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The Interspecies Telepaths #1
Mind Bond
A worldwide phenomenon has begun – the emergence of
Interspecies Telepaths, or ISTs.
When Christa Wilder mind-bonds with Magnus, a wolf pup, on a camping trip in Sakima National Park, her life changes forever. As the bond between Christa and Magnus grows stronger, other ISTs befriend them, but not everyone is happy that ISTs exist or that wolves have been successfully reintroduced to Sakima, especially when wolves begin killing livestock on nearby ranches.
Suddenly, with the first wolf hunting season about to open just beyond the park's boundaries, Magnus's pack is placed
in jeopardy. Even inside the park there is danger because a lunatic is slaughtering animals while staying one step ahead of the authorities. Next on the hit list: a wolf.
And, unbeknown to Christa, her brother, Josh, who went missing on his fifth birthday, has reappeared, but is keeping his identity a secret.
Soon Christa is forced to commit to a new life full of challenges, friendships, learning, love and loss. With her psychic grandmother and her best friend, Christa will explore her spiritual beliefs, discovering a deep connection with nature and Spirit. But, most importantly, Christa will discover the sheer joy of the Mind Bond.
Interspecies Telepaths, or ISTs.
When Christa Wilder mind-bonds with Magnus, a wolf pup, on a camping trip in Sakima National Park, her life changes forever. As the bond between Christa and Magnus grows stronger, other ISTs befriend them, but not everyone is happy that ISTs exist or that wolves have been successfully reintroduced to Sakima, especially when wolves begin killing livestock on nearby ranches.
Suddenly, with the first wolf hunting season about to open just beyond the park's boundaries, Magnus's pack is placed
in jeopardy. Even inside the park there is danger because a lunatic is slaughtering animals while staying one step ahead of the authorities. Next on the hit list: a wolf.
And, unbeknown to Christa, her brother, Josh, who went missing on his fifth birthday, has reappeared, but is keeping his identity a secret.
Soon Christa is forced to commit to a new life full of challenges, friendships, learning, love and loss. With her psychic grandmother and her best friend, Christa will explore her spiritual beliefs, discovering a deep connection with nature and Spirit. But, most importantly, Christa will discover the sheer joy of the Mind Bond.
328 pages, ebook
First published September 16, 2013
475 people want to read
About the author
Julie Haydon
212 books19 followersJulie Haydon has written more than 200 books. Her first novel, the fantasy LINES UPON THE SKIN, was published in 1995. Her latest book is TASH THE TERRIBLE TERRIER, a children's chapter book.
Please follow Julie on social media at:
http://www.instagram.com/juliehaydona...
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Please follow Julie on social media at:
http://www.instagram.com/juliehaydona...
http://www.facebook.com/juliehaydonau...
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
December 4, 2013
Mind Bond by Julie Haydon
Mind Bond by Julie Haydon is an ARC I received from NetGalley and Feather In Cap Publishing Pty Ltd. This is a story about an adaptation in the future that allows some people to 'mind bond' with a wild animal (IST's Interspecies Telepaths). But don't be fooled there is so much more to this book than one girl bonding with a wolf, but the whole world of things between the pages.
We follow Christa who lost her brother when she was little, he disappeared, and after such her family moved from the country to the city. She left behind all that made her so happy and connected to mother nature, and slowly stopped visiting as much as she grew and life happened. Until one day she is browsing and sees something that makes her yearn to go back and spend some time camping. So with her pure city boyfriend, and much more open minded friends, Christa heads back to the protected park where something awakens within her. As Christa embarks on her journey to spend more time being where she feels most comfortable her connections shift. Her life evolves yet again as she tries to rediscover what it is that makes her happy.
In the park she finds herself happiest. Then of course she has her little wolf pup, Magnus. This story is not solely around the mind bond that Christa has with Magnus, however, cute that is. I won't like I've never been a huge outdoor type of girl but I do love the look of wolfs and their intelligence, so the idea of being connected to one is amazing. With the mind bond you see the journey that Christa goes on in adapting her life, juggling musts with wants, and the other drama that pops up along the way like a mysterious stranger that shows up in her life or the poacher on the reserve.
As I said this isn't a book with only Christa and Magnus, I was also pleased to see how well flushed out the other characters were. Other IST's, her family, friends, everyone seemed to be given something to make them memorable and unique. Not as if they were there solely to move the plot along but to build the world and show a different side to our main character.
Mind Bond leaves the book with an end, but also so much prospect for more though I have yet to find any information if there is going to be a follow up or series (but if you know something I don't please share). Also as the characters are all in their early 20's I don’t know if I would classify this as a YA book per say. I would include this in the new category I recently heard people discussing as 'New Adult', which is a cross between everything we love about YA and slightly older characters and slightly older themes. No matter the classification, I gave Mind Bond 4 Stars.
http://functioninginsanity.blogspot.c...
Mind Bond by Julie Haydon is an ARC I received from NetGalley and Feather In Cap Publishing Pty Ltd. This is a story about an adaptation in the future that allows some people to 'mind bond' with a wild animal (IST's Interspecies Telepaths). But don't be fooled there is so much more to this book than one girl bonding with a wolf, but the whole world of things between the pages.
We follow Christa who lost her brother when she was little, he disappeared, and after such her family moved from the country to the city. She left behind all that made her so happy and connected to mother nature, and slowly stopped visiting as much as she grew and life happened. Until one day she is browsing and sees something that makes her yearn to go back and spend some time camping. So with her pure city boyfriend, and much more open minded friends, Christa heads back to the protected park where something awakens within her. As Christa embarks on her journey to spend more time being where she feels most comfortable her connections shift. Her life evolves yet again as she tries to rediscover what it is that makes her happy.
In the park she finds herself happiest. Then of course she has her little wolf pup, Magnus. This story is not solely around the mind bond that Christa has with Magnus, however, cute that is. I won't like I've never been a huge outdoor type of girl but I do love the look of wolfs and their intelligence, so the idea of being connected to one is amazing. With the mind bond you see the journey that Christa goes on in adapting her life, juggling musts with wants, and the other drama that pops up along the way like a mysterious stranger that shows up in her life or the poacher on the reserve.
As I said this isn't a book with only Christa and Magnus, I was also pleased to see how well flushed out the other characters were. Other IST's, her family, friends, everyone seemed to be given something to make them memorable and unique. Not as if they were there solely to move the plot along but to build the world and show a different side to our main character.
Mind Bond leaves the book with an end, but also so much prospect for more though I have yet to find any information if there is going to be a follow up or series (but if you know something I don't please share). Also as the characters are all in their early 20's I don’t know if I would classify this as a YA book per say. I would include this in the new category I recently heard people discussing as 'New Adult', which is a cross between everything we love about YA and slightly older characters and slightly older themes. No matter the classification, I gave Mind Bond 4 Stars.
http://functioninginsanity.blogspot.c...
January 27, 2016
Last October I got access to a copy of Mind Bond by Julie Haydon, courtesy of NetGalley and Feather in Cap Publishing Pty Ltd., and then promptly forgot about it. Luckily I was going through my NetGalley account to see what books I might have available to me and rediscovered it. Set in a world where people have just learned that there are those who can speak telepathically to animals, this young adult novel centers around Christa, a woman in her early 20's who has not quite figured out her place in the world. Haydon infuses her novel with a love of and reverence for nature, which can be found in many of the beautiful passages she includes describing Sakima National Park, in and around which the majority of the events take place. Haydon clearly did her research, easily transporting her readers to a rich wilderness filled with wonders and dangers alike. She touches on a variety of themes, including the importance of family, following your heart, destiny, conservation, the collision between wildlife and farmers/hunters, prejudice and spirituality.
What I enjoyed most about the book was the descriptions of Sakima National Park and the animals that live in and around it. Besides Magnus, the wolf pup that is the other main character and who mind bonds with Christa, readers can encounter everything from mice to beavers to coyotes, elk, mountain lions, moose and much more. I was also intrigued by Christa's psychic grandmother and her version of spirituality, which pulls from Native American, Hindu and New Age beliefs. I liked that while the grandmother introduced these topics to those around her, including Christa and her best friend Ava, she is quick to point out that any beliefs you hold are your own and her version is not necessarily the right version. I also loved that though this might be considered a coming of age novel, the main character is in her 20's. I myself didn't find my true path to libraries until I was in my late 20's, making this main character especially appealing to me. Plus, as an animal lover I think the idea of interspecies telepaths is exciting.
As I mentioned, this book is overflowing with many themes, many of them hard-hitting. She does a good job introducing them to readers, but she might have more success if she didn't try to pack so many ideas into one novel. The book seems crowded with so many disparate ideas, none of which get a really in-depth treatment. I also felt that some of the character development got short thrift because she was trying to pack so much in. Perhaps, because this is a series, Haydon intends to get to some of the meat of her heavier themes and flesh out some of her characters in later installments.
I would recommend this book to animal lovers, of course, but I would also include those of my generation who have just not figured out what to do with their lives. I think this book is unique in that it isn't about a kid or a teen and it also isn't about an adult who has their life together. I think much of the people my age are still striving to find their place and it's encouraging to read a book about a woman who is trying to do the same thing. Plus, her telepathic conversations with Magnus, the wolf pup, are just ridiculously adorable. Finally, it's a quick read, taking me only about 8 hours or so over 4 days to finish it. I give it only 3 out of 5 stars because I don't think Haydon has really found her voice. Some of the conversation is stale and much of the heavier discussions of the themes previously mentioned are forced. I'd love to see how she treats her characters in the next in the series and how she grows as an author.
What I enjoyed most about the book was the descriptions of Sakima National Park and the animals that live in and around it. Besides Magnus, the wolf pup that is the other main character and who mind bonds with Christa, readers can encounter everything from mice to beavers to coyotes, elk, mountain lions, moose and much more. I was also intrigued by Christa's psychic grandmother and her version of spirituality, which pulls from Native American, Hindu and New Age beliefs. I liked that while the grandmother introduced these topics to those around her, including Christa and her best friend Ava, she is quick to point out that any beliefs you hold are your own and her version is not necessarily the right version. I also loved that though this might be considered a coming of age novel, the main character is in her 20's. I myself didn't find my true path to libraries until I was in my late 20's, making this main character especially appealing to me. Plus, as an animal lover I think the idea of interspecies telepaths is exciting.
As I mentioned, this book is overflowing with many themes, many of them hard-hitting. She does a good job introducing them to readers, but she might have more success if she didn't try to pack so many ideas into one novel. The book seems crowded with so many disparate ideas, none of which get a really in-depth treatment. I also felt that some of the character development got short thrift because she was trying to pack so much in. Perhaps, because this is a series, Haydon intends to get to some of the meat of her heavier themes and flesh out some of her characters in later installments.
I would recommend this book to animal lovers, of course, but I would also include those of my generation who have just not figured out what to do with their lives. I think this book is unique in that it isn't about a kid or a teen and it also isn't about an adult who has their life together. I think much of the people my age are still striving to find their place and it's encouraging to read a book about a woman who is trying to do the same thing. Plus, her telepathic conversations with Magnus, the wolf pup, are just ridiculously adorable. Finally, it's a quick read, taking me only about 8 hours or so over 4 days to finish it. I give it only 3 out of 5 stars because I don't think Haydon has really found her voice. Some of the conversation is stale and much of the heavier discussions of the themes previously mentioned are forced. I'd love to see how she treats her characters in the next in the series and how she grows as an author.
October 7, 2013
There is something tremendously romantic about the thought of being able to psychically connect with a non-human animal and communicate via telepathy. So, the concept of being an Inter Species Telepath is awesome, and had me immediately hooked on this book. The main character, Christa, mentally connects with a wolf whilst on vacation in Sakima National Park. This is a fictional (I'm fairly certain) US park that appears to be based on Yellowstone. I do find it a little bit cliched that in all of these style of stories - whether they be shifters or psychics, the animals they connect with are always the most charismatic, the most romantic - in this case: wolf, eagle and cougar for the three main IST characters. All predators, all considered symbols of power, freedom and the wild. Of course, having someone who became telepathically bonded with a squirrel or a blue jay would probably hold rather less appeal for the reader.
The story is a richly crafted, complex affair - dealing not only with Christa's newfound bond; but also a brother, kidnapped as a child; friendship; her relationship with the distinctly unlikeable Tom; a brutal poacher who is killing and removing tails as trophies; some rednecks and a wide cast of other characters all creating a rich tapestry and entrapping the reader into the story. Haydon weaves her web well, her emotive and evocative language bring the scent of pine, the chill in the air, encompasing the power and grace and the divine wildness of the wilderness. Her passion is evident in her words, and cannot fail to touch those that read it.
This was a hard tale to let go - I am already craving a sequel!
eArc received courtesy of NetGalley and the publishers. I'm quite surprised to see that mine is the first review.
The story is a richly crafted, complex affair - dealing not only with Christa's newfound bond; but also a brother, kidnapped as a child; friendship; her relationship with the distinctly unlikeable Tom; a brutal poacher who is killing and removing tails as trophies; some rednecks and a wide cast of other characters all creating a rich tapestry and entrapping the reader into the story. Haydon weaves her web well, her emotive and evocative language bring the scent of pine, the chill in the air, encompasing the power and grace and the divine wildness of the wilderness. Her passion is evident in her words, and cannot fail to touch those that read it.
This was a hard tale to let go - I am already craving a sequel!
eArc received courtesy of NetGalley and the publishers. I'm quite surprised to see that mine is the first review.
October 22, 2013
A beautiful story full of love, friendship and connection with nature.
Reading the synopsis, I was afraid of falling on someting similar to the The Wolves of Mercy Falls's saga by Maggie Stiefvater. Not that I did not like this series and I do not like stories about shapeshifters but I wanted to be surprised...
Well, I was damn surprise!
The relationship between Magnus and Christina is wonderful, plausible and pique the reader's interest. After reading this volume, I think all readers will want to become an IST!
What makes the story interesting is also the link with nature. The need to protect it, understand that our actions have an impact on the environment and that human beings need to stay in touch with nature to recharge their's batteries.
Conversations with Ka'e, Christina's grandmother, open the mind. Through the dialogues, I've found resonnance in my beliefs, especially on the positif way to attract what you desire.
While reincarnation or positive thinking are not new concepts, allied to Christina's interrogations about life changes and environmental problems of the planet, it was a nice way to reflect on our actions.
All characters and their pets are endearing. I liked the relationship between John and Romy and I really would like for her to success in her love quest. But it is especially Magnus that attracted me.
Julie Haydon has well documented the habits of wild animals and attitudes to adopt in the mountains to make its rewarding adventure. While I was reading the last sentences, I was amazed by this refreshing story.
A nice breath of fresh air in a polluted day with a tip of suspense and romance. It's a rich read in many senses. A great discovery!
Lucie
http://newbooksonmyselves.blogspot.fr...
Reading the synopsis, I was afraid of falling on someting similar to the The Wolves of Mercy Falls's saga by Maggie Stiefvater. Not that I did not like this series and I do not like stories about shapeshifters but I wanted to be surprised...
Well, I was damn surprise!
The relationship between Magnus and Christina is wonderful, plausible and pique the reader's interest. After reading this volume, I think all readers will want to become an IST!
What makes the story interesting is also the link with nature. The need to protect it, understand that our actions have an impact on the environment and that human beings need to stay in touch with nature to recharge their's batteries.
Conversations with Ka'e, Christina's grandmother, open the mind. Through the dialogues, I've found resonnance in my beliefs, especially on the positif way to attract what you desire.
While reincarnation or positive thinking are not new concepts, allied to Christina's interrogations about life changes and environmental problems of the planet, it was a nice way to reflect on our actions.
All characters and their pets are endearing. I liked the relationship between John and Romy and I really would like for her to success in her love quest. But it is especially Magnus that attracted me.
Julie Haydon has well documented the habits of wild animals and attitudes to adopt in the mountains to make its rewarding adventure. While I was reading the last sentences, I was amazed by this refreshing story.
A nice breath of fresh air in a polluted day with a tip of suspense and romance. It's a rich read in many senses. A great discovery!
Lucie
http://newbooksonmyselves.blogspot.fr...
October 17, 2013
Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher Through NetGalley.
The blurb really says it all about this book. It is well written and was interesting enough to make me want to read her next IST story. Some of it was rather predictable but the mystery of the poacher was such that I was totally surprised when the identity was revealed. I enjoyed it and think anyone who is interested in nature and animals will find this an interesting story too.
n.b. I am probably not doing this book justice as I am currently grieving for my husband who died less than a week ago.
n.b. I am probably not doing this book justice as I am currently grieving for my husband who died less than a week ago.
September 11, 2015
I won this in a first reds give-a-away.
I really hope there is a sequel. I loved the characters and everything about this book. The author really brought everything alive with her words. I felt I was there with every moment and wanted to cry at those especially emotional parts. The story also seemed like it was something that could eventually happen, mind bonds with animals really could be another step in human evolution. The way the author opens the story and draws you in is great. I hope to read more about Christa and Magnus.
I really hope there is a sequel. I loved the characters and everything about this book. The author really brought everything alive with her words. I felt I was there with every moment and wanted to cry at those especially emotional parts. The story also seemed like it was something that could eventually happen, mind bonds with animals really could be another step in human evolution. The way the author opens the story and draws you in is great. I hope to read more about Christa and Magnus.
December 27, 2013
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC
I fell in love with this book! It is most children's dream come true to be able to speak with an animal and this story reminded me of that. I wish I had a wolf pup that I can talk with! lol The only thing I didn't like, or I should say who is Tom. It was like come on already you know you are going to dump him sooner or later! Plus that cowboy sounds dreamy and perfect lol. I seriously can't wait for the next book! I have my eye out for it lol.
I fell in love with this book! It is most children's dream come true to be able to speak with an animal and this story reminded me of that. I wish I had a wolf pup that I can talk with! lol The only thing I didn't like, or I should say who is Tom. It was like come on already you know you are going to dump him sooner or later! Plus that cowboy sounds dreamy and perfect lol. I seriously can't wait for the next book! I have my eye out for it lol.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2015
Mind Bond is a interesting book about a girl that telepathically communicates with a wolf. I really liked the idea and I liked the main character, Christa. Fun and well written book with a new age twist. Looking forward to the next one!
July 7, 2018
DNF 28% - Review copy provided by Feather in Cap Publishing for an honest review.
The reason I joined Netgalley, apart from being jealous that all my fellow Goodreads friends were getting all these fabulous ARCs, was to get access to this book. I was instantly drawn to Mind Bond not only because of its eye-catching cover and its intriguing description but because of the premise it introduced - mind-bonding with animals, wolves for that matter and there isn't anything I love more than a good wolf book. Unfortunately, this wasn't anything that it promised to be. Maybe that's because I set the bar too high and it was never going to be able to reach it but regardless, this was nothing but a disappointment.
The character of Christa bothered me to no end. Not only was she a little too headstrong for my liking she was just... well, weird. Not in a Luna Lovegood way either - not a cute, quirky, set-them-apart-from-everyone-else kind of weird. No, she was more of the peculiar weird. Christa has these visions of wolves. One time of the alphas having sex - which were a little to graphically described for my liking, just on a sidenote - and immediately believes, without a doubt, that the wolf bitch in the national parks that she camps at is pregnant. Is it just me or do most people believe that dreams are just dreams...? I most certainly don't believe everything I dream. My God if I did the most crazy-assed, random things would happen! Anyway, this was completely unbelievable and it was just plain old weird how Christa became way absolutely obsessed with the pact. Yes, we all know she is going to bond with one of the pups but I still didn't believe that it was handled right.
The actually "bonding" didn't have the correct level of emergency to it. If a wolf pup talked to me in my mind I would freak or scream or react in some sort of way. Christa was all too calm and blasé about it. It wasn't a big deal to her and it should have been. We might not know much about ISTs this far into the book but we do know that they aren't that common so she shouldn't have dismissed the notion so readily.
Her relationships with all the other characters managed to piss me off more than anything else. They are so polite to one another! I don't just mean between strangers and it isn't even in a upper-class-manners sort of way either. They speak so formally between one another, between family and to her boyfriend, her friends, her grandparents - its weird! When I am talking to people I am comfortable around I speak casually, as do most people. Christa's politeness and her goody-two-shoes-goodness only managed to annoy me. She came across as some sort of pre-made mould for the perfect child. It wasn't natural.
Overall, I have to say that I struggled to make it this far into the book. Not what I expected, not what I wished for. I am disappointed to say the least.
The reason I joined Netgalley, apart from being jealous that all my fellow Goodreads friends were getting all these fabulous ARCs, was to get access to this book. I was instantly drawn to Mind Bond not only because of its eye-catching cover and its intriguing description but because of the premise it introduced - mind-bonding with animals, wolves for that matter and there isn't anything I love more than a good wolf book. Unfortunately, this wasn't anything that it promised to be. Maybe that's because I set the bar too high and it was never going to be able to reach it but regardless, this was nothing but a disappointment.
The character of Christa bothered me to no end. Not only was she a little too headstrong for my liking she was just... well, weird. Not in a Luna Lovegood way either - not a cute, quirky, set-them-apart-from-everyone-else kind of weird. No, she was more of the peculiar weird. Christa has these visions of wolves. One time of the alphas having sex - which were a little to graphically described for my liking, just on a sidenote - and immediately believes, without a doubt, that the wolf bitch in the national parks that she camps at is pregnant. Is it just me or do most people believe that dreams are just dreams...? I most certainly don't believe everything I dream. My God if I did the most crazy-assed, random things would happen! Anyway, this was completely unbelievable and it was just plain old weird how Christa became way absolutely obsessed with the pact. Yes, we all know she is going to bond with one of the pups but I still didn't believe that it was handled right.
The actually "bonding" didn't have the correct level of emergency to it. If a wolf pup talked to me in my mind I would freak or scream or react in some sort of way. Christa was all too calm and blasé about it. It wasn't a big deal to her and it should have been. We might not know much about ISTs this far into the book but we do know that they aren't that common so she shouldn't have dismissed the notion so readily.
Her relationships with all the other characters managed to piss me off more than anything else. They are so polite to one another! I don't just mean between strangers and it isn't even in a upper-class-manners sort of way either. They speak so formally between one another, between family and to her boyfriend, her friends, her grandparents - its weird! When I am talking to people I am comfortable around I speak casually, as do most people. Christa's politeness and her goody-two-shoes-goodness only managed to annoy me. She came across as some sort of pre-made mould for the perfect child. It wasn't natural.
Overall, I have to say that I struggled to make it this far into the book. Not what I expected, not what I wished for. I am disappointed to say the least.
January 12, 2017
(Book received for free for review from Feather In Cap Publishing Pty Ltd.)
I think this book was incorrectly labeled a young adult book.
Going into it, I knew it was a YA sci fi/fantasy book about humans who had a mental connection with an animal ("Interspecies Telepaths"). Based on that, I expected a couple things: 1) YA books tend to be quickly paced 2) the main thrust of the plot would be the mental connection with animals.
Both of those things were wrong.
At the 10% mark of this book, there was neither hide nor hair of any animal. I suspect the author likes to hike and camp -- the whole book thus far was about that. It felt more like an adult fiction instead of the "Sci Fi & Fantasy, Teens & YA" label. Very, very slow, but I was learning a lot about hiking and such. Interesting enough, but it felt like I was reading the wrong book.
At about the 15% mark, we met an animal. Once. The main character made the mental connection with the animal (wolf pup) somewhere around the 20% mark. The only "fantasy" in the book thus far was a Native American grandmother who could talk to spirits, see into the future, etc.
By the 30% mark, I was losing interest. The bond with the wolf seemed like the least important part of the story, barely getting a mention. Also, at this point the book became more preachy (save the Earth, save the animals -- nothing I disagree with, but again, this felt like I was reading a different book than expected). Also, I skipped a whole chapter because the "spirituality of Native Americans" was so heavy.
Somewhere around 40% in, things started getting unrealistic. There was a subplot about a scam artist pretending to be the main character's adult brother who was kidnapped at age 5. He scammed the family and then robbed them. Upon crossing paths with him later, the main character sat down and had lunch with him. He literally robbed their house, stole money and goods, pretended to be their missing son for a week, caused them a great deal of pain. Why in the world not call the cops? Instead the main character seemed charmed by him.
I gave up at the 50% mark. Yeah, I pressed on longer than I would have, because I was hoping the plot about the animal mental bond would pick up.
While it wasn't a good match to my tastes, it wasn't a badly written book technical writing-wise, or if you're looking for a book about hiking and camping. I really think it must have been mislabeled though -- I've never encountered a YA book that had no child/teen characters. The vocabulary didn't seem teen-level, either. I enjoyed it at first, until it was clear the mental bond wouldn't be the main plot. And I sure did learn a lot about camping, hiking, and national parks...
Rereading my review, I feel more frustrated than anything. I still want to read the book I thought this was!
I think this book was incorrectly labeled a young adult book.
Going into it, I knew it was a YA sci fi/fantasy book about humans who had a mental connection with an animal ("Interspecies Telepaths"). Based on that, I expected a couple things: 1) YA books tend to be quickly paced 2) the main thrust of the plot would be the mental connection with animals.
Both of those things were wrong.
At the 10% mark of this book, there was neither hide nor hair of any animal. I suspect the author likes to hike and camp -- the whole book thus far was about that. It felt more like an adult fiction instead of the "Sci Fi & Fantasy, Teens & YA" label. Very, very slow, but I was learning a lot about hiking and such. Interesting enough, but it felt like I was reading the wrong book.
At about the 15% mark, we met an animal. Once. The main character made the mental connection with the animal (wolf pup) somewhere around the 20% mark. The only "fantasy" in the book thus far was a Native American grandmother who could talk to spirits, see into the future, etc.
By the 30% mark, I was losing interest. The bond with the wolf seemed like the least important part of the story, barely getting a mention. Also, at this point the book became more preachy (save the Earth, save the animals -- nothing I disagree with, but again, this felt like I was reading a different book than expected). Also, I skipped a whole chapter because the "spirituality of Native Americans" was so heavy.
Somewhere around 40% in, things started getting unrealistic. There was a subplot about a scam artist pretending to be the main character's adult brother who was kidnapped at age 5. He scammed the family and then robbed them. Upon crossing paths with him later, the main character sat down and had lunch with him. He literally robbed their house, stole money and goods, pretended to be their missing son for a week, caused them a great deal of pain. Why in the world not call the cops? Instead the main character seemed charmed by him.
I gave up at the 50% mark. Yeah, I pressed on longer than I would have, because I was hoping the plot about the animal mental bond would pick up.
While it wasn't a good match to my tastes, it wasn't a badly written book technical writing-wise, or if you're looking for a book about hiking and camping. I really think it must have been mislabeled though -- I've never encountered a YA book that had no child/teen characters. The vocabulary didn't seem teen-level, either. I enjoyed it at first, until it was clear the mental bond wouldn't be the main plot. And I sure did learn a lot about camping, hiking, and national parks...
Rereading my review, I feel more frustrated than anything. I still want to read the book I thought this was!
October 25, 2013
Christa Wilder lives in a world where the emergence of ISTs (Interspecies Telepaths) is just starting. Having always enjoyed nature while being out on her grandparents farm the idea of ISTs intrigues Christa. While on a camping trip in the Sakima National Park Christa’s life is changed forever when she mind-bonds with Magnus a wolf pup. As their relationship grows stronger they are befriended by other IST pairs. While exploring her spiritual beliefs and learning more about the mind-bond connection she has with her wolf pup Magnus, Christa faces dangers that may just her and Magnus’s life.
The idea of this book was deeply appealing to me. I am sure many dog parents out there will consent to the fact that they at times feel a mental if not spiritual connection with their furry friends. It is hard not to when you dedicate years of your life to one. So when this book came up for review on Net Galley I immediately accepted. I have to say I was disappointed.
The writing was a bit empty. It is clear that Haydon did immense amounts of research for this series and that she has a passion for wolves but the character’s fell flat. Christa and Magnus never really grab me as a reader and while I feel for them facing the poacher(s) at the end of the novel there was not enough emotion in either of them to make be believe the action. Also the Josh(Zane) plot line was a be convoluted. His character completely failed the mark. Haydon could have done so much more with that story line without so much needless detail, perhaps she will in the second book.
Although I will more than likely not pursue the rest of the series I do recommend this book for readers who are interested in national parks and wolves. As I mentioned earlier it is quite clear that Haydon put time and effort into her research for this novel, any reader will appreciate that.
Note: I received this book from the publisher for review. In no way did that effect the content of this review.
The idea of this book was deeply appealing to me. I am sure many dog parents out there will consent to the fact that they at times feel a mental if not spiritual connection with their furry friends. It is hard not to when you dedicate years of your life to one. So when this book came up for review on Net Galley I immediately accepted. I have to say I was disappointed.
The writing was a bit empty. It is clear that Haydon did immense amounts of research for this series and that she has a passion for wolves but the character’s fell flat. Christa and Magnus never really grab me as a reader and while I feel for them facing the poacher(s) at the end of the novel there was not enough emotion in either of them to make be believe the action. Also the Josh(Zane) plot line was a be convoluted. His character completely failed the mark. Haydon could have done so much more with that story line without so much needless detail, perhaps she will in the second book.
Although I will more than likely not pursue the rest of the series I do recommend this book for readers who are interested in national parks and wolves. As I mentioned earlier it is quite clear that Haydon put time and effort into her research for this novel, any reader will appreciate that.
Note: I received this book from the publisher for review. In no way did that effect the content of this review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2013
Christa Wilder lives in a world where the emergence of ISTs (Interspecies Telepaths) is just starting. Having always enjoyed nature while being out on her grandparents farm the idea of ISTs intrigues Christa. While on a camping trip in the Sakima National Park Christa’s life is changed forever when she mind-bonds with Magnus a wolf pup. As their relationship grows stronger they are befriended by other IST pairs. While exploring her spiritual beliefs and learning more about the mind-bond connection she has with her wolf pup Magnus, Christa faces dangers that may just her and Magnus’s life.
The idea of this book was deeply appealing to me. I am sure many dog parents out there will consent to the fact that they at times feel a mental if not spiritual connection with their furry friends. It is hard not to when you dedicate years of your life to one. So when this book came up for review on Net Galley I immediately accepted. I have to say I was disappointed.
The writing was a bit empty. It is clear that Haydon did immense amounts of research for this series and that she has a passion for wolves but the character’s fell flat. Christa and Magnus never really grab me as a reader and while I feel for them facing the poacher(s) at the end of the novel there was not enough emotion in either of them to make be believe the action. Also the Josh(Zane) plot line was a be convoluted. His character completely failed the mark. Haydon could have done so much more with that story line without so much needless detail, perhaps she will in the second book.
Although I will more than likely not pursue the rest of the series I do recommend this book for readers who are interested in national parks and wolves. As I mentioned earlier it is quite clear that Haydon put time and effort into her research for this novel, any reader will appreciate that.
Note: I received this book from the publisher for review. In no way did that effect the content of this review.
The idea of this book was deeply appealing to me. I am sure many dog parents out there will consent to the fact that they at times feel a mental if not spiritual connection with their furry friends. It is hard not to when you dedicate years of your life to one. So when this book came up for review on Net Galley I immediately accepted. I have to say I was disappointed.
The writing was a bit empty. It is clear that Haydon did immense amounts of research for this series and that she has a passion for wolves but the character’s fell flat. Christa and Magnus never really grab me as a reader and while I feel for them facing the poacher(s) at the end of the novel there was not enough emotion in either of them to make be believe the action. Also the Josh(Zane) plot line was a be convoluted. His character completely failed the mark. Haydon could have done so much more with that story line without so much needless detail, perhaps she will in the second book.
Although I will more than likely not pursue the rest of the series I do recommend this book for readers who are interested in national parks and wolves. As I mentioned earlier it is quite clear that Haydon put time and effort into her research for this novel, any reader will appreciate that.
Note: I received this book from the publisher for review. In no way did that effect the content of this review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2013
*Received an ARC from this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*
This book had a fascinating premise that caught me quickly, but then it just fell flat.
The idea of an IST (interspecies telepath) was really neat. I mean, if I could mind bond with an animal, that would be awesome. There was so much potential for different conflicts and issues to arrive from this theme, so yes, that was well done.
Sadly I'm going to have to go into the things that were less than agreeable to me.
1. Weird new-agey-ness. This is just a personal preference here, and some people may really like this aspect of the book, but I didn't. Ka'e had some weird spirituality stuff going on that kind of weirded me out. I'm not one for the whole idea of the connected nature, spirit, and human idea. I usually don't mind if a character believes this and it's kept to a minimum, but there were info dumps in which this stuff was preached to the reader, and that I don't care for.
2. Christa. She was a nice girl, a nice character and that's all I have to say. A nondescript 'nice' is really what comes to mind. She didn't have many idiosyncrasies or things that made her super unique except her mind bond with Magnus (who was adorable and the best part of the book, by the way.)
3. The story dragged. I found myself bored quite often, just waiting for something to happen. There wasn't a whole lot of action besides the Zane and Olivier arc, which I did really like, but only came in about half way through the book, and even then didn't take up a whole lot of time. This book could have been whittled down a bit, I think, and maybe that would have made it flow a bit quicker.
What I did like, as I mentioned earlier, was Magnus (yay!), the idea of the ISTs, and Zane. Those three things are what boosts the rating up to two.
This book had a fascinating premise that caught me quickly, but then it just fell flat.
The idea of an IST (interspecies telepath) was really neat. I mean, if I could mind bond with an animal, that would be awesome. There was so much potential for different conflicts and issues to arrive from this theme, so yes, that was well done.
Sadly I'm going to have to go into the things that were less than agreeable to me.
1. Weird new-agey-ness. This is just a personal preference here, and some people may really like this aspect of the book, but I didn't. Ka'e had some weird spirituality stuff going on that kind of weirded me out. I'm not one for the whole idea of the connected nature, spirit, and human idea. I usually don't mind if a character believes this and it's kept to a minimum, but there were info dumps in which this stuff was preached to the reader, and that I don't care for.
2. Christa. She was a nice girl, a nice character and that's all I have to say. A nondescript 'nice' is really what comes to mind. She didn't have many idiosyncrasies or things that made her super unique except her mind bond with Magnus (who was adorable and the best part of the book, by the way.)
3. The story dragged. I found myself bored quite often, just waiting for something to happen. There wasn't a whole lot of action besides the Zane and Olivier arc, which I did really like, but only came in about half way through the book, and even then didn't take up a whole lot of time. This book could have been whittled down a bit, I think, and maybe that would have made it flow a bit quicker.
What I did like, as I mentioned earlier, was Magnus (yay!), the idea of the ISTs, and Zane. Those three things are what boosts the rating up to two.
November 17, 2013
This ebook was advertised as a Young-Adult novel. However, I don't think that it really fits the description of a ya book. The characters were in their twenties, and mature themes were commonly thrown into the story. At the very beginning of the novel there is a implied sex scene between Christa and Tom. While the author does not go into detail it is there, as well as other hints at such scenes throughout the novel. Although there was hardly any swearing, the word "bitch" was used multiple times to refer to female canines, and a few times to human women.
The Good: I think that this novel had a very interesting plot line. I was intrigued by the general off the beaten track feeling of the book. I felt like you really got to know the characters and I especially liked the family elements that Haydon included. I appreciated how the novel was not entirely about Christa and Magnus mind bonding, but about how important family is, and doing what you're meant to do in life. I really enjoyed the moments that were spent with Romy and Karl I thought that their characters were very well rounded and developed, as was Christa. My favorite character was probably Magnus. His conversations with Christa were completely adorable, and I loved the amount of energy that Haydon was able to write into his dialogue.
Want to read more? Visit www.woodbtwntheworlds.blogspot.com
The Good: I think that this novel had a very interesting plot line. I was intrigued by the general off the beaten track feeling of the book. I felt like you really got to know the characters and I especially liked the family elements that Haydon included. I appreciated how the novel was not entirely about Christa and Magnus mind bonding, but about how important family is, and doing what you're meant to do in life. I really enjoyed the moments that were spent with Romy and Karl I thought that their characters were very well rounded and developed, as was Christa. My favorite character was probably Magnus. His conversations with Christa were completely adorable, and I loved the amount of energy that Haydon was able to write into his dialogue.
Want to read more? Visit www.woodbtwntheworlds.blogspot.com
September 30, 2014
I want to start off by mentioning the things that attracted me to this book. I'm a big fan of mental abilities, especially telepathy. The concept of an interspecies bond caught my eye. The fact that the bond wasn't with aliens but with animals here on earth was also a perk.
The descriptions of the surroundings, people and animals were top-notch and gave me a good grasp on what things/places/animals/people looked like which made it very distinct in my mind's eye.
The characters, except those who were supposed to be shallow, were well-rounded with both good and bad points being exposed as I read along.
However, these three things were not enough to keep me hooked. I got 40% of the way through and stopped reading. The main reason is the pacing was so slow. I don't always have to have things move at lightning speed but when it drags on and on, I tend to get bored or annoyed.
The second thing that kept knocking my interest away was deep/detailed discussions about spiritually. Again, information about other cultures, beliefs, spirituality and other topics related to a person's heritage don't bother me. But when it overloads my mind and/or bogs the story down for me, I lose interest.
Would I recommend this book? I'm on the fence, so I will leave it up to you to decide.
The descriptions of the surroundings, people and animals were top-notch and gave me a good grasp on what things/places/animals/people looked like which made it very distinct in my mind's eye.
The characters, except those who were supposed to be shallow, were well-rounded with both good and bad points being exposed as I read along.
However, these three things were not enough to keep me hooked. I got 40% of the way through and stopped reading. The main reason is the pacing was so slow. I don't always have to have things move at lightning speed but when it drags on and on, I tend to get bored or annoyed.
The second thing that kept knocking my interest away was deep/detailed discussions about spiritually. Again, information about other cultures, beliefs, spirituality and other topics related to a person's heritage don't bother me. But when it overloads my mind and/or bogs the story down for me, I lose interest.
Would I recommend this book? I'm on the fence, so I will leave it up to you to decide.
September 8, 2016
Katharine is a judge for the Aurealis Awards. This review is the personal opinion of Katharine herself, and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any judging panel, the judging coordinator or the Aurealis Awards management team.
March 11, 2015
Very preachy and new agey (I know, not a word!!!) (pretty much skipped through a lot of it) but interesting for the telepathy between humans and animals.
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