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Jack Harper Trilogy #1
By L C Barlow Pivot (The Jack Harper Trilogy) (Volume 1) (1st Frist Edition) [Paperback]
Excellent Book
Paperback
First published October 15, 2019
129 people are currently reading
7000 people want to read
About the author
L.C. Barlow
6 books217 followersI am a traditionally published author (a three book deal with California Coldblood Books). Pivot, Perish, and Peak are the three novels of the Jack Harper Trilogy. Pivot was featured in Kirkus’ July 2021 issue, and Perish and Peak are Publishers Weekly editor’s picks. If you love thrillers, I recommend checking them out!
In addition, feel free to follow me on BookBub at: L.C. Barlow Books - BookBub as well as to peruse my Quora account or even email me at eternityinonehour@gmail.com
Cheers!
-Lindsey
In addition, feel free to follow me on BookBub at: L.C. Barlow Books - BookBub as well as to peruse my Quora account or even email me at eternityinonehour@gmail.com
Cheers!
-Lindsey
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 224 reviews
March 14, 2014
Here's a list of five (5) things about this book that'll turn some folks off:
1) It's written in first person. (I'm not sure why this is such a turn-off for a lot of folks, but it is.)
2) The action flips back and forth in time throughout the narrative.
3) The narrator/protagonist commits numerous horrendous acts.
4) This book is filled with intimate accounts of extreme violence (some involving animals and children).
5) You will find some typos in this book. (More on this later.)
If you like literary horror, and none of the above 'issues' are deal-breakers for you, then I'd highly recommend picking this book up.
I found this immediately engaging. The writing is so smooth. It's idiosyncratic, too, but it did not in any way come off as cutesy or forced. It all seemed quite natural, in fact. And that's a hard thing to accomplish.
At the risk of going overboard on the praise here, I'd say that I was reminded of both Murakami and LaValle while I was reading this thing. Now, I'm not saying that Barlow is the equal of either of these writers, nor am I saying that she's actively trying to emulate either of them. I'm just saying that there was some ineffable quality about the writing that's common among them. Hell, I don't know what it is, but I like it when I read it.
But what about those typos? Yes, there are typos. Not a ton of typos. But they are there. The book needed another round of proofreading. This is true. And the book overall is far from perfect. There is a glaring flaw late in the book that I found maddening, wherein a scene recounted earlier is told again, nearly word for word. I understood why the scene was revisited. It was important to do so, but it could have been condensed, should have been condensed, and wasn't.
Yes, yes, this book has some flaws, but, as with so many beautiful things in life, it's very easy to look past them.
1) It's written in first person. (I'm not sure why this is such a turn-off for a lot of folks, but it is.)
2) The action flips back and forth in time throughout the narrative.
3) The narrator/protagonist commits numerous horrendous acts.
4) This book is filled with intimate accounts of extreme violence (some involving animals and children).
5) You will find some typos in this book. (More on this later.)
If you like literary horror, and none of the above 'issues' are deal-breakers for you, then I'd highly recommend picking this book up.
I found this immediately engaging. The writing is so smooth. It's idiosyncratic, too, but it did not in any way come off as cutesy or forced. It all seemed quite natural, in fact. And that's a hard thing to accomplish.
At the risk of going overboard on the praise here, I'd say that I was reminded of both Murakami and LaValle while I was reading this thing. Now, I'm not saying that Barlow is the equal of either of these writers, nor am I saying that she's actively trying to emulate either of them. I'm just saying that there was some ineffable quality about the writing that's common among them. Hell, I don't know what it is, but I like it when I read it.
But what about those typos? Yes, there are typos. Not a ton of typos. But they are there. The book needed another round of proofreading. This is true. And the book overall is far from perfect. There is a glaring flaw late in the book that I found maddening, wherein a scene recounted earlier is told again, nearly word for word. I understood why the scene was revisited. It was important to do so, but it could have been condensed, should have been condensed, and wasn't.
Yes, yes, this book has some flaws, but, as with so many beautiful things in life, it's very easy to look past them.
August 18, 2023
Many thanks to BookSirens, Rare Bird Books, and L. C. Barlow for a chance to review this book. I was given this book in exchange for my fair and honest opinion. I have not felt compelled, in any way, by the author, the publisher, or BookSirens to alter my sincerest thoughts on this book. Every word of this review is solely and completely mine.
Pivot is a unique story that begins the Jack Harper Trilogy. Pivot is written in the point-of-view of Jack, who is a young girl of seven initiated into a cult, and educated by the leader Cyrus Harper. The reader witnesses Jack’s education in all the traditional subjects, but more importantly in the ways of assassination and murder, as well.
This is a dark read about an unorthodox education, and how difficult it would be to subsume an ethical matrix created by a beloved father figure in the midst of an overtly evident, contrary moral dichotomy. I would have liked there to be a little more action. Still, Pivot is a highly recommended slow-burn, horror read which asks profound questions of morality and belief.
Pivot is a unique story that begins the Jack Harper Trilogy. Pivot is written in the point-of-view of Jack, who is a young girl of seven initiated into a cult, and educated by the leader Cyrus Harper. The reader witnesses Jack’s education in all the traditional subjects, but more importantly in the ways of assassination and murder, as well.
This is a dark read about an unorthodox education, and how difficult it would be to subsume an ethical matrix created by a beloved father figure in the midst of an overtly evident, contrary moral dichotomy. I would have liked there to be a little more action. Still, Pivot is a highly recommended slow-burn, horror read which asks profound questions of morality and belief.
November 27, 2019
This one was definitely not for me and it's not for the dark content involved either.
I don't actually mind dark in my books and actually read quite a lot of stuff that touches on the bizarre and just plain wrongness, but this just never manage to capture or even retain any of my attention and if I'm honest it was really bloody confusing and also at times rather boring.
If this wasn't a review copy I am sure this would have been a DNF, I persevered to see if it got any better for me.
This was told from the protagonists pov seven-year-old Jack after she is taken in by the mysterious and enigmatic cult leader Cyrus.
This cycles all the way from age seven up to seventeen giving us insight into Jack's strange and unusual childhood as she is taught by her new friend Roland everything she needs to know about killing.
This deals with themes that some readers might find objectable especially as Jack is so young when she begins her education of death.
Jack is a product of her upbringing and the seventeen-year-old Jack who chains smokes is proficient in death and also an addict is perhaps not a surprising end-game for the teenager but then add in a supernatural curve-ball in the shape of a mysterious creature held captive by her guardian in the mansion basement and this then becomes more about that age-old battle between good and evil and which entity will eventually come out on top here in regards to young Jacks inner battle.
I feel that though originally imaginative this lost points and by extension me in its actual execution.
It looked so good on paper but didn't for live up to its initial promise.
I believe there are two more parts to come after this but for me, this was the end of the line.
There was nothing technically wrong with the writing itself this really was just a strange one that I didn't enjoy.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of Pivot (Jack Harper Trilogy #1).
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
March 11, 2014
If there's beauty to be found in horror, you'll find it here in this amazing book. The story is beautifully told from the point of view of the main character, Jack. As a young child, Jack is taken to live with the mysterious Cyrus, a cult leader who possesses certain powers. Early on, Jack is taught how to kill. Jack becomes a murderer, a thief and a drug abuser. Yet, there's much more to Jack as well...something unique and special. Readers get the treat of experiencing life as Jack does, understanding the emotional turmoil felt by this strong, yet vulnerable character, and discovering the secret to Cyrus' red box (and those whose lives it has affected).
I was almost hypnotically immersed in this incredible novel. The more I read, the more fascinated I became by the story that unfolded. I had formed my assumptions and guesses throughout the book and boy was I wrong about things (one thing in particular-wow, what a shocker)! I thought it ended abruptly, but I suppose that's because I didn't want it to end at all! I just wanted to know what would happen next.
L.C. Barlow is a brilliant author. I look forward to the next book in her remarkable series.
September 24, 2014
Soon! lol.
Buddy read with my girl Shandra 4/27
MIND FUCKING-BLOWN!
Actual ratings 4.5 stars
For the past few weeks, I've been pushing a buddy, Hi Shandra *waves*, to read this with me in a buddy read. I told her, "I heard it twisted....I've heard it gory....I heard it really really disturbing". Well this book was all that and more. Seriously, Mind-Fucking-Blown!
First off, the writing is great. The characters are sinister, and you want to cheer for the good guy...but there really isn't one.
We meet Jack. Jack is a killer...Jack does what Cyrus says, and Jack was raised by him. Cyrus teaches Jack to kill, to murder anyone that opposes him. He teaches Jack many ways to kill, teaches Jack to be efficient and get the job done the right way, no questions asked. Jack does not disappoint. Jack kills, and kills without mercy. Jack even kills for fun. But on top of Jack killing, Cyrus has these powers that are unexplainable. He's able to do things that make men fear him, and Jack fears him too.
Then there is Patrick, and this relationship develops between them. A friendship...later more than that.
And then at 90% BAM! the biggest shocker happens....Like completely changed everything I had read. Changed completely how I felt of these characters, and how I seen them. It really was mind blowing. I had to put the book down for a few hours to really think about how I felt of this revelation. It was like a whole new dynamic that can make or break the book. This totally made the book, but I'm still confused about how I feel.
This book is worth the read. Especially if you love thrillers, a little paranormal, a love interest that feels real, fully developed, and genuine, and a little gore and scary ass scenes. I really really recommend this book...and I want to read book two. Like yesterday. I hope this second comes out soon.
I think I'm going to go stalk the author and find out when book two comes out.
Buddy read with my girl Shandra 4/27
MIND FUCKING-BLOWN!
Actual ratings 4.5 stars
For the past few weeks, I've been pushing a buddy, Hi Shandra *waves*, to read this with me in a buddy read. I told her, "I heard it twisted....I've heard it gory....I heard it really really disturbing". Well this book was all that and more. Seriously, Mind-Fucking-Blown!
First off, the writing is great. The characters are sinister, and you want to cheer for the good guy...but there really isn't one.
We meet Jack. Jack is a killer...Jack does what Cyrus says, and Jack was raised by him. Cyrus teaches Jack to kill, to murder anyone that opposes him. He teaches Jack many ways to kill, teaches Jack to be efficient and get the job done the right way, no questions asked. Jack does not disappoint. Jack kills, and kills without mercy. Jack even kills for fun. But on top of Jack killing, Cyrus has these powers that are unexplainable. He's able to do things that make men fear him, and Jack fears him too.
Then there is Patrick, and this relationship develops between them. A friendship...later more than that.
And then at 90% BAM! the biggest shocker happens....Like completely changed everything I had read. Changed completely how I felt of these characters, and how I seen them. It really was mind blowing. I had to put the book down for a few hours to really think about how I felt of this revelation. It was like a whole new dynamic that can make or break the book. This totally made the book, but I'm still confused about how I feel.
This book is worth the read. Especially if you love thrillers, a little paranormal, a love interest that feels real, fully developed, and genuine, and a little gore and scary ass scenes. I really really recommend this book...and I want to read book two. Like yesterday. I hope this second comes out soon.
I think I'm going to go stalk the author and find out when book two comes out.
June 10, 2014
Buddy read with my favorite Greek girl.
Initial thoughts: I still say that was the strangest book I've ever read. I thoroughly enjoyed it!!!!! Review to come.
Actual rating: 4.5 stars. No spoilers!!
Review:
That's a strange gif, ya? Well, this is a strange book! It is unlike anything I've ever picked up. It's far from anything you've read either. I don't mean that in a bad way. I love when I come across a totally unique book. I storyline different from anything I've ever even thought up in this crazy head of mine.
I can't say much about this story without giving it away. Jack is special. Jack meets Cyrus at a young age, and Cyrus takes Jack in. Jack is raised in Cyrus' home. Cyrus is not a good person. I'm not sure what Cyrus is, but he's baaaad to the bone!!! Such an evil, evil man!!!
A battle between evil, and evil-er (I know that's not a real word, but this is my review so I get to put made up words in it if I want) ensues. There's isn't really a good guy in this story, or is there? A sweet love story slaps us upside the head, and a massssssive twist happens! One of the best I've encountered. I nevvvver saw it coming!! Then...it's left open, making you want the next book!! Where is it?! I don't even see a speculative date!!! Nooooooooo!!
Read this book, so we can talk about how weird it is! I thoroughly enjoyed this one!! It's so much more than a horror book, which is all I expected. There are some minor grammatical and punctuation errors speckled throughout. But the story was so damn original and enthralling, I was able to overlook most of the minor flaws. I can't wait for the next installment!!!
Initial thoughts: I still say that was the strangest book I've ever read. I thoroughly enjoyed it!!!!! Review to come.
Actual rating: 4.5 stars. No spoilers!!
Review:
That's a strange gif, ya? Well, this is a strange book! It is unlike anything I've ever picked up. It's far from anything you've read either. I don't mean that in a bad way. I love when I come across a totally unique book. I storyline different from anything I've ever even thought up in this crazy head of mine.
I can't say much about this story without giving it away. Jack is special. Jack meets Cyrus at a young age, and Cyrus takes Jack in. Jack is raised in Cyrus' home. Cyrus is not a good person. I'm not sure what Cyrus is, but he's baaaad to the bone!!! Such an evil, evil man!!!
A battle between evil, and evil-er (I know that's not a real word, but this is my review so I get to put made up words in it if I want) ensues. There's isn't really a good guy in this story, or is there? A sweet love story slaps us upside the head, and a massssssive twist happens! One of the best I've encountered. I nevvvver saw it coming!! Then...it's left open, making you want the next book!! Where is it?! I don't even see a speculative date!!! Nooooooooo!!
Read this book, so we can talk about how weird it is! I thoroughly enjoyed this one!! It's so much more than a horror book, which is all I expected. There are some minor grammatical and punctuation errors speckled throughout. But the story was so damn original and enthralling, I was able to overlook most of the minor flaws. I can't wait for the next installment!!!
July 7, 2019
This revised version is somehow even better than the original!
“...murder is poetry...and I have written chapters with knives.”
Raised by the charismatic and powerful leader of a following (Cyrus), Jack has been taught, since age seven, to efficiently and effectively kill at will.
“Cyrus knew how to be human, just like them, exactly like them, so that they’d sway with him toward inhumanity.”
Cyrus is a nasty, brutal and selfish man (megalomaniac, rather) who would sacrifice anything and anyone to rise to the top. Jack has witnessed many horrors growing up under his care and supervision. But as Jack approaches adulthood, Cyrus’ motives and actions are questioned and soon Jack must take a stand and choose between right and wrong, good and evil.
I read the original version of this story back in 2013, shortly after its release. As you can see from my review, I thought it was amazing and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Now, six years later, Barlow has released a revised edition. I was eager to read it though doubtful that it could get much better. I was wrong!
Completely restructured, this book now goes into greater detail and provides more of the Jack’s background story, which is greatly enthralling. With elements of the occult, fantasy and horror, this story combines exquisite writing, brilliant storytelling and suspense to weave a most unforgettable tale. It will surely keep you guessing and on the edge of your seat as you share in the horrors that Jack must constantly face.
I highly recommend this exceptional book.
“...murder is poetry...and I have written chapters with knives.”
Raised by the charismatic and powerful leader of a following (Cyrus), Jack has been taught, since age seven, to efficiently and effectively kill at will.
“Cyrus knew how to be human, just like them, exactly like them, so that they’d sway with him toward inhumanity.”
Cyrus is a nasty, brutal and selfish man (megalomaniac, rather) who would sacrifice anything and anyone to rise to the top. Jack has witnessed many horrors growing up under his care and supervision. But as Jack approaches adulthood, Cyrus’ motives and actions are questioned and soon Jack must take a stand and choose between right and wrong, good and evil.
I read the original version of this story back in 2013, shortly after its release. As you can see from my review, I thought it was amazing and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Now, six years later, Barlow has released a revised edition. I was eager to read it though doubtful that it could get much better. I was wrong!
Completely restructured, this book now goes into greater detail and provides more of the Jack’s background story, which is greatly enthralling. With elements of the occult, fantasy and horror, this story combines exquisite writing, brilliant storytelling and suspense to weave a most unforgettable tale. It will surely keep you guessing and on the edge of your seat as you share in the horrors that Jack must constantly face.
I highly recommend this exceptional book.
October 21, 2013
A huge thank you to L.C. Barlow, both for writing this incredible book and for generously sending a copy to me in the GoodReads first-reads giveaway!
W-O-W!!! I am totally blown away by this book, that I hardly know where to begin! I have read many, many books over the years, but the level at which "Pivot" engaged my brain in this incredible story does not happen very often. Ms. Barlow, you possess quite an eloquent gift for writing, as well as a brilliant imagination. There are so many facets to this jewel of a book that it is very difficult for me as a reader to place it in any one, definitive, cookie-cutter genre. I'll first say it's fiction, although if it were not fiction, it would be terrifyingly beautiful in places and soul shattering to behold in others. Many other elements are woven together in "Pivot". Such as horror and hope, humor and despair, sweet and bloodcurdling, loss and redemption, life and death, love vs. sex, angels and demons(although the line is deliciously blurred on this one) and supernatural abilities vs. extraordinary humanity - to name a few. As I read the book, I was completely oblivious to my surroundings.
I won't write a synopsis of "Pivot" here, but I will share 2 of my favorite parts in this book. And believe me there are so many astounding twists and turns in this book, your head will spin - similar to the way in which some of the characters' heads physically and/or emotionally do in this book. Well maybe not spin exactly for the characters, more like pop off in a creative way rather than spin. Throughout the book I thought I could see where a sequence was going, only to be caught off guard with my jaw dropping over where it did end up going. The main character, Jack, becomes quite complex as you move through the story, with a slam bang surprise about him that I was totally blind to. He's a lovable character, which you might not see right away as he's been molded into a ruthless killer on command by his mentor and demonically violent cult leader. Yet, as the story unfolds you can't help but feel almost protective of him and hope that he has a happy ending and a release from what his life has been. One of my favorite chapters is 19. It's hilarious, scary and existentially deep all at the same time. Jack's friend, Patrick(one of my favorite characters), hosts a wild party in his loft - seems fun enough right?? Well, humor, fright, casual sex, drug use, the stark question "Do you believe in God?", anger, doubt, secrets and ultimately an unsuspecting party guest Brian having his pants with his underwear in them violently torn off and burned in the fireplace to end up with him in a ruffled apron and a towel after having a retaliatory one-man food fight are all rolled into one here. Yes I know, that is one run on sentence, but that's the best way I can describe it. And that's one of the lightest chapters in "Pivot". There are also some endearing satellite characters in the story that remind you that all is not lost when it seems darkest. My favorite is elderly Margaret who, along with her 2 friends all dressed in roaring 20's outfits, discovers Jack in a cemetery tomb after his serious drug binge to numb his pain. Without blinking, she cheerfully takes him under her wing for a fleeting interlude in his horrific life by insisting he join them at a roaring 20's themed wedding reception at the church next door. She proceeds to thrust much needed food and beverage on the bedraggled and seemingly hopeless Jack, while imparting some seriously relevant wisdom upon him. Coincidence that a total stranger happens along just when Jack seems to think his only way out might be death? As Jack asks, who is she, really? As for all the thrills, major chills, supernatural forces and deep questions posed in this book, you will have to read them to see them for yourself. All I can say in closing are 3 things: I hope there is a sequel very soon, Alex and similar red boxes are still out there after all; I am still contemplating so many questions raised about the demonic and the divine; and I'm pretty sure I will be sleeping with my bedroom lights on tonight at 51 yrs. old.
PS I also would love to see this released in audible format :)
W-O-W!!! I am totally blown away by this book, that I hardly know where to begin! I have read many, many books over the years, but the level at which "Pivot" engaged my brain in this incredible story does not happen very often. Ms. Barlow, you possess quite an eloquent gift for writing, as well as a brilliant imagination. There are so many facets to this jewel of a book that it is very difficult for me as a reader to place it in any one, definitive, cookie-cutter genre. I'll first say it's fiction, although if it were not fiction, it would be terrifyingly beautiful in places and soul shattering to behold in others. Many other elements are woven together in "Pivot". Such as horror and hope, humor and despair, sweet and bloodcurdling, loss and redemption, life and death, love vs. sex, angels and demons(although the line is deliciously blurred on this one) and supernatural abilities vs. extraordinary humanity - to name a few. As I read the book, I was completely oblivious to my surroundings.
I won't write a synopsis of "Pivot" here, but I will share 2 of my favorite parts in this book. And believe me there are so many astounding twists and turns in this book, your head will spin - similar to the way in which some of the characters' heads physically and/or emotionally do in this book. Well maybe not spin exactly for the characters, more like pop off in a creative way rather than spin. Throughout the book I thought I could see where a sequence was going, only to be caught off guard with my jaw dropping over where it did end up going. The main character, Jack, becomes quite complex as you move through the story, with a slam bang surprise about him that I was totally blind to. He's a lovable character, which you might not see right away as he's been molded into a ruthless killer on command by his mentor and demonically violent cult leader. Yet, as the story unfolds you can't help but feel almost protective of him and hope that he has a happy ending and a release from what his life has been. One of my favorite chapters is 19. It's hilarious, scary and existentially deep all at the same time. Jack's friend, Patrick(one of my favorite characters), hosts a wild party in his loft - seems fun enough right?? Well, humor, fright, casual sex, drug use, the stark question "Do you believe in God?", anger, doubt, secrets and ultimately an unsuspecting party guest Brian having his pants with his underwear in them violently torn off and burned in the fireplace to end up with him in a ruffled apron and a towel after having a retaliatory one-man food fight are all rolled into one here. Yes I know, that is one run on sentence, but that's the best way I can describe it. And that's one of the lightest chapters in "Pivot". There are also some endearing satellite characters in the story that remind you that all is not lost when it seems darkest. My favorite is elderly Margaret who, along with her 2 friends all dressed in roaring 20's outfits, discovers Jack in a cemetery tomb after his serious drug binge to numb his pain. Without blinking, she cheerfully takes him under her wing for a fleeting interlude in his horrific life by insisting he join them at a roaring 20's themed wedding reception at the church next door. She proceeds to thrust much needed food and beverage on the bedraggled and seemingly hopeless Jack, while imparting some seriously relevant wisdom upon him. Coincidence that a total stranger happens along just when Jack seems to think his only way out might be death? As Jack asks, who is she, really? As for all the thrills, major chills, supernatural forces and deep questions posed in this book, you will have to read them to see them for yourself. All I can say in closing are 3 things: I hope there is a sequel very soon, Alex and similar red boxes are still out there after all; I am still contemplating so many questions raised about the demonic and the divine; and I'm pretty sure I will be sleeping with my bedroom lights on tonight at 51 yrs. old.
PS I also would love to see this released in audible format :)
October 12, 2019
"Yes, yes, murder is poetry... and I have written chapters with knives."
What a unique and interesting story. Opening chapter has a man teaching Jack, a seven year old, how to kill. Instantly intrigued! I know this has been published previously and after a cursory glance at the reviews after I finished, I wonder if I read the same book as those who read this years ago. How much did they change as the things people pointed out and didn't like, I didn't catch. How very curious.
What I loved about this is it has a bit of a sorrowful vibe from the get go. A seven year old kid (named Jack and who I stupidly thought was a boy until 60% in), is primed by Cyrus to be a killing machine as he (Cyrus) works to transcend himself up and above humanity. This isn't the work of God. He is on the other side of the veil and his manipulation and cult like fascination due to certain *powers* he wields, brings forth a purpose with no real ending. No real reasoning. And for this, I was utterly intrigued.
We see Jack through ten years. We see how she interacts with Roland and Cyrus and how smart she is in putting two and four together. To be honest, the last quarter of the book, while still fascinating, did begin to lose a little bit of luster. However, it did leave me wondering where does it go from there? But maybe that's a question that won't ever be answered and that's kind of the point. Seeing as this is the first in a trilogy, maybe I will get some answers... but I'm sure if I care to - and I don't mean that in a bad way. I'll certainly be side eyeing any red box that comes across my path and I certainly would be interested to see where this trilogy goes.
Thank you NetGalley and Rare Bird Books for this read.
What a unique and interesting story. Opening chapter has a man teaching Jack, a seven year old, how to kill. Instantly intrigued! I know this has been published previously and after a cursory glance at the reviews after I finished, I wonder if I read the same book as those who read this years ago. How much did they change as the things people pointed out and didn't like, I didn't catch. How very curious.
What I loved about this is it has a bit of a sorrowful vibe from the get go. A seven year old kid (named Jack and who I stupidly thought was a boy until 60% in), is primed by Cyrus to be a killing machine as he (Cyrus) works to transcend himself up and above humanity. This isn't the work of God. He is on the other side of the veil and his manipulation and cult like fascination due to certain *powers* he wields, brings forth a purpose with no real ending. No real reasoning. And for this, I was utterly intrigued.
We see Jack through ten years. We see how she interacts with Roland and Cyrus and how smart she is in putting two and four together. To be honest, the last quarter of the book, while still fascinating, did begin to lose a little bit of luster. However, it did leave me wondering where does it go from there? But maybe that's a question that won't ever be answered and that's kind of the point. Seeing as this is the first in a trilogy, maybe I will get some answers... but I'm sure if I care to - and I don't mean that in a bad way. I'll certainly be side eyeing any red box that comes across my path and I certainly would be interested to see where this trilogy goes.
Thank you NetGalley and Rare Bird Books for this read.
August 21, 2019
This one has been Pivoting around my Kindle for a long time. Originally downloaded as a random freebie, it never really demanded attention, but now that it is (somehow) getting a rerelease and received (somehow) a very nice cover blurb from Josh Malerman, it seemed like a…sure, why not kind of read. In retrospect, should have left it sitting around. Maybe Malerman read a different book. Maybe a lot of people did. Because I can’t really think of any nice things to say about it at all. In fact, this was the kind of book I didn’t really enjoy from the first few pages and then the completist in me decided to plow through anyway, only to get to the end and do the Told You So sort of thing. Thanks for nothing, inner completist. But ok, let’s talk about this…the basic plot is decent, right. Intriguing, even. A kid, Jack, gets taken into a violent cult led by a supernaturally powered man named Cyrus who over the years trains the kid to become his murderous protégé of sorts. And Jack is fine with being one until Jack finds love and develops a conscience. And so Jack rebels against his master and they battle it out. The entire book is very much all about a struggle between good and evil. Decent plot, right? Well, maybe a different writer might have done something with it. Barlow’s writing (very loudly) screams debut. It’s amateurish, overdone, melodramatic, ponderous and tiresome. It has the angsty energy of YA (goth YA specifically) and no amount of excessive violence balances it out. And the romance…the romance alone takes it down a peg or two, if it had that many pegs to begin with. Jack’s passionate love affair with the fiery Irish ginger playboy is just…silly. Like laughably so. Like Jack admiring the picturesque curves of his fingernails silly. The surprise reveal (and how contrived is that Ta Da) at the end is never going to make up for picturesque fingernail curves. It’s like something straight out of Twilight books as I imagine them to be. So. Very. Corny. And there you go, a contrived dark thriller that desperately wants to sit at the grown up table, but just isn’t tall enough) with a bunch of unlikeable characters and nothing especially inspiring plot wise. I mean, even the cult factor doesn’t save it and I’m really, really into all cult related stories. So that’s the book, basically. It doesn’t even have the decency of brevity. It does have typos, though. It isn’t the worst crap out there, not by a long shot (mainly because there is a lot of really crappy crap out there), but it has nothing to recommend itself. Except for Malerman. Malerman recommends it for some inexplicable reason. Some other places too. Why? You’d think the fact that this book was meant to be the first in trilogy and never got a sibling in six years would speak for itself, but no. Someone decided to resurrect this turd and shine it up, instead of leaving it where it belongs, with a lukewarm (not steaming, mind you, it has enough decent moments to warrant a lukewarm upgrade) pile of other amateurish debut attempts. But still, you know, a turd.
November 23, 2013
Up front: I won this via Goodreads Giveaways. This has zero bearing on my review.
Unlike my usual fare, and in spite of the teenaged protagonist, "Pivot" is not what I'd consider a Young Adult read.
Let's start with the bad: the ending is slightly less than perfect, though I can't imagine what I would change. The printed version I got could use some copy editing. That's it.
Other than those quibbles, I gotta say that this book - a self-published book by a first time author no less! - blew me away. From the very first line ("My roommate leaves me notes on rose petals.") to the very last ("He listens.") I was fully engaged. At no point did I even wonder where the storyline was going because I was so caught up in what was happening right then.
Yes, this story is dark. Yes, it involves unsavory people doing unsavory things for unsavory reasons. Yes, it has a strong element of supernatural that requires some suspension of disbelief. Yes, there are (doubtlessly deliberately) confusing elements. By the very same token though, this story can be full of wonder and awe. That darkness is what gives Ms. Barlow's ideas - of existence and meaning and humanity - the chance to shine.
I am frankly stunned by how much I liked this book. This is Art, my friends.
Unlike my usual fare, and in spite of the teenaged protagonist, "Pivot" is not what I'd consider a Young Adult read.
Let's start with the bad: the ending is slightly less than perfect, though I can't imagine what I would change. The printed version I got could use some copy editing. That's it.
Other than those quibbles, I gotta say that this book - a self-published book by a first time author no less! - blew me away. From the very first line ("My roommate leaves me notes on rose petals.") to the very last ("He listens.") I was fully engaged. At no point did I even wonder where the storyline was going because I was so caught up in what was happening right then.
Yes, this story is dark. Yes, it involves unsavory people doing unsavory things for unsavory reasons. Yes, it has a strong element of supernatural that requires some suspension of disbelief. Yes, there are (doubtlessly deliberately) confusing elements. By the very same token though, this story can be full of wonder and awe. That darkness is what gives Ms. Barlow's ideas - of existence and meaning and humanity - the chance to shine.
I am frankly stunned by how much I liked this book. This is Art, my friends.
November 25, 2020
Pivot, the first book in the Jack Harper Trilogy by L.C. Barlow, is a pitch-black, intense story about manipulation and deception. It's been awhile since I've read a book this twisty and turny. While it isn't for the faint of heart, Pivot comes highly recommended.
Check out my full video review HERE.
Thank you, L.C. Barlow, for sending me an audiobook download of Pivot in exchange for an honest review.
Check out my full video review HERE.
Thank you, L.C. Barlow, for sending me an audiobook download of Pivot in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2014
I cannot say how much I absolutely loved this book. In some ways I think it was truly brilliant. It is one of those rare books which grabbed me by the throat and pulled me and never let go. I was hooked from the very first page, and stayed engaged to the end. It was one of the most originally and unique things I have read in a long time. And I loved the absolute strangeness of it.
One of the things which I found quite interesting about this book is that it very much centers around the importance of balance and duality. Rather than the age old struggle of Good vs. Evil, this book emphasis the way in which Good and Evil are co-dependent upon each other, that in fact they one one in the same thing, but to borrow an expression from the book one of them bites and the other doesn't. I loved the idea of the importance of equalization which is emphasized in the story. Evil does the things which good cannot do.
I also very much loved the way in which we are presented with a cast of characters all of whom are (or should be) quite loathsome and yet I myself could not help but to love them for all of their depravity, a part of me wanted to be a part of their world. I think that this book shows the beauty which can come from the ugliness of the world.
And for all the strangeness for all the impossible things, and all the depravity within the book, I still felt it was relateable in many ways to me. Particularly with the relationship between Jack and Patrick. I, like Jack, can appreciate the way in which an anonymous friendship can be the most perfect thing in the world, and that sometimes knowing too much, or being known too well can ruin everything.
There where these lines sprinkled throughout the book which held such deep glimmerings of truth.
One of the things which I found quite interesting about this book is that it very much centers around the importance of balance and duality. Rather than the age old struggle of Good vs. Evil, this book emphasis the way in which Good and Evil are co-dependent upon each other, that in fact they one one in the same thing, but to borrow an expression from the book one of them bites and the other doesn't. I loved the idea of the importance of equalization which is emphasized in the story. Evil does the things which good cannot do.
I also very much loved the way in which we are presented with a cast of characters all of whom are (or should be) quite loathsome and yet I myself could not help but to love them for all of their depravity, a part of me wanted to be a part of their world. I think that this book shows the beauty which can come from the ugliness of the world.
And for all the strangeness for all the impossible things, and all the depravity within the book, I still felt it was relateable in many ways to me. Particularly with the relationship between Jack and Patrick. I, like Jack, can appreciate the way in which an anonymous friendship can be the most perfect thing in the world, and that sometimes knowing too much, or being known too well can ruin everything.
There where these lines sprinkled throughout the book which held such deep glimmerings of truth.
November 19, 2013
WOW!! Such a compelling story, and though it was horrifying and beyond creepy, I couldn't stop reading it. I had some pretty disturbing nightmares a time or two.
Jack... I had no clue, until it was directly pointed out to me. I never even suspected.
Cyrus scared me to death. Patrick was both amazing and tragic, and I adored him. Roland ripped my heart out.
I loved the exploration of the gray, where I think the majority of us hang out. There is rarely only black and white, and angels are only demons who are better at control. This story is a journey into the pliable and moldable mind, as well as the very nature of good and evil. Such a mind fuck. Never once was I not routing for Jack in some way, regardless of the atrocities committed. Excellent writing!
I'm so hooked. Can't wait for the next leg of Jack's journey!
Jack... I had no clue, until it was directly pointed out to me. I never even suspected.
Cyrus scared me to death. Patrick was both amazing and tragic, and I adored him. Roland ripped my heart out.
I loved the exploration of the gray, where I think the majority of us hang out. There is rarely only black and white, and angels are only demons who are better at control. This story is a journey into the pliable and moldable mind, as well as the very nature of good and evil. Such a mind fuck. Never once was I not routing for Jack in some way, regardless of the atrocities committed. Excellent writing!
I'm so hooked. Can't wait for the next leg of Jack's journey!
August 8, 2020
I was offered a paperback copy of Pivot from the author, L. C. Barlow, in return for my honest review, which follows below. I thank her for this opportunity.
I rated this 5 stars.
Pivot is book one in the Jack Harper trilogy, but that doesn’t mean the reader is left with a cliffhanger. You may be left with new questions, a perfect guiding hand to the next book in my opinion; but any questions introduced initially are answered by the end, a satisfying feeling. I recommend this for readers of dark fiction, supernatural horror, cult thrillers, and those that enjoy a richly written plot that flowed well under the first person view of the titular character, Jack. I could see giving this as a gift and re-reading this, and I am reading the ARC for the next book, Perish, next. At the moment I see myself reading the whole series, based on how much I enjoyed this first novel, so those things all add up to 5 stars for me.
I’ve been trying to write this review for almost a week; I keep finding myself divulging too many particulars about the story for my comfort. So I erase and start over the body of my review, and this is attempt...4, I think. Spoilers are something I really try to keep out of reviews, so I’ve just had to work a little harder at getting this one right.
Our introduction to Jack is her at seven, killing her first man under the instruction of Cyrus; he explains that she needs to know how to kill, become acclimated to it. I immediately thought to one of my favorite French films turned successful American television show, La Femme Nikita. I was obsessed with the concept growing up, I was the ideal target audience. These are different animals, but I personally like how reading different works can make you remember all sorts of things; I hadn’t thought of the movie or show in at least seven years. It was wild thinking of them so suddenly, all from just reading this book. Things quickly veered off on their own path when Cyrus told Jack that he could bring the man she just killed back to life before the day’s end. He places himself in this heroic light while also pretty plainly being in the position of power over a minor; it worked efficiently at polarizing my opinions over these two characters in the first chapter.
Cyrus is presented as a man of in charge of an unnamed entity, built from a combination of big money followers and those he seems able to find on demand; on their last legs, ready to devote themselves to anyone showing them kindness. So….a cult, right? Charismatic leader that lives in a mansion, talks mysticism and transcendence, controls every aspect of everyone involved with him? He feels the need to train a small child on all the ways to murder, can bring people back from the dead, and uses fears tactics on his followers with a box that can kill anyone in minutes, while also bleaching all color from the room? A super double check? That’s seems to be a cult that can deliver on its threats...so how about its promises? Well, he can heal cancer, if he chooses. So Cyrus is the real deal. Jack is growing up under his scaly wing, being ‘nurtured’ by him, and constantly worrying about failing him. Sounds like a great childhood.
One thing that Cyrus did not take into account: In raising Jack to question everything, he gave her a unique tool missing from most all his other followers. When she sees or learns things that introduce more questions, she investigates on her own; his anger a worthy risk. There is a being he keeps locked in one of the many rooms of the basement; the power to heal and resurrect is not one that Cyrus actually possessed. The more she is told to leave alone, the more of a wedge is driven between the blind loyalty of the seven year old she was and the young woman sick for change she is becoming.
Like I mentioned earlier, this novel did not end on a sudden stop; I was not left feeling cheated, tricked into continuing this series to find out something promised on the back summary. The story opened, flowed, and evolved, leaving me excited to read the next book in the series, Perish. I was given a whole adventure, with a sign pointing the way if I would like to continue. The characters were very human to me; the ones I wanted to dislike had redeemable qualities, even the ‘good guys’ could be cruel. The fantastical aspects fit nicely in this world the author built, I’m hoping to learn more about them in the next book. I am just really impressed with this book, I loved the ideas presented, and how the author brought them to life.
I rated this 5 stars.
Pivot is book one in the Jack Harper trilogy, but that doesn’t mean the reader is left with a cliffhanger. You may be left with new questions, a perfect guiding hand to the next book in my opinion; but any questions introduced initially are answered by the end, a satisfying feeling. I recommend this for readers of dark fiction, supernatural horror, cult thrillers, and those that enjoy a richly written plot that flowed well under the first person view of the titular character, Jack. I could see giving this as a gift and re-reading this, and I am reading the ARC for the next book, Perish, next. At the moment I see myself reading the whole series, based on how much I enjoyed this first novel, so those things all add up to 5 stars for me.
I’ve been trying to write this review for almost a week; I keep finding myself divulging too many particulars about the story for my comfort. So I erase and start over the body of my review, and this is attempt...4, I think. Spoilers are something I really try to keep out of reviews, so I’ve just had to work a little harder at getting this one right.
Our introduction to Jack is her at seven, killing her first man under the instruction of Cyrus; he explains that she needs to know how to kill, become acclimated to it. I immediately thought to one of my favorite French films turned successful American television show, La Femme Nikita. I was obsessed with the concept growing up, I was the ideal target audience. These are different animals, but I personally like how reading different works can make you remember all sorts of things; I hadn’t thought of the movie or show in at least seven years. It was wild thinking of them so suddenly, all from just reading this book. Things quickly veered off on their own path when Cyrus told Jack that he could bring the man she just killed back to life before the day’s end. He places himself in this heroic light while also pretty plainly being in the position of power over a minor; it worked efficiently at polarizing my opinions over these two characters in the first chapter.
Cyrus is presented as a man of in charge of an unnamed entity, built from a combination of big money followers and those he seems able to find on demand; on their last legs, ready to devote themselves to anyone showing them kindness. So….a cult, right? Charismatic leader that lives in a mansion, talks mysticism and transcendence, controls every aspect of everyone involved with him? He feels the need to train a small child on all the ways to murder, can bring people back from the dead, and uses fears tactics on his followers with a box that can kill anyone in minutes, while also bleaching all color from the room? A super double check? That’s seems to be a cult that can deliver on its threats...so how about its promises? Well, he can heal cancer, if he chooses. So Cyrus is the real deal. Jack is growing up under his scaly wing, being ‘nurtured’ by him, and constantly worrying about failing him. Sounds like a great childhood.
One thing that Cyrus did not take into account: In raising Jack to question everything, he gave her a unique tool missing from most all his other followers. When she sees or learns things that introduce more questions, she investigates on her own; his anger a worthy risk. There is a being he keeps locked in one of the many rooms of the basement; the power to heal and resurrect is not one that Cyrus actually possessed. The more she is told to leave alone, the more of a wedge is driven between the blind loyalty of the seven year old she was and the young woman sick for change she is becoming.
Like I mentioned earlier, this novel did not end on a sudden stop; I was not left feeling cheated, tricked into continuing this series to find out something promised on the back summary. The story opened, flowed, and evolved, leaving me excited to read the next book in the series, Perish. I was given a whole adventure, with a sign pointing the way if I would like to continue. The characters were very human to me; the ones I wanted to dislike had redeemable qualities, even the ‘good guys’ could be cruel. The fantastical aspects fit nicely in this world the author built, I’m hoping to learn more about them in the next book. I am just really impressed with this book, I loved the ideas presented, and how the author brought them to life.
Currently reading
February 22, 2020WARNING for my fellow animal abuse freaker-outers:
This is a very good book otherwise (I’m not sure that it’s technically horror; more like a satanic thriller maybe?), but be forewarned, there is animal abuse. And I don’t mean just animal deaths unfortunately; I mean actual abuse. I am currently three-quarters of the way through and there have been three incidents of varying degrees, ranging from pretty disturbing to absolutely horrible. There’s no sign of any more immediately on the horizon, but if an author’s willing to use it once (or three times, as is the case here), they might use it again. I’ll keep this up to date [22 Feb 20].
I received this book via Goodreads Giveaway, but was otherwise not compensated for my review nor compelled to provide one.
This is a very good book otherwise (I’m not sure that it’s technically horror; more like a satanic thriller maybe?), but be forewarned, there is animal abuse. And I don’t mean just animal deaths unfortunately; I mean actual abuse. I am currently three-quarters of the way through and there have been three incidents of varying degrees, ranging from pretty disturbing to absolutely horrible. There’s no sign of any more immediately on the horizon, but if an author’s willing to use it once (or three times, as is the case here), they might use it again. I’ll keep this up to date [22 Feb 20].
I received this book via Goodreads Giveaway, but was otherwise not compensated for my review nor compelled to provide one.
November 30, 2013
Back in the 1980’s and 1990’s, while I was teaching high school algebra, my students would occasionally ask why one of their classmates had committed a particularly heinous act. My answer was always the same, “Because they were taught, at an early age, by the most important people in their world, that it was OK to do so.”
I would then follow up with this anecdote: “Suppose a child is born into a family of thieves. Day after day this child hears his parents discuss their thievery and observes them involved in thievery. And this child may even be taught some basic skills in the art as he toddles through the house. Now skip forward to this child’s first day of school. He steals another child’s lunch, is caught by the teacher and has punishment pronounced upon him. Can you imagine the look of incredulity on that child’s face? This veritable stranger is telling the child that his actions are wrong when the most important people in his life have taught him just the opposite. And, thus, you witness the beginnings of a sociopath.”
Now you know the basics of this novel – only it’s not thievery, it’s murder. A five-year-old child is taken from his mother and is taught to be a murderer. However, the character is not being taught to become a hired assassin. The intent is for the child to be a cold-blooded, glory-in-death, kill-for-the-sake-of-killing murderer – plain and simple.
Now, I am not an aficionado of the horror genre. I do not read Stephen King. I do not watch slasher movies. The promotional blurb for the book led me to believe that it was another genre entirely. That being said, the author plied his craft well. This book is the stuff of nightmares.
I have never been so confused after 30 pages of a book in my life. I couldn’t tell if the first person POV was being told by a male or a female, even if the character’s name was Jack. I couldn’t tell if I was reading a novel with supernatural elements involving the Devil or if I was reading an allegory that made Cyrus the equivalent of the Devil. And I couldn’t tell if the lead character had any level of sanity remaining or if I was being doomed to 265 pages containing the ramblings of a mind-muddled, drug addicted psychopath.
This book had me constantly off balance. The author’s style went from choppy and blocky, with one- to four-word phrasing, to smooth as glass in the turn of a page. The chapters flipped from current day to flashbacks. I emotionally flipped from wanting the bad guys to die to being vastly relieved that they survived. Initially, I could only read this novel in 30-page blocks, interspersing it with sections of novels that had a psychologically kinder nature.
And then it all began to make sense – metaphysical, supernatural, allegorical, psychological sense. Oh, there were still some scenes that had me shaking my head in confusion. And there were still sections of dialog that read as if the author had pulled random words out of a revolving drum and just stuck them end-to-end. But a change in my perspective had occurred – a PIVOT of attitude and realization.
That being said, perhaps you, the reader, are starting this book with the idea that our psychologically flawed and scarred main character will PIVOT from profound evil to gratifying goodness. Perhaps you hope that our main character will PIVOT from the path of destruction to some form of happily-ever-after, facing a glorious sunrise and riding off into a magnificent sunset. If you are a reader who needs these types of PIVOTs to occur, then perhaps you need to consider another book.
But if you can put those fairy tales away and persevere through the initial confusion, by the last sentence of this book, you will be facing an intriguing definition of the concept of “good,” and you will be facing a frustrating psychological cliffhanger. And you will definitely be facing an entirely new perspective into the old homily that says “Out of the frying pan, into the fire.”
I received a copy of this book through the Goodreads First Reads Giveaway program. That fact did not, in any way, influence my opinion of the book.
I would then follow up with this anecdote: “Suppose a child is born into a family of thieves. Day after day this child hears his parents discuss their thievery and observes them involved in thievery. And this child may even be taught some basic skills in the art as he toddles through the house. Now skip forward to this child’s first day of school. He steals another child’s lunch, is caught by the teacher and has punishment pronounced upon him. Can you imagine the look of incredulity on that child’s face? This veritable stranger is telling the child that his actions are wrong when the most important people in his life have taught him just the opposite. And, thus, you witness the beginnings of a sociopath.”
Now you know the basics of this novel – only it’s not thievery, it’s murder. A five-year-old child is taken from his mother and is taught to be a murderer. However, the character is not being taught to become a hired assassin. The intent is for the child to be a cold-blooded, glory-in-death, kill-for-the-sake-of-killing murderer – plain and simple.
Now, I am not an aficionado of the horror genre. I do not read Stephen King. I do not watch slasher movies. The promotional blurb for the book led me to believe that it was another genre entirely. That being said, the author plied his craft well. This book is the stuff of nightmares.
I have never been so confused after 30 pages of a book in my life. I couldn’t tell if the first person POV was being told by a male or a female, even if the character’s name was Jack. I couldn’t tell if I was reading a novel with supernatural elements involving the Devil or if I was reading an allegory that made Cyrus the equivalent of the Devil. And I couldn’t tell if the lead character had any level of sanity remaining or if I was being doomed to 265 pages containing the ramblings of a mind-muddled, drug addicted psychopath.
This book had me constantly off balance. The author’s style went from choppy and blocky, with one- to four-word phrasing, to smooth as glass in the turn of a page. The chapters flipped from current day to flashbacks. I emotionally flipped from wanting the bad guys to die to being vastly relieved that they survived. Initially, I could only read this novel in 30-page blocks, interspersing it with sections of novels that had a psychologically kinder nature.
And then it all began to make sense – metaphysical, supernatural, allegorical, psychological sense. Oh, there were still some scenes that had me shaking my head in confusion. And there were still sections of dialog that read as if the author had pulled random words out of a revolving drum and just stuck them end-to-end. But a change in my perspective had occurred – a PIVOT of attitude and realization.
That being said, perhaps you, the reader, are starting this book with the idea that our psychologically flawed and scarred main character will PIVOT from profound evil to gratifying goodness. Perhaps you hope that our main character will PIVOT from the path of destruction to some form of happily-ever-after, facing a glorious sunrise and riding off into a magnificent sunset. If you are a reader who needs these types of PIVOTs to occur, then perhaps you need to consider another book.
But if you can put those fairy tales away and persevere through the initial confusion, by the last sentence of this book, you will be facing an intriguing definition of the concept of “good,” and you will be facing a frustrating psychological cliffhanger. And you will definitely be facing an entirely new perspective into the old homily that says “Out of the frying pan, into the fire.”
I received a copy of this book through the Goodreads First Reads Giveaway program. That fact did not, in any way, influence my opinion of the book.
February 20, 2014
An absolutely thrilling edge of my seat horror story which had me hooked from the beginning. Imagine a child raised by the devil and taught to kill. Jack is having strange feelings about the man who raised him; maybe everything is not as it seems. An excellent noir type of novel!
March 29, 2021
I received a free copy of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
At seven years of age, Jack is taken in by Cyrus; her savior, father figure, and teacher.
But what Jack learns from Cyrus is not what most children grow up learning. Jack, in fact, learns how to kill people only for Cyrus to bring them back to life. Jack begins with Roland, a close confidant of Cyrus. Over and over again, Jack kills Roland, only to witness Roland waking and hearty and hale.
Soon Jack learns that to disobey Cyrus is certain death. But Jack, Cyrus, and Roland aren’t the only ones living in the mansion. Something is hidden away in the basement; something - or someone - Jack is never to question or pursue.
This book kept me reading until the very end. Jack is brought up in a weird, cult-like atmosphere that is at once safe and nurturing yet fraught with danger at every turn. Anyone who angers Cyrus is disposed of violently by way of a strange red box with powers.
Cyrus turns Jack into the perfect killing machine, but to what end?
First of all, author LC Barlow does a masterful job of creating a superb cast of characters. Jack is strong and doesn’t fold in the face of fear. She’s clever and begins to see Cyrus for what he really is and the horrors he wants to unleash on the world.
The author has written two follow up novels in this series, and I am on my way to read them now!
At seven years of age, Jack is taken in by Cyrus; her savior, father figure, and teacher.
But what Jack learns from Cyrus is not what most children grow up learning. Jack, in fact, learns how to kill people only for Cyrus to bring them back to life. Jack begins with Roland, a close confidant of Cyrus. Over and over again, Jack kills Roland, only to witness Roland waking and hearty and hale.
Soon Jack learns that to disobey Cyrus is certain death. But Jack, Cyrus, and Roland aren’t the only ones living in the mansion. Something is hidden away in the basement; something - or someone - Jack is never to question or pursue.
This book kept me reading until the very end. Jack is brought up in a weird, cult-like atmosphere that is at once safe and nurturing yet fraught with danger at every turn. Anyone who angers Cyrus is disposed of violently by way of a strange red box with powers.
Cyrus turns Jack into the perfect killing machine, but to what end?
First of all, author LC Barlow does a masterful job of creating a superb cast of characters. Jack is strong and doesn’t fold in the face of fear. She’s clever and begins to see Cyrus for what he really is and the horrors he wants to unleash on the world.
The author has written two follow up novels in this series, and I am on my way to read them now!
March 30, 2020
From the age of seven, Jack is raised by a cult leader. Cyrus, rules over his followers with fear and an uncanny knowledge of who might be plotting against him. Jack is brought up, by Cyrus, to run the cult one day with the help of Cyrus’s son Alex. One of the first things Jack must learn is how to kill, but when she learns about the deadly power of a small red box Cyrus keeps, her perception of the world begins to change.
For such a short book, this one packs quite a bit of horror and unease between its pages. The writer knows how to manipulate diction in order to set the reader’s teeth on edge just by choosing the word “murder” over “kill.” I enjoyed the book, up until the end where it is all just too easy. Ok, there’s supposed to be two more books in the series, but I felt like the build up in this story is for nothing. That and parts of the ending are either redundant or anticlimactic to the point where I don’t understand why it is even included. In a short book, that shouldn’t be the case. If the beginning had kept up the book would’ve ranked much higher for me, but the ending ruined it. 3 stars.
For such a short book, this one packs quite a bit of horror and unease between its pages. The writer knows how to manipulate diction in order to set the reader’s teeth on edge just by choosing the word “murder” over “kill.” I enjoyed the book, up until the end where it is all just too easy. Ok, there’s supposed to be two more books in the series, but I felt like the build up in this story is for nothing. That and parts of the ending are either redundant or anticlimactic to the point where I don’t understand why it is even included. In a short book, that shouldn’t be the case. If the beginning had kept up the book would’ve ranked much higher for me, but the ending ruined it. 3 stars.
August 24, 2020
Part thriller, part drama, part horror with a touch of cult religion to never have a dull moment. This book kept me reading with the twists and disturbing images. While I am not a fan of gore – give me a good story and intriguing characters and I can handle almost anything. A creative story that has me interested to see where this series goes.
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May 20, 2021I didnt' have much of an idea as to what to expect from this novel. I was pleasantly surprised. It is difficult to go into much detail without giving away spoilers but I'll summarize a bit. We get to follow Jack, Cyrus, Roland, and Alex on a journey that quickly develops some mystical/scifi/fantasy type themes. The plot is continually twisting and turning, and the character development is awesome.
It is not often that an author can get me to feel a sort of empathy for a murderer but this one somehow does that!
Definitely looking forward to the rest of this trilogy.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It is not often that an author can get me to feel a sort of empathy for a murderer but this one somehow does that!
Definitely looking forward to the rest of this trilogy.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 12, 2021
"Yes, yes, murder is poetry... and I have written chapters with knives."
PIVOT is book one in the Jack Harper trilogy, a trio of books I will most definitely be finishing! As of today, only the 2nd one is published. I am going to get that one and then (im)patiently await the final installment! PIVOT is this wonderful blend of thriller, supernatural horror, and dark fantasy. It has some YA vibes (due to the age of the protagonist) but is not necessarily reflective of all the YA tropes.
We follow the story of a man named Cyrus who we learn is in the business of breeding murderers from a young age. It becomes clear his training methods are not consistent across the board. Two of the ones we know about up front are Jack and Alex. He also has this "magical box" that will make an odd noise and present a name of anyone who wishes to betray or "pivot" against him before they can make their move. He ALSO has this supernatural entity in the basement that is somehow connected to the powers of healing and resurrection. How does all of this combine? What is Jack's role in all of this and what will she do as she grows up? You have to read this one! 4 stars!
PIVOT is book one in the Jack Harper trilogy, a trio of books I will most definitely be finishing! As of today, only the 2nd one is published. I am going to get that one and then (im)patiently await the final installment! PIVOT is this wonderful blend of thriller, supernatural horror, and dark fantasy. It has some YA vibes (due to the age of the protagonist) but is not necessarily reflective of all the YA tropes.
We follow the story of a man named Cyrus who we learn is in the business of breeding murderers from a young age. It becomes clear his training methods are not consistent across the board. Two of the ones we know about up front are Jack and Alex. He also has this "magical box" that will make an odd noise and present a name of anyone who wishes to betray or "pivot" against him before they can make their move. He ALSO has this supernatural entity in the basement that is somehow connected to the powers of healing and resurrection. How does all of this combine? What is Jack's role in all of this and what will she do as she grows up? You have to read this one! 4 stars!
September 19, 2013
This was the first book I won on this site, so I was excited when I first received it. I started reading it that very same day, and could not stop. It is definitely one of the greatest books I’ve read recently. It had the right amount of everything.
When the main character, Jack, is introduced to us, one is instantly eager to know more about the character and the character’s background. Everything is a mystery and as the pages are turned the story unfolds. Jack is, in my opinion, a very loveable character. Despite what is discovered of Jack’s past, it is easy to see that Jack is something special, and I believe readers will still see Jack as someone sweet and caring, like I did.
One of my favorite things about the book is the wide range of character personalities. It ranges from obedient Jack to carefree Patrick and “sinister” Cyrus. Each character is unique and has their own story to tell.
I gave Pivot 5 stars, but I’d go higher if I could. I recommend it to anyone who wants to read a memorable book.
When the main character, Jack, is introduced to us, one is instantly eager to know more about the character and the character’s background. Everything is a mystery and as the pages are turned the story unfolds. Jack is, in my opinion, a very loveable character. Despite what is discovered of Jack’s past, it is easy to see that Jack is something special, and I believe readers will still see Jack as someone sweet and caring, like I did.
One of my favorite things about the book is the wide range of character personalities. It ranges from obedient Jack to carefree Patrick and “sinister” Cyrus. Each character is unique and has their own story to tell.
I gave Pivot 5 stars, but I’d go higher if I could. I recommend it to anyone who wants to read a memorable book.
September 23, 2019
This book was confusing to me. Jack Harper is a young girl who is taken in by Cyrus, the leader of a mystical cult. Cyrus teaches her everything she needs to know to become an important person in the cult, including assassination. Jack is trained with the help of Roland, a man who does not stay dead, to kill in a variety of ways. Each time she is learning that killing is not something to be afraid of, or something that is wrong.
Most of the novel seems to be build up and backstory to me. While it is important to know what is happening, the climax was a bit halfhearted to me. Granted this is the beginning of a trilogy, so a bit of foreshadowing and a sense of unanswered questions is expected. I just wasn't satisfied with how it ended.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
See full review at:
http://bookshelfadventures.home.blog/...
Most of the novel seems to be build up and backstory to me. While it is important to know what is happening, the climax was a bit halfhearted to me. Granted this is the beginning of a trilogy, so a bit of foreshadowing and a sense of unanswered questions is expected. I just wasn't satisfied with how it ended.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
See full review at:
http://bookshelfadventures.home.blog/...
October 24, 2013
Pivot by L.C. Barlow is one of the most unique books I've read all year. The story was so captivating that I actually woke up in the middle of the night to pick up the book again and keep reading. Jack is a quirky, cool, intriguing character and the story of Jack's past is well woven with the story of Jack's present relationship with Patrick -- another well-written character who is charming and seductive. Pivot is more literary than other books in the horror genre which could be part of the reason I enjoyed it so much. The characters are three dimensional, realistic and psychologically entertaining. Just when I thought I had the main character figured out, I got a real shock and wanted to flip back to the beginning of the book and read it again. Very well done and I'm looking forward to reading the sequel. I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
August 10, 2014
I'm not at all sure how I ended up with this one on my Kindle. It isn't my usual genre and I had never heard of it. Having started five other books and instantly hated them, I opened this one. OMG! What a surprise! This was unlike anything I've ever read! Elegantly written, full of suspense and surprises, lots of sadness with some redeeming glimpses of hope.... Wow! Imagine my dismay to realize I'll have to wait for more from this author! A fantastic read!!
October 27, 2019
I enjoyed this YA thriller. Cults and the paranormal and twists and turns. Characters are interesting and motivations are unclear making for a fast page turning read.
October 8, 2020
Pivot is is a dark, gritty, and mysterious book. It is a story of family and strange magic, with a lot of violence. I found it to be an interesting read and a good introduction to the Jack Harper Trilogy.
This is a book that is very character-centered, in my opinion. Told from Jack’s perspective, the reader experiences everything from her eyes. And I would not have it any other way, as Jack is not only the main protagonist, but with a narrative such as this where the story is centered on her upbringing inside this organization, using a 1st person narrative is a great way to bring the reader into the intimate details of Jack’s mindset. We get to hear every thought and absorb every feeling, endure everything with Jack as she tries to find her way. Jack goes through a lot in this book. She is growing up, raised to be a killer for a man, Cyrus, who thinks he is achieving divinity. It is a lot of pressure. Speaking of Cyrus, he is a second main character and a very interesting one, as he vacillates between antagonist and protagonist. For much of the book I was not sure which he was going to be in the end, and that really added to the overall mystery of the story. Other characters include Alex, Jack’s “brother” and rival in the organization. Their relationship is always strained; Rolan, a seemingly immortal man who Jack befriends after using him as a murder doll for experimenting on; and then there is the peculiar and curious man in the basement. Kept behind a locked door, Jack is sure this man plays a main role in Cyrus’ plan for ascendance into Godhood, but she is not sure exactly how. It is an interesting and eclectic set of characters, and the way the book is written allows for a good amount of character development.
I mention the writing, here, because the whole thing feels very granular. The story takes place inside one facility over a relatively short period of time (split into two time frames). These aspects of the story allow for a lot of detail. There is a lot of dialogue – both inner and outer. Every scene is intricately told with a lot of specificity. To me, that is a bit of a risky play by the author, because if the reader is not into the story that can feel suffocating at times. Cyrus is overwhelming in his managing of Jack and his constant pursuit of elevation. Jack is extremely emotional, which is to expected of a young child being raised in this situation. And the violence and murder present in the book is very detailed. I was mostly fine with this, as I enjoy really getting engrossed in a story and none of these aspects are issues to me. But, I would not blame another reader for feeling like it was a little much.
One important note about Pivot I want to mention is that the whole book felt very much like an introduction to me. It is a good story with a beginning, middle, and end all of its own, but it constantly hints that there is so much more to L.C. Barlow’s world. There is a ton of tension created throughout the book, and I felt as though I was waiting for that spring to pop from the first page. And while there was definitely payoff in the end, I was also left anticipating very much what is to come for the rest of the story.
I found this book to be quite a thrilling read. I cannot give it a blanket recommendation, because it will not be attuned to everyone’s tastes, particularly the level of violence. But if you like your book dark and mysterious, and do not mind getting lost in the particulars, Pivot is one you will want to read. I am looking forward to Book 2 in the Jack Harper Trilogy, and interested to see where Barlow takes the story from here.
This is a book that is very character-centered, in my opinion. Told from Jack’s perspective, the reader experiences everything from her eyes. And I would not have it any other way, as Jack is not only the main protagonist, but with a narrative such as this where the story is centered on her upbringing inside this organization, using a 1st person narrative is a great way to bring the reader into the intimate details of Jack’s mindset. We get to hear every thought and absorb every feeling, endure everything with Jack as she tries to find her way. Jack goes through a lot in this book. She is growing up, raised to be a killer for a man, Cyrus, who thinks he is achieving divinity. It is a lot of pressure. Speaking of Cyrus, he is a second main character and a very interesting one, as he vacillates between antagonist and protagonist. For much of the book I was not sure which he was going to be in the end, and that really added to the overall mystery of the story. Other characters include Alex, Jack’s “brother” and rival in the organization. Their relationship is always strained; Rolan, a seemingly immortal man who Jack befriends after using him as a murder doll for experimenting on; and then there is the peculiar and curious man in the basement. Kept behind a locked door, Jack is sure this man plays a main role in Cyrus’ plan for ascendance into Godhood, but she is not sure exactly how. It is an interesting and eclectic set of characters, and the way the book is written allows for a good amount of character development.
I mention the writing, here, because the whole thing feels very granular. The story takes place inside one facility over a relatively short period of time (split into two time frames). These aspects of the story allow for a lot of detail. There is a lot of dialogue – both inner and outer. Every scene is intricately told with a lot of specificity. To me, that is a bit of a risky play by the author, because if the reader is not into the story that can feel suffocating at times. Cyrus is overwhelming in his managing of Jack and his constant pursuit of elevation. Jack is extremely emotional, which is to expected of a young child being raised in this situation. And the violence and murder present in the book is very detailed. I was mostly fine with this, as I enjoy really getting engrossed in a story and none of these aspects are issues to me. But, I would not blame another reader for feeling like it was a little much.
One important note about Pivot I want to mention is that the whole book felt very much like an introduction to me. It is a good story with a beginning, middle, and end all of its own, but it constantly hints that there is so much more to L.C. Barlow’s world. There is a ton of tension created throughout the book, and I felt as though I was waiting for that spring to pop from the first page. And while there was definitely payoff in the end, I was also left anticipating very much what is to come for the rest of the story.
I found this book to be quite a thrilling read. I cannot give it a blanket recommendation, because it will not be attuned to everyone’s tastes, particularly the level of violence. But if you like your book dark and mysterious, and do not mind getting lost in the particulars, Pivot is one you will want to read. I am looking forward to Book 2 in the Jack Harper Trilogy, and interested to see where Barlow takes the story from here.
August 24, 2020
This book made a real quick trip from not being on my radar at all to being a series where I highly anticipate the next, which is thankfully sitting on my shelf right now. What Barlow pulls off in this book is sincerely masterful, mixing YA with fantasy with horror. Quick aside here to say, I have a newfound belief that YA revolves around the age of the main character, but there are a lot of elements present in this story that might draw comparisons to an R-rated Hunger Games, or other series, type lead character.
Pivot is the first book in Barlow’s Jack Harper trilogy. The first thing you might want to know, and the book’s back cover obliges us here, is that Jack is a girl. We first meet her at age seven, being raised in a mysterious mansion by Cyrus, a cult leader with some major league delusions of grandeur. But also some actual grandeur. Cyrus is in possession of a box that grants him both power and knowledge, part of said knowledge being that he knows who will be faithful to him and who will pivot and turn on him.
When the reader intrudes upon the story, seven year old Jack is being trained in the art of death, learning how to kill over and over again. Despite the surroundings, Jack develops a sense of humanity and even morality that drives the story forward.
One of the elements that makes this story work so well is the way it’s isolated to Jack’s point of view. What we see and what we understand about this world is all seen from inside of the mansion. Do we trust what Cyrus tells Jack or do we form our own ideas of what this wider world truly looks like?
Another thing I truly enjoyed, and am very interested to see how it works going forward, is the slow introduction of the fantastic into the story. It’s introduced early on, but only in small increments, as we go on, Barlow crescendos it, developing a lore and mythology that the readers expects to be steeped in further installments.
Pivot is about 220 pages and there’s not a boring moment. Barlow does an incredible job of crafting a self-contained first installment that stands on its own, but raises enough questions and does the work of world building to peak the reader’s interest, making us want to see what Jack’s going to get up to next. I would highly recommend for fans of coming-of-age, cult horror, and even horror that is grounded but intertwines magic and mythology into its realistic setting. Next up: Perish.
I was given a copy by the author for review consideration.
Pivot is the first book in Barlow’s Jack Harper trilogy. The first thing you might want to know, and the book’s back cover obliges us here, is that Jack is a girl. We first meet her at age seven, being raised in a mysterious mansion by Cyrus, a cult leader with some major league delusions of grandeur. But also some actual grandeur. Cyrus is in possession of a box that grants him both power and knowledge, part of said knowledge being that he knows who will be faithful to him and who will pivot and turn on him.
When the reader intrudes upon the story, seven year old Jack is being trained in the art of death, learning how to kill over and over again. Despite the surroundings, Jack develops a sense of humanity and even morality that drives the story forward.
One of the elements that makes this story work so well is the way it’s isolated to Jack’s point of view. What we see and what we understand about this world is all seen from inside of the mansion. Do we trust what Cyrus tells Jack or do we form our own ideas of what this wider world truly looks like?
Another thing I truly enjoyed, and am very interested to see how it works going forward, is the slow introduction of the fantastic into the story. It’s introduced early on, but only in small increments, as we go on, Barlow crescendos it, developing a lore and mythology that the readers expects to be steeped in further installments.
Pivot is about 220 pages and there’s not a boring moment. Barlow does an incredible job of crafting a self-contained first installment that stands on its own, but raises enough questions and does the work of world building to peak the reader’s interest, making us want to see what Jack’s going to get up to next. I would highly recommend for fans of coming-of-age, cult horror, and even horror that is grounded but intertwines magic and mythology into its realistic setting. Next up: Perish.
I was given a copy by the author for review consideration.
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