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The Enceladons #1
The Space Between Us
Lennox is a troubled teenager with no family. Ava is eight months pregnant and fleeing her abusive husband. Heather is a grieving mother and cancer sufferer. They don't know each other, but when a meteor streaks over Edinburgh, all three suffer instant, catastrophic strokes...only to wake up the following day in hospital, miraculously recovered. When news reaches them of an octopus-like creature washed up on the shore near where the meteor came to earth, Lennox senses that some extra-terrestrial force is at play.
With the help of Ava, Heather, and a journalist named Ewan, he rescues the alien - who they christen 'Sandy' - and goes on the run. But they aren't the only ones with an interest in Sandy. Close behind are Ava's husband, the police, and a government unit who wants to capture the creature at all costs...
With the help of Ava, Heather, and a journalist named Ewan, he rescues the alien - who they christen 'Sandy' - and goes on the run. But they aren't the only ones with an interest in Sandy. Close behind are Ava's husband, the police, and a government unit who wants to capture the creature at all costs...
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First published January 19, 2023
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About the author
Doug Johnstone
29 books251 followersDoug Johnstone is a writer, musician and journalist based in Edinburgh. His fourth novel, Hit & Run, was published by Faber and Faber in 2012. His previous novel, Smokeheads, was published in March 2011, also by Faber. Before that he published two novels with Penguin, Tombstoning (2006) and The Ossians (2008), which received praise from the likes of Irvine Welsh, Ian Rankin and Christopher Brookmyre. Doug is currently writer in residence at the University of Strathclyde. He has had short stories appear in various publications, and since 1999 he has worked as a freelance arts journalist, primarily covering music and literature. He grew up in Arbroath and lives in Portobello, Edinburgh with his wife and two children. He loves drinking malt whisky and playing football, not necessarily at the same time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 364 reviews
January 30, 2023
Actual rating: 3.5/5 stars
One ordinary afternoon on the Edinburgh beach, a display of lights in the sky, the stranding of a mysterious squid and a series of unexplained strokes suffered by bystanders connect the lives of our three protagonists. Lennox is a teenage boy struggling with his identity and feeling like he doesn’t belong. Ava is heavily pregnant and on the run from an abusive relationship, in search of a new place to call home. Heather has lost all hope of ever finding that feeling of home again, after losing her daughter to cancer, and now suffering a terminal diagnosis herself as well.
What follows is a thought provoking character-driven first-contact sci-fi novel that explores themes of connection, loneliness and language in the face of meeting a life-form who’s understanding of those things is completely alien from our own.
What I liked:
The Space Between Us reminded me of one of my favourite sci-fi movies Arrival, and although I don’t think it’s quite as brilliant as that movie, I still really appreciated what it did. The story shines in its portrayal of these three protagonists, and the interweaving of their storylines. There’s a deep sense of loneliness to all of them at the start, and their journey of connection to each other, themselves and the humans around them is a wonderful one to witness. Ironically wonderful, as it took an alien visitor to begin with. Without spoiling any of their story- and character-arcs, Heather, Ava and Lennox were all well-rounded and memorable character, and I enjoyed their arcs equally.
Speaking off the alien visitor: “Sandy”, as they call, is one of my favourite types of literary alien. The closest comparison, again, is the Arrival-aliens; sentient enough to communicate, but so completely alien that their comprehension of some concepts is so different from our human ones. In this case, those concepts being “connection”, rather than time in the case of Arrival-. The implications that has on communication, understanding and even the way we view ourselves is wonderfully explored here.
What I didn’t like:
When it comes to sci-fi, I’m very good at suspending my disbelieve. Squid-aliens touching down on earth? Sure. Telepathic communication? Hell yeah.
However, when it comes the realistic elements within a sci-fi novel, I want them to actually be rooted in reality. For that reason I was immediately annoyed with the first few chapters of this novel, especially with the ridiculous depiction of the hospital-scenes. Since it’s mentioned in the synopsis, and happens in the first few chapters, I don’t consider this a spoiler; the inciting incident involves our protagonists suffering a simultaneous, unexplained stroke and waking up within the hospital afterwards. What follows is a scene in which they’re all in a multi-patient open room, having woken up not 5 minutes earlier, only for a doctor (read: walking-plot-vehicle-of-exposition) to walk in and explain in detail what happened. This involves exposing patient-sensitive medical info to other patients (hello HIPAA violations!!), discharging patients mere minutes after suffering massive strokes and potential brain-damage, and quite a few medical inaccuracies that can’t be explained by “magic-alien-stroke”. The entire sequence reads incredibly amateurish on an exposition level, and feels written by someone who has never experienced a hospitalization themselves. As a chronically ill, cancer-survivor and MD: this stuff bothers me personally more than it might most.
The second element to knock of a star involves a spoiler; namely the inclusion of a trope that I personally detest. SPOILERS AHEAD.
As a testament to how good the rest of the story was, I will still recommend it as a first-contact sci-fi novel, for those in the market for it. On the level of disability-representation, for which some of you know me, it’s a no for me.
Many thanks to Orenda Books and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
One ordinary afternoon on the Edinburgh beach, a display of lights in the sky, the stranding of a mysterious squid and a series of unexplained strokes suffered by bystanders connect the lives of our three protagonists. Lennox is a teenage boy struggling with his identity and feeling like he doesn’t belong. Ava is heavily pregnant and on the run from an abusive relationship, in search of a new place to call home. Heather has lost all hope of ever finding that feeling of home again, after losing her daughter to cancer, and now suffering a terminal diagnosis herself as well.
What follows is a thought provoking character-driven first-contact sci-fi novel that explores themes of connection, loneliness and language in the face of meeting a life-form who’s understanding of those things is completely alien from our own.
What I liked:
The Space Between Us reminded me of one of my favourite sci-fi movies Arrival, and although I don’t think it’s quite as brilliant as that movie, I still really appreciated what it did. The story shines in its portrayal of these three protagonists, and the interweaving of their storylines. There’s a deep sense of loneliness to all of them at the start, and their journey of connection to each other, themselves and the humans around them is a wonderful one to witness. Ironically wonderful, as it took an alien visitor to begin with. Without spoiling any of their story- and character-arcs, Heather, Ava and Lennox were all well-rounded and memorable character, and I enjoyed their arcs equally.
Speaking off the alien visitor: “Sandy”, as they call, is one of my favourite types of literary alien. The closest comparison, again, is the Arrival-aliens; sentient enough to communicate, but so completely alien that their comprehension of some concepts is so different from our human ones. In this case, those concepts being “connection”, rather than time in the case of Arrival-. The implications that has on communication, understanding and even the way we view ourselves is wonderfully explored here.
What I didn’t like:
When it comes to sci-fi, I’m very good at suspending my disbelieve. Squid-aliens touching down on earth? Sure. Telepathic communication? Hell yeah.
However, when it comes the realistic elements within a sci-fi novel, I want them to actually be rooted in reality. For that reason I was immediately annoyed with the first few chapters of this novel, especially with the ridiculous depiction of the hospital-scenes. Since it’s mentioned in the synopsis, and happens in the first few chapters, I don’t consider this a spoiler; the inciting incident involves our protagonists suffering a simultaneous, unexplained stroke and waking up within the hospital afterwards. What follows is a scene in which they’re all in a multi-patient open room, having woken up not 5 minutes earlier, only for a doctor (read: walking-plot-vehicle-of-exposition) to walk in and explain in detail what happened. This involves exposing patient-sensitive medical info to other patients (hello HIPAA violations!!), discharging patients mere minutes after suffering massive strokes and potential brain-damage, and quite a few medical inaccuracies that can’t be explained by “magic-alien-stroke”. The entire sequence reads incredibly amateurish on an exposition level, and feels written by someone who has never experienced a hospitalization themselves. As a chronically ill, cancer-survivor and MD: this stuff bothers me personally more than it might most.
The second element to knock of a star involves a spoiler; namely the inclusion of a trope that I personally detest. SPOILERS AHEAD.
As a testament to how good the rest of the story was, I will still recommend it as a first-contact sci-fi novel, for those in the market for it. On the level of disability-representation, for which some of you know me, it’s a no for me.
Many thanks to Orenda Books and Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
January 16, 2023
I do not read sci-fi. Just putting it put there before I am inundated with review requests. It's not my preferred genre and whilst I have a very scientific mind, it's just not a genre I've ever been engaged by. If there was one author I would be willing to make an exception for, then it is Doug Johnstone. I love his writing style and I know that he can be trusted to deliver a book which goes far beyond what the blurb may suggest.
This is absolutely the case with The Space Between Us which, whilst having it's roots - or perhaps tentacles - in science-fiction, goes far beyond a simple first contact story with a being from another planet, into a story which is an exquisite look at human nature, a need to find our place in life, and the trials and harsh tribulations we endure on our journey. Yes, Sandy - the alien life form in question - is an intrinsic part of this story, the reason that binds three very different people in one united quest, but they are not all this story is about. They are a conduit, a channel through which our focus and attention flies while we contemplate the much bigger picture. Loss, loneliness, and domestic violence all feature and inform the story combining to create a novel which I didn't want to end.
The story begins as our three main protagonists face very different twists in their fate. Lennox is a teenager living in care, faced with the wrath of some local bullies. Heavily pregnant Eva is trying to find a way to escape and abusive marriage. Heather is deep in grief, mourning the loss of her daughter and her own failing health. All of them have one thing in common - they are all outside when a mysterious light passes over Edinburgh, one which causes people to black out and to suffer from debilitating, if not fatal, strokes. The three make a miraculous recovery, and, drawn together by their experience, set out to find out just why they thrived where others did not. This brings them face to tentacle with 'Sandy', an octopus style creature which has washed up on a nearby shore.
For me , the wonderful characters that Doug Johnstone has developed are what really drew me into the story. I could really feel Lennox's defiance and his need to feel like he belongs. The bond he formed with Sandy, that closeness that surpasses anything that Ava or Heather feel, really pulled me into the story. The communication between them, the understanding, is reminiscent of the bond between a certain short legged, waddling alien with an obscenely long finger from a well loved 80's movie, and his new friend Ell-ee-ot, but there is so much more to Sandy, a real cognisance which helps to develop our understanding of what is happening. It is a beautiful bond
As for Ava, her journey is as much emotional as it is a literal. Breaking free from a marriage marred by coercive control and a constant threat of violence, and reconnecting with family she though lost is truly moving, portrayed in a way which creates as much anger as it does sympathy. As for Heather, she created a mixture of emotions. At times she seems strong and fully in control, and yet the sense of loss emanates from her and her vulnerability and sadness is always there, just below the surface. Doug Johnstone is a master at manipulating our emotions and he does a brilliant job here. I felt myself willing them to succeed, not only in their quest to help Sandy, but in their personal journey. And the literal journey is fraught with danger, as they are persued not only by Ava's husband but by people who want to take Sandy for their own fortunes.
Sandy is an amazingly well imagined creature. I was actually really drawn to them, so much so I really think we need a line in Sandy plushies to accompany the book. But their journey is far more than just a bid to return home, They too are looking for a place to belong, a safe haven from violence which is very reminiscent of scenes far less galactic and much closer to home. There is a socio-political statement wrapped up in this book, subtle but effective. Its about displacement through invasion, the search for safe haven and, more importantly, finding a way to communicate even when the barriers are far more substantial than the lack of a Sandy-Scottish Duolingo course.
I wish I could adequately convey how much I loved this book. I know I've made a horlicks of it so far. But if you are looking for beautifully lyrical writing, a heartwarming, fast paced, often tense look at friendships that surpass all boundaries, an exploration of the very basic need for connection and a place to belong, then this is the book for you. As I said before, I don't read Sci-Fi, but I wouldn't hesitate for one minute to recommend this book. It's divine.
This is absolutely the case with The Space Between Us which, whilst having it's roots - or perhaps tentacles - in science-fiction, goes far beyond a simple first contact story with a being from another planet, into a story which is an exquisite look at human nature, a need to find our place in life, and the trials and harsh tribulations we endure on our journey. Yes, Sandy - the alien life form in question - is an intrinsic part of this story, the reason that binds three very different people in one united quest, but they are not all this story is about. They are a conduit, a channel through which our focus and attention flies while we contemplate the much bigger picture. Loss, loneliness, and domestic violence all feature and inform the story combining to create a novel which I didn't want to end.
The story begins as our three main protagonists face very different twists in their fate. Lennox is a teenager living in care, faced with the wrath of some local bullies. Heavily pregnant Eva is trying to find a way to escape and abusive marriage. Heather is deep in grief, mourning the loss of her daughter and her own failing health. All of them have one thing in common - they are all outside when a mysterious light passes over Edinburgh, one which causes people to black out and to suffer from debilitating, if not fatal, strokes. The three make a miraculous recovery, and, drawn together by their experience, set out to find out just why they thrived where others did not. This brings them face to tentacle with 'Sandy', an octopus style creature which has washed up on a nearby shore.
For me , the wonderful characters that Doug Johnstone has developed are what really drew me into the story. I could really feel Lennox's defiance and his need to feel like he belongs. The bond he formed with Sandy, that closeness that surpasses anything that Ava or Heather feel, really pulled me into the story. The communication between them, the understanding, is reminiscent of the bond between a certain short legged, waddling alien with an obscenely long finger from a well loved 80's movie, and his new friend Ell-ee-ot, but there is so much more to Sandy, a real cognisance which helps to develop our understanding of what is happening. It is a beautiful bond
As for Ava, her journey is as much emotional as it is a literal. Breaking free from a marriage marred by coercive control and a constant threat of violence, and reconnecting with family she though lost is truly moving, portrayed in a way which creates as much anger as it does sympathy. As for Heather, she created a mixture of emotions. At times she seems strong and fully in control, and yet the sense of loss emanates from her and her vulnerability and sadness is always there, just below the surface. Doug Johnstone is a master at manipulating our emotions and he does a brilliant job here. I felt myself willing them to succeed, not only in their quest to help Sandy, but in their personal journey. And the literal journey is fraught with danger, as they are persued not only by Ava's husband but by people who want to take Sandy for their own fortunes.
Sandy is an amazingly well imagined creature. I was actually really drawn to them, so much so I really think we need a line in Sandy plushies to accompany the book. But their journey is far more than just a bid to return home, They too are looking for a place to belong, a safe haven from violence which is very reminiscent of scenes far less galactic and much closer to home. There is a socio-political statement wrapped up in this book, subtle but effective. Its about displacement through invasion, the search for safe haven and, more importantly, finding a way to communicate even when the barriers are far more substantial than the lack of a Sandy-Scottish Duolingo course.
I wish I could adequately convey how much I loved this book. I know I've made a horlicks of it so far. But if you are looking for beautifully lyrical writing, a heartwarming, fast paced, often tense look at friendships that surpass all boundaries, an exploration of the very basic need for connection and a place to belong, then this is the book for you. As I said before, I don't read Sci-Fi, but I wouldn't hesitate for one minute to recommend this book. It's divine.
July 16, 2023
I absolutely LOVED this book!! Despite having no idea what to expect I bought it as it was recommended on BBC Between The Covers; which is usually a safe bet.
Structurally it is a fairly short book (273 pages) but it certainly packs a punch. Every word is chosen with such care and precision. The chapters are short and there is clear swapping between different characters POVs. It is a fast paced storyline; you find yourself reading faster and faster, flipping page over page. It is so unique and brilliantly told that you have to stop for a minute and look up, take a breather before jumping back in.
It is however one book that a synopsis simply can’t compare to the wild ride of a story you are in for. But there is a brilliant cast; A heavily pregnant woman, a brain tumour patient and a teenage boy all connected…oh yes and by an octopus-like creature. They go on the run through Scotland…what are they running from and why? and what they find along the way…you can only read for yourself to find out.
Maybe it’s the octopus like creature but there were definitely vibes of remarkably bright creatures throughout the book. I find myself slowly falling in love with these remarkable sea creatures.
And lastly, It’s rare I say this but I would love to see this book made into a movie; I think the visuals, particularly towards the end, would be incredible! But either way I would highly recommend this book.
Structurally it is a fairly short book (273 pages) but it certainly packs a punch. Every word is chosen with such care and precision. The chapters are short and there is clear swapping between different characters POVs. It is a fast paced storyline; you find yourself reading faster and faster, flipping page over page. It is so unique and brilliantly told that you have to stop for a minute and look up, take a breather before jumping back in.
It is however one book that a synopsis simply can’t compare to the wild ride of a story you are in for. But there is a brilliant cast; A heavily pregnant woman, a brain tumour patient and a teenage boy all connected…oh yes and by an octopus-like creature. They go on the run through Scotland…what are they running from and why? and what they find along the way…you can only read for yourself to find out.
Maybe it’s the octopus like creature but there were definitely vibes of remarkably bright creatures throughout the book. I find myself slowly falling in love with these remarkable sea creatures.
And lastly, It’s rare I say this but I would love to see this book made into a movie; I think the visuals, particularly towards the end, would be incredible! But either way I would highly recommend this book.
November 6, 2023
Setting: Scotland, UK; modern day.
Near Edinburgh: Lennox is 16 years old and living in a children's home - one night, making his way home, he is confronted by a gang of bullies from his school who set about him. Then they all hear a strange noise and see flashing blue lights in the sky, Lennox gets a strong smell of biscuits - and then nothing...
Meanwhile, pregnant Ava is leaving her abusive and controlling husband Michael - driving off in his Mercedes, she suddenly sees bright blue lights in the sky which cause her to black out and crash the car onto the beach...
And Heather, whose daughter died of leukemia and who herself has been diagnosed with a brain tumour, has loaded her pockets with stones and waded out into the sea also sees the bright blue lights just as she is about to go under the water - and then remembers nothing else...
...until all three wake up in the same hospital ward where a doctor explains that they have each suffered cerebral strokes but have also fully recovered. Many other people who saw the blue lights were not so lucky, including the group of bullies who were targeting Lennox, the ringleader being in a coma in an adjacent bed and the rest dead at the scene.
Lennox, Ava and Heather all realise that they have been part of something special and realise that they must return to the beach where Heather was saved and where, according to the news, a strange octopus-like creature has washed up on the shore. Gathering there on the following day, Lennox touches the creature and is immediately peppered with visions of an alien planet and a species struggling to survive, who need their help.
Lennox, Ava and Heather rescue the creature from the beach - which Lennox calls 'Sandy' - and set out on a road trip to keep Sandy safe and to help in whatever way they can. A local journalist, Ewan, tasked with following up on the story, also becomes inadvertently involved with the trio and soon the four of them, together with 'Sandy', are on a road trip to the north of Scotland - pursued by the police, Ava's husband Michael and a sinister group of armed men led by someone from the security services.....
This character-drive novel, told from their own points of view, certainly requires 'suspension of disbelief' for the science fiction and some of the medical elements of the tale - yet it is also a tale of solidarity in the face of adversity and compassion, even where there is a lack of understanding, and for this the portrayal of the main characters is excellent and I really found myself rooting for them throughout the book. There are several interesting twists and turns in the tale as the 'chase' proceeds, leading up to a violent confrontation - and it is only the sudden and somewhat inconclusive ending that prevented me awarding 5 stars (although I believe there may be a follow-up book/s?). Still a solid 4 star rating from me and an enjoyable read from this author, whose excellent crime novels I have also sampled - 9/10.
Near Edinburgh: Lennox is 16 years old and living in a children's home - one night, making his way home, he is confronted by a gang of bullies from his school who set about him. Then they all hear a strange noise and see flashing blue lights in the sky, Lennox gets a strong smell of biscuits - and then nothing...
Meanwhile, pregnant Ava is leaving her abusive and controlling husband Michael - driving off in his Mercedes, she suddenly sees bright blue lights in the sky which cause her to black out and crash the car onto the beach...
And Heather, whose daughter died of leukemia and who herself has been diagnosed with a brain tumour, has loaded her pockets with stones and waded out into the sea also sees the bright blue lights just as she is about to go under the water - and then remembers nothing else...
...until all three wake up in the same hospital ward where a doctor explains that they have each suffered cerebral strokes but have also fully recovered. Many other people who saw the blue lights were not so lucky, including the group of bullies who were targeting Lennox, the ringleader being in a coma in an adjacent bed and the rest dead at the scene.
Lennox, Ava and Heather all realise that they have been part of something special and realise that they must return to the beach where Heather was saved and where, according to the news, a strange octopus-like creature has washed up on the shore. Gathering there on the following day, Lennox touches the creature and is immediately peppered with visions of an alien planet and a species struggling to survive, who need their help.
Lennox, Ava and Heather rescue the creature from the beach - which Lennox calls 'Sandy' - and set out on a road trip to keep Sandy safe and to help in whatever way they can. A local journalist, Ewan, tasked with following up on the story, also becomes inadvertently involved with the trio and soon the four of them, together with 'Sandy', are on a road trip to the north of Scotland - pursued by the police, Ava's husband Michael and a sinister group of armed men led by someone from the security services.....
This character-drive novel, told from their own points of view, certainly requires 'suspension of disbelief' for the science fiction and some of the medical elements of the tale - yet it is also a tale of solidarity in the face of adversity and compassion, even where there is a lack of understanding, and for this the portrayal of the main characters is excellent and I really found myself rooting for them throughout the book. There are several interesting twists and turns in the tale as the 'chase' proceeds, leading up to a violent confrontation - and it is only the sudden and somewhat inconclusive ending that prevented me awarding 5 stars (although I believe there may be a follow-up book/s?). Still a solid 4 star rating from me and an enjoyable read from this author, whose excellent crime novels I have also sampled - 9/10.
March 28, 2023
The space between us is such an apt title for a book that is more about human relationships than first contact with aliens, even though the central character is an alien with remarkable qualities and abilities, the story line is also totally focused on the outcome of the interaction with the alien 'Sandy', however, it is the inspection of the circumstances of the three or four humans that drive the story in such a successful way. This is a fabulous book about human interactions and issues of the main characters in our current society thrust together by the central alien character(s). The book had me gripped from the first page, it is almost unputdownable and unpredictable in its twists and turns, every page left me wanting more.
An excellent five star read, well done Doug Johnstone a superb storyteller.
An excellent five star read, well done Doug Johnstone a superb storyteller.
May 11, 2023
An octopus with only 5 arms - so a pentapus actually - is an alien life form that is stuck on a beach an which is trying to get back to its family. Three people who have suffered a exceptional stroke and miraculously got cured immediately team up with a journalist to help the octopus named Sandy. They can communicate with him via telepathy and he - well they- guide them to the right body of water where the rest are. Time is of the essence as the government is on their tails wanting to dissect Sandy for more insights. If you get a high level of "ET phone home" at this point, you would be correct. The whole story is very similar and if the domestic violence that is inflicted on Ava the pregnant woman, would have been more muted, the book would actually be a good YA recommendation.
I found the story a bit juvenile, maybe because it really reminded me of ET so much, but the thing that really irked me is that the octopus is referred to a plural. I found it very confusing and not adding any value to the story. The book is very well written and very fluent and I'm sure it will appeal to a large audience. But for me, it just lacked some depth.
A sincere thank you to NetGalley, Independent Publishers Group, Orenda Books and the author for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I found the story a bit juvenile, maybe because it really reminded me of ET so much, but the thing that really irked me is that the octopus is referred to a plural. I found it very confusing and not adding any value to the story. The book is very well written and very fluent and I'm sure it will appeal to a large audience. But for me, it just lacked some depth.
A sincere thank you to NetGalley, Independent Publishers Group, Orenda Books and the author for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
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April 20, 2025A disillusioned teen, a terminal cancer patient, a pregnant woman on the run from an abusive husband and a telepathic alien octopus called Sandy who has fled to earth after his home world (one of Saturn’s moons) was invaded by a bunch of terrifying crows.
Chased across Scotland by a shadowy organisation and a psycho husband, they end up in Ullapool where they find the rest of Sandy’s octopi friends hiding under Loch Broom. What does it all mean? I have no idea.
This was right up my street, full of wonderment, life affirming moments and of course completely and utterly bonkers. Definitely exciting enough to make me run for book 2.
Chased across Scotland by a shadowy organisation and a psycho husband, they end up in Ullapool where they find the rest of Sandy’s octopi friends hiding under Loch Broom. What does it all mean? I have no idea.
This was right up my street, full of wonderment, life affirming moments and of course completely and utterly bonkers. Definitely exciting enough to make me run for book 2.
May 21, 2024
2* and I’m being generous. I received a signed copy of the 2nd book in this series with my quarterly book subscription service. I say this to emphasise the point that if I hadn’t, this would have easily been a DNF.
The author is part of the Tartan Noir group of Scottish crime writers so clearly the publisher is hoping his foray into science fiction will take off. Ironically the police procedural stuff in this novel is the worst of it, so I’ve absolutely no desire to read his crime novels. There is also not much science in this here fiction.
Essentially the plot is: a mass of people have a run in with aliens, all have a stroke and die (or whatever, who cares) but 3 of them survive and decide to help the alien(s) run form the police and MI7 (extraterrestrial branch - I’m not kidding); chasing them in big black SUVs, not a helicopter, because common sense isn’t part of this story. That’s it. Witch Mountain rip off?
The entire book is a soap opera of traumatic life experiences (does no one have a normal upbringing these days?!) and a chase through the highlands of Scotland.
There is a ridiculous subplot where the pregnant female character Ava is in an abusive marriage, and through a series of misunderstandings the teenage character Lennox is accused of abducting her. So the police are chasing them. A simple call to the police (there is even a friendly female police detective that would easily have been sympathetic to her plight) to explain her situation would have stopped that. But no, the husband is charming and rich and connected, and blah blah blah. Just…fuck off!
It’s stupid. The plot is stupid, the characters are stupid, the science (whatever it is) is stupid, everyone behaves stupidly.
This is me in a real life scenario if I ever saw an alien:
Me: Wtf is that?!
X: It’s an alien.
Me: No seriously, what is it?
X: No joke, it’s an alien.
Me: OK mate, sure it is. (Looks closely). Wait, THATS A FUCKING ALIEN! OMG, we need to tell someone, this is mental, THATS A FUCKING ALIEN! What do they want? Where does it come from? Is it dangerous? OMG I’m breathing in its air! WAIT…IT TOUCHED ME! Am I going to die? THATS A FUCKING ALIEN!
(Proceeds to scream nonstop for 5-10 minutes. Guy in Galaxy Quest, that’s me)
This book however:
X: Oh look, it’s an alien. Touching it killed multiple people by giving them a stroke, but we survived. Cool…anyway let’s pick it up and run away with it.
(Enter reporter character)
Reporter: Hey everyone, I secretly followed you…what is that? Is that an alien?
X: Yes, it’s an alien. Even though it looks like an octopus.
Reporter: An octopus has 8 arms, this has 5.
X: Meh, let’s continue to call it an octopus…because cephalopod to too difficult to say in casual conversation.
Reporter: Ok…anyway, the police are looking for you.
Its takes until 70% (Kindles don’t lie) before any questions are asked. At no point in the journey to that point does any conversation happen where they ask the alien(s) anything. Or even have a meaningful conversation between themselves.
Sandy (the alien or collection of aliens) has the ability to assess our entire internet in all its glory, but seems to have the inability to correctly term anything. For example, when asked where they are, Sandy responds: “We are in the travel-device”. You mean the fucking car Sandy!!!
The characters are constantly on their phones, making calls, searching the web for newsfeeds; and yet law enforcement can’t find them. It’s not like the old days where you need to stay on the line for 3 mins. As soon as you connect to a cellular network, you’re fucked.
In the hospital, multiple people have a stroke: some dead, some unconscious, 3 survived. To paraphrase the doctors conversation: Listen, I know you’ve just woke up 5 minutes ago, but you 3 can go home now. I know that one of you has terminal cancer and one is 8 months pregnant, but honestly I’m sure you’ll be fine. No, we don’t need to observe you or run anymore tests. Yeah, I’m sure it’s just a coincidence. Off you pop now, we need the beds.
The author also has a lip fetish. There are constant references to characters chewing, sticking out or pressing lips. Wtf dude, I get it, you’re a lip biter.
All in all, it’s a Disneyfied, poorly written Paul, without the humour, character development or established first contact tropes…or entertainment.
I’m already questioning whether to read the 2nd book.
Who knows, maybe I could add it to the audio-control-application on my communication-tool and listen to it while in my travel-device. Maybe then it would be more enjoyable. I doubt it, but you never know.
The author is part of the Tartan Noir group of Scottish crime writers so clearly the publisher is hoping his foray into science fiction will take off. Ironically the police procedural stuff in this novel is the worst of it, so I’ve absolutely no desire to read his crime novels. There is also not much science in this here fiction.
Essentially the plot is: a mass of people have a run in with aliens, all have a stroke and die (or whatever, who cares) but 3 of them survive and decide to help the alien(s) run form the police and MI7 (extraterrestrial branch - I’m not kidding); chasing them in big black SUVs, not a helicopter, because common sense isn’t part of this story. That’s it. Witch Mountain rip off?
The entire book is a soap opera of traumatic life experiences (does no one have a normal upbringing these days?!) and a chase through the highlands of Scotland.
There is a ridiculous subplot where the pregnant female character Ava is in an abusive marriage, and through a series of misunderstandings the teenage character Lennox is accused of abducting her. So the police are chasing them. A simple call to the police (there is even a friendly female police detective that would easily have been sympathetic to her plight) to explain her situation would have stopped that. But no, the husband is charming and rich and connected, and blah blah blah. Just…fuck off!
It’s stupid. The plot is stupid, the characters are stupid, the science (whatever it is) is stupid, everyone behaves stupidly.
This is me in a real life scenario if I ever saw an alien:
Me: Wtf is that?!
X: It’s an alien.
Me: No seriously, what is it?
X: No joke, it’s an alien.
Me: OK mate, sure it is. (Looks closely). Wait, THATS A FUCKING ALIEN! OMG, we need to tell someone, this is mental, THATS A FUCKING ALIEN! What do they want? Where does it come from? Is it dangerous? OMG I’m breathing in its air! WAIT…IT TOUCHED ME! Am I going to die? THATS A FUCKING ALIEN!
(Proceeds to scream nonstop for 5-10 minutes. Guy in Galaxy Quest, that’s me)
This book however:
X: Oh look, it’s an alien. Touching it killed multiple people by giving them a stroke, but we survived. Cool…anyway let’s pick it up and run away with it.
(Enter reporter character)
Reporter: Hey everyone, I secretly followed you…what is that? Is that an alien?
X: Yes, it’s an alien. Even though it looks like an octopus.
Reporter: An octopus has 8 arms, this has 5.
X: Meh, let’s continue to call it an octopus…because cephalopod to too difficult to say in casual conversation.
Reporter: Ok…anyway, the police are looking for you.
Its takes until 70% (Kindles don’t lie) before any questions are asked. At no point in the journey to that point does any conversation happen where they ask the alien(s) anything. Or even have a meaningful conversation between themselves.
Sandy (the alien or collection of aliens) has the ability to assess our entire internet in all its glory, but seems to have the inability to correctly term anything. For example, when asked where they are, Sandy responds: “We are in the travel-device”. You mean the fucking car Sandy!!!
The characters are constantly on their phones, making calls, searching the web for newsfeeds; and yet law enforcement can’t find them. It’s not like the old days where you need to stay on the line for 3 mins. As soon as you connect to a cellular network, you’re fucked.
In the hospital, multiple people have a stroke: some dead, some unconscious, 3 survived. To paraphrase the doctors conversation: Listen, I know you’ve just woke up 5 minutes ago, but you 3 can go home now. I know that one of you has terminal cancer and one is 8 months pregnant, but honestly I’m sure you’ll be fine. No, we don’t need to observe you or run anymore tests. Yeah, I’m sure it’s just a coincidence. Off you pop now, we need the beds.
The author also has a lip fetish. There are constant references to characters chewing, sticking out or pressing lips. Wtf dude, I get it, you’re a lip biter.
All in all, it’s a Disneyfied, poorly written Paul, without the humour, character development or established first contact tropes…or entertainment.
I’m already questioning whether to read the 2nd book.
Who knows, maybe I could add it to the audio-control-application on my communication-tool and listen to it while in my travel-device. Maybe then it would be more enjoyable. I doubt it, but you never know.
January 24, 2023
"It finally made sense, the idea that Sandy was plural. We all are. And the human idea of being singular, apart, alone, was a ridiculous way of looking at life."
An out-of-this-world, mesmerising first-contact story about the striking importance and impact of true connection. Now, this is not at all what I expected from Doug - I've adored his writing in the past, in it's dark, gritty criminal glory but this is an absolutely majestic change of pace that he has undeniably nailed. He has a way of capturing the essence of something so deeply human and real, then laying it bare on the pages amongst a story for us to watch and wonder.
This intriguing novel is a refreshing sci-fi journey set in modern Scotland, that reads so easily it could've only been written by a master of their craft. I devoured the entire thing in one sitting, disconnecting myself from the outside world and transported to one so familiar but so strange.
Each of out characters were deeply personable, instantly recognisable with their distinct voices as we hear from each perspective; the switches happening smoothly, quietly telling us that they are all part of something larger if we can just find the link. All of them are suffering with something, looking for a way out but never really knowing what that could look like. The relationships between them grew beautifully, a connection and bond forming not only over their shared experiences but something much more meaningful as they recognise something within each other.
Their journey to find out more about Sandy and his kind was fraught with obstacles, both personal and from the outside, but as they sped towards their destination with determination, they work together to get through every single absurd series of events that was thrown their way. I felt their anxiety, their fear, but also the love and understanding they were learning to find.
An adrenaline-filled astral adventure, with a tender and authentic introspection about the beauty of true human connection that really can traverse the space between us.
An out-of-this-world, mesmerising first-contact story about the striking importance and impact of true connection. Now, this is not at all what I expected from Doug - I've adored his writing in the past, in it's dark, gritty criminal glory but this is an absolutely majestic change of pace that he has undeniably nailed. He has a way of capturing the essence of something so deeply human and real, then laying it bare on the pages amongst a story for us to watch and wonder.
This intriguing novel is a refreshing sci-fi journey set in modern Scotland, that reads so easily it could've only been written by a master of their craft. I devoured the entire thing in one sitting, disconnecting myself from the outside world and transported to one so familiar but so strange.
Each of out characters were deeply personable, instantly recognisable with their distinct voices as we hear from each perspective; the switches happening smoothly, quietly telling us that they are all part of something larger if we can just find the link. All of them are suffering with something, looking for a way out but never really knowing what that could look like. The relationships between them grew beautifully, a connection and bond forming not only over their shared experiences but something much more meaningful as they recognise something within each other.
Their journey to find out more about Sandy and his kind was fraught with obstacles, both personal and from the outside, but as they sped towards their destination with determination, they work together to get through every single absurd series of events that was thrown their way. I felt their anxiety, their fear, but also the love and understanding they were learning to find.
An adrenaline-filled astral adventure, with a tender and authentic introspection about the beauty of true human connection that really can traverse the space between us.
March 20, 2023
I don't understand the very high ratings this book has received. Perhaps from fans of his crime novels, who don't normally read fantasy/scifi?
It was OK, quite exciting, but a bit schmaltzy, with very B&W heroes and villains. The M17 guys were like parodies. The husband was a paper cut-out, all he needed was a moustache to twirl. I was expecting to be blown away, having read such glowing reviews.
It was OK, quite exciting, but a bit schmaltzy, with very B&W heroes and villains. The M17 guys were like parodies. The husband was a paper cut-out, all he needed was a moustache to twirl. I was expecting to be blown away, having read such glowing reviews.
January 31, 2023
an unlikely trio experience identical strokes when an octopus washes up on the shore. lennox, a boy from a group home who is bullied, ava, a pregnant woman with an abusive husband, and heather, an older woman with terminal brain cancer, are all outside at the same time when they see a bright light and have strokes. they all three miraculously recover, and are bound together to save the creature on the beach.
this is a beautiful novel, at moments it brought me to tears. this is not your average alien story, oh no. doug johnstone breathes life into all of his characters as they travel through scotland. incredibly emotional and moving, this is a phenomenal tale of friendship and family. love, patience, and acceptance are bold themes in this piece. this has quickly become one of my favorite novels. i love you sandy!!!!
thank you so much to netgalley and the publisher for this phenomenal arc in exchange for an honest review!
this is a beautiful novel, at moments it brought me to tears. this is not your average alien story, oh no. doug johnstone breathes life into all of his characters as they travel through scotland. incredibly emotional and moving, this is a phenomenal tale of friendship and family. love, patience, and acceptance are bold themes in this piece. this has quickly become one of my favorite novels. i love you sandy!!!!
thank you so much to netgalley and the publisher for this phenomenal arc in exchange for an honest review!
January 28, 2023
A well written and riveting speculative fiction, a thought provoking novel and solid sci-fi.
I liked the style of writing, the storytelling and the solid plot that kept me turning pages.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
I liked the style of writing, the storytelling and the solid plot that kept me turning pages.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
March 3, 2023
Lennox is a teenager living in a children’s home. One night, he gets attacked by a gang of bullies, when a throb of light sweeps over them. They all black out.
Ava is eight months pregnant, married to Michael, who is abusive and controlling. One night, she crushes some pills into his food, packs a bag, takes his car, and drives away. Like Lennox, she sees the light and passes out.
Heather is terminally ill with brain tumour. One night, she she’s on the beach with stones stuffed inside her pockets, wanting to commit suicide. She also sees the light and loses consciousness…
The three of them wake up at the hospital occupying the same ward, where they are told they suffered an extremely rare form of stroke. What’s more confusing is the fact that they all fully recovered before they received any medical treatment.
During that night, a creature resembling an octopus (but not exactly an octopus as it possesses five tentacles instead of eight) washes up on the beach in East Lothian.
Lennox, Ava, and Heather feel a pull towards the creature, which Lennox names Sandy. They need to get to them to help them…
Ewan is a journalist who is following the story as it unfolds. However, whether he likes it or not, he gets entangled with Lennox, Ava, and Heather, and he ends up helping them in their quest.
The quartet soon discover that they have Ava’s husband on their heels, followed by local police, and the government officials… Can they help Sandy?
I absolutely LOVED this book (I had to write it in capitals). I felt the storyline was fresh and exciting.
I don’t normally go for science/ alien fiction, but as a child I was pretty obsessed with The X-Files, and this book felt like an episode of my childhood’s favourite series.
I fell in love with Sandy – such a gentle giant and I adored how they talked. I found conversations between Sandy and Lennox quite amusing and funny.
The road trip across Scotland was ace (but then I am biased as I live in Scotland!).
Once more, Team Orenda has done it!!
I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
Ava is eight months pregnant, married to Michael, who is abusive and controlling. One night, she crushes some pills into his food, packs a bag, takes his car, and drives away. Like Lennox, she sees the light and passes out.
Heather is terminally ill with brain tumour. One night, she she’s on the beach with stones stuffed inside her pockets, wanting to commit suicide. She also sees the light and loses consciousness…
The three of them wake up at the hospital occupying the same ward, where they are told they suffered an extremely rare form of stroke. What’s more confusing is the fact that they all fully recovered before they received any medical treatment.
During that night, a creature resembling an octopus (but not exactly an octopus as it possesses five tentacles instead of eight) washes up on the beach in East Lothian.
Lennox, Ava, and Heather feel a pull towards the creature, which Lennox names Sandy. They need to get to them to help them…
Ewan is a journalist who is following the story as it unfolds. However, whether he likes it or not, he gets entangled with Lennox, Ava, and Heather, and he ends up helping them in their quest.
The quartet soon discover that they have Ava’s husband on their heels, followed by local police, and the government officials… Can they help Sandy?
I absolutely LOVED this book (I had to write it in capitals). I felt the storyline was fresh and exciting.
I don’t normally go for science/ alien fiction, but as a child I was pretty obsessed with The X-Files, and this book felt like an episode of my childhood’s favourite series.
I fell in love with Sandy – such a gentle giant and I adored how they talked. I found conversations between Sandy and Lennox quite amusing and funny.
The road trip across Scotland was ace (but then I am biased as I live in Scotland!).
Once more, Team Orenda has done it!!
I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
April 27, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book! The writing was solid, easy to get through. I really liked Sandy and the other characters in this book. There was mystery, action and different POVs, which I all enjoyed.
I do feel like the ending was quite predictable, I could guess most parts of the ending. I also felt like I couldn't really connect to the characters. And that's the main reason I give the book 3 stars. I think it didn't make me FEEL enough.
All kudos to Sandy, the alien creature.
I enjoyed this book! The writing was solid, easy to get through. I really liked Sandy and the other characters in this book. There was mystery, action and different POVs, which I all enjoyed.
I do feel like the ending was quite predictable, I could guess most parts of the ending. I also felt like I couldn't really connect to the characters. And that's the main reason I give the book 3 stars. I think it didn't make me FEEL enough.
All kudos to Sandy, the alien creature.
June 24, 2023
Despite a set up that was right up my alley, this really didn't work for me. Writing style of the "tell not show" school and a wide-eyed Disneyfied alien that makes The Flight of The Navigator feel like Alien combine to make this in the "not my cup of tea" category. Maybe it's just because I'm grumpy and bitter and this wasn't though. Your mileage and all that.
September 19, 2023
Sandy is the catalyst for change in the lives of three disparate people. There is Lennox: a sixteen-year-old outsider who lives in a group home. He has learned that he can only trust himself. Heather is also alone: she is divorced, and grieving her daughter’s death. She has an incurable brain tumor which makes her choose to commit suicide. Ava is married to an abusive and controlling man whom she lacks the confidence to leave. Eight months pregnant, and distant from her mother and sister, she is also alone. Together, Lennox, Heather, and Ava form a kinship as they team up to help and protect Sandy.
Sandy is an alien from outer space that crashes into Yellowcraig Beach, located in Scotland; he also is alone. He resembles an octopus with just a few differences: he has only five tentacles, can live outside of water, squish his large frame to fit into a backpack, and has a calming, blue-green glow. Lennox is the first to gain entry to Sandy’s multiple consciousnesses. By touching him, Lennox can experience all that Sandy has ever experienced. Now able to intuit each other’s thoughts, Sandy asks him to “Help Us”. This message is enough for him to convince Ava and Heather that they need to smuggle him to safety. Hounded by a gun-toting scientist, and an irate and lethal husband, they take an often dangerous—yet comforting--road trip through Scotland. Along the way, they learn more about themselves, and what it means to have a family.
This is more than science fiction that delves into the meaning of humanity: it is a psychological, literary, feel-good road trip book. It delves into the loneliness of being human. Sandy is total empathy, able to enter into their inner thoughts and feelings, infusing them with well-being and love. Who wouldn’t want that?
They are aided with what I found to be unbelievable good luck and coincidence as they are chased by Ava’s well-connected husband, and henchmen from an unnamed government entity. However, every good story does need dramatic and dangerous encounters with a villain or two.
Even if you are not a science fiction aficionado, you will enjoy this book. I highly recommend you give it a try.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Orenda Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Sandy is an alien from outer space that crashes into Yellowcraig Beach, located in Scotland; he also is alone. He resembles an octopus with just a few differences: he has only five tentacles, can live outside of water, squish his large frame to fit into a backpack, and has a calming, blue-green glow. Lennox is the first to gain entry to Sandy’s multiple consciousnesses. By touching him, Lennox can experience all that Sandy has ever experienced. Now able to intuit each other’s thoughts, Sandy asks him to “Help Us”. This message is enough for him to convince Ava and Heather that they need to smuggle him to safety. Hounded by a gun-toting scientist, and an irate and lethal husband, they take an often dangerous—yet comforting--road trip through Scotland. Along the way, they learn more about themselves, and what it means to have a family.
This is more than science fiction that delves into the meaning of humanity: it is a psychological, literary, feel-good road trip book. It delves into the loneliness of being human. Sandy is total empathy, able to enter into their inner thoughts and feelings, infusing them with well-being and love. Who wouldn’t want that?
They are aided with what I found to be unbelievable good luck and coincidence as they are chased by Ava’s well-connected husband, and henchmen from an unnamed government entity. However, every good story does need dramatic and dangerous encounters with a villain or two.
Even if you are not a science fiction aficionado, you will enjoy this book. I highly recommend you give it a try.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Orenda Books for the opportunity to read and review this book.
September 3, 2025
A couple of good ideas drowned in a sea (no pun intended) of bland characters and unnecessary drama. Not for me.
Also, Heather kept insisting how she felt like a mum to the rest of the group - when? Where? Did I read the wrong book? She was 100% the least motherly character in the story, which is absolutely not a bad thing, you can just tell the book is written by a man who has no idea how to describe a motherly figure.
Also, Heather kept insisting how she felt like a mum to the rest of the group - when? Where? Did I read the wrong book? She was 100% the least motherly character in the story, which is absolutely not a bad thing, you can just tell the book is written by a man who has no idea how to describe a motherly figure.
August 25, 2023
Unfortunately, I thought this book was a really poorly written and poorly executed. The characters had paperthin depth. A number of the main characters had obviously gone through some major life events, as well as trauma, but this really wasn’t reflected in their personality. It felt like the author only had a superficial understanding how to write about these characters.
Also, there seem to be minimal research into Extraterrestrial life, moons and planets within our solar system, and the possibility of how extraterrestrial life would survive outside its natural environment. There was a very cursory explanation how to life forms from different planets communicated. It felt like the author was writing about something he knew nothing about.
And finally, the plot was so full of holes it made it quite unrealistic. As one example, a government agency couldn’t find our main characters even they they didn’t travel very far and they were constantly on their phones.
In my opinion, not a good book.
Also, there seem to be minimal research into Extraterrestrial life, moons and planets within our solar system, and the possibility of how extraterrestrial life would survive outside its natural environment. There was a very cursory explanation how to life forms from different planets communicated. It felt like the author was writing about something he knew nothing about.
And finally, the plot was so full of holes it made it quite unrealistic. As one example, a government agency couldn’t find our main characters even they they didn’t travel very far and they were constantly on their phones.
In my opinion, not a good book.
April 24, 2023
Not a book I would normally pick but couldn’t put it down
June 29, 2025
I normally hate anything remotely sci-fi HOWEVER this was actually right up my alley & story goes from the Royal Infirmary to Gullane to North Berwick and ends up in Ullapool ?! I fear the author may be obsessed with me bc this is SO Ellen coded
October 26, 2025
Average writing. Characters that are annoying or shallow caricatures and a silly alien. I question the author’s sci-fi credentials.
July 14, 2023
I loved this feel good Sci-Fi; great story, super cool and empathetic alien creature and a 'finding yourself' journey across Scotland. Nice job Doug Johnstone - belter!
February 27, 2024
I really wanted to like this book, and I did, but it read like young teenage fiction
July 11, 2023
Finished reading: February 21st 2023
"We need someone to hold on to, to keep us going, even if we don't know why."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Orenda Books in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
March 15, 2023
When reviewing a book about alien lifeforms, the top factor for me is how believable the story is. This includes the aliens themselves and the interaction of aliens with humans. In my opinion, this book does a good job with believability. I both liked and believed “Sandy”, an alien octopus of sorts, who comes in contact with three main characters, each of whom is struggling with loneliness and hardship. Lennox is a bullied teenager living in a children’s home. Ava is a pregnant young woman who is trying to escape her abusive husband. And Heather is a suicidal woman dealing with a loss of her daughter and a terminal brain tumor.
Sandy and their crew of aliens appear one night in Scotland as a flash of light in the sky. The three main characters suffer catastrophic strokes and are hospitalized, only to be completely recovered by morning (16 others were not so lucky). The three team up to “rescue” the alien lifeform that has appeared on the beach. And thus starts the adventure. Lennox, Ava and Heather run not just from their personal demons, but from the police and representatives of the secret extraterrestrial division of the government.
This book reminded me of a cross between the movies ET and Alien. ET because the alien was kept hidden and was pursued by the authorities, and Alien because of the physicality of the lifeform and its ability to “talk” to humans using rudimentary language. I also liked the fact that Sandy was a refugee of sorts, a homeless being washed up on a shore, looking for a place to live without fear. How timely. This book has a lot of layers to it and it all worked for me. Recommended.
Thanks to NetGalley and IPG for allowing me to read this e-ARC prior to the publish date.
Sandy and their crew of aliens appear one night in Scotland as a flash of light in the sky. The three main characters suffer catastrophic strokes and are hospitalized, only to be completely recovered by morning (16 others were not so lucky). The three team up to “rescue” the alien lifeform that has appeared on the beach. And thus starts the adventure. Lennox, Ava and Heather run not just from their personal demons, but from the police and representatives of the secret extraterrestrial division of the government.
This book reminded me of a cross between the movies ET and Alien. ET because the alien was kept hidden and was pursued by the authorities, and Alien because of the physicality of the lifeform and its ability to “talk” to humans using rudimentary language. I also liked the fact that Sandy was a refugee of sorts, a homeless being washed up on a shore, looking for a place to live without fear. How timely. This book has a lot of layers to it and it all worked for me. Recommended.
Thanks to NetGalley and IPG for allowing me to read this e-ARC prior to the publish date.
March 17, 2023
Rating: 2.5 stars
Synopsis: Three people suffer a rare stroke after seeing lights in the sky and awake in the same hospital room - with a sense that the event is tied to a mysterious creature who has washed up on shore.
Thoughts: This is science fiction that reads more like a "race-against-time" thriller. Great option for thriller/mystery fans who don't typically read sci-fi, but it lacked the hard science or explanations that I typically want from my science fiction. There's a lot that is left unexplained or resolved in very "magic wand waving" ways and I hate that. The chapters alternate between POVs of the three survivors and a journalist who is determined to track the story. One survivor is being hunted down by her abusive husband and they are all wanted for questioning by some M.I.B.-types, so tension is high from the start. It didn't really have any shocking reveals or twists, but had enough action and character likability to keep me engaged. Overall, it was a decent thriller with sci-fi elements, reminiscent of the films "E.T." and "Arrival", and one that I'm sure many will enjoy.
Synopsis: Three people suffer a rare stroke after seeing lights in the sky and awake in the same hospital room - with a sense that the event is tied to a mysterious creature who has washed up on shore.
Thoughts: This is science fiction that reads more like a "race-against-time" thriller. Great option for thriller/mystery fans who don't typically read sci-fi, but it lacked the hard science or explanations that I typically want from my science fiction. There's a lot that is left unexplained or resolved in very "magic wand waving" ways and I hate that. The chapters alternate between POVs of the three survivors and a journalist who is determined to track the story. One survivor is being hunted down by her abusive husband and they are all wanted for questioning by some M.I.B.-types, so tension is high from the start. It didn't really have any shocking reveals or twists, but had enough action and character likability to keep me engaged. Overall, it was a decent thriller with sci-fi elements, reminiscent of the films "E.T." and "Arrival", and one that I'm sure many will enjoy.
December 29, 2023
Lennox, Ava and Heather have nothing in common, until they all survive catastrophic strokes on the same night there is a meteor strike and end up waking up in the same hospital ward. They all have their own personal issues to deal with, but they are drawn back together when there are reports of an octupus-type creature washed up on a local beach. With the help of journalist Ewan, they set about finding out what happened to them that night and what this creature may have to do with it.
This was an entertaining, gritty, sci-fi thriller that, despite doing a bit of a double-take at the blurb, I am a huge fan of this authors work and trust the publisher enough to know that it was definitely worth a read, and I wasn't wrong! It is beautifully written story about the power of connections of all kinds, with some very human characters alongside our extra-terrestrial visitor.
Recommended for if you are in the mood for a unique and heartfelt read!
This was an entertaining, gritty, sci-fi thriller that, despite doing a bit of a double-take at the blurb, I am a huge fan of this authors work and trust the publisher enough to know that it was definitely worth a read, and I wasn't wrong! It is beautifully written story about the power of connections of all kinds, with some very human characters alongside our extra-terrestrial visitor.
Recommended for if you are in the mood for a unique and heartfelt read!
Read
September 3, 2023I guess I’d describe this as a road trip with a friendly alien. It was an easy read. However, I can’t say I found the story especially thought-provoking or challenging or moving or all the other things the hype suggested. The main characters were pretty much pushed around by circumstance all the way through, and I didn’t get a sense of personal growth or change. The storyline held no surprises and it was, well, pretty linear. Still, a pleasant enough way to spend a few hours.
April 13, 2024
I feel cruel saying bad things about a book when an author has worked hard on producing it but honestly, this book is bad. Think of any first contact cliche and you’ll find it here. On top of that, the writing is terrible and the characterisation even worse.
I have it one star because the covers attractive
I have it one star because the covers attractive
February 6, 2023
It’s now got to the point where I will read anything Doug Johnstone writes, such is his grasp of writing characters and relationships. The Space Between Us is a brilliant example of his art. Part Close Encounters, part Local Hero, this is a novel that begins in North Berwick and ends in Ullapool with a galaxy far, far away in between.
The Space Between Us works on so many levels. It is full of humanity. I suppose technically it is sci-fi, but it is also so much more. Doug excels in looking at the human race in relation to the rest of the universe, giving a real sense of perspective as to who we are and how our actions impact on each other, as well as making us think about how we treat each other.
A group of people suffer a mysterious striking down. Some die, but a few, Lennox, Heather and Ava, miraculously recover. And when they do, they find themselves coming together to try and understand what has happened to them. It all centres around a cephalopod they find washed up on a beach and whom they call Sandy.
They find they have a curious connection to this creature and a strong will to ensure that Sandy survives. That’s nowhere near as easy as it should be because Sandy seems in poor shape and this small group of people are not the only ones interested in the creature, but the others seem less concerned with Sandy’s welfare and more with capturing it for their own nefarious purposes.
Ewan is a journalist. He senses a big story behind this occurrence and is baffled by why these three should be stonewalling his questions. But the more he learns, the more he feels a connection to these people and to Sandy.
Doug Johnstone draws a profound and quiet connection between each character and Sandy and especially between Lennox and Sandy whose contact is very special. It is his ability to speak to big themes such as our place in the universe that makes this first contact novel so special. He does so by examining the relationships between each of these well drawn characters; showing us that they all have much more in common than they do differences. That’s at the core of this special book.
What binds these people is more than a remarkable recovery. Each is struggling with their own problems and all are suffering from a lack of real caring, human contact. These are scars that run deep and finding each other is only the start of their journey towards healing.
Our cephalopod, Sandy, is no different. They have found themselves homeless – forced from their home and looking for a safe place to live without fear. They are refugees and first we need to understand them, learn how to communicate with them and finally, find a way to live side by side with them in harmony.
It’s a lesson that applies to more than extra-terrestrial cephalopods. In understanding what Sandy needs, so we are helped to come to terms with our own need for compassionate connections. We understand that we require close contact in order to feel compassion and enjoy mutually supportive relationships and that showing love and support is a good start to healing ourselves as well as others.
The gap that is the space between us has to close if we are ever to realise the true potential of the human race.
Verdict: This book is terrific and is something of a masterpiece. It is compassionate, full of love and hope and yet provides a tense and adrenalin fuelled chase across Scotland. Johnstone provides a thought–provoking look at how we treat those who are different. In the process we fall in love with Sandy who helps us to realise that some themes are truly universal and the space between us needs to be closed if we are to survive and thrive.
The Space Between Us works on so many levels. It is full of humanity. I suppose technically it is sci-fi, but it is also so much more. Doug excels in looking at the human race in relation to the rest of the universe, giving a real sense of perspective as to who we are and how our actions impact on each other, as well as making us think about how we treat each other.
A group of people suffer a mysterious striking down. Some die, but a few, Lennox, Heather and Ava, miraculously recover. And when they do, they find themselves coming together to try and understand what has happened to them. It all centres around a cephalopod they find washed up on a beach and whom they call Sandy.
They find they have a curious connection to this creature and a strong will to ensure that Sandy survives. That’s nowhere near as easy as it should be because Sandy seems in poor shape and this small group of people are not the only ones interested in the creature, but the others seem less concerned with Sandy’s welfare and more with capturing it for their own nefarious purposes.
Ewan is a journalist. He senses a big story behind this occurrence and is baffled by why these three should be stonewalling his questions. But the more he learns, the more he feels a connection to these people and to Sandy.
Doug Johnstone draws a profound and quiet connection between each character and Sandy and especially between Lennox and Sandy whose contact is very special. It is his ability to speak to big themes such as our place in the universe that makes this first contact novel so special. He does so by examining the relationships between each of these well drawn characters; showing us that they all have much more in common than they do differences. That’s at the core of this special book.
What binds these people is more than a remarkable recovery. Each is struggling with their own problems and all are suffering from a lack of real caring, human contact. These are scars that run deep and finding each other is only the start of their journey towards healing.
Our cephalopod, Sandy, is no different. They have found themselves homeless – forced from their home and looking for a safe place to live without fear. They are refugees and first we need to understand them, learn how to communicate with them and finally, find a way to live side by side with them in harmony.
It’s a lesson that applies to more than extra-terrestrial cephalopods. In understanding what Sandy needs, so we are helped to come to terms with our own need for compassionate connections. We understand that we require close contact in order to feel compassion and enjoy mutually supportive relationships and that showing love and support is a good start to healing ourselves as well as others.
The gap that is the space between us has to close if we are ever to realise the true potential of the human race.
Verdict: This book is terrific and is something of a masterpiece. It is compassionate, full of love and hope and yet provides a tense and adrenalin fuelled chase across Scotland. Johnstone provides a thought–provoking look at how we treat those who are different. In the process we fall in love with Sandy who helps us to realise that some themes are truly universal and the space between us needs to be closed if we are to survive and thrive.
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