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One Blood
Horror/Suspense Lovers, Look No Further!
Prepare to lose sleep as you journey through this award-winning Horror/Thriller novel with an ending you won't see coming!
One Blood is a superb supernatural thriller that will make you an instant fan of this author. Rich themes of voodoo, family curses, political ambitions and a quest for power are dominant in this roller coaster ride set in Louisiana.
Governor Randy Lafitte is popular and beloved after battling back from brain cancer, but his political success has come at a price. When his daughter is kidnapped, Lafitte is confronted with a past he thought died a long time ago. However, what hasn't caught you, hasn't passed you. And what comes for Lafitte may be way more than he or the forces behind him can handle as he fights the demons (literally demons) from his past.
˃˃˃ Accolades for One Blood
Kirkus Review's Best of 2012
Winner of the Foreword Reviews Book of the Year Award
Winner of two 2012 International Book Awards
Winner of a 2012 Global eBook Award
Winner of a 2012 Indie Reader Discovery Award
Winner of a 2012 National Indie Excellence Book Award
Finalist in the 2012 Next Generation Indie Book Awards
2012 Reader's Favorite Book Awards Silver Medal and Finalist
Semi-Finalist in the Kindle Book Review Best Indie Books of 2012 Awards
Prepare to lose sleep as you journey through this award-winning Horror/Thriller novel with an ending you won't see coming!
One Blood is a superb supernatural thriller that will make you an instant fan of this author. Rich themes of voodoo, family curses, political ambitions and a quest for power are dominant in this roller coaster ride set in Louisiana.
Governor Randy Lafitte is popular and beloved after battling back from brain cancer, but his political success has come at a price. When his daughter is kidnapped, Lafitte is confronted with a past he thought died a long time ago. However, what hasn't caught you, hasn't passed you. And what comes for Lafitte may be way more than he or the forces behind him can handle as he fights the demons (literally demons) from his past.
˃˃˃ Accolades for One Blood
Kirkus Review's Best of 2012
Winner of the Foreword Reviews Book of the Year Award
Winner of two 2012 International Book Awards
Winner of a 2012 Global eBook Award
Winner of a 2012 Indie Reader Discovery Award
Winner of a 2012 National Indie Excellence Book Award
Finalist in the 2012 Next Generation Indie Book Awards
2012 Reader's Favorite Book Awards Silver Medal and Finalist
Semi-Finalist in the Kindle Book Review Best Indie Books of 2012 Awards
488 pages, Paperback
First published November 30, 2011
117 people are currently reading
1224 people want to read
About the author
Qwantu Amaru
10 books69 followersHi, I'm Qwantu Amaru (kwan-too-a-mar-oo) - best selling award winning novelist of One Blood - a Kirkus Reviews Novel of Remarkable Merit. Nice to e-meet ya!
I was born in Pittsburgh, PA and remain true to the values instilled in me while living there until I was five years old - work hard, family first, and look out for opportunities. My grandmother owned a salon and was a true entrepreneur which inspired me to go out and build my own dreams. We moved to Louisiana when I was 11 and the six years I spent in this unique state from junior high through high school became the backbone of my first novel, One Blood.
One Blood represents a lifelong dream for me. It took me 12 years to realize this dream but the critical and audience response let me know that my dreams were not in vain. Hope you pick it up and let me know what you think!
I've always been an avid reader and Tolkein, C.S. Lewis, Isaac Asimov, and Ray Bradbury were some of my early favorites. Later on, I discovered Stephen King and never looked back! I've been fortunate to live all over the US and overseas as well and this diversity of experience certainly informs my work.
I currently reside in Jakarta, Indonesia and am hard at work on a new trilogy. Look forward to interacting with you here on goodreads!
I was born in Pittsburgh, PA and remain true to the values instilled in me while living there until I was five years old - work hard, family first, and look out for opportunities. My grandmother owned a salon and was a true entrepreneur which inspired me to go out and build my own dreams. We moved to Louisiana when I was 11 and the six years I spent in this unique state from junior high through high school became the backbone of my first novel, One Blood.
One Blood represents a lifelong dream for me. It took me 12 years to realize this dream but the critical and audience response let me know that my dreams were not in vain. Hope you pick it up and let me know what you think!
I've always been an avid reader and Tolkein, C.S. Lewis, Isaac Asimov, and Ray Bradbury were some of my early favorites. Later on, I discovered Stephen King and never looked back! I've been fortunate to live all over the US and overseas as well and this diversity of experience certainly informs my work.
I currently reside in Jakarta, Indonesia and am hard at work on a new trilogy. Look forward to interacting with you here on goodreads!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
May 20, 2012
The Tree of Life and Death
Welcome to Lake City, LA! First, let’s meet Lincoln Baker. He is a convicted murderer currently serving time in prison for his crimes. Lincoln’s life is about to be turned upside down when he gets a visit from his half-brother Amir. This visit sets into motion a kidnapping, riots and shoot-outs. The people who were working together are now enemies and comrades don’t know who they can trust. The reason for this string of events lies in the front yard of the man who many consider to be the reason for all of this destruction.
Now meet Randy Lafitte, governor of Louisiana. In his front yard is “Melinda Weeps” – a tree that serves as the gateway to a family curse. This curse has plagued the Lafitte family for decades and can only be stopped with the sacrifice of blood relatives. Those closest to both Lincoln and Randy soon learn that looks are deceiving. The family curse is alive and well, but will they be able to stop it before it destroys more lives?
First, let me say that I am not a reader of horror/suspense novels. However, Qwantu Amaru’s novel has definitely changed my mind. From the opening pages, his writing style grabs the reader and grips them in an exciting journey through the streets of Lake City. The imagery is amazing and the novel is very suspenseful.
What kept this book from being a five-star read are the length and the structure. The novel is 467 pages. After reading, I definitely feel that some parts were a bit too detailed and could have been omitted. For example, there is a scene near the end of the novel that involves the prison and two people trying to escape. I wonder why so much time was spent on that section because it really didn’t add anything to the story.
The second drawback: the structure. The novel is told in alternating chapters of the past and the present. Sometimes the chapter is labeled as being in the present but moves back to the past (for example, the Epilogue). It was confusing enough that the story moved back and forth in time. However, mixing the two in one chapter was even more confusing.
Reviewed by: Flashette
Welcome to Lake City, LA! First, let’s meet Lincoln Baker. He is a convicted murderer currently serving time in prison for his crimes. Lincoln’s life is about to be turned upside down when he gets a visit from his half-brother Amir. This visit sets into motion a kidnapping, riots and shoot-outs. The people who were working together are now enemies and comrades don’t know who they can trust. The reason for this string of events lies in the front yard of the man who many consider to be the reason for all of this destruction.
Now meet Randy Lafitte, governor of Louisiana. In his front yard is “Melinda Weeps” – a tree that serves as the gateway to a family curse. This curse has plagued the Lafitte family for decades and can only be stopped with the sacrifice of blood relatives. Those closest to both Lincoln and Randy soon learn that looks are deceiving. The family curse is alive and well, but will they be able to stop it before it destroys more lives?
First, let me say that I am not a reader of horror/suspense novels. However, Qwantu Amaru’s novel has definitely changed my mind. From the opening pages, his writing style grabs the reader and grips them in an exciting journey through the streets of Lake City. The imagery is amazing and the novel is very suspenseful.
What kept this book from being a five-star read are the length and the structure. The novel is 467 pages. After reading, I definitely feel that some parts were a bit too detailed and could have been omitted. For example, there is a scene near the end of the novel that involves the prison and two people trying to escape. I wonder why so much time was spent on that section because it really didn’t add anything to the story.
The second drawback: the structure. The novel is told in alternating chapters of the past and the present. Sometimes the chapter is labeled as being in the present but moves back to the past (for example, the Epilogue). It was confusing enough that the story moved back and forth in time. However, mixing the two in one chapter was even more confusing.
Reviewed by: Flashette
May 2, 2012
An ancient curse was evoked on the Lafitte family whereas the children of Luc Lafitte’s descendents will not live past their eighteenth birthday. The curse is attributed to the biracial love affair between a slave, Isaac, and Luc’s daughter, Melinda, which ended in disaster for the Lafitte clan. When death becomes the answer to their torrid affair, the consequences become more than what the Lafitte family bargains for.
A young Randy Lafitte resurrects the curse when he wants revenge on the one man who has wronged him—his father. After building his fortune and fame as Governor off his lies and treachery, Randy’s betrayals lead to the death of his son, Kristopher at age eighteen, and now the kidnapping of his daughter, Karen, on her eighteenth birthday some years later.
When Lincoln Baker, is enlisted by Panama X, a man he meets on the inside while serving time, to not only organize the kidnapping, but to also kill Randy Lafitte, myriad truths unfold and many lives are jeopardized as the curse comes full circle and the Lafittes must pay the ultimate price.
Qwantu Amaru spins a very provocative tale of voodoo, revenge and liberation that takes place against the perfect Louisiana backdrop. We meet a colorful cast of characters whose lives intertwine by fate as well as unexpected circumstances.
One Blood is an entertaining narrative that uncovers a world where curses, spirits and personal belief propels its intriguing storyline towards an even more surprising ending.
Michelle Cuttino
AAMBC Reviewer
A young Randy Lafitte resurrects the curse when he wants revenge on the one man who has wronged him—his father. After building his fortune and fame as Governor off his lies and treachery, Randy’s betrayals lead to the death of his son, Kristopher at age eighteen, and now the kidnapping of his daughter, Karen, on her eighteenth birthday some years later.
When Lincoln Baker, is enlisted by Panama X, a man he meets on the inside while serving time, to not only organize the kidnapping, but to also kill Randy Lafitte, myriad truths unfold and many lives are jeopardized as the curse comes full circle and the Lafittes must pay the ultimate price.
Qwantu Amaru spins a very provocative tale of voodoo, revenge and liberation that takes place against the perfect Louisiana backdrop. We meet a colorful cast of characters whose lives intertwine by fate as well as unexpected circumstances.
One Blood is an entertaining narrative that uncovers a world where curses, spirits and personal belief propels its intriguing storyline towards an even more surprising ending.
Michelle Cuttino
AAMBC Reviewer
August 18, 2012
One Blood’s story centers on the Lafitte family. Randy Lafitte is the current governor of Louisiana, and he’s got many of the typical political skeletons in his closet: extramarital affairs, payoffs, criminal associations, and civil servants in his pocket. However, there is much more to the story. After losing his son several years earlier and dealing with a wife suffering severe depression, Lafitte’s daughter, just barely 18, is kidnapped.
This sets off more than the average political thriller story.
The Lafitte family has a long and sordid history going back to a pirate who established the family plantation. Add in the mystical elements of voodoo, curses, ghosts, and black magic, and you have a story that’s both scary and interesting. Flashbacks to the past are intermixed with the current storyline, and you get a full view of how history fashioned the current head of the Lafitte family into the man he is today. Despite the time-shifts, the plot is cohesive and you find yourself anxious for more.
There are plenty of other interesting characters in One Blood, including people who at first seem unrelated to the plot, but often times wind up just as twisted into the Lafitte family history as the Lafittes themselves. Racial inequity is explored in the relationships of both current and past events, with well rounded characterizations and authentic scenarios that add depth to the story without proselytizing.
This book kept me guessing. Every page had a new twist or revealed something remarkable about the strange history of the Lafittes. Just when you think you have the story figured out, something totally out of the norm, yet totally believable, happens. Long standing feuds, voodoo curses, and plenty of action keep the story moving along. Amaru did his research into the dark mysteries surrounding the religion of Vodon, and the mystical themes in this story are convincing and very chilling. The range of love and evil within the human heart is explored within many of the subplots, all of which culminate into an explosive finale.
One Blood is a book that’s hard to categorize. It’s a horror/mystery/supernatural/thriller that also makes a statement about racial inequality in our society. It’s well written and the story is first-rate, with interesting characters and a plot that will keep you guessing until the last page.
This sets off more than the average political thriller story.
The Lafitte family has a long and sordid history going back to a pirate who established the family plantation. Add in the mystical elements of voodoo, curses, ghosts, and black magic, and you have a story that’s both scary and interesting. Flashbacks to the past are intermixed with the current storyline, and you get a full view of how history fashioned the current head of the Lafitte family into the man he is today. Despite the time-shifts, the plot is cohesive and you find yourself anxious for more.
There are plenty of other interesting characters in One Blood, including people who at first seem unrelated to the plot, but often times wind up just as twisted into the Lafitte family history as the Lafittes themselves. Racial inequity is explored in the relationships of both current and past events, with well rounded characterizations and authentic scenarios that add depth to the story without proselytizing.
This book kept me guessing. Every page had a new twist or revealed something remarkable about the strange history of the Lafittes. Just when you think you have the story figured out, something totally out of the norm, yet totally believable, happens. Long standing feuds, voodoo curses, and plenty of action keep the story moving along. Amaru did his research into the dark mysteries surrounding the religion of Vodon, and the mystical themes in this story are convincing and very chilling. The range of love and evil within the human heart is explored within many of the subplots, all of which culminate into an explosive finale.
One Blood is a book that’s hard to categorize. It’s a horror/mystery/supernatural/thriller that also makes a statement about racial inequality in our society. It’s well written and the story is first-rate, with interesting characters and a plot that will keep you guessing until the last page.
May 29, 2012
One Blood
By Qwantu Amaru
Randy Lafitte is cursed when he turned eighteen his father took his own life, then again when his son turned eighteen he was murdered; now his daughter has just turned eighteen and has been kidnapped. Not only does Randy have to pay a hefty ransom but he must also release Lincoln Baker from prison the same man responsible for killing his son. But this is just the tip of the ice berg as Randy Lafitte will stop at nothing to get what he wants including murdering those who stand in his way dragging his family into a churning void of murder, voodoo, and terror at its finest.
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect with this novel the synopsis is vague at the best but once you read it you realize there is no way to do this novel justice in just a few short words. The author brings to life a new side of Louisiana; all while a hurricane is looming in the distance intent on destroying anything in its path. The interlacing factors in this novel are so profound that you must thoroughly pay attention you will find yourself lost in the confines of the pages. The story is intricate and immerses you so thoroughly that it is a remarkable book to say the least, what truly makes this story great is that it is believable enough with just the right blend of murder and intrigue with paranormal factors that it comes to life on the pages. This book was definitely an interesting and scary enough story that I almost couldn’t put it down it is a shame that we all must sleep sometime.
For More Reviews be sure to visit my blogs at:
http://reflectionsofabookworm.wordpre...
http://bookwormrflects8.blogspot.com/
By Qwantu Amaru
Randy Lafitte is cursed when he turned eighteen his father took his own life, then again when his son turned eighteen he was murdered; now his daughter has just turned eighteen and has been kidnapped. Not only does Randy have to pay a hefty ransom but he must also release Lincoln Baker from prison the same man responsible for killing his son. But this is just the tip of the ice berg as Randy Lafitte will stop at nothing to get what he wants including murdering those who stand in his way dragging his family into a churning void of murder, voodoo, and terror at its finest.
I wasn’t quite sure what to expect with this novel the synopsis is vague at the best but once you read it you realize there is no way to do this novel justice in just a few short words. The author brings to life a new side of Louisiana; all while a hurricane is looming in the distance intent on destroying anything in its path. The interlacing factors in this novel are so profound that you must thoroughly pay attention you will find yourself lost in the confines of the pages. The story is intricate and immerses you so thoroughly that it is a remarkable book to say the least, what truly makes this story great is that it is believable enough with just the right blend of murder and intrigue with paranormal factors that it comes to life on the pages. This book was definitely an interesting and scary enough story that I almost couldn’t put it down it is a shame that we all must sleep sometime.
For More Reviews be sure to visit my blogs at:
http://reflectionsofabookworm.wordpre...
http://bookwormrflects8.blogspot.com/
May 11, 2012
One Blood is a suspense horror written by Qwantu Amaru. I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
From page one, this book had me hooked. I absolutely couldn’t put it down. The author tells a tale of betrayal, greed, lies and murder with avenging spirits who lay claim to the Lafitte family and any child who reaches their eighteenth birthday. Interweaving voodoo, magic and spooky imagery into this electrifying story centered around a handful of characters who's lives are intricately linked, Amaru sets his story in the heart of Louisiana and its history. There were so many twists and turns, tons of suspenseful, chilling and imaginative scenes as well as an intricately woven plot, that I felt like I was caught up in the story as one of the characters instead of simply a reader of the events unfolding! This finely crafted book could have been written by a seasoned author rather than being Qwantu Amaru debut novel. The way he takes you on this journey with a flowing writing style and smooth transitions between scenes even though they jump from one time line to the next and from one character to another, which in any other book could surely lose a reader and their interest, is nothing short of writing at its finest!
The way the scenes are set up and the story line is exposed, keeps you hanging on by your fingernails, refusing to let you go until the final climatic finish. Im now and forever a fan! This book is definitely five-star worthy!
From page one, this book had me hooked. I absolutely couldn’t put it down. The author tells a tale of betrayal, greed, lies and murder with avenging spirits who lay claim to the Lafitte family and any child who reaches their eighteenth birthday. Interweaving voodoo, magic and spooky imagery into this electrifying story centered around a handful of characters who's lives are intricately linked, Amaru sets his story in the heart of Louisiana and its history. There were so many twists and turns, tons of suspenseful, chilling and imaginative scenes as well as an intricately woven plot, that I felt like I was caught up in the story as one of the characters instead of simply a reader of the events unfolding! This finely crafted book could have been written by a seasoned author rather than being Qwantu Amaru debut novel. The way he takes you on this journey with a flowing writing style and smooth transitions between scenes even though they jump from one time line to the next and from one character to another, which in any other book could surely lose a reader and their interest, is nothing short of writing at its finest!
The way the scenes are set up and the story line is exposed, keeps you hanging on by your fingernails, refusing to let you go until the final climatic finish. Im now and forever a fan! This book is definitely five-star worthy!
July 24, 2012
"One Blood" is starting to look like the runaway, independent publishing success story of the year. I'll confess that I didn't have very high expectations for this when I encountered it on Facebook a few months ago. How nice to be proven dead wrong and watch the success just keep escalating.
I'm sure you're aware of the plot by now with it's political intrigues, murders and voodoo blood curse, but I think what I admire most about "One Blood" is the HUGE risk Qwantu took in the format and the subject matter. Most beginning writers are cautioned to keep things simple and construct their work along generally accepted guidelines. You can be original later. Ladies and gentlemen, hand it to the man, Quantu Amaru. He cheerfully - courageously, IN FACT - tossed the rule book out the window and wrote the book he wanted to write. He takes a huge cast of characters, merrily skips back and forth over the time-line like an inebriated Dr. Who and STILL keeps things clear and suspenseful. I've said it before: the last third of the novel, which brings everything together in one HELL of a climax, is a masterpiece of planning and execution. "One Blood" may not be "perfect," but there are so many good things happening here, including the well-realized characterizations, that you start feeling "perfection" may be over-rated. "One Blood" certainly isn't dull or predictable.
And you know, this accomplishment may just give some OTHER people out there the courage to write the book that burns within them, not what other people expect them to write, not what is easily "marketable."
I'm sure you're aware of the plot by now with it's political intrigues, murders and voodoo blood curse, but I think what I admire most about "One Blood" is the HUGE risk Qwantu took in the format and the subject matter. Most beginning writers are cautioned to keep things simple and construct their work along generally accepted guidelines. You can be original later. Ladies and gentlemen, hand it to the man, Quantu Amaru. He cheerfully - courageously, IN FACT - tossed the rule book out the window and wrote the book he wanted to write. He takes a huge cast of characters, merrily skips back and forth over the time-line like an inebriated Dr. Who and STILL keeps things clear and suspenseful. I've said it before: the last third of the novel, which brings everything together in one HELL of a climax, is a masterpiece of planning and execution. "One Blood" may not be "perfect," but there are so many good things happening here, including the well-realized characterizations, that you start feeling "perfection" may be over-rated. "One Blood" certainly isn't dull or predictable.
And you know, this accomplishment may just give some OTHER people out there the courage to write the book that burns within them, not what other people expect them to write, not what is easily "marketable."
January 22, 2012
5 Stars
Right off I can tell you that this author writes well, characterizes well, and plots intricately! I don’t know if “One Blood” is a “debut” novel but I do know this: Qwantu Amaru is one accomplished author! His prose flows so smoothly I didn’t even notice myself turning pages. Immediately I was riveted; this is another book I count myself blessed to have read. The plot twists are so convoluted that I raced through the novel almost literally on the edge of my seat, I’m sure with my jaw dropping open repeatedly with gasps of awe, shock, and excitement. Reading this gloriously exciting novel is akin to walking through a funhouse hall of mirrors, peeping behind one veil after another, thinking you’ve found the answer-or at least, an answer-only to discover there are more secrets untold, waiting to be revealed or concealed-and at such cost! Nothing is what it seems, and even the “evil” characters have their good side, the “good folks” have their negatives. No one- or two-dimensional characters to be found here! A skillful intertwining of present and past allows the pulling aside of some of the curtains of secrecy, revealing motivations behind the characters’ present behaviours. I can’t rave enough about this novel, which has everything; and I can’t imagine any reader, even the most bored and jaded, not finding it exciting, intriguing, and impossible to put down. I only ask that the author please write more novels, soon!
Right off I can tell you that this author writes well, characterizes well, and plots intricately! I don’t know if “One Blood” is a “debut” novel but I do know this: Qwantu Amaru is one accomplished author! His prose flows so smoothly I didn’t even notice myself turning pages. Immediately I was riveted; this is another book I count myself blessed to have read. The plot twists are so convoluted that I raced through the novel almost literally on the edge of my seat, I’m sure with my jaw dropping open repeatedly with gasps of awe, shock, and excitement. Reading this gloriously exciting novel is akin to walking through a funhouse hall of mirrors, peeping behind one veil after another, thinking you’ve found the answer-or at least, an answer-only to discover there are more secrets untold, waiting to be revealed or concealed-and at such cost! Nothing is what it seems, and even the “evil” characters have their good side, the “good folks” have their negatives. No one- or two-dimensional characters to be found here! A skillful intertwining of present and past allows the pulling aside of some of the curtains of secrecy, revealing motivations behind the characters’ present behaviours. I can’t rave enough about this novel, which has everything; and I can’t imagine any reader, even the most bored and jaded, not finding it exciting, intriguing, and impossible to put down. I only ask that the author please write more novels, soon!
July 5, 2012
Really a great book! You do need to pay attention as you read. It does jump back and forth from present to past, each time revealing a crucial detail that plays into the storyline. Once it reels you in, it is impossible to put down. I can't wait to read more from this author, and think this book should be made into a movie. It is well written, well thought out, and I plan on telling all my friends to read it. Very glad I read this book!! You will be too!
December 29, 2012
Wonderfully written book. Consistantly kept my interest. Fast pace reading and lots of unexpected twist. It's a must read...
April 30, 2012
I have to apologize to Qwantu for not getting this review done to coincide with my finishing of his book One Blood. I finished back at the beginning of April and wrote down my thoughts and then misplaced the important piece of paper. Looking through a stack of rough drafts this morning, I discovered it had gotten mixed up with them. Better late than never...
The author of this book, Qwantu Amaru, approached me at the beginning of the year to read and review his book, One Blood. I have to admit that I was excited to do so. I offer my opinions on books quite often, but never before has an author actually asked me for it! So, I said yes. I didn't even go and look at the book, I just said yes. After reading the synopsis on Amazon, I have to admit, I was intrigued...
"A governor and his sordid past are at the heart of a tale of retribution in Amaru's stunning debut novel.
When Karen Lafitte disappears, her father, Louisiana governor Randy Lafitte, is initially skeptical of the ensuing ransom note. The governor believes that he's responsible for his father's death years earlier, resulting in a curse that's been passed down the Lafitte line. He's particularly concerned that his daughter is now the same age as his son, Kristopher, who was 18 when he was killed. In fact, in addition to money, the ransom note demands the pardon of a lifer, Lincoln Baker, who was imprisoned for the murderer of Randy's son. What follows is an elaborate pattern of revenge involving multiple parties, delving into the Lafitte family history and Randy's dark road to an elected office. Amaru's greatest achievement is a nonlinear story that still manages to be clean-cut and precise. The plot bounces readers from one time period to another--flashbacks sometimes occur during other flashbacks, and dream sequences meld into memories and back into real time. Despite this narrative style, the story is, surprisingly, never perplexing.
A gutsy book that blazes trails, plotted at breakneck speed that won't let up."
One Blood is an excellent discourse of interwoven tales. The story is engaging and as it unfolded, each of the characters came to life in their own way. The cast was well written and none of them shone more brightly than any of the others. In a book with a huge cast of characters, you sometimes find that one or more of them are written with more depth, either by design or accident. In One Blood, each character plays an integral role and as a result, are all believable, and even more importantly, could exist in the society that we inhabit today...
Read more of my review, please go to http://theflipsideofjulianne.wordpres...
The author of this book, Qwantu Amaru, approached me at the beginning of the year to read and review his book, One Blood. I have to admit that I was excited to do so. I offer my opinions on books quite often, but never before has an author actually asked me for it! So, I said yes. I didn't even go and look at the book, I just said yes. After reading the synopsis on Amazon, I have to admit, I was intrigued...
"A governor and his sordid past are at the heart of a tale of retribution in Amaru's stunning debut novel.
When Karen Lafitte disappears, her father, Louisiana governor Randy Lafitte, is initially skeptical of the ensuing ransom note. The governor believes that he's responsible for his father's death years earlier, resulting in a curse that's been passed down the Lafitte line. He's particularly concerned that his daughter is now the same age as his son, Kristopher, who was 18 when he was killed. In fact, in addition to money, the ransom note demands the pardon of a lifer, Lincoln Baker, who was imprisoned for the murderer of Randy's son. What follows is an elaborate pattern of revenge involving multiple parties, delving into the Lafitte family history and Randy's dark road to an elected office. Amaru's greatest achievement is a nonlinear story that still manages to be clean-cut and precise. The plot bounces readers from one time period to another--flashbacks sometimes occur during other flashbacks, and dream sequences meld into memories and back into real time. Despite this narrative style, the story is, surprisingly, never perplexing.
A gutsy book that blazes trails, plotted at breakneck speed that won't let up."
One Blood is an excellent discourse of interwoven tales. The story is engaging and as it unfolded, each of the characters came to life in their own way. The cast was well written and none of them shone more brightly than any of the others. In a book with a huge cast of characters, you sometimes find that one or more of them are written with more depth, either by design or accident. In One Blood, each character plays an integral role and as a result, are all believable, and even more importantly, could exist in the society that we inhabit today...
Read more of my review, please go to http://theflipsideofjulianne.wordpres...
April 20, 2012
Qwantu Amaru's stunning debut novel, One Blood, takes place in New Orleans. This thriller/suspense novel hooked me right from the beginning. When it opens, a man, fleeing from the voice of his dead wife, is running in the darkness through the streets of New Orleans. Why is she calling out to him? Are her intentions good or bad?
So begins this novel full of skillfully planted flashbacks and dream sequences that takes one back and forth through time. These flashbacks and dreams reveal many of the events that lead up to what is presently happening. Each new piece of the mystery revealed leaves you wanting to know more. I can understand why it took him so many years to write this brilliant novel.
The governor of Louisiana has a sordid past full of secrets – secrets that he doesn't want known. Because of the curse on his family, when a child reaches the age of eighteen, he or she dies. The governor is the only one who has cheated this curse and survived. This ultimate survivor not only beat the curse, but he also overcame brain cancer. Since he has had to witness the deaths of many of his family members, yet lives on, he considers his survival to be a curse.
Qwantu Amaru takes you deep into the dark and mysterious world of voodoo as you learn of revenge being sought. And a major hurricane is approaching New Orleans. Could the weather be portraying the events going on in the spiritual world?
I would not recommend that the faint of heart read this book. The vivid imagery may be quite unsettling for you. If you like novels that keep you on the edge of your seat, novels that keep you awake because you just have to know what happens next, and novels that are not a disappointment, then you will love this book. A PDF version of this book was sent to me free of charge by the publisher.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0982... Blood
So begins this novel full of skillfully planted flashbacks and dream sequences that takes one back and forth through time. These flashbacks and dreams reveal many of the events that lead up to what is presently happening. Each new piece of the mystery revealed leaves you wanting to know more. I can understand why it took him so many years to write this brilliant novel.
The governor of Louisiana has a sordid past full of secrets – secrets that he doesn't want known. Because of the curse on his family, when a child reaches the age of eighteen, he or she dies. The governor is the only one who has cheated this curse and survived. This ultimate survivor not only beat the curse, but he also overcame brain cancer. Since he has had to witness the deaths of many of his family members, yet lives on, he considers his survival to be a curse.
Qwantu Amaru takes you deep into the dark and mysterious world of voodoo as you learn of revenge being sought. And a major hurricane is approaching New Orleans. Could the weather be portraying the events going on in the spiritual world?
I would not recommend that the faint of heart read this book. The vivid imagery may be quite unsettling for you. If you like novels that keep you on the edge of your seat, novels that keep you awake because you just have to know what happens next, and novels that are not a disappointment, then you will love this book. A PDF version of this book was sent to me free of charge by the publisher.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0982... Blood
September 26, 2012
What a fast paced read!
I am currently taking part in a book club discussion for this book, so I will reserve my review for after the discussion is done.
Discussion is done, and I am ashamed to note that I did not follow up with the review I wanted to.
This is a great book, especially as the first published book for the author. I hate to say, "oh its good.. for a first time writer..". It's good - for any author, however, because I know it is a first published book, I can look at it with a slightly less critical eye.
Things I loved about the book: the suspense, the triangle between the three original men and how their connection follows them throughout their lives. I liked the character of Lincoln. I liked that he was 'bad', but relatable. Loved the story of the tree and how it connects into the larger story.
Knowing that the author claims Stephen King (the Master!), as an influence helped me with the book. It has been quite a few years since I read any SK books, but I have read most of his old work. Reading One Blood took me back to some of those similar SK feelings and a bit of nostalgia.
What I was not so thrilled about in the book: the jumping around in time got a little tough for me. I gave up on trying to keep the time correct and just focused on knowing whether I was in the past or present. The days sort of blurred together. Once I was able to give that up, I could focus on the story a bit more. There was a large cast of characters, and while I like the challenge of keeping them straight, I can see how this may be a bit too much for some people. I literally would put the book down and go over in my head who was who and what they had done so I could remember it for the next reading.
I would have liked the book to be longer in some ways, to flesh out Lincoln mostly and some of the backstory too. Of course, if there is a sequel, then I am sure more story will come out.
I think this book would make an awesome movie. Like seriously, a really good movie!
I am currently taking part in a book club discussion for this book, so I will reserve my review for after the discussion is done.
Discussion is done, and I am ashamed to note that I did not follow up with the review I wanted to.
This is a great book, especially as the first published book for the author. I hate to say, "oh its good.. for a first time writer..". It's good - for any author, however, because I know it is a first published book, I can look at it with a slightly less critical eye.
Things I loved about the book: the suspense, the triangle between the three original men and how their connection follows them throughout their lives. I liked the character of Lincoln. I liked that he was 'bad', but relatable. Loved the story of the tree and how it connects into the larger story.
Knowing that the author claims Stephen King (the Master!), as an influence helped me with the book. It has been quite a few years since I read any SK books, but I have read most of his old work. Reading One Blood took me back to some of those similar SK feelings and a bit of nostalgia.
What I was not so thrilled about in the book: the jumping around in time got a little tough for me. I gave up on trying to keep the time correct and just focused on knowing whether I was in the past or present. The days sort of blurred together. Once I was able to give that up, I could focus on the story a bit more. There was a large cast of characters, and while I like the challenge of keeping them straight, I can see how this may be a bit too much for some people. I literally would put the book down and go over in my head who was who and what they had done so I could remember it for the next reading.
I would have liked the book to be longer in some ways, to flesh out Lincoln mostly and some of the backstory too. Of course, if there is a sequel, then I am sure more story will come out.
I think this book would make an awesome movie. Like seriously, a really good movie!
June 27, 2012
The reason that Qwantu Amaru 's One Blood caught my attention was the mention of Louisiana, slavery and curse. I was curious to see where he would go with this. I really want to say that Amaru pulled the plot off. He sort of did. One Blood was unique but there was just too much. There was too much ground to cover and it affected the flow of the overall story. Normally, book liked One Blood (thriller and horror) are easy reads for me, that I speed through and eat up. This time I found myself putting the book down after a couple chapters and resting.
The book goes back and forth from present day to past. At times there are markings to let you know what time frame this chapter is set in but at other times there aren't, which can get confusing.
As I mentioned before there is a lot of ground to cover, I think if was less information and backstory this would have been a better read. I just think the story was too "complex", it had too many parts. I found myself saying "WTF" a couple of time because information just did not seem to add up or it contradicted something for earlier in the novel.
Another issue I had with One Blood was that there were just too many characters to keep up with. There were like 10 that were important, and then there were a bunch more. It was impossible to connect with 10 characters, making it hard to connect with just one. While the synopsis says this is a story about Lincoln at thought this was more a story about Randy Lafitte and his family. Most of it had to do with them, Lincoln just seemed to get caught up in all there drama.
Amaru is a good writer and was able to keep my attention. I did want know what happened next and curious to find out how One Blood would end. I do look forward to reading more of his work in the future.
The book goes back and forth from present day to past. At times there are markings to let you know what time frame this chapter is set in but at other times there aren't, which can get confusing.
As I mentioned before there is a lot of ground to cover, I think if was less information and backstory this would have been a better read. I just think the story was too "complex", it had too many parts. I found myself saying "WTF" a couple of time because information just did not seem to add up or it contradicted something for earlier in the novel.
Another issue I had with One Blood was that there were just too many characters to keep up with. There were like 10 that were important, and then there were a bunch more. It was impossible to connect with 10 characters, making it hard to connect with just one. While the synopsis says this is a story about Lincoln at thought this was more a story about Randy Lafitte and his family. Most of it had to do with them, Lincoln just seemed to get caught up in all there drama.
Amaru is a good writer and was able to keep my attention. I did want know what happened next and curious to find out how One Blood would end. I do look forward to reading more of his work in the future.
March 8, 2013
The beginning of this novel had a bit too many racial slurs for me and I almost said uh no, lets move on. Thankfully I continued and the author pulled away from that path enough that I really and truly enjoyed this offering. Now, let's talk about these characters. My favorite was Panama X, even after all was said and done and I found out what he did, he was STILL my favoirte. Amir was a good son, and might have become a good leader but he let his emotions rule his common sense and ultimately that ended up betraying him. Moses grated my nerves. He was so passive, so by and by, pie and in sky that it annoyed me tremendously. Can you say grow a spine? Brandon was another one that got on my nerves trying to do everything "by the book" and please everyone. Karen was your typical spoiled, rich, out of touch with reality white chick, but I couldn't really dislike her for that. Carol, her mother, pretty much the same thing, lost in a false reality that helped her survive her demons. Jhonetta was shady and got what she deserved in my opinion; felt no sympathy at all for her. I actually liked Snake as well, I mean yeah he was exactly what his names describes, but he wasn't fake and that what I enjoyed about him!! Lincoln was a ball of confusion, anger, and chaos, deeply entrenched in pieces of misplayed and misguided loyalites. I felt all in all though, he was a good person who had, like so many before him, made some unfortunate choices that marred his entire existence afterward. Randy Lafitte, that one there was a tried and true, born and bred, card carrying redneck to the 25th power!! This dude kept me pi**ed off the entire story. All in all a very good read by Author Amaru!
May 7, 2012
I actually got a copy of this book to review from Authors Requesting Reviews program and I signed up for this book because it did sound really good! However I just can't finish it! 44% in and I just don't care what happens to anyone in the book, have no connection with anyone at all. I'm not even sure what the plot is even supposed to be!
If you go and read the description of this book I can't find anywhere what this book is even supposed to be truly about. I almost never just stop reading books but I can't waste more time reading this.
The story is hard to follow and jumps around a lot and not smoothly. The first half of the book seemed like the story, which was about a guy who's kids are cursed to die 3 days after there 18th birthday and his daughter is kidnapped, then the second half is more of the back story after you more or less find out what happened?
I hate to give books such a low review and if you liked the story great! Just for me makes no sense and has a total lack of a real plot.
If you go and read the description of this book I can't find anywhere what this book is even supposed to be truly about. I almost never just stop reading books but I can't waste more time reading this.
The story is hard to follow and jumps around a lot and not smoothly. The first half of the book seemed like the story, which was about a guy who's kids are cursed to die 3 days after there 18th birthday and his daughter is kidnapped, then the second half is more of the back story after you more or less find out what happened?
I hate to give books such a low review and if you liked the story great! Just for me makes no sense and has a total lack of a real plot.
August 19, 2016
The setting—the bayous of Louisiana—proved rather perfect for the voodoo and curses prevalent throughout this tale. The characters proved as real as the setting, not an easy task considering the array of personalities reflected.
Plotting a suspense/thriller novel is no easy task, and it requires a certain amount of finesse, especially when a large number of characters are involved. This novel seemed a bit jarring the way it bounced around, and the storyline proved a bit difficult to follow. When this happens, it becomes a challenge to become truly invested in the story. Errors and editing mistakes stood out to the point that it detracts a bit from the story.
If you can look past the errors in the prose and the plotting, this story certainly has an interesting take on the supernatural.
I received this book for free from the author.
Plotting a suspense/thriller novel is no easy task, and it requires a certain amount of finesse, especially when a large number of characters are involved. This novel seemed a bit jarring the way it bounced around, and the storyline proved a bit difficult to follow. When this happens, it becomes a challenge to become truly invested in the story. Errors and editing mistakes stood out to the point that it detracts a bit from the story.
If you can look past the errors in the prose and the plotting, this story certainly has an interesting take on the supernatural.
I received this book for free from the author.
November 13, 2013
4 1/2 stars
One Blood is a powerful tale of two families connected by a horrific deed which threatens to destroy them all. The plot repeatedly twists as the characters connive and manipulate each other in order to get what's coming to them (and often do not like what they get). It is a fascinating story of deception, greed, and magic, which kept me turning pages until the end. I loved it!
I subtracted half of a star because the story jumps so frequently between time periods and characters. Most of the transitions are integral parts of the story, but a few of them noticeably slowed the story right when it was really getting good.
Overall, this is an excellent novel. The writing is superb and the editing is thorough. I would recommend it without question. I look forward to reading Mr. Amaru's next book.
One Blood is a powerful tale of two families connected by a horrific deed which threatens to destroy them all. The plot repeatedly twists as the characters connive and manipulate each other in order to get what's coming to them (and often do not like what they get). It is a fascinating story of deception, greed, and magic, which kept me turning pages until the end. I loved it!
I subtracted half of a star because the story jumps so frequently between time periods and characters. Most of the transitions are integral parts of the story, but a few of them noticeably slowed the story right when it was really getting good.
Overall, this is an excellent novel. The writing is superb and the editing is thorough. I would recommend it without question. I look forward to reading Mr. Amaru's next book.
December 20, 2012
I really struggled through this book and consequently I decided to mull it over for a few days before giving my review.
I think the reason I had difficulty following the story was that there were so many characters and the chapters jumped from one situation to another with little sense of transition. Having said that, however, the story itself was interesting and the writing style, grammar and sentence structure were far above average! The main problem I experienced was a lack of continuity.
I received a free copy from the author in return for an honest review.
I think the reason I had difficulty following the story was that there were so many characters and the chapters jumped from one situation to another with little sense of transition. Having said that, however, the story itself was interesting and the writing style, grammar and sentence structure were far above average! The main problem I experienced was a lack of continuity.
I received a free copy from the author in return for an honest review.
March 19, 2014
Oh wow!! Great story, good setting for deceit and voodoo and murder. My only complaint has to do with jumping back and forth along the timeline-- is overwhelming and confusing at times. Has a nice little twist at the end.
June 2, 2019
Randy Lafitte blamed his father for his mother's death in a car crash and as a young man, went to a voodoo priestess to exact his revenge. He then grew up to be governor of Louisiana, but when his spoiled daughter gets kidnapped, some of the lessons of his early life in New Orleans come back to haunt him.
Politics and voodoo make for an interesting backdrop to this story about family, betrayal and a voodoo curse. My only issue is that there are a lot of flashbacks, which make it hard to stay connected to the story. I felt that some plot threads didn't get followed up and there was a loss of linearity through jumping around too much in time.
It was interesting to see certain aspects of a subculture written by someone of the race depicted. I don't know the author's history or whether he might have any real experience with Voodoo, politics or gang culture, but apart from the kidnapped girl's reactions to some things, it seemed to lend some credibility.
It was an interesting read despite all the jumping around in time and gave me some mental exercise trying to work out who was on what side at various points. There was plenty of action, guns, explosions, all the things that make for good action films. Believability of the more esoteric plot points waned considerably by the end, but that's always a risk with any story involving magic.
Politics and voodoo make for an interesting backdrop to this story about family, betrayal and a voodoo curse. My only issue is that there are a lot of flashbacks, which make it hard to stay connected to the story. I felt that some plot threads didn't get followed up and there was a loss of linearity through jumping around too much in time.
It was interesting to see certain aspects of a subculture written by someone of the race depicted. I don't know the author's history or whether he might have any real experience with Voodoo, politics or gang culture, but apart from the kidnapped girl's reactions to some things, it seemed to lend some credibility.
It was an interesting read despite all the jumping around in time and gave me some mental exercise trying to work out who was on what side at various points. There was plenty of action, guns, explosions, all the things that make for good action films. Believability of the more esoteric plot points waned considerably by the end, but that's always a risk with any story involving magic.
October 27, 2013
One Blood
author: Qwantu Amaru
Randy Lafaitle is the 53rd governor of Louisiana, he is highly respected and wealthy man, but not everyone knows his past. No one knows of his secrets, until now . . . .
In 1963, Randy was ready to turn 18, recently graduating from French boarding schools, he was back in New Orleans, seeking not only to visit his father but to put a curse on him. He wanted his father, Joseph to die. Randy had always blamed his father for the death of his mother, she was killed in a car accident that his father was driving. Randy only 12 at the time, was sent to a french boarding school and to have distant relatives to look after him. Joseph did not want him getting into his way or life. Now back and full of revenge he seeks the help of Madame Deveaux, who did put a curse on Joseph, who died 3 days after Randy turned 18. Young and very angry for his bad decision, Randy runs the Madame and all other fortune tellers out of New Orleans.
Now its 2002 and the curse is still continuing. His son Kris was killed 3 days after his 18th birthday, and now his daughter Karen is getting ready to 18. When he learns she has been kidnapped, Randy seeks the help of Madame Deveaux, only to find she has been dead for 10 years. This is just not any kidnapping this is revenge and punishment ! One being sought out by a voodoo priest, Malcolm Wright. What Randy does not know is that he will have to sacrifice himself or find a substitute that the spirits will accept in order to save Karen. The question is will Randy sacrifice himself to save his daughter ? ? ?
This is a wonderful read full of dark voodoo and old dark family secrets! I was hooked from the first word till the last word. I started this one late at night so I carried into my dreams! I gained some voodoo knowledge that was very interesting ! Just when you think you have it figured out, another skeleton falls out of the closet ! ! ! Lots of betrayal and heartache. . . . . you may want to leave the lights on when reading this one :)
Wende :)
5 stars ! ! ! !
complimentary book given for a free review. juliesbookreview.blogspot.com
author: Qwantu Amaru
Randy Lafaitle is the 53rd governor of Louisiana, he is highly respected and wealthy man, but not everyone knows his past. No one knows of his secrets, until now . . . .
In 1963, Randy was ready to turn 18, recently graduating from French boarding schools, he was back in New Orleans, seeking not only to visit his father but to put a curse on him. He wanted his father, Joseph to die. Randy had always blamed his father for the death of his mother, she was killed in a car accident that his father was driving. Randy only 12 at the time, was sent to a french boarding school and to have distant relatives to look after him. Joseph did not want him getting into his way or life. Now back and full of revenge he seeks the help of Madame Deveaux, who did put a curse on Joseph, who died 3 days after Randy turned 18. Young and very angry for his bad decision, Randy runs the Madame and all other fortune tellers out of New Orleans.
Now its 2002 and the curse is still continuing. His son Kris was killed 3 days after his 18th birthday, and now his daughter Karen is getting ready to 18. When he learns she has been kidnapped, Randy seeks the help of Madame Deveaux, only to find she has been dead for 10 years. This is just not any kidnapping this is revenge and punishment ! One being sought out by a voodoo priest, Malcolm Wright. What Randy does not know is that he will have to sacrifice himself or find a substitute that the spirits will accept in order to save Karen. The question is will Randy sacrifice himself to save his daughter ? ? ?
This is a wonderful read full of dark voodoo and old dark family secrets! I was hooked from the first word till the last word. I started this one late at night so I carried into my dreams! I gained some voodoo knowledge that was very interesting ! Just when you think you have it figured out, another skeleton falls out of the closet ! ! ! Lots of betrayal and heartache. . . . . you may want to leave the lights on when reading this one :)
Wende :)
5 stars ! ! ! !
complimentary book given for a free review. juliesbookreview.blogspot.com
December 13, 2012
Names are EVERYTHING in the South. So seeing the name "Lafitte" in the prologue tells the reader that they are in for the ride of their lives. After all, we've all heard of Jac Lafitte, "The Pirate King" for most of our lives.
This story centers on a Lafitte family, high up the food chain in Louisiana with all their faults, flaws, warts, and secrets. And, HOLY COW, do these people have some secrets!
Reading this book makes you feel kinda like a piece of chicken being tossed and pitched in a bag of "Shake and Bake"; you are coated with the story, totally immersed, and about to be fried!
This book is so fast paced and non-stop that you find yourself changing circumstances, ideas, and adding more and different characters just by turning a page, let alone reading another chapter! This reviewer can guarantee you one thing... once you start this book it will keep you up nights... just to find out what happens next, let alone looking over your shoulder each time you think you see something out of the corner of your eye, or hear a noise.
While it's hard to conceive of anyone that would have even a working relationship with someone named "Bush" and the head of the KKK, it's even harder to decide how the author's mind's eye viewed this. For a debut novel this is a MUST-HAVE for any reader/lover of horror/terror/or just non-fiction. You won't be disappointed. Buying this book is probably the most satisfying money you could possibly spend during the holiday season, and besides, Grandma doesn't need another robe!
Kudos to our newest author on his many awards for this premiere book. Quantu Amaru has deserved them all. Watch out, Stephen King... there's a new guy in town!
This story centers on a Lafitte family, high up the food chain in Louisiana with all their faults, flaws, warts, and secrets. And, HOLY COW, do these people have some secrets!
Reading this book makes you feel kinda like a piece of chicken being tossed and pitched in a bag of "Shake and Bake"; you are coated with the story, totally immersed, and about to be fried!
This book is so fast paced and non-stop that you find yourself changing circumstances, ideas, and adding more and different characters just by turning a page, let alone reading another chapter! This reviewer can guarantee you one thing... once you start this book it will keep you up nights... just to find out what happens next, let alone looking over your shoulder each time you think you see something out of the corner of your eye, or hear a noise.
While it's hard to conceive of anyone that would have even a working relationship with someone named "Bush" and the head of the KKK, it's even harder to decide how the author's mind's eye viewed this. For a debut novel this is a MUST-HAVE for any reader/lover of horror/terror/or just non-fiction. You won't be disappointed. Buying this book is probably the most satisfying money you could possibly spend during the holiday season, and besides, Grandma doesn't need another robe!
Kudos to our newest author on his many awards for this premiere book. Quantu Amaru has deserved them all. Watch out, Stephen King... there's a new guy in town!
January 15, 2013
I received this book from the author in return for an honest review.
I truly enjoyed Qwantu Amaru's novel One Blood. It introduced me to many things I had no knowledge of prior to reading it. Its set in Louisiana with a timeline that spans a good deal of recent history. It gave me a better understanding of points of view I could never experience (since I'm not black). I found myself fascinated with the motivations behind a number of the characters. I became intrigued to see how everything was goings be drawn together. Some relationships I guessed on my own but at least one came as a huge surprise. Woven through the whole story was the use of Vodoun and how it affected the people involved. Many of the details were so perfect it was delightful.
I could not give this 5 stars for two reasons,
1) I found myself at times inexplicably not wanting to read. I do not think it was anything to do with the quality of the story. However a truly unforgettable story (5 star) will get me to read despite my own ill humors.
2) I picked this up as horror/paranormal novel, while I grant many parts can be described as horrific and parts would be terrifying if personally experienced. I never felt scared or horrified. Thrilled, fascinated, excited, many things but not scared.
For a good read with great characterization and an amazing setting you can't go wrong. The writer has a wonderful attention to detail in every area.
I truly enjoyed Qwantu Amaru's novel One Blood. It introduced me to many things I had no knowledge of prior to reading it. Its set in Louisiana with a timeline that spans a good deal of recent history. It gave me a better understanding of points of view I could never experience (since I'm not black). I found myself fascinated with the motivations behind a number of the characters. I became intrigued to see how everything was goings be drawn together. Some relationships I guessed on my own but at least one came as a huge surprise. Woven through the whole story was the use of Vodoun and how it affected the people involved. Many of the details were so perfect it was delightful.
I could not give this 5 stars for two reasons,
1) I found myself at times inexplicably not wanting to read. I do not think it was anything to do with the quality of the story. However a truly unforgettable story (5 star) will get me to read despite my own ill humors.
2) I picked this up as horror/paranormal novel, while I grant many parts can be described as horrific and parts would be terrifying if personally experienced. I never felt scared or horrified. Thrilled, fascinated, excited, many things but not scared.
For a good read with great characterization and an amazing setting you can't go wrong. The writer has a wonderful attention to detail in every area.
April 24, 2012
"One Blood" copyright 2011 by Qwantu Amaru is a horror/suspense novel. "One Blood is about how a man named Randy Lafitte resurrects a family curse from slavery to get what he wants in life. The curse initially works for Randy, but the problem with curses is that they just don't go away. Everyone Randy Lafitte has ever hurt will get together and throw the curse right back in his face! Randy's family, especially his children Karen and Kristopher will suffer.The reactions of revenge, black serendipity, dark fate will explode and The state of Louisiana and Governor Randy Lafitte will never be the same again. Once the dust settles, if the dust ever settles. "For every action...... There is an equal and opposite reaction..... Too bad for anyone else caught in the middle"
I enjoyed this book and the tapestry of revenge and manipulation that runs through it. I loved reading about the voodoo curse that was carried down from slavery. I found it amazing when the curse came back on Randy Lafitte and he had to pick up the pieces of his life. The ending was shocking! The ending was about taking responsibility for your actions and atonement. I agree with the quote in the book "If you cannot get rid of the family skeleton, you may as well make it dance" George Bernard Shaw. Truer words were never spoken
I enjoyed this book and the tapestry of revenge and manipulation that runs through it. I loved reading about the voodoo curse that was carried down from slavery. I found it amazing when the curse came back on Randy Lafitte and he had to pick up the pieces of his life. The ending was shocking! The ending was about taking responsibility for your actions and atonement. I agree with the quote in the book "If you cannot get rid of the family skeleton, you may as well make it dance" George Bernard Shaw. Truer words were never spoken
July 13, 2012
Roller-coaster Rides and Sour Grapes (A Review of One Blood by Qwantu Amaru)
First things first. The roller-coaster ride. One Blood is a thrill ride that really takes you for loops. Then the ride’s conductor, Qwantu Amaru, does something interesting. He throws the ride into reverse. No. He takes the reader back in time and he does so without regard for whiplash. There is no time to take a breath with this book. And so the reader zig-zags from the past to the present; however, continuity is not lost in any way. Kudos to Mr. Amaru!
Now the sour grapes. In One Blood Mr. Amaru writes about family curses which are very real if they are believed. The curse of Melinda Weeps is kept alive because of belief and in like manner many a family curse survives generations because family members allow them to. But just because the father eats a sour grape doesn’t mean that the son’s teeth should be set on edge. Curses can be overcome if you believe.
So I enjoyed the fact that Mr. Amaru entertained the reader. But I thoroughly enjoyed the lesson. The curse can end when you end it. You are in charge of your destiny and nothing your father did or didn’t do can interfere with your destiny. Once you realize that, you are empowered to make generational changes. You are empowered to sweeten your life.
First things first. The roller-coaster ride. One Blood is a thrill ride that really takes you for loops. Then the ride’s conductor, Qwantu Amaru, does something interesting. He throws the ride into reverse. No. He takes the reader back in time and he does so without regard for whiplash. There is no time to take a breath with this book. And so the reader zig-zags from the past to the present; however, continuity is not lost in any way. Kudos to Mr. Amaru!
Now the sour grapes. In One Blood Mr. Amaru writes about family curses which are very real if they are believed. The curse of Melinda Weeps is kept alive because of belief and in like manner many a family curse survives generations because family members allow them to. But just because the father eats a sour grape doesn’t mean that the son’s teeth should be set on edge. Curses can be overcome if you believe.
So I enjoyed the fact that Mr. Amaru entertained the reader. But I thoroughly enjoyed the lesson. The curse can end when you end it. You are in charge of your destiny and nothing your father did or didn’t do can interfere with your destiny. Once you realize that, you are empowered to make generational changes. You are empowered to sweeten your life.
September 17, 2013
Wow. Amaru demonstrates what it means to be an excellent and prolific writer through this work. When so many have forgotten the art of storytelling, he took the craft and elevated it to new heights.
Voodoo, race, genealogy, and a healthy dose of love fill the pages of One Blood and attract readers from the first word to the very end. If you are like me and don’t have a ton of knowledge about Louisiana and the culture of voodoo, this novel excites and intrigues you to vividly explore a complicated world of decisions and outcomes. It’s a reminder about the impact of our choices and how they can damage the future in irreparable ways. Throughout reading, I fell in love with the brokenness of Lincoln, detested the existence of Randy, and hoped for ultimate peace and restoration for those caught in the middle of wrong and right.
A simple warning–this novel does require a bit of focus as each chapter follows different characters/experiences, different days and years, and constantly bounces between the living and dead. For some this may be too demanding but I didn’t find it derailing to the story in the least.
If you aren’t already convinced by the awards and other 4 and 5-star reviews and maybe believe none are warranted, I can provide a simple truth - One Blood delivers.
Voodoo, race, genealogy, and a healthy dose of love fill the pages of One Blood and attract readers from the first word to the very end. If you are like me and don’t have a ton of knowledge about Louisiana and the culture of voodoo, this novel excites and intrigues you to vividly explore a complicated world of decisions and outcomes. It’s a reminder about the impact of our choices and how they can damage the future in irreparable ways. Throughout reading, I fell in love with the brokenness of Lincoln, detested the existence of Randy, and hoped for ultimate peace and restoration for those caught in the middle of wrong and right.
A simple warning–this novel does require a bit of focus as each chapter follows different characters/experiences, different days and years, and constantly bounces between the living and dead. For some this may be too demanding but I didn’t find it derailing to the story in the least.
If you aren’t already convinced by the awards and other 4 and 5-star reviews and maybe believe none are warranted, I can provide a simple truth - One Blood delivers.
November 14, 2013
One Blood by Qwantu Amaru
A prison of families, all tied together whether they want to be or not. This describes One Blood perfectly. The kids from the ‘hood, the rich governor’s family that is nowhere as perfect as they seem to be and an assassination plot to end all plots.
Growing up in foster care isn’t usually pleasant and for Lincoln Baker the only thing saving him was Moses. Moses took him in, raised him and never told him that he was doing it for Lincoln’s mother. He was taken away from her at birth but never left New Orleans. His best friend was Kris Lafitte – the Governor’s son. Was, because Kris was killed and they blamed Lincoln, although innocent.
Randy Lafitte spent his 18th birthday talking to a voodoo woman. Not necessarily unusual unless you consider he wants to kill his father. With all action comes reaction and Randy is a great example: everyone he loves dies around their 18th birthday. His son, Kris and now his daughter, Karen is nearly 18. He is frantic.
A merging of lives, a well written novel with a kidnapping, drugs, a hurricane and confessions bring One Blood to it conclusion. The characters were perfect and the ending satisfying.
I must apologize for the extreme lateness of this review. I had promised it several months ago but health issues intervened.
A prison of families, all tied together whether they want to be or not. This describes One Blood perfectly. The kids from the ‘hood, the rich governor’s family that is nowhere as perfect as they seem to be and an assassination plot to end all plots.
Growing up in foster care isn’t usually pleasant and for Lincoln Baker the only thing saving him was Moses. Moses took him in, raised him and never told him that he was doing it for Lincoln’s mother. He was taken away from her at birth but never left New Orleans. His best friend was Kris Lafitte – the Governor’s son. Was, because Kris was killed and they blamed Lincoln, although innocent.
Randy Lafitte spent his 18th birthday talking to a voodoo woman. Not necessarily unusual unless you consider he wants to kill his father. With all action comes reaction and Randy is a great example: everyone he loves dies around their 18th birthday. His son, Kris and now his daughter, Karen is nearly 18. He is frantic.
A merging of lives, a well written novel with a kidnapping, drugs, a hurricane and confessions bring One Blood to it conclusion. The characters were perfect and the ending satisfying.
I must apologize for the extreme lateness of this review. I had promised it several months ago but health issues intervened.
April 1, 2017
Before I leave a review for this book, I would like to mention that I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
I enjoyed it, there is no doubt about that. And it moved along quite nicely. I also found it hard to put it down. I read the book in a little over a week.
The only thing that I didn't totally love about this book was that I found it to be a little cheesy at times. But that should not discourage you from reading it!
Make no mistake, I loved the book! It was well written, and the author did a perfect job setting the scenes. I loved the over all story line. This is the type of book that has so much going on, I promise you, you will never lose interest! There were also some amazingly written graphic, horror scenes, which really added to the story. And the ending was perfect!
Over all, despite some flaws, I would say that this was an astonishing effort by Qwantu Amaru.
My suggestion is that you give it a try. Honestly, if I didn't receive this for free, I still would have purchased it!
But in the end, whether you like it or not, I promise you will be entertained.
I enjoyed it, there is no doubt about that. And it moved along quite nicely. I also found it hard to put it down. I read the book in a little over a week.
The only thing that I didn't totally love about this book was that I found it to be a little cheesy at times. But that should not discourage you from reading it!
Make no mistake, I loved the book! It was well written, and the author did a perfect job setting the scenes. I loved the over all story line. This is the type of book that has so much going on, I promise you, you will never lose interest! There were also some amazingly written graphic, horror scenes, which really added to the story. And the ending was perfect!
Over all, despite some flaws, I would say that this was an astonishing effort by Qwantu Amaru.
My suggestion is that you give it a try. Honestly, if I didn't receive this for free, I still would have purchased it!
But in the end, whether you like it or not, I promise you will be entertained.
November 2, 2012
August read LFPC. Sadly, I got two months behind but was able to complete this read and look at past discussions on Goodreads with this group. I enjoyed the suspense thriller, which took the author 12 years to write. I hope to see more from this author. Only downfall was the timelines and back and forth with the years of incidents taking place. Overall, I did like the storyline that dealt with politics, racial issues, slavery, and people's lust/greed, not caring who they would hurt, injure, or sabotage to get what they desire. History repeats itself, and some curses are harder to break especially if you believe in voodoo, then it has power. I cannot wait to read another book from this author; not one to be sleeping on.
Adrienna Turner
www.adriennaturner.webs.com
Adrienna Turner
www.adriennaturner.webs.com
February 3, 2015
Not what your expecting
voodoo black magic politicians slavery, modern day bank robbery teenagers paying for their ancestors mistakes. prisoners rioting and killing one only for his spirit to escape and reek havoc. floods storms blood this book has it all and a whole lot more. I enjoyed reading the book even though I did find it difficult to follow at times but who knows with grandchildren I might have been off. The story in and of itself is a wonderful story that is broken apart between modern times and the past and being told in different perspective but boils down to a love that wasn't allowed and was ripped apart but curses throughout time finally came to a head one night in the bayou.
voodoo black magic politicians slavery, modern day bank robbery teenagers paying for their ancestors mistakes. prisoners rioting and killing one only for his spirit to escape and reek havoc. floods storms blood this book has it all and a whole lot more. I enjoyed reading the book even though I did find it difficult to follow at times but who knows with grandchildren I might have been off. The story in and of itself is a wonderful story that is broken apart between modern times and the past and being told in different perspective but boils down to a love that wasn't allowed and was ripped apart but curses throughout time finally came to a head one night in the bayou.
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