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Black Bead Chronicles #1
Black Bead
Winner of IBPA's 2016 Benjamin Franklin digital award, Indie Reader Approved, and recipient of Library Journal's 2016 SELF-e Selection seal. Cheobawn has been an outcast for her entire life, having been marked with the Black Bead on her Choosing Day, a symbol of Bad Luck and shame. Her beautiful half-sister Megan is the only person she can count on. So when Megan is finally of age and is chosen to be a part of a foraging mission outside their home dome, she demands her little sister come too. Cheobawn knows this is her chance to prove herself. The girls join a pack of boys who are hungry for adventure, and anxious to get out of the protective dome which shields their utopian colony from the dangerous beasts that inhabit their lush, forested world — a forgotten planet on the edge of the galaxy. Their job is to act as psychic “Ears” to guide their pack of trained hunter-fighters. But something sinister stalks them and each member of the pack must draw on their unique strengths and a lifetime of training if they want to survive to see another day. In this first novella in her visionary new series The Black Bead Chronicles, author J.D. Lakey invites young adults, teens and sci-fi and fantasy fans of all ages to journey along with Cheobawn, Megan, Tam, Connor, and Alain as they learn to become a pack and use their wits and their Luck to survive in this coming-of-age adventure.
167 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 8, 2011
194 people are currently reading
1725 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Lakey
11 books83 followersJ.D. Lakey is an award-winning author of science fiction and fantasy stories. Her lyrical writing style and passionate connection to her characters pull you in and take you on an emotional journey of discovery in expertly-crafted worlds where futuristic technologies reside amidst primordial landscapes.
Her love of writing stemmed from growing up on a cattle ranch and farm under the endless star-filled Montana skies as far from civilization as anyone in the twentieth century could get. There, she explored the finer nuances of silence and the endless possibilities of the imagination. The shifting of fortunes finally granted her the time to gather all the stories and give them flesh. She currently lives in San Diego, California where she divides her time between her writing, commuting on the I-5 to her day job, and convincing her grandchildren that magic exists.
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Her love of writing stemmed from growing up on a cattle ranch and farm under the endless star-filled Montana skies as far from civilization as anyone in the twentieth century could get. There, she explored the finer nuances of silence and the endless possibilities of the imagination. The shifting of fortunes finally granted her the time to gather all the stories and give them flesh. She currently lives in San Diego, California where she divides her time between her writing, commuting on the I-5 to her day job, and convincing her grandchildren that magic exists.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
April 17, 2017
Just finished reading “Black Bead: Book One of the Black Bead Chronicles” by J.D. Lakey. I won a copy of this book on Goodreads.com and this is my first read by J.D. Lakey. This is a really well developed Fantasy/Adventure. J.D. Lakey has created a wonderful world and very interesting creatures and characters. While it’s been some years since I’ve been a young adult, I still quite enjoyed this read and I think that it will appeal to both YA and Adult readers alike..I look forward to my continued reading of this author..
Synopsis: "On a savage, outlying planet an enclave of psionically-trained humans have built a utopian, matriarchal society that lives in harmony with all life. Leaving behind the polluted and corrupt world in which they lived, they colonized a new home far from the eyes of the galactic empire. Shielded from the rest of the galaxy by the dangerous beasts that inhabit their lush, forested world, the village lives a simple life under their Home Dome. But their goal was more than just to live in peace - they wanted to create the perfect human who could bring peace to the galaxy. Rather than merely cloning themselves, they began to manipulate genes in order to create a race of mutants with enhanced telepathic powers.
Under the direction of the ruling witch coven, each child of the Windfall Dome is tested at a young age to assess their abilities - a test which can plot the course for the rest of their lives. Unfortunately, Cheobawn - the daughter of the ruling First Mother to the dome - is marked with the Black Bead on her Choosing Day, a symbol of bad luck and shame. It seems the child the
mothers had placed so much hope in would not be the future ruler they had hoped for. Yet there is something powerful about her that the elders don't understand.
Finally of age, Cheobawn is chosen to join a pack to act as the psychic Ear on a foraging mission outside the dome. She knows this is her chance to prove herself. But something sinister stalks them and each member of the pack must draw on their unique strengths and a lifetime of training if they want to survive to see another day."
Synopsis: "On a savage, outlying planet an enclave of psionically-trained humans have built a utopian, matriarchal society that lives in harmony with all life. Leaving behind the polluted and corrupt world in which they lived, they colonized a new home far from the eyes of the galactic empire. Shielded from the rest of the galaxy by the dangerous beasts that inhabit their lush, forested world, the village lives a simple life under their Home Dome. But their goal was more than just to live in peace - they wanted to create the perfect human who could bring peace to the galaxy. Rather than merely cloning themselves, they began to manipulate genes in order to create a race of mutants with enhanced telepathic powers.
Under the direction of the ruling witch coven, each child of the Windfall Dome is tested at a young age to assess their abilities - a test which can plot the course for the rest of their lives. Unfortunately, Cheobawn - the daughter of the ruling First Mother to the dome - is marked with the Black Bead on her Choosing Day, a symbol of bad luck and shame. It seems the child the
mothers had placed so much hope in would not be the future ruler they had hoped for. Yet there is something powerful about her that the elders don't understand.
Finally of age, Cheobawn is chosen to join a pack to act as the psychic Ear on a foraging mission outside the dome. She knows this is her chance to prove herself. But something sinister stalks them and each member of the pack must draw on their unique strengths and a lifetime of training if they want to survive to see another day."
January 15, 2016
If you like adventure/fantasy/sci-fi stories, you'll love this book. Though I do think anyone will enjoy it, from pre-teen to adult. The setting is a remote, untouched planet in which a settlement of humans live under domes to stay safe from the large predators that exist there. They govern themselves through a matriarchal system and instead of pairing up in male/female partnerships, they form packs of 4-5 mixed male/females who become husbands and wives and co-habitate. I love exploring this concept through the story. Also, the kids - who are the main characters - are just bad-ass. They are these psychic warrior kids who go out on a foraging mission outside the some into some seriously dangerous situations. The story is very empowering as you see how these kids work together to survive. I'd say it could be a feminist book, but I think guys would dig this too as it's a fast-paced adventure story with strong male and female characters. I highly recommend it!
June 4, 2016
This was an enjoyable and quick read! You follow a group of children who have just formed a pack in an otherworldly jungle-type world were the women have psychic abilities to help protect and guide their pack when outside their home domes. Cheobawn has been marked with an ominous black bead, but there's so much more to her than meets the eye. I got sucked in and read a huge chunk of this book in one sitting because I needed to see how a particular event would end. I'd recommend this book and plan on continuing to read the series.
January 8, 2017
4.5 stars
An entertaining and excitingly written novella which grabbed me from the get-go and connected me emotionally to the characters, especially Cheobawn and Tam*. I was amazed by how smooth and well-edited the book was, how easily the story flowed, and how little my inner editor was required to do (causing her to take her red correction pencil and stomp off in a huff to pout). And the world which Lakey has created is utterly rich and unique. However, that's where I had my biggest and only problem with the novella: I dislike info dumps as much as the next reader/writer; however, there are occasions where they're needed, and even the experts agree, however reluctantly, on this point, especially when the information concerns an alien world development or a magic system or anything else with elaborate rules, in order to minimize reader confusion and, in a slightly contradictory way, to make the reading experience easier. While I appreciate Lakey included a map and a glossary to help with these issues, there were still many occasions, mainly at the beginning of the story, where a more detailed explanation of who a character was, what his/her role was in the story and in the community, how s/he related to Cheobawn and the others, and, most importantly, how exactly this world came to be would've been a great help to me.
Because, quite frankly, while I admire Lakey's pared-down writing style, which gives her the ability to pack a wallop of a story into a very small package, I really could've done with an actual novel containing a bit more length and development on the world and characters she's created. Because I find them absolutely fascinating and I just hope the next books in the series satiate my curiosity.
*Who would naturally make me feel affection for him, as Tam is the soulname of Cutter, chief of the Wolfriders in ElfQuest 1: Fire & Flight, my most absolute favorite comic book/graphic novel/adolescent obsession.
An entertaining and excitingly written novella which grabbed me from the get-go and connected me emotionally to the characters, especially Cheobawn and Tam*. I was amazed by how smooth and well-edited the book was, how easily the story flowed, and how little my inner editor was required to do (causing her to take her red correction pencil and stomp off in a huff to pout). And the world which Lakey has created is utterly rich and unique. However, that's where I had my biggest and only problem with the novella: I dislike info dumps as much as the next reader/writer; however, there are occasions where they're needed, and even the experts agree, however reluctantly, on this point, especially when the information concerns an alien world development or a magic system or anything else with elaborate rules, in order to minimize reader confusion and, in a slightly contradictory way, to make the reading experience easier. While I appreciate Lakey included a map and a glossary to help with these issues, there were still many occasions, mainly at the beginning of the story, where a more detailed explanation of who a character was, what his/her role was in the story and in the community, how s/he related to Cheobawn and the others, and, most importantly, how exactly this world came to be would've been a great help to me.
Because, quite frankly, while I admire Lakey's pared-down writing style, which gives her the ability to pack a wallop of a story into a very small package, I really could've done with an actual novel containing a bit more length and development on the world and characters she's created. Because I find them absolutely fascinating and I just hope the next books in the series satiate my curiosity.
*Who would naturally make me feel affection for him, as Tam is the soulname of Cutter, chief of the Wolfriders in ElfQuest 1: Fire & Flight, my most absolute favorite comic book/graphic novel/adolescent obsession.
May 2, 2016
Black Bead is an exciting adventure that follows Cheobawn and her pack as they venture out beyond the Home Dome. Marked with the Black Bead, a symbol of bad luck, on her Choosing Day, Cheobawn is immediately shamed. This quest is her chance to prove herself.
Ms. Lakey has created a rich world, combining elements of science fiction and fantasy, and has gone to great lengths to develop, create, and explore this world. As I read, I found myself reminded of The Giver mixed with elements of Tolkien's works and The Hunger Games.
While this book is clearly written for a younger audience, I believe that readers of all ages, particularly those with a fondness for science fiction and adventure stories, will enjoy this fun, fast-paced read. I look forward to reading the sequel.
Ms. Lakey has created a rich world, combining elements of science fiction and fantasy, and has gone to great lengths to develop, create, and explore this world. As I read, I found myself reminded of The Giver mixed with elements of Tolkien's works and The Hunger Games.
While this book is clearly written for a younger audience, I believe that readers of all ages, particularly those with a fondness for science fiction and adventure stories, will enjoy this fun, fast-paced read. I look forward to reading the sequel.
August 5, 2017
First off all the MCs are between the ages of 6-10. So if that is a no go for ya now ya know. OK I have to say I do not usually read book about kids, however I an immensely glad that I made an exception and read this one. The author does not only an awesome job or world building, but created characters that were complex despite their young age. The actionstarts early on in the book and never lets up. The world is beautifully described to the point that I could see it in my head. The society these kids are being raised in is fascinating. I would defintely recommend it to all ages not just kids. I will with out a doubt be reading the rest of the series to see where it goes and what happens to Tam, Cheobawn and the rest of their pack.
September 22, 2017
Others have nicely recapped the plot lines. Its enough for me to say that I read it out of the blue, and read it nonstop. A good adventure story with intriguing characters. I'll likely read the entire series.
June 7, 2017
This book was reviewed for Wayward Press via Netgalley
Lakey’s Black Bead will snatch you up, racing headlong behind Cheobawn and her Pack on their harrowing First Foray. Cheobawn, and her protector Megan, are the newest members Tam’s recently forged pack. He wants Megan, as only females can be the Ear for a Pack, picking up the noise in the ambient to warn of dangers, and in creating elaborate mental maps. Megan will only agree if Cheobawn is allowed to as well. Unfortunately, Cheobawn is a Black Bead, considered chaotic and unlucky. Tests are given at age three, to determine what colour bead a person will wear, delineating the society into a random, arbitrary caste system based upon this criteria. Indeed, children who gain a Black Bead are usually shunned, and oft outright killed, in order to stave off their supposed bad luck.
Tam decides to accept Cheobawn into his Pack. She is the better Ear of the two girls. Their very first foray illustrates Cheobawn’s chaotic luck. She lead them to a wondrous place, a sheltered glade, just in time for the first flight of baby glasslizards (I want one). Rather than foraging, the group loiters in the glade, falling asleep and missing when they should have started back home. And thus did Cheobawn's luck change. The Pack begins a headlong flight back home, with their powerful Ear in lead. Will they make it back to safety in time? If they do, will the people Cheobawn wish to call friend turn against her too?
The themes of synchronicity, and interconnectedness, run a vivid vein of silver through the story. The glasslizard incident triggered, in a manner, all of the following incidents after it, both good and bad. I follow a spiritual path that involves rune work, and see these energies inherent in all things. I also see people as being primarily tied to one rune collective above all others. Cheobawn is a perthroi. She is very tuned to the Perthro, or probability, inherent in all things. She followed this to get home, tweaking the probabilities when she could. This made me very excited. I haven't found many Perthro oriented characters in books.
I think Cheobawn's people need to recognise the value of Chaos. I think most people in reality do as well. Cheobawn would be blessed of Loki. Chaos beckons necessary change, and all destruction leads to new growth. It's also completely impartial. The nature of Bear Under the Mountain supports this within the story. There are great lessons here about cooperation, and the valuable insights that could be lost if you discount one person (or class of people) because of arbitrary class distinctions.
📚📚📚📚📚 Highly recommended
Lakey’s Black Bead will snatch you up, racing headlong behind Cheobawn and her Pack on their harrowing First Foray. Cheobawn, and her protector Megan, are the newest members Tam’s recently forged pack. He wants Megan, as only females can be the Ear for a Pack, picking up the noise in the ambient to warn of dangers, and in creating elaborate mental maps. Megan will only agree if Cheobawn is allowed to as well. Unfortunately, Cheobawn is a Black Bead, considered chaotic and unlucky. Tests are given at age three, to determine what colour bead a person will wear, delineating the society into a random, arbitrary caste system based upon this criteria. Indeed, children who gain a Black Bead are usually shunned, and oft outright killed, in order to stave off their supposed bad luck.
Tam decides to accept Cheobawn into his Pack. She is the better Ear of the two girls. Their very first foray illustrates Cheobawn’s chaotic luck. She lead them to a wondrous place, a sheltered glade, just in time for the first flight of baby glasslizards (I want one). Rather than foraging, the group loiters in the glade, falling asleep and missing when they should have started back home. And thus did Cheobawn's luck change. The Pack begins a headlong flight back home, with their powerful Ear in lead. Will they make it back to safety in time? If they do, will the people Cheobawn wish to call friend turn against her too?
The themes of synchronicity, and interconnectedness, run a vivid vein of silver through the story. The glasslizard incident triggered, in a manner, all of the following incidents after it, both good and bad. I follow a spiritual path that involves rune work, and see these energies inherent in all things. I also see people as being primarily tied to one rune collective above all others. Cheobawn is a perthroi. She is very tuned to the Perthro, or probability, inherent in all things. She followed this to get home, tweaking the probabilities when she could. This made me very excited. I haven't found many Perthro oriented characters in books.
I think Cheobawn's people need to recognise the value of Chaos. I think most people in reality do as well. Cheobawn would be blessed of Loki. Chaos beckons necessary change, and all destruction leads to new growth. It's also completely impartial. The nature of Bear Under the Mountain supports this within the story. There are great lessons here about cooperation, and the valuable insights that could be lost if you discount one person (or class of people) because of arbitrary class distinctions.
📚📚📚📚📚 Highly recommended
April 2, 2017
I got this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review- thanks!
OH MY GOSH. I am so mad that I finished this book so quickly. I devoured this book. My tiny baby Cheobawn has the most realistic and believable 'magic system' (can we really call it that?) I've read in ages. She sees different threads of the future depending on choices that humans make and can sort through them to find the most successful ones. But, she made a mistake during a test of magic/psychic skill when she was three years old (she's a wise old six now) and that branded her with a black bead on her necklace, a mark of bad luck or bad skill. So she is bullied and scorned by the other kids, except for Megan, who insists Cheobawn go with her when a group of boys is putting together a foraging party. Cheobawn promises them adventure and adventure is exactly what they get. This book is so immersive my heart was racing during the dangerous bits. Things that would annoy me in other books were just fine in this one (namely, calling all the creatures growlers, stompers, sky hunters, etc instead of real animal names) because the world was so unique and amazing. I would recommend this book to almost anyone. Thank you Netgalley, the author, and the publisher!!!
OH MY GOSH. I am so mad that I finished this book so quickly. I devoured this book. My tiny baby Cheobawn has the most realistic and believable 'magic system' (can we really call it that?) I've read in ages. She sees different threads of the future depending on choices that humans make and can sort through them to find the most successful ones. But, she made a mistake during a test of magic/psychic skill when she was three years old (she's a wise old six now) and that branded her with a black bead on her necklace, a mark of bad luck or bad skill. So she is bullied and scorned by the other kids, except for Megan, who insists Cheobawn go with her when a group of boys is putting together a foraging party. Cheobawn promises them adventure and adventure is exactly what they get. This book is so immersive my heart was racing during the dangerous bits. Things that would annoy me in other books were just fine in this one (namely, calling all the creatures growlers, stompers, sky hunters, etc instead of real animal names) because the world was so unique and amazing. I would recommend this book to almost anyone. Thank you Netgalley, the author, and the publisher!!!
April 28, 2016
The Black Bead was a very interesting and compelling book. The book was a quick read and I had a difficult time putting it down. The story was very intriguing and had interesting characters as well. I liked the fact that the book contained a map and two glossaries. I found these items to be quite helpful as I was reading.
J. D. Lakey did a wonderful job with imagery throughout the story. I could clearly picture every situation. The author created a lush and vibrant world that was filled with dangers that left the reader wondering whether the characters would be able to survive or not. Speaking of characters, they were very interesting and well-developed. My favorite characters were Cheobawn and Tam who showed great courage throughout the story and matured by the end of the book.
I liked the way J.D. Lakey incorporated different mystical elements into the story. Many of the characters had psychic abilities and Cheobawn, the main character, was able to manipulate her own chi. These mystical elements were interwoven seamlessly into the Cheobawn's world.
J. D. Lakey did a wonderful job with imagery throughout the story. I could clearly picture every situation. The author created a lush and vibrant world that was filled with dangers that left the reader wondering whether the characters would be able to survive or not. Speaking of characters, they were very interesting and well-developed. My favorite characters were Cheobawn and Tam who showed great courage throughout the story and matured by the end of the book.
I liked the way J.D. Lakey incorporated different mystical elements into the story. Many of the characters had psychic abilities and Cheobawn, the main character, was able to manipulate her own chi. These mystical elements were interwoven seamlessly into the Cheobawn's world.
June 7, 2016
It is interesting that this book isn't at all what I expected it to be from the description of it, and yet, I really enjoyed it. Lakey has created a really interesting world here, and I liked the story as told from the perspective of Cheobawn as the young psychic. As a child wise beyond her years, her perspective is both enlightening due to its perceptive nature, and due its empathizing with the other children in the story.
There were so many things in this world which were not explained in detail, which I thought I would mind more. But in the end I liked it, as the reader doesn't really need an explanation. Most things can be eventually deduced by context, and there's a glossary at the back to help with what can't be (which is very little). The story itself leaves little room for explanations, as it's so brief. It actually feels mostly like a setup for the rest of the series, but it's so fast-paced and easy to read that I don't think that's a problem at all! I definitely want to read more in this series.
There were so many things in this world which were not explained in detail, which I thought I would mind more. But in the end I liked it, as the reader doesn't really need an explanation. Most things can be eventually deduced by context, and there's a glossary at the back to help with what can't be (which is very little). The story itself leaves little room for explanations, as it's so brief. It actually feels mostly like a setup for the rest of the series, but it's so fast-paced and easy to read that I don't think that's a problem at all! I definitely want to read more in this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2017
Black Bead: Book One of the Black Bead Chronicles, by JD Lakey, relates a dystopian story of humans living in a very different environment than the one we currently understand. The Black Bead worn by the central character, Cheobawn, is a sign that she lacks the psyche power, but she really has great power. The social structure of the novel divides the females with psyche powers, and the males with physical skills in two separate "camps". As youths, the males seek potential pack-mates to travel beyond their encampment. Along with two young males, Cheobawn was chosen as a pack-mate because of her friend; yet Cheobawn is the girl most in touch with the outside world's magic. After fun and harrowing adventures she aids the pack and brings them home again by her connection to the "ambient".
June 8, 2016
I received this book from Good Reads.
Although this is written for Young Adults, I absolutely loved it. Being a young person in an old body, I enjoyed the complexity of the characters and their challenges.
I liked how the author also included mystical abilities for some of the characters; for example, the main character, Cheobawn, is able to control her own chi. Delightful!
Since this book is clearly marked "book one," I most certainly look forward to the next book and wherever and however Lakey decides to take us, the readers.
Although this is written for Young Adults, I absolutely loved it. Being a young person in an old body, I enjoyed the complexity of the characters and their challenges.
I liked how the author also included mystical abilities for some of the characters; for example, the main character, Cheobawn, is able to control her own chi. Delightful!
Since this book is clearly marked "book one," I most certainly look forward to the next book and wherever and however Lakey decides to take us, the readers.
October 13, 2016
Enthralling book. Could not put it down. Wonderful world building. I read a lot of fantasy and J D Lakey brought enchanting and fresh ideas to the genre. I will certainly get the next books. I am pleased to see that they are longer than this one. This book is suitable for any age. At nearly seventy I would not hesitate reading it to my grandchildren. Highly recommended.
April 29, 2017
I received this book as a preview from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Summary: In a different world is a matriarchal society where females are born with psychic abilities. Society seems to function as a hunter-gatherer/early agricultural setup. When a young pack sets out on their first trip outside the home dome, it is up to the youngest member, also cursed with a black bead, to guide them. What starts out as a child's bit of mischief turns into a fight for survival against a raging world outside their home. Will they make it back in time to not get in trouble and remain as a pack?
Review: 4/5
This story was interesting, but really fast. There is really no exposition in the story, so I had to go back and read the summary again. I would have liked some setup before reading and further explanation of how the covens were separated and what tribes there were. Also I spent a great deal of time wondering if time passed the same on their planet as it did ours. 6 and 10 years old seemed very young for the actions of these characters, so it helped me to imagine their age multiplied by two. I think this should have included a prologue to clear up details and appeal to more science fiction readers, but it's still a pleasant read.
Aside from those details, the story was good. It was written well and the characters were well-rounded. I did enjoy that this story was short because I'm looking for an adventure story to use next year for a novel study. I also enjoyed that a character with a clear disadvantage was still "picked first for the team," albeit because of someone who was close to her refusing to join, but it ended up giving the whole pack the skills needed. I also enjoyed the use of sign language and the power of teamwork.
I do look forward to presenting this as an option for a close reading for my high schoolers. The pacing was easy to keep up with and the scenery and adventure was beautifully aching.
Summary: In a different world is a matriarchal society where females are born with psychic abilities. Society seems to function as a hunter-gatherer/early agricultural setup. When a young pack sets out on their first trip outside the home dome, it is up to the youngest member, also cursed with a black bead, to guide them. What starts out as a child's bit of mischief turns into a fight for survival against a raging world outside their home. Will they make it back in time to not get in trouble and remain as a pack?
Review: 4/5
This story was interesting, but really fast. There is really no exposition in the story, so I had to go back and read the summary again. I would have liked some setup before reading and further explanation of how the covens were separated and what tribes there were. Also I spent a great deal of time wondering if time passed the same on their planet as it did ours. 6 and 10 years old seemed very young for the actions of these characters, so it helped me to imagine their age multiplied by two. I think this should have included a prologue to clear up details and appeal to more science fiction readers, but it's still a pleasant read.
Aside from those details, the story was good. It was written well and the characters were well-rounded. I did enjoy that this story was short because I'm looking for an adventure story to use next year for a novel study. I also enjoyed that a character with a clear disadvantage was still "picked first for the team," albeit because of someone who was close to her refusing to join, but it ended up giving the whole pack the skills needed. I also enjoyed the use of sign language and the power of teamwork.
I do look forward to presenting this as an option for a close reading for my high schoolers. The pacing was easy to keep up with and the scenery and adventure was beautifully aching.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2021
I'm really happy that there is a market for authors like this. I thought it was a fun short little novelette about a girl who can see possible futures. And she and her friends have a very dangerous outing. Fun idea and engaging story.
December 8, 2017
Great book for YA.
September 17, 2018
* * *
3 / 5
~mini review~
I read this odd little book in one sitting. It drew me in, enveloped me, confused me and compelled me. It was odd. It follows a six year old girl, Cheobawn, who chose wrongly at her Choosing Day ceremony and is given a black bead to wear around her neck for life, a symbol of her lack of psychic powers. Lakey crafts an innovative, peculiar world; humans live in Domes and outside is the wilderness. Only packs may venture outside and each pack must contain an Ear, a woman with psychic skills who can sense danger and see into the future.
Cheobawn has highly attuned senses, but because of her bead and her age no pack will take her. Tam is a slightly older youth, perhaps eight, who agrees to take her on because her friend Megan, a charming girl with strong powers, won't leave Cheobawn behind. Under Cheobawn's guidance, they venture out of the dome and into danger. Can she manipulate the threads of the future to bring them safely home?
I felt like I was missing something when I read this. Is this a novella set in an already established world? There's terminology thrown left and right that I didn't understand (until I finished the book and saw the glossary in the back) and it's confusing. But the story is odd and compelling (indeed, oddly compelling) and Cheobawn is a great narrator considering my hesitancy to read from the perspective of a six-year-old. This book is original and dynamic and unlike anything I have ever read.
Read more of my reviews on: http://atlasrisingbooks.wordpress.com
3 / 5
~mini review~
I read this odd little book in one sitting. It drew me in, enveloped me, confused me and compelled me. It was odd. It follows a six year old girl, Cheobawn, who chose wrongly at her Choosing Day ceremony and is given a black bead to wear around her neck for life, a symbol of her lack of psychic powers. Lakey crafts an innovative, peculiar world; humans live in Domes and outside is the wilderness. Only packs may venture outside and each pack must contain an Ear, a woman with psychic skills who can sense danger and see into the future.
Cheobawn has highly attuned senses, but because of her bead and her age no pack will take her. Tam is a slightly older youth, perhaps eight, who agrees to take her on because her friend Megan, a charming girl with strong powers, won't leave Cheobawn behind. Under Cheobawn's guidance, they venture out of the dome and into danger. Can she manipulate the threads of the future to bring them safely home?
I felt like I was missing something when I read this. Is this a novella set in an already established world? There's terminology thrown left and right that I didn't understand (until I finished the book and saw the glossary in the back) and it's confusing. But the story is odd and compelling (indeed, oddly compelling) and Cheobawn is a great narrator considering my hesitancy to read from the perspective of a six-year-old. This book is original and dynamic and unlike anything I have ever read.
Read more of my reviews on: http://atlasrisingbooks.wordpress.com
October 26, 2016
Full review at https://ninireadspng.wordpress.com/20... (just click the link!)
THOUGHTS:
I savored the way J.D. Lakey fused distinctive magical components into the story. A number of the characters had psychic resources and Cheobawn, the primary character, could control her own chi. These magical components were interlaced consistently into the Cheobawn's reality.
J. D. Lakey made a wondrous showing with regards to with symbolism all through the story. I could limpidly picture each circumstance. The writer caused a lavish and energetic world that was loaded with risks that left the peruser pondering whether the characters would have the capacity to survive or not. Verbalizing of characters, they were excessively intriguing and very much created. My most loved characters were Cheobawn and Tam who indicated incredible valiancy all through the story and became well-developed by the end of the book. Appears to be homogeneous to a novella... in size be that as it may, packs a wealth of story in it. In any case, I truly relished it.
THOUGHTS:
I savored the way J.D. Lakey fused distinctive magical components into the story. A number of the characters had psychic resources and Cheobawn, the primary character, could control her own chi. These magical components were interlaced consistently into the Cheobawn's reality.
J. D. Lakey made a wondrous showing with regards to with symbolism all through the story. I could limpidly picture each circumstance. The writer caused a lavish and energetic world that was loaded with risks that left the peruser pondering whether the characters would have the capacity to survive or not. Verbalizing of characters, they were excessively intriguing and very much created. My most loved characters were Cheobawn and Tam who indicated incredible valiancy all through the story and became well-developed by the end of the book. Appears to be homogeneous to a novella... in size be that as it may, packs a wealth of story in it. In any case, I truly relished it.
February 2, 2016
A Fascinating and Unique Story
I enjoyed this very much! It was so different from my usual books, though reminded me very faintly of Anne McCaffries Dragon riders of Perm series. I am definitely going to see about getting more from the author, as she is a natural storyteller full of fascinating tales.
I enjoyed this very much! It was so different from my usual books, though reminded me very faintly of Anne McCaffries Dragon riders of Perm series. I am definitely going to see about getting more from the author, as she is a natural storyteller full of fascinating tales.
February 5, 2016
Fast paced and thrilling. This is a really good start to a series. The world has just enough development to make me want to read the next one. The characters are well developed, and interesting. I think the most impressive aspect, is the pacing of the book. Once the clan hit the outside world, the action is non-stop and truly gripping. I couldn't put it down.
August 27, 2016
3.5/5 stars. This was a great short read. I loved the characters and the relationships of the pack. The world was exciting and intriguing. I loved the plot and all of the action that unfolded in this book. I can't wait to read the rest of this series. A longer book review will be available at ThriceRead.Wordpress.com on Tuesday, August 23rd, 2016.
May 12, 2017
I received an ARC from the publisher from Netgalley. I thank them for sending this wonderful book to me.
The writing was poetic and the way J.D Lakey painted the vision of how the world would have looked like was phenomenal and quite impressive for a short novel. I think the story could have gotten farther and expanded more in a longer book. Whether it should stay just as a short novel or changed into a longer one is up to the reader. Personally, I think the short novel not only showed J.D Lakey’s talent for writing but it also gave a satisfying ending for the book as it was quite open for other possibilities.
The characters were greatly made. Their personalities were distinct yet had a twinge of uniqueness in them. As the story progressed, the characters were well developed as well the bonds they had with each other.
I would recommend this to those who would like to start reading the sci-fi genre or those who are well versed with this genre.
June 15, 2017
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Black Bead can be described as a young adult, science fiction story. It introduces readers to a new society of humans, some of which have psionic abilities, living on a planet with alien beasts. This first installment focuses on a young girl named Cheobawn and her first adventure into the world outside of the safety of the Home Dome with a pack. I felt like I was missing a lot of explanation of why this world was the way it was and was very lost with some of the terminology. There was a glossary in the back of the book that did answer some of my questions, but I didn't see this until I had finished reading the story. I had a really hard time following the story and understanding what was going on. I think the story would have read better if some of the information in the glossary and in the blurb was provided in the actual story.
Black Bead can be described as a young adult, science fiction story. It introduces readers to a new society of humans, some of which have psionic abilities, living on a planet with alien beasts. This first installment focuses on a young girl named Cheobawn and her first adventure into the world outside of the safety of the Home Dome with a pack. I felt like I was missing a lot of explanation of why this world was the way it was and was very lost with some of the terminology. There was a glossary in the back of the book that did answer some of my questions, but I didn't see this until I had finished reading the story. I had a really hard time following the story and understanding what was going on. I think the story would have read better if some of the information in the glossary and in the blurb was provided in the actual story.
August 20, 2017
I must admit I was a bit confused by the start of this book, how old are these children? Why are they going into danger at this very young age?
The consensus of the reviewers seem to think this is an exciting adventure but I’m afraid all I could think about was how stupid this was, the author doesn’t explain, or even hint, why any of this is happening.
Basically a group of pre-teens go out into the wilderness relying on a six year old to warn them of dangers. They get drunk on wild berries and stay out too long and have to return trying to avoid numerous dangers. OK this wasn’t bad and was interesting to see how Cheobawn interacts and manipulates the environment, but I still struggled to understand why were they out there!
The consensus of the reviewers seem to think this is an exciting adventure but I’m afraid all I could think about was how stupid this was, the author doesn’t explain, or even hint, why any of this is happening.
Basically a group of pre-teens go out into the wilderness relying on a six year old to warn them of dangers. They get drunk on wild berries and stay out too long and have to return trying to avoid numerous dangers. OK this wasn’t bad and was interesting to see how Cheobawn interacts and manipulates the environment, but I still struggled to understand why were they out there!
January 13, 2018
JD Lakey has created a unique world in the distant future where humanity is struggling to survive. All the conventions of our society have been turned upside down for survival's sake. This is an adventure tale but also a coming of age tale about a group of children who are growing up and coming into their own in that world. I enjoyed this science fiction story that is classified as a young adult read. The author has created a story that has enough in it to explore in future stories. All of the characters are well developed and very likable. This is a story that will have you holding your breath as the characters race against their environment to survive.
Recommended read.
Recommended read.
February 14, 2018
Fantástico!
Muito imaginativo e empolgante de se ler.
Leitura muito fácil e fluída que agarra o leitor desde o primeiro momento no sentido de descobrir o que se passa de seguida. Difícil de largar para dormir!
Espero ansiosamente por ler os livros seguintes.
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Fantastic!
Very imaginative and exciting to read.
Very easy and fluid reading that grabs the reader from the first moment in order to find out what is happening next. Hard to let go to sleep!
I look forward to reading the following books.
Muito imaginativo e empolgante de se ler.
Leitura muito fácil e fluída que agarra o leitor desde o primeiro momento no sentido de descobrir o que se passa de seguida. Difícil de largar para dormir!
Espero ansiosamente por ler os livros seguintes.
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Fantastic!
Very imaginative and exciting to read.
Very easy and fluid reading that grabs the reader from the first moment in order to find out what is happening next. Hard to let go to sleep!
I look forward to reading the following books.
December 16, 2016
Won a Free copy from a Goodreads giveaway.
Black Bead is a quick read. It`s about Cheobawn and her newly formed pack`s first time outside their home dome. Cheobawn is marked with a black bead for bad luck but she does not let it stop her from doing what she wants to do. I enjoyed reading their adventure. With the glossary in the back so you understand somethings in the book. I'm interested to learn more things about this world.
Black Bead is a quick read. It`s about Cheobawn and her newly formed pack`s first time outside their home dome. Cheobawn is marked with a black bead for bad luck but she does not let it stop her from doing what she wants to do. I enjoyed reading their adventure. With the glossary in the back so you understand somethings in the book. I'm interested to learn more things about this world.
April 26, 2018
Not quite a novel, but longer than a short story. I guess that makes it a novella?
Very well constructed. A lot of plot action, although only one character is fully fleshed out. I'm hoping others will follow in future installments.
One thing I liked about this book is that it didn't try to squeeze an entire life in between the first and last page. In fact, the action encompassed only one day! But that one day was jam packed with eventful moments.
Very well constructed. A lot of plot action, although only one character is fully fleshed out. I'm hoping others will follow in future installments.
One thing I liked about this book is that it didn't try to squeeze an entire life in between the first and last page. In fact, the action encompassed only one day! But that one day was jam packed with eventful moments.
June 8, 2017
I received a free copy via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
Although this is written for teenagers and not a teenager myself this was a thoroughly entertaining story.
Enjoyable for teenagers and adults.
Although this is written for teenagers and not a teenager myself this was a thoroughly entertaining story.
Enjoyable for teenagers and adults.
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