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Titanic 2012
Best-selling mystery novelist Trevor Hughes has no idea that attending his twentieth reunion at Harvard will forever change his life.
Persuaded to go by his on-again-off-again girlfriend, Dr. Julia Magnusson, he meets up with three old Solly Rubens, a self-made Wall Street millionaire; Ken Faust, a successful software entrepreneur; and Harlan Astor, New York real estate tycoon and the glue that holds their circle together.
That afternoon, over drinks at the Harvard Club, Harlan drops his He is doing what James Cameron did not -- he is rebuilding the Titanic, and sailing the ship on the hundredth anniversary to honor those who died, including his great-grandfather, John Jacob Astor IV. Only Trevor is intrigued by Harlan's audacity. Touched by his friend's interest and concern, Harlan invites him on the maiden voyage to serve as the official chronicler.
On April 10, 2012, Trevor journeys to Southampton and, along with the hundreds of handpicked passengers, boards the Titanic. He is awed by the immensity of the ship and the feelings that well up in him. His friend has made his grand dream a reality.
During the journey, armed with his DVD recorder, Harlan interviews both passengers and crew, eager to learn the reasons why they chose to sail on the reborn ship.
Nearly every one of them claims to have been profoundly affected by Cameron's film, wanting to recapture the magic for themselves. And some of them are dying -- their last wish to be on the maiden voyage of the new Titanic.
Trevor is touched that his friend has allowed these people to come aboard, and is unprepared when he meets Madeleine Regehr, a beautiful, free-spirited woman who resists his entreaties to be interviewed, intriguing Trevor all the more. Slowly, and inexorably, Maddy draws him out of his shell, allowing him to love deeply and completely, for the very first time in his life.
But Trevor soon discovers a darker purpose for the voyage, a purpose that threatens to destroy him and the woman he loves.
In a race against time that pits friend against friend, Trevor must stop the unstoppable or risk a horrific replay of history...
Persuaded to go by his on-again-off-again girlfriend, Dr. Julia Magnusson, he meets up with three old Solly Rubens, a self-made Wall Street millionaire; Ken Faust, a successful software entrepreneur; and Harlan Astor, New York real estate tycoon and the glue that holds their circle together.
That afternoon, over drinks at the Harvard Club, Harlan drops his He is doing what James Cameron did not -- he is rebuilding the Titanic, and sailing the ship on the hundredth anniversary to honor those who died, including his great-grandfather, John Jacob Astor IV. Only Trevor is intrigued by Harlan's audacity. Touched by his friend's interest and concern, Harlan invites him on the maiden voyage to serve as the official chronicler.
On April 10, 2012, Trevor journeys to Southampton and, along with the hundreds of handpicked passengers, boards the Titanic. He is awed by the immensity of the ship and the feelings that well up in him. His friend has made his grand dream a reality.
During the journey, armed with his DVD recorder, Harlan interviews both passengers and crew, eager to learn the reasons why they chose to sail on the reborn ship.
Nearly every one of them claims to have been profoundly affected by Cameron's film, wanting to recapture the magic for themselves. And some of them are dying -- their last wish to be on the maiden voyage of the new Titanic.
Trevor is touched that his friend has allowed these people to come aboard, and is unprepared when he meets Madeleine Regehr, a beautiful, free-spirited woman who resists his entreaties to be interviewed, intriguing Trevor all the more. Slowly, and inexorably, Maddy draws him out of his shell, allowing him to love deeply and completely, for the very first time in his life.
But Trevor soon discovers a darker purpose for the voyage, a purpose that threatens to destroy him and the woman he loves.
In a race against time that pits friend against friend, Trevor must stop the unstoppable or risk a horrific replay of history...
232 pages, Hardcover
First published November 15, 1998
180 people want to read
About the author
Bill Walker
38 books25 followersA graduate of Emerson College's prestigious film school, Bill wrote and directed his first feature film, Pawn, while still a student. After graduation, he co-founded Newbury Filmworks, Inc., an award-winning production company renowned for making high-quality corporate films and commercials.
In 1990, Bill relocated to Los Angeles, and began a freelance story analysis career for various studios and independent production companies, while devoting his spare time to the writing of novels, short stories, and screenplays. He is also a highly-respected graphic designer, specializing in book and dust jacket design. He has worked on books by such luminaries as: Ray Bradbury, Richard Matheson, Dean Koontz, and Stephen King. In addition, Bill is a member of the Authors Guild.
He has won awards for his screenwriting, his two short story collections for Mid-Graders, Five-Minute Frights and Five-Minute Chillers, are perennial Halloween favorites, and his first novel, Titanic 2012 was enthusiastically received by readers. His second novel, Camp Stalag was released in 2001. Bill lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Debbie, and their sons, Jeffrey and Brian.
In 1990, Bill relocated to Los Angeles, and began a freelance story analysis career for various studios and independent production companies, while devoting his spare time to the writing of novels, short stories, and screenplays. He is also a highly-respected graphic designer, specializing in book and dust jacket design. He has worked on books by such luminaries as: Ray Bradbury, Richard Matheson, Dean Koontz, and Stephen King. In addition, Bill is a member of the Authors Guild.
He has won awards for his screenwriting, his two short story collections for Mid-Graders, Five-Minute Frights and Five-Minute Chillers, are perennial Halloween favorites, and his first novel, Titanic 2012 was enthusiastically received by readers. His second novel, Camp Stalag was released in 2001. Bill lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Debbie, and their sons, Jeffrey and Brian.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
October 29, 2024
Reason for Reading: This year is the 100th anniversary of the Titanic disaster and I am hosting a reading challenge.
Amazing! I was hooked on this book from the very first chapter. The book heavily pays homage to Cameron's movie (which {horrors} I have not seen ... yet!) as it is referenced frequently and is a major plot point. As everybody else in the world has seen the movie this will not be an issue, but for the other two of you out there that haven't, it doesn't matter and won't affect your enjoyment of the book.
The book contains a mystery which keeps one reading at a fast pace as we travel with the main character, Trevor, to find out what exactly is being kept from him. I really enjoyed this aspect of the book and while I ultimately knew the end result, I didn't figure out the method and enjoyed how it all played out. The book is also a mild romance. I'm not keen on romances, per se, but this is just the right dose that it is more the story of two people who meet and have an impact on each other that will change their lives forever, than your typical "romance". My favourite character was Trevor. He was a real, flawed person that one could connect with right away. I'm sure many readers will also enjoy Maddie, as she is also a well-written character. I however, never "liked" her because of the choices she made. The story of her choice is also another major theme in the book that will pull at your heart strings (or make you angry, like it did me) and engages you throughout the entire book. This is a wonderful "light" read and would make the perfect choice for a plane ride, vacation or beach read, but perhaps not on a cruise. A great read!
Amazing! I was hooked on this book from the very first chapter. The book heavily pays homage to Cameron's movie (which {horrors} I have not seen ... yet!) as it is referenced frequently and is a major plot point. As everybody else in the world has seen the movie this will not be an issue, but for the other two of you out there that haven't, it doesn't matter and won't affect your enjoyment of the book.
The book contains a mystery which keeps one reading at a fast pace as we travel with the main character, Trevor, to find out what exactly is being kept from him. I really enjoyed this aspect of the book and while I ultimately knew the end result, I didn't figure out the method and enjoyed how it all played out. The book is also a mild romance. I'm not keen on romances, per se, but this is just the right dose that it is more the story of two people who meet and have an impact on each other that will change their lives forever, than your typical "romance". My favourite character was Trevor. He was a real, flawed person that one could connect with right away. I'm sure many readers will also enjoy Maddie, as she is also a well-written character. I however, never "liked" her because of the choices she made. The story of her choice is also another major theme in the book that will pull at your heart strings (or make you angry, like it did me) and engages you throughout the entire book. This is a wonderful "light" read and would make the perfect choice for a plane ride, vacation or beach read, but perhaps not on a cruise. A great read!
May 31, 2017
Just Wow! A book most will think is absoultly messed up but i really bloody enjoyed it! highly highly recommend!
April 29, 2012
Rebuild the Titanic? Who would want to do that and relive that nightmare?
Well....Harlan Astor, descendant of John Jacob Astor IV who perished in the original Titanic, wanted to rebuild it, and he did rebuild it to the tune of six-hundred million dollars. The question of why he wanted to do this was left unanswered to the public, but nevertheless it was built, it was launched, and it set sail on the exact dates of its original journey.
The story begins with the meeting of Solly, Ken and Trevor....all college buddies of Harlan. They met to ask Trevor why he had been invited on the boat and how Harlan died on his dream ship. Solly and Ken were skeptical with the story Trevor told them.
The book then moves to where most of the action takes place........on the ship. The action includes Trevor's adventures and his main purpose of the trip which was to interview the passengers for the book his publisher had put no stops to in terms of cost. Each of the passengers had been carefully interviewed and selected by Harlan because of specific reasons known only to Harlan and the passenger. During his interviews, Trevor was finding that most of these handpicked passengers had sad, troublesome lives, and a past. Trevor did find an irresistible young lady on board, but she too fit the bill the other passengers did, and he wondered what Harlan's true purpose had been when choosing these 200 particular passengers.
As you read, you will feel the excitement of the boarding, the chill of the launching, and the thrill of history being recreated. The reconstruction of the suites bearing photos and descriptions of the original occupants will fire up any history buff's love of a past era coming alive. Harlan even had the Marconi wireless system restored along with the exact menu in the dining room on the last fateful night of sail. Everything was done as it had been 100 years ago. Mystery and emotions played a large part in this book.
The book became tense at times with danger, and despite the boat’s opulence, nostalgia, and charm, you will find out this voyage had a completely different purpose other than a pleasure cruise. Don't miss this recreation of history that is filled with secrecy and intrigue. You will ask yourself why, and you will find out the answer of why Harlan Astor spent six hundred million dollars for this ship. It is a splendid book. What do you think? Would rebuilding an historical disaster be a good idea? Read Titanic 2012 and decide for yourself. 5/5
Well....Harlan Astor, descendant of John Jacob Astor IV who perished in the original Titanic, wanted to rebuild it, and he did rebuild it to the tune of six-hundred million dollars. The question of why he wanted to do this was left unanswered to the public, but nevertheless it was built, it was launched, and it set sail on the exact dates of its original journey.
The story begins with the meeting of Solly, Ken and Trevor....all college buddies of Harlan. They met to ask Trevor why he had been invited on the boat and how Harlan died on his dream ship. Solly and Ken were skeptical with the story Trevor told them.
The book then moves to where most of the action takes place........on the ship. The action includes Trevor's adventures and his main purpose of the trip which was to interview the passengers for the book his publisher had put no stops to in terms of cost. Each of the passengers had been carefully interviewed and selected by Harlan because of specific reasons known only to Harlan and the passenger. During his interviews, Trevor was finding that most of these handpicked passengers had sad, troublesome lives, and a past. Trevor did find an irresistible young lady on board, but she too fit the bill the other passengers did, and he wondered what Harlan's true purpose had been when choosing these 200 particular passengers.
As you read, you will feel the excitement of the boarding, the chill of the launching, and the thrill of history being recreated. The reconstruction of the suites bearing photos and descriptions of the original occupants will fire up any history buff's love of a past era coming alive. Harlan even had the Marconi wireless system restored along with the exact menu in the dining room on the last fateful night of sail. Everything was done as it had been 100 years ago. Mystery and emotions played a large part in this book.
The book became tense at times with danger, and despite the boat’s opulence, nostalgia, and charm, you will find out this voyage had a completely different purpose other than a pleasure cruise. Don't miss this recreation of history that is filled with secrecy and intrigue. You will ask yourself why, and you will find out the answer of why Harlan Astor spent six hundred million dollars for this ship. It is a splendid book. What do you think? Would rebuilding an historical disaster be a good idea? Read Titanic 2012 and decide for yourself. 5/5
July 13, 2014
I randomly pulled this off of a library shelf intrigued by the idea of someone rebuilding the ship a hundred years later. It was a fast read, and I figured out the twist as soon as the Captain of the rebuilt ship told his story to Walker's main character.
Clocking in at just over 200 pages, I'm not sure if it was about a long as it deserved or if I would have liked some characters to have some more depth. I truly didn't get the obsession of the characters with the James Cameron film. Outside of the family line of one character, not one character in the story mentions any kind of historical study of the real events. There are no scholars on board. Just, apparently film buffs. There seems to be very little interest from anyone in this story with the with the actual events surrounding the ship. They've just all been swept in by Cameron's film - a mediocre film at that- and make decisions based on their fascination with it. Honestly, after I figured out that the voyage was a twisted Make-a-Wish fantasy come true for adults, my interest fell off a cliff and I only continued to read to find out if my inference was correct.
Titanic 2012 is the kind of book that I'll return to the library and forget all about. Then in a couple of years, I'll pull it off the shelf, start reading it, and realize that I've already read it. It passed the time, but it wasn't memorable and I wouldn't pass it on to others.
Clocking in at just over 200 pages, I'm not sure if it was about a long as it deserved or if I would have liked some characters to have some more depth. I truly didn't get the obsession of the characters with the James Cameron film. Outside of the family line of one character, not one character in the story mentions any kind of historical study of the real events. There are no scholars on board. Just, apparently film buffs. There seems to be very little interest from anyone in this story with the with the actual events surrounding the ship. They've just all been swept in by Cameron's film - a mediocre film at that- and make decisions based on their fascination with it. Honestly, after I figured out that the voyage was a twisted Make-a-Wish fantasy come true for adults, my interest fell off a cliff and I only continued to read to find out if my inference was correct.
Titanic 2012 is the kind of book that I'll return to the library and forget all about. Then in a couple of years, I'll pull it off the shelf, start reading it, and realize that I've already read it. It passed the time, but it wasn't memorable and I wouldn't pass it on to others.
April 2, 2012
First let me say that I may be the only woman on Earth today that didn't enjoy James Cameron's movie. I know I'm weird but it just annoyed me. This is important for you to know because this book, Titanic 2012, heavily references the movie and all of the characters in the book are huge Cameron fans. I am, however, totally intrigued by the original tragedy and the stories that go with it ... and I loved this book!!
We know almost from the first page that Trevor Hughes is depressed; almost unhinged; and the only survivor of this 'second sailing' of the TITANIC. How did he get to this point? What happened on that boat? And what did the passengers have to say in the interviews that Trevor carries with him? That is the crux of the story.
This may be the only time you hear me say this but - I could have done without the love interest. The romance of the ship itself, the stories of the passengers, the atmosphere on board that changed from awe to terror: these are the things that kept me reading well into the night. Bill Walker knows how to spin a yarn! As his story wound around in my brain and dreams after I had finished the book, I began to see the symbolism and was excited all over again. This book is truly a fitting tribute to those who lost their lives - and those who survived - as a result of that tragic voyage.
We know almost from the first page that Trevor Hughes is depressed; almost unhinged; and the only survivor of this 'second sailing' of the TITANIC. How did he get to this point? What happened on that boat? And what did the passengers have to say in the interviews that Trevor carries with him? That is the crux of the story.
This may be the only time you hear me say this but - I could have done without the love interest. The romance of the ship itself, the stories of the passengers, the atmosphere on board that changed from awe to terror: these are the things that kept me reading well into the night. Bill Walker knows how to spin a yarn! As his story wound around in my brain and dreams after I had finished the book, I began to see the symbolism and was excited all over again. This book is truly a fitting tribute to those who lost their lives - and those who survived - as a result of that tragic voyage.
March 21, 2012
review to follow
February 18, 2019
I used to have an original first edition of this book. I bought it after James Cameron's Titanic led me down a Titanic obsession, and the premise of the story -- a billionaire rebuilds the Titanic and sends it on its original journey 100 years after its fateful journey -- sounded intriguing. I never got around to reading it, but I was surprised when Cemetery Dance published it.
I finally got around to reading the book this year, and it's just ... okay. The story is compelling, and is an easy read, but it seems to miss the mark in a lot of ways. It's clearly intended to be an homage to Cameron's film, but where Cameron took a story with its own dramatic narrative and added a story to make it personal, Walker creates a new story from scratch and overlooks the original drama and tragedy that affected so many people through the movie. He tries to bring that same drama to his story, but without that connection, he has to rely on other tricks to keep us engaged.
Case in point: Kate Winslet appears as a character in the book. Sure, it's brief, but she has dialogue, and Walker winds up making her feel like a cliche.
The pacing of the novel is brisk, so much so that it feels like he's rushing to get all of his points across as soon as possible. He includes personal stories in the book, but those don't feel complete; they feel more like what they are, which are encapsulated summaries. Instead of showing us these characters' lives, Walker tells us what's happened to them and expects that to be enough to capture us to the story.
Also, the twist to the story (if that's what it can be called) is obvious as soon as the main character talks to the captain, well before the halfway point of the story. Walker then hammers that idea home time and time again, to the point where you find yourself wondering why the main character, a mystery writer, can't figure it out himself. The tone of the narrative is arrogant, though, so maybe that arrogance is supposed to blind him to what's blatantly obvious.
The story is readable and compelling, and I finished the book in a frenzy of reading over two days, but in the end, I feel like I could have spent that time reading a more worthwhile book. I'm not even sure I would recommend this to Titanic enthusiasts, because I've been one of those, too, and it still didn't impress me.
I finally got around to reading the book this year, and it's just ... okay. The story is compelling, and is an easy read, but it seems to miss the mark in a lot of ways. It's clearly intended to be an homage to Cameron's film, but where Cameron took a story with its own dramatic narrative and added a story to make it personal, Walker creates a new story from scratch and overlooks the original drama and tragedy that affected so many people through the movie. He tries to bring that same drama to his story, but without that connection, he has to rely on other tricks to keep us engaged.
Case in point: Kate Winslet appears as a character in the book. Sure, it's brief, but she has dialogue, and Walker winds up making her feel like a cliche.
The pacing of the novel is brisk, so much so that it feels like he's rushing to get all of his points across as soon as possible. He includes personal stories in the book, but those don't feel complete; they feel more like what they are, which are encapsulated summaries. Instead of showing us these characters' lives, Walker tells us what's happened to them and expects that to be enough to capture us to the story.
Also, the twist to the story (if that's what it can be called) is obvious as soon as the main character talks to the captain, well before the halfway point of the story. Walker then hammers that idea home time and time again, to the point where you find yourself wondering why the main character, a mystery writer, can't figure it out himself. The tone of the narrative is arrogant, though, so maybe that arrogance is supposed to blind him to what's blatantly obvious.
The story is readable and compelling, and I finished the book in a frenzy of reading over two days, but in the end, I feel like I could have spent that time reading a more worthwhile book. I'm not even sure I would recommend this to Titanic enthusiasts, because I've been one of those, too, and it still didn't impress me.
May 23, 2024
I thought this book was excellent! I figured out the mystery pretty early on, but it didn't take away from the anticipation. I loved all the references to James Cameron's films and how highly all the characters spoke of it. I also believe it's one of the best films ever made and was the only one to really do the ship justice. I feel like a lot of the book mirrored the movie, from the ill-fated romance to more subtle details, like Jenny Powell telling the story of how she posed nude for her artist girlfriend. However, it was also incredibly original, and although Harlan had some villain qualities, I really felt for him and the other passengers, as I believe Trevor did despite his initial anger.
August 16, 2010
There are caveats before I give my official review. Back in February I read, reviewed and hosted a "Guest Author" spotlight at the request of Pump Up Your Book, for A Note from an Old Acquaintance by Bill Walker. I thought the book was exceptional, giving it a rating of 5/5. You can read my review here (http://cmashlovestoread.blogspot.com/...). Bill had contacted me, after I posted my review, and asked if I would mind posting the review on some sites, which I agreed to do. Since that time, we have touched base every now and then as to how things were going with his book. He told me that he was working on a manuscript (revising, editing, making changes) of a book that he had written and with limited printing in 1998. I then received an email from him, which amazed me, surprised me and, quite honestly, felt honored to receive this request. Could he entrust me with this manuscript and give my honest opinion as a reader, consumer and reviewer?
I have not read the original Titanic 2012, that was printed years ago so I can not compare it to the revised manuscript that I recently finished reading. However, and ironically knowing that I had the manuscript in my EReader waiting for me to read, I saw that another blogger had found a copy of the original and had read the book. Sheila, from One Person's Journey Through A World Of Books, reviewed this book on her blog (http://bookjourney.wordpress.com/2010...). I also need to say that the revised manuscript edition, is just that, a manuscript. Bill has informed me that it is now in his agent's hand, so the revised edition, that I will be reviewing, has not yet been published nor is it available as of this date. However. I did tell him that since this blog is about books and my honest thoughts and reviews of books I read, that I would treat his manuscript in the same manner I do for all books I read. I also told him that I pride myself on giving a credible and honest review of every book I read, and that the same criteria would be utilized for his manuscript. He agreed. He also promised me that when the book does become available, he would notify me to let my followers, readers and visitors know so that I can give an update. And now my thoughts and opinion of said manuscript:
Titanic 2012 by Bill Walker (revised manuscript)
Final Manuscript Draft
At the request of the author, who entrusted me with his manuscript, a PDF was sent via email to be downloaded to my EReader, at no cost to me, for my honest opinion.
Synopsis (blurb borrowed from GoodReads for original print): When James Cameron's vision of a movie, Titanic, made it to the screen, who would've known just how popular it would become? Now there's a new mystery thriller that puts the luxury liner of doom in the near future with suspenseful results. It's the year 2012, and best selling mystery novelist Trevor Hughes has just about completed his next big book when old friend Harlan Astor announces that he's spent hundreds of millions of dollars to stage one of the biggest publicity shows in history: he's built a new Titanic, an exact replica of the 1912 version. This tweaks Trevor's writerly instincts, and in short order, he breaks up with his girlfriend and heads out for Poland to board the maiden voyage of this colossal remake. Even Kate Winslet is on hand to christen the ship, and the media are eating it up. But why did Astor do this, and why did he handpick the people who are boarding this remarkable ship? First-time novelist Bill Walker rings all the bells and blows all the whistles as he sets sail with his maiden voyage déjà vu, TITANIC 2012.
My Thoughts and Opinion: I have to preface this by saying that I saw the movie, Titanic, on multiple occasions and enjoyed it each time. Also, there will be no spoilers in this review. The premise of the plot, at times parallels the movie to some degree, but the story line stands on its own. The parallels were Harlan Astor, who's great grandfather was lost in the tragedy of the original Titanic, designed the new ship to resemble the original. He also planned other details to resemble the maiden voyage of 1912, such as the dress of the passengers, the menu, the different classes, the valets. As the synopsis states, Titanic 2012 is a suspenseful romance. The author's words transported me back to 1912 and then back to the present. I found myself so engrossed in reading this manuscript whereas I became part of the story and unaware what was going on around me. The characters were brought to life through the writer's descriptions and each had their reasons for wanting to be a part of Titanic 2012. As far as the suspense, a page turner. I apologize for being vague, but there are many aspects to the suspense theme and will not include any spoilers in this review. The romance perspective profound, yet tender and emotional.
I am sorry for posting this review due to the fact that it is unavailable as of right now. But will honestly tell you, that when it is published, it is a must read. If you are a fan of Titanic, the movie, you will love Titanic 2012. Put this one on your TBR list now and hopefully it will be obtainable soon. And like the movie whereas I saw it more than once, when this is in print, I will be reading it again. Bravo Mr. Walker !!
My Rating: 5
I have not read the original Titanic 2012, that was printed years ago so I can not compare it to the revised manuscript that I recently finished reading. However, and ironically knowing that I had the manuscript in my EReader waiting for me to read, I saw that another blogger had found a copy of the original and had read the book. Sheila, from One Person's Journey Through A World Of Books, reviewed this book on her blog (http://bookjourney.wordpress.com/2010...). I also need to say that the revised manuscript edition, is just that, a manuscript. Bill has informed me that it is now in his agent's hand, so the revised edition, that I will be reviewing, has not yet been published nor is it available as of this date. However. I did tell him that since this blog is about books and my honest thoughts and reviews of books I read, that I would treat his manuscript in the same manner I do for all books I read. I also told him that I pride myself on giving a credible and honest review of every book I read, and that the same criteria would be utilized for his manuscript. He agreed. He also promised me that when the book does become available, he would notify me to let my followers, readers and visitors know so that I can give an update. And now my thoughts and opinion of said manuscript:
Titanic 2012 by Bill Walker (revised manuscript)
Final Manuscript Draft
At the request of the author, who entrusted me with his manuscript, a PDF was sent via email to be downloaded to my EReader, at no cost to me, for my honest opinion.
Synopsis (blurb borrowed from GoodReads for original print): When James Cameron's vision of a movie, Titanic, made it to the screen, who would've known just how popular it would become? Now there's a new mystery thriller that puts the luxury liner of doom in the near future with suspenseful results. It's the year 2012, and best selling mystery novelist Trevor Hughes has just about completed his next big book when old friend Harlan Astor announces that he's spent hundreds of millions of dollars to stage one of the biggest publicity shows in history: he's built a new Titanic, an exact replica of the 1912 version. This tweaks Trevor's writerly instincts, and in short order, he breaks up with his girlfriend and heads out for Poland to board the maiden voyage of this colossal remake. Even Kate Winslet is on hand to christen the ship, and the media are eating it up. But why did Astor do this, and why did he handpick the people who are boarding this remarkable ship? First-time novelist Bill Walker rings all the bells and blows all the whistles as he sets sail with his maiden voyage déjà vu, TITANIC 2012.
My Thoughts and Opinion: I have to preface this by saying that I saw the movie, Titanic, on multiple occasions and enjoyed it each time. Also, there will be no spoilers in this review. The premise of the plot, at times parallels the movie to some degree, but the story line stands on its own. The parallels were Harlan Astor, who's great grandfather was lost in the tragedy of the original Titanic, designed the new ship to resemble the original. He also planned other details to resemble the maiden voyage of 1912, such as the dress of the passengers, the menu, the different classes, the valets. As the synopsis states, Titanic 2012 is a suspenseful romance. The author's words transported me back to 1912 and then back to the present. I found myself so engrossed in reading this manuscript whereas I became part of the story and unaware what was going on around me. The characters were brought to life through the writer's descriptions and each had their reasons for wanting to be a part of Titanic 2012. As far as the suspense, a page turner. I apologize for being vague, but there are many aspects to the suspense theme and will not include any spoilers in this review. The romance perspective profound, yet tender and emotional.
I am sorry for posting this review due to the fact that it is unavailable as of right now. But will honestly tell you, that when it is published, it is a must read. If you are a fan of Titanic, the movie, you will love Titanic 2012. Put this one on your TBR list now and hopefully it will be obtainable soon. And like the movie whereas I saw it more than once, when this is in print, I will be reading it again. Bravo Mr. Walker !!
My Rating: 5
July 20, 2019
This may book may be some people, but not me. I only got through the first few chapters. I don't think I'll go back to it.
April 30, 2012
Why would someone want to revisit the tragedy of the sinking of the RMS Titanic by rebuilding the ship and recreating the maiden voyage on the centennial anniversary of it's sinking? Come aboard the new Titanic and journey along with the specially selected passengers on this historical maiden voyage, as they pay homage to the original passengers that lost their lives ... or are they really trying to create their own historical voyage?
Titanic 2012 is a hauntingly beautiful novel filled with so many exquisite details, it is simply stunning. The storyline is masterfully written, it is told in a timeline alternating between the present time (May 2012) and the days of the voyage (April 10-14, 2012). The story of the new Titanic's voyage is told by the main character, Trevor Hughes, as requested by his long time pal, Harlan Astor, whose great-grandfather, John Jacob Astor IV perished with 1500 other passengers on that fateful voyage 100 years ago. The characters are strong and complex, their larger than life personalities and individual stories give the story more depth, and make it that much more powerful and compelling. The attention to detail and description is first rate, the author weaves a fascinating tale that transports the reader back to 1912 with the recreation of the ship's intricate details, the time period fashions and mannerisms, and the recreation of the maiden voyage; while at the same time bringing the reader back to the present time. The reader can't help but become engrossed with Harlan Astor's vision and dream come true, particularly how he selected the passengers that would accompany him on the maiden voyage of the reborn "ship of dreams."
This is an incredible suspense/romantic story that has many layers to it, the reader is taken along on the journey with the Titanic's passengers, and with every twist and turn, you will be able to peel back the layers to arrive at the real reason for the historical voyage. The author pays homage to James Cameron and the movie Titanic through many references of the movie throughout the book. There is a common thread that ties this movie to the passengers that embarked on the 2012 voyage, it was intriguing to read how the author intertwined the movie within his character's individual stories. From the very beginning I was captivated by this story, and by the end I was left emotionally spent but very satisfied. Be prepared to ride the emotional roller coaster, and have plenty of tissues nearby! There are so many details to the story that I would love to share, but it would be considered spoilers, and this story is just too good to spoil it for anyone, trust me when I say read this novel, you won't be disappointed.
Titanic 2012 is a novel that does a wonderful job of commemorating the tragic centennial sinking of the Titanic. I could easily see this novel becoming a movie, I would definitely go see it on the big screen. Titanic fans, this hauntingly profound yet beautiful novel is a must read and should be on your TBR list!
Disclaimer: I received a paperback edition of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in the Partners In Crime Tours virtual book tour event.
Virtual Book Tour Event: On Monday, April 30, 2012, in association with Partners In Crime Tours, author Bill Walker participated in a virtual book tour event with an Author Guest Post on Jersey Girl Book Reviews. http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Titanic 2012 is a hauntingly beautiful novel filled with so many exquisite details, it is simply stunning. The storyline is masterfully written, it is told in a timeline alternating between the present time (May 2012) and the days of the voyage (April 10-14, 2012). The story of the new Titanic's voyage is told by the main character, Trevor Hughes, as requested by his long time pal, Harlan Astor, whose great-grandfather, John Jacob Astor IV perished with 1500 other passengers on that fateful voyage 100 years ago. The characters are strong and complex, their larger than life personalities and individual stories give the story more depth, and make it that much more powerful and compelling. The attention to detail and description is first rate, the author weaves a fascinating tale that transports the reader back to 1912 with the recreation of the ship's intricate details, the time period fashions and mannerisms, and the recreation of the maiden voyage; while at the same time bringing the reader back to the present time. The reader can't help but become engrossed with Harlan Astor's vision and dream come true, particularly how he selected the passengers that would accompany him on the maiden voyage of the reborn "ship of dreams."
This is an incredible suspense/romantic story that has many layers to it, the reader is taken along on the journey with the Titanic's passengers, and with every twist and turn, you will be able to peel back the layers to arrive at the real reason for the historical voyage. The author pays homage to James Cameron and the movie Titanic through many references of the movie throughout the book. There is a common thread that ties this movie to the passengers that embarked on the 2012 voyage, it was intriguing to read how the author intertwined the movie within his character's individual stories. From the very beginning I was captivated by this story, and by the end I was left emotionally spent but very satisfied. Be prepared to ride the emotional roller coaster, and have plenty of tissues nearby! There are so many details to the story that I would love to share, but it would be considered spoilers, and this story is just too good to spoil it for anyone, trust me when I say read this novel, you won't be disappointed.
Titanic 2012 is a novel that does a wonderful job of commemorating the tragic centennial sinking of the Titanic. I could easily see this novel becoming a movie, I would definitely go see it on the big screen. Titanic fans, this hauntingly profound yet beautiful novel is a must read and should be on your TBR list!
Disclaimer: I received a paperback edition of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in the Partners In Crime Tours virtual book tour event.
Virtual Book Tour Event: On Monday, April 30, 2012, in association with Partners In Crime Tours, author Bill Walker participated in a virtual book tour event with an Author Guest Post on Jersey Girl Book Reviews. http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
April 13, 2012
Best-selling mystery novelist Trevor Hughes has no idea that attending his twentieth reunion at Harvard will forever change his life. Persuaded to go by his on-again-off-again girlfriend, Dr. Julia Magnusson, he meets up with three old friends: Solly Rubens, a self-made Wall Street millionaire; Ken Faust, a successful software entrepreneur; and Harlan Astor, New York real estate tycoon and the glue that holds their circle together. That afternoon, over drinks at the Harvard Club, Harlan drops his bombshell: He is doing what James Cameron did not — he is rebuilding the Titanic, and sailing the ship on the hundredth anniversary to honor those who died, including his great-grandfather, John Jacob Astor IV. Only Trevor is intrigued by Harlan’s audacity. Touched by his friend’s interest and concern, Harlan invites him on the maiden voyage to serve as the official chronicler. On April 10, 2012, Trevor journeys to Southampton and, along with the hundreds of handpicked passengers, boards the Titanic.
Then the real story begins….
Dollycas’s Thoughts
I can tell this author thinks very highly of James Cameron as the movie is mentioned several times in the book. Maybe Cameron could use this story for an upcoming movie as it seems perfect for adaption to the screen. This updated re-release of the original published in 1998 is very well written, I almost felt as if I were aboard the ship myself. He adds little touches to remember the past such as photos of the original passengers on the doors of each stateroom. The notes of detail making the new Titanic the same as the first and following the exact same path of travel gave the story a very ghostly feel.
I was ready for the love story between Trevor and passenger Maddie. It wouldn’t be a homage to Cameron without the love story. The thing I wasn’t ready for was the dark and eerie turn the book took. The real plan behind the launch of this rebuilt Titanic left me feeling a rush of emotions. As first I was just plain mad at the author for choosing this path but sadness overtook that feeling as the fates of the passengers played out. You may need a little Kleenex while reading this story.
Trevor is an awesome character and I am glad the author ended this story the way he did. The character was a treasure himself as the others Harvard circle would show their true colors.
If you are a fan of James Cameron’s movie or a history buff on the sinking of the Titanic you will love this book. As the centennial approaches this is a story to pick up and read and then break out the DVD of the movie and remember those that were lost in that freezing ocean water on the fateful night of April 15, 1912.
Then the real story begins….
Dollycas’s Thoughts
I can tell this author thinks very highly of James Cameron as the movie is mentioned several times in the book. Maybe Cameron could use this story for an upcoming movie as it seems perfect for adaption to the screen. This updated re-release of the original published in 1998 is very well written, I almost felt as if I were aboard the ship myself. He adds little touches to remember the past such as photos of the original passengers on the doors of each stateroom. The notes of detail making the new Titanic the same as the first and following the exact same path of travel gave the story a very ghostly feel.
I was ready for the love story between Trevor and passenger Maddie. It wouldn’t be a homage to Cameron without the love story. The thing I wasn’t ready for was the dark and eerie turn the book took. The real plan behind the launch of this rebuilt Titanic left me feeling a rush of emotions. As first I was just plain mad at the author for choosing this path but sadness overtook that feeling as the fates of the passengers played out. You may need a little Kleenex while reading this story.
Trevor is an awesome character and I am glad the author ended this story the way he did. The character was a treasure himself as the others Harvard circle would show their true colors.
If you are a fan of James Cameron’s movie or a history buff on the sinking of the Titanic you will love this book. As the centennial approaches this is a story to pick up and read and then break out the DVD of the movie and remember those that were lost in that freezing ocean water on the fateful night of April 15, 1912.
June 26, 2012
My review:
Titanic 2012 by Bil Walker is a provocative book. The title itself is intriguing, because who would really retell the story of Titanic? There has been an excellent movie about Titanic by James Cameron which indeed in quite remarkable, but I think it is very risky challenge to write a book about rebuilding the Titanic. Bill Walker did that in his Titanic 2012.
Regarding the plot:
Trevor Hughes is a successful and bestselling mystery writer who decides to go to reunion and meets up with old friends, amongst them real estate tycoon Harlan Astor. Harlan is revealing his idea to rebuild Titanic as it originally was. He has the money and means to do that and even though his friends have difficulties with believing that, Trevor is intrigued.
Harlan contacts Trevor when the big day is announced and gets Trevor on board of Titanic to take the first trip on the rebuilt ship. Trevor's task is to write a book about the trip of Titanic in 2012. Everything starts like a fairy tale - Kate Winslet is there to name and Christianize the boat, speeches are kept and Titanic sails out to the big ocean.
When Trevor is making interviews with people on board, he starts to realize, that the story is little darker as it seems.
I liked the plot even though I think it is dangerous path the author is taking by retelling Titanic story. There are also some things in the plot which in my opinion did not add up. I think the idea of rebuilding Titanic is somewhat crazy: first the money that Harlan Astor put into it and the extravaganza of the idea itself. Plus, if you think what really happened with Titanic, then the idea is far from glamorous. It was tragical. I had mixed feelings about the idea of the book. I think that some things need to stay buried and that includes the Titanic.
The other thing which disturbed me was that everybody knows what happened to Titanic and that made the plot of the story obvious - you knew that nothing nice can come out of it, the author cannot let the Titanic to survive. What made it more edible for me was the good life stories what the passengers had to tell -that was really the strong side of the book and it was genuinely interesting to me to read.
Regarding the characters:
I really liked the characters in Titanic 2012. Trevor was really well-written and amiable and I also enjoyed Maddie, but I mostly enjoyed the supportive characters in the book: people who told their stories to Trevor.
Generally:
Titanic 2012 was an interesting book to read, it was well-written with controversial plot. It was like a swan song for Titanic.
Titanic 2012 by Bil Walker is a provocative book. The title itself is intriguing, because who would really retell the story of Titanic? There has been an excellent movie about Titanic by James Cameron which indeed in quite remarkable, but I think it is very risky challenge to write a book about rebuilding the Titanic. Bill Walker did that in his Titanic 2012.
Regarding the plot:
Trevor Hughes is a successful and bestselling mystery writer who decides to go to reunion and meets up with old friends, amongst them real estate tycoon Harlan Astor. Harlan is revealing his idea to rebuild Titanic as it originally was. He has the money and means to do that and even though his friends have difficulties with believing that, Trevor is intrigued.
Harlan contacts Trevor when the big day is announced and gets Trevor on board of Titanic to take the first trip on the rebuilt ship. Trevor's task is to write a book about the trip of Titanic in 2012. Everything starts like a fairy tale - Kate Winslet is there to name and Christianize the boat, speeches are kept and Titanic sails out to the big ocean.
When Trevor is making interviews with people on board, he starts to realize, that the story is little darker as it seems.
I liked the plot even though I think it is dangerous path the author is taking by retelling Titanic story. There are also some things in the plot which in my opinion did not add up. I think the idea of rebuilding Titanic is somewhat crazy: first the money that Harlan Astor put into it and the extravaganza of the idea itself. Plus, if you think what really happened with Titanic, then the idea is far from glamorous. It was tragical. I had mixed feelings about the idea of the book. I think that some things need to stay buried and that includes the Titanic.
The other thing which disturbed me was that everybody knows what happened to Titanic and that made the plot of the story obvious - you knew that nothing nice can come out of it, the author cannot let the Titanic to survive. What made it more edible for me was the good life stories what the passengers had to tell -that was really the strong side of the book and it was genuinely interesting to me to read.
Regarding the characters:
I really liked the characters in Titanic 2012. Trevor was really well-written and amiable and I also enjoyed Maddie, but I mostly enjoyed the supportive characters in the book: people who told their stories to Trevor.
Generally:
Titanic 2012 was an interesting book to read, it was well-written with controversial plot. It was like a swan song for Titanic.
June 22, 2012
I was underwhelmed by this book. While the premise was interesting, there were far too many irritating issues that got in the way of my being fully immersed and engrossed in the story. For starters, I felt as if the story was a publicity blurb for Cameron's movie. Really? The "greatest movie ever made"? Every time one of the characters brought the movie up, it set my teeth on edge. I thought the movie was powerful and emotional, but, come on, it's not the greatest movie ever made. I also felt like the book was a product placement gimick for Apple. The number of times MacBook and iPod touch were mentioned was distracting. Yes, specificity is a good thing in writing - it adds to the realism and relatability - but once a writer has established a particular element by its specific name, a more generic and less intrusive noun allows for the story to flow more smoothly. It was overkill, as if the author was getting royalty money for every time he mentioned the product.
Aside from those distracting elements, I found the writing stilted and overblown in many places; the most successful stories are when the words and phrases become almost invisible, when readers forget they are reading and simply become part of the story. When a reader becomes too aware of certain phrases and vocabulary, the immersion is lost. It's like watching a movie where the actors are so clearly "acting" that the characters never become "real"; viewers are painfully aware that these are actors playing a part. The suspension of disbelief never happens. That is the feeling I had with this story; I was always too aware of the author trying too hard. There were also quite a few grammar errors that someone should have caught - it breaks the flow.
Finally, although the premise of the book was interesting, it was just a bit too predictable. The characters were not developed enough, and I became annoyed by Harlan's use of "kiddo" as his nickname for Trevor - they were the same age, as they were in college together, apparently in the '90s, and kiddo was just not realistic. Trevor's agent calling him kid was also kind of grating - after all, based on the fact that Trevor had been friends with Harlan for 20 years and they were at Harvard together, he would be in his 40s at the time of the story. Kid and kiddo just sounded unrealistic.
I finished the book because I hate to leave books unfinished, unless they are truly unreadable - and this did hold my interest enough to want to see how it fully ended, but it left me unimpressed.
Aside from those distracting elements, I found the writing stilted and overblown in many places; the most successful stories are when the words and phrases become almost invisible, when readers forget they are reading and simply become part of the story. When a reader becomes too aware of certain phrases and vocabulary, the immersion is lost. It's like watching a movie where the actors are so clearly "acting" that the characters never become "real"; viewers are painfully aware that these are actors playing a part. The suspension of disbelief never happens. That is the feeling I had with this story; I was always too aware of the author trying too hard. There were also quite a few grammar errors that someone should have caught - it breaks the flow.
Finally, although the premise of the book was interesting, it was just a bit too predictable. The characters were not developed enough, and I became annoyed by Harlan's use of "kiddo" as his nickname for Trevor - they were the same age, as they were in college together, apparently in the '90s, and kiddo was just not realistic. Trevor's agent calling him kid was also kind of grating - after all, based on the fact that Trevor had been friends with Harlan for 20 years and they were at Harvard together, he would be in his 40s at the time of the story. Kid and kiddo just sounded unrealistic.
I finished the book because I hate to leave books unfinished, unless they are truly unreadable - and this did hold my interest enough to want to see how it fully ended, but it left me unimpressed.
April 28, 2012
Mystery author, Trevor Hughes has no intentions of attending his 20th class reunion at Harvard until his girlfriend, Julia, convinces him to go. They have no idea how it will change their lives forever.
An old classmate of Trevor’s, Harlan Astor, tells him about his latest idea. He’s planning to rebuild the legendary ship, Titanic, and set sail with a select group of passengers on the 100th anniversary of Titanic’s tragic end. Trevor is concerned about his friends’ idea, but he’s also intrigued by it. Harlan invites him to travel on the ship and write a book about it.
Trevor convinces his editor to allow them to write the story, but Julia is less than pleased with the entire plan. Trevor and Julia break up, leaving Trevor to prepare to set sail on the Titanic.
Feeling as if he’s part of James Cameron’s hit movie, Trevor prepares to interview his fellow travelers and find out why they are all interested in making this trip. He learns that many were fans of the movie, others had relatives who died on the original Titanic, while some are suffering from a fatal illness and looking to make this their final wish.
Trevor is intrigued with all of it and then he meets Madeline. She changes his life in ways he never expected. They instantly fall in love. Maddy teaches him what true love is all about.
Then, Trevor learns the true reason Harlan rebuilt the ship and what the future holds in store for the 2012 version of Titanic. It's not pretty. Trevor races against the clock to stop the craziness and finds himself fighting against his best friend and the woman he loves. If Trevor fails, the new Titanic will find itself facing the same tragic ending that took down the original Titanic.
This story is a blend of actual events with fiction. The characters are both realistic and tragic. Readers’ will find their hearts torn to shreds in this poignant drama. Titanic 2012 is guaranteed to be one of those books that you just can’t put down. Readers will anxiously be awaiting the fate of these people who become more and more lifelike as the story continues. I loved every minute of this book and absolutely hated to see it come to an end. I want more!
FTC Disclosure: The author and Partners In Crime Tours provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
An old classmate of Trevor’s, Harlan Astor, tells him about his latest idea. He’s planning to rebuild the legendary ship, Titanic, and set sail with a select group of passengers on the 100th anniversary of Titanic’s tragic end. Trevor is concerned about his friends’ idea, but he’s also intrigued by it. Harlan invites him to travel on the ship and write a book about it.
Trevor convinces his editor to allow them to write the story, but Julia is less than pleased with the entire plan. Trevor and Julia break up, leaving Trevor to prepare to set sail on the Titanic.
Feeling as if he’s part of James Cameron’s hit movie, Trevor prepares to interview his fellow travelers and find out why they are all interested in making this trip. He learns that many were fans of the movie, others had relatives who died on the original Titanic, while some are suffering from a fatal illness and looking to make this their final wish.
Trevor is intrigued with all of it and then he meets Madeline. She changes his life in ways he never expected. They instantly fall in love. Maddy teaches him what true love is all about.
Then, Trevor learns the true reason Harlan rebuilt the ship and what the future holds in store for the 2012 version of Titanic. It's not pretty. Trevor races against the clock to stop the craziness and finds himself fighting against his best friend and the woman he loves. If Trevor fails, the new Titanic will find itself facing the same tragic ending that took down the original Titanic.
This story is a blend of actual events with fiction. The characters are both realistic and tragic. Readers’ will find their hearts torn to shreds in this poignant drama. Titanic 2012 is guaranteed to be one of those books that you just can’t put down. Readers will anxiously be awaiting the fate of these people who become more and more lifelike as the story continues. I loved every minute of this book and absolutely hated to see it come to an end. I want more!
FTC Disclosure: The author and Partners In Crime Tours provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 21, 2012
I could not tell you how many times that I have personally seen the movie, Titanic, but I have to tune in every time that I see it is on TV. It does not matter at what point it is at in the movie, it is just a must watch for me. So this book was an easy choice for me to read.
The beginning sets the scene that something has already happened aboard the Titanic, and Trevor must decide how or even if he wants to tell the story -- from there we kind of lapse back to the actual voyage. Having seen the movie so many times, it was very cool to be able to imagine all the places that Trevor went to on the ship. To imagine what it would be like to see them in person, from the bow to the cargo holds. He explores them all -- except for the room behind the guarded and locked door. He can't imagine what Harlan has locked up on the ship.
So he begins his interviews of the passengers -- meeting Maddy, a particularly engaging young woman to whom he is instantly attracted. Underneath it all though he is uneasy, it seems like there is something out of place, but he just can't seem to put his finger on it. He is a very curious one though, as I am guessing most writers are, and will not rest until he figures out what it is that is making him a little uneasy.
I really enjoyed Trevor's character and felt like he is someone that you could easily meet in your own neighborhood. He was very down to earth -- not pretentious or uptight -- and always seemed to want to do the right thing. He was also very much a Titanic fan and it wasn't hard for him to be swept up in the romanticism aboard the ship.
We don't get to know the other passengers as well as we know Trevor, as the book is from his point of view, but we do get some glimpses of them from their interviews. It almost seemed like there wasn't enough material to fill the book, as there were some large chunks of time that Trevor slept through -- I found that a little odd, even though it did play into the story -- just didn't seem like it was flushed out like it could have been.
I did enjoy the book though and it makes me want to go back and watch the movie yet again.
The beginning sets the scene that something has already happened aboard the Titanic, and Trevor must decide how or even if he wants to tell the story -- from there we kind of lapse back to the actual voyage. Having seen the movie so many times, it was very cool to be able to imagine all the places that Trevor went to on the ship. To imagine what it would be like to see them in person, from the bow to the cargo holds. He explores them all -- except for the room behind the guarded and locked door. He can't imagine what Harlan has locked up on the ship.
So he begins his interviews of the passengers -- meeting Maddy, a particularly engaging young woman to whom he is instantly attracted. Underneath it all though he is uneasy, it seems like there is something out of place, but he just can't seem to put his finger on it. He is a very curious one though, as I am guessing most writers are, and will not rest until he figures out what it is that is making him a little uneasy.
I really enjoyed Trevor's character and felt like he is someone that you could easily meet in your own neighborhood. He was very down to earth -- not pretentious or uptight -- and always seemed to want to do the right thing. He was also very much a Titanic fan and it wasn't hard for him to be swept up in the romanticism aboard the ship.
We don't get to know the other passengers as well as we know Trevor, as the book is from his point of view, but we do get some glimpses of them from their interviews. It almost seemed like there wasn't enough material to fill the book, as there were some large chunks of time that Trevor slept through -- I found that a little odd, even though it did play into the story -- just didn't seem like it was flushed out like it could have been.
I did enjoy the book though and it makes me want to go back and watch the movie yet again.
April 9, 2012
I didn't like Titanic 2012. I hate to give books a bad rating, but to me this book wasn't enjoyable and I couldn't get into it. The story jumps back and forth in time, starting three weeks after the voyage. So after I read the first few pages, I knew that something bad happens, but never did I expect the story to be so depressing. Also, there didn't seem to be a real purpose to the story, I knew really early on what the surprise ending was going to be and the story doesn't go much further than that. So I feel that I could have stopped reading it when I assumed the ending and I wouldn't have missed much at all.
The real purpose of the voyage was SO obvious to me, and I couldn't believe that Trevor took SO long to figure it out. I figured it out so early in the story, that the story seemed very boring. By the time Trevor discovers the true purpose of the voyage, I was like "FINALLY! It took you long enough!".
There is a LOT of swearing in this book, almost all of them religious ones, and I found that very offensive. However, since this isn't a Christian novel and wasn't advertised as one, I didn't let this affect my rating of the book (had I let it affect my rating, I would have given the story only one star). I am only mentioning it for those who would also find this offensive.
There is a lot of references to the Titanic movie and since I have only seen it once and really wasn't that impressed by it, I found all the praise for it annoying. I mean really does everybody, everywhere LOVE the movie THAT much? I personally know only a few people that loved the movie and a lot of people that didn't like it that much, so it seemed extreme to me.
Overall, I mean if you LOVED the movie Titanic, don't mind swearing in your books and a sad story, you may like this book. Otherwise, if you are just looking for a novel about the Titanic, I would suggest you look elsewhere.
***I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.***
The real purpose of the voyage was SO obvious to me, and I couldn't believe that Trevor took SO long to figure it out. I figured it out so early in the story, that the story seemed very boring. By the time Trevor discovers the true purpose of the voyage, I was like "FINALLY! It took you long enough!".
There is a LOT of swearing in this book, almost all of them religious ones, and I found that very offensive. However, since this isn't a Christian novel and wasn't advertised as one, I didn't let this affect my rating of the book (had I let it affect my rating, I would have given the story only one star). I am only mentioning it for those who would also find this offensive.
There is a lot of references to the Titanic movie and since I have only seen it once and really wasn't that impressed by it, I found all the praise for it annoying. I mean really does everybody, everywhere LOVE the movie THAT much? I personally know only a few people that loved the movie and a lot of people that didn't like it that much, so it seemed extreme to me.
Overall, I mean if you LOVED the movie Titanic, don't mind swearing in your books and a sad story, you may like this book. Otherwise, if you are just looking for a novel about the Titanic, I would suggest you look elsewhere.
***I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.***
July 11, 2012
When I started reading this story, I was fascinated with the concept. Imagine, rebuilding the Titanic and having the chance to be on board.
Then I started reading and I was horrified to find out that something dreadful had happened on the ship. The person telling the story had been on the new Titanic and was supposed to be writing about his experience. However, it had been months since he had been on the ship, and he was still unable to write a word.
Finally, he got together with three of his friends, who had also been friends with the man who had re-built the Titanic, Harlan Astor. His great-grandfather had been one of the people who had gone down on the first Titanic. He explained that Harlan had led him to believe that he was building the ship in honor of those who had died, and he had wanted to make it an exact replica of the original.
Much of the story is told through interviews with the passengers and through their reasons for being on the ship. Their stories are interesting but sad in a way. When I finally realized why they were there, I didn’t want to read any more, but there was just enough going on to keep me guessing that I had to continue.
This author made the story so real that I felt he was telling it as it happened. It didn’t feel like a story, it felt like a conversation with me. Although it didn’t have what many would consider a HEA ending, it did, in fact have a good ending and one that was perfect for the story.
I enjoyed reading it, and couldn’t put it down, although a couple of times I tried. When I finally began to discover who was behind everything, and who was causing the problems, it still wasn’t over. When I finished the last page of the mystery, I gave a sigh of relief.
This is not a romance, although there is romance in the story, and it isn’t really a mystery, but it has mysterious things behind the scenes. It's just a well-written book that will appeal to adult readers of all genres.
Then I started reading and I was horrified to find out that something dreadful had happened on the ship. The person telling the story had been on the new Titanic and was supposed to be writing about his experience. However, it had been months since he had been on the ship, and he was still unable to write a word.
Finally, he got together with three of his friends, who had also been friends with the man who had re-built the Titanic, Harlan Astor. His great-grandfather had been one of the people who had gone down on the first Titanic. He explained that Harlan had led him to believe that he was building the ship in honor of those who had died, and he had wanted to make it an exact replica of the original.
Much of the story is told through interviews with the passengers and through their reasons for being on the ship. Their stories are interesting but sad in a way. When I finally realized why they were there, I didn’t want to read any more, but there was just enough going on to keep me guessing that I had to continue.
This author made the story so real that I felt he was telling it as it happened. It didn’t feel like a story, it felt like a conversation with me. Although it didn’t have what many would consider a HEA ending, it did, in fact have a good ending and one that was perfect for the story.
I enjoyed reading it, and couldn’t put it down, although a couple of times I tried. When I finally began to discover who was behind everything, and who was causing the problems, it still wasn’t over. When I finished the last page of the mystery, I gave a sigh of relief.
This is not a romance, although there is romance in the story, and it isn’t really a mystery, but it has mysterious things behind the scenes. It's just a well-written book that will appeal to adult readers of all genres.
March 10, 2013
While you don't have to be a fan of James Cameron's Titanic movie to read this book, it would certainly help. The novel is a loving tribute or thank you to the film. Unfortunately I was never that impressed with the movie, preferring to have a little more story and characters that have a bit more depth. And in that regard I lucked out because the book has more of that.
TITANIC 2012 takes place around the 100 year anniversary of the original Titanic. Harlan Astor, a super rich billionaire and great-grandson of original Titanic victim John Jacob Astor, has a new Titanic secretly built using the exact same design as the original. He invites the story's protagonist, novelist Trevor Hughes, to join him on the maiden voyage and tell the tales of the ship and the people onboard. Coming off a relationship break-up, Trevor agrees. And then in a similar vein to the movie, Trevor falls in love with one of the other passengers who keeps saying that the relationship won't work. In between their moments together, Trevor interviews the passengers who all talk about Cameron's film, "the greatest movie of all time," and why they are on the ship.
Unfortunately the second half of the novel becomes quickly predictable to the readers and loses all sense of surprise. At the same time, much of the emotional attachment is sacrificed. Almost everyone devolves to a hook trying to pull on the reader's heart and not someone that I really cared about. Harlan was the most interesting to me but he's also not around very much in the second half. Overall I would say that the book was enjoyable but not great. I would have liked to see more from the book.
TITANIC 2012 takes place around the 100 year anniversary of the original Titanic. Harlan Astor, a super rich billionaire and great-grandson of original Titanic victim John Jacob Astor, has a new Titanic secretly built using the exact same design as the original. He invites the story's protagonist, novelist Trevor Hughes, to join him on the maiden voyage and tell the tales of the ship and the people onboard. Coming off a relationship break-up, Trevor agrees. And then in a similar vein to the movie, Trevor falls in love with one of the other passengers who keeps saying that the relationship won't work. In between their moments together, Trevor interviews the passengers who all talk about Cameron's film, "the greatest movie of all time," and why they are on the ship.
Unfortunately the second half of the novel becomes quickly predictable to the readers and loses all sense of surprise. At the same time, much of the emotional attachment is sacrificed. Almost everyone devolves to a hook trying to pull on the reader's heart and not someone that I really cared about. Harlan was the most interesting to me but he's also not around very much in the second half. Overall I would say that the book was enjoyable but not great. I would have liked to see more from the book.
April 24, 2012
View the complete post at My Reader's Block (http://myreadersblock.blogspot.com/) on April 24th as part of the Partners in Crime Blog Tour!
What a breathtaking ride! Bill Walker has given us tale worthy of the original Titanic story as well as the epic movie by James Cameron to which many references are made and many comparisons may be found. I picked this up in the afternoon on April 9 and finished by afternoon on April 10--and if there hadn't been a need for sleep and a morning's worth of work I would have read straight through and finished sooner. An incredibly readable and unputdownable book. The characters are lively and credible and I instantly become involved with their stories. I wanted to know why every single one of the passengers had come on board--not just the ones whose stories are shared. As Maddy says after she has read the initial chapters of Trevor's book:
I kept wanting it to go on. When I reached the last page, and it wouldn't scroll any further, I actually got angry with you.
Well, I didn't get angry....but I was sad to have the book end. I wanted more. That is definitely a sign of a good author. And Walker has done what few authors have done with me--moved me to tears in the final chapters. A lovely tribute to the Titanic tragedy and a potent and poignant story of its own, Titanic 2012 will definitely stay with me for a long time to come. Five stars.
What a breathtaking ride! Bill Walker has given us tale worthy of the original Titanic story as well as the epic movie by James Cameron to which many references are made and many comparisons may be found. I picked this up in the afternoon on April 9 and finished by afternoon on April 10--and if there hadn't been a need for sleep and a morning's worth of work I would have read straight through and finished sooner. An incredibly readable and unputdownable book. The characters are lively and credible and I instantly become involved with their stories. I wanted to know why every single one of the passengers had come on board--not just the ones whose stories are shared. As Maddy says after she has read the initial chapters of Trevor's book:
I kept wanting it to go on. When I reached the last page, and it wouldn't scroll any further, I actually got angry with you.
Well, I didn't get angry....but I was sad to have the book end. I wanted more. That is definitely a sign of a good author. And Walker has done what few authors have done with me--moved me to tears in the final chapters. A lovely tribute to the Titanic tragedy and a potent and poignant story of its own, Titanic 2012 will definitely stay with me for a long time to come. Five stars.
April 4, 2012
Trevor Hughes is not your typical character. He is unhappy, depressed, and a tad on the crazy side at times. The book definitely follows James Cameron's movie, but with added twists and mysteries. The reader will love the mysteries in this novel, there are a few main ones and a few subplot mysteries. How did Trevor survive the "second sailing" of the Titanic? What do the others have to say about his sudden appearance? What really happened in Titanic's last few hours?
There is a little bit of romance. Ironically, the reader will likely be so taken with the mystery and tension that he/she will not even focus too much on the romance. The reader will connect easily to Trevor, he is a flawed character, but very interesting. The other love interest is not as easy to connect to, but a pretty good character too. The author takes time to develop Trevor and his connection to this ship and past. The pages will fly as the novel picks up towards the bitter end. The way the author ties up the loose ends and finishes the book will likely surprise and satisfy the reader. After reading this book, a reader will want to take the time to watch the movie. This book is recommended to adult readers.
April 19, 2012
Walker has written a story full of possibilities with a key mystery surrounding the new Titanic. This is not a whodunit sort of mystery, but a mystery of romantic adventure. Titanic 2012 is a tribute to James Cameron's movie with Leonardo diCaprio and Kate Winslet.
I have mixed feelings about this book. The story about the real Titanic's sinking was such a tragedy, and we all know what a sad outcome that was...However...
I think many readers are going to like this book, especially fans who like all things to do with the Titanic. However, I struggled to get it read. The book just did not draw me into the story. I found it predictable, and figured out the mystery early on in the book. It refers to the 'Famous Movie' about the Titanic a few times throughout the book. I only saw the movie with Kate Winslet and Leonardo diCaprio once, and at this point I have no intention of seeing it again, because, I found it a very sad movie, as I did this book. The storyline I found a bit over the top. But, like I said, I think most readers will probably like this book a lot more
than I did. That being said, I am awarding this book 2**
I have mixed feelings about this book. The story about the real Titanic's sinking was such a tragedy, and we all know what a sad outcome that was...However...
I think many readers are going to like this book, especially fans who like all things to do with the Titanic. However, I struggled to get it read. The book just did not draw me into the story. I found it predictable, and figured out the mystery early on in the book. It refers to the 'Famous Movie' about the Titanic a few times throughout the book. I only saw the movie with Kate Winslet and Leonardo diCaprio once, and at this point I have no intention of seeing it again, because, I found it a very sad movie, as I did this book. The storyline I found a bit over the top. But, like I said, I think most readers will probably like this book a lot more
than I did. That being said, I am awarding this book 2**
January 10, 2013
Where can I start with a review for such a fantastic book? Well like many of the characters in this story I too remember my first time seeing Cameron’s Titanic. For a start I was 15!
The characters in Titanic 2012 are really well thought out and many of their personal stories were so touching. I like the idea of the ship, I know that sounds morbid but let me explain. It’s not the idea Harlan had it’s the way it was written out. The romance, the heartbreak and the little nods to the film and to the original ship.
I am sure that I am not alone in feeling this but the part of this book that touched me the most was the ending. Not in a bad way. But with having been through the story in Trevor’s point of view the ending, which I will not giveaway had me welling up. It was the perfect ending to an amazing read.
Titanic 2012 literally took my breath away and I was captivated. I read it with ease and loved every page I read. I will definitely be sharing this book with all of my friends and family.
I will be reading this book again, I might even make it a yearly read during April. Thank you for writing such an amazing book!
Titanic 2012 gets a solid 5/5 with a yearly read promise!
The characters in Titanic 2012 are really well thought out and many of their personal stories were so touching. I like the idea of the ship, I know that sounds morbid but let me explain. It’s not the idea Harlan had it’s the way it was written out. The romance, the heartbreak and the little nods to the film and to the original ship.
I am sure that I am not alone in feeling this but the part of this book that touched me the most was the ending. Not in a bad way. But with having been through the story in Trevor’s point of view the ending, which I will not giveaway had me welling up. It was the perfect ending to an amazing read.
Titanic 2012 literally took my breath away and I was captivated. I read it with ease and loved every page I read. I will definitely be sharing this book with all of my friends and family.
I will be reading this book again, I might even make it a yearly read during April. Thank you for writing such an amazing book!
Titanic 2012 gets a solid 5/5 with a yearly read promise!
January 1, 2016
What to say. Ever since James Cameron’s Titanic was released, it seems almost everyone has interest in the ill-fated ship’s story – some people more than others, as is the case here. This book almost seems to be homage to the movie, as it’s often referenced. There were moments it felt like overkill, but overall it did make it easier to visualize things while reading.
The book itself is quite interesting, although I thought the “darker purpose” was, um, interesting? Somewhat of a letdown, honestly.
The book as a whole held my interest from start to finish. And despite the less-than-light subject matter, it ended up being a pretty quick read. I think that’s partially because it’s well-written. The story of Trevor and Maddy is bittersweet – kinda like the whole aforementioned Titanic movie. I suppose it’s fitting. And the very end of the book is perfect.
Would I recommend this? Sure. Especially if you ever got caught up in Titanic fever. Will I read it again? Maybe. If you’re a fan of Titanic, especially the movie, you’re likely to enjoy this book.
The book itself is quite interesting, although I thought the “darker purpose” was, um, interesting? Somewhat of a letdown, honestly.
The book as a whole held my interest from start to finish. And despite the less-than-light subject matter, it ended up being a pretty quick read. I think that’s partially because it’s well-written. The story of Trevor and Maddy is bittersweet – kinda like the whole aforementioned Titanic movie. I suppose it’s fitting. And the very end of the book is perfect.
Would I recommend this? Sure. Especially if you ever got caught up in Titanic fever. Will I read it again? Maybe. If you’re a fan of Titanic, especially the movie, you’re likely to enjoy this book.
May 2, 2010
I am a big fan, much like our main character Trevor, in all things Titanic. My interest in the ship also came at the time of the James Cameron movie, which I first I refused to see. (*See bonus notes on that below). Reading this book rekindled a smoldering fire within me. I really enjoyed the story of Trevor, and as a fiction mystery writer of course he was going to be a character I would love.
The references to Cameron’s movie as well as shared lines throughout the book made me smile and long to sit down and watch the movie. The actual idea of rebuilding the ship to be sailed on the 100th anniversary of the Titanic’s maiden voyage I found to be so interesting, although I know not everyone would agree with me on that.
I don’t want to give away too much about this book as I thoroughly enjoyed it, picking it up one afternoon and reading it as late as I could, and then finishing it the next morning. This was a book that I could place myself in and was a joy to read.
The references to Cameron’s movie as well as shared lines throughout the book made me smile and long to sit down and watch the movie. The actual idea of rebuilding the ship to be sailed on the 100th anniversary of the Titanic’s maiden voyage I found to be so interesting, although I know not everyone would agree with me on that.
I don’t want to give away too much about this book as I thoroughly enjoyed it, picking it up one afternoon and reading it as late as I could, and then finishing it the next morning. This was a book that I could place myself in and was a joy to read.
May 22, 2012
I really enjoyed this book! I have always been intrigued by the Titanic! I saw the movie when it came out and was extremely impressed by the magic of it all! In reading this book my intrigue came alive again and is going in full force! The book has several references to the movie and even a "cameo" from one of the stars. Titanic 2012 uses the history of the original but with new twist and turns(that could be considered a little dark)! Walker has a way of writing something that you think you know about and making it new and exciting! This book was a page turner for me and did not disappoint... I was intrigued, surprised, saddened, and then uplifted with the ending (I'll admit the ending had me in tears)!! I would definitely recommend this book to others!
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book for review purposes only through Partners In Crime Book Tours. I was not compensated to write a positive or favorable review. This is Keeping Up With The Rheinlander's personal opinion.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book for review purposes only through Partners In Crime Book Tours. I was not compensated to write a positive or favorable review. This is Keeping Up With The Rheinlander's personal opinion.
July 7, 2013
Of course I'm a big fan of Cameron's movie, Titanic. So I was curious to see how Bill Walker was going to pull off the coup de grace and rebuild the Titanic. I was relatively surprised at how well the story pulled together. The characters are very intriguing and I began to genuinely like some of them. I didn't care for all of the references to the movie. In my opinion, it was overkill and those should have been excluded. However, the writing was crisp and quick-paced, keeping me up late turning the pages, even though I just had a feeling how it would all turn out. But, when you take on an iconic tragedy as the Titanic, it is to be expected. I haven't had the chance to read any of Bill Walker's other works, but after reading Titanic 2012, I'd definitely be interested to pick them up.
While the premise is unique, with odd bits of trivia and beautifully wrought details brought the ship to life, the characters really hold court in this suspenseful romantic tale!
While the premise is unique, with odd bits of trivia and beautifully wrought details brought the ship to life, the characters really hold court in this suspenseful romantic tale!
July 27, 2020
An odd sort of tale, Titanic 2012 is an entertaining yet somewhat macabre romance. When real estate tycoon Harlan Astor (a descendant of John Jacob Astor) secretly builds a replica of the RMS Titanic he invites an old college friend named Trevor Hughes to join him and write about the ship’s maiden voyage on the 100th anniversary of the original Titanic’s voyage; and Hughes soon finds himself falling for a mysterious women, but begins to suspect something sinister is afoot after interviewing several passengers. Written in 1998, it doesn’t get the future (2012) quite right, and the plot is a little farfetched and isn’t very realistic in how an event like this would be received and covered. However, author Bill Walker does a pretty good job at creating interesting and compelling characters, and at building mystery and intrigue. Titanic 2012 isn’t the strongest Titanic love story ever written, but it’s enjoyable enough for a pulp novel.
April 27, 2012
This book was fantastic!! I felt like I was there on that magnificent ship and was filled with excitement to see how the voyage would play out. The characters were well written and I loved some of them, others…not so much.
The story took a very different direction than I thought it was going to, and I was surprised by how it ended. But…it worked!! Looking back, there were a few clues to how it was going to pan out, but I didn’t look deep enough I guess, but I’m glad I didn’t. The ending caught me off guard and made the book even more thrilling!
As you can tell, I loved this book and it will stay in my memory for a very long time. I highly recommend it and can’t wait to read another of his books!!
The story took a very different direction than I thought it was going to, and I was surprised by how it ended. But…it worked!! Looking back, there were a few clues to how it was going to pan out, but I didn’t look deep enough I guess, but I’m glad I didn’t. The ending caught me off guard and made the book even more thrilling!
As you can tell, I loved this book and it will stay in my memory for a very long time. I highly recommend it and can’t wait to read another of his books!!
October 21, 2015
Interesting take on a boat well known. I had the feeling it was a ship of the dying after the first interview, It seemed fitting seeing that the original Titanic took so many lives. Guess I've given away the whole bloody details, but there is still much more to this than meets the eye. The ending was, I thought, very fitting, and I felt bad for the one left behind. After a shipboard romance, just a little different from Jack and Rose, but none the less, sad the ones chosen to take the tour felt this was better than letting nature take it's course. Good Read, and I did enjoy the ride. Titanic is a boat of wonder and beauty, one that we all feel compelled to ride, again and again, now we have two to choose from.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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