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TimeDrifter #1
The Place of Voices
Anna is devastated by a fire that left her orphaned, dependent on an uncle she never knew existed and far from the only home she has ever known. Brendan struggles with a life limited by crippling illness and a family torn by the loss of his mother. Tzutz Nik faces an arranged marriage to the prince of a ruthless dynasty in order to unite their fractured kingdoms.
A mysterious invitation gives them each an opportunity to escape their struggles for a while and view their lives from a new perspective. Deep in a remote jungle, amid long-forgotten ancient ruins, they discover the true meaning of sacrifice. In the shadows, a relentless evil presence lurks, threatening to lead them astray. Will they triumph over their adversary or be trapped in his web of lies?
A mysterious invitation gives them each an opportunity to escape their struggles for a while and view their lives from a new perspective. Deep in a remote jungle, amid long-forgotten ancient ruins, they discover the true meaning of sacrifice. In the shadows, a relentless evil presence lurks, threatening to lead them astray. Will they triumph over their adversary or be trapped in his web of lies?
198 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2014
57 people are currently reading
523 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Lynch
25 books286 followersLAUREN LYNCH has lived in nine of the United States, but currently calls a log cabin in North Carolina home, along with her husband, teenage son, a dog, three cats, two goats and even the occasional bat.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 5, 2021
I couldn't finish this one. I was excited about the premise and it started out great. The characters were interesting and the well-written story drew me right in. However, the storyline turned a little more mystical than I feel comfortable with in Christian teen fiction.
to-read-own
April 26, 2015It says timetravel, and it's free, so sign me up!
October 2, 2015
The official first book in the series, I enjoyed this read just as much as the short prequel. The characters were once again lively and enjoyable and the story flowed well.
Lynch has vivid descriptions of everything in her books which makes it all the more enjoyable. I love an author who uses their words correctly, you’ll definitely find that with the TimeDrifter series. As a Christian, this series is dear to my heart because Lynch includes clear references to her faith. But she does it in a way that blurs the line between faith and fiction. I’d say this is a series that will definitely tear down barriers between Christian fiction and secular fiction. Lynch’s writing is proof that religious authors can be just as imaginative as secular authors.
Whether you’re religious or not, you will love this book. There’s talking animals, time travel, and age old wisdom. There’s something to love about this book for every reader of every age.
My favorite part of The Place of Voices was the opening featuring a majestic elk. I don’t know if Lynch chose an elk for this part because she knows its history as a creature of mythology, or maybe she just wanted to highlight the beauty of such a grand creature. Either way, she does it justice in the great detail included in the first part of the series. I was mesmerized by the scenery and the picture she was able to paint for the readers to see.
Aside from giving us great details, Lynch ties in the emotions of her characters very well. I felt what each person felt and I saw what they saw. Readers will be intrigued as they’re pulled into her world and reeled by the high emotion of the story. Its easy to get lost in this high fantasy realm.
I enjoy fantasy but high fantasy is something I usually have to take my time to read. Chronicles of Narnia was probably the last thing I read with this much detail and relation to the Christian faith. I can proudly say that Lynch’s series has given me just as much enjoyment as CS Lewis’ famous novels. I won’t hesitate to make a comparison between the two series. I’m not talking about the talking animals and the children making pivotal decisions. I’m talking about the world building, the influence she has on your imagination, the craftiness in her wording and even the flow of her story. Everything pieces together so well, I would have a hard time believing that someone truly didn’t enjoy this story.
My last compliment to this series, Lynch is a good writer. Plain and simple. I can tell she put a lot of planning and a lot of time into her work. The editing is top notch and the characterization is very good. Each event marks a crucial point in the book which indicates careful planning. Each character maintains their personality which indicates planning as well as attention to detail. I always appreciate an author that plays close attention to their work like this because it means they’re also paying close attention to their readers.
Even though this book was high fantasy it wasn’t difficult to follow along. It wasn’t too hard to keep up with everything and it wasn’t hard to envision any animal, location, or character she described. A child could enjoy this just as much as an adult.
I would recommend this book to anyone with an imagination. It will strike you at your heart and challenge you to dream of new worlds and possibilities. Anyone who loves time travel, animals, and awesome adventures will enjoy this read. Christians and others alike will love this book.
Lynch has vivid descriptions of everything in her books which makes it all the more enjoyable. I love an author who uses their words correctly, you’ll definitely find that with the TimeDrifter series. As a Christian, this series is dear to my heart because Lynch includes clear references to her faith. But she does it in a way that blurs the line between faith and fiction. I’d say this is a series that will definitely tear down barriers between Christian fiction and secular fiction. Lynch’s writing is proof that religious authors can be just as imaginative as secular authors.
Whether you’re religious or not, you will love this book. There’s talking animals, time travel, and age old wisdom. There’s something to love about this book for every reader of every age.
My favorite part of The Place of Voices was the opening featuring a majestic elk. I don’t know if Lynch chose an elk for this part because she knows its history as a creature of mythology, or maybe she just wanted to highlight the beauty of such a grand creature. Either way, she does it justice in the great detail included in the first part of the series. I was mesmerized by the scenery and the picture she was able to paint for the readers to see.
Aside from giving us great details, Lynch ties in the emotions of her characters very well. I felt what each person felt and I saw what they saw. Readers will be intrigued as they’re pulled into her world and reeled by the high emotion of the story. Its easy to get lost in this high fantasy realm.
I enjoy fantasy but high fantasy is something I usually have to take my time to read. Chronicles of Narnia was probably the last thing I read with this much detail and relation to the Christian faith. I can proudly say that Lynch’s series has given me just as much enjoyment as CS Lewis’ famous novels. I won’t hesitate to make a comparison between the two series. I’m not talking about the talking animals and the children making pivotal decisions. I’m talking about the world building, the influence she has on your imagination, the craftiness in her wording and even the flow of her story. Everything pieces together so well, I would have a hard time believing that someone truly didn’t enjoy this story.
My last compliment to this series, Lynch is a good writer. Plain and simple. I can tell she put a lot of planning and a lot of time into her work. The editing is top notch and the characterization is very good. Each event marks a crucial point in the book which indicates careful planning. Each character maintains their personality which indicates planning as well as attention to detail. I always appreciate an author that plays close attention to their work like this because it means they’re also paying close attention to their readers.
Even though this book was high fantasy it wasn’t difficult to follow along. It wasn’t too hard to keep up with everything and it wasn’t hard to envision any animal, location, or character she described. A child could enjoy this just as much as an adult.
I would recommend this book to anyone with an imagination. It will strike you at your heart and challenge you to dream of new worlds and possibilities. Anyone who loves time travel, animals, and awesome adventures will enjoy this read. Christians and others alike will love this book.
December 29, 2014
I love to find new ways to express old ideas. I love finding writers who have the ability to not only tell a story, but transport the readers to the place where the story dwells, to make the world a tangible place the reader can almost touch, feel and see for themselves.
Lauren Lynch has a remarkable way of expressing ideas, and every movement, every thing sensed by her characters is also experienced by the reader, and it is something I have rarely seen so carefully done.
The Place of Voices brings three children from very different worlds... and different times in history, together in a mysterious forest. They have each followed three animal 'guides'-- a koala, an elk, and a quetzal bird-- to this place. They are told by the elk their purpose is to 'rest and prepare' for adventures ahead. What follows is a wild journey of history, enlightenment, fear and good versus evil.
The many historical elements of this book are fascinating and meticulously woven in. I have rarely found a children's book with so much historical information to be gleaned from the story, especially one described as a fantasy. The book also has a clear Christ figure in the character of Ben, the Elk, as well as a being to symbolize Satan, or at least a demonic force.
In areas, I did feel like the adventure was bogged down by a bit too much purple prose. There were times when I lost sight of the action because I was focusing on a lengthy description. Sometimes it was a little confusing as to who was talking or doing something. Sudden point of view shifts also occasionally made me have to 'step back' and get my bearings. I also felt like too much was crammed into the first story line, it might have been better to focus on one child's story at a time per book, I'm not sure. But despite these issues, I'm really glad to have read the book and I think anyone who enjoys allegorical and poetic fiction will be pleased to have this book in their library.
Lauren Lynch has a remarkable way of expressing ideas, and every movement, every thing sensed by her characters is also experienced by the reader, and it is something I have rarely seen so carefully done.
The Place of Voices brings three children from very different worlds... and different times in history, together in a mysterious forest. They have each followed three animal 'guides'-- a koala, an elk, and a quetzal bird-- to this place. They are told by the elk their purpose is to 'rest and prepare' for adventures ahead. What follows is a wild journey of history, enlightenment, fear and good versus evil.
The many historical elements of this book are fascinating and meticulously woven in. I have rarely found a children's book with so much historical information to be gleaned from the story, especially one described as a fantasy. The book also has a clear Christ figure in the character of Ben, the Elk, as well as a being to symbolize Satan, or at least a demonic force.
In areas, I did feel like the adventure was bogged down by a bit too much purple prose. There were times when I lost sight of the action because I was focusing on a lengthy description. Sometimes it was a little confusing as to who was talking or doing something. Sudden point of view shifts also occasionally made me have to 'step back' and get my bearings. I also felt like too much was crammed into the first story line, it might have been better to focus on one child's story at a time per book, I'm not sure. But despite these issues, I'm really glad to have read the book and I think anyone who enjoys allegorical and poetic fiction will be pleased to have this book in their library.
November 12, 2015
This was a unique and beautifully told story that really sucked me in. It had a less traditional plot arch and to me was more about exploring the characters which I appreciated. Too many books go too fast.
The fact that it has allegorical elements does lead to some expected plot twists but I definitely read it for the writing and characters more than the plot, so I didn't mind this.
The fact that it has allegorical elements does lead to some expected plot twists but I definitely read it for the writing and characters more than the plot, so I didn't mind this.
January 7, 2015
At age twelve Anna loses her parents in a fire in Australia and goes to live with an uncle she barely knows in Italy in 1929. Brendan is fifteen and is preparing to hunt with his father for the first time. He is disabled with polio and the year is 1957. Tzutz Nik is a Mayan princess in 432 A.D. She faces an arranged marriage to make an alliance with a nearby kingdom. The three teens come together in time and space at the place of voices. Anna is paralyzed by her fears of fire and abandonment. Brendan yearns for strength in spite of a body which holds him back. Tzutz Nik feels trapped inside palace walls while her decisions are made for her and males dominate.
The three not only find strength and help in each other, but also in some animal companions who lead them to discoveries about themselves, God, and the world they come from. Here we find rich allegory to the stories and characters in the Bible. The author shows fresh thought and insight into Scripture and uses it in a compelling way. A desire for power is a strong theme throughout the story. All the characters long for it in one form or another. All change their view of it by the end.
The author hooked me with a compelling first chapter and drew me through the book with a story from a very unusual perspective. You can see her background in design in the strong visual images she writes. If you like the allegory of C.S. Lewis, you’ll enjoy this book which gives a fresh perspective on certain spiritual truths. I read this book as a part of a Christian book review group and received it in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed it and would recommend it to Christian readers who enjoy fantasy and allegory. Though the book opens with a girl who isn’t quite thirteen, the author’s word choice and ideas make it ideal for an older teen or adult.
The three not only find strength and help in each other, but also in some animal companions who lead them to discoveries about themselves, God, and the world they come from. Here we find rich allegory to the stories and characters in the Bible. The author shows fresh thought and insight into Scripture and uses it in a compelling way. A desire for power is a strong theme throughout the story. All the characters long for it in one form or another. All change their view of it by the end.
The author hooked me with a compelling first chapter and drew me through the book with a story from a very unusual perspective. You can see her background in design in the strong visual images she writes. If you like the allegory of C.S. Lewis, you’ll enjoy this book which gives a fresh perspective on certain spiritual truths. I read this book as a part of a Christian book review group and received it in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed it and would recommend it to Christian readers who enjoy fantasy and allegory. Though the book opens with a girl who isn’t quite thirteen, the author’s word choice and ideas make it ideal for an older teen or adult.
August 18, 2014
The Place of Voices is a true example of high fantasy. The author has woven vivid descriptions of fantastical but recognizable creatures who meet and interact with the main characters when their lives are at a pivotal and crucial moment. The main characters include a young man named Brendan who had been crippled by polio and his mother’s death, Anna who had lost her parents and home in a fire that nearly killed her, and Tzutz Nik, a Mayan princess facing an arranged marriage. The young people find themselves in a land away from their homes and their times. The world they enter is fluid and provides for their needs as they are asked to sort through their individual battles in this place away from reality.
In the footsteps of The Chronicles of Narnia, this story is rich in symbols of Christianity and allusions to faith and temptation!
This book is a clean read and is appropriate for all readers who enjoy Christian fiction.
In the footsteps of The Chronicles of Narnia, this story is rich in symbols of Christianity and allusions to faith and temptation!
This book is a clean read and is appropriate for all readers who enjoy Christian fiction.
October 7, 2014
The Place of Voices is a seemingly magical land where three young people, including a Mayan princess from another time, confront their fears and disappointments. Their guide encourages them to rest and enjoy, but each of the young people are drawn into conflict with their own personal demons. They have choices to make. Will they follow the one true God or seek to resolve conflicts in their own strength? Perhaps seek the aid of more sinister characters? The conflicts create a vivid depiction of spiritual warfare
The story is lively and easy to follow, even when the plot takes you a few places you didn’t expect. The settings are extraordinary. You feel the heaviness of the jungle, the beauty of the wildlife, and the delightful ambiance of a tree house with every convenience you’d ever want.
I was provided a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated, and these opinions are my own. Author Felicia Mires
The story is lively and easy to follow, even when the plot takes you a few places you didn’t expect. The settings are extraordinary. You feel the heaviness of the jungle, the beauty of the wildlife, and the delightful ambiance of a tree house with every convenience you’d ever want.
I was provided a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated, and these opinions are my own. Author Felicia Mires
March 13, 2018
http://www.jamiswords.com/the-place-o...
The time-travel fantasy story is centered around three adolescents from three different times in history. All three are on the cusp of a major transition in their lives. Princess Tzutz Nik hails from Mayan Territory, Central America, in the year 432 and is about to be wed to a king in an arranged marriage. Anna, an Australian who has lost her parents in a tragic fire and has to relocate to Italy to live with her uncle, comes from the year 1929. Finally, Brendan, a Washington state native from the year 1957, is a polio survivor who relies on braces to walk.
The story begins strongly, introducing the characters individually. Lauren Lynch does a phenomenal job of describing each of the characters’ backgrounds. The vivid imagery will take the reader inside the story and make him or her feel like a spectator.
Ben, a lovable elk, brings the three adolescents together to a place of ruin in the jungle of Central America. There, Ben gently teaches and guides them. They learn about facing their fears and overcoming the obstacles they will be facing once they return to their lives.
Lobo, a fierce adversary, finds Brendan and attempts to draw him away from his friends and turn against Ben. A fight between good and evil ensues, and the characters learn about the consequences for bad choices.
A story with a Narnia-like feel to it, The Place of Voices will appeal to readers of all ages, not just adolescents. The creativity that Lynch has poured into this story is amazing. Young readers will enjoy the animals who come to life in the story, and the historical nuances will intrigue.
One major theme (there are several!) that I took to heart from this story is that everyone has trouble (John 16:33). No matter the situation, everyone will have a share of pain and loss. We can choose joy through trials or we can choose to live in defeat and grief. The choice is ours to make.
I truly have enjoyed The Place of Voices, and I can with all assurance recommend this book to all readers. I hope you will read it!
One winner will win a copy of The Place of Voices AND a plush koala! Giveaway ends 3/27/18.
The time-travel fantasy story is centered around three adolescents from three different times in history. All three are on the cusp of a major transition in their lives. Princess Tzutz Nik hails from Mayan Territory, Central America, in the year 432 and is about to be wed to a king in an arranged marriage. Anna, an Australian who has lost her parents in a tragic fire and has to relocate to Italy to live with her uncle, comes from the year 1929. Finally, Brendan, a Washington state native from the year 1957, is a polio survivor who relies on braces to walk.
The story begins strongly, introducing the characters individually. Lauren Lynch does a phenomenal job of describing each of the characters’ backgrounds. The vivid imagery will take the reader inside the story and make him or her feel like a spectator.
Ben, a lovable elk, brings the three adolescents together to a place of ruin in the jungle of Central America. There, Ben gently teaches and guides them. They learn about facing their fears and overcoming the obstacles they will be facing once they return to their lives.
Lobo, a fierce adversary, finds Brendan and attempts to draw him away from his friends and turn against Ben. A fight between good and evil ensues, and the characters learn about the consequences for bad choices.
A story with a Narnia-like feel to it, The Place of Voices will appeal to readers of all ages, not just adolescents. The creativity that Lynch has poured into this story is amazing. Young readers will enjoy the animals who come to life in the story, and the historical nuances will intrigue.
One major theme (there are several!) that I took to heart from this story is that everyone has trouble (John 16:33). No matter the situation, everyone will have a share of pain and loss. We can choose joy through trials or we can choose to live in defeat and grief. The choice is ours to make.
I truly have enjoyed The Place of Voices, and I can with all assurance recommend this book to all readers. I hope you will read it!
One winner will win a copy of The Place of Voices AND a plush koala! Giveaway ends 3/27/18.
October 4, 2023
Anna faces an uncertain future at the hands of an uncle she never knew she had, all because a mistake of hers caused a fire that destroyed her home and killed her parents. Brendan has faced a life of near immobility thanks to the polio ravaging his body that took his mother. Tzutz Nik is about to face an arranged marriage to the prince of a ruthless dynasty, to avoid the destruction of her people. In each of their lives, a mysterious invitation pulls them to a jungle sanctuary, a Place of Voices where these three go on a vision quest together. Assisting them is a talking elk named Ben, but an evil enemy also is in this place and is bent not only on Ben's destruction but on their own downfall as well. To each of them, this tempter presents a web of lies geared to make them betray all they hold dear.
Content:
Drug Content:
G - There is none.
Violence:
PG - Animal and human sacrifice is discussed. Someone is terribly mutilated as they are being murdered. This happens off-screen.
Language:
G - Squeaky clean.
Adult Content:
G - There is a hint of romance.
Christian content:
This novel is full of Christian symbolism. The evil found in the enemy is obviously a typecast of satan. In one instance he speaks to the children from smoke as a snake, and laments how he was forced to travel on his belly. Ben is a typecast of Jesus, giving his life for the sins of others. The animal familiars who escort the children into the Place of Voices parallel the activity of angels. This book is loaded with content for healthy Christian discussion - the battle of good and evil, the need for a savior, the importance of repentance and forgiveness, and the power of praying for others.
Final analysis:
The Place of Voices is a good addition to any Christian's library, but especially those who are fans of fantasy and looking for clean reads, especially if they are looking for something on the level of C.S. Lewis's Chronicles of Narnia. The world-building was stellar. The character interaction was engaging and believable. Each character had their own issues and arc. The stakes were high and the action was gripping. Five Stars!
Content:
Drug Content:
G - There is none.
Violence:
PG - Animal and human sacrifice is discussed. Someone is terribly mutilated as they are being murdered. This happens off-screen.
Language:
G - Squeaky clean.
Adult Content:
G - There is a hint of romance.
Christian content:
This novel is full of Christian symbolism. The evil found in the enemy is obviously a typecast of satan. In one instance he speaks to the children from smoke as a snake, and laments how he was forced to travel on his belly. Ben is a typecast of Jesus, giving his life for the sins of others. The animal familiars who escort the children into the Place of Voices parallel the activity of angels. This book is loaded with content for healthy Christian discussion - the battle of good and evil, the need for a savior, the importance of repentance and forgiveness, and the power of praying for others.
Final analysis:
The Place of Voices is a good addition to any Christian's library, but especially those who are fans of fantasy and looking for clean reads, especially if they are looking for something on the level of C.S. Lewis's Chronicles of Narnia. The world-building was stellar. The character interaction was engaging and believable. Each character had their own issues and arc. The stakes were high and the action was gripping. Five Stars!
April 26, 2020
It's certainly a different kind of book, but I enjoyed it. I got to learn a lot more about the Mayan people, which was a surprise. But that was combined with a story about three different children of various ages. The children have one thing in common - they're all fearful and all have had a rough time in life. The author did a good job of showing God's answers to the problems the kids face. Then we get to see how it changes their lives. I've been reading for 60 years but have never read another book quite like this one. It's worth reading
January 15, 2019
This was a fun read. I enjoyed the depth of characters and the beauty of the narration. It definitely reminded me of the Chronicles of Narnia, with big Christian themes. The character development was beautiful. It doesn't have as much strong, plot or active characters that take initiative to solve their problems, but that seems to fit the style of the piece.
March 25, 2018
One of the benefits of doing reviews is that you get exposed to genres that you would not have considered reading in the past. In the past couple of years as a Book Review Blogger, I have decided to read young adult novels. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and Book 1 of Jill Williamson’s Safe Lands Series have become my introduction to the hottest genre in the publishing world. As a result, the quality of those aforementioned books have dropped my resistance to this genre and confirms the old adage, “A good story moves past all our of defenses and takes into a world that you would have never experienced before.”
When I read about The Place of Voices by Lauren Lynch, I knew instantly this would be a novel I would review for my 2015 lineup. The Place of Voices is the first book in the TimeDrifter Series and revolves around two main characters, Brendan and Anna.
Brendan, a young man stricken with polio, and Anna, a young lady that has lost her parents, have the ability to travel through time in order to find out how their lives are connected by events that happened in the past. Their time traveling leads them to the world of the Mayans where both of them become connected to a Mayan Princess named Tzutz Nik. Tzutz Nik is in line to become a queen of the Mutul Kingdom. However, she is reluctant to embrace this path that has been laid out of for her.
There is evil lurking throughout the novel that will force all three of them to face their greatest fears head-on. Lynch uses anthropomorphic animals as other characters in the story that seemed like a homage to The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis and the theme of the sacrifice is grounded in a Christian worldview that’s apparent throughout the novel.
The Place of Voices is a solid Young Adult Fantasy Novel and recommended for kids from 11-up and adults who love fantasy as well.
When I read about The Place of Voices by Lauren Lynch, I knew instantly this would be a novel I would review for my 2015 lineup. The Place of Voices is the first book in the TimeDrifter Series and revolves around two main characters, Brendan and Anna.
Brendan, a young man stricken with polio, and Anna, a young lady that has lost her parents, have the ability to travel through time in order to find out how their lives are connected by events that happened in the past. Their time traveling leads them to the world of the Mayans where both of them become connected to a Mayan Princess named Tzutz Nik. Tzutz Nik is in line to become a queen of the Mutul Kingdom. However, she is reluctant to embrace this path that has been laid out of for her.
There is evil lurking throughout the novel that will force all three of them to face their greatest fears head-on. Lynch uses anthropomorphic animals as other characters in the story that seemed like a homage to The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis and the theme of the sacrifice is grounded in a Christian worldview that’s apparent throughout the novel.
The Place of Voices is a solid Young Adult Fantasy Novel and recommended for kids from 11-up and adults who love fantasy as well.
July 30, 2015
Victory Over Tragedy in "The Place of Voices"
“The Place of Voices” by Lauren Lynch draws Anna from 1929, in Italy; Brendan from 1957, in Washington State; and Tzutz Nik from 432 A.D., Central America, into a shared life-changing adventure that points them to Jesus. The Mayan characters extracted from history, and the scenic panorama endemic to three different countries create an educational and fun read grounded in Christian truths. The characters are well crafted and remain true to type throughout the book.
Lauren Lynch has included discussion questions linking the action and events in the book to biblical truths at the end of “The Place of Voices.”
Anna, Brendan and Nik are all running away from personal tragedy when they meet. Anna has lost both her parents in a fire that she believes was her fault. Brendan is suffering from polio and believes his mother’s death was his fault. Nik is a Mayan princess who will be forced to marry a warrior she has never met and unite two kingdoms to ensure peace and prosperity. The three unlikely heroes from different countries and different historical times become united in friendship and in something much stronger and more enduring.
A brilliant touch, Anna, Brendan and Nik are all drawn into the adventure by animal guides that they can easily relate to from their own individual cultures and countries. Jesus is, after all, the great Way Maker.
“The Place of Voices” by Lauren Lynch draws Anna from 1929, in Italy; Brendan from 1957, in Washington State; and Tzutz Nik from 432 A.D., Central America, into a shared life-changing adventure that points them to Jesus. The Mayan characters extracted from history, and the scenic panorama endemic to three different countries create an educational and fun read grounded in Christian truths. The characters are well crafted and remain true to type throughout the book.
Lauren Lynch has included discussion questions linking the action and events in the book to biblical truths at the end of “The Place of Voices.”
Anna, Brendan and Nik are all running away from personal tragedy when they meet. Anna has lost both her parents in a fire that she believes was her fault. Brendan is suffering from polio and believes his mother’s death was his fault. Nik is a Mayan princess who will be forced to marry a warrior she has never met and unite two kingdoms to ensure peace and prosperity. The three unlikely heroes from different countries and different historical times become united in friendship and in something much stronger and more enduring.
A brilliant touch, Anna, Brendan and Nik are all drawn into the adventure by animal guides that they can easily relate to from their own individual cultures and countries. Jesus is, after all, the great Way Maker.
March 10, 2015
Although no books can be compared equally with The Chronicles of Narnia, this book seems to be heavily influenced by the series, and I do not count that a disadvantage at all. And despite being a middle-grade book, The Place of Voices is a well-written Christian allegory that even my critical mind enjoyed. The diverse characters were developed sufficiently to keep me interested, and Lauren Lynch painted a clear picture of their surroundings without going into a boring amount of detail.
As suggested by the cover, The Place of Voices includes a significant amount of Mayan history and culture, which Lauren Lynch researched thoroughly. I applaud her for portraying the Mayan culture honestly without demonizing the characters (except, perhaps, the villain) despite their pagan practices. Tzutz Nik, one of the main characters, is not asked to wholly reject her Mayan culture, but to love the one true God and also honor her parent's wishes. Her soul is nurtured and her culture respected, which is a difficult, delicate balance to find.
This review was originally posted on poetree.
As suggested by the cover, The Place of Voices includes a significant amount of Mayan history and culture, which Lauren Lynch researched thoroughly. I applaud her for portraying the Mayan culture honestly without demonizing the characters (except, perhaps, the villain) despite their pagan practices. Tzutz Nik, one of the main characters, is not asked to wholly reject her Mayan culture, but to love the one true God and also honor her parent's wishes. Her soul is nurtured and her culture respected, which is a difficult, delicate balance to find.
This review was originally posted on poetree.
July 3, 2015
Although I feel this book would be a great read for young adults I feel adults will love it as well. Anna is almost 13 and when her parents die in a fire she is sent to live with an uncle. Brendan, also has suffered loss, his polio was passed to his mother who died. Both of these children are visited by some special animals, for Anna , it is a koala, and for Brendan, an elk. That is when the mystery and magic happen for these two. as they are carried to a magical place they are joined by Tzutz Nik, a princess from 432 A.D. As the three join forces they go on an amazing adventure and learn a lot about love and life. The author did a great job on an entertaining story that will have an appeal to a variety of readers and one that teaches an amazing lesson about what we go through in life and how to deal with it.
March 26, 2016
I listened to the Audible version of this book.I tried to get into the storyline but was taken aback everytime the 'one true god and all that he has made' was mentioned.Had I known I was getting into a christian fantasy I would have passed,since I am a godless heathen.I found it also VERY slow going.
Felisha Marie Caldera does the narrations and has a soothing,sing song voice that can lull you to sleep.
Anna,an Aussie girl,Brenden a boy who has polio and a Mayan princess are thrown together in a fantasy where animals talk and bring them essentials.They're on a mission,but they don't know what it is.They will have hard decisions to make.
I was given this book for a fair and honest review.
Felisha Marie Caldera does the narrations and has a soothing,sing song voice that can lull you to sleep.
Anna,an Aussie girl,Brenden a boy who has polio and a Mayan princess are thrown together in a fantasy where animals talk and bring them essentials.They're on a mission,but they don't know what it is.They will have hard decisions to make.
I was given this book for a fair and honest review.
October 27, 2014
The Place of Voices is a creatively written book where the author incorporates historical fiction, fantasy and time travel to tell the story. This is the first book in the Time Drifters Series and it is a great beginning that will entice readers to read the entire series.
Lauren Lynch is a gifted storyteller. The Place of Voices is similar The Chronicles of Narnia. For those that enjoy fantasy and deep meaningful works of literature, this is a great book to read. I enjoyed the allusions in the story.
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
Lauren Lynch is a gifted storyteller. The Place of Voices is similar The Chronicles of Narnia. For those that enjoy fantasy and deep meaningful works of literature, this is a great book to read. I enjoyed the allusions in the story.
I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 15, 2015
I thought this was a good book for preteens. It reads like a Narnia novel, and is obviously rooted in Christian beliefs. Story is about life, what is important, and the choices we make. While this is not the type of book I enjoy, and would not have volunteered to read for an honest review, I will say that the writing and story was good for a young audience.
Narrator Felisha Caldeira: I have not listened to any of her previous work, but I enjoyed her voice, and the voices that she used for the characters. It was easy to imagine the story as it unfolded.
Narrator Felisha Caldeira: I have not listened to any of her previous work, but I enjoyed her voice, and the voices that she used for the characters. It was easy to imagine the story as it unfolded.
October 15, 2014
I got this book from entering one of the giveaways. The place of Voices is a book of fantasy. It's about a young man named Brendan who had been cripples by polio. Anna lost her parents in a home fire that almost killed her. Tzutz Nik is a princess who is facing an arranged marriage. This book can be enjoyed for anyone of all ages. I really loved this book and can't wait for the next book to come out.
October 4, 2014
The Place of Voices has three young people journeying to another "land" to enable them to make choices in their lives. Lauren Lynch's writing ability makes you feel you are right in the midst with the characters - very vivid descriptions. This is a very easy read for a young person. I believe it shows that everyone has a choice when choosing between good vs. evil. It has a time travel theme into another world.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.
January 18, 2015
back in the times of the Mayans
Three characters go back to the time of the Mayans and their dream visions. They learn about good and evil, and when they return, they have better perspectives on their lives. This book might be considered historical, allegorical fiction. Looking forward to reading the next book, in Pompeii.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Three characters go back to the time of the Mayans and their dream visions. They learn about good and evil, and when they return, they have better perspectives on their lives. This book might be considered historical, allegorical fiction. Looking forward to reading the next book, in Pompeii.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
March 16, 2015
A good book with a positive message. The pace was slow at times and there was a lot of description. Great for people who like that sort of thing but I ended up skimming the slow parts. The ending was somewhat unsatisfying but I still enjoyed the story overall.
June 20, 2015
Adventure filled with fantasy!
I enjoyed the lovely descriptions and the moral values presented throughout. I think this story would be great for YA. I listened to it on tape and the narrator did an excellent job as she portrayed the accents throughout.
I enjoyed the lovely descriptions and the moral values presented throughout. I think this story would be great for YA. I listened to it on tape and the narrator did an excellent job as she portrayed the accents throughout.
July 7, 2015
It took me a little while to get into this book it may have been the narrator love how the characters life's are all somehow intertwined even if they don't know how.
September 29, 2015
Interesting book. Not my favorite by any means, but it did have a good point.
August 6, 2015
That was strange.
June 11, 2016
3.5 stars
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews