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Calling the Reaper: First Book of Purgatory
Calling the Reaper is best summarized as "The Prelude to a head-on collision of Dante's Inferno and The Hunger Games." ...Oh...I see you're still reading the description and have not ordered a copy of this book yet. This is a little awkward for me. You see normally it doesn't take anything more to convince someone to read Calling the Reaper than a reference to a classic sinister literary tome and a book that allowed teenage boys everywhere to see Jennifer Lawrence in a spandex bodysuit. Well then, It looks like you need some more convincing. Allow me to further illustrate the text in a more conventional approach.
The first instalment of Jason Pere's dark fantasy series, Purgatory.
Calling the Reaper sets the stage of the epic world imagined by the author. Readers will begin the chilling decent into the Kingdom of Death as they follow the exploits of a cast of eight magnificent warriors. You will follow the journey of each warrior as they live out their final days within the realm of man before they are condemned to die and are sentenced to everlasting torment in Purgatory.
The story is told on two levels. Readers will come to know the history and culture of each of the eight main characters but Readers will also get to peek behind the curtain and pass through the mundane into the supernatural. Readers will get fleeting glimpses into the greater mythology and theology of Purgatory as it is narrated by a chorus of several iconic and immortal characters such as War, Pride, Envy, Life and even Death himself.
Calling the Reaper is a unique and captivating story that is a new and addictive brand of Heroic Fantasy Fiction. Readers will instantly crave the next instalment of this tale from Connecticut-based author Jason Pere
The first instalment of Jason Pere's dark fantasy series, Purgatory.
Calling the Reaper sets the stage of the epic world imagined by the author. Readers will begin the chilling decent into the Kingdom of Death as they follow the exploits of a cast of eight magnificent warriors. You will follow the journey of each warrior as they live out their final days within the realm of man before they are condemned to die and are sentenced to everlasting torment in Purgatory.
The story is told on two levels. Readers will come to know the history and culture of each of the eight main characters but Readers will also get to peek behind the curtain and pass through the mundane into the supernatural. Readers will get fleeting glimpses into the greater mythology and theology of Purgatory as it is narrated by a chorus of several iconic and immortal characters such as War, Pride, Envy, Life and even Death himself.
Calling the Reaper is a unique and captivating story that is a new and addictive brand of Heroic Fantasy Fiction. Readers will instantly crave the next instalment of this tale from Connecticut-based author Jason Pere
162 pages, Paperback
First published September 26, 2015
2 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
Jason Pere
19 books179 followersJason Pere is a born-and-raised New Englander. He always had a passion for the arts and creative storytelling. At the age of thirteen, Jason took up the craft of acting for film and theatre. He pursued that interest for over a decade until refocusing his medium of expression into writing.
At first, Jason took a causal interest in writing, starting with poetry and journaling. Over time, he honed his direction and finally began writing larger works. In November of 2012, Jason self-published his first book, Modern Knighthood: Diary of a Warrior Poet.
Since then, Jason has continued writing on his own, mostly short stories and poetry. Calling the Reaper was his first experience committing to a full-length Fiction title.
In early 2015, Jason became affiliated with Collaborative Writing Challenge (CWC). Since then, he has joined many other writers on numerous collaborative projects. Jason is a regular contributor to CWC and is scheduled to have multiple pieces of his work appear in their publications throughout 2016.
You can find out more about Jason Pere’s involvement and publications in collaborative fiction at: www.collaborativewritingchallenge.com
To connect with Jason, check him out at: www.facebook.com/jason.pere.7
Jason also writes fanfiction for Team Covenant on their Blog of the Pheonixborn, dedicated to the new game by Plaid Hat Games, ‘Ashes’. Go to http://teamcovenant.com/ashesonline/ to read Jason’s flash fiction work.
At first, Jason took a causal interest in writing, starting with poetry and journaling. Over time, he honed his direction and finally began writing larger works. In November of 2012, Jason self-published his first book, Modern Knighthood: Diary of a Warrior Poet.
Since then, Jason has continued writing on his own, mostly short stories and poetry. Calling the Reaper was his first experience committing to a full-length Fiction title.
In early 2015, Jason became affiliated with Collaborative Writing Challenge (CWC). Since then, he has joined many other writers on numerous collaborative projects. Jason is a regular contributor to CWC and is scheduled to have multiple pieces of his work appear in their publications throughout 2016.
You can find out more about Jason Pere’s involvement and publications in collaborative fiction at: www.collaborativewritingchallenge.com
To connect with Jason, check him out at: www.facebook.com/jason.pere.7
Jason also writes fanfiction for Team Covenant on their Blog of the Pheonixborn, dedicated to the new game by Plaid Hat Games, ‘Ashes’. Go to http://teamcovenant.com/ashesonline/ to read Jason’s flash fiction work.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
February 15, 2016
Calling the Reaper is the initial book in the First Book of Purgatory series. The concept is that the realm of mankind lies between Paradise and Purgatory. Valkyries hold sway in Paradise, ready to collect the souls of any person who qualifies for heaven by the choices they made in life. The Reaper collects the souls of those who made the wrong choices.
Here we have eight separate stories where a man or woman is confronted with a decision at the end of their life. I liked very much how the stories intermingled even though they take place in separate places. The native people in the story 'Sacrifice' evolve to become the tribal people in 'Mourning Dove Song'.
All of the stories are well-written and interesting. They take place in worlds that are similar to our own and the detail is excellent. I especially enjoyed reading Vengeful Ghost (Shogunate world), Sacrifice (Inca/Mayan world), Mourning Dove Song (the Old West), Legend No More (Vikings), Broken Steel, Broken Words (Teutonic knights), and Born of Titians (Romans), or at least that's how I interpreted the stories parallel worlds. (There are also pirates and Russian worlds in the other two stories which are also absorbing).
I found myself rooting for most of these protagonists to be taken by Valkyries (I won't tell you how they ended up). The characters are generally likable people who are faced with hard choices, so I had sympathy for most of them, even when they made a bad decision.
This is a fine piece of work and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Here we have eight separate stories where a man or woman is confronted with a decision at the end of their life. I liked very much how the stories intermingled even though they take place in separate places. The native people in the story 'Sacrifice' evolve to become the tribal people in 'Mourning Dove Song'.
All of the stories are well-written and interesting. They take place in worlds that are similar to our own and the detail is excellent. I especially enjoyed reading Vengeful Ghost (Shogunate world), Sacrifice (Inca/Mayan world), Mourning Dove Song (the Old West), Legend No More (Vikings), Broken Steel, Broken Words (Teutonic knights), and Born of Titians (Romans), or at least that's how I interpreted the stories parallel worlds. (There are also pirates and Russian worlds in the other two stories which are also absorbing).
I found myself rooting for most of these protagonists to be taken by Valkyries (I won't tell you how they ended up). The characters are generally likable people who are faced with hard choices, so I had sympathy for most of them, even when they made a bad decision.
This is a fine piece of work and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
March 28, 2016
Spread across a variety of cultures and time, Calling the Reaper is an amazing novel that shows the results of the seven deadly sins - death. When each of the characters in this piece meet their end, they are taken from their world to Purgatory, a place of eternal hopelessness, by the Reaper. I'm excited to see where the characters go from here, and I eagerly await for the next book in this series!
February 20, 2016
(I was given a proof copy for review purposes)
Calling the Reaper, Jason Pere’s debut novel, is a work of epic fantasy at its best.
The Valkyrie and the Reaper are gathering souls to fight in a grand tournament in Death’s court, like the gladiators of old. This is the story of how those souls come to end up in Purgatory. The stories of Captain Dante Ramos, pirate and swordsman extroadinaire, who defies Queen Isabella to seek an impossible cure, Aristo, the undefeated Preatorian Legionary, headstrong Lady Kathryn Petra, who wishes to succeed where others have not, and Kenji Rei, Fist of the Shoganate are strung together with those of Shiva, handmaiden to The Burning One, Gemmell whose bone sash proves him the greatest of the Valhallans, Marshall Jackson Bennett French and Knight of the Realm, Sir Lionel James. Mankind is set to fight for survival, to struggle for honour and stay true till the end. Through the eyes of eight heroes, Pere explores how life’s battles are fought and won and how victory can sometimes be our greatest failing.
Exploring the single theme from multiple perspectives, gives Pere ample opportunity to exhibit his prowess in descriptive writing. With battle scenes so detailed that I initially found it distracting, until I was carried away by the rip-roaring action. I was so drawn into the rich detail and background of each protagonist, that I was saddened as each hero’s or heroine’s story drew to a close with the ominous phrase “…today would be that day.” From the battle hungry Samourai warrior to vengeful pirate captain, each tale enthralls the reader with its vivid action and protagonists to root for. One by one the characters come to life and we learn about their honourable actions and greatest failings, their joys and regrets. I was impressed to see the female characters pack a punch as willful and destructive as the men. Pere has managed to create three dimensional characters who will linger in your memory long after reading. That layered with the sticky heat of Southern jungles or the biting winds of the far northern steppes, and other tangible locations serve to build a solid plot and voluminous read.
These tales all underpinned by an all encompassing story of the Reaper and the Valkyrie who are preparing to do battle. The stories are linked with excerpts from the *Laurel, the Arch Valkyrie, Utania, Valkyrie of Peace, Heatha Valkyrie of Mercy Legend No More the personal writings and missives of various Horseman, the Book of Life and the *Book of Reaping, the Treaty of Greed,, Edict of Balance, Regnt Envy, which draw the reader back to the task at hand between each story and remind us that there is yet more at stake than each individual life. If anything thing, it was these parts that I enjoyed least, not because they were badly written or even close to it, they simply weren’t as enthralling as the stories of the eight protagonists.
Calling the Reaper is a work of fiction that will grab your attention, suck you in and leave you wanting more.
Calling the Reaper, Jason Pere’s debut novel, is a work of epic fantasy at its best.
The Valkyrie and the Reaper are gathering souls to fight in a grand tournament in Death’s court, like the gladiators of old. This is the story of how those souls come to end up in Purgatory. The stories of Captain Dante Ramos, pirate and swordsman extroadinaire, who defies Queen Isabella to seek an impossible cure, Aristo, the undefeated Preatorian Legionary, headstrong Lady Kathryn Petra, who wishes to succeed where others have not, and Kenji Rei, Fist of the Shoganate are strung together with those of Shiva, handmaiden to The Burning One, Gemmell whose bone sash proves him the greatest of the Valhallans, Marshall Jackson Bennett French and Knight of the Realm, Sir Lionel James. Mankind is set to fight for survival, to struggle for honour and stay true till the end. Through the eyes of eight heroes, Pere explores how life’s battles are fought and won and how victory can sometimes be our greatest failing.
Exploring the single theme from multiple perspectives, gives Pere ample opportunity to exhibit his prowess in descriptive writing. With battle scenes so detailed that I initially found it distracting, until I was carried away by the rip-roaring action. I was so drawn into the rich detail and background of each protagonist, that I was saddened as each hero’s or heroine’s story drew to a close with the ominous phrase “…today would be that day.” From the battle hungry Samourai warrior to vengeful pirate captain, each tale enthralls the reader with its vivid action and protagonists to root for. One by one the characters come to life and we learn about their honourable actions and greatest failings, their joys and regrets. I was impressed to see the female characters pack a punch as willful and destructive as the men. Pere has managed to create three dimensional characters who will linger in your memory long after reading. That layered with the sticky heat of Southern jungles or the biting winds of the far northern steppes, and other tangible locations serve to build a solid plot and voluminous read.
These tales all underpinned by an all encompassing story of the Reaper and the Valkyrie who are preparing to do battle. The stories are linked with excerpts from the *Laurel, the Arch Valkyrie, Utania, Valkyrie of Peace, Heatha Valkyrie of Mercy Legend No More the personal writings and missives of various Horseman, the Book of Life and the *Book of Reaping, the Treaty of Greed,, Edict of Balance, Regnt Envy, which draw the reader back to the task at hand between each story and remind us that there is yet more at stake than each individual life. If anything thing, it was these parts that I enjoyed least, not because they were badly written or even close to it, they simply weren’t as enthralling as the stories of the eight protagonists.
Calling the Reaper is a work of fiction that will grab your attention, suck you in and leave you wanting more.
May 10, 2016
Great start of a new series
** I received a copy of this book in Exchange for an honest review**
In the name of honesty, let me start by saying I’m not a fan of the fantasy genre per se; although I’ve read and enjoyed authors in the genre like Tolkien or Marion Zimmer Bradley. However, I don’t rate stories based on my personal preferences because that wouldn’t be fair to the author. It would be the equivalent of rating Romeo & Juliet because I don’t like the fact the main characters die in the end of the play. The fact that I rooted for them and felt my heart going to pieces when they died would be a better way of evaluating the author’s ability to get the readers involved with the story.
That’s what Mr. Pere did in Calling the Reaper. Through a series of eight short-story-styled tales, divided in three acts, the author weaves the threads to create the beginning of a promising new series. I describe them as ‘short-story-styled’ because I have a hunch they’re not really short-stories in the sense they’re not as independent as they seem as you read them. One has to keep in mind the book is the first in a series, which usually means the author is setting the stage for whatever is coming in future installments. Each story tells the tale of a different character from a certain place and in a certain time. They are as different as a soldier in Roman times or a pirate during the Spanish Golden Age or a Marshal in the Wild West. The connection between them apparently is the question surrounding the death of their protagonists - who’s going to collect their souls: the Valkyries or the Reaper? Again I reserve judgement on whatever connections really exist between the seemingly independent stories in this book as the author might find a way to bring them together in the future.
Furthermore, the author incorporates mythological concepts into the stories without turning them into lectures, which is quite positive and avoids interruptions of the story flow. The characters are well fleshed-out, the settings are vividly described ant the plots are believable. Leaping through distinctively different time periods and places also help readers have the feeling the story is progressing fast. I am curious to know where Mr. Pere is going to take this story next so I’ll be looking out for book two.
** I received a copy of this book in Exchange for an honest review**
In the name of honesty, let me start by saying I’m not a fan of the fantasy genre per se; although I’ve read and enjoyed authors in the genre like Tolkien or Marion Zimmer Bradley. However, I don’t rate stories based on my personal preferences because that wouldn’t be fair to the author. It would be the equivalent of rating Romeo & Juliet because I don’t like the fact the main characters die in the end of the play. The fact that I rooted for them and felt my heart going to pieces when they died would be a better way of evaluating the author’s ability to get the readers involved with the story.
That’s what Mr. Pere did in Calling the Reaper. Through a series of eight short-story-styled tales, divided in three acts, the author weaves the threads to create the beginning of a promising new series. I describe them as ‘short-story-styled’ because I have a hunch they’re not really short-stories in the sense they’re not as independent as they seem as you read them. One has to keep in mind the book is the first in a series, which usually means the author is setting the stage for whatever is coming in future installments. Each story tells the tale of a different character from a certain place and in a certain time. They are as different as a soldier in Roman times or a pirate during the Spanish Golden Age or a Marshal in the Wild West. The connection between them apparently is the question surrounding the death of their protagonists - who’s going to collect their souls: the Valkyries or the Reaper? Again I reserve judgement on whatever connections really exist between the seemingly independent stories in this book as the author might find a way to bring them together in the future.
Furthermore, the author incorporates mythological concepts into the stories without turning them into lectures, which is quite positive and avoids interruptions of the story flow. The characters are well fleshed-out, the settings are vividly described ant the plots are believable. Leaping through distinctively different time periods and places also help readers have the feeling the story is progressing fast. I am curious to know where Mr. Pere is going to take this story next so I’ll be looking out for book two.
May 25, 2016
In Calling the Reaper we have eight different tales with each character fighting battles of their own choosing. The Valkyrie and Reaper are both fighting to get their hands on each character. Each of our characters thinks they are making the right call in their decisions. They are doing what is right for them. They believe they are making the right call for themselves at that time in their life. The choices and decisions they make will determine if they will end up in paradise or purgatory.
Each character is making the right choice for them. I have always heard that everyone has a price and I use to always argue that point saying that no everyone does not have price but alas I have discovered over the years that I was totally wrong. Yes everybody has a price. Although my price at the time may not have had the outcome that we were on the time of what we both were discussing I still had a price. We set this price when making the choices we make and then we pay the price whether we are aware of it at the time or not.
Each of the characters was very strong and determined people who set out to do a very good thing but may not have been good for them in the end. They each have very big hearts and are set on doing what is right and maybe it is the right choice for them no matter what the end results are.
The message in Calling the Reaper is a very good one and I have enjoyed reading it. If you like a good story with a message attached to it then Calling the Reaper is the story for you. Get your copy today!
Each character is making the right choice for them. I have always heard that everyone has a price and I use to always argue that point saying that no everyone does not have price but alas I have discovered over the years that I was totally wrong. Yes everybody has a price. Although my price at the time may not have had the outcome that we were on the time of what we both were discussing I still had a price. We set this price when making the choices we make and then we pay the price whether we are aware of it at the time or not.
Each of the characters was very strong and determined people who set out to do a very good thing but may not have been good for them in the end. They each have very big hearts and are set on doing what is right and maybe it is the right choice for them no matter what the end results are.
The message in Calling the Reaper is a very good one and I have enjoyed reading it. If you like a good story with a message attached to it then Calling the Reaper is the story for you. Get your copy today!
March 27, 2016
What is this book about?
Calling The Reaper is a full array of short stories covering different cultures and times, all existing in a world not too far from our own. Through the fantasy of eight characters, subtle connections exist among the narratives which develop set-ups for other stories to build from. The protagonist is moving to their inevitable death through plenty of well-written action scenes, creating page-turning anticipation.
Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 of each story; they each have something new to offer. This book is an amazing character study, explaining who each person is with effortless backstory. I was completely compelled, even just after the prologue and the first paragraph of each story. Pere has the ability to build a complex character immediately, someone who you’d want to push forward with.
Excerpts inserted between each part magnify upon the purpose and meaning of the passages. Upon further inquiry, I learned each of these excerpts are original creations of Jason Pere’s, and are in fact additional lore based on a series he has planned to write!
No spoilers here, but the epilogue – oh yeah! I know I am not the only one who hopes to see this expanded upon. It is amazing to the last line.
What I liked most:
I love the first excerpt – Laurel, ArchValkyrie of the Thorn Crown – since it’s as precise and beautiful as it is devastating and informative. Immediately, it sets up the overall plot you are about to explore, the underlying threads of the world unfolding.
Because of the nature of the book, it is obvious each main character is going to die at the end of their tale, calling either the Reaper or the Valkyrie. Despite this apprehensive knowledge, Jason Pere gives each story a sense of hope. As you move forward, you will find yourself rooting for each protagonist as they fight their darkest demons and flaws, hoping they won’t die. (They do.) All you can truly hope is they will make the right decisions and be taken by the Valkyrie instead of the Reaper.
I’ve written what I hoped would be incredible character studies, and I don’t think I have accomplished the same feat Pere has within the pages of this book. I have great respect for his ability and will continue to read and analyze in awe to learn his techniques. He is a formidable writer.
Beyond his character developments, this author has the ability to conjure vivid imagery and even sounds with his words. Moving from story to story, this makes it so much easier to stay in the individual worlds despite the drastic jumps in scenery. I could easily transition from the waving planks of a pirate ship to the Incan-esque world of battles to the dusky flatlands of the Marshal.
Would I recommend this book?
Of course! Calling The Reaper was an amazing read. The pages compel you to move forward with such intensity, but as each story ends, it brings a sense of relief where you can finally take a breather. I was given a chance to set the book down after each story and continue with my normal life – for a moment at least. But the stories are interesting enough to draw you right back – you will not forget to pick it up again.
This book was a great read for those into short stories, especially epic feats of heroism and fantasy. The writing is dark and twisted, which always makes for an interesting read, but he has accomplished the imagery without too many graphic descriptions.
Jason Pere is an amazing author who I am looking forward to reading again; hopefully the Second Book of Purgatory emerges from his talented mind very soon. The way he developed eight different characters and worlds was awesome to watch unfold page to page.
---
For a more in depth review, visit https://katrinajuneblog.wordpress.com...
Calling The Reaper is a full array of short stories covering different cultures and times, all existing in a world not too far from our own. Through the fantasy of eight characters, subtle connections exist among the narratives which develop set-ups for other stories to build from. The protagonist is moving to their inevitable death through plenty of well-written action scenes, creating page-turning anticipation.
Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 of each story; they each have something new to offer. This book is an amazing character study, explaining who each person is with effortless backstory. I was completely compelled, even just after the prologue and the first paragraph of each story. Pere has the ability to build a complex character immediately, someone who you’d want to push forward with.
Excerpts inserted between each part magnify upon the purpose and meaning of the passages. Upon further inquiry, I learned each of these excerpts are original creations of Jason Pere’s, and are in fact additional lore based on a series he has planned to write!
No spoilers here, but the epilogue – oh yeah! I know I am not the only one who hopes to see this expanded upon. It is amazing to the last line.
What I liked most:
I love the first excerpt – Laurel, ArchValkyrie of the Thorn Crown – since it’s as precise and beautiful as it is devastating and informative. Immediately, it sets up the overall plot you are about to explore, the underlying threads of the world unfolding.
Because of the nature of the book, it is obvious each main character is going to die at the end of their tale, calling either the Reaper or the Valkyrie. Despite this apprehensive knowledge, Jason Pere gives each story a sense of hope. As you move forward, you will find yourself rooting for each protagonist as they fight their darkest demons and flaws, hoping they won’t die. (They do.) All you can truly hope is they will make the right decisions and be taken by the Valkyrie instead of the Reaper.
I’ve written what I hoped would be incredible character studies, and I don’t think I have accomplished the same feat Pere has within the pages of this book. I have great respect for his ability and will continue to read and analyze in awe to learn his techniques. He is a formidable writer.
Beyond his character developments, this author has the ability to conjure vivid imagery and even sounds with his words. Moving from story to story, this makes it so much easier to stay in the individual worlds despite the drastic jumps in scenery. I could easily transition from the waving planks of a pirate ship to the Incan-esque world of battles to the dusky flatlands of the Marshal.
Would I recommend this book?
Of course! Calling The Reaper was an amazing read. The pages compel you to move forward with such intensity, but as each story ends, it brings a sense of relief where you can finally take a breather. I was given a chance to set the book down after each story and continue with my normal life – for a moment at least. But the stories are interesting enough to draw you right back – you will not forget to pick it up again.
This book was a great read for those into short stories, especially epic feats of heroism and fantasy. The writing is dark and twisted, which always makes for an interesting read, but he has accomplished the imagery without too many graphic descriptions.
Jason Pere is an amazing author who I am looking forward to reading again; hopefully the Second Book of Purgatory emerges from his talented mind very soon. The way he developed eight different characters and worlds was awesome to watch unfold page to page.
---
For a more in depth review, visit https://katrinajuneblog.wordpress.com...
March 27, 2016
What is this book about?
Calling The Reaper is a full array of short stories covering different cultures and times, all existing in a world not too far from our own. Through the fantasy of eight characters, subtle connections exist among the narratives which develop set-ups for other stories to build from. The protagonist is moving to their inevitable death through plenty of well-written action scenes, creating page-turning anticipation.
Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 of each story; they each have something new to offer. This book is an amazing character study, explaining who each person is with effortless backstory. I was completely compelled, even just after the prologue and the first paragraph of each story. Pere has the ability to build a complex character immediately, someone who you’d want to push forward with.
Excerpts inserted between each part magnify upon the purpose and meaning of the passages. Upon further inquiry, I learned each of these excerpts are original creations of Jason Pere’s, and are in fact additional lore based on a series he has planned to write!
No spoilers here, but the epilogue – oh yeah! I know I am not the only one who hopes to see this expanded upon. It is amazing to the last line.
What I liked most:
I love the first excerpt – Laurel, ArchValkyrie of the Thorn Crown – since it’s as precise and beautiful as it is devastating and informative. Immediately, it sets up the overall plot you are about to explore, the underlying threads of the world unfolding.
Because of the nature of the book, it is obvious each main character is going to die at the end of their tale, calling either the Reaper or the Valkyrie. Despite this apprehensive knowledge, Jason Pere gives each story a sense of hope. As you move forward, you will find yourself rooting for each protagonist as they fight their darkest demons and flaws, hoping they won’t die. (They do.) All you can truly hope is they will make the right decisions and be taken by the Valkyrie instead of the Reaper.
I’ve written what I hoped would be incredible character studies, and I don’t think I have accomplished the same feat Pere has within the pages of this book. I have great respect for his ability and will continue to read and analyze in awe to learn his techniques. He is a formidable writer.
Beyond his character developments, this author has the ability to conjure vivid imagery and even sounds with his words. Moving from story to story, this makes it so much easier to stay in the individual worlds despite the drastic jumps in scenery. I could easily transition from the waving planks of a pirate ship to the Incan-esque world of battles to the dusky flatlands of the Marshal.
Would I recommend this book?
Of course! Calling The Reaper was an amazing read. The pages compel you to move forward with such intensity, but as each story ends, it brings a sense of relief where you can finally take a breather. I was given a chance to set the book down after each story and continue with my normal life – for a moment at least. But the stories are interesting enough to draw you right back – you will not forget to pick it up again.
This book was a great read for those into short stories, especially epic feats of heroism and fantasy. The writing is dark and twisted, which always makes for an interesting read, but he has accomplished the imagery without too many graphic descriptions.
Jason Pere is an amazing author who I am looking forward to reading again; hopefully the Second Book of Purgatory emerges from his talented mind very soon. The way he developed eight different characters and worlds was awesome to watch unfold page to page.
---
For a more in depth review, visit https://katrinajuneblog.wordpress.com...
Calling The Reaper is a full array of short stories covering different cultures and times, all existing in a world not too far from our own. Through the fantasy of eight characters, subtle connections exist among the narratives which develop set-ups for other stories to build from. The protagonist is moving to their inevitable death through plenty of well-written action scenes, creating page-turning anticipation.
Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 of each story; they each have something new to offer. This book is an amazing character study, explaining who each person is with effortless backstory. I was completely compelled, even just after the prologue and the first paragraph of each story. Pere has the ability to build a complex character immediately, someone who you’d want to push forward with.
Excerpts inserted between each part magnify upon the purpose and meaning of the passages. Upon further inquiry, I learned each of these excerpts are original creations of Jason Pere’s, and are in fact additional lore based on a series he has planned to write!
No spoilers here, but the epilogue – oh yeah! I know I am not the only one who hopes to see this expanded upon. It is amazing to the last line.
What I liked most:
I love the first excerpt – Laurel, ArchValkyrie of the Thorn Crown – since it’s as precise and beautiful as it is devastating and informative. Immediately, it sets up the overall plot you are about to explore, the underlying threads of the world unfolding.
Because of the nature of the book, it is obvious each main character is going to die at the end of their tale, calling either the Reaper or the Valkyrie. Despite this apprehensive knowledge, Jason Pere gives each story a sense of hope. As you move forward, you will find yourself rooting for each protagonist as they fight their darkest demons and flaws, hoping they won’t die. (They do.) All you can truly hope is they will make the right decisions and be taken by the Valkyrie instead of the Reaper.
I’ve written what I hoped would be incredible character studies, and I don’t think I have accomplished the same feat Pere has within the pages of this book. I have great respect for his ability and will continue to read and analyze in awe to learn his techniques. He is a formidable writer.
Beyond his character developments, this author has the ability to conjure vivid imagery and even sounds with his words. Moving from story to story, this makes it so much easier to stay in the individual worlds despite the drastic jumps in scenery. I could easily transition from the waving planks of a pirate ship to the Incan-esque world of battles to the dusky flatlands of the Marshal.
Would I recommend this book?
Of course! Calling The Reaper was an amazing read. The pages compel you to move forward with such intensity, but as each story ends, it brings a sense of relief where you can finally take a breather. I was given a chance to set the book down after each story and continue with my normal life – for a moment at least. But the stories are interesting enough to draw you right back – you will not forget to pick it up again.
This book was a great read for those into short stories, especially epic feats of heroism and fantasy. The writing is dark and twisted, which always makes for an interesting read, but he has accomplished the imagery without too many graphic descriptions.
Jason Pere is an amazing author who I am looking forward to reading again; hopefully the Second Book of Purgatory emerges from his talented mind very soon. The way he developed eight different characters and worlds was awesome to watch unfold page to page.
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For a more in depth review, visit https://katrinajuneblog.wordpress.com...
May 10, 2016
What a brilliantly written first book, for this Purgatory series. The author has done a wonderful job to give us a very unique story, written in an even more unique way. He gave us a series of tales that mingle with each other, but all ultimately end in death, which is only the beginning of a much bigger journey.
The stories looked at life events and decisions that that we can all relate to. The basis of the book also sets itself in an area that a lot of people believe in, the existence of a heaven and hell, where you would reside, after death, based upon your decisions in life.
As each story progresses, we get to know more about what is happening in the after, how they are being fought over, because their numbers are needed in a battle. We cheer for the side we feel should succeed and for each character to end in the place best suited for them.
I liked each story, as they were all unique and exciting. Each story had a variety of characters, all which were well developed. The overall characters of the Valkyries and the Reaper also added loads to the feel and connection in the book.
Overall, I think this was a brilliant read. I am very much looking forward to the next book.
**I received this book for free in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
The stories looked at life events and decisions that that we can all relate to. The basis of the book also sets itself in an area that a lot of people believe in, the existence of a heaven and hell, where you would reside, after death, based upon your decisions in life.
As each story progresses, we get to know more about what is happening in the after, how they are being fought over, because their numbers are needed in a battle. We cheer for the side we feel should succeed and for each character to end in the place best suited for them.
I liked each story, as they were all unique and exciting. Each story had a variety of characters, all which were well developed. The overall characters of the Valkyries and the Reaper also added loads to the feel and connection in the book.
Overall, I think this was a brilliant read. I am very much looking forward to the next book.
**I received this book for free in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion.
April 13, 2016
This was a fun, creepy read. I truly enjoyed the symbolism and weaving together of the tales, the semi-historical fantasy settings and the disparate personalities within each story. Mr. Pere has done a lovely job.
May 8, 2016
A valiant first effort. Check out my blog for a review, coming soon!
January 27, 2017
Calling the Reaper is not for those seeking story-book endings. As the title suggests, bad things happen and sometimes, bad things happen to good people. It all comes down to choice, and even good people are subject to make bad ones. The story follows vignettes, or snapshots, of 8 different characters as they navigate the treacherous waters of sin and dark choices. A Praetorian soldier survives torture and desperate battle, where his fellow soldiers did not, only to find solace in his survival from an empty bottle or three. A lady in love finds herself much more powerful than she’d ever imagine when a love of a different sort comes between her and her heart’s desire. As these are stand-alone-stories, it is less of a novel as it is an anthology with the Reaper and words of prophecy to tie it all nicely together.
Jason Pere has written a high-concept book. It’s a story which does not fit the typical publishing rules. (As an aside: it was published once, only for the publisher to close, leaving their clients in the cold, thus serving as another example how tough the publishing world is.) The narration is third person omniscient, which may be off-putting to some, for that style has fallen out of favor since the 19th century -- particularly as it tells rather than shows. But, for a writer who has also written in second person, I sense that Pere favors the unconventional, and due to his engaging storylines and knowledge of the rules, he successfully breaks them to string us along with each character’s journey toward their end in life and their beginning in Purgatory.
The book works because the focus is on the characters and because of the themes of choice and destiny each character must face. We find ourselves rooting for each one and then… well, the rest is for the reader to decide. Are we just pawns in a war between evil and good, or are our choices are own, our fate decided by rules we may not quite understand? Pere puts these questions to us and delivers a narrative that is difficult to put down.
Normally, high-concept books fall flat. But Pere’s focus on the characters, flawed as they are and determined to accomplish their goals at all cost, present an anthology-like experience which pairs nicely with his unconventional approach. So long as you do not mind getting your heart broken repeatedly, you’ll languish and sympathize with each character Pere presents. A solid 5 stars.
Jason Pere has written a high-concept book. It’s a story which does not fit the typical publishing rules. (As an aside: it was published once, only for the publisher to close, leaving their clients in the cold, thus serving as another example how tough the publishing world is.) The narration is third person omniscient, which may be off-putting to some, for that style has fallen out of favor since the 19th century -- particularly as it tells rather than shows. But, for a writer who has also written in second person, I sense that Pere favors the unconventional, and due to his engaging storylines and knowledge of the rules, he successfully breaks them to string us along with each character’s journey toward their end in life and their beginning in Purgatory.
The book works because the focus is on the characters and because of the themes of choice and destiny each character must face. We find ourselves rooting for each one and then… well, the rest is for the reader to decide. Are we just pawns in a war between evil and good, or are our choices are own, our fate decided by rules we may not quite understand? Pere puts these questions to us and delivers a narrative that is difficult to put down.
Normally, high-concept books fall flat. But Pere’s focus on the characters, flawed as they are and determined to accomplish their goals at all cost, present an anthology-like experience which pairs nicely with his unconventional approach. So long as you do not mind getting your heart broken repeatedly, you’ll languish and sympathize with each character Pere presents. A solid 5 stars.
November 15, 2016
War is human nature. Men and women have waged wars in every culture in every time. The strongest warriors all eventually die. When it is their time, they shall meet the Reaper.
Calling the Reaper is a difficult book for me to review in the manner I normally do so. Writing up a paragraph that gives a broad sense of the book has been a struggle today. This book was pitched as a fantasy that covers various realms of the world, and it is. However, essentially this is a book of short stories that at some point will connect; I believe that may be in the second book though, as even the epilogue did not tie things together in an understandable way for me.
This book covers eight different storylines, each in three consecutive parts. The author writes well and creates interesting characters, but the majority of the book is build up, with little in the way of conclusion. None of the characters the stories center on achieve their ultimate goal. I found myself reading through each portion, waiting to feel a connection to the character, yet struggled to do so. This intensified the further I read into the book, with each changing character.
The very first story about the pirate Dante, caught my attention and when it suddenly ended and the book moved on to a new character and story, I felt annoyed that this was all I would get of him. I would much prefer if each character had a full story of its own and this was a series. While the author’s writing is well done and he definitely puts the time into the crafting of the world around the characters, the book just left me wanting.
Calling the Reaper is a difficult book for me to review in the manner I normally do so. Writing up a paragraph that gives a broad sense of the book has been a struggle today. This book was pitched as a fantasy that covers various realms of the world, and it is. However, essentially this is a book of short stories that at some point will connect; I believe that may be in the second book though, as even the epilogue did not tie things together in an understandable way for me.
This book covers eight different storylines, each in three consecutive parts. The author writes well and creates interesting characters, but the majority of the book is build up, with little in the way of conclusion. None of the characters the stories center on achieve their ultimate goal. I found myself reading through each portion, waiting to feel a connection to the character, yet struggled to do so. This intensified the further I read into the book, with each changing character.
The very first story about the pirate Dante, caught my attention and when it suddenly ended and the book moved on to a new character and story, I felt annoyed that this was all I would get of him. I would much prefer if each character had a full story of its own and this was a series. While the author’s writing is well done and he definitely puts the time into the crafting of the world around the characters, the book just left me wanting.
May 27, 2017
******SPOILERS******For the most part the book is well-written and I enjoyed the writer's style. As is the case with many fantasy novels, I found it overly descriptive at times. Each character has a distinct voice and each setting is unique, but I found myself wanting more. I think more dialogue and internal thoughts would have given better insight into the characters and made me feel more connected to them. As each character's story is told, the suspense builds toward the inevitable battle in Purgatory. The ending is where the story lost me; there isn't one. No big battle, no climax, which I assume will take place in a sequel. I don't like cliffhangers. I like my stories to have an ending and I hate having to wait for the next book, so I was disappointed.
June 21, 2016
I will admit that I found the back cover a bit misleading as I thought it was going to be more fantastical than it was. Perhaps that comes in the second book. Once the initial disappointment of not having actual Purgatory, Reaper, and Valkyrie throughout I found myself invested in the culture and history involved.
"Calling the Reaper" takes eight different characters from different cultures and ties them with the one unifying trait we all possess: our inevitable death. Based on what I can remember of history lessons and pulling all of my literary knowledge, the characters are: a Spanish pirate, a Roman soldier, a noblewoman, a shogun, a Inca warrior, a viking, a marshall, and a knight. Each story is split into three sections that introduce us to the character, show us the character's last day and final choices, and then show us the characters last moments leading to their death.
No, I did not spoil the ending, because as the title suggests, they all die. It is not clear whether the Valkyrie or the Reaper finds them. However, I will say that the second volume will hopefully be a continuation of the first in that it's not new characters battling death, but us seeing all of these characters battling the afterlife.
I've read some reviews that claim how they were rooting for certain characters, and I have to say I didn't do that. I felt Pere's characters were similar to Flannery O'Connor's in that they were all unlikeable and flawed, making them realistic and relatable. I love these characters for the fatal flaws they possess, and reread each story to double check the lessons they were meant to teach us. I cannot reveal what I learned without spoiling it, but I will say that each character and each character's death reveal some moral or theme that made me curious to see what comes next, if only to know if the character learned the lesson too.
I tend to avoid short stories or collections, but I found Pere's collection of character journeys leading all leading to the same destination fascinating. I'm curious to see what comes next, to see what interpretation of death Pere takes.
A surprisingly engaging read.
"Calling the Reaper" takes eight different characters from different cultures and ties them with the one unifying trait we all possess: our inevitable death. Based on what I can remember of history lessons and pulling all of my literary knowledge, the characters are: a Spanish pirate, a Roman soldier, a noblewoman, a shogun, a Inca warrior, a viking, a marshall, and a knight. Each story is split into three sections that introduce us to the character, show us the character's last day and final choices, and then show us the characters last moments leading to their death.
No, I did not spoil the ending, because as the title suggests, they all die. It is not clear whether the Valkyrie or the Reaper finds them. However, I will say that the second volume will hopefully be a continuation of the first in that it's not new characters battling death, but us seeing all of these characters battling the afterlife.
I've read some reviews that claim how they were rooting for certain characters, and I have to say I didn't do that. I felt Pere's characters were similar to Flannery O'Connor's in that they were all unlikeable and flawed, making them realistic and relatable. I love these characters for the fatal flaws they possess, and reread each story to double check the lessons they were meant to teach us. I cannot reveal what I learned without spoiling it, but I will say that each character and each character's death reveal some moral or theme that made me curious to see what comes next, if only to know if the character learned the lesson too.
I tend to avoid short stories or collections, but I found Pere's collection of character journeys leading all leading to the same destination fascinating. I'm curious to see what comes next, to see what interpretation of death Pere takes.
A surprisingly engaging read.
December 20, 2016
I have to admit I don't usually read books of short stories but I was really surprised by this one. I set down with this book and could not put it down. I read late into the night, went to bed, got back up and read some more then finished it the next morning. All of the stories were very interesting. They were quick stories. There are 8 stories in the book. Each story was about a different person in a different time and land. How they lived and what led to their deaths. In just the few pages of each story, the author truly introduced you to the character, let you understand why the people led the lives they did, why they made the choices they did, and in the end you understood why they made their choices, right or wrong . For example the Pirate as a child was saved from a disease by his sister, later on she was struck by a sleeping disease and he over the years done everything he could to find the cure for her. In his quest he pillaged and murdered from ships he knew to carry medical supplies hoping to find the cure for her. When he finally found a person who could cure her, he himself was killed. This is just one story though. The others all have different reasoning in the people making their decisions.
I love how the author did not waste time and paper getting to the point of each persons story. You were filled with just enough background to drag you into each story. The stories were not overwhelming either. Though they may be short stories you had everything you needed.
I will be looking for the next book in this series to see if at some point the author ties all of these people together int he afterlife.
I love how the author did not waste time and paper getting to the point of each persons story. You were filled with just enough background to drag you into each story. The stories were not overwhelming either. Though they may be short stories you had everything you needed.
I will be looking for the next book in this series to see if at some point the author ties all of these people together int he afterlife.
February 7, 2017
Beware: Colonizer perspectives calling natives barbarians and locals.
Basically: Decent, entertaining read though I was really confused. It sets up the world slowly to keep you guessing and the ending has me very excited to continue the series.
Calling the Reaper opens with a pirate tale and I’ll admit I was initialing confused. I had no idea why I was reading about that given the blurb. Soon enough I went “ohhhhh” in realization.
After my initial confusion and the second story, I sped along enjoying the ride. Though I have my favorites like The Kiss and Sacrifice, each is a solid mini-story. Of the eight stories, two are about women and most are non-Western in setting.
There are stories from colonizers calling locals barbarians and savages though. While one story is set from inside such a society and shows how the invading forces is wrong in such assumptions, it doesn’t negate the harm of perpetuating colonial rhetoric.
Calling the Reaper follows eight separate stories of various people throughout the world and each story is split into three parts: backstory, set-up, and death. After each story is a glimpse at the larger picture, the players behind the chess pieces, with letters and excerpts from various texts. Which is very well done.
Again, at first, I was confused at how it all came together. It’s not until the very end when the pieces drop into place to reveal the big picture. Now THAT has me excited to continue. Too bad I can’t talk about it without spoiling it :/
Recommended for: fans of dark, bloody fantasy with a bunch of different POVs.
Basically: Decent, entertaining read though I was really confused. It sets up the world slowly to keep you guessing and the ending has me very excited to continue the series.
Calling the Reaper opens with a pirate tale and I’ll admit I was initialing confused. I had no idea why I was reading about that given the blurb. Soon enough I went “ohhhhh” in realization.
After my initial confusion and the second story, I sped along enjoying the ride. Though I have my favorites like The Kiss and Sacrifice, each is a solid mini-story. Of the eight stories, two are about women and most are non-Western in setting.
There are stories from colonizers calling locals barbarians and savages though. While one story is set from inside such a society and shows how the invading forces is wrong in such assumptions, it doesn’t negate the harm of perpetuating colonial rhetoric.
Calling the Reaper follows eight separate stories of various people throughout the world and each story is split into three parts: backstory, set-up, and death. After each story is a glimpse at the larger picture, the players behind the chess pieces, with letters and excerpts from various texts. Which is very well done.
Again, at first, I was confused at how it all came together. It’s not until the very end when the pieces drop into place to reveal the big picture. Now THAT has me excited to continue. Too bad I can’t talk about it without spoiling it :/
Recommended for: fans of dark, bloody fantasy with a bunch of different POVs.
October 23, 2016
Calling The Reaper is a book of short stories of very complex characters who make the choice of right and wrong. The Valkyrie collect souls of who choose the right and the The Reaper is to collect for wrong choices made in life. Each story has it's own time, place and character. I enjoyed the stories, but for me not the writing style. At times it was difficult for me to read because of how descriptive it was and how the author used metaphors. I enjoy the straight up kind of talk. I'm also somewhat of a happily ever after kind of gal, but you already know that the characters will die. I did like how the characters somewhat coincided with each other. Some stories I enjoyed more than others, but all in all a good book. Maybe will get more on the next books. I'll give the next one a try. I'm giving this 3 stars.
Reviewer for Romance Authors That Rock
Reviewer for Romance Authors That Rock
March 8, 2019
I had a hard time putting this down! See my full review at http://www.msjmentions.blogspot.com
May 1, 2017
This isn't the type of book that I would normally pick up. Though, I will admit only a few pages in, I thought, I would love to be a pirate. Not the point... The characters that each story revolves around are so different and yet so engaging. I finished the book in less than two days because they kept me hooked. Each story is tragic and so well thought out. It reminded me a little of Cloud Atlas, which I loved, not because the stories are similar but because these stories are linked in some ways and the history is rich. Without giving anything away, the ending was my favorite.
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