What do you think?
Rate this book
Redeye
Henry Donner had heard of people avoiding a flight because of premonitions of doom, but he never suspected that the opposite may also be some people are drawn to a doomed plane because deep down, they hunger for the end. Worse, it may be their collective, suicidal will that makes it happen. Now, only as redeye flight two-ninety lifts off does Donner realize the the airliner's final destination isn't New York, but oblivion, and he's the only one who can do anything about it-- if, that is, he can get past the demonic forces on board to watch it happen.
126 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2015
5 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
September 12, 2015
Originally reviewed on LauraofLurking
Strong language: mild
Drugs: no
Violence: yes
Sexual content: implied
I received a free copy of this book in return for an unbiased review
Disclaimer: I have known this author personally for several years. I have seen their work grow and change over this time and enjoyed watching their journey. I have not let this affect my review, I have treated this book as if from a stranger to the best of my ability
Henry Donner is a man bogged down by guilt from his past yet trying to pave the way for his future. Or is he? Is there something deep inside his subconscious drawing him into the darkness?
Five months before, his partner was killed in a car crash with him at the wheel. He has questioned himself every day since, but now he believes he’s made a step into the future by booking an interview for a job in New York, well away from his current life and its bindings. As he arrives at the airport, however, he notices the departure lounge for the flight is largely empty despite the stewardess’s claims they are overbooked. Even as he watches he sees other people dash away from the plane for reasons they appear to have suddenly remembered. The other passengers appear in a trance, appearing hopeless and not paying attention to anything.
Once he’s on the plane, telling himself his unease is nothing but nerves about the interview and the uncertainty of moving forward in his life, Henry loses what control he had over his life when it becomes clear that this plane is not a normal plane heading for a normal destination. Once he’s in the air there’s no way to get off. There is a distinct, yet undefinable, wrongness to everything around him. He seems to be the only one who can see this. Can he overcome his own stagnation to protect himself and others?
Because it really is true, he thought. Some people do sense the bad juju of a doomed airplane. They sense it and they turn back. Like the woman in the white pantsuit. Or the mother of the college guy. Or like any number of the people missing from all those empty seats on this supposedly overbooked flight.
Set during the 80s, in the time of programmers using punch cards to do their work, this had a retro feel to it and works fluidly to draw the plot forward in a way that would be impossible if set in modern times. Despite the fact I wasn’t born until 91 I never felt at a loss or confused due to the time difference.
This book had a good, consistent pace giving the feeling of being drawn ever forwards, ever towards a destination that seems increasingly dark and dangerous, impossible to escape. As the story progresses it includes multiple flashbacks of Henry’s life, telling the story of what led him to this point. Some details of the past are given in extremely inventive methods, leaving both Henry and the reader wondering if he is hallucinating or if he really is hearing his deepest secrets from people who shouldn’t even know his name.
The writing reminded me of the style of Stephen King in The Green Mile in places. It had minor issues, but overall was a real page turner.
The book made good use of symbolism and imagery. I particularly enjoyed the use of metaphors, showing his distracted mind at some times, and the extreme clarity of the fight or flight instinct at others.
Monstrous shapes lumbered like dinosaurs, roaring with the constant drone of idling jet engines
The books supernatural elements are introduced slowly and subtly. At first they appeared to be merely coincidences or a case of being sat awkwardly next to the talkative stranger with shifty eyes. Once the plane is in the air though there is no question that he is not imagining this. I found the stewardesses to be particularly creepy, the standard plastic, polite smiles found on most people in these professions covered the darkness and danger that lurked in these women.
The book was light on dialogue, except for the flashbacks and internal monologue, leaving Henry completely isolated, with only his own will to lead him on the right path. This also left the reader with only his perspective to go by.
The contrasting themes of guilt and hope, unchangeable destiny and free will spun the tale nicely, always leaving you on your toes as to where the story would go next. I liked seeing his internal battle displayed so nakedly before us. This kept the story very human even when dealing with less than human element.
“Unlike everyone else on this plane, you persist in looking forward as well as back. You continue to believe in something called the future. Some place where you can outrun your guilt. Where hope is more than a foolish dream. Where you might still be able to find peace of mind, and even forgiveness.”
The ending was interesting and drew me in even more, always wondering what the truth was and who told it. It left a satisfied feeling of completion, yet many questions that were never quite answered. Questions that will keep you thinking in the quiet moments of the night. I didn’t see it coming, making it all the more enjoyable.
Time is just a carousel that goes round and round. It seems like an endless journey to the people on it, but it’s really a cycle, spinning and looping back over and over.
I thoroughly look forward to reading more from this author.
What would you do if you found yourself on a plane where you were the only one who didn’t want to die?
The 411
I loved the feel of this book from the start. The twisting themes of inevitability, your will alone being enough to make something happen, and the threads of hope and guilt that were bound so tightly together you could hardly pull them apart.
The writing was deep with metaphors yet read smoothly and makes you want to not put it down. At times the supernatural elements came in a little bit suddenly without full explanation, but patients and a couple more pages rewarded you with the light.
I give this book 4.5 stars, adjusted to 5 for reviewing purposes
July 25, 2016
"I wanted to be an astronaut"
Have you ever sat in the airport waiting area, looking around at the other passengers about to travel with you on the flight? Have you ever had that sinking feeling, that something wasn't quite right? Henry Donner is a man full of remorse over the death of his wife some months before. He is leaving for New York, a job interview and, he hopes, a fresh start. But something feels wrong.This beautifully written and atmospheric story captures his fears exactly, then flies onwards into a tale more than worthy of the Twilight Zone.
The production is perfectly executed, with the excellent narration of Steve White recounting Donner's observations and story whilst Jeannie Lin provides the varied female voices throughout. There is also the tiniest hint of music, not intrusive but heightening the tension at beginning and end.
Without the free gift of a copy of this book, via Audiobook Boom, sent to me in exchange for an honest review, I might never have discovered this author. Thank you Red Eye is a joy to hear. I have never, previously, read any of Norman Lipper's work but will definitely be seeking out more now. A definite recommendation to all who enjoy well crafted ideas with visuals which will linger long after the book is finished.
But probably best not taken along as your in flight reading
Have you ever sat in the airport waiting area, looking around at the other passengers about to travel with you on the flight? Have you ever had that sinking feeling, that something wasn't quite right? Henry Donner is a man full of remorse over the death of his wife some months before. He is leaving for New York, a job interview and, he hopes, a fresh start. But something feels wrong.This beautifully written and atmospheric story captures his fears exactly, then flies onwards into a tale more than worthy of the Twilight Zone.
The production is perfectly executed, with the excellent narration of Steve White recounting Donner's observations and story whilst Jeannie Lin provides the varied female voices throughout. There is also the tiniest hint of music, not intrusive but heightening the tension at beginning and end.
Without the free gift of a copy of this book, via Audiobook Boom, sent to me in exchange for an honest review, I might never have discovered this author. Thank you Red Eye is a joy to hear. I have never, previously, read any of Norman Lipper's work but will definitely be seeking out more now. A definite recommendation to all who enjoy well crafted ideas with visuals which will linger long after the book is finished.
But probably best not taken along as your in flight reading
February 6, 2016
There is nothing better than reading a story where your expectations about the plot, characters and anticipating the ending change after each and every chapter. I would never have expected the ultimate ending from the initial premise. Although there are many authors who can give you a plot with a few exciting points on the way to a great ending, the primary reason I am drawn to G. Norman Lippert's stories is that he makes the entire ride from beginning to end the thrill we seek as readers. I loved this book and highly recommend it to anyone seeking an exciting and fresh writing style, great adventure and well developed, passionate characters.
August 20, 2016
Note: In exchange for an unbiased review, the author, publisher, and/or narrator were kind enough to provide an audio version of this book at no charge via AudiobookBlast.
This was different but in an interesting way. It's the first book I've ever listened to by this author and the narrators. They (the narrators) did a good job of bringing the characters to life. The author did a good job of keeping things moving along at the right pace. This was a quick listen - less than three and a half hours.
This was different but in an interesting way. It's the first book I've ever listened to by this author and the narrators. They (the narrators) did a good job of bringing the characters to life. The author did a good job of keeping things moving along at the right pace. This was a quick listen - less than three and a half hours.
August 28, 2016
So, until about half way through, after getting through what was mostly demons and death, I didn't really care for this. After that point, it took an interesting turn and the end was nice with a good last touch.
Had I gone into this expecting the demons and that type of thing, I may have enjoyed the first part a little more.
The narrator did a wonderful job with the various characters throughout the whole book.
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBoom.com
Had I gone into this expecting the demons and that type of thing, I may have enjoyed the first part a little more.
The narrator did a wonderful job with the various characters throughout the whole book.
This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBoom.com
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2016
“This audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review via Audiobook Boom.”
This story set in the 70's, is right out of either Twilight Zone or maybe Alfred Hitchcock Presents. The plane is going to the passengers final destination or is it. One man must figure it out.Unexpected ending, all I can say is WOW!!!!!!!
The narration was well done.The characters were well portrayed.
This story set in the 70's, is right out of either Twilight Zone or maybe Alfred Hitchcock Presents. The plane is going to the passengers final destination or is it. One man must figure it out.Unexpected ending, all I can say is WOW!!!!!!!
The narration was well done.The characters were well portrayed.
August 31, 2016
This was a short,fun,horror book.Henry was creeped out by the reactions people were having prior to deciding not to board the plane.He had second thoughts himself.Once on the plane he knew it was destined for tragedy. Steve White is fine as the main narrator,as is Jeanine Le as sometimes narrator.I was given this book free for an honest review.
February 12, 2020
I received a free review copy of this audio book, at my request, and am voluntarily leaving this unbiased review.
I'm not sure how to classify this book, it's not sci fi, not mystery, not fantasy, not thriller, but some combination of some of those. It made for a confusing listen
The story follows a man boarding a flight, in 1979, headed across the US. The setting is limited to the terminal and the air place (for the most part) and for a short story it does not feel confined.
The main character is really the only character. There are 1 dimensional people with whom he has limited interactions with, but really just the main character. This is actually a good thing as the story is short enough that if we had to delve into several character arcs, then it would all feel rushed. The main character is well developed and has a unique personality which is focused on a single trait, but adjusts and changes over the course of the story.
The plot is interesting enough for the format. I think it would be difficult to turn it into a full novel, without it being slow or loosing focus.
The voice narration by Steve White and Jeannie Lin is good. Steve does the bulk of the narration, being the narrator and main character. Jeannie does the female voices, which are not often. Both are good enough and neither stands out as a great or terrible actor. It's an interesting choice though. I'm used to 1 narrator or a whole team, and have never listened to a book done in this way. It was pretty good, but not awesome.
I was a little disappointed with how predictable the book was, though. Maybe elements of this have just popped up too many times for it to feel fresh. It's not completely taken from other sources, and it is put together in a specific way as to be the authors own, but enough of other sources exist in it, for it not to be surprising or new. It's what takes this from being a 5 star to a 4. It doesn't ruin it, but it meant I was just listening to find out if I was right.
Still, worth a read/listen to.
I'm not sure how to classify this book, it's not sci fi, not mystery, not fantasy, not thriller, but some combination of some of those. It made for a confusing listen
The story follows a man boarding a flight, in 1979, headed across the US. The setting is limited to the terminal and the air place (for the most part) and for a short story it does not feel confined.
The main character is really the only character. There are 1 dimensional people with whom he has limited interactions with, but really just the main character. This is actually a good thing as the story is short enough that if we had to delve into several character arcs, then it would all feel rushed. The main character is well developed and has a unique personality which is focused on a single trait, but adjusts and changes over the course of the story.
The plot is interesting enough for the format. I think it would be difficult to turn it into a full novel, without it being slow or loosing focus.
The voice narration by Steve White and Jeannie Lin is good. Steve does the bulk of the narration, being the narrator and main character. Jeannie does the female voices, which are not often. Both are good enough and neither stands out as a great or terrible actor. It's an interesting choice though. I'm used to 1 narrator or a whole team, and have never listened to a book done in this way. It was pretty good, but not awesome.
I was a little disappointed with how predictable the book was, though. Maybe elements of this have just popped up too many times for it to feel fresh. It's not completely taken from other sources, and it is put together in a specific way as to be the authors own, but enough of other sources exist in it, for it not to be surprising or new. It's what takes this from being a 5 star to a 4. It doesn't ruin it, but it meant I was just listening to find out if I was right.
Still, worth a read/listen to.
March 15, 2017
This is a unique and well-done story. It got increasing strange as the story progressed, to become darkly surreal midway through. But I was fascinated with the plot and kept going, hoping for a good payoff. And I got it! Well worth the read. The author has a good grip on language and building scenes. Felt like I was on the airplane, bizarre as his flight was. :) Will look for more from this author.
July 23, 2016
"This audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of Audiobook Blast."
It takes a little while to place all the playing pieces, but when the story starts unfolding it's a crazy ride into darkness with no place to escape to. The story keeps you guessing what the heck is happening for a while, and when you figure it out then it becomes a race against time and a story of redemption. Very well written. The ending was refreshingly unpredictable and I applaud that (don't you just hate it when you figure out the ending 3/4 of the way in?). This was my second book from G. Norman Lippert, the first being "The freezing season" which I absolutely loved, give that one a read too.
It takes a little while to place all the playing pieces, but when the story starts unfolding it's a crazy ride into darkness with no place to escape to. The story keeps you guessing what the heck is happening for a while, and when you figure it out then it becomes a race against time and a story of redemption. Very well written. The ending was refreshingly unpredictable and I applaud that (don't you just hate it when you figure out the ending 3/4 of the way in?). This was my second book from G. Norman Lippert, the first being "The freezing season" which I absolutely loved, give that one a read too.
September 9, 2016
Overall I really liked this book. It was right out of the twilight zone... trippy, eery, what-the-heck-is-going-on-ish. I wouldn't say it was suspenseful or overly scary though. What I liked most about this book is that I didn't guess the ending. There was enough foreshadowing in the details to give you an idea what might happen, but there were enough twists and turns in the story that it was never given away. I was genuinely surprised with the ending and was satisfied with the way the story was wrapped up. I would recommend this as a good, quick and fun read.
July 22, 2016
I was provided this audiobook at no charge by the author, publisher and/or narrator in exchange for an unbiased review via Audiobook Boom.
Very Trippy! I love books like this, where you feel like you just stepped into an episode of the Twilight Zone. I didn't know where the story was going at times, but that's what made it so great - when you think you have it figured out it takes a U turn in another direction.
Good book, I recommend. Everyone will enjoy this.
Very Trippy! I love books like this, where you feel like you just stepped into an episode of the Twilight Zone. I didn't know where the story was going at times, but that's what made it so great - when you think you have it figured out it takes a U turn in another direction.
Good book, I recommend. Everyone will enjoy this.
August 12, 2016
“This audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review via Audiobook Boom.”
I love plot twists all through out the book. This one had my head spinning with all the twists. Loved it! Why you have premonitions and stick to them should always be your guide. If not sure, then don't.
Characters were extremely developed and worth listening to. If you want a great read that isn't very long, this will definitely fulfill your itch.
I love plot twists all through out the book. This one had my head spinning with all the twists. Loved it! Why you have premonitions and stick to them should always be your guide. If not sure, then don't.
Characters were extremely developed and worth listening to. If you want a great read that isn't very long, this will definitely fulfill your itch.
September 12, 2015
The story moves quickly and reminded me of an episode of The Twilight Zone or The X Files.
October 10, 2015
Highly entertaining, exciting, and odd twists.
September 2, 2019
A quick read and interesting story. I enjoyed it, and the plot was pleasantly surprising.
May 22, 2016
Great book
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews