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Mad Tinker Chronicles #1
Mad Tinker's Daughter
The world told her No. She didn’t listen.
Madlin Errol is heiress to the greatest fortune in Tellurak. Her father, the Mad Tinker, has built an empire by crafting devices that no one else in the world could match. Madlin grew up spoiled, given everything she could wish for: the finest tools, all the raw metals she could ask for, and a workshop of her very own. Yet in her sleep, she lives another life, in another world.
Korr...a world where humans are subjugated, working menial jobs or even enslaved. The ruling kuduks treat them like talking animals. In that world, Madlin is known as Rynn, a girl who grew up without her parents, mired in the depths of an underground city, sleeping in a boiler room. But unlike so many of her fellow humans, she has seen a world where there are no limits. She, and a growing number of human rebels, have begun to fight back.
Madlin Errol is heiress to the greatest fortune in Tellurak. Her father, the Mad Tinker, has built an empire by crafting devices that no one else in the world could match. Madlin grew up spoiled, given everything she could wish for: the finest tools, all the raw metals she could ask for, and a workshop of her very own. Yet in her sleep, she lives another life, in another world.
Korr...a world where humans are subjugated, working menial jobs or even enslaved. The ruling kuduks treat them like talking animals. In that world, Madlin is known as Rynn, a girl who grew up without her parents, mired in the depths of an underground city, sleeping in a boiler room. But unlike so many of her fellow humans, she has seen a world where there are no limits. She, and a growing number of human rebels, have begun to fight back.
228 pages, ebook
First published March 1, 2014
88 people are currently reading
1448 people want to read
About the author
J.S. Morin
192 books611 followersI am a creator of worlds and a destroyer of words. As a fantasy writer, my works range from traditional epics to futuristic fantasy with starships. I have worked as an unpaid Little League pitcher, a cashier, a student library aide, a factory grunt, a cubicle drone, and an engineer--there is some overlap in the last two.
Through it all, though, I was always a storyteller. Eventually I started writing books based on the stray stories in my head, and people kept telling me to write more of them. Now, that's all I do for a living.
I enjoy strategy, worldbuilding, and the fantasy author's privilege to make up words. I am a gamer, a joker, and a thinker of sideways thoughts. But I don't dance, can't sing, and my best artistic efforts fall short of your average notebook doodle. When you read my books, you are seeing me at my best.
My ultimate goal is to be both clever and right at the same time. I have it on good authority that I have yet to achieve it.
Through it all, though, I was always a storyteller. Eventually I started writing books based on the stray stories in my head, and people kept telling me to write more of them. Now, that's all I do for a living.
I enjoy strategy, worldbuilding, and the fantasy author's privilege to make up words. I am a gamer, a joker, and a thinker of sideways thoughts. But I don't dance, can't sing, and my best artistic efforts fall short of your average notebook doodle. When you read my books, you are seeing me at my best.
My ultimate goal is to be both clever and right at the same time. I have it on good authority that I have yet to achieve it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
September 2, 2014
I admit that I floundered for the longest time with the concept of the twin-born in this book, mostly because I hadn't realised that this was part of an ongoing universe(even if the individual characters are new in this story). It probably didn't help that the main protagonist had not just two lives but three if you add rebel troublemaker to the list. It was just too much to take in at times, especially as I couldn't seem to get the geography of the two worlds sorted out in my mind. Maybe if I had read the earlier books I might have enjoyed this more, but I spent too much time on the back foot trying to work out what was going on.
It probably didn't help that this was the first full novel I read on my tablet, and only when I was travelling (which isn't that often at the moment) so it took me a while to finish the story.
It's a pity because there was a fair amount to like about this book, but not enough to want to read the next one in the series. At least, not until I've read the earlier books first.
It probably didn't help that this was the first full novel I read on my tablet, and only when I was travelling (which isn't that often at the moment) so it took me a while to finish the story.
It's a pity because there was a fair amount to like about this book, but not enough to want to read the next one in the series. At least, not until I've read the earlier books first.
July 22, 2018
3.5 rounded up. I like J.S. Morin's work but it is not as good as the The Black Ocean Mobius Missions.
October 10, 2015
I may have been in a bad mood to start with, because I am not familiar with the author and I saw several books that looked interesting so I picked this because it is "volume 1". I should have read some reviews and looked closer, because this is something that takes place after another trilogy, so it is not actually the beginning of the story. After that I found that I got used to the premise, but I really liked Madlin when she was free and empowered, and I found myself flipping past sections about the other two identities--except for at the very beginning when Rynn was working at the university, and the very end. I am probably missing the point of the central conflict, but I just didn't enjoy her so much when she's a slave. Also, even Madlin has the worst "friend" who is constantly trying to get her to act like a slave instead of supporting Malin being awesome. . I do like the parts where Madlin is large and in charge, and the very end. I may try other books in the series to see what happens, but personally, I find this story had too many examples of having the MC's power taken away and the MC being humiliated.
January 25, 2018
Another book I got via a bundle (either Humble Bundle or, more likely Story Bundle), not because I'm a pre-existing fan of Mr. Morin. This book continues in a universe Mr. Morin created, but starts a new series that that does not seem to require any knowledge of the prior one. He takes great advantage of the world of technology and has links at the beginning of the book to a web page that explains the key tenets of his universe.
This universe has people called "twinborn" who essentially share one consciousness in two bodies. Each of those bodies is in another dimension of the same planet. At least in this book, both versions of the planet have the exact same geography, but have different histories. In this book, one world seems like a steampunk version of an Earth-like planet. The other world is steampunk plus something akin to magic and the humans are slaves to a race of alien-human hybrids. (If those who relate the history are not unreliable narrators) We mostly follow Rynn/Madlin, the titular Mad Tinker's Daughter. The interesting thing, given the title, is that we spend more time with the Rynn body and then Madlin one and Madline is the Mad Tinker's Daughter.
Morin does a good job telling the story with the twinborn concept. The twinborn can remember things from one body to the other and can use that as a method of passing messages - as one example of how he uses this. He creates compelling characters and anyone looking for a strong female character will not be disappointed; Rynn/Madlin is a real hoot who doesn't take crap from anyone. He also wonderfully fills in the details of the human slave world and it feels like a lived-in universe.
If you're looking for steampunk that isn't just in Europe or a European-like world, this one definitely pushes the boundaries of the genre in good ways.
This universe has people called "twinborn" who essentially share one consciousness in two bodies. Each of those bodies is in another dimension of the same planet. At least in this book, both versions of the planet have the exact same geography, but have different histories. In this book, one world seems like a steampunk version of an Earth-like planet. The other world is steampunk plus something akin to magic and the humans are slaves to a race of alien-human hybrids. (If those who relate the history are not unreliable narrators) We mostly follow Rynn/Madlin, the titular Mad Tinker's Daughter. The interesting thing, given the title, is that we spend more time with the Rynn body and then Madlin one and Madline is the Mad Tinker's Daughter.
Morin does a good job telling the story with the twinborn concept. The twinborn can remember things from one body to the other and can use that as a method of passing messages - as one example of how he uses this. He creates compelling characters and anyone looking for a strong female character will not be disappointed; Rynn/Madlin is a real hoot who doesn't take crap from anyone. He also wonderfully fills in the details of the human slave world and it feels like a lived-in universe.
If you're looking for steampunk that isn't just in Europe or a European-like world, this one definitely pushes the boundaries of the genre in good ways.
March 14, 2014
My favorite J.S. Morin book to date, and I LOVED the original Twinborn Trilogy! I'm not sure if it's the steampunk-y vibe, the grittiness or that I just always loved rooting for the underdog, but I was really sad when I was done reading this book. Thankfully the next one should be out soon! It's a bit shorter than previous works but that doesn't detract from the story. There is less exposition and more story in this book so we get to the action almost straight away. NOTE: You do not have to have previously read the Twinborn Trilogy to enjoy this book. It stands on it's own just fine. However, it's sort of the same universe, but focusing on different places. So if you have read the Twinborn Trilogy it will add another layer of understanding to the reading of this book.
October 5, 2014
Ok from what I could understand of the book it seemed really good. My poor little brain will have to read this one again some time when I can really try to think more about what I'm reading. So I'm obviously not going to read the second one yet until I read this one again.
I loved the characters but I could only keep a couple of people straight at a time. I mean they have the two identities so for zombie brains like mine it takes a bit for it to sink in what is going on.
I am interested in reading the next one to see where the war takes them, but I seriously need to understand more of what is going on. I would recommend the book to fantasy lovers and this steampunk they are talking about :)
I loved the characters but I could only keep a couple of people straight at a time. I mean they have the two identities so for zombie brains like mine it takes a bit for it to sink in what is going on.
I am interested in reading the next one to see where the war takes them, but I seriously need to understand more of what is going on. I would recommend the book to fantasy lovers and this steampunk they are talking about :)
March 14, 2014
In the Twinborn Trilogy, author J.S. Morin created two vividly described worlds. In the first book of the Mad Tinker series, he creates a third world complete with several new cultures to inhabit it. Some of these new characters from the third world are twins with one of the original worlds, but most are not aware of the twins with the other world considering talk of that world to be rumor or superstition. They are well developed and have those imperfections that make them seem real. The new technologies and disparity between cultures produces high jinks and adventure that should not be missed. Well worth the read.
October 27, 2014
Not my cup o' tea. To be fair, I think this is definitely a YA and has the emotions and reactions of such. So....I guess I'm being an adult. My problem wasn't with the writing, I liked the detailed descriptions of how things worked, and found it intriguing. What I did not like was the actual characters and plot. It just wasn't there for me. I would try and explain it, simply for my future self to remember why I didn't like it, but then I'd be spoiling a whole bushel of unknown plots, stories and twists this book offers. So sorry future self, you will either have to believe me that you didn't like this or reread.
I would not recommend this book.
I would not recommend this book.
April 4, 2014
Not having read the 'Twinborn Trilogy' I was kind of unfamiliar with what was going on with two different worlds with having individuals living in them that were twins. After getting further into the book I understood what was going on and it became a 'can't put it down' book. Thoroughly enjoyed it and looking forward to the next book in the series.
February 12, 2020
This was a good sequel to the Awakening collection, set in the same universe and intending to expand upon the story by exploring new worlds with new characters and conflicts. I would have appreciated more transition and a better understanding of what was happening and how everything related to Veydris; we do get a little bit of this eventually, but that's more than three quarters of the way through the book and I spent a good chunk of the first part wondering and nearly put the book down because of it.
The content and themes of the Mad Tinker collection are more mature and seem to be aimed at an older audience than the Awakening collection. Either way, I look forward to seeing how the story plays out.
The content and themes of the Mad Tinker collection are more mature and seem to be aimed at an older audience than the Awakening collection. Either way, I look forward to seeing how the story plays out.
August 14, 2020
Morin did a really good job of telling a story taking place on two worlds while centered around a small population that is capable of being an individual in both worlds. The Mad Tinker and his daughter, a tinker of almost equal capability, have put their creativity and skill to use to become great industrialists in one world, but on another world, although they have the same skills, their output that isn’t taken for use by the ruling race is being planned for use to save humans from their oppressors. The problems come to a head when the father and daughter, working toward the same goal, but separately from one another, finally come face to face.
Quick and fun read. It is the start of a series, I will have to decide how much I continue into this world.
Quick and fun read. It is the start of a series, I will have to decide how much I continue into this world.
March 24, 2019
There is a great imagination at work here and parts of the story I enjoyed immensely. My big problem with the book is that I thought I was starting a new series, and in reality this is the first in a sequence of stories. This might seem like a subtle distinction but I found myself rather lost as concepts that had clearly been established over the course of previous books in the sequence were simply alluded to. What I need to decide now is whether it is worth going back to the beginning or not - a question that I find hanging in the balance.
July 20, 2017
When I started reading, I had to check to make sure there were not earlier books that I had overlooked. The author drops you into the story with no preamble, no background, and it takes a few chapters to wrap your head around the world of the Mad Tinker. Once that happens, though, the story is an incredible read, well paced, good development, and enjoyable.
August 4, 2017
Interesting world building, interesting plot, but totally ruined by the ending. It felt really weird and unnatural when character which is portrayed one way does something completely opposite to that portrayal (obviously not saying much to avoid spoilers, but you will probably understand if you read this book).
It will probably take some time before (and if) I can continue with book #2.
It will probably take some time before (and if) I can continue with book #2.
November 12, 2019
I will start by saying I am a HUGE J.S. Morin fan. The Mobius Missions are one my mostly highly recommended series and I just love them.
The first book in the war of three world's series is alright. I own the whole series and will finish them all but some of these characters are more flat the Kansas. I hope this story picks up steam.
The first book in the war of three world's series is alright. I own the whole series and will finish them all but some of these characters are more flat the Kansas. I hope this story picks up steam.
May 30, 2017
Action packed
Although I was not sure which world I was in it held my curiosity and desire to learn more. The story was hard to follow at times but it woven together beautifully at the end, with a surprise ending. I can't wait to start the next book.
Although I was not sure which world I was in it held my curiosity and desire to learn more. The story was hard to follow at times but it woven together beautifully at the end, with a surprise ending. I can't wait to start the next book.
July 24, 2017
Interesting fantasy
4 star I think. But I'm not very confident of that choice. I suspect my doubt is influenced by being both sick and stressed. It's an interesting mix of steampunk and magic in an unusual set of worlds. I would be interested in more.
4 star I think. But I'm not very confident of that choice. I suspect my doubt is influenced by being both sick and stressed. It's an interesting mix of steampunk and magic in an unusual set of worlds. I would be interested in more.
May 22, 2018
This book is labeled as #1 but the series takes place after another and there is no intro. Most of the beginning of the book made little to no sense and the terms of the universe were not well explained if at all. I'd give it 0 stars if possible based on this.
July 3, 2020
This one took me a while to finish. It jumps between worlds and it was hard for me to follow just how they were linked. I won't continue on with the series, I liked the characters but without understanding the linkage between the worlds I felt like I was missing too much to fully enjoy the story.
December 2, 2020
A fresh take on the multi verse genre
For those who enjoy sci fi multi verse and steam punk, this is for you. Well written with great characters and story. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
For those who enjoy sci fi multi verse and steam punk, this is for you. Well written with great characters and story. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
April 23, 2020
The mad tinker daughter is a great continuation of the twin born chronicles, we get twinborn again and it becomes more epic than last seriess, steam punk meets magic.
April 17, 2015
Relying more on nuance than gross difference to separate cultures and places, Morin creates a world that is both obviously not our own and immediately recognisable as real. While this novel does not skimp on either action or fantastical technologies, it is also strongly founded in character and not novelty.
Rynn lives in a world where most humans are slaves to other races. Eking out a living as a University cleaner, she spends her free time building devices to fight against her oppressors. Madlin Errol is the daughter of the Mad Tinker, one of the most powerful and respected engineers in her world. But they are also the same person: when one sleeps they awaken as the other. Madlin’s father is gathering all those humans who share this power of split lives for some grand and secret scheme, but Rynn sees too much injustice in the world to wait. With both great talent and twice as much time to experiment, she can make a difference: but will she also make things worse?
The idea of people’s dream lives being real is not new. However, Morin’s take on it feels fresh. Rather than the common tropes of the dream realm being malleable, fickle, surreal, or in otherwise unlike reality, the twin realms of Korr and Tellurak are – while different in culture and environment – both “reality”. This equality removes the inherent bias that might otherwise make the reader automatically choosing the real world over illusion; and thus makes the conflicts between benefiting one or the other more resonant.
While each world is rendered realistically, they are both solidly fantasy worlds, possessing technologies on the border between magic and alternative science.
Korr, the world of oppressed humanity and ancient powerful races, has the decayed grandeur of a long past and a mysticism grown from slavery and decadent civilisation.
Whereas, Tellurak, a world apparently solely of humans, has the entrepreneurial shininess of a world filled with the free and ruled by those who escape their slavery by sleep.
But both also share common themes: the plans of the powerful are handed down in pieces with the expectation they are both benevolent and right; and progress belongs to those who make it. This creates a reason to favour one over the other, while adding a suspicion that neither is actually a great society.
Rynn/Madlin is a skillfully written protagonist; or protagonists, as the divided personalities present differently to the different worlds. As Rynn she lives a secret life as a terrorist, using her public face only to eavesdrop on engineering lectures and sneak texts from the library. As Madlin, she is free to study and experiment, but still rebels against her father’s belief that she doesn’t need to know his full plans.
However, Madlin/Rynn’s youthful rebellions, might also be the part least engaging to the reader. Despite, or perhaps because of, Morin’s plausible portrayal of the mixture of poor impulse control and iron self-belief of a teenager, there are moments when a reader who prefers protagonists with a mature outlook might feel frustrated by the lack of introspection and trust.
This portrayal of distinct but similar masks on an inferred core extends to several of the other twinned characters in the novel, giving a stronger and more nuanced insight into the two cultures by evidence of their effect on different people.
However, by displaying that the persona of a character in one world might not reflect their plans in the other, Morin also undermines the reader’s certainty that a twinned character seen from the perspective of only one world is as they seem. Combined with open collaboration from some characters, this makes each time Madlin trusts someone in Tellurak take on the undertone of possible betrayal, adding a resonance of conspiracy that reduces the reader’s distance.
Although the shared worlds and the characters who exist in both are at the heart of this book, Morin does not skimp on the single-world narratives. Those confined to one world face problems of equal scale and complexity, and are rendered with equal depth; and those who can switch between worlds, find neither life merely an obstacle to or tool for their goals in the other.
Overall, I really liked this novel. I recommend it to readers seeking a solid steampunk adventure with complex dilemmas.
Rynn lives in a world where most humans are slaves to other races. Eking out a living as a University cleaner, she spends her free time building devices to fight against her oppressors. Madlin Errol is the daughter of the Mad Tinker, one of the most powerful and respected engineers in her world. But they are also the same person: when one sleeps they awaken as the other. Madlin’s father is gathering all those humans who share this power of split lives for some grand and secret scheme, but Rynn sees too much injustice in the world to wait. With both great talent and twice as much time to experiment, she can make a difference: but will she also make things worse?
The idea of people’s dream lives being real is not new. However, Morin’s take on it feels fresh. Rather than the common tropes of the dream realm being malleable, fickle, surreal, or in otherwise unlike reality, the twin realms of Korr and Tellurak are – while different in culture and environment – both “reality”. This equality removes the inherent bias that might otherwise make the reader automatically choosing the real world over illusion; and thus makes the conflicts between benefiting one or the other more resonant.
While each world is rendered realistically, they are both solidly fantasy worlds, possessing technologies on the border between magic and alternative science.
Korr, the world of oppressed humanity and ancient powerful races, has the decayed grandeur of a long past and a mysticism grown from slavery and decadent civilisation.
Whereas, Tellurak, a world apparently solely of humans, has the entrepreneurial shininess of a world filled with the free and ruled by those who escape their slavery by sleep.
But both also share common themes: the plans of the powerful are handed down in pieces with the expectation they are both benevolent and right; and progress belongs to those who make it. This creates a reason to favour one over the other, while adding a suspicion that neither is actually a great society.
Rynn/Madlin is a skillfully written protagonist; or protagonists, as the divided personalities present differently to the different worlds. As Rynn she lives a secret life as a terrorist, using her public face only to eavesdrop on engineering lectures and sneak texts from the library. As Madlin, she is free to study and experiment, but still rebels against her father’s belief that she doesn’t need to know his full plans.
However, Madlin/Rynn’s youthful rebellions, might also be the part least engaging to the reader. Despite, or perhaps because of, Morin’s plausible portrayal of the mixture of poor impulse control and iron self-belief of a teenager, there are moments when a reader who prefers protagonists with a mature outlook might feel frustrated by the lack of introspection and trust.
This portrayal of distinct but similar masks on an inferred core extends to several of the other twinned characters in the novel, giving a stronger and more nuanced insight into the two cultures by evidence of their effect on different people.
However, by displaying that the persona of a character in one world might not reflect their plans in the other, Morin also undermines the reader’s certainty that a twinned character seen from the perspective of only one world is as they seem. Combined with open collaboration from some characters, this makes each time Madlin trusts someone in Tellurak take on the undertone of possible betrayal, adding a resonance of conspiracy that reduces the reader’s distance.
Although the shared worlds and the characters who exist in both are at the heart of this book, Morin does not skimp on the single-world narratives. Those confined to one world face problems of equal scale and complexity, and are rendered with equal depth; and those who can switch between worlds, find neither life merely an obstacle to or tool for their goals in the other.
Overall, I really liked this novel. I recommend it to readers seeking a solid steampunk adventure with complex dilemmas.
March 21, 2014
This new trilogy is based off the same twinborn world of author J.S. Morin’s original trilogy Firehurler. Firehurler was a classic epic fantasy with the twinborn twist that made it very interesting and I really enjoyed it. This series adds a third world to the equation and is a steampunk fantasy that minimizes the magic and introduces more advanced technology.
The first book in the series isn’t that long at just over 200 pages. I was actually disappointed in the first half of the book but liked the second half. I did not like it as much as Firehurler for a number of reasons.
1. The main character Madlin/Rynn is not as likeable as Brannis/Kyrus. She’s young and has spunk but there isn’t much joy in her. I did grow to like her more in the second half. I do like her dad and his boss.
2. The steampunk angle doesn’t interest me that much. Steam power and new electricity is boring compared to the strictly epic fantasy world of Firehurler. I guess Steampunk just isn’t for me.
3. It felt more like a Young Adult book and seemed less smart at times. Example (very minor spoiler): Rynn steals a book from the library and wants to drop it down an air vent at lunch. The librarian leaves but then comes back from lunch before Rynn can finish this task. Did she inhale that lunch? And then Rynn wants to retrieve the book but has to do it quickly because the ducts get cleaned every day. Every day? I have yet to have my ducts cleaned so that seemed odd.
4. I think the world itself should have been detailed more. The world of Korr has two new races and we don’t get much of a description as to exactly why they are different and how long it’s been like that. This area should have been longer.
5. In Firehurler we got to view the opinions of twinborn on the other side of the war. In this book we only view the two main protagonists. I’d like to hear from a Kuduk so we get a better understanding of them. At the moment some may be sympathetic and yet they are all targets to be killed by these rebels who are borderline terrorists at times.
I did like the second half of the book. The characters got more interesting and the action more meaningful. I will most likely buy the next book in the series.
3/5
The first book in the series isn’t that long at just over 200 pages. I was actually disappointed in the first half of the book but liked the second half. I did not like it as much as Firehurler for a number of reasons.
1. The main character Madlin/Rynn is not as likeable as Brannis/Kyrus. She’s young and has spunk but there isn’t much joy in her. I did grow to like her more in the second half. I do like her dad and his boss.
2. The steampunk angle doesn’t interest me that much. Steam power and new electricity is boring compared to the strictly epic fantasy world of Firehurler. I guess Steampunk just isn’t for me.
3. It felt more like a Young Adult book and seemed less smart at times. Example (very minor spoiler): Rynn steals a book from the library and wants to drop it down an air vent at lunch. The librarian leaves but then comes back from lunch before Rynn can finish this task. Did she inhale that lunch? And then Rynn wants to retrieve the book but has to do it quickly because the ducts get cleaned every day. Every day? I have yet to have my ducts cleaned so that seemed odd.
4. I think the world itself should have been detailed more. The world of Korr has two new races and we don’t get much of a description as to exactly why they are different and how long it’s been like that. This area should have been longer.
5. In Firehurler we got to view the opinions of twinborn on the other side of the war. In this book we only view the two main protagonists. I’d like to hear from a Kuduk so we get a better understanding of them. At the moment some may be sympathetic and yet they are all targets to be killed by these rebels who are borderline terrorists at times.
I did like the second half of the book. The characters got more interesting and the action more meaningful. I will most likely buy the next book in the series.
3/5
March 14, 2014
A New World ... and Another Fantastic Story!
By CJM
Format:Kindle Edition|Amazon Verified Purchase
J S Morin's Twinborn Trilogy was a series rich with magic and an intriguing concept of twinborn characters. These characters were well developed and complex, with none being only good or bad but a complicated mixture of both. When I finished the last book I was deflated because the series was over. If this book is an indication of what's to come in this series - another trilogy? or more?- I'm prepared for another exciting adventure.
Madlin is a feisty young woman, raised solely by her eccentric father Cadmus Errol, also known as the Mad Tinker. As the heir to the Mad Tinker she leaves to purchase a promising source of ore, far from her home. So begins a journey that will possibly change two worlds forever. This gun-toting tinker in her own right, has a lot to prove and is not afraid to show her strength and ability to lead. She encounters two characters from the Twinborn Trilogy, one of whom gives Madlin a run for her money when it comes to being spoiled, entitled and used to getting their own way. The adventure that ensues is enough to keep a reader interested and intrigued. But that's never enough for this author!
Madlin is a twinborn and if her adventure isn't enough excitement, her twin Rynn has more than enough of her own! Rynn, on the planet of Korr, is proving to be a leader herself and determined to improve the lot of the enslaved and free humans of her world. She must use her wits and twinborn knowledge to lead humanity to a different life, one which their enslavers are determined to prevent.
The plot twists and turns from the first series are definitely continued with this new book! Don't think you know what's going to happen in any situation because you'll almost certainly be wrong! Trying to anticipate and predict what will happen next is an added perk to the actual storyline. The mix of two worlds here gives somewhat of a steampunk flavor to the plot... but since these worlds are imaginary, who's to know what technology should exist on either of them?!
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys an unpredictable read and looking forward to the next one!
November 27, 2015
Traumzwillinge
Die Zweigeborenen Madlin und Rynn versuchen sich gegenseitig zu unterstützen, obwohl ihre jeweils andere Welt nur im Traum zu bestehen scheint. Rynn ist in ihrer Welt nur eine Putzfrau, während Madlin die wohlerzogene Tochter von Cadmus Erroll ist, in deren Leben es kaum Sorgen zu geben scheint. Allerdings sind Rynns und Madlins Väter ebenfalls Zweigeborene, die sich aus ihren Träumen kennen. Da in Rynns Welt die Menschen nicht viel gelten und häufig als Sklaven gehalten werden, setzt Rynn in ihrer geheimen Identität als Chipmunk alles daran, die Menschen zu befreien. Und da kommt es sehr gelegen, dass ihr Vater eine Gelegenheit gefunden hat, zwischen den Welten zu reisen.
Sich in den Welten oder Traumwelten Rynns und Madlins zurecht zu finden, ist nicht so einfach. Ein Besuch auf der web-site des Autors kann da hilfreich sein. Ein wenig fühlt man sich an Parallelwelten erinnert, auch wenn es hier so scheint, als könnte die eine nur aktiv sein, wenn die andere schläft. Doch wie verhält es sich dann mit der geheimnisvollen dritten Welt? Und kann es noch weitere Welten geben. Abgesehen von diesem ungewöhnlichen Rahmen, in den die Geschichte gekleidet ist, findet man hier einen spannenden der Unterdrückten gegen die Unterdrückung. Rynns Welt hält große Unterdrückung bereit, der Madlin von ihrer Seite aus zu begegnen versucht.
In eine die Vorstellung fordernde Umgebung gebettet ist dieses spannende Schicksal Rynns. Die Rebellin, die den Kampf gegen die Unterdrücker aufnimmt und wegen ihrer besonderen Fähigkeiten kaum aufzuhalten ist. Geschickt nutzt sie es aus, dass sie als Mensch oft unterschätzt wird. Madlin, ihre Traumschwester, unternimmt alles, um Rynn zu unterstützen. Und als Leser folgt man den Wegen der beiden jungen Frauen mit großer Neugier. Manchmal erweckt das Buch dabei den Eindruck, ein Jugendbuch zu sein, doch manche beiläufigen, aber heftigen Grausamkeiten lassen daran zweifeln. Nachdem man sich in die Welt der Zweigeborenen hineingearbeitet hat, bietet dieser erste Band einer vierteiligen Reihe packende Unterhaltung, die auf die Folgebände neugierig macht.
Die Zweigeborenen Madlin und Rynn versuchen sich gegenseitig zu unterstützen, obwohl ihre jeweils andere Welt nur im Traum zu bestehen scheint. Rynn ist in ihrer Welt nur eine Putzfrau, während Madlin die wohlerzogene Tochter von Cadmus Erroll ist, in deren Leben es kaum Sorgen zu geben scheint. Allerdings sind Rynns und Madlins Väter ebenfalls Zweigeborene, die sich aus ihren Träumen kennen. Da in Rynns Welt die Menschen nicht viel gelten und häufig als Sklaven gehalten werden, setzt Rynn in ihrer geheimen Identität als Chipmunk alles daran, die Menschen zu befreien. Und da kommt es sehr gelegen, dass ihr Vater eine Gelegenheit gefunden hat, zwischen den Welten zu reisen.
Sich in den Welten oder Traumwelten Rynns und Madlins zurecht zu finden, ist nicht so einfach. Ein Besuch auf der web-site des Autors kann da hilfreich sein. Ein wenig fühlt man sich an Parallelwelten erinnert, auch wenn es hier so scheint, als könnte die eine nur aktiv sein, wenn die andere schläft. Doch wie verhält es sich dann mit der geheimnisvollen dritten Welt? Und kann es noch weitere Welten geben. Abgesehen von diesem ungewöhnlichen Rahmen, in den die Geschichte gekleidet ist, findet man hier einen spannenden der Unterdrückten gegen die Unterdrückung. Rynns Welt hält große Unterdrückung bereit, der Madlin von ihrer Seite aus zu begegnen versucht.
In eine die Vorstellung fordernde Umgebung gebettet ist dieses spannende Schicksal Rynns. Die Rebellin, die den Kampf gegen die Unterdrücker aufnimmt und wegen ihrer besonderen Fähigkeiten kaum aufzuhalten ist. Geschickt nutzt sie es aus, dass sie als Mensch oft unterschätzt wird. Madlin, ihre Traumschwester, unternimmt alles, um Rynn zu unterstützen. Und als Leser folgt man den Wegen der beiden jungen Frauen mit großer Neugier. Manchmal erweckt das Buch dabei den Eindruck, ein Jugendbuch zu sein, doch manche beiläufigen, aber heftigen Grausamkeiten lassen daran zweifeln. Nachdem man sich in die Welt der Zweigeborenen hineingearbeitet hat, bietet dieser erste Band einer vierteiligen Reihe packende Unterhaltung, die auf die Folgebände neugierig macht.
September 28, 2014
I am new to steam-punk and also new to the whole Twinborn theme although I almost instantly fell in love with both!
I will admit to having to read this book cautiously and slowly so I could fully wrap my typically historical or paranormal driven mind around the purely fantasy / sci fi theme. After I acclimated I found myself submerged in the storytelling involved with this arc.
In theory, some, but not all people live a fully separate life in a different world while they sleep. Or they're only conscious of their second selves when they're sleeping... I think it's more that than the first. But essentially, when you dream you live two lives.
In one life Madlin is the daughter of a wealthy business man who nearly rules the world (Tellurak) in which she lives and in her second life she (Rynn / Chipmunk) is a free borne human in a world (Korr) where humans are slaves and both free borne and slaves are the lowest class citizens in a world ruled by "others".
I was truly reading with caution as I was trying to keep straight the worlds and lives of Madlin and Jamile in comparison to Rynn/Chipmunk (who is the same person but alternative identities or alter egos). Jamile does't show up until the end of the book but I think that will change going forward now that both the Twinborns have found each other in Korr.
The book is very sci-fi/fantasy and does require some suspension of reality but it is rich and wonderfully written. You can see and smell the worlds and their differences and the characters introduced at the end of the book promise to bring more to the story as it goes on.
At first I was a bit hesitant because it was a lot to take in, by the middle I didn't want to put it down and once it ended I immediately started the second book. Due to Dan I think I may go back and read the first Twinborn trilogy so I know how they all come into play.
Very well done. Highly recommended :)
I will admit to having to read this book cautiously and slowly so I could fully wrap my typically historical or paranormal driven mind around the purely fantasy / sci fi theme. After I acclimated I found myself submerged in the storytelling involved with this arc.
In theory, some, but not all people live a fully separate life in a different world while they sleep. Or they're only conscious of their second selves when they're sleeping... I think it's more that than the first. But essentially, when you dream you live two lives.
In one life Madlin is the daughter of a wealthy business man who nearly rules the world (Tellurak) in which she lives and in her second life she (Rynn / Chipmunk) is a free borne human in a world (Korr) where humans are slaves and both free borne and slaves are the lowest class citizens in a world ruled by "others".
I was truly reading with caution as I was trying to keep straight the worlds and lives of Madlin and Jamile in comparison to Rynn/Chipmunk (who is the same person but alternative identities or alter egos). Jamile does't show up until the end of the book but I think that will change going forward now that both the Twinborns have found each other in Korr.
The book is very sci-fi/fantasy and does require some suspension of reality but it is rich and wonderfully written. You can see and smell the worlds and their differences and the characters introduced at the end of the book promise to bring more to the story as it goes on.
At first I was a bit hesitant because it was a lot to take in, by the middle I didn't want to put it down and once it ended I immediately started the second book. Due to Dan I think I may go back and read the first Twinborn trilogy so I know how they all come into play.
Very well done. Highly recommended :)
November 23, 2014
I got this as an ebook free from Amazon. The blurb sounded interesting.
Unfortunately this was a slow start and I only got captivating about 40% into it. But this may be more a limitation for me with the more technical portions which seemed above my head. In addition, it took a while for me to understand the multiple POVs. And it interplay between the twinborn took some getting used to and following. I had some difficulty relating to the MCs, though these girls are more like tomboys. There is character development but it could have been better. Not sure if this due to a man writing about girls.
So why am I still giving it 3 stars, the interplay between Rynn and her group and Madlin going to negotiate with Tanner and Dan and learning about her hidden powers were high spots for me. But not enough to make me want to read any more of the series though.
If you like more technical writing on guns infused with some fantasy, then this may be the book or series for you.
Unfortunately this was a slow start and I only got captivating about 40% into it. But this may be more a limitation for me with the more technical portions which seemed above my head. In addition, it took a while for me to understand the multiple POVs. And it interplay between the twinborn took some getting used to and following. I had some difficulty relating to the MCs, though these girls are more like tomboys. There is character development but it could have been better. Not sure if this due to a man writing about girls.
So why am I still giving it 3 stars, the interplay between Rynn and her group and Madlin going to negotiate with Tanner and Dan and learning about her hidden powers were high spots for me. But not enough to make me want to read any more of the series though.
If you like more technical writing on guns infused with some fantasy, then this may be the book or series for you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2017
I really enjoy the world. I had trouble figuring out what the overall plot was until perhaps halfway through the book. The author's writing and voice is very good. Some minor editing errors but almost all very minor and few in number.
January 23, 2016
This was my first Steampunk read and I have to say I really enjoyed it. I'm glad I picked this one first. I understand that this is a sequel to a previous trilogy that introduced the world, but the storyline and the world were easy enough to jump into without having read the first set of books.
In one world, the humans are either slaves or subjugated to a more alien race; in the other world, the humans are all free. The Mad Tinker rules the free world and his "twin born" is working feverishly to help free the humans in the other world.
In the free world, the Mad Tinker's daughter, Madlin, is free to roam and tinker; her twin born self, Rynn, aka, Chipmunk, dwells below fighting alongside friends to help free humankind.
There is plenty of action in both worlds, and there is a hint of magic.
In one world, the humans are either slaves or subjugated to a more alien race; in the other world, the humans are all free. The Mad Tinker rules the free world and his "twin born" is working feverishly to help free the humans in the other world.
In the free world, the Mad Tinker's daughter, Madlin, is free to roam and tinker; her twin born self, Rynn, aka, Chipmunk, dwells below fighting alongside friends to help free humankind.
There is plenty of action in both worlds, and there is a hint of magic.
January 5, 2016
Another book from Storybundle's Immerse or Die bundle, the first in a series that I don't think I will pursue, although I wish the bundle had contained more from the series, because this is pretty good.
The key concept is "Twinborn", people who have a "twin" in another world that is geographically analoguous with their own, but different in other respects. These twinborn can use the knowledge their twins have gained in the other world, and thus bring all sorts of innovations to their own world. In one of these worlds, humanity is enslaved by a nonhuman but humanoid species, and one version of the protagonist is with the resistance. The world built here is sort of steampunkish fantasy with gadgets that can be powered by runes. There is a fair amount of violent action as the plot gets moving.
The key concept is "Twinborn", people who have a "twin" in another world that is geographically analoguous with their own, but different in other respects. These twinborn can use the knowledge their twins have gained in the other world, and thus bring all sorts of innovations to their own world. In one of these worlds, humanity is enslaved by a nonhuman but humanoid species, and one version of the protagonist is with the resistance. The world built here is sort of steampunkish fantasy with gadgets that can be powered by runes. There is a fair amount of violent action as the plot gets moving.
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