forces work against Zach and his friends, but the worst of them is Throat. He oversees the care of the dying queen and also directs Thandel’s ministrations of the weakening Anna. He also has spidepedes (spelling?) that are pretty creepy, even for this bug lover. Neanna, once she wakes up, and William are both forces to be reckoned with and are loyal friends to Zach. Their adventures take them back into Earth at one point (and it was quite fun to see their mere appearance terrorize the populace), through a haunted graveyard, and to a prison. William has a pretty detailed family background and he was the most in-depth character in the novel. I quite enjoyed learning about his motivations, past injuries, his shame, and his family.
I think this story is geared more for teens as some of the imagery was pretty simple. For example, referring to what would be a graveyard on Earth as a Gray Yard in Endra. However, while some things lacked imagination, there were plenty of beasties that did require the author’s imagination – such as the spidepedes. We get to know Zach through his actions and don’t get a whole lot on his back story. There are 3 female side characters and all 3 start off needing rescuing. Eventually, Neanna rallies and becomes a force in action and wit. For much of the book, Anna is a character to be pitied and hopefully rescued, though she does get to do a little independent action late in the book. The queen must still be rescued. There are 1 or 2 other minor female roles but they didn’t stand out. So most of the action is carried out by the males. I would have liked to see this more balanced. It’s a fantasy world, equality could happen. Still, I enjoyed it enough to check out Book 2 in the series.
The Narration: Fred Wolinsky did a pretty good job with this book. He had a variety of voices, both male and female, both human and nonhuman, and each was distinct. I especially liked his voice for William, which had a werewolfish burr to it and the occasional howl. He also threw in some special effects, such as for the ghosts. They were well placed and weren’t overdone. He gave some of the ghosts a Scottish burr and some ghouls a Hispanic accent. While I personally felt the Hispanic accent was a little overdone (I hear Spanish weekly if not daily), it will probably work for most folks. I do have to say that most of the time the voice for Zach sounded more like a 12 year old boy instead of one for a boy on the cusp of manhood.
November 14, 2014
AudioBook Review:
Stars: Overall 3 Narration 3 Story 3
Doorways by Tim O’Rourke promised Vampires, Werewolves and Magic all from the perspective of Zach, a sixteen year old boy who will be the hero and constant in the series. I was concerned that the story could easily be ‘too familiar’ with too much of the feel of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, as the whole enter a doorway just instantly had me thinking of the Wardrobe.
What I found was a compelling, if slightly over-populated with characters, story that had some unique twists and villains that are simply ‘regular’ people, without great stereotypical traits to mark them as dangerous. Zach finds himself stepping through a doorway and meeting up with friendly vampires and werewolves. Soon he realizes this parallel universe holds people he knows, some with very different skills and traits than those he recognizes. Of course, there is evil: in fact Zach is thrust into a battle to save his ‘alternate little sister”.
O’Rourke kept the action flowing, even if, at times, there were too many characters added and given ‘import’ to keep them all straight and easily recognized. His friendship with William and Neanna is serving the plot nicely, and they do show a solid connection. But all of the characters were a touch flat for me without great development that would have had me over the moon about the title. Zach needed to give me more: I didn’t find a way to connect with his struggles or love for his sister, or even the fear or confusion that would have been apparent. It is a solid, action packed fantasy where you have the idea of ‘who’ to follow, but aren’t necessarily engaged with him: it is the action and the unique world that draw and hold you in the story.
Narration is provided by Fred Wollinsky, and while his narration was solid and he was solidly managing to give Zach a consistent voice that was clearly enunciated and felt appropriate, there were too many voices attempted altogether, and in his more ‘sinister’ moments his enunciation went south and rewinding at least once, but often several times was needed to understand. While I can’t blame that entirely on his choices but on the overload of characters, I think a few less voices would have made a huge difference in this performance.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Stars: Overall 3 Narration 3 Story 3
Doorways by Tim O’Rourke promised Vampires, Werewolves and Magic all from the perspective of Zach, a sixteen year old boy who will be the hero and constant in the series. I was concerned that the story could easily be ‘too familiar’ with too much of the feel of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, as the whole enter a doorway just instantly had me thinking of the Wardrobe.
What I found was a compelling, if slightly over-populated with characters, story that had some unique twists and villains that are simply ‘regular’ people, without great stereotypical traits to mark them as dangerous. Zach finds himself stepping through a doorway and meeting up with friendly vampires and werewolves. Soon he realizes this parallel universe holds people he knows, some with very different skills and traits than those he recognizes. Of course, there is evil: in fact Zach is thrust into a battle to save his ‘alternate little sister”.
O’Rourke kept the action flowing, even if, at times, there were too many characters added and given ‘import’ to keep them all straight and easily recognized. His friendship with William and Neanna is serving the plot nicely, and they do show a solid connection. But all of the characters were a touch flat for me without great development that would have had me over the moon about the title. Zach needed to give me more: I didn’t find a way to connect with his struggles or love for his sister, or even the fear or confusion that would have been apparent. It is a solid, action packed fantasy where you have the idea of ‘who’ to follow, but aren’t necessarily engaged with him: it is the action and the unique world that draw and hold you in the story.
Narration is provided by Fred Wollinsky, and while his narration was solid and he was solidly managing to give Zach a consistent voice that was clearly enunciated and felt appropriate, there were too many voices attempted altogether, and in his more ‘sinister’ moments his enunciation went south and rewinding at least once, but often several times was needed to understand. While I can’t blame that entirely on his choices but on the overload of characters, I think a few less voices would have made a huge difference in this performance.
I received an AudioBook copy of the title from the author for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
January 10, 2013
Doorways was both exciting, brilliant, disgusting, scary and full of surprises!
** SPOILERS - WATCH OUT **
Zach was a scared young man in earth, and it was fantastic to see him grow into his new roll of peacekeeper, he took it on and kicked arse and didn’t let anyone down.. in the end he proved that he was the saviour of Endra – although the battle has only just begun.
Neanna – God I love female characters that are have a beautiful character and soul, but pi** them off and they can rip your face off – Yes Tim, I LOVED THAT epic battle for all the characters, but especially Neanna !
William, bless him – so felt for him and his childish mistake – both pisically and in his heart. Loving his character and the banter between him and Zach. Nearly wept when I thought he was dead under the rock fall after the battle!
Anna, l’m hoping to see more of her character in book 2, I was getting all “into” the scene when she was kicking that giant dog in the head “GO ON GIRL, GIVE HIM IT!”.
As for The ancient Delf – I will repeat what I said on your fan page - OK Tim your character "The ancient Delf" holy sh** where do you think up these NASTY looking characters "despite her decaying face and the rancid smell of excrement that emanated from her.... " "The sight of those bloated white maggots crawling from her ears and nostrils like globules of snot..." "he had grown to want her" OH. MY. GOOD. GOD!!! That is so WRONG Tim O'Rourke!!!
As for the other peacekeeper that’s a copper in earth – mmm me likey, me likey a lot. Loved, loved, loved the fight scene with the zombies. I hope they/you don’t kill him off !
Another of Tim’s books that was a brilliant introduction to a whole new world and just a TASTE of it. The league of doorways (book 2) has now been uploaded :)
** SPOILERS - WATCH OUT **
Zach was a scared young man in earth, and it was fantastic to see him grow into his new roll of peacekeeper, he took it on and kicked arse and didn’t let anyone down.. in the end he proved that he was the saviour of Endra – although the battle has only just begun.
Neanna – God I love female characters that are have a beautiful character and soul, but pi** them off and they can rip your face off – Yes Tim, I LOVED THAT epic battle for all the characters, but especially Neanna !
William, bless him – so felt for him and his childish mistake – both pisically and in his heart. Loving his character and the banter between him and Zach. Nearly wept when I thought he was dead under the rock fall after the battle!
Anna, l’m hoping to see more of her character in book 2, I was getting all “into” the scene when she was kicking that giant dog in the head “GO ON GIRL, GIVE HIM IT!”.
As for The ancient Delf – I will repeat what I said on your fan page - OK Tim your character "The ancient Delf" holy sh** where do you think up these NASTY looking characters "despite her decaying face and the rancid smell of excrement that emanated from her.... " "The sight of those bloated white maggots crawling from her ears and nostrils like globules of snot..." "he had grown to want her" OH. MY. GOOD. GOD!!! That is so WRONG Tim O'Rourke!!!
As for the other peacekeeper that’s a copper in earth – mmm me likey, me likey a lot. Loved, loved, loved the fight scene with the zombies. I hope they/you don’t kill him off !
Another of Tim’s books that was a brilliant introduction to a whole new world and just a TASTE of it. The league of doorways (book 2) has now been uploaded :)
September 19, 2014
This is good book about a friendship between a boy, a werewolf and a vampire. The 3 together are trying to save the world of Endra and at the same time save his little sister. This starts with Jack Black walking through a doorway and he is then introduced to this other world full of fun characters where almost everyone there has a reflection in Earth as well. The queen of Endra, who is his little sister's reflection, is in trouble and together they need to save them. This book has lots of great characters and is a fun listen. This book is to be continued in book 2.
Even though this has a lot of adventure and fun characters, I had a hard time getting into it to begin with. It was an interesting book, but not one that I felt like I never wanted to pause the book. Personally, I feel this is more of a young adult book.
The narrator did an amazing job with all of the different character voices and there were quite a few of them. He had a lot of real expression in his voice as well, not just during the dialogue, during the narration part of the story as well. He did a wonderful job!
Author: Tim O'Rourke
Title: Doorways
Narrator: Fred Wolinsky
Publisher: Ravenwoodgreys
Abridged or Unabridged: Unabridged
Length of Production (hrs & min): 7 hrs and 34 mins
Year of Publication: 2014
Even though this has a lot of adventure and fun characters, I had a hard time getting into it to begin with. It was an interesting book, but not one that I felt like I never wanted to pause the book. Personally, I feel this is more of a young adult book.
The narrator did an amazing job with all of the different character voices and there were quite a few of them. He had a lot of real expression in his voice as well, not just during the dialogue, during the narration part of the story as well. He did a wonderful job!
Author: Tim O'Rourke
Title: Doorways
Narrator: Fred Wolinsky
Publisher: Ravenwoodgreys
Abridged or Unabridged: Unabridged
Length of Production (hrs & min): 7 hrs and 34 mins
Year of Publication: 2014
October 15, 2014
The book had a good story to it, it just lacked something for me to grab my full attention and love it. We are taken into another realm, with a 16-year-old boy. He is living with an Uncle that doesn't care for him or his 17-year-old sister, in any fashion. The Uncle has taken custidy of the kids after their parents died. When the boy, Zach goes through a door that appears on the beach, he is in this other realm, where monster exists. On his way to try and find a way out, he encounters a wolf and a vampire, and their journey together begins. The way the book describes people and the world come across very sophisticated and well thought out at times, then they come off as very juvenile, as if trying to appeal to a younger audience. You could easily say this book could be given to a 12-year-old to read, and not worry about any sexual content, or graphic killing, blood or guts. It's pretty tame is what I'm trying to say. The narrator Fred Wolinsky however is another story! He did a fabulous performance! His detail to character accents, tone of voice when describing people and places, and putting the right disgust in his voice with said descriptions is right on the mark. I absolutely loved listening to Fred tell the story because of this.
I do recommend this book for tween's but not so much for adults.
I do recommend this book for tween's but not so much for adults.
June 27, 2012
Sixteen year old Zach Black and his sister Anna are sent to live with there cruel and creepy uncle Fandel in Cornwall. Walking along the beach one day Zach discovers a doorway which transports him into another world filled with vampires, zombies, ghosts and werewolves. With his sister in danger Zach makes new alias, werewolf William Weaver and vampire Neanna Cera as they set off on an adventure of discovery and excitement !!
If you have ever read any of Tim's work before you will not be surprised to know that this is another amazing read. The alternate world gave me a real Tim Burton esq feel and the characters are so well described it's as if your there watching the story instead of reading it!! I particularly loved the cruel creepy Uncle Fandel and couldn't help but see the image of the child catcher from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang every time he popped up. (lollipops children, creepy!!)
One of the overall things I loved about the book was I was able to share it with my son and reading is a big deal in our house, I'm 36yrs old and he is 9yrs old and we both loved it. We can't wait for the next book, but until then I would recommend any of Tim's work if your looking for an amazing read :o)
If you have ever read any of Tim's work before you will not be surprised to know that this is another amazing read. The alternate world gave me a real Tim Burton esq feel and the characters are so well described it's as if your there watching the story instead of reading it!! I particularly loved the cruel creepy Uncle Fandel and couldn't help but see the image of the child catcher from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang every time he popped up. (lollipops children, creepy!!)
One of the overall things I loved about the book was I was able to share it with my son and reading is a big deal in our house, I'm 36yrs old and he is 9yrs old and we both loved it. We can't wait for the next book, but until then I would recommend any of Tim's work if your looking for an amazing read :o)
April 11, 2013
This one was the first book by this author I had a hard time getting into. Probably because my working year began and I started waking up at 5.30am and coming back home at 9pm and this makes it hard to focus. But, I finally got the hang of the routine again and was able to read it during commuting. The book is a wonderful young adult novel about this boy, Zachary, whom I swear I've met somewhere, and friends he makes upon discovering an alternate world. Think of doors, mirrors and adventures when thinking about this book. Wolves, vampires, witches, sorcerers, Queens and so many other fantastic creatures make this book entertaining from cover to cover.
The author has the ability to take me away to different worlds and let me be part of his MC's adventures (MC: Main Character), so reading his books becomes a desired relief from reality. In this one, he took me to Endra to save this world and by default, ours. Traveling from door to door, seeing people's reflections and of course making new friends and foes.
This book is perfect for the adventurous teen or the stressed adult, and the other way round too. It's relaxing to be taken away so swiftly and led into such great adventures. I'd say you need to read this... soon!
The author has the ability to take me away to different worlds and let me be part of his MC's adventures (MC: Main Character), so reading his books becomes a desired relief from reality. In this one, he took me to Endra to save this world and by default, ours. Traveling from door to door, seeing people's reflections and of course making new friends and foes.
This book is perfect for the adventurous teen or the stressed adult, and the other way round too. It's relaxing to be taken away so swiftly and led into such great adventures. I'd say you need to read this... soon!
August 15, 2012
I bought this book as I was running out of things to read lately and the blurb appealed to me. It kind of reminded me of Narnia a bit with the parallel universe and it was an entertaining read. After having read the "Kiera Hudson" series, this book was a bit tame for me but still suited for the YA genre and definitely high school age children. Zach has to rescue his sister and save the Queen of Endra who are one and the same before it is too late. His uncle is slowly poisoning his sister and Zach escapes through a doorway into Endra where he meets William and Neanna who will accompany him on his quest. Lots of magical creatures and villains to defeat and time is quickly running out. Good clean fun with plenty of action, twists and turns to keep you guessing.
November 3, 2015
I dont know if it is because this book was in ebook form but there was a distinct lack of structure to the book, each section seem to bleed into the other. As a result I got thrown off by which "scene" I was in at any given time. There was also characters thoughts all over the place, making it hard to distinguish who's feelings were being conveyed at any given time.
I enjoyed the little stories and characters renditions and personalities, the doorways is particularly fun to read about, however it felt very mosaic and confusing.
It was a good book to kill somet time with though :)
I enjoyed the little stories and characters renditions and personalities, the doorways is particularly fun to read about, however it felt very mosaic and confusing.
It was a good book to kill somet time with though :)
October 6, 2014
I listened to the audiobook version and it was fantastic! Tim O'Rourke creates captivating characters, a fascinating new world, and a thrilling adventure story. He grabs you from the first moment, and takes you on a journey full of fun and exciting twists and turns. The book is brilliantly brought to life by narrator Fred Wolinsky. Each character has a unique voice and personality. His reading is full of passion and emotion, and you feel like the story is happening right before your eyes.
September 21, 2014
Good Story - Fred did a great job reading it. The writing is geared towards very young kids - about 10 - 13... 5th grade or so (even though apparently the writer believes them to be "YA"... not.
However - its got a reasonably good story line, lots of over emphasized descriptions, and it is fairly fast moving. Not bad...
However - its got a reasonably good story line, lots of over emphasized descriptions, and it is fairly fast moving. Not bad...
January 30, 2015
This is a book that any aged person can enjoy. I was quickly intrigued within the first few pages. The book started off quick and kept a fantastic pace. The action in this book reads more like a movie script than a book. It was easy to see the scenes in my head. full of unique looking creatures and bewildered looking hmans. I can't wait for my son to read this next.
November 21, 2012
Loved this book, from the moment I read that "Zack discovers a Doorway" as then he stepped into a whole new world as a peacekeeper I knew I was totally hooked. If you haven't read any of Tim's other books yet you should there amazing!!
September 13, 2017
I liked this book. It was interesting, and I quite liked the style. Only problem for me was that I listened to the audiobook, which made it somewhat harder as I didn't like much the readingstyle of the narrator. But otherwise the story was exciting enoughz
July 11, 2011
An exciting story, but many spelling and grammatical errors.
May 23, 2012
This book was getting 4 stars from me until the ending said "To be continued". LAME!
August 10, 2012
found this a little hard to get into at first, but keep with it, it picks up and pulls you in. A fab read
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