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Pebble in the Dark - The Trauma
A sci-fi thriller and the second in a series of novels by Antony Botting.
When the Trauma begins, no-one is prepared. Terror descends, as life on Earth is changed in an instant.
The effects are felt worldwide.
Science, religion and criminal enterprise struggle to comprehend the offensive as humanity seeks sanctuary.
When the Trauma begins, no-one is prepared. Terror descends, as life on Earth is changed in an instant.
The effects are felt worldwide.
Science, religion and criminal enterprise struggle to comprehend the offensive as humanity seeks sanctuary.
304 pages, ebook
Published May 6, 2018
32 people are currently reading
262 people want to read
About the author
Antony Botting
5 books64 followersAntony Botting was born in London, England. Graduating from the University of Hull with a Masters in International Law & Politics, he now works in the field of modern slavery and human trafficking.
Playing Host is now available.
twitter.com/AntonyBotting
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Playing Host is now available.
twitter.com/AntonyBotting
facebook.com/OfficialAntonyBotting/
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
August 28, 2023
This second installment of the series was everything I wanted out of the first book and more! I’m extremely glad that I did read through the first despite several factors contrary to my personal preferences when it comes to reading.
‘The Trauma’ sees us post-discovery of the artifact, the adventure of which needlessly cost so many lives. Unfortunately for the human race, those deaths are only the beginning. Switching from book one’s prime focus on Ambassador Sunderland and his crew to that of the secret organization that wound up with the pebble, the racing adventure leg of the series has steered instead to the more scifi aspects. Scientists, psychiatrists, CEOs of technology companies fueled by nanoblood, aliens, and, of course, androids: something I never have and probably never will trust.
The genre-blending of the saga at this point is astounding. The best way I can describe it is Mission Impossible X Indiana Jones X Dead Space X The Day the Earth Stood Still. When scientific ingenuity meets something it cannot fathom, bringing about an apocalyptic world with an unforgettable, unforeseeable ending.
I loved the handling of major character deaths in this installment. The author uses the erasure of these characters to introduce the change of the world currently while foreshadowing even greater changes to come. As I said in my review of book one, I prefer character-driven stories over ones like ‘Pebble in the Dark,’ which are plot-driven. However, this one technique of the author’s displays the epitomic offerings of plot-driven narratives. It also had a haunting emotional effect to the tune of nothing is sacred and no one is safe.
‘The Trauma’ is the thriller genre at its finest. Relentless, it keeps your heart pounding page after page. I was genuinely surprised a number of times at the well-executed twists in this fast paced, high intensity read. Up until the very last page, the book is filled with intrigue. I cannot wait to see with the third book brings. If you’ve seen my review of the first book and are uncertain about the saga based on that, I implore you again to get to the sequel.
‘The Trauma’ sees us post-discovery of the artifact, the adventure of which needlessly cost so many lives. Unfortunately for the human race, those deaths are only the beginning. Switching from book one’s prime focus on Ambassador Sunderland and his crew to that of the secret organization that wound up with the pebble, the racing adventure leg of the series has steered instead to the more scifi aspects. Scientists, psychiatrists, CEOs of technology companies fueled by nanoblood, aliens, and, of course, androids: something I never have and probably never will trust.
The genre-blending of the saga at this point is astounding. The best way I can describe it is Mission Impossible X Indiana Jones X Dead Space X The Day the Earth Stood Still. When scientific ingenuity meets something it cannot fathom, bringing about an apocalyptic world with an unforgettable, unforeseeable ending.
I loved the handling of major character deaths in this installment. The author uses the erasure of these characters to introduce the change of the world currently while foreshadowing even greater changes to come. As I said in my review of book one, I prefer character-driven stories over ones like ‘Pebble in the Dark,’ which are plot-driven. However, this one technique of the author’s displays the epitomic offerings of plot-driven narratives. It also had a haunting emotional effect to the tune of nothing is sacred and no one is safe.
‘The Trauma’ is the thriller genre at its finest. Relentless, it keeps your heart pounding page after page. I was genuinely surprised a number of times at the well-executed twists in this fast paced, high intensity read. Up until the very last page, the book is filled with intrigue. I cannot wait to see with the third book brings. If you’ve seen my review of the first book and are uncertain about the saga based on that, I implore you again to get to the sequel.
July 23, 2018
Genre - Science fiction/Thriller
Pages - 305
Publication Info - Antony Botting - May 6, 2018
Format - Digital
Stars - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Having just read the first book in this series about a month ago it was easy for me to follow and make certain observations. Book one had a spy thriller/noir feel to it while ‘Pebble in the Dark: The Trauma (Pebble in the Dark, Book 2)’ by Antony Botting has a much more science fiction/intergalactic adventure feel to it. The spy thriller aspects are still there, but this installment goes deeper into the alien characters and plot. As with the first book, this one reads like a well composed piece of music. My idea of a review is to let people know how well written and entertaining I feel a book is opposed to giving you my own personal synopsis of the entire book. I let that up to the publisher or author in the section below, Synopsis (from the back cover). This is Antony’s second book; however, it reads like he’s been doing it for many years. Well developed characters and a complex but believable and easy to follow story line. There’s a lot going on in this series with numerous characters, but Antony writes in such a way that allows the reader to follow along easily, without getting lost in what in some books turns out to be minutia. Every detail counts and has a reason, and by the end of the book all those details will have a greater understanding by the reader. If you like suspense/thriller and science fiction, you will want to pick up this series and start a journey to places unknown, and be introduced to the beginnings of a new race and generation of beings. Exciting, intelligent and most importantly, very entertaining. I look forward to book three, and am anxious to read more of this author’s other work as he goes forward with his wordsmithing artistry.
Synopsis (from the back cover): An artefact known as the Pebble is found. When the Trauma begins, no-one is prepared.
Terror descends, as life on Earth changes in an instant.
The effects are felt worldwide as survivors face the greatest danger.
Strange beings walk the surface of the planet as science, religion and criminal enterprise struggle to comprehend the offensive.
Humanity seeks sanctuary, unable to come to terms with the Trauma.
July 3, 2018
I read the first instalment of this series, Pebble in the Dark, a while ago. The author then very kindly contacted me and gave me the opportunity to read this second book. Although the author gave me this book to review, rest assured I am completely unbiased.
The first book set the scene for me as a sort of spy thriller with government conspiracy and a mysterious artefact thrown in for good measure. There were a lot of different characters introduced, both on the good and evil sides of the story. For a bit more background, see my review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2220089181?book_show_action=false&from_review_page=1
The second book very quickly develops into something completely different an unexpected. I would call this one much more of an alien sci-fi novel, bordering on apocalyptic. I don't want to say too much as it would ruin the story, but the first book is really just background - it all kicks off in the second book for real!
The writing wasn't quite as natural in this book somehow, and I didn't enjoy it as much as the first book. Having said that, the story is more interesting and the pace is fast and exciting. A lot happens although it is only a short book, and all the characters from the first book appear again, along with several new characters. I enjoyed reading about all the different characters, which is a really good thing. Many times some of the characters can seem incidental or boring when there are so many, but that doesn't happen here. They all have their own persona and their own important place in the progression of the novel.
There are many different aspects of the plot that come together to make the whole picture of what's going on here. I can easily imagine this being made into a film or TV series. The ideas are original and I really like where the series is going.
Overall I enjoyed reading this, and I look forward to the next book coming out so I can find out what's going to happen! And that's always a good sign. I give this book the same rating as the first book, which is a 3.5. To make it fair, since I rounded the first one down to a 3 I'll round this one up. But enjoyment wise I think they were about the same - reasonably enjoyable!
The first book set the scene for me as a sort of spy thriller with government conspiracy and a mysterious artefact thrown in for good measure. There were a lot of different characters introduced, both on the good and evil sides of the story. For a bit more background, see my review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2220089181?book_show_action=false&from_review_page=1
The second book very quickly develops into something completely different an unexpected. I would call this one much more of an alien sci-fi novel, bordering on apocalyptic. I don't want to say too much as it would ruin the story, but the first book is really just background - it all kicks off in the second book for real!
The writing wasn't quite as natural in this book somehow, and I didn't enjoy it as much as the first book. Having said that, the story is more interesting and the pace is fast and exciting. A lot happens although it is only a short book, and all the characters from the first book appear again, along with several new characters. I enjoyed reading about all the different characters, which is a really good thing. Many times some of the characters can seem incidental or boring when there are so many, but that doesn't happen here. They all have their own persona and their own important place in the progression of the novel.
There are many different aspects of the plot that come together to make the whole picture of what's going on here. I can easily imagine this being made into a film or TV series. The ideas are original and I really like where the series is going.
Overall I enjoyed reading this, and I look forward to the next book coming out so I can find out what's going to happen! And that's always a good sign. I give this book the same rating as the first book, which is a 3.5. To make it fair, since I rounded the first one down to a 3 I'll round this one up. But enjoyment wise I think they were about the same - reasonably enjoyable!
May 23, 2018
I received a Kindle copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Just WOW. I enjoyed the first book, but the second just blew me away. I'm fairly new to the sci-fi genre, but this was a fantastic read. It was very difficult to put down. It's a bit difficult to describe the book without giving away spoilers and important plot points, but I will try.
In the first book, multiple story lines/characters converge by the end. In the second, the characters split off and go on their own journeys in trying to survive a global catastrophe known as the Trauma brought on by the Pebble.
Sadly, it’s going to be a bit of a wait before the next book comes out. I am really excited to find out where the new story lines go.
Just WOW. I enjoyed the first book, but the second just blew me away. I'm fairly new to the sci-fi genre, but this was a fantastic read. It was very difficult to put down. It's a bit difficult to describe the book without giving away spoilers and important plot points, but I will try.
In the first book, multiple story lines/characters converge by the end. In the second, the characters split off and go on their own journeys in trying to survive a global catastrophe known as the Trauma brought on by the Pebble.
Sadly, it’s going to be a bit of a wait before the next book comes out. I am really excited to find out where the new story lines go.
December 10, 2020
Pebble the trauma
In this book the members observing the Pebble become sick. Headaches, insomnia which are the beginning. The scientist# realize the ancient space craft is the culprit. Meanwhile Henrietta detonates a nuclear. warhead.
Later the Pebble causes THe TRAUMA begins. The people of Earth walk like lemmings into the sea and die.
This prompts Olivia the android to leave for a station on Mars.
Back on Earth, survivors are few and falling.
The rapture?
Not quite ..
On to the final book
In this book the members observing the Pebble become sick. Headaches, insomnia which are the beginning. The scientist# realize the ancient space craft is the culprit. Meanwhile Henrietta detonates a nuclear. warhead.
Later the Pebble causes THe TRAUMA begins. The people of Earth walk like lemmings into the sea and die.
This prompts Olivia the android to leave for a station on Mars.
Back on Earth, survivors are few and falling.
The rapture?
Not quite ..
On to the final book
June 1, 2018
This is a great sci-fi trilogy that covers the advent of humanity, which is one of my favorite subjects. There are human conspiracies and troublemakers too. The story is really easy to believe and captivates your interest right away. I recommend reading the first two volumes now, as the final installment will be out soon. Can't wait to find out what happens to humans!
November 19, 2018
I have to say this book is an excellent follow up to the first, quite different in style, but just as engaging. The plot managed to catch me out rather well with some real rollercoaster moments, and nicely done surprises. The only question now is whether the author can bring things to a satisfying conclusion in book 3!
November 7, 2019
love this super fast pace book that included but not limited to.... Snow, parties, dead dudes that weren't really dead ( not a Zombie ) More snow, deadly ladies, some kind of strange police, cars leaving trails in the snow, confessions, auctions and of course The Pebble. Read this and then get the next book. I recommend the Audio-book the narrator is great!
August 15, 2019
I'm not even sure what I can say about this book! It definitely delved into more science fiction areas than the first of the trilogy! And without giving too much away, the actual concept of the Trauma is utterly terrifying! Can't wait to read the last installment!
February 12, 2020
Loved it! Well-paced, imaginative and engaging story. As in the first book, chock full of interesting characters. The sci fi elements that were hinted at in the first book are here in abundance.
Excellent. Get it! Be Entertained!
Excellent. Get it! Be Entertained!
November 14, 2022
A fast paced second instalment to Pebble in the Dark
A great follow in to the first book in this series. Fast paced, with plenty of twists and turns in the plot. One of those books that is hard to put down.
A great follow in to the first book in this series. Fast paced, with plenty of twists and turns in the plot. One of those books that is hard to put down.
September 26, 2019
Ahhhhkkkk
So for some reason I'm enchanted by these books. I was blown away by the way things turned out, but have enjoyed all of it thus far.
So for some reason I'm enchanted by these books. I was blown away by the way things turned out, but have enjoyed all of it thus far.
December 3, 2022
Excellent read. Finished reading in 2 days. The suspense and storyline kept you on the edge of your seat.
October 22, 2019
Check out my full review on my blog here:
https://brinadancer.blogspot.com/2019...
Thank you again to the author for sending me this book.
https://brinadancer.blogspot.com/2019...
Thank you again to the author for sending me this book.
February 10, 2020
Having read both books from the "Pebble" series I felt compelled to write a few words as I was truly impressed by the fact that these were Antony Botting's first attempts at writing. Surely, the writer's style and voice sound so professional and pollished that the reader feels they are dealing with someone with a lot of experience in writing behind their back.
The haredst thing to achieve and at the same time the greatest merrit of the series is that the story throughout unfolds in a way that feels natural and is very easy to folow. The multitude of characters introduced in the first book of the series "Pebble in the dark" all find their rightful place in the second one "The Trauma" and all the storylines meet and unfurl with ease and constancy that truly impresses. No loose ends left. The prevalent spy-vibe of the first book almost completely disappears in the second and the reader is introduced to a world of alien invasion and an apocalyptic picture that easily holds your attention throughout.
Another interesting aspect of the series is how believable and true to life all the details in the descriptions feel. Being a Bulgarian, I was pleasantly surprised by the fact that part of the story in both books is set in Sofia and a few other locations in Bulgaria. All details that involved my country paint a realistic and vivid picture and felt like a special treat to me.
Both books and especially "The Trauma" leave very little to desire. They effortlessly introduce a fantastic world that feels so real and comes to life so readily with all its beauty and terror, and newness that we can't do anything but wait for the rest of the story.
The haredst thing to achieve and at the same time the greatest merrit of the series is that the story throughout unfolds in a way that feels natural and is very easy to folow. The multitude of characters introduced in the first book of the series "Pebble in the dark" all find their rightful place in the second one "The Trauma" and all the storylines meet and unfurl with ease and constancy that truly impresses. No loose ends left. The prevalent spy-vibe of the first book almost completely disappears in the second and the reader is introduced to a world of alien invasion and an apocalyptic picture that easily holds your attention throughout.
Another interesting aspect of the series is how believable and true to life all the details in the descriptions feel. Being a Bulgarian, I was pleasantly surprised by the fact that part of the story in both books is set in Sofia and a few other locations in Bulgaria. All details that involved my country paint a realistic and vivid picture and felt like a special treat to me.
Both books and especially "The Trauma" leave very little to desire. They effortlessly introduce a fantastic world that feels so real and comes to life so readily with all its beauty and terror, and newness that we can't do anything but wait for the rest of the story.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews