The Mingled Destinies of Crocodiles and Men

The River Dwellers

by Eric Arvin

Minerva True is a River Dweller and mystic who lives deep in the forested hills of a river valley on the fringes of the world. She is the only person who sees the ancient danger that resides on a nearby chapel grounds. Most pay little heed to her warnings, and in the end only a small band of friends stand beside her. A tale of love and duty ensues, challenging the destinies of Minerva, the young hero Leith, his lover Aubrey, and the mute boy, Deverell. Leith's half-crazed mother Calpurnia has her own aspirations, however, that prove detrimental not only to Minerva, but to everyone she comes in contact with.

Genres: Fantasy, M M Romance, Horror, Romance

398 pages, Paperback

First published April 24, 2013

About the author

Eric Arvin resided in the same sleepy Indiana river town where he grew up. He graduated from Hanover College with a Bachelors in History. He has lived, for brief periods, in Italy and Australia. He has survived brain surgery and his own loud-mouthed personal demons. Eric is the author of WOKE UP IN A STRANGE PLACE, THE MINGLED DESTINIES OF CROCODILES & MEN, SUBSURDITY, SIMPLE MEN, and various other sundry and not-so-sundry writings.

Reviews

[Heather K (dentist in my spare time) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've lusted after this book for a long time. I mean that cover! That title! Oh god, that title is so esoteric and cool. I just wanted this book so badly. I wanted to caress it and squeeze it. Oh and read it, that too...

But in my haste to get this pretty little book, I neglected to read the blurb and the comments about this one from my friends. I had a vague sense that it would be fantasy but I thought it would be more paranormal for some reason. It is not. This book is fantasy-horror and is more glbt than just strictly an m/m story. It is funky, queer fantasy for the adventurous reader. Now, I am not a horror reader, nor am I a high fantasy reader, but I decided to stick with it because it has only great reviews from people that I trust.

So what are my thoughts on this one? I'm giving this book 4 stars because I enjoyed it about 3 stars worth but I thought that it deserved five stars. It is beautifully, magically written with inventive protagonists and an interesting world. This book feels almost southern gothic to me with its queer characters and a kind of mythical, religious-tinged, voodoo sort of vibe. I found it to be a really special read.

However... I didn't love this book in equal proportions to its level of quality. I often have trouble with fantasy books in that it takes me a long time to "get" the world. I had that trouble here. I also didn't connect to the characters on a personal level. I felt detached the entire time and, because this book has horror elements, cringing as to what may be coming next. What can I say, I don't like so much death in my leisure reading!

My conclusion about this book is that if you like beautifully executed fantasy, please give this book a try. If you are squeamish like me, you might want to read a different Arvin book.

**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**

[Reem · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hauntingly beautiful.
That’s all I’m able to express at the moment, though I might edit this review later. Absolutely recommend reading it.

Con: the nature/religion/science business.

[Sucajo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not really sure how to say what I want to say about this book! From the first page I was drawn into this amazing world that was somehow both simple and incredibly intricate at the same time. It's hard to describe what this story is about - it's about family and love and faith and so much more. On the one hand, it's about horror and evil but on the other it's also about everything that's good in the world. I could ramble on for ages trying to arrange my thoughts but I won't. I'll simply say that when I finished the last page I was happy and sad at the same time and, for me, that's the sign of an amazing story.

[Madison Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full review at www.madisonparklove.com.

We get the sense right away that the Valley is a special place, a mystical place. The people (and critters) who live there aren’t like the “real-worlders” who live above the valley. But their way of life, their very existence, is in grave danger. As the story unfolds, we weep as the once pristine Valley slowly succumbs to an evil that threatens to destroy it forever, and cheer for those who champion the fight against evil. But evil comes in many forms, and Eric Arvin gives us a lot to think about here. There are demons, yes, but what other evil lurks in the shadows? Religion, science, progress. All those things that remove us from the natural world.

Early on we see that those who turn away from the spiritual offerings of the Valley become blind to its magic. How often do we, in our own lives, fail to appreciate (or even notice!) the beauty of our natural surroundings? Eric Arvin is a master at describing the natural world in vivid detail. His use of imagery brings the Valley to life in an unforgettable way.

And the characters! So complex. The story begins with Calpurnia, an outsider who, as a child, comes to live in the Valley after the death of her father. She’s a wicked girl. At times I despised her and thought she was pure evil, but at other times I felt she was just a victim of her circumstances and more a pawn than a major player, though she plays a crucial role throughout the story, as she is the catalyst for many of the events that unfold. And then there’s her counterpart, Minerva True. Though Minerva has a good heart, she suffers great misfortune, which sometimes causes her to veer off course. I loved both of these characters despite (or perhaps because of) their flaws. I also adored the young lovers, Leith and Aubrey, along with their friend Deverell, who take up the charge of battling the evil spirit set on destroying the Valley. Although their romance is not front and center in the story, it is sweet and heartfelt nonetheless. My favorite character, however, was Mother True. Though she was literally Minerva True’s mother, I tended to think of her more as “Mother Nature”. She captivated me in every scene where she made an appearance. There are numerous other characters as well, each with a unique role—some major, some minor—in the story.

I’m excited to learn there is a prequel to this book, because I’d love to know more about Azrael. Though he makes only a brief appearance in the story, he raises intriguing questions and leaves a lasting impression.

Regarding the cover art by Amy Arvin, pay no heed to the adage ”don’t judge a book by its cover.” The cover ABSOLUTELY captures the feel of the book. It evokes just the right mix of creepy, earthy, spiritual intrigue found on the pages inside. An epic battle of good versus evil—Eric Arvin delivers a seductive tale of horror, heartache, hope. I highly recommend this book for all audiences!

[Cindi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written, unique story by one of my favorite authors. An outstanding read that quickly jumped on my all-time favorites list. If I could rate this book higher than 5 stars I would.


Full review can be found at On Top Down Under Book Reviews.


This book was provided by Wilde City Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.


My #1 Favorite Book of 2013 , tied with Azrael and the Light Bringer.

My #1 Favorite Book Cover of 2013 , tied with Azrael and the Light Bringer.

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, where do I start?

I adored this book. Eric Arvin has the most beautiful way with words, he describes images and places so beautifully you can virtually smell the earth and hear the insects chirruping. It is almost a surprise when you stop reading and realise you're in your bedroom/lounge/kitchen and not the lyrical, mystical valley of the story. This is truly a gift.

The characters in the novel are exciting and complex. Minerva True and the spirit of Mother True, guard the valley from the evil Dark Eyes, but are looked on with suspicion as more and more people turn away from the valley and look to other religions or science to explain the things they don't understand. Minerva was a character you warmed to, there wasn't a bad bone in her body. She was, I feel, the matriarch of the valley, guarding and guiding. And if Minerva is the matriarch then Hamlin Marsh is the patriarch. Minerva's lover he takes on the, unwanted, role of leader of the valley and, though he has regrets and doubts, does the best he can for everyone who comes into his care.

Calpernia Covington - what a truly complex person we meet in her. We meet her as a child, new to the valley and, while she was a bit spoilt, I felt sure she was going to be the heroine of the piece. I was wrong. As the story evolved I alternated between hating her and feeling incredibly sorry for her. After all every one of her actions was done for the love of her friend Lara Kempt. She was truly misguided in her choices but love can make people act in all sorts of ways, I don't think she was really evil.

Dark Eyes - the creature in the chapel is the evil entity in this book. He causes death and pain and the desertion of the valley. With every person who leaves, or who finds guidance from a source outside of the natural valley (the church, science etc), his strength grows. It brought to mind the only thing I can remember from my long ago sociology lessons, religion is the opium of the people (Karl Marx). How easy is it to explain away actions, behaviours - things - with religion. Dark Eyes grip was to remain and grow for a long time.

The three heroes of the piece are Calpernia's son Leith, Lara's son Elijah/Deverell and the mysterious Aubrey Avonmore. They grow up together and are the ones who can save the valley from the evil Dark Eyes in the end. I've seen the author claim he doesn't really write love stories (I can't remember exactly what he wrote, but that was the gist I believe) but I disagree. I think the love between firstly these three as friends and brothers is amazing and secondly the romantic relationship between Aubrey and Leith is breathtaking. When Aubrey and Leith were separated near the end my heart broke. Their need for each other is more than just physical, it is friendship AND love AND lust. Beautiful.

I highly recommend this book to everyone, but don't undertake your journey into the valley lightly, it is to be savoured and enjoyed. I am really looking forward to the prequel to this book Azrael and the Light Bringer and will most definitely be reading other works by this author.

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A magical fantasy world with beauty and danger around every corner. This is the world that Eric Arvin has created in the fabulously titled 'The Mingled Destinies of Crocodiles and Men', which could be a name for a Hemingway novel, as the writing is stunningly poetic and descriptive in the manner of the great masters. I had no idea what to expect from the author as this is the first work of his that I have read. I can guarantee it will not be the last. This is a story of reality, fantasy, religion, narrow minds, and open minds, and what happens when it all collides.

"Here in the valley, we live balanced on only one law, don't we? The Law of Perception. Even the laws of nature bow to that." A truer statement could not be made about life in the valley. But the way of life in the valley is fading as more of its residents turn away from its offerings and become blind to the magic. Calpurnia Covington was brought to the valley as an orphaned young girl, sent to live with her aunt. A spoiled, no-nonsense child, Calpurnia was raised in privilege, never hearing the word "no", and certain that her way, as a "real worlder", was the right way. Calpurnia was the perfect receptacle for the darkness to influence. Minerva True is the River Dweller, born to the family that has protected the valley and helped to keep the darkness, Religion, Disparity, and Power being some of its names, from taking claim. Minerva is a mystic and when the darkness took her daughter, she is the last of her line capable of stopping the destruction of the valley.

Time passed and slowly the worshipers of a one God began to come into the valley mixing with some of the valley folk who had rejected their upbringing in favor of this new faith. Calpurnia married and gave birth to a son, Leith, but her heart still resided with her best friend, Lara. Lara had married as well and given birth to a son also, Deverell. Interestingly enough, the women's respective husbands, Garet and Darcy, had been in love for many years. A complicated situation, made more so when Calpurnia asks her bible to make Darcy go away, and instead, Lara is surrendered to the darkness at the chapel and Darcy is injured and disfigured, trying to save her. And, thus, Minerva came to raise Deverell and met Aubrey, a young boy with a mysterious past. So many wonderful characters, major and minor, made up this story, too many to reveal each and their place in the story line. Suffice to say the author does a marvelous job of introducing them and weaving their stories in and out to keep me entranced.

Time continued to flow and the evil lurking in the valley grew stronger. Most of the residents left or died out, leaving Minerva to fight the final battle with Leith, his lover, Aubrey, and their best friend, Deverell. And what a battle it is! Not to sound trite, but it was, literally, the battle between good and evil, the battle for humanity's soul. I could go on and on, probably writing another five hundred words, in order to explain everything in this book. But, I'm not going to.

If you like serious fantasy then this is the story for you. If you are looking for a traditional romance, then I would recommend you steer clear. Eric Arvin has written a stunningly evocative tale of honor, love, loyalty, horror, and life, that is not to be missed.

NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews

[Pavellit]

I've very recently discovered this magical world that Eric Arvin created for us. A beautiful place to get lost. A place to call home. The way he phrases things makes a desire to memorize every word on every page. It's always a delight to pick up some Eric Arvin story.
And the destiny knows its work.
In connection with 4th anniversary celebration of On Top Down Under Book Reviews, I've been honored to win the contest. These 6 of Eric Arvin's e-books are a gift of love.
Thank you very much to the donors who made the prizes possible- Wilde City Press, and of course Mr. Arvin. And Cindi love you so much!

[Paul · Rating 5 out of 5]

Too blown away again to write a review

[Barb ~rede-2-read~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a simple m/m romance, forget it. This is not that story. This isn’t simple, or usual. It can’t even be described as an unusual story. It’s more of an epic adventure, a classic tale, and a work of art. It’s a shining example of word-crafting at its best, and it’s just too huge to begin to describe in detail.

There are some things that I can say about the story, but I refuse to try to describe what actually happens. It’s almost too much to wrap my brain around and I couldn’t do it justice. So, what I can say is that I really liked the author’s “voice”. Throughout the entire story, I felt as if a rich and soothing voice was telling me a tale, somewhat like I’d imagine Aesop would have unfolded his fables to a group gathered around a fire late at night.

I can also say that I enjoyed finding the kernels of wisdom tucked within the adventure, hidden like gems among various story boards. Some that I particularly liked:

“What we believe… it becomes our reality. You got to believe in yourself and better things…”

“…impossibilities are for fools and the weak-minded.”

“…the spirituality of the valley was noninvasive, and they did not need structures to retain it.”

“The celebration of one’s own spiritual nature should be a personal thing.”

“Astonishment is laid in spades for the very young. Eyes will stay wide if cynicism is denied.”

“A faith not built on someone else’s philosophies, but on his own experiences.”

I’m not sure if I’m amazed or jealous that it took me nearly fifty years to learn these life lessons, but this young author has not only arrived at these conclusions, he’s expressed them eloquently.

If you are looking for an impressive and detailed epic adventure, one that rivals grand stories like “King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table” or the more recent, “Lord of the Rings”, this is the story for you. Take your time and savor it slowly. I found it rich in detail and scope and it stimulated my thinking about my own spiritual journey. I very highly recommend this to all.

[Carey Parrish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Novelist Eric Arvin’s latest literary offering is nothing short of a masterpiece.

In a story that weaves together the worlds of fantasy, paranormal activity, and romance, the result is not only a highly entertaining read but also a tale that will resonate with the reader.

The Mingled Destinies of Crocodiles and Men is set in a time where mystics such as Minerva True occupy an exalted place in society. It is Minerva, who is a “river dweller,” that recognizes the danger situated in ancient lore that threatens her world on a hilltop which once hosted a chapel. Few people heed her prophetic warnings and soon there is only a small group who stand with her.

Leith, the handsome hero, and his lover Aubrey are locked into the coming struggle which Minerva has prophesied. There is also a mute boy called Deverell who is destined to play an integral part in the drama which will overwhelm them. And Calpurnia, Leith’s half crazed mother, is drawn into the plot mostly by her own ambitious agenda. For Calpurnia’s mission is a threat not to only to Minerva’s plight but to everyone who will play a part in the climax of this inspired fable.

The Mingled Destinies of Crocodiles and Men is a story which captures and captivates its audience from the beginning. The atmospheric essence is intoxicating on its own. Yet the tale itself is an exercise in sheer adventure and enthralling delight.

In a world filled with writers, few on today’s scene can be considered authors. Eric Arvin is among that special lot. Each successive story that flows from his boundless imagination is magic.

5 Stars.

[Felecia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hypnotic, sweeping, spellbinding and epic! Mingled Destinies is one of those rare stories that don't immediately release you upon conclusion. Stellar job Mr. Arvin!

[Jason Bradley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of those books that after reading, you just aren't sure what to say or how to describe. It was really dark, and at the end, I kept thinking how much easier it would have been to do all of that if they hadn't waited until the preacher got as strong as he did. It didn't seem like those specific people were needed. Anyway, the world was super interesting. Never let it be said that Eric Arvin can't weave an amazing tale.

[Brandon Witt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mingled Destinies of Crocodiles and Men……. Where to start? I don’t really have a great place to begin actually. The novel kind of defies explanation. The entire thing is like reading myth, poetry, allegory, and classical literature all rolled in to one beautiful, extravagant, work of writing. This book is timeless. And rather perfect.

[Cerulean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Since I really don't have the words to do this book justice, I'll just copy my thoughts here from my two updates as I was reading it:


50.0% "Such beautiful writing."
79.0% "I love the lyrical storytelling style of this book. It's a fairy tale in the truest sense, reminiscent of the original fairy tales before Disney got their hands on them."

<3

[James Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

The title and cover pulled me right in. I liked the book. I'm not a big fan of horror elements but this one I enjoyed.

[Jacque · Rating 4 out of 5]

What first attracted me to this book was the title: The Mingled Destinies of Crocodiles and Men. It is quite a mouthful but I have to say, this is probably one of the best titles I have come across in a while. The rest of the book does not disappoint either. Author Eric Arvin has created a wonderful book of, in its simplest form, good versus evil, but in fact is so much more. There is a plethora of characters each one interesting and fascinating. This is definitely not your typical M/M romance. The only negative thing I have to say is there was quite a bit going on thorough the book and at times, if I lost concentration I would lose track of who was who and what was going on. That aside this fanciful tale will keep you engrossed from its curious beginning to its climatic ending.

I highly recommend reading The Mingled Destinies of Crocodiles and Men. However, may I offer a word of advice. Once you start reading it, you will not be able to put it down so start reading this book early in the day or else you will be up all night. Sit back, relax and enjoy the adventure!

I received this book from JeepDiva in exchange for my honest review. The opinions and rating of this review are solely mine and in no way was I compensated.

[Ely · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magically beautiful. Eric has a way with words... makes prose sound like poems and all of a sudden I remember iambic pentameter, and you KNOW it's a book made for the classics. A definite must read.

[Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is amazing and different and odd and absolutely beautiful. It is a fairytale that harkens back to the original fairytales before they were cleaned up and packaged by Disney to be palatable to the largest audiences. It is about good versus evil, the purity of love and its ability to overcome tragedy, and the importance of keeping your heart and mind open to all possibilities. And as many have said, the cover is beautiful and represents the book perfectly.

I was immediately drawn into the world of the river valley; the sense of place that Mr. Arvin establishes at the outset is outstanding. It is a place of darkness but absolute beauty that is fighting to hold its own against change, both in beliefs and progress. I felt like I was wandering the forest with Minerva, Leith, Aubrey, and Deverell. The characters are all flawed, as people are, but always in ways that are understandable. Although I did not always like all the characters, especially Calpurnia, the reasons behind their actions made them all at least somewhat sympathetic. To say that Calpurnia was the catalyst for many of the tragedies that befall the valley would be technically correct but there is a sense that she was fulfilling her role in the life of the valley and therefore had to do the things she did. However, Dark Eyes had a sense of pure evil and completely embodied, for me, the danger of letting a single belief system take over your heart and mind to the exclusion of any others. Minerva to some extent but definitely Leith, Aubrey, and Deverell encompass the opportunities that permitting yourself the freedom to explore the world as a whole will allow you to experience.

I admit to having difficulty reviewing this book because it is a book that contains so much that it is hard to cover it all. There are a lot of characters, a lot of time covered, and a lot of things happening so make sure you have the time to read it, it is not something that you can set down and come back to later and hope to keep the flow of the story. I don’t think you’ll want to do that anyhow but it is something that you should take into account before you start reading.

If you are looking to be challenged, to be immersed in a beautiful world full of magic, and to experience something beyond the usual read you will love this book.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating 5 out of 5 stars

From my review: "This story has a language so lyrical that it will remind you of sonnets and characters so beautifully defined and textured that their loss will haunt you for days. Arvin's story feels so old and timeless that the aroma of old leather bindings and yellowed pages of text will commingle in your mind along with the title, an effortless interface of ideas both old, fantastical and still somehow quite new. An ebook of emotional heft and extraordinary value."



For my full review, visit http://wp.me/p220KL-1Lu

for all of my reviews and thoughts on writing, visit http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...

[♥Laddie♥ (Lee Lee)]

That is a gorgeous F'ing cover!!!

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, now that I'm finished I feel kind of lost. I have a feeling that whatever I read next is just going to seem...mehh.

[Sonia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this book. Read this book now. Read this book if you grew up around a river, as I have. Read this book if you believe in the magic of nature, and especially if you don't. Read this book if you enjoy a hint of blood-curdling horror with your river stories. Read this book if you're looking to be transported by some of the finest writing I have ever come across. Read this book if you're looking for a truly unique story.

Just reas this book. Now.

I was incredibly saddened to learn of the author's passing, and at such a young age. I will forever be grateful to Eric Arvin for putting this story out into the world; we need stories such as this one. Thank you, Eric, for giving us the Valley and the likes of Aubrey Avonmore.

[Mark · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful, modern fairy tale, the Mingled Destinies paints an immersive tale of love and loss. The characters are so rounded and fully-fleshed, with the only exception being the main antagonist. This doesn't take away from Arvin's storytelling, though, and adds to the Appalachian Gothic elements that color the story in forbidden loves, madness, familial legacies, and spirits.

The only thing stopping me from rating this higher is that there is a melancholy that lingers over everything and makes the ending bittersweet. While I don't think wrapping it up in a nice bow would have the same emotional effect as the current ending, it would have been nice if there was a little more joy or hope in the end.

In the end, the Mingled Destinies is an emotional story that packs a lot of beauty into its pages.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing book! I absolutely loved how visceral this was and was fortunate to be able to write a full review for Hearts on Fire Book Reviews website. I have never written as many notes for a review as I did for this book, but it is an amazing journey - if you have ever seen a movie where you get pulled into the world of a book, that is what this book does.
If you love fantasy and adventure with many layers of colour and texture to the writing, you will enjoy this book - and I highly recommend it to anyone!
Easily one of my favourite books of 2013.

[Mariana · Rating 4 out of 5]

 
I want to say something smart about this book... something that would give it justice.  It will take some time, though.  I have to find the words and put them together into a coherent thought.
 
It's unlike my usual reads... maybe only can be compared to Doctrine of the Labyrinths series by Sarah Monette or The Seventh Towers series by Garth Nix.
 

[Crys Harris]

Did not finish. Couldn't get into the story.

[Elisa Rolle · Rating 5 out of 5]

2013 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)