The Shift

by Hannah Murphy

Paperback

Published July 1, 2024

Reviews

[Adrienne A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really got into this dystopian book - not my usual genre, but I got caught up in the shifting immediately and the book was well-paced. Definitely need a sequel!!

[Niamh Carson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve never been much of a reader, but when this book fell into my hands I fell deeply in love and couldn’t put it down. This beautifully written piece combined both technicality with personal experiences through the characters as they journeyed through. The ending left me so hooked that I’m needing more. Would definitely recommend to anyone and everyone!!

[Kimberley Lister · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful story that I couldn’t put down! This book had me absolutely enthralled in it from the moment I picked it up, and the pace at which your questions about the mysterious world get answered couldn’t be any better. I don’t normally enjoy science fiction but I loved this book so much, not only did it get me back into reading in general after a long break, but it also opened my mind to genres I hadn’t considered reading before. The characters are written beautifully, their journey through dimensions experiencing other versions of themselves in hugely differing environments is a very intriguing concept. Truly one of the best books I have ever read, I am eagerly awaiting the next instalment in the series! ✨

[Lola Lane · Rating 5 out of 5]

With subtlety and elegance Hannah has intertwined her own personal journeys into the heart and soul of this novel. She does a fantastic job at painting an entire dystopian universe/s with fully realized characters in such a captivating plot. In addition to this she is able to balance the right amount of mystery, leaving an open canvas for the reader to interpret and imagine the story as they please. Her choice of words are so alluring that you just feel drawn to keep reading! I’m very excited for the next instalment and so eager to know what happens next!

[Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shift is an exciting and thought-provoking journey into an extraordinary sci-fi adventure from an invigorating new artistic voice.
Author Hannah Murphy juggles characters, themes and ideas with intriguing and stimulating nuance while also imbuing her own incredible life experiences and challenges into each page. I found the main characters very well-rounded and defined with such sympathetic intentions and struggles that made for extremely energising reading.
Murphy is a superbly talented up-and-coming writer and one to definitely keep an eye on. This debut novel is a firm testament to that fact and I cannot wait to see what she contributes to the literary world next.

[Kaylib · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first few words written by H. Murphy had me handcuffed to the book. It holds a thought provoking intro which then eases us with the beautiful articulation of the environments that surrounds the characters, before you know it you are halfway through the book. Ignorance, guilt and morals are common across the story with the main protagonists sprawling for their goal. A truely captivating and thought provoking story that deserves, nay, needs to be read by more. And I truely cannot wait to read the sequel

[Mikayla Ratcliff · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sci-fi/dystopian MUST READ!!!
A captivating story from start to finish, any questions you have are answered shortly after, the environments described are so vastly different from one another but you can picture them so clearly. Aurora and Atlas have SUCH a journey ahead of them with contrasting views and opinions. And the ENDING, my god the ending. I need a sequel ASAP

[Sarah Hardey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I often struggle to finish books, especially full length novels, but this was an exception to the rule. The pacing was excellent, the story was incredibly well crafted, and the characters seemed to come to life right from the first chapter. If you haven’t read it already, I urge you to.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredible piece of fiction!!! Absolutely loved this book from start to finish and I can’t wait for the next one!

[Ryan Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

'The Shift', the debut novel by Hannah Murphy, is a sci-fi tale with great world building and deliberate pacing that makes it engrossing and difficult to put down. Excited to see where the series goes next!

[Zarnia Arthur-Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The time and love put into this book shines through how it's written and the emotions you feel for the characters. I would recommend this book to everyone.

[William Hawkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

From first finding out about The Shift, as a concept. To reading it's first chapter. I had a feeling this book would hold a far more significant message than anything, I had the reading experience to fully grasp from past attempts at other books. I don't considers myself a reader of fiction because I struggle to remain attentive and routine.

This book captured me from the get go. I was enthralled by how each of the characters react and respond to the layers of the world around them. As they uncover more and more details themselves, so did I. Not only about the nature of the world of The Shift but about myself, through it. The pacing was particularly effective for me because it allowed me remain intrigued and excited as I read. Unlike some other books I have tried to read for readings sake. From start to finish, The Shift was a joy that need not be read as others like it but must be experienced.

It speaks to the human spirit and the ever changing nature of surroundings, both internal and external for Aurora through her journey. I feel that through Aurora I was able to unpack situations and philosophical quandarys I have found myself in before.

The Shift asked personal and thought provoking questions of me and I'm positive it would of any reader. I hope that others may find the opportunity to purchase and read The Shift but more importantly, allow it the time to be experienced and yourself, the time to respond to it. It may just change your perception of the world around you, in all its parts. As it has mine.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book! The shift is dense with intricate and fascinating plot lines that are beautifully described with Hannah's rich detail. These fantastical worlds are filled with real, grounded characters that reflect so many parts of the human experience. On one hand this book is a sci-fi adventure and on the other it is a character driven reflection piece on what it is to exist. The Shift brings hope, challenge, intrigue and balance. Thank you Hannah for putting part of you out in the world, the way your voice is reflected in the pages makes this book the beautiful this it is. 🙏🧡

[Rebekah Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shift is a book full of descriptions of worlds of wonder, danger and technology that you could never imagine on your own. The story includes character navigating these world and problems that arise! It is so enticing to read and if you're thinking about buying a copy, it's so worth it!! I bought two! Also if you aren't already sold on buying this book, it is written by the most inquisitive, fantastical, gorgeous human being!!

[Nathan Cobbald · Rating 5 out of 5]

I personally am not a big reader - even more so, I find it difficult to find a book that not only tickles my sci-fi wants and needs, but also integrates personal struggles as well as amazing character development throughout. I find it very easy for the immersion to be broken when reading a book a book of this genre, but that didn't happen once. It continously plays on your emotions and keeps you on your toes. Keep writing Hannah ✍️ ✨️

[Ira Griffen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A brilliant book, I loved the mix of science fiction with a huge emphasis on the characters and their personal and emotional struggles. The story is incredibly gripping, and consistently exceeds expectations. You can see the personal battles that the characters are facing, and as it is with the best books, you can imagine yourself in their position and consider what you would do in such difficult situations. Will definitely be recommending this book, and I eagerly await the next installation.

[Corey McNicholl · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a librarian, you could say that I’ve read a few books, but recently it’s been hard to find one to really sink into…. But from the second I started this book I found it wasn’t leaving my hand! Such an enthralling journey through time, space and one’s own consciousness. The book is littered with parallels to the authors own experiences and commentary on peoples perceptions on life. Definitely gets you thinking. I can’t wait for more from this author!

[Summer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have had the incredible privilege of reading The Shift, and I highly recommend you do too. Hannah has done a beautiful job painting the images of intricate and various worlds and characters and has left me waiting anxiously for anything and everything that comes after it. Her words translate to the most captivating story and left me in tears. Do yourself a favour and grab a copy.

[Bryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Shift" is a great, well-rounded book that pulls you in and leaves you wanting more. The first half of the book introduces you to the story through the promise of conceptual science fiction, while the second half engages you with fleshed-out characters exploring the depths of the human condition and their differing perspectives on life. I thoroughly enjoyed my first readthrough.

[Lilly Merrall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very rarely do I read a book that I can't put down! The Shift came with me on my summer holiday and by the end of my trip my copy was sandy, battered, and well-loved. As I was sitting on beach, I was transported to forests, futuristic cities, wastelands with characters I became so invested in. I really hope there is a sequel coming in time for my next holiday. And someone please make a wiki!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shift had me captured. Putting my romance novels aside, I was quickly engrossed in this concept of 'shifting' through a sci-fi dystopian world. The journey this novel took me on was filled with the right amount of mystery, passion and anticipation, allowing me to interpret the plot in many different ways. I highly recommend you read the Shift, if you haven't already!

[Maddie Cornwall · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the moment I found the blurb for this book, I just KNEW I would love it. The character building, the various realities and their details, the depths of the themes and ideas, the focus on the written word, and not to mention the writing style itself... I am so so glad I stumbled across this gem of a book! I highly highly recommend to everyone and anyone, and I cannot wait for a sequel!!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazingly insightful book, a fabulous read that left me wanting a sequel! Clever concepts and messages for the reader on navigating our modern world are subtly woven into a great story, it was hard to put down. The different realities are beautifully described, this was a really good read!

[Cedric Stoneman · Rating 5 out of 5]

An enthralling story that reignited my passion for reading. The Shift scratches many itches from dystopian city scapes to magical environments, while playing around with original, and some, all too familiar moral conundrums. I highly recommend this book and eagerly await the sequel!

[Johnny Bullen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dammm what a book! Killed it Han, never been so engaged in a book since I was little. Definitely got me back into heavy reading 😂 keep writing Hannah! ✏️✍️

[Simon · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shift is an outstanding debut novel from Hannah Murphy. Exceptional pacing and sci-fi, dystopian world building results in an engrossing and easy read. The reader is led down a path of reflection and philosophy, without being heavy-handed. I eagerly await further entries in this series.