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The Extraction Files #1
The Killing Jar
Earth is dying, circling the drain on life support. The future of the human race depends on space exploration, but they’re running out of time. Parasitic insects are systematically killing the best scientific minds but no one knows why.
Mable Wilkinson is the last hope to figure it out, she just doesn’t know it yet. For years, her resourcefulness, intelligence, and penchant for problem-solving have put her at the top of a very short list of researchers, only she doesn’t want to be part of it.
Cast out at sixteen, Mable wrote off the problems of the world long ago. Now, her focus is on Hadley, her adopted little sister, and teaching her to survive in the cut-throat underground. Instead, both Mable and Hadley fall into the hands of the program’s recruiter, Silas Arrenstein, and he’s determined to have one of them. Mable can join up with the man and program who killed her brother, or she can leave Hadley to the same fate.
A new sci-fi romance from RS McCoy, author of The Sparks Saga and The Luminary Chronicles.
Book One of The Extraction Files.
Mable Wilkinson is the last hope to figure it out, she just doesn’t know it yet. For years, her resourcefulness, intelligence, and penchant for problem-solving have put her at the top of a very short list of researchers, only she doesn’t want to be part of it.
Cast out at sixteen, Mable wrote off the problems of the world long ago. Now, her focus is on Hadley, her adopted little sister, and teaching her to survive in the cut-throat underground. Instead, both Mable and Hadley fall into the hands of the program’s recruiter, Silas Arrenstein, and he’s determined to have one of them. Mable can join up with the man and program who killed her brother, or she can leave Hadley to the same fate.
A new sci-fi romance from RS McCoy, author of The Sparks Saga and The Luminary Chronicles.
Book One of The Extraction Files.
400 pages, Paperback
Published June 28, 2016
51 people are currently reading
850 people want to read
About the author
R.S. McCoy
20 books202 followersRachel McCoy is a Texan living in Baltimore. Between binge-watching MTV reality shows and baking gluten-free treats, she writes paranormal fantasy and science fiction novels.
She is the USA Today Bestselling author of the Sparks Saga trilogy, The Alder Tales series, and The Extraction Files. Back when she lived in the real world, Rachel earned a degree in marine biology, which contributed to her die-hard love of manta rays.
To connect with RS McCoy (or swap recipes), visit her on her website (www.rsmccoyauthor.com) or check out her Facebook page (www.facebook.com/AuthorRSMcCoy). You can also join her newsletter to receive release updates, free stories, and bonus extras (http://eepurl.com/YItp1).
She is the USA Today Bestselling author of the Sparks Saga trilogy, The Alder Tales series, and The Extraction Files. Back when she lived in the real world, Rachel earned a degree in marine biology, which contributed to her die-hard love of manta rays.
To connect with RS McCoy (or swap recipes), visit her on her website (www.rsmccoyauthor.com) or check out her Facebook page (www.facebook.com/AuthorRSMcCoy). You can also join her newsletter to receive release updates, free stories, and bonus extras (http://eepurl.com/YItp1).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
June 26, 2016
The great minds of humanity are slowly being devoured by parasitic insects and the how and why is unknown. The clock is ticking for life on Earth and priority #1 is finding a planet that is viable for population.
Prepare for the chaotic, the deceitful, the hopeful and the resigned, as R.S. McCoy shuttles us between different POVs in a mad race to stay alive between the pages of The Killing Jar.
Mable has always been brilliant, resourceful and able to puzzle out problems with relative ease. For her, what is hidden to others is obvious to her. Independent, tough and not inclined to help in the mainstream scientific community, she will become a key player in Earth’s survival, whether she like it or not. Time is running short, and she may have to accept an offer she cannot refuse, but will she be working for the wrong side? Will she have a choice?
Hang on for a bumpy ride, a cast of many and a kaleidoscope of epic proportions as R.S. McCoy threads us through the eye of the needle with each strand of this tale. The world building is vast, the tension will run high as each scene becomes another link in this exciting tale! Start to finish, intrigue that is so vast, it will take more than one book to tell this tale. An excellent foundation for a series that promises non-stop entertainment and questions just begging to be answered! Talk about a "hook" into the next addition!
I received an ARC edition from R.S. McCoy in exchange for my honest review.
Series: The Extraction Files - Book 1
Publication Date: June 28, 2016
Publisher: R.S. McCoy
Genre: Sci-Fi
Print Length: 406 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Prepare for the chaotic, the deceitful, the hopeful and the resigned, as R.S. McCoy shuttles us between different POVs in a mad race to stay alive between the pages of The Killing Jar.
Mable has always been brilliant, resourceful and able to puzzle out problems with relative ease. For her, what is hidden to others is obvious to her. Independent, tough and not inclined to help in the mainstream scientific community, she will become a key player in Earth’s survival, whether she like it or not. Time is running short, and she may have to accept an offer she cannot refuse, but will she be working for the wrong side? Will she have a choice?
Hang on for a bumpy ride, a cast of many and a kaleidoscope of epic proportions as R.S. McCoy threads us through the eye of the needle with each strand of this tale. The world building is vast, the tension will run high as each scene becomes another link in this exciting tale! Start to finish, intrigue that is so vast, it will take more than one book to tell this tale. An excellent foundation for a series that promises non-stop entertainment and questions just begging to be answered! Talk about a "hook" into the next addition!
I received an ARC edition from R.S. McCoy in exchange for my honest review.
Series: The Extraction Files - Book 1
Publication Date: June 28, 2016
Publisher: R.S. McCoy
Genre: Sci-Fi
Print Length: 406 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
July 9, 2016
This book had really great world building, a super cool concept, and was really well written.
I really liked the writing style and characters a lot. I thought there was so many really cool ideas in this book. There was a lot of POVs though. I wasn't expecting so many perspectives and it was kind of confusing to follow at times. It was also really draining to keep track of all the characters. I did like the characters but I wish there wasn't so many POVs.
I really enjoyed the book overall and I definitely recommend The Killing Jar to Sci-Fi lovers.
I really liked the writing style and characters a lot. I thought there was so many really cool ideas in this book. There was a lot of POVs though. I wasn't expecting so many perspectives and it was kind of confusing to follow at times. It was also really draining to keep track of all the characters. I did like the characters but I wish there wasn't so many POVs.
I really enjoyed the book overall and I definitely recommend The Killing Jar to Sci-Fi lovers.
September 9, 2016
Actual rating 3.5 Stars
*This review can also be found at The Reader and the Chef! Huge thanks to the author for the review copy in exchange of my honest opinion.*
This is the second book I read by author R.S. McCoy and I'm truly enjoying her style. This author knows how to create amazing worlds from scratch or take things to a whole different level, not to mention that she can certainly keep you at the edge of your seat the whole time! I previously LOVED her YA Paranormal Blossom and the Beast (can't wait for the sequel!!), and it astounds me how she managed to introduce us a new sci-fi series within months of it. Not many authors can do that.
The Killing Jar takes place in the future, where a dying Earth is forcing humans to live under domes, underground or in space colonies since the air is deadly to breathe for a long period of time. The human society living under domes has a system where each person can only choose one of three career options and after that, they can't mix with each other (sort of like Divergent!). Those living underground are ruled by sort of human-like beings that have been underground way before humans decided to head there. It is a dangerous place to live, reason why mostly exiled humans are the ones to brave it. And then there's the people who live in the moon and in spaceship colonies heading towards potential new planets safe to live in and those trying to make this happen.
As you can see, The Killing Jar has a lot going on, and we get to experience every living situation since we get to read from SIX different point of views. Yup, 6. At first it was HARD to follow each perspective, to remember who they were and what they were doing, so I ended up writing notes about each character to help me remember them when I returned to their POV. It worked for me but it's not something I wished to spend time on while reading a book. I liked every point of view well enough, each one added something to the story, but I still believe 6 were one or two too many.
And since there were so many POVs, the story itself was a slow read despite the great revelations and amazing world-building. I mean, there's lots of action (that I enjoyed!) but the story doesn't really move that much forward and that left me a bit bummed. I wanted things to get a move on!
However, the whole concept is really cool and there's a lot of room to explore in this book, something I love to do when I am introduced to a new series. I am extremely curious about what exactly is going on in this world, if there is a cure to our Earth, or just... WHAT. What will happen to humanity? I hope something that won't give me nightmares.
Final Verdict:
This series has potential and this first installment kept me intrigued, but I feel that with all the POVs the story didn't move fast enough. However, I believe the sequel will be much faster now that everything is set into motion.
*This review can also be found at The Reader and the Chef! Huge thanks to the author for the review copy in exchange of my honest opinion.*
This is the second book I read by author R.S. McCoy and I'm truly enjoying her style. This author knows how to create amazing worlds from scratch or take things to a whole different level, not to mention that she can certainly keep you at the edge of your seat the whole time! I previously LOVED her YA Paranormal Blossom and the Beast (can't wait for the sequel!!), and it astounds me how she managed to introduce us a new sci-fi series within months of it. Not many authors can do that.
The Killing Jar takes place in the future, where a dying Earth is forcing humans to live under domes, underground or in space colonies since the air is deadly to breathe for a long period of time. The human society living under domes has a system where each person can only choose one of three career options and after that, they can't mix with each other (sort of like Divergent!). Those living underground are ruled by sort of human-like beings that have been underground way before humans decided to head there. It is a dangerous place to live, reason why mostly exiled humans are the ones to brave it. And then there's the people who live in the moon and in spaceship colonies heading towards potential new planets safe to live in and those trying to make this happen.
As you can see, The Killing Jar has a lot going on, and we get to experience every living situation since we get to read from SIX different point of views. Yup, 6. At first it was HARD to follow each perspective, to remember who they were and what they were doing, so I ended up writing notes about each character to help me remember them when I returned to their POV. It worked for me but it's not something I wished to spend time on while reading a book. I liked every point of view well enough, each one added something to the story, but I still believe 6 were one or two too many.
And since there were so many POVs, the story itself was a slow read despite the great revelations and amazing world-building. I mean, there's lots of action (that I enjoyed!) but the story doesn't really move that much forward and that left me a bit bummed. I wanted things to get a move on!
However, the whole concept is really cool and there's a lot of room to explore in this book, something I love to do when I am introduced to a new series. I am extremely curious about what exactly is going on in this world, if there is a cure to our Earth, or just... WHAT. What will happen to humanity? I hope something that won't give me nightmares.
Final Verdict:
This series has potential and this first installment kept me intrigued, but I feel that with all the POVs the story didn't move fast enough. However, I believe the sequel will be much faster now that everything is set into motion.
July 4, 2016
I received a copy of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review. It in no way affects my opinion of the novel.
The Killing Jar was a great read for me! I loved the characters, especially the main character, Mable. No one is who they seem to be, and I love the development the characters make as they are thrust into new situations and environments. I also loved that the characters included so much diversity that didn’t feel forced or baiting. Every character serves a purpose… just when you’re almost at the end and you’re thinking, “This would have been better without this subplot or this character,” the purpose for that character or subplot is revealed or slightly revealed and you’re just like, “Oh, I see what you did there! I see where this is going.” It’s a bit of a slow-burn.
I absolutely loved the world building. Even more than the characters, this was probably my favorite aspect of the book. It was so easy to visualize all the different settings–the domed cities, the underground, the LRF, the greenhouse on the moon! I would love to see these come to life on screen some day!
I really love the idea of the bugs, and I’m curious to see what their purpose is (or if they really have one and are not just a plot device). I have my own suspicions about their existence and goal. I hope more time is spent on them, whereas in this installment, they’re just introduced. It’s obvious in that introduction that the author spent a lot of time giving each bug a distinct look, characteristics, and purpose, just like her characters.
I did have issues with some things in the book. First, there were a lot of spelling and grammar errors. They didn’t distract too much from the story, but they became so frequent that they were noticeable, especially in the 2nd half of the novel. Second, the timeline is a bit fast. As much as I loved the characters and their development, I feel it should have been spaced out a little more. Entire relationship dynamics changed between people in the span of about 3 weeks, whereas I think it would have been more realistic if everything took place in the span of 3 months or even more. And my third and final issue is Theo; he needs to go!
In conclusion, I would definitely recommend The Killing Jar. It’s an interesting and entertaining sci-fi with complex and beautiful three-dimensional characters and amazing world building.
The Killing Jar was a great read for me! I loved the characters, especially the main character, Mable. No one is who they seem to be, and I love the development the characters make as they are thrust into new situations and environments. I also loved that the characters included so much diversity that didn’t feel forced or baiting. Every character serves a purpose… just when you’re almost at the end and you’re thinking, “This would have been better without this subplot or this character,” the purpose for that character or subplot is revealed or slightly revealed and you’re just like, “Oh, I see what you did there! I see where this is going.” It’s a bit of a slow-burn.
I absolutely loved the world building. Even more than the characters, this was probably my favorite aspect of the book. It was so easy to visualize all the different settings–the domed cities, the underground, the LRF, the greenhouse on the moon! I would love to see these come to life on screen some day!
I really love the idea of the bugs, and I’m curious to see what their purpose is (or if they really have one and are not just a plot device). I have my own suspicions about their existence and goal. I hope more time is spent on them, whereas in this installment, they’re just introduced. It’s obvious in that introduction that the author spent a lot of time giving each bug a distinct look, characteristics, and purpose, just like her characters.
I did have issues with some things in the book. First, there were a lot of spelling and grammar errors. They didn’t distract too much from the story, but they became so frequent that they were noticeable, especially in the 2nd half of the novel. Second, the timeline is a bit fast. As much as I loved the characters and their development, I feel it should have been spaced out a little more. Entire relationship dynamics changed between people in the span of about 3 weeks, whereas I think it would have been more realistic if everything took place in the span of 3 months or even more. And my third and final issue is Theo; he needs to go!
In conclusion, I would definitely recommend The Killing Jar. It’s an interesting and entertaining sci-fi with complex and beautiful three-dimensional characters and amazing world building.
June 28, 2016
My favorite part of this story was our main character, Mabel. She was strong, independent, and willing to do whatever it takes to make sure her sister stays safe in a world falling apart. Mable was such a strong lead. Sometimes you get a lead who outshines everything else in the book but she was just enough. I loved how tough she could be but knew when to let go and show herself to the people around her. Her relationship with Hadley was sweet and honestly made me so happy. Sister relationships in stories hold a special place in my heart.
The world in this book is so well built! I loved the setting (earth dying, etc.) and I couldn't get enough of it. The domes over the cities, the underground colonies, the new species, the planet searching it was all just amazing and I loved the feel of it. The alien species especially.
So before I mention this next part I'd just like to say I have a terrible fear of bugs. Always have. It doesn't matter what kind of bug I hate them. So when these robotic bugs came into the story I was horrified and slightly disturbed. But at the same time I liked seeing how the author brought these into play,
This story had a lot of good qualities but I gave it three stars for two reasons. (1. it was a little slow. (2. At times the story was hard to follow. Maybe these play into each other and the only issue was how it was a slow at times but I put it as two issues. I felt that at times we had a little to much information and/or the author went on about something that wasn't important for that part of the story. This didn't prevent me from enjoying the story though.
I'm going to recommend this story to science fiction lovers. This book leaves an otherworldly taste in your mouth that reminds you of far away places and keeps you wanting more.
The world in this book is so well built! I loved the setting (earth dying, etc.) and I couldn't get enough of it. The domes over the cities, the underground colonies, the new species, the planet searching it was all just amazing and I loved the feel of it. The alien species especially.
So before I mention this next part I'd just like to say I have a terrible fear of bugs. Always have. It doesn't matter what kind of bug I hate them. So when these robotic bugs came into the story I was horrified and slightly disturbed. But at the same time I liked seeing how the author brought these into play,
This story had a lot of good qualities but I gave it three stars for two reasons. (1. it was a little slow. (2. At times the story was hard to follow. Maybe these play into each other and the only issue was how it was a slow at times but I put it as two issues. I felt that at times we had a little to much information and/or the author went on about something that wasn't important for that part of the story. This didn't prevent me from enjoying the story though.
I'm going to recommend this story to science fiction lovers. This book leaves an otherworldly taste in your mouth that reminds you of far away places and keeps you wanting more.
August 25, 2017
This book was impressive. I really enjoyed the world and the characters and was thoroughly immersed in the story. It could have used another run through for editing as words were missed in sentences quite a lot along with a few other mistakes. (I'm hoping it has been remedied in the ebook version by now as I got this quite awhile ago. It would be a five star read with more editing.) There were a few aspects that reminded me of other books, particularly Divergent with the whole selection thing and being cast out if you don't follow the rules or are no longer useful to society, but the world R.S McCoy created is far more interesting. I was overwhelmed at first with all the different characters points of views but it settled into a nice pacing and the characters were extremely likeable. It wrapped up nicely for a series book while leaving just enough loose ends to want to read the next book but not anger you with leaving off in the middle of something. Overall, great world building, superb writing along with an awesome concept formed The Killing Jar. The cover and the name are absolutely fantastic as well. I will definitely be picking up more books by this author.
September 20, 2016
The story starts in year 2232. The earth has been destroyed after a Third World War and a lot of nuclear bombs. The earth's atmosphere is totally covered with haze which is poisonous. So, in order for civilization to continue to exist, people were organized into three classes - Scholars, Artisans and Craftsmen. Scholars are those involved in sciences and are tasked to find another planet for humans to live. Artisans are of course artists and craftsmen are the farmers, etc. There are also rules that are set to be followed. Those that broke the rules or simply do not agree to them prefer to live underground.
The first few chapters of the story introduces the characters. Each character is so varied and I was wondering how they will come together in one place. I know, I am getting ahead of myself. But I am also filled with anticipation. Right there, I know I am hooked. I had been putting off to read this because the last sci-fi novel I read was fun but not as engrossing. I was glad to be done with it. So, imagine my excitement on wanting to get to the rest of the pages of this book because I can't wait to get all the important characters in one place. And finally, they did. I was not disappointed. It was also so unexpected. This book had a lot of surprises that left my mouth open. Totally so unforeseen. Just so you know, I am a type of reader who tries to anticipate what's going to happen next. Some writers, often leave a trail of bread crumbs to clue in the reader what comes next and I am just the person who picks at those crumbs and just so eager to get to the next event before the writer obviously reveals it. It's fun trying to play Sherlock and gratifying if my guesses turn out to be right. But for this story, I was so clueless. There were clues though, but I was never able to guess what happens next. And the events are a bit fast-paced also. My brain was still trying to figure out what's about to happen and then boom! There it is.
I really flipped over because I was like one of those bugs totally caught in the clamp and had nowhere to go. And I was glad to find out also why this was called The Killing Jar. I think it was pretty smart to call it that. It does not become obvious until you're into the middle of the book. This has been a really really witty adventure. I am in awe how McCoy was able to come up with this story. Super out of this world, literally and figuratively. It also tries to tell us that we should take care of our mother planet. As far as the climate changes , global warming and all the environmental problems that we are facing, I think it is not too far off that the events in this book will likely happen. If we want to stay here and continue to exist, we must take care of our beloved Earth. After all, there is just no place like home.
I give The Killing Jar five stars. It was a fun ride and I was just so pumped to get started on book two - The Lethal Agent.
This book came The Lethal Agent (book 2) that I won on Instagram as a giveaway from the author. Thanks again R. S. McCoy.
The first few chapters of the story introduces the characters. Each character is so varied and I was wondering how they will come together in one place. I know, I am getting ahead of myself. But I am also filled with anticipation. Right there, I know I am hooked. I had been putting off to read this because the last sci-fi novel I read was fun but not as engrossing. I was glad to be done with it. So, imagine my excitement on wanting to get to the rest of the pages of this book because I can't wait to get all the important characters in one place. And finally, they did. I was not disappointed. It was also so unexpected. This book had a lot of surprises that left my mouth open. Totally so unforeseen. Just so you know, I am a type of reader who tries to anticipate what's going to happen next. Some writers, often leave a trail of bread crumbs to clue in the reader what comes next and I am just the person who picks at those crumbs and just so eager to get to the next event before the writer obviously reveals it. It's fun trying to play Sherlock and gratifying if my guesses turn out to be right. But for this story, I was so clueless. There were clues though, but I was never able to guess what happens next. And the events are a bit fast-paced also. My brain was still trying to figure out what's about to happen and then boom! There it is.
I really flipped over because I was like one of those bugs totally caught in the clamp and had nowhere to go. And I was glad to find out also why this was called The Killing Jar. I think it was pretty smart to call it that. It does not become obvious until you're into the middle of the book. This has been a really really witty adventure. I am in awe how McCoy was able to come up with this story. Super out of this world, literally and figuratively. It also tries to tell us that we should take care of our mother planet. As far as the climate changes , global warming and all the environmental problems that we are facing, I think it is not too far off that the events in this book will likely happen. If we want to stay here and continue to exist, we must take care of our beloved Earth. After all, there is just no place like home.
I give The Killing Jar five stars. It was a fun ride and I was just so pumped to get started on book two - The Lethal Agent.
This book came The Lethal Agent (book 2) that I won on Instagram as a giveaway from the author. Thanks again R. S. McCoy.
September 14, 2016
Excellent world and characters, developed so well I knew there would have to be a book 2 in order to complete the story. For which I am extremely glad.
I can hardly stand the wait to get book 2 even though I plan to buy it as soon as I finish this review. The story is that good.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author. My review in no way is affected by that fact.
I can hardly stand the wait to get book 2 even though I plan to buy it as soon as I finish this review. The story is that good.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author. My review in no way is affected by that fact.
October 10, 2017
*our blog received a copy of this book to be honestly reviewed*
Okay, it took me two sittings to read this book, and for very good reason: my kindle died! One kid had my computer for school, another my phone to distract them so the others COULD do school. The we went out of town and I FORGOT my kindle. The whole whole while I’m sitting there distracted, dying to get back to my book so I could know what was going to happen with Mable’s team, if she’d ever get to see the Root again, and worrying about all the other characters.
This futuristic society was entrancing and engulfing, the author created this world so wonderfully and I got lost in it very easily. The characters were well written and stayed true to their personalities, and sometime I wanted to either hug or throat punch them lol.
There were a lot of point of views alternating in chapters, and sometimes it took me a few minutes to remember who the character was. This was a little distracting, but I got used to it after a while.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book to people who like dystopian, futuristic, science fiction worlds with a lot of diversity. I will definitely be continuing this series.
A note I HAD to make while reading this still amuses me. “Stuck on the moon with a bunch of kids and a man who doesn’t talk as the whole of her human interaction? Damn right she’s gonna drink the wine no matter what it tastes like!”
Bob says: 4 Stars, bordering just below 5!
Okay, it took me two sittings to read this book, and for very good reason: my kindle died! One kid had my computer for school, another my phone to distract them so the others COULD do school. The we went out of town and I FORGOT my kindle. The whole whole while I’m sitting there distracted, dying to get back to my book so I could know what was going to happen with Mable’s team, if she’d ever get to see the Root again, and worrying about all the other characters.
This futuristic society was entrancing and engulfing, the author created this world so wonderfully and I got lost in it very easily. The characters were well written and stayed true to their personalities, and sometime I wanted to either hug or throat punch them lol.
There were a lot of point of views alternating in chapters, and sometimes it took me a few minutes to remember who the character was. This was a little distracting, but I got used to it after a while.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book to people who like dystopian, futuristic, science fiction worlds with a lot of diversity. I will definitely be continuing this series.
A note I HAD to make while reading this still amuses me. “Stuck on the moon with a bunch of kids and a man who doesn’t talk as the whole of her human interaction? Damn right she’s gonna drink the wine no matter what it tastes like!”
Bob says: 4 Stars, bordering just below 5!
August 22, 2017
Intriguing premise with this book: you can choose from one of three classes to belong to - the Scholars, the Craftsman, or the Artisans - on, under & in the space around a post-nuclear war Earth. If you fail to thrive within the class system, you are an Untouchable & outcast from the society. Add in space exploration for a new planet to colonize, research conducted in colonies on the moon, and unknown "bugs" that are attacking the minds and bodies of the brightest minds, killing them & destroying ground breaking research.... and things start to get interesting.
The story is told in first-person perspective from the multiple key characters in the story. It keeps the interest level going but can get a bit confusing. Overall, the character development was decent, the world development could have been a bit stronger, and the plot builds fairly steadily as the book progresses. Definitely will be reading the 2nd book to see how this one turns out....
The story is told in first-person perspective from the multiple key characters in the story. It keeps the interest level going but can get a bit confusing. Overall, the character development was decent, the world development could have been a bit stronger, and the plot builds fairly steadily as the book progresses. Definitely will be reading the 2nd book to see how this one turns out....
April 2, 2019
Kept me interested from start to finish
Took a few chapters but the story definitely got its hooks in me kept me coming back for more. Interesting dystopian world-building. I like how all the characters have their flaws but you love them despite of them or maybe because of them. It was difficult at first to keep up with all the different POVs, but once you become more familiar with the storylines, it gets easier to keep them all straight. Looking forward to reading the next book!
Took a few chapters but the story definitely got its hooks in me kept me coming back for more. Interesting dystopian world-building. I like how all the characters have their flaws but you love them despite of them or maybe because of them. It was difficult at first to keep up with all the different POVs, but once you become more familiar with the storylines, it gets easier to keep them all straight. Looking forward to reading the next book!
October 8, 2017
A very interesting world. Some very interesting characters. Author kept lots of info barely revealed, which was interesting. A male lead drifted along the edges of dark obsession, and it seemed like the character wasn't quite locked in. Maybe that's something that accurately represents their psyche, maybe not. It's not clear. Some motivations seemed ambiguous. Maybe I'm overthinking it.
I really wanted to give it a 5, but it's not quite there. Sorry.
I really wanted to give it a 5, but it's not quite there. Sorry.
March 5, 2020
Intriguing teenage sci-fi
I am not a huge fan of the chapter by chapter flicking through each characters point of view but it is really interesting to see each part moving forward & linking up what seemed like separate stories.
Let's see how book 2 progresses :)
I am not a huge fan of the chapter by chapter flicking through each characters point of view but it is really interesting to see each part moving forward & linking up what seemed like separate stories.
Let's see how book 2 progresses :)
April 25, 2020
Great story but will not read more of the series or from this author because of his unnecessary use of vulgar language. If you need to have a character swear to show their emotions, you need to take a creative writing course.
November 24, 2016
The Earth is wrecked. Staying outside without a respirator is certain death and most of humanity lives in domed cities while scientists on the moon colony search for an acceptable new home world. Unfortunately something keeps killing them.
The Killing Jar by R. S. McCoy is an interesting piece of apocalyptic sci-fi in part because most of its individual parts should be bog standard by now, but they are combined into something quite entertaining. That’s largely because of the characters but also because each subplot has a sense of weight to it, like it’s going somewhere big.
This is one of those books that was really hard for me to review, largely because most of the issues I have with it are things that could have been dropped without a ton of change to the book proper. A big example of this was the, essentially, caste system that this society runs on. It wasn’t much of a bother to me until later in the book as I was thinking back on things. There was also some relationship stuff that really irked me, I’ll get to that later though.
So, there’re three tiers of society, plus a garbage level for people who don’t fit their caste or run off for whatever reason. Scientists get a bunch of genetic modifications to be tall and smart, they get the best pay, and they’re generally the most respected, but they don’t get to fall in love and they don’t get art or music. Craftsmen don’t get the genetic modifications, don’t seem to get paid much, and do most of the work building and maintaining everything, but they seem to get more personal choices than scientists. Then there’s artists, they don’t really seem to have a place in this world. Artists legitimately seem to exist in the plot for the male lead to get angsty over having to give up music and so his best friend can abandon him and science for his boyfriend. That’s probably a writing oversight thing, the book doesn’t really go into any caste except the scientists. But if the author was going to use this particular convention, complete with mandatory selection day when you come of age, I really wish she’d done more with it.
My second big thing, as mentioned, was some of the relationship stuff. Most of the relationships are painfully surface level and, much like the social striation could have been cut pretty easily. There’s a couple of exceptions that I feel like were done pretty well, but they were the exception rather than the rule. It’s not like the ones that weren’t done well were a huge part of their respective plots, it’s just that I feel like they either could have been done a lot better or came out of left field.
Now, all that said, I really enjoyed the book for the most part. It had a few more side plots than I would have liked, but they felt like they were going places instead of just being there as filler. The characters didn’t communicate well, but half of them are teenaged and the other half have hidden agendas. I definitely appreciated how much each character was gone into, especially given the number of side plots going on. The ending leaves me, instead of disappointed, curious to see where everything goes from here and how it all ties together.
So, all that said, R.S. McCoy’s The Killing Jar gets a four out of five.
The Killing Jar by R. S. McCoy is an interesting piece of apocalyptic sci-fi in part because most of its individual parts should be bog standard by now, but they are combined into something quite entertaining. That’s largely because of the characters but also because each subplot has a sense of weight to it, like it’s going somewhere big.
This is one of those books that was really hard for me to review, largely because most of the issues I have with it are things that could have been dropped without a ton of change to the book proper. A big example of this was the, essentially, caste system that this society runs on. It wasn’t much of a bother to me until later in the book as I was thinking back on things. There was also some relationship stuff that really irked me, I’ll get to that later though.
So, there’re three tiers of society, plus a garbage level for people who don’t fit their caste or run off for whatever reason. Scientists get a bunch of genetic modifications to be tall and smart, they get the best pay, and they’re generally the most respected, but they don’t get to fall in love and they don’t get art or music. Craftsmen don’t get the genetic modifications, don’t seem to get paid much, and do most of the work building and maintaining everything, but they seem to get more personal choices than scientists. Then there’s artists, they don’t really seem to have a place in this world. Artists legitimately seem to exist in the plot for the male lead to get angsty over having to give up music and so his best friend can abandon him and science for his boyfriend. That’s probably a writing oversight thing, the book doesn’t really go into any caste except the scientists. But if the author was going to use this particular convention, complete with mandatory selection day when you come of age, I really wish she’d done more with it.
My second big thing, as mentioned, was some of the relationship stuff. Most of the relationships are painfully surface level and, much like the social striation could have been cut pretty easily. There’s a couple of exceptions that I feel like were done pretty well, but they were the exception rather than the rule. It’s not like the ones that weren’t done well were a huge part of their respective plots, it’s just that I feel like they either could have been done a lot better or came out of left field.
Now, all that said, I really enjoyed the book for the most part. It had a few more side plots than I would have liked, but they felt like they were going places instead of just being there as filler. The characters didn’t communicate well, but half of them are teenaged and the other half have hidden agendas. I definitely appreciated how much each character was gone into, especially given the number of side plots going on. The ending leaves me, instead of disappointed, curious to see where everything goes from here and how it all ties together.
So, all that said, R.S. McCoy’s The Killing Jar gets a four out of five.
June 30, 2016
I liked this book. It was just very busy. There were more POVs than I was used to and it got a little confusing. Especially because A) new ones kept being added throughout and B) names kept being mentioned in some POVs that I had heard before in others but I just couldn’t place them. That was a little frustrating.
But the plots were good. I think it really helped with the world-building. In seeing so many different aspects of this future world, we were able to get a clearer idea of how it operated as a cohesive unit. It was easy to look at each storyline individually, but the way some of them intertwined brought everything together. And each one had its own importance, though some were certainly more interesting than others.
See, the synopsis focuses on Mable, and while it’s true that she could be the most complex character (though we don’t even have a clear picture of her backstory at any point), she’s definitely not the only one who the story focuses on. She’s not the only one to join this program—there are five others, each with bad situations that cause them to join the program. Two of the others also have POVs. Mable is not the only main character. But she was the one I liked the best. I didn’t start off liking her, but as the story went on I realized that I preferred her to the others. I just…didn’t like something about the others. They were too annoying or plain or made stupid decisions. I guess I’m warming up to some of them but still, Mable is the best.
Anyway, the main plot sort of takes a while to develop, and while that’s coming clear, there are numerous other sub-plots. Most notably the discovery of another planet that could be an alternative to the dying Earth. That’s a slow sub-plot but I’m sure it will become very important later. In any case, in each POV you kinda have to switch your mind to the plot at hand because they don’t all connect in super obvious ways.
I’m not sure that would be good or bad for reading the book in one sitting, which I would have liked to do, but it’s really long. It took me a few days. Sometimes it just got to be too much all at once and I needed a break. But there was a lot that happened. It didn’t really have a clear climax/ending either. It just sort of stopped. It’s the sort of thing that would be better read as a whole series so you don’t start forgetting things. And yes, I do want to continue reading. The plots are too exciting to leave behind, and I do want to see what happens with the characters, because nothing is really predictable and I want to see some resolutions.
See the full review on my blog, Awesome Book Assessment.
But the plots were good. I think it really helped with the world-building. In seeing so many different aspects of this future world, we were able to get a clearer idea of how it operated as a cohesive unit. It was easy to look at each storyline individually, but the way some of them intertwined brought everything together. And each one had its own importance, though some were certainly more interesting than others.
See, the synopsis focuses on Mable, and while it’s true that she could be the most complex character (though we don’t even have a clear picture of her backstory at any point), she’s definitely not the only one who the story focuses on. She’s not the only one to join this program—there are five others, each with bad situations that cause them to join the program. Two of the others also have POVs. Mable is not the only main character. But she was the one I liked the best. I didn’t start off liking her, but as the story went on I realized that I preferred her to the others. I just…didn’t like something about the others. They were too annoying or plain or made stupid decisions. I guess I’m warming up to some of them but still, Mable is the best.
Anyway, the main plot sort of takes a while to develop, and while that’s coming clear, there are numerous other sub-plots. Most notably the discovery of another planet that could be an alternative to the dying Earth. That’s a slow sub-plot but I’m sure it will become very important later. In any case, in each POV you kinda have to switch your mind to the plot at hand because they don’t all connect in super obvious ways.
I’m not sure that would be good or bad for reading the book in one sitting, which I would have liked to do, but it’s really long. It took me a few days. Sometimes it just got to be too much all at once and I needed a break. But there was a lot that happened. It didn’t really have a clear climax/ending either. It just sort of stopped. It’s the sort of thing that would be better read as a whole series so you don’t start forgetting things. And yes, I do want to continue reading. The plots are too exciting to leave behind, and I do want to see what happens with the characters, because nothing is really predictable and I want to see some resolutions.
See the full review on my blog, Awesome Book Assessment.
August 7, 2016
The Killing Jar was much more intriguing than I expected. Set in a future where the planet’s continued livability is measured in just a few generations, the population has adopted a caste system designed to ensure solutions are put into place before the human race is lost.
While Mable is one of the main characters, she isn’t the only one. In fact, the story follows several individuals’ stories, cycling through their perspectives to progress each one as Mable finds herself exactly where she doesn’t want to be, working for Silas Arrenstein in his secret program.
The interweaving of all the various stories could have easily gotten confusing, but they didn’t. While each character starts off alone, by the end, they all fit into the greater tapestry. The author was careful to allow the reader to form their own conclusions before revealing anything concrete, which is something I liked about this story.
The science fiction aspects of the story are just as solid as the interpersonal. The air is poisonous, but folks have adapted in a variety of interesting ways. The social classes, the underground, and the frenzied search for a way to either save the planet or preserve humanity through colonization, all spark the imagination and leave a lot to be learned in coming installments. And that isn’t even taking into account the threat posed by the bugs. Just where are they coming from, and is there some entity guiding them?
Overall, I simply loved this book and couldn’t put it down. It’s a delightfully terrifying story, filled in with just a touch of romance and a lot of questions. I’d recommend this to folks who want a realistic, but complex, science fiction story that focuses on the people without forgetting the science.
I received a review copy of this book from the author and wrote this review for the blog at PureTextuality.com.
While Mable is one of the main characters, she isn’t the only one. In fact, the story follows several individuals’ stories, cycling through their perspectives to progress each one as Mable finds herself exactly where she doesn’t want to be, working for Silas Arrenstein in his secret program.
The interweaving of all the various stories could have easily gotten confusing, but they didn’t. While each character starts off alone, by the end, they all fit into the greater tapestry. The author was careful to allow the reader to form their own conclusions before revealing anything concrete, which is something I liked about this story.
The science fiction aspects of the story are just as solid as the interpersonal. The air is poisonous, but folks have adapted in a variety of interesting ways. The social classes, the underground, and the frenzied search for a way to either save the planet or preserve humanity through colonization, all spark the imagination and leave a lot to be learned in coming installments. And that isn’t even taking into account the threat posed by the bugs. Just where are they coming from, and is there some entity guiding them?
Overall, I simply loved this book and couldn’t put it down. It’s a delightfully terrifying story, filled in with just a touch of romance and a lot of questions. I’d recommend this to folks who want a realistic, but complex, science fiction story that focuses on the people without forgetting the science.
I received a review copy of this book from the author and wrote this review for the blog at PureTextuality.com.
July 7, 2016
*** Gifted in exchange for an honest review***
So I think this is a deserved 4 star read, but it is hard to write the review without giving anything away, its going to leave you wanting the next book that is for sure, and the author has done a good job in slowly introducing each character/ timeline - and how they may have in the past or future to come cross paths with each other...
Ohh I bet this sounds confusing - but heck I can't give anything away!
I understood why the book was called what it is at 80% - but till then it really was a bit of a mystery, the book keeps its secrets well hidden until R.S. McCoy wants you to know, although I am as usual speculating about certain characters - time will tell if I am correct!
So I will say - if you like storylines about a world where the Human race has ruined the earth, that there are different sects/classes and there is a big secret the government is keeping from them all...
The Scholars reminded me of the film Equals which I watched a bit back, the scholars think they are better than the others, but I felt sorry for them as they try to not give into their feelings, then there were the Craftsmen and women - struggling to survive on a decimated world, I would have been an Artizan... and then there's the Underworld - We don't get to know much about that place but I do hope that the author goes into what the race of beings underground are ( images of Dr Who and Madam Vastra)
so OK thats enough of what the book reminded me of.
I enjoyed the writing style, the character development was good as well, we learn more about each character as the story moves along - but are still left wondering at the end, and dying to know more... so in conclusion - I will need to find out when the next book is out as I NEED to know more.
I think this series will be a very interesting one - add it to your TBR
So I think this is a deserved 4 star read, but it is hard to write the review without giving anything away, its going to leave you wanting the next book that is for sure, and the author has done a good job in slowly introducing each character/ timeline - and how they may have in the past or future to come cross paths with each other...
Ohh I bet this sounds confusing - but heck I can't give anything away!
I understood why the book was called what it is at 80% - but till then it really was a bit of a mystery, the book keeps its secrets well hidden until R.S. McCoy wants you to know, although I am as usual speculating about certain characters - time will tell if I am correct!
So I will say - if you like storylines about a world where the Human race has ruined the earth, that there are different sects/classes and there is a big secret the government is keeping from them all...
The Scholars reminded me of the film Equals which I watched a bit back, the scholars think they are better than the others, but I felt sorry for them as they try to not give into their feelings, then there were the Craftsmen and women - struggling to survive on a decimated world, I would have been an Artizan... and then there's the Underworld - We don't get to know much about that place but I do hope that the author goes into what the race of beings underground are ( images of Dr Who and Madam Vastra)
so OK thats enough of what the book reminded me of.
I enjoyed the writing style, the character development was good as well, we learn more about each character as the story moves along - but are still left wondering at the end, and dying to know more... so in conclusion - I will need to find out when the next book is out as I NEED to know more.
I think this series will be a very interesting one - add it to your TBR
September 13, 2016
Originally posted here: https://heatherreviews.com/2016/08/08...
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I don’t read nearly as much science fiction as I would like so I was really glad to read this book. I loved McCoy’s previous novel, Blossom and the Beast, and was intrigued to see where she would go with this new idea.
The Earth is dying and while Scholars work tirelessly to try and find a new planet to move Earth’s population to, there’s a series of mysterious unexplained deaths that threaten to jeopardise everything that they’ve worked so hard for. Following several different people, in varying situations and places, The Killing Jar is a series of interlocked stories all leading to something big.
There are so many things to love about this book, primarily the number of people that we get to know and follow. There are several different POV characters – and while I did get lost a few times, I rather enjoyed the diversity of the cast that we were introduced to. From a girl on the run as an ‘Untouchable’ living in the underground cities to a Scholar living in a colony in space to a man who doesn’t remember anything about his past, there’s such differing outlooks on life and their individual situations that it’s hard to put the book down.
Underlying the individual stories of each character is the mysterious deaths of several people – seemingly at random, with nothing in common. I found this to be a particularly interesting concept and I’m keen to learn more about what the creatures behind it all are actually about – where they came from, what they want, things like that.
An altogether unique concept with a diverse and captivating cast of characters that pull you into the world McCoy has so brilliantly created. I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait to pick up the next in the series.
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I don’t read nearly as much science fiction as I would like so I was really glad to read this book. I loved McCoy’s previous novel, Blossom and the Beast, and was intrigued to see where she would go with this new idea.
The Earth is dying and while Scholars work tirelessly to try and find a new planet to move Earth’s population to, there’s a series of mysterious unexplained deaths that threaten to jeopardise everything that they’ve worked so hard for. Following several different people, in varying situations and places, The Killing Jar is a series of interlocked stories all leading to something big.
There are so many things to love about this book, primarily the number of people that we get to know and follow. There are several different POV characters – and while I did get lost a few times, I rather enjoyed the diversity of the cast that we were introduced to. From a girl on the run as an ‘Untouchable’ living in the underground cities to a Scholar living in a colony in space to a man who doesn’t remember anything about his past, there’s such differing outlooks on life and their individual situations that it’s hard to put the book down.
Underlying the individual stories of each character is the mysterious deaths of several people – seemingly at random, with nothing in common. I found this to be a particularly interesting concept and I’m keen to learn more about what the creatures behind it all are actually about – where they came from, what they want, things like that.
An altogether unique concept with a diverse and captivating cast of characters that pull you into the world McCoy has so brilliantly created. I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait to pick up the next in the series.
August 1, 2016
This novel had well written characters, an intriguing plot, and a unique perspective of people. Each chapter is a different character's p.o.v. This shows us the inner workings of each characters mind. An added bonus is the suspense it adds. With each chapter ending a small part of one character's journey, you'll be on the edge of your seat. It also allows us insight to both ends of some relationships. This writing style manages to keep you enthralled in the novel. The whole earth is dying idea is not new, but Mccoy's book took it to a new unique level, which I loved. Now the bugs are an interesting concept. The idea that they go after the greatest minds gave me goosebumps. There is a lot of potential for these creatures and I can't wait to read more about them. The earth being majorly polluted and toxic gave a dose of reality because this could happen. With that mind set I connected more with the book. The social class system in the book is interesting. You have three classes, Scholar, Artisan, and Craftsman. Each class is set up differently. While the Artisan and Craftsman are somewhat similar, the Scholar is in a whole other league. They seemed like robots, few are an exception from this. While they all have different jobs, there is a unity to them. One can not function without the other. I hope to see more about the Artisans and Craftsman in the next book.
Over all I give this book a 4/5 rating. I can not wait to read "Lethal Agent" and continue Mable ' journey. Hopefully they can exterminate those bugs and get a new home.
Over all I give this book a 4/5 rating. I can not wait to read "Lethal Agent" and continue Mable ' journey. Hopefully they can exterminate those bugs and get a new home.
June 28, 2016
Just about a month ago, I did the cover reveal for The Killing Jar, and here we are on release day and I am so excited about it! Let's go slightly back in time and I discovered Rachel and her books when I did the review for The Lightning Luminary. I was so deeply touched when Rachel reached out and offered me the opportunity to read and review The Killing Jar as well.
So let me get started!
It has strong similarities with The Lightning Luminary, as we have a number of characters with each their own PoV chapters. At first, I was worried I would have a hard time keeping up, but no worries it was easy as the story progressed and the characters started coming together more and more. Or at least make more sense and start my own guessing games and predictions as to some people in there.
As I was reading The Killing Jar, I could not help myself thinking that this is what my favourite Sci-Fi tv show or movies were made of. It kind of reminded me of Dark Matter and even a little of Killjoys that are soon coming back for their season 2. The book, is smart, dark and gritty at time and is not scared of showing characters going out of their way making bad decisions even when they are not bad people at heart. I really like that and I loved embracing it because we it made the characters real and relatable.
Read My Full Review
So let me get started!
It has strong similarities with The Lightning Luminary, as we have a number of characters with each their own PoV chapters. At first, I was worried I would have a hard time keeping up, but no worries it was easy as the story progressed and the characters started coming together more and more. Or at least make more sense and start my own guessing games and predictions as to some people in there.
As I was reading The Killing Jar, I could not help myself thinking that this is what my favourite Sci-Fi tv show or movies were made of. It kind of reminded me of Dark Matter and even a little of Killjoys that are soon coming back for their season 2. The book, is smart, dark and gritty at time and is not scared of showing characters going out of their way making bad decisions even when they are not bad people at heart. I really like that and I loved embracing it because we it made the characters real and relatable.
Read My Full Review
June 28, 2016
Do you have a list of authors that no matter what book they write, you will read their books? I do and RS McCoy is one of those authors.
When I read the blurb for The Killing Jar, I immediately knew I wanted to read this book. I like the Science Fiction genre, but there needs to be a story and I need to connect on some level with the characters. I need to love them or hate them. Although I didn’t connect with all the characters in this book, there was a particular group that I did connect me–the inhabitants of CPR, especially Mable.
But I think part of the reason I didn’t connect on some level with all the characters was because there were so many of them! Not only were there lots of characters, but also lots of locations. I’ll admit I got a bit lost at the beginning so I went back to the start and started taking notes. Although this did interrupt the flow of the story, it helped me get everyone straight in my head.
But RS McCoy is a wonderful story teller and very clever. As I become involved in the different threads of this story, I realized how those threads were connected. I can’t wait to find out what happens in the next book of The Extraction Files series.
I gave The Killing Jar 4 and a half stars.
Written by Karen from A Thousand Lives Book Blog
When I read the blurb for The Killing Jar, I immediately knew I wanted to read this book. I like the Science Fiction genre, but there needs to be a story and I need to connect on some level with the characters. I need to love them or hate them. Although I didn’t connect with all the characters in this book, there was a particular group that I did connect me–the inhabitants of CPR, especially Mable.
But I think part of the reason I didn’t connect on some level with all the characters was because there were so many of them! Not only were there lots of characters, but also lots of locations. I’ll admit I got a bit lost at the beginning so I went back to the start and started taking notes. Although this did interrupt the flow of the story, it helped me get everyone straight in my head.
But RS McCoy is a wonderful story teller and very clever. As I become involved in the different threads of this story, I realized how those threads were connected. I can’t wait to find out what happens in the next book of The Extraction Files series.
I gave The Killing Jar 4 and a half stars.
Written by Karen from A Thousand Lives Book Blog
May 15, 2016
The Killing Jar follows the story of several different people. Some live on Earth and some don't. The Earth is dying at a rapid pace and its ability to sustain life is growing smaller each day that goes by. Within a century this ability will be completely gone. There are researchers that are trying to find somewhere to live while there are those on Earth just trying to survive. Several of the people end up messing up and being put in a special facility where they are trained to go on top secret, dangerous missions. It's either that or be sent somewhere awful to die a slow death from the haze that now covers Earth. Some stories I found a little more confusing than others, but with this being the first in a series, I hope to see more in the next book. I did have lots of questions about the book and besides so many story lines, my only other complaint really is that just about the time things start coming together as pieces of a puzzle do, the book ends...Otherwise, this is a pretty cool and interesting science fiction read.
July 7, 2016
The Killing Jar (The Extraction Files #1)
by R.S. McCoy
hmm The Killing Jar, was different. It follows the to many people, I was a lot confused, I haven’t read a lot of this genre before. Some of the people live on earth and then some do night. Earth is dying.
I liked the story, but it wasn’t not my favourite, I think I would have liked it more based on one couple or like one character or even two, I found it for myself too hard to go back and forth between everyone’s story.
This was unique, and I think you enjoy R.S McCoy writing and stories you will enjoy this one, and for those who enjoy a sci-fi book then this could be the one for you.
Overall the writing is great, the characters are developed and the world building is out of this world, super clever thinking up something like this!
Without giving away the whole story, which sometimes I can without even realizing, I would recommend this to your sci/fi lovers.
Book received for an honest review
PNR Book Lover Reviews
by R.S. McCoy
hmm The Killing Jar, was different. It follows the to many people, I was a lot confused, I haven’t read a lot of this genre before. Some of the people live on earth and then some do night. Earth is dying.
I liked the story, but it wasn’t not my favourite, I think I would have liked it more based on one couple or like one character or even two, I found it for myself too hard to go back and forth between everyone’s story.
This was unique, and I think you enjoy R.S McCoy writing and stories you will enjoy this one, and for those who enjoy a sci-fi book then this could be the one for you.
Overall the writing is great, the characters are developed and the world building is out of this world, super clever thinking up something like this!
Without giving away the whole story, which sometimes I can without even realizing, I would recommend this to your sci/fi lovers.
Book received for an honest review
PNR Book Lover Reviews
June 28, 2016
Now, before I start, let me say that R.S. McCoy is an author that I have long admired, for the twists and turns she can put on her books. So I was expecting something 'different' when I started reading The Killing Jar, but not what I got!
This book is told from multiple points of view which, although slightly confusing to begin with, quickly becomes necessary as you learn about the characters, their world, their situations and what lies ahead of them.
With an intricate and in-depth story, fascinating characters, backstories and plot twists, this was a thoroughly enjoyable Sci-Fi. This is a slow-burner of a book, don't expect to be swept away from the very beginning. However, if you stay with it, you will be pulled into this world, with it's class system and rules. By the time you are partway through, you will be completely bound to this book, needing to know what happens next.
With no editing or grammatical errors that jumped out at me, I would have no hesitation in recommending this.
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
This book is told from multiple points of view which, although slightly confusing to begin with, quickly becomes necessary as you learn about the characters, their world, their situations and what lies ahead of them.
With an intricate and in-depth story, fascinating characters, backstories and plot twists, this was a thoroughly enjoyable Sci-Fi. This is a slow-burner of a book, don't expect to be swept away from the very beginning. However, if you stay with it, you will be pulled into this world, with it's class system and rules. By the time you are partway through, you will be completely bound to this book, needing to know what happens next.
With no editing or grammatical errors that jumped out at me, I would have no hesitation in recommending this.
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
July 29, 2016
Earth is dying. Due to a war many years ago the world is hardly sustaining it inhabitants. There is a lunar team that is looking for another inhabitable planet. This book follows several people in a phenomenon that some of Earths greatest minds are mysteriously dying. CPI knows what is going on and is recruiting a team of misfits to battle this unseen force. Mable is key to CPI’s success. Silas is counting on her to help extract bugs and get to the bottom of why they seem to be sabotaging earth’s success.
In an Oyster Shell – This was a really complicated read in that it had several POV’s to follow. This book presents a challenge with that many POV’s. It’s the most I’ve been challenged by reading in awhile so I would recommend it to a select few.
Full Review: Writing Pearls
In an Oyster Shell – This was a really complicated read in that it had several POV’s to follow. This book presents a challenge with that many POV’s. It’s the most I’ve been challenged by reading in awhile so I would recommend it to a select few.
Full Review: Writing Pearls
June 28, 2016
I won a paperback ARC in a giveaway a while back and I'm sooooo glad I did!
WOW! I really loved this book. At first I wasn't sure about the writing style. R S McCoy wrote it from a few characters point of views. So every chapter you're reading and getting to know a different character...but it circles back and the story flows very nicely this way. I love dystopian books so this was right up my alley. Plus she added a scifi flare too...which made it even better. I'm not going to give any details away...the mystery is what makes this book great. So if you're thinking about a new dystopian/scifi read...you should pick this book up.
WOW! I really loved this book. At first I wasn't sure about the writing style. R S McCoy wrote it from a few characters point of views. So every chapter you're reading and getting to know a different character...but it circles back and the story flows very nicely this way. I love dystopian books so this was right up my alley. Plus she added a scifi flare too...which made it even better. I'm not going to give any details away...the mystery is what makes this book great. So if you're thinking about a new dystopian/scifi read...you should pick this book up.
December 12, 2016
Very interesting story. The Characters really brought this story together. Post Apocalyptic theme, with a twist of new life and the new ways of the people. The beginning chapters take you on a ride to meet all the main characters of the story and how they came to be where they are by the end. I am really interested as to what happen to a certain characters family as well as her "secret". As for "The Killing Jar" I'm interested as to know how it all ends. Looking forward to book 2.
May 22, 2016
I didn't really know what to expect with this one but wow! At the start, the changes in POV threw me off, but by 25% it was clear why she wrote it that way. I loved getting to see into the mind and motivations of each character. Mable was my favorite of course and I enjoyed seeing her interactions with Silas, Theo, and Dasia. The book ends right when things are starting to get going. I can't wait to read the next book!
July 11, 2016
This book was really Good! I loved that the characters were so well built and complex. I have to admit that the book was a bit slow in the beginning but it definitely picked up towards the middle! In my opinion the book had too many different POV which made it confusing at times especially in the beginning. I thought that the whole "bug" concept was really unique and fun and the author described them really well! Overall this was an enjoyable read and I am looking forward to the next one!
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