What do you think?
Rate this book
Insel #2
The Waves
The first memory I have of my grandfather is of a moment that we share together.
I’m sitting on his knee looking out over the harbor. Grandpa is smoking a pipe. He points at the horizon. “Look, Walt. Our ships are out there. And one day, another even more beautiful ship will appear at the horizon. A mighty ship to take us all away. And Annabelle will be at the front deck with open arms, inviting us all to join her on board.”
“Why don’t we sail to her ourselves?” I want to know.
“Because she promised she would come,” granddad replies. “And in that promise we trust. It’s only the Unbelievers who think they can do everything themselves. They have no faith in the Goddess.”
Walt lives in Hope Harbor, an island community that has put its trust in salvation from across the sea. The townspeople wait patiently, build their ships to sail out and welcome the Goddess, and piously visit the temple every week. Horror stories to scare their children are told about the Unbelievers on the other side of Tresco.
But not all is what it seems. Walt has questions that no one can answer, and when his best friend and cousin Yorrick is killed in an accident, he digs deeper to find out the truth about the origins of Hope Harbor’s society… and the secrets of the temple.
Return to the world of The Island and discover what Walt's life was like before and after he met Leia!
I’m sitting on his knee looking out over the harbor. Grandpa is smoking a pipe. He points at the horizon. “Look, Walt. Our ships are out there. And one day, another even more beautiful ship will appear at the horizon. A mighty ship to take us all away. And Annabelle will be at the front deck with open arms, inviting us all to join her on board.”
“Why don’t we sail to her ourselves?” I want to know.
“Because she promised she would come,” granddad replies. “And in that promise we trust. It’s only the Unbelievers who think they can do everything themselves. They have no faith in the Goddess.”
Walt lives in Hope Harbor, an island community that has put its trust in salvation from across the sea. The townspeople wait patiently, build their ships to sail out and welcome the Goddess, and piously visit the temple every week. Horror stories to scare their children are told about the Unbelievers on the other side of Tresco.
But not all is what it seems. Walt has questions that no one can answer, and when his best friend and cousin Yorrick is killed in an accident, he digs deeper to find out the truth about the origins of Hope Harbor’s society… and the secrets of the temple.
Return to the world of The Island and discover what Walt's life was like before and after he met Leia!
174 pages, Paperback
First published September 14, 2013
9 people are currently reading
749 people want to read
About the author
Jen Minkman
86 books505 followersJen Minkman (1978) writes YA paranormal romance, dystopian fiction and poetry. She is from the Netherlands and self-publishes her work in English. Her works are available in paperback & digital format (ebook and audio).
You can subscribe to her newsletter here > http://eepurl.com/bTXSWv
Jen was born in the Netherlands and lived in Austria, Belgium and the UK during her studies. She learned how to read at the age of three and has never stopped reading since. Her favourite books to read are (YA) paranormal/fantasy, sci-fi, dystopian and romance, and this is reflected in the stories she writes. In her home country, she is a trade-published author of paranormal romance and chicklit. Across the border, she is a self-published author of poetry, paranormal romance and dystopian fiction. Her books are already available in English, Dutch, Chinese, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Italian, and Afrikaans.
She currently resides in The Hague where she works and lives with her husband and two noisy zebra finches.
You can subscribe to her newsletter here > http://eepurl.com/bTXSWv
Jen was born in the Netherlands and lived in Austria, Belgium and the UK during her studies. She learned how to read at the age of three and has never stopped reading since. Her favourite books to read are (YA) paranormal/fantasy, sci-fi, dystopian and romance, and this is reflected in the stories she writes. In her home country, she is a trade-published author of paranormal romance and chicklit. Across the border, she is a self-published author of poetry, paranormal romance and dystopian fiction. Her books are already available in English, Dutch, Chinese, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Italian, and Afrikaans.
She currently resides in The Hague where she works and lives with her husband and two noisy zebra finches.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 69 reviews
August 13, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review
Also reviewed for Addicted2Heroines.
I have a rule. Anytime an author emails me with an offer to review their self-published title, I ignore it.
It's a good rule.
I occasionally tend to be an ass if I don't like something, and a book is like an author's baby.
And I know what I would do to someone who was being an ass to one of my babies.
*insert Psycho shower scene music here*
So.
Why did I make an exception to the Golden Rule? Well, I'd already reviewed Minkman's first book in this trilogy The Island, and I only gave it 3 stars. It was a weird little book that made no sense until the end, but it stuck with me. Now, I've seen authors go apeshit over reviews like the one I gave her book.
Hence, The Rule.
And I do not feel like getting cyber-stalked by some indie author with too much time on their hands.
But.
Minkman was very....dare I say it?...*cool about the whole thing.
*Dorky inside joke about comments on the thread. Sorry.
So, yeah. Turns out I like this author very much.
It won't change the way I rate her books, but I thought it was only fair of me to mention it.
Ok, enough of that, it's Review Time!
*Warning: possible spoilers for The Island ahead!*
Right off the bat, The Waves just made waaay more sense than The Island. Now, it might have been because I already knew how this society came into existence, but I don't think so.
Walt's community is much more conventional than Leia's, because it wasn't built on some kid's fan-fiction diary. On Walt's section of the island, you have the more traditional culture all around.
People worship goddesses at the temple, children are raised by parents, and there is a structured leadership in place. It's not some crazy version of Lord of the Flies.
If you've read the first book, then you already know what will happen at the end of this one.
However, this time around, you're hearing it from Walt's point of view.
No, it's not the same story. There are a few parts of the book toward the last half that match up with The Island, but other than that, you're reading something entirely fresh.
Another thing I liked about this one, was the lack of a Twilight Zone feel to it. The character's in Walt's world were more realistic, and less...feral?
Even the people I thought were going to be painted as villains, had an incredible amount of gray in their personalities, which made it more of an interesting read.
And the budding romance between Walt and Leia seemed quite a bit more fleshed out than in the first book. The whole tone was just...different, but in a good way.
My interest in this world is officially piqued, and I'm pretty excited to see where these characters end up in the last installment!
Also reviewed for Addicted2Heroines.
I have a rule. Anytime an author emails me with an offer to review their self-published title, I ignore it.
It's a good rule.
I occasionally tend to be an ass if I don't like something, and a book is like an author's baby.
And I know what I would do to someone who was being an ass to one of my babies.
*insert Psycho shower scene music here*
So.
Why did I make an exception to the Golden Rule? Well, I'd already reviewed Minkman's first book in this trilogy The Island, and I only gave it 3 stars. It was a weird little book that made no sense until the end, but it stuck with me. Now, I've seen authors go apeshit over reviews like the one I gave her book.
Hence, The Rule.
And I do not feel like getting cyber-stalked by some indie author with too much time on their hands.
But.
Minkman was very....dare I say it?...*cool about the whole thing.
*Dorky inside joke about comments on the thread. Sorry.
So, yeah. Turns out I like this author very much.
It won't change the way I rate her books, but I thought it was only fair of me to mention it.
Ok, enough of that, it's Review Time!
*Warning: possible spoilers for The Island ahead!*
Right off the bat, The Waves just made waaay more sense than The Island. Now, it might have been because I already knew how this society came into existence, but I don't think so.
Walt's community is much more conventional than Leia's, because it wasn't built on some kid's fan-fiction diary. On Walt's section of the island, you have the more traditional culture all around.
People worship goddesses at the temple, children are raised by parents, and there is a structured leadership in place. It's not some crazy version of Lord of the Flies.
If you've read the first book, then you already know what will happen at the end of this one.
However, this time around, you're hearing it from Walt's point of view.
No, it's not the same story. There are a few parts of the book toward the last half that match up with The Island, but other than that, you're reading something entirely fresh.
Another thing I liked about this one, was the lack of a Twilight Zone feel to it. The character's in Walt's world were more realistic, and less...feral?
Even the people I thought were going to be painted as villains, had an incredible amount of gray in their personalities, which made it more of an interesting read.
And the budding romance between Walt and Leia seemed quite a bit more fleshed out than in the first book. The whole tone was just...different, but in a good way.
My interest in this world is officially piqued, and I'm pretty excited to see where these characters end up in the last installment!
Read
September 7, 2013Currently working on the sequel to The Island, which is this book! I'm planning on having the novella ready in Dutch by the end of July, and will work on a translation in August and September. Stay tuned!
June 30, 2014
Click Banner to enter to win YOUR copy of all 3 books in 1!
What lies beyond the wall? The answer to that question is in The Waves, book two in The Island Series, by Jen Minkman. Meet Walt, the boy Leia found in book one, The Island. told from his perspective, on the other side of the wall, in Hope Harbor, where its citizens believe a powerful being will come for them and until then, all is good, almost too good. Walt is restless, he wants to explore the world he has never seen, and with his cousin Yorrick, they were to take they future into their own hands and create their own destiny. What happened next will forever change Walt as he alone meets Leia and sees her world, so near physically, yet light years apart in their way of life. Is power destined to create corruption if it is not tempered with integrity and knowledge? Can two worlds so different find a common ground?
Once again, Jen Minkman colors her world with bold and dark strokes, filled it with shady characters and defining the main character crisply. Is there a message in her words? I believe her style of writing allows the reader to add on mentally and draw their own conclusions, while still enjoying this detailed, yet short read. Definitely put this on your Dystopian “to read list!”
I received a review copy as part of The Island and The Waves Book Tour stopping at Tome Tender November 29, 2013.
Series: The Island, Book 2
Publication Date: September 30, 2013
Publisher: Jen Minkman
Genre: YA Dystopian Fantasy/Dark Fantasy
Page Count: 174
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
October 10, 2013
I agree with another reviewer who said that this would be a good rainy day novella. This is a well written, enjoyable story that makes a great cuddle up by the fireplace kind of book.
For me, the most enjoyable part of this book was the relaxed way it was written. The main character is fun to listen to and the writing flows beautifully. This is the kind of book that you are sorry to see end when it is finished.
I liked the way events unfolded in this story, slowly and carefully, allowing the imagination of the reader to examine each thing and come to their own conclusions.
The setting is beautifully described using vibrant word choices. It was like being there with the characters, and the cover truly does this book justice--absolutely beautiful.
This is a lovely companion book and I would recommend it to anyone who values well written literature.
This review s based on a digital ARC from the publisher and Netgalley.
For me, the most enjoyable part of this book was the relaxed way it was written. The main character is fun to listen to and the writing flows beautifully. This is the kind of book that you are sorry to see end when it is finished.
I liked the way events unfolded in this story, slowly and carefully, allowing the imagination of the reader to examine each thing and come to their own conclusions.
The setting is beautifully described using vibrant word choices. It was like being there with the characters, and the cover truly does this book justice--absolutely beautiful.
This is a lovely companion book and I would recommend it to anyone who values well written literature.
This review s based on a digital ARC from the publisher and Netgalley.
October 4, 2013
I had been eagerly awaiting the release of this book. I really enjoyed The Island and wanted to find out what happened next with Walt and Leia. The book surprised me by telling a story about Walt and The Fools. It was just as thrilling and fast paced as the last instalment. Now I just have to wait for the next novella to be released in this series
The Island series is simply the most entertaining novella's by far, and now readers will have an insight into Walt's life leading up to meeting Leia, and beyond. On both sides of the island, the inhabitants have segregated long ago, with one group believing in a Goddess that will be their salvation, with the Unbelievers taking their cues from a children's Star Wars book.
I absolutely love this mini series of novellas, it's uniquely brilliant. As with the first, The Island, I would love to see these turned into full length novels. Jen Minkman has created a strange segmented community in a post apocalyptic world that you simply can't put down
The Island series is simply the most entertaining novella's by far, and now readers will have an insight into Walt's life leading up to meeting Leia, and beyond. On both sides of the island, the inhabitants have segregated long ago, with one group believing in a Goddess that will be their salvation, with the Unbelievers taking their cues from a children's Star Wars book.
I absolutely love this mini series of novellas, it's uniquely brilliant. As with the first, The Island, I would love to see these turned into full length novels. Jen Minkman has created a strange segmented community in a post apocalyptic world that you simply can't put down
April 1, 2016
I knew that The Waves was a sequel to The Island but I had no idea what to expect. Would this examine the sea journey or the new world? I was delightfully surprised that it's actually a parallel story exploring the culture on the other side of The Wall.
It was fun to see how the harbor developed so differently from the manor, to see the how fully formed that world is in such a short story.
But most of all, I liked getting to know Walt better. I liked the way his character evolved through the story and being able to understand more of who he was and what brought him to that moment when the world's collide.
It was fun to see how the harbor developed so differently from the manor, to see the how fully formed that world is in such a short story.
But most of all, I liked getting to know Walt better. I liked the way his character evolved through the story and being able to understand more of who he was and what brought him to that moment when the world's collide.
November 2, 2013
The story was well written, with vibrant descriptions and characters that brought this dystopian world together. It has the feel of stories like The Giver, with a society content with how things are despite the evils that are most likely going on just behind the scenes. It takes one character to change the game and this one happened to be Walt. He captures the essence of what questioning the social norm is meant to be. In many ways I hope that I would be the "Walt" if I ever faced a similar situation and yet, isn't it better to be content? At least that's what most people say. I always enjoy dystopians for that exact reason. It is about questioning everything - sometimes even yourself.
Walt is the main character of this story, filled with less confidence than the typical hero of a novel. In fact, I am pretty sure he would be the type of guy that feared everything... including himself. However that seems to make him more adorable to me than I care to admit. As the story continues he begins to act more like Yorrick, which in someways makes me sad because I loved the tongue-tied shine little boy that I met in the beginning. It's amazing what meeting a girl can do to a guy's temperament. He manages to not only silently challenge the norm and bring about great change in the best sort of way.
Yorrick is his cousin and the heir to become the future leader for Hope Harbor. He will become the future Bookkeeper, the man with the most knowledge about the past of the island they live on and the Goddess they believe in. All of this knowledge has certainly made him a know-it-all and arrogant in certain ways but he always cared deeply for Walt. They were each other's best friend and greatest allies. Together they wanted to push the boundaries of their society but... sometimes things don't work out like you hope they will.
There are only two people that I am going to talk about in his family is Grandpa Thomas and his Grandma. His grandfather is an interesting character and you can see from the very beginning that Walt admires him greatly. They have a certain close relationship where once a week they went to the temple together and he respected his grandfather's wishes. But Grandpa Thomas was clinging to a past that had long since gone. A lost love that he could never reclaim because she ran from the society that he believed in. This made him determined to never allow that to happen to his new wife and daughter. Both relationships ended in sadness. His grandma faced a great deal of heartache throughout her life. First, the man she loved never truly loved her the way she wanted. She watched him fawn over a lost love and go insane over the idea that this fate might again happen with her and their daughter. His determination to only observe the religion in its fullest and never ask questions eventually led to their divorce. At that moment she truly lost all connections with her family and was not allowed to see her grandson. She continued to mourn the loss of many things.
Annabelle is goddess of this society. They say that she had long ago made a promise to the people that she would return by ship and bring them home again. It is this promise that leads them to keep surviving and maintain their society, always hoping - always searching for the woman that is meant to save them. But Walt must face and challenge this promise - this goddess - during his journey to find out what is real and what is not.
Alisa is the girlfriend of Yorrick and she centered him in a way that many people couldn't. She managed to see beyond his facade and into the real man that he was meant to be. After facing terrible heartbreak, she becomes Walt's biggest support and is determined to know the truth about their society's beliefs. She fears the what ifs of the world and suddenly the world she has once depended on is no longer the world she thought it was. A beautiful friendship blooms between Walt and Alisa but it remains there. She is in love with Yorrick, despite everything, and cannot see beyond it. I believe that Walt and Alisa become each others greatest support because they both lost something special.
Leia is someone very special to the story. An Unbeliever. A girl that captures Walt's affections and makes him turn into his cousin. I adore her for never giving into his attempts at flirtation although her cheeks without fail always become bright red.
This book is a lovely read and I think you can certainly read this as a stand alone novel if you so chose. Definitely check it out!
** This book was received from the author. None of the thoughts or feelings expressed in this review are influenced by the author and are entirely the reviewer's personal opinions.**
Walt is the main character of this story, filled with less confidence than the typical hero of a novel. In fact, I am pretty sure he would be the type of guy that feared everything... including himself. However that seems to make him more adorable to me than I care to admit. As the story continues he begins to act more like Yorrick, which in someways makes me sad because I loved the tongue-tied shine little boy that I met in the beginning. It's amazing what meeting a girl can do to a guy's temperament. He manages to not only silently challenge the norm and bring about great change in the best sort of way.
Yorrick is his cousin and the heir to become the future leader for Hope Harbor. He will become the future Bookkeeper, the man with the most knowledge about the past of the island they live on and the Goddess they believe in. All of this knowledge has certainly made him a know-it-all and arrogant in certain ways but he always cared deeply for Walt. They were each other's best friend and greatest allies. Together they wanted to push the boundaries of their society but... sometimes things don't work out like you hope they will.
There are only two people that I am going to talk about in his family is Grandpa Thomas and his Grandma. His grandfather is an interesting character and you can see from the very beginning that Walt admires him greatly. They have a certain close relationship where once a week they went to the temple together and he respected his grandfather's wishes. But Grandpa Thomas was clinging to a past that had long since gone. A lost love that he could never reclaim because she ran from the society that he believed in. This made him determined to never allow that to happen to his new wife and daughter. Both relationships ended in sadness. His grandma faced a great deal of heartache throughout her life. First, the man she loved never truly loved her the way she wanted. She watched him fawn over a lost love and go insane over the idea that this fate might again happen with her and their daughter. His determination to only observe the religion in its fullest and never ask questions eventually led to their divorce. At that moment she truly lost all connections with her family and was not allowed to see her grandson. She continued to mourn the loss of many things.
Annabelle is goddess of this society. They say that she had long ago made a promise to the people that she would return by ship and bring them home again. It is this promise that leads them to keep surviving and maintain their society, always hoping - always searching for the woman that is meant to save them. But Walt must face and challenge this promise - this goddess - during his journey to find out what is real and what is not.
Alisa is the girlfriend of Yorrick and she centered him in a way that many people couldn't. She managed to see beyond his facade and into the real man that he was meant to be. After facing terrible heartbreak, she becomes Walt's biggest support and is determined to know the truth about their society's beliefs. She fears the what ifs of the world and suddenly the world she has once depended on is no longer the world she thought it was. A beautiful friendship blooms between Walt and Alisa but it remains there. She is in love with Yorrick, despite everything, and cannot see beyond it. I believe that Walt and Alisa become each others greatest support because they both lost something special.
Leia is someone very special to the story. An Unbeliever. A girl that captures Walt's affections and makes him turn into his cousin. I adore her for never giving into his attempts at flirtation although her cheeks without fail always become bright red.
This book is a lovely read and I think you can certainly read this as a stand alone novel if you so chose. Definitely check it out!
** This book was received from the author. None of the thoughts or feelings expressed in this review are influenced by the author and are entirely the reviewer's personal opinions.**
May 26, 2014
From my blog http://mybookshelfisyours.over-blog.c...
I tried really hard not to spoil anything but if you haven't read The Island, you really should before reading this review. :)
The Waves is the second novella in the series The Island, written by Jen Minkman. In this sequel, you can read about Walt's adventures before he met Leia. It's through his point of view that we discover his universe and the community called Hope Harbor. At the age of 15, Walt starts to understand that his world is a web of lies and that his family and the people he's supposed to trust are not so innocent. Fortunately, Walt can count on his cousin, Yorrick, the Librarian's son. The latter has a plan and is ready to fight for the truth, even if it means going where no one wants to go. Unfortunately, Yorrick dies before being able to carry out his projects. Walt understands that it is now up to him to take the matter in his own hands and achieve the projects of his best friend and cousin.
I had high expectations for the developments in Leia and Walt's adventures. And I was not disappointed! I was happy to be able to read from Walt's point of view and to discover his city and his side of the island. What is interesting is that it doesn't start where the previous novella ended. Walt is 15 at the beginning of The Waves, he is very close to his grandfather and his cousin, his faith has not yet been destroyed and, other than his mother's death, he has a happy life. But soon enough, revelations from his grandfather and his cousin will change everything. Why did his grandparent split? Why does the Librarian keep to himself some information and knowledge from the books? What is really behind the wall? Or on the other side of the waters? In some way, much like Leia, Walt has to grow up understanding that if he wants answers, he will have to look for them himself. He can't count on his grandfather anymore, and the death of his best friend and cousin changes him. Of course, when Walt meets Leia, it's also a shock. A shock between two cultures, a discovery of one another which leaves neither of the protagonists indifferent. Finally, without revealing too much, the end of this novella is very promising and I can't wait to read the next one!
Now I'm going to talk a bit about the characters, starting with Walt. At the beginning of The Waves, Walt seems like a quiet and reserved little boy, who is getting more and more curious. Of course, he's going to lose this little boy side to become more adult and responsible. He is very influenced by the opinion and behavior of his cousin Yorrick, and his grandfather is also very important to him. The more Walt is confronted to difficulties and dangerous and overwhelming situations, the more he changes, without losing his qualities and still keeping a certain fragility. He's a character with two faces but he is easy to understand. He has a keen sense of what is fair. His relationship with Leia develops with ups and downs, but it's normal, they are so different and both a bit lost. I find them so adorable and touching. A real tenderness appeared between these two. I feel like they can count on one another. It may seem fast but the circumstances of their encounter and the fact that they are both so endearing makes this relationship really believable and unique.
Even though Yorrick disappears towards the middle of the story, I have to say a few words about him. He's an important character for Walt. It seems that even after his death, he doesn't leave his cousin. I can imagine Walt wondering “what would Yorrick do?” So he has a great influence. He is brave, funny and smart. All his qualities can be found in Walt. Then there is Alisa, who will become his best friend. She is also endearing, sensitive and strong. She is also very important to Walt.
What I like in this second novella is that you can find the same dystopian theme, but without being repetitive or boring. It's logical since the story of the island is completed with the point of view and the stories of Hope Harbor. There may be a little less action in this sequel but the author brought a new reflection and elements which make me want to read more. I can't wait because Jen managed to keep a big part of the mystery, the third novella can only be even better!
I hope that you enjoyed my review of The Waves and that, just like me, you are excited to read the rest of The Island series. I will soon interview Jen Minkman to ask her questions about her career and her books. Thank you for reading!
Enjoy your reading!
I tried really hard not to spoil anything but if you haven't read The Island, you really should before reading this review. :)
The Waves is the second novella in the series The Island, written by Jen Minkman. In this sequel, you can read about Walt's adventures before he met Leia. It's through his point of view that we discover his universe and the community called Hope Harbor. At the age of 15, Walt starts to understand that his world is a web of lies and that his family and the people he's supposed to trust are not so innocent. Fortunately, Walt can count on his cousin, Yorrick, the Librarian's son. The latter has a plan and is ready to fight for the truth, even if it means going where no one wants to go. Unfortunately, Yorrick dies before being able to carry out his projects. Walt understands that it is now up to him to take the matter in his own hands and achieve the projects of his best friend and cousin.
I had high expectations for the developments in Leia and Walt's adventures. And I was not disappointed! I was happy to be able to read from Walt's point of view and to discover his city and his side of the island. What is interesting is that it doesn't start where the previous novella ended. Walt is 15 at the beginning of The Waves, he is very close to his grandfather and his cousin, his faith has not yet been destroyed and, other than his mother's death, he has a happy life. But soon enough, revelations from his grandfather and his cousin will change everything. Why did his grandparent split? Why does the Librarian keep to himself some information and knowledge from the books? What is really behind the wall? Or on the other side of the waters? In some way, much like Leia, Walt has to grow up understanding that if he wants answers, he will have to look for them himself. He can't count on his grandfather anymore, and the death of his best friend and cousin changes him. Of course, when Walt meets Leia, it's also a shock. A shock between two cultures, a discovery of one another which leaves neither of the protagonists indifferent. Finally, without revealing too much, the end of this novella is very promising and I can't wait to read the next one!
Now I'm going to talk a bit about the characters, starting with Walt. At the beginning of The Waves, Walt seems like a quiet and reserved little boy, who is getting more and more curious. Of course, he's going to lose this little boy side to become more adult and responsible. He is very influenced by the opinion and behavior of his cousin Yorrick, and his grandfather is also very important to him. The more Walt is confronted to difficulties and dangerous and overwhelming situations, the more he changes, without losing his qualities and still keeping a certain fragility. He's a character with two faces but he is easy to understand. He has a keen sense of what is fair. His relationship with Leia develops with ups and downs, but it's normal, they are so different and both a bit lost. I find them so adorable and touching. A real tenderness appeared between these two. I feel like they can count on one another. It may seem fast but the circumstances of their encounter and the fact that they are both so endearing makes this relationship really believable and unique.
Even though Yorrick disappears towards the middle of the story, I have to say a few words about him. He's an important character for Walt. It seems that even after his death, he doesn't leave his cousin. I can imagine Walt wondering “what would Yorrick do?” So he has a great influence. He is brave, funny and smart. All his qualities can be found in Walt. Then there is Alisa, who will become his best friend. She is also endearing, sensitive and strong. She is also very important to Walt.
What I like in this second novella is that you can find the same dystopian theme, but without being repetitive or boring. It's logical since the story of the island is completed with the point of view and the stories of Hope Harbor. There may be a little less action in this sequel but the author brought a new reflection and elements which make me want to read more. I can't wait because Jen managed to keep a big part of the mystery, the third novella can only be even better!
I hope that you enjoyed my review of The Waves and that, just like me, you are excited to read the rest of The Island series. I will soon interview Jen Minkman to ask her questions about her career and her books. Thank you for reading!
Enjoy your reading!
October 4, 2013
Die Handlung:
Walt lebt auf einer Insel in Hope Harbor, abgeschnitten vom Rest der Welt. Er und seine Leute glauben daran, dass irgendwann eine Göttin kommen wird und sie auf die andere Seite des Meeres mitnehmen wird. Die Insel von seinen Leuten ist durch eine Mauer getrennt. Hinter ihr leben die Unbelievers, Gestalten, vor denen jeder in Hope Harbor Angst hat und als erbitterten Feind ansieht. Nachdem Walts Cousin ermordet wird, überstürzen sich die Ereignisse und Walt wird eins klar: Er lebt in mitten von Lügen...
Meine Meinung:
Ich weiß immer noch nicht, ob dieses Buch oder sein Vorgänger besser war... und das werden auch die wenigsten von euch wissen, wenn ihr beide Bücher fertig gelesen habt...
Dieses Buch hält eine völlig neue Idee für den Leser parat. Es gibt zwei verfeindete Parteien, die auf einer Insel leben, getrennt durch eine große Mauer (welch Ironie des Schicksals, dass ich mit diesem Buch auch noch am Tag der deutschen Einheit fertig geworden bin...). Zum einen gibt es die "Unbelievers", Menschen, die nicht an eine Rettung von der anderen Seite des Meeres glauben und sich mit der Zeit ein unabhängiges Leben aufgebaut haben, und dann gibt es noch die "Fools", Menschen, die ihre ganzes Leben auf die Göttin Annabelle warten, die sie auf die andere Seite des Meeres bringen wird, weg von dieser kleinen einengenden Insel. Aber Moment mal?! Irgendwie kommt einem die Geschichte doch bekannt vor?!
Das könnte daran liegen, dass Frau Minkman die gleiche Geschichte schon einmal geschrieben hat. Unter dem Namen "The Island". Diese ist jedoch aus der Sicht von der weiblichen Protagonistin Leia geschrieben. "The Waves" gibt einen Einblick in Walts Erlebtes und Gesehenes!
Walt gehört zu den "Unbelievers" und kommt gleich von Anfang an sehr sympathisch rüber. Er ist facettenreich dargestellt, hat von allem etwas, sei es Humor, Intelligenz oder Schüchternheit, und bleibt doch realistisch. Sein Charakter ist nicht durch und durch perfekt, wie von einigen seiner Kollegen aus anderen Büchern, und das macht ihn greifbar! Er hat Leute zu denen er hochschaut, er lernt und er entwickelt sich mit der Zeit auch sehr weiter, vom schüchternen und scheuen Jungen zum selbstsicheren jungen Mann, was nicht zuletzt an den drei Jahren liegt, in denen dieses Buch spielt...
Auch die anderen Charaktere haben Tiefe, was auf 150 Seiten fast unmöglich gewesen wäre, hier aber geschafft wurde!
Was mich sehr überrascht hat, war aber die Geschichte selbst. Ich habe mir Sorgen gemacht, ob es nicht langweilig sein wird, die selbe Geschichte noch einmal durchzukauen, männlicher Protagonist hin oder her. Aber ich lag völlig falsch! Die Handlung spielt vor Leia und schmiegt sich dann zum Ende hin an den 1. Teil, bis sie dann völlig darin verschwindet. So ist es völlig egal, ob man aus Leias oder aus Walts Sicht beginnt, beide bieten neue Dinge auf, mit der getrennten Gesellschaft als gleiche Grundidee.
Die Beziehung zwischen Walt und Leia nimmt zwar nicht gerade den wichtigsten Platz in diesem Buch ein, aber trotzdem ist sie authentisch und schön. Es gibt einige "Aaaaw" und "Aaaah" Momente, an denen man das Buch am liebsten umarmen möchte, weil es trotzdem nicht zu kitschig ist.
Der Schreibstil von Jen Minkman ist sehr locker und leicht zu lesen. Beim ersten Band hatte ich die zu wenigen Beschreibungen kritisiert, doch hier wurden genug Beschreibungen eingebaut, um einen mit auf Walts Insel zu nehmen.
Zwar habe ich das Buch auf englisch gelesen, aber ich war schnell damit fertig. Jetzt ließe sich nur noch darüber streiten, ob das wegen dem Schreibstil, den 150 Seiten oder doch der spannenden Geschichte lag.
Und da wären wir auch schon bei der Spannung angelangt. Und Mann, ist die präsent! Es ist, als bekommt man mit diesem Buch gleich auch einen Kleber für die Augen mit. Einmal angefangen kann man sich nämlich sehr schlecht wieder davon lösen. Also mein Tipp: Lest dieses Buch nicht vor dem Schlafengehen oder kurz vor dem Mittagessen, denn dann wird es zu keiner dieser Tätigkeiten kommen, bis ihr mit dem Lesen fertig seid ;)
"The Island" und "The Waves" sind wie Schlüssel und Schloss. Sie bieten beide etwas völlig neues und doch haben sie die gleiche Grundidee, nämlich diese wunderschöne Geschichte zu bewahren!
Das Fazit:
Holt es, lest es, liebt es!
Auch dieser Band ist perfekt für einen schönen regnerischen Abend geeignet. Wobei ich euch raten würde, die beiden Bücher nicht gleich hintereinander zu lesen und einen zeitlichen Abstand zu lassen, damit der Effekt besser wirkt!
Walt lebt auf einer Insel in Hope Harbor, abgeschnitten vom Rest der Welt. Er und seine Leute glauben daran, dass irgendwann eine Göttin kommen wird und sie auf die andere Seite des Meeres mitnehmen wird. Die Insel von seinen Leuten ist durch eine Mauer getrennt. Hinter ihr leben die Unbelievers, Gestalten, vor denen jeder in Hope Harbor Angst hat und als erbitterten Feind ansieht. Nachdem Walts Cousin ermordet wird, überstürzen sich die Ereignisse und Walt wird eins klar: Er lebt in mitten von Lügen...
Meine Meinung:
Ich weiß immer noch nicht, ob dieses Buch oder sein Vorgänger besser war... und das werden auch die wenigsten von euch wissen, wenn ihr beide Bücher fertig gelesen habt...
Dieses Buch hält eine völlig neue Idee für den Leser parat. Es gibt zwei verfeindete Parteien, die auf einer Insel leben, getrennt durch eine große Mauer (welch Ironie des Schicksals, dass ich mit diesem Buch auch noch am Tag der deutschen Einheit fertig geworden bin...). Zum einen gibt es die "Unbelievers", Menschen, die nicht an eine Rettung von der anderen Seite des Meeres glauben und sich mit der Zeit ein unabhängiges Leben aufgebaut haben, und dann gibt es noch die "Fools", Menschen, die ihre ganzes Leben auf die Göttin Annabelle warten, die sie auf die andere Seite des Meeres bringen wird, weg von dieser kleinen einengenden Insel. Aber Moment mal?! Irgendwie kommt einem die Geschichte doch bekannt vor?!
Das könnte daran liegen, dass Frau Minkman die gleiche Geschichte schon einmal geschrieben hat. Unter dem Namen "The Island". Diese ist jedoch aus der Sicht von der weiblichen Protagonistin Leia geschrieben. "The Waves" gibt einen Einblick in Walts Erlebtes und Gesehenes!
Walt gehört zu den "Unbelievers" und kommt gleich von Anfang an sehr sympathisch rüber. Er ist facettenreich dargestellt, hat von allem etwas, sei es Humor, Intelligenz oder Schüchternheit, und bleibt doch realistisch. Sein Charakter ist nicht durch und durch perfekt, wie von einigen seiner Kollegen aus anderen Büchern, und das macht ihn greifbar! Er hat Leute zu denen er hochschaut, er lernt und er entwickelt sich mit der Zeit auch sehr weiter, vom schüchternen und scheuen Jungen zum selbstsicheren jungen Mann, was nicht zuletzt an den drei Jahren liegt, in denen dieses Buch spielt...
Auch die anderen Charaktere haben Tiefe, was auf 150 Seiten fast unmöglich gewesen wäre, hier aber geschafft wurde!
Was mich sehr überrascht hat, war aber die Geschichte selbst. Ich habe mir Sorgen gemacht, ob es nicht langweilig sein wird, die selbe Geschichte noch einmal durchzukauen, männlicher Protagonist hin oder her. Aber ich lag völlig falsch! Die Handlung spielt vor Leia und schmiegt sich dann zum Ende hin an den 1. Teil, bis sie dann völlig darin verschwindet. So ist es völlig egal, ob man aus Leias oder aus Walts Sicht beginnt, beide bieten neue Dinge auf, mit der getrennten Gesellschaft als gleiche Grundidee.
Die Beziehung zwischen Walt und Leia nimmt zwar nicht gerade den wichtigsten Platz in diesem Buch ein, aber trotzdem ist sie authentisch und schön. Es gibt einige "Aaaaw" und "Aaaah" Momente, an denen man das Buch am liebsten umarmen möchte, weil es trotzdem nicht zu kitschig ist.
Der Schreibstil von Jen Minkman ist sehr locker und leicht zu lesen. Beim ersten Band hatte ich die zu wenigen Beschreibungen kritisiert, doch hier wurden genug Beschreibungen eingebaut, um einen mit auf Walts Insel zu nehmen.
Zwar habe ich das Buch auf englisch gelesen, aber ich war schnell damit fertig. Jetzt ließe sich nur noch darüber streiten, ob das wegen dem Schreibstil, den 150 Seiten oder doch der spannenden Geschichte lag.
Und da wären wir auch schon bei der Spannung angelangt. Und Mann, ist die präsent! Es ist, als bekommt man mit diesem Buch gleich auch einen Kleber für die Augen mit. Einmal angefangen kann man sich nämlich sehr schlecht wieder davon lösen. Also mein Tipp: Lest dieses Buch nicht vor dem Schlafengehen oder kurz vor dem Mittagessen, denn dann wird es zu keiner dieser Tätigkeiten kommen, bis ihr mit dem Lesen fertig seid ;)
"The Island" und "The Waves" sind wie Schlüssel und Schloss. Sie bieten beide etwas völlig neues und doch haben sie die gleiche Grundidee, nämlich diese wunderschöne Geschichte zu bewahren!
Das Fazit:
Holt es, lest es, liebt es!
Auch dieser Band ist perfekt für einen schönen regnerischen Abend geeignet. Wobei ich euch raten würde, die beiden Bücher nicht gleich hintereinander zu lesen und einen zeitlichen Abstand zu lassen, damit der Effekt besser wirkt!
November 3, 2013
To see my full review:
bookvacations.wordpress.com/2013/11/0...
If you’re like me, then you probably really enjoy novels that give you the “other” side of the story—the same story from a different character’s point of view. Take Stephanie Meyer’s Midnight Sun, or Marata Eros’ A Brutal Tenderness, for examples. In Twilight we learn everything from Bella’s point of view, but in Midnight Sun (what’s available, anyway), we are given the same information through Edward’s eyes, which is fantastic, in my opinion. The same is true in Eros’ A Terrible Love series, giving readers Jess’ point of view in A Terrible Love, and Cass’ in A Brutal Tenderness, bring the story full circle and allowing readers to ascertain the thoughts and feelings of the quiet and brooding Cass, even adding in some differing situations, and taking us back into the worlds we love so deeply.
The same is true for The Waves, the second novel in The Island series by Jen Minkman. When I first read The Island this past Spring, I was a little disappointed because the story seemed a little pushed, though I liked it overall. The characters in this first novella were a bit flat, and everything resolved itself just a little too easily for my liking. However, with the publication of The Waves, Minkman fleshes out the original story, making it much more concrete and filling in the holes left behind by The Island, but doing so through the eyes of a side character in The Island, Walt.
On the island, there are actually two differing groups of people residing, set apart by a vast wall. Both sides have extremely different ideology concerning where they come from and whether or not they will ever be saved, and they both put their trust in relics such as books. However, the sides have grown so distant that no one really knows anything about the other anymore, and so they stick to their own knowledge and teachings, fearing the unknown.
Leia grew up on the “Unbelievers” side (though she and her people would never call themselves that). They believe that every man is for themselves, that children must raise themselves away from The Parents, and that they are completely alone in the universe—there is nothing across the vast space of ocean, and no one will ever come to “save” them. Walt grew up on the “Fools” side, though again, he and his people would never refer to themselves as that. They believe that the goddess will one day send her people across the ocean and come for the people on the island, so they hold out hope and wait for the day they may glimpse a ship.
Sound intriguing? It is, and The Island, book one in the series, focuses on the story of Leia as she questions all that she knows. But, like I said, I thought that first novella needed a lot more explanation and fleshing out. The Waves, thankfully, does just that, presenting the story from Walt’s point of view, a “Fool” on the other side of the wall, and it mirrors events in both stories, giving readers the “other side” of the story, which I thoroughly enjoyed!
Picking up a few years prior to events in The Island, we meet Walt and his cousin as they begin to question all they know of Hope Harbor. Why not build boats and try to see what’s on the other side, if anything, of the ocean? Why must they wait until a ship comes for them? These questions, and information Walt’s cousin unearths in the vast array of books only a few chosen are allowed to read, ultimately lead to Walt’s cousin’s death… and the Unbelievers did it. But did they? As the novella continues to unfold, it begins to parallel events we read about in The Island, showing us what Walt was thinking when he first met Leia, where he took her book after returning home to his side of the island, who he spoke to, and how both the Fools in Hope Harbor and the Unbelievers on the other side decide it is time to confront their beliefs; after all, is it ever smart to only allow a select few the power and knowledge to lead a people?
Overall, The Waves adds a lot to the original story, and this glimpse into the other side of the island is exactly what was needed to make The Island complete. I highly recommend you read both novellas together in order to get the entire story.
bookvacations.wordpress.com/2013/11/0...
If you’re like me, then you probably really enjoy novels that give you the “other” side of the story—the same story from a different character’s point of view. Take Stephanie Meyer’s Midnight Sun, or Marata Eros’ A Brutal Tenderness, for examples. In Twilight we learn everything from Bella’s point of view, but in Midnight Sun (what’s available, anyway), we are given the same information through Edward’s eyes, which is fantastic, in my opinion. The same is true in Eros’ A Terrible Love series, giving readers Jess’ point of view in A Terrible Love, and Cass’ in A Brutal Tenderness, bring the story full circle and allowing readers to ascertain the thoughts and feelings of the quiet and brooding Cass, even adding in some differing situations, and taking us back into the worlds we love so deeply.
The same is true for The Waves, the second novel in The Island series by Jen Minkman. When I first read The Island this past Spring, I was a little disappointed because the story seemed a little pushed, though I liked it overall. The characters in this first novella were a bit flat, and everything resolved itself just a little too easily for my liking. However, with the publication of The Waves, Minkman fleshes out the original story, making it much more concrete and filling in the holes left behind by The Island, but doing so through the eyes of a side character in The Island, Walt.
On the island, there are actually two differing groups of people residing, set apart by a vast wall. Both sides have extremely different ideology concerning where they come from and whether or not they will ever be saved, and they both put their trust in relics such as books. However, the sides have grown so distant that no one really knows anything about the other anymore, and so they stick to their own knowledge and teachings, fearing the unknown.
Leia grew up on the “Unbelievers” side (though she and her people would never call themselves that). They believe that every man is for themselves, that children must raise themselves away from The Parents, and that they are completely alone in the universe—there is nothing across the vast space of ocean, and no one will ever come to “save” them. Walt grew up on the “Fools” side, though again, he and his people would never refer to themselves as that. They believe that the goddess will one day send her people across the ocean and come for the people on the island, so they hold out hope and wait for the day they may glimpse a ship.
Sound intriguing? It is, and The Island, book one in the series, focuses on the story of Leia as she questions all that she knows. But, like I said, I thought that first novella needed a lot more explanation and fleshing out. The Waves, thankfully, does just that, presenting the story from Walt’s point of view, a “Fool” on the other side of the wall, and it mirrors events in both stories, giving readers the “other side” of the story, which I thoroughly enjoyed!
Picking up a few years prior to events in The Island, we meet Walt and his cousin as they begin to question all they know of Hope Harbor. Why not build boats and try to see what’s on the other side, if anything, of the ocean? Why must they wait until a ship comes for them? These questions, and information Walt’s cousin unearths in the vast array of books only a few chosen are allowed to read, ultimately lead to Walt’s cousin’s death… and the Unbelievers did it. But did they? As the novella continues to unfold, it begins to parallel events we read about in The Island, showing us what Walt was thinking when he first met Leia, where he took her book after returning home to his side of the island, who he spoke to, and how both the Fools in Hope Harbor and the Unbelievers on the other side decide it is time to confront their beliefs; after all, is it ever smart to only allow a select few the power and knowledge to lead a people?
Overall, The Waves adds a lot to the original story, and this glimpse into the other side of the island is exactly what was needed to make The Island complete. I highly recommend you read both novellas together in order to get the entire story.
January 8, 2015
The Good
The backlash. My main issue with the first book was the lack of backlash from the community when their entire belief system is torn down. Not an issue with this installment. Anger, hope, acceptance, rage, denial, suicide--the way Minkman showcases such a wide variety of reactions people have when their faith is tested was really amazing. My only gripe would be that many of these secondary characters aren't very fleshed out, but at the same time I think it is a good thing they aren't. These people could be any one of us, their emotions and reactions could easily be our own if we were put into the same situation.
The corruption. I love a good conspiracy theory, and the corruption that Walt uncovers beneath Hope Harbor is perfectly shocking. I also really appreciated that the unveiling of his findings didn't take an additional hundred pages as it does in some books. Walt does the logical thing and lets the truth be known as soon as possible.
The intermingling of faiths. As in the first book, this second novella showcases the intermingling and augmentation of belief systems perfectly. It is anthropological elements like these that really make these books shine.
The Bad
The lack of romantic development. My only true complaint for this book would be the romance. It feels very underdeveloped, and there is little-to-no chemistry between Walt and Leia, in my opinion. I honestly think I would have enjoyed this story more if the romance was left completely out of it. The book is solid enough on its own with its conspiracies, belief systems, riots, etc. without the addition of a romantic element. I wouldn't say the romance feels out of place, it just doesn't feel like it is important enough to take center stage the way that it does near the end of the novella.
Overall Rating
The backlash. My main issue with the first book was the lack of backlash from the community when their entire belief system is torn down. Not an issue with this installment. Anger, hope, acceptance, rage, denial, suicide--the way Minkman showcases such a wide variety of reactions people have when their faith is tested was really amazing. My only gripe would be that many of these secondary characters aren't very fleshed out, but at the same time I think it is a good thing they aren't. These people could be any one of us, their emotions and reactions could easily be our own if we were put into the same situation.
The corruption. I love a good conspiracy theory, and the corruption that Walt uncovers beneath Hope Harbor is perfectly shocking. I also really appreciated that the unveiling of his findings didn't take an additional hundred pages as it does in some books. Walt does the logical thing and lets the truth be known as soon as possible.
The intermingling of faiths. As in the first book, this second novella showcases the intermingling and augmentation of belief systems perfectly. It is anthropological elements like these that really make these books shine.
The Bad
The lack of romantic development. My only true complaint for this book would be the romance. It feels very underdeveloped, and there is little-to-no chemistry between Walt and Leia, in my opinion. I honestly think I would have enjoyed this story more if the romance was left completely out of it. The book is solid enough on its own with its conspiracies, belief systems, riots, etc. without the addition of a romantic element. I wouldn't say the romance feels out of place, it just doesn't feel like it is important enough to take center stage the way that it does near the end of the novella.
Overall Rating
4/5 - When I read the first book in this series, The Island, while I appreciated the anthropological and cultural issues addressed throughout the book, the lack of uprising when religious views were brought into question rang false with me, and left me a little disappointed. This was definitely not a problem in this second installment. I absolutely loved the way Minkman was able to showcase the myriad of reactions people have when their faith is brought into question, when their truth is proved to be a blatant lie. This is a book about faith, loss, hope, growth, love, hatred, deception--but most of all it is a book about the human condition. I really enjoyed this, and I will definitely be picking up any additional novellas that Minkman decides to write in "The Island" series. I would recommend this to fans of dystopian fiction, particularly those with a religious focus like "The Forest of Hands and Teeth."
April 13, 2014
INITIAL THOUGHTS
What will the "Other side of the wall" story be? Are the "Fools" really that foolish thinking that a person named Annabelle would return to their Island to rescue them on her grand golden ship.
MY REVIEW
I received and e-copy of this book directly from the Author Jen Minkman in exchange for my honest review.
I like the cover as it fits in with the cover of book one. The murky water and the lighthouse that the people of Hope Harbour keep lit so that when Annabelle returns she can find her way. The people of Hope Harbour believe that Annabelle is a Goddess and her and her two daughters Mary and Agnes will one day return for them on a large golden ship to take them to the other side of the water. Hope Harbour has three Priests, Bram, Praed and Finn, they oversea all worship at the temple and bless those that go to the temple. They also oversee the funerals as when you die in Hope Harbour your body is wrapped in white surrounded with yellow flowers and placed in a boat and "sent to the other side" where Annabelle will be waiting for them. Then a few days later you send a much smaller boat filled with gifts of expensive wool clothing and other expensive useful items for their life on the other side.
There are a few people that are having doubts about what the three Priests are preaching.
One of the doubters who can actually find evidence is Walt's cousin Yorrick. Yorrick is the Book Keeper's son, so has access to all the old books on the Island. It is in the books that Yorrick finds information and maps, he goes to see the Priests to discuss things and then goes for a run. Walt is going to meet Yorrick and in the distance see's him pushed off the cliff. Who is the darkly dressed man who pushed Yorrick? Is it an Unbeliever from over the wall?
There's so much more that happens in this book, two boat crash survivor's is washed upon the shore. One on the "Believer's Hope Harbour side of the wall and the other on the "Unbelievers" side of the world How does their treatment differ?
This book is actually set at the same as The Island was but telling the other side of the walls story. I enjoyed this book, even though we the reader already knew some of the scenario's coming up.
So did I enjoy the book? Yes I did. In this book you learn much more about the other side of the wall to the manor house which is called Hope Harbour. Would I recommend the book? I'd say if you have read The Island then The Waves is a must read. Would I read another book in this series? Yes, I'd like to know what really is on the other side, and follow the outward voyage as well as the return home. Would I read other books by Jen Minkman? I already have, when I read Shadow Of Time, and I'd certainly take a close look at any book written by Jen Minkman.
What will the "Other side of the wall" story be? Are the "Fools" really that foolish thinking that a person named Annabelle would return to their Island to rescue them on her grand golden ship.
MY REVIEW
I received and e-copy of this book directly from the Author Jen Minkman in exchange for my honest review.
I like the cover as it fits in with the cover of book one. The murky water and the lighthouse that the people of Hope Harbour keep lit so that when Annabelle returns she can find her way. The people of Hope Harbour believe that Annabelle is a Goddess and her and her two daughters Mary and Agnes will one day return for them on a large golden ship to take them to the other side of the water. Hope Harbour has three Priests, Bram, Praed and Finn, they oversea all worship at the temple and bless those that go to the temple. They also oversee the funerals as when you die in Hope Harbour your body is wrapped in white surrounded with yellow flowers and placed in a boat and "sent to the other side" where Annabelle will be waiting for them. Then a few days later you send a much smaller boat filled with gifts of expensive wool clothing and other expensive useful items for their life on the other side.
There are a few people that are having doubts about what the three Priests are preaching.
One of the doubters who can actually find evidence is Walt's cousin Yorrick. Yorrick is the Book Keeper's son, so has access to all the old books on the Island. It is in the books that Yorrick finds information and maps, he goes to see the Priests to discuss things and then goes for a run. Walt is going to meet Yorrick and in the distance see's him pushed off the cliff. Who is the darkly dressed man who pushed Yorrick? Is it an Unbeliever from over the wall?
There's so much more that happens in this book, two boat crash survivor's is washed upon the shore. One on the "Believer's Hope Harbour side of the wall and the other on the "Unbelievers" side of the world How does their treatment differ?
This book is actually set at the same as The Island was but telling the other side of the walls story. I enjoyed this book, even though we the reader already knew some of the scenario's coming up.
So did I enjoy the book? Yes I did. In this book you learn much more about the other side of the wall to the manor house which is called Hope Harbour. Would I recommend the book? I'd say if you have read The Island then The Waves is a must read. Would I read another book in this series? Yes, I'd like to know what really is on the other side, and follow the outward voyage as well as the return home. Would I read other books by Jen Minkman? I already have, when I read Shadow Of Time, and I'd certainly take a close look at any book written by Jen Minkman.
January 29, 2014
*Received in exchange for an honest review*
This was an interesting side to the first instalment, The Island, allowing us to view the events that led up to their collaboration. The cover highlights the main aspect of the water, pronouncing the fact that they are alone and to fend for themselves; the lighthouse additionally portrays their search for Annabelle.
There are two lives you can life; a Fools or an Unbelievers. The Unbelievers are sent away from their parents at the age of ten, to fend for themselves and gain independence. They are then to marry and move back to the village where they may meet their parents again. However, the Fools side is a mystery to them; living behind the wall their life has been classed as tough and those who cross will never be at one with the Force. But what happens when the lies come crashing down on the Unbelievers? Furthermore, in the second we see the point of view from the Fools who believe in the land across the waters. However, they also believe that those behind the wall, the Unbelievers, have abandoned them all in their wait for Annabelle. However, what happens when their lies and beliefs are revealed making them judge the security and trust in those around them.
I was excited to view the same plot from the view of Walt, he is a strong, independent boy who has seen and experienced a lot making him judge the views that have been forced upon him. He is additionally very curious and holds great power and leadership when revealing the truth about the lies that have been unloaded on them all. Furthermore I enjoyed his friendship with his best friend, how they stuck together through hard times and trusted one another, no matter what happened.
The views of the Fools were interesting, the way they found the Unbelievers life compared to how the Unbelievers found the Fools lives really brought out the separation between the two communities, whether they were together before or not.I did however find some areas of this story dragging, due to the issue that you were reading briefly the same events happening again, it become very dragged out compared to what I was hoping of having a brief beginning and then hoping we would understand more about the events that occurred after.
However, this is a lovely story that highlights the importance of a communities collaboration... I also got the part about Star Wars correct, *happy dance* I had a bit of a giggle when Toby was trying to explain it with Walt being serious.
This was an interesting side to the first instalment, The Island, allowing us to view the events that led up to their collaboration. The cover highlights the main aspect of the water, pronouncing the fact that they are alone and to fend for themselves; the lighthouse additionally portrays their search for Annabelle.
There are two lives you can life; a Fools or an Unbelievers. The Unbelievers are sent away from their parents at the age of ten, to fend for themselves and gain independence. They are then to marry and move back to the village where they may meet their parents again. However, the Fools side is a mystery to them; living behind the wall their life has been classed as tough and those who cross will never be at one with the Force. But what happens when the lies come crashing down on the Unbelievers? Furthermore, in the second we see the point of view from the Fools who believe in the land across the waters. However, they also believe that those behind the wall, the Unbelievers, have abandoned them all in their wait for Annabelle. However, what happens when their lies and beliefs are revealed making them judge the security and trust in those around them.
I was excited to view the same plot from the view of Walt, he is a strong, independent boy who has seen and experienced a lot making him judge the views that have been forced upon him. He is additionally very curious and holds great power and leadership when revealing the truth about the lies that have been unloaded on them all. Furthermore I enjoyed his friendship with his best friend, how they stuck together through hard times and trusted one another, no matter what happened.
The views of the Fools were interesting, the way they found the Unbelievers life compared to how the Unbelievers found the Fools lives really brought out the separation between the two communities, whether they were together before or not.I did however find some areas of this story dragging, due to the issue that you were reading briefly the same events happening again, it become very dragged out compared to what I was hoping of having a brief beginning and then hoping we would understand more about the events that occurred after.
However, this is a lovely story that highlights the importance of a communities collaboration... I also got the part about Star Wars correct, *happy dance* I had a bit of a giggle when Toby was trying to explain it with Walt being serious.
October 5, 2013
The Waves is the second book in The Island Series. It can be read independently, but I recommend you to read the first volume too. The Waves presents the life and the point of view of that Fool, the one that Leia (the main character in The Island) meets and that could represent for her and for the other people on the island, a step to a possible better future.
If I liked The Island, I liked even more The Waves. The tone is changing, it’s more serious (without being boring), more profound. The events are harsher (or at least you see them this way because of the atmosphere and the feelings that the author awakes very swift) and the consequences as well. Raised in a society with a strict frame and a doctrine even stricter, Walt will try all the range of emotions: from distrust, disappointment, rage and helplessness, despair, to hope and determination. Intelligent, bold and with a clear mind (with the help of a character that I loved), he will take a decision and will respect it in spite of the possible repercussions. His way of being, of thinking and evolving will make you love him early.
The events in this second book link and sends you to The Island, succeeding this way to satisfy my „demand for more” that I was talking about in my review for the previous volume, fulfilling somehow the story, whether it’s about Leia and Walt’s relationship or the faith of the inhabitants of the island. I could say that I would have liked more Leia-Walt moments, but it’s just a wish, given that I know the characters. More detail, or the centering on this relationship would have been a flaw, if you look at the volumes as a whole.
To be appreciated is the author’s success in creating two different, but credible worlds, starting from the same event. She defined well the human features and the reason of the schism, but also the fact that the totalitarianism and the abuse are easy to obtain, being the vices of the human being.
"I was only five, but I still clearly remember feeling a cold shiver running through my body after hearing that last remark. Most children in Hope Harbor are scared of the stories their parents tell them about the Unbelievers: if you don’t visit the temple every week, they will get you in your sleep. If you don’t listen to the priests, they will send you out into the wilderness behind the Wall where the Unbelievers dwell, their robes of black and masks of horror a sure sign of their sinfulness. Once they sink their claws into you, there’s not a chance you will ever return.
But that was then.
I know better now – because I’ve been there, and yet I am still alive."
If I liked The Island, I liked even more The Waves. The tone is changing, it’s more serious (without being boring), more profound. The events are harsher (or at least you see them this way because of the atmosphere and the feelings that the author awakes very swift) and the consequences as well. Raised in a society with a strict frame and a doctrine even stricter, Walt will try all the range of emotions: from distrust, disappointment, rage and helplessness, despair, to hope and determination. Intelligent, bold and with a clear mind (with the help of a character that I loved), he will take a decision and will respect it in spite of the possible repercussions. His way of being, of thinking and evolving will make you love him early.
The events in this second book link and sends you to The Island, succeeding this way to satisfy my „demand for more” that I was talking about in my review for the previous volume, fulfilling somehow the story, whether it’s about Leia and Walt’s relationship or the faith of the inhabitants of the island. I could say that I would have liked more Leia-Walt moments, but it’s just a wish, given that I know the characters. More detail, or the centering on this relationship would have been a flaw, if you look at the volumes as a whole.
To be appreciated is the author’s success in creating two different, but credible worlds, starting from the same event. She defined well the human features and the reason of the schism, but also the fact that the totalitarianism and the abuse are easy to obtain, being the vices of the human being.
"I was only five, but I still clearly remember feeling a cold shiver running through my body after hearing that last remark. Most children in Hope Harbor are scared of the stories their parents tell them about the Unbelievers: if you don’t visit the temple every week, they will get you in your sleep. If you don’t listen to the priests, they will send you out into the wilderness behind the Wall where the Unbelievers dwell, their robes of black and masks of horror a sure sign of their sinfulness. Once they sink their claws into you, there’s not a chance you will ever return.
But that was then.
I know better now – because I’ve been there, and yet I am still alive."
October 7, 2013
THE WAVES is a great companion novel to THE ISLAND. It's told from Walt's prospective, before he met Leia (the girl who's prospective we get in THE ISLAND) and what happens after he meets her. This novella could be read before or after reading THE ISLAND, they both are independent from one another but have great overlapping. If you've read one, I'd definitely read the other just so you can get someone else's prospective.
I really liked Walt. He's struggling with his beliefs and has a strong yearning to not only go over the wall but to explore the rest of the world. On his side of the island, Hope Harbor, everyone believes that this goddess will come for them. Walt, along with his best friend Yorrick, have lost that faith and believe that the power now resides in them. It's up to them to get off and find out what's out there. After the tragic death of Yorrick--although it only played out for a couple of sentences and was a bit anti-climatic--Walt takes over where Yorrick left off in his plans to secure a ship and a crew to go explore. He was dedicated, sensitive, and had a great sense of adventure while still loving everyone and everything in the place he called home.
Because I did read THE ISLAND, I was excited to see what Hope Harbor was like. We only got a small glimpse of this side on the island in the other book because Leia wasn't from there. It was amazing how dramatic the two differences in society were. One was almost totalitarian, while Hope Harbor was peaceful. It was almost like a utopia, in a sense, until Walt discovers something grave. I wasn't expecting this and thought it added a nice twist to the story. It also made Walt's desire to leave even stronger.
Overall, THE WAVES was a nice and well-plotted companion novella. It would be the perfect book to pick up on a rainy day. It was fast paced and kept your attention. It was cool to see some events that took place in the other book from Walt's point of view and allowed to you to see why he is the way he is. There's also the important lesson about learning to believe in oneself and not be afraid to go against what everyone else thinks. I would highly recommend reading THE ISLAND, too. Minkman created two contrasting worlds that are interesting to compare.
I received an ebook copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
This review can be found at: The Bookish Daydreamer
I really liked Walt. He's struggling with his beliefs and has a strong yearning to not only go over the wall but to explore the rest of the world. On his side of the island, Hope Harbor, everyone believes that this goddess will come for them. Walt, along with his best friend Yorrick, have lost that faith and believe that the power now resides in them. It's up to them to get off and find out what's out there. After the tragic death of Yorrick--although it only played out for a couple of sentences and was a bit anti-climatic--Walt takes over where Yorrick left off in his plans to secure a ship and a crew to go explore. He was dedicated, sensitive, and had a great sense of adventure while still loving everyone and everything in the place he called home.
Because I did read THE ISLAND, I was excited to see what Hope Harbor was like. We only got a small glimpse of this side on the island in the other book because Leia wasn't from there. It was amazing how dramatic the two differences in society were. One was almost totalitarian, while Hope Harbor was peaceful. It was almost like a utopia, in a sense, until Walt discovers something grave. I wasn't expecting this and thought it added a nice twist to the story. It also made Walt's desire to leave even stronger.
Overall, THE WAVES was a nice and well-plotted companion novella. It would be the perfect book to pick up on a rainy day. It was fast paced and kept your attention. It was cool to see some events that took place in the other book from Walt's point of view and allowed to you to see why he is the way he is. There's also the important lesson about learning to believe in oneself and not be afraid to go against what everyone else thinks. I would highly recommend reading THE ISLAND, too. Minkman created two contrasting worlds that are interesting to compare.
I received an ebook copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
This review can be found at: The Bookish Daydreamer
October 6, 2013
A few months ago I was asked to review the first book in The Island series and I really enjoyed it so when I was approached by her to read this one I knew I just couldn't say no. Jen is one of my favourite self published authors and every book I read by her is a unique experience in it's own right.
I liked reading The Waves because unlike The Island this one was from Walt's point of view and ever since I read The Island I've been really curious about him since that one was mostly Leia's story, plus I wanted to learn more about how their two cultures took different paths over the generations.
This one was everything that The Island was and I'm really glad I was able to fit in into my reading schedule this weekend. The thing about the books is that I liked seeing that both cultures were lacking and they both had negative thoughts towards each other but I enjoyed the fact that with some things each side differed on and others they agreed on (though that list is far smaller).
The main reason I liked this installment though is because we also got to see Walt and Leia together which is what I was looking for in the last novella so I was pleased to see that while she wasn't the focus of this one she was still in it.
Overall, this one was just as good as the first novella, but even more intriguing. I love how unique the plot is and the Star Wars theme is wonderfully unique without being campy Jen pulls off another successful novel with the grace and ease I've come to expect from her. The writing was fast paced and addictive and I managed to read this one in one sitting just like the last one. I've learned that anytime I review her books I better settle in because chances are I'm going to be glued to the book from beginning to end. I can't wait to read another story by Jen and I'm hoping she's got something in the works for her die hard fans like myself who hate waiting.
I would recommend this novella to fans of the first novella in this series The Island, as well as fans of her Shadow of Time novel. If you've yet to read anything by Jen Minkman yet I highly suggest giving the first book in this unique Star Wars inspired dystopian series a try as soon as possible.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my free and honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are 100% my own.
I liked reading The Waves because unlike The Island this one was from Walt's point of view and ever since I read The Island I've been really curious about him since that one was mostly Leia's story, plus I wanted to learn more about how their two cultures took different paths over the generations.
This one was everything that The Island was and I'm really glad I was able to fit in into my reading schedule this weekend. The thing about the books is that I liked seeing that both cultures were lacking and they both had negative thoughts towards each other but I enjoyed the fact that with some things each side differed on and others they agreed on (though that list is far smaller).
The main reason I liked this installment though is because we also got to see Walt and Leia together which is what I was looking for in the last novella so I was pleased to see that while she wasn't the focus of this one she was still in it.
Overall, this one was just as good as the first novella, but even more intriguing. I love how unique the plot is and the Star Wars theme is wonderfully unique without being campy Jen pulls off another successful novel with the grace and ease I've come to expect from her. The writing was fast paced and addictive and I managed to read this one in one sitting just like the last one. I've learned that anytime I review her books I better settle in because chances are I'm going to be glued to the book from beginning to end. I can't wait to read another story by Jen and I'm hoping she's got something in the works for her die hard fans like myself who hate waiting.
I would recommend this novella to fans of the first novella in this series The Island, as well as fans of her Shadow of Time novel. If you've yet to read anything by Jen Minkman yet I highly suggest giving the first book in this unique Star Wars inspired dystopian series a try as soon as possible.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my free and honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are 100% my own.
October 3, 2013
Jen Minkman’s new novella, The Waves, tells the other side of the story she began in The Island. Walt is the nephew of the Bookkeeper, the leader of the people of Hope Harbor. The residents of Walt’s side of the island are waiting for their Goddess, Annabelle, to come on a ship from the Other Side and save them. This is what they have been taught by their priests to put their faith in. But when Walt’s cousin, apprentice to the Bookkeeper, discovers some documents that seem to contradict the priests’ teachings, Walt begins to harbor doubts. When a ship finally does arrive from the other side, will his faith be broken completely, or can the residents of the island find something new to believe in?
This sequel is much stronger than Minkman’s previous novella, The Island. The view it gives of the other side of the island seems better developed, and there is a solid plot and a good dose of intrigue to move the story along.
Character development takes place largely through Walt’s relationships with his family, which are complex and a strong theme throughout the book. This is in direct contrast to The Island, in which family connections were, by design, nearly non-existent. Here they are deeply affecting, and it’s clear how much Walt’s family has influenced and shaped him.
Another theme, present in both books, is the questioning of organized religion as opposed to person faith. On both sides of the island, the ideals of the children who founded their societies have become rigid, codified systems of belief. These systems are fragile, falling apart rapidly when citizens are given reason to question them. However, the author presents the notion that a stronger society can develop when faith is more adaptable.
I was impressed with the delicacy with which Minkman handled two threads that could easily have been overdone. First, she addresses the islanders’ unfamiliarity with technology without making them look primitive and unintelligent. The romantic subplot between Walt and Leia also feels authentic for characters of their age and experience. This is refreshing to me, as so many books treat young adult romances with a gratuitously heavy hand.
My only criticism is that the book begins to list slightly towards melodrama near the end, but overall I found the ending, and the book as a whole, to be both intriguing and satisfying.
This sequel is much stronger than Minkman’s previous novella, The Island. The view it gives of the other side of the island seems better developed, and there is a solid plot and a good dose of intrigue to move the story along.
Character development takes place largely through Walt’s relationships with his family, which are complex and a strong theme throughout the book. This is in direct contrast to The Island, in which family connections were, by design, nearly non-existent. Here they are deeply affecting, and it’s clear how much Walt’s family has influenced and shaped him.
Another theme, present in both books, is the questioning of organized religion as opposed to person faith. On both sides of the island, the ideals of the children who founded their societies have become rigid, codified systems of belief. These systems are fragile, falling apart rapidly when citizens are given reason to question them. However, the author presents the notion that a stronger society can develop when faith is more adaptable.
I was impressed with the delicacy with which Minkman handled two threads that could easily have been overdone. First, she addresses the islanders’ unfamiliarity with technology without making them look primitive and unintelligent. The romantic subplot between Walt and Leia also feels authentic for characters of their age and experience. This is refreshing to me, as so many books treat young adult romances with a gratuitously heavy hand.
My only criticism is that the book begins to list slightly towards melodrama near the end, but overall I found the ending, and the book as a whole, to be both intriguing and satisfying.
February 4, 2015
Walt lives in Hope Harbor, where they believe that Annabelle, their goddess, would come back for them to bring them salvation. They've waited patiently for the goddess, building ships and going to temples everyday. They are also taught to fear the Unbelievers beyond the wall.
Walt has been questioning his faith. He believes that he is becoming an Unbeliever. After the death of his friend, it seems that not everything that they are taught is true, about Annabelle & the Unbelievers. It is up to Walt to find the truth and give himself peace & happiness.
This novella is technically a mirror plot to the first novella. When the first book was about Leia, this one is about Walt. The first half of the book is basically about Hope Harbor and their belief while the second half is about Leia. Nothing much changed, really. You just get some insights about how Walt's people live and how he thinks.
I think this book is way better than the first one. First of all, the plot was way better than the Star Wars thing. I like this because it somehow reflects our religion & society, where corruption is present. How the head of churches use their powers to their advantage. How some believe blindly without really knowing about their religion first. Second, I think this book is well written. I think the lines were less cheesy or corny and the plot was smooth flowing. The story didn't really jump from one stone to another. You could see the improvement in both content and writing skill.
On the other hand, in the first book, there was no character improvement but now there are some changes and improvements in Walt. You could see how he struggled with himself and found the answer he was looking for.
I still think that the series is fine but you just get tired of reading the other novella, when you've read the first one. If you're really interested in Walt, this is the book for you.
I would still like to thank Jen Minkman for providing me a copy for this review.
Rating: 3.5 (This is way better than the first one but I just can't give it a 4)
Walt has been questioning his faith. He believes that he is becoming an Unbeliever. After the death of his friend, it seems that not everything that they are taught is true, about Annabelle & the Unbelievers. It is up to Walt to find the truth and give himself peace & happiness.
This novella is technically a mirror plot to the first novella. When the first book was about Leia, this one is about Walt. The first half of the book is basically about Hope Harbor and their belief while the second half is about Leia. Nothing much changed, really. You just get some insights about how Walt's people live and how he thinks.
I think this book is way better than the first one. First of all, the plot was way better than the Star Wars thing. I like this because it somehow reflects our religion & society, where corruption is present. How the head of churches use their powers to their advantage. How some believe blindly without really knowing about their religion first. Second, I think this book is well written. I think the lines were less cheesy or corny and the plot was smooth flowing. The story didn't really jump from one stone to another. You could see the improvement in both content and writing skill.
On the other hand, in the first book, there was no character improvement but now there are some changes and improvements in Walt. You could see how he struggled with himself and found the answer he was looking for.
I still think that the series is fine but you just get tired of reading the other novella, when you've read the first one. If you're really interested in Walt, this is the book for you.
I would still like to thank Jen Minkman for providing me a copy for this review.
Rating: 3.5 (This is way better than the first one but I just can't give it a 4)
November 9, 2016
In the first installment of the The Island we learned of Leia who lives on an Island that surrounds The Great Book. Nobody tackles or questions the book. And most of all NOBODY talks to the Fools. Fools are people who will not follow the Great Book and have ruined their lives. They will try and take you away from their laws and make you a Fool as well.
But was it all true? Can the urging feeling Leia has about the Wall and the Fools be because she doesn't believe anymore? And what about this Fool that she has met? Could there be something in what he says? Is this FOOL, right?
Welcome to The Waves.
The other side of the Wall story.
More common tongue, the Fools story.
Welcome to the story Walt. The first Fool Leia met in The Island who made her question her own faith and her own Book.
But who is Walt? How did a Fool become so smart? The Waves starts you off with who Walt is, what Walt believes in and what his own questions are about the Wall and the Unbelievers. Walt never questioned anybody about their faith.
Until tragedy strikes too close to home for him that he wonders if it was all a lie. And for what purpose was this lie? When Walt meets a stranger from far across the waters, he now knows what happened and wants to spread the word.
But there are Others that don’t want the truth. How can Leia and Walt defend the one thing that could give them the answers when no one else wants to hear it?
I really enjoyed reading this one. This book really digs down deep to how these people got on this island, a very dystopia kind of way and how they became so infatuated with Books being not just literature and something fun to read, but books that based their whole livelihood, their whole faith. Jen Minkman did a wonderful job explaining more in depth of how the Unbelievers and the Fools came about and how it took two strong kids with questions themselves to come out and find the answers and seek what was long lost. I want to thank Jen Minkman for allowing me to read this book and given me enough time to review it for her. I can’t wait to start on her other series.
But was it all true? Can the urging feeling Leia has about the Wall and the Fools be because she doesn't believe anymore? And what about this Fool that she has met? Could there be something in what he says? Is this FOOL, right?
Welcome to The Waves.
The other side of the Wall story.
More common tongue, the Fools story.
Welcome to the story Walt. The first Fool Leia met in The Island who made her question her own faith and her own Book.
But who is Walt? How did a Fool become so smart? The Waves starts you off with who Walt is, what Walt believes in and what his own questions are about the Wall and the Unbelievers. Walt never questioned anybody about their faith.
Until tragedy strikes too close to home for him that he wonders if it was all a lie. And for what purpose was this lie? When Walt meets a stranger from far across the waters, he now knows what happened and wants to spread the word.
But there are Others that don’t want the truth. How can Leia and Walt defend the one thing that could give them the answers when no one else wants to hear it?
I really enjoyed reading this one. This book really digs down deep to how these people got on this island, a very dystopia kind of way and how they became so infatuated with Books being not just literature and something fun to read, but books that based their whole livelihood, their whole faith. Jen Minkman did a wonderful job explaining more in depth of how the Unbelievers and the Fools came about and how it took two strong kids with questions themselves to come out and find the answers and seek what was long lost. I want to thank Jen Minkman for allowing me to read this book and given me enough time to review it for her. I can’t wait to start on her other series.
October 4, 2013
Back in June I was fortunate to receive a novella called The Island for review. I enjoyed this story quite a bit and was thrilled to learn that the author was released a companion novella from a different character's point of view.
After hearing from Leia in The Island, it was only fitting that we hear Walt's side of the story. I was anxious to hear how he came to cross the dividing wall and came across Leia. But not only do we learn about Walt's adventure, we also learn a lot more about the "Fools" and how they live.
Walt is a fifteen year old boy who is just trying to figure out life on his own terms. He has questions about his faith and heritage but also doesn't want to give up on it. He wants to find his own way, even if that means having to cross the wall to the Unbelievers and put himself in danger. He is a strong character, likable, and one that everyone can connect with no matter what their age.
I was a little worried at first that this story would turn super religious because Walt's grandfather, Thomas, is a strong believer in the Goddess Annabelle. He is obsessed with going to Temple and determined to get Walt to join him too. Thankfully though, the story did not become preachy and I wasn't turned off from it.
What I loved most about this story was not only learning the history of the Fools but also the mystery. There is murder and deception that Walt is determined to see resolved. The two themes come together in a spectacular way and I just inhaled the story as fast as I could. The author also does a fantastic job of reminding readers of the events of the last book without rehashing it all over again.
Overall, I truly enjoyed The Waves. Maybe even more so than The Island because I already had half of the back story and this was the perfect way to add to it. If you love dystopians, Young Adult or short stories, I highly recommend you pick up both The Island and The Waves as soon as possible. These reads are perfect for a chilly afternoon read or when you are in need of something quick yet satisfying.
After hearing from Leia in The Island, it was only fitting that we hear Walt's side of the story. I was anxious to hear how he came to cross the dividing wall and came across Leia. But not only do we learn about Walt's adventure, we also learn a lot more about the "Fools" and how they live.
Walt is a fifteen year old boy who is just trying to figure out life on his own terms. He has questions about his faith and heritage but also doesn't want to give up on it. He wants to find his own way, even if that means having to cross the wall to the Unbelievers and put himself in danger. He is a strong character, likable, and one that everyone can connect with no matter what their age.
I was a little worried at first that this story would turn super religious because Walt's grandfather, Thomas, is a strong believer in the Goddess Annabelle. He is obsessed with going to Temple and determined to get Walt to join him too. Thankfully though, the story did not become preachy and I wasn't turned off from it.
What I loved most about this story was not only learning the history of the Fools but also the mystery. There is murder and deception that Walt is determined to see resolved. The two themes come together in a spectacular way and I just inhaled the story as fast as I could. The author also does a fantastic job of reminding readers of the events of the last book without rehashing it all over again.
Overall, I truly enjoyed The Waves. Maybe even more so than The Island because I already had half of the back story and this was the perfect way to add to it. If you love dystopians, Young Adult or short stories, I highly recommend you pick up both The Island and The Waves as soon as possible. These reads are perfect for a chilly afternoon read or when you are in need of something quick yet satisfying.
April 7, 2014
Jen Minkman takes us back to the world of The Island where the foggy past, the current beliefs and the hopeful future intertwine in her new dystopian novella, The Waves.
I liked going back to that world and live the adventure from the other side of the wall. It shows how two outcomes can be possible from one incident that made Fools and Unbelievers separate. The novella tackles tough questions like the place of religion within the government, the need to believe and have faith in something. Also it brings an interesting view on the character of villains where it is not all black and white but all the bad guys have a gray zone. There is no master evil who is trying to control the world. The novella depicts how power and wrong beliefs can push some to do things to survive and uphold the community's harmony.
With all these serious themes, the book still has enough action and adventure. All of that is powdered with the sweet romance between Walt and Leia which is brought through Walt's point of view.
This change of perspective brings a different dimension to the story.
It does not only tells how Walt came to meet Leia and how his feelings for her grew stronger but also shows his character under a natural light. He is not always the hero who helped Leia when she needed him. He also has his doubts and insecurities to battle as he tries to find what to belief and what to do. We also get to see his different relationships with his cousin, his grandfather and his grandmother that only accepted to talk to him recently to reveal a secret that many wished to be forgotten.
All in all, the story was a joy to read. The plot was nicely done, fluid and easy to follow despite having many intertwined elements that rang from serious to light-hearted. If you liked The Island, you will definitely fall in love with The Waves.
P.S. There is a third sequel coming soon. I am so excited to read it!
I liked going back to that world and live the adventure from the other side of the wall. It shows how two outcomes can be possible from one incident that made Fools and Unbelievers separate. The novella tackles tough questions like the place of religion within the government, the need to believe and have faith in something. Also it brings an interesting view on the character of villains where it is not all black and white but all the bad guys have a gray zone. There is no master evil who is trying to control the world. The novella depicts how power and wrong beliefs can push some to do things to survive and uphold the community's harmony.
With all these serious themes, the book still has enough action and adventure. All of that is powdered with the sweet romance between Walt and Leia which is brought through Walt's point of view.
This change of perspective brings a different dimension to the story.
It does not only tells how Walt came to meet Leia and how his feelings for her grew stronger but also shows his character under a natural light. He is not always the hero who helped Leia when she needed him. He also has his doubts and insecurities to battle as he tries to find what to belief and what to do. We also get to see his different relationships with his cousin, his grandfather and his grandmother that only accepted to talk to him recently to reveal a secret that many wished to be forgotten.
All in all, the story was a joy to read. The plot was nicely done, fluid and easy to follow despite having many intertwined elements that rang from serious to light-hearted. If you liked The Island, you will definitely fall in love with The Waves.
P.S. There is a third sequel coming soon. I am so excited to read it!
October 4, 2013
I've learned that when I get an email from Jen Minkman, I should just go ahead and start jumping up and down. I absolutely adored THE ISLAND, so when Jen asked if I would review THE WAVES, I didn't even have to think twice. THE ISLAND was wildly creative so I knew THE WAVES would be just as attention getting.
Book 1, THE ISLAND, is the from Leia's POV. It's her story. Leia and Walt live on opposite sides of the wall, which basically equates to opposite sides of the world. Each has grown up with a completely different belief system, and Leia provides her opinion of Walt's people, referred to as the Fools, in THE ISLAND. However, there isn't any actual glimpse into the world on Walt's side of the wall.
But THE WAVES is Walt's story, and I was so excited to get an inside perspective from him. It is not a retelling of THE ISLAND. Before he meets Leia, Walt has no knowledge of the world on the other side of the wall. The events of THE WAVES happen before and during the events of THE ISLAND. We do see some of the final scenes of THE ISLAND from Walt's POV in THE WAVES, but most of his story takes place before he meets Leia. In fact, his story basically shares how he came to meet Leia.
THE WAVES is creative in and of itself. It's an in depth look at how history can be rewritten without the people living it even being aware. It's full of corruption, devotion, and challenges. Walt truly becomes his own person with his own beliefs and he's an incredibly strong character.
I strongly recommend THE WAVES. It's a novella, so it's a great short read. It could potentially be read on its own, but it does contain significant spoilers for THE ISLAND, so I recommend reading book 1 first if you haven't already. (You'll totally love Leia anyway!). So what are you waiting for? Go grab your copy of this fabulous dystopian novella!
Book 1, THE ISLAND, is the from Leia's POV. It's her story. Leia and Walt live on opposite sides of the wall, which basically equates to opposite sides of the world. Each has grown up with a completely different belief system, and Leia provides her opinion of Walt's people, referred to as the Fools, in THE ISLAND. However, there isn't any actual glimpse into the world on Walt's side of the wall.
But THE WAVES is Walt's story, and I was so excited to get an inside perspective from him. It is not a retelling of THE ISLAND. Before he meets Leia, Walt has no knowledge of the world on the other side of the wall. The events of THE WAVES happen before and during the events of THE ISLAND. We do see some of the final scenes of THE ISLAND from Walt's POV in THE WAVES, but most of his story takes place before he meets Leia. In fact, his story basically shares how he came to meet Leia.
THE WAVES is creative in and of itself. It's an in depth look at how history can be rewritten without the people living it even being aware. It's full of corruption, devotion, and challenges. Walt truly becomes his own person with his own beliefs and he's an incredibly strong character.
I strongly recommend THE WAVES. It's a novella, so it's a great short read. It could potentially be read on its own, but it does contain significant spoilers for THE ISLAND, so I recommend reading book 1 first if you haven't already. (You'll totally love Leia anyway!). So what are you waiting for? Go grab your copy of this fabulous dystopian novella!
March 14, 2016
When I read The Island earlier this year, I was pleasantly surprised! Although it had heavy references to Star Wars, it was a story and a concept all its own. The Waves tells that same story, but from the other side of the island and with significantly fewer references to Star Wars. It takes place pretty much at the same time that The Island takes place, and I thought it was really cool to see what happens over in Walt's world.
Walt was definitely an excellently written character. He's smart, funny, determined, and has many qualities that a good leader should have. He's experienced joy and tragedy, and has several great adult role models. I think religion was dealt with very well in this story too, and shows that even though there might not be a reason, people will still believe in whatever gives them hope - or joy, in Walt's case. I really loved getting to know Walt better, and to see things from his perspective instead of just through Leia's eyes.
Compared to The Island, I think The Waves has much better pacing and flows more evenly. We aren't flooded with unnecessary details, and I think it helps to have the background knowledge of what's going to happen. I spent a lot of the time waiting for things to cross over from The Island, and it was pretty cool when they did.
Overall, I would totally recommend this novella to anyone who has read The Island. It's an excellent companion, and it made the world so much richer and fuller for me. I loved getting to know old characters better and meeting new ones, and seeing how the other half of the island lives before the two merge. If you're looking for a quick sci-fi/dystopian read, definitely pick this one up! I would give this novella a 4/5.
Walt was definitely an excellently written character. He's smart, funny, determined, and has many qualities that a good leader should have. He's experienced joy and tragedy, and has several great adult role models. I think religion was dealt with very well in this story too, and shows that even though there might not be a reason, people will still believe in whatever gives them hope - or joy, in Walt's case. I really loved getting to know Walt better, and to see things from his perspective instead of just through Leia's eyes.
Compared to The Island, I think The Waves has much better pacing and flows more evenly. We aren't flooded with unnecessary details, and I think it helps to have the background knowledge of what's going to happen. I spent a lot of the time waiting for things to cross over from The Island, and it was pretty cool when they did.
Overall, I would totally recommend this novella to anyone who has read The Island. It's an excellent companion, and it made the world so much richer and fuller for me. I loved getting to know old characters better and meeting new ones, and seeing how the other half of the island lives before the two merge. If you're looking for a quick sci-fi/dystopian read, definitely pick this one up! I would give this novella a 4/5.
February 13, 2016
Received an ARC from the writer on NetGalley.
First of all, thanks Jen Minkman for giving me the chance to read this wonderful book! I was really excited to read the second book.
And what a ride it was! The books follows Walt, the man/boy we met in the previous book, and this book is all about him. About the before-Leia time, but also about the after time. About all the things he discovered. I really loved Walt, he is a wonderful character and despite a lot of things that happened he just kept going.
I remembered what a shock it was to find out about what happened back in the past, and why everyone was on the island. In this book it is told from the point of Walt, and again, it was quite a shock, especially since while the past is the same, the 2 sides are so different in what they have been told and what they believed. I felt sorry for all of them there, waiting for a Goddess and
Around half of the book we finally meet Leia! It is so wonderful to read about her and it was really fun and nice to finally see Walt's take on how it went. And what happened when he had that book.
The end, wow, it was just wow. I can't really say more then that. It was beautiful, and I am kinda hoping for a third book, since I really want to know if they
The first book was awesome, well this one is epic! The story, the characters, the details, everything is just perfect. Thanks Jen Minkman for writing these books. :)
First of all, thanks Jen Minkman for giving me the chance to read this wonderful book! I was really excited to read the second book.
And what a ride it was! The books follows Walt, the man/boy we met in the previous book, and this book is all about him. About the before-Leia time, but also about the after time. About all the things he discovered. I really loved Walt, he is a wonderful character and despite a lot of things that happened he just kept going.
I remembered what a shock it was to find out about what happened back in the past, and why everyone was on the island. In this book it is told from the point of Walt, and again, it was quite a shock, especially since while the past is the same, the 2 sides are so different in what they have been told and what they believed. I felt sorry for all of them there, waiting for a Goddess and
Around half of the book we finally meet Leia! It is so wonderful to read about her and it was really fun and nice to finally see Walt's take on how it went. And what happened when he had that book.
The end, wow, it was just wow. I can't really say more then that. It was beautiful, and I am kinda hoping for a third book, since I really want to know if they
The first book was awesome, well this one is epic! The story, the characters, the details, everything is just perfect. Thanks Jen Minkman for writing these books. :)
October 7, 2013
The Waves is not a continuation of The Island, but The Island in Walt's POV. In The Island we discovered how live was on the east side of the island, the unbeliever side. Leia's side. In The Waves we get to see how life is on the west side, the fools side of the island. Walt's side.
I think that either one you read, either The Waves or The Island first, you won't be confused. Since its pretty much the same story in a way. But WOW was this one much much better! I didn't dislike The Island, the whole Star Wars aspect of it completely threw me off though. If you read The Waves then The Island, I think it wouldn't have thrown me off at first.
I loved Walt's story so much. It was much more believable and easier to read. Like Leia, Walt and the other kids in his town were also told to stay away from the wall and told untrue stories about the people who live on the other side. Calling them unbelievers because they didn't believe in their goddess, Annabelle. I loved the correlation between the two books and make them fit together very nicely. This one also had a bit of a dark twist to it, when it came to the priest and Yorrick. I'll leave it at that, don't want to ruin anything.
I really enjoyed The Waves. I do almost wish I read it first, or t came out as the first one, instead of The Island. I think it would have worked better, BUT needless to say, I really enjoyed this series so far and am anxious to see what happens next! And I'm totally IN LOVE with this cover!!!
I think that either one you read, either The Waves or The Island first, you won't be confused. Since its pretty much the same story in a way. But WOW was this one much much better! I didn't dislike The Island, the whole Star Wars aspect of it completely threw me off though. If you read The Waves then The Island, I think it wouldn't have thrown me off at first.
I loved Walt's story so much. It was much more believable and easier to read. Like Leia, Walt and the other kids in his town were also told to stay away from the wall and told untrue stories about the people who live on the other side. Calling them unbelievers because they didn't believe in their goddess, Annabelle. I loved the correlation between the two books and make them fit together very nicely. This one also had a bit of a dark twist to it, when it came to the priest and Yorrick. I'll leave it at that, don't want to ruin anything.
I really enjoyed The Waves. I do almost wish I read it first, or t came out as the first one, instead of The Island. I think it would have worked better, BUT needless to say, I really enjoyed this series so far and am anxious to see what happens next! And I'm totally IN LOVE with this cover!!!
![Profile Image for Caro [The Book Rogue].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1348323821i%2F7330476._UX200_CR0%2C4%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
February 7, 2016
This wasn't so much a sequel but more a companion story. It started out earlier than The Island, on the other side of the island, and also carried on a little further in the end. I really liked that, especially since Walt's side held a religion. It was nice to learn about the costums on his side of the island, and that people there were just as power hungry and treacherous as they were on Leia's side. I guess it's in mens nature, sad as that may be.
It was also nice to learn more about how the two sides belonged together, what has been truth in history and has evolved to the needs of the inhabitants, like the religion of Annabelle and her daughters. It's not like it was something far-fetched, but somtimes the simplest things make the best ideas and still manage to amaze us. And I was so happy when all their unfounded believes were shattered, well, when the truth was uncovered about Anabelle.
But most of all, I am curious what else is there to discover. We've now met the two sides, their customs and religion were found to be rooted in their first inhabitant's history, and I just don't know what else Jen Minkman has up her sleeve for this little island. Unless, of course, they make it to the World across the Waters, that'd be so awesome! I'll be looking forward to the thrid installment!
Area Scan: Flow: 3.5/5 -- Vocab: 4/5 -- Plot: 4/5 -- Heroes: 4/5 -- Sidekicks: 3/5 -- Villains: 3/5 -- Romance: 2/5 -- Drama: 4/5 -- Action: 3/5 -- Suspense: 3.5/5 -- Humor: 3/5 -- Idea: 4/5
It was also nice to learn more about how the two sides belonged together, what has been truth in history and has evolved to the needs of the inhabitants, like the religion of Annabelle and her daughters. It's not like it was something far-fetched, but somtimes the simplest things make the best ideas and still manage to amaze us. And I was so happy when all their unfounded believes were shattered, well, when the truth was uncovered about Anabelle.
But most of all, I am curious what else is there to discover. We've now met the two sides, their customs and religion were found to be rooted in their first inhabitant's history, and I just don't know what else Jen Minkman has up her sleeve for this little island. Unless, of course, they make it to the World across the Waters, that'd be so awesome! I'll be looking forward to the thrid installment!
Area Scan: Flow: 3.5/5 -- Vocab: 4/5 -- Plot: 4/5 -- Heroes: 4/5 -- Sidekicks: 3/5 -- Villains: 3/5 -- Romance: 2/5 -- Drama: 4/5 -- Action: 3/5 -- Suspense: 3.5/5 -- Humor: 3/5 -- Idea: 4/5
September 10, 2016
A few months ago, I read The Island and really enjoyed it. A story about kids who are sent to a home when they are a young age to learn to live on their own. The kids lived on an island and they based their beliefs off of a worn book of Star Wars.
The Waves is a companion novel to The Island, only in this installment, the story is told through the point of view of Walt. Walt lives on the other side of the island with his grandfather, who is a devout follower and believer of the Goddess Annabelle. He knows that other's live on the other side of the wall, the 'Unbelievers', those that don't believe in the Goddess. What he doesn't know is that those who live on the other side of the wall, those that believe in the 'Star War's' beliefs, call them 'Fools'.
Eventually, something happens to Walt's friend and he is determined to find out who killed him and get to the bottom of things, even if he has to go over the wall. He isn't sure what to expect there, and he's a bit frightened, but one thing Walt is, is determined.
I found the Waves to be a great companion novel. I really enjoyed getting to know more about the Fools and how the other side of the island lived versus those in the manor. It was interesting to see their similarities and differences. If you enjoyed reading The Island, you won't want to miss The Waves. It really gives you a deeper look into the Island, as well as Walt.
The Waves is a companion novel to The Island, only in this installment, the story is told through the point of view of Walt. Walt lives on the other side of the island with his grandfather, who is a devout follower and believer of the Goddess Annabelle. He knows that other's live on the other side of the wall, the 'Unbelievers', those that don't believe in the Goddess. What he doesn't know is that those who live on the other side of the wall, those that believe in the 'Star War's' beliefs, call them 'Fools'.
Eventually, something happens to Walt's friend and he is determined to find out who killed him and get to the bottom of things, even if he has to go over the wall. He isn't sure what to expect there, and he's a bit frightened, but one thing Walt is, is determined.
I found the Waves to be a great companion novel. I really enjoyed getting to know more about the Fools and how the other side of the island lived versus those in the manor. It was interesting to see their similarities and differences. If you enjoyed reading The Island, you won't want to miss The Waves. It really gives you a deeper look into the Island, as well as Walt.
October 1, 2013
I read Jen Minkman's first novella of this series a while ago, and it had me wanting to read her series whole. So, when she approached me to read this second novella, I was up for it immediately!
Walt is a believer. He, just like everyone else in his side of the island, believe that one day they will be rescued by the Goddess Annabelle. And anyone on the other side of the Wall is an Unbeliever. And Walt never questioned his beliefs. Until his cousin's murder, the arrival of a mysterious man from the outside world, and his chance encounter with an Unbeliever girl, Leia.
The first novella, The Island, was from Leia's point of view. I liked her, but she really was an ignorant character. Her part of the island were stupid, but Walt's part of the island weren't. But in this novella, both parts seemed stupid. I don't mean stupid in a bad way, no. But stupid in a close-minded kind-of-way. When you don't know anything better, you just end up behaving like how your ancestors taught you.
This is a good book, that's for sure. And these two novellas give you an insight about the story but never really what's gonna happen. So, I am definitely waiting to read the first book in the series and i am pretty sure that it will be imaginative and an amazing dystopia. If you are a fan of survival and dystopia novels, then this is the one!
Walt is a believer. He, just like everyone else in his side of the island, believe that one day they will be rescued by the Goddess Annabelle. And anyone on the other side of the Wall is an Unbeliever. And Walt never questioned his beliefs. Until his cousin's murder, the arrival of a mysterious man from the outside world, and his chance encounter with an Unbeliever girl, Leia.
The first novella, The Island, was from Leia's point of view. I liked her, but she really was an ignorant character. Her part of the island were stupid, but Walt's part of the island weren't. But in this novella, both parts seemed stupid. I don't mean stupid in a bad way, no. But stupid in a close-minded kind-of-way. When you don't know anything better, you just end up behaving like how your ancestors taught you.
This is a good book, that's for sure. And these two novellas give you an insight about the story but never really what's gonna happen. So, I am definitely waiting to read the first book in the series and i am pretty sure that it will be imaginative and an amazing dystopia. If you are a fan of survival and dystopia novels, then this is the one!
November 1, 2013
The second someone tells me they hate novellas, I will force this book upon them. And the first book as well, of course. You can not sway me from saying The Island novellas are the BEST.
All in all, The Waves was a smashing sequel. Jen Minkman has created a world so intricate that I just LOVE to visit. It feels like I know every little detail of the world, yet I know I don't. I felt a similar way when I was reading The Island, yet I hadn't imagined what was going on on the other side of the island.
I love all the ties The Waves had with The Island. There were some character reappearances and there were some new amazing characters too. Especially Watt. I was a tad worried, to be honest, that I had forgotten too much since the first book, but luckily not. My brain kind of made the connections anyway. So don't worry if it had been a while since you read The Island because you will probably remember bits when reading it. Not that it would have REALLY mattered anyway because I think that it could almost be read as a standalone.
I adore the cover. I know I'm not the only one I think so too because I did a post featuring The Waves and I even got a comment about it.
I really hope there is a sequel! This is definitely a series I will continue with.
5/5 stars!
All in all, The Waves was a smashing sequel. Jen Minkman has created a world so intricate that I just LOVE to visit. It feels like I know every little detail of the world, yet I know I don't. I felt a similar way when I was reading The Island, yet I hadn't imagined what was going on on the other side of the island.
I love all the ties The Waves had with The Island. There were some character reappearances and there were some new amazing characters too. Especially Watt. I was a tad worried, to be honest, that I had forgotten too much since the first book, but luckily not. My brain kind of made the connections anyway. So don't worry if it had been a while since you read The Island because you will probably remember bits when reading it. Not that it would have REALLY mattered anyway because I think that it could almost be read as a standalone.
I adore the cover. I know I'm not the only one I think so too because I did a post featuring The Waves and I even got a comment about it.
I really hope there is a sequel! This is definitely a series I will continue with.
5/5 stars!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 69 reviews