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Dirty Eden
(This is not a YA book and is nothing like J.A. Redmerski's Darkwoods Trilogy or THE EDGE OF NEVER - you have been warned.)
The Devil gives Norman Reeves an ill-fated mission he has no choice but to accept: Find the center of Eden and reverse the Fall of Man.
Thrust into a place called Creation, Norman’s task is plagued by unimaginable people and events. He must unravel impossible clues to free the Three Trees and keep himself out of Hell at the same time.
On this surreal and humorous journey, Norman discovers many things better left unknown: the shocking secret lives of people close to him and the other unthinkable reason he was brought here.
But should Norman fail, like all visitors to Creation, he will forget everyone and everything he has ever known, becoming part of the madness that was once the paradise of Eden.
---
Blasphemous. Dark. Humorous. Twisted. Unlike anything you've ever read before. DIRTY EDEN ain't your pastor's book.
The Devil gives Norman Reeves an ill-fated mission he has no choice but to accept: Find the center of Eden and reverse the Fall of Man.
Thrust into a place called Creation, Norman’s task is plagued by unimaginable people and events. He must unravel impossible clues to free the Three Trees and keep himself out of Hell at the same time.
On this surreal and humorous journey, Norman discovers many things better left unknown: the shocking secret lives of people close to him and the other unthinkable reason he was brought here.
But should Norman fail, like all visitors to Creation, he will forget everyone and everything he has ever known, becoming part of the madness that was once the paradise of Eden.
---
Blasphemous. Dark. Humorous. Twisted. Unlike anything you've ever read before. DIRTY EDEN ain't your pastor's book.
347 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 10, 2012
22 people are currently reading
1437 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
April 16, 2013
Devilishly Awesome...
Redmerski's Best!
I love all of her novels, but this book for me, is her finest work ever; I absolutely Love it!. She is such an amazing writer and OMgosh she is an incredibly versatile author as well! Dirty Eden had me on the edge of my seat; keep me guessing and wondering what's next?!. I found this book to be very enthralling, bewitching, twisted, and unique! OMgosh...what an ending! I HOPE there will be a book two! *fingers crossed*
I rate this book:UNFORGETTABLE MASTERPIECE
I love all of her novels, but this book for me, is her finest work ever; I absolutely Love it!. She is such an amazing writer and OMgosh she is an incredibly versatile author as well! Dirty Eden had me on the edge of my seat; keep me guessing and wondering what's next?!. I found this book to be very enthralling, bewitching, twisted, and unique! OMgosh...what an ending! I HOPE there will be a book two! *fingers crossed*
I rate this book:UNFORGETTABLE MASTERPIECE
January 27, 2015
I thought I had seen, or read, J. A. Redmerski in her best performance…
I thought I had seen J. A. Redmerski’s creativity in action…
I was COMPLETELY wrong!
When I finished this book I didn’t have, and probably still don’t have, words able to describe how wonderfully creative and exquisite this work is. This book was on my TBR list since the day I was presented to this author’s writing. Author who earned my respect, my admiration and my trust these past years. Unfortunately, I will always regret not having read this book before.
Many times the author herself said that of all the books she has written, this undoubtedly is her favorite, and I can honestly say I see why.
As the blurb describes, the book revolves around a mission given to Norman Reeves, an ordinary divorced man, who like many others is frustrated with the direction his life took, dissatisfied with his boring work, but who wakes up every day and follows the same routine ever. ‘Till one day, when in an unconventional meeting, Norman receives a mission, given by the Devil himself, to reverse the fall of man, the original sin.
The magnificent plot itself guarantees all the honorable mentions this author deserves. Not many authors are capable of, paraphrasing a Goodreads and Amazon’s reviewer (Skorpius), picking up one of the biggest stories out there (The Garden of Eden) and reinvent it in a way that s/he ends up creating a completely new, unusual and original story, making it as her/his own. J. A. Redmerski didn’t just rearrange a plot that already existed, or made a new reading of it. She created a completely new story, bringing new meaning to the several elements that we thought we knew and adding new ones that blew our minds.
Added to the phenomenal creativity she brought, we are given with a clean and extremely detailed narrative. I've said it once, and I reaffirm it today: J. A. Redmerski is not just a writer, or a mare author, she is an amazing storyteller. Since page one, the reader has his/her attention and curiosity captured. Each event, revelation, development, new character, surprise leaves us wondering what is yet to come. And the amount of details in the way she narrates every single scene, how she describes the scenarios, how she develops the characters, fascinate us.
Like all her books, Dirty Eden is full of twists that catch us off guard. Even its ending. The last sentence makes us wish a sequel could exist. It’s not that there is an open ending. The author wraps every detail of this story beautifully. However, we finish this book so delighted with what we’ve read and the high level of, once again, creativity in which it has been told, that we desperately wish to know how the rest of the story would be told.
Today I reaffirm that J. A. Redmerski is an author who has all the qualities an author must have, except, and unfortunately, the recognition she deserves. Her career doesn’t sum up to Andrew and Camryn, and her creativity is not limited to Victor his organization. There are sides of this author that still are little-known and deserve to be much more widespread.
Sigh…
I honestly feel I’m unable to write something that will do justice to this book, its greatness and perfection. As much as I can reaffirm my admiration for this author, for the level of creativity in this book, for the unexpected surprises in it, for the endless detailing in this narrative and how everything was created and developed with frightening precision and incredibly consistency, yet I fail to describe what she was able to do in this book.
So maybe the only thing that remains to be said is that, as much as I have an endless list of books I love, as much as I LOVE ‘The Edge of Never’, as much as I ADORE ‘In The Company Of Killers’, as much as I have been delighted with all of my readings by J. A. Redmerski and so many other authors I admire, and as much as I wish I could see all of those books in the big screen or a tv show, if I was given the choice to choose only ONE book of all books I have ever read, by this author or any other author, I would not think for a single moment before pointing Dirty Eden as my answer. Such is my desire to see every page, every word, every detail, character and scene of this book gaining life. A desire that reaches the level of need. While reading it, I felt every sentence of it gaining life in my imagination, but I desperately wish I can have the opportunity to see it one day portrayed on the big screen.
Last but not least, as the author herself alerted, this book is completely different from her other works, which proves once again her endless quality of being a highly diversified author, able to write one of the most beautiful and exciting love stories and one of the most creative fantasies I've ever seen, whether in books, films, series or theater.
Dirty Eden is a new breath that deserves its due recognition!
***
>> In this book there is NO romance! (Out of curiosity, I woke up in the middle of the night because of a nightmare. Yep! I’m NOT kidding!) This book is suitable for people who like fantasy, or have an eclectic literary taste, and definitely a more mature audience. I’d compare it to a mixture of Pan's Labyrinth, The Devil's Advocate, Constantine, Neverending Story, Lord of the Rings and books like that.
>> As a Christian, I don’t agree when it says this book is a blasphemy, because it is not a statement of faith. It IS one of the most magnificent works of FICTION I have ever had the pleasure to read. And I didn’t feel at any time any intention to disrespect anyone’s faith. Plus, I’m capable to distinguish reality from fiction.
>> Besides TEoN (which is my favorite book for personal reasons and reasons I don’t even understand), I got to the point of no longer being able to point out which book written by J. A. Redmerski is my favorite. Each one of her works is unique and stands out one of her endless qualities as an author.
Dirty Eden is definitely a book I recommend and is one of my all-time-favorites.
I thought I had seen J. A. Redmerski’s creativity in action…
I was COMPLETELY wrong!
When I finished this book I didn’t have, and probably still don’t have, words able to describe how wonderfully creative and exquisite this work is. This book was on my TBR list since the day I was presented to this author’s writing. Author who earned my respect, my admiration and my trust these past years. Unfortunately, I will always regret not having read this book before.
Many times the author herself said that of all the books she has written, this undoubtedly is her favorite, and I can honestly say I see why.
As the blurb describes, the book revolves around a mission given to Norman Reeves, an ordinary divorced man, who like many others is frustrated with the direction his life took, dissatisfied with his boring work, but who wakes up every day and follows the same routine ever. ‘Till one day, when in an unconventional meeting, Norman receives a mission, given by the Devil himself, to reverse the fall of man, the original sin.
The magnificent plot itself guarantees all the honorable mentions this author deserves. Not many authors are capable of, paraphrasing a Goodreads and Amazon’s reviewer (Skorpius), picking up one of the biggest stories out there (The Garden of Eden) and reinvent it in a way that s/he ends up creating a completely new, unusual and original story, making it as her/his own. J. A. Redmerski didn’t just rearrange a plot that already existed, or made a new reading of it. She created a completely new story, bringing new meaning to the several elements that we thought we knew and adding new ones that blew our minds.
Added to the phenomenal creativity she brought, we are given with a clean and extremely detailed narrative. I've said it once, and I reaffirm it today: J. A. Redmerski is not just a writer, or a mare author, she is an amazing storyteller. Since page one, the reader has his/her attention and curiosity captured. Each event, revelation, development, new character, surprise leaves us wondering what is yet to come. And the amount of details in the way she narrates every single scene, how she describes the scenarios, how she develops the characters, fascinate us.
Like all her books, Dirty Eden is full of twists that catch us off guard. Even its ending. The last sentence makes us wish a sequel could exist. It’s not that there is an open ending. The author wraps every detail of this story beautifully. However, we finish this book so delighted with what we’ve read and the high level of, once again, creativity in which it has been told, that we desperately wish to know how the rest of the story would be told.
Today I reaffirm that J. A. Redmerski is an author who has all the qualities an author must have, except, and unfortunately, the recognition she deserves. Her career doesn’t sum up to Andrew and Camryn, and her creativity is not limited to Victor his organization. There are sides of this author that still are little-known and deserve to be much more widespread.
Sigh…
I honestly feel I’m unable to write something that will do justice to this book, its greatness and perfection. As much as I can reaffirm my admiration for this author, for the level of creativity in this book, for the unexpected surprises in it, for the endless detailing in this narrative and how everything was created and developed with frightening precision and incredibly consistency, yet I fail to describe what she was able to do in this book.
So maybe the only thing that remains to be said is that, as much as I have an endless list of books I love, as much as I LOVE ‘The Edge of Never’, as much as I ADORE ‘In The Company Of Killers’, as much as I have been delighted with all of my readings by J. A. Redmerski and so many other authors I admire, and as much as I wish I could see all of those books in the big screen or a tv show, if I was given the choice to choose only ONE book of all books I have ever read, by this author or any other author, I would not think for a single moment before pointing Dirty Eden as my answer. Such is my desire to see every page, every word, every detail, character and scene of this book gaining life. A desire that reaches the level of need. While reading it, I felt every sentence of it gaining life in my imagination, but I desperately wish I can have the opportunity to see it one day portrayed on the big screen.
Last but not least, as the author herself alerted, this book is completely different from her other works, which proves once again her endless quality of being a highly diversified author, able to write one of the most beautiful and exciting love stories and one of the most creative fantasies I've ever seen, whether in books, films, series or theater.
Dirty Eden is a new breath that deserves its due recognition!
***
>> In this book there is NO romance! (Out of curiosity, I woke up in the middle of the night because of a nightmare. Yep! I’m NOT kidding!) This book is suitable for people who like fantasy, or have an eclectic literary taste, and definitely a more mature audience. I’d compare it to a mixture of Pan's Labyrinth, The Devil's Advocate, Constantine, Neverending Story, Lord of the Rings and books like that.
>> As a Christian, I don’t agree when it says this book is a blasphemy, because it is not a statement of faith. It IS one of the most magnificent works of FICTION I have ever had the pleasure to read. And I didn’t feel at any time any intention to disrespect anyone’s faith. Plus, I’m capable to distinguish reality from fiction.
>> Besides TEoN (which is my favorite book for personal reasons and reasons I don’t even understand), I got to the point of no longer being able to point out which book written by J. A. Redmerski is my favorite. Each one of her works is unique and stands out one of her endless qualities as an author.
Dirty Eden is definitely a book I recommend and is one of my all-time-favorites.
March 29, 2012
Another wonderful entry from J.A. Redmerski, that DEFINITELY appeals to a more mature, dark minded audience!
From the opening line of this book, you immediately have that page-turning feel that accompanies a well written story. There were times I couldn't wait to read the next part, I felt like I wanted to skip ahead and cheat to see what happens to the characters. When I had to stop at the end of the night, I felt the need to get back to finish it. This was not a good thing when you have to work in the morning.
The book has a whole "down the rabbit hole" feel to it, which was a refreshing feeling when you consider the mythology it was dealing with. You were able to get lost into a story that you had never heard before, and which was completely original - despite incorporating characters such as The Devil, which can be an absolute hit, or a horrific miss when you incorporate him into ANY story. This portrayal, was definitely a refreshing hit! Deceitful, vindictive, wicked - all rolled up into a pretty, evil package.
The main character of Norman was relatable, which was good, even though I personally didn't really feel that I liked him. At least not until the end... but I won't talk about that as I don't want to spoil anything for you. The side characters which accompanied Norman in his trek was really what made this book to me. Each character had such depth and personality to them that it made me wanting more when I got to the end. The final situations that each character ended up in left a yearning in me to know more... What about Tsaeb, Sophie, and Taurus!?!?!?
The writing and the imagery in the entire book was beautiful, and could really paint pictures in my head which is something that I look for in a good book. "Dirty Eden" was definitely a wonderful book, and the ending had me on pins and needles hoping there is more to it all! It's an ending hook, that I hope is not just a tease!
Overall, I recommend this book to anyone who is of a more mature mind; are not offended by vulgar acts; disgusting situations; or themes some may consider "blasphemous". A GOOD READ!
From the opening line of this book, you immediately have that page-turning feel that accompanies a well written story. There were times I couldn't wait to read the next part, I felt like I wanted to skip ahead and cheat to see what happens to the characters. When I had to stop at the end of the night, I felt the need to get back to finish it. This was not a good thing when you have to work in the morning.
The book has a whole "down the rabbit hole" feel to it, which was a refreshing feeling when you consider the mythology it was dealing with. You were able to get lost into a story that you had never heard before, and which was completely original - despite incorporating characters such as The Devil, which can be an absolute hit, or a horrific miss when you incorporate him into ANY story. This portrayal, was definitely a refreshing hit! Deceitful, vindictive, wicked - all rolled up into a pretty, evil package.
The main character of Norman was relatable, which was good, even though I personally didn't really feel that I liked him. At least not until the end... but I won't talk about that as I don't want to spoil anything for you. The side characters which accompanied Norman in his trek was really what made this book to me. Each character had such depth and personality to them that it made me wanting more when I got to the end. The final situations that each character ended up in left a yearning in me to know more... What about Tsaeb, Sophie, and Taurus!?!?!?
The writing and the imagery in the entire book was beautiful, and could really paint pictures in my head which is something that I look for in a good book. "Dirty Eden" was definitely a wonderful book, and the ending had me on pins and needles hoping there is more to it all! It's an ending hook, that I hope is not just a tease!
Overall, I recommend this book to anyone who is of a more mature mind; are not offended by vulgar acts; disgusting situations; or themes some may consider "blasphemous". A GOOD READ!
July 9, 2012
First things first… I love reading something different. If it is just a twist on a familiar theme, it better be a damned good twist. But, if it is a take on a theme I am unfamiliar with, it just makes my day. Admittedly, I feel into this story of a man’s deal with the devil wholeheartedly. I absolutely love it when I have not a clue as to what might happen next, and this story has those moments in spades.
Norman, our protagonist, is a complex, well-written character that has his own hang-ups that can sometimes get in the way of his own goals; even if he didn’t set those goals. Redmerski let’s us feel Norman’s confusion and (sometimes) helplessness at being a tool of the Devil, himself. The author pulls us along on Norman’s travails, allowing us to truly see this strange world of Creation through the lead’s eyes, alone. I think I enjoyed that part of the novel the most.
Truth be told, some folks might be quite taken aback by Redmerski’s horrifying tale, especially once they get into the deeper realms of the book, the encounters with the various demons and crazy-ass characters that populate Creation. She deals with this controversial story with a deft hand, though and I just let myself be carried along for the sinister and twisty ride with the joy of a boy on a rollercoaster ride!
I loved the strange, dark and confusing characters that Norman meets in his adventure. I especially enjoyed the two little demons that end up accompanying Norman on his trip through Creation: Tsaeb and Sophia. Sophia, in particular, was so well-portrayed that I was never certain at any moment whether she would be sugary sweet or rip someone’s heart out. It was awesome!
Redmerski writes blasphemy in the most potable manner I could imagine. Controversy is the spice that livens up this feast of twisty-turny adventure.
I hope to read more of Norman in the future.
Norman, our protagonist, is a complex, well-written character that has his own hang-ups that can sometimes get in the way of his own goals; even if he didn’t set those goals. Redmerski let’s us feel Norman’s confusion and (sometimes) helplessness at being a tool of the Devil, himself. The author pulls us along on Norman’s travails, allowing us to truly see this strange world of Creation through the lead’s eyes, alone. I think I enjoyed that part of the novel the most.
Truth be told, some folks might be quite taken aback by Redmerski’s horrifying tale, especially once they get into the deeper realms of the book, the encounters with the various demons and crazy-ass characters that populate Creation. She deals with this controversial story with a deft hand, though and I just let myself be carried along for the sinister and twisty ride with the joy of a boy on a rollercoaster ride!
I loved the strange, dark and confusing characters that Norman meets in his adventure. I especially enjoyed the two little demons that end up accompanying Norman on his trip through Creation: Tsaeb and Sophia. Sophia, in particular, was so well-portrayed that I was never certain at any moment whether she would be sugary sweet or rip someone’s heart out. It was awesome!
Redmerski writes blasphemy in the most potable manner I could imagine. Controversy is the spice that livens up this feast of twisty-turny adventure.
I hope to read more of Norman in the future.
March 23, 2012
If Neil Gaiman were a woman...
Dirty Eden is a complete breath of fresh air on a virtual shelf overcrowded with formulaic dreck that seems to have taken over the industry. This is intelligent contemporary fantasy done right, and exceptionally well.
In our protagonist Norman Reeves, we have a somewhat affable fellow who hates his job and trends toward self-deprecation. But he soon finds himself staring into an alley where his fate changes with the help of the Devil, portrayed throughout as not so bad of a guy.....except for when he is. And like the Devil, the denizens of Creation, which isn't quite Heaven, and isn't quite Hell, have many sides.
Never is a character wasted, as even the most seemingly miniscule encounter is imbued with rich characters and dialogue. Indeed, Redmerski is particularly strong with writing dialogue, and the conversations between all of the characters are realistic and flow effortlessly. Each character is well defined and their quirks and mannerisms play out exceedingly well. You can't help but fall in love with and care about these characters and you will not soon forget them, right down to the tiniest mouse or foul-mouthed bluejay.
Ultimately, what Redmerski has done is to create a complete and complex world from scratch, filled with a multitude of characters who have only previously occupied our own mythologies (the signs of the Zodiac are not who you think they are) and religious creation stories. She has somehow taken one of the biggest stories of all (The Garden of Eden) and wrapped everything around it and made it all her own.
I highly recommend this book.
Dirty Eden is a complete breath of fresh air on a virtual shelf overcrowded with formulaic dreck that seems to have taken over the industry. This is intelligent contemporary fantasy done right, and exceptionally well.
In our protagonist Norman Reeves, we have a somewhat affable fellow who hates his job and trends toward self-deprecation. But he soon finds himself staring into an alley where his fate changes with the help of the Devil, portrayed throughout as not so bad of a guy.....except for when he is. And like the Devil, the denizens of Creation, which isn't quite Heaven, and isn't quite Hell, have many sides.
Never is a character wasted, as even the most seemingly miniscule encounter is imbued with rich characters and dialogue. Indeed, Redmerski is particularly strong with writing dialogue, and the conversations between all of the characters are realistic and flow effortlessly. Each character is well defined and their quirks and mannerisms play out exceedingly well. You can't help but fall in love with and care about these characters and you will not soon forget them, right down to the tiniest mouse or foul-mouthed bluejay.
Ultimately, what Redmerski has done is to create a complete and complex world from scratch, filled with a multitude of characters who have only previously occupied our own mythologies (the signs of the Zodiac are not who you think they are) and religious creation stories. She has somehow taken one of the biggest stories of all (The Garden of Eden) and wrapped everything around it and made it all her own.
I highly recommend this book.
September 29, 2012
Lisa's review if
Dirty Eden
By J.A. Redmerski
I was given a copy of Dirty Eden by J.A. Redmerski in exchange for an honest review. This was not what I was expecting to read when I looked at the cover. This was a very dark and twisted book like me just kidding. I really enjoyed the imagery the author used to give you a very visual experience in order for the reader to connect with the storyline and characters. I was unable to put the book down because I was afraid that I would miss something pivotal but duh unlike a movie I can go back and reread the pages but I was drawn into it and captivated. Norman is a man who is very bitter in the beginning like most of us he really hates his job and really demeans himself. He must come to terms with his life, family, past, present, and future in a most bizarre way. Can Norman grow from his journey or will he be forever stuck in the rutt that is cycling through. Thank you J.A. Redmerski for allowing me to walk along this dark and twisted pathway with you. I look forward to reading more from you. I highly recommend this for one heck of a twisted roller coaster ride.
Dirty Eden
By J.A. Redmerski
I was given a copy of Dirty Eden by J.A. Redmerski in exchange for an honest review. This was not what I was expecting to read when I looked at the cover. This was a very dark and twisted book like me just kidding. I really enjoyed the imagery the author used to give you a very visual experience in order for the reader to connect with the storyline and characters. I was unable to put the book down because I was afraid that I would miss something pivotal but duh unlike a movie I can go back and reread the pages but I was drawn into it and captivated. Norman is a man who is very bitter in the beginning like most of us he really hates his job and really demeans himself. He must come to terms with his life, family, past, present, and future in a most bizarre way. Can Norman grow from his journey or will he be forever stuck in the rutt that is cycling through. Thank you J.A. Redmerski for allowing me to walk along this dark and twisted pathway with you. I look forward to reading more from you. I highly recommend this for one heck of a twisted roller coaster ride.
November 28, 2012
Dirty Eden, by J.A. Redmerski was nothing like I thought it would be...and I WAS forewarned in the Goodreads Synopsis that it would be different. It was interesting enough to make me read it to the end, because I needed to know what was going to happen next.
And here's the Goodreads Synopsis:
(This is not a YA book and is nothing like J.A. Redmerski's Darkwoods Trilogy or THE EDGE OF NEVER - you have been warned.)
The Devil gives Norman Reeves an ill-fated mission he has no choice but to accept: Find the center of Eden and reverse the Fall of Man.
Thrust into a place called Creation, Norman’s task is plagued by unimaginable people and events. He must unravel impossible clues to free the Three Trees and keep himself out of Hell at the same time.
On this surreal and humorous journey, Norman discovers many things better left unknown: the shocking secret lives of people close to him and the other unthinkable reason he was brought here.
But should Norman fail, like all visitors to Creation, he will forget everyone and everything he has ever known, becoming part of the madness that was once the paradise of Eden.
And here's the Goodreads Synopsis:
(This is not a YA book and is nothing like J.A. Redmerski's Darkwoods Trilogy or THE EDGE OF NEVER - you have been warned.)
The Devil gives Norman Reeves an ill-fated mission he has no choice but to accept: Find the center of Eden and reverse the Fall of Man.
Thrust into a place called Creation, Norman’s task is plagued by unimaginable people and events. He must unravel impossible clues to free the Three Trees and keep himself out of Hell at the same time.
On this surreal and humorous journey, Norman discovers many things better left unknown: the shocking secret lives of people close to him and the other unthinkable reason he was brought here.
But should Norman fail, like all visitors to Creation, he will forget everyone and everything he has ever known, becoming part of the madness that was once the paradise of Eden.
August 27, 2014
I don't know what to say! It's crazy. I liked it well enough as a very crude and obnoxious piece of work, but then that is what Satan is all about (also very offensive when it comes to speaking of the Lord). If you let him suck you into his ugliness, then your life becomes chaos, rude, ugly, sad, pitiful, desperate, and tired! That's what a dude named Norman let Satan do here. Be careful. Beware. Don't let him sneak up on you!
October 4, 2013
It was a little slow moving till about 50%, but once it got moving it was fantastic. The author created this amazing world and characters you can't help but love. It was unlike any book I have ever read and I highly recommend it.
February 19, 2013
Whatever "IT" is,J. A. Redmerski definitely has it! Dirty Eden is a wonderfully epic dark fantasy. It's a very Gaiman/Bulgakov-esk type novel & I loved every second of it.
March 4, 2013
Interesting and unique. Hope there is a sequel!
July 30, 2013
There was never a dull moment in this book and it demands your full attention. I was sorry to see it end.
September 3, 2022
This is a book I likely would not have otherwise stumbled upon, had Jessica not sent me a message via Goodreads, and one I likely would have declined to review, had it not been for the previous reviews calling it intelligent, dark-minded, vulgar, and blasphemous. As much as I tend to shy away from books with religious themes, that blasphemous tag really did catch my interest, and the reviewers' talk of interwoven mythologies intrigued me enough to take a chance.
I'm glad I did, because this was one of the most original reads I've had the pleasure of experiencing in a long time.
Dirty Eden is a book that hooks you right from the first page, somehow managing to inject a little discomfort into the boring banality of an office commute. All it takes is a glimpse of a stiletto-heeled stranger to shake Norman's routine, and a stranger's offer of $500 to go back and talk to her is more than enough temptation to derail not just a commute, but a man's entire life.
That stranger is, of course, the Devil . . . and what he expects from Norman is far more than just your typical 'selling your soul' type of mythological transaction. As we soon discover, there are big stakes involved, with the fate of all Creation ultimately resting upon the shoulders of an otherwise unremarkable man who dared to ask himself “What can it hurt?"
Before long we find ourselves accompanying Norman on an underworld journey which echoes those of Odysseus, Dante, and Chris Nielsen, but which adds its own unique spin on not just the journey, but the mythologies that overlap and combine to approximate the truth of our reality. It's a journey that's as fascinating as it it fearsome, through a landscape as gorgeous as it is grotesque. I think it was the moment that the naked, seductive fairy emerged from the forest, volunteering to have her wings ripped off as the price of Norman's passage across the Field of Yesterday, that I realized there was no escaping this book until I saw how it all would end.
This is a very dark book, and one that doesn't shy away from the darkness inside us all. Whether Norman is being confronted by the truth about himself, his family, or society at large, we're invited to bear witness to the worst acts of which mankind is capable - rape, murder, incest, adultery, theft, etc. There's not a lot of hope to the story, but there is a redeeming quality to Norman's personal growth that propels us along. It's also a very complex book, and one that is equally capable in delivering twists in plot as twists in mythology. Nothing is quite what it seems here, and the worst mistake you can make in reading the story is to assume you know what the Devil, Norman, or the author truly intend.
Having dreaded a literary betrayal, fully expecting a typically biblical end to the story, I was delighted to discover a climax worthy of the story that precedes it, an action-filled, suspense-laden, treacherous piece of storytelling that pulls together all of the various characters and themes into an entirely satisfying resolution. More than that, I have to applaud Jessica for a final twist that is as glorious as it is unexpected.
Originally reviewed at Beauty in Ruins
I'm glad I did, because this was one of the most original reads I've had the pleasure of experiencing in a long time.
Dirty Eden is a book that hooks you right from the first page, somehow managing to inject a little discomfort into the boring banality of an office commute. All it takes is a glimpse of a stiletto-heeled stranger to shake Norman's routine, and a stranger's offer of $500 to go back and talk to her is more than enough temptation to derail not just a commute, but a man's entire life.
That stranger is, of course, the Devil . . . and what he expects from Norman is far more than just your typical 'selling your soul' type of mythological transaction. As we soon discover, there are big stakes involved, with the fate of all Creation ultimately resting upon the shoulders of an otherwise unremarkable man who dared to ask himself “What can it hurt?"
Before long we find ourselves accompanying Norman on an underworld journey which echoes those of Odysseus, Dante, and Chris Nielsen, but which adds its own unique spin on not just the journey, but the mythologies that overlap and combine to approximate the truth of our reality. It's a journey that's as fascinating as it it fearsome, through a landscape as gorgeous as it is grotesque. I think it was the moment that the naked, seductive fairy emerged from the forest, volunteering to have her wings ripped off as the price of Norman's passage across the Field of Yesterday, that I realized there was no escaping this book until I saw how it all would end.
This is a very dark book, and one that doesn't shy away from the darkness inside us all. Whether Norman is being confronted by the truth about himself, his family, or society at large, we're invited to bear witness to the worst acts of which mankind is capable - rape, murder, incest, adultery, theft, etc. There's not a lot of hope to the story, but there is a redeeming quality to Norman's personal growth that propels us along. It's also a very complex book, and one that is equally capable in delivering twists in plot as twists in mythology. Nothing is quite what it seems here, and the worst mistake you can make in reading the story is to assume you know what the Devil, Norman, or the author truly intend.
Having dreaded a literary betrayal, fully expecting a typically biblical end to the story, I was delighted to discover a climax worthy of the story that precedes it, an action-filled, suspense-laden, treacherous piece of storytelling that pulls together all of the various characters and themes into an entirely satisfying resolution. More than that, I have to applaud Jessica for a final twist that is as glorious as it is unexpected.
Originally reviewed at Beauty in Ruins
January 26, 2018
A journey that can't be missed
I came across this story after reading the "In the company of killers". By the same author. This book is not a romance but the story is so unique it locks you in at the very beginning. The writing was excellent! The descriptions by the author created a very clear image of the characters and scenes, and I was immersed in the story the entire time. It is a short read so even if fantasy is not your genre you should give it a try because the writing is excellent and the story is entertaining.
I came across this story after reading the "In the company of killers". By the same author. This book is not a romance but the story is so unique it locks you in at the very beginning. The writing was excellent! The descriptions by the author created a very clear image of the characters and scenes, and I was immersed in the story the entire time. It is a short read so even if fantasy is not your genre you should give it a try because the writing is excellent and the story is entertaining.
January 12, 2019
Oh, the review... okay, here we go. 25% - the story isn't bad. I realize, though, the only way to finish this book is with audio, which was great, by the way. Major props to the narrator! He held my interest. 50% - I'm starting to lose interest. It is funny; Norman had me rolling a few times. The story itself is losing me. 75% - I'm ready for it to be over. I made it this far, though, I need to finish. 100% - I wanted to love this book, but I found it just was not for me. I highly recommend the audio!
February 7, 2018
Interesting story! Definitely different than anything else I've read from J. A. Redmerski, but I rather enjoyed it.
December 9, 2018
It was ok. The end felt unsatisfactory and the whole book felt a little pointless, but overall and interesting if confusing concept.
July 24, 2020
Well the books is very interesting to say the least. It was dark, twisted, unique and surprising, you never really knew what was going to happen. However, my main complaint is that I was a bit confused at times, even at the end when the author tells us what happened, I wasn’t sure how we got there. Though after looking at some other reviews on Goodreads, that may have just been me, but who knows?
Norman must go on this epic journey and complete a task given to him by the Devil himself. Norman actually has no idea what the journey entails or even what the purpose of it is and I think that is where I had issues. I understand why Redmerski wrote it in this manner, but I think knowing the purpose for why Norman had to take this journey would have been better to the reader. Not knowing gave me nothing to look forward to or to try to understand the reasoning behind everything. Was he trying to save mankind? Is he trying to help the Devil influence more people? Why? Even at the conclusion of the book when they explain everything out, I was left with a little bit of a ‘huh?’ feeling.
On to the good. I think the world building and detail was amazing. The interwoven mythologies and the dark Alice in Wonderland type world were fascinating and Norman’s self deprecating nature is oddly endearing. I just wish the story moved a little faster at the beginning and more why’s were answered when it came to a conclusion. I think the book left off in a way where a sequel or spinoff book could be in the written that I would be interested in reading.
If you are looking for something like nothing you have ever read before and enjoy the horror theme, I think this is a good book for you. It is well crafted and well written, and Redmerski really shows her imagination everywhere. Just don’t expect action on every page, and if you are like me, you may still have some questions once finished, but I seem to be in the minority there.
The book is available on kindle unlimited and in print.
https://thetravellingreader96.wordpre...
Norman must go on this epic journey and complete a task given to him by the Devil himself. Norman actually has no idea what the journey entails or even what the purpose of it is and I think that is where I had issues. I understand why Redmerski wrote it in this manner, but I think knowing the purpose for why Norman had to take this journey would have been better to the reader. Not knowing gave me nothing to look forward to or to try to understand the reasoning behind everything. Was he trying to save mankind? Is he trying to help the Devil influence more people? Why? Even at the conclusion of the book when they explain everything out, I was left with a little bit of a ‘huh?’ feeling.
On to the good. I think the world building and detail was amazing. The interwoven mythologies and the dark Alice in Wonderland type world were fascinating and Norman’s self deprecating nature is oddly endearing. I just wish the story moved a little faster at the beginning and more why’s were answered when it came to a conclusion. I think the book left off in a way where a sequel or spinoff book could be in the written that I would be interested in reading.
If you are looking for something like nothing you have ever read before and enjoy the horror theme, I think this is a good book for you. It is well crafted and well written, and Redmerski really shows her imagination everywhere. Just don’t expect action on every page, and if you are like me, you may still have some questions once finished, but I seem to be in the minority there.
The book is available on kindle unlimited and in print.
https://thetravellingreader96.wordpre...
February 6, 2013
If you are looking for something different. This is your book. I am amazed at how well written this book is. It is a complicated story but so easy to read and understand. The only reason that I purchased this book was because I had read some others from this author and I think J.A. Redmerski is a wonderful author. This book did not disappoint. Just beware, it is fiction. It is thoroughly entertaining and even funny at times. Redmerski draws you in and paints such vivid pictures of the surroundings, that you think you are there and it's a scary place to be.
As I was reading, I kept thinking, what would make a person think to write a book like this. It is so different from what I usually read, but I enjoyed it.
Again, Redmerski is such a talented writer. Can't wait to read more work from this author.
As I was reading, I kept thinking, what would make a person think to write a book like this. It is so different from what I usually read, but I enjoyed it.
Again, Redmerski is such a talented writer. Can't wait to read more work from this author.
February 23, 2016
In all honesty, I have no effing clue how I feel about this one, hence the three-star rating. I've read several books by this author and just LOVE the fact that she stepped so far out of her usual genre(s) to create something wholly different from her most popular titles.
It was well-written for the most part, but fell short in areas I believe could have been developed further. The plot, although not completely new and unique, was still very interesting in its own way.
I would really like to learn about his deal with God . . . (great ending)
It was well-written for the most part, but fell short in areas I believe could have been developed further. The plot, although not completely new and unique, was still very interesting in its own way.
I would really like to learn about his deal with God . . . (great ending)
May 27, 2015
Whoa! Like pretty much everyone has said, this was really a crazy, odd book. It set my mind reeling and I'm not sure I can say exactly why but I really did like it. It is really like nothing I have read before. So bizarre. If you are in the mood for something mind bending, some irreverent and out there go for it. It really was a fun read. I always wonder where the authors head is at when I read something like this.
January 3, 2013
Not what I was expecting. This book had me confused for a while, but I was intrigued enough to want to finish the book. Tsaeb, Sophia, Norman, and Taurus were a crazy bunch of characters. The ending was kind of lack luster for me, but I definitely recommend this book. Exciting and nerve wracking at the same time.
December 19, 2012
Wow...and not necessarily a good wow. I gave this 3 stars because even though one of the strangest books I have ever read it was written well. The characters were well developed and entertaining to say the least. But after reading it I feel like I have been on a drug induced train ride.
February 5, 2015
I listened to the audiobook and STILL had trouble following this convoluted storyline. The confusion of what was going on and why was never cleared up for me. The ending was abrupt and fell flat for me. The whole book felt like a very clumsy version of Dante's Inferno.
July 2, 2016
Loved the trickery
I was definitely entertained while enthralled by this strange adventure. Every little moment can be so utterly important. I would suggest to all that if you want to be surprised and on the edge of your seat in quite a few moments, this book is where to find it.
I was definitely entertained while enthralled by this strange adventure. Every little moment can be so utterly important. I would suggest to all that if you want to be surprised and on the edge of your seat in quite a few moments, this book is where to find it.
February 12, 2013
Liked the story and the very imagitive details that laid out the book.
January 25, 2013
Interesting, different well written story. Liked it very much
May 30, 2013
not my cup or tea but I love the author so give it a try to decide for yourself!
September 23, 2013
Hmm was ok. Not a huge fan although I have read other books by this author and enjoyed them.
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