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The Variant Saga #1
The Amber Project
In 2157, a mysterious gas known as Variant spreads across the globe, killing or mutating most organic life. The surviving humans take refuge in an underground city, determined to return home. But after generations of failures and botched attempts, hope is beginning to dwindle. That is, until a young scientist makes a unique discovery—and everything changes. Suddenly, there’s reason to hope again, and it rests within a group of genetically engineered children that are both human and Variant.
Terry is one of these children, modified and trained to endure the harsh conditions of a planet he cannot begin to understand. After years of preparation, Terry thinks he knows what to expect. But the reality is far stranger than anything he can imagine—and what he will become is far more dangerous.
Terry is one of these children, modified and trained to endure the harsh conditions of a planet he cannot begin to understand. After years of preparation, Terry thinks he knows what to expect. But the reality is far stranger than anything he can imagine—and what he will become is far more dangerous.
344 pages, Paperback
First published April 12, 2015
3273 people are currently reading
7383 people want to read
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J.N. Chaney
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 383 reviews
January 7, 2024
It is a wonderful feeling when you get swept into a speculative future, post-apocalyptic, science fiction series. I had bought the entire series because the blurb sounded intriguing, but just as EVERY reader knows, just because it sounds fascinating doesn't mean it is.
Here, in The Amber Project, book 1 of The Variant Saga, by J.N. Chaney, human society has been forced to live underground for 200 years due to an atmosphere poisoned with a gas called Variant. Although the inhabitants of the city feel fortunate to have survived, there is a growing frustration at the fact that there has been little progress in attempting to make the exterior world survivable again. The people realize that they used to live on the surface and want that again.
One of those attempts to make the world survivable is The Amber Project, which has created genetically engineered children capable of enduring the Variant gas. Obviously, with every solution there are invariably people that prefer the status quo. For some the idea of sacrifice is too high a price to pay. Even when they are not making the sacrifice themselves. The story is engaging, introspective, and laden with suspense. Luckily, I purchased the entire series, so I don't have to wait between novels.
Here, in The Amber Project, book 1 of The Variant Saga, by J.N. Chaney, human society has been forced to live underground for 200 years due to an atmosphere poisoned with a gas called Variant. Although the inhabitants of the city feel fortunate to have survived, there is a growing frustration at the fact that there has been little progress in attempting to make the exterior world survivable again. The people realize that they used to live on the surface and want that again.
One of those attempts to make the world survivable is The Amber Project, which has created genetically engineered children capable of enduring the Variant gas. Obviously, with every solution there are invariably people that prefer the status quo. For some the idea of sacrifice is too high a price to pay. Even when they are not making the sacrifice themselves. The story is engaging, introspective, and laden with suspense. Luckily, I purchased the entire series, so I don't have to wait between novels.
September 11, 2016
Future Earth has been poisoned by a mysterious gas named Variant, forcing the survivors to create an underground society. Generations of humans have attempted to re-populate the surface, but all attempts have ended in failure until genetically altered children become humanity’s last hope. But have the adults become such cowards they would keep secrets from these teens?
In a society that manages births and takes children away from their mothers at seven years old, Terry has excelled in the academy he has lived at. His ability to perform different actions and to calculate how and what to do has not prepared him for what he and his friends will find when they are sent to the surface. Able to breathe the Variant air, and with limited supplies, this brave group will discover where it all began, but what will happen if they destroy the machinery responsible?
The Amber Project by J.N. Chaney is, in a word, stupendous! I was right there, through the underground government machinations, the rivalries and one hundred percent invested in these amazing teens. Once they hit the surface, I followed their journey and all that happened, good and bad. I even felt my throat constrict at one point, when one unselfish act made me choke up.
Wonderful characters, fascinating plotting and another author hits my hidden gem pile! I will definitely be following this series!
Series: The Variant Saga - Book 1
Publisher: Variant Publications; 1 edition (April 12, 2015)
Publication Date: April 12, 2015
Genre: Sci-fi | Fantasy
Print Length: 344 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
In a society that manages births and takes children away from their mothers at seven years old, Terry has excelled in the academy he has lived at. His ability to perform different actions and to calculate how and what to do has not prepared him for what he and his friends will find when they are sent to the surface. Able to breathe the Variant air, and with limited supplies, this brave group will discover where it all began, but what will happen if they destroy the machinery responsible?
The Amber Project by J.N. Chaney is, in a word, stupendous! I was right there, through the underground government machinations, the rivalries and one hundred percent invested in these amazing teens. Once they hit the surface, I followed their journey and all that happened, good and bad. I even felt my throat constrict at one point, when one unselfish act made me choke up.
Wonderful characters, fascinating plotting and another author hits my hidden gem pile! I will definitely be following this series!
Series: The Variant Saga - Book 1
Publisher: Variant Publications; 1 edition (April 12, 2015)
Publication Date: April 12, 2015
Genre: Sci-fi | Fantasy
Print Length: 344 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
February 18, 2024
The Amber Project opens us up to a futuristic world, about 200 years after the spread of a toxic gas known as the Variant (which spread in 2157). The gas steadily spread across the globe, killing all living things it came into contact with and drastically changing the atmosphere. The sky is purple, the grass is blue, and some predators managed to adapt and change, but little is known about them.
An underground city was established and cordoned off and sealed from the Variant. The population is controlled by 3 main sections: the military/education, scientific, and the matron. The three bodies must act together for there to be any order in this new world. The matron is in charge of all the mothers who give birth to the population. Children are made through contacts, and a mother must have the right genetic coding to be eligible to be a mother. Women see mothering as a sign of honor and stability and began having children as early as 14.
Once children reach the age of 7 they are taken from their homes (only run and managed by their mother and any possible siblings) and placed into the education system. Mara is one of the mothers with almost perfect genetic coding which causes her to be chosen for a specific scientific program, allowing her to fuse new experiments with her eggs to produce a possible child that can exist on the surface of the Earth with the Variant. This child is named Terry.
If you want to know more, then you must read the book. Suffice to say that the book is loaded with a devastating new world, political intrigue, and power struggles, as well as the troubles of growing into oneself with the added side effects of being a scientific experiment.
The story is told through multiple points of view to give a brilliant all-around look into the world. In addition, questions are answered through the release of past and current audio files and text to help the reader understand what has happened and is happening in the futuristic Earth.
Chaney has brilliantly fortified a place within a genre rife with half-hearted attempts at literature and created a gripping new series! I can't wait to read on. This was an easy 5 stars and hard to put down.
An underground city was established and cordoned off and sealed from the Variant. The population is controlled by 3 main sections: the military/education, scientific, and the matron. The three bodies must act together for there to be any order in this new world. The matron is in charge of all the mothers who give birth to the population. Children are made through contacts, and a mother must have the right genetic coding to be eligible to be a mother. Women see mothering as a sign of honor and stability and began having children as early as 14.
Once children reach the age of 7 they are taken from their homes (only run and managed by their mother and any possible siblings) and placed into the education system. Mara is one of the mothers with almost perfect genetic coding which causes her to be chosen for a specific scientific program, allowing her to fuse new experiments with her eggs to produce a possible child that can exist on the surface of the Earth with the Variant. This child is named Terry.
If you want to know more, then you must read the book. Suffice to say that the book is loaded with a devastating new world, political intrigue, and power struggles, as well as the troubles of growing into oneself with the added side effects of being a scientific experiment.
The story is told through multiple points of view to give a brilliant all-around look into the world. In addition, questions are answered through the release of past and current audio files and text to help the reader understand what has happened and is happening in the futuristic Earth.
Chaney has brilliantly fortified a place within a genre rife with half-hearted attempts at literature and created a gripping new series! I can't wait to read on. This was an easy 5 stars and hard to put down.
June 5, 2017
This review is for the audible version. I'm not sure how much the narration affected my enjoyment of the story. The narrator isn't bad, but something about the inflection in his sentences didn't sit well with me.
The plot revolves around a small underground dystopian society hiding from the death that has become the Earth's atmosphere. It has flavors from many of the sci-fi greats including Ender's Game, Wool, and Divergent, to name a few. Yet, it is it's own unique plot.
Being the sci-fi lover that I am, I enjoyed the evil scientist parts best and the political upheaval parts least. However, the focus of the story is on a group of extraordinary kids who may be humanity's only salvation. It was those kids who kept me enthralled and continuing to the end to see if (and how) they developed.
This book doesn't necessarily end on a cliffhanger. It could easily be the end of the story. However, we get a sneak peek at book 2 so it's obvious that the story continues and leaves us with many questions and curiosity to see where it will take us next.
2.5 stars for the Audible version of the book
The plot revolves around a small underground dystopian society hiding from the death that has become the Earth's atmosphere. It has flavors from many of the sci-fi greats including Ender's Game, Wool, and Divergent, to name a few. Yet, it is it's own unique plot.
Being the sci-fi lover that I am, I enjoyed the evil scientist parts best and the political upheaval parts least. However, the focus of the story is on a group of extraordinary kids who may be humanity's only salvation. It was those kids who kept me enthralled and continuing to the end to see if (and how) they developed.
This book doesn't necessarily end on a cliffhanger. It could easily be the end of the story. However, we get a sneak peek at book 2 so it's obvious that the story continues and leaves us with many questions and curiosity to see where it will take us next.
2.5 stars for the Audible version of the book
June 24, 2016
A Fantastic Indie Author...
The Amber Project is the first book in, Indie author, J.N. Chaney's, Variant Saga series. I really hadn't heard much about Chaney until recently so I wasn't sure what to expect going into it but I was very pleased with the story. It's a dystopian story about survivors that have been forced to live in an underground city because a mysterious gas called the Variant has been spreading across the world. A scientist has been experimenting with kids and genetically modifying them to breathe and withstand the toxic gas. The story follows one group of kids through their modifications and training to endure the harsh conditions on the surface.
The Amber Project had everything I was hoping for in a dystopian. Chaney is a talented writer and his debut was outstanding. It really exceeded my expectations! I found a new favorite author and can't wait to read the rest of the series.
*I received a copy of The Amber Project from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
The Amber Project is the first book in, Indie author, J.N. Chaney's, Variant Saga series. I really hadn't heard much about Chaney until recently so I wasn't sure what to expect going into it but I was very pleased with the story. It's a dystopian story about survivors that have been forced to live in an underground city because a mysterious gas called the Variant has been spreading across the world. A scientist has been experimenting with kids and genetically modifying them to breathe and withstand the toxic gas. The story follows one group of kids through their modifications and training to endure the harsh conditions on the surface.
The Amber Project had everything I was hoping for in a dystopian. Chaney is a talented writer and his debut was outstanding. It really exceeded my expectations! I found a new favorite author and can't wait to read the rest of the series.
*I received a copy of The Amber Project from the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
October 5, 2016
I wasn't sure how I was going to like the book but I have to say it was well written story. It was different from other dystopian books. There wasn't a romance interest in the story but it did keep my interest throughout.
The story begins in the future where people live underground because the earth was destroyed due to a toxic gas called Variant which spread across the world and killed everything around or changed it. Like the sky which was blue is now purple and the grass was blue instead of green. Even humans couldn't survive in this gas. Scientists spent many years trying to find a way to survive in the gas by testing on unborn children. Using females as young as 14 years of age by impregnating them with children that were genetically coded with Variant. They're reasoning was to keep the human race from dying. They finally a few children seem to be adjusting well to the changes in them and were sent out into the world to see how well they do. Some many changes happened to them, not just mentally but physically. Will these children survive or will this be the end? You'll have to read it to see what happens.
The story begins in the future where people live underground because the earth was destroyed due to a toxic gas called Variant which spread across the world and killed everything around or changed it. Like the sky which was blue is now purple and the grass was blue instead of green. Even humans couldn't survive in this gas. Scientists spent many years trying to find a way to survive in the gas by testing on unborn children. Using females as young as 14 years of age by impregnating them with children that were genetically coded with Variant. They're reasoning was to keep the human race from dying. They finally a few children seem to be adjusting well to the changes in them and were sent out into the world to see how well they do. Some many changes happened to them, not just mentally but physically. Will these children survive or will this be the end? You'll have to read it to see what happens.
July 18, 2016
~2.5 stars~
The blurb for this one sounded promising so I decided to give it a try. Also, it had some really high overall reviews. Sadly, this one just never pulled me into the story. I did like the sci-fi elements, but the character and story development didn’t impress me. I think perhaps it was due to the abundance of characters. I never really felt a connection to any of them, or to the plot. There were several times I almost declared this one a DNF but I stuck it out. I'm glad it was offered as a kindleunlimited but this wont be a series I personally continue. It was just too slow moving for my preference.
The blurb for this one sounded promising so I decided to give it a try. Also, it had some really high overall reviews. Sadly, this one just never pulled me into the story. I did like the sci-fi elements, but the character and story development didn’t impress me. I think perhaps it was due to the abundance of characters. I never really felt a connection to any of them, or to the plot. There were several times I almost declared this one a DNF but I stuck it out. I'm glad it was offered as a kindleunlimited but this wont be a series I personally continue. It was just too slow moving for my preference.
July 28, 2016
This has got to be one of the best YA dystopian novels I have read so far. The story is so intricately woven with an imaginative world and complex characters. As I read through each chapter, my interest just kept growing and I didn't want the story to end.
The story is told from multiple perspectives. It has a mix of emotional drama, political intrigue, betrayal, action, murder, special abilities and so on. I loved seeing the relationships in this book. There is no romance but the friendships forged were some of the best I have seen in a novel especially between Terry, Mei and John. I could feel the heartbreak, frustrations, fear and every roller-coaster ride of emotions that each of the characters went through. We also get to see the struggle of families and the moral dilemmas in a world where the future of the entire human race rests on a few genetically engineered humans.
I have absolutely no faults with this book. J.N. Chaney has delivered a dysoptian novel that is extremely satisfying and I can't wait to see what is store for the characters in the second book as the ending has definitely left me reeling :)
The story is told from multiple perspectives. It has a mix of emotional drama, political intrigue, betrayal, action, murder, special abilities and so on. I loved seeing the relationships in this book. There is no romance but the friendships forged were some of the best I have seen in a novel especially between Terry, Mei and John. I could feel the heartbreak, frustrations, fear and every roller-coaster ride of emotions that each of the characters went through. We also get to see the struggle of families and the moral dilemmas in a world where the future of the entire human race rests on a few genetically engineered humans.
I have absolutely no faults with this book. J.N. Chaney has delivered a dysoptian novel that is extremely satisfying and I can't wait to see what is store for the characters in the second book as the ending has definitely left me reeling :)
December 16, 2016
The Amber Project is JN Chaney's debut novel, and it is AWESOME. Not only do you get a unique, well-developed dystopian future, but he also manages to create original situations and development for his characters, some of which are quietly heroic, while others are terrific villain material. It was easy to cheer for the good guys, and though they face major challenges, there is an element of hope throughout.
And I also have to say that the ending is FANTASTIC and made me want to immediately go out and grab the sequel. Try this series, you won't be disappointed!
And I also have to say that the ending is FANTASTIC and made me want to immediately go out and grab the sequel. Try this series, you won't be disappointed!
April 22, 2019
Lovers of dystopia and sci-fi, pay attention to this book! A fantastic story of a group of genetically modified children taken at an early age from their mothers to be educated and military trained in an underground city as humanity’s last hope for survival on the dead and mutated surface, devastated by the mysterious gas Variant.
The Amber Project, the first book in The Variant Saga, by J. N. Chaney has elements of a beautiful blend of The Wool Trilogy by Hugh Howey and The Maze Runner Series by James Dashner I enjoyed and loved reading. Thumbs up for this explosive and excellent novel!
The Amber Project, the first book in The Variant Saga, by J. N. Chaney has elements of a beautiful blend of The Wool Trilogy by Hugh Howey and The Maze Runner Series by James Dashner I enjoyed and loved reading. Thumbs up for this explosive and excellent novel!
July 29, 2021
Notes:
I need to stop being a sucker for bundle packs. LoL
Setup was too hand wavy to make the plot/events believable. I'm hoping for info on setting and variants in the next book.
I need to stop being a sucker for bundle packs. LoL
Setup was too hand wavy to make the plot/events believable. I'm hoping for info on setting and variants in the next book.
November 7, 2016
The Amber Project (The Variant Saga #1) by JN Chaney
In 2157, a mysterious gas known as Variant spreads across the globe, killing or mutating most organic life. The surviving humans take refuge in an underground city, determined to return home.
But after generations of failures and botched attempts, hope is beginning to dwindle.
That is, until a young scientist makes a unique discovery—and everything changes. Suddenly, there’s reason to hope again, and it rests within a group of genetically engineered children that are both human and Variant. Terry is one of these children, modified and trained to endure the harsh conditions of a planet he cannot begin to understand.
After years of preparation, Terry thinks he knows what to expect. But the reality is far stranger than anything he can imagine—and what he will become is far more dangerous.
The Amber Project is a twisted sci fi that reminded me of a sci fi tv episode back in the 90s where teens in clubs listened to music that changed their genetic make up after the sun begins to affect people.
The people who didn't listen to music remained unchanged and unable to go out in the sun after the the sun affects the earth while the ones that listened to the music could go out.
This book kind of reminded me of that with similar echoes in the whole teens changing and allowing them to return to the surface while others live below.
The Amber Project is clever and fun.
Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review from the author
.
If any of Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like or let me know what you think! I love hearing from followers! Thank you!
In 2157, a mysterious gas known as Variant spreads across the globe, killing or mutating most organic life. The surviving humans take refuge in an underground city, determined to return home.
But after generations of failures and botched attempts, hope is beginning to dwindle.
That is, until a young scientist makes a unique discovery—and everything changes. Suddenly, there’s reason to hope again, and it rests within a group of genetically engineered children that are both human and Variant. Terry is one of these children, modified and trained to endure the harsh conditions of a planet he cannot begin to understand.
After years of preparation, Terry thinks he knows what to expect. But the reality is far stranger than anything he can imagine—and what he will become is far more dangerous.
The Amber Project is a twisted sci fi that reminded me of a sci fi tv episode back in the 90s where teens in clubs listened to music that changed their genetic make up after the sun begins to affect people.
The people who didn't listen to music remained unchanged and unable to go out in the sun after the the sun affects the earth while the ones that listened to the music could go out.
This book kind of reminded me of that with similar echoes in the whole teens changing and allowing them to return to the surface while others live below.
The Amber Project is clever and fun.
Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review from the author
.
If any of Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like or let me know what you think! I love hearing from followers! Thank you!
February 11, 2021
3.5 stars
I had this book on my tbr for a long time and finally got around to reading it! I always love to explore a new post apocalyptic version of the world, and this one seemed interesting.
I liked the book and the idea behind it, but it clearly was only the first book in a series... meaning there were lots of introductions and quite some chapters about nonessential things, especially in the first half. We got to know the characters, the world they live in (underground) and what happened to the surface of our planet. It wasn't boring, but it wasn't the most interesting thing either, and I felt like I'd read parts of the book over and over again.
The characters were ok, they could've been a bit more developed though. I liked following our MC Terry while he grows up (the book starts with him being a child) and I liked to get to know the other teens he meets at school, although they were all a bit bland. Some more character development towards the end would've been nice.
I had minor issues with the writing style at first (3rd person past; I'm not the biggest fan of 3rd person), but I got used to it quickly. I think I would've felt more of a connection to the characters and story if it were written in 1st person though.
The story itself moved at a steady pace, which sometimes was a bit slow but all in all good. I liked the two different storylines about Terry and his studies and the other one about the grown-ups slowly planning a rebellion (hello dystopian vibes). The audio file logs in the beginning of each chapter were a nice addition. All in all I liked the second half of the book better because the teens actually got a task and got to use the skills they acquired during the first half. It was exciting to explore the post apocalyptic landscape, however I missed some 'holding-my-breath' scenes and some more action overall. It was basically a lot of exploring and didn't seem as dangerous as I'd initially thought. The ending delivered more action and the book ended on an exciting note (cliffhanger!). I already have some theories of what's happened and how the series might continue. I'm not sure if I will continue though... the book wasn't bad by all means, but I have so many other books to read and I don't want to spend my time continuing a hundred mediocre series. If you're a lover of dystopias set in a post apocalyptic world, The Amber Project is still worth reading.
I had this book on my tbr for a long time and finally got around to reading it! I always love to explore a new post apocalyptic version of the world, and this one seemed interesting.
I liked the book and the idea behind it, but it clearly was only the first book in a series... meaning there were lots of introductions and quite some chapters about nonessential things, especially in the first half. We got to know the characters, the world they live in (underground) and what happened to the surface of our planet. It wasn't boring, but it wasn't the most interesting thing either, and I felt like I'd read parts of the book over and over again.
The characters were ok, they could've been a bit more developed though. I liked following our MC Terry while he grows up (the book starts with him being a child) and I liked to get to know the other teens he meets at school, although they were all a bit bland. Some more character development towards the end would've been nice.
I had minor issues with the writing style at first (3rd person past; I'm not the biggest fan of 3rd person), but I got used to it quickly. I think I would've felt more of a connection to the characters and story if it were written in 1st person though.
The story itself moved at a steady pace, which sometimes was a bit slow but all in all good. I liked the two different storylines about Terry and his studies and the other one about the grown-ups slowly planning a rebellion (hello dystopian vibes). The audio file logs in the beginning of each chapter were a nice addition. All in all I liked the second half of the book better because the teens actually got a task and got to use the skills they acquired during the first half. It was exciting to explore the post apocalyptic landscape, however I missed some 'holding-my-breath' scenes and some more action overall. It was basically a lot of exploring and didn't seem as dangerous as I'd initially thought. The ending delivered more action and the book ended on an exciting note (cliffhanger!). I already have some theories of what's happened and how the series might continue. I'm not sure if I will continue though... the book wasn't bad by all means, but I have so many other books to read and I don't want to spend my time continuing a hundred mediocre series. If you're a lover of dystopias set in a post apocalyptic world, The Amber Project is still worth reading.
June 2, 2016
This book is the best of why I love the indie pub world. This book is one of the best YA reads I’ve come across this year—a tension-filled read that’s a great ya coming of age story, a dystopian political thriller, and an action packed creature-feature all in one. Too many YA dystopias fall down in either world-building or characterization, but this book does a great job of balancing both. We get to watch Terry grow up from a child who feels weak and out of control of his own life into a young man with strengths he never suspected. Watching his character journey was one of my favorite parts of the book. Lots of cool action and plot never means anything if I’m not connected to the people the action’s happening too, but this book is full of heart. Terry, Mei, John and the gang are the first of their kind and seeing them tackle the world was frequently crazy, always cool, and the kind of book that makes you want to go on their journey of discovery with them, every step of the way.
August 2, 2016
I hesitated over whether or not to read this book at first, but I'm so glad I decided to read it after all, because this book was absolutely amazing! It's one of those books I'd give more than five stars to if I could.
The characters are all wel-rounded, and the development of the individual characters, along with their relationships with one another, evolve nicely throughout the book, so that you feel these are real people you're getting to know. The plot moves at a nice pace, and is so believable you could imagine this happening for real in the future one day. Plus, the descriptions are excellent, and help to draw you in to the story, and keep you there until the end.
In short: if you enjoy dystopian novels, and are looking for a new author to try, you should read this book.
*Note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. However, this fact has in no way influenced either my opinion of this book, or the contents of this review.
The characters are all wel-rounded, and the development of the individual characters, along with their relationships with one another, evolve nicely throughout the book, so that you feel these are real people you're getting to know. The plot moves at a nice pace, and is so believable you could imagine this happening for real in the future one day. Plus, the descriptions are excellent, and help to draw you in to the story, and keep you there until the end.
In short: if you enjoy dystopian novels, and are looking for a new author to try, you should read this book.
*Note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. However, this fact has in no way influenced either my opinion of this book, or the contents of this review.
June 15, 2016
The Amber Project: A Dystopian Sci-fi Novel (The Variant Saga Book 1) by JN Chaney is a terrific, fast paced, suspense filled sci-fi/fantasy novel I had to inhale in one sitting. The world is destroyed by a gas that is dubbed, Variant. Survivors live far below ground and now after 200 yrs they have started trying to make babies that will have DNA that is capable of letting them live top side and breathing Variant gas. This is about these kids and some other society members. There is intrigue, suspense, super human abilities, strange creatures, deceit, love, adventure, and great dialogue. A well thought out plot and wonderful set of developed characters make this an excellent book for sci-fi and fantasy readers. Well done!!! I hope there is a book 2.
June 10, 2016
**I received a copy of this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review**
I'm a JN Chaney fan now. And I'm psyched that this book, though good as a stand-alone novel, is actually a series. Whenever I do a RaR, I tend to be a little skeptical, seeing as most of the ones I've read lately have been filled with typos and grammar problems. Not Chaney's book. This book was so well-written that I felt like I was reading a new bestseller. That alone would make me happy, but the plot is fresh and interesting, and I am thankful to Sarah Noffke's fan club for offering this book to me to review.
The story is slow at first...it's like boarding a boat and getting your sea legs. You are introduced to a world underground (because toxic gas called Variant makes the air unbreathable on the surface), and a young boy named Terry who becomes our main protagonist. He is shipped off to a special school and we find out he has been bred to survive on the surface, all in hope of eventually moving the human race out from deep beneath the earth. We see him grow up and learn more about the insidious nature involving his birth and the birth of approximately 20 other children. That's all I'm going to say to keep this review spoiler-free. I will add that though it took awhile for the true premise to become clear, once it does you are on the edge of your seat, just waiting to see what happens next.
I think this could really be the next big book. I could even see a movie spring from it. It's captivating and definitely developed, and we begin to care for Terry. No teen romance: just pure future dystopia. It flashes between recorded transcripts from the past and present to give an omnipresent view instead of a narrow third person perspective. Through Terry's eyes, we learn a valuable lesson about hubris and human arrogance.
I give this book a full ★★★★☆. A solid first book in the Variant saga, and I am ready for more.
So JN Chaney....I'm ready for book two! (I'm also more than happy to review anything else you've written, as you have become a new favorite author. Thank you for letting me be a part of The Amber Project.)
So for all you out there....get ready for a book rec from me! Read it, because I think you'll like Chaney's new dystopia. Truly the first non-clichéd dystopia in awhile.
I'm a JN Chaney fan now. And I'm psyched that this book, though good as a stand-alone novel, is actually a series. Whenever I do a RaR, I tend to be a little skeptical, seeing as most of the ones I've read lately have been filled with typos and grammar problems. Not Chaney's book. This book was so well-written that I felt like I was reading a new bestseller. That alone would make me happy, but the plot is fresh and interesting, and I am thankful to Sarah Noffke's fan club for offering this book to me to review.
The story is slow at first...it's like boarding a boat and getting your sea legs. You are introduced to a world underground (because toxic gas called Variant makes the air unbreathable on the surface), and a young boy named Terry who becomes our main protagonist. He is shipped off to a special school and we find out he has been bred to survive on the surface, all in hope of eventually moving the human race out from deep beneath the earth. We see him grow up and learn more about the insidious nature involving his birth and the birth of approximately 20 other children. That's all I'm going to say to keep this review spoiler-free. I will add that though it took awhile for the true premise to become clear, once it does you are on the edge of your seat, just waiting to see what happens next.
I think this could really be the next big book. I could even see a movie spring from it. It's captivating and definitely developed, and we begin to care for Terry. No teen romance: just pure future dystopia. It flashes between recorded transcripts from the past and present to give an omnipresent view instead of a narrow third person perspective. Through Terry's eyes, we learn a valuable lesson about hubris and human arrogance.
I give this book a full ★★★★☆. A solid first book in the Variant saga, and I am ready for more.
So JN Chaney....I'm ready for book two! (I'm also more than happy to review anything else you've written, as you have become a new favorite author. Thank you for letting me be a part of The Amber Project.)
So for all you out there....get ready for a book rec from me! Read it, because I think you'll like Chaney's new dystopia. Truly the first non-clichéd dystopia in awhile.
November 22, 2016
You know how scientist are always coming up with the next new chemical that usually solves one issue yet creates another? Well in this story they created a gas called variant. They can't control it and not many survive it. The people that does survive the gas has had to spend the rest of their lives living underground. Naturally the humans don't want to become extinct and they do want to repopulate the earth therefore the powers that be has an agenda that include genetically altered children that come into their care once they reach the good ripe age of seven. (Made me mad).
This book is about a society where the people that are governing it has all the power. They hold secrets that would disturb the community if the knowledge was to get into the wrong hands. If things can go wrong, they surely will, but in the best of entertaining ways.
There is a hint at romance. There is death, surmising, abuse of power, and there are answers to how this all began. Great story. I think this may be for young adults, but adults can enjoy it just as well.
Sorry Q, but there is no sex in this book. I will say that there is some wonderful and interesting alternate universes involved in this story. Everyone knows how much I love Alternate universe tales. I just love the possibility of it.
This book is about a society where the people that are governing it has all the power. They hold secrets that would disturb the community if the knowledge was to get into the wrong hands. If things can go wrong, they surely will, but in the best of entertaining ways.
There is a hint at romance. There is death, surmising, abuse of power, and there are answers to how this all began. Great story. I think this may be for young adults, but adults can enjoy it just as well.
Sorry Q, but there is no sex in this book. I will say that there is some wonderful and interesting alternate universes involved in this story. Everyone knows how much I love Alternate universe tales. I just love the possibility of it.
July 13, 2016
Review of THE AMBER PROJECT by JN Chaney
THE AMBER PROJECT is a very engrossing dystopian near-futuristic science fiction novel, the debut entry in a series. In the 22nd century, a gas overtakes the planet, destroying almost all of humanity, except a small enclave which is able to make its way underground and construct a city. For two centuries, the survivors continue to transmit communications to the surface, hoping against despair that someone on the surface has managed to survive, but there has been no response. For the underground inhabitants, life is almost militaristic: very highly structured, without joy or happiness for the most part.
I had for some time nearly given up on reading Dystopiana as a sub-genre, for it seemed every novel I encountered was beyond depressing. However, author JN Chaney has reawakened my interest in this category, and I highly recommend THE AMBER PROJECT to readers looking to try out Dystopian sci fi, and to those looking for a riveting sci fi read.
THE AMBER PROJECT is a very engrossing dystopian near-futuristic science fiction novel, the debut entry in a series. In the 22nd century, a gas overtakes the planet, destroying almost all of humanity, except a small enclave which is able to make its way underground and construct a city. For two centuries, the survivors continue to transmit communications to the surface, hoping against despair that someone on the surface has managed to survive, but there has been no response. For the underground inhabitants, life is almost militaristic: very highly structured, without joy or happiness for the most part.
I had for some time nearly given up on reading Dystopiana as a sub-genre, for it seemed every novel I encountered was beyond depressing. However, author JN Chaney has reawakened my interest in this category, and I highly recommend THE AMBER PROJECT to readers looking to try out Dystopian sci fi, and to those looking for a riveting sci fi read.
December 12, 2016
This took me a long time to read but it was worth it. It's a solid dystopian with likable characters. It's also well done with a back and forth storyline between a group of genetically modified kids and the government of their home. Sometimes these things don't work, but this author achieved a decent read. Although I'm not dying for it, I'm certainly interested i the next book in the series.
December 4, 2019
Good idea, so-so execution. I couldn't get emotionally invested, and the main trio reminded me a bit too much of Harry, Ron and Hermione. Some editing would also help, especially with dates and other typos. Here's a funny one from my Kindle edition: She screamed intensely until she couldn't anymore, until she was horse.
Loved the cover art, it's a very good match for the story.
Loved the cover art, it's a very good match for the story.
February 10, 2021
There are other reviewers who have said what I'm about to say and probably better. That said, you would need to dig through the immense pile of 5-star reviews to find them. I honestly don't know what to think of all the 5-star reviews, they are the reason I bought the book and now I feel lied to. Perhaps these people have never read a great work of fiction and this dreadful example of prose is the absolute best they have ever read? Although I suspect the truth is that many of these people are part of the self-published writer’s group and they exchange favors by giving each other 5-star reviews in the hopes of deceiving readers such as myself into purchasing their novels. Not cool.
So, why 1 star? Well, it is not because I am trying to be overly harsh or cruel but honest. 5-star ratings belong to the great writers such as J.R.R. Tolkien, J.K. Rowling, and Stephen King. These are the true masters of the art and putting this book on the same level with them could be likened to taking a shit in your vegetable garden. It just does not belong there. 1-star reviews are reserved for those who can write but simply are not that good at it, as is the case with J.N. Chaney.
The pace of the book was boring and slow. It drags itself out until, finally, at the end the author tries to inject some excitement, it is too little too late. The plot is tired, old, and used which makes it easily predictable. I’ve seen it done before and I've seen it done much better. The characters are flat and have no depth to them. They do not seem well thought out and are poorly developed, if at all. Who are these people and what inspires them to act the way they do? I don’t know that either. The dialogue is terrible and not engaging. It often seems like all characters are using the same voice, there isn’t a uniqueness to them. More often than not the dialogue consists of dull bickering. Can bickering be dull? I wouldn’t have thought so before reading this book, but this author manages to do it. The world building is nearly non-existent and basic at best. The author is constantly repeating the same details. The blue grass, the dust on everything, and the sky are some examples. He doesn’t even bother to switch up the way these details are used, it’s like he just copied and pasted these descriptions throughout the book. The novel as a whole doesn’t seem well thought out. It contradicts itself regularly and the science seems questionable. One of the best examples of this is the sentence: “The exception was the face, which appeared to contain the snout of a dog and the eyes of a deer, though the details were difficult to make out through the infrared.” This description is coming from a boy who has lived underground and has never seen a deer or presumably a dog for that matter, so how is it that he knows that the eyes look like deer eyes. Even if he had seen a deer before (perhaps in a picture) you would not be able to see that detail while looking at it in infrared. Google a picture of a deer in infrared and you will see my point. This and many other inconsistencies are distracting from an already poorly written story. Maybe if the author had spent some time revising his prose and reworking it, he could have produced something of interest. However, I can not recommend this book to anyone as good reading material.
My advice for Mr. Chaney, revision, revision, revision!!
So, why 1 star? Well, it is not because I am trying to be overly harsh or cruel but honest. 5-star ratings belong to the great writers such as J.R.R. Tolkien, J.K. Rowling, and Stephen King. These are the true masters of the art and putting this book on the same level with them could be likened to taking a shit in your vegetable garden. It just does not belong there. 1-star reviews are reserved for those who can write but simply are not that good at it, as is the case with J.N. Chaney.
The pace of the book was boring and slow. It drags itself out until, finally, at the end the author tries to inject some excitement, it is too little too late. The plot is tired, old, and used which makes it easily predictable. I’ve seen it done before and I've seen it done much better. The characters are flat and have no depth to them. They do not seem well thought out and are poorly developed, if at all. Who are these people and what inspires them to act the way they do? I don’t know that either. The dialogue is terrible and not engaging. It often seems like all characters are using the same voice, there isn’t a uniqueness to them. More often than not the dialogue consists of dull bickering. Can bickering be dull? I wouldn’t have thought so before reading this book, but this author manages to do it. The world building is nearly non-existent and basic at best. The author is constantly repeating the same details. The blue grass, the dust on everything, and the sky are some examples. He doesn’t even bother to switch up the way these details are used, it’s like he just copied and pasted these descriptions throughout the book. The novel as a whole doesn’t seem well thought out. It contradicts itself regularly and the science seems questionable. One of the best examples of this is the sentence: “The exception was the face, which appeared to contain the snout of a dog and the eyes of a deer, though the details were difficult to make out through the infrared.” This description is coming from a boy who has lived underground and has never seen a deer or presumably a dog for that matter, so how is it that he knows that the eyes look like deer eyes. Even if he had seen a deer before (perhaps in a picture) you would not be able to see that detail while looking at it in infrared. Google a picture of a deer in infrared and you will see my point. This and many other inconsistencies are distracting from an already poorly written story. Maybe if the author had spent some time revising his prose and reworking it, he could have produced something of interest. However, I can not recommend this book to anyone as good reading material.
My advice for Mr. Chaney, revision, revision, revision!!
August 9, 2016
I received a free copy of this book from the author, through the David Estes Fans and YA Booklovers Unite! Goodreads group, in exchange for an honest review.
The Amber Project takes place a whole lot of years in the future after a gas called Variant was set loose and killed a whole bunch of people. It also turned the sky purple, tinged the grass blue and seemingly mutated the animals. The survivors managed to establish themselves underground, isolating themselves from the gas and the world for 200 years. Now, there are three main branches of the government: the motherhood (the only women allowed to have children), the scientists and the military. When Terry turns 7, he is sent to school for the first time where he will learn a trade in order the do his part in keeping the society alive but it turns out he was part of a top secret project where the human embryos were combined with Variant. Instead of learning to be a contractor as he thought he would, he now begins training to become a soldier, to eventually be sent to the surface. Only a few of the children are able to survive with Variant. They become better with it. Soon, some of them begin to crave that power and two of the boys escape to the Surface. Terry and his team are sent to retrieve those boys, they are sent where no humans have set foot in centuries and they begin to uncover some truths that were not known before. Meanwhile, there's some conflict between the motherhood and the other two branches. Mara Echols, Terry's mother and the new matron of the motherhood, as well as a military officer are working together to stop the scientists and military from continuing their cruel experiments being performed on the kids and the mothers. I can't help but think of this book as a cross between The 100 (the tv show, more specifically the people at Mount Weather) and The Giver (the movie. I haven't read the book but the government system in the movie is pretty similar.) I probably shouldn't compare it to anything else but these were the vibes I was getting while reading.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The characters were all so amazing and the story line was really good. The world building was done really well in my opinion with small info dump sessions (which surprisingly were not that annoying since it didn't take place in the middle of an important part and wasn't used just to fill up the page as it has been done before) at the beginning of each chapter in the form of video logs and audio files and even some conversation transcripts. I did have a little issue though but this is something that affects me personally as a reader. I don't usually read books that take place over a long period of time and contain lots of dates because most times I skip right over the dates and even if I do happen to read them I usually forget it by the time I get to the next chapter so I spent like the first half of the book confused because the story took place over a couple of years. Then there were the dates on the communications but nevertheless, I pulled through and managed to really like this book despite the initial confusion. It isn't a die hard love of mine but I did still enjoy it a lot.
The Amber Project takes place a whole lot of years in the future after a gas called Variant was set loose and killed a whole bunch of people. It also turned the sky purple, tinged the grass blue and seemingly mutated the animals. The survivors managed to establish themselves underground, isolating themselves from the gas and the world for 200 years. Now, there are three main branches of the government: the motherhood (the only women allowed to have children), the scientists and the military. When Terry turns 7, he is sent to school for the first time where he will learn a trade in order the do his part in keeping the society alive but it turns out he was part of a top secret project where the human embryos were combined with Variant. Instead of learning to be a contractor as he thought he would, he now begins training to become a soldier, to eventually be sent to the surface. Only a few of the children are able to survive with Variant. They become better with it. Soon, some of them begin to crave that power and two of the boys escape to the Surface. Terry and his team are sent to retrieve those boys, they are sent where no humans have set foot in centuries and they begin to uncover some truths that were not known before. Meanwhile, there's some conflict between the motherhood and the other two branches. Mara Echols, Terry's mother and the new matron of the motherhood, as well as a military officer are working together to stop the scientists and military from continuing their cruel experiments being performed on the kids and the mothers. I can't help but think of this book as a cross between The 100 (the tv show, more specifically the people at Mount Weather) and The Giver (the movie. I haven't read the book but the government system in the movie is pretty similar.) I probably shouldn't compare it to anything else but these were the vibes I was getting while reading.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The characters were all so amazing and the story line was really good. The world building was done really well in my opinion with small info dump sessions (which surprisingly were not that annoying since it didn't take place in the middle of an important part and wasn't used just to fill up the page as it has been done before) at the beginning of each chapter in the form of video logs and audio files and even some conversation transcripts. I did have a little issue though but this is something that affects me personally as a reader. I don't usually read books that take place over a long period of time and contain lots of dates because most times I skip right over the dates and even if I do happen to read them I usually forget it by the time I get to the next chapter so I spent like the first half of the book confused because the story took place over a couple of years. Then there were the dates on the communications but nevertheless, I pulled through and managed to really like this book despite the initial confusion. It isn't a die hard love of mine but I did still enjoy it a lot.
September 18, 2016
Humans hiding underground from the apocalyptic surface world, a few children genetically designed to survive in it, and the project by which they were created blowing out of proportion...
Even though I don't read a lot of dystopian fiction, from the moment I read the synopsis and a few reviews of this book, I was sold. I knew this story was going to be great.
The Amber Project is an adventure-filled, action-packed thriller, and I loved it. It was hard to put down, and I would have read it all in one sitting if time had allowed. The author obviously has a lot of imagination, much to the delight of his readers, to have created a completely different world with its own elaborate political system and complex characters, some I loved, others who just got on my nerves (in a good way). ;) And the best part is, it's only book 1 of The Variant Saga, which means there is more adventures coming!
Although this is considered young adult fiction, I think it can appeal to a much broader audience, just like The Huger Games and Divergent series did.
I urge dystopian fiction fans to pick up this book as they will not regret it.
5 strong stars and easily one of my favorite book in this genre.
I received a free ebook copy of this book through For Love of a Book Read and Review program. This did not affect my review in any way.
Even though I don't read a lot of dystopian fiction, from the moment I read the synopsis and a few reviews of this book, I was sold. I knew this story was going to be great.
The Amber Project is an adventure-filled, action-packed thriller, and I loved it. It was hard to put down, and I would have read it all in one sitting if time had allowed. The author obviously has a lot of imagination, much to the delight of his readers, to have created a completely different world with its own elaborate political system and complex characters, some I loved, others who just got on my nerves (in a good way). ;) And the best part is, it's only book 1 of The Variant Saga, which means there is more adventures coming!
Although this is considered young adult fiction, I think it can appeal to a much broader audience, just like The Huger Games and Divergent series did.
I urge dystopian fiction fans to pick up this book as they will not regret it.
5 strong stars and easily one of my favorite book in this genre.
I received a free ebook copy of this book through For Love of a Book Read and Review program. This did not affect my review in any way.
August 11, 2016
This was a completely different apocalypse then I've read.
The world was over taken by a gas but survivors managed to come to an underground city that was being built.
The way they live was really unusual. Their government while explained really well was just kind of unbelievable. I didn't really understand how they would get to this point but I guess it seems to be working for them.
Instead of trying to figure out a way to get rid of the gas a crazy scientist starts messing with DNA so that there can be children that survive it. However they don't take into account that these kids are still people with their own minds.
So while they're experimenting on them another branch of government starts digging into what they are doing to these kids.
The writing was incredible. I could really picture their lives. Although like I said I don't understand how people got to the point they did.
I was given an ecopy in exchange for a honest review. Thank you.
This review can also be found on my page The Fiction Fanatics.
The world was over taken by a gas but survivors managed to come to an underground city that was being built.
The way they live was really unusual. Their government while explained really well was just kind of unbelievable. I didn't really understand how they would get to this point but I guess it seems to be working for them.
Instead of trying to figure out a way to get rid of the gas a crazy scientist starts messing with DNA so that there can be children that survive it. However they don't take into account that these kids are still people with their own minds.
So while they're experimenting on them another branch of government starts digging into what they are doing to these kids.
The writing was incredible. I could really picture their lives. Although like I said I don't understand how people got to the point they did.
I was given an ecopy in exchange for a honest review. Thank you.
This review can also be found on my page The Fiction Fanatics.
October 29, 2016
Unique plot (at least to me) with excellent world building. Some of the characters are well rounded but that's understandable since there a lot of them. Of course I have questions because it is a series.
I was curious enough to immediately go to Amazon to buy book 2 TRANSIENT ECHOES. And I definitely did not buy it because I needed something to read since I have over 60 books on my Kindle and quite a few made of real paper. Hopefully you will give it a read if you like sci-fi, dystopian or post-apocalyptic because this is a good blend of all three.
Disclaimer: I received this book at no charge from the author's web site and you can also. Mr. Chaney did request an honest review but it was not required.
I was curious enough to immediately go to Amazon to buy book 2 TRANSIENT ECHOES. And I definitely did not buy it because I needed something to read since I have over 60 books on my Kindle and quite a few made of real paper. Hopefully you will give it a read if you like sci-fi, dystopian or post-apocalyptic because this is a good blend of all three.
Disclaimer: I received this book at no charge from the author's web site and you can also. Mr. Chaney did request an honest review but it was not required.
December 6, 2016
Lord of the Flies, meets Hunger Games, meets Life After People. An incredibly written dystopian novel that touches on social issues like equal rights, genetic engineering and political espionage. I realize this is a series, but the ending still felt too unresolved.
Chapter 15's "Open Transcript" was the greatest thing I have ever read about the loss of a parent. (No, this isn't a spoiler) If you've ever felt guilty about the fading memories of a loved one, read this book for that reason alone. I've never related to anything I've read more than this in my entire life.
Chapter 15's "Open Transcript" was the greatest thing I have ever read about the loss of a parent. (No, this isn't a spoiler) If you've ever felt guilty about the fading memories of a loved one, read this book for that reason alone. I've never related to anything I've read more than this in my entire life.
February 26, 2016
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was hard for me to read. It was well put together, but after a few chapters I had to put it down, because it some how triggered memories...
Despite the fact that I could not continue reading this book I would still recommend this book to people looking for a very unique story about survival.
This book was hard for me to read. It was well put together, but after a few chapters I had to put it down, because it some how triggered memories...
Despite the fact that I could not continue reading this book I would still recommend this book to people looking for a very unique story about survival.
August 29, 2016
Wonderful New Dystopian Series
I really liked this new series. The characters are well devoloped -the females are strong and find ways to keep some power. The plots suck u in and u care what happens to them. This story grabs u one first page. I can't wait to read 2nd book. Highly recommend.
I really liked this new series. The characters are well devoloped -the females are strong and find ways to keep some power. The plots suck u in and u care what happens to them. This story grabs u one first page. I can't wait to read 2nd book. Highly recommend.
January 23, 2019
I've been reading a variety of genres lately and chose this book for my dystopian pick of the month. Chaney has a gift for grabbing a reader and throwing them into the pulse-pounding action. The plot was believable, the characters fully fleshed out and the ending superb. A bit too much drama for me but I know that's a huge draw for others.
My Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
My Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
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