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The Enertia Trials #1
Afterimage
Reggie’s dreams . . .
aren’t dreams.
Visions of the future flood her mind like shards of broken puzzles. Caged in her cell, every morning begins the same. She’s drugged, tortured, and images are torn from her memory by Public One.
Until the morning everything changes. The vision is different. The future’s never been about her, and now she knows they’re coming for her:
Nomads.
How will she convince them to keep her alive when Nate, their leader, doesn’t like or even trust her? To him, she’s a science experiment. A machine.
When Public One will do anything to keep her, Reggie must make a decision: remain a slave to her past, or risk her future to venture into a world more terrifying than she’s ever known.
aren’t dreams.
Visions of the future flood her mind like shards of broken puzzles. Caged in her cell, every morning begins the same. She’s drugged, tortured, and images are torn from her memory by Public One.
Until the morning everything changes. The vision is different. The future’s never been about her, and now she knows they’re coming for her:
Nomads.
How will she convince them to keep her alive when Nate, their leader, doesn’t like or even trust her? To him, she’s a science experiment. A machine.
When Public One will do anything to keep her, Reggie must make a decision: remain a slave to her past, or risk her future to venture into a world more terrifying than she’s ever known.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2015
16 people are currently reading
763 people want to read
About the author
J. Kowallis
8 books95 followersJ. Kowallis graduated from Weber State University’s creative writing program, and lives in Utah with her Mini Schnauzer, Etta. She enjoys dreaming about, flying to, and writing about distant lands (real or unreal).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
June 16, 2017
***** 4 Stars *****
The Public is the main government that controls the world. A perfect world where all the citizens have strong genetics. Some even have special skills that go beyond normal.
Reggie has been a puppet for the Public for years. Her visions have helped them collect nomads roaming outside. She's trapped, drugged, and always alone. When glimpses of her escape come to light, she finds hope and holds on.
Nate is a nomad that trusts no one. He remembers the old world and hates the Public with a passion. When he hears about an asset that could weaken the organization, he initiates a plan to steal it. He was shocked when he found out that the asset was a beautiful woman.
The story is told mostly in Reggie's point of view, but it occasionally switches to other characters. I loved the relationship between Reggie and Nate. Even though the romance isn't the main focus of the story, I really enjoyed the plot and adventure.
The Public is the main government that controls the world. A perfect world where all the citizens have strong genetics. Some even have special skills that go beyond normal.
Reggie has been a puppet for the Public for years. Her visions have helped them collect nomads roaming outside. She's trapped, drugged, and always alone. When glimpses of her escape come to light, she finds hope and holds on.
Nate is a nomad that trusts no one. He remembers the old world and hates the Public with a passion. When he hears about an asset that could weaken the organization, he initiates a plan to steal it. He was shocked when he found out that the asset was a beautiful woman.
The story is told mostly in Reggie's point of view, but it occasionally switches to other characters. I loved the relationship between Reggie and Nate. Even though the romance isn't the main focus of the story, I really enjoyed the plot and adventure.
June 11, 2023
Wow, this is easily one of the best dystopian novels out there in the indie realm. It is not romance focused, I find this element surprising, and yet highly pleasing at the same time.
Not necessarily spoilers, Man, I ship Nate and Reggie so hard, mind you, I ship London and Reggie also, cuties they are. And. . .and yes, I ship Olivia and Nate too. I know, I know, I can't help it.
I don't know about you, but I am the type of person who gives the world-building, the back structure, as much importance as the character development. Like, I would learn to acclimatize to the protagonist even if they are bland and uninteresting, in exchange if you give me any of the aforementioned elements. Let me tell you, at first I was worried about liking the characters and not loving other elements, but holy hardcore dystopia (Heart eyes, heart eyes) the author has balanced everything just so well, from characters to the world. Just perfect. I have nothing to complain.
One of the best things I loved - Different perspectives. Yes. Character insights. I mean, we all love to get to know the characters better, not only the main protagonist but our side fellows too, right? Their voices sucked me in, and oh man, I loved every one of them. This book was 100% freaking amazing, and I can't wait to dive into its sequel. And oh, one more thing : This book is brutal too, just the way I like it. I highly recommend it to people who love dystopia.
Not necessarily spoilers, Man, I ship Nate and Reggie so hard, mind you, I ship London and Reggie also, cuties they are. And. . .and yes, I ship Olivia and Nate too. I know, I know, I can't help it.
I don't know about you, but I am the type of person who gives the world-building, the back structure, as much importance as the character development. Like, I would learn to acclimatize to the protagonist even if they are bland and uninteresting, in exchange if you give me any of the aforementioned elements. Let me tell you, at first I was worried about liking the characters and not loving other elements, but holy hardcore dystopia (Heart eyes, heart eyes) the author has balanced everything just so well, from characters to the world. Just perfect. I have nothing to complain.
One of the best things I loved - Different perspectives. Yes. Character insights. I mean, we all love to get to know the characters better, not only the main protagonist but our side fellows too, right? Their voices sucked me in, and oh man, I loved every one of them. This book was 100% freaking amazing, and I can't wait to dive into its sequel. And oh, one more thing : This book is brutal too, just the way I like it. I highly recommend it to people who love dystopia.
August 31, 2015
Was offered a book in exchange for an honest review.
4.5/5 stars
This story is told from so many different perspectives but the main couple characters being Nate and Reggie. Reggie is a human, well mostly? Her origins are unknown to everyone, even her. Nate is just a man trying to survive. This is a dystopian that happens after a third World War. The human race has been nearly wiped out with the exception of a few government facilities that are striving to create a pure and perfect world. And as we all know, perfection comes at a high price. You see the characters in this book pay that price. It is action packed and very emotional. I am dying to see what happens in the next installment.
4.5/5 stars
This story is told from so many different perspectives but the main couple characters being Nate and Reggie. Reggie is a human, well mostly? Her origins are unknown to everyone, even her. Nate is just a man trying to survive. This is a dystopian that happens after a third World War. The human race has been nearly wiped out with the exception of a few government facilities that are striving to create a pure and perfect world. And as we all know, perfection comes at a high price. You see the characters in this book pay that price. It is action packed and very emotional. I am dying to see what happens in the next installment.
July 22, 2016
I was lucky enough to receive signed copies of these books in excange for an honest review.
Wow! This book hooked me from the first page with its brilliant and intriguing beginning. What really won me over though, was the descriptive writing. Such vivid detail and everything came to life within the pages. The writing flowed so well. I loved the chapter length. It was perfect! The chapters alternated from different characters points of view. It was fantastic! It was easy to know who was who in each chapter since they were titled by character.
The characters were all unique and had a voice of their own. I fell in love with Liam's wit and humor. Nathan was easy to love. Reggie was a strong female character who knew how to take a lot of pain.
I read this book in one day. It was not hard to do. I didn't want to put it down for anything. It was one of the most interesting books I have read in along time. A refreshing new idea for a dystopian. Finally a book that focused on telling a story instead of a ton of making out and sex. There was romance and love in this story but it wasn't overdone. I didn't miss the smuttiness one bit.
Oh my, my, my, the ending! It had me hooked! I was so ready for the next book! I didn't even take a break. I immediately dove right into the next one. I just couldn't wait to see what happened next.
Fans of The Testing, Hunger Games, or All These Things I've Done will really love this series. If you don't pick up this book you are really missing out on an excitin
Wow! This book hooked me from the first page with its brilliant and intriguing beginning. What really won me over though, was the descriptive writing. Such vivid detail and everything came to life within the pages. The writing flowed so well. I loved the chapter length. It was perfect! The chapters alternated from different characters points of view. It was fantastic! It was easy to know who was who in each chapter since they were titled by character.
The characters were all unique and had a voice of their own. I fell in love with Liam's wit and humor. Nathan was easy to love. Reggie was a strong female character who knew how to take a lot of pain.
I read this book in one day. It was not hard to do. I didn't want to put it down for anything. It was one of the most interesting books I have read in along time. A refreshing new idea for a dystopian. Finally a book that focused on telling a story instead of a ton of making out and sex. There was romance and love in this story but it wasn't overdone. I didn't miss the smuttiness one bit.
Oh my, my, my, the ending! It had me hooked! I was so ready for the next book! I didn't even take a break. I immediately dove right into the next one. I just couldn't wait to see what happened next.
Fans of The Testing, Hunger Games, or All These Things I've Done will really love this series. If you don't pick up this book you are really missing out on an excitin
November 1, 2015
"Copy provided in exchange for an honest review."
"It was then that there was no possible way to deny that this girl probably felt emotions much deeper than most other people."
Holy. Jeezus.
This story is action packed to the brim and so so brutal. It's set in the future after World War III and yes, it is as intense and devastating for humanity as it sounds. Probably even worse. Human rights are taken away and it's up to the main characters to be the change humanity desperately needs. I love how every character has their own POV. It might sound confusing, but it isn't. J. makes it work and it gives you a deeper chance to relate to any or all of them. The characters are older than I am used to but it only adds to the maturity of the plot. I loved every second of it! And there's a love... square? It definitely adds to the suspense that's for sure. Everybody's at the brink of dying and it's heart-wrenching to read about their struggles to find comfort in any possible way they can after such devastation.
Ah! I need the next book in the series asap! I miss Nate and Reggie already!
"It was then that there was no possible way to deny that this girl probably felt emotions much deeper than most other people."
Holy. Jeezus.
This story is action packed to the brim and so so brutal. It's set in the future after World War III and yes, it is as intense and devastating for humanity as it sounds. Probably even worse. Human rights are taken away and it's up to the main characters to be the change humanity desperately needs. I love how every character has their own POV. It might sound confusing, but it isn't. J. makes it work and it gives you a deeper chance to relate to any or all of them. The characters are older than I am used to but it only adds to the maturity of the plot. I loved every second of it! And there's a love... square? It definitely adds to the suspense that's for sure. Everybody's at the brink of dying and it's heart-wrenching to read about their struggles to find comfort in any possible way they can after such devastation.
Ah! I need the next book in the series asap! I miss Nate and Reggie already!
August 25, 2015
My Rating: 3.5 stars.
I have a love-hate (mostly love) relationship with this book. I did enjoy the overall storyline. There was tons of action and some parts were quite brutal! There were scenes where I was really anxious about what was going to happen next. But I felt like there wasn't enough character development, or detail/explanations about certain topics regarding Public One and the Nomads.
I liked Reggie a lot, I hope we get more character development from her in the next book though. I definitely have high hopes for her and Nate. Also, the Nate/Olivia romance was totally unnecessary.
I have a love-hate (mostly love) relationship with this book. I did enjoy the overall storyline. There was tons of action and some parts were quite brutal! There were scenes where I was really anxious about what was going to happen next. But I felt like there wasn't enough character development, or detail/explanations about certain topics regarding Public One and the Nomads.
I liked Reggie a lot, I hope we get more character development from her in the next book though. I definitely have high hopes for her and Nate. Also, the Nate/Olivia romance was totally unnecessary.
July 16, 2016
I LOVED this book. I cannot wait to start the next one, which will be right when I finish this review. If you like post-apocalyptic books, this is for you. It is very Hunger Games/Divergent/5th Wave, but better. For me, this book was everything that Divergent was in the depth of story line and better character development than the 5th Wave.
There are a lot of characters in this story and they ALL play a major role. The main character, I would say, is Reggie. You start the book, a little confused, with her and she is in a cell waiting for the doctor to retrieve her dreams. Once she has the first one and you flash the other main-ish character, Nate, you realize that she sees the future. A plan is hatched to get her from Nate and his group, the Nomads, because of the fear that the "precognitive" is providing Public One, the large government entity, information to destroy them.
I really liked the world building and the character archs that this book takes you on. I haven't been this invested in a story for a while. I cannot wait for the next book. I loved all of the characters and their spirit. My one comment is that even though they all have varying ages, apart from Ben who is much older, they all sound exactly the same age. Maybe this is nit-picky and it really is because I thoroughly enjoyed this from beginning to end.
I would give this 4.5 stars. Highly recommend!
There are a lot of characters in this story and they ALL play a major role. The main character, I would say, is Reggie. You start the book, a little confused, with her and she is in a cell waiting for the doctor to retrieve her dreams. Once she has the first one and you flash the other main-ish character, Nate, you realize that she sees the future. A plan is hatched to get her from Nate and his group, the Nomads, because of the fear that the "precognitive" is providing Public One, the large government entity, information to destroy them.
I really liked the world building and the character archs that this book takes you on. I haven't been this invested in a story for a while. I cannot wait for the next book. I loved all of the characters and their spirit. My one comment is that even though they all have varying ages, apart from Ben who is much older, they all sound exactly the same age. Maybe this is nit-picky and it really is because I thoroughly enjoyed this from beginning to end.
I would give this 4.5 stars. Highly recommend!
September 1, 2016
I was sent a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions stated are mine and 100% honest.
I have said this before, and I will say it now again. The first thing I look for in a book is Characters with Great Character Development, then a Good Plotline, and then Quality Writing.
Afterimage by J. Kowallis had three of them, and I was BOUND to fall in love with this.
THE CHARACTERS:
This book is written from different perspectives, and I am glad it was because I could understand what each of the characters are feeling and going through. I have to admit that this book has one of the best set of characters ever!
Protagonist: Reggie, when you read about her at first, you would think that she is all dead inside which is pretty obvious, considering she was "used as science experiment" for 15 years.
But then she went ahead and did things that proved otherwise.
When Reggie broke in a real smile, Olivia looked at her in wonder. The girl's entire face lit up. It was then that there was no possible way to deny that the girl probably felt emotions mich deeper than most other people. If anyone was human, she was.
Olivia reminds me of Six from Lorien Legacies who btw, is one of my favourite female characters. Olivia is bold, strong, confident, kickass, and everything a woman should be.
All the other characters: London, Liam, Greyson, Issac, Audra, Hugh, Sophie, Ben are right on point. Honestly, no complaints. Absolutely love them.
Antagonist: Martin Lobb, Clever Evil Powerful Villain. That's how I like it.
If I start talking about Nate, I think this review would get too long. I will just say that he is FREAKING AWESOME and thank you Kowallis for giving me a Book Boyfriend.
PLOTLINE & WRITING:
This book is what an apocalypse/dystopian setting should be. Very intriguing and interesting plotline which made the book unputdownable.
Gave me the devastating and brutal action that I longed for. The writing is great, because it totally got me hooked to the pages and the world building is superbly done.
Even though I just finished it, I feel like rereading it, and dying to read Encender, but my pile of homework says otherwise. It's not everyday you read a book this GOOOOD. I honestly don't know why many people are not reading this. Just stop what you are doing, purchase this book, and read it! Totally recommended to anyone who likes to read, and especially dystopia lovers!
I have said this before, and I will say it now again. The first thing I look for in a book is Characters with Great Character Development, then a Good Plotline, and then Quality Writing.
Afterimage by J. Kowallis had three of them, and I was BOUND to fall in love with this.
THE CHARACTERS:
This book is written from different perspectives, and I am glad it was because I could understand what each of the characters are feeling and going through. I have to admit that this book has one of the best set of characters ever!
Protagonist: Reggie, when you read about her at first, you would think that she is all dead inside which is pretty obvious, considering she was "used as science experiment" for 15 years.
But then she went ahead and did things that proved otherwise.
When Reggie broke in a real smile, Olivia looked at her in wonder. The girl's entire face lit up. It was then that there was no possible way to deny that the girl probably felt emotions mich deeper than most other people. If anyone was human, she was.
Olivia reminds me of Six from Lorien Legacies who btw, is one of my favourite female characters. Olivia is bold, strong, confident, kickass, and everything a woman should be.
All the other characters: London, Liam, Greyson, Issac, Audra, Hugh, Sophie, Ben are right on point. Honestly, no complaints. Absolutely love them.
Antagonist: Martin Lobb, Clever Evil Powerful Villain. That's how I like it.
If I start talking about Nate, I think this review would get too long. I will just say that he is FREAKING AWESOME and thank you Kowallis for giving me a Book Boyfriend.
PLOTLINE & WRITING:
This book is what an apocalypse/dystopian setting should be. Very intriguing and interesting plotline which made the book unputdownable.
Gave me the devastating and brutal action that I longed for. The writing is great, because it totally got me hooked to the pages and the world building is superbly done.
Even though I just finished it, I feel like rereading it, and dying to read Encender, but my pile of homework says otherwise. It's not everyday you read a book this GOOOOD. I honestly don't know why many people are not reading this. Just stop what you are doing, purchase this book, and read it! Totally recommended to anyone who likes to read, and especially dystopia lovers!
November 5, 2016
Devastating and fearless, J. Kowallis has created a dystopian world unlike any other.
February 11, 2017
This book follows the typical dystopian plot where a special girl meets a boy and they try to take down a goverment type agency. I dont usually mind this trope but maybe Im getting bored of it. It took me a third of the book before I started getting interested in the story and the characters. I almost gave up on it a few times. I was rushing myself to finish so I could review it and that probably effected my level of enjoyment. It didnt help that I was reading another book at the time which was distracting me.
For the most part even when I was bored this was a quick enough read. However I thought it was missing some back story for the world building. I liked how the author wasnt overly descriptive but we still get little details like their lack of hygene that made the story more realistic. Overall the atmosphere was well done but I would have liked more information on the Public and why the world went to war. Maybe the backstory will be addressed in the sequel.
I wasnt sure how I felt about Reggie at first but once I got to know her I started to empathize with her. I enjoyed how she seemed to appreciate the small things. With everything shes been through she was inspiring for staying so strong. I thought Nate was kind of a jerk. I know hes had a hard life and he's just trying to survive but the way he treated others rubbed me the wrong way. I didnt like how he tried to control London or how he treated Reggie like she was trash when they first met.
I didnt understand why Reggie didnt tell Olivia what she saw maybe if she had Olivia wouldnt have left. The 2 love triangles were kind of annoying. I just didnt want Nate and Reggie together. I felt like she deserved better. I really liked the side characters London, Olivia and Liam. I enjoyed how they were all very different from each other. I didnt like Isaac but Im pretty sure I wasnt suppose to like him. He was selfish but I understood why he would do anything to save his family.
*received in exchange for an honest review*
For the most part even when I was bored this was a quick enough read. However I thought it was missing some back story for the world building. I liked how the author wasnt overly descriptive but we still get little details like their lack of hygene that made the story more realistic. Overall the atmosphere was well done but I would have liked more information on the Public and why the world went to war. Maybe the backstory will be addressed in the sequel.
I wasnt sure how I felt about Reggie at first but once I got to know her I started to empathize with her. I enjoyed how she seemed to appreciate the small things. With everything shes been through she was inspiring for staying so strong. I thought Nate was kind of a jerk. I know hes had a hard life and he's just trying to survive but the way he treated others rubbed me the wrong way. I didnt like how he tried to control London or how he treated Reggie like she was trash when they first met.
I didnt understand why Reggie didnt tell Olivia what she saw maybe if she had Olivia wouldnt have left. The 2 love triangles were kind of annoying. I just didnt want Nate and Reggie together. I felt like she deserved better. I really liked the side characters London, Olivia and Liam. I enjoyed how they were all very different from each other. I didnt like Isaac but Im pretty sure I wasnt suppose to like him. He was selfish but I understood why he would do anything to save his family.
*received in exchange for an honest review*
August 17, 2015
Holy crap that was a good book! I absolutely love it! by now, you guys probably know that there is 3 things important for me in a book : Writing, characters, storyline. This book has everything I like and enjoy. The writing is wonderful. i was hooked from the start and it didn’t let me go until the very end. Such a well written page turner. The plot is entertaining and intense. You just never know what is going to happen next or who’s going to get hurt, you are never sure if your favorite is going to survive until the end. Oh my poor little heart, I got very emotional during some parts. I also really enjoy the brutality of the story, it’s dark and bloody and oh so good. The character development was incredible, just wow. I love all of them so much. Reggie and Nate are both strong and fascinating. Their relationship is so interesting and i love watching these two together. I enjoy all the POVs, it was fun seeing a little bit of all of them. It made me care more. My only problem with this book was maybe the word building, i feel like it was not develop enough. I wanted to know more about it. I feel like I needed more details about this world and the Public One.
This book was an intense and incredible ride and i am SO EXCITED for the sequel!
This book was an intense and incredible ride and i am SO EXCITED for the sequel!
June 3, 2015
It's pretty rare that a book will grab me immediately, but this book had me in the first chapter. I also felt like the entire book was a constant build up of anticipation and I just had to know what was going to happen next. Such a page turner! I really liked the characters and hope we get to find out more about them and possibly more of the backstory of this dystopian society in general. This story was so intriguing and well written. I can't wait for the sequel!
November 2, 2015
J. Kowallis has created something unique in this raw, gritty, and utterly captivating novel. She's created a world with passionate, vivid characters and merciless villains.
This book had me gripped from the beginning. Even after I put the book down, I couldn't help but think about it. This novel stays with you and keeps you wanting.
Bring on book 2!
This book had me gripped from the beginning. Even after I put the book down, I couldn't help but think about it. This novel stays with you and keeps you wanting.
Bring on book 2!
September 12, 2017
See my other reviews at Never Enough Books
Reggie’s dreams aren’t what one would call normal dreams.
Each night, visions of the future flit through her mind like pieces of a puzzle. And every morning the pieces are pulled forcefully from her memory through drugs and torture by Public One.
Then one night Reggie’s dreams change. The future she sees in her dreams is never about her, until it is. She knows they are coming for her, whether they are aware of that fact yet or not. She knows they will take her away but she doesn’t know how she will convince them to keep her alive.
Public One will do anything to keep her. Reggie will have to make the decision if she is willing to do the same to stay out.
Afterimage is one of the many ‘apocalyptic type event occurred and now society is trying to rebuild itself’ kind of stories one sees floating around these days. There’s the ‘perfect society’ – in this case Public One; and there’s those who refuse to conform – in this book referred to as Nomads. Neither side can stand the thought of the other and as so often happens, skirmishes do occur.
Reggie is a member (or more accurately, a prisoner) of Public One. She is a precognitive, or precog, and through her dreams can see the future. Those in charge at Public One use her dreams as a way to keep one step ahead of the Nomads and to keep the peace inside the city.
The characters in Afterimage, while varied, tend to fall a bit flat in my opinion. There’s no real in depth description behind any one person’s background. We don’t get a real feel of why any of them act or react they way they do. It would be easy to argue that many of them suffer from PTSD in one shape or another, but the question would then be ‘Why?’. What happened during the war and its aftermath? Why would that event and not this other one make this person act this way?
Unfortunately, we are not given these answers in this first book.
Another think that threw me out of the story were the number of spelling and grammatical errors I encountered throughout. The errors weren’t glaringly obvious, nor were they constant; but they were enough to interrupt the flow of the narrative. I cannot say whose fault it was these tiny errors got through, but a good proofreader should have caught them.
As this is the first book in a series, the ending was left open for the next book. The immediate problems were resolved but the overall story arc was left incomplete. As dissatisfied as I was with this book, it is unlikely I will be looking for the second or third books.
On a last side note, is ‘enertia’ a real word or was it made up for this story? I’m afraid Google failed me as all I found were references to corporations and computer software. It is something I shall have to ponder and perhaps look more in to.
Reggie’s dreams aren’t what one would call normal dreams.
Each night, visions of the future flit through her mind like pieces of a puzzle. And every morning the pieces are pulled forcefully from her memory through drugs and torture by Public One.
Then one night Reggie’s dreams change. The future she sees in her dreams is never about her, until it is. She knows they are coming for her, whether they are aware of that fact yet or not. She knows they will take her away but she doesn’t know how she will convince them to keep her alive.
Public One will do anything to keep her. Reggie will have to make the decision if she is willing to do the same to stay out.
Afterimage is one of the many ‘apocalyptic type event occurred and now society is trying to rebuild itself’ kind of stories one sees floating around these days. There’s the ‘perfect society’ – in this case Public One; and there’s those who refuse to conform – in this book referred to as Nomads. Neither side can stand the thought of the other and as so often happens, skirmishes do occur.
Reggie is a member (or more accurately, a prisoner) of Public One. She is a precognitive, or precog, and through her dreams can see the future. Those in charge at Public One use her dreams as a way to keep one step ahead of the Nomads and to keep the peace inside the city.
The characters in Afterimage, while varied, tend to fall a bit flat in my opinion. There’s no real in depth description behind any one person’s background. We don’t get a real feel of why any of them act or react they way they do. It would be easy to argue that many of them suffer from PTSD in one shape or another, but the question would then be ‘Why?’. What happened during the war and its aftermath? Why would that event and not this other one make this person act this way?
Unfortunately, we are not given these answers in this first book.
Another think that threw me out of the story were the number of spelling and grammatical errors I encountered throughout. The errors weren’t glaringly obvious, nor were they constant; but they were enough to interrupt the flow of the narrative. I cannot say whose fault it was these tiny errors got through, but a good proofreader should have caught them.
As this is the first book in a series, the ending was left open for the next book. The immediate problems were resolved but the overall story arc was left incomplete. As dissatisfied as I was with this book, it is unlikely I will be looking for the second or third books.
On a last side note, is ‘enertia’ a real word or was it made up for this story? I’m afraid Google failed me as all I found were references to corporations and computer software. It is something I shall have to ponder and perhaps look more in to.
February 10, 2017
Afterimage is the first book in the Enertia Trials series. When I first read the synopsis for it, I was quite intrigued and curious to see what it was all about. It sort of reminded me a little of Minority Report in a way, but not quite the same. I did, however, avoid the synopsis for Encender, only because I did not want to spoil anything. I did agree to review it based on nothing more than the synopsis of the first book and the hope that I would enjoy it. And, boy, did I do just that!
Afterimage is set in the future, when the world as we know it has been ravaged and changed. Now, a place known only as Public One exists, and everyone who lives there is happy and content...or so they seem. One person, however, isn't quite like the rest.
Enter Reggie, our main character. Reggie is different. She can see the future when she dreams, and the Public utilizes this to help keep their citizens safe. At least that's what they'd like to have Reggie believe. Intrusive and painful, she submits to Public One's whims against her will on a daily basis to deliver these visions straight to the higher-ups. Until one fateful day...
Enter Nate, the apparent leader of the band of Nomads who live outside Public One, moving from place to place so as not to get caught and taken to live inside those walls. When an escapee from the Public meets up with his group and begs the Nomads to help him save his family, Nate makes a decision that will set everything in motion. But will it be the right choice? You'll have to read it and find out!
Afterimage is a fantastic thrill ride through a dystopian world hellbent on forcing people to become perfect in the eyes of the government, if you will. It sucks in you from the moment you lay eyes on that first page, and it doesn't let up until the very end. You'll be left on the edge of your seat, breathless and eager for more.
The plot is unique and fast-paced, the world building is amazing, and the characters are ones who bring out all sorts of emotions. Reggie is frustrating at times, but also sort of pitiful in a way, as well as benevolent. She's the type of character you want to root for in a story like this. Nate is very similar. He's very distrusting, understandably, but you can't help but like him and want him to be a good person. And, of course, you have your bad guys. Those characters you think you love to hate are nothing compared to one certain character who makes an appearance closer to the end of Afterimage. This character deserves nothing but pure hatred and loathing. Perhaps even a desire for him to die a slow, painful death. He's that awful.
Overall, Afterimage is a magnificent, mind-blowing story that I consider a must-read for any fan of dystopian fiction. I rate it 5 very well-deserved stars.
Afterimage is set in the future, when the world as we know it has been ravaged and changed. Now, a place known only as Public One exists, and everyone who lives there is happy and content...or so they seem. One person, however, isn't quite like the rest.
Enter Reggie, our main character. Reggie is different. She can see the future when she dreams, and the Public utilizes this to help keep their citizens safe. At least that's what they'd like to have Reggie believe. Intrusive and painful, she submits to Public One's whims against her will on a daily basis to deliver these visions straight to the higher-ups. Until one fateful day...
Enter Nate, the apparent leader of the band of Nomads who live outside Public One, moving from place to place so as not to get caught and taken to live inside those walls. When an escapee from the Public meets up with his group and begs the Nomads to help him save his family, Nate makes a decision that will set everything in motion. But will it be the right choice? You'll have to read it and find out!
Afterimage is a fantastic thrill ride through a dystopian world hellbent on forcing people to become perfect in the eyes of the government, if you will. It sucks in you from the moment you lay eyes on that first page, and it doesn't let up until the very end. You'll be left on the edge of your seat, breathless and eager for more.
The plot is unique and fast-paced, the world building is amazing, and the characters are ones who bring out all sorts of emotions. Reggie is frustrating at times, but also sort of pitiful in a way, as well as benevolent. She's the type of character you want to root for in a story like this. Nate is very similar. He's very distrusting, understandably, but you can't help but like him and want him to be a good person. And, of course, you have your bad guys. Those characters you think you love to hate are nothing compared to one certain character who makes an appearance closer to the end of Afterimage. This character deserves nothing but pure hatred and loathing. Perhaps even a desire for him to die a slow, painful death. He's that awful.
Overall, Afterimage is a magnificent, mind-blowing story that I consider a must-read for any fan of dystopian fiction. I rate it 5 very well-deserved stars.
December 30, 2016
**** 5 Cranky Stars ****
In post apocalyptic America every city and town has been destroyed by the war. Only The Public flourishes, the brain child of megalomaniac Martin Lobb and his unsavoury sidekick Dr Dryer. Public citzens have been chemically altered to be docile and have a herd mentality.
Reggie is a precognitive and for the past 15 years has been shamelessly exploited by Dr. Dryer. She however forsees her rescue from this existance.
Nate is an ex marine who now lives with a group of nomads, existing on what they can gather from deserted towns they travel through.
Then Isaac arrives at their camp, an escapee from Public One and tells them of the "weapon" that allowed The Public to know things before they happened, Isaac begs the nomads to help him get his family out of Public one and to steal or destroy the "weapon".
The story is told from different POV but is so well done that it flows seamlesly, at no point was I confused. The cast consists of a wide range of age groups from the teenaged London to the 63 year old Ben Woodstock. This is war and there are devastating personal losses. Personal feelings and love find a place in this harsh world against all odds.
From page one I was hooked on this book and I binge read it. It is fast pased, the world building superb and I cant wait to get stuck into book 2.
5 full stars for this book almost feels insufficient, I wish I could award 10!
In post apocalyptic America every city and town has been destroyed by the war. Only The Public flourishes, the brain child of megalomaniac Martin Lobb and his unsavoury sidekick Dr Dryer. Public citzens have been chemically altered to be docile and have a herd mentality.
Reggie is a precognitive and for the past 15 years has been shamelessly exploited by Dr. Dryer. She however forsees her rescue from this existance.
Nate is an ex marine who now lives with a group of nomads, existing on what they can gather from deserted towns they travel through.
Then Isaac arrives at their camp, an escapee from Public One and tells them of the "weapon" that allowed The Public to know things before they happened, Isaac begs the nomads to help him get his family out of Public one and to steal or destroy the "weapon".
The story is told from different POV but is so well done that it flows seamlesly, at no point was I confused. The cast consists of a wide range of age groups from the teenaged London to the 63 year old Ben Woodstock. This is war and there are devastating personal losses. Personal feelings and love find a place in this harsh world against all odds.
From page one I was hooked on this book and I binge read it. It is fast pased, the world building superb and I cant wait to get stuck into book 2.
5 full stars for this book almost feels insufficient, I wish I could award 10!
October 23, 2016
This book was crazy creative. I don't read a lot of dystopian just because so many feel too alike to me. I guess they have so many of the same elements in them that it can be difficult to differentiate them from each other. That being said I think this book had many differences to the rest in this genre.
There were kind of a lot of characters and probably too many POV's. I did like the different perspectives sometimes but it got a little annoying at times. The main two POV's are Reggie and Nate. Reggie is a precog that Public One keeps to find the Nomads. Nate is a tough guy that is just trying to survive in this apocalyptic world and keep his friends alive. When a stranger asks Nate and his group for help rescuing his family from Public One they agree. Not all are happy about the decision to help out a stranger and about going into the lions den but they do. There they find Reggie and help her to escape being tortured everyday. There is no trust for Reggie though not until she helps them to find and rescue their friends.
I liked Reggie's character a lot. I liked how bold she was and how she stuck up for herself when Nate was being harsh. I'm glad she didn't let Nate's words get to her and instead let him know that he was being a dick. I did not care for Nate at first, I understand the times are different and now you just survive but it wasn't her fault. I was so glad when she put him in his place and that she didn't let him bully her. I ended up liking all of the characters in the end and that's always a good thing.
All in all I really enjoyed this book and I heard that the next book is even better. So I'm looking forward to that. I did get the feeling the closer it got to the end that this book was more of a stepping stone for the next book. I guess I'll find out.
There were kind of a lot of characters and probably too many POV's. I did like the different perspectives sometimes but it got a little annoying at times. The main two POV's are Reggie and Nate. Reggie is a precog that Public One keeps to find the Nomads. Nate is a tough guy that is just trying to survive in this apocalyptic world and keep his friends alive. When a stranger asks Nate and his group for help rescuing his family from Public One they agree. Not all are happy about the decision to help out a stranger and about going into the lions den but they do. There they find Reggie and help her to escape being tortured everyday. There is no trust for Reggie though not until she helps them to find and rescue their friends.
I liked Reggie's character a lot. I liked how bold she was and how she stuck up for herself when Nate was being harsh. I'm glad she didn't let Nate's words get to her and instead let him know that he was being a dick. I did not care for Nate at first, I understand the times are different and now you just survive but it wasn't her fault. I was so glad when she put him in his place and that she didn't let him bully her. I ended up liking all of the characters in the end and that's always a good thing.
All in all I really enjoyed this book and I heard that the next book is even better. So I'm looking forward to that. I did get the feeling the closer it got to the end that this book was more of a stepping stone for the next book. I guess I'll find out.
July 31, 2016
Afterimage and Encender are the first works I had read from this author. The post-apocalyptic synopsis intrigued me greatly. To the point I requested to review double, full-length novels when I knew I'd have multiple interruptions. I wasn't disappointed.
For those of you who like a linear story line though, this is not the book for you. The story doesn't jump from the past to the present, rather changes points of view each chapter and within the chapter may repeat parts of the story, but from an entirely different point of view which doesn't make it boring or feel repetitive at all.
In Afterimage we meet Nate and Reggie. Reggie is a precognitive whose powers are growing. Nate is ex-military, co-leader of a small community, who are really a group of Nomads who have joined together, tired of running they want to make a change. Did I mention that we as humans almost destroyed ourselves with wars before someone took charge and offered something better?
You know that old saying, don't look a gift horse in the mouth? Try and remember it when you read these books. Convinced by someone, who escaped the Public, that the Precog was a weapon and he needed help to save his family, a small band of warriors set off to capture this weapon and save Isaac's family. Little did Nate know at the time, he was meeting his destiny. But Reggie knew. As Reggie's powers grow, expand and the power of her mind review all possible outcomes in the blink of an eye, my mind can barely handle deciding what we are having for dinner. In the end, she learns from dastardly asshole daddy of the Public, Martin Lobb, there are others out there and she and Nate set off to find them.
Amazing Author! One you MUST add to your TBR especially if you love Dystopian reads
For those of you who like a linear story line though, this is not the book for you. The story doesn't jump from the past to the present, rather changes points of view each chapter and within the chapter may repeat parts of the story, but from an entirely different point of view which doesn't make it boring or feel repetitive at all.
In Afterimage we meet Nate and Reggie. Reggie is a precognitive whose powers are growing. Nate is ex-military, co-leader of a small community, who are really a group of Nomads who have joined together, tired of running they want to make a change. Did I mention that we as humans almost destroyed ourselves with wars before someone took charge and offered something better?
You know that old saying, don't look a gift horse in the mouth? Try and remember it when you read these books. Convinced by someone, who escaped the Public, that the Precog was a weapon and he needed help to save his family, a small band of warriors set off to capture this weapon and save Isaac's family. Little did Nate know at the time, he was meeting his destiny. But Reggie knew. As Reggie's powers grow, expand and the power of her mind review all possible outcomes in the blink of an eye, my mind can barely handle deciding what we are having for dinner. In the end, she learns from dastardly asshole daddy of the Public, Martin Lobb, there are others out there and she and Nate set off to find them.
Amazing Author! One you MUST add to your TBR especially if you love Dystopian reads
September 10, 2016
Ugh. Rating books is hard. This one was a toughie. In general, I liked it. It was engrossing, fast-paced, intense. It was an interesting post-apocalyptic world, and I liked the two main characters. So that's quite a lot of positives. BUT . . . Well, there are problems. One is the occasionally awkward writing, full of errors that should have been caught and edited. Come on, people, sight/site is not that hard to use properly. There were lots of little things like that. And at times the author seemed almost not quite ready to give us what we need--the current world situation is going to be explained! Wait, not really, we're going to stop just shy of that. You are finally going to understand Reggie and what she has seen! Well, OK, not really, we're just going to get a teaser and move on. Then a tossed-in comment after the action. Lots of little problems in plot. At one time, there's not enough gasoline to go anywhere. Some time later, they go somewhere anyway. Where'd the gas come from? We are brought to a very intense scene with lots of problems---- and then somehow "offscreen" several days pass and everyone is OK. How???? The Public has complete biometric data and biographies of every person. But Nate could use his service number to break into a number of cases in a magically-appearing survival bunker and no one finds out??? No one comes from the Public to see what is going on and why the extremely powerful weapons are being broken into by renegades? There is potential here. I'm hoping the next in the apparent series will correct some of the problems.
June 17, 2015
"Copy provided in exchange for an honest review."
There isn't much to say about this book. I think I'm completely over the whole dystopian thing.
This book has the typical dystopian formula: special girl, love triangle, rescue mission, mission information to have more than one book, multiple povs,some form of mind control, and death.
The book had really good pacing. There was a lot of action. I was grateful for that because I didn't think I would finish it otherwise. It was a pretty easy read.
The author chose to have most of the characters in their mid-twenties. I thought that was cool except you couldn't tell they were 25 or older. They all acted like teenagers. If you're going to make your characters older, have them act older.
Also, I don't see why she had multiple povs. Each chapter was named after a different character, but none of the chapters were really anyone's personal pov, except for Reggie. She wrote Reggie's pov in first person, and the others' in third person. The whole book should have been in third person. There was no point in differentiating whose chapter it was because they all sounded exactly the same. She should have just numbered the chapters. I stopped reading the name of the chapters after a while since it made no difference at all.
If you are a fan of dystopian, you will like it. There isn't really anything special to me about it.
There isn't much to say about this book. I think I'm completely over the whole dystopian thing.
This book has the typical dystopian formula: special girl, love triangle, rescue mission, mission information to have more than one book, multiple povs,some form of mind control, and death.
The book had really good pacing. There was a lot of action. I was grateful for that because I didn't think I would finish it otherwise. It was a pretty easy read.
The author chose to have most of the characters in their mid-twenties. I thought that was cool except you couldn't tell they were 25 or older. They all acted like teenagers. If you're going to make your characters older, have them act older.
Also, I don't see why she had multiple povs. Each chapter was named after a different character, but none of the chapters were really anyone's personal pov, except for Reggie. She wrote Reggie's pov in first person, and the others' in third person. The whole book should have been in third person. There was no point in differentiating whose chapter it was because they all sounded exactly the same. She should have just numbered the chapters. I stopped reading the name of the chapters after a while since it made no difference at all.
If you are a fan of dystopian, you will like it. There isn't really anything special to me about it.
August 1, 2016
*digital copy provided by the author in exchange for an HONEST review*
This book is really high up there when it comes to novels with a dystopian setting. I REALLY wished more people read this. I almost felt bad for the characters because their plans never turn out well..
What I absolutely love about this book is the fact that the author gives importance to side characters. You become emotionally attached to all of them. My favourite character so far is Nate and Liam.
You know the author is good at her job when she describes gory details in such a way that you have to put the book down and that is exactly what happened to me while reading this book. It's been a long time since I felt the things I did while reading this. I felt giddy at romantic scenes, anxious when characters were being chased and nauseous during gory scenes.
The only drawback was probably my reading experience. It was one of those times when life prevents you from reading and absorbing a story in all its true glory. I bet I will probably bump up the rating after a reread!
In conclusion this book is fast paced, action packed and heart breaking.
This book is really high up there when it comes to novels with a dystopian setting. I REALLY wished more people read this. I almost felt bad for the characters because their plans never turn out well..
What I absolutely love about this book is the fact that the author gives importance to side characters. You become emotionally attached to all of them. My favourite character so far is Nate and Liam.
You know the author is good at her job when she describes gory details in such a way that you have to put the book down and that is exactly what happened to me while reading this book. It's been a long time since I felt the things I did while reading this. I felt giddy at romantic scenes, anxious when characters were being chased and nauseous during gory scenes.
The only drawback was probably my reading experience. It was one of those times when life prevents you from reading and absorbing a story in all its true glory. I bet I will probably bump up the rating after a reread!
In conclusion this book is fast paced, action packed and heart breaking.
March 10, 2018
it's book review time!
I was sent this book for an honest review!
~~~
ohmygosh! I love this book soooo much!
I'm not going to go into detail about what this book is about (will be in book review video on my YouTube channel, vid will be up this week!) but I do want to let you know that this book takes place in the future after WWIII.
~~~
the character development blew my mind! I loved it! all of it!
I really like the plot and I can honestly say this book gets an easy five stars!
edit: i read this book about 2 years ago and this was one of my first reviews. i stand by this book and all of the love that i have for it and how well it’s written. the author really knew what she was doing when she wrote out her characters and tied them all together in a way that made the book flow smoothly. i really enjoyed reading this book and following the adventures that take place. i can’t wait to reread the 2nd book and follow up on these characters and new ones.
I was sent this book for an honest review!
~~~
ohmygosh! I love this book soooo much!
I'm not going to go into detail about what this book is about (will be in book review video on my YouTube channel, vid will be up this week!) but I do want to let you know that this book takes place in the future after WWIII.
~~~
the character development blew my mind! I loved it! all of it!
I really like the plot and I can honestly say this book gets an easy five stars!
edit: i read this book about 2 years ago and this was one of my first reviews. i stand by this book and all of the love that i have for it and how well it’s written. the author really knew what she was doing when she wrote out her characters and tied them all together in a way that made the book flow smoothly. i really enjoyed reading this book and following the adventures that take place. i can’t wait to reread the 2nd book and follow up on these characters and new ones.
April 30, 2016
Afterimage is a moving story set in a dystopian world. This book got me hooked right on the very first page.
I like the unpredictable and vibrant characters. Especially Nate. I definitely want a piece of that hunk. Reggie is also an intriguing woman. It must take a toll on her to see beforehand those future images and dreams. (Why can't they just be together?!)
I love how complex the plotline is. You can really imagine and experience yourself in the story. Evil villains make the story all the more interesting. So, I have taken an interest on Public One.
Definitely did not have expected that plot twist at the end. I did not see it coming!
This book is amazing and a page turner. Now, I am off to the second book - Encender!
I like the unpredictable and vibrant characters. Especially Nate. I definitely want a piece of that hunk. Reggie is also an intriguing woman. It must take a toll on her to see beforehand those future images and dreams. (Why can't they just be together?!)
I love how complex the plotline is. You can really imagine and experience yourself in the story. Evil villains make the story all the more interesting. So, I have taken an interest on Public One.
Definitely did not have expected that plot twist at the end. I did not see it coming!
This book is amazing and a page turner. Now, I am off to the second book - Encender!
September 29, 2015
Finished this on Friday and it was amazing! Loved the rich characters, diverse settings, and creative storyline. This book made me laugh, cry, and question humanity - often all at the same time!
The sense of family loyalty and romance made the story even stronger and easy to fall in love with.
Such an original idea and I'm excited to read the sequel! Thanks for sending me a copy, Jernae! :)
I'd give this book 4/5
The sense of family loyalty and romance made the story even stronger and easy to fall in love with.
Such an original idea and I'm excited to read the sequel! Thanks for sending me a copy, Jernae! :)
I'd give this book 4/5
May 17, 2015
I really liked it! Now I have to wait to know what's going to happen next :( A very good book :)
October 26, 2016
Great story, very dark, with great characters and an intense plot that keeps you hanging all the while you're reading. I enjoyed the twists and turns and the beautiful style of Ms. Kowallis.
November 30, 2016
WATCH FULL REVIEW HERE!!
https://youtu.be/EYoz-3Tqyfk
https://youtu.be/EYoz-3Tqyfk
December 28, 2016
I was sent a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was set up in a world where the citizens are devoid of emotions and are controled using drugs by the Public One people.
Reggie was genetically modified to have a special power: she can see visions of the future.
She is kept hostage by Public One and is forced to give out her visions everyday.
While reading, I was engulfed by the world.
I was deeply disturbed by Public one's actions. J. Kowallis' writing got to the core of my heart, and I could feel what the characters were going through.
And her characters are AMAZING!
I mostly end up not liking the protagonist because authors overdo them.
But I loved Reggie. She doesn't whine one bit and is very calm and strategic but at the same time has the right weaknesses and is not perfect. :)
And I loved how the author gave importance to the side characters, because I know I will not forget any of the characters.
Nate, London,Liam, Ben, Olivia, Sophia, Greyson, Hugh, Isaac, Audra, they were all beautifully developed.
And the deaths were heaertbreaking 3
A chapter from Lobb's point of view would have been interesting.
If you like reading dystopian books and haven't read this yet, GO GRAB THIS NOW!
I guarantee you will love it <3
This book was set up in a world where the citizens are devoid of emotions and are controled using drugs by the Public One people.
Reggie was genetically modified to have a special power: she can see visions of the future.
She is kept hostage by Public One and is forced to give out her visions everyday.
While reading, I was engulfed by the world.
I was deeply disturbed by Public one's actions. J. Kowallis' writing got to the core of my heart, and I could feel what the characters were going through.
And her characters are AMAZING!
I mostly end up not liking the protagonist because authors overdo them.
But I loved Reggie. She doesn't whine one bit and is very calm and strategic but at the same time has the right weaknesses and is not perfect. :)
And I loved how the author gave importance to the side characters, because I know I will not forget any of the characters.
Nate, London,Liam, Ben, Olivia, Sophia, Greyson, Hugh, Isaac, Audra, they were all beautifully developed.
And the deaths were heaertbreaking 3
A chapter from Lobb's point of view would have been interesting.
If you like reading dystopian books and haven't read this yet, GO GRAB THIS NOW!
I guarantee you will love it <3
March 27, 2017
So far I like the plot. The writing, however, is atrocious. Third person POV used when chapter title is that character. So many mistakes, too. I have no idea what company edited this, but they were asleep. "Hurdling" was used when author meant "hurling." Many times I caught what I'd describe as "both thoughts," where the author thinks the words "to" and "for" and ends up with a sentence that when not skimmed, makes zero sense.
December 27, 2016
This book grabs you right from the beginning. It's fast paced, engrossing, and inventive.
The characters are fantastic and the setting is beautiful.
It was a little difficult to get through the alternating 1st and 3rd person POV. Especially when the entire book alternates several character POVs at the same time. The writing could be a little choppy and difficult to get through; however, I will definitely continue the series.
The characters are fantastic and the setting is beautiful.
It was a little difficult to get through the alternating 1st and 3rd person POV. Especially when the entire book alternates several character POVs at the same time. The writing could be a little choppy and difficult to get through; however, I will definitely continue the series.
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