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Tick to the Tock #1
Tick to the Tock
What would you do if you had three months to live? That's what Dante King faces, the indecisive twenty-two-year-old who must finally learn to embrace life and love.
Tick to the Tock is a Contemporary New Adult Novel about Dante coming-of-age during turbulent times. A story inspired by love, but with the gritty realities of regret, missed opportunity, and understanding life's meaning under dire circumstance. But a single mind isn't affected on this journey, as an eclectic group comes to terms with the past, present, and what lies ahead.
Dante must confront and accept his fate, but can he let go of Danni: his lost love and kindred dreamer? With his rationally stubborn cousin, and eccentric best friend, Dante witnesses a life of dream and wonder: embarking across Europe, tackling Tibet, travelling Australia, and defeating each lifelong wish one-by-one.
Follow this coming-of-age roller coaster as four lives change forever. We're only given one, but it's never too late to understand faith, discover acceptance, and uncover the true meaning of love and happiness. Dante will die, but not before Danii, Ethan, Wilbur and he undertake an intense and heartfelt journey.
Smile… Cry… Ask yourself what you would do with three months left... Because Love & Living Begins Now
Tick to the Tock is a Contemporary New Adult Novel about Dante coming-of-age during turbulent times. A story inspired by love, but with the gritty realities of regret, missed opportunity, and understanding life's meaning under dire circumstance. But a single mind isn't affected on this journey, as an eclectic group comes to terms with the past, present, and what lies ahead.
Dante must confront and accept his fate, but can he let go of Danni: his lost love and kindred dreamer? With his rationally stubborn cousin, and eccentric best friend, Dante witnesses a life of dream and wonder: embarking across Europe, tackling Tibet, travelling Australia, and defeating each lifelong wish one-by-one.
Follow this coming-of-age roller coaster as four lives change forever. We're only given one, but it's never too late to understand faith, discover acceptance, and uncover the true meaning of love and happiness. Dante will die, but not before Danii, Ethan, Wilbur and he undertake an intense and heartfelt journey.
Smile… Cry… Ask yourself what you would do with three months left... Because Love & Living Begins Now
190 pages, Paperback
First published January 2, 2014
12 people are currently reading
1371 people want to read
About the author
Matthew Turner
16 books77 followersMatthew Turner is a British Author who lives in a small town in Yorkshire, England. Having previously published three novels and a non-fiction business book, he wrote Beyond The Pale on the back of interviewing hundreds of successful entrepreneurs, authors, investors, and thought-leaders.
Gaining a unique insight into areas such as mindset, flow, and personal development, and a gaining reputation for crafting compelling stories out of other peoples’ lives, Matthew builds relatable fables for those looking to live a meaningful and purpose-driven life.
As well as writing for himself, Matthew ghostwrites both articles and books for other successful entrepreneurs and thought-leaders, in-between spending time with his two children.
Gaining a unique insight into areas such as mindset, flow, and personal development, and a gaining reputation for crafting compelling stories out of other peoples’ lives, Matthew builds relatable fables for those looking to live a meaningful and purpose-driven life.
As well as writing for himself, Matthew ghostwrites both articles and books for other successful entrepreneurs and thought-leaders, in-between spending time with his two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
May 3, 2015
4 Stars
What an Emotional read!
We've all heard/read/seen themes of mortality and how to spend the last days of life - however this book does it with understated style and grace. It's not over the top. It's not life altering. It's just honest and real.
I really appreciated that the characters were so human. There were no perfect moments - as hard as they tried. These characters suffered, sometimes silently, often with the aid of alcohol and always without perfected dialogue. In other words - they acted like real people. I loved that our main character, Dante was so full of regret and longing. And I loved that the best conversations of the whole book were the ones he had with complete strangers. The insight they offered and Dante's ability to speak openly with them (and not always his friends) made perfect sense and solidified the story for me.
I will admit that this book had me in tears a few times. A very emotional story. My one and only 'complaint' was the predictability. There were no surprises. Which I suppose was fine, since anything too flashy would probably ruin the mood this book was able to create. But I'm the type who likes to be shocked. (It's a quirk - I'm sorry)
What I liked most about this book was the wonderful music playlist. Each chapter has it's own musical backdrop to help set the mood. I'm not normally able to listen to music and read at the same time, but once I realized that Mr. Turner was using some of my (slightly obscure) favorites ... well let's just say that reading to music is my new obsession.
Overall a terrific read - I would definitely recommend to anyone who doesn't mind feeling a little sad for a few days.
What an Emotional read!
We've all heard/read/seen themes of mortality and how to spend the last days of life - however this book does it with understated style and grace. It's not over the top. It's not life altering. It's just honest and real.
I really appreciated that the characters were so human. There were no perfect moments - as hard as they tried. These characters suffered, sometimes silently, often with the aid of alcohol and always without perfected dialogue. In other words - they acted like real people. I loved that our main character, Dante was so full of regret and longing. And I loved that the best conversations of the whole book were the ones he had with complete strangers. The insight they offered and Dante's ability to speak openly with them (and not always his friends) made perfect sense and solidified the story for me.
I will admit that this book had me in tears a few times. A very emotional story. My one and only 'complaint' was the predictability. There were no surprises. Which I suppose was fine, since anything too flashy would probably ruin the mood this book was able to create. But I'm the type who likes to be shocked. (It's a quirk - I'm sorry)
What I liked most about this book was the wonderful music playlist. Each chapter has it's own musical backdrop to help set the mood. I'm not normally able to listen to music and read at the same time, but once I realized that Mr. Turner was using some of my (slightly obscure) favorites ... well let's just say that reading to music is my new obsession.
Overall a terrific read - I would definitely recommend to anyone who doesn't mind feeling a little sad for a few days.
August 28, 2015
What would you do if with the time left after learning you had inoperable cancer? With only so much time left, the young man has to decide just that. Should he fight it to the end, or use his last days to see the things he may never get the chance to again?
The question intrigues me, though it’s one I hope I will not have to answer, at least not in the dire situation presented here. But it is the reason I chose to read this book. I figured it could be a tear-jerker of a novel (not that this tough guy would ever admit to crying over a book). People are often drawn to stories that emit an emotional response. This may be the reason for the many positive reviews given to this book.
I liked it, but was left with the feeling that something was missing in the story. I think it was the depth. It’s a small book, but many small books are very deep, and their characters are rich. I didn’t get that same feeling while reading Tick to the Tock until the final chapter. He saved the best for last. These pages were written with huge depth.
On a final note, the author Matthew Turner gives his e-books away for nothing - just do a search. I don’t at all regret the time spent reading this one, and still give it a recommend.
The question intrigues me, though it’s one I hope I will not have to answer, at least not in the dire situation presented here. But it is the reason I chose to read this book. I figured it could be a tear-jerker of a novel (not that this tough guy would ever admit to crying over a book). People are often drawn to stories that emit an emotional response. This may be the reason for the many positive reviews given to this book.
I liked it, but was left with the feeling that something was missing in the story. I think it was the depth. It’s a small book, but many small books are very deep, and their characters are rich. I didn’t get that same feeling while reading Tick to the Tock until the final chapter. He saved the best for last. These pages were written with huge depth.
On a final note, the author Matthew Turner gives his e-books away for nothing - just do a search. I don’t at all regret the time spent reading this one, and still give it a recommend.
July 3, 2014
"To never reach the age of twenty three is unjust but this is the fate i face "
This was a very emotional read for me ,i truly was in tears from when i started reading about Dante the moment they told him ,about his terminal illness. I felt as though i was the one receiving the horrible news . The way that the author wrote the details in this book, and also something that i really loved was how each chapter was written as though it was a day in his life , till we reach the end. I was touched with all the characters ,although at some point i wanted to B*** slap
Dani ! I know that she had her reasons for acting how she did in the beginning but still at that moment i felt that it was harsh feeling it and seeing it from Dantes side . I was really glad when everything kinda worked out .
As much as cried i loved it because unfortunately , it was written how life truly is sometimes we take things for granted , and when we realize its to late ... Overall i give it 5 sorrowful filled starts *****
Thx Matt ;)
This was a very emotional read for me ,i truly was in tears from when i started reading about Dante the moment they told him ,about his terminal illness. I felt as though i was the one receiving the horrible news . The way that the author wrote the details in this book, and also something that i really loved was how each chapter was written as though it was a day in his life , till we reach the end. I was touched with all the characters ,although at some point i wanted to B*** slap
Dani ! I know that she had her reasons for acting how she did in the beginning but still at that moment i felt that it was harsh feeling it and seeing it from Dantes side . I was really glad when everything kinda worked out .
As much as cried i loved it because unfortunately , it was written how life truly is sometimes we take things for granted , and when we realize its to late ... Overall i give it 5 sorrowful filled starts *****
Thx Matt ;)
December 5, 2013
PLEASE NOTE I DID NOT COMPLETE READING THE WHOLE BOOK: The explanation is given in the review of the part of the book I did read.
INITIAL THOUGHTS
To be totally truthful (which I always try to be) as I approach this one I truly don't know what to expect its not what I'd say is my usual genre but I am looking forward to reading something totally different.
So I've started reading now and am 11% in and Mmmm its okay so far . . .I am feeling it pulling me in a little.
MY REVIEW
I received and e-arc of this book directly from the Author in exchange for my review and posting during the month of release, as well as posting in the usual places like Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk, Goodreads etc.
So the cover shows a silhouette of a man looking up towards the sky and the moon as if her is searching for answers. The cover also features a heart, so we'd presume maybe that some heart and soul searching goes on in this book. The cover also features a beautiful fob watch which of course ties in with the title Tick Tock.
So would the cover make me pick this up whilst browsing in a book store? While I do find the cover attractive and yes I would pick the book up in the books store. I honestly think it would be with the thoughts that it would be more the type of book I'd purchase as a gift for perhaps my dad. Then upon reading the blurb I'd probably ask my dad to loan me the book after he had read it!
Upon reading the book, quite early on within the book you realise the main character Dante is rapidly running out of time, as at just the age of 22 he is told he has a inoperable tumor and only has and estimation of 3 months to live.
Dante has some difficult decisions to make,should he try every treatment available even those that seem highly unlikely to work and fade away. Or should he travel and visit the places of his dreams whilst he has some time left to enjoy them.
Dante decides to travel and his two good friends surprise him when he is alone at the airport by turning up to accompany him. Dante is dealt a serious blow before he goes of travelling when he turns up on his ex girlfriend Dani's home to inform her of his illness and she quite literally slams the door in his face. It seems that Dani and Dante split up over Dante's failure to fully commit to their relationship and talk frankly to Dani too. So it's an even bigger shock that whilst in Paris, and upon returning to their hotel after a stroll Dante and his two male companions find Dani waiting for them. Dante and Dani have a sort of reconcillation with both of them agreeing to be more open with each other.
I don't and to be truly honest cannot reveal anymore of the book as I felt I had to stop reading due to the sad news that a close auntie of mine has recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer which is in her lungs, her brain and throughout her body. I honestly cannot read anymore of Dante's story at this time, maybe I will go back to this book at a later date.
So my sum up is based on the 30%of the book that I did read. Did I enjoy the book? I did enjoy in that it is a very poignant tale and is well written. Would I read more books by Matthew Turner? Possibly dependent on the subject/content.
I feel my reluctance to read on is kind of a compliment and a testament to how accurate the characters feelings and reactions are to the news of Dante's illness and certain outcome.
INITIAL THOUGHTS
To be totally truthful (which I always try to be) as I approach this one I truly don't know what to expect its not what I'd say is my usual genre but I am looking forward to reading something totally different.
So I've started reading now and am 11% in and Mmmm its okay so far . . .I am feeling it pulling me in a little.
MY REVIEW
I received and e-arc of this book directly from the Author in exchange for my review and posting during the month of release, as well as posting in the usual places like Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk, Goodreads etc.
So the cover shows a silhouette of a man looking up towards the sky and the moon as if her is searching for answers. The cover also features a heart, so we'd presume maybe that some heart and soul searching goes on in this book. The cover also features a beautiful fob watch which of course ties in with the title Tick Tock.
So would the cover make me pick this up whilst browsing in a book store? While I do find the cover attractive and yes I would pick the book up in the books store. I honestly think it would be with the thoughts that it would be more the type of book I'd purchase as a gift for perhaps my dad. Then upon reading the blurb I'd probably ask my dad to loan me the book after he had read it!
Upon reading the book, quite early on within the book you realise the main character Dante is rapidly running out of time, as at just the age of 22 he is told he has a inoperable tumor and only has and estimation of 3 months to live.
Dante has some difficult decisions to make,should he try every treatment available even those that seem highly unlikely to work and fade away. Or should he travel and visit the places of his dreams whilst he has some time left to enjoy them.
Dante decides to travel and his two good friends surprise him when he is alone at the airport by turning up to accompany him. Dante is dealt a serious blow before he goes of travelling when he turns up on his ex girlfriend Dani's home to inform her of his illness and she quite literally slams the door in his face. It seems that Dani and Dante split up over Dante's failure to fully commit to their relationship and talk frankly to Dani too. So it's an even bigger shock that whilst in Paris, and upon returning to their hotel after a stroll Dante and his two male companions find Dani waiting for them. Dante and Dani have a sort of reconcillation with both of them agreeing to be more open with each other.
I don't and to be truly honest cannot reveal anymore of the book as I felt I had to stop reading due to the sad news that a close auntie of mine has recently been diagnosed with terminal cancer which is in her lungs, her brain and throughout her body. I honestly cannot read anymore of Dante's story at this time, maybe I will go back to this book at a later date.
So my sum up is based on the 30%of the book that I did read. Did I enjoy the book? I did enjoy in that it is a very poignant tale and is well written. Would I read more books by Matthew Turner? Possibly dependent on the subject/content.
I feel my reluctance to read on is kind of a compliment and a testament to how accurate the characters feelings and reactions are to the news of Dante's illness and certain outcome.
August 23, 2015
Matthew Turner has done a great job of portraying the emotions, actions and relationships of a young man, 22 years old who is diagnosed with a malignant, inoperable brain tumor.
Dante has decided he wants to take the trip of his dreams and visit all the places around the world he has always wanted to see. His cousin, Ethan, his best friend, Wil and his ex-girlfriend, Danii join him.
I think this trip was more cathartic for his companions than Dante. Dante learns a lot about Wil that even after 20 years of friendship he did not know --- the reasons behind his brash behavior and the cavalier way he treats women. Ethan, his somewhat stuffy cousin, learns that having fun is just that fun. Danii and Dante actually talk and get a lot of old history resolved and admit they still love each other.
The trip is an emotional roller coaster as Dante begins to slip. He is constantly in excruciating pain, eventually he starts having all the symptoms the doctors warned him about. Ultimately he goes home to his parents for his last few weeks. I'm not sure he ever found the answers or the peace he was looking for but he helped his friends immensely although I don't think he ever realized it.
It takes a very good writer to draw the reader into the emotions of the main character and Matthew Turner did just that. I felt Dante's anger, indecision, guilt and the concern he had for his friends - to the point of tears at times.
To some this may seem to be a depressing subject but it wasn't really. It was about 4 friends that bonded even more through this tragedy, learning and growing as they went.
This book was sent to be by the author for review purposes.
Dante has decided he wants to take the trip of his dreams and visit all the places around the world he has always wanted to see. His cousin, Ethan, his best friend, Wil and his ex-girlfriend, Danii join him.
I think this trip was more cathartic for his companions than Dante. Dante learns a lot about Wil that even after 20 years of friendship he did not know --- the reasons behind his brash behavior and the cavalier way he treats women. Ethan, his somewhat stuffy cousin, learns that having fun is just that fun. Danii and Dante actually talk and get a lot of old history resolved and admit they still love each other.
The trip is an emotional roller coaster as Dante begins to slip. He is constantly in excruciating pain, eventually he starts having all the symptoms the doctors warned him about. Ultimately he goes home to his parents for his last few weeks. I'm not sure he ever found the answers or the peace he was looking for but he helped his friends immensely although I don't think he ever realized it.
It takes a very good writer to draw the reader into the emotions of the main character and Matthew Turner did just that. I felt Dante's anger, indecision, guilt and the concern he had for his friends - to the point of tears at times.
To some this may seem to be a depressing subject but it wasn't really. It was about 4 friends that bonded even more through this tragedy, learning and growing as they went.
This book was sent to be by the author for review purposes.
November 9, 2015
Matthew Turner beautifully portrays the ups and downs of a journey without falsely making the journey beautiful. He doesn't romanticize dying, but rather romantically describes it. It is the perfect balance of wanderlust and curiosity and finding purpose in life when Dante is forced to face the reality that his life is ending. Turner perfectly writes a character that has been forced to face a diagnosis he doesn't anticipate or deserve. Dante is a waiter, a hesitater, who finally decides to get up and go and Turner writes his story in a way that is very relatable. And instead of just checking off the boxes and perfectly describing all of Dante's wanderings, Turner decided to explore the emotional turmoil more. I think that is why the book hits home like it does. He portrays all the doubts we have through the magnified lens of a dying man.
Although I did find that there were frequent grammatical mishaps and awkward sounding sentences, in no way did they distract from the perfectly designed plot. It could have used another set of eyes for editing, but it still inspired me to want to write and travel and make the most of my life instead of wallowing in my own little world. The right word may not have always been used in the right place, but Tick to the Tock convinced me in a way that nothing has ever been able to that I need to make the most of the life I have while I still have it.
And, even if you aren't a listen while you read kind of person, I definitely recommend you try with this book. Or at least listen to the recommended songs at some point while you're reading this book because Turner perfectly matched songs with his story.
Please find a way to read this book if they're feeling uninspired. If you need a little something to push you on your way, this is it.
If you're looking for a slightly more grown up version of The Fault in our Stars, this is it. They are two stories of sickness and wanderlust and travel, but they take two completely different outlooks and inspire very different reactions. At least, they did in me. Whereas The Fault in our Stars left me crying and sitting around thinking about life for weeks, Matthew Turner's Tick to the Tock awakened a drive in me that I haven't been able to activate many times before. As I said before, it inspired me to write and really live. It made me want to stop overthinking everything and just go for it.
Thank you Matthew Turner for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book through the Goodreads first reads program because it was truly inspiring. I look forward to hopefully working again with you in the future.
(I won this book through the Goodreads Giveaways program!)
Although I did find that there were frequent grammatical mishaps and awkward sounding sentences, in no way did they distract from the perfectly designed plot. It could have used another set of eyes for editing, but it still inspired me to want to write and travel and make the most of my life instead of wallowing in my own little world. The right word may not have always been used in the right place, but Tick to the Tock convinced me in a way that nothing has ever been able to that I need to make the most of the life I have while I still have it.
And, even if you aren't a listen while you read kind of person, I definitely recommend you try with this book. Or at least listen to the recommended songs at some point while you're reading this book because Turner perfectly matched songs with his story.
Please find a way to read this book if they're feeling uninspired. If you need a little something to push you on your way, this is it.
If you're looking for a slightly more grown up version of The Fault in our Stars, this is it. They are two stories of sickness and wanderlust and travel, but they take two completely different outlooks and inspire very different reactions. At least, they did in me. Whereas The Fault in our Stars left me crying and sitting around thinking about life for weeks, Matthew Turner's Tick to the Tock awakened a drive in me that I haven't been able to activate many times before. As I said before, it inspired me to write and really live. It made me want to stop overthinking everything and just go for it.
Thank you Matthew Turner for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book through the Goodreads first reads program because it was truly inspiring. I look forward to hopefully working again with you in the future.
(I won this book through the Goodreads Giveaways program!)
January 14, 2014
ALL THE FEELZ.
This beautifully written novel is unnervingly accurate when it comes to the emotional reactions to a diagnosis. As someone who has had a number of loved ones die of cancer it was genuine enough to give me pause. The first line hit me hard because I am twenty three with a birthday only two days, a birthday that for a long time I didn't think I would get to see. Though not because of cancer.
It was almost too much for me but stopped just short, I was simply too attached to the characters to tear myself away.
Matthew Turner was not on my radar before this tour but he is now. A lot of authors lean too heavily towards a heavily poetic style or a realistic style, the sweet spot in between can be hard to accomplish but with Matthew's calculating skill he manages to weave a tragedy that is heartfelt and heartbreaking but so very human. I love the use of songs between sections to set the mood. Might want to have youtube up when you read this one because the music adds another layer to the entire journey.
The last three lines were so hauntingly beautiful they have stuck with me.
Worth the read but a truly emotional novel. As someone obsessed with different perspectives of life I really loved this read. While it is not for the faint of heart and might be a little too real for those it is too close to it is sweepingly beautiful and raw. Absolutely wonderful.
This beautifully written novel is unnervingly accurate when it comes to the emotional reactions to a diagnosis. As someone who has had a number of loved ones die of cancer it was genuine enough to give me pause. The first line hit me hard because I am twenty three with a birthday only two days, a birthday that for a long time I didn't think I would get to see. Though not because of cancer.
It was almost too much for me but stopped just short, I was simply too attached to the characters to tear myself away.
Matthew Turner was not on my radar before this tour but he is now. A lot of authors lean too heavily towards a heavily poetic style or a realistic style, the sweet spot in between can be hard to accomplish but with Matthew's calculating skill he manages to weave a tragedy that is heartfelt and heartbreaking but so very human. I love the use of songs between sections to set the mood. Might want to have youtube up when you read this one because the music adds another layer to the entire journey.
The last three lines were so hauntingly beautiful they have stuck with me.
Worth the read but a truly emotional novel. As someone obsessed with different perspectives of life I really loved this read. While it is not for the faint of heart and might be a little too real for those it is too close to it is sweepingly beautiful and raw. Absolutely wonderful.
July 31, 2014
I received a free copy of this book from the author via the goodreads group YA and NA romance in exchange for an honest review.
This book hit close to home with me as I a family member died of a brain tumor. At first I felt sorry for Dante and wished that a miracle would happen, but after a while I began to despise him, I found it hard to carry on. I found the story dragged, but I think this is probably it’s just not for me, I do not often read this sort of thing although I usually enjoy them. This one just went on too much for and since I did not connect with the characters, I struggled.
It was well written and the writing was flowery and beautiful. The romance side is what I probably struggled with, I need something to take my mind off that I am reading romance and I thought the drama of his illness would do it. Unfortunately for me it did not.
This book was just not for me, but I can see why people really enjoyed it.
3 stars out of 5.
This book hit close to home with me as I a family member died of a brain tumor. At first I felt sorry for Dante and wished that a miracle would happen, but after a while I began to despise him, I found it hard to carry on. I found the story dragged, but I think this is probably it’s just not for me, I do not often read this sort of thing although I usually enjoy them. This one just went on too much for and since I did not connect with the characters, I struggled.
It was well written and the writing was flowery and beautiful. The romance side is what I probably struggled with, I need something to take my mind off that I am reading romance and I thought the drama of his illness would do it. Unfortunately for me it did not.
This book was just not for me, but I can see why people really enjoyed it.
3 stars out of 5.
January 12, 2021
*Received a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
"It's a shame how devastation is often required to appreciate that which surrounds us."
These days, there seems to be an abundance of ever growing and popular books, movies, tv shows about people dying before their time; battling diseases that no human should ever have to go through, especially at such a young age. It's getting up there with the vampires and supernatural phenomenon that's going on. As I approached reading this, I though it was just going to be another depressing tale of a life cut too short as it tries to motivate you to not waste your life away.. etc. This book, honestly to me, stands out in the massive league of books in it's genre. It's now one of my favorite books. Must read!
"It's a shame how devastation is often required to appreciate that which surrounds us."
These days, there seems to be an abundance of ever growing and popular books, movies, tv shows about people dying before their time; battling diseases that no human should ever have to go through, especially at such a young age. It's getting up there with the vampires and supernatural phenomenon that's going on. As I approached reading this, I though it was just going to be another depressing tale of a life cut too short as it tries to motivate you to not waste your life away.. etc. This book, honestly to me, stands out in the massive league of books in it's genre. It's now one of my favorite books. Must read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 17, 2014
"To never reach the age of twenty-three is unjust, but this is the fate I face."
So begins Matthew Turner’s second novel, Tick to the Tock, a moving, grippingly well written book which is- especially considering its ostensibly bleak subject matter - shot through with a reflective, melancholy tenderness that leaves the reader with a tear in their eye.
Discovering that he has only months to live, Dante is forced to re-evaluate his life, his past, and his relationships, and to find a way of dealing with his remaining days. His initial response to being diagnosed is utterly uncompromising, but prescient:
"When the first meting with the specialist ended, I walked into the bathroom and stared into the mirror. I already knew my hopes were slim, but no-one had told me to my face. People hide behind hope, but I can’t hide behind it, and I certainly can’t hide from death. There’s either something that can be done, or there isn’t. Looking into the mirror, it dawned on me, the important question I was yet to ask: what am I going to do?"
The descriptions of suffering and pain, the nightmare of bureaucracy and coping with the “system” are re-laid so starkly that one wonders how the author could so plausibly present Dante’s story as if it were his own. Clearly, his research has been meticulous:
“Yeah, I know all about treatments and meds,” I said, gritting my teeth. “The steroids and anticonvulsants , the chemo and radiotherapy and the various chemicals they want to pump into me, the Carbamazepine and Lamotrigine and Levetiracem and Phenytoin and whatever other drug they invent tomorrow. But nobody gives me a chance in hell. Fuck, you’ve seen the percentages and ratios and all the bullshit they feed me. If it was even close to 50/50 - hell, I’d take 20/80, for crying out loud - I’d fight until the bitter end. No questions asked. Because although it may not sound like it, I don’t want to die. I’m actually fucking terrified of it. But I’m also scared of withering away on some machine as I lose every ounce of who I am. For what? A few extra months? A year? What hope are we talking about here?”
Thus we are given a window on the character’s tortured mind, as he weighs up the options presented to him, considering how "My decision imprisons me in purgatory, not only now, but my entire life. For twenty two years I’ve allowed one day after another to pass me by, living and waiting for tomorrow…for a good time…for the right time…but now, my end is near and I’ve achieved nothing."
Even in the midst of this turmoil and self-pity, Dante somehow emerges as a kind of philosopher, an observer of life who seems to look in from the outside, as in this passage narrated from a train:
"Life rushes by like a freshly painted canvas smudged with a heavy and clumsy fist. It’s a blur of hues as the trees and sky and houses and roads collide into one another. Its hard to decipher where one ends and the other begins, but I’m content with this chaotic state, as the flash of colour entices my gaze to follow it."
Foremost in the Dante’s reflections is his ex-girlfriend Dani - for me the book’s most likeable and most immaculately well-written character. Early on, Dante recalls:
"I’ll never forget our first date, the nerves and nausea rumbling around my starving insides. First dates aren’t hard; they’re usually the easiest. After all, at this stage, you know so little about the other person that a mountain of questions await. With Dani, it was different, but I knew this before laying eyes on her…"
Dante’s recollections of the first time they met, at the party of a mutual friend, are touching and nicely worded, but it is when he writes through Dani that Turner gives the character her most fully rounded identity,, such as here, not long after she has been confronted with Dante’s illness:
"Taking a seat on the red-patterned bed sheets, she leans on her knees, aiming her head towards the floor. “When you came to me and said what you said, I had no idea how to react. I’d spent the best part of a year trying to hate you, or at least…forget you. I’ve never loved anybody like I love you. I don’t understand it, because for the most part, we were terrible for one another. But I did love you, and it pained me, literally hurt, to stand back and watch you push away from me time and again. And seeing you after so long, on my doorstep…"
The fact the two have very similar sounding names is surely quite significant, as if they represent different sides to one another, and their relationship, with all its twists and turns, is central to the plot. Dante’s story is also shared by two other main characters - male friends who similarly demonstrate vastly different behaviours and attitudes, the one studious and considerate, the other a party-animal who unlocks Dante’s capacity to live for the day, but whose apparent devil-may-care attitude is belied by inner demons. These three companions are integral to the book, and it would be a different story without their influence. Ultimately, though, it is left to Dante to decide how to approach his situation. Musing on, "distant lands like the New York City skyline, Sydney Harbour, Uluru at sunrise, or the rolling hillsides of Switzerland, he explains how, I’ve spent many a night fantasizing about places far away, picturing those I’ve seen in magazines and on movie sets, wondering if they’re as beautiful and fantastic as they seem." But having made his decision, he will no longer be left wondering.
The reader is left wondering about the author’s background experiences. In this carefully crafted and poignant novel, Matthew Turner presents us with the question of how to live our lives, what we do with the short spans we are given, and why so many of us waste the time that passes by because we foolishly believe we have so much of it to come.
Tick to the Tock is a highly engaging and powerful novel from a rising star - I highly recommend it.
So begins Matthew Turner’s second novel, Tick to the Tock, a moving, grippingly well written book which is- especially considering its ostensibly bleak subject matter - shot through with a reflective, melancholy tenderness that leaves the reader with a tear in their eye.
Discovering that he has only months to live, Dante is forced to re-evaluate his life, his past, and his relationships, and to find a way of dealing with his remaining days. His initial response to being diagnosed is utterly uncompromising, but prescient:
"When the first meting with the specialist ended, I walked into the bathroom and stared into the mirror. I already knew my hopes were slim, but no-one had told me to my face. People hide behind hope, but I can’t hide behind it, and I certainly can’t hide from death. There’s either something that can be done, or there isn’t. Looking into the mirror, it dawned on me, the important question I was yet to ask: what am I going to do?"
The descriptions of suffering and pain, the nightmare of bureaucracy and coping with the “system” are re-laid so starkly that one wonders how the author could so plausibly present Dante’s story as if it were his own. Clearly, his research has been meticulous:
“Yeah, I know all about treatments and meds,” I said, gritting my teeth. “The steroids and anticonvulsants , the chemo and radiotherapy and the various chemicals they want to pump into me, the Carbamazepine and Lamotrigine and Levetiracem and Phenytoin and whatever other drug they invent tomorrow. But nobody gives me a chance in hell. Fuck, you’ve seen the percentages and ratios and all the bullshit they feed me. If it was even close to 50/50 - hell, I’d take 20/80, for crying out loud - I’d fight until the bitter end. No questions asked. Because although it may not sound like it, I don’t want to die. I’m actually fucking terrified of it. But I’m also scared of withering away on some machine as I lose every ounce of who I am. For what? A few extra months? A year? What hope are we talking about here?”
Thus we are given a window on the character’s tortured mind, as he weighs up the options presented to him, considering how "My decision imprisons me in purgatory, not only now, but my entire life. For twenty two years I’ve allowed one day after another to pass me by, living and waiting for tomorrow…for a good time…for the right time…but now, my end is near and I’ve achieved nothing."
Even in the midst of this turmoil and self-pity, Dante somehow emerges as a kind of philosopher, an observer of life who seems to look in from the outside, as in this passage narrated from a train:
"Life rushes by like a freshly painted canvas smudged with a heavy and clumsy fist. It’s a blur of hues as the trees and sky and houses and roads collide into one another. Its hard to decipher where one ends and the other begins, but I’m content with this chaotic state, as the flash of colour entices my gaze to follow it."
Foremost in the Dante’s reflections is his ex-girlfriend Dani - for me the book’s most likeable and most immaculately well-written character. Early on, Dante recalls:
"I’ll never forget our first date, the nerves and nausea rumbling around my starving insides. First dates aren’t hard; they’re usually the easiest. After all, at this stage, you know so little about the other person that a mountain of questions await. With Dani, it was different, but I knew this before laying eyes on her…"
Dante’s recollections of the first time they met, at the party of a mutual friend, are touching and nicely worded, but it is when he writes through Dani that Turner gives the character her most fully rounded identity,, such as here, not long after she has been confronted with Dante’s illness:
"Taking a seat on the red-patterned bed sheets, she leans on her knees, aiming her head towards the floor. “When you came to me and said what you said, I had no idea how to react. I’d spent the best part of a year trying to hate you, or at least…forget you. I’ve never loved anybody like I love you. I don’t understand it, because for the most part, we were terrible for one another. But I did love you, and it pained me, literally hurt, to stand back and watch you push away from me time and again. And seeing you after so long, on my doorstep…"
The fact the two have very similar sounding names is surely quite significant, as if they represent different sides to one another, and their relationship, with all its twists and turns, is central to the plot. Dante’s story is also shared by two other main characters - male friends who similarly demonstrate vastly different behaviours and attitudes, the one studious and considerate, the other a party-animal who unlocks Dante’s capacity to live for the day, but whose apparent devil-may-care attitude is belied by inner demons. These three companions are integral to the book, and it would be a different story without their influence. Ultimately, though, it is left to Dante to decide how to approach his situation. Musing on, "distant lands like the New York City skyline, Sydney Harbour, Uluru at sunrise, or the rolling hillsides of Switzerland, he explains how, I’ve spent many a night fantasizing about places far away, picturing those I’ve seen in magazines and on movie sets, wondering if they’re as beautiful and fantastic as they seem." But having made his decision, he will no longer be left wondering.
The reader is left wondering about the author’s background experiences. In this carefully crafted and poignant novel, Matthew Turner presents us with the question of how to live our lives, what we do with the short spans we are given, and why so many of us waste the time that passes by because we foolishly believe we have so much of it to come.
Tick to the Tock is a highly engaging and powerful novel from a rising star - I highly recommend it.
February 13, 2014
My Take on this Journey:
Tick to the Tock, by Matthew Turner, was an all encompassing novel of love, life, healing, learning, growing, compromising, selflessness and death. Mr. Turner was masterful with his prose. He made me feel every turbulent step of Dante Kings' painful journey. At the young age of 22, he is told by his long time doctor, and family friend, that he has an inoperable brain tumor. He is sent on a quest from specialist to specialist, and no one can give him a straight forward answer as to when his time here will end. The reader becomes entranced in this heartbreaking journey and Dante's inner turmoil becomes yours. This novel hit a very real, fragile, empty place in my heart that made me relate on another level. As I write this review, I am engulfed with sorrow and loneliness. I am reliving my own family tragedy once again. Mr. Turner made every step believable and heartbreakingly honest.
Fate has thrown Dante a curve ball with a fatal demise that he must face head on. Dante walks the streets of Yorkshire, realizing that this will be his last summer on this earth. He walks for endless hours, going nowhere, trying to figure out why this happened and how he will tell his two best friends, his perfectionist cousin, Ethan, (that he has the utmost respect and love for) and Wilber, (His quirky friend who is all over the place, can't sit still, and makes everything into a joke.) He also must tell his fragile mother that has a drinking problem, and his heartless father, that has never shown or taught him about feeling, love, and life about his fatal tumor.
Dante realizes that he must leave Yorkshire, in order to live out what is left of his life, now that his dreams have been stolen from him. If he doesn't leave York, he will have regrets, and just die there, seeing his loved ones crumble before him as he nears his end. Instead of all the things he was looking forward to in life, he must now close all the doors from his past, so he will have no regrets at the end. One door he feels the need to close is with his ex-girlfriend and long time love, Danii. Things ended badly and he doesn't know if she will even talk to him. He goes to see her, and her new boyfriend answers the door. There is bad blood there, but Danii comes to the door and talks to him for a few minutes. Unfortunately, she cannot deal with what he has to tell her and she shuts the door in his face. Dante is mortified, but understands her reaction.
Dante tells his parents and friends he is going to the airport in the morning to leave on a trip through Europe. He has always wanted to travel and he will do this last thing for himself, and experience everything he has yearned for. He tells them he will return to say goodbye, when he knows that he is nearing the end, and they are very distraught. The next morning, his two friends surprise him and show up at the airport, to join Dante while he fulfills his destiny, and travels his final journey of a lifetime, that will change all their lives forever.
Dante is relieved to see them.
Days later, Danii shows up in Paris and though there is hostility between her and Wil, it all comes together, and Dante is able to forge ahead with the three most important people in his life. There are so many beautiful places they see and so many moments they share, good and bad. Reflections on the past come to light, and Dante realizes a lot of things he didn't know about his best friend Wil, that help him to understand him more than ever before. Ethan is a tower of strength that Dante can always depend on. He finally lets loose and becomes this unrecognizable entity. One that makes your heart reach out to. Danii realizes that she never stopped loving Dante, and tries to make up for everything with what little time they have left together. Compromise's are made, when things start getting strained between the different personalities, and a friendship is forged for a lifetime between the other three characters.
The descriptions are breathtaking, the prose are lyrical, the story is flawless. The character growth is amazing, and will touch your hearts. The struggle for Dante to hide his pain is so selfless, until he can no longer hide the harsh and disturbing realities that lie before him with his imminent death looming before him. He finally realizes that his three best friends saw everything he was trying to save them from all along. The simple things in life become most important; the wind in his hair, the leaves changing color, appreciation for the beautiful and small things in life, a smile on his loved ones face, laughter from memories of his past, staring at a star filled sky and wondering what lies beyond, the aromas that fill his nostrils of the one he treasures. I loved everything that was indelibly written on paper by Mr. Turner.
The dream sequences were tangible, everything was thought out and relayed so beautifully. The life lessons in this story are abundant. It touched my heart on so many levels and the tears are pouring down my face as I am writing this review. I am so grateful that my fate put me in line to read this overwhelmingly beautiful story.
I give Tick to the Tock, by Matthew Turner, 5 Beautifully Poetic, Heartbreakingly Warm, Fate Filled, Journey of a Lifetime Stars!!!
Tick to the Tock, by Matthew Turner, was an all encompassing novel of love, life, healing, learning, growing, compromising, selflessness and death. Mr. Turner was masterful with his prose. He made me feel every turbulent step of Dante Kings' painful journey. At the young age of 22, he is told by his long time doctor, and family friend, that he has an inoperable brain tumor. He is sent on a quest from specialist to specialist, and no one can give him a straight forward answer as to when his time here will end. The reader becomes entranced in this heartbreaking journey and Dante's inner turmoil becomes yours. This novel hit a very real, fragile, empty place in my heart that made me relate on another level. As I write this review, I am engulfed with sorrow and loneliness. I am reliving my own family tragedy once again. Mr. Turner made every step believable and heartbreakingly honest.
Fate has thrown Dante a curve ball with a fatal demise that he must face head on. Dante walks the streets of Yorkshire, realizing that this will be his last summer on this earth. He walks for endless hours, going nowhere, trying to figure out why this happened and how he will tell his two best friends, his perfectionist cousin, Ethan, (that he has the utmost respect and love for) and Wilber, (His quirky friend who is all over the place, can't sit still, and makes everything into a joke.) He also must tell his fragile mother that has a drinking problem, and his heartless father, that has never shown or taught him about feeling, love, and life about his fatal tumor.
Dante realizes that he must leave Yorkshire, in order to live out what is left of his life, now that his dreams have been stolen from him. If he doesn't leave York, he will have regrets, and just die there, seeing his loved ones crumble before him as he nears his end. Instead of all the things he was looking forward to in life, he must now close all the doors from his past, so he will have no regrets at the end. One door he feels the need to close is with his ex-girlfriend and long time love, Danii. Things ended badly and he doesn't know if she will even talk to him. He goes to see her, and her new boyfriend answers the door. There is bad blood there, but Danii comes to the door and talks to him for a few minutes. Unfortunately, she cannot deal with what he has to tell her and she shuts the door in his face. Dante is mortified, but understands her reaction.
Dante tells his parents and friends he is going to the airport in the morning to leave on a trip through Europe. He has always wanted to travel and he will do this last thing for himself, and experience everything he has yearned for. He tells them he will return to say goodbye, when he knows that he is nearing the end, and they are very distraught. The next morning, his two friends surprise him and show up at the airport, to join Dante while he fulfills his destiny, and travels his final journey of a lifetime, that will change all their lives forever.
Dante is relieved to see them.
Days later, Danii shows up in Paris and though there is hostility between her and Wil, it all comes together, and Dante is able to forge ahead with the three most important people in his life. There are so many beautiful places they see and so many moments they share, good and bad. Reflections on the past come to light, and Dante realizes a lot of things he didn't know about his best friend Wil, that help him to understand him more than ever before. Ethan is a tower of strength that Dante can always depend on. He finally lets loose and becomes this unrecognizable entity. One that makes your heart reach out to. Danii realizes that she never stopped loving Dante, and tries to make up for everything with what little time they have left together. Compromise's are made, when things start getting strained between the different personalities, and a friendship is forged for a lifetime between the other three characters.
The descriptions are breathtaking, the prose are lyrical, the story is flawless. The character growth is amazing, and will touch your hearts. The struggle for Dante to hide his pain is so selfless, until he can no longer hide the harsh and disturbing realities that lie before him with his imminent death looming before him. He finally realizes that his three best friends saw everything he was trying to save them from all along. The simple things in life become most important; the wind in his hair, the leaves changing color, appreciation for the beautiful and small things in life, a smile on his loved ones face, laughter from memories of his past, staring at a star filled sky and wondering what lies beyond, the aromas that fill his nostrils of the one he treasures. I loved everything that was indelibly written on paper by Mr. Turner.
The dream sequences were tangible, everything was thought out and relayed so beautifully. The life lessons in this story are abundant. It touched my heart on so many levels and the tears are pouring down my face as I am writing this review. I am so grateful that my fate put me in line to read this overwhelmingly beautiful story.
I give Tick to the Tock, by Matthew Turner, 5 Beautifully Poetic, Heartbreakingly Warm, Fate Filled, Journey of a Lifetime Stars!!!
January 21, 2014
For this review and more, visit Such a Novel Idea.
4.5/5 stars
I knew what I was getting myself into when I signed up for this blog tour review. I mean, it says it all right there in the synopsis right? A guy dying trying to come to grips with the last of his days. I don't know what it says about me that I am drawn to books like this, books that force you to delve into the tough issues of life. However, every time I do, I always feel changed somehow. And maybe that is why I do it.
Whatever I thought I knew about this book, I didn't. This book surprised me in so many ways. For one thing, I only cried during the epilogue. Well, and one other time there was a single tear, but I can't tell you when, because it was such a critical moment of the book. So not crying about a dying person may sound like the book wasn't that great, but it was. It really, really was.
See, Turner decided to write a book about life. This book in so many ways was not about death and dying, but about living. Truly living. It was a hard look at what we do everyday that we may one day regret - whether it is not speaking up out of fear, being stuck in a comfortable routine, being afraid of a life you hadn't planned to live, wandering through life avoiding commitment, or even indecision. While Dante is the voice and the backbone of the story, there were four people in this book who went through a transformation. Actually, five, because this book did something to my mind and my soul that I can't quite describe. It so visceral, yet subtle that I didn't quite know what to think until it was all said and done. But it made me want to live.
The moment I started the book, I knew I was going to love the author. He started each chapter with two or three music recommendations. And two of the three on chapter one were two of my very favorite songs. And one of my very favorite musicians. So, I knew that even if I didn't like the words in the story, I would resonate with the music. And I did. I took my time reading so I could listen to each recommendation during the said chapter. This book took much longer to read that way, but I really think it was worth it and provided a rich reading experience.
The book doesn't read like a story -- most times I felt like I was reading a memoir or a nonfiction essay. And that was okay. It made the way I approached the material seem more real and less like a story someone had written to entertain. It felt like Dante was a real person with a real voice, telling me his story.
At first I didn't care for the girlfriend Danii. I think I was already loyal to Dante and didn't want her to hurt him. But, she grew on me. All four of the characters did. It was great to see how they grew from the experiences they had together. I loved when Ethan confessed that he hated that he was having fun, when the trip wasn't about him having fun, but making sure Dante was okay. When he confessed that maybe, just maybe that daily routine he cherished so much didn't have as much meaning as he had been giving it.
And the end, the emotional turn that the book took was just a perfect way to end the story. I had a thought earlier in the story, but I was still taken aback when it happened. And of course the epilogue. It's like when we know what is going to happen, and yet we somehow still wish for it to not happen.
The one critique I do have of the book is the wordiness. I feel like an edit to trim down on some of the dialogue and thoughts could have tightened and polished this book up. It was definitely different from any book I've read in awhile. It wasn't something I normally would pick up. It was a hard read, but it was worth it. And it was probably hard because it did seem so real -- I didn't feel the way I feel when I read a YA book or a book that makes me escape to another world. It was gritty, raw, and unabashedly uncomfortable, because it made me take a hard look at myself. And that my friends, is why I loved it most of all.
4.5/5 stars
I knew what I was getting myself into when I signed up for this blog tour review. I mean, it says it all right there in the synopsis right? A guy dying trying to come to grips with the last of his days. I don't know what it says about me that I am drawn to books like this, books that force you to delve into the tough issues of life. However, every time I do, I always feel changed somehow. And maybe that is why I do it.
Whatever I thought I knew about this book, I didn't. This book surprised me in so many ways. For one thing, I only cried during the epilogue. Well, and one other time there was a single tear, but I can't tell you when, because it was such a critical moment of the book. So not crying about a dying person may sound like the book wasn't that great, but it was. It really, really was.
See, Turner decided to write a book about life. This book in so many ways was not about death and dying, but about living. Truly living. It was a hard look at what we do everyday that we may one day regret - whether it is not speaking up out of fear, being stuck in a comfortable routine, being afraid of a life you hadn't planned to live, wandering through life avoiding commitment, or even indecision. While Dante is the voice and the backbone of the story, there were four people in this book who went through a transformation. Actually, five, because this book did something to my mind and my soul that I can't quite describe. It so visceral, yet subtle that I didn't quite know what to think until it was all said and done. But it made me want to live.
The moment I started the book, I knew I was going to love the author. He started each chapter with two or three music recommendations. And two of the three on chapter one were two of my very favorite songs. And one of my very favorite musicians. So, I knew that even if I didn't like the words in the story, I would resonate with the music. And I did. I took my time reading so I could listen to each recommendation during the said chapter. This book took much longer to read that way, but I really think it was worth it and provided a rich reading experience.
The book doesn't read like a story -- most times I felt like I was reading a memoir or a nonfiction essay. And that was okay. It made the way I approached the material seem more real and less like a story someone had written to entertain. It felt like Dante was a real person with a real voice, telling me his story.
At first I didn't care for the girlfriend Danii. I think I was already loyal to Dante and didn't want her to hurt him. But, she grew on me. All four of the characters did. It was great to see how they grew from the experiences they had together. I loved when Ethan confessed that he hated that he was having fun, when the trip wasn't about him having fun, but making sure Dante was okay. When he confessed that maybe, just maybe that daily routine he cherished so much didn't have as much meaning as he had been giving it.
And the end, the emotional turn that the book took was just a perfect way to end the story. I had a thought earlier in the story, but I was still taken aback when it happened. And of course the epilogue. It's like when we know what is going to happen, and yet we somehow still wish for it to not happen.
The one critique I do have of the book is the wordiness. I feel like an edit to trim down on some of the dialogue and thoughts could have tightened and polished this book up. It was definitely different from any book I've read in awhile. It wasn't something I normally would pick up. It was a hard read, but it was worth it. And it was probably hard because it did seem so real -- I didn't feel the way I feel when I read a YA book or a book that makes me escape to another world. It was gritty, raw, and unabashedly uncomfortable, because it made me take a hard look at myself. And that my friends, is why I loved it most of all.
January 9, 2014
A month ago, I had the delightful honor of assisting British author Matthew Turner with the process of his novel, Tick to the Tock! I assisted him by editing it and as I read, fell in love with the whole theme of the book. Matthew is an amazing writer and an even better "brand" king in the realm of inspiring reading for the modern adult. I had previously enjoyed his first novel, Beyond Parallel, in which he examined "what ifs" and now in Tick to the Tock, I enjoyed how he once again makes the reader THINK about the choices they make or could make to live life to the fullest.
Why not read this book? I promise it will inspire you to rethink how you'll live in 2014 and get your started off on better ground. It will teach you not to sweat the small stuff, but go after your bucket list dreams.
Here is my feedback I gave to Matthew upon my editing complete, which I've added further thoughts to so you can have a clear review. I know you'll love this book if you like modern stories, inspiring stories, and amazing way that British writers give us such character driven emotional reads that we all can connect to.
My Thoughts~
Matthew,
Tick to the Tock was amazing. The description, detail and character development was superb. I thought it was one I wouldn't want to read...and I knew why. I had a feeling the protagonist was terminally ill. When I read it I knew then. The cancer. What I didn't expect was to be sucked into his emotions, his thoughts, his desire to live each moment to the best of his ability. Or the emotions of the supporting characters.
You had me in tears this whole damn book!! At the end I was sobbing. I mean it was just that darn emotional and touched me. I had just put on that huge charity event for Cancer and so it really knocked me even harder after seeing people who are going through it and then reading this. You must have first hand knowledge of it, it was that close to the vest and authentic. So I edited the novel for you, yes, but you got me to read it when I wouldn't have otherwise and I am thankful for that. I've tried to live my life in the moment, but we all get caught up in the little things don't we? And your book, it spoke to me.
I know you don't want to be described as a British author, because they can be for anyone. But British authors DO have a voice and a way of dealing with emotions on the page as American writers most often won't. They are afraid of emotions. And some of you Brits (Yorks in your case) have such highly character driven works, when Americans sometimes prefer action and "get to the point," but I love your work because it makes you slow down and think!! We all need more of that, globally and locally. A heart isn't one to not wear on your sleeve because in the end, moments and feelings are all that really matter.
More Thoughts~
I found out after I wrote Matthew my feedback and handed in my editing changes that he actually doesn't have first-hard knowledge of anyone being terminally ill. I found it surprising he could write with such depth of feeling from both the main character and from the supporting caregivers. He not only researched, but he was a channel to the innermost feelings of those struggling with illness. That is the sign of a great writer, when they can write about anything and make it feel authentic and beautiful. Tick to the Tock truly made me realize that life is too short to worry about all the little concerns that don't matter in the large workings of our lives. For many personal reasons, this book connected to me and touched my heart and I will forever treasure it.
I book review at www.hookofabook.wordpress.com
Why not read this book? I promise it will inspire you to rethink how you'll live in 2014 and get your started off on better ground. It will teach you not to sweat the small stuff, but go after your bucket list dreams.
Here is my feedback I gave to Matthew upon my editing complete, which I've added further thoughts to so you can have a clear review. I know you'll love this book if you like modern stories, inspiring stories, and amazing way that British writers give us such character driven emotional reads that we all can connect to.
My Thoughts~
Matthew,
Tick to the Tock was amazing. The description, detail and character development was superb. I thought it was one I wouldn't want to read...and I knew why. I had a feeling the protagonist was terminally ill. When I read it I knew then. The cancer. What I didn't expect was to be sucked into his emotions, his thoughts, his desire to live each moment to the best of his ability. Or the emotions of the supporting characters.
You had me in tears this whole damn book!! At the end I was sobbing. I mean it was just that darn emotional and touched me. I had just put on that huge charity event for Cancer and so it really knocked me even harder after seeing people who are going through it and then reading this. You must have first hand knowledge of it, it was that close to the vest and authentic. So I edited the novel for you, yes, but you got me to read it when I wouldn't have otherwise and I am thankful for that. I've tried to live my life in the moment, but we all get caught up in the little things don't we? And your book, it spoke to me.
I know you don't want to be described as a British author, because they can be for anyone. But British authors DO have a voice and a way of dealing with emotions on the page as American writers most often won't. They are afraid of emotions. And some of you Brits (Yorks in your case) have such highly character driven works, when Americans sometimes prefer action and "get to the point," but I love your work because it makes you slow down and think!! We all need more of that, globally and locally. A heart isn't one to not wear on your sleeve because in the end, moments and feelings are all that really matter.
More Thoughts~
I found out after I wrote Matthew my feedback and handed in my editing changes that he actually doesn't have first-hard knowledge of anyone being terminally ill. I found it surprising he could write with such depth of feeling from both the main character and from the supporting caregivers. He not only researched, but he was a channel to the innermost feelings of those struggling with illness. That is the sign of a great writer, when they can write about anything and make it feel authentic and beautiful. Tick to the Tock truly made me realize that life is too short to worry about all the little concerns that don't matter in the large workings of our lives. For many personal reasons, this book connected to me and touched my heart and I will forever treasure it.
I book review at www.hookofabook.wordpress.com
July 22, 2017
An emotional, heart-wrenching and poignant tale. 5 stars! Full review to be published on my blog on 28th January during my stop for the Tick to the Tock Blog Tour. oldvictorianquill.wordpress.com
There are some books that stay with you for a long time after you finish reading them. ‘Tick to the Tock’ is up there with the best of them with the author succeeding in creating an emotional, intriguing, engaging, heartwarming and spiritual story about a young man having to come to accept his mortality at an age where he should be embracing the start of the rest of his life.
‘Tick to the Tock’ tells Dante King’s story as he travels the world with his closest friends after receiving news that he has an inoperable brain tumour and has only a few months to live. I adored Matthew Turner’s very poignant writing style with his narrative voice created to be realistic and sometimes blunt that brilliantly reflects Dante’s dilemma as he comes to terms with the very real pain that comes with accepting his life as a dying man.
The characters in this novel were such so engaging and relatable, not created to be perfect, loveable sidekicks, but to mirror human beings whose flaws are brought out in the stress that they experience whilst watching their friend deteriorate before their eyes, and being unable to do anything to help. I loved that I didn’t connect to Dante’s girlfriend Danni straight away. As strange as it sounds it made me appreciate Matthew Turner’s style more as he had me conflicted when I began to warm to Danni, despite feeling bitter about her treatment of Dante early in the book when he told her of his illness. He created conflict for the reader in a clever, subtle way that connected me to the story on a deeper level, as though every part of the story was being unconsciously imprinted in my mind.
Seeing Dante’s travels and experiences as he awaits the end of his life was heartbreaking, as well as being a real eye-opener. It reminded me to experience life to the full. For a week after reading this book I felt this heaviness in my heart at the reminder of my own mortality, and felt a burning desire to go out and experience the world I live in, and to make the most of every day I’ve been given.
There’s one of Dante’s memories that particularly resonated with me. Dante muses on his inability to take what he wants, and how in the past he wished he’d been brave enough to go after something that he wanted. We see Dante’s memory of the connection he shared with a girl who sat opposite him on the train, and he laments what could have been more confident and spoken to her. It gives a real insight into the real world and the connections we make with strangers.
This was a heartbreaking, yet beautiful tale which will stay with me forever and will always be there at the back of my mind to remind me to appreciate the good, move on from the bad and live everyday like it’s your last.
There are some books that stay with you for a long time after you finish reading them. ‘Tick to the Tock’ is up there with the best of them with the author succeeding in creating an emotional, intriguing, engaging, heartwarming and spiritual story about a young man having to come to accept his mortality at an age where he should be embracing the start of the rest of his life.
‘Tick to the Tock’ tells Dante King’s story as he travels the world with his closest friends after receiving news that he has an inoperable brain tumour and has only a few months to live. I adored Matthew Turner’s very poignant writing style with his narrative voice created to be realistic and sometimes blunt that brilliantly reflects Dante’s dilemma as he comes to terms with the very real pain that comes with accepting his life as a dying man.
The characters in this novel were such so engaging and relatable, not created to be perfect, loveable sidekicks, but to mirror human beings whose flaws are brought out in the stress that they experience whilst watching their friend deteriorate before their eyes, and being unable to do anything to help. I loved that I didn’t connect to Dante’s girlfriend Danni straight away. As strange as it sounds it made me appreciate Matthew Turner’s style more as he had me conflicted when I began to warm to Danni, despite feeling bitter about her treatment of Dante early in the book when he told her of his illness. He created conflict for the reader in a clever, subtle way that connected me to the story on a deeper level, as though every part of the story was being unconsciously imprinted in my mind.
Seeing Dante’s travels and experiences as he awaits the end of his life was heartbreaking, as well as being a real eye-opener. It reminded me to experience life to the full. For a week after reading this book I felt this heaviness in my heart at the reminder of my own mortality, and felt a burning desire to go out and experience the world I live in, and to make the most of every day I’ve been given.
There’s one of Dante’s memories that particularly resonated with me. Dante muses on his inability to take what he wants, and how in the past he wished he’d been brave enough to go after something that he wanted. We see Dante’s memory of the connection he shared with a girl who sat opposite him on the train, and he laments what could have been more confident and spoken to her. It gives a real insight into the real world and the connections we make with strangers.
This was a heartbreaking, yet beautiful tale which will stay with me forever and will always be there at the back of my mind to remind me to appreciate the good, move on from the bad and live everyday like it’s your last.
January 20, 2014
What would you do if you found out you were dying? How would you spend your last days? Months? These are the questions Dante faces when he finds out he has a rare and inoperable brain tumor. Suddenly life seems really short and he is left facing the tough question… how does he spend the remainder of his time on this earth?
I felt like this profoundly changed Dante and why wouldn’t it? I think anyone would look at life differently after finding out your life was being cut short. He is so young and there are so many things that’ll he never get to do or see. I liked his attitude towards the major curve ball life has thrown him. Anyone would find it easy to just give in to fate and give up on life. Dante doesn’t do this and I loved that. Instead, he sets out on and adventure with his best friends Wil and Ethan and he rekindles his romance with Danii, the girl who got away. I liked the way Dante reflected back on the things he’d done and the decisions he’d made. His journey of self discovery led him to a lot of realizations and I think that it helped him make peace with his life and the impending death he faced. I saw a lot of growth in him as a character and I felt like his acceptance of everything in the end was really heart warming.
I really liked his friends, Wil and Ethan and the love and support they showed him every step of the way. They were affected by his fate in a profound way and I think that they needed the journey and self-discovery as much as he did. These 2 are as different as night and day but they both love and care for Dante and I think he needed Wil’s fun, laid back attitude as much as he needed Ethan’s level-headed and calm personality. At first I wasn’t keen on Danii because of the past she had with Dante but I understood why he felt the need to reconnect and in the end, I think she truly understood all that she had missed out on and she was as desperate as he was to make the most of what time he had left.
I really enjoyed this book and I was very impressed with the writing. It was definitely a journey that really made me think about my own life and all I have experienced until now. I don’t think you really reflect on things until something forces you to do it. I liked the adventure that Dante and his friends embarked on and the relationships he solidified with each of them. I felt myself tear up more than a time or two and I commend Matthew for his ability to really bring these emotions out of me. I really liked the direction he took Dante and Danii’s relationship and the final scenes between these two was somewhat heart-wrenching. I definitely felt my chest clench a little. I really liked the ending and how REAL it was. Overall, I was really impressed with this book and definitely felt the message that Matthew was trying to convey.
I felt like this profoundly changed Dante and why wouldn’t it? I think anyone would look at life differently after finding out your life was being cut short. He is so young and there are so many things that’ll he never get to do or see. I liked his attitude towards the major curve ball life has thrown him. Anyone would find it easy to just give in to fate and give up on life. Dante doesn’t do this and I loved that. Instead, he sets out on and adventure with his best friends Wil and Ethan and he rekindles his romance with Danii, the girl who got away. I liked the way Dante reflected back on the things he’d done and the decisions he’d made. His journey of self discovery led him to a lot of realizations and I think that it helped him make peace with his life and the impending death he faced. I saw a lot of growth in him as a character and I felt like his acceptance of everything in the end was really heart warming.
I really liked his friends, Wil and Ethan and the love and support they showed him every step of the way. They were affected by his fate in a profound way and I think that they needed the journey and self-discovery as much as he did. These 2 are as different as night and day but they both love and care for Dante and I think he needed Wil’s fun, laid back attitude as much as he needed Ethan’s level-headed and calm personality. At first I wasn’t keen on Danii because of the past she had with Dante but I understood why he felt the need to reconnect and in the end, I think she truly understood all that she had missed out on and she was as desperate as he was to make the most of what time he had left.
I really enjoyed this book and I was very impressed with the writing. It was definitely a journey that really made me think about my own life and all I have experienced until now. I don’t think you really reflect on things until something forces you to do it. I liked the adventure that Dante and his friends embarked on and the relationships he solidified with each of them. I felt myself tear up more than a time or two and I commend Matthew for his ability to really bring these emotions out of me. I really liked the direction he took Dante and Danii’s relationship and the final scenes between these two was somewhat heart-wrenching. I definitely felt my chest clench a little. I really liked the ending and how REAL it was. Overall, I was really impressed with this book and definitely felt the message that Matthew was trying to convey.
January 21, 2014
Hello darkness, my old friend, I've come to talk with you again Because a vision softly creeping, Left its seeds while I was sleeping And the vision that was planted in my brain, Still remains Within the sound of silence
- The sounds of silence /Simon & Garfunkel
What would you do if you had three months to live? I do not know , is a simple answer, I know , but that yes I know is the world the emotions that to feel , and that's part of why I loved this book.
This way out of that magic with a happy ending that people look down the road , but still has that magic called life, that makes you see in the eyes of the protagonist, Dante, those details of life that maybe you did not take time to repair , to plan, to know what to do if you stay short time of life and see that every decision you make at this time is linked to the love of those around you , and you are preparing in some way other way (or well, in any way something like listen to Mr George Harrison) prepare you consciously or unconsciously find peace with yourself and say thanks.
When I started reading the ARC provided for my honest review, I must say that entry I felt something hit my senses, my mat under my disappeared and I said : oh this is a known way but with many options to choose full many feelings, and your synopsis is focused very well that we can expect from the book, I am filled with many surprises and a very nice travel. Although I had to stop and breathe in some parts, in others had that excitement of knowing which was the fate of Dante, Ethan, and Wil Danni on your journey and in turn within the personal journey of Dante, and a touch that added the author on this trip was put some songs at the beginning of each chapter.
It is a reading in which you're going to go smoothly, did not give me that feeling of wanting to finish quickly, but rather at a rate that could reflect my fears and think some moments, to see all the moods of each character around Dante and how they are evolving through. Dante I think at some point focuses very well in the age that arises with the decisions taken, at age 23 you do not think you're gonna get through it, unlike your clock of life tells you one thing: live, but the reality it marks another very different, and the decision of all, I think showed some great ways that you asking at some point of reading.
It was a refreshing feeling this book really was not ready and did not expect that I liked so much, If you like this type of genre and want something light but with a great surge of feelings to the surface of your skin I recommend it.
Blog. All things in the cloud sweet
- The sounds of silence /Simon & Garfunkel
What would you do if you had three months to live? I do not know , is a simple answer, I know , but that yes I know is the world the emotions that to feel , and that's part of why I loved this book.
This way out of that magic with a happy ending that people look down the road , but still has that magic called life, that makes you see in the eyes of the protagonist, Dante, those details of life that maybe you did not take time to repair , to plan, to know what to do if you stay short time of life and see that every decision you make at this time is linked to the love of those around you , and you are preparing in some way other way (or well, in any way something like listen to Mr George Harrison) prepare you consciously or unconsciously find peace with yourself and say thanks.
When I started reading the ARC provided for my honest review, I must say that entry I felt something hit my senses, my mat under my disappeared and I said : oh this is a known way but with many options to choose full many feelings, and your synopsis is focused very well that we can expect from the book, I am filled with many surprises and a very nice travel. Although I had to stop and breathe in some parts, in others had that excitement of knowing which was the fate of Dante, Ethan, and Wil Danni on your journey and in turn within the personal journey of Dante, and a touch that added the author on this trip was put some songs at the beginning of each chapter.
It is a reading in which you're going to go smoothly, did not give me that feeling of wanting to finish quickly, but rather at a rate that could reflect my fears and think some moments, to see all the moods of each character around Dante and how they are evolving through. Dante I think at some point focuses very well in the age that arises with the decisions taken, at age 23 you do not think you're gonna get through it, unlike your clock of life tells you one thing: live, but the reality it marks another very different, and the decision of all, I think showed some great ways that you asking at some point of reading.
It was a refreshing feeling this book really was not ready and did not expect that I liked so much, If you like this type of genre and want something light but with a great surge of feelings to the surface of your skin I recommend it.
Blog. All things in the cloud sweet
August 4, 2016
Writer Person
So I'm doing this review a little bit differently and here's why:
This book is a helluva lot more complex than my three star rating conveys.
So what do I mean by that?
I mean that on one hand, it was a long, agonizingly slow read.
But wait a minute.
That's not quite right.
As slow as it was, it perked my interest and boggled my mind. I can't believe I actually said that sentence.
This is was reading Brit lit does to Americans.
I think half of my problem was the fact that my experience with British literature is minimal. So I was totally thrown off by the change of voice, and style, and pacing, and the way they speak. It's like I was thrown into this parallel universe. So it took me a while to get over my American ways.
By far, my favorite part of the book is the last 100 or so ebook pages. I think that's when everything finally hit home for me. Because although I was vaguely intrigued throughout, and I couldn't get the situation out of my head when I wasn't reading, and I even saw that slight plot twist miles before it became a plausible plot twist - None of it clicked until then. And it's that click that makes it three stars but I can't go any higher.
Yes, I loved those last 100 pages, and I even got some amazing quotes out of it. It's a very deep book. But half the time I was in shock because this guy is supposed to be 22. And I know he's dying and that ages you, but from the beginning, he sounded like a retired old man.
And I was expecting a little more out of the prologue. Just saying.
But please don't take any of this the wrong way. It really was a good book. It made me think about what's really important in my life. And I appreciate the brutal honesty, even though I was confused at times.
I also appreciated all the glimpses of the world. I love traveling and even though I couldn't pronounce half of the names of the places, I enjoyed the glimpses and the effects they had on Dante. As doubtful as I was about him being 22 (maybe this is just me judging him by the standards of an American 22 year old, I don't know), he still had a way of feeling entirely human. His fears were real, his feelings of love and being selfish, and needing to do something before he dies-
Well, those are pretty familiar feelings.
And I always enjoy a new perspective.
Plus, I almost cried quite a few times. You should know that I love books that can make me cry.
Recommendation: If you love contemporary, I'd give this book a shot. Also, if you like British literature. That'll help.
So I'm doing this review a little bit differently and here's why:
This book is a helluva lot more complex than my three star rating conveys.
So what do I mean by that?
I mean that on one hand, it was a long, agonizingly slow read.
But wait a minute.
That's not quite right.
As slow as it was, it perked my interest and boggled my mind. I can't believe I actually said that sentence.
This is was reading Brit lit does to Americans.
I think half of my problem was the fact that my experience with British literature is minimal. So I was totally thrown off by the change of voice, and style, and pacing, and the way they speak. It's like I was thrown into this parallel universe. So it took me a while to get over my American ways.
By far, my favorite part of the book is the last 100 or so ebook pages. I think that's when everything finally hit home for me. Because although I was vaguely intrigued throughout, and I couldn't get the situation out of my head when I wasn't reading, and I even saw that slight plot twist miles before it became a plausible plot twist - None of it clicked until then. And it's that click that makes it three stars but I can't go any higher.
Yes, I loved those last 100 pages, and I even got some amazing quotes out of it. It's a very deep book. But half the time I was in shock because this guy is supposed to be 22. And I know he's dying and that ages you, but from the beginning, he sounded like a retired old man.
And I was expecting a little more out of the prologue. Just saying.
But please don't take any of this the wrong way. It really was a good book. It made me think about what's really important in my life. And I appreciate the brutal honesty, even though I was confused at times.
I also appreciated all the glimpses of the world. I love traveling and even though I couldn't pronounce half of the names of the places, I enjoyed the glimpses and the effects they had on Dante. As doubtful as I was about him being 22 (maybe this is just me judging him by the standards of an American 22 year old, I don't know), he still had a way of feeling entirely human. His fears were real, his feelings of love and being selfish, and needing to do something before he dies-
Well, those are pretty familiar feelings.
And I always enjoy a new perspective.
Plus, I almost cried quite a few times. You should know that I love books that can make me cry.
Recommendation: If you love contemporary, I'd give this book a shot. Also, if you like British literature. That'll help.
January 13, 2014
Tick to the Tock is a contemporary new adult novel that is about a twenty-two-year-old who finds out that he may never get to reach the age of twenty-three.
The story starts off with Dante waking up in a good mood and feeling excited to start writing again. However, he received the devastating news that he has a tumor in his brain when he went for his doctor's appointment. Things happen and he is left to decide on whether he should continue staying at home or create some memories by traveling to places. He chooses the latter and goes on a trip across Europe with his best friends.
The writing took some getting used to. It was interesting when I started reading it, but it got harder to read as the story went on. Definitely give some time to get used to the writing style. It is a very beautiful story written cleverly. I thought Dante had a very distinct voice to him and at times, he even felt like an adult.
I really liked the whole idea behind this book. I liked how the author included a few songs in every chapter and I thought it went well with the chapters. In addition, I liked how each chapter has a specific date and city for us to keep track of their adventures. I really liked how we got to experience it with the characters. It's a very entertaining and interesting aspect that adds something to the book.
As for the characters, Dante was someone relatable. I feel like we can easily take advantage of everyday life. How we easily pass things without a care. How we let opportunities slip our way. I feel like the the story provokes us to start acting instead of just thinking about things. Wil was a little difficult to like. Maybe because of how different we are. Wil is a fun, bright and colorful character that has his own troubles. He did grow on me as the story progresses. As for Ethan, I quite like him. I also liked how he slowly changes as he went on the trip. In this book, Dante isn't the only one on a road of self-discovery. It's everyone around him.
Overall, I enjoyed this story a lot. It was a very unique and clever piece of writing. It is also a very inspiring book that causes you to reflect on your life a little.
Originally posted on Met In Eleven
The story starts off with Dante waking up in a good mood and feeling excited to start writing again. However, he received the devastating news that he has a tumor in his brain when he went for his doctor's appointment. Things happen and he is left to decide on whether he should continue staying at home or create some memories by traveling to places. He chooses the latter and goes on a trip across Europe with his best friends.
The writing took some getting used to. It was interesting when I started reading it, but it got harder to read as the story went on. Definitely give some time to get used to the writing style. It is a very beautiful story written cleverly. I thought Dante had a very distinct voice to him and at times, he even felt like an adult.
I really liked the whole idea behind this book. I liked how the author included a few songs in every chapter and I thought it went well with the chapters. In addition, I liked how each chapter has a specific date and city for us to keep track of their adventures. I really liked how we got to experience it with the characters. It's a very entertaining and interesting aspect that adds something to the book.
As for the characters, Dante was someone relatable. I feel like we can easily take advantage of everyday life. How we easily pass things without a care. How we let opportunities slip our way. I feel like the the story provokes us to start acting instead of just thinking about things. Wil was a little difficult to like. Maybe because of how different we are. Wil is a fun, bright and colorful character that has his own troubles. He did grow on me as the story progresses. As for Ethan, I quite like him. I also liked how he slowly changes as he went on the trip. In this book, Dante isn't the only one on a road of self-discovery. It's everyone around him.
Overall, I enjoyed this story a lot. It was a very unique and clever piece of writing. It is also a very inspiring book that causes you to reflect on your life a little.
Originally posted on Met In Eleven
January 8, 2014
Tick to the Tock is a story about youth, friendship, love, life, and ultimately, death. Right from the word go, the reader is transported into the world of Dante King and the harsh reality he faces. Diagnosed with terminal cancer, Dante is told he has only a few months left and upon hearing this news, decides that he wants to live the remainder of the life he has left to the fullest. As he arrives at the airport to embark upon a personal, emotional and physical journey which will take him all over the world, he is unexpectedly met by his two best friends who promise to accompany him for the duration of his travels. As a further twist, when he arrives at his first destination – Paris – he is greeted by Danii, his ex-girlfriend who he has never quite been able to forget.
The majority of the characters are endearing in their own manner and the relationships between them are ones that as a reader, I could relate to, although at times the dialogue felt a little contrived. On certain occasions I felt that conversations between characters were unconvincing and repetitive and I would have welcomed the opportunity to read more about the actual travels (or locations: an aspect which I felt was somewhat neglected) and cameo characters that Dante met along the way. These offered a light relief necessary to endure the sensitive subject matter and I, personally, would have sacrificed some of the dialogue between the central characters for more of these alternative moments. The story line, though a little predictable, satisfied my expectations and offered capacity for interpretation and reflection in its conclusion.
On the whole, Tick to the Tock was a heart-felt and thought-provoking read and between the poetic language and tasteful suggestions for recommended listening, I found myself invested in the story and compelled to read on. Despite the subject matter, it was far from being overwhelmingly sad and instead provided moments of real insight and poignancy, alongside those of comic relief. This book may have its faults but it has clearly evolved out of personal experience, loss and love, and this sincerity shines throughout.
The majority of the characters are endearing in their own manner and the relationships between them are ones that as a reader, I could relate to, although at times the dialogue felt a little contrived. On certain occasions I felt that conversations between characters were unconvincing and repetitive and I would have welcomed the opportunity to read more about the actual travels (or locations: an aspect which I felt was somewhat neglected) and cameo characters that Dante met along the way. These offered a light relief necessary to endure the sensitive subject matter and I, personally, would have sacrificed some of the dialogue between the central characters for more of these alternative moments. The story line, though a little predictable, satisfied my expectations and offered capacity for interpretation and reflection in its conclusion.
On the whole, Tick to the Tock was a heart-felt and thought-provoking read and between the poetic language and tasteful suggestions for recommended listening, I found myself invested in the story and compelled to read on. Despite the subject matter, it was far from being overwhelmingly sad and instead provided moments of real insight and poignancy, alongside those of comic relief. This book may have its faults but it has clearly evolved out of personal experience, loss and love, and this sincerity shines throughout.
February 4, 2015
The first thing I want to say about this book is that... I'VE FINISH IT! It's not like it's bad or anything; it's just that I don't really have the time to read the book. I have so much schoolwork that I nearly missed my deadline for reviewing this book. I've already tried cutting back on my blog work just to accommodate my studying. Well, enough of my problems, back to the book. I didn't really know what this book would give me. I have no idea what so ever about it. I just remembered signing up for the tour. I only know is that it has a great cover, so Gothic :)
I find this book a real journey. You could see different places with just this book. Everything is detailed that you could see everything, smell everything & taste everything. I really applaud the author for being able to do that, most especially for me who doesn't have a very detailed imagination. It's around the world with a book. I think that is one of the most interesting aspects of the book.
At first, I don't really know where the book will go. I mean it's obvious that Dante will die in the end but I don't know what would happen in between. It was really interesting because you're waiting for something to happen. Suspense, in short. It's very much like waiting for Dante's attacks, which I totally like. I liked seeing how he weakens bit by bit. It just makes it all so real. Yes, I'm mean and morbid but it just captivates me and you can't deny it is something you'll be waiting for as well.
On the other hand, Dante's situation is life changing, not just for the people around him, but to the people who read his story. It's really inspiring and heart warming. I love seeing how his friends struggle with themselves and see themselves in a new light. Though, I do think this book is quite the same with all the others, where you need to find peace or see the world in a different light. The unique part is that the people around him were also affected.
I think this book is really important or close to the heart of the author. I'm quite interested, how this book came to be. I thank the author for sharing a part of himself to us. :)
Rating: 4.5/5
I find this book a real journey. You could see different places with just this book. Everything is detailed that you could see everything, smell everything & taste everything. I really applaud the author for being able to do that, most especially for me who doesn't have a very detailed imagination. It's around the world with a book. I think that is one of the most interesting aspects of the book.
At first, I don't really know where the book will go. I mean it's obvious that Dante will die in the end but I don't know what would happen in between. It was really interesting because you're waiting for something to happen. Suspense, in short. It's very much like waiting for Dante's attacks, which I totally like. I liked seeing how he weakens bit by bit. It just makes it all so real. Yes, I'm mean and morbid but it just captivates me and you can't deny it is something you'll be waiting for as well.
On the other hand, Dante's situation is life changing, not just for the people around him, but to the people who read his story. It's really inspiring and heart warming. I love seeing how his friends struggle with themselves and see themselves in a new light. Though, I do think this book is quite the same with all the others, where you need to find peace or see the world in a different light. The unique part is that the people around him were also affected.
I think this book is really important or close to the heart of the author. I'm quite interested, how this book came to be. I thank the author for sharing a part of himself to us. :)
Rating: 4.5/5
February 27, 2014
I think there has always been a question about whether men can write new adult contemporary romance and Matthew Turner answers that question with a loud "Yes, they can"!!
Tick to the Tock is an emotional story about Dante King, a 22 year do man who discovers he has an aggressive brain tumor, leaving him few options for treatment other than pain medication and anti-convulsants. Rather than wait at home for his expected demise Dante decides to take one final trip to places around the world he has always wanted to visit and he is joined by his best friend Wil, his cousin Ethan and his girlfriend, Danii.
As we wake up in each new country with the foursome we experience the painful progression of Dante's illness; the debilitating headaches, the seizures and the dementia. Matthew Turner has clearly done his research here and Dante personifies an angry, confused, scared dying man who the reader can only feel sympathy for.
However, as Tick to the Tock's strap-line suggests this story is also about love; Dante's three companions representing the different love he has experienced in his life - familial love, the love of a friend and romantic love.
I was lucky enough to read Tick to the Tock in its Beta form and initially enjoyed the carefree attitude of Wil, yet after Matthew Turner's edits I admit that Ethan is now one of my favorite characters. He quietly takes responsibility for the group, as even Wil has his own meltdown, yet demands an honesty from Dante about his illness and feelings.
I do not think any reader will find Tick to the Tock's subject matter easy as Matthew Turner confronts it with honesty, yet Dante is never without dignity. His reflections on life are universal thoughts making this book more poignant and the author a talented storyteller; after reading them I just wanted to go and hug my children.
Matthew Turner does not give his reader a fairy tale ending but does leave us with hope and I for one very much look forward to his next novel.
Tick to the Tock is an emotional story about Dante King, a 22 year do man who discovers he has an aggressive brain tumor, leaving him few options for treatment other than pain medication and anti-convulsants. Rather than wait at home for his expected demise Dante decides to take one final trip to places around the world he has always wanted to visit and he is joined by his best friend Wil, his cousin Ethan and his girlfriend, Danii.
As we wake up in each new country with the foursome we experience the painful progression of Dante's illness; the debilitating headaches, the seizures and the dementia. Matthew Turner has clearly done his research here and Dante personifies an angry, confused, scared dying man who the reader can only feel sympathy for.
However, as Tick to the Tock's strap-line suggests this story is also about love; Dante's three companions representing the different love he has experienced in his life - familial love, the love of a friend and romantic love.
I was lucky enough to read Tick to the Tock in its Beta form and initially enjoyed the carefree attitude of Wil, yet after Matthew Turner's edits I admit that Ethan is now one of my favorite characters. He quietly takes responsibility for the group, as even Wil has his own meltdown, yet demands an honesty from Dante about his illness and feelings.
I do not think any reader will find Tick to the Tock's subject matter easy as Matthew Turner confronts it with honesty, yet Dante is never without dignity. His reflections on life are universal thoughts making this book more poignant and the author a talented storyteller; after reading them I just wanted to go and hug my children.
Matthew Turner does not give his reader a fairy tale ending but does leave us with hope and I for one very much look forward to his next novel.
January 9, 2014
4.75 stars
TICK TO THE TOCK is a contemporary, new adult stand alone novel that will take you on a journey of reflection for one man as he faces his mortality and the end of life. Twenty two year old Dante King is going to die. An inoperable brain tumor is forcing the young man to take a hard look at life and with it comes the reality of his death. Not wanting to sit at home waiting for the end, Dante embarks on a journey across Europe, Asia and Australia with his two best friends Wil and Ethan and, the woman he so desperately wanted to love.
Matthew Turner has written an amazing piece of literature that will make you think – if you knew you only had three months to live- what would you do and why? Our hero Dante reflects on his short life; his relationship with family and friends; his failures and regrets; the people he knows and loves. And in the end, it is a story about one man as he searches for answers to a question- is this all there is?
We are introduced to Dante’s cousin and best friend Ethan who is more like a parent to our travelling four-some; Wil is the friend who hides his pain behind humor and booze; and Danii-the woman Dante has always loved but has had a difficult time with his emotions and letting go. These four friends will face the future together and one that will be imprinted in their souls forever.
Most of the storyline is a narrative reflection. Told in first person POV from Dante’s perspective the story is a mixture of flashbacks, reflections, memories and regrets but along the way four people will discover that there is more to life than dying-there is surviving and moving forward; living life to the fullest with no regrets because there is nothing we can do about the past. But for one man, there is a second chance at love before he dies and a love that will continue long after his death.
Copy supplied by the author.
www.thereaadingcafe.com
TICK TO THE TOCK is a contemporary, new adult stand alone novel that will take you on a journey of reflection for one man as he faces his mortality and the end of life. Twenty two year old Dante King is going to die. An inoperable brain tumor is forcing the young man to take a hard look at life and with it comes the reality of his death. Not wanting to sit at home waiting for the end, Dante embarks on a journey across Europe, Asia and Australia with his two best friends Wil and Ethan and, the woman he so desperately wanted to love.
Matthew Turner has written an amazing piece of literature that will make you think – if you knew you only had three months to live- what would you do and why? Our hero Dante reflects on his short life; his relationship with family and friends; his failures and regrets; the people he knows and loves. And in the end, it is a story about one man as he searches for answers to a question- is this all there is?
We are introduced to Dante’s cousin and best friend Ethan who is more like a parent to our travelling four-some; Wil is the friend who hides his pain behind humor and booze; and Danii-the woman Dante has always loved but has had a difficult time with his emotions and letting go. These four friends will face the future together and one that will be imprinted in their souls forever.
Most of the storyline is a narrative reflection. Told in first person POV from Dante’s perspective the story is a mixture of flashbacks, reflections, memories and regrets but along the way four people will discover that there is more to life than dying-there is surviving and moving forward; living life to the fullest with no regrets because there is nothing we can do about the past. But for one man, there is a second chance at love before he dies and a love that will continue long after his death.
Copy supplied by the author.
www.thereaadingcafe.com
January 20, 2014
Review originally posted on Polished Readers.
As I approached reading this novel, I wasn’t really sure what to expect from it. A story like this isn’t what I would typically choose to read, but I was intrigued nonetheless. After all, I do enjoy some angsty heartache now and again, and this story definitely seemed like it was going to have a whole lot of that! I had a difficult time in the beginning getting into this book as the development of the story felt slow and honestly extra wordy. Dante spends a lot of time reflecting on his life, relationships and regrets (as I imagine a lot of people do as they realize they don’t have much time left), and I often felt lost in some of it because the story became so wordy.
With that being said, I did enjoy Dante’s character and his voice (he’s British! I mean, c’mon what’s not to love about that??). The reality Dante must face is a harsh one I hope to never have to. He’s faced with a horrifying decision only he can make and he handled it better than I think I ever could. I really enjoyed the secondary characters, his best buddies, Ethan and Wil. They both had so many eccentricities and I just loved the bromance they shared with Dante. Their friendship was true, real and just wonderful to read. I found myself laughing out loud or smiling big during many of their scenes. Dante’s screwed up relationship with Danii was really kind of beautiful despite the flaws. They just seemed so real, there was nothing magical about the way they felt about each other, they just simply loved.
I do think this story came across as intended. Gritty, real, and heartbreaking.
As I approached reading this novel, I wasn’t really sure what to expect from it. A story like this isn’t what I would typically choose to read, but I was intrigued nonetheless. After all, I do enjoy some angsty heartache now and again, and this story definitely seemed like it was going to have a whole lot of that! I had a difficult time in the beginning getting into this book as the development of the story felt slow and honestly extra wordy. Dante spends a lot of time reflecting on his life, relationships and regrets (as I imagine a lot of people do as they realize they don’t have much time left), and I often felt lost in some of it because the story became so wordy.
With that being said, I did enjoy Dante’s character and his voice (he’s British! I mean, c’mon what’s not to love about that??). The reality Dante must face is a harsh one I hope to never have to. He’s faced with a horrifying decision only he can make and he handled it better than I think I ever could. I really enjoyed the secondary characters, his best buddies, Ethan and Wil. They both had so many eccentricities and I just loved the bromance they shared with Dante. Their friendship was true, real and just wonderful to read. I found myself laughing out loud or smiling big during many of their scenes. Dante’s screwed up relationship with Danii was really kind of beautiful despite the flaws. They just seemed so real, there was nothing magical about the way they felt about each other, they just simply loved.
I do think this story came across as intended. Gritty, real, and heartbreaking.
February 13, 2016
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The book lived up to all of my expectations of a Matthew Turner novel. It had richness in every sense. The characters' travels take us far and wide all over the world and I could practically feel the warm beaches with the way he writes. The story was character driven - exactly what I loved about Beyond Parallel. It just isn't a good story without good characters. It's the conversations, development, experiences, and maturity of the people that make me care which is what I want from a novel that I take the time to read.
Given the subject matter, I was a little worried that the story would either be too bogged down in medical details and research or have not enough that it didn't feel realistic. He really did a great job at making it a story about someone who travels, lives, drinks, eats, and loves with a terminal illness, not the other way around.
The ending was so just great. Sorry it's so nondescript but any other word I try to use to describe it is too much of a spoiler and I'm just too spoiler sensitive to ruin even just a little bit for anyone. In a book like this you start to expect a certain ending, and then you start slowly thinking or even hoping it'll end differently. It satisfies. That's all I'm going to say!
I really encourage any reader on a budget who is looking for a great read to pick up Matthew Turner's Tick to the Tock. Psst! One of the best parts of independently published authors? Their books are usually pretty inexpensive! Unique and creative stories for less than those chain bookstores are ripping from your wallet? What else can you ask for?!
The book lived up to all of my expectations of a Matthew Turner novel. It had richness in every sense. The characters' travels take us far and wide all over the world and I could practically feel the warm beaches with the way he writes. The story was character driven - exactly what I loved about Beyond Parallel. It just isn't a good story without good characters. It's the conversations, development, experiences, and maturity of the people that make me care which is what I want from a novel that I take the time to read.
Given the subject matter, I was a little worried that the story would either be too bogged down in medical details and research or have not enough that it didn't feel realistic. He really did a great job at making it a story about someone who travels, lives, drinks, eats, and loves with a terminal illness, not the other way around.
The ending was so just great. Sorry it's so nondescript but any other word I try to use to describe it is too much of a spoiler and I'm just too spoiler sensitive to ruin even just a little bit for anyone. In a book like this you start to expect a certain ending, and then you start slowly thinking or even hoping it'll end differently. It satisfies. That's all I'm going to say!
I really encourage any reader on a budget who is looking for a great read to pick up Matthew Turner's Tick to the Tock. Psst! One of the best parts of independently published authors? Their books are usually pretty inexpensive! Unique and creative stories for less than those chain bookstores are ripping from your wallet? What else can you ask for?!
February 29, 2016
With a huge lump in my throat I've finished this book. I thank so much to the author for this wonderful book, because it kept reminding me of how fast life can change, how one day we can be all smiles and cheerfulness, and the next we might be gone. This is a wonderful story of a young man that faces an inevitable death, he gets to spent a few months of what's left of his life with his loved ones, and he changes those around him in such a wonderful way. I loved that he was able to make it through this journey and meet some great strangers that actually thought him great things about life and the meaning of it, that was a very great detail in the book. Another great thing about the book was the playlist and how it matched the emotions felt through each chapter, if you ask me I listened to the songs while reading and it felt even more emotional. There's definitely more to this book than what you might think just by the cover and the first chapters, and if you're like me and have had relatives or friends that passed away because of cancer, then you'll definitely relate to it and also remember those that you've lost in a good way, saying goodbye and remembering might not be easy, but it helps you to move on. The Epilogue was marvelous and also the dream he had and always kept to himself. Definitely I recommend this book to any avid reader that's out there in this wonderful world. Cheers!
January 7, 2014
I have read Matthew Turner's other publications (Tales from a Tiny Thai Table, Beyond Parallel), and while I thoroughly enjoyed those works, I think this is my favorite to date. Mr. Turner has clearly grown as an author since his first publication, and his storytelling skills shine in TICK to the TOCK. An eclectic mix of characters, beautifully descriptive settings, rich dialogue, and a sense of urgency help to drive this novel. This book reminds readers of the importance of embracing life to the fullest and raises the question, "What would YOU do if you were faced with the reality of your own mortality?"
The story of Dante and his friends is a classic and bittersweet tale of love and friendship. The characters are well-crafted, and the development of each young adult over the course of the novel makes you fall in love with the individuals and the group as a whole. The story pulls you in and takes you on an emotional journey around the world. Dante's decisions and legacy will stay with you after you've finished the final pages.
Overall, I thought this was a great book by Mr. Turner, and I would definitely recommend it!
Disclaimer: I was given an ARC copy of this book to read and review prior to publication. I was not compensated for this review, and all opinions are my own.
The story of Dante and his friends is a classic and bittersweet tale of love and friendship. The characters are well-crafted, and the development of each young adult over the course of the novel makes you fall in love with the individuals and the group as a whole. The story pulls you in and takes you on an emotional journey around the world. Dante's decisions and legacy will stay with you after you've finished the final pages.
Overall, I thought this was a great book by Mr. Turner, and I would definitely recommend it!
Disclaimer: I was given an ARC copy of this book to read and review prior to publication. I was not compensated for this review, and all opinions are my own.
January 8, 2014
I write reviews for Appraising Pages, check us out for all things bookish!
Review:
So, after reading Beyond Parallel, I was on board to check out this new novel by Matthew Turner. When I started reading it, I was immediately pulled in to the beautiful writing. There is just a way that the words are painted, with feeling, that drew me in to the story.
This is a really hard topic to talk about, much more write about. I don't think many people want to read a story, that starts with finding out the main character is dying... its like, where is this going to go? How much am I going to bawl on the way to the end? I think Dante was the perfect character for this, because I loved sifting through his memories. The heartwarming, sometimes intense histories of his life brought a layer to the story the broke through impending doom of a untimely death. I felt privileged to get to be along for the ride in his last days.
The compatibilities between the characters felt very real, and I saw some of the dynamics that are mirrored in my friendships. Ethan and Wil(bur) love dante with such a deep and sincere fierceness, that I became just as invested in their paths. They also had to grow, and this journey would become one that defined their lives.
Please read this, come along on the journey too.
P.S. I'm not promising it won't gut you, its still very emotional, but just let it happen;)
Review:
So, after reading Beyond Parallel, I was on board to check out this new novel by Matthew Turner. When I started reading it, I was immediately pulled in to the beautiful writing. There is just a way that the words are painted, with feeling, that drew me in to the story.
This is a really hard topic to talk about, much more write about. I don't think many people want to read a story, that starts with finding out the main character is dying... its like, where is this going to go? How much am I going to bawl on the way to the end? I think Dante was the perfect character for this, because I loved sifting through his memories. The heartwarming, sometimes intense histories of his life brought a layer to the story the broke through impending doom of a untimely death. I felt privileged to get to be along for the ride in his last days.
The compatibilities between the characters felt very real, and I saw some of the dynamics that are mirrored in my friendships. Ethan and Wil(bur) love dante with such a deep and sincere fierceness, that I became just as invested in their paths. They also had to grow, and this journey would become one that defined their lives.
Please read this, come along on the journey too.
P.S. I'm not promising it won't gut you, its still very emotional, but just let it happen;)
June 26, 2014
Intense, soul touching novel worth reading by everyone!
It’s an emotional story that will make us reflect deeply to our lives. It’s about life and death, love and hate, family and strangers, dreams and compromises, heal and pain, present and future. It’s about all of us and the time that we have to spend on this wonderful earth.
I enjoyed reading it and I found myself dreaming to travel around the world with Dante and his friends. I wished there was a cure for his tumour and more life for him. I liked how strong he was.
I like the way the sensitive secrets are revealed and I appreciate the author’s work. Thank you!
Here are some of the quotes I've found interesting and I’d like to share:
“Where we have breath, we have hope.”
“On the day I met her, I heard the voice before I saw the face, and although people glorify love at first sight, they rarely consider love at first sound.”
“With words, you can alter an ending. You can transform pain into happiness, sorrow into love.”
“Every traveler I've ever met – including myself – is either running away from something – or someone – or searching for something – or someone.”
“Men and women are both after the same thing, but they don’t trust one another.”
“Travelling doesn't change you at all. It introduces you to new possibilities.”
It’s an emotional story that will make us reflect deeply to our lives. It’s about life and death, love and hate, family and strangers, dreams and compromises, heal and pain, present and future. It’s about all of us and the time that we have to spend on this wonderful earth.
I enjoyed reading it and I found myself dreaming to travel around the world with Dante and his friends. I wished there was a cure for his tumour and more life for him. I liked how strong he was.
I like the way the sensitive secrets are revealed and I appreciate the author’s work. Thank you!
Here are some of the quotes I've found interesting and I’d like to share:
“Where we have breath, we have hope.”
“On the day I met her, I heard the voice before I saw the face, and although people glorify love at first sight, they rarely consider love at first sound.”
“With words, you can alter an ending. You can transform pain into happiness, sorrow into love.”
“Every traveler I've ever met – including myself – is either running away from something – or someone – or searching for something – or someone.”
“Men and women are both after the same thing, but they don’t trust one another.”
“Travelling doesn't change you at all. It introduces you to new possibilities.”
March 22, 2014
"People hide behind hope, but I can't hide behind it, and I certainly can't hide from death."
It's been my experience that many people tend to have one of two prevalent attitudes about death. Either they obsess about one day, eventually dying and it's always hovering in their thoughts.
OR..
They rarely stop to think or wonder when they will die, completely un-phased by their mortality and the certainty of death.
'Tick to the Tock' is a brave endeavor. At times, I had to push myself to keep going because death can be a downer topic. However, the clever honesty that Matthew gives the story would pull me back in. As well as how deftly he painted the social awkwardness that arrives at the feet of the terminally ill and those who have no idea how to handle the situation or support someone who is dying. Not to mention the direction he takes the primary character once he recognizes how he would like to spend his last days living his life.
It was poignantly troubling that he started his day like any other, with an epiphany he needed to tend to once he got his Dr. appointment out of the way. Instead, his epiphany was swallowed by very grim news. And a day on a park bench. (Something I would do, btw...)
I will give this a re-read in the Fall when it is more fitting to the season and topic. The story resonated for me. It might for you too.
It's been my experience that many people tend to have one of two prevalent attitudes about death. Either they obsess about one day, eventually dying and it's always hovering in their thoughts.
OR..
They rarely stop to think or wonder when they will die, completely un-phased by their mortality and the certainty of death.
'Tick to the Tock' is a brave endeavor. At times, I had to push myself to keep going because death can be a downer topic. However, the clever honesty that Matthew gives the story would pull me back in. As well as how deftly he painted the social awkwardness that arrives at the feet of the terminally ill and those who have no idea how to handle the situation or support someone who is dying. Not to mention the direction he takes the primary character once he recognizes how he would like to spend his last days living his life.
It was poignantly troubling that he started his day like any other, with an epiphany he needed to tend to once he got his Dr. appointment out of the way. Instead, his epiphany was swallowed by very grim news. And a day on a park bench. (Something I would do, btw...)
I will give this a re-read in the Fall when it is more fitting to the season and topic. The story resonated for me. It might for you too.
July 27, 2014
3.5/4 stars
Tick to the Tock was one of those books that you aren't sure how to handle, and it won't fit everyone's tastes.It starts a little slow, but then pulls you in for an emotional ride for which you are in no way ready. The story is one of self discovery for a 22 year old named Dante who just found out he will not make it to 23 as he has a tumor. The way Turner draws you into the character is slow and steady. You learn about him through his personal observations of the world around him which are extremely detailed. The author's imagery really lets you see Dante's new appreciation for the beauty in the small details of life around him. First person narratives are a tough sell for me, especially when they are set up in a journal format. I always feel like I am missing part of the character. But Turner's attention to detail in the description helped my unease. The transitions through time were smooth and clean. And the focus on daily things helped you fall in tune with Dante himself. One mark of beauty in this book were the secondary characters, Will and Ethan. The two friends are on the opposite ends of the spectrum from each other. But both are used to contrast the different sides and inner battles Dante himself is dealing with. Although a little slow at points, you are drawn in and really become invested in the characters lives. Overall, a touchingly sweet read.
Tick to the Tock was one of those books that you aren't sure how to handle, and it won't fit everyone's tastes.It starts a little slow, but then pulls you in for an emotional ride for which you are in no way ready. The story is one of self discovery for a 22 year old named Dante who just found out he will not make it to 23 as he has a tumor. The way Turner draws you into the character is slow and steady. You learn about him through his personal observations of the world around him which are extremely detailed. The author's imagery really lets you see Dante's new appreciation for the beauty in the small details of life around him. First person narratives are a tough sell for me, especially when they are set up in a journal format. I always feel like I am missing part of the character. But Turner's attention to detail in the description helped my unease. The transitions through time were smooth and clean. And the focus on daily things helped you fall in tune with Dante himself. One mark of beauty in this book were the secondary characters, Will and Ethan. The two friends are on the opposite ends of the spectrum from each other. But both are used to contrast the different sides and inner battles Dante himself is dealing with. Although a little slow at points, you are drawn in and really become invested in the characters lives. Overall, a touchingly sweet read.
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