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The Energy Chronicles #1
Energy
As teenagers, Brighton and Lilian live quiet, peaceful and uncomplicated lives in a remote mountain village called Four Mountains. Before they can explore their feelings for each other, a dark secret about Lilian’s past rips their world apart. Brighton finds himself fighting for the girl he loves as well as his own life while simultaneously discovering an even bigger secret about himself.
Brighton has to overcome great odds and even death itself if he is going to save himself and Lilian from the evil determined to destroy them.
Brighton has to overcome great odds and even death itself if he is going to save himself and Lilian from the evil determined to destroy them.
414 pages, Hardcover
First published May 1, 2011
6 people are currently reading
181 people want to read
About the author
M.J. Schutte
5 books34 followersMy wife asked how I think of the things I write. I answered: "I don't have to. There is an entire world that exists in my mind. All I do is close my eyes and watch."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
April 26, 2014
Book Info: Genre: Paranormal Fantasy
Reading Level: Young Adult
My Thoughts: An interesting idea with a strong moral to the story, but one that requires a bit more work. The main problem with this book is that is reads like a movie – there is very little description or narrative, and the plot is moved along primarily with the use of dialogue. It also suffers from telling rather than showing, which leaves what could have been a richly lush story falling a bit flat. The characters really don’t have individual personalities – the good guys are good, the bad guys are bad, and everyone sounds and talks sort of the same. Despite this, I found the story quite compelling, and possibly by working with a critique group of established authors, Schutte could polish his style to create a stronger story.
There was one word that was consistently misused, and it caused me some amusement. A person “nocks” an arrow; they “knock” on a door. There were some other misuses: the word “bath” was used in instances where “bathe” should have been used, “reigns” where “reins” and “feint” where “faint”; other than that, the book is well-edited; I didn’t notice much else amiss, and I generally see such things whether I want to or not.
I would say for writing style, a 3 out of 5 stars, and for personal interest in the story a 4 out of 5 stars; average 3.5 stars,which rounds up to 4. Recommended for fans of fantasy stories. This is book 1 in the Energy Trilogy; watch for my review of book 2, Birth of a Wizard in the next day or two.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this eBook from the LibraryThing Members Giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis: Follow Brighton and Lilian through an action-packed, fast-paced adventure in the first book of the Energy Chronicles Trilogy as they discover their unique talents in the art of energy manipulation.
As teenagers, Brighton and Lilian live quiet, peaceful and uncomplicated lives in a remote mountain village called Four Mountains. Before they can explore their feelings for each other, a dark secret about Lilian’s past rips their world apart. Brighton finds himself fighting for the girl he loves as well as his own life while simultaneously discovering an even bigger secret about himself.
Brighton has to overcome great odds and even death itself if he is going to save himself and Lilian from the evil determined to destroy them.
Reading Level: Young Adult
My Thoughts: An interesting idea with a strong moral to the story, but one that requires a bit more work. The main problem with this book is that is reads like a movie – there is very little description or narrative, and the plot is moved along primarily with the use of dialogue. It also suffers from telling rather than showing, which leaves what could have been a richly lush story falling a bit flat. The characters really don’t have individual personalities – the good guys are good, the bad guys are bad, and everyone sounds and talks sort of the same. Despite this, I found the story quite compelling, and possibly by working with a critique group of established authors, Schutte could polish his style to create a stronger story.
There was one word that was consistently misused, and it caused me some amusement. A person “nocks” an arrow; they “knock” on a door. There were some other misuses: the word “bath” was used in instances where “bathe” should have been used, “reigns” where “reins” and “feint” where “faint”; other than that, the book is well-edited; I didn’t notice much else amiss, and I generally see such things whether I want to or not.
I would say for writing style, a 3 out of 5 stars, and for personal interest in the story a 4 out of 5 stars; average 3.5 stars,which rounds up to 4. Recommended for fans of fantasy stories. This is book 1 in the Energy Trilogy; watch for my review of book 2, Birth of a Wizard in the next day or two.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this eBook from the LibraryThing Members Giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis: Follow Brighton and Lilian through an action-packed, fast-paced adventure in the first book of the Energy Chronicles Trilogy as they discover their unique talents in the art of energy manipulation.
As teenagers, Brighton and Lilian live quiet, peaceful and uncomplicated lives in a remote mountain village called Four Mountains. Before they can explore their feelings for each other, a dark secret about Lilian’s past rips their world apart. Brighton finds himself fighting for the girl he loves as well as his own life while simultaneously discovering an even bigger secret about himself.
Brighton has to overcome great odds and even death itself if he is going to save himself and Lilian from the evil determined to destroy them.
December 1, 2011
Okay, you can surely see by now I don't do spoilers. I don't often do reviews either. I just finished this and WOW!!!! Let me start by saying I am a HUGE Terry Brooks fan. Even though I generally stick to writing urban fantasy, Epic Fantasy is very near and dear to my heart.
M.J.'s writing reminds me so much of Terry Brooks!!! I love the phrasing, the characters, and world he's created. I will definitely be purchasing the next one as soon as it is released.
M.J.'s writing reminds me so much of Terry Brooks!!! I love the phrasing, the characters, and world he's created. I will definitely be purchasing the next one as soon as it is released.
November 6, 2011
I can honestly say that this book hooked me from the very first page.
“Energy” is filled with take-your-breath-away shocking moments, heart stopping suspense, surprising twists, humor, plenty of action, romance and adventure. All the ingredients necessary to keep you turning the pages as fast as you can. It is a well-written, easy to read book, with a unique and interesting plot, which takes you on a journey to a world where even the moralities of the good guys can be twisted by power and greed.
I fell in love with the sincerity and personalities of the characters – even some of the evil ones - very early in the book. It was easy to relate to the characters and I often cried and laughed along with them. Although the story is fast-paced, it never leaves the reader behind.
“Energy” is going to be a bestseller in no time and therefore I happily recommend this fantastic book to young and old alike!
“Energy” is filled with take-your-breath-away shocking moments, heart stopping suspense, surprising twists, humor, plenty of action, romance and adventure. All the ingredients necessary to keep you turning the pages as fast as you can. It is a well-written, easy to read book, with a unique and interesting plot, which takes you on a journey to a world where even the moralities of the good guys can be twisted by power and greed.
I fell in love with the sincerity and personalities of the characters – even some of the evil ones - very early in the book. It was easy to relate to the characters and I often cried and laughed along with them. Although the story is fast-paced, it never leaves the reader behind.
“Energy” is going to be a bestseller in no time and therefore I happily recommend this fantastic book to young and old alike!
February 16, 2012
Energy by MJ Schutte.
Energy is a novel written within the fantasy genre.
Rating
I give this a book a 6/5 star rating.
How and why?
Simple. Not only would I recommend this book to any fantasy reader. I would proudly buy it as a present for my dearest friends. Thus the 6 star rating.
Book synopsis:
Energy is the story of the boy next door. Brighton, the hero of the story together with his one true love, Lillian. He was brought up in a secluded farming community cut of from the outside world. It takes the loss of Lillian to get Brighton to leave his childhood home to try and find her.
In her stead, he learns that what he is capable of, by means of the manipulation of energy, is not normal. In fact in a world where a select few can take energy from others by will, Brighton is truly exceptional. He need not take energy by force from other human beings. The Supremes and their offspring, the dark ones lead him back to Lillian and his first battle with evil.
But only in death comes true understanding of how to use his ability.
Review:
I loved the story of Brighton with Lily and their friends and foes. Velvet and Mischief, mother and son Panthers play such a large role in the story that it is unmistakable that MJ Schutte not only has a passion for nature and wild life, he has an uncanny ability to share this passion with his readers.
Other supporting characters such as Thomas, Adri and Brac are portrayed in such a manner that the reader can easily put titles to them such as my uncle, my sister etc.
The characterization of Brighton and Lilly is brilliant. MJ Schutte has a rare and true talent in that he can realistically age his characters. Upon first meeting Brighton and Lillian they are 16 and 13 respectively. The dialogue between them and other characters are indeed what one would expect of a 16 year old boy and a 13 year old girl. By the end of the book we leave the characters at the age of 21 and 19. After all they have been through and all they have experienced the childhood naivety is gone.
In the start of Energy I kept thinking of Brighton as being smart in a dumb kind of way. By the final battle in Energy Brighton has matured and his battle is against himself and his own sense of morality.
Any reader of Energy will soon fall in love with the world and the characters within the book. I was left with the impression that MJ Schutte truly loves this world and its inhabitants and that for him it’s not a creation or a product of his imagination but a story told of friends loved dearly.
MJ has a truly unique and fresh story line as well as writing style. He breaks with many a tradition in the fantasy genre. His defiance of tradition in this genre alone makes this a journey I would recommend.
Interview:
Sorry guys, I did not realize I was this nosy. I would have removed some of these questions but since I wanted to know the answers, I decided that you may want to know the answer to some of these questions as well.
I asked:
You break from several traditions pertaining to Fantasy. So here is my one and only question in this regard. - Your time line in Energy is really fast paced, much more than what I as a reader is used to in Fantasy. Brighton and Lilly is put in several different scenarios and their lives play of more in "real time" than in fantasy time. Personally I found this a delightful change. What made you decide to break from tradition in this way?
MJ’s answer:
Although I love fantasy, I am also a realist. Things like time and distance have to make sense.
This is actually a small part of the "reality" of Energy. In my heart, I believe in magic but my logical mind says that it has to come from somewhere. Nothing can come from nothing.
If a wizard is going to do something magical, the power or energy to do that has to come from somewhere.
I asked:
Your love for nature and balance is clear through out Energy. What inspired this passion for nature?
MJ’s answer:
It probably comes from my parents. They love nature even more than I do! I am currently involved in a project with my sister called "Save Rhinos Today". It's a Face book page dedicated to fighting rhino poaching and raising money by means of a book auction for this noble cause.
The address is www.facebook.com/saverhinostoday
I asked:
What for you personally, is the scariest part of being an author?
MJ’s answer:
Putting my work out there and hoping the readers will like it.
I asked:
What is the single wildest thing (which you can share with us) that you have ever done?
MJ’s answer:
I went on holiday with a very good friend, Louis, when I was 18. We did not book any accommodation or have a specific plan in mind. We simply got in his Mini and drove. Some nights we slept on the beach or under an airplane wing, some nights we simply slept in the little car! We went down the Sani Pass (the Border between Lesotho and South Africa) with almost no brakes. At the top there is a sign that states "Four by Four vehicles only".
It was truly an adventure to remember!
I asked:
If you then what you know now, would you have started writing earlier in life?
MJ’s answer:
Honestly, I don't think so. I had to live through certain things, good and bad, to be the person I am today. I learnt the hard way to follow my dreams means a lot of hard work and
sacrifice. If I had written Energy ten years ago, I may have given up before the book was finished.
I asked:
Your second book "Birth of a Wizard is already with your editors. How many books do you plan to write in this series?
MJ’s answer:
From the start, I planned to write three books in the series. As soon as Birth of a Wizard is released, I am going to start writing the final book.
I asked:
Is there more Brighton’s and Lilly's dancing around in your imagination? Can we expect another fantasy series by the soon best selling author MJ Schutte?
MJ’s answer:
Writing is something I enjoy immensely. Although I have not thought about more books once the Energy series is done, I cannot see myself never writing again.
Yes, I will continue writing as long as readers continue to read my work.
I asked:
If you could teach your children one lesson only. What would that lesson be?
MJ’s answer
Integrity. Always follow through on promises you have made.
I asked:
Describe for us your idea of the perfect day?
MJ’s answer
Writing 5000 words, having ice cream with my children and falling asleep with my wife in my arms.
Useless information:
Anybody that knows me knows that I love what I call useless information. You know the type. That information that would cost you the $1 million dollar question type of useless information: so here is a bit of useless information pertaining to two of my favorite characters in Energy - Velvet and Mischief. In real life they are cats living in the Schutte household. Velvet is apparently the queen of the neighborhood and no dog would dare to take her on in a one on one fight. Mischief is the house cat and scared of her own shadow!!!! Imagine that. Especially if you've read Energy!
Energy is a novel written within the fantasy genre.
Rating
I give this a book a 6/5 star rating.
How and why?
Simple. Not only would I recommend this book to any fantasy reader. I would proudly buy it as a present for my dearest friends. Thus the 6 star rating.
Book synopsis:
Energy is the story of the boy next door. Brighton, the hero of the story together with his one true love, Lillian. He was brought up in a secluded farming community cut of from the outside world. It takes the loss of Lillian to get Brighton to leave his childhood home to try and find her.
In her stead, he learns that what he is capable of, by means of the manipulation of energy, is not normal. In fact in a world where a select few can take energy from others by will, Brighton is truly exceptional. He need not take energy by force from other human beings. The Supremes and their offspring, the dark ones lead him back to Lillian and his first battle with evil.
But only in death comes true understanding of how to use his ability.
Review:
I loved the story of Brighton with Lily and their friends and foes. Velvet and Mischief, mother and son Panthers play such a large role in the story that it is unmistakable that MJ Schutte not only has a passion for nature and wild life, he has an uncanny ability to share this passion with his readers.
Other supporting characters such as Thomas, Adri and Brac are portrayed in such a manner that the reader can easily put titles to them such as my uncle, my sister etc.
The characterization of Brighton and Lilly is brilliant. MJ Schutte has a rare and true talent in that he can realistically age his characters. Upon first meeting Brighton and Lillian they are 16 and 13 respectively. The dialogue between them and other characters are indeed what one would expect of a 16 year old boy and a 13 year old girl. By the end of the book we leave the characters at the age of 21 and 19. After all they have been through and all they have experienced the childhood naivety is gone.
In the start of Energy I kept thinking of Brighton as being smart in a dumb kind of way. By the final battle in Energy Brighton has matured and his battle is against himself and his own sense of morality.
Any reader of Energy will soon fall in love with the world and the characters within the book. I was left with the impression that MJ Schutte truly loves this world and its inhabitants and that for him it’s not a creation or a product of his imagination but a story told of friends loved dearly.
MJ has a truly unique and fresh story line as well as writing style. He breaks with many a tradition in the fantasy genre. His defiance of tradition in this genre alone makes this a journey I would recommend.
Interview:
Sorry guys, I did not realize I was this nosy. I would have removed some of these questions but since I wanted to know the answers, I decided that you may want to know the answer to some of these questions as well.
I asked:
You break from several traditions pertaining to Fantasy. So here is my one and only question in this regard. - Your time line in Energy is really fast paced, much more than what I as a reader is used to in Fantasy. Brighton and Lilly is put in several different scenarios and their lives play of more in "real time" than in fantasy time. Personally I found this a delightful change. What made you decide to break from tradition in this way?
MJ’s answer:
Although I love fantasy, I am also a realist. Things like time and distance have to make sense.
This is actually a small part of the "reality" of Energy. In my heart, I believe in magic but my logical mind says that it has to come from somewhere. Nothing can come from nothing.
If a wizard is going to do something magical, the power or energy to do that has to come from somewhere.
I asked:
Your love for nature and balance is clear through out Energy. What inspired this passion for nature?
MJ’s answer:
It probably comes from my parents. They love nature even more than I do! I am currently involved in a project with my sister called "Save Rhinos Today". It's a Face book page dedicated to fighting rhino poaching and raising money by means of a book auction for this noble cause.
The address is www.facebook.com/saverhinostoday
I asked:
What for you personally, is the scariest part of being an author?
MJ’s answer:
Putting my work out there and hoping the readers will like it.
I asked:
What is the single wildest thing (which you can share with us) that you have ever done?
MJ’s answer:
I went on holiday with a very good friend, Louis, when I was 18. We did not book any accommodation or have a specific plan in mind. We simply got in his Mini and drove. Some nights we slept on the beach or under an airplane wing, some nights we simply slept in the little car! We went down the Sani Pass (the Border between Lesotho and South Africa) with almost no brakes. At the top there is a sign that states "Four by Four vehicles only".
It was truly an adventure to remember!
I asked:
If you then what you know now, would you have started writing earlier in life?
MJ’s answer:
Honestly, I don't think so. I had to live through certain things, good and bad, to be the person I am today. I learnt the hard way to follow my dreams means a lot of hard work and
sacrifice. If I had written Energy ten years ago, I may have given up before the book was finished.
I asked:
Your second book "Birth of a Wizard is already with your editors. How many books do you plan to write in this series?
MJ’s answer:
From the start, I planned to write three books in the series. As soon as Birth of a Wizard is released, I am going to start writing the final book.
I asked:
Is there more Brighton’s and Lilly's dancing around in your imagination? Can we expect another fantasy series by the soon best selling author MJ Schutte?
MJ’s answer:
Writing is something I enjoy immensely. Although I have not thought about more books once the Energy series is done, I cannot see myself never writing again.
Yes, I will continue writing as long as readers continue to read my work.
I asked:
If you could teach your children one lesson only. What would that lesson be?
MJ’s answer
Integrity. Always follow through on promises you have made.
I asked:
Describe for us your idea of the perfect day?
MJ’s answer
Writing 5000 words, having ice cream with my children and falling asleep with my wife in my arms.
Useless information:
Anybody that knows me knows that I love what I call useless information. You know the type. That information that would cost you the $1 million dollar question type of useless information: so here is a bit of useless information pertaining to two of my favorite characters in Energy - Velvet and Mischief. In real life they are cats living in the Schutte household. Velvet is apparently the queen of the neighborhood and no dog would dare to take her on in a one on one fight. Mischief is the house cat and scared of her own shadow!!!! Imagine that. Especially if you've read Energy!
February 26, 2012
I give Energy, by M.J. Schutte a 5-Star Rating!!
I won this amazing e-book by simply 'liking' M.J.'s Facebook Page, apparently I was one of the right numbers. You can't beat a free read, moreover, you can't beat one that was as intriguing, unique and original as Energy.
It's rather lengthy, but worth every moment spent reading this suspenseful story. M.J. Schutte's imagination not only blows me away, but also tells me he will only grow better with time.
If you're an avid reader, you know that today's average novel is rather long, or at least longer than your traditional trade paperback novel. You'll find M.J. Schutte's novel is somewhere between three and four full-length novels. Additionally, if you're a 'speed-reader' - as am I - you will be pleasantly surprised that Energy's suspense and ease of flow will only take two to four days to get through, as long as you're not interrupted often.
M.J. has cleverly created an amazing world where many people known as the Dark Ones, have a type of magical powers. I'll not go into details or post spoilers, as that is not my style. I'd rather save that for you, the reader, so every fascinating tidbit is a surprise for you as it was for me. But, I will do my best to explain what I can...
Brighton, an extraordinarily large and strong young man, and his beautiful, petite childhood friend, Lillian, fell in love without realizing it while growing up as playmates. When tragedy strikes and young Lillian disappears, and after losing other loved ones, Brighton sets out to find his 'Lily.' When he's told that she's dead, he settles with an older, motherly-like woman to make a new life for himself in a new, remote place.
Little does he know, his Lily lives, and their journey to reunite will bring you tears of joy. He discovers there are some at work who only want to see to his well-being and happiness, and aid he and Lily as they only wish to be together and live out their lives in peace and quiet. But, it never is that easy, is it?
After realizing his own powers, Brighton embarks on a mission to end the heavy-handed rule of the Dark Ones, who have controlled everyone and everything for thousands of years. Many people support him hoping they also can finally live in peace, but it's not that easy as there are many bad guys (and gals) who want him dead once they find out he could be more powerful than anyone to ever exist.
Not all the good guys (and gals) survive, and neither do all the bad ones, but the journey to dissolve the old and unwanted ways becomes ugly and tiring. Only Brighton can make that happen, though, and along the way he also finds that - just like the Dark Ones - power can consume and destroy even one with the best of intentions.
I highly recommend you follow this captivating journey where you will find love, hate, happiness, heartbreak, old lives ending, new lives beginning, and much, much more in Energy. As it is such a lengthy novel, I'm finding it difficult to give it due justice in a mere few words. The only way to really understand and fall in love with it, as I did, is to buy a copy of M.J. Schutte's Energy for yourself. You'll be happy you did!
Merged review:
I give Energy, by M.J. Schutte a 5 Star Rating!!
I won this amazing e-book by simply 'liking' M.J.'s Facebook Page, apparently I was one of the right numbers. You can't beat a free read, moreover, you can't beat one that was as intriguing, unique and original as Energy.
It's rather lengthy, but worth every moment spent reading this suspenseful story. M.J. Schutte's imagination not only blows me away, but also tells me he will only grow better with time.
If you're an avid reader, you know that today's average novel is rather long, or at least longer than your traditional trade paperback novel. You'll find M.J. Schutte's novel is somewhere between three and four full-length novels. Additionally, if you're a 'speed-reader' - as am I - you will be pleasantly surprised that Energy's suspense and ease of flow will only take two to four days to get through, as long as you're not interrupted often.
M.J. has cleverly created an amazing world where many people known as the Dark Ones, have a type of magical powers. I'll not go into details or post spoilers, as that is not my style. I'd rather save that for you, the reader, so every fascinating tidbit is a surprise for you as it was for me. But, I will do my best to explain what I can...
Brighton, an extraordinarily large and strong young man, and his beautiful, petite childhood friend, Lillian, fell in love without realizing it while growing up as playmates. When tragedy strikes and young Lillian disappears, and after losing other loved ones, Brighton sets out to find his 'Lily.' When he's told that she's dead, he settles with an older, motherly-like woman to make a new life for himself in a new, remote place.
Little does he know, his Lily lives, and their journey to reunite will bring you tears of joy. He discovers there are some at work who only want to see to his well-being and happiness, and aid he and Lily as they only wish to be together and live out their lives in peace and quiet. But, it never is that easy, is it?
After realizing his own powers, Brighton embarks on a mission to end the heavy-handed rule of the Dark Ones, who have controlled everyone and everything for thousands of years. Many people support him hoping they also can finally live in peace, but it's not that easy as there are many bad guys (and gals) who want him dead once they find out he could be more powerful than anyone to ever exist.
Not all the good guys (and gals) survive, and neither do all the bad ones, but the journey to dissolve the old and unwanted ways becomes ugly and tiring. Only Brighton can make that happen, though, and along the way he also finds that - just like the Dark Ones - power can consume and destroy even one with the best of intentions.
I highly recommend you follow this captivating journey where you will find love, hate, happiness, heartbreak, old lives ending, new lives beginning, and much, much more in Energy. As it is such a lengthy novel, I'm finding it difficult to give it due justice in a mere few words. The only way to really understand and fall in love with it, as I did, is to buy a copy of M.J. Schutte's Energy for yourself. You'll be happy you did!
I won this amazing e-book by simply 'liking' M.J.'s Facebook Page, apparently I was one of the right numbers. You can't beat a free read, moreover, you can't beat one that was as intriguing, unique and original as Energy.
It's rather lengthy, but worth every moment spent reading this suspenseful story. M.J. Schutte's imagination not only blows me away, but also tells me he will only grow better with time.
If you're an avid reader, you know that today's average novel is rather long, or at least longer than your traditional trade paperback novel. You'll find M.J. Schutte's novel is somewhere between three and four full-length novels. Additionally, if you're a 'speed-reader' - as am I - you will be pleasantly surprised that Energy's suspense and ease of flow will only take two to four days to get through, as long as you're not interrupted often.
M.J. has cleverly created an amazing world where many people known as the Dark Ones, have a type of magical powers. I'll not go into details or post spoilers, as that is not my style. I'd rather save that for you, the reader, so every fascinating tidbit is a surprise for you as it was for me. But, I will do my best to explain what I can...
Brighton, an extraordinarily large and strong young man, and his beautiful, petite childhood friend, Lillian, fell in love without realizing it while growing up as playmates. When tragedy strikes and young Lillian disappears, and after losing other loved ones, Brighton sets out to find his 'Lily.' When he's told that she's dead, he settles with an older, motherly-like woman to make a new life for himself in a new, remote place.
Little does he know, his Lily lives, and their journey to reunite will bring you tears of joy. He discovers there are some at work who only want to see to his well-being and happiness, and aid he and Lily as they only wish to be together and live out their lives in peace and quiet. But, it never is that easy, is it?
After realizing his own powers, Brighton embarks on a mission to end the heavy-handed rule of the Dark Ones, who have controlled everyone and everything for thousands of years. Many people support him hoping they also can finally live in peace, but it's not that easy as there are many bad guys (and gals) who want him dead once they find out he could be more powerful than anyone to ever exist.
Not all the good guys (and gals) survive, and neither do all the bad ones, but the journey to dissolve the old and unwanted ways becomes ugly and tiring. Only Brighton can make that happen, though, and along the way he also finds that - just like the Dark Ones - power can consume and destroy even one with the best of intentions.
I highly recommend you follow this captivating journey where you will find love, hate, happiness, heartbreak, old lives ending, new lives beginning, and much, much more in Energy. As it is such a lengthy novel, I'm finding it difficult to give it due justice in a mere few words. The only way to really understand and fall in love with it, as I did, is to buy a copy of M.J. Schutte's Energy for yourself. You'll be happy you did!
Merged review:
I give Energy, by M.J. Schutte a 5 Star Rating!!
I won this amazing e-book by simply 'liking' M.J.'s Facebook Page, apparently I was one of the right numbers. You can't beat a free read, moreover, you can't beat one that was as intriguing, unique and original as Energy.
It's rather lengthy, but worth every moment spent reading this suspenseful story. M.J. Schutte's imagination not only blows me away, but also tells me he will only grow better with time.
If you're an avid reader, you know that today's average novel is rather long, or at least longer than your traditional trade paperback novel. You'll find M.J. Schutte's novel is somewhere between three and four full-length novels. Additionally, if you're a 'speed-reader' - as am I - you will be pleasantly surprised that Energy's suspense and ease of flow will only take two to four days to get through, as long as you're not interrupted often.
M.J. has cleverly created an amazing world where many people known as the Dark Ones, have a type of magical powers. I'll not go into details or post spoilers, as that is not my style. I'd rather save that for you, the reader, so every fascinating tidbit is a surprise for you as it was for me. But, I will do my best to explain what I can...
Brighton, an extraordinarily large and strong young man, and his beautiful, petite childhood friend, Lillian, fell in love without realizing it while growing up as playmates. When tragedy strikes and young Lillian disappears, and after losing other loved ones, Brighton sets out to find his 'Lily.' When he's told that she's dead, he settles with an older, motherly-like woman to make a new life for himself in a new, remote place.
Little does he know, his Lily lives, and their journey to reunite will bring you tears of joy. He discovers there are some at work who only want to see to his well-being and happiness, and aid he and Lily as they only wish to be together and live out their lives in peace and quiet. But, it never is that easy, is it?
After realizing his own powers, Brighton embarks on a mission to end the heavy-handed rule of the Dark Ones, who have controlled everyone and everything for thousands of years. Many people support him hoping they also can finally live in peace, but it's not that easy as there are many bad guys (and gals) who want him dead once they find out he could be more powerful than anyone to ever exist.
Not all the good guys (and gals) survive, and neither do all the bad ones, but the journey to dissolve the old and unwanted ways becomes ugly and tiring. Only Brighton can make that happen, though, and along the way he also finds that - just like the Dark Ones - power can consume and destroy even one with the best of intentions.
I highly recommend you follow this captivating journey where you will find love, hate, happiness, heartbreak, old lives ending, new lives beginning, and much, much more in Energy. As it is such a lengthy novel, I'm finding it difficult to give it due justice in a mere few words. The only way to really understand and fall in love with it, as I did, is to buy a copy of M.J. Schutte's Energy for yourself. You'll be happy you did!
February 21, 2012
As teenagers, Brighton and Lilian live quiet, peaceful and uncomplicated lives in a remote mountain village called Four Mountains. They soon discover that their friendship has developed into something deeper, but before they can explore their feelings for each other, a dark secret about Lilian’s past rips their world apart. Brighton finds himself fighting for the girl he loves as well as his own life while simultaneously discovering an even bigger secret about himself.
The two young lovers simply want to live in peace but they are constantly hunted because of their special talents.
Brighton has to overcome great odds and even death itself if he is going to save himself and Lilian from the evil determined to destroy them.
Review 6 out of 5
Brighton and Lilian are two teenagers living in a small village called Four Mountains. They discover that their feelings for each other are much deeper than friendship. But before they can explore these feelings, a secret from Lilian's past rips them apart. Brighton finds himself fighting for the girl he loves and discovers an even bigger secret about himself. Brighton and Lilian just want to live in peace, but others are hunting them because of their special talents.
Brighton has to overcome great odds, and even death, if he is to save Lilian and himself from the evil determined to destroy them.
I absolutely loved this book. I fell in love with the whole world MJ Schutte has created. Brighton and Lilian are two teenagers living in a remote village in the mountains. Their characters are kind and gentle, but after an event that sees Lilian being taken, their lives take a darker turn. When they meet again, they find their feelings have not changed, but they have. Brighton and Lilian have to face death on more than one occasion due to their special talents. This is a fantastic tale of adventure and romance. I would definitely recommend this book, and I'm looking forward to reading Birth of a Wizard next. -
The two young lovers simply want to live in peace but they are constantly hunted because of their special talents.
Brighton has to overcome great odds and even death itself if he is going to save himself and Lilian from the evil determined to destroy them.
Review 6 out of 5
Brighton and Lilian are two teenagers living in a small village called Four Mountains. They discover that their feelings for each other are much deeper than friendship. But before they can explore these feelings, a secret from Lilian's past rips them apart. Brighton finds himself fighting for the girl he loves and discovers an even bigger secret about himself. Brighton and Lilian just want to live in peace, but others are hunting them because of their special talents.
Brighton has to overcome great odds, and even death, if he is to save Lilian and himself from the evil determined to destroy them.
I absolutely loved this book. I fell in love with the whole world MJ Schutte has created. Brighton and Lilian are two teenagers living in a remote village in the mountains. Their characters are kind and gentle, but after an event that sees Lilian being taken, their lives take a darker turn. When they meet again, they find their feelings have not changed, but they have. Brighton and Lilian have to face death on more than one occasion due to their special talents. This is a fantastic tale of adventure and romance. I would definitely recommend this book, and I'm looking forward to reading Birth of a Wizard next. -
May 18, 2012
I have to admit that I really struggled to get into this book. The story didn't flow very well and there were moments when I wish a little more effort had been put into the editing process. Although the hiccups I noticed were very slight, they were enough to distract me from reading, and at one point I was ready to put the book down, never to pick it up again. I also felt that sections of dialogue were forced and there was that tiny annoyance of characters always refering to each other by name, even when there was no one else around...
Now I know it seems like I'm only harping on negatives, but I always strive to give my honest opinion!
I'm not saying I hated this book, it just started off as a bit of a bore. I really only got into the story a couple of chapters in, when Thomas comes to see Carmen and Brighton, and they discuss the latter's talents. I felt this was the turning point of the story and things only got better. I enjoyed the interaction between Lily and Bri. They felt like a real couple and even reminded me of a few of my married friends! Although Brighton didn't stand out as the typical drop-dead gorgeous hero, he certainly lived up to the part with his devotion and love for Lily. He was willing to die for her, literally, and he always had her best interests at heart.
Lily is a great character. She seemed a little flat at first but when she appeared later, she really had grown into a beautiful, more complex young lady.
The talent that each character has is very interesting. It was a wonderful, fresh idea and the fact that the Dark Ones are "magically" inclined but still vulnerable is a nice change because most of the time these types of characters are invincible!
Overall, this book grew into a fantastic fantasy adventure.
May I also just add that I am so happy with the cover change. The new cover for Energy just speaks so much more to what the book is about, and it has a more mystical appeal!
Now I know it seems like I'm only harping on negatives, but I always strive to give my honest opinion!
I'm not saying I hated this book, it just started off as a bit of a bore. I really only got into the story a couple of chapters in, when Thomas comes to see Carmen and Brighton, and they discuss the latter's talents. I felt this was the turning point of the story and things only got better. I enjoyed the interaction between Lily and Bri. They felt like a real couple and even reminded me of a few of my married friends! Although Brighton didn't stand out as the typical drop-dead gorgeous hero, he certainly lived up to the part with his devotion and love for Lily. He was willing to die for her, literally, and he always had her best interests at heart.
Lily is a great character. She seemed a little flat at first but when she appeared later, she really had grown into a beautiful, more complex young lady.
The talent that each character has is very interesting. It was a wonderful, fresh idea and the fact that the Dark Ones are "magically" inclined but still vulnerable is a nice change because most of the time these types of characters are invincible!
Overall, this book grew into a fantastic fantasy adventure.
May I also just add that I am so happy with the cover change. The new cover for Energy just speaks so much more to what the book is about, and it has a more mystical appeal!
December 30, 2012
Ebook: Energy
Author: M J Schutte
Fiction, Paranormal,
This review may contain spoilers
I was given this by the author for an honest review
Summary: As teenagers, Brighton and Lilian live quiet, peaceful and uncomplicated lives in a remote mountain village called Four Mountains. They soon discover that their friendship has developed into something deeper, but before they can explore their feelings for each other, a dark secret about Lilian’s past rips their world apart. Brighton finds himself fighting for the girl he loves as well as his own life while simultaneously discovering an even bigger secret about himself.
The two young lovers simply want to live in peace but they are constantly hunted because of their special talents.
Brighton has to overcome great odds and even death itself if he is going to save himself and Lilian from the evil determined to destroy them.
The Review
I Loved this storyline, nothing like a lost love to get the story going, no it’s not a soppy love story at all, it is so much more than that, there is drama, there is laughter, there are scenes of great sadness, put it this way, I cried, so if you like to run through all your emotions in one book, I would highly recommend this one to you, I loved the hero in this one, Brighton had it all, I can’t wait to hear more about Mischief and what he gets upto, I don’t want to say too much due to spoilers but what I will say is this, The author really pulled me into the story, I really must get book 2, the plot line was something I have never read about before, the different talents that were incorporated into the story were awesome, very different to the usual paranormal stories, This is a great start to a series, looking forward to book 2 with relish, Thankyou M J Schutte, 5/5
Author: M J Schutte
Fiction, Paranormal,
This review may contain spoilers
I was given this by the author for an honest review
Summary: As teenagers, Brighton and Lilian live quiet, peaceful and uncomplicated lives in a remote mountain village called Four Mountains. They soon discover that their friendship has developed into something deeper, but before they can explore their feelings for each other, a dark secret about Lilian’s past rips their world apart. Brighton finds himself fighting for the girl he loves as well as his own life while simultaneously discovering an even bigger secret about himself.
The two young lovers simply want to live in peace but they are constantly hunted because of their special talents.
Brighton has to overcome great odds and even death itself if he is going to save himself and Lilian from the evil determined to destroy them.
The Review
I Loved this storyline, nothing like a lost love to get the story going, no it’s not a soppy love story at all, it is so much more than that, there is drama, there is laughter, there are scenes of great sadness, put it this way, I cried, so if you like to run through all your emotions in one book, I would highly recommend this one to you, I loved the hero in this one, Brighton had it all, I can’t wait to hear more about Mischief and what he gets upto, I don’t want to say too much due to spoilers but what I will say is this, The author really pulled me into the story, I really must get book 2, the plot line was something I have never read about before, the different talents that were incorporated into the story were awesome, very different to the usual paranormal stories, This is a great start to a series, looking forward to book 2 with relish, Thankyou M J Schutte, 5/5
February 23, 2012
I absolutely LOVED this book!!! I did some crying and some laughing, this was a great roller coaster full of happiness, fun, mischief, and tears!
My all time favorite part of the book was when Lilian was getting ready to deliver the twins and Brighton is screaming because he doesnt know what to do about the situation!!
and Lilian says to Brighton
"You ended the Supremes' hold on the world, face off again numerous Dark Ones and even more untalented people without any fear but childbirth scares you senseless"
Then Brighton runs to get Brac and he comes running back and says:
"I'm back. Brac is here too. Are they born yet?"
That was too funny! I also loved the black panther, Mischief, he was just awesome and protecting and scaring the living daylight out ot people and just ignore them, while the humans run for their lives! I could see Mischief just strutting himself through town and all the humans running from him and he is like I'm big and bad and I don't want anything to do with your humans!
The names of the twins made me cry too. Clarissa named after Brighton's mother and Thomas named after the old man that helped and protected Brighton! Ugh, such a tear jurker!
Over all this book deserves 5*****s because its just full of everything you can imagine! Thank you MJ Schutte for such an awesome book!!
My all time favorite part of the book was when Lilian was getting ready to deliver the twins and Brighton is screaming because he doesnt know what to do about the situation!!
and Lilian says to Brighton
"You ended the Supremes' hold on the world, face off again numerous Dark Ones and even more untalented people without any fear but childbirth scares you senseless"
Then Brighton runs to get Brac and he comes running back and says:
"I'm back. Brac is here too. Are they born yet?"
That was too funny! I also loved the black panther, Mischief, he was just awesome and protecting and scaring the living daylight out ot people and just ignore them, while the humans run for their lives! I could see Mischief just strutting himself through town and all the humans running from him and he is like I'm big and bad and I don't want anything to do with your humans!
The names of the twins made me cry too. Clarissa named after Brighton's mother and Thomas named after the old man that helped and protected Brighton! Ugh, such a tear jurker!
Over all this book deserves 5*****s because its just full of everything you can imagine! Thank you MJ Schutte for such an awesome book!!
May 19, 2012
This may have been a long story but it was well worth it. Schutte taught us in this story how love can conquer all.
Brighton is about 3 years older than Lily and they are constantly together. They have grown up with each other and find that they are falling in love. Then one day while out in a field, a dark cloud of smoke fills the air and goes after Brighton. Seth, the evil one, has gone to find Thomas, Brighton’s somewhat uncle for revenge and stumbles up Brighton who has a white light of energy to him. Brighton can’t be sensed by anyone. Lily is taken by Seth whom we later find out is her father and wants to teach her the ways. Mischief, a black panther with white eyes becomes the protector of Brighton and those close to him once Brighton saves him in childbirth. But will Brighton be able to control the people of his land with his energy or will he become just like Seth? Can the love Brighton and Lily feel prevail? This is a nice adventure story where love is found through some and evil takes over for others. Be careful as you might find yourself laughing and crying in some of the scenes.
Brighton is about 3 years older than Lily and they are constantly together. They have grown up with each other and find that they are falling in love. Then one day while out in a field, a dark cloud of smoke fills the air and goes after Brighton. Seth, the evil one, has gone to find Thomas, Brighton’s somewhat uncle for revenge and stumbles up Brighton who has a white light of energy to him. Brighton can’t be sensed by anyone. Lily is taken by Seth whom we later find out is her father and wants to teach her the ways. Mischief, a black panther with white eyes becomes the protector of Brighton and those close to him once Brighton saves him in childbirth. But will Brighton be able to control the people of his land with his energy or will he become just like Seth? Can the love Brighton and Lily feel prevail? This is a nice adventure story where love is found through some and evil takes over for others. Be careful as you might find yourself laughing and crying in some of the scenes.
March 28, 2012
I really enjoyed following Brighton, Lilian, Thomas and Clarissa throughout their journeys in Four Mountains. The author describes the characters down to the last detail, giving you an outright visualization of each one. This greatly helps when reading this book because there are so many scenes he lays out that require that visualization in order to fully know what is going on without having to go back and try to remember details. This page turner is definitely on my Top Reads list for 2012! I can't wait to see what happens in Birth of a Wizard!! I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a great twist on the everyday supernatural/witch/wizard story :)
PS...Isn't the cover GORGEOUS?!?
PS...Isn't the cover GORGEOUS?!?
February 3, 2012
"read the book i a day this i what i put about it. this is a must read, but first a few thing to do before you read the book,
1. make sure you e reader is fully charged
2 that all your house work is done, as once you start reading you wont put the book down
3 make sure that you dont have to be up for work at 7 the next morning
I started the book yesterday and could not put it down,
Thank you Wanda Hart and MJ Schutte,
i finish the at 3 am this morning and i had to get to the end to see what happen to Brighton, Lilian and the rest of them, I now cant wait to get the next book to see what goes on
it a long time since i have been up at 3 in the morning reading, and i thing i have only done it once about 12 years ago
so please go get the book you will all love it"
1. make sure you e reader is fully charged
2 that all your house work is done, as once you start reading you wont put the book down
3 make sure that you dont have to be up for work at 7 the next morning
I started the book yesterday and could not put it down,
Thank you Wanda Hart and MJ Schutte,
i finish the at 3 am this morning and i had to get to the end to see what happen to Brighton, Lilian and the rest of them, I now cant wait to get the next book to see what goes on
it a long time since i have been up at 3 in the morning reading, and i thing i have only done it once about 12 years ago
so please go get the book you will all love it"
February 28, 2012
I LOVED this book right from the moment I read the first page. I immediately fell in love with the characters especially Brighton and Lillian. This book was easy to follow and I enjoyed every twist and turn of the ongoing adventure. I felt myself on a emotional landslide along with each of the characters. I laughed, cried, and even yelled a few choice words at times. I could not put this book down, I had to know what would happen next with each turn of the page. I would highly recommend this book to anyone that is looking a great read. I can see this book becoming a best-seller in no time. I can easily see it being made into a movie and being a huge hit.
November 7, 2011
I really loved reading this story :D Love is a beautiful thing, and fighting for it brings out some really wonderful stories, like this one. Heart's brought together at a young age are torn apart for years until they finally find each other. A psycho dad brings lots of hard times for these two. In the end everything is well worth the fight. I can not wait to see what you have instore for us readers next :)
November 11, 2011
This is an amazing book. I started reading it last night at about 11pm when I couldn't fall asleep and the next thing I know I've finished the book and it is 5 am. It was a good thing I had today off. I literally couldn't put it down until I'd finished.
January 9, 2012
What a fantastic story. It's a long one but certainly doesn't feel it. There is never a dull moment, plenty of action and a bit of romance. I couldn't recomend it enough and I can't wait for the next one.
February 20, 2012
Review link to follow
November 24, 2019
Small word errors need copy editing.
Then when than is wanted etc. Little things but definitely not a perfect five stars. Timing could have been better, there are several points where it felt as though the story was complete only to start a new arch, the final end point was less dramatic than some of the earlier ones. Timing is very subjective , but, I would have liked to have had an editor work on some of the pacing.
Enjoyed the story, 7 hours of good entertainment! I am following this author.
Then when than is wanted etc. Little things but definitely not a perfect five stars. Timing could have been better, there are several points where it felt as though the story was complete only to start a new arch, the final end point was less dramatic than some of the earlier ones. Timing is very subjective , but, I would have liked to have had an editor work on some of the pacing.
Enjoyed the story, 7 hours of good entertainment! I am following this author.
May 30, 2012
The plot structure is interesting and unique. Every time I thought the story was reaching a high point, there was more, and still more after that. Such a structure emphasizes the action and deemphasizes the personal journey of characters. Brighton strives to be a dynamic character and in the close background is his wife and girlfriend, who is for the most part static. The mixture of plot driven story and character driven story does not come off well. Brighton and Lilian are in love, and though not explicit, the hanky panky between them is overdone. Plot points are many, perhaps too many and because the characters are not well developed its difficult to decide what is subplot and what is main. In several places I wondered why?
The work is not without its redeeming qualities. As plot goes, the basic elements present are mostly very good. It is their arrangement that is troubling.
The novel approach to Brighton’s ability to come back from the afterlife is very well done. Brighton’s abilities among the living are well developed and action scenes are smooth and concise. The story runs into trouble trying to make room for other dynamic characters in its keep. Some of the dialog manages to come off as “preachy,” which may work for younger teen audiences, but for adults is annoying. Brighton’s extreme over-protectiveness and inability to distinguish where his responsibilities begin and end cast a pall on the other characters, casting them and their concerns aside quite often. His actions following the unseating of the regime that had been in place for 3000 years is not plausible and the results following the vacuum he left are predictable, and among the characters should have been foreseeable. He accepts all responsibility for initiating change and none for seeing that change through, leaving it to others and does so under the guise of noble intentions. Despite his awesome powers, Brighton is a disappointingly shallow character lacking foresight.
Brighton attempts to compensate by killing the new “king.” In short, fixing the problem is done by more killing. Brighton is cruel in this respect. He believes removal of the Supremes or a king who has corrupted his unreasonable intention should fix everything and assumes no responsibility beyond that.
His lesson learned could have had much more impact if it had taken more form as a theme or a thread beginning earlier is the story. But as it appears, seems more like a last minute add-on. Brighton went after the new king after he has rendered the entire affair without any ability to effect him or his family at all, which really makes no sense. Brighton, despite his size and ability and developing skill and despite every effort to present him differently, is very much like a confused teenager.
Parts of Energy are well done. As a whole story; however, it lacks roundness. The light of its message is diffused through paper-thin characters, whose growth is truncated by Brighton’s decisions. The work is a fairly accurate reflection of the complications of life, but the setting leads the reader to believe they are reading fantasy. Because the work is presented as fantasy, and possess the markers of fantasy, Energy’s mixed plot and unpredictable high points leave one wondering what is happening and why quite often.
The work is not without its redeeming qualities. As plot goes, the basic elements present are mostly very good. It is their arrangement that is troubling.
The novel approach to Brighton’s ability to come back from the afterlife is very well done. Brighton’s abilities among the living are well developed and action scenes are smooth and concise. The story runs into trouble trying to make room for other dynamic characters in its keep. Some of the dialog manages to come off as “preachy,” which may work for younger teen audiences, but for adults is annoying. Brighton’s extreme over-protectiveness and inability to distinguish where his responsibilities begin and end cast a pall on the other characters, casting them and their concerns aside quite often. His actions following the unseating of the regime that had been in place for 3000 years is not plausible and the results following the vacuum he left are predictable, and among the characters should have been foreseeable. He accepts all responsibility for initiating change and none for seeing that change through, leaving it to others and does so under the guise of noble intentions. Despite his awesome powers, Brighton is a disappointingly shallow character lacking foresight.
Brighton attempts to compensate by killing the new “king.” In short, fixing the problem is done by more killing. Brighton is cruel in this respect. He believes removal of the Supremes or a king who has corrupted his unreasonable intention should fix everything and assumes no responsibility beyond that.
His lesson learned could have had much more impact if it had taken more form as a theme or a thread beginning earlier is the story. But as it appears, seems more like a last minute add-on. Brighton went after the new king after he has rendered the entire affair without any ability to effect him or his family at all, which really makes no sense. Brighton, despite his size and ability and developing skill and despite every effort to present him differently, is very much like a confused teenager.
Parts of Energy are well done. As a whole story; however, it lacks roundness. The light of its message is diffused through paper-thin characters, whose growth is truncated by Brighton’s decisions. The work is a fairly accurate reflection of the complications of life, but the setting leads the reader to believe they are reading fantasy. Because the work is presented as fantasy, and possess the markers of fantasy, Energy’s mixed plot and unpredictable high points leave one wondering what is happening and why quite often.
April 27, 2012
I found this book to be an incredible surprise! I came into reading this novel expecting something along the normal lines of the paranormal genre...but was blown away by this EPIC Adventure. I could even see this being an amazing movie one day.
This book starts with just two young kids who grew up together, but it ends worlds away from anything you could possibly imagine. Brighton and Lilian face more trials and hardships than I could ever possibly imagine in just one novel....and if you are reading one an e-reader.....you may think you are coming to the end of the book, and realize you are only half-way done, and it is just really getting started (true story in my case). Its an incredible journey that I haven't been able to get off my mind since I read the last page, and I finished the book a few days ago. If you read the first chapter, and then skip to the last chapter of this book, aside from the character's names, you wouldn't even think it was the same story. It changes and progresses more than you could have ever thought possible for one novel, and I loved every minute of it. There were new surprises around every turn, and I really couldn't wait to find out what happened next.
I feel that the story that the author created is genius in how it was portrayed. The journey doesn't always go where you want it to go so its never really predictable or boring, but the author knows his audience well enough to know when to give in and give them exactly what they want to happen. It keeps it interesting, and keeps the reader happy, which in my case made it incredibly addictive.
I loved each of the characters, but really loved Mischeif and Velvet (you just have to read to find out who they are because I am not telling). There is a love story that transpires, which is a little predictable, but its works for this book, because it is not the main focus of the novel, and everthing happens exactly as the reader would want it to happen. Its everything that any reader would be secretly hoping for when it comes to the two main characters. What really surprised me was how much I really loved and enjoyed the supportive characters in this book. They are really what made it amazing! They are unique, and you will fall in love with each personality. You will laugh, and cry, and be incredibly angry along with each one of them on this journey.
This book really sucked me in, and I was right there each step of the way on the adventure, struggling when the charcters struggled, fighting when they fought.....and often eating when they ate....(no seriously this book could have killed my diet but I am not at all mad about it). I only put this book down when I absolutely HAD TO, and almost burned dinner one night because I was standing by the stove with my kindle, and got sucked back into the story line and forgot to watch the food even though I was standing right beside it. Once you get into it, you just "have" to find out what happens next. Just a warning, Bedtimes will be obsolete until you finish reading. You will lose track of time as you are brought into this wonderful world, and fighting for your life along side all of the wonderful characters.
I was thoroughly impressed through out the entire adventure, and can't wait to continue it in the next book!!
This book starts with just two young kids who grew up together, but it ends worlds away from anything you could possibly imagine. Brighton and Lilian face more trials and hardships than I could ever possibly imagine in just one novel....and if you are reading one an e-reader.....you may think you are coming to the end of the book, and realize you are only half-way done, and it is just really getting started (true story in my case). Its an incredible journey that I haven't been able to get off my mind since I read the last page, and I finished the book a few days ago. If you read the first chapter, and then skip to the last chapter of this book, aside from the character's names, you wouldn't even think it was the same story. It changes and progresses more than you could have ever thought possible for one novel, and I loved every minute of it. There were new surprises around every turn, and I really couldn't wait to find out what happened next.
I feel that the story that the author created is genius in how it was portrayed. The journey doesn't always go where you want it to go so its never really predictable or boring, but the author knows his audience well enough to know when to give in and give them exactly what they want to happen. It keeps it interesting, and keeps the reader happy, which in my case made it incredibly addictive.
I loved each of the characters, but really loved Mischeif and Velvet (you just have to read to find out who they are because I am not telling). There is a love story that transpires, which is a little predictable, but its works for this book, because it is not the main focus of the novel, and everthing happens exactly as the reader would want it to happen. Its everything that any reader would be secretly hoping for when it comes to the two main characters. What really surprised me was how much I really loved and enjoyed the supportive characters in this book. They are really what made it amazing! They are unique, and you will fall in love with each personality. You will laugh, and cry, and be incredibly angry along with each one of them on this journey.
This book really sucked me in, and I was right there each step of the way on the adventure, struggling when the charcters struggled, fighting when they fought.....and often eating when they ate....(no seriously this book could have killed my diet but I am not at all mad about it). I only put this book down when I absolutely HAD TO, and almost burned dinner one night because I was standing by the stove with my kindle, and got sucked back into the story line and forgot to watch the food even though I was standing right beside it. Once you get into it, you just "have" to find out what happens next. Just a warning, Bedtimes will be obsolete until you finish reading. You will lose track of time as you are brought into this wonderful world, and fighting for your life along side all of the wonderful characters.
I was thoroughly impressed through out the entire adventure, and can't wait to continue it in the next book!!
May 30, 2012
Energy was a really great and enjoyable read; you will not be disappointed!!!
I received this eBook on Energy’s Facebook page and I am so glad that I did. I fell in love with all the characters and the plot will take your breath away with all the suspense, romance, action, adventure and humor.
*May Contain Some Spoilers*
Brighton and Lily have been friends for as long as they can remember. They live in a small peaceful town called Four Mountains where everyone shares their food and lives in a normal society. As young teenagers, they soon start to dig deeper in their feeling and realize their friendship has blossomed into something else. When Lily’s past comes to find her and take her from the only place she knows, Brighton goes after her in order to bring back his best friend and in doing so he finds secrets about himself that he never knew existed.
He has powers that no other has seen—he can manipulate energy and feel the presence in anything that is living—humans, plants, etc. He also learns that others have powers also on the “other side” where no one goes. And that these people are using their power to rule, they are called the “Dark Ones” that drain energy from anything they touch with their black thread of smoke.
With his one and only parent dead and realizing that Lily is gone and never coming back, he settles with an older lady that provides his shelter. He takes all this pain and suffering into his work—working long and hard to rid of the sadness and emptiness his best friend left behind.
Soon enough, after about 6 years has past and he is an adult, he meets Lily again. Though their reunion is special and they fall in love, her present and the threat of his powers make Lily’s ”true” father, Seth, whom is the leader of the Dark Ones, want to destroy anything more powerful than him.
Will Brighton find the courage to fight for his true love? Will he give everything up for her or will he destroy the Dark Ones in order to gain peace in this world? If so, will the people make this world a more peaceful place? The answers will reveal in this action packed, suspenseful, page-turning adventure.
M.J. Schutte takes us on an unforgettable journey that will leave you wanting more. I found this book with so much suspense and action that I thought it would never end (which is a good thing ;)) It also left me in tears in some parts and in awe of the surprises that were hidden. I can easily see this book published as two books. I really loved this book and cannot wait to read Birth of a Wizard which is part two in the series.
The romance between these two is beautiful and protective. I loved that there was no love triangle—he (and she) already knew that there was no other love then themselves. So sweet :”)
And Velvet and Mischief won my heart over, you’ll see ;)
I would definitely recommend Energy to anyone who loves paranormal romance with lots of kick ass action and suspense. Happy Reading :)
I received this eBook on Energy’s Facebook page and I am so glad that I did. I fell in love with all the characters and the plot will take your breath away with all the suspense, romance, action, adventure and humor.
*May Contain Some Spoilers*
Brighton and Lily have been friends for as long as they can remember. They live in a small peaceful town called Four Mountains where everyone shares their food and lives in a normal society. As young teenagers, they soon start to dig deeper in their feeling and realize their friendship has blossomed into something else. When Lily’s past comes to find her and take her from the only place she knows, Brighton goes after her in order to bring back his best friend and in doing so he finds secrets about himself that he never knew existed.
He has powers that no other has seen—he can manipulate energy and feel the presence in anything that is living—humans, plants, etc. He also learns that others have powers also on the “other side” where no one goes. And that these people are using their power to rule, they are called the “Dark Ones” that drain energy from anything they touch with their black thread of smoke.
With his one and only parent dead and realizing that Lily is gone and never coming back, he settles with an older lady that provides his shelter. He takes all this pain and suffering into his work—working long and hard to rid of the sadness and emptiness his best friend left behind.
Soon enough, after about 6 years has past and he is an adult, he meets Lily again. Though their reunion is special and they fall in love, her present and the threat of his powers make Lily’s ”true” father, Seth, whom is the leader of the Dark Ones, want to destroy anything more powerful than him.
Will Brighton find the courage to fight for his true love? Will he give everything up for her or will he destroy the Dark Ones in order to gain peace in this world? If so, will the people make this world a more peaceful place? The answers will reveal in this action packed, suspenseful, page-turning adventure.
M.J. Schutte takes us on an unforgettable journey that will leave you wanting more. I found this book with so much suspense and action that I thought it would never end (which is a good thing ;)) It also left me in tears in some parts and in awe of the surprises that were hidden. I can easily see this book published as two books. I really loved this book and cannot wait to read Birth of a Wizard which is part two in the series.
The romance between these two is beautiful and protective. I loved that there was no love triangle—he (and she) already knew that there was no other love then themselves. So sweet :”)
And Velvet and Mischief won my heart over, you’ll see ;)
I would definitely recommend Energy to anyone who loves paranormal romance with lots of kick ass action and suspense. Happy Reading :)
October 16, 2012
I received this book from the Author for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book but felt it was a bit slow to start. Once you get into the story line, after Brighton lives with Carmen for a few years, the story picks up and becomes a bit smoother. It can also be a bit predictable and choppy in areas with some of the characters lacking character (?) We know what Lily looks like down to her pink bows but never really know what Adri looks like or Brac, they just kind of exist in a one dimensional world. Committing myself to a story that is more than 400 pages long, I want to feel like I live with these people in the three dimensional world of my mind. Don't get me wrong this is a great story and will transport the reader into the world of the Dark Ones whose evil magic has kept everyone in line for thousands of years. It will enthrall you and has just enough romance, adventure and magic to keep the story moving until the end. I also love the panthers!
The story starts off were we meet Brighton and Lily, two teenagers who have grown up together in a small town called Clareton or Four Mountains. Just when their relationship starts becoming more serious, Lily is dragged off by a Dark One who holds a secret about her past and ultimately her future. Brighton in a fit of rage from losing everything he ever loved, vows to search for her and the robed stranger until he learns of her untimely death. Brighton has secrets of his own that he has yet to learn about and master with the help of an old friend. Years go by and Lily returns from the dead to find Brighton living in another town and still deeply in love with her. They find out they possess powers that can pull the energy from other living things to survive, just like her father Seth and the other Supremes have been doing for over 3000 years. Here the battle for good starts as they try to free the enslaved towns and cities that find themselves under the rule of the Supreme Dark Ones. Even when they go to the heart of the Dark One's castle, they can not lose hope that good will overcome evil. But even when they help defeat one evil they open up another form of evil and greed that Brighton feels he has to fix. But he just may find that fixing them will mean he has to give up himself in the process.
A good start to the Energy Chronicles, Energy - The Awakening, will find you looking over your shoulder for the robed figures with long black tendrils coming out of their hands. Looking forward to Book 2!
I enjoyed this book but felt it was a bit slow to start. Once you get into the story line, after Brighton lives with Carmen for a few years, the story picks up and becomes a bit smoother. It can also be a bit predictable and choppy in areas with some of the characters lacking character (?) We know what Lily looks like down to her pink bows but never really know what Adri looks like or Brac, they just kind of exist in a one dimensional world. Committing myself to a story that is more than 400 pages long, I want to feel like I live with these people in the three dimensional world of my mind. Don't get me wrong this is a great story and will transport the reader into the world of the Dark Ones whose evil magic has kept everyone in line for thousands of years. It will enthrall you and has just enough romance, adventure and magic to keep the story moving until the end. I also love the panthers!
The story starts off were we meet Brighton and Lily, two teenagers who have grown up together in a small town called Clareton or Four Mountains. Just when their relationship starts becoming more serious, Lily is dragged off by a Dark One who holds a secret about her past and ultimately her future. Brighton in a fit of rage from losing everything he ever loved, vows to search for her and the robed stranger until he learns of her untimely death. Brighton has secrets of his own that he has yet to learn about and master with the help of an old friend. Years go by and Lily returns from the dead to find Brighton living in another town and still deeply in love with her. They find out they possess powers that can pull the energy from other living things to survive, just like her father Seth and the other Supremes have been doing for over 3000 years. Here the battle for good starts as they try to free the enslaved towns and cities that find themselves under the rule of the Supreme Dark Ones. Even when they go to the heart of the Dark One's castle, they can not lose hope that good will overcome evil. But even when they help defeat one evil they open up another form of evil and greed that Brighton feels he has to fix. But he just may find that fixing them will mean he has to give up himself in the process.
A good start to the Energy Chronicles, Energy - The Awakening, will find you looking over your shoulder for the robed figures with long black tendrils coming out of their hands. Looking forward to Book 2!
October 20, 2012
Review 6******
Brighton and Lilian are two teenagers living in a small village called Four Mountains. They discover that their feelings for each other are much deeper than friendship. But before they can explore these feelings, a secret from Lilian's past rips them apart. Brighton finds himself fighting for the girl he loves and discovers an even bigger secret about himself. Brighton and Lilian just want to live in peace, but others are hunting them because of their special talents.
Brighton has to overcome great odds, and even death, if he is to save Lilian and himself from the evil determined to destroy them.
I absolutely loved this book. I fell in love with the whole world MJ Schutte has created. Brighton and Lilian are two teenagers living in a remote village in the mountains. Their characters are kind and gentle, but after an event that sees Lilian being taken, their lives take a darker turn. When they meet again, they find their feelings have not changed, but they have. Brighton and Lilian have to face death on more than one occasion due to their special talents. This is a fantastic tale of adventure and romance. I would definitely recommend this book, and I'm looking forward to reading Birth of a Wizard next. - Lynn Worton (WaAR)
Brighton and Lilian are two teenagers living in a small village called Four Mountains. They discover that their feelings for each other are much deeper than friendship. But before they can explore these feelings, a secret from Lilian's past rips them apart. Brighton finds himself fighting for the girl he loves and discovers an even bigger secret about himself. Brighton and Lilian just want to live in peace, but others are hunting them because of their special talents.
Brighton has to overcome great odds, and even death, if he is to save Lilian and himself from the evil determined to destroy them.
I absolutely loved this book. I fell in love with the whole world MJ Schutte has created. Brighton and Lilian are two teenagers living in a remote village in the mountains. Their characters are kind and gentle, but after an event that sees Lilian being taken, their lives take a darker turn. When they meet again, they find their feelings have not changed, but they have. Brighton and Lilian have to face death on more than one occasion due to their special talents. This is a fantastic tale of adventure and romance. I would definitely recommend this book, and I'm looking forward to reading Birth of a Wizard next. - Lynn Worton (WaAR)
April 24, 2012
Wow! It was so hard to put this book down, once I started reading it I just wanted to hurry up and read it but I needed to pace myself and not rush through it.
Energy was more than I expected! I really feel in love with this book because of the characters. Energy has love, and magic combined and when M.J. Schutte combined them two together it worked out greatly. The way Lillian and Brighton feel in love at such a young age and stayed in love when they were separated was amazing. There were a lot of parts in this book where I was constantly smiling and giggling along with the characters.
This story is about two people Lillian and Brighton who find out they have magic powers and they come from "The Dark Ones" who have used their powers to kill and be ruthless leaders. One day Lillian is taken away from Brighton and Brighton loses everything his mother and his place of security.
Then years later Lillian comes back to him, and they rekindle the love they have never lost as children it comes back stronger. They learn about their powers and how to use them for good and not evil.
They both learn that love can conquer all things. And it is worth fighting for!
Energy was more than I expected! I really feel in love with this book because of the characters. Energy has love, and magic combined and when M.J. Schutte combined them two together it worked out greatly. The way Lillian and Brighton feel in love at such a young age and stayed in love when they were separated was amazing. There were a lot of parts in this book where I was constantly smiling and giggling along with the characters.
This story is about two people Lillian and Brighton who find out they have magic powers and they come from "The Dark Ones" who have used their powers to kill and be ruthless leaders. One day Lillian is taken away from Brighton and Brighton loses everything his mother and his place of security.
Then years later Lillian comes back to him, and they rekindle the love they have never lost as children it comes back stronger. They learn about their powers and how to use them for good and not evil.
They both learn that love can conquer all things. And it is worth fighting for!
May 30, 2012
Energy- The Awakening by MJ Schutte is an original story with the power to pull in the reader. Brighton and Lily, the main characters, have known each other their entire lives and fell in love. Both don't realize they love each other until they are separated and told that the other has died. Once reunited, they are faced with a line of events they have to deal with in order to survive and make the world they live in a better place.
While going through the events, Brighton realizes he has powers that make him the most powerful within his world. His powers to feel the presence of others and to manipulate the energies around him, which save him and Lily several times.
MJ Schutte creates a unique world that is full of chaos and Brighton has to fight for the lives of those around him. The plot flows well although at times it seems as if they are all really young and need the supervision of adults. I found myself laughing out loud and even crying in parts. I very much enjoyed reading this well written book. I give this book 4 **** stars.
While going through the events, Brighton realizes he has powers that make him the most powerful within his world. His powers to feel the presence of others and to manipulate the energies around him, which save him and Lily several times.
MJ Schutte creates a unique world that is full of chaos and Brighton has to fight for the lives of those around him. The plot flows well although at times it seems as if they are all really young and need the supervision of adults. I found myself laughing out loud and even crying in parts. I very much enjoyed reading this well written book. I give this book 4 **** stars.
February 10, 2012
originally appeared on:Bookshelf Confessions
hmmph.. first and foremost, i think the cover of the books appealed most to readers, even if they hadn't known what the story is all about... so for me, the cover isn't that appealing, but the story is unique and a wonderful sci-fi.
although other reviewers said, the characters are weak, they just became more realistic, because humans are weak so as it seems, it makes them vulnerable. although i must admit that Brighton's arrogance defined him well, and made him stand out:)
there are some aspects of the book, that was i guess a bit too long for dialogues(I'm not so into dialogues, sorry!), but i enjoyed the amount of romance and action there..
the story was well-written, which made it easy to read, and the author knows just where to put the right turns and twist ,and amount of revelations to make the readers continue reading.
definitely gonna be reading the sequel.. ( )
hmmph.. first and foremost, i think the cover of the books appealed most to readers, even if they hadn't known what the story is all about... so for me, the cover isn't that appealing, but the story is unique and a wonderful sci-fi.
although other reviewers said, the characters are weak, they just became more realistic, because humans are weak so as it seems, it makes them vulnerable. although i must admit that Brighton's arrogance defined him well, and made him stand out:)
there are some aspects of the book, that was i guess a bit too long for dialogues(I'm not so into dialogues, sorry!), but i enjoyed the amount of romance and action there..
the story was well-written, which made it easy to read, and the author knows just where to put the right turns and twist ,and amount of revelations to make the readers continue reading.
definitely gonna be reading the sequel.. ( )
April 5, 2012
I enjoyed reading Energy it’s a fast paced story that will not leave you bored that’s for sure. There’s always something happening. MJ has a truly unique and fresh story line as well as writing style; it was refreshing to find something different. I truly loved the charters and the Black Panthers I love big cats! This book was easy to follow and I enjoyed every twist and turn of the ongoing adventure. I laughed, cried, and even yelled at my poor Nook at times. I would highly recommend this book to people!
Lilian and Brighton Grew up together as teenagers and they are best friends and life is peaceful and great! When start to have feelings towards each other, but before she can do anything about them, A dark strange man comes into town and kidnaps her. Brighton finds himself fighting to be with the girl he loves. But can he save them both from the evil that is coming after them?
Lilian and Brighton Grew up together as teenagers and they are best friends and life is peaceful and great! When start to have feelings towards each other, but before she can do anything about them, A dark strange man comes into town and kidnaps her. Brighton finds himself fighting to be with the girl he loves. But can he save them both from the evil that is coming after them?
May 17, 2012
This is the first book in the Energy Chronicles. It keeps us on the edge, hooked and looking forward to turning the page to see what happens next. Fast – paced, beautifully described and absolutely delightful!! The lead characters are thrown into so many difficult situations but they always seem to find their way back to each other..
This book is by far one of my favorites. It made me smile while reading! So its pretty amazing... The characters are so relatable but I have to say Mischief is my favorite!! I thought about him so much that I had a dream about him!! :P Also I did a course on Pranic Healing which made me feel a little like Brighton.. *Smug Smile*
A beautiful story that does make you smile... I’d recommend this one to all!
Looking forward to the next books and the adventures!!
PS – You can see how much I loved the book by the number of exclamations I’ve used :P ;)
This book is by far one of my favorites. It made me smile while reading! So its pretty amazing... The characters are so relatable but I have to say Mischief is my favorite!! I thought about him so much that I had a dream about him!! :P Also I did a course on Pranic Healing which made me feel a little like Brighton.. *Smug Smile*
A beautiful story that does make you smile... I’d recommend this one to all!
Looking forward to the next books and the adventures!!
PS – You can see how much I loved the book by the number of exclamations I’ve used :P ;)
May 13, 2012
My Review of
Energy: The Awakening
MJ Schutte
This was an amazing book. Once I started I didn't want to put it down. Poor Brighton and Lilian couldn't seem to catch a break on this fantastic journey. The have to fight for the love that they share against everyone it seems. First the Supremes, the Dark Ones, then normal everyday power hungry people. Through this journey they come across many if different people who are willing to lay own their lives for them. This book had you on the edge of your seats and MJ Schutte had a secret up his sleeve around every corner. You never know what he is going to pull out of his bag of tricks. I think the true hero and show stealer was a black panther named Mischief. Team Mischief all the way. I m looking forward to more from this series so I can continue on this magical and stimulating journey definitely a 5 star rating.
Energy: The Awakening
MJ Schutte
This was an amazing book. Once I started I didn't want to put it down. Poor Brighton and Lilian couldn't seem to catch a break on this fantastic journey. The have to fight for the love that they share against everyone it seems. First the Supremes, the Dark Ones, then normal everyday power hungry people. Through this journey they come across many if different people who are willing to lay own their lives for them. This book had you on the edge of your seats and MJ Schutte had a secret up his sleeve around every corner. You never know what he is going to pull out of his bag of tricks. I think the true hero and show stealer was a black panther named Mischief. Team Mischief all the way. I m looking forward to more from this series so I can continue on this magical and stimulating journey definitely a 5 star rating.
May 30, 2012
This book follows very well along in the plot line with very little gaps all along the story line. The plot keeps you intrigued and hunger for more. It is amazing to be able to intertwine characters as well as author has done. I am impressed in eagerly looking forward to the next one in the series. Without giving the book away or the plot line, all I can say is it will keep you on your toes. It was not what I was expecting but it has become one of my favorites. The strength of the author's writing capabilities shine through every word, paragraph, character, and page that he has writing. The book is a must have for anybody that enjoys reading non-typical genres of writing. But be warned, you will not want to put it down once you start.
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