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The Cult of Me
In my youth I developed a talent for reading other people’s minds and with practice, forcing my will upon them. I have never encountered anyone capable of resisting my thoughts and for a time I enjoyed the fruits of my power. A terrible tragedy led me to a darker place and then I wielded my ability not simply to satisfy my desires but to torment and judge the throng of humanity around me.
Years passed until I realised that my life lacked meaning and I lived without purpose. It wasn’t a difficult change to make. And with that choice I have one final act to inflict upon the world and they will remember my name with fear for ages to come.
The Cult of Me is the first book in The Third Path trilogy.
Years passed until I realised that my life lacked meaning and I lived without purpose. It wasn’t a difficult change to make. And with that choice I have one final act to inflict upon the world and they will remember my name with fear for ages to come.
The Cult of Me is the first book in The Third Path trilogy.
177 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
5 people are currently reading
365 people want to read
About the author
Michael Brookes
15 books211 followersMichael Brookes is a Game Consultant with Frontier Foundry so rather than making games he now helps publish other people's games. He is also a volunteer and committee member with the German Shepherd Dog Welfare Fund assisting mostly with their online activities. And because he decided that he isn't busy enough has various other projects on the go including a website attempting to chronicle the history of his local village and using AI art tools to illustrate a new edition of John Milton's Paradise Lost.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
February 10, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.
This story is something that I have never read or encounter before.
It maybe a good thing or a bad thing, but sadly this didn't work out for me. Although, it may work out for you.
The book's story is alternately told in the past and the present and presented very well as to not create confusion to the story line. Told in the first POV, I think the story came out as passive at first. It contains violence, mystery and tragedy.
This may be a book for me at first because the anti-hero of the story is quite a villain but he is not compassionate, is arrogant, kills in cold blood, his life lacks meaning and a purpose upon itself. He also lacks morality and is in the lowest point of his life. The events upon his life has led him to what he is.
The twist and the unpredictability of the story line is actually brilliant. A journey through a twisted and tortured mind. An example of true evil.
I had known sadness, but it didn't kill me then and it wouldn't kill me now. As for misery, I heard it likes company.
Heaven formed the domain of all, where everyone combined their will for the greater whole.
April 17, 2013
The Cult of Me starts off brilliantly. The first 100 pages or so comprise a fantastic horror/thriller blend that introduces readers to an unnamed but perfectly contrived villain through whose eyes and mind we see the story play out. In these pages, this character is consistent, evil, self-involved and extremely entertaining. I wish he were one of mine!
The author goes back and forth between present and past through the same character's perspective. This may sound confusing, but the author nails it, bringing the past up to the present, slowly answering questions readers likely have (e.g., what brought this character to prison, what motivated him, etc.) and revealing his intentions. We can't wait to see if he succeeds in bringing his devilish plan to fruition.
Then, around the midpoint, the story takes an unexpected change. It becomes entrenched in religion and even changes genre to more of a Tom Clancy special forces-type novel with a sci-fi element to it. The main character spends a lot of time training his mental powers and the pace of the story slows. Another villain is introduced, who wants to die, but who won't let himself be killed - I found this contradiction somewhat confusing. Also, the alleged "good guys" aren't all that concerned with collateral damage, which seems against their morality.
The change diverts a bit from the brilliant first half, but the author then ends strong, taking a page from Poe. He takes chances, and certainly gives vision to some fairly abstract concepts. The Cult of Me is a bold story, and it proposes some novel ideas. A great read, sure to surprise.
The author goes back and forth between present and past through the same character's perspective. This may sound confusing, but the author nails it, bringing the past up to the present, slowly answering questions readers likely have (e.g., what brought this character to prison, what motivated him, etc.) and revealing his intentions. We can't wait to see if he succeeds in bringing his devilish plan to fruition.
Then, around the midpoint, the story takes an unexpected change. It becomes entrenched in religion and even changes genre to more of a Tom Clancy special forces-type novel with a sci-fi element to it. The main character spends a lot of time training his mental powers and the pace of the story slows. Another villain is introduced, who wants to die, but who won't let himself be killed - I found this contradiction somewhat confusing. Also, the alleged "good guys" aren't all that concerned with collateral damage, which seems against their morality.
The change diverts a bit from the brilliant first half, but the author then ends strong, taking a page from Poe. He takes chances, and certainly gives vision to some fairly abstract concepts. The Cult of Me is a bold story, and it proposes some novel ideas. A great read, sure to surprise.
September 24, 2013
Fantastic. Even when I found myself too tired to read anymore and set it down for the night I kept waking up and going through the story in my head and wondering what was going to happen next. My feelings towards the main character kept changing throughout the story and I actually quite liked him at the beginning and felt quite drawn to him for some reason. The author went from past to present flawlessly, giving the reader more of an insight into the main character.
I bought this book after only reading the first couple of sentences of the blurb and was really surprised at the twist in the middle.
If you like the religious fight against good and evil with some twists along the way then pick up this book. You won't be disappointed.
I bought this book after only reading the first couple of sentences of the blurb and was really surprised at the twist in the middle.
If you like the religious fight against good and evil with some twists along the way then pick up this book. You won't be disappointed.
May 29, 2013
My favorite books combine a great story with a piercing look at society and the human condition, and The Cult of Me does this brilliantly.
It’s the story of a killer, but Michael Brookes uses no tired clichés, no supernatural possession, no born-the-spawn-of-the-devil, and no mental illness to explain his unnamed narrator’s bad behavior. The character’s perfectly sane, just completely amoral. He possesses a psychic power enabling him to read the minds, and later control the thoughts and actions, of those around him. In the first half of the book, the author adroitly balances the current story (where the character’s in prison awaiting trial) with childhood experiences and the slow increase of his powers and disaffection with society. With the exception of his mother’s violent death, there are no moments that catapult the narrator into hating society. Rather, it’s the fact he has too much power and no normal societal constraints that create this “monster.”
In 1953, Jerome Bixby wrote a story called “It’s a Good Life” that was made into a Twilight Zone episode of the same name in 1961 (not to mention being voted one of the 20 best stories ever written by SFWA). It’s about a boy who has mental powers, but lacking sufficient maturity and empathy for others, forces his family and town to fulfill his every juvenile wish. He isn’t exactly evil; he’s just a spoiled narcissist.
The most fascinating thing about The Cult of Me is it explores the idea of what might happen if this type of character grew up.
Aristotle theorized that, by nature, man is blind to morality and inherently an amoral creature. Freud believed that man was born impulsive, at the mercy of his unconscious drives -- his “id” -- selfish, irrational, and blind to the world. It’s society that must teach men to stifle these impulses and conform to societal norms of right and wrong.
Since ancient times, the two most powerful influences on socialization have been religion and the rule of law. And these are exactly what Brookes chooses to set against his “amoral man” -- the Church, symbolized by Friar Francis, and the law, embodied by Hammond, an ex-military man and prison guard. Unable to force the narrator to feel guilt or to change, they try to enlist him in a greater cause: the destruction of an even more dangerous man who threatens to end the world.
Keeping with his arrogant and self-serving ways, the narrator pretends to go along with the plan while seeking a way to escape. But a surprise encounter with the villain stirs up a thirst for vengeance, almost a competitive lust, that sets the narrator on the path to a pulse-pounding showdown.
The book is filled with unexpected twists and turns, guaranteed to keep you reading. Despite being not-quite-likeable, the narrator is at times charming, funny, and always easy to understand. He could probably be any of us on certain days when we'd like to sear an exceptionally rude stranger with our imaginary laser death-glance. (You know you have those days! lol) There are a few bumps before the ending. At the three-quarters mark, the story bogs down with excessive details about the character and his monk cohorts plotting to overcome the antagonist and the character slowly learning psychic techniques. But the shocking ending is perfect for the book and opens up the possibility of sequels.
The Cult of Me is clever and entertaining. Well worth the read.
It’s the story of a killer, but Michael Brookes uses no tired clichés, no supernatural possession, no born-the-spawn-of-the-devil, and no mental illness to explain his unnamed narrator’s bad behavior. The character’s perfectly sane, just completely amoral. He possesses a psychic power enabling him to read the minds, and later control the thoughts and actions, of those around him. In the first half of the book, the author adroitly balances the current story (where the character’s in prison awaiting trial) with childhood experiences and the slow increase of his powers and disaffection with society. With the exception of his mother’s violent death, there are no moments that catapult the narrator into hating society. Rather, it’s the fact he has too much power and no normal societal constraints that create this “monster.”
In 1953, Jerome Bixby wrote a story called “It’s a Good Life” that was made into a Twilight Zone episode of the same name in 1961 (not to mention being voted one of the 20 best stories ever written by SFWA). It’s about a boy who has mental powers, but lacking sufficient maturity and empathy for others, forces his family and town to fulfill his every juvenile wish. He isn’t exactly evil; he’s just a spoiled narcissist.
The most fascinating thing about The Cult of Me is it explores the idea of what might happen if this type of character grew up.
Aristotle theorized that, by nature, man is blind to morality and inherently an amoral creature. Freud believed that man was born impulsive, at the mercy of his unconscious drives -- his “id” -- selfish, irrational, and blind to the world. It’s society that must teach men to stifle these impulses and conform to societal norms of right and wrong.
Since ancient times, the two most powerful influences on socialization have been religion and the rule of law. And these are exactly what Brookes chooses to set against his “amoral man” -- the Church, symbolized by Friar Francis, and the law, embodied by Hammond, an ex-military man and prison guard. Unable to force the narrator to feel guilt or to change, they try to enlist him in a greater cause: the destruction of an even more dangerous man who threatens to end the world.
Keeping with his arrogant and self-serving ways, the narrator pretends to go along with the plan while seeking a way to escape. But a surprise encounter with the villain stirs up a thirst for vengeance, almost a competitive lust, that sets the narrator on the path to a pulse-pounding showdown.
The book is filled with unexpected twists and turns, guaranteed to keep you reading. Despite being not-quite-likeable, the narrator is at times charming, funny, and always easy to understand. He could probably be any of us on certain days when we'd like to sear an exceptionally rude stranger with our imaginary laser death-glance. (You know you have those days! lol) There are a few bumps before the ending. At the three-quarters mark, the story bogs down with excessive details about the character and his monk cohorts plotting to overcome the antagonist and the character slowly learning psychic techniques. But the shocking ending is perfect for the book and opens up the possibility of sequels.
The Cult of Me is clever and entertaining. Well worth the read.
November 5, 2014
I really liked this book. The story was fascinating. The narrator of this book is like an evil Professor Xavier, who can read minds, manipulate minds, control people with his mind, etc.
His talent starts out innocent enough. It's just some stupid party trick. But then, he gets bored. He starts hanging out with some goth kids. Starts making people do things. Kills some animals. You know, the usual serial killer type training.
Then, he kills a bunch of people and gets sent to prison. All of the brutal murders were captured on CCTV. It was pretty damn obvious that he was guilty. There were even several eye witnesses. But, when the trial started, none of the witnesses could testify because evil Professor X would just hijack their brain.
That's the first half of this book. And it was awesome. Then, it turns into a completely different story. I mean, it goes from being a cool serial killer story to a story of literal Armageddon.
The courts somehow figure out that evil Professor X has this gift, this talent that can manipulate minds. So, of course, some secret society takes over the case, and locks up evil X for their own personal amusement. They put X through some silly mental boot camp, so X can defeat the evil guy who's trying to summon the Armageddon.
It's like after the trial, Dan Brown took over writing this book. It just turned into the goddamn DaVinci Code. Rife with symbols and gods and demons and secret societies, and what the fuck. I don't get it. He took a perfectly good story and just had to go and skull fuck it.
Seriously, once you get to chapter 22 in this book, which is right about the halfway point, just throw it away, or burn it, or piss on it. Just don't continue reading it, because it turns into complete horseshit.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
His talent starts out innocent enough. It's just some stupid party trick. But then, he gets bored. He starts hanging out with some goth kids. Starts making people do things. Kills some animals. You know, the usual serial killer type training.
Then, he kills a bunch of people and gets sent to prison. All of the brutal murders were captured on CCTV. It was pretty damn obvious that he was guilty. There were even several eye witnesses. But, when the trial started, none of the witnesses could testify because evil Professor X would just hijack their brain.
That's the first half of this book. And it was awesome. Then, it turns into a completely different story. I mean, it goes from being a cool serial killer story to a story of literal Armageddon.
The courts somehow figure out that evil Professor X has this gift, this talent that can manipulate minds. So, of course, some secret society takes over the case, and locks up evil X for their own personal amusement. They put X through some silly mental boot camp, so X can defeat the evil guy who's trying to summon the Armageddon.
It's like after the trial, Dan Brown took over writing this book. It just turned into the goddamn DaVinci Code. Rife with symbols and gods and demons and secret societies, and what the fuck. I don't get it. He took a perfectly good story and just had to go and skull fuck it.
Seriously, once you get to chapter 22 in this book, which is right about the halfway point, just throw it away, or burn it, or piss on it. Just don't continue reading it, because it turns into complete horseshit.
I received a free copy of this book for an honest review.
January 2, 2015
An Enjoyable Romp through a Tortured Mind
This book starts in prison and we discover that a killer with the ability to control people’s minds is awaiting trial. He wants to die, but he wants to be remembered, he wants to go out with a bang. The book draws you in as you realize that he was just a small frightened boy, confused by his difference and traumatized by the murder of him mother. It is then that he discovers he can kill with his mind. His life then falls into a downward spiral and eventually he ends up on the streets punishing people to fight his boredom. He is not a hero, in fact he is diabolical but still you want to find out what happens and keep turning those pages.
The author interspersed chapters about his youth in with the current and as you see the heinous acts he commits you understand not why but a little bit about how someone could become so broken that he needs to hurt to feel something.
Once in prison he intends to create chaos and then bring about a riot that will leave him remembered for all time. But it is here that he meets two people who know what he is and one of them can thwart his skills. At this point the book changes and becomes a paranormal, biblical, apocalyptic tale. Our hero, who we never find out his name, is trained to save the world. He must complete the training and will then be given the chance to live out his life with some freedom. Will he complete the mission, has he changed, will he join forces with the evil? These are all questions that the author keeps you asking and right up to the ending we are never sure what he will do.
I won a copy of this book in a competition and I loved every minute of it. Michael Brookes is a talented author with a lot to offer. The story is written in the first person and the creepiness that invades the characters mind is awesome.
This book starts in prison and we discover that a killer with the ability to control people’s minds is awaiting trial. He wants to die, but he wants to be remembered, he wants to go out with a bang. The book draws you in as you realize that he was just a small frightened boy, confused by his difference and traumatized by the murder of him mother. It is then that he discovers he can kill with his mind. His life then falls into a downward spiral and eventually he ends up on the streets punishing people to fight his boredom. He is not a hero, in fact he is diabolical but still you want to find out what happens and keep turning those pages.
The author interspersed chapters about his youth in with the current and as you see the heinous acts he commits you understand not why but a little bit about how someone could become so broken that he needs to hurt to feel something.
Once in prison he intends to create chaos and then bring about a riot that will leave him remembered for all time. But it is here that he meets two people who know what he is and one of them can thwart his skills. At this point the book changes and becomes a paranormal, biblical, apocalyptic tale. Our hero, who we never find out his name, is trained to save the world. He must complete the training and will then be given the chance to live out his life with some freedom. Will he complete the mission, has he changed, will he join forces with the evil? These are all questions that the author keeps you asking and right up to the ending we are never sure what he will do.
I won a copy of this book in a competition and I loved every minute of it. Michael Brookes is a talented author with a lot to offer. The story is written in the first person and the creepiness that invades the characters mind is awesome.
May 17, 2013
The Cult of Me is one of those unusual books which give you the impression you will be presented with one story and then gives you another you could never have considered at the beginning.
Here we meet a man who is terribly unsatisfied with the way the world is, not because he wants it to be better but because he finds it so easy to manipulate that he's starting to be bored. You see when he was young our nameless protagonist discovered that he had certain powers and with a great deal of practice and the expected trial and error he could cause others to do as he bids. At first it leads to death and a certain fumbling entertainment for an adolescent boy but soon this grows into play with a small cabal of drug users and after a misshap a life lived amusing himself with the plights of others as one of the many faceless homeless people on the street.
Tired and bored he instigates a major public display of murder and mayhem in order to gain entry into a prison where he might gain more power and infamy. Things do not go as planned however, and instead he finds himself wrangled into a much bigger plot one in which he is the reluctant hero...or is he?
Brookes offers an interesting anti-hero with his novel and promises more in the sequel Conversations in the Abyss where the trilogy continues. I liked his narrative voice and the story flowed very smoothly. It'll make a great read for fans of action, suspense and intrigue.
Here we meet a man who is terribly unsatisfied with the way the world is, not because he wants it to be better but because he finds it so easy to manipulate that he's starting to be bored. You see when he was young our nameless protagonist discovered that he had certain powers and with a great deal of practice and the expected trial and error he could cause others to do as he bids. At first it leads to death and a certain fumbling entertainment for an adolescent boy but soon this grows into play with a small cabal of drug users and after a misshap a life lived amusing himself with the plights of others as one of the many faceless homeless people on the street.
Tired and bored he instigates a major public display of murder and mayhem in order to gain entry into a prison where he might gain more power and infamy. Things do not go as planned however, and instead he finds himself wrangled into a much bigger plot one in which he is the reluctant hero...or is he?
Brookes offers an interesting anti-hero with his novel and promises more in the sequel Conversations in the Abyss where the trilogy continues. I liked his narrative voice and the story flowed very smoothly. It'll make a great read for fans of action, suspense and intrigue.
October 27, 2013
The prequel to Conversations In The Abyss, this book gives you more about Mr X and how he ended up bolted to a wall. His history is fascinating as we are taken back to his middle class upbringing and subsequent questionable choices.
I enjoyed reading both books and really do recommend them to fans of fantasy and horror
I enjoyed reading both books and really do recommend them to fans of fantasy and horror
August 14, 2013
Starts of in a very interesting way. The narrator is beginning their first night in prison, it is quickly revealed that the narrator, who is at least male, has the ability to not only read people's minds but also influence their actions.
The first half of the story is interesting enough, although the narrator's rapid decline to the point where he goes on a killing spree solely so he will be arrested seems slightly unrealistic. His aim is to go out in an orgy of violence and show the authorities and the general public the strength of his powers.
At this point, the narrator's plans are thwarted by a dominican monk belonging to a secret (or maybe just obscure) order. It seems the Catholic church need him and his powers to defeat an even bigger evil. At this point, events of the story move rapidly and because of this, it didn't seem as tight as the previous part to the story.
I confess, I don't find religious 'good vs. evil' paranormal stories very engaging, so maybe this is why I didn't find this part of the story so engaging and I struggled to maintain my disbelief.
However, once the identity of the big bad and their super powers were revealed the story unfolded quite predictably, even the twist at the end was obvious, at least to me.
I liked the character of the narrator; not that the narrator was particularly likeable in himself - he wasn't, he was thoroughly despicable and pretty close to the textbook definition of a psychopath as you can get. However, he was consistently horrid and true to his whole nature. Even when offered eternal salvation for his soul he scoffed in the monk's face and refused to become a born again believer, which I found quite endearing.
The book had a few very obvious typographical errors but this didn't bother me much.
This is only the first book in what may be a trilogy, I will probably get the next book in the series.
The first half of the story is interesting enough, although the narrator's rapid decline to the point where he goes on a killing spree solely so he will be arrested seems slightly unrealistic. His aim is to go out in an orgy of violence and show the authorities and the general public the strength of his powers.
At this point, the narrator's plans are thwarted by a dominican monk belonging to a secret (or maybe just obscure) order. It seems the Catholic church need him and his powers to defeat an even bigger evil. At this point, events of the story move rapidly and because of this, it didn't seem as tight as the previous part to the story.
I confess, I don't find religious 'good vs. evil' paranormal stories very engaging, so maybe this is why I didn't find this part of the story so engaging and I struggled to maintain my disbelief.
However, once the identity of the big bad and their super powers were revealed the story unfolded quite predictably, even the twist at the end was obvious, at least to me.
I liked the character of the narrator; not that the narrator was particularly likeable in himself - he wasn't, he was thoroughly despicable and pretty close to the textbook definition of a psychopath as you can get. However, he was consistently horrid and true to his whole nature. Even when offered eternal salvation for his soul he scoffed in the monk's face and refused to become a born again believer, which I found quite endearing.
The book had a few very obvious typographical errors but this didn't bother me much.
This is only the first book in what may be a trilogy, I will probably get the next book in the series.
April 28, 2013
Before I read this book, the only writing I had previously encountered by this author were the drabbles he has been submitting to the Indie Book Bargains newsletter. From those short fictions, I knew that Michael Brookes' mind is a dark one. But that did not prepare me for this read, which showcases the awesome imagination of this talented writer.
The book is a supernatural thriller. I don't usually go for supernatural reads but I became totally caught up in this story. Our narrator has a special gift; he has the ability to read minds. Furthermore, he has the ability to penetrate minds and force his victims to behave in a certain way. For the first half of the book, the narrator is in prison after committing horrific crimes in the outside world. Those prison scenes are neatly intertwined with flashbacks to earlier years, and it shows the author's skill that at times I felt sympathy for someone who is essentially a murderer.
Later on in the book, it becomes clear someone else is after him for his mind-powers and he is drawn into a battle which has mighty consequences for the entire world. The whole set-up could have seemed ridiculous, but the world the author has created sucked me in successfully. I never questioned the supernatural elements. The author's writing gripped such that there was never any need to question them. The pace increases towards the end and the tension is palpable. It builds to a conclusion I found incredibly chilling. As someone who doesn't normally read supernatural thrillers, I am now very keen to read the follow up!
The book is a supernatural thriller. I don't usually go for supernatural reads but I became totally caught up in this story. Our narrator has a special gift; he has the ability to read minds. Furthermore, he has the ability to penetrate minds and force his victims to behave in a certain way. For the first half of the book, the narrator is in prison after committing horrific crimes in the outside world. Those prison scenes are neatly intertwined with flashbacks to earlier years, and it shows the author's skill that at times I felt sympathy for someone who is essentially a murderer.
Later on in the book, it becomes clear someone else is after him for his mind-powers and he is drawn into a battle which has mighty consequences for the entire world. The whole set-up could have seemed ridiculous, but the world the author has created sucked me in successfully. I never questioned the supernatural elements. The author's writing gripped such that there was never any need to question them. The pace increases towards the end and the tension is palpable. It builds to a conclusion I found incredibly chilling. As someone who doesn't normally read supernatural thrillers, I am now very keen to read the follow up!
July 21, 2013
'The Cult of Me' tells the story of a telepathic prisoner.
I had mixed feelings about this book but I think that is its intent. It certainly provoked some strong reactions from me. The idea was really interesting and all the way through I was compelled to keep reading, however the main character whose head you are basically inside for this journey is a complete sociopath with no likeable traits. The fact that this guy has this telepathic power he can use to make people do whatever he wants is a truly terrifying thought.
Reading this was a bit like being trapped inside the mind of a serial killer for a couple of hours. I never sympathised with him and was simply left looking on in horror as he did awful things to sate his own amusement/boredom. While this is what made it such a compelling read, I prefer to connect with the characters I'm reading about so this was my only real complaint with the book.
The story is a dark one, gritty and well told. It is a thought provoking read, entertaining in places and definitely a page-turner. It is something different and held my interest throughout in spite of my growing dislike of the main character.
I had mixed feelings about this book but I think that is its intent. It certainly provoked some strong reactions from me. The idea was really interesting and all the way through I was compelled to keep reading, however the main character whose head you are basically inside for this journey is a complete sociopath with no likeable traits. The fact that this guy has this telepathic power he can use to make people do whatever he wants is a truly terrifying thought.
Reading this was a bit like being trapped inside the mind of a serial killer for a couple of hours. I never sympathised with him and was simply left looking on in horror as he did awful things to sate his own amusement/boredom. While this is what made it such a compelling read, I prefer to connect with the characters I'm reading about so this was my only real complaint with the book.
The story is a dark one, gritty and well told. It is a thought provoking read, entertaining in places and definitely a page-turner. It is something different and held my interest throughout in spite of my growing dislike of the main character.
February 3, 2013
This book is so hard to define. It’s a dark, psychological thriller but also philosophical, metaphysical and totally unusual. Our protagonist displays mental powers from his youth and he teaches himself to use and enhance them. He believes he’s alone in these abilities and abuses them to punish or damage people he dislikes. He decides to make a ‘last stand’ in prison and deliberately kills 5 people to get there. Eventually, he finds he isn’t unique.
The story includes some early Christian mythology and treats the story of Lazarus in an intriguing way. Was Lazarus blessed by his return from the dead or was he cursed by his loss of the bliss heaven? I found the beginning of the story a little slow but the second half of the book really enthused me. Michael Brookes has some amazing ideas and I shall follow this series with interest. This is definitely for you if you like to be made to think. A very good four star read.
The story includes some early Christian mythology and treats the story of Lazarus in an intriguing way. Was Lazarus blessed by his return from the dead or was he cursed by his loss of the bliss heaven? I found the beginning of the story a little slow but the second half of the book really enthused me. Michael Brookes has some amazing ideas and I shall follow this series with interest. This is definitely for you if you like to be made to think. A very good four star read.
July 23, 2013
The story started off well, with an interesting premise, but I felt that it lost its way a little at the midpoint where the story changed tack. The protagonist is in prison, and he has the ability to manipulate people with the power of his mind, but unless I missed something, I couldn’t understand why he was incarcerated. Someone so inherently evil and with such a power, would not have allowed himself to be caught in the first place, and the suggestion that he's bored, and intent on making a name for himself, surely could have been achieved on a grander scale while not in prison. So while I enjoyed the story, I felt that it could have done with the plot being tightened. Also, the protagonist is not a likeable character, and it would have been nice to have seen a little humanity in him to give him a weakness and make him seem more human. Overall though the writing is tight, it flows well, and the story is intriguing.
October 7, 2013
I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review. This story is told in 1st person and flips between the past and the present. The narrator is a telepath who can influence others to do his bidding. He uses it for any number of reasons, but eventually settles on causing people to kill themselves. He tires of the game and decides to *go out with a bang*. His plans are thwarted in prison when he encounters those he cannot influence and becomes a part of a covert operation to take out Lazarus - as in the man Christ raised from the dead.
I enjoyed this book. The idea of using the anti-hero for the book is a new premise for me, and I found the book engaging. The action at times lagged a little bit, but overall was well written. I look forward to more from this author.
I enjoyed this book. The idea of using the anti-hero for the book is a new premise for me, and I found the book engaging. The action at times lagged a little bit, but overall was well written. I look forward to more from this author.
January 29, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. Not all books that I read made me feel like this... longing for the characters and the story itself. I don't want to end this story for the rest of my life. (if possible) :D
Another 5/5 on my rating!!!
At first I'm half-intrigued and half-hesitant on reading this book. So I just thought I'm gonna try this and see if it will meet my expectations. And I had to admit, once I started reading this I became addicted and I couldn't stop myself from finishing it. It exceeds all of my expectations.
From mind reading into a brilliantly-twisted religious history. THE CULT OF ME is another a-must-to-read for mystery lovers out there. An unusual story of a villain turned into saving humanity for a while with his vengeance. Can't wait to be given a chance to read the next book and hopefully all of Michael Brookes' books.
Another 5/5 on my rating!!!
At first I'm half-intrigued and half-hesitant on reading this book. So I just thought I'm gonna try this and see if it will meet my expectations. And I had to admit, once I started reading this I became addicted and I couldn't stop myself from finishing it. It exceeds all of my expectations.
From mind reading into a brilliantly-twisted religious history. THE CULT OF ME is another a-must-to-read for mystery lovers out there. An unusual story of a villain turned into saving humanity for a while with his vengeance. Can't wait to be given a chance to read the next book and hopefully all of Michael Brookes' books.
September 9, 2013
A homeless man with the ability to manipulate people into doing is bidding sets himself to be jailed my murdering 5 people. He enters jail planning to use his nefarious skills to become famous. His plan falls through when others that share his abilities force him into aiding him in a fight an evil opponent.
I enjoyed this book very much. When I discovered who this evil opponent my first thought was this is just not right, then the author pulled my into the story and I completely forgot that I was reading fiction. I couldn't stop reading until I was finished the book. And the good news is that there is a second instalment coming.
I received this book for free in exchange for providing an honest review.
I enjoyed this book very much. When I discovered who this evil opponent my first thought was this is just not right, then the author pulled my into the story and I completely forgot that I was reading fiction. I couldn't stop reading until I was finished the book. And the good news is that there is a second instalment coming.
I received this book for free in exchange for providing an honest review.
August 30, 2013
I've read a couple of the authors books and I've thoroughly enjoyed them both. The premise of this is very interesting and something I've always felt make great books. This is no exception. The story is almost a play in two halves but I felt the transition from one to the other was seamless. I think the author wrote action sequences superbly in the last book of short stories and he didn't disappoint me in this book. The story is left at a point which made me want yo start the sequel immediately. A great book and a really fascinating premise. Great stuff.
September 1, 2016
The Apocalypse is coming and the only person that may have a shot at stopping it is a remorseless serial killer, stuck in prison and plotting the destruction of all who get in his path. Michael Brooks pens a very good story, with a rather complicated plot line that could have easily gone sideways, but somehow remained true. Not a quick read for me, but nonetheless entertaining and I believe a good start to the trilogy. 3.5 Stars!
May 7, 2013
Michael Brookes creates a compelling tale about a guy who has the ability to be inside the mind of other people. To make them physically do things or think things, or to just poke around their thoughts. The nameless man (no, there wasn’t any name given for the main character) finds he has this ability from very early on. He uses this power and does not use it for good. As a matter of fact he goes the other way to the extreme and murders with it.
The book goes from the present, to the past and back again alternating chapters. At first it was a bit confusing, the author gives no indication if you are in the past or present. I think a little warning would have been good as not to confuse the readers. You do quickly realize that there is a pattern and it is not too much of an issue midway through the book.
The way it goes from the different time periods gives you a good insight into the mind of the protagonist, and you find that he has his reasons for the way he is, right or wrong. However you find that he is in fact a very evil person, right down to the core.
It starts with him in prison, and his want to take over the prison by controlling those that he can with his powers. For the most part his plan is becoming more and more successful until he comes into the sights of a secret sect of the Catholic Church. This sect has powers that are just like his, and they want to use him to hunt down and destroy Lazarus. This is where the book kind of took a weird turn for me. I didn’t quite expect a religious aspect in this book. It was however handled quite well. It wasn’t overly in your face. In fact, once everything was assembled and the plan was in motion, it read more like a tactical operation rather than a religious one. Which it plays out like that too.
The biggest problem I did have was in how the author handled multiple paragraph quotations. Normally, you have quotes around the beginning of the quote, and then when it switches paragraphs, you only put quotes around the beginning of the next paragraph, and not the end of the previous one. However, there were quotes around the beginning and end of each paragraph even if the same speaker was speaking. This became very very confusing during dialogue sequences with more than one person. The perspective doesn’t change one paragraph, but changes the next, and there is no indication other than the unique voices of the characters. Even after the switch a few time, I still found myself trying to figure out exactly who was saying what at times.
Bottom Line: Regardless of some of the technical problems the book had, it still had me turning the pages. Everything fit together well and the pacing was spot on. Sometimes he was a little heavy on the descriptions and fell into a “telling instead of showing” pattern, but that isn’t throughout the book. For only $2.99 on amazon.com I would pick it up and get yourself a good few hours of entertainment!
The book goes from the present, to the past and back again alternating chapters. At first it was a bit confusing, the author gives no indication if you are in the past or present. I think a little warning would have been good as not to confuse the readers. You do quickly realize that there is a pattern and it is not too much of an issue midway through the book.
The way it goes from the different time periods gives you a good insight into the mind of the protagonist, and you find that he has his reasons for the way he is, right or wrong. However you find that he is in fact a very evil person, right down to the core.
It starts with him in prison, and his want to take over the prison by controlling those that he can with his powers. For the most part his plan is becoming more and more successful until he comes into the sights of a secret sect of the Catholic Church. This sect has powers that are just like his, and they want to use him to hunt down and destroy Lazarus. This is where the book kind of took a weird turn for me. I didn’t quite expect a religious aspect in this book. It was however handled quite well. It wasn’t overly in your face. In fact, once everything was assembled and the plan was in motion, it read more like a tactical operation rather than a religious one. Which it plays out like that too.
The biggest problem I did have was in how the author handled multiple paragraph quotations. Normally, you have quotes around the beginning of the quote, and then when it switches paragraphs, you only put quotes around the beginning of the next paragraph, and not the end of the previous one. However, there were quotes around the beginning and end of each paragraph even if the same speaker was speaking. This became very very confusing during dialogue sequences with more than one person. The perspective doesn’t change one paragraph, but changes the next, and there is no indication other than the unique voices of the characters. Even after the switch a few time, I still found myself trying to figure out exactly who was saying what at times.
Bottom Line: Regardless of some of the technical problems the book had, it still had me turning the pages. Everything fit together well and the pacing was spot on. Sometimes he was a little heavy on the descriptions and fell into a “telling instead of showing” pattern, but that isn’t throughout the book. For only $2.99 on amazon.com I would pick it up and get yourself a good few hours of entertainment!
May 25, 2013
This was a new take on the idea of telepathy and the ability to influence other’s minds. Or rather, it started off that way. We start by following the potagonist as he spends his first night in jail. Far from being scared or annoyed at being caught, he is glad to be there. He has a plan, the details of which are divulged later. He occupies himself by torturing the other inmates.
Switching between the present prison and his past, his life is gradually revealed. He’s not the typical hero type. In fact he is distincly not heroic, at no time actually wanting to do something to help others except when it benefits him. I actually found myself surprisinglty drawn in, especially considering the rather depraved nature of some of his actions. He uses his abilities almost exclusively for personal gain and to manipulate others. He thinks nothing of sending random strangers to their deaths, or taking advantage of the people around them by implanting thoughts in their minds.
I was actually going to give this book 4 stars, right up untill about ¾ through when the end squence starts. The plan goes wrong, not a bad thing considering the amount of death planned, but all quite strange in the way it happens. Then, and this is where I struggled to keep going, a relgious botherhood of catholic monks comes in and offers him a deal.
Now I have nothing against monks, in fact, I’ve met a few very nice ones, but I do not like good verses evil, God is good and Satan is corrupting everyone narritive. What saved this book for me was the fact that the protagonist wasn’t terribly convinced of God and Satan either. I think if he’d immeadiately gone to a save the world mentality I would have had to put it down. But he didn’t. He wasn’t seeking redemtion and he carried on as best he could. It reminded me of Martina Cole’s books, characters you grow to like despite the fact that you would never, ever wish to meet them in real life.
So, 3 stars, but it was almost four. And if you are a fan of good verses evil this is definatly the book for you. If you like your protagonists to be heroes and go around questioning the morality of everything, this is not the book to read. This guy has a complex history which is well represented but very dark. And he has a consistant way of thinking which keeps the narritive going, even though it’s horrific in most respects.
Happy Reading...
...Or not, since this isn’t really a happy book, but that never stopped it being good.
Switching between the present prison and his past, his life is gradually revealed. He’s not the typical hero type. In fact he is distincly not heroic, at no time actually wanting to do something to help others except when it benefits him. I actually found myself surprisinglty drawn in, especially considering the rather depraved nature of some of his actions. He uses his abilities almost exclusively for personal gain and to manipulate others. He thinks nothing of sending random strangers to their deaths, or taking advantage of the people around them by implanting thoughts in their minds.
I was actually going to give this book 4 stars, right up untill about ¾ through when the end squence starts. The plan goes wrong, not a bad thing considering the amount of death planned, but all quite strange in the way it happens. Then, and this is where I struggled to keep going, a relgious botherhood of catholic monks comes in and offers him a deal.
Now I have nothing against monks, in fact, I’ve met a few very nice ones, but I do not like good verses evil, God is good and Satan is corrupting everyone narritive. What saved this book for me was the fact that the protagonist wasn’t terribly convinced of God and Satan either. I think if he’d immeadiately gone to a save the world mentality I would have had to put it down. But he didn’t. He wasn’t seeking redemtion and he carried on as best he could. It reminded me of Martina Cole’s books, characters you grow to like despite the fact that you would never, ever wish to meet them in real life.
So, 3 stars, but it was almost four. And if you are a fan of good verses evil this is definatly the book for you. If you like your protagonists to be heroes and go around questioning the morality of everything, this is not the book to read. This guy has a complex history which is well represented but very dark. And he has a consistant way of thinking which keeps the narritive going, even though it’s horrific in most respects.
Happy Reading...
...Or not, since this isn’t really a happy book, but that never stopped it being good.
February 10, 2014
[Full disclosure: Michael Brookes sent me a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.]
Well, I certainly can’t accuse Michael Brookes of relying on clichés too much because just when I thought I knew how things were going to end, he changed everything up. Yes, there was the whole villain reluctantly working for the good guys to save the world aspect, but there are so many twists on this trope that I can’t fault him for that.
The story starts off with our unnamed narrator in prison, feeling very smug about himself. Through events at the prison and flashbacks (but never in the same chapter so it isn’t confusing!) we learn that he has incredible psychic powers. He can control people’s minds and even kill people with just the power of his own mind, which he discovered on the night of his mother’s murder. The flashbacks that happen every other chapter allow us to slowly realized what caused him to acquire his present smug, brilliantly evil attitude. From a psychological standpoint, it’s fascinating.
I wasn’t really sure where Michael Brookes was going with this until he delved into the whole coming apocalypse angle. That wasn’t that surprising or unique. However, his approach to the apocalypse was in that the man trying to bring it about is one you’d never, ever think of on your own. The best part about this scenario is that Michael Brookes presents it so that both readers who are familiar with the Bible and readers who aren’t can understand it. You don’t have to be a theologian or even Christian to help piece together the puzzle.
My only real complaint about The Cult of Me was that things could have been proofread better. There are times where quotation marks face the wrong way or shouldn’t be there and missing periods, which are more likely run-on sentences. Still, I wasn’t so distracted that I didn’t enjoy the book and I think Michael Brookes has a great idea here going with The Cult of Me. I can’t wait to see what the next book brings after that huge cliffhanger.
I give this book 4/5 stars.
Well, I certainly can’t accuse Michael Brookes of relying on clichés too much because just when I thought I knew how things were going to end, he changed everything up. Yes, there was the whole villain reluctantly working for the good guys to save the world aspect, but there are so many twists on this trope that I can’t fault him for that.
The story starts off with our unnamed narrator in prison, feeling very smug about himself. Through events at the prison and flashbacks (but never in the same chapter so it isn’t confusing!) we learn that he has incredible psychic powers. He can control people’s minds and even kill people with just the power of his own mind, which he discovered on the night of his mother’s murder. The flashbacks that happen every other chapter allow us to slowly realized what caused him to acquire his present smug, brilliantly evil attitude. From a psychological standpoint, it’s fascinating.
I wasn’t really sure where Michael Brookes was going with this until he delved into the whole coming apocalypse angle. That wasn’t that surprising or unique. However, his approach to the apocalypse was in that the man trying to bring it about is one you’d never, ever think of on your own. The best part about this scenario is that Michael Brookes presents it so that both readers who are familiar with the Bible and readers who aren’t can understand it. You don’t have to be a theologian or even Christian to help piece together the puzzle.
My only real complaint about The Cult of Me was that things could have been proofread better. There are times where quotation marks face the wrong way or shouldn’t be there and missing periods, which are more likely run-on sentences. Still, I wasn’t so distracted that I didn’t enjoy the book and I think Michael Brookes has a great idea here going with The Cult of Me. I can’t wait to see what the next book brings after that huge cliffhanger.
I give this book 4/5 stars.
March 21, 2013
I really don't know what to say about this book. I loved it, the story is different and although it has two separate time lines, which I don't usually like, Mr Brookes manages to make it very clear what is happening and when so major kudos for that.
I don't want to give anything away so I'll just say that the writing is clear, concise and very accessible. The author also manages to get the timing right. The first half of the book trots along nicely but you just get to that point where you're beginning to think 'where on earth is he going with this?' and low and behold he changes gear and puts his foot down at which point the story takes off and leaves you almost breathless.
Like another reviewer I also thought I'd figured out the ending far in advance of finishing the book and like them I hadn't, it was completely unexpected and I did not see it coming at all (and now, of course, I'm going to have to buy the sequel).
It is a real feather in Mr Brookes cap that most writers create a main character that is either a likeable sort or so bad that you can hate them. The main character in this book is ultimately self serving and cynical but even so you still hunt for indicators that he could be redeemed and just occasionally there's a glimmer of possibility, it only lasts for a moment before the author mercilessly dashes it. But, however often your hopes are dashed, you still feel that there may yet be hope.
Whatever genre you read I would recommend this book, it's not quite horror, not quite fantasy and to be honest I'm not entirely sure where this would sit. But, whatever its genre it's good and that's really all that matters.
I don't want to give anything away so I'll just say that the writing is clear, concise and very accessible. The author also manages to get the timing right. The first half of the book trots along nicely but you just get to that point where you're beginning to think 'where on earth is he going with this?' and low and behold he changes gear and puts his foot down at which point the story takes off and leaves you almost breathless.
Like another reviewer I also thought I'd figured out the ending far in advance of finishing the book and like them I hadn't, it was completely unexpected and I did not see it coming at all (and now, of course, I'm going to have to buy the sequel).
It is a real feather in Mr Brookes cap that most writers create a main character that is either a likeable sort or so bad that you can hate them. The main character in this book is ultimately self serving and cynical but even so you still hunt for indicators that he could be redeemed and just occasionally there's a glimmer of possibility, it only lasts for a moment before the author mercilessly dashes it. But, however often your hopes are dashed, you still feel that there may yet be hope.
Whatever genre you read I would recommend this book, it's not quite horror, not quite fantasy and to be honest I'm not entirely sure where this would sit. But, whatever its genre it's good and that's really all that matters.
June 26, 2013
The Cult of Me is the story of an unnamed, and not particularly likable, protagonist who has enormous mental powers that allow him to enter into people's minds, manipulate them and even kill them. For the first part of the book he is a pure sociopath, humiliating and then killing anyone unlucky enough to cross his path, just for the entertainment value. His only goal is to go out in a loud, bloody mess that will make him notorious for all time. Frankly, I had to wonder if the only point of this book would be to watch him wallow in the exercise of his sadistic powers. But, half-way through, the reader is thrown a serious twist. This totally despicable man is, despite his total disinterest in the matter, humanity's only hope to prevent the impending apocalypse. Without giving away too much of the plot, it seems Lazarus, from the Bible, is still alive and none too pleased about having been robbed of his just, eternal reward. But how will our "hero" kill a man who cannot die? And, since he is no lover of humanity, why would he even do it? The answers to these questions come out in the fast-moving second half of the book, which ends with the promise of more to come in the sequel, Conversations in the Abyss. Combining scenes of action and extreme violence, with philosophical discussions and religious revisionism, Brookes manages to keep the reader turning the pages, never sure what's going to happen next, in this very entertaining book. One quibble, that a few other reviewers mentioned, was the book's crying need for a good proof reader. Maybe something the author should consider.
April 29, 2013
[R2R: free e-book in exchange for a review]
This is the first I’ve read of Michael Brookes and I can honestly say I will keep coming back for more. The first person narrative and the very convincing and evocative language really make you side with the protagonist, even though he is truly a despicable human being and he knows it. He has supernatural powers with which he can enter others’ minds and control their thoughts, and not once has he used his power for good.
This novel leads you into a world full of violence, drugs and death; that is until the protagonist is drawn into the battle between Heaven and Hell. You learn about the secrets of the Church and the apocalypse as the protagonist does, again pushing you to side with the protagonist. Information is dished out in a small snippets, meaning you can’t help getting caught up in what will happen next.
Unfortunately, Michael Brookes either did not hire a proofreader or hired one that was not very good as the text is littered with spelling mistakes, missing words and inconsistent tense changes. It is the one factor that really lets the book down.
However, all in all this is a very good book with a fantastic twist that leads us perfectly towards the sequel. It is dissimilar enough to other science fiction/fantasy novels to keep you guessing throughout. Worth a read!
This is the first I’ve read of Michael Brookes and I can honestly say I will keep coming back for more. The first person narrative and the very convincing and evocative language really make you side with the protagonist, even though he is truly a despicable human being and he knows it. He has supernatural powers with which he can enter others’ minds and control their thoughts, and not once has he used his power for good.
This novel leads you into a world full of violence, drugs and death; that is until the protagonist is drawn into the battle between Heaven and Hell. You learn about the secrets of the Church and the apocalypse as the protagonist does, again pushing you to side with the protagonist. Information is dished out in a small snippets, meaning you can’t help getting caught up in what will happen next.
Unfortunately, Michael Brookes either did not hire a proofreader or hired one that was not very good as the text is littered with spelling mistakes, missing words and inconsistent tense changes. It is the one factor that really lets the book down.
However, all in all this is a very good book with a fantastic twist that leads us perfectly towards the sequel. It is dissimilar enough to other science fiction/fantasy novels to keep you guessing throughout. Worth a read!
November 9, 2013
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review and wow, this book was seriously disturbing! If you're a fan of reading about messed up minds, this one is for you!
Author Michael Brookes takes us for a ride through the eyes of a killer, but not just any killer. Willfully imprisoned, this murderer is planning a last stand, a way to go out big and sensational. He has a plan and a metaphysical way of seeing it through. Only, he didn't bank on having any opposition he couldn't overcome with the powers of his unusual mind.
There is more in store for the prisoner than he ever imagined. Will he accept an unbelievable offer or laugh at it and let the world come crashing down? It's hard to predict when you are following a lead character you can't relate to and aren't exactly rooting for, but it kept you reading because you just have to see what happens next.
"The Cult of Me" was definitely different and executed with skill, though one more edit would have been great to get rid of some of those lingering words and ill-placed or forgotten commas, just to give it a better flow. Regardless, you won't find another book like it, I think, and you certainly won't be expecting the ending! At least, I didn't.
Author Michael Brookes takes us for a ride through the eyes of a killer, but not just any killer. Willfully imprisoned, this murderer is planning a last stand, a way to go out big and sensational. He has a plan and a metaphysical way of seeing it through. Only, he didn't bank on having any opposition he couldn't overcome with the powers of his unusual mind.
There is more in store for the prisoner than he ever imagined. Will he accept an unbelievable offer or laugh at it and let the world come crashing down? It's hard to predict when you are following a lead character you can't relate to and aren't exactly rooting for, but it kept you reading because you just have to see what happens next.
"The Cult of Me" was definitely different and executed with skill, though one more edit would have been great to get rid of some of those lingering words and ill-placed or forgotten commas, just to give it a better flow. Regardless, you won't find another book like it, I think, and you certainly won't be expecting the ending! At least, I didn't.
October 1, 2014
I must say that this is a good book. Because I read book two first (at the time I didn’t realize there was a book one), I thought this one would be anticlimactic. However, I was wrong. It does answer one major question I had while reading book two, but this is an entertaining story that stands quite well on its own.
The protagonist, a most unlikable man - a telepathic serial killer with paranormal powers - is in prison awaiting trial for his crimes. He’s bent on causing disruption, both in prison and in court, and “going out with a bang” but is thwarted in his efforts by the Friar of a secretive order of the Catholic Church when he is pressed into service to stop a living legend from the Bible who’s working to bring about the Apocalypse.
It’s a case of fighting fire with fire (or evil with evil) that begins a little slow but twists its way to an unusual, action packed, conclusion.
As I discovered with book two, it is well written with few errors in a style that is easy to read and understand, and I’m looking forward to book three.
I think anyone who’s a fan of paranormal/supernatural fiction that has a Biblical bent, will enjoy this story.
The protagonist, a most unlikable man - a telepathic serial killer with paranormal powers - is in prison awaiting trial for his crimes. He’s bent on causing disruption, both in prison and in court, and “going out with a bang” but is thwarted in his efforts by the Friar of a secretive order of the Catholic Church when he is pressed into service to stop a living legend from the Bible who’s working to bring about the Apocalypse.
It’s a case of fighting fire with fire (or evil with evil) that begins a little slow but twists its way to an unusual, action packed, conclusion.
As I discovered with book two, it is well written with few errors in a style that is easy to read and understand, and I’m looking forward to book three.
I think anyone who’s a fan of paranormal/supernatural fiction that has a Biblical bent, will enjoy this story.
August 2, 2013
I chose to read this book on the back of An Odd Quartet, a book of four short sinister stories from an author with a very macabre mindset.
The Cult of Me is the first book in The Third Path series, and is about an itinerant young man who discovers he has a strange ability. Then, after a series of events lands him in prison, he discovers his gift is not as unique as he first imagines.
This is a meaty, lurid read but don't be fooled. The excellent writing and plotting will stay with you long after the book has reached its Apocalyptic conclusion. The anti-hero is totally unlovable, but it seems as if his strange gift enables him to get inside the readers head and mess with it, just as he messes with peoples' heads in the book, often with devastating consequences.
Don't be put off by the pseudo-Dan Brown segue into religious mysticism halfway through. There is not one wasted word in this book, and Lazarus, the man Jesus unwisely plucked back from his heavenly reward, is the bad boy even our wicked protagonist may not be able to conquer.
The Cult of Me is the first book in The Third Path series, and is about an itinerant young man who discovers he has a strange ability. Then, after a series of events lands him in prison, he discovers his gift is not as unique as he first imagines.
This is a meaty, lurid read but don't be fooled. The excellent writing and plotting will stay with you long after the book has reached its Apocalyptic conclusion. The anti-hero is totally unlovable, but it seems as if his strange gift enables him to get inside the readers head and mess with it, just as he messes with peoples' heads in the book, often with devastating consequences.
Don't be put off by the pseudo-Dan Brown segue into religious mysticism halfway through. There is not one wasted word in this book, and Lazarus, the man Jesus unwisely plucked back from his heavenly reward, is the bad boy even our wicked protagonist may not be able to conquer.
February 28, 2013
R2R: The Cult of Me
(I received a free copy, in exchange for a review)
A talent that is quite unusual. To be able to explore others minds and to bend their wills, for his own games. Quite unlike anything out there, until he is arrested and placed into prison. There he realizes that he is not the only one with this talent.
'It did matter to me though. I wanted everyone to know what I had done. Not only that, but to worry what I could have done. One day there will be another like me and I wanted everyone to fear that day as that new version of me arises and sees my example and strives to be far worse.
A satisfying thought.'
One of the more interested books I have read in awhile! Interesting take on a supernatural power and how it can corrupt a person. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is interested in dark, psychological read. It took me a few days to write this review, since I was still digesting the story. Great job!
(I received a free copy, in exchange for a review)
A talent that is quite unusual. To be able to explore others minds and to bend their wills, for his own games. Quite unlike anything out there, until he is arrested and placed into prison. There he realizes that he is not the only one with this talent.
'It did matter to me though. I wanted everyone to know what I had done. Not only that, but to worry what I could have done. One day there will be another like me and I wanted everyone to fear that day as that new version of me arises and sees my example and strives to be far worse.
A satisfying thought.'
One of the more interested books I have read in awhile! Interesting take on a supernatural power and how it can corrupt a person. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is interested in dark, psychological read. It took me a few days to write this review, since I was still digesting the story. Great job!
November 2, 2013
Both the story as well as the protagonist are dark in theme, but since the story is told in the first person narrative, the author somehow manages to pull it off. If I wasn't drawn in to the point where I didn't want to put the book down, with my stomach in knots as the action unfolded, I did stay interested enough to ponder it in the back of my mind as I took care of daily activities. Passages about the mind-journey are well executed and the ending, well, it's perfect. Perhaps that's why I give this book four stars for content - perfect endings in a book of this nature are hard to come by. Sure, the author tries to pull you into the purchase of the next book, but he doesn't do it in a gratuitous manner. It gets three stars for the typos and the occasional awkward sentence structure that changed verb tenses midway and pulled me out of the story. Still, I read books for their overall storyline, so I didn't let it bother me.
October 3, 2014
In The Cult Of Me, Michael Brookes has created one of the most memorable villains I have ever read about - and he is sort of the good guy of the story.
We begin with a man in prison who teases out information about some supernatural abilities he has by demonstrating them in the present and through revealing pieces of his past in alternating chapters. He is working to a master plan which will see him go down in a blaze of glory. You don't know whether you want him to succeed or not - he's such a brilliantly evil character, he does horrendous things and you start rooting for him (well I did!).
Then you hit the halfway point, and the character learns that there are others out there like him, some good, some even more evil and threatening than he, and he has some choices to make and opportunities to hone his abilities to new levels.
You will be guessing right up until the last page, and the ending will stay with you for a long time afterwards! Highly recommended.
We begin with a man in prison who teases out information about some supernatural abilities he has by demonstrating them in the present and through revealing pieces of his past in alternating chapters. He is working to a master plan which will see him go down in a blaze of glory. You don't know whether you want him to succeed or not - he's such a brilliantly evil character, he does horrendous things and you start rooting for him (well I did!).
Then you hit the halfway point, and the character learns that there are others out there like him, some good, some even more evil and threatening than he, and he has some choices to make and opportunities to hone his abilities to new levels.
You will be guessing right up until the last page, and the ending will stay with you for a long time afterwards! Highly recommended.
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