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A Wicked Kind of Dark
Robert Duncan no longer believes in magic. A mysterious call about a blood moon, however, leads him back to the magical world of his childhood and to Luthien, the beautiful girl with flame-coloured hair, who he loved and lost.
As Robert unravels the secrets of his childhood, darkness enters his life and an ancient evil awakens. To have any chance of defeating the dark forces that would destroy two worlds, Robert must find Luthien before the rise of the blood moon. He must, once more, believe in magic …
A Wicked Kind of Dark mixes vast and spectacular fantasy landscapes with gritty urban reality. A must-read for people of all ages who believe in the power of imagination, and the importance of never losing touch with your inner child.
As Robert unravels the secrets of his childhood, darkness enters his life and an ancient evil awakens. To have any chance of defeating the dark forces that would destroy two worlds, Robert must find Luthien before the rise of the blood moon. He must, once more, believe in magic …
A Wicked Kind of Dark mixes vast and spectacular fantasy landscapes with gritty urban reality. A must-read for people of all ages who believe in the power of imagination, and the importance of never losing touch with your inner child.
276 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2013
1 person is currently reading
750 people want to read
About the author
Jonathan K. Benton
1 book15 followersJonathan Benton left Auckland University before completing a BA in English Literature and History because of a burning desire to see the world. A qualified PADI Divemaster, he spent a year working in Fiji. He moved to England, where he rambled the countryside for several years chasing myths and legends. Before returning to New Zealand, he stopped off in Australia; ten years later, he is still here.
Settling in Sydney, Jonathan joined the NSW Writers’ Centre and completed several courses in pursuit of his childhood dream: to write stories for publication. He also played doubles with the then-Director of the Centre, combining his love of literature with his enthusiasm for tennis.
After many good conversations and a few good shots, he followed his heart to Brisbane to be with his partner. Jonathan likes adventure. He has driven from Sydney to the tip of Cape York with a homemade plywood boat, which his friends then sailed across the Torres Strait. He has sailed from Sydney to Forster/Tuncurry and back, and has spent time in the Northern Territory researching factual details for a forthcoming novel.
The youngest of three siblings, Jonathan likes arts and entertainment, sports and leisure, and all the other categories on the Trivial Pursuit board.
Settling in Sydney, Jonathan joined the NSW Writers’ Centre and completed several courses in pursuit of his childhood dream: to write stories for publication. He also played doubles with the then-Director of the Centre, combining his love of literature with his enthusiasm for tennis.
After many good conversations and a few good shots, he followed his heart to Brisbane to be with his partner. Jonathan likes adventure. He has driven from Sydney to the tip of Cape York with a homemade plywood boat, which his friends then sailed across the Torres Strait. He has sailed from Sydney to Forster/Tuncurry and back, and has spent time in the Northern Territory researching factual details for a forthcoming novel.
The youngest of three siblings, Jonathan likes arts and entertainment, sports and leisure, and all the other categories on the Trivial Pursuit board.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
February 12, 2015
Measured and Elegant YA Fantasy/Romance
I enjoyed this book because, while it doesn't necessarily break any new ground, what it does it does very well.
We have a parallel fae world and a hero and a heroine who travel between that fantastical world and a pretty gritty version of our world. The two are fated to be a couple, and after a bout of amnesia our hero realizes he needs to return to the fae world to save his love and to save both worlds from an evil force. As I said, pretty conventional.
But, there is a reason why these sorts of tales are so popular and it seems to me that the more compelling question is whether the author has crafted an engaging tale onto these old bones. With some reservations, the answer for me was "Yes".
More so than is usually the case the story focuses on the realities of our world and tries to put the urb in urban noir. This isn't "Train Watching", but it does make a sincere effort to move beyond just the fun fantasy world.
On the YA romance front, once we get to swoony or dreamy or even just expressions of hotness I start losing interest. This romance seems more, well, romantic, and has the feel of a legendary medieval coupling. (When Aragorn tells the tale of Beren and Luthien, (note our heroine's name), in "Lord of the Rings", he omits any reference to Beren's studliness or Luthien's hot bod. Their love is a given and fated. Same thing here.)
This isn't a big actioner in a swordplay sense. But there is power and might displayed in Minaea, and the powers of good and evil go in for fantastic and magical shock and awe. Again that's O.K. by me because I don't need long chapters that read like the invasion of Normandy with halberds.
And if all of this sounds too tame, remember that we also have a ruined Scottish castle, fairy sidekicks, a Sparkling Man apparition, a dream Dark Man, demons, a pretty interesting Minaea, and a titanic struggle between good and eeevil. That's enough to reward my effort.
Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book in exchange for a candid review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.
I enjoyed this book because, while it doesn't necessarily break any new ground, what it does it does very well.
We have a parallel fae world and a hero and a heroine who travel between that fantastical world and a pretty gritty version of our world. The two are fated to be a couple, and after a bout of amnesia our hero realizes he needs to return to the fae world to save his love and to save both worlds from an evil force. As I said, pretty conventional.
But, there is a reason why these sorts of tales are so popular and it seems to me that the more compelling question is whether the author has crafted an engaging tale onto these old bones. With some reservations, the answer for me was "Yes".
More so than is usually the case the story focuses on the realities of our world and tries to put the urb in urban noir. This isn't "Train Watching", but it does make a sincere effort to move beyond just the fun fantasy world.
On the YA romance front, once we get to swoony or dreamy or even just expressions of hotness I start losing interest. This romance seems more, well, romantic, and has the feel of a legendary medieval coupling. (When Aragorn tells the tale of Beren and Luthien, (note our heroine's name), in "Lord of the Rings", he omits any reference to Beren's studliness or Luthien's hot bod. Their love is a given and fated. Same thing here.)
This isn't a big actioner in a swordplay sense. But there is power and might displayed in Minaea, and the powers of good and evil go in for fantastic and magical shock and awe. Again that's O.K. by me because I don't need long chapters that read like the invasion of Normandy with halberds.
And if all of this sounds too tame, remember that we also have a ruined Scottish castle, fairy sidekicks, a Sparkling Man apparition, a dream Dark Man, demons, a pretty interesting Minaea, and a titanic struggle between good and eeevil. That's enough to reward my effort.
Please note that I received a free advance ecopy of this book in exchange for a candid review. Apart from that I have no connection at all to either the author or the publisher of this book.
September 10, 2013
Be warned: this tale sinks its hooks in early.
The blood moon motif, featured on the cover, is an incredibly effective device to draw you in from the opening chapters and intensify the sense of urgency towards the ultimate climax.
The social consciousness imbuing A Wicked Kind Of Dark provides depth. There is a lovely parallel of the everyday, humble heroism at the soup kitchen with the earth-shattering powers of pillar fae. There is also a juxtaposition between overcoming our 'human demons' ─ the darkness that marks innocence ─ and the sickening imagery of Minaea's evil that probes Earth.
As someone who immerses themselves in fiction to be transported, and to grapple with our human condition, I found it powerful to see 'imagination' linking characters from the two worlds and as the potent tipping point towards the end. The skilful rendering of childhood memories is evocative and convincing and a fitting contrast to the disenchantment that can come with adolescence. As such the book will surely speak to and satisfy teen and young adult readers.
The 'sidekick' characters add colour. The scene-stealing Allaria’s fae perspective and personality offer comic relief and help to further enrich the interplay between characters, making you care more deeply about their fates. The clever mirror-like ending inverting the lovers’ roles rounds off the tale nicely while building suspense for the next episode in a fictional creation that I was reluctant to leave. Kudos to J.K.Benton whose original voice should propel his writing career to fantastical heights.
The blood moon motif, featured on the cover, is an incredibly effective device to draw you in from the opening chapters and intensify the sense of urgency towards the ultimate climax.
The social consciousness imbuing A Wicked Kind Of Dark provides depth. There is a lovely parallel of the everyday, humble heroism at the soup kitchen with the earth-shattering powers of pillar fae. There is also a juxtaposition between overcoming our 'human demons' ─ the darkness that marks innocence ─ and the sickening imagery of Minaea's evil that probes Earth.
As someone who immerses themselves in fiction to be transported, and to grapple with our human condition, I found it powerful to see 'imagination' linking characters from the two worlds and as the potent tipping point towards the end. The skilful rendering of childhood memories is evocative and convincing and a fitting contrast to the disenchantment that can come with adolescence. As such the book will surely speak to and satisfy teen and young adult readers.
The 'sidekick' characters add colour. The scene-stealing Allaria’s fae perspective and personality offer comic relief and help to further enrich the interplay between characters, making you care more deeply about their fates. The clever mirror-like ending inverting the lovers’ roles rounds off the tale nicely while building suspense for the next episode in a fictional creation that I was reluctant to leave. Kudos to J.K.Benton whose original voice should propel his writing career to fantastical heights.
March 13, 2021
This is a very interesting novel. I love how the author combined all fanatsy stories and ideas into one whole idea. It makes you familiar with certain aspects while getting you to imagine something wholly different. Enjoyable to read. Exciting to imagine. A thrilling and nostalgic ride. I really liked it and recommend to all fantasy readers. I most definitely want to check out the other novels in this series now.
September 9, 2013
As a fast reader with an insatiable appetite for fiction, I am always on the lookout for up and coming authors whose work I can follow. After reading Jonathan K Benton's debut novel, "A Wicked Kind of Dark", I have a new favourite author to add to my list!
What I truly love about this book is how relatable the characters and locations are. Many fantasy writers seem to make their worlds so far removed from our own that I find it impossible to connect with them.
Although the main character Robert is only 18 years old, I found that I could easily relate to him as a 30 year old woman. His sense of loneliness, vulnerability and feeling cut off from times in his life where he was truly happy are something that everybody can understand, young or old.
The juxtaposition in the book between the gritty urban landscape of London and the magical world of Minea not only kept my interest high as I was reading, but also highlighted the differences to me between the two worlds. As a native Londoner now living in Australia, I was extremely impressed by Benton's description of the sights, sounds and smells of my home city.
I also felt that Benton is telling his readers not to let go of the way that they saw the world when they were young. Many of us, myself included, become disillusioned with life and forget the people that we thought we would become as adults. As we see Robert's journey unfold, the author is reminding us all that it is important to remember how magical the world looked to us as children.
Overall, 5 stars from me. I can't wait to read whatever Jonathan K Benton has planned for his readers in the future!
What I truly love about this book is how relatable the characters and locations are. Many fantasy writers seem to make their worlds so far removed from our own that I find it impossible to connect with them.
Although the main character Robert is only 18 years old, I found that I could easily relate to him as a 30 year old woman. His sense of loneliness, vulnerability and feeling cut off from times in his life where he was truly happy are something that everybody can understand, young or old.
The juxtaposition in the book between the gritty urban landscape of London and the magical world of Minea not only kept my interest high as I was reading, but also highlighted the differences to me between the two worlds. As a native Londoner now living in Australia, I was extremely impressed by Benton's description of the sights, sounds and smells of my home city.
I also felt that Benton is telling his readers not to let go of the way that they saw the world when they were young. Many of us, myself included, become disillusioned with life and forget the people that we thought we would become as adults. As we see Robert's journey unfold, the author is reminding us all that it is important to remember how magical the world looked to us as children.
Overall, 5 stars from me. I can't wait to read whatever Jonathan K Benton has planned for his readers in the future!
October 27, 2014
"Review published in the October 28th 2014 edition of the Gold Coast Bulletin"
WHOA. Can I just say that I’ve never had a book that has made me laugh, cry and frown all in one sitting.
Benton’s debut novel, A Wicked Kind of Dark, follows the witty Robert Duncan who is left with a large part of his memory missing after an incident from his childhood. Robert finds himself obsessed with a beautiful red-haired girl whose familiarity continues to baffle him. But with the help of some new friends, he soon fights against the dark forces to save the girl before it’s too late.
Honestly, I’m so happy to see a fantasy piece that combines a little bit of reality within it. My emotions were constantly switching from tears because of the back story, to laughter at some of the hilarious dialogue. Although this piece is suitable for all ages, Benton has captured the very essence of what it’s like to be a teenager trying to figure things out for themselves.
This young adult fiction piece has done an amazing job at proving just how important it is to see the world through the eyes of our inner innocence.
WHOA. Can I just say that I’ve never had a book that has made me laugh, cry and frown all in one sitting.
Benton’s debut novel, A Wicked Kind of Dark, follows the witty Robert Duncan who is left with a large part of his memory missing after an incident from his childhood. Robert finds himself obsessed with a beautiful red-haired girl whose familiarity continues to baffle him. But with the help of some new friends, he soon fights against the dark forces to save the girl before it’s too late.
Honestly, I’m so happy to see a fantasy piece that combines a little bit of reality within it. My emotions were constantly switching from tears because of the back story, to laughter at some of the hilarious dialogue. Although this piece is suitable for all ages, Benton has captured the very essence of what it’s like to be a teenager trying to figure things out for themselves.
This young adult fiction piece has done an amazing job at proving just how important it is to see the world through the eyes of our inner innocence.
November 28, 2013
NOTE: I received this title via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
It's official - this book barely took me to the end. It was unrealistic, it was shallow, it was unbelievable. Perhaps it was written for middle grade audience, but then again, if that were the case why would the characters be 17+ years old?
I just feel a bit sorry I wasted my time on it. Honestly, there are only a handful of books that have made me write something like that, but I can't bend my opinion to suit anyone. That's why it's called an honest review, I gather.
The writing style was laughable. I was more often rolling my eyes and tsk-ing than doing any valuable reading. I was eager to turn the pages so I would finally, FINALLY get to the end and be done with it. Why didn't I leave it unfinished? Gosh, I don't really know. I think it's because I was willing to give it a chance to improve, although it should've been obvious by the middle of it that it wasn't going to happen. *sigh* What's a reader willing to do just to give a higher rating...
Anyway, the story was okay. Mediocre. Unremarkable. It had potential to turn into one of those novels that people start reading after finishing Harry Potter. But having potential is quite different from using that potential and turning it into a masterpiece. I felt cheated, to be honest, that my expectations were not met.
I'd hoped for a fairy world, great tribulations in the 'wicked dark' as the title put it so well... but got nothing. I was told lots of things, but experienced nothing. I felt no compassion for the characters, I felt no desire to relief them from their troubles. Nothing at all stirred me up. I was simply an observer who wasn't taken at all by any part of this novel. None at all.
The characters didn't impress me in the slightest. I can't name even one of them without really thinking about it. The lead male, a 17 year old boy who suffers from amnesia, did not develop or grow at all. His female counterpart was there for only about 30-50 pages of the novel, so I can't really say anything about her either.
I guess the people who actually had some backbone and a slight bit of character were the artist and the Soho Soup place owner, and perhaps I do know their names, but I'm not all that sure. They were the ones who urged our male lead to believe.
Uh-huh. The boy was a coward through and through. And believing was supposed to save the world? Well, from what I saw, just believing means nothing. If the guy was less tense and more perceiving of the things surrounding him, he might've had the chance to survive in a less constraint manner.
In conclusion I can only say that A Wicked Kind of Dark did not meet my expectations. It didn't even meet half of them.
It's official - this book barely took me to the end. It was unrealistic, it was shallow, it was unbelievable. Perhaps it was written for middle grade audience, but then again, if that were the case why would the characters be 17+ years old?
I just feel a bit sorry I wasted my time on it. Honestly, there are only a handful of books that have made me write something like that, but I can't bend my opinion to suit anyone. That's why it's called an honest review, I gather.
The writing style was laughable. I was more often rolling my eyes and tsk-ing than doing any valuable reading. I was eager to turn the pages so I would finally, FINALLY get to the end and be done with it. Why didn't I leave it unfinished? Gosh, I don't really know. I think it's because I was willing to give it a chance to improve, although it should've been obvious by the middle of it that it wasn't going to happen. *sigh* What's a reader willing to do just to give a higher rating...
Anyway, the story was okay. Mediocre. Unremarkable. It had potential to turn into one of those novels that people start reading after finishing Harry Potter. But having potential is quite different from using that potential and turning it into a masterpiece. I felt cheated, to be honest, that my expectations were not met.
I'd hoped for a fairy world, great tribulations in the 'wicked dark' as the title put it so well... but got nothing. I was told lots of things, but experienced nothing. I felt no compassion for the characters, I felt no desire to relief them from their troubles. Nothing at all stirred me up. I was simply an observer who wasn't taken at all by any part of this novel. None at all.
The characters didn't impress me in the slightest. I can't name even one of them without really thinking about it. The lead male, a 17 year old boy who suffers from amnesia, did not develop or grow at all. His female counterpart was there for only about 30-50 pages of the novel, so I can't really say anything about her either.
I guess the people who actually had some backbone and a slight bit of character were the artist and the Soho Soup place owner, and perhaps I do know their names, but I'm not all that sure. They were the ones who urged our male lead to believe.
Uh-huh. The boy was a coward through and through. And believing was supposed to save the world? Well, from what I saw, just believing means nothing. If the guy was less tense and more perceiving of the things surrounding him, he might've had the chance to survive in a less constraint manner.
In conclusion I can only say that A Wicked Kind of Dark did not meet my expectations. It didn't even meet half of them.
August 19, 2013
It starts with a phone call, mysterious graffiti and a name. Luthien.
Robert Duncan can’t remember six months of his life after his parents died in a tragic house fire. One day he gets a phone call from a woman screaming at him to help Luthien before it’s too late – the only problem is that Robert has never heard the name before… or maybe he has. Robert sees a painting of a beautiful flame-haired girl and knows instinctively that it’s her. The girl he’s supposed to save – his Luthien. With the help of Dennis and Arthur – former alcoholics who have been shown the way by The Sparkling Man - Robert starts to question the Winter of No Content, as he calls his half-year period of amnesia. Who is Luthien to him and why is Robert the only one who can save her?
Conceptually I loved this book. There’s a lot of mystery mixed in with a great dose of fantasy. The ideas of the twin souls and distant realms to be travelled to through the power of the mind are incredible. The world of Minaea and the creatures who inhabit it are interesting and remind me of other fantasy kingdoms I’ve read before – in a good way. I liked the adventure Robert went on and how the plot developed as the story went on. I enjoyed Benton’s use of language to paint the scene. I adored his use of colour at the start of chapter one.
Where this book falls down for me is whilst I liked the ideas, I found it fell down a little in terms of execution. There were many times when I found myself slightly confused as to exactly who certain characters were. I also think that Robert felt a little old – his ability to instantly believe the impossible felt more appropriate for the young boy he had been prior the Winter of No Content rather than the young man on the verge of adulthood that he is in present day. That aside – this is a great read.
A Wicked Kind of Dark is an interesting read with fantasy elements that also touches on social issues like homelessness and alcoholism. A great debut for author Jonathan K Benton, this first book of the Minaea Chronicles offers fantasy lovers an exciting read with fantastic ideas.
Robert Duncan can’t remember six months of his life after his parents died in a tragic house fire. One day he gets a phone call from a woman screaming at him to help Luthien before it’s too late – the only problem is that Robert has never heard the name before… or maybe he has. Robert sees a painting of a beautiful flame-haired girl and knows instinctively that it’s her. The girl he’s supposed to save – his Luthien. With the help of Dennis and Arthur – former alcoholics who have been shown the way by The Sparkling Man - Robert starts to question the Winter of No Content, as he calls his half-year period of amnesia. Who is Luthien to him and why is Robert the only one who can save her?
Conceptually I loved this book. There’s a lot of mystery mixed in with a great dose of fantasy. The ideas of the twin souls and distant realms to be travelled to through the power of the mind are incredible. The world of Minaea and the creatures who inhabit it are interesting and remind me of other fantasy kingdoms I’ve read before – in a good way. I liked the adventure Robert went on and how the plot developed as the story went on. I enjoyed Benton’s use of language to paint the scene. I adored his use of colour at the start of chapter one.
Where this book falls down for me is whilst I liked the ideas, I found it fell down a little in terms of execution. There were many times when I found myself slightly confused as to exactly who certain characters were. I also think that Robert felt a little old – his ability to instantly believe the impossible felt more appropriate for the young boy he had been prior the Winter of No Content rather than the young man on the verge of adulthood that he is in present day. That aside – this is a great read.
A Wicked Kind of Dark is an interesting read with fantasy elements that also touches on social issues like homelessness and alcoholism. A great debut for author Jonathan K Benton, this first book of the Minaea Chronicles offers fantasy lovers an exciting read with fantastic ideas.
September 15, 2013
A Wicked Kind of Dark is a debut urban fantasy novel and the first in a planned series named The Minaea Chronicles. Author Jonathan K. Benton introduces eighteen year old Robert Duncan, who as a child was badly hurt in a fall and lost six months of his memory, a period he calls the Winter of No Content. Robert has always wondered about the mysterious gap, then a static filled phone call, a portrait of a somehow familiar flame haired woman and graffiti appearing all over London referring to the coming 'blood moon' triggers the unraveling of his childhood secrets and reveals the kingdom of Minaea.
The real world setting is divided between modern day London, where Robert currently lives, and rural Scotland where he spent his childhood. It was in Scotland that Robert met Luthien, a young girl who became his best friend as they played in nearby castle ruins imagining a fantastic world they named Minaea. Luthien was presumed to have died in the same accident that injured Robert but the recent events in London seem to suggest otherwise.
Benton's fantasy world, Minaea, is heavily influenced by Tolkien, and I wonder if A Wicked Kind of Dark began as some kind of fan fiction. There are several direct references to the novel but also evident parallels combined with the author's own touches. One of these is the concept of 'twin souls', Robert and Luthien are paired with Minaea's Lord and Lady of the Light - Rafael Lae (The Sparkling Man) and Tala Lae, and they need each other to fight the demon Jakal's evil plan to destroy Minaea and invade Earth.
A strength of the story is its social conscience element regarding homelessness. Robert, in his quest for answers, becomes involved in a London Soup Kitchen with people whose lives have been changed by an encounter with The Sparkling Man.
Primarily where the novel doesn't quite work for me is that I felt A Wicked Kind of Dark seemed more like a MG (middle grade) fantasy later edited in an attempt to expand its appeal to a more mature young adult audience and I think the story is weakened as a result. It was just an okay read for me.
January 6, 2014
Robert Duncan no longer believes in magic. A mysterious call about a blood moon, however, leads him back to the magical world of his childhood and to Luthien, the beautiful girl with flame-coloured hair, who he loved and lost.
As Robert unravels the secrets of his childhood, darkness enters his life and an ancient evil awakens. To have any chance of defeating the dark forces that would destroy two worlds, Robert must find Luthien before the rise of the blood moon. He must, once more, believe in magic …
A Wicked Kind of Dark mixes vast and spectacular fantasy landscapes with gritty urban reality. A must-read for people of all ages who believe in the power of imagination, and the importance of never losing touch with your inner child.
The descriptive of this book draws you into a world of fantasy, but what you actually get is a mundane memory in an urban setting.
For the most part I found myself questioning and rereading to make sure I wasn’t missing anything.
It was as if the writer assumed the reader already knew about this world without describing if this world was real or just in the imagination of children.
Once the fantastical world of Minaea emerges into this story the pace picks up but still the reader is being told too often that this is how it is and should be.
The creatures and people of this world need a descriptive. I wanted to imagine this world and be drawn in.
Incredibly I find myself willing this story along, wanting it to get me more involved but the monotony held me back.
I hope any future parts to this book develop into something great.
Copy Supplied For Review.
As Robert unravels the secrets of his childhood, darkness enters his life and an ancient evil awakens. To have any chance of defeating the dark forces that would destroy two worlds, Robert must find Luthien before the rise of the blood moon. He must, once more, believe in magic …
A Wicked Kind of Dark mixes vast and spectacular fantasy landscapes with gritty urban reality. A must-read for people of all ages who believe in the power of imagination, and the importance of never losing touch with your inner child.
The descriptive of this book draws you into a world of fantasy, but what you actually get is a mundane memory in an urban setting.
For the most part I found myself questioning and rereading to make sure I wasn’t missing anything.
It was as if the writer assumed the reader already knew about this world without describing if this world was real or just in the imagination of children.
Once the fantastical world of Minaea emerges into this story the pace picks up but still the reader is being told too often that this is how it is and should be.
The creatures and people of this world need a descriptive. I wanted to imagine this world and be drawn in.
Incredibly I find myself willing this story along, wanting it to get me more involved but the monotony held me back.
I hope any future parts to this book develop into something great.
Copy Supplied For Review.
October 2, 2013
i got this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review..
i really could not get into this book. i wanted to read this book because of the cover, and it was nothing like i thought it was going to be. i am not a mythology kind of person, and i thought this book was a fantasy book with witches, goblins, etc
Robert Duncan can't remember six months of his life after his parents died in a tragic house fire. One day he gets a phone call from a woman screaming at him to help Luthien before it's too late - the only problem is that Robert has never heard the name before... or maybe he has. Robert sees a painting of a beautiful flame-haired girl and knows instinctively that it's her. The girl he's supposed to save - his Luthien. after a traumatic incident, has lost a season of his life from when he was 10 years old. Through some magical coincidence, he ends up connecting with owners of a soup kitchen that lead him to rediscovering his memories. In those memories is his youthful crush, Luthien. Their adorable friendship/crush seems fairly normal until we learn that their play at make believe was actually real. Their magical world exists parallel to the human world and is set to crash into it if Robert and Luthien can't reconnect and stop it.
With the help of Dennis and Arthur - former alcoholics who have been shown the way by The Sparkling Man - Robert starts to question the Winter of No Content, as he calls his half-year period of amnesia. Who is Luthien to him and why is Robert the only one who can save her?
i really could not get into this book. i wanted to read this book because of the cover, and it was nothing like i thought it was going to be. i am not a mythology kind of person, and i thought this book was a fantasy book with witches, goblins, etc
Robert Duncan can't remember six months of his life after his parents died in a tragic house fire. One day he gets a phone call from a woman screaming at him to help Luthien before it's too late - the only problem is that Robert has never heard the name before... or maybe he has. Robert sees a painting of a beautiful flame-haired girl and knows instinctively that it's her. The girl he's supposed to save - his Luthien. after a traumatic incident, has lost a season of his life from when he was 10 years old. Through some magical coincidence, he ends up connecting with owners of a soup kitchen that lead him to rediscovering his memories. In those memories is his youthful crush, Luthien. Their adorable friendship/crush seems fairly normal until we learn that their play at make believe was actually real. Their magical world exists parallel to the human world and is set to crash into it if Robert and Luthien can't reconnect and stop it.
With the help of Dennis and Arthur - former alcoholics who have been shown the way by The Sparkling Man - Robert starts to question the Winter of No Content, as he calls his half-year period of amnesia. Who is Luthien to him and why is Robert the only one who can save her?
September 29, 2013
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I admit it -- I had a really hard time getting through this book. I think I wasn't really prepared for style and genre. Maybe if the cover showed me a fantasy world filled with pixies and goblins, I might have been better prepared. I'm not one for high fantasy books and the first 50% was filled with a lot of world building big fantasy that scared me a lot. We get very rapidly thrown into a world that is not my typical book setting. That being said, I finished the last half of the book rather quickly because the action ramped up quite a bit.
The story is actually about a boy named Robert who, after a traumatic incident, has lost a season of his life from when he was 10 years old. Through some magical coincidence, he ends up connecting with owners of a soup kitchen that lead him to rediscovering his memories. In those memories is his youthful crush, Luthien. Their adorable friendship/crush seems fairly normal until we learn that their play at make believe was actually real. Their magical world exists parallel to the human world and is set to crash into it if Robert and Luthien can't reconnect and stop it.
After powering though the last half of the book, I was pretty disappointed to discover that there was no satisfying conclusion to the story. I assume there will be a second book to pick up where this one ends, but I wish there was at least some glimmer of happy ending.
I admit it -- I had a really hard time getting through this book. I think I wasn't really prepared for style and genre. Maybe if the cover showed me a fantasy world filled with pixies and goblins, I might have been better prepared. I'm not one for high fantasy books and the first 50% was filled with a lot of world building big fantasy that scared me a lot. We get very rapidly thrown into a world that is not my typical book setting. That being said, I finished the last half of the book rather quickly because the action ramped up quite a bit.
The story is actually about a boy named Robert who, after a traumatic incident, has lost a season of his life from when he was 10 years old. Through some magical coincidence, he ends up connecting with owners of a soup kitchen that lead him to rediscovering his memories. In those memories is his youthful crush, Luthien. Their adorable friendship/crush seems fairly normal until we learn that their play at make believe was actually real. Their magical world exists parallel to the human world and is set to crash into it if Robert and Luthien can't reconnect and stop it.
After powering though the last half of the book, I was pretty disappointed to discover that there was no satisfying conclusion to the story. I assume there will be a second book to pick up where this one ends, but I wish there was at least some glimmer of happy ending.
November 5, 2013
2.5 stars
An imaginative debut, but unfortunately not one that worked for me. That said, there were things that I found enjoyable, so I'm torn between a 2.5 and 3 rating.
Much of the phrasing is lovely, quite lyrical but the earlier dialogue and flow of the story felt awkward. I didn't care much at all for the characters, Robert included, however Allaria from the world of fae was a feisty and funny addition to the cast, she stole the show.
Alternating between the real world and fantasy world of Minaea, this reminded me a little of The Bridge To Terabithia (which I loved) and the wonderful world of a child's imagination. The twin soul concept was intriguing and will obviously be explored further in future books.
I enjoyed the social issues highlighted, homelessness, isolation and the rewards reaped from helping others, the focus being a soup kitchen in London where the main characters are drawn after encounters with "the Sparkling man".
The elements are there for an enjoyable story but I just didn't connect with it on a whole, maybe it comes down to execution?? From my disjointed review, I'm guessing things are about as clear as mud so for clarity and other opinions check out GoodReads.
The target audience is YA but perhaps this one is more suited to the middle grade or early teen reader?
An imaginative debut, but unfortunately not one that worked for me. That said, there were things that I found enjoyable, so I'm torn between a 2.5 and 3 rating.
Much of the phrasing is lovely, quite lyrical but the earlier dialogue and flow of the story felt awkward. I didn't care much at all for the characters, Robert included, however Allaria from the world of fae was a feisty and funny addition to the cast, she stole the show.
Alternating between the real world and fantasy world of Minaea, this reminded me a little of The Bridge To Terabithia (which I loved) and the wonderful world of a child's imagination. The twin soul concept was intriguing and will obviously be explored further in future books.
I enjoyed the social issues highlighted, homelessness, isolation and the rewards reaped from helping others, the focus being a soup kitchen in London where the main characters are drawn after encounters with "the Sparkling man".
The elements are there for an enjoyable story but I just didn't connect with it on a whole, maybe it comes down to execution?? From my disjointed review, I'm guessing things are about as clear as mud so for clarity and other opinions check out GoodReads.
The target audience is YA but perhaps this one is more suited to the middle grade or early teen reader?
April 23, 2015
I received a copy of this story through Net Galley. yay books!
Possible spoilers ahead.
I liked the general idea for this story, and the story in itself wasn't too bad...but, well, I felt that everything in the book happened without feeling. I don't know, maybe it's just me. I also felt that most of this story happened too fast (again without emotion) while other parts happened too slow.
I also felt that I knew what was going to happen before certain things happened. Such as the false twin. Yeah, saw that one coming from a mile away. Then wondered why the characters in the book could to figure it out.
Really? Was Robert just ignoring the blaring oblivious
Then there were other parts of the story, that I still haven't figured out, and had to go back and re-read those parts. I though at first it may have to do with the fact that the characters are Scottish/ British, and thought maybe I was missing cultural type things that I needed to know. But as I kept reading, I knew that couldn't be it, because even though I was born and raised in America, I did spend some time in England, and could understand most of the differences the first time reading.
So, I don't know. I still feel like I'm missing something, like their feelings. But other than that it was a somewhat enjoyable read.
Possible spoilers ahead.
I liked the general idea for this story, and the story in itself wasn't too bad...but, well, I felt that everything in the book happened without feeling. I don't know, maybe it's just me. I also felt that most of this story happened too fast (again without emotion) while other parts happened too slow.
I also felt that I knew what was going to happen before certain things happened. Such as the false twin. Yeah, saw that one coming from a mile away. Then wondered why the characters in the book could to figure it out.
Really? Was Robert just ignoring the blaring oblivious
Then there were other parts of the story, that I still haven't figured out, and had to go back and re-read those parts. I though at first it may have to do with the fact that the characters are Scottish/ British, and thought maybe I was missing cultural type things that I needed to know. But as I kept reading, I knew that couldn't be it, because even though I was born and raised in America, I did spend some time in England, and could understand most of the differences the first time reading.
So, I don't know. I still feel like I'm missing something, like their feelings. But other than that it was a somewhat enjoyable read.
September 15, 2013
‘A wicked kind of dark’ is a great read
‘A wicked kind of dark’ grabbed my attention and time from the first page. This genre is not usually my thing but Benton writes a story that is not only beautifully crafted but is also gripping and whimsical. The imagery used paints wonderful pictures of the people and places, and makes the magical elements such as the demons and star gems quite real. The characters are well developed and their stories took me on a hugely satisfying journey through the two worlds. Allaria has a curious sense of wisdom, quirkiness and humour that strikes a poignant chord and connects the world of fae with our everyday lives. Benton manages superbly well to intertwine our society’s traumatised and damaged with the world of fantasy, and makes a significant social comment through Dennis, the rough sleepers and the other soup kitchen characters. Lady Buchanan and Gabriel were for me, brilliant, and I experienced a real sense of loss when they died. Benton’s descriptive and literary writing gives this book a uniquely refreshing slant on the urban fantasy genre. I wait with much impatience for the next book in the series.
‘A wicked kind of dark’ grabbed my attention and time from the first page. This genre is not usually my thing but Benton writes a story that is not only beautifully crafted but is also gripping and whimsical. The imagery used paints wonderful pictures of the people and places, and makes the magical elements such as the demons and star gems quite real. The characters are well developed and their stories took me on a hugely satisfying journey through the two worlds. Allaria has a curious sense of wisdom, quirkiness and humour that strikes a poignant chord and connects the world of fae with our everyday lives. Benton manages superbly well to intertwine our society’s traumatised and damaged with the world of fantasy, and makes a significant social comment through Dennis, the rough sleepers and the other soup kitchen characters. Lady Buchanan and Gabriel were for me, brilliant, and I experienced a real sense of loss when they died. Benton’s descriptive and literary writing gives this book a uniquely refreshing slant on the urban fantasy genre. I wait with much impatience for the next book in the series.
August 15, 2013
I'm um-ing and ah-ing between 3.5 stars and 4...on the one hand I really did enjoy the whole premise. The idea of the connected worlds and the mirrored twin souls was fascinating and there's some really distinctive and lovable characters. Minaea was an amazing backdrop for parts of the book and I'd love to hear more about it. Robert's childhood imagination and innocence took me back to my own and I loved the play on the Winter of No Content. Clever. On the other hand however, while we got a general sense of foreboding when talking of the shadowlands, I never really got a good reason to be terrified of Jakal himself. But the scary man on the train, he gave me the heebee jeebies. I predicted the big bad quite early on, and, well, the battle scene was a bit cliche. The epilogue was probably my favourite chapter though and as I was reading it I'm betting I had a serious case of epic sadface.
August 31, 2013
For starters, the prologue of this book totally threw me and nearly made me put it down again. It's very 'high fantasy', whereas from chapter one we're given a big chunk of urban normality... until Minaea. Later on the book becomes a mesh of urban and fantasy life, so the prologue makes more sense then.
I thought the book was very well-written, lyrical and almost poetic at times, honest and straight at other times, but for some reason it just didn't grab me. I feel that younger readers would enjoy it more than me, an adult who likes YA books. Although you get a good feel for the world through Robert's thoughts and feelings, I never really connected with him. There's just something about the writing, the way things are explained, that has a younger reader feel to it. I think when I was about 14 I would have loved it! The Sparkling Man is an amazing character, and the scary man on the train really gave me the heebie-jeebies.
I thought the book was very well-written, lyrical and almost poetic at times, honest and straight at other times, but for some reason it just didn't grab me. I feel that younger readers would enjoy it more than me, an adult who likes YA books. Although you get a good feel for the world through Robert's thoughts and feelings, I never really connected with him. There's just something about the writing, the way things are explained, that has a younger reader feel to it. I think when I was about 14 I would have loved it! The Sparkling Man is an amazing character, and the scary man on the train really gave me the heebie-jeebies.
August 10, 2014
This book is pretty good and the story intriguing but there's something off about it. The way the narrative is told is just so analytical; you can't really connect with Robert. The writing style is one that tells us rather than shows us what's going on, if you've ever heard the phrase before. For example, there are parts where the author tells us that Robert's heart is beating really fast; problem is, mine isn't beating fast with it. The plot might hook you with the mystery and fantasy, both things I enjoy, but the writing style creates a disconnect between reader and the character. Another thing I didn't really like about the book is the amnesia technique; I don't like it when authors use amnesia as the driving force behind a novel's beginning, of not the whole book. And amnesia plots are rarely pull of well :/ Still, I'd tell people to give this book a try. The plot is good even though some things might bother the reader.
September 11, 2013
I received this book for an honest review.
It took me until chapter 3 before I really got into the book. After that, I was pretty much sucked in. The imagery used reminded my of T.H. White's The Once and Future King. I felt as though I was with Robert and Luthien as they travelled through Minaea. A tale of a damsel in distress and the hero that has to remember why he might need to save her. We are taken on this journey as Robert struggles with his past in order to save his future.
We are given the chance to experience life in two different worlds through the eyes of children and adults. I could see, sense, and smell the world almost as if I was there myself. This is the reason I fell in love with reading and I am grateful to Mr. Benton for the experience.
I was reminded of how wonderful a gift the imagination is.
It took me until chapter 3 before I really got into the book. After that, I was pretty much sucked in. The imagery used reminded my of T.H. White's The Once and Future King. I felt as though I was with Robert and Luthien as they travelled through Minaea. A tale of a damsel in distress and the hero that has to remember why he might need to save her. We are taken on this journey as Robert struggles with his past in order to save his future.
We are given the chance to experience life in two different worlds through the eyes of children and adults. I could see, sense, and smell the world almost as if I was there myself. This is the reason I fell in love with reading and I am grateful to Mr. Benton for the experience.
I was reminded of how wonderful a gift the imagination is.
October 11, 2013
The story centres around a 17 year old Scottish boy named Robert Duncan, who due to trauma at the age of 10, was left with a big chunk of his memory missing. His parents die in a house fire and he goes to live with his older brother in London. A series of coincidences lead him to a painting of a beautiful red-haired girl and he is suddenly obsessed, having an overwhelming feeling that he knows her. Slowly his memory starts to return with the help of some newly found friends and he has to race against time to try and save this girl before it is too late.
The book is very well written and flows well. It is full of fantasy, magic and mystery that keeps you guessing till the very end. If you love paranormal creatures and mythical planes, then you will really enjoy this book.
The book is very well written and flows well. It is full of fantasy, magic and mystery that keeps you guessing till the very end. If you love paranormal creatures and mythical planes, then you will really enjoy this book.
September 21, 2013
I love the cover and the red haired beauty brings more color and attention to the cover. I'm not sure but it feels like the book is a YA. THAT'S GREAT because my daughter and I can both read it if it is. I love that the book is about magic and the blood moon. I think this is going to be a great read and filled with excitement. Thanks so much for the giveaway and good luck to everyone.
September 14, 2013
I Finished reading this book 2 days ago, My mum gave it to me and said to read it. I really liked the idea of minaea and loved the way he pieced it together. I thought Tala Lae was a great character and would love to enjoy to read more about her in the next book if there is one.
September 26, 2013
This book was given to me by a friend who knows the author. I passed it on to my 11 year old. She loved it. She thinks Allaria the fairy is a funny character. She says the ending is sad and wants to find out what happens next.
August 30, 2013
just amazing!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2013
I love the book and haven't wanted to put it down. The characters are interesting and lively. Can't wait for book 2.
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