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Lightning's Edge: Lost World Odyssey
When a bolt of lightning propels Ryan and his loyal dog, Toby, into a perilous and primitive world, their survival skills are put to the ultimate test. From enduring ruthless slavers and battling fierce pirates to navigating the treetop villages of a mythical winged race, Ryan's odyssey is a heart-pounding adventure through a land filled with danger and mystery. As he seeks the secrets held by a tribal medicine man, Ryan is determined to return home, aided by his courage, the bond with his canine companion, and the help of his indigenous friends.
In "Lightning's Lost World Odyssey," embark on a journey where every step is a battle for survival, every encounter a test of trust, and every moment a fight against the odds. Will Ryan unlock the path back to his world, or will he remain forever lost in this strange and wondrous land?
In "Lightning's Lost World Odyssey," embark on a journey where every step is a battle for survival, every encounter a test of trust, and every moment a fight against the odds. Will Ryan unlock the path back to his world, or will he remain forever lost in this strange and wondrous land?
360 pages, Paperback
First published November 19, 2024
4 people want to read
About the author
C. Buck Jones
2 books7 followersC. Buck Jones is an award-winning author who writes science fiction and fantasy novels with a Christian perspective. When he retired as an engineer, he wrote to occupy his time and keep out of his wife’s hair. When not at his computer writing or editing, he fishes with his grandkids or dog in the Colorado streams and lakes near his home. He enjoys soccer, walks with his wife, and spending time in God’s infinitely beautiful creation.
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
June 9, 2025
Ever been hit by lightning and flung into a savage, prehistoric nightmare? No? Well, Ryan has, and let’s just say it’s not a dream vacation. With his loyal dog, Toby (who, let’s be real, is probably smarter than most people), Ryan faces slavers, pirates, and a tribe of winged beings—all while trying to, you know, not die.
Buck Jones throws you into the action immediately, and trust me, there’s no time to catch your breath. One minute Ryan’s in his normal life, and the next, he’s dodging danger at every turn. From treetop villages to cryptic medicine men, the world-building is chef’s kiss. You’ll feel every terrifying moment—and probably be grateful for your boring, safe couch.
The real MVP? Toby, of course. But Ryan holds his own, proving that survival is all about guts, wits, and knowing when to run for your life. His indigenous friends add depth and heart to the story, making it more than just a wild ride—it’s about trust, resilience, and not giving up when the odds are stacked against you.
If you love non-stop action, characters with actual depth, and a setting that feels straight out of a fever dream (in the best way possible), *Lightning’s Edge* is for you. Just be warned—you will lose sleep over this one. Would I survive in Ryan’s world? Absolutely not. But I had a blast reading about it.
Buck Jones throws you into the action immediately, and trust me, there’s no time to catch your breath. One minute Ryan’s in his normal life, and the next, he’s dodging danger at every turn. From treetop villages to cryptic medicine men, the world-building is chef’s kiss. You’ll feel every terrifying moment—and probably be grateful for your boring, safe couch.
The real MVP? Toby, of course. But Ryan holds his own, proving that survival is all about guts, wits, and knowing when to run for your life. His indigenous friends add depth and heart to the story, making it more than just a wild ride—it’s about trust, resilience, and not giving up when the odds are stacked against you.
If you love non-stop action, characters with actual depth, and a setting that feels straight out of a fever dream (in the best way possible), *Lightning’s Edge* is for you. Just be warned—you will lose sleep over this one. Would I survive in Ryan’s world? Absolutely not. But I had a blast reading about it.
October 5, 2024
I found this book to be incredibly imaginative; it had lots of good ideas going on throughout it. The whole concept and idea of it was great. 👏
I personally felt like it lacked a lot of emotion though. There were times when certain things were happening - pretty big things and it wasn’t conveyed how the characters were really feeling which left me feeling a little disconnected to them. It was almost breezed over which was a shame.
It was a true adventure though that showed our sinful struggles and strifes and how hard it is to battle through sometimes.
I enjoyed the ending! I thought that was very well played out 😃
I read this as an ARC for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I personally felt like it lacked a lot of emotion though. There were times when certain things were happening - pretty big things and it wasn’t conveyed how the characters were really feeling which left me feeling a little disconnected to them. It was almost breezed over which was a shame.
It was a true adventure though that showed our sinful struggles and strifes and how hard it is to battle through sometimes.
I enjoyed the ending! I thought that was very well played out 😃
I read this as an ARC for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 16, 2025
What captivates me about this author is their exceptional skill in visual storytelling, which breathes life into every narrative they create. In "Lightning's Edge: Lost World Odyssey" by C. Buck Jones, this talent shines through as the author vividly illustrates scenes, allowing readers to fully engage with the unfolding drama and significantly enhancing the overall realism of the experience.
At the heart of the story lies a profound exploration of God’s healing power and the transformative nature of forgiveness, which can feel akin to a rebirth—a fresh start in the journey of life. Jones adeptly integrates these spiritual themes into the storyline, glorifying God while ensuring that they resonate seamlessly with the plot's progression.
Like the author's earlier work I've enjoyed, this story features a plot that is truly one-of-a-kind, offering a refreshing and inspiring originality. The protagonist, Ryan, embarks on a perilous journey through a landscape fraught with danger, consistently overcoming the formidable challenges that confront him. The cast of characters is diverse and eclectic, each adding depth and intrigue to the story, which feels expansive and multifaceted, akin to a series rather than a singular narrative. The complex intertwining of various narratives enhances the text, adding depth that ties back to the central themes of faith and resilience, encouraging readers to contemplate their own journeys.
Throughout the story, Ryan’s steadfast faith in God and his dedication to prayer emerge as powerful symbols of hope. The narrative powerfully illustrates the liberation that accompanies breaking free from the bonds of sin through repentance, reinforcing the message that redemption is always within reach, regardless of one’s past. Jones poignantly conveys that our struggles can serve as divine guidance, leading us toward challenging yet transformative choices that ultimately foster hope and redemption. The conclusion of the tale resonates with a sense of optimism, leaving readers with the comforting assurance that even in the bleakest moments, a path toward light and renewal is always available.
At the heart of the story lies a profound exploration of God’s healing power and the transformative nature of forgiveness, which can feel akin to a rebirth—a fresh start in the journey of life. Jones adeptly integrates these spiritual themes into the storyline, glorifying God while ensuring that they resonate seamlessly with the plot's progression.
Like the author's earlier work I've enjoyed, this story features a plot that is truly one-of-a-kind, offering a refreshing and inspiring originality. The protagonist, Ryan, embarks on a perilous journey through a landscape fraught with danger, consistently overcoming the formidable challenges that confront him. The cast of characters is diverse and eclectic, each adding depth and intrigue to the story, which feels expansive and multifaceted, akin to a series rather than a singular narrative. The complex intertwining of various narratives enhances the text, adding depth that ties back to the central themes of faith and resilience, encouraging readers to contemplate their own journeys.
Throughout the story, Ryan’s steadfast faith in God and his dedication to prayer emerge as powerful symbols of hope. The narrative powerfully illustrates the liberation that accompanies breaking free from the bonds of sin through repentance, reinforcing the message that redemption is always within reach, regardless of one’s past. Jones poignantly conveys that our struggles can serve as divine guidance, leading us toward challenging yet transformative choices that ultimately foster hope and redemption. The conclusion of the tale resonates with a sense of optimism, leaving readers with the comforting assurance that even in the bleakest moments, a path toward light and renewal is always available.
June 23, 2025
C. Buck Jones writes an exciting sci-fi tale with Lightning's Edge
In Lightning's Edge, the reader is brought into the life of Ryan, who was transported to what he perceives as a primitive world. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. I enjoyed it so much, that I have now followed the author and look for more books to read. This author has a grand imagination, and talent for showing the story. Ryan is determined to get back his world, and his wife, and she is like his guide during this emotional and physical journey. I enjoyed the premise of this story, and Ryan, along with the reader, learns about life during a simpler time. Ryan connects with Zica, and Shera, and the world of Almirosia. The story is captivating, as the reader learns about Ryan's life, before and after his arrival. There is a great depth to the story and characters, and some may be predictable, but there are things in this story that unpredictable, and the reader wants to find out what happens next. The story is written in a way that it makes the readers not just care about Ryan and be curious about his journey, but also wonder what Emily is going through, without Ryan in her life. Ryan holds on to Emily, but is she holding on to him as well? Well-written and well told! This story is out of this world but almost mirrors a time when life on Earth was simpler, and people worked hard for living and survival, and treated each day as a gift. Lightning's Edge is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book also write a review.
In Lightning's Edge, the reader is brought into the life of Ryan, who was transported to what he perceives as a primitive world. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. I enjoyed it so much, that I have now followed the author and look for more books to read. This author has a grand imagination, and talent for showing the story. Ryan is determined to get back his world, and his wife, and she is like his guide during this emotional and physical journey. I enjoyed the premise of this story, and Ryan, along with the reader, learns about life during a simpler time. Ryan connects with Zica, and Shera, and the world of Almirosia. The story is captivating, as the reader learns about Ryan's life, before and after his arrival. There is a great depth to the story and characters, and some may be predictable, but there are things in this story that unpredictable, and the reader wants to find out what happens next. The story is written in a way that it makes the readers not just care about Ryan and be curious about his journey, but also wonder what Emily is going through, without Ryan in her life. Ryan holds on to Emily, but is she holding on to him as well? Well-written and well told! This story is out of this world but almost mirrors a time when life on Earth was simpler, and people worked hard for living and survival, and treated each day as a gift. Lightning's Edge is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book also write a review.
December 12, 2024
❤️🏞💀🏹Very original and full of action!
In the kitchen, Ryan enjoyed the meal that Emily had prepared.
Emily asked him to walk the dog Toby while she finished washing up.
On a late-night walk along a creek, the dog Toby stopped and grunted for a long time.
Ryan saw nothing alarming, reassured the dog.
As he went, he saw that the birds had suddenly stopped.
As the dog was about to leap, an electric current floated around them and everything went black...
-----------
Excellent surprise for this sci-fi (almost a crush) novel with hyperoriginal universe and overflowing with actions and unexpected!
I was not disappointed by this talented and amazing author, with incredible stories that take the reader into exciting worlds.
I loved the characters (especially the dog Toby and the Erotae, as well as the main character Ryan) and the captivating plot!
After having vaguely touched on the theme of infidelity and deepened the topic of slavery (two themes that I avoid in my readings), the author has succeeded in captivating me so much by the general story of the book that it hardly bothered me...
I loved the mix of genres: between natives, pirates, angels and various wild beasts, reading was totally addictive and unpredictable!
I loved the whole end.
I highly recommend this totally captivating reading!
I really can’t wait to discover the next book of this author!
In the kitchen, Ryan enjoyed the meal that Emily had prepared.
Emily asked him to walk the dog Toby while she finished washing up.
On a late-night walk along a creek, the dog Toby stopped and grunted for a long time.
Ryan saw nothing alarming, reassured the dog.
As he went, he saw that the birds had suddenly stopped.
As the dog was about to leap, an electric current floated around them and everything went black...
-----------
Excellent surprise for this sci-fi (almost a crush) novel with hyperoriginal universe and overflowing with actions and unexpected!
I was not disappointed by this talented and amazing author, with incredible stories that take the reader into exciting worlds.
I loved the characters (especially the dog Toby and the Erotae, as well as the main character Ryan) and the captivating plot!
After having vaguely touched on the theme of infidelity and deepened the topic of slavery (two themes that I avoid in my readings), the author has succeeded in captivating me so much by the general story of the book that it hardly bothered me...
I loved the mix of genres: between natives, pirates, angels and various wild beasts, reading was totally addictive and unpredictable!
I loved the whole end.
I highly recommend this totally captivating reading!
I really can’t wait to discover the next book of this author!
July 20, 2025
From the moment I picked up Lightning's Edge: Lost World Odyssey, I was completely swept into Ryan’s story. The book wastes no time pulling you into its world that is equal parts mysterious, dangerous, and breathtakingly imaginative.
As Ryan navigates a land that defies logic and rules, I found myself walking beside him, holding my breath through each narrow escape and questioning every stranger’s motive right along with him. There’s a pulse to this story that never lets up, and I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
I loved how the author wove together the thrill of survival with deep emotional undertones. Ryan isn’t just trying to make it out alive but he’s also searching for a way home, for meaning in the chaos, and for connections that will anchor him in a world that keeps shifting under his feet.
The writing has this cinematic quality that makes you feel like you’re in the middle of an epic adventure. Each creature, landscape, and ally (or enemy) Ryan encounters feels vividly drawn and full of weight.
By the end, I felt like I’d lived through the odyssey with Ryan. And even as I closed the last page, part of me stayed behind in that wild, unpredictable world. If you’re someone who loves fast-paced fantasy Lightning’s Edge isn’t just a book you read but a world you survive.
As Ryan navigates a land that defies logic and rules, I found myself walking beside him, holding my breath through each narrow escape and questioning every stranger’s motive right along with him. There’s a pulse to this story that never lets up, and I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
I loved how the author wove together the thrill of survival with deep emotional undertones. Ryan isn’t just trying to make it out alive but he’s also searching for a way home, for meaning in the chaos, and for connections that will anchor him in a world that keeps shifting under his feet.
The writing has this cinematic quality that makes you feel like you’re in the middle of an epic adventure. Each creature, landscape, and ally (or enemy) Ryan encounters feels vividly drawn and full of weight.
By the end, I felt like I’d lived through the odyssey with Ryan. And even as I closed the last page, part of me stayed behind in that wild, unpredictable world. If you’re someone who loves fast-paced fantasy Lightning’s Edge isn’t just a book you read but a world you survive.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews