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Insel #3
The Deep
‘The world is never-ending.
I never realized just how much space there is – how far and wide the water around our island stretches out. Somewhere in the back of my mind, I may have believed that a second Wall ran around Tresco, containing the infinite waters so we wouldn’t all wash over the edge and plummet down into the depths.’
Leia and Walt are on their way to the Other Side, where the legendary land of Cornwall awaits them. Tony, their new friend, has told them that all wars of the past have been forgotten and the citizens of Bodmin and Dartmoor live in peace. People adhere to the tenets of an old religion that preaches forgiveness and non-violence.
However, Walt and Leia soon discover that even a peace-loving, ideal society like this one may have its flaws. While on a forbidden trip to Exeter, the old city of their ancestors, the two Islanders discover more about the new world than they ever bargained for.
Secrets run dark and passions run deep in this thrilling conclusion to the Island novella series.
I never realized just how much space there is – how far and wide the water around our island stretches out. Somewhere in the back of my mind, I may have believed that a second Wall ran around Tresco, containing the infinite waters so we wouldn’t all wash over the edge and plummet down into the depths.’
Leia and Walt are on their way to the Other Side, where the legendary land of Cornwall awaits them. Tony, their new friend, has told them that all wars of the past have been forgotten and the citizens of Bodmin and Dartmoor live in peace. People adhere to the tenets of an old religion that preaches forgiveness and non-violence.
However, Walt and Leia soon discover that even a peace-loving, ideal society like this one may have its flaws. While on a forbidden trip to Exeter, the old city of their ancestors, the two Islanders discover more about the new world than they ever bargained for.
Secrets run dark and passions run deep in this thrilling conclusion to the Island novella series.
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2014
20 people are currently reading
556 people want to read
About the author
Jen Minkman
86 books505 followersJen Minkman (1978) writes YA paranormal romance, dystopian fiction and poetry. She is from the Netherlands and self-publishes her work in English. Her works are available in paperback & digital format (ebook and audio).
You can subscribe to her newsletter here > http://eepurl.com/bTXSWv
Jen was born in the Netherlands and lived in Austria, Belgium and the UK during her studies. She learned how to read at the age of three and has never stopped reading since. Her favourite books to read are (YA) paranormal/fantasy, sci-fi, dystopian and romance, and this is reflected in the stories she writes. In her home country, she is a trade-published author of paranormal romance and chicklit. Across the border, she is a self-published author of poetry, paranormal romance and dystopian fiction. Her books are already available in English, Dutch, Chinese, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Italian, and Afrikaans.
She currently resides in The Hague where she works and lives with her husband and two noisy zebra finches.
You can subscribe to her newsletter here > http://eepurl.com/bTXSWv
Jen was born in the Netherlands and lived in Austria, Belgium and the UK during her studies. She learned how to read at the age of three and has never stopped reading since. Her favourite books to read are (YA) paranormal/fantasy, sci-fi, dystopian and romance, and this is reflected in the stories she writes. In her home country, she is a trade-published author of paranormal romance and chicklit. Across the border, she is a self-published author of poetry, paranormal romance and dystopian fiction. Her books are already available in English, Dutch, Chinese, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Italian, and Afrikaans.
She currently resides in The Hague where she works and lives with her husband and two noisy zebra finches.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
December 3, 2014
Also reviewed for Addicted2Heroines
Warning: Spoilers for the previous books in this review.
When I originally read The Island, I never in a million years imagined that it would end up making a point. I thought it was just this weird little book, about a group of people who based their belief system on Star Wars fanfic. I mean, come on, how are you going to turn that into a poignant social commentary?
Can I get an amen, folks?
Ok, Minkman. You got me. I get it now.
In the original book, Leia starts questioning the society she grew up in, and ends up turning their world upside down. She finds out that their 'religion' is based off of the diary of a young boy, who was one of the survivors of germ warfare that wiped out the world as we know it. The parents of the original inhabitants of the island died before they could reunite with their children, so the backbone of the two societies were founded by the twelve and under crowd. Eventually, the children split into two groups: the ones who believed their parents would come for them one day, and the ones who thought they had been abandoned.
Leia's side of the island followed the The Force, and revered The Book...which, in reality, was a wonky version of some Star Wars stories. To the inhabitants of the other side of the island, they were known as The Unbelievers.
On the flip side, you learn about Walt's half of the island in the second book, The Waves. Leia knows this group only as The Fools...as in, foolish for waiting around for someone to save them. And, in essence, that's what Walt's town does. Their 'religion' is more traditional, in that they worship a goddess named Annabelle, who has promised to return for them one day.
And that makes a hellava lot more sense than believing in the prophet Luke, and trying to find the Force within yourself!
Or does it?
The Deep takes off in another direction, as Walt and Leia make the journey across the sea to the Old World. And, once again, what they find there surprises them. The inhabitants follow the New Testament, and seem to have a finally come up with a way for everyone to live in peace and harmony.
But the price for no war doesn't come cheap, and it might be higher than either of them are willing to pay.
Meanwhile, back on the island, the Unbelievers and the Fools are trying to find a way to rebuild their societies. Two of the characters from the other books, Alisa (Walt's best friend) and Saul (the unhinged leader of the juvenile Unbelievers), play a large role in the story.
Alisa narrates the portions of the book set on the island, while Leia is our narrator for what's going on in the New World.
There's a buttload of themes that we've got going on between the two points of view. Redemption and personal freedom were both heavily featured, however, the surprising 'lesson' was something I totally didn't see coming.
The running theme of all three books is the blind devotion to their respective religious teachings.
In the first book, I laughed, because... Fanfic ! Bwahahahaha! How stupid do you have to be?
The second book, had a more plausible belief system, but it was still weird that all these people thought some magical goddess was going to sail up in a ship...and take them all away to paradise someday.
And in this one, Miknkman showed a twisted form of Christianity being abused by the people in power.
Ha! Like THAT could ever happen!
Sooooo.
*cough*
How laughable was it that Leia & Co. blindly followed a book that was written long ago?
In a galaxy far far away...
How stupid were they to believe in the undisputed truth to words that were written down by people no longer alive to explain their meaning?
Riiiiight.
And though Minkman calls into question blind faith, she does it without malice. Even while the characters are struggling with the realization that they've been duped, they still find solace in the belief that there is more out there than just what we can touch and see.
My suggestion is to read these books in order.
Wallow in the ridiculous nature of Leia's society's foundations.
Giggle when you read about Walt's belief in Annabelle.
Because it makes it all the more impressive when the rug gets yanked out from under you in this book.
Well played, Minkman. Well played.
Warning: Spoilers for the previous books in this review.
When I originally read The Island, I never in a million years imagined that it would end up making a point. I thought it was just this weird little book, about a group of people who based their belief system on Star Wars fanfic. I mean, come on, how are you going to turn that into a poignant social commentary?
Can I get an amen, folks?
Ok, Minkman. You got me. I get it now.
In the original book, Leia starts questioning the society she grew up in, and ends up turning their world upside down. She finds out that their 'religion' is based off of the diary of a young boy, who was one of the survivors of germ warfare that wiped out the world as we know it. The parents of the original inhabitants of the island died before they could reunite with their children, so the backbone of the two societies were founded by the twelve and under crowd. Eventually, the children split into two groups: the ones who believed their parents would come for them one day, and the ones who thought they had been abandoned.
Leia's side of the island followed the The Force, and revered The Book...which, in reality, was a wonky version of some Star Wars stories. To the inhabitants of the other side of the island, they were known as The Unbelievers.
On the flip side, you learn about Walt's half of the island in the second book, The Waves. Leia knows this group only as The Fools...as in, foolish for waiting around for someone to save them. And, in essence, that's what Walt's town does. Their 'religion' is more traditional, in that they worship a goddess named Annabelle, who has promised to return for them one day.
And that makes a hellava lot more sense than believing in the prophet Luke, and trying to find the Force within yourself!
Or does it?
The Deep takes off in another direction, as Walt and Leia make the journey across the sea to the Old World. And, once again, what they find there surprises them. The inhabitants follow the New Testament, and seem to have a finally come up with a way for everyone to live in peace and harmony.
But the price for no war doesn't come cheap, and it might be higher than either of them are willing to pay.
Meanwhile, back on the island, the Unbelievers and the Fools are trying to find a way to rebuild their societies. Two of the characters from the other books, Alisa (Walt's best friend) and Saul (the unhinged leader of the juvenile Unbelievers), play a large role in the story.
Alisa narrates the portions of the book set on the island, while Leia is our narrator for what's going on in the New World.
There's a buttload of themes that we've got going on between the two points of view. Redemption and personal freedom were both heavily featured, however, the surprising 'lesson' was something I totally didn't see coming.
The running theme of all three books is the blind devotion to their respective religious teachings.
In the first book, I laughed, because... Fanfic ! Bwahahahaha! How stupid do you have to be?
The second book, had a more plausible belief system, but it was still weird that all these people thought some magical goddess was going to sail up in a ship...and take them all away to paradise someday.
And in this one, Miknkman showed a twisted form of Christianity being abused by the people in power.
Ha! Like THAT could ever happen!
Sooooo.
*cough*
How laughable was it that Leia & Co. blindly followed a book that was written long ago?
In a galaxy far far away...
How stupid were they to believe in the undisputed truth to words that were written down by people no longer alive to explain their meaning?
Riiiiight.
And though Minkman calls into question blind faith, she does it without malice. Even while the characters are struggling with the realization that they've been duped, they still find solace in the belief that there is more out there than just what we can touch and see.
My suggestion is to read these books in order.
Wallow in the ridiculous nature of Leia's society's foundations.
Giggle when you read about Walt's belief in Annabelle.
Because it makes it all the more impressive when the rug gets yanked out from under you in this book.
Well played, Minkman. Well played.
Read
May 29, 2014I did it. I translated a full novel from Dutch to English in two weeks' time. Bless me! Okay, so I probably permanently effed up my carpal tunnels because my wrists feel VERY stiff from all the stressed typing, but hey, it's all for a good cause, eh? I will be sending out review copies later tonight (so afternoon for you Americans) because I need to give the manuscript one more careful run-through and correct the wrong prepositions. I tend to use the wrong ones. Alongside naval terms, they are the bane of my existence. :)
Huzzah!
Huzzah!
November 13, 2016
Ik was groot fan van Het boek van voorheen , maar dit vervolg vond ik persoonlijk een stuk minder goed. Op de een of andere manier wist het verhaal me niet te raken en ik vond al het religieuze gebabbel iets te veel van het goede. Ook was het plot veel minder origineel dan boek 1.
Mijn complete recensie lees je op Oog op de Toekomst.
Mijn complete recensie lees je op Oog op de Toekomst.
June 30, 2014
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Jen Minkman has outdone herself! The Deep, the last book in The Island Trilogy not only is the best of the best, but it wraps this series with a bright and unwritten future for its characters as they set a new course for their future.
The world has opened up for the Islanders and the Fools and all of the small lands that thought they were either the only ones or the only ones who lived as their “gods” wanted. Told from the POVs of two of the previous main characters, Leia and Alisa, who each took different paths to opening up worlds to be explored and accepted, this final installment is full of heart, adventure and danger in equal amounts. Add the love and loyal bonds that are formed and the sacrifices of so many in the name of truth and you have a fantasy adventure that will have you hooked, lock, stock and barrel. Heroes rise from the most unlikely of places, evil is uncovered and lives are lost as new alliances and understandings are forged. Never has the phrase, “It’s a brave new world out there,” been more fitting to describe the path this trilogy took.
One thing that stands out for me is how Jen Minkman’s own world has grown in her writing. Are you aware she first writes in her native tongue and then translates her tale into English? Not only has her style matured, but the smoothness of each scene and POV transitions without a hitch! Her characters are full of the vitality of youth, the yearning for a life that feels right and the desire to overcome the fears and prejudices of the unknown, while making the unknown become another tool to learning. Sometimes dark, but always entertaining and thought provoking, Jen Minkman’s world has become a favorite of mine. I’m sad to see it end, but she has allowed me to continue to picture my own HEA for everyone, because the possibilities are endless!
Series: The Island
Publication Date: June 1, 2014
Publisher: Dutch Venture Publishing
Genre: Fantasy/Dystopian-YA
Print Length: 202 pages
Available from: Amazon | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Google Play | Smashwords
March 20, 2017
"De Overkant is vol wonderen waar ik nooit zelfs maar over heb kunnen dromen." ~ p22.
De wereld achter het water gaat verder waar Het boek van voorheen stopte. Leia en Walt zijn eindelijk op weg naar de wereld die ze niet kennen, de Overkant, en net als hen ben ik nieuwsgierig naar wat ze daar aantreffen. Vanaf de eerste pagina zit je gelijk weer in het verhaal en ben je onderdeel van het grote avontuur. Het lezen voelt als een echte beleving, je bent geen toeschouwer maar maakt echt deel uit van het reisgezelschap.
" Geweldloze idealen zijn prima, zolang het maar idealen zijn - verwachten dat mensen nooit meer boos of agressief zijn, haalt alle menselijkheid uit een samenleving weg." ~p152.
Ondanks dat alles wat ze geloofde onlangs is teniet gedaan, blijven ze op hun eigen manier geloven in een betere wereld. Maar is de Overkant wel alles wat ze er van hoopte? Ik vind het echt knap om te lezen hoe Jen Minkman een relatief zwaar onderwerp als het geloof op een mooie manier heeft weten te verwerken in dit verhaal, en geeft absoluut stof tot nadenken... Want wat als blijkt dat alles wat je hele leven meegekregen hebt gebaseerd is op iets heel anders? Toch is het absoluut geen aanval op de hedendaagse geloven en culturen, het geeft mijnsinziens enkel een heel goed beeld wat er kan gebeuren als een groep zich zou distancieren van de bestaande samenleving en wat er kan gebeuren als de "verkeerde mensen" bepalen wat je wel en niet mag weten. En dan toch op een hele luchtige manier, want het blijft een spannende YA en een fictief verhaal. Wat ik trouwens echt een toevoeging vond was het verhaal vanuit Alisa, zodat je toch ook verbonden bleef met de achterblijvers op het eiland. Want ook daar heeft het ontdekken van de waarheid de nodige impact...
"Zonder gevoel en hart wordt een heilig boek een dode schil." ~ p179.
Dit vervolg maakte het verhaal voor mij echt compleet. Ik ben inmiddels echt enorme fan van Jen Minkman's schrijfkunsten. Zo veelzijdig als haar verhalen zijn, alle weten ze mij op dezelfde manier te grijpen. Het zijn stuk voor stuk verhalen waar je heel makkelijk in verdwijnt en voor je het weet de laatste bladzijde al omslaat... Hier wil ik echt wel een plank vol van ♡
De wereld achter het water gaat verder waar Het boek van voorheen stopte. Leia en Walt zijn eindelijk op weg naar de wereld die ze niet kennen, de Overkant, en net als hen ben ik nieuwsgierig naar wat ze daar aantreffen. Vanaf de eerste pagina zit je gelijk weer in het verhaal en ben je onderdeel van het grote avontuur. Het lezen voelt als een echte beleving, je bent geen toeschouwer maar maakt echt deel uit van het reisgezelschap.
" Geweldloze idealen zijn prima, zolang het maar idealen zijn - verwachten dat mensen nooit meer boos of agressief zijn, haalt alle menselijkheid uit een samenleving weg." ~p152.
Ondanks dat alles wat ze geloofde onlangs is teniet gedaan, blijven ze op hun eigen manier geloven in een betere wereld. Maar is de Overkant wel alles wat ze er van hoopte? Ik vind het echt knap om te lezen hoe Jen Minkman een relatief zwaar onderwerp als het geloof op een mooie manier heeft weten te verwerken in dit verhaal, en geeft absoluut stof tot nadenken... Want wat als blijkt dat alles wat je hele leven meegekregen hebt gebaseerd is op iets heel anders? Toch is het absoluut geen aanval op de hedendaagse geloven en culturen, het geeft mijnsinziens enkel een heel goed beeld wat er kan gebeuren als een groep zich zou distancieren van de bestaande samenleving en wat er kan gebeuren als de "verkeerde mensen" bepalen wat je wel en niet mag weten. En dan toch op een hele luchtige manier, want het blijft een spannende YA en een fictief verhaal. Wat ik trouwens echt een toevoeging vond was het verhaal vanuit Alisa, zodat je toch ook verbonden bleef met de achterblijvers op het eiland. Want ook daar heeft het ontdekken van de waarheid de nodige impact...
"Zonder gevoel en hart wordt een heilig boek een dode schil." ~ p179.
Dit vervolg maakte het verhaal voor mij echt compleet. Ik ben inmiddels echt enorme fan van Jen Minkman's schrijfkunsten. Zo veelzijdig als haar verhalen zijn, alle weten ze mij op dezelfde manier te grijpen. Het zijn stuk voor stuk verhalen waar je heel makkelijk in verdwijnt en voor je het weet de laatste bladzijde al omslaat... Hier wil ik echt wel een plank vol van ♡
October 12, 2016
Gisterennacht dit boek in één adem uitgelezen! Steeds als ik dacht: oké nu ga ik écht slapen, vond er weer een gebeurtenis plaats waardoor ik per se verder moest lezen. De personages ontwikkelen zich goed, de perspectiefwisselingen zijn superinteressant en alle punten waar ik bij het vorige deel moeite mee had, waren nu goed opgelost. Al met al een super goed vervolg en stiekem hoop ik héél erg op een deel drie, want daar zijn nog zat mogelijkheden voor!
Een uitgebreidere recensie volgt op mijn blog!
Een uitgebreidere recensie volgt op mijn blog!
June 6, 2014
The Deep (From my blog: http://mybookshelfisyours.over-blog.c... )
(I hope my English is good enough and makes this review as good as the time I had writing it)
First thing I have to say is that The Deep is a beautifull and perfect conclusion to a great series. The pace of this last book in The Island series is well done and efficient thanks to the rythm of the two points of view. (Leia and Alisa) There was so much to say about what happens and I think the way it's written allows the reader to have a look kind of everywhere. Not only because I discovered new lands and new ideals but also because I had the chance to get to know characters I wouldn't have imagined to want to know in the first place. For example Saul and Ben. I had also great expectations regarding what Leia and Walt were going to discover. Again, I was not disappointed ! This novel made me ask myself questions about what's good and bad, what kind of World we're living in or just how human beings can or should interact with one other. I think this is one the ingredients we find in a great dystopia book but also simply in a great book. The ending was for me perfect. Of course, certains things and passages were sad to read but fortunately, there is a balance. My favorites characters got what they wanted and maybe even more. Without telling too much, the ones who needed to be punished got what they deserved.
Then what I also loved about this last book in The Island series is that, in my opinion, it's a perfect mix between the two novellas. I mean in the first two books, we got to discover the Island and how it is ruled. And it's the same in The Deep. But what's good is that the way Leia sees The World Accors The water brings new elements and intensity. There are actions, soft and thought provoking moments that lead the reader to be a part of the story. It's thanks to great and strong characters like Alisa and Leia but also Tony and Ben. Everyone is important when actions and emotions strike the Island and the new world.
To finish, one of the things I really appreciated is that all along the novel, I had no idea how it would end. I often guess or imagine the end of a book, I don't do to it on purpose and it doesn't prevent from loving the entire book. But The Deep always made me react, fortunatly, I was alone when I read it. Especially towards the end but I can't say too much about it. Of course, I would love to read about what kind of life Leia, Walt, Alisa and Saul would have five years after the end of The Deep. Who knows ? Someday, maybe we could read it ! But really, it was a perfect way to say goodbye to such an amazing characters. Again, it's a perfect ending, the kind that makes you want more but pleases you at the same time !
(I hope my English is good enough and makes this review as good as the time I had writing it)
First thing I have to say is that The Deep is a beautifull and perfect conclusion to a great series. The pace of this last book in The Island series is well done and efficient thanks to the rythm of the two points of view. (Leia and Alisa) There was so much to say about what happens and I think the way it's written allows the reader to have a look kind of everywhere. Not only because I discovered new lands and new ideals but also because I had the chance to get to know characters I wouldn't have imagined to want to know in the first place. For example Saul and Ben. I had also great expectations regarding what Leia and Walt were going to discover. Again, I was not disappointed ! This novel made me ask myself questions about what's good and bad, what kind of World we're living in or just how human beings can or should interact with one other. I think this is one the ingredients we find in a great dystopia book but also simply in a great book. The ending was for me perfect. Of course, certains things and passages were sad to read but fortunately, there is a balance. My favorites characters got what they wanted and maybe even more. Without telling too much, the ones who needed to be punished got what they deserved.
Then what I also loved about this last book in The Island series is that, in my opinion, it's a perfect mix between the two novellas. I mean in the first two books, we got to discover the Island and how it is ruled. And it's the same in The Deep. But what's good is that the way Leia sees The World Accors The water brings new elements and intensity. There are actions, soft and thought provoking moments that lead the reader to be a part of the story. It's thanks to great and strong characters like Alisa and Leia but also Tony and Ben. Everyone is important when actions and emotions strike the Island and the new world.
To finish, one of the things I really appreciated is that all along the novel, I had no idea how it would end. I often guess or imagine the end of a book, I don't do to it on purpose and it doesn't prevent from loving the entire book. But The Deep always made me react, fortunatly, I was alone when I read it. Especially towards the end but I can't say too much about it. Of course, I would love to read about what kind of life Leia, Walt, Alisa and Saul would have five years after the end of The Deep. Who knows ? Someday, maybe we could read it ! But really, it was a perfect way to say goodbye to such an amazing characters. Again, it's a perfect ending, the kind that makes you want more but pleases you at the same time !
October 27, 2016
De Wereld Achter het Water is het vervolg op Het Boek van Voorheen dat ik eerder dit jaar las en recenseerde. Bij dat boek had ik conflicterende gevoelens omdat ik de eerst helft heel leuk vond maar problemen had met de tweede helft. Ik ben blij om te zeggen dat ik dit niet had met dit boek.
Een ding waar ik erg blij om was is dat er maar twee point of views zijn en dat we clusters van vijf hoofdstukken krijgen van een personage. Dit bleef zo tot aan het einde. Dit was niet het geval in het eerste boek waar ik voor mijn gevoel continue uit het verhaal werd getrokken. Voor mij was de structuur in dit boek dus beter.
De wereld wordt verder uitgediept wanneer Leia en Walt het eiland verlaten om naar het vasteland te gaan. Maar het eiland en de inwoners verlaten we niet. In plaats van Walts point of view krijgen we nu die van Alysa. Het kunnen zien wat er gebeurd op het eiland na wat er in het eerste boek is gebeurd langszij het verhaal op het vasteland zorgt voor een compleet plaatje. We worden niet zomaar weggetrokken van het eiland en de cultuur die we nog maar net hebben leren kennen. We vervolgen daar maar leren ook over nieuwe dingen. Ik vond deze split erg fijn.
Ook vond ik het interessant om de connecties te zien met de religies zoals wij ze kennen en hoe mensen die interpreteerde. Tekst kan op verschillende manieren worden geïnterpreteerd (alleen al door interpunctie). Dit gebeurd in de hedendaagse tijd ook nog steeds en ik denk dat dit goed is representeert in dit boek. Een klacht ten op zichte van het plot is dat er niet genoeg actie is. Er wordt veel gepraat. Maar aan de andere kant was dit nodig dingen op te zetten voor het volgende boek (waar ik van uitga dat deze komt).
De personages vind ik niet geweldig. Ik vind ze zeker niet onaardig of vervelend, maar ze bewegen weinig emotie in mij. Ik mis Walt’s point of view ook niet waar Alysa voor in de plaats is gekomen. Alysa is een goede vervanging maar ook zij kon geen emotionele beweging in mij voortbrengen. Ik vond het een beetje te perfect. Ze zei altijd net het juiste of veranderde dingen aan haarzelf heel snel nadat iemand dit had opgemerkt.
Op de laatste plaats wil ik nog kwijt dat ik mij niet heb gestoord aan de romantiek in dit boek. Ik vond de romantiek wat irritant aan het einde van het boek, omdat het voor mij te snel ging. Maar in dit boek vinden Leia en Walt steun in elkaar omdat ze in dezelfde situatie zitten vanaf het begin. Dit zorgt ervoor dat ze meer naar elkaar groeien zonder dat er hiervoor drama hoeft plaats te vinden in hun relatie. Ik vond dat erg verfrissend. Ze moeten elkaar nog steeds beter leren kennen, maar het voelde veel natuurlijker voor mij.
Een ding waar ik erg blij om was is dat er maar twee point of views zijn en dat we clusters van vijf hoofdstukken krijgen van een personage. Dit bleef zo tot aan het einde. Dit was niet het geval in het eerste boek waar ik voor mijn gevoel continue uit het verhaal werd getrokken. Voor mij was de structuur in dit boek dus beter.
De wereld wordt verder uitgediept wanneer Leia en Walt het eiland verlaten om naar het vasteland te gaan. Maar het eiland en de inwoners verlaten we niet. In plaats van Walts point of view krijgen we nu die van Alysa. Het kunnen zien wat er gebeurd op het eiland na wat er in het eerste boek is gebeurd langszij het verhaal op het vasteland zorgt voor een compleet plaatje. We worden niet zomaar weggetrokken van het eiland en de cultuur die we nog maar net hebben leren kennen. We vervolgen daar maar leren ook over nieuwe dingen. Ik vond deze split erg fijn.
Ook vond ik het interessant om de connecties te zien met de religies zoals wij ze kennen en hoe mensen die interpreteerde. Tekst kan op verschillende manieren worden geïnterpreteerd (alleen al door interpunctie). Dit gebeurd in de hedendaagse tijd ook nog steeds en ik denk dat dit goed is representeert in dit boek. Een klacht ten op zichte van het plot is dat er niet genoeg actie is. Er wordt veel gepraat. Maar aan de andere kant was dit nodig dingen op te zetten voor het volgende boek (waar ik van uitga dat deze komt).
De personages vind ik niet geweldig. Ik vind ze zeker niet onaardig of vervelend, maar ze bewegen weinig emotie in mij. Ik mis Walt’s point of view ook niet waar Alysa voor in de plaats is gekomen. Alysa is een goede vervanging maar ook zij kon geen emotionele beweging in mij voortbrengen. Ik vond het een beetje te perfect. Ze zei altijd net het juiste of veranderde dingen aan haarzelf heel snel nadat iemand dit had opgemerkt.
Op de laatste plaats wil ik nog kwijt dat ik mij niet heb gestoord aan de romantiek in dit boek. Ik vond de romantiek wat irritant aan het einde van het boek, omdat het voor mij te snel ging. Maar in dit boek vinden Leia en Walt steun in elkaar omdat ze in dezelfde situatie zitten vanaf het begin. Dit zorgt ervoor dat ze meer naar elkaar groeien zonder dat er hiervoor drama hoeft plaats te vinden in hun relatie. Ik vond dat erg verfrissend. Ze moeten elkaar nog steeds beter leren kennen, maar het voelde veel natuurlijker voor mij.
January 15, 2015
***(I received the ARC eBook free as a review copy from the author in exchange for an honest review)***
The second I saw the synopsis for The Island which is the first book I knew I would love the series. It was simple as that and I was not wrong. There was no apprehension for the final instalment because all Minkman’s decisions including the one to basically re-write The Island from a different POV, a decision which could have easily gone terribly wrong being repetitive, actually worked; and it always stayed true to the characters.
This is also true for The Deep because every twist and turn within the plot flowed smoothly together with the characters holding it up. As it was a full length novel rather than a novella like first anticipated, you connected much more to the characters after seeing them develop in The Waves and they sucked you into their stories. It did feel much more like multiple plot lines all connected through the bigger picture, but it meant that if you didn’t particularly like a specific character you could overlook it and focus on the others, and what’s surprising is that you didn’t need to do that; even the “bad” characters *cough*Saul*cough* play a deeper role and you never know you might find yourself changing your opinions of them too…
The plot itself follows the events after The Explorer’s departure for the mysterious lost world and has so many surprises. I think Jen Minkman has been holding out on us because before while we had plenty of major revelations there was no standout cliff-hanger moments which I think it’s fair to say she made up for it in The Deep. Even the end which isn’t an official cliffhanger left a lot to be said, and while there’s no solid rumour for another instalment it seems to be a possibility. After all The Island was only meant to be a standalone and look where it stands now.
Posted on: http://enchantedbyya.blogspot.co.uk/
The second I saw the synopsis for The Island which is the first book I knew I would love the series. It was simple as that and I was not wrong. There was no apprehension for the final instalment because all Minkman’s decisions including the one to basically re-write The Island from a different POV, a decision which could have easily gone terribly wrong being repetitive, actually worked; and it always stayed true to the characters.
This is also true for The Deep because every twist and turn within the plot flowed smoothly together with the characters holding it up. As it was a full length novel rather than a novella like first anticipated, you connected much more to the characters after seeing them develop in The Waves and they sucked you into their stories. It did feel much more like multiple plot lines all connected through the bigger picture, but it meant that if you didn’t particularly like a specific character you could overlook it and focus on the others, and what’s surprising is that you didn’t need to do that; even the “bad” characters *cough*Saul*cough* play a deeper role and you never know you might find yourself changing your opinions of them too…
The plot itself follows the events after The Explorer’s departure for the mysterious lost world and has so many surprises. I think Jen Minkman has been holding out on us because before while we had plenty of major revelations there was no standout cliff-hanger moments which I think it’s fair to say she made up for it in The Deep. Even the end which isn’t an official cliffhanger left a lot to be said, and while there’s no solid rumour for another instalment it seems to be a possibility. After all The Island was only meant to be a standalone and look where it stands now.
Posted on: http://enchantedbyya.blogspot.co.uk/
January 13, 2023
The Deep:
Author: Jen Minkman
Leia and Walt their journey to an unknown world continues. Everything they used to believe in seems to have many shadow sides. They keep believing in a world where everything would be better and hope to find this on "the other side" of the island.
When the other side seems to be totally different then they where expecting beforehand it is up to them to figure out how they can create their own happiness.
What if everything you've learned about your religion turns out to be completely different? Creating a storyline in which religion and grief plays an important rol is not easy and a relatively heavy subject. I think that the author described these subjects in a great and respectful way without attacking other religions or cultures.
I've read different sorts of books written by Jen Minkman and she surprised me every time. The message that it is important that you form a unity as a society regardless of your religious or cultural background is central in the storyline.
Author: Jen Minkman
Leia and Walt their journey to an unknown world continues. Everything they used to believe in seems to have many shadow sides. They keep believing in a world where everything would be better and hope to find this on "the other side" of the island.
When the other side seems to be totally different then they where expecting beforehand it is up to them to figure out how they can create their own happiness.
What if everything you've learned about your religion turns out to be completely different? Creating a storyline in which religion and grief plays an important rol is not easy and a relatively heavy subject. I think that the author described these subjects in a great and respectful way without attacking other religions or cultures.
I've read different sorts of books written by Jen Minkman and she surprised me every time. The message that it is important that you form a unity as a society regardless of your religious or cultural background is central in the storyline.
October 13, 2016
3.5/5 sterren. Weer een mooi verhaal. Leuk dat Alisa's POV erbij komt, hoewel ik haar toch een beetje een (te) perfect personage vind. Walt is echt tof! Ik ben blij dat het Star Wars aspect niet meer zo doorschemerde in dit deel, dat is niet helemaal mijn ding. Je merkt wel dat het boek een loop is naar de strijd die gevoerd zal worden, en dat maakt het soms erg mak met veel gepraat en weinig acties. Echter diept dit ook de personages weer uit ;)
December 23, 2016
3,5 sterren. Beter dan het vorige deel: mooiere schrijfstijl en ik vind het tof hoe de wereld en het verhaal meer diepgang krijgen. Heel mooi uitgewerkt, sprookjesachtig en hedendaags tegelijk. Uitgebreide recensie: http://thebookreview.nl/recensies/dys...
October 19, 2016
recensie volgt op mijn blog!
October 25, 2017
(3,5*)
Leia en Walt zijn met het stiekem door Walt gebouwde schip, de Explorer, met Tony aan het roer op weg naar Cornwall. Leia heeft zich nooit gerealiseerd dat het water rondom het eiland zo enorm is, dat het een zee is. Na enkele dagen varen komen ze aan bij de Overkant - een kustlijn waarin Leia eigenlijk nooit geloofde. Aan land bezoeken ze eerst de stad Penzance. Deze stad ziet er anders uit dan ze van hun eiland gewend zijn: de stad bestaat deels nog uit ruïnes van hoge gebouwen uit vroegere tijden voordat bijna alles platgebombardeerd werd. Tony vertelt dat er nog twee grote steden zijn: Bodmin in Cornwall en Dartmoor in Devon. Het valt de bewoners van het eiland direct op dat de mensen aan de Overkant de beschikking hebben over technieken die hun onbekend zijn. Ze zijn vol verbazing over de zelf rijdende voertuigen. Ze vertrekken met een bus richting de stad Dartmoor om de president Jacob te ontmoeten. Onderweg ziet de groep veel zwartgeblakerde velden en ze schrikken van de enorme vernietiging van het landschap die na al die jaren nog zo goed zichtbaar is. Eenmaal aangekomen bij de stad Dartmoor wacht de president hen op. Het valt de groep op dat de inwoners van Dartmoor allemaal erg gastvrij en vriendelijk zijn. Sonia, de zus en raadgever van de president leidt hen rond en toont hun onderweg de kerk. Ze legt uit dat ze elke zondag samen komen om elkaar te herinneren aan de woorden van Jezus, een man en een God tegelijk. Volgens haar genas hij de zieken, vergaf zijn vijanden, liet wonderen zien en liep op het water. Hij heeft hun geleerd dat geweld de wortel van het kwaad is. De overdreven gastvrijheid en vriendelijkheid maakt de eilandbewoners achterdochtig en dit blijkt ook terecht te zijn. Leia en de anderen komen erachter dat die vriendelijkheid grotendeels schijn is en dat niets is wat het op het eerste gezicht lijkt te zijn. Op het eiland Tresco zelf loopt het ook niet soepel. Alisa heeft besloten achter te blijven op het eiland en haar steentje bij te dragen aan de wederopbouw. Dit wordt bemoeilijkt omdat mensen zich geen raad weten met de gebeurtenissen. Ze hebben het nog geen plek kunnen geven en af en toe loopt dit uit op ongeregeldheden tussen tegenstanders. Er vormen zich onder de bewoners van Hoophaven, in het gebied van de gelovigen twee nieuwe groeperingen: aan de ene kant de Hervormelingen en aan de andere kant de Phileanen die de oude religie in ere willen herstellen. Maar ook aan de andere kant van de muur, in het Ongelovigengebied, in Newexter is het leven veranderd. Alisa komt met een plan, dat voor beide kanten van de Muur een uitweg kan vormen. Het is echter moeilijk iedereen te laten samenwerken en al gauw dreigt het uit de hand te gaan lopen.
Het verhaal
Net als in het boek “Het boek van voorheen” wordt het verhaal verteld vanuit verschillende personages. Bovenaan de hoofdstukken staat steeds vermeld wie het ik-personage is in dat hoofdstuk en tevens waar het verhaal zich afspeelt: op het eiland Tresco of in Cornwall. Je zit gelijk weer in het verhaal. De schrijfster geeft geen korte samenvatting, maar door de gedachten van Leia, door de gesprekken aan boord van het schip en het bezoek aan het kerkhof op het vasteland waar hun voorouders liggen, geeft Jen Minkman in het begin van het boek een terugblik waar het vorige deel over ging.
Wat mij direct opviel is dat ondanks dat de personages nu weten dat hun geloof gebaseerd is op misverstanden, op onwaarheden, ze er toch onbewust aan blijven vasthouden. Het is nu eenmaal lastig om oude gewoonten af te leren. Jen Minkman gaat in dit deel verder met het verschil in wat een mens gelooft qua godsdienst. Op het eiland waren er al twee geloven en het blijkt dat er op het vasteland nog ander geloof is: het geloof in Jezus. Leia en Walt denken bij het verhaal dat Sonia, de zus en raadgever van de president, hun vertelt over Jezus aan een verhaal dat bij hen op het eiland wordt verteld: het verhaal over Jesse. Jesse was volgens hun verhalen de verrader die Hoophavenaars ervan wilde overtuigen dat ze zonder Annabel konden ontsnappen van Tresco, de man die beweerde op water te kunnen lopen. Ze zijn verbijsterd dat een man die op hun eiland wordt beschouwd als iemand die hoogverraad heeft gepleegd volgens hun geloof, aan de Overkant aanbeden wordt.
Jen Minkman weet verder goed weer te geven hoe het voor zowel de eilandbewoners die thuisblijven, als voor degenen die de overtocht maken voelt dat het beeld dat ze van de wereld hadden compleet veranderd is. Ze zijn hun houvast kwijt. Er wordt dieper ingegaan op de nieuwe relatie tussen Leia en Walt, maar ook op het eiland ontbloeit er onverwachts een liefde, die niemand (ook het personage in eerste instantie niet) zag aankomen.
Conclusie
Dit boek leest aangenaam en prettig en is een goed vervolg op het eerste deel. Toch mist ik het "wauw" effect dat ik bij “Het boek van voorheen” had. Dit verhaal is ook spannend om te lezen, maar het verrassingseffect over het geloof van de eilandbewoners dat het andere deel een zo sterk verhaal maakte, is hier helaas niet aanwezig. Wel is het een goed en spannend verhaal over hoe het leven er aan de Overkant uitziet, wat zij geloven, welke dreiging van dit geloof uitgaat en hoe de bewoners van het eiland de draad van hun leven weer moeten zien op te pakken, ondanks het ontstaan van de twee nieuwe groeperingen die elkaar tegenwerken.
Ik geef “De wereld achter het water” 3,5 sterren.
Leia en Walt zijn met het stiekem door Walt gebouwde schip, de Explorer, met Tony aan het roer op weg naar Cornwall. Leia heeft zich nooit gerealiseerd dat het water rondom het eiland zo enorm is, dat het een zee is. Na enkele dagen varen komen ze aan bij de Overkant - een kustlijn waarin Leia eigenlijk nooit geloofde. Aan land bezoeken ze eerst de stad Penzance. Deze stad ziet er anders uit dan ze van hun eiland gewend zijn: de stad bestaat deels nog uit ruïnes van hoge gebouwen uit vroegere tijden voordat bijna alles platgebombardeerd werd. Tony vertelt dat er nog twee grote steden zijn: Bodmin in Cornwall en Dartmoor in Devon. Het valt de bewoners van het eiland direct op dat de mensen aan de Overkant de beschikking hebben over technieken die hun onbekend zijn. Ze zijn vol verbazing over de zelf rijdende voertuigen. Ze vertrekken met een bus richting de stad Dartmoor om de president Jacob te ontmoeten. Onderweg ziet de groep veel zwartgeblakerde velden en ze schrikken van de enorme vernietiging van het landschap die na al die jaren nog zo goed zichtbaar is. Eenmaal aangekomen bij de stad Dartmoor wacht de president hen op. Het valt de groep op dat de inwoners van Dartmoor allemaal erg gastvrij en vriendelijk zijn. Sonia, de zus en raadgever van de president leidt hen rond en toont hun onderweg de kerk. Ze legt uit dat ze elke zondag samen komen om elkaar te herinneren aan de woorden van Jezus, een man en een God tegelijk. Volgens haar genas hij de zieken, vergaf zijn vijanden, liet wonderen zien en liep op het water. Hij heeft hun geleerd dat geweld de wortel van het kwaad is. De overdreven gastvrijheid en vriendelijkheid maakt de eilandbewoners achterdochtig en dit blijkt ook terecht te zijn. Leia en de anderen komen erachter dat die vriendelijkheid grotendeels schijn is en dat niets is wat het op het eerste gezicht lijkt te zijn. Op het eiland Tresco zelf loopt het ook niet soepel. Alisa heeft besloten achter te blijven op het eiland en haar steentje bij te dragen aan de wederopbouw. Dit wordt bemoeilijkt omdat mensen zich geen raad weten met de gebeurtenissen. Ze hebben het nog geen plek kunnen geven en af en toe loopt dit uit op ongeregeldheden tussen tegenstanders. Er vormen zich onder de bewoners van Hoophaven, in het gebied van de gelovigen twee nieuwe groeperingen: aan de ene kant de Hervormelingen en aan de andere kant de Phileanen die de oude religie in ere willen herstellen. Maar ook aan de andere kant van de muur, in het Ongelovigengebied, in Newexter is het leven veranderd. Alisa komt met een plan, dat voor beide kanten van de Muur een uitweg kan vormen. Het is echter moeilijk iedereen te laten samenwerken en al gauw dreigt het uit de hand te gaan lopen.
Het verhaal
Net als in het boek “Het boek van voorheen” wordt het verhaal verteld vanuit verschillende personages. Bovenaan de hoofdstukken staat steeds vermeld wie het ik-personage is in dat hoofdstuk en tevens waar het verhaal zich afspeelt: op het eiland Tresco of in Cornwall. Je zit gelijk weer in het verhaal. De schrijfster geeft geen korte samenvatting, maar door de gedachten van Leia, door de gesprekken aan boord van het schip en het bezoek aan het kerkhof op het vasteland waar hun voorouders liggen, geeft Jen Minkman in het begin van het boek een terugblik waar het vorige deel over ging.
Wat mij direct opviel is dat ondanks dat de personages nu weten dat hun geloof gebaseerd is op misverstanden, op onwaarheden, ze er toch onbewust aan blijven vasthouden. Het is nu eenmaal lastig om oude gewoonten af te leren. Jen Minkman gaat in dit deel verder met het verschil in wat een mens gelooft qua godsdienst. Op het eiland waren er al twee geloven en het blijkt dat er op het vasteland nog ander geloof is: het geloof in Jezus. Leia en Walt denken bij het verhaal dat Sonia, de zus en raadgever van de president, hun vertelt over Jezus aan een verhaal dat bij hen op het eiland wordt verteld: het verhaal over Jesse. Jesse was volgens hun verhalen de verrader die Hoophavenaars ervan wilde overtuigen dat ze zonder Annabel konden ontsnappen van Tresco, de man die beweerde op water te kunnen lopen. Ze zijn verbijsterd dat een man die op hun eiland wordt beschouwd als iemand die hoogverraad heeft gepleegd volgens hun geloof, aan de Overkant aanbeden wordt.
Jen Minkman weet verder goed weer te geven hoe het voor zowel de eilandbewoners die thuisblijven, als voor degenen die de overtocht maken voelt dat het beeld dat ze van de wereld hadden compleet veranderd is. Ze zijn hun houvast kwijt. Er wordt dieper ingegaan op de nieuwe relatie tussen Leia en Walt, maar ook op het eiland ontbloeit er onverwachts een liefde, die niemand (ook het personage in eerste instantie niet) zag aankomen.
Conclusie
Dit boek leest aangenaam en prettig en is een goed vervolg op het eerste deel. Toch mist ik het "wauw" effect dat ik bij “Het boek van voorheen” had. Dit verhaal is ook spannend om te lezen, maar het verrassingseffect over het geloof van de eilandbewoners dat het andere deel een zo sterk verhaal maakte, is hier helaas niet aanwezig. Wel is het een goed en spannend verhaal over hoe het leven er aan de Overkant uitziet, wat zij geloven, welke dreiging van dit geloof uitgaat en hoe de bewoners van het eiland de draad van hun leven weer moeten zien op te pakken, ondanks het ontstaan van de twee nieuwe groeperingen die elkaar tegenwerken.
Ik geef “De wereld achter het water” 3,5 sterren.
July 12, 2014
Leia grew up on the island of Tresco where when all of the children reached the age of ten years old they were considered adults and were sent to live in the big house which was called the manor. Leia and all of the other children lived there and were taught how to take care of themselves. All of the children that lived at the manor and "the parents" believed in "The Book" which was actually titled "Star Wars". Leia's and everyone else's ancestors were taught that "The Book" was the rules that they had to follow. The children lived at the manor until they found someone to marry and then they would move back into the town and live like all of "the parents". This book they called "The Book" was their bible it was all they knew. There was no one left alive who knew the real truth. But Leia didn't like how everyone was being treated by their leader Saul. Saul wanted to be in control and to always be the leader. But Leia began to question if everything they had been taught was a lie or not. There was a wall that separated Tresco from the other side of the island where the "Fools" lived. No one was ever to cross over the wall. The "Fools" were unbelievers and were not to be trusted.
But Leia wanted to know the truth and it was time for someone to stop Saul. Leia's life became endangered so she ran away and climbed over the wall to the other side to meet with her new friend Walt a "Fool" who lived on the other side. Walt helped to keep her safe from Saul. Leia found out that Walt and the people who lived on the other side of the wall were not such bad folks after all. Walt and the "Fools" believed that their Goddess Annabelle was coming back for them one day. So they were always on the lookout for Annabelle's return.
Leia and Walt both wonder if there was anything else out there or other people. Are there other people across the water or were they the only people left alive? Their new friend Tony who came from across the water told them that there were other people out there and that there was a whole other world across the water. Leia and Walt along with some of the other people on the island wanted to go see what was across the water. So Tony took them on a long voyage across the water to meet these other people.
I am so very glad that I have had the opportunity to read the Island series. I love the whole concept of telling children about "The Book" and that book being "Star Wars", a fantasy book. It just goes to show that there is more than one way to believe in something and everyone thinks that what they believe is the truth. How could there be more than one God? Why doesn't everyone believe the same? What makes one person's belief right and the other one wrong? The children that was taught that "Stars Wars" was their bible thought they were right and the "Fools" who were waiting for their Goddess Annabelle to come back for them were wrong. And the "Fools" thought that they were right and the children on the other side of the wall were wrong. If someone believes one way and you believe another don't make that person out to be the bad person. What someone believes in may be the only thing that is getting them through life. The sad part is that each group of people were all taught lies and neither one of them knew it. They had no way of knowing with no one left alive that knew the real truth.
I am going to miss all of the characters in this series. I would like to go along with them on their new voyage and to be with them when they reach their destination. Will Walt and Leia finally tie the knot? Will they have a family of their own? What will they tell their children? What will they teach their children to believe in? You know it really doesn't matter as long as they are good people and parents.
Have you read "The Island" Series? No? Then what are you waiting for? Go grab your copy today and get started. It is one of the best and I mean best series ever written. If you have an open mind and can handle reading something that is way different than anything that you have read before then jump on board and let the light in.
But Leia wanted to know the truth and it was time for someone to stop Saul. Leia's life became endangered so she ran away and climbed over the wall to the other side to meet with her new friend Walt a "Fool" who lived on the other side. Walt helped to keep her safe from Saul. Leia found out that Walt and the people who lived on the other side of the wall were not such bad folks after all. Walt and the "Fools" believed that their Goddess Annabelle was coming back for them one day. So they were always on the lookout for Annabelle's return.
Leia and Walt both wonder if there was anything else out there or other people. Are there other people across the water or were they the only people left alive? Their new friend Tony who came from across the water told them that there were other people out there and that there was a whole other world across the water. Leia and Walt along with some of the other people on the island wanted to go see what was across the water. So Tony took them on a long voyage across the water to meet these other people.
I am so very glad that I have had the opportunity to read the Island series. I love the whole concept of telling children about "The Book" and that book being "Star Wars", a fantasy book. It just goes to show that there is more than one way to believe in something and everyone thinks that what they believe is the truth. How could there be more than one God? Why doesn't everyone believe the same? What makes one person's belief right and the other one wrong? The children that was taught that "Stars Wars" was their bible thought they were right and the "Fools" who were waiting for their Goddess Annabelle to come back for them were wrong. And the "Fools" thought that they were right and the children on the other side of the wall were wrong. If someone believes one way and you believe another don't make that person out to be the bad person. What someone believes in may be the only thing that is getting them through life. The sad part is that each group of people were all taught lies and neither one of them knew it. They had no way of knowing with no one left alive that knew the real truth.
I am going to miss all of the characters in this series. I would like to go along with them on their new voyage and to be with them when they reach their destination. Will Walt and Leia finally tie the knot? Will they have a family of their own? What will they tell their children? What will they teach their children to believe in? You know it really doesn't matter as long as they are good people and parents.
Have you read "The Island" Series? No? Then what are you waiting for? Go grab your copy today and get started. It is one of the best and I mean best series ever written. If you have an open mind and can handle reading something that is way different than anything that you have read before then jump on board and let the light in.
November 25, 2016
*Let op: als je Het Boek van Voorheen nog niet hebt gelezen, kan deze recensie spoilers bevatten!*
De Wereld achter het Water gaat verder waar Het Boek van Voorheen is afgelopen: de grote ontdekkingsreis naar de mysterieuze, onbekende Wereld achter het Water staat op het punt te beginnen. Wat zullen ze daar aantreffen? Zal de bevolking daar net zo leven als zij, of zullen ze het daar veel gemakkelijker en fijner hebben?
Leia en Walt vertrekken samen naar deze schimmige nieuwe Wereld, terwijl mede-eilandbewoner Alisa op hun eigen eiland blijft en het leven daar samen met de anderen probeert voort te zetten.
Net als Het Boek van Voorheen, wordt De Wereld achter het Water verteld uit verschillende perspectieven. Dit keer lezen we onder andere uit de ogen van Alisa, een sterk personage, dat weet wat ze wil maar tegelijkertijd te maken krijgt met de onderlinge conflicten op het eiland. In haar eentje zal het echter niet lukken om de gemoederen tot bedaren te brengen, al helemaal niet wanneer er schermutselingen ontstaan tussen de gelovigen en de niet-gelovigen. Ze staat voor iedereen open, en zal alle hulp aanpakken die ze kan krijgen om de mensen gerust te stellen en te kalmeren, zelfs als deze hulp uit onverwachte hoek lijkt te komen. Dit vergt moed, moed die mensen laat overleven en vooral laat nadenken over hun daden en de gevolgen hiervan.
Vanuit de ogen van Leia kijken we mee tijdens de grote reis naar het onbekende: een wereld waar ze nooit is geweest en waar ze desondanks wel veel van verwacht. De nieuwe Wereld lijkt perfect, een utopie, maar schijn is soms mooier dan het lijkt… Leia komt erachter dat ze slimmer, eigenwijzer maar vooral krachtiger is dan ze heeft gedacht. Ze voelt wat echte liefde is, die steeds meer opbloeit tussen haar en Walt, en hoeveel ze aan elkaar kunnen hebben in deze barre tijden, helemaal als ze achter de ware reden van het perfecte leven in de nieuwe Wereld komt…
Tijdens het lezen merkte ik dat ik af en toe met ingehouden adem verder las; sommige plottwists zag ik deels aankomen, anderen ook helemaal niet, wat voor het verhaal alleen maar ten goede kwam. Het verhaal komt over als één die in ons huidige leven ook zal kunnen gaan gebeuren: wat als mensen elkaar niet meer accepteren om wat ze geloven, maar alleen willen zien en doen wat zij denken dat waar is en wat goed is? Het zette mij vooral aan het denken over hoe ik zelf zou reageren, wanneer ik in een situatie als deze zou verkeren. Voor welke kant zou ikzelf kiezen? Zou ik met de grote menigte meegaan, of zou ik kiezen voor mezelf en waar ik voor stond? Ik denk dat ik dat pas echt zal kunnen weten wanneer ik in een ijzingwekkende situatie als deze zal verkeren, maar ik vond dit ‘zelf nadenken over het onderwerp’ absoluut een van de geweldige krachten van dit boek!
De schrijfstijl van Jen Minkman is weer magnifiek, precies zoals we het van haar gewend zijn: gedetailleerd, meeslepend, herkenbaar en beeldend. Ze neemt je als lezer op deze manier echt mee naar de wereld waarin de personages leven, waardoor het verhaal nog echter aanvoelt, net als de personages zelf. En het is nu ook Jen Minkman gelukt: er is weer een zogenaamde ‘bad guy’ toegevoegd aan mijn eeuwig doorgroeiende ‘Bookish Crushes’-lijst! Zucht... ;)
Ik weet niet of het verhaal nu écht helemaal afgelopen is, dat we dus na het lezen van dit boek zelf door mogen fantaseren wat er gaat gebeuren óf dat er toch nog eens een vervolg komt, in ieder geval heb ik genoten van dit interessante vervolg van Het Boek van Voorheen!
De Wereld achter het Water gaat verder waar Het Boek van Voorheen is afgelopen: de grote ontdekkingsreis naar de mysterieuze, onbekende Wereld achter het Water staat op het punt te beginnen. Wat zullen ze daar aantreffen? Zal de bevolking daar net zo leven als zij, of zullen ze het daar veel gemakkelijker en fijner hebben?
Leia en Walt vertrekken samen naar deze schimmige nieuwe Wereld, terwijl mede-eilandbewoner Alisa op hun eigen eiland blijft en het leven daar samen met de anderen probeert voort te zetten.
Net als Het Boek van Voorheen, wordt De Wereld achter het Water verteld uit verschillende perspectieven. Dit keer lezen we onder andere uit de ogen van Alisa, een sterk personage, dat weet wat ze wil maar tegelijkertijd te maken krijgt met de onderlinge conflicten op het eiland. In haar eentje zal het echter niet lukken om de gemoederen tot bedaren te brengen, al helemaal niet wanneer er schermutselingen ontstaan tussen de gelovigen en de niet-gelovigen. Ze staat voor iedereen open, en zal alle hulp aanpakken die ze kan krijgen om de mensen gerust te stellen en te kalmeren, zelfs als deze hulp uit onverwachte hoek lijkt te komen. Dit vergt moed, moed die mensen laat overleven en vooral laat nadenken over hun daden en de gevolgen hiervan.
Vanuit de ogen van Leia kijken we mee tijdens de grote reis naar het onbekende: een wereld waar ze nooit is geweest en waar ze desondanks wel veel van verwacht. De nieuwe Wereld lijkt perfect, een utopie, maar schijn is soms mooier dan het lijkt… Leia komt erachter dat ze slimmer, eigenwijzer maar vooral krachtiger is dan ze heeft gedacht. Ze voelt wat echte liefde is, die steeds meer opbloeit tussen haar en Walt, en hoeveel ze aan elkaar kunnen hebben in deze barre tijden, helemaal als ze achter de ware reden van het perfecte leven in de nieuwe Wereld komt…
Tijdens het lezen merkte ik dat ik af en toe met ingehouden adem verder las; sommige plottwists zag ik deels aankomen, anderen ook helemaal niet, wat voor het verhaal alleen maar ten goede kwam. Het verhaal komt over als één die in ons huidige leven ook zal kunnen gaan gebeuren: wat als mensen elkaar niet meer accepteren om wat ze geloven, maar alleen willen zien en doen wat zij denken dat waar is en wat goed is? Het zette mij vooral aan het denken over hoe ik zelf zou reageren, wanneer ik in een situatie als deze zou verkeren. Voor welke kant zou ikzelf kiezen? Zou ik met de grote menigte meegaan, of zou ik kiezen voor mezelf en waar ik voor stond? Ik denk dat ik dat pas echt zal kunnen weten wanneer ik in een ijzingwekkende situatie als deze zal verkeren, maar ik vond dit ‘zelf nadenken over het onderwerp’ absoluut een van de geweldige krachten van dit boek!
De schrijfstijl van Jen Minkman is weer magnifiek, precies zoals we het van haar gewend zijn: gedetailleerd, meeslepend, herkenbaar en beeldend. Ze neemt je als lezer op deze manier echt mee naar de wereld waarin de personages leven, waardoor het verhaal nog echter aanvoelt, net als de personages zelf. En het is nu ook Jen Minkman gelukt: er is weer een zogenaamde ‘bad guy’ toegevoegd aan mijn eeuwig doorgroeiende ‘Bookish Crushes’-lijst! Zucht... ;)
Ik weet niet of het verhaal nu écht helemaal afgelopen is, dat we dus na het lezen van dit boek zelf door mogen fantaseren wat er gaat gebeuren óf dat er toch nog eens een vervolg komt, in ieder geval heb ik genoten van dit interessante vervolg van Het Boek van Voorheen!
June 16, 2014
As with Jen Minkman's previous books in this series, this is a lovely read full of whimsical ideas and interesting concepts.
If you have not read this series yet, I recommend that you do. This book expanded upon the previous novels, telling the tale from two different points of view and giving us a more in depth look at the life of the characters and exploring the different outcomes of the choices they made.
I really enjoyed reading this book. The setting is beautiful and descriptive and allows your imagination to wander lands that have been carefully crafted. An excellent conclusion to this series, there are unlikely heroes, and themes of sorrow, hope and redemption from places you wouldn't expect. This author always has a surprise or two up her sleeve when you don't foresee it coming.
One of the best things about this book, in my opinion, is the way the author can make you stop and think. We take for granted the things we know to be "fact," often not stopping to question what we have been taught. The book that some of the people in this story follow would be fiction to us, but to them it is fact. I love the way she expanded upon this thought as the novel continued.
This book does have a more apparent religious theme than those that came before it, but I thought it was handled well.
Overall, this was a fantastic book to end a beautiful series. I recommend it.
This review is based on a review copy provided by the author. No other compensation was received and all opinions are my own.
If you have not read this series yet, I recommend that you do. This book expanded upon the previous novels, telling the tale from two different points of view and giving us a more in depth look at the life of the characters and exploring the different outcomes of the choices they made.
I really enjoyed reading this book. The setting is beautiful and descriptive and allows your imagination to wander lands that have been carefully crafted. An excellent conclusion to this series, there are unlikely heroes, and themes of sorrow, hope and redemption from places you wouldn't expect. This author always has a surprise or two up her sleeve when you don't foresee it coming.
One of the best things about this book, in my opinion, is the way the author can make you stop and think. We take for granted the things we know to be "fact," often not stopping to question what we have been taught. The book that some of the people in this story follow would be fiction to us, but to them it is fact. I love the way she expanded upon this thought as the novel continued.
This book does have a more apparent religious theme than those that came before it, but I thought it was handled well.
Overall, this was a fantastic book to end a beautiful series. I recommend it.
This review is based on a review copy provided by the author. No other compensation was received and all opinions are my own.
December 4, 2018
Ik heb boek 1 niet gelezen, alleen een preview. Daardoor miste ik weinig van het verhaal. Wat een prachtige personages van vlees en bloed, met goede en slechte kanten.
Mensen die goede dingen doen om de verkeerde redenen en mensen die verkeerde dingen doen om de goede redenen.
Echt genoten van dit boek. Ik ben erg nieuwsgierig naar een eventueel vervolg.
Mensen die goede dingen doen om de verkeerde redenen en mensen die verkeerde dingen doen om de goede redenen.
Echt genoten van dit boek. Ik ben erg nieuwsgierig naar een eventueel vervolg.
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February 6, 2017Recensie volgt waarschijnlijk deze maand nog op http://bibliofem.nl
June 11, 2014
Full and formatted review on my blog: Kalin Elizabeth
I would just like to say, Jen Minkman has become one of my favorite authors due to her ability to leave me shocked every. single. time. The plot twists in all three of these books literally leaves me with a Cheshire cat grin. I can't help it!
Now, it's been a while since I last read The Waves, so it took me some time to remember all the fine details. Luckily there are multiple reminders of the other two books, so I was quickly back on track. I also remember hoping we would get a third book - so I could find out what the Other Side is like - and I definitely got what I begged for!
The Deep is all about discovery. The islanders who left Tresco began to put the pieces of the world together, and discovered more than they imagined. No spoilers, but the Other Side really creeped me out! It also focused on religion, intertwining Jesus with the Star Wars vibe that brought together the first book. I wouldn't usually be supportive of using religion in a more laid-back series. However, I think Jen Minkman did a great job incorporating religion without making the book strictly religious. (We have to remember that in the infant stages of The Island, Star Wars ideals were the foundations of religion on the island of Tresco.)
"Well you get the idea. Over time, important information gets distorted to the point that it doesn't even resemble the original message anymore." -Leia to Walt.
I love how this series never lost the sense it started with.The characters definitely grew up over the course of their adventures. Leia is now a stronger, more respectable female lead. But she is also still a bit naive, and that gets her into trouble. Walt is still a little clueless, but he has definitely showed a sweeter side in this book. This time, we also got the point of view of Alisa. Honestly, I was a little bored with her in the beginning, she didn't have my heart as well as Leia and Walt. But now I can say the opposite. Though she wasn't strictly in the action, it was fun to watch her development back on Tresco. (And her love interest!!)
See my blog for the rest of my thoughts and my favorite quote from the whole novel. I highly recommend this series to anyone. It's a light read that captured my attention from the start!
*I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I would just like to say, Jen Minkman has become one of my favorite authors due to her ability to leave me shocked every. single. time. The plot twists in all three of these books literally leaves me with a Cheshire cat grin. I can't help it!
Now, it's been a while since I last read The Waves, so it took me some time to remember all the fine details. Luckily there are multiple reminders of the other two books, so I was quickly back on track. I also remember hoping we would get a third book - so I could find out what the Other Side is like - and I definitely got what I begged for!
The Deep is all about discovery. The islanders who left Tresco began to put the pieces of the world together, and discovered more than they imagined. No spoilers, but the Other Side really creeped me out! It also focused on religion, intertwining Jesus with the Star Wars vibe that brought together the first book. I wouldn't usually be supportive of using religion in a more laid-back series. However, I think Jen Minkman did a great job incorporating religion without making the book strictly religious. (We have to remember that in the infant stages of The Island, Star Wars ideals were the foundations of religion on the island of Tresco.)
"Well you get the idea. Over time, important information gets distorted to the point that it doesn't even resemble the original message anymore." -Leia to Walt.
I love how this series never lost the sense it started with.The characters definitely grew up over the course of their adventures. Leia is now a stronger, more respectable female lead. But she is also still a bit naive, and that gets her into trouble. Walt is still a little clueless, but he has definitely showed a sweeter side in this book. This time, we also got the point of view of Alisa. Honestly, I was a little bored with her in the beginning, she didn't have my heart as well as Leia and Walt. But now I can say the opposite. Though she wasn't strictly in the action, it was fun to watch her development back on Tresco. (And her love interest!!)
See my blog for the rest of my thoughts and my favorite quote from the whole novel. I highly recommend this series to anyone. It's a light read that captured my attention from the start!
*I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2014
I received a free copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I have read the first two books in the series and really enjoyed them. This one kept the momentum flowing. It was a while since I read the first two, it took me a while to remember exactly what happened. But once I had, I was in love with the story once again. This time the setting was Dartmoor, it was well done, and the writing was beautiful. The characters I know and love are back, with a few new ones, lots of exciting new places to explore. Leia and Walt managed to get themselves into more messes which they cleverly get themselves out of.
I liked all the different customs for the different places, a little too much religion for my liking, but that is personal preference. I read the whole book in a matter of hours, it flowed well and was a nice quick read.
There was not much description of how the world got into such a state, I wish there was more about that and the disease that is killing people. Other than those small things, which are just my opinions, I really enjoyed this book and the rest of the series. I would read them again and recommend them to anyone who likes dystopian books. I liked how the author sees good and bad in all of her characters and shows them in such a light.
Four out of Five stars.
I have read the first two books in the series and really enjoyed them. This one kept the momentum flowing. It was a while since I read the first two, it took me a while to remember exactly what happened. But once I had, I was in love with the story once again. This time the setting was Dartmoor, it was well done, and the writing was beautiful. The characters I know and love are back, with a few new ones, lots of exciting new places to explore. Leia and Walt managed to get themselves into more messes which they cleverly get themselves out of.
I liked all the different customs for the different places, a little too much religion for my liking, but that is personal preference. I read the whole book in a matter of hours, it flowed well and was a nice quick read.
There was not much description of how the world got into such a state, I wish there was more about that and the disease that is killing people. Other than those small things, which are just my opinions, I really enjoyed this book and the rest of the series. I would read them again and recommend them to anyone who likes dystopian books. I liked how the author sees good and bad in all of her characters and shows them in such a light.
Four out of Five stars.
June 2, 2014
This third in the series, was told from Leia's and Alisa's perspective, alternately. Both of these women were strong characters and well written. Both had been crucial characters in the previous two books. The story line was very unique in this last installment with redemptive stories of Ben and Saul presented in a most endearing manner. Leia and Walt melded their relationship with their need for one another's support and protection as they observed and explored in the world across the seas. And although their new found friend, Tony provided a tour of his homeland, there were things, he omitted and had hoped they would not be witness too.
Minkman brought closure to the inahbitants of Tresco and Hope Harbour through a confrontation of evil from across the seas. The people of the island were forced to work together to protect themselves and then relocate to a new homeland to further ensure their safety. It would be a new start, based on truth and common sense. The young people would be shaping a new world for their children and the children of the future. These books were quite thought provoking and enjoyable fiction.
Minkman brought closure to the inahbitants of Tresco and Hope Harbour through a confrontation of evil from across the seas. The people of the island were forced to work together to protect themselves and then relocate to a new homeland to further ensure their safety. It would be a new start, based on truth and common sense. The young people would be shaping a new world for their children and the children of the future. These books were quite thought provoking and enjoyable fiction.
August 1, 2014
My Thoughts - 4 out of 5 Unicorns - I really liked it!!!
***Received the trilogy ebook via Story Cartel for an honest review
The cover is beautiful with Alisa on the front :)
This book was longer and definitely had more action :) I think for me this was the best of the trilogy. It did still have a few parts that were a little slow for me, but I’m pretty sure this was just me because I do not usually read books that resemble real life this much :)
Jen’s writing style is great with her descriptions and makes it seem like all of this could really happen.
Now I’m torn because I don’t know who I like better Leia or Alisa. Their strength and beliefs are amazing considering they grew up in completely different environments. Saul & Ben really grow on you too in this story. This book definitely had an emotional rollercoaster going.
I recommend this series to YA fans of dystopian societies that could be a possible real world in the future.
***Received the trilogy ebook via Story Cartel for an honest review
The cover is beautiful with Alisa on the front :)
This book was longer and definitely had more action :) I think for me this was the best of the trilogy. It did still have a few parts that were a little slow for me, but I’m pretty sure this was just me because I do not usually read books that resemble real life this much :)
Jen’s writing style is great with her descriptions and makes it seem like all of this could really happen.
Now I’m torn because I don’t know who I like better Leia or Alisa. Their strength and beliefs are amazing considering they grew up in completely different environments. Saul & Ben really grow on you too in this story. This book definitely had an emotional rollercoaster going.
I recommend this series to YA fans of dystopian societies that could be a possible real world in the future.
July 23, 2016
The Island series takes the reader into an amazingly creative dystopian world filled with mystery, deceit, and mayhem.
Once I finished reading The Island, I was filled with questions and a burning desire to know more. No worries, as the series continued, all was revealed. The story unfolded, bit by bit, revealing the truth behind the inhabitants' existence. The Deep was a satisfying conclusion to the story and kept me engaged with its non-stop action and adventure--and of course a little romance too!
I'm always impressed with the fact that Jen translates her books from Dutch to English herself. The Deep was well-written and had a smooth, easy-read flow to it. I enjoyed my time in this dystopian world. Thanks for a great series, Jen!
I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Once I finished reading The Island, I was filled with questions and a burning desire to know more. No worries, as the series continued, all was revealed. The story unfolded, bit by bit, revealing the truth behind the inhabitants' existence. The Deep was a satisfying conclusion to the story and kept me engaged with its non-stop action and adventure--and of course a little romance too!
I'm always impressed with the fact that Jen translates her books from Dutch to English herself. The Deep was well-written and had a smooth, easy-read flow to it. I enjoyed my time in this dystopian world. Thanks for a great series, Jen!
I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
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October 20, 2016Op 4 november wordt dit boek gelanceerd! De recensies druppelen al binnen en ik vind het interessant te zien dat de hele helft dit tweede deel beter vindt en de andere helft minder. Dit is de eerste keer dat ik in Nederland een serie schrijf, dus het is mijn vuurdoop qua hooggespannend verwachtingen. Al mijn vorige boeken waren standalones... :)
September 17, 2025
Leuk tweede deel van de serie. Het is een simpele schrijfstijl maar de wereld is erg uniek en zo goed uitgedacht! Je krijgt ook echt een connectie met de hoofdpersonen, dus al met al een hele fijne leeservaring.
June 23, 2014
Note: I received a copy of this novella from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is the third installment in Jen Minkman's The Island novella series, which takes place in a post-apocalyptic world in which the inhabitants of an island are descendants of children who were spared from the plague. The first two novellas in the series are The Island and The Waves.
The narrative switches between the perspectives of Leia, a girl who travels to Cornwall with friends, and Alisa, a girl who lives back on the island that Leia comes from.
Turmoil rumbles on the island in which some people still want to believe Annabelle will return for them, while others are getting ready to make ships to connect Tresco to the rest of the world. Alisa, a young woman whose fiance Yorrick was killed by unfaithful priests for wanting to find the truth about their religion, now finds herself amid an increasing violence between the shipbuilders and the Phileans, who sabotage efforts to construct ships.
Alisa comes across as a determined character who wants to protect people and get things done. I can see where her priorities are but she comes across as a dull character for me. When I first started reading it, her quiet patience and understanding towards Ben (the would-be rapist from The Island) made me think of her as a motherly figure, someone in her thirties and beyond.
Then events lead her to meet Saul, who was the horrid tyrant from the first novella. I can see that the story is giving Saul a chance at redemption through his relationship with Alisa, but I don't buy it. Bad boy becomes good as a result of good girl's influence. Good girl sees aggressive bad boy in need of salvation, saves him with her goodness and timidness. When they're together, it's a mixture of romantic tension and a lot of awkwardness. Saul doesn't seem to want to change except because of her, which might be bad news after their honeymoon phase.
I don't see what's in it (the relationship) for Alisa except that she wants to save him. Saul's not really charming except for his aggressive, burly sense of protectiveness, which seems to charm the determined Alisa, who becomes shy and submissive and soft and murmur-y around him. Their relationship moves too quickly and despite the focus on their conversations, we don't get to see them fight at all. Alisa does everything that Saul tells her to do, and I have a hard time taking this relationship seriously because they get along too well despite the uneven dynamics of this relationship. I don't think that someone accustomed to power for so long like Saul would change so smoothly, even under the influence of Alisa--I need to see him trying to hold back his anger against her. I need to see him mess up and try to make amends (or not). How would he react if she disagreed with him or angered him?
While I have trouble believing the happiness of the relationship of Alisa and Saul, I think Leia and Walt make a great pair. They're constant companions and they joke around with each other in a way that indicates a lot of chemistry. Neither really dominates the relationship.
Leia has become a lot more inquisitive since The Island, which makes sense because her old perception of the world was shattered in that novella. Here, she's aware that there is a lot more than what is being shown--after observing some strange behaviors, she starts questioning the idea of justice in this "no pain" society.
Overall, I enjoy the narration shared between Leia and Alisa's perspectives because it allows us to look at what's happening in the island and Cornwall--a wider scope of world building. I had trouble staying interested during some of the slower, exploratory scenes in the middle while others made me want to keep up with the characters and their world.
The dystopian societies that these young people come into contact (and conflict) with are intriguing, particularly the "no pain" society, in which a good idea becomes twisted into a dysfunctional, rigidly-held rule.
Glamorous Book Lounge
This is the third installment in Jen Minkman's The Island novella series, which takes place in a post-apocalyptic world in which the inhabitants of an island are descendants of children who were spared from the plague. The first two novellas in the series are The Island and The Waves.
The narrative switches between the perspectives of Leia, a girl who travels to Cornwall with friends, and Alisa, a girl who lives back on the island that Leia comes from.
Turmoil rumbles on the island in which some people still want to believe Annabelle will return for them, while others are getting ready to make ships to connect Tresco to the rest of the world. Alisa, a young woman whose fiance Yorrick was killed by unfaithful priests for wanting to find the truth about their religion, now finds herself amid an increasing violence between the shipbuilders and the Phileans, who sabotage efforts to construct ships.
Alisa comes across as a determined character who wants to protect people and get things done. I can see where her priorities are but she comes across as a dull character for me. When I first started reading it, her quiet patience and understanding towards Ben (the would-be rapist from The Island) made me think of her as a motherly figure, someone in her thirties and beyond.
Then events lead her to meet Saul, who was the horrid tyrant from the first novella. I can see that the story is giving Saul a chance at redemption through his relationship with Alisa, but I don't buy it. Bad boy becomes good as a result of good girl's influence. Good girl sees aggressive bad boy in need of salvation, saves him with her goodness and timidness. When they're together, it's a mixture of romantic tension and a lot of awkwardness. Saul doesn't seem to want to change except because of her, which might be bad news after their honeymoon phase.
I don't see what's in it (the relationship) for Alisa except that she wants to save him. Saul's not really charming except for his aggressive, burly sense of protectiveness, which seems to charm the determined Alisa, who becomes shy and submissive and soft and murmur-y around him. Their relationship moves too quickly and despite the focus on their conversations, we don't get to see them fight at all. Alisa does everything that Saul tells her to do, and I have a hard time taking this relationship seriously because they get along too well despite the uneven dynamics of this relationship. I don't think that someone accustomed to power for so long like Saul would change so smoothly, even under the influence of Alisa--I need to see him trying to hold back his anger against her. I need to see him mess up and try to make amends (or not). How would he react if she disagreed with him or angered him?
While I have trouble believing the happiness of the relationship of Alisa and Saul, I think Leia and Walt make a great pair. They're constant companions and they joke around with each other in a way that indicates a lot of chemistry. Neither really dominates the relationship.
Leia has become a lot more inquisitive since The Island, which makes sense because her old perception of the world was shattered in that novella. Here, she's aware that there is a lot more than what is being shown--after observing some strange behaviors, she starts questioning the idea of justice in this "no pain" society.
Overall, I enjoy the narration shared between Leia and Alisa's perspectives because it allows us to look at what's happening in the island and Cornwall--a wider scope of world building. I had trouble staying interested during some of the slower, exploratory scenes in the middle while others made me want to keep up with the characters and their world.
The dystopian societies that these young people come into contact (and conflict) with are intriguing, particularly the "no pain" society, in which a good idea becomes twisted into a dysfunctional, rigidly-held rule.
Glamorous Book Lounge
June 7, 2014
INITIAL THOUGHTS
I was looking forward to this book after reading book two. The only hesitation I had was would it have lots of references to the "Star Wars-ish" theme that was featured a lot in book one The Island.
MY REVIEW
I received an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I really like the cover of this book, it depicts a scene featured in the book. It's Alisa holding the treasured shawl that her now dead fiancé, Yorrick gave her. I like the whole set of covers of this series. I love how the sea is a common theme throughout the covers. I imagine that paperbacks of this series would look really great on a shelf together!
This book quite literally picks up as book two, The Waves left off. There are still two groups in the book, two stories running together. There's those with the pioneer attitude on board the ship travelling the waves. Then there are those who have stayed behind on the Island.
So on board the ship, we have Walt and Leia. there relationship growing ever more close and intense. At the Island, we have Ben trying to settle with the Hope Harbour people. Saul is still on the other side of the Island, living apart from everyone but the exiled priests from Hope Harbour. Alisa is making herself useful and ends up assisting the Hope Harbour Bookkeeper. In fact Alisa adopts the special job of delivering letters back and forth between the two communities, and The Bookkeeper and The Eldest. She also keeps the line of communication open between Ben and Saul. In fact there's kind of a budding relationship going on there, but which brother will Alisa ultimately choose?
Those on board the ship eventually reach land and meet people from "the otherside of the water".
There are "Star War-ish" references but they are kept to a minimum and are certainly relevant when used.
The ship finally reaches land and they meet "people from the other-side of the water". The first community they go into does initially seem really friendly and peaceful until they witness an injection being given to a "trouble causer". So what at first seems friendly and really welcoming, rapidly becomes sinister and highly dangerous. The lands around the small communities are blackened, dead and apparently poisonous to the settlers. Even a beautiful cathedral is off limits, and just the place that Walt and Leia want to go. they make a decision to sneak out, and take the risk of becoming sick. They think they have survived the trip unscathed until they are taken prisoner to be experimented on to find a cure for the radiation sickness.
I can't say anymore as I feel I have given away more than enough to whet your appetites, and I have to leave somethings for you to discover yourselves.
There's an amazing twist at the end that points to lots more to come and I do really hope that Jen continues to write about these characters, their relationships and their trials and tribulations.
So did I enjoy the book? I really did yes.The ending leaving things open to a spin off, it's really good and I felt myself wanting more at the end of this book. Did I enjoy the whole series? I admit I wasn't as keen on book one in this series, but the books have been even better as the series progressed. Would I recommend the book? Yes, if you have read book one and two, then you must read this one! Would I recommend the series? I really would recommend this series. I also like the style of Jen's writing and it's easy reading, the plot flows well and is interesting. There is plenty going on throughout the whole series.
If there was a spin off series would I read it? I'd love to do so Jen, if you are reading this put me on the list to read it as soon as it's ready please? I'd volunteer to beta read if you needed me to as well! Would I read more books by Jen Minkman? I have already read another two books by Jen that aren't part of this series, or of the same genre called Shadows Of Time, and The Boy From The Woods. I totally loved Shadows Of Time and I also enjoyed The Boy From The Woods.
I was looking forward to this book after reading book two. The only hesitation I had was would it have lots of references to the "Star Wars-ish" theme that was featured a lot in book one The Island.
MY REVIEW
I received an e-copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I really like the cover of this book, it depicts a scene featured in the book. It's Alisa holding the treasured shawl that her now dead fiancé, Yorrick gave her. I like the whole set of covers of this series. I love how the sea is a common theme throughout the covers. I imagine that paperbacks of this series would look really great on a shelf together!
This book quite literally picks up as book two, The Waves left off. There are still two groups in the book, two stories running together. There's those with the pioneer attitude on board the ship travelling the waves. Then there are those who have stayed behind on the Island.
So on board the ship, we have Walt and Leia. there relationship growing ever more close and intense. At the Island, we have Ben trying to settle with the Hope Harbour people. Saul is still on the other side of the Island, living apart from everyone but the exiled priests from Hope Harbour. Alisa is making herself useful and ends up assisting the Hope Harbour Bookkeeper. In fact Alisa adopts the special job of delivering letters back and forth between the two communities, and The Bookkeeper and The Eldest. She also keeps the line of communication open between Ben and Saul. In fact there's kind of a budding relationship going on there, but which brother will Alisa ultimately choose?
Those on board the ship eventually reach land and meet people from "the otherside of the water".
There are "Star War-ish" references but they are kept to a minimum and are certainly relevant when used.
The ship finally reaches land and they meet "people from the other-side of the water". The first community they go into does initially seem really friendly and peaceful until they witness an injection being given to a "trouble causer". So what at first seems friendly and really welcoming, rapidly becomes sinister and highly dangerous. The lands around the small communities are blackened, dead and apparently poisonous to the settlers. Even a beautiful cathedral is off limits, and just the place that Walt and Leia want to go. they make a decision to sneak out, and take the risk of becoming sick. They think they have survived the trip unscathed until they are taken prisoner to be experimented on to find a cure for the radiation sickness.
I can't say anymore as I feel I have given away more than enough to whet your appetites, and I have to leave somethings for you to discover yourselves.
There's an amazing twist at the end that points to lots more to come and I do really hope that Jen continues to write about these characters, their relationships and their trials and tribulations.
So did I enjoy the book? I really did yes.The ending leaving things open to a spin off, it's really good and I felt myself wanting more at the end of this book. Did I enjoy the whole series? I admit I wasn't as keen on book one in this series, but the books have been even better as the series progressed. Would I recommend the book? Yes, if you have read book one and two, then you must read this one! Would I recommend the series? I really would recommend this series. I also like the style of Jen's writing and it's easy reading, the plot flows well and is interesting. There is plenty going on throughout the whole series.
If there was a spin off series would I read it? I'd love to do so Jen, if you are reading this put me on the list to read it as soon as it's ready please? I'd volunteer to beta read if you needed me to as well! Would I read more books by Jen Minkman? I have already read another two books by Jen that aren't part of this series, or of the same genre called Shadows Of Time, and The Boy From The Woods. I totally loved Shadows Of Time and I also enjoyed The Boy From The Woods.
January 8, 2015
I really enjoyed the first two books in this series, so I was excited to get a chance to dive back into the lives of Walt and Leia as they make their way across the water to a new world. This book, like its predecessors, has a distinctly anthropological feel to it, highlighting clashing religions, cultures, and customs.
In the previous books, we see two distinctly different religions war with one another as their entire way of life is brought into question. This book continues to highlight the growing pains of this union and the fanatical, rebellious groups which rise up because of it. I really appreciated the fact that not all the rebel groups were violent. Each group had its own, distinct way of dealing with the challenge to its faith: isolation, vandalism, immersion in community service—this is how I imagine this situation would play out in the real world, and all these little details really bring the story and its characters to life.
In their travels to the World Across the Waters, Leia and Walt begin to realize that the problems they are having at home are not isolated. The World Across the Waters has its own issues, also revolving around the augmentation and abuse of religious power to manipulate the masses. The real gold in this trip to another city, however, lies in the reaction Leia and Walt have religiously to the new world. In Tresco, Jesus is portrayed as a kind of devil. In the World Across the Waters, Jesus is the savior. With this in mind, Leia and Walt are still able to open their hearts and their minds to the people, and grow from the experience.
"…They’re just paper," I say fiercely. "They should be guidelines for people who use their common sense and feel what’s right deep inside. Without heart, soul, and passion, a holy book will just be a dead husk."
Walt and Leia begin to mesh together not only the religions of Tresco but the religions of the new world while simultaneously acknowledging that no place or religion is ever perfect. The power of religious texts lies in how people use the knowledge to shape the world around them.
The only aspect of this portion of the story that I didn’t care for was the forced chemistry between Walt and Leia. I am not sure if it was just too cheesy for me, but the dialogue and interactions between these two characters did not feel realistic to me at all. Luckily, their romance is a very small part of the overall book, so while it did frustrate me a bit at times it did not in any way retract from my overall enjoyment of the story.
Walt and Leia are not the only romantic leads in this story, however. Romance develops at home on Tresco as well, and unlike the Leia/Walt chemistry, the interactions between these two characters are sweet, real, and honest. Their attraction to one another develops over time in a shy, unexpected manner. They come together in a time of rebellion and uncertainty, looking for comfort and answers.
"Why is life so difficult?" I sob.
"I don’t know. But I do know it’s more bearable if you’re not alone."
This is where one of the main themes of the book really shines. Life is hard, and complicated, and no one ever really knows what they are doing. We guess, all of us, at everything, and sometimes we guess wrong. Sometimes we put our faith in the wrong things or the wrong people, but the good thing is that we have those around us to support us and help us through it.
Overall, this was another fantastic addition to “The Island” series. Minkman continues the anthropological and religious focus introduced in the previous two books in the series, but takes it to a whole new level. As her characters expand their world beyond the shores of Tresco, they also expand their understanding of humanity, a higher power, and one another. If you enjoy realistic dystopian fiction with an anthropological and religious focus, you should really pick this series up.
In the previous books, we see two distinctly different religions war with one another as their entire way of life is brought into question. This book continues to highlight the growing pains of this union and the fanatical, rebellious groups which rise up because of it. I really appreciated the fact that not all the rebel groups were violent. Each group had its own, distinct way of dealing with the challenge to its faith: isolation, vandalism, immersion in community service—this is how I imagine this situation would play out in the real world, and all these little details really bring the story and its characters to life.
In their travels to the World Across the Waters, Leia and Walt begin to realize that the problems they are having at home are not isolated. The World Across the Waters has its own issues, also revolving around the augmentation and abuse of religious power to manipulate the masses. The real gold in this trip to another city, however, lies in the reaction Leia and Walt have religiously to the new world. In Tresco, Jesus is portrayed as a kind of devil. In the World Across the Waters, Jesus is the savior. With this in mind, Leia and Walt are still able to open their hearts and their minds to the people, and grow from the experience.
"…They’re just paper," I say fiercely. "They should be guidelines for people who use their common sense and feel what’s right deep inside. Without heart, soul, and passion, a holy book will just be a dead husk."
Walt and Leia begin to mesh together not only the religions of Tresco but the religions of the new world while simultaneously acknowledging that no place or religion is ever perfect. The power of religious texts lies in how people use the knowledge to shape the world around them.
The only aspect of this portion of the story that I didn’t care for was the forced chemistry between Walt and Leia. I am not sure if it was just too cheesy for me, but the dialogue and interactions between these two characters did not feel realistic to me at all. Luckily, their romance is a very small part of the overall book, so while it did frustrate me a bit at times it did not in any way retract from my overall enjoyment of the story.
Walt and Leia are not the only romantic leads in this story, however. Romance develops at home on Tresco as well, and unlike the Leia/Walt chemistry, the interactions between these two characters are sweet, real, and honest. Their attraction to one another develops over time in a shy, unexpected manner. They come together in a time of rebellion and uncertainty, looking for comfort and answers.
"Why is life so difficult?" I sob.
"I don’t know. But I do know it’s more bearable if you’re not alone."
This is where one of the main themes of the book really shines. Life is hard, and complicated, and no one ever really knows what they are doing. We guess, all of us, at everything, and sometimes we guess wrong. Sometimes we put our faith in the wrong things or the wrong people, but the good thing is that we have those around us to support us and help us through it.
Overall, this was another fantastic addition to “The Island” series. Minkman continues the anthropological and religious focus introduced in the previous two books in the series, but takes it to a whole new level. As her characters expand their world beyond the shores of Tresco, they also expand their understanding of humanity, a higher power, and one another. If you enjoy realistic dystopian fiction with an anthropological and religious focus, you should really pick this series up.
February 14, 2016
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thanks Jen Minkman for giving me the opportunity to read/review this book!
With the Deep, the Island series come to a close (insert sad face). It was a very interesting journey, we met very interesting characters and we met with an interesting world. A world that is broken, a world still building back to normalcy.
In this last part we have 2 POVs, this time Leia (our main girl in all the books) and Alisa. One of them is travelling to find out more about other people while the other is staying at home where problems are still brewing.
Did I like the POVs? Not really. I was looking forward to the whole setting sail to the new unknown world (well at least for the Island people), and instead of a whole book dedicated to that, we also have parts that take place on the Island. Now, I can understand why this is done. After all when Leia and Walt leave there is still enough conflicts between people because of things that happened in book 1/2. However, that doesn't make it any better. I would have preferred it more like this Leia, Alisa, Leia, Alisa. Now at times I was struggling to get through Alisa's POVs, because I just was dying to know what happened with Leia and Walt (and because every time we switched, something awesome/exciting/mysterious happened with Leia/Walt).
I loved Leia and Walt, and I am also very very happy that they got some alone time (kisses/hugs etc.). I was waiting and hoping for that to happen. :)
And I met with an old character that I didn't like at first, but thanks to this, I am loving him now. I am talking about Saul, the guy who was so bad, so evil, so corrupted, makes a big change in this book. A change which melted my heart and I was just cheering for him (and Alisa) in the end. Thanks Jen Minkman for giving him more spotlight, giving him a change to redeem himself.
Alisa, interesting character, but I felt like she was trying too hard, too much at times. And she was just annoying, but I think that was mostly because I just was looking forward to the Leia parts and she was in the way.
I loved the details of the journey, the mainland and what happened there. It was really interesting to see what happened on the mainland. You would think almost total annihilation of the world would change people, make them see that what they are doing is wrong, but I guess not. I do hope that people on Tresco will be able to live in peace and not be attacked or taken over by the guys on the mainland. Because yes, violence is bad, but to instantly kill people? Without trial? No. Just no. And to change the Bible to make sure it fits your story is just bad. There were enough other creepy parts that all took place on the mainland and I loved it (though I was also creeped out at times), it really added to the total story.
That was another thing, there was quite an amount of religion in this one. I don't mind it that much, it was mostly very interesting to see everyone's view on religion.
This total series is something I would recommend to everyone, it is a really beautiful and awesome series, and again, I am just sad it is over.
Now there is one last thing that I would love. I would love some prequels, with POVs from the kids on the ship that went to the Island, or a prequel with the story about the world and how everything went to hell.
Review first posted at http://twirlingbookprincess.com
With the Deep, the Island series come to a close (insert sad face). It was a very interesting journey, we met very interesting characters and we met with an interesting world. A world that is broken, a world still building back to normalcy.
In this last part we have 2 POVs, this time Leia (our main girl in all the books) and Alisa. One of them is travelling to find out more about other people while the other is staying at home where problems are still brewing.
Did I like the POVs? Not really. I was looking forward to the whole setting sail to the new unknown world (well at least for the Island people), and instead of a whole book dedicated to that, we also have parts that take place on the Island. Now, I can understand why this is done. After all when Leia and Walt leave there is still enough conflicts between people because of things that happened in book 1/2. However, that doesn't make it any better. I would have preferred it more like this Leia, Alisa, Leia, Alisa. Now at times I was struggling to get through Alisa's POVs, because I just was dying to know what happened with Leia and Walt (and because every time we switched, something awesome/exciting/mysterious happened with Leia/Walt).
I loved Leia and Walt, and I am also very very happy that they got some alone time (kisses/hugs etc.). I was waiting and hoping for that to happen. :)
And I met with an old character that I didn't like at first, but thanks to this, I am loving him now. I am talking about Saul, the guy who was so bad, so evil, so corrupted, makes a big change in this book. A change which melted my heart and I was just cheering for him (and Alisa) in the end. Thanks Jen Minkman for giving him more spotlight, giving him a change to redeem himself.
Alisa, interesting character, but I felt like she was trying too hard, too much at times. And she was just annoying, but I think that was mostly because I just was looking forward to the Leia parts and she was in the way.
I loved the details of the journey, the mainland and what happened there. It was really interesting to see what happened on the mainland. You would think almost total annihilation of the world would change people, make them see that what they are doing is wrong, but I guess not. I do hope that people on Tresco will be able to live in peace and not be attacked or taken over by the guys on the mainland. Because yes, violence is bad, but to instantly kill people? Without trial? No. Just no. And to change the Bible to make sure it fits your story is just bad. There were enough other creepy parts that all took place on the mainland and I loved it (though I was also creeped out at times), it really added to the total story.
That was another thing, there was quite an amount of religion in this one. I don't mind it that much, it was mostly very interesting to see everyone's view on religion.
This total series is something I would recommend to everyone, it is a really beautiful and awesome series, and again, I am just sad it is over.
Now there is one last thing that I would love. I would love some prequels, with POVs from the kids on the ship that went to the Island, or a prequel with the story about the world and how everything went to hell.
Review first posted at http://twirlingbookprincess.com
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