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Paladin Cycle #1
Number of the Beast
Length: 10 hours 12 minutes
Book One in an epic urban fantasy that has been three years in the making!
The Prophecy of the Beast foretold of a cosmic being known as the Geminus and the destruction he'd wreak upon Earth. But modern-day Paladin knight Atticus, one of the Twin warriors born under the Sign of Champions, doesn't believe the prophecy to be true.
Three thousand miles away, in Buckeye, Texas, superstitious Amy Wintry hears a man inside her head. It's not the first time she's heard a voice in her head, but this feral voice is warning that a Beast is coming...coming for her.
Shane Baker is sure his girlfriend is batshit crazy...or is he sure? He soon learns that there is more to the world than what can be seen with your own two eyes.
Isaac has arrived in Texas to complete his demon goddess mother's bidding: Find the Beloved One. But he ends up finding so much more.
Book One in an epic urban fantasy that has been three years in the making!
The Prophecy of the Beast foretold of a cosmic being known as the Geminus and the destruction he'd wreak upon Earth. But modern-day Paladin knight Atticus, one of the Twin warriors born under the Sign of Champions, doesn't believe the prophecy to be true.
Three thousand miles away, in Buckeye, Texas, superstitious Amy Wintry hears a man inside her head. It's not the first time she's heard a voice in her head, but this feral voice is warning that a Beast is coming...coming for her.
Shane Baker is sure his girlfriend is batshit crazy...or is he sure? He soon learns that there is more to the world than what can be seen with your own two eyes.
Isaac has arrived in Texas to complete his demon goddess mother's bidding: Find the Beloved One. But he ends up finding so much more.
- GenresFantasyParanormalHorror
10 pages, Audible Audio
First published August 1, 2014
47 people are currently reading
709 people want to read
About the author
Max Redford
10 books30 followersA reclusive author who frequently collaborates with his author wife Lita Stone.
Max writes chimera-fiction composed of fantasy-horror-erotic-drama teeming with retro-punkish and southern Gothic flavorings. Aiming to ride the line between hardcore and classy. Everything Max writes is dripping with mature adult themes in direct opposition to the overly saturated bookscape of YA.
Fans have said: "Max reminded me why I enjoy adult fiction" and "Max can be extremely graphic but he always manages to keep it classy".
Critics have said, "Too graphic" "Not for young readers", "too many point-of-view characters".
If nothing else, he promises to deliver an experience unlikely to be found elsewhere.
DISCLAIMER:
Max would also like to point out that his writing is intended for a mature audience and will oftentimes be unapologetic in language and graphic themes. Squeamish readers and those with sensitive stomachs and heart conditions should read Max with caution.
Some of his non-literature inspirations are: 1970s/80s b-horror movies, comic books, death metal, doom metal, and '80s hair metal - and the Castlevania: SOTN soundtrack. That creepy painting of the Giant Squid taking the ship down . . . and those countless nightmares where spiders are all over the floor and I can't make it to the bathroom so I just wet myself.
(Max also maintains a stream-of-conscious blog on Goodreads filled with absurd - though eerily sometimes logical - chaos.)
Max writes chimera-fiction composed of fantasy-horror-erotic-drama teeming with retro-punkish and southern Gothic flavorings. Aiming to ride the line between hardcore and classy. Everything Max writes is dripping with mature adult themes in direct opposition to the overly saturated bookscape of YA.
Fans have said: "Max reminded me why I enjoy adult fiction" and "Max can be extremely graphic but he always manages to keep it classy".
Critics have said, "Too graphic" "Not for young readers", "too many point-of-view characters".
If nothing else, he promises to deliver an experience unlikely to be found elsewhere.
DISCLAIMER:
Max would also like to point out that his writing is intended for a mature audience and will oftentimes be unapologetic in language and graphic themes. Squeamish readers and those with sensitive stomachs and heart conditions should read Max with caution.
Some of his non-literature inspirations are: 1970s/80s b-horror movies, comic books, death metal, doom metal, and '80s hair metal - and the Castlevania: SOTN soundtrack. That creepy painting of the Giant Squid taking the ship down . . . and those countless nightmares where spiders are all over the floor and I can't make it to the bathroom so I just wet myself.
(Max also maintains a stream-of-conscious blog on Goodreads filled with absurd - though eerily sometimes logical - chaos.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
July 5, 2015
This was a tough book to read and a tough book to review. There is a LOT going on in this book; several major plot lines and lots of central characters. It was easy to get lost with the different story lines, but the plot itself is quite original and I feel this books sets the stage as a good intro to the next book in the series.
What I liked: The world building is well done in all three major story lines. Each is quite different and they come together well near the end of the book. There is some sex and violence in the plot which is integral to the story, and I do like my horror to have a little gore in it! The language changed for each plot line as well; the soft-spoken Texan drawl, the formal Paladin speech, and the growling of the beast. Well done.
What I didn't like: Because of the differing plot lines I was confused a bit, especially in the beginning of the book. Until I caught on to the language cues, I was a little frustrated because it wasn't always clear which story I was reading. The book is a little slow in the beginning but picks up quickly and if you can keep up with all the characters, you will have no trouble following it.
I do think this is worth a read, especially if you enjoy horror with a bit of fantasy thrown in for good measure. This book sets up the next book in the series, but reads well on its own.
Free e-book in exchange for honest review
https://readingfemme.wordpress.com/20...
What I liked: The world building is well done in all three major story lines. Each is quite different and they come together well near the end of the book. There is some sex and violence in the plot which is integral to the story, and I do like my horror to have a little gore in it! The language changed for each plot line as well; the soft-spoken Texan drawl, the formal Paladin speech, and the growling of the beast. Well done.
What I didn't like: Because of the differing plot lines I was confused a bit, especially in the beginning of the book. Until I caught on to the language cues, I was a little frustrated because it wasn't always clear which story I was reading. The book is a little slow in the beginning but picks up quickly and if you can keep up with all the characters, you will have no trouble following it.
I do think this is worth a read, especially if you enjoy horror with a bit of fantasy thrown in for good measure. This book sets up the next book in the series, but reads well on its own.
Free e-book in exchange for honest review
https://readingfemme.wordpress.com/20...
April 29, 2015
I was warned it would have a slow start, but it kept me intrigued the entire book. Amazing page turner, keeps you guessing the deeper you go. I CAN NOT wait for Reckoning of the Beast! I'm dying to know what happens next. Very well written and engaging. It captures all my favorite things in one novel. Paranormal, thriller, and mystery. I love the story line, the characters and the plot, everything about it rocked. Max redford kept it classy, yet hot at the same time. It wasn't too vulgar or too gory just the right amount of both! Really enjoyed this read.
May 22, 2015
I recently received this book in both audio and print formats as part of first reads.
I started with the audio format as that was the first one I was given. I was enjoying it but it was hard to find time to just sit and listen. When I received the print version I switched to that.
This book is everything promised; suspenseful, sexy, violent, graphic, twisted, mysterious, romantic and demonic, but mostly... entertaining! I really got into this story. There is so much in this book, Max Redford and Lita Stone have created not just a universe, but a "multiverse" bringing several planes of existence together to tell this story.
I don't like to write spoilers in my reviews, so suffice to say I loved the prologue by God, and the story of Sodom and Gomorrah. I wasn't able to predict too much of what was going to happen in the story. I have my ideas about some of the characters in the next installment of the story. But now I have to wait for the next book... oh well.
So, if you like your reading to be a maze of action, adventure, violence, sensuality, romance, politics and intrigue, this book is probably for you.
I recommend this book highly while echoing the authors warning: Mature content: adult language, graphic (sometimes twisted) sex, gore and violence (Quoted from the back cover). I'll admit, this warning almost scared me off. I'm really glad it didn't, although I would suggest you not play the audio version in front of your pastor, priest or rabbi.
So thank you Mr. Redford and Ms. Stone for this great book! I look forward to the rest of the story.
Mike Siedschlag
I started with the audio format as that was the first one I was given. I was enjoying it but it was hard to find time to just sit and listen. When I received the print version I switched to that.
This book is everything promised; suspenseful, sexy, violent, graphic, twisted, mysterious, romantic and demonic, but mostly... entertaining! I really got into this story. There is so much in this book, Max Redford and Lita Stone have created not just a universe, but a "multiverse" bringing several planes of existence together to tell this story.
I don't like to write spoilers in my reviews, so suffice to say I loved the prologue by God, and the story of Sodom and Gomorrah. I wasn't able to predict too much of what was going to happen in the story. I have my ideas about some of the characters in the next installment of the story. But now I have to wait for the next book... oh well.
So, if you like your reading to be a maze of action, adventure, violence, sensuality, romance, politics and intrigue, this book is probably for you.
I recommend this book highly while echoing the authors warning: Mature content: adult language, graphic (sometimes twisted) sex, gore and violence (Quoted from the back cover). I'll admit, this warning almost scared me off. I'm really glad it didn't, although I would suggest you not play the audio version in front of your pastor, priest or rabbi.
So thank you Mr. Redford and Ms. Stone for this great book! I look forward to the rest of the story.
Mike Siedschlag
April 4, 2015
(I received a free audible copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
When reviewing books I’ve listened to or read for that purpose, I usually sleep on it and start fresh in the morning with a few phrases that immediately come to mind. This one has taken two days to filter through my thoughts. I found that Number of the Beast seems to be the hardest one to review.
Not that it is a bad book and I’m searching for a way to make it seem good. On the contrary, it is a very, very good book. It is very well written, with non-static, self-aware characters.
I think it simply took my breath away. I went into this listen after having read/listen to a lengthy list of either light-hearted or YA books for the past few months. Number of the Beast reminded me that I do enjoy purely adult fiction.
That is what this is, adult and dark and disturbing. I was disturbed in ways I haven’t been since opening my very first Stephen King back in high school. If that is what you are looking for, please pick this up. Good writing is getting hard to find.
However, if you offend easy, have no interest in graphic language, sex and violence, simply walk away.
When reviewing books I’ve listened to or read for that purpose, I usually sleep on it and start fresh in the morning with a few phrases that immediately come to mind. This one has taken two days to filter through my thoughts. I found that Number of the Beast seems to be the hardest one to review.
Not that it is a bad book and I’m searching for a way to make it seem good. On the contrary, it is a very, very good book. It is very well written, with non-static, self-aware characters.
I think it simply took my breath away. I went into this listen after having read/listen to a lengthy list of either light-hearted or YA books for the past few months. Number of the Beast reminded me that I do enjoy purely adult fiction.
That is what this is, adult and dark and disturbing. I was disturbed in ways I haven’t been since opening my very first Stephen King back in high school. If that is what you are looking for, please pick this up. Good writing is getting hard to find.
However, if you offend easy, have no interest in graphic language, sex and violence, simply walk away.
November 24, 2014
I received an electronic copy of this book in exchange for a review.
I'm not sure how I feel about this book. It's about a kind of armageddon, with destined paladins arrayed against vile cannabilistic beasts. And all taking place side by side with the normal world and a young woman who hears voices and is pregnant with her first child.
I'm at once disgusted by the acts of the beasts and some of the really horrific descriptions of the things they've done -- and the implications for the world, and at the same time, wanting to know what happens to the heroine and her friends. The main characters are vividly real and I certainly care about what happens to them, so it's good writing, but I can't come to terms with the subject matter. Or the fact that this is just part one and thus leaves everything unresolved.
I'm divided about this one. It's a good book, but not for me.
I'm not sure how I feel about this book. It's about a kind of armageddon, with destined paladins arrayed against vile cannabilistic beasts. And all taking place side by side with the normal world and a young woman who hears voices and is pregnant with her first child.
I'm at once disgusted by the acts of the beasts and some of the really horrific descriptions of the things they've done -- and the implications for the world, and at the same time, wanting to know what happens to the heroine and her friends. The main characters are vividly real and I certainly care about what happens to them, so it's good writing, but I can't come to terms with the subject matter. Or the fact that this is just part one and thus leaves everything unresolved.
I'm divided about this one. It's a good book, but not for me.
July 15, 2015
Firstly, I want to thank Mr. Redford for giving me a copy of the book.
**Thank you!**
Okay, now for my review.
Number of the Beast: Paladin Cycle, Book One did start off very slightly slow, but it didn't take long at all to "take off" and get really interesting. After I got to know the characters a little bit (their backgrounds and motivations), now I can hardly wait to find out what happens to them in the next book! It got pretty graphic, so if you are easily offended by bad language, violence, and/or graphically described sexual situations, then you might not enjoy this book as much as I did. This book was right up my alley, though, and I recommend it to anyone who likes horror, fantasy, mysticism, historical/biblical references, and alternate dimensions.
**Thank you!**
Okay, now for my review.
Number of the Beast: Paladin Cycle, Book One did start off very slightly slow, but it didn't take long at all to "take off" and get really interesting. After I got to know the characters a little bit (their backgrounds and motivations), now I can hardly wait to find out what happens to them in the next book! It got pretty graphic, so if you are easily offended by bad language, violence, and/or graphically described sexual situations, then you might not enjoy this book as much as I did. This book was right up my alley, though, and I recommend it to anyone who likes horror, fantasy, mysticism, historical/biblical references, and alternate dimensions.
August 19, 2015
I was given a free audio copy in exchange for an honest review.
This took me a while to get through because it was my first audio book and I discovered I much prefer reading books myself!
That being said, and trying to avoid letting that affect my review, I will say that I enjoyed the story a great deal. It tittilated all of my senses I think! Yes, there were some heavy spots in the gore or sex department, but I feel that it fit to express the true nature of certain characters and creatures.
I felt sucked in to the world and empathized with the characters and I have no doubt I will be following this series to find out what becomes of Amy, Shane and Tobias!
This took me a while to get through because it was my first audio book and I discovered I much prefer reading books myself!
That being said, and trying to avoid letting that affect my review, I will say that I enjoyed the story a great deal. It tittilated all of my senses I think! Yes, there were some heavy spots in the gore or sex department, but I feel that it fit to express the true nature of certain characters and creatures.
I felt sucked in to the world and empathized with the characters and I have no doubt I will be following this series to find out what becomes of Amy, Shane and Tobias!
July 2, 2015
Awesome start to a new Adult Series! Many thanks to the co-authors for giving me a chance to read their awesome novel! I have no problem with the YA Novels, but when I was younger all the heroes and heroines were adults, I kind of feel left out now that they are all teens. "Number of the Beast: Paladin Cycle, Book One" is a very nice mix of genres with a quick pace and interesting situations. I don't like giving spoilers in a review so I will just say I am Definitely looking forward to Book Two and highly recommend it to other adult readers of horror/fantasy/apocalyptic novels, you won't be disappointed.
February 17, 2015
Sensational!
Something is going down in Texas and it may be the end of the world as we know it. Powerful forces are at work to bring a cataclysm that will put Sodom and Gomorrah to shame.
This book was phenomenal. I couldn't put it down! A perfect match for anyone who enjoys science fiction and fantasy. The apocalyptic feel is just what the masses have ordered. This story pulls your emotions right to the surface. I am simply on edge waiting for the next installment.
*I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Something is going down in Texas and it may be the end of the world as we know it. Powerful forces are at work to bring a cataclysm that will put Sodom and Gomorrah to shame.
This book was phenomenal. I couldn't put it down! A perfect match for anyone who enjoys science fiction and fantasy. The apocalyptic feel is just what the masses have ordered. This story pulls your emotions right to the surface. I am simply on edge waiting for the next installment.
*I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
June 18, 2015
A descriptive and interesting dark fantasy / horror.
Once you get used to jumping from one characters thread to anothers, the story flows well.
I'm looking forward to seeing how things pan out in the next book.
However, whereas most serial books I've read have some sort of completion or conclusion as an ending, this one just stopped, in what felt like the middle of nowhere.
Thank you, Max Redford, for gifting me an ecopy of the book
Once you get used to jumping from one characters thread to anothers, the story flows well.
I'm looking forward to seeing how things pan out in the next book.
However, whereas most serial books I've read have some sort of completion or conclusion as an ending, this one just stopped, in what felt like the middle of nowhere.
Thank you, Max Redford, for gifting me an ecopy of the book
March 30, 2015
Good but slow
This book was hard to get into. I was overwhelmed with the way the Paladins spoke, at first. It really made it hard to follow with an audio book. One the story progressed and I was finally into to the "meat" of the tale, I found that it was hard to stop reading.
I am looking forward to seeing where the characters go and what they'll do, in the next book.
This book was hard to get into. I was overwhelmed with the way the Paladins spoke, at first. It really made it hard to follow with an audio book. One the story progressed and I was finally into to the "meat" of the tale, I found that it was hard to stop reading.
I am looking forward to seeing where the characters go and what they'll do, in the next book.
June 8, 2015
Every single time I picked up this book I did not want to put it down. I adored it. It was hard at first to follow jumping from character to character only to find that so much is happening at once it became second nature. Everything about this was appealing and enjoyable.
June 16, 2015
It was a really slow start. It seemed like I was reading two different stories. Once the stories started to cross over it was intriguing. I did enjoy it and really liked the main character Amy. She was self aware. I would be willing to read the rest of the series to see where it goes.
April 21, 2015
An exciting and riveting page turner that has everything magic, paladins, love , sex, mythical beasts, and a whole realm of gods & demigoddesses. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
August 5, 2015
Overall 3 Stars
Performance 3 Stars
Story 3 Stars
"Don't mind cliff hangars but I do like SOME closure"
What did you like best about Number of the Beast? What did you like least?
I liked the fact that this book crosses into several different genres so there is something for just about everyone, but I didn't like the fact that not only was there no closure for any part of the story line, but the author uses the epilogue to open up a new twist that has no resolution. The story kind of drags in places, but then in others there is quite a lot of action.
There are a couple of really good fight scenes so I did enjoy that.
Would you be willing to try another book from Max Redford and Lita Stone ? Why or why not?
I don't really know. For the time being I would not try another book simply because the sequel is not available as an audio book. If I were reading a physical book or an ebook I don't really think I would persist through it if it was like this one. It would most likely end up in my small, rarely used DNF list. As an audio book I believe I would finish it eventually.
What did you like about the performance? What did you dislike?
Ian Murray did have some good voices for the characters including the godlike Isaac. His voices are all distinctive and his female voices are all very believable. However, I felt like the narrator was a good part of the reason that the book dragged so much. I realize the book is set in a small Texas town, but that doesn't mean Mr Murray can't pick up the pace of his narration.
Could you see Number of the Beast being made into a movie or a TV series? Who should the stars be?
I don't really see this book as movie or TV series material. I certain would not watch it if it were turned into a movie or TV show.
Any additional comments?
Perhaps it is because this book crosses so many genres that I had a difficult time with it. As I said above, I don't really think it would have been any better for me if I had been reading a physical book. If I had been I probably would not have finished it. It certainly would have scored higher for me if there had been at least SOME kind of closure before the cliff hangars. Even a first novel in a series should have some feeling of finality in it. Of course, this tends to happen a lot in book series which is one of the reasons I don't buy books in a series unless there are at least two, and preferably three, books available at the time of purchase.
I received this book from the author in exchange for a fair review!
Performance 3 Stars
Story 3 Stars
"Don't mind cliff hangars but I do like SOME closure"
What did you like best about Number of the Beast? What did you like least?
I liked the fact that this book crosses into several different genres so there is something for just about everyone, but I didn't like the fact that not only was there no closure for any part of the story line, but the author uses the epilogue to open up a new twist that has no resolution. The story kind of drags in places, but then in others there is quite a lot of action.
There are a couple of really good fight scenes so I did enjoy that.
Would you be willing to try another book from Max Redford and Lita Stone ? Why or why not?
I don't really know. For the time being I would not try another book simply because the sequel is not available as an audio book. If I were reading a physical book or an ebook I don't really think I would persist through it if it was like this one. It would most likely end up in my small, rarely used DNF list. As an audio book I believe I would finish it eventually.
What did you like about the performance? What did you dislike?
Ian Murray did have some good voices for the characters including the godlike Isaac. His voices are all distinctive and his female voices are all very believable. However, I felt like the narrator was a good part of the reason that the book dragged so much. I realize the book is set in a small Texas town, but that doesn't mean Mr Murray can't pick up the pace of his narration.
Could you see Number of the Beast being made into a movie or a TV series? Who should the stars be?
I don't really see this book as movie or TV series material. I certain would not watch it if it were turned into a movie or TV show.
Any additional comments?
Perhaps it is because this book crosses so many genres that I had a difficult time with it. As I said above, I don't really think it would have been any better for me if I had been reading a physical book. If I had been I probably would not have finished it. It certainly would have scored higher for me if there had been at least SOME kind of closure before the cliff hangars. Even a first novel in a series should have some feeling of finality in it. Of course, this tends to happen a lot in book series which is one of the reasons I don't buy books in a series unless there are at least two, and preferably three, books available at the time of purchase.
I received this book from the author in exchange for a fair review!
May 14, 2015
This book for me was okay. It wasn't great though.
The characters were alright but didn't feel developed well enough. The love between Amy and Shane just didn't feel right to me. It didn't feel real. That is probably because we didn't get to see it develop. We only got a few snippets of how they cane to be together.
The plot was good and developed well but it still felt lacking somehow. The world building was exceptional. The world building is the reason I will be reading the rest of the series.
I found it slow in the beginning and hard to read but it did pick up. By the end of the book I was thoroughly engrossed in the story. I wanted more now.
I received a copy free from the authors for an honest review.
The characters were alright but didn't feel developed well enough. The love between Amy and Shane just didn't feel right to me. It didn't feel real. That is probably because we didn't get to see it develop. We only got a few snippets of how they cane to be together.
The plot was good and developed well but it still felt lacking somehow. The world building was exceptional. The world building is the reason I will be reading the rest of the series.
I found it slow in the beginning and hard to read but it did pick up. By the end of the book I was thoroughly engrossed in the story. I wanted more now.
I received a copy free from the authors for an honest review.
May 13, 2018
This was a very interesting book to read because basically the authors threw several diverse lines of thought together to produce this book. There was parallel universe's, time travel, mythological evil beast,end of the world, and present day realities. The heroes basically were drawn from different aspects of life progress. There was a very young priest or prophet destined to destroy the beast, there was a very angry normal male who knew nothing about what was to happen, but was in love with the object of the beast's hunt. There were also supporting characters who made this story work. The beast's work was very graphic with the author pointing out the most minute details of it. There was plenty of action, love interests, sex, and climatic scenes to keep the reader engaged.
April 6, 2015
This one was a struggle getting through it. Some parts would draw you in and then the authors would jump to a part that was confusing. I think that the basis of the story should have been built a little better at the beginning in order to build the characters and help settle one into the story line.
February 13, 2020
This was a fun and interesting book with many ideas combined into one, it was worth reading despite winning this on Goodreads!
July 23, 2020
It's an okay novel. It's rushed in places, and I found I didn't really care much for either the protagonist Shane or the antagonist Isaac. Read archaic and kind of like a straight, white boy wet fantasy. Kind of hard for me to describe, though, but it wasn't 100% enjoyable. It could have stood a few more rounds of editing and revising.
September 1, 2015
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I usually don't do R4Rs because too many times I got stuck reading horribly written books that were a waste of my time; so I was somewhat hesitant when I saw the request for reviews for Number of the Beast: Paladin Cycle, Book One, but the story synopsis seemed interesting and the book trailer was well put together, so I decided to contact author Max Redford to request a review copy. As I began reading Number of the Beast, I was relieved and excited to discover that this was an R4R I was actually going to enjoy.
In Number of the Beast, said beast, Isaac, arrives in Texas to mate with Amy and bring about the end of the world as we know it. Sent to stop him is Atticus, a brave but clumsy and somewhat inept knight from the ancient Paladin order whose stronghold lies within the Chihuahuan Desert. Atticus, along with Amy, her boyfriend Shane and their friends, are the only ones standing in the way of Isaac's total annihilation of earth.
At over four hundred pages, it would seem an epic task just to read the book, but Number of the Beast is a quick read and Redford, along with co author Lita Stone, manage to never let the pacing of the novel get bogged down.
The book is full of characters, mostly well rounded and three dimensional. The one exception was Shane, a one note character whose rage seethes so close to the surface that he's the type to get angry at the drop of a penny. His short hulk out fuse was sort of a plot point, but that's all he was, angry. All the time. This, to me, cheapened the story and made the character unlikable.
The authors did well in making the characters distinct and memorable, not an easy feat when dealing with a large amount of characters, so that the reader has no trouble remembering who is who and who did what; something writers with large publishing houses and experienced editors behind them, often fail to do.
One thing I would like to have seen more of was world building. The authors made the town, Isaac's mother's lair, the Paladins' citadel all seem real, it felt like the world did not exist outside of the locations. For example, if the locations were drawn on a map, there would be large areas of blank spaces surrounding them.
In other reviews I've seen complaints about some of the dialogue, which to me was clearly the authors' intended use of an old writing device used to set apart a more cultured language (for an excellent example of how this device can be used see The Appaloosa ) In the case of Number of the Beast, I feel that Redford and Stone succeeded in getting this point across an in their use of this device.
When I started reading Number of the Beast, I thought I would end up rating it with three if not four stars. I changed my mind only when I got to the final battle between the group of heroes and the nefarious beast, Isaac. For over 400 pages, the story promises an epic battle of good versus evil. However, when we get to the actual battle promised to the reader, the fight fizzles to an anticlimax in just a few short paragraphs, leaving the reader unfulfilled. I found myself turning back the pages to see if I missed something. Unfortunately, I did not. Considering that this book is the first in a series, perhaps the promise of this epic battle will be fulfilled in a later novel, and I will add some starts to my current rating of this book. But, since book one is all I currently have to go on at the moment, my rating must remain at 2 stars.
Overall, Number of the Beast is an enjoyable reading experience, and I would recommend it to urban fantasy and horror fans as well as to general readers. I definitely plan on purchasing the next book in the Paladin Cycle as soon as it becomes available.
I usually don't do R4Rs because too many times I got stuck reading horribly written books that were a waste of my time; so I was somewhat hesitant when I saw the request for reviews for Number of the Beast: Paladin Cycle, Book One, but the story synopsis seemed interesting and the book trailer was well put together, so I decided to contact author Max Redford to request a review copy. As I began reading Number of the Beast, I was relieved and excited to discover that this was an R4R I was actually going to enjoy.
In Number of the Beast, said beast, Isaac, arrives in Texas to mate with Amy and bring about the end of the world as we know it. Sent to stop him is Atticus, a brave but clumsy and somewhat inept knight from the ancient Paladin order whose stronghold lies within the Chihuahuan Desert. Atticus, along with Amy, her boyfriend Shane and their friends, are the only ones standing in the way of Isaac's total annihilation of earth.
At over four hundred pages, it would seem an epic task just to read the book, but Number of the Beast is a quick read and Redford, along with co author Lita Stone, manage to never let the pacing of the novel get bogged down.
The book is full of characters, mostly well rounded and three dimensional. The one exception was Shane, a one note character whose rage seethes so close to the surface that he's the type to get angry at the drop of a penny. His short hulk out fuse was sort of a plot point, but that's all he was, angry. All the time. This, to me, cheapened the story and made the character unlikable.
The authors did well in making the characters distinct and memorable, not an easy feat when dealing with a large amount of characters, so that the reader has no trouble remembering who is who and who did what; something writers with large publishing houses and experienced editors behind them, often fail to do.
One thing I would like to have seen more of was world building. The authors made the town, Isaac's mother's lair, the Paladins' citadel all seem real, it felt like the world did not exist outside of the locations. For example, if the locations were drawn on a map, there would be large areas of blank spaces surrounding them.
In other reviews I've seen complaints about some of the dialogue, which to me was clearly the authors' intended use of an old writing device used to set apart a more cultured language (for an excellent example of how this device can be used see The Appaloosa ) In the case of Number of the Beast, I feel that Redford and Stone succeeded in getting this point across an in their use of this device.
When I started reading Number of the Beast, I thought I would end up rating it with three if not four stars. I changed my mind only when I got to the final battle between the group of heroes and the nefarious beast, Isaac. For over 400 pages, the story promises an epic battle of good versus evil. However, when we get to the actual battle promised to the reader, the fight fizzles to an anticlimax in just a few short paragraphs, leaving the reader unfulfilled. I found myself turning back the pages to see if I missed something. Unfortunately, I did not. Considering that this book is the first in a series, perhaps the promise of this epic battle will be fulfilled in a later novel, and I will add some starts to my current rating of this book. But, since book one is all I currently have to go on at the moment, my rating must remain at 2 stars.
Overall, Number of the Beast is an enjoyable reading experience, and I would recommend it to urban fantasy and horror fans as well as to general readers. I definitely plan on purchasing the next book in the Paladin Cycle as soon as it becomes available.
September 2, 2015
I want to start off by saying thank you to Max & Lita for sharing their book with me. I also want to again apologize to them for the length of time it took me to do. They know the reason(s) behind that, and I appreciate their understanding with my situation.
Now to the book:
First let's just say I'm NOT a big mythology or cosmos fan. I thought I would struggle with that in this book, I did not. It wasn't over the top for me get aggravated with it as sometimes books can do that. I'm trying to give my review without giving away too many thing in it. But there are some small what I feel are non story ruining tid bits for you reading this review. There is 1 that flat out says a large detail that happened in the book. So, take the review for what you want to. The "gems" start coming out when I discuss "Lynn". So if you don't want to know that gem, skip that part. The rest is mostly on character value and the book overall. Only one small hint of spoilers towards the end. But, by far I have kept out anything direct as best as possible. If I did a bad job at it, please let me know where I went wrong/too far, so I won't make that mistake in the future. =)
I enjoyed the layout of the story, the way it flowed. The introduction of characters blended in well. But I DO have a bone to pick about that as well. First, I don't think the things that happened on the rig really had much meaning to the story overall. Maybe he could've just been sent home because work was done, not having all the other mush in it. There simply nothing of value there other then giving some of Shane's past history on how he handles things. The biggest problem I had was Lynn. Lynn came outta NO WHERE! She simply was inserted in the story in short order. I'm seeing this guy go nuts, tearing up gas station, cars, etc to "sniff" out this woman at the store. And then she's simply his. Boom! Bam! Done! Now we're at her house and Isaac simply slaughters her family. And then they leave. To me there was NO backstory to her! NO buildup to her! It bugged me that she was his twin/mate and they simply went into that aspect. Lynn suddenly forgetting her life. But she would have been a much better character HAD we HAD SOME kind backstory on her prior to her being taken. I think she would've been more empathetic had that happened. It all works out anyway. I'm just saying I wish there was more of Lynn's pre-taking life told. I really enjoyed getting to the nuts and bolts of book.
I also wished there was more to Abe. There was this build up to this guy you think is going to play into the story much more then he did. He had some great qualities that totally fit into what was going on here. But, he wasn't anywhere near it at the end. I was waiting for him to jump outta some tree and fight. I think his character could've played more into it. Maybe he will come the next book. He was a very good character, kind lovable too. I hope Abe is back in book 2 and get's his fair time in. :)
When shit hit the fan at Roxy's, it was on! That's where the speed ride rushes you forward reading to the end. You HAVE to know what happens to all of them! It's a thrill ride and craziness unfolding around them at same time. Things come to a head-literally! And, yet, is it over? You don't know because what happens to Amy? And just WHERE did that guy go with the shrunken heads? This story is far from over.
Overall the story is great. Sadly it leaves you asking questions. Meaning you have to wait for the next book. So this is NOT a stand alone by any means if you dare want those answers you will be buying the 2nd book when it comes up. And to which I can't wait to read! There's is an Excerpt to it given in the Kindle format, I don't know about paperback? So, you'll get a short glimpse into what happens next.... more goodness!
Now to the book:
First let's just say I'm NOT a big mythology or cosmos fan. I thought I would struggle with that in this book, I did not. It wasn't over the top for me get aggravated with it as sometimes books can do that. I'm trying to give my review without giving away too many thing in it. But there are some small what I feel are non story ruining tid bits for you reading this review. There is 1 that flat out says a large detail that happened in the book. So, take the review for what you want to. The "gems" start coming out when I discuss "Lynn". So if you don't want to know that gem, skip that part. The rest is mostly on character value and the book overall. Only one small hint of spoilers towards the end. But, by far I have kept out anything direct as best as possible. If I did a bad job at it, please let me know where I went wrong/too far, so I won't make that mistake in the future. =)
I enjoyed the layout of the story, the way it flowed. The introduction of characters blended in well. But I DO have a bone to pick about that as well. First, I don't think the things that happened on the rig really had much meaning to the story overall. Maybe he could've just been sent home because work was done, not having all the other mush in it. There simply nothing of value there other then giving some of Shane's past history on how he handles things. The biggest problem I had was Lynn. Lynn came outta NO WHERE! She simply was inserted in the story in short order. I'm seeing this guy go nuts, tearing up gas station, cars, etc to "sniff" out this woman at the store. And then she's simply his. Boom! Bam! Done! Now we're at her house and Isaac simply slaughters her family. And then they leave. To me there was NO backstory to her! NO buildup to her! It bugged me that she was his twin/mate and they simply went into that aspect. Lynn suddenly forgetting her life. But she would have been a much better character HAD we HAD SOME kind backstory on her prior to her being taken. I think she would've been more empathetic had that happened. It all works out anyway. I'm just saying I wish there was more of Lynn's pre-taking life told. I really enjoyed getting to the nuts and bolts of book.
I also wished there was more to Abe. There was this build up to this guy you think is going to play into the story much more then he did. He had some great qualities that totally fit into what was going on here. But, he wasn't anywhere near it at the end. I was waiting for him to jump outta some tree and fight. I think his character could've played more into it. Maybe he will come the next book. He was a very good character, kind lovable too. I hope Abe is back in book 2 and get's his fair time in. :)
When shit hit the fan at Roxy's, it was on! That's where the speed ride rushes you forward reading to the end. You HAVE to know what happens to all of them! It's a thrill ride and craziness unfolding around them at same time. Things come to a head-literally! And, yet, is it over? You don't know because what happens to Amy? And just WHERE did that guy go with the shrunken heads? This story is far from over.
Overall the story is great. Sadly it leaves you asking questions. Meaning you have to wait for the next book. So this is NOT a stand alone by any means if you dare want those answers you will be buying the 2nd book when it comes up. And to which I can't wait to read! There's is an Excerpt to it given in the Kindle format, I don't know about paperback? So, you'll get a short glimpse into what happens next.... more goodness!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2015
I received an electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and I would like to thank the authors for that opportunity. My reviews are honest, if not always flattering, but keep in mind that this is only MY opinion.
I had a hard time getting interested in the book in the beginning because nothing seemed connected, it was like three very different stories. However, I had promised a review so I trudged on and as the stories came closer to connecting I found that I was actually interested to find out what happens with the main characters, even while being thoroughly disgusted by the actions of the beasts.
Unfortunately I was left with more questions than answers as there was no resolution to the story. This is book number one, though, and one can only hope to find that resolution in the next book. While I did find interest in the main characters I'm not sure that I'll find answers to the lingering questions that I have, because I'm undecided about reading this series further. Normally if I've read one book in a series I have to read all of them (it's just my thing lol) but I'm undecided whether my curiosity about the MCs is enough to continue the series.
I had a hard time getting interested in the book in the beginning because nothing seemed connected, it was like three very different stories. However, I had promised a review so I trudged on and as the stories came closer to connecting I found that I was actually interested to find out what happens with the main characters, even while being thoroughly disgusted by the actions of the beasts.
Unfortunately I was left with more questions than answers as there was no resolution to the story. This is book number one, though, and one can only hope to find that resolution in the next book. While I did find interest in the main characters I'm not sure that I'll find answers to the lingering questions that I have, because I'm undecided about reading this series further. Normally if I've read one book in a series I have to read all of them (it's just my thing lol) but I'm undecided whether my curiosity about the MCs is enough to continue the series.
April 16, 2016
I almost feel like this one would have been better for me to read the physical book instead of listening to the audiobook. It was a good story but it took awhile for me to understand. It's frustrating at the end because I want to know where it goes next. I'm not a huge fan of cliffhangers. I didn't feel a deep connection to the characters with the exception of Amy, and maybe Carmen a little too. I hope the next book helps me understand more about the background and why things are the way they are. I want to like Shane, but so far he has just made me angry. Overall the story was good, I just think I would do better reading a physical copy, so I can go back and reread some parts again.
I didn't love this narrator. He left me feeling a bit anxious. All the yelling and deep voices. He was good at those things, I'm just not sure my brain would've read the physical book the same way.
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of Audiobook Blast.
I didn't love this narrator. He left me feeling a bit anxious. All the yelling and deep voices. He was good at those things, I'm just not sure my brain would've read the physical book the same way.
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of Audiobook Blast.
April 14, 2016
I'm really not sure how to review or rate this book. I listened to the Audible version, and I have to say that the narrator (Ian Murray) was EXCELLENT - probably the best I've heard so far. He gave such vast differentiation between characters - ranging from young and innocent to beastly/evil/creepy. The voice of one character chilled me to my bones.
The story itself is what I find hard to rate. On one hand, it is extremely graphic, profane, disturbing, disgusting, and I felt like a child reading something I shouldn't be. If it was a movie, I think it would be rated NC-17. On the other hand, it gripped me and made me curious what will happen next. There were multiple story lines, which got a little confusing at some points, but not too bad. Some of the characters were pretty well developed, some needed a little more. I thought the pace of the story was pretty good, though some reviewers called it slow. In the end, I would probably read the next book in the series.
The story itself is what I find hard to rate. On one hand, it is extremely graphic, profane, disturbing, disgusting, and I felt like a child reading something I shouldn't be. If it was a movie, I think it would be rated NC-17. On the other hand, it gripped me and made me curious what will happen next. There were multiple story lines, which got a little confusing at some points, but not too bad. Some of the characters were pretty well developed, some needed a little more. I thought the pace of the story was pretty good, though some reviewers called it slow. In the end, I would probably read the next book in the series.
February 10, 2016
I didn't win this book from Goodreads First Reads. The author sent me this book, for free, in exchange for a review. This book actually came with a warning on the back for mature content. While I am not easily offended, I have to say, please, please, please heed the warning if you are easily offended. The only thing about the book that bothered me was the excessive use of the "F bomb". This book covers several different genres: fantasy, thriller, horror, and romance. I enjoyed this book, but I also felt disturbed at times while reading it. It was really well written. The story was told from three different points of view, but they all meshed well together. I also have to say that this book did not, in any way, shape, or form, have anything to do with the Bible or Christianity.
March 18, 2016
Number of the Beast: Paladin Cycle, Book One
First.r st Ii want to say this is turning into a really good story . You will love the characters and the plot. You will read until you FORGET there WILL BE AN ENDING. BOOK 1 , came to an end to quickly for me. Really want to see what happens next. OK... I have to say..yes this is a good Supernatural Thriller. Hard to tell you what it's about without giving away the story but real quickly I have to say ..the OLD GODS THEMSELVES ARE FIGHTING FOR SUPREMACY and even the plain folks in the story find they too are really tied to this town because of their family bloodlines. This town in TEXAS IS A BATTLEGROUND set to happen in the future only THE DAY HAS COME AND THE FUTURE IS NOW.!... I RECOMMEND.
First.r st Ii want to say this is turning into a really good story . You will love the characters and the plot. You will read until you FORGET there WILL BE AN ENDING. BOOK 1 , came to an end to quickly for me. Really want to see what happens next. OK... I have to say..yes this is a good Supernatural Thriller. Hard to tell you what it's about without giving away the story but real quickly I have to say ..the OLD GODS THEMSELVES ARE FIGHTING FOR SUPREMACY and even the plain folks in the story find they too are really tied to this town because of their family bloodlines. This town in TEXAS IS A BATTLEGROUND set to happen in the future only THE DAY HAS COME AND THE FUTURE IS NOW.!... I RECOMMEND.
December 30, 2015
I wasn't sure I would be able to get into this at first. Its an interesting new idea with new worlds to get used to. I don't normally read the plotline of a book so I was a bit surprised that it was fantasy. I really shouldn't have been by the title. Anyway, as the story progressed, I found myself engrossed in the characters and the storyline. I do think that Shane, the main male character, is a complete asshole and does not deserve Amy but I am giving nothing away from the plot by giving that opinion. I look forward to the next in the series.
I was given this book in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
I was given this book in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
June 16, 2015
I had a hard time finishing this book.It's full of gorey details,sick sex and vulgar language.If you like that,this one's for you.There seemed to be 3 storylines going on through out....I'm still not sure.Ian Murray was a fine choice for the narration.He can be beastly or innocent,whichever you may need.
"I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author in exchange for an unbiased review via AudiobookBlast dot com."
"I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author in exchange for an unbiased review via AudiobookBlast dot com."
May 23, 2015
I received an ebook of this story to give an honest review.
It was slow to start, and sometimes i had trouble following which part went with which.I would get into a part then it would switch over to another. But i stuck with it and im glad that i did cause the more i read the more i got into it. really cant wait to find out what will happen in next book.
It was slow to start, and sometimes i had trouble following which part went with which.I would get into a part then it would switch over to another. But i stuck with it and im glad that i did cause the more i read the more i got into it. really cant wait to find out what will happen in next book.
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