Dark Muse

by David Simms

Sixteen year old Muddy Rivers has always wanted to fit in with the "regular" crowd. He aches for a romance with his blind friend, Poe, but knows he doesn't stand a chance. He hopes that his life as the guitarist for his band, the Accidentals, will help him accomplish gaining her attention. But then his brother disappears playing a mysterious song and Muddy is plunged into a world of music where songs come to life. He must learn to harness the power of the legendary crossroads and what lies on the other side if they are to conquer a series of trials which no one expects "special" or "different" teens to survive. Along with drummer Otis, singer Poe, and saxophonist Corey, Muddy must cross the river that is the source for all creativity. Once there, the band fights a world alive with horrors and realize their path to redemption is hindered by obstacles that may destroy them: the Tritons, vicious inhuman leaders of the strange land.

214 pages, Paperback

First published June 26, 2013

Reviews

[Nathan]

I've been reading dark muse since Friday after going to a book talk (if you want to call it that) at my school library with David Simms talking about his book Fear The Reaper and a little bit about Dark Muse, after that class period I decided to check Dark Muse out of my school library and I couldn't put it down during class untill forced to. I wanted to know more. I'm going to continue reading even though I'm not that far because I'm a slow reader but I love the music refrences and other jokes in the book.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

good book 😐

[Shannon Love · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagine a world where music renders magical powers and mystical creatures feed on human flesh. Then figure in a few booby traps. This is where Muddy Rivers and his gang takes us in search for his brother, who has vanished. Of course, the characters need a mentor to guide them. An old blues player called Silver Eye steps up to the plate. After being confronted by this group of teenage misfits, Silver Eye offers them peculiar yet exceptional instruments to carry as protection. He teaches the kids as much as they will allow and shows them the way to this other realm. Then he warns them to train with him before beginning their quest for Muddy's brother. Restless, they sneak in ahead of their teacher and face disastrous consequences.

David Simms brings the story alive with his unlikely heroes and the fantastic obstacles they must overcome. Not only is it action packed, it joggles the brain with lyrical teasers. He consistently entertains the reader with complex barriers throughout the book.

Although Dark Muse is meant for young adults, l found myself immersed in the story. If it weren't for family responsibilities, I would have finished it in one day. But, alas I had to get to the last fifty pages the following night. Meanwhile, I couldn't stop thinking about how it all would end. I rooted for the characters and cringed when they fell into trouble. But I felt especially endured to Silver Eye—a very cool card. As someone with absolutely no musical ability, I also learned a bit about the art-form. In the end I was pleased that I picked it up. Otherwise, I would have missed an amazing journey.

I recommend this book to anyone who likes fantasy. It's a fairly quick read and is sure not to disappoint.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this book on goodreads in exchange, I give an honest review.
Surprisingly this books war really enjoyable.It's not the book I would really read, but I finished it in a day and love it. The writing is fun and really good for a first novel. Muddy is one of my favorite book characters=, and if he was real I would be totally in love with him. I recommend this book to everyone who loves music, reading, and laughs.
David Simms is a really good author and I really enjoy his way of writing. I love the suspense he created in this book. I can't wait for his next book.

[Moon · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a really great story with mystery and horror surrounded by music and a wonderful characters! You have to love Muddy and all he goes through!

I would reccomend this to music lovers and lovers of horror and mystery!

This was an excellent read!

I am so happy to have won this on Goodreads and I can't wait to read more from David Simms!

[Scarlet Nicely · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark Muse takes you on a tour through two different worlds, proving that music has the power to soothe the soul, or feed the storms. David Simms creates a perfect image of the world that holds the Dark Muse, and the music, it lingers in your mind. It is a great book for musicians and fans alike.

I instantly fell in love with the band. Muddy and his friends share a bond that leaves you cheering for the under dogs.

Dark Muse was a great introduction to Simm's work. I became an instant fan

[Lee A · Rating 4 out of 5]

Normally I probably wouldn't have ever read this, but I won it on Goodreads, and I'm glad I did. I felt the book was well written, and kept me turning the pages throughout. I finished the book in 2 days which is very fast for me!! I really liked all the characters and look forward to the rest of the series. David Simms did an amazing job especially for his first book. He has certainly earned a new fan! Can't wait for more.

[Michelle Gerace · Rating 5 out of 5]

great book, excellent imagery and connection to music.