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Blue Time #1
Master Song
On a cold, stormy evening in Ireland, five teenagers suddenly find themselves lost, separated, and unprepared for a dangerous quest "beyond the Veil" into Morsden Forest, a secret world hidden from ours. There they must learn to grow, learn to trust, learn to fight, learn to sacrifice, and learn to love in order to rediscover the first of seven lost jewels that contain the ancient verses of The Master Song. Together with a myriad of the Awakened humanlike animals and plants they will battle wild beasts, wraithlike doppelgangers, and an evil power nearly as ancient as creation itself.
Will they stand strong and discover the virtues they have within themselves? Or will they, too, fall to the Corrupted?
Will they stand strong and discover the virtues they have within themselves? Or will they, too, fall to the Corrupted?
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
7 people are currently reading
1256 people want to read
About the author
Andrew Maloney
13 books33 followersI grew up in the backseat of a car, traveling across the States and abroad with my healing evangelist parents (www.voiceofthedovecompany.com.) It gave me lots of time, staring out the window, to come up with some fantastic ideas for stories.
I graduated from the University of North Texas with an arts degree in writing and have ghost-written/edited over a dozen nonfiction books.
Along with my beautiful wife, Christy, I authored Eight Weeks with No Water, the testimony of our second son’s miraculous birth.
My first fiction book is The Elementalists, and my high fantasy epic series, Blue Time, is being published through Whitaker House. The first novel in the series, The Master Song, is coming out September 2014.
I live out in the sticks in the cross-timbers area of north Texas with Christy, our two cute boys, Connor and Christian, and two ridiculous dogs, Merlot and Riesling.
I graduated from the University of North Texas with an arts degree in writing and have ghost-written/edited over a dozen nonfiction books.
Along with my beautiful wife, Christy, I authored Eight Weeks with No Water, the testimony of our second son’s miraculous birth.
My first fiction book is The Elementalists, and my high fantasy epic series, Blue Time, is being published through Whitaker House. The first novel in the series, The Master Song, is coming out September 2014.
I live out in the sticks in the cross-timbers area of north Texas with Christy, our two cute boys, Connor and Christian, and two ridiculous dogs, Merlot and Riesling.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 25, 2014
Wow, just wow. I just finished Master Song and I am in complete awe. I recieved this book through a GoodReads giveaway and was not expecting much, but I am officially blown away. One of the best stories I've read all year and beautifully written.
The setting descriptions are unbelievable, the story is set in Ireland but also in Morsden Forest which is "beyond the veil." This other world is home to these amazing awakened creatures, animals and plants that can talk, brought to life by the songs of the Treemen or Coeduine. Some good, some 'corrupted.'
The story follows a group of young teens (13-15 year olds) on their adventure through this Otherworld, in hopes of finding Quinns grandmother who was lost when they crossed through the veil while also keeping the Love Verse of the Master Song safe. On the way they meet so many loveable characters who help them on their journey.
I also love the many Hitchhikers Guide and Lord of the Rings references, along with a few others that I couldn't help but smile at when I read them.
Please do yourself a favor and read this.
If you like YA Fantasy/Science Fiction, or series such as Harry Potter, Percy Jackson and LotR, this is definitely a series to get into.
Good job Andrew Maloney on this masterpiece and I genuinely (and impatiently) await your other books.
The setting descriptions are unbelievable, the story is set in Ireland but also in Morsden Forest which is "beyond the veil." This other world is home to these amazing awakened creatures, animals and plants that can talk, brought to life by the songs of the Treemen or Coeduine. Some good, some 'corrupted.'
The story follows a group of young teens (13-15 year olds) on their adventure through this Otherworld, in hopes of finding Quinns grandmother who was lost when they crossed through the veil while also keeping the Love Verse of the Master Song safe. On the way they meet so many loveable characters who help them on their journey.
I also love the many Hitchhikers Guide and Lord of the Rings references, along with a few others that I couldn't help but smile at when I read them.
Please do yourself a favor and read this.
If you like YA Fantasy/Science Fiction, or series such as Harry Potter, Percy Jackson and LotR, this is definitely a series to get into.
Good job Andrew Maloney on this masterpiece and I genuinely (and impatiently) await your other books.
January 27, 2016
I received this book through the Goodreads giveaway, in exchange for an honest review. Out of all the First Reads books I have received, The Master Song has been the most enjoyable so far; it was one of the very best novels I read in 2014.
Having reluctantly travelled with his family and best friend Stanley to Ireland for a family wedding, amateur botanist and self-confessed nerd Nolan suspects it will be a long boring summer spent with relatives he doesn’t like, especially his stuck-up cousin Genevieve. Her mother is getting married to tomboy Quinn’s father, meaning she will become a step-cousin to Nolan and his little brother Emery.
The wedding is to be hosted by Quinn’s grandmother at her grand house in the Irish countryside, surrounding by spacious gardens and forests. Quinn’s grand-mother Audrey is rather eccentric, and upon learning she may be dying, passes to Quinn a mysterious diamond pendant and a journal.
A storm brews at the coming of dusk – known as Blue Time - and Audrey is spotted running out into the storm towards a cairn. Quinn (wearing the pendant), Nolan, Emery, Genevieve and Stanley all follow her, and they are astonished as a rift opens to another world, whereupon a giant tree man appears, seeking Audrey for a quest in another world. Inadvertently the five children are also pulled “across the veil” with them when something attacks the tree as the rift is closing.
The children are separated during the crossover to the hidden world, and each soon learns that the pendant worn by Quinn can unlock something called the Love Verse, one of seven verses to The Master Song. A number of otherworld creatures are sworn to protect it from falling into the wrong hands, with some evil beings intent on stealing the verse and using the song for their own nefarious gains. The children must find one another first, then they must toughen up if they hope to survive long enough to save the Love Verse and find a way home.
The world which has been created by Andrew Maloney here is fantastically detailed and imaginative, drawing on Celtic mythology as well as embellishing and indeed bettering some typical fantasy hallmarks. The Coeduine – as the tree men are called – rely on songs for various reasons; to Awaken living things, which gives them greater intelligence and sentience, to allow translation between those who speak different languages, or to heal those injured in battle.
The good creatures range from the tree-like humanoids Coeduine to the anthropomorphised animals such as tigers and rhinos, from the adorable and deadly flower warriors of the Brethren, or the highwaymen-esque band of frogs and lizards, all walking upright on 2 legs, talking and able to fight with weapons, and displaying their own unique characteristics.
As to be expected, some of these awakened beings are Corrupted and become evil, intent on helping the main antagonist Basisolc unlock the verses of The Master Song in his own personal pursuit of power. They often take the form of sterotypical evil animals such as spiders, snakes, and ravens, but also animals usually associated with good such as deer, horses, Coeduine, flowers etc. The Corrupted Coeduine have their own songs which can poison, silence or put someone to sleep.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, so I am pleased to know the story doesn’t end here. In fact it is just the beginning, and the thought of spending more hours in the hidden world is exciting. The concept of children being pulled into another world and becoming involved in a struggle between good and evil may not seem on the surface unique, but this is probably the best example of this kind of story I have read in my life. The author himself tips the hat to various fantasy and video game influences, but on so many occasions, this novel completely surpasses those it deems have inspired its inception.
No magic wardrobes or precious rings are required in this novel; the vast world is already infinitely more interesting, the characters so much more intriguing and refreshing, and the rich plot somehow so much easier to understand. This book, without question should be made into a movie; visually it could be epic, and I REALLY want to see the characters on screen.
Alternatively a graphic novel or illustrated version of the book could serve the same purpose; seeing the beautiful world Maloney has crafted in all its glory. The story deserves it.
Having reluctantly travelled with his family and best friend Stanley to Ireland for a family wedding, amateur botanist and self-confessed nerd Nolan suspects it will be a long boring summer spent with relatives he doesn’t like, especially his stuck-up cousin Genevieve. Her mother is getting married to tomboy Quinn’s father, meaning she will become a step-cousin to Nolan and his little brother Emery.
The wedding is to be hosted by Quinn’s grandmother at her grand house in the Irish countryside, surrounding by spacious gardens and forests. Quinn’s grand-mother Audrey is rather eccentric, and upon learning she may be dying, passes to Quinn a mysterious diamond pendant and a journal.
A storm brews at the coming of dusk – known as Blue Time - and Audrey is spotted running out into the storm towards a cairn. Quinn (wearing the pendant), Nolan, Emery, Genevieve and Stanley all follow her, and they are astonished as a rift opens to another world, whereupon a giant tree man appears, seeking Audrey for a quest in another world. Inadvertently the five children are also pulled “across the veil” with them when something attacks the tree as the rift is closing.
The children are separated during the crossover to the hidden world, and each soon learns that the pendant worn by Quinn can unlock something called the Love Verse, one of seven verses to The Master Song. A number of otherworld creatures are sworn to protect it from falling into the wrong hands, with some evil beings intent on stealing the verse and using the song for their own nefarious gains. The children must find one another first, then they must toughen up if they hope to survive long enough to save the Love Verse and find a way home.
The world which has been created by Andrew Maloney here is fantastically detailed and imaginative, drawing on Celtic mythology as well as embellishing and indeed bettering some typical fantasy hallmarks. The Coeduine – as the tree men are called – rely on songs for various reasons; to Awaken living things, which gives them greater intelligence and sentience, to allow translation between those who speak different languages, or to heal those injured in battle.
The good creatures range from the tree-like humanoids Coeduine to the anthropomorphised animals such as tigers and rhinos, from the adorable and deadly flower warriors of the Brethren, or the highwaymen-esque band of frogs and lizards, all walking upright on 2 legs, talking and able to fight with weapons, and displaying their own unique characteristics.
As to be expected, some of these awakened beings are Corrupted and become evil, intent on helping the main antagonist Basisolc unlock the verses of The Master Song in his own personal pursuit of power. They often take the form of sterotypical evil animals such as spiders, snakes, and ravens, but also animals usually associated with good such as deer, horses, Coeduine, flowers etc. The Corrupted Coeduine have their own songs which can poison, silence or put someone to sleep.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, so I am pleased to know the story doesn’t end here. In fact it is just the beginning, and the thought of spending more hours in the hidden world is exciting. The concept of children being pulled into another world and becoming involved in a struggle between good and evil may not seem on the surface unique, but this is probably the best example of this kind of story I have read in my life. The author himself tips the hat to various fantasy and video game influences, but on so many occasions, this novel completely surpasses those it deems have inspired its inception.
No magic wardrobes or precious rings are required in this novel; the vast world is already infinitely more interesting, the characters so much more intriguing and refreshing, and the rich plot somehow so much easier to understand. This book, without question should be made into a movie; visually it could be epic, and I REALLY want to see the characters on screen.
Alternatively a graphic novel or illustrated version of the book could serve the same purpose; seeing the beautiful world Maloney has crafted in all its glory. The story deserves it.
April 8, 2022
I won this and its sequel in a goodreads giveaway.
I really enjoyed this book, and I recommend it to any YA epic fantasy fans. it is an excellent story. It is fun, exciting, well-written, interesting, and easy to read. I enjoyed the pop-culture references; they were fun without being over the top or too frequent, and they fit well with the characters. The book had a serious tone when needed, and a playful tone to keep younger readers engaged. The characters were all well drawn and easy to relate to, and the villain was creepy and not overdone or cheesy. The realities of the otherworld (the different languages, lack of food and shelter, etc.) were not passed over in a simple fashion, as so often happens in fantasy stories. The characters had to deal with the realities of their situation, and it was done in a realistic manner, which made the story much more believable. The tree creatures and awakened animals were all well-described and believable, as well as interesting and fun to read about.
I am glad I won the sequel (The Verse of Valor) at the same time; I get to continue enjoying this world right away! I am excited for the continuation of this series, and I highly recommend it to all fantasy fans.
I really enjoyed this book, and I recommend it to any YA epic fantasy fans. it is an excellent story. It is fun, exciting, well-written, interesting, and easy to read. I enjoyed the pop-culture references; they were fun without being over the top or too frequent, and they fit well with the characters. The book had a serious tone when needed, and a playful tone to keep younger readers engaged. The characters were all well drawn and easy to relate to, and the villain was creepy and not overdone or cheesy. The realities of the otherworld (the different languages, lack of food and shelter, etc.) were not passed over in a simple fashion, as so often happens in fantasy stories. The characters had to deal with the realities of their situation, and it was done in a realistic manner, which made the story much more believable. The tree creatures and awakened animals were all well-described and believable, as well as interesting and fun to read about.
I am glad I won the sequel (The Verse of Valor) at the same time; I get to continue enjoying this world right away! I am excited for the continuation of this series, and I highly recommend it to all fantasy fans.
October 25, 2015
I wonder if any author has ever marked their own work less than five stars... Is anyone THAT honest?
"Yes, while I think I did exceptionally well in avoiding adverbs and fragmented clauses, I should have spent more time in character development and world creation. I think the magic system in 'My Book' could have been worked over a little better. So all in all, I give myself a solid 3.5 stars."
*pats self on shoulder*
What every author is really thinking: "I am SO much better than Rowling... Tolkien, who? Hunger Games, what? Pshaw. My book gets five stars and then another five stars, just 'cause!"
"Yes, while I think I did exceptionally well in avoiding adverbs and fragmented clauses, I should have spent more time in character development and world creation. I think the magic system in 'My Book' could have been worked over a little better. So all in all, I give myself a solid 3.5 stars."
*pats self on shoulder*
What every author is really thinking: "I am SO much better than Rowling... Tolkien, who? Hunger Games, what? Pshaw. My book gets five stars and then another five stars, just 'cause!"
June 4, 2020
I won a copy off a Goodreads giveaway a long time back. I ended up going through a family crisis and having to put it down for years. But something about the book drew me back in. I recently curled up with it and finished the book after all this time. And I am so glad I did. It was just refreshing and easy to read and even a comfort to me after having to put aside reading for so long. I am still grateful for getting a copy back then and I hope my far too late review inspires someone to give this book a try.
November 7, 2014
Recieved through Goodreads First Reads.
While I enjoyed it, I wouldn't say that I absolutely loved it. As far as the rest of the series goes, if I could borrow them or happen to find them at a discount store (like half priced books or value village) I might pick them up but I probably wouldn't plan on buying them specifically. And I could probably go without reading them all together.
While I enjoyed it, I wouldn't say that I absolutely loved it. As far as the rest of the series goes, if I could borrow them or happen to find them at a discount store (like half priced books or value village) I might pick them up but I probably wouldn't plan on buying them specifically. And I could probably go without reading them all together.
May 28, 2015
This series is for a younger audience. Having said that, I thoroughly enjoyed it! It brings forth a sense of child-like excitement over the wonder and adventure that is laid out on every page! It makes you feel like a 6th grader wishing this was your life story all over again! Loved every minute of it! On to #2!!!
November 5, 2014
Absolutely Loved it!
June 5, 2015
I received this novel in a giveaway for an honest review.
I absolutely LOVE this novel. I wasn't sure how I was going to like this book but I fell in love with it. It's a fun mix of a classic quest story with elements of The Lord of the Rings (which the author references a few times to be sure the reader knows it was probably on purpose). I love the writing style of the author, it was fairly simple and easy to follow. There is a language in this book and he uses some of the words, but he explains it well through the story and there is a glossary in the back.
But I suppose I could give a quick summary, even though I feel the summary given for the book says it pretty well.
The story is told in the perspective of a 12 year old boy named Nolan. (But there are a few scenes where the POV changed, but not for long.) He is bored and unhappy with his school life but he has one friend, Stanley, that sticks with him through it all. As their summer vacation begins with a three week trip to Ireland for Nolan's aunt's wedding, the boys anticipate for it to be a drag. But that's not the case.
They end up staying with their Aunt's to be mother-in-laws who has a secret past that she tries to tell her granddaughter, Quinn. And this is where the fun starts. In the middle of the night, Audrey (The grandmother), rushed outside and the children think she has gone crazy. Until they see the tall tree that speaks and has human like features. The mystical tree man takes them to "The other-side" through a veil because he needs Audrey's diamond that contains "The Love Verse". But on the other side the children find themselves meeting all sorts of new creatures and having an adventure of a lifetime. I don't want to spoil too much so I'll leave it at that.
I hope this was somewhat helpful. I'm excited to go straight to book 2 since it was also given to me in the same giveaway. If it hadn't I probably would be picking up the next book right now. I can't wait to see what happens next on their adventure!
I absolutely LOVE this novel. I wasn't sure how I was going to like this book but I fell in love with it. It's a fun mix of a classic quest story with elements of The Lord of the Rings (which the author references a few times to be sure the reader knows it was probably on purpose). I love the writing style of the author, it was fairly simple and easy to follow. There is a language in this book and he uses some of the words, but he explains it well through the story and there is a glossary in the back.
But I suppose I could give a quick summary, even though I feel the summary given for the book says it pretty well.
The story is told in the perspective of a 12 year old boy named Nolan. (But there are a few scenes where the POV changed, but not for long.) He is bored and unhappy with his school life but he has one friend, Stanley, that sticks with him through it all. As their summer vacation begins with a three week trip to Ireland for Nolan's aunt's wedding, the boys anticipate for it to be a drag. But that's not the case.
They end up staying with their Aunt's to be mother-in-laws who has a secret past that she tries to tell her granddaughter, Quinn. And this is where the fun starts. In the middle of the night, Audrey (The grandmother), rushed outside and the children think she has gone crazy. Until they see the tall tree that speaks and has human like features. The mystical tree man takes them to "The other-side" through a veil because he needs Audrey's diamond that contains "The Love Verse". But on the other side the children find themselves meeting all sorts of new creatures and having an adventure of a lifetime. I don't want to spoil too much so I'll leave it at that.
I hope this was somewhat helpful. I'm excited to go straight to book 2 since it was also given to me in the same giveaway. If it hadn't I probably would be picking up the next book right now. I can't wait to see what happens next on their adventure!
October 29, 2015
Andrew Maloney in his new book, “The Master Song” Book One in the Blue Time series published by Whitaker House brings us into the lives of five teenagers and Morsden Forest.
From the back cover: On a cold, stormy evening in Ireland, five teenagers suddenly find themselves lost, separated, and unprepared for a dangerous quest “beyond the Veil” into Morsden Forest, a secret world hidden from ours. There they must learn to grow, learn to trust, learn to fight, learn to sacrifice, and learn to love in order to rediscover the first of seven lost jewels that contain the ancient verses of The Master Song.
Together with a myriad of the Awakened humanlike animals and plants they will battle wild beasts, wraithlike doppelgangers, and an evil power nearly as ancient as creation itself.
Will they stand strong and discover the virtues they have within themselves? Or will they, too, fall to the Corrupted?
This is an amazing beginning to a highly interesting series. We are, literally, transported to a new world filled with beings that we have not been introduced to before. Mr. Maloney has created Morsden Forest and has crafted this wonderful way of letting us in on the adventure there and who is with us and who is against us. This is a really interesting story filled with twists and turns you just do not see coming. Mr. Maloney makes you care for all the characters, secondary or not, and their journey. I recommend that you don’t start this book late at night because it will cost you sleep.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Whitaker House. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: On a cold, stormy evening in Ireland, five teenagers suddenly find themselves lost, separated, and unprepared for a dangerous quest “beyond the Veil” into Morsden Forest, a secret world hidden from ours. There they must learn to grow, learn to trust, learn to fight, learn to sacrifice, and learn to love in order to rediscover the first of seven lost jewels that contain the ancient verses of The Master Song.
Together with a myriad of the Awakened humanlike animals and plants they will battle wild beasts, wraithlike doppelgangers, and an evil power nearly as ancient as creation itself.
Will they stand strong and discover the virtues they have within themselves? Or will they, too, fall to the Corrupted?
This is an amazing beginning to a highly interesting series. We are, literally, transported to a new world filled with beings that we have not been introduced to before. Mr. Maloney has created Morsden Forest and has crafted this wonderful way of letting us in on the adventure there and who is with us and who is against us. This is a really interesting story filled with twists and turns you just do not see coming. Mr. Maloney makes you care for all the characters, secondary or not, and their journey. I recommend that you don’t start this book late at night because it will cost you sleep.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Whitaker House. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
August 4, 2014
I received this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway. And I'm glad I did. This was a fantastic start to a series. The book revolves around the adventures of young Nolan and his friends who are sent "across the Veil" to another world one dark and stormy night in Ireland. Their journey begins to protect the Love Verse, one part of the Master Song, from the evil that seeks to control it. It becomes a story of friendship, family, sacrifice, and love.
Maloney creates a fantastic set of otherworld characters, not just the good guys, but also the Corrupted (better read as evil henchmen). I think my personal favorite had to be the Thornsword brethren. You can easily pick out other stories that influenced Maloney, but lest any reader should complain, the children make timely references to those specific books or movies. It all adds to the flavor of the story. I enjoyed getting to see Nolan and his friends grow from frightened 12 year olds into less frightened adventurers charged with recovering the other lost verses of the Master Song. Each character has hints dropped about him or her; interesting tidbits that I know will come into play in the rest of the series.
This book is a solid read for anyone looking for a good, clean book. It lays a solid foundation without trying to be overtly Christian. The elements are all there and Maloney draws on his own beliefs as needed and weaves them effortlessly in.
I immediately passed this book on to my younger sisters and I know it won't be long before they are eagerly awaiting the next installment with me.
Maloney creates a fantastic set of otherworld characters, not just the good guys, but also the Corrupted (better read as evil henchmen). I think my personal favorite had to be the Thornsword brethren. You can easily pick out other stories that influenced Maloney, but lest any reader should complain, the children make timely references to those specific books or movies. It all adds to the flavor of the story. I enjoyed getting to see Nolan and his friends grow from frightened 12 year olds into less frightened adventurers charged with recovering the other lost verses of the Master Song. Each character has hints dropped about him or her; interesting tidbits that I know will come into play in the rest of the series.
This book is a solid read for anyone looking for a good, clean book. It lays a solid foundation without trying to be overtly Christian. The elements are all there and Maloney draws on his own beliefs as needed and weaves them effortlessly in.
I immediately passed this book on to my younger sisters and I know it won't be long before they are eagerly awaiting the next installment with me.
September 10, 2014
http://thebook-dragon.tumblr.com/
Rating: 4/5
Genre: Young Adult
Pages: 341
Publisher: Whitaker House
*I received this advanced copy through a GoodReads giveaway (and I’m really glad I did)
Recommended For: Lovers of Tolkien and C.S Lewis
Summary:
Five unlikely friends find themselves thrust into another world ‘beyond The Veil’ and into a secret world with all sorts of mythical creatures, including the evil corrupted. Together they must traverse through Morsden Forest to find the Master Song and help save this new world. This is the first instalment in the series of Blue Time.
Review:
Initially I found the first 20-30 pages a bit slow and hard going but once I really got into the story I began to thoroughly enjoy it. One of things I most enjoyed was the world, Morsden Forest. It was very unique and well described with plenty of history to keep you interested.
I especially thought the characters were very well written and there was definitely a lot of good, realistic character development.
I have very little problems with this book. My main problem was there is a whole new language that the ‘Otherworlders’ spoke. Although there was a glossary which was very helpful it was a bit frustrating at times trying to remember the right definition and pronunciation.
Apart from that this book was very enjoyable and emotional (I may have teared up at the end). I will definitely be recommending it to my friends.
Rating: 4/5
Genre: Young Adult
Pages: 341
Publisher: Whitaker House
*I received this advanced copy through a GoodReads giveaway (and I’m really glad I did)
Recommended For: Lovers of Tolkien and C.S Lewis
Summary:
Five unlikely friends find themselves thrust into another world ‘beyond The Veil’ and into a secret world with all sorts of mythical creatures, including the evil corrupted. Together they must traverse through Morsden Forest to find the Master Song and help save this new world. This is the first instalment in the series of Blue Time.
Review:
Initially I found the first 20-30 pages a bit slow and hard going but once I really got into the story I began to thoroughly enjoy it. One of things I most enjoyed was the world, Morsden Forest. It was very unique and well described with plenty of history to keep you interested.
I especially thought the characters were very well written and there was definitely a lot of good, realistic character development.
I have very little problems with this book. My main problem was there is a whole new language that the ‘Otherworlders’ spoke. Although there was a glossary which was very helpful it was a bit frustrating at times trying to remember the right definition and pronunciation.
Apart from that this book was very enjoyable and emotional (I may have teared up at the end). I will definitely be recommending it to my friends.
October 2, 2014
When I began reading this book I thought "Oh dear, I am never going to get through this book". The language is in something called the First Tongue and there is a glossary at the back to help with pronunciation.
I stuck with it, and I'm so glad I did.
I won this in a giveaway competition. I really enjoyed this story, which is the first in a series.
Nolan, along with his best friend Stanley and his brother Emery go on h summer holiday from Boston to Ireland with Nolan's parents. He is not looking forward to it and thinks it will be boring. How wrong could he be!
They meet up with Quinn and Genevieve.
Things take a strange turn one night when Quinn's grandmother wanders into the woods nearby.
What follows is a huge adventure that takes all the children to their limits.
There are a lot of characters in this book and I did get confused a few times. But it is well written and moves along well.
I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
I stuck with it, and I'm so glad I did.
I won this in a giveaway competition. I really enjoyed this story, which is the first in a series.
Nolan, along with his best friend Stanley and his brother Emery go on h summer holiday from Boston to Ireland with Nolan's parents. He is not looking forward to it and thinks it will be boring. How wrong could he be!
They meet up with Quinn and Genevieve.
Things take a strange turn one night when Quinn's grandmother wanders into the woods nearby.
What follows is a huge adventure that takes all the children to their limits.
There are a lot of characters in this book and I did get confused a few times. But it is well written and moves along well.
I look forward to reading the other books in this series.
October 13, 2014
This was a well written adventure. I would peg this as a middle-grade adventure since the children are mostly in middle school. I thought that the characters were well written. As an American I liked that with characters on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean, that sometimes they didn't understand the slang that was being used. I liked how other languages and translations played out further into the book.
We spend most of the book in Nolan's point of view, and only branch into other ones once the children get separated, but still we were mostly in Nolan's. I think it would have been interesting to get more points of view, especially from Genevieve because she seems like an interesting character. And then of course anyone who has read the book SPOILER wants to know what happened when Genevieve and Emery met Terimrush.
I definitely will tell more people about this book and I will keep a look out for more in this series.
We spend most of the book in Nolan's point of view, and only branch into other ones once the children get separated, but still we were mostly in Nolan's. I think it would have been interesting to get more points of view, especially from Genevieve because she seems like an interesting character. And then of course anyone who has read the book SPOILER wants to know what happened when Genevieve and Emery met Terimrush.
I definitely will tell more people about this book and I will keep a look out for more in this series.
October 30, 2015
This book was truly amazing!!! I found myself really enjoying the world created in this story and can hardly wait to dive in again! I am really happy that I got this book and its immediate sequel as part of a GoodReads giveaway! I don't have to wait! This book is a must read! I laughed and cried (mostly at the end) and didn't want it to end at all!
December 2, 2014
If you like fantasy books this is the book to read. I really enjoyed reading this book. The characters are so likable. It was full of adventure and excitement throughout the whole book can't wait for the next one.
March 3, 2015
A new and fantastic journey
An amazing read, I truly felt connected to the story. A solid read from beginning to end, it drew me in and kept me in their world until the climatic ending. A must read for fantasy fans of all ages.
An amazing read, I truly felt connected to the story. A solid read from beginning to end, it drew me in and kept me in their world until the climatic ending. A must read for fantasy fans of all ages.
Want to read
January 21, 2015I received this book in the Goodreads First Read giveaway
Review to come....
Review to come....
May 23, 2015
Wow, what a great book. I love the adventure and friendship in it. Cannot wait to read the next one.
October 31, 2015
Review of The Masters Song
By Andrew Maloney
I received this book as a giveaway from Goodreads in return for an honest review.
It is the first in a series of books called Blue Time which is the name given to the magic hour of dusk. The story is set in an alternative world created by Andrew Maloney which is richly and imaginatively described in tremendous detail. As they cross the veil they find themselves in Morsden Forest, a place inhabited by all sorts of creatures and plants, some friendly some deadly and the five teenagers have to find a way to survive this alien environment.
Nolan and Stanley are friends. Emery is Nolan’s younger brother and they travel from America to attend a family wedding in Ireland. Once there they meet Genevieve and Quinn who are similar in age to the boys. Audrey, Quinn’s grandmother gives Quinn a diamond pendant and tells her that it is a verse of the Master Song. All five youngsters think that Audrey isn’t quite with it and is certainly a bit strange. When they see Audrey going into the woods during a storm they follow her concerned for her safety. This is the point at which they all cross over into an alternative world. Unfortunately they become separated during the crossing somehow, leaving Nolan and Quinn on their own in a strange, alien world. So the adventure begins.
The descriptions and imagery of the alternative world are breathtaking. The extent of the detail is impressive. This is the type of book which will be read over again and again as at each reading more layers will be found. It is a book which deserves to have time taken to read it. There is a separate language in the other world but a glossary at the back was very helpful.
Enthusiasts of fantasy books will love this series. It is followed by a second book which I also received as part of Goodreads giveaway and I can’t wait to get started.
By Andrew Maloney
I received this book as a giveaway from Goodreads in return for an honest review.
It is the first in a series of books called Blue Time which is the name given to the magic hour of dusk. The story is set in an alternative world created by Andrew Maloney which is richly and imaginatively described in tremendous detail. As they cross the veil they find themselves in Morsden Forest, a place inhabited by all sorts of creatures and plants, some friendly some deadly and the five teenagers have to find a way to survive this alien environment.
Nolan and Stanley are friends. Emery is Nolan’s younger brother and they travel from America to attend a family wedding in Ireland. Once there they meet Genevieve and Quinn who are similar in age to the boys. Audrey, Quinn’s grandmother gives Quinn a diamond pendant and tells her that it is a verse of the Master Song. All five youngsters think that Audrey isn’t quite with it and is certainly a bit strange. When they see Audrey going into the woods during a storm they follow her concerned for her safety. This is the point at which they all cross over into an alternative world. Unfortunately they become separated during the crossing somehow, leaving Nolan and Quinn on their own in a strange, alien world. So the adventure begins.
The descriptions and imagery of the alternative world are breathtaking. The extent of the detail is impressive. This is the type of book which will be read over again and again as at each reading more layers will be found. It is a book which deserves to have time taken to read it. There is a separate language in the other world but a glossary at the back was very helpful.
Enthusiasts of fantasy books will love this series. It is followed by a second book which I also received as part of Goodreads giveaway and I can’t wait to get started.
June 16, 2015
I received this (signed!) book for free as part of GoodReads First Reads program.
I had a really hard time getting into this book. It's not because it was a bad story or poorly written (although there was something about the writing style that rubbed me the wrong was at times...I couldn't really put my finger on what was wrong and it was only a minor annoyance, whatever it was). I guess I had a hard time connecting with the characters. I'm not the target audience, so perhaps that's all there is to it.
...I do appreciate a good Hitchhiker's Guide reference, though. Bravo for that!
I had a really hard time getting into this book. It's not because it was a bad story or poorly written (although there was something about the writing style that rubbed me the wrong was at times...I couldn't really put my finger on what was wrong and it was only a minor annoyance, whatever it was). I guess I had a hard time connecting with the characters. I'm not the target audience, so perhaps that's all there is to it.
...I do appreciate a good Hitchhiker's Guide reference, though. Bravo for that!
August 17, 2015
I liked the first tome better than the second one, probably because it was easier to get into. The kids you will meet again in the other books are introduced to you and it is kind of sweet. They will go behind the veil and discover the other world there.
I had to "learn" the language to read the second tome, so this one felt much easier. Maybe that is why I was able to enjoy it more.
I had to "learn" the language to read the second tome, so this one felt much easier. Maybe that is why I was able to enjoy it more.
June 30, 2015
It took me a while to get into this book. I tried really hard, but nothing pulled me in. The world was vivid and writing was good. I'm not a huge fantasy fan, so this book might pull you in more if you love fantasy.
I received this book for free from Goodread's First Reads. This doesn't affect my opinion on the book.
I received this book for free from Goodread's First Reads. This doesn't affect my opinion on the book.
February 16, 2016
Awesome, I cannot wait for the next book to arrive. I loved the characters especially the firey Quinn. Nolan in all his red head self, was absolutely adorable, I loved the fact I could relate to him. If your looking for something out of this land and into something magical you will love this.
Want to read
July 26, 2014I can not wait for this book to release so I can devour it and write a review for my blog!
August 15, 2015
fabulous adventure that grips your imagination and longing for the next instalment, will share with my fantasy reading friends, know they will love it
January 24, 2017
This was a really fun book with an interesting, exciting world, and good characters. I look forward to reading the second one :)
I received this book from a goodreads giveaway.
I received this book from a goodreads giveaway.
December 31, 2015
The was a Goodreads first-read win!
This is a book with a story very reminiscent of The Chronicles of Narnia. There are five children (Stanley, Nolan, Emery, Quinn, and Genevieve) who travel to the Other Side (something like the land of Fae). In the Other Side they meet coeduine (tree people), fairfolk, talking flowers and animals. Blue time is the period of the day when magic can be used. All five children and their allies must fight the Corrupted to return home safely.
The book was rather enjoyable, but confusing. Many of the characters had three or more different names and their names were used interchangeably on the same page.
This is a book with a story very reminiscent of The Chronicles of Narnia. There are five children (Stanley, Nolan, Emery, Quinn, and Genevieve) who travel to the Other Side (something like the land of Fae). In the Other Side they meet coeduine (tree people), fairfolk, talking flowers and animals. Blue time is the period of the day when magic can be used. All five children and their allies must fight the Corrupted to return home safely.
The book was rather enjoyable, but confusing. Many of the characters had three or more different names and their names were used interchangeably on the same page.
May 6, 2016
I love it!! I can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series!
I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway.
I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway.
September 5, 2015
FTC Disclosure: I received this book free from Goodreads hoping I would review it.
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