Beneath the surface of our world, an inhuman force yearns for vengeance against humanity. It will not rest until it has destroyed every human on the planet…Meet Kaden, an enigmatic six-year-old whose seeming normality conceals a profound mystery. He possesses an uncanny wisdom beyond his tender age, navigating the world independently, wielding an eerie influence over those around him, even his own parents.Yet Kaden is not alone in his inexplicable nature. In the quiet town of Lynch, Kentucky, peculiar occurrences spiral out of control. Mysterious chasms materialize from thin air, individuals of all ages vanish without a trace, and the populace succumbs to an eerie force, enveloped by an otherworldly blue haze.Amidst the chaos stands Clay Krutcher, a disenchanted coal miner unwittingly holding the key to unraveling these anomalies. Little does he know, the fate of humanity rests squarely on his shoulders. Can Clay defy his own destiny, confront the inhuman force lurking beneath the surface, and save our world from impending annihilation? The countdown to The Surfacing has begun, and time is running out.
Terrance Coffey is an Amazon bestselling author, screenwriter, songwriter, and composer with a predilection for Egyptian history and science fiction. He has written numerous short stories, screenplays, television pilots, and even iconic Coca-Cola music jingles. His debut novel "VALLEY OF THE KINGS: The 18th Dynasty" is a 2017 National Indie Excellence Awards Finalist for Best Historical Fiction and a #1 Amazon Bestseller. His latest novel is the sci-fi thriller, "THE SURFACING."
“The Surfacing” is a sci-fi thriller with flavors of body snatchers and eco-terrorism. You have an alien entity seeping up from the world’s core, looking at what humans have done to the planet, and a faction of those entities deciding to do something about it. I’d say we follow Clay as he’s thrust into this alien invasion, trying to figure out who is human and who has been replaced and stopping these aliens from destroying humanity, but there are too many characters for that. Coffey has created a web of characters all linked in some capacity regardless of being cities away, and some connections even spanning years in some cases. Every thread does link up, and the twist at the end was one I didn’t see coming and was a total gut punch in the best way, but I had a hard time connecting to any one character given the sheer volume of POV’s in this story.
Coffey’s writing is very approachable, so even with the sci-fi elements, and the complex web of inter connected characters, and the different subplots and goals of the two different alien factions, the story is easy to understand. It does take a minute to really get into it, but once you do, the main plot is easy to keep track of, even if at times, for me, I forgot who certain characters were. Ultimately, I think that was my biggest qualm. Because there were just so many characters, keeping track of who was who with little more than a name to go on got a bit challenging. That and I can’t say I ever liked Clay as a character, his journey didn’t get enough time for the redemption arc to feel real. Honestly, I liked the police force characters best and wish we had seen more of them investigating the strange things going on then what was happening with Clay and the revelation there, mainly because the revelation didn’t seem to matter especially given the way the characters made such a big deal out of it.
The concept of the aliens and the body snatching elements, as well as the whole mystery of how and why this was coming to a head now, was really interesting, and I’d have liked more on that front instead of some of the individual characters and their, sometimes, feeble connection to the aliens or Clay. There was a lot going on in this book that was intriguing, but the plethora of POV’s could dilute some of the plot points, especially when the characters weren’t distinct, or strong enough to be truly memorable. There were some genuinely creepy elements that I liked and fit very well with the thriller elements, especially with the ending. I just wish I could have gotten into it more, and been a bit more focused, which I think was because the shift in characters often brought me out of the story. Coffey did an amazing job weaving everything back together again, which is no easy feat given the conspiracy levels of threads “The Surfacing” has, I just wanted to connect to the characters more, hence the 3.5 stars. But if you like sci-fi thrillers with a really approachable writing style, give this book a chance! And thank you to the author for gifting me an ecopy to to review!
This was a decent book, it had a lot of povs, in all kinds of scenarios but very intricately linked and was at times baffling and confusing but trust the author, you'll get there. The redemption segment was cool for our main pov and I liked the ending.
Terrance Coffey's "The Surfacing" masterfully intertwines elements of science fiction and thriller genres to craft a gripping narrative that captivates readers from start to finish. The novel centers around Kaden, a six-year-old with a disturbing, otherworldly wisdom, and Clay Krutcher, a coal miner who becomes an unlikely hero in the face of bizarre and terrifying phenomena in the small town of Lynch, Kentucky.
One of the standout features of "The Surfacing" is Coffey’s ability to blend the ordinary with the extraordinary. The small-town setting of Lynch, Kentucky, provides a stark and relatable backdrop against which the supernatural and science fiction elements unfold. This juxtaposition creates a sense of eerie familiarity, making the surreal events that much more unsettling and engaging.
Kaden, the enigmatic child at the heart of the story, is a compelling character whose presence alone drives much of the tension and mystery. His inexplicable wisdom and eerie influence over those around him are portrayed with such subtlety and nuance that readers are kept on edge, constantly questioning his true nature and intentions. Coffey’s portrayal of Kaden is both chilling and fascinating, making him a character that fans of psychological and supernatural thrillers will find deeply intriguing.
The novel’s pacing is another element that works exceptionally well. Coffey deftly maintains a steady, escalating tension throughout the book. The mysterious chasms, disappearances, and the pervasive blue haze are not just random occurrences but are intricately connected to the central plot, each event adding layers of complexity and suspense. This well-structured build-up ensures that readers are constantly engaged, eagerly turning pages to uncover the truth behind the anomalies plaguing Lynch.
Clay Krutcher’s character arc adds an additional layer of depth to the story. As a disillusioned coal miner thrust into an unimaginable situation, his journey from skepticism to reluctant heroism is both believable and inspiring. His character provides a grounded perspective amidst the chaos, making the stakes feel personal and urgent. Clay’s struggle against both external supernatural forces and his own internal demons resonates strongly, adding emotional weight to the high-stakes narrative.
For fans of the sci-fi thriller genre, "The Surfacing" offers everything one could hope for: a mysterious and foreboding atmosphere, complex and well-developed characters, and a plot that is both original and thought-provoking. Coffey’s skillful writing ensures that the science fiction elements are not just fantastical but are woven seamlessly into the narrative, providing a sense of realism that heightens the overall impact of the story.
Overall, "The Surfacing" is a standout addition to the sci-fi thriller genre. Terrance Coffey has created a novel that is as thought-provoking as it is thrilling, making it a must-read for fans of stories that challenge the boundaries of reality and delve into the mysteries of the unknown. With its rich character development, meticulously crafted suspense, and an unforgettable atmosphere, "The Surfacing" is poised to leave a lasting impression on its readers.
In “THE SURFACING,” Terrance Coffey weaves a chilling narrative that plunges readers into the heart of a covert extraterrestrial invasion. The novel introduces the Ocran, a mysterious species of aliens who have been quietly infiltrating humanity by taking over the bodies of the dying and distressed. Set against the backdrop of the Virginia-Kentucky border, the story unfolds a complex web of characters drawn into an escalating conflict that threatens the very fabric of human existence. At the core of this suspenseful tale is Kaden Lofton, a young boy whose extraordinary intellect and environmental passion belie a dark connection to the missing Jeremy Astin, a child with autism and dyslexia from Lynch, Kentucky. Kaden’s enigmatic presence and the mystery surrounding Jeremy’s disappearance hint at deeper, unsettling truths that challenge our understanding of identity and belonging.
Clay Krutcher, a coal miner battling personal demons and economic hardship, unwittingly becomes a focal point of the Ocran’s sinister agenda. Coffey skillfully portrays Clay’s transition from an everyday struggle for survival to a desperate fight against an unseen enemy, capturing the essence of human resilience and vulnerability. The ominous warning Clay receives—“They are watching you”—sets the stage for a gripping tale of suspense and survival.
“THE SURFACING” excels in its ability to craft a multi-layered narrative that explores the impact of the Ocran invasion from various perspectives. Coffey’s characters, from the embattled Krutcher family to the enigmatic Kaden, are richly drawn and compelling, each adding depth to the unfolding mystery. The existential threat posed by the Ocran serves as a dark mirror to our own world, questioning the nature of humanity and the bonds that hold us together in the face of annihilation.
Coffey’s mastery of suspense and character development shines throughout the novel, with the intricate plot lines converging in a climax that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. The battle between the Ocran and their human adversaries transcends the conventional alien invasion trope, offering readers a profound commentary on the resilience of the human spirit and the indomitable will to protect one’s home and loved ones.
“THE SURFACING” is a testament to Terrance Coffey’s storytelling prowess, blending science fiction with elements of psychological thriller to create a riveting narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. With its intricate world-building, complex characters, and a plot that masterfully balances tension and depth, this novel is a standout addition to the genre. It’s a compelling read for anyone fascinated by the eternal struggle between darkness and light and the capacity for courage and unity to emerge in the darkest of times.
In The Surfacing, author Terrance Coffey presents an intriguing science fiction narrative centered around the Ocran, a mysterious alien race clandestinely residing beneath Earth's surface. The plot thickens as these beings begin to inhabit human bodies, with a faction led by an entity in the guise of a six-year-old boy named Kaden harboring malevolent intentions toward humanity. Amidst this turmoil, Clay Krutcher emerges as humanity's unlikely champion, destined to confront this alien threat.
Coffey's writing style is notably accessible and engaging, effectively capturing the reader's interest from the outset. While the pacing experiences a slight deceleration following the compelling introduction, the sustained element of mystery adeptly maintains reader engagement. The narrative thoughtfully incorporates periods of slower progression, enhancing the suspense and heightening anticipation for the story's intricate plot developments. This deliberate pacing invites readers to fully immerse themselves in the unfolding events, adding depth to the reading experience. The story boasts a diverse and substantial ensemble of characters, enriching the narrative with varied perspectives and depth. While the cast is not overwhelmingly large compared to other works, the dynamic shifts in viewpoints and the occasional reappearances of certain characters add layers of complexity and intrigue. This richness in character development invites readers to engage more deeply with the story, enhancing the overall immersive experience.
Coffey's masterpiece, The Surfacing, is a uniquely crafted science fiction story that introduces an intriguing alien presence on Earth. With his exquisite writing style and in-depth storytelling, Coffey takes readers on a thrilling journey, exploring the complex and fascinating relationship between extraterrestrial beings and humanity. Through vivid descriptions and engaging characters, The Surfacing offers a fresh and thought-provoking perspective on the possibility of alien coexistence with humans.
This was an interesting read, very different from what I usually read: I will tell the readers of this blog that I am not well-versed in science fiction. This book was engaging and kept me interested, even though it is not my genre of choice. This story takes place in Appalachia and involves the potential takeover of the earth by an alien race that wants to assume control, destroying mankind as we know it. At times, it feels very allegorical. This alien race is led by a "child" Kaden who seems very innocent at first blush at the beginning but the reader catches on that he is anything but innocent soon enough. A member of the Appalachian community, Clay, emerges as the unlikely possible hero to save the human species. The author definitely instills a sense of foreboding and suspense through the book as the readers wonders whether or not Clay will succeed. Given any number of books I have read lately that seem to be short on plot, there was a clear one present in this novel, which was a very welcome change.
That said, the book could be a bit hard to follow. There were many characters and points of view and they could be hard to make those shifts and know what is going on. As I said earlier, there is a bit of what feels like allegory here: similarities to how our own American society or even world is unraveling and I think that I would have loved to see this fleshed out a bit, which would make this rise above many similar books. Further, about halfway into the novel, there seemed to be some repetition of what was happening and with a bit of careful pruning, the story could be a bit tighter. However, I look forward to seeing what else this author has to say in the future.
I read this via a copy from the author, for Rosie Amber's Book Review Team. The fact that it was free has not affected this honest review.
What struck me all the way through this book is that it would make a terrific Netflix series of the Stranger Things kind; I notice that the author is also a screenwriter, so I wondered if he'd imagined it in this vein as it was being written.
I like books set in small-town America; this takes place in Lynch, Kentucky and Appalachia, Virginia. In each close community, it becomes increasingly apparent that some people are not who they claim to be. Others are possessed of superhuman powers, while mysterious chasms appear in the land, and curious sightings are recorded. People disappear, or change personality overnight.
The story is written from many third person points of view; again, this would have worked if visual, when the actors themselves provide the characterisation, but when they're just names on a page it's not so easy to keep track of them all. Some, like alcoholic mine worker Clay and his wife Tara, were fully three dimensional, so I could remember who they were, but I had trouble with others; I kept starting a new chapter and thinking, "Who's this fella, again?" Aside from this, it was well-written and nicely paced, with the mystery of what exactly was going on unfurling slowly, not fully revealed until half-way through. I appreciated this, as a good plot (which The Surfacing undoubtedly has) is nothing without skilled pacing.
Nice piece of fantasy/paranormal type scifi, for those who love the genre.
Thank you Netgalley, Terrance Coffey and Helm House for the eArc of The Surfacing.
The Surfacing is a great sci-fi mystery thriller which had me gripped right from the beginning. Even though some of the MC are actually children, they all have uncanny and somewhat unearthly knowledge and understanding. There seems to be an unknown fight going on to save the earth, will it be us or them?
The plot to The Surfacing, felt medium paced with plenty of character building as the story unfolded. It kept this pace and within the fast quarter of the book, things start to become fast paced.. I also felt I had a good sense of the area, Lynch and Alppachia, Kentucky which were the main places mentioned in the book. I could imagine the swaying trees, the lake, the mines and where the barn/stream were, and felt like they were beautiful places.
Even though Clay, our MC who is a gambler and drunk, I felt like I needed to root for him as his story starts develop and he finds his place. I bonded with him straight away and soon became my favourite character. So glad I did!
I loved the sci-fi elements in this Mystery/Thriller. The body snatching is a great idea, mind control and the eventual snuffing out of a human soul generally gave me the chills and I also felt like that this book has a great message about looking after our planet.
4.5 stars for Storygraph. 4 stars for Netgalley, Amazon and Goodreads
The Surfacing by Terrance Coffey is a riveting and thought-provoking read. Coffey weaves a chilling tale of mystery, suspense, and existential dread that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish.
The story centres around the enigmatic six-year-old Kaden, whose seemingly innocent demeanour belies a profound and unsettling mystery. As strange occurrences begin to unfold in the quiet town of Lynch, Kentucky, Coffey masterfully builds tension and suspense, drawing readers into a world where reality itself seems to be unravelling.
What I found most compelling about The Surfacing is Coffey's skilful blend of science fiction and psychological thriller elements. The concept of body snatchers, mind control, and an invasion from within is executed with precision and flair, creating a narrative that is both deeply unsettling and utterly captivating.
Overall, The Surfacing is a must-read for lovers of sci-fi suspense thrillers. With its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and spine-tingling atmosphere, this book is sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating Coffey's next masterpiece. ______________________
As the book description states, this science fiction thriller will remind you of the body snatchers. An alien species called the Ocran that takes over their hosts mind and bodies by entering their system through blue dust particles that invade them. The human species is dependent on surviving by a man named Clay Krutcher who finds out he’s half human half Ocran.
The story keeps you interested enough to know if the human species will be saved and what will happen. Even though science fiction isn’t my favorite genre, this was an over all good read but still felt it was missing something. I can say it didn’t end as I expected so overall an average read.
Thank you #HelmHousePublishing, #TerranceCoffey, and #GoodreadsGiveaways. I received this book in exchange for my honest review.
Once I got into this, it went by really quickly. At first I was confused as to what was going on, but it picked up and I ran with it. There are a lot of things going on in this book, a lot of POV's, but it was well worth the read. It starts off with a little boy running to the lake to save some ducks and finds some boys throwing things into the lake. He takes it upon himself to get those things out of the lake and ends up almost drowning. Some funny things start to happen and no one believes it. It was quite the interesting premise and the ending almost felt like a Stephen King style of ending, which is right up my alley. It also leaves it a bit open ended.
Creepy and puzzling, so many people to keep track of, who belongs in which family, etc. Interesting premise, beings existing as swarms of sparkling blue shimmer, who had coexisted on Earth for eons with humans, and now a few want to control everything and extinguish humans. Well-written, gripping, and I hated the ending, but should have anticipated it, because people really don't follow directions, do they.
Creative and addictive story that had me on the edge of my seat. Coffey did a great job at world building and I could definitely see this on the big screen someday. Find my full review here: https://likelystory.blog/2024/01/31/r...
This is book was not my typical read but it was a good change of pace for me. I found all the different view points to be a little confusing, at the end they all tied together nicely though. This book definitely opened my horizon.
This was a decent book, it had a lot of povs, in all kinds of scenarios but very intricately linked and was at times baffling and confusing but trust the author, you'll get there. The redemption segment was cool for our main pov and I liked the ending.