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Poison World #1
Beneath a Holo-Sky
On a poisonous planet where humans live side-by-side with an alien race known as the halion, one investigator just wants to live a peaceful life.
Reagen Thorpe enjoys her solo life as an Investigators, Inc. employee, with the freedom to choose her cases and how she wants to run them. But when a dangerous drug known as Ash floods the city levels, Black Corporation calls on her to clean up the mess. With the mob as her sponsor in Roen, she has no way to refuse.
Now, saddled with an unwanted partner, she risks her life to hunt down the drug smugglers before more bodies pile up.
Reagen Thorpe enjoys her solo life as an Investigators, Inc. employee, with the freedom to choose her cases and how she wants to run them. But when a dangerous drug known as Ash floods the city levels, Black Corporation calls on her to clean up the mess. With the mob as her sponsor in Roen, she has no way to refuse.
Now, saddled with an unwanted partner, she risks her life to hunt down the drug smugglers before more bodies pile up.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2016
8 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
Lyn Forester
115 books193 followersLyn Forester graduated with a Bachelor in English and an Associates in Graphic Design. She worked in the graphic design industry for ten years before deciding to pursue her other life long dream of becoming a writer. She grew up reading mostly fantasy books, though later in life found a love of urban fantasy and science fiction. She currently works from her home in Washington State where she squeezes in writing time around a busy schedule. When not working, she can be found experimenting with new recipes, reading, or playing video games and the occasional board game.
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She loves talking to other readers.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorlynforester
FB Group: www.facebook.com/groups/lynsreadergroup
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Lyn_Forester
Website: www.lynforester.com
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/dlBQu1
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/lynforester...
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
February 15, 2018
Cliffhanger ending
August 29, 2016
I am a fan of science fiction, advance technology, alien worlds, murder mysteries, and strong character development. It’s rare to find a book that can combine all of these elements into a cohesive and engaging story. Lyn Forester is one of those rare authors who can and Beneath a Holo-Sky showcases what amazing job she does! In addition to an intriguing plot, she effortlessly pulls readers into an alien world full of unique but familiar technology, amusing product placement (Go Go Now!) and characters that resonate with quirky personalities. Blending it all into an enjoyable detective story.
On a planet with a poisonous atmosphere, Humans and Halions have banded together to build cities that push back the deadly aspects of the planet. From these cities arose a new civilization, with clearly defined structure. Black Corp (aka the legal mob) controls all government sanctioned illegal activities. Blue Guard (aka the human and half-breed legal system) protects the citizens and investigates crimes. White Guard (aka the alien police) handles anything related to the Clan, or rather those who are pure Halion. Outside of these three governing bodies are the I.I. (Investigators, Inc.) who take on cases ranging from investigating infidelity to running errands for any citizen of the world. Anything and everything goes.
Reagen Thorpe is an I.I. agent, who is quietly living under the radar and taking cases that allow her to lead a happy solitary life. When a highly addictive drug called aphremore, which is strictly regulated by Black Corp, finds its way onto the streets, bodies start piling up in Roen. Mr. Black, head of Black Corp in Roen, calls upon Reagen to find out who’s behind it. Mr. Black throws a kink in her style when he saddles her with a half-breed enforcer from Black Corp, Drake Esten. She’s a loner. He’s rude. She works in the field. He works behind a desk. She views food as a means to an end. He craves food like a junkie. She could care less about sex. He’ll jump into bed with anyone, male or female. Can they put aside their differences and solve this case before they kill each other? That still remains to be seen.
One of the things that I found very unique was the way Lyn Forester wrote her characters. Reagen is always in first person perspective, while Drake is written in third person. It gives a distinctly different feel for each character and I never felt confused when the perspective changed from chapter to chapter. It helped me easily identify which character I was reading. I also liked that Reagen was very aware and alert to the world around her, while Drake was more self-involved and slightly oblivious. Both Reagen and Drake show marked character growth throughout the book, making me excited for how they will develop as the series continues.
Another interesting thing about Beneath a Holo-Sky, there is little to no romance. So many books out now rely heavily on romance and attraction between characters that it seems to be the main element in driving a story forward while leaving the plot behind. This book relies on the plot, the world, and the strengths (and weaknesses) of its characters to tell the story. There might be romance in future books, but for now I’m enjoying a refreshing plot-based book!
Beneath a Holo-Sky is an incredible book full of quirky characters, a deadly street drug, and an alien world that I’m very curious to learn about. I give it a 4 out of 5 stars. I would have loved to give it 5 of 5, but I just can’t because of its cliffhanger ending! Poison World has a lot of potential, seeing that Lyn Forester is already planning for more books in the series and the world; I’m looking forward to more from this breakout author.
On a planet with a poisonous atmosphere, Humans and Halions have banded together to build cities that push back the deadly aspects of the planet. From these cities arose a new civilization, with clearly defined structure. Black Corp (aka the legal mob) controls all government sanctioned illegal activities. Blue Guard (aka the human and half-breed legal system) protects the citizens and investigates crimes. White Guard (aka the alien police) handles anything related to the Clan, or rather those who are pure Halion. Outside of these three governing bodies are the I.I. (Investigators, Inc.) who take on cases ranging from investigating infidelity to running errands for any citizen of the world. Anything and everything goes.
Reagen Thorpe is an I.I. agent, who is quietly living under the radar and taking cases that allow her to lead a happy solitary life. When a highly addictive drug called aphremore, which is strictly regulated by Black Corp, finds its way onto the streets, bodies start piling up in Roen. Mr. Black, head of Black Corp in Roen, calls upon Reagen to find out who’s behind it. Mr. Black throws a kink in her style when he saddles her with a half-breed enforcer from Black Corp, Drake Esten. She’s a loner. He’s rude. She works in the field. He works behind a desk. She views food as a means to an end. He craves food like a junkie. She could care less about sex. He’ll jump into bed with anyone, male or female. Can they put aside their differences and solve this case before they kill each other? That still remains to be seen.
One of the things that I found very unique was the way Lyn Forester wrote her characters. Reagen is always in first person perspective, while Drake is written in third person. It gives a distinctly different feel for each character and I never felt confused when the perspective changed from chapter to chapter. It helped me easily identify which character I was reading. I also liked that Reagen was very aware and alert to the world around her, while Drake was more self-involved and slightly oblivious. Both Reagen and Drake show marked character growth throughout the book, making me excited for how they will develop as the series continues.
Another interesting thing about Beneath a Holo-Sky, there is little to no romance. So many books out now rely heavily on romance and attraction between characters that it seems to be the main element in driving a story forward while leaving the plot behind. This book relies on the plot, the world, and the strengths (and weaknesses) of its characters to tell the story. There might be romance in future books, but for now I’m enjoying a refreshing plot-based book!
Beneath a Holo-Sky is an incredible book full of quirky characters, a deadly street drug, and an alien world that I’m very curious to learn about. I give it a 4 out of 5 stars. I would have loved to give it 5 of 5, but I just can’t because of its cliffhanger ending! Poison World has a lot of potential, seeing that Lyn Forester is already planning for more books in the series and the world; I’m looking forward to more from this breakout author.
May 9, 2018
Enjoyable read -- I liked the world and the characters. the dystopian future maybe earth is interesting and I enjoyed the quasi-asian feel of everything and the fluid sexuality. it feels very familiar but futuristic, advanced yet regressed in a classic dystopian way.
I guess this book works as a stand-alone in the sense that there was a murder that was solved, but really it seems like the author split one book into two parts rather than this being a two part series. I'm glad i read it after the second book was already published or I would have been annoyed that none of the actual mysteries have been cleared up and there are many unanswered questions. let's see if the second book will actually finish the story or if that also ends with more questions.
I guess this book works as a stand-alone in the sense that there was a murder that was solved, but really it seems like the author split one book into two parts rather than this being a two part series. I'm glad i read it after the second book was already published or I would have been annoyed that none of the actual mysteries have been cleared up and there are many unanswered questions. let's see if the second book will actually finish the story or if that also ends with more questions.
September 1, 2016
Engaging read and great first novel. It takes a while for the main characters to warm up to each other but when they do, their banter reminds me of siblings. Picking on each other solely to get a rise out of them. If you are not a fan of cliff hanger endings, wait until the next book.
July 18, 2018
A poisonous planet where humans and an alien race known as the halion live together within an enclosed society divided by actual economic levels. Reagen Thorpe works for Investigators, Inc. She lives on the edge of society, keeping to herself and choosing the cases that she wants. She does this deliberately, never sharing, never getting close to others. Until her sponsor in Roen, Black Corporation, the mob calls her in for a priority case. A dangerous drug known as Ash is on the city streets, people are dying, bloodlust is increasing; this must be cleaned up quickly. She has been assigned a company partner Drake Esten. Neither is excited about this partnership but there is a job to do.
Beneath a Holo-Sky is the first book in the Poisoned World series. The world building is extraordinary. Aliens, advanced technology, and defined society set the backdrop for an intriguing drug/murder mystery. The two main characters are so well defined that the leap off of the pages to exist as real people. I feel that we have invaded Reagen's world. Reagen is a fascinating, solitary creature. She comes as close to not existing in society as a person can. I want to understand more. We have a few tantalizing clues that led her to this existence but it's such an incomplete picture (by her choice). I agree with her self-description; she is awesome. Her intelligence, quickness, cleverness, alertness, and strength would naturally make others take notice if she wanted them to. Her deliberate invisibility must be hard to maintain. I feel that she is likely stunning in appearance as well, and also keeps that downplayed. Drake is not nearly as impressive. He's gorgeous and intelligent but he's too caught up in his own interests. Food and sex. He is a man who enjoys his creature comforts and he's soft. He's self-centered and rude but can turn on the charm in a second. He is likable and Reagen could be the best thing that has ever been forced upon him if he's open. They both have strong personalities and more than a few quirks. Love this. There is NO romance. Didn't love this. I thought that they could make an oddly fantastic couple.
The mystery and crime solving aspects of this story are nicely done. Reagen's mysterious past is more than intriguing. However, it's the bizarre interaction between the two characters that won me over. These two were thrown together and clearly unhappy about it. They are very different on the surface yet their basic personalities are the same. Both are intelligent and arrogant, both work on the edge of the law. Reagen manages to best Drake time and time again but he's not too shabby either. And when Reagen loses control, he is there to pull in her. They make a great team.
There is a conflicted ending. One part of the case is solved and while the other seems to be as well, Reagen and Drake don't agree. Reagen's past seems to be catching up as well. I can't wait to read more about this part of the story.
Beneath a Holo-Sky is the first book in the Poisoned World series. The world building is extraordinary. Aliens, advanced technology, and defined society set the backdrop for an intriguing drug/murder mystery. The two main characters are so well defined that the leap off of the pages to exist as real people. I feel that we have invaded Reagen's world. Reagen is a fascinating, solitary creature. She comes as close to not existing in society as a person can. I want to understand more. We have a few tantalizing clues that led her to this existence but it's such an incomplete picture (by her choice). I agree with her self-description; she is awesome. Her intelligence, quickness, cleverness, alertness, and strength would naturally make others take notice if she wanted them to. Her deliberate invisibility must be hard to maintain. I feel that she is likely stunning in appearance as well, and also keeps that downplayed. Drake is not nearly as impressive. He's gorgeous and intelligent but he's too caught up in his own interests. Food and sex. He is a man who enjoys his creature comforts and he's soft. He's self-centered and rude but can turn on the charm in a second. He is likable and Reagen could be the best thing that has ever been forced upon him if he's open. They both have strong personalities and more than a few quirks. Love this. There is NO romance. Didn't love this. I thought that they could make an oddly fantastic couple.
The mystery and crime solving aspects of this story are nicely done. Reagen's mysterious past is more than intriguing. However, it's the bizarre interaction between the two characters that won me over. These two were thrown together and clearly unhappy about it. They are very different on the surface yet their basic personalities are the same. Both are intelligent and arrogant, both work on the edge of the law. Reagen manages to best Drake time and time again but he's not too shabby either. And when Reagen loses control, he is there to pull in her. They make a great team.
There is a conflicted ending. One part of the case is solved and while the other seems to be as well, Reagen and Drake don't agree. Reagen's past seems to be catching up as well. I can't wait to read more about this part of the story.
July 20, 2017
I feel like I read a different book, or fragment of a book. This ends on something a bit like a cliffhanger, though I feel you have to understand the threat for a cliffhanger ending, and that understanding is just not there. The story has the potential to be interesting and, at some point, I may try the second book to find out where it goes. Even with what I'm going to say about them, the characters are interesting and the author does seem to have put a lot of effort into the setting. It's not bad, it's just incomplete and a little annoying.
For whatever reason, the author uses what we'll call a literary device through the book. There are two protagonists, Reagan and Drake, and the point of view switches between them each chapter, but it also switches from first to third person. When we're with Reagan, it's first person; when we switch to Drake we switch to a slightly fractured third person. And the tenses seem to get confused on a regular basis. To me, it comes over as Reagan, the female lead, being an author-insert. She's also 'special' in some way, hunted, and good at pretty much everything. She'd make a fine Mary Sue, but I think she just about escapes that cliché. Just about. The constant switches in PoV do not make the book exceptionally readable and, so far at least, serve absolutely no purpose.
The setting was interesting, but it only started to make even the slightest sense when it comes out that it wasn't meant to be a colony and that the two different species are from different universes. It's very much science-fantasy; if you're looking for something in the cyberpunk or gritty sci-fi area, you won't find it here. If you ignore the (largely ridiculous) science, it's got some typical elements of cyberpunk in it: the rich and wealthy live in their castles in the sky (sort of), while the underclasses live in the dark down below and are constantly trying to (and dreaming they may) move up through the levels. The world outside the cities is inimical to non-native life, but that doesn't really matter, given we never go there; it's a framing device for the claustrophobic, walled cities.
The two protagonists hold interest and bounce off each other well enough. They're well-matched given that both of them are arrogant, half-breed, and more-or-less criminals. I'm pretty sure that, if I met them socially, I'd hate their guts, but they work in the setting and with each other.
Not, I think, a great read. Very slow to start, and then it doesn't go anywhere. I'd blame the need to introduce the characters for the slow start, but the characters aren't introduced, they're uncovered as we go on. May get better as the series continues, but I'm not enthused enough to grab the next book and find out. Maybe later.
For whatever reason, the author uses what we'll call a literary device through the book. There are two protagonists, Reagan and Drake, and the point of view switches between them each chapter, but it also switches from first to third person. When we're with Reagan, it's first person; when we switch to Drake we switch to a slightly fractured third person. And the tenses seem to get confused on a regular basis. To me, it comes over as Reagan, the female lead, being an author-insert. She's also 'special' in some way, hunted, and good at pretty much everything. She'd make a fine Mary Sue, but I think she just about escapes that cliché. Just about. The constant switches in PoV do not make the book exceptionally readable and, so far at least, serve absolutely no purpose.
The setting was interesting, but it only started to make even the slightest sense when it comes out that it wasn't meant to be a colony and that the two different species are from different universes. It's very much science-fantasy; if you're looking for something in the cyberpunk or gritty sci-fi area, you won't find it here. If you ignore the (largely ridiculous) science, it's got some typical elements of cyberpunk in it: the rich and wealthy live in their castles in the sky (sort of), while the underclasses live in the dark down below and are constantly trying to (and dreaming they may) move up through the levels. The world outside the cities is inimical to non-native life, but that doesn't really matter, given we never go there; it's a framing device for the claustrophobic, walled cities.
The two protagonists hold interest and bounce off each other well enough. They're well-matched given that both of them are arrogant, half-breed, and more-or-less criminals. I'm pretty sure that, if I met them socially, I'd hate their guts, but they work in the setting and with each other.
Not, I think, a great read. Very slow to start, and then it doesn't go anywhere. I'd blame the need to introduce the characters for the slow start, but the characters aren't introduced, they're uncovered as we go on. May get better as the series continues, but I'm not enthused enough to grab the next book and find out. Maybe later.
May 24, 2017
4.25 Stars
This is a crime investigation/mystery story set in a created, sci-fi/advanced technology world with a tough, strong female private investigator names Reagen (who has a mystery past) as the main character. It alternates first and third person (with the third person chapters centering around the lead's newly assigned partner, Drake).
Reading this book gave me similar feelings as when I began J.D. Robb's Eve Dallas detective series - though its just a feeling as its really entirely different. The created world is described so perfectly - it is thorough and immersive and you really get the sense you know that world inside and out. The items or technologies created here are all things you can see happening some day - and at the same time may be things you've never even thought about but now can't believe you hadn't been wishing for!
Romance is my primary genre (about 85%) (and there is none here) but I do enjoy mystery and crime solving stories as well, especially ones that have just enough seeds about the main character's mysterious past to whet your appetite for more. The "About the Author" section states Ms. Forester earned a Bachelor's degree in English - and it shows. This is an extremely well-written book and was a joy for someone who typically screeches to a halt at every error/awkward sentence. (As there were only 3 definite errors and 1 possible in this one -that I found, anyway - it was awesome to really get lost in this excellent story.
I rarely give 5 star reviews (stingy, I know!) and the only reason I am not here is completely because of me and my subjective, personalized criteria. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series (Ash In The Blood) and everything else by this author as well.
This is a crime investigation/mystery story set in a created, sci-fi/advanced technology world with a tough, strong female private investigator names Reagen (who has a mystery past) as the main character. It alternates first and third person (with the third person chapters centering around the lead's newly assigned partner, Drake).
Reading this book gave me similar feelings as when I began J.D. Robb's Eve Dallas detective series - though its just a feeling as its really entirely different. The created world is described so perfectly - it is thorough and immersive and you really get the sense you know that world inside and out. The items or technologies created here are all things you can see happening some day - and at the same time may be things you've never even thought about but now can't believe you hadn't been wishing for!
Romance is my primary genre (about 85%) (and there is none here) but I do enjoy mystery and crime solving stories as well, especially ones that have just enough seeds about the main character's mysterious past to whet your appetite for more. The "About the Author" section states Ms. Forester earned a Bachelor's degree in English - and it shows. This is an extremely well-written book and was a joy for someone who typically screeches to a halt at every error/awkward sentence. (As there were only 3 definite errors and 1 possible in this one -that I found, anyway - it was awesome to really get lost in this excellent story.
I rarely give 5 star reviews (stingy, I know!) and the only reason I am not here is completely because of me and my subjective, personalized criteria. I will definitely be reading the next book in the series (Ash In The Blood) and everything else by this author as well.
September 10, 2017
Beneath a Holo-Sky is a science fiction based story. It is set in a world completely unlike our own and yet murder and mystery is still apart of their society.
Reagen Thorpe is an I.I. agent, a person who works for Investigators, Inc a company that takes on cases that come their way. Reagen is enjoying her quiet life, until a drug that is supposed to be controlled starts killing people. Through a series of events Reagen ends up being paired up with an enforcer from Black Corp, which is the people who control the government and are law enforcers. This Enforcers name is Drake Esten, who is more than friendly when it comes to sex, but less than friendly with his colleagues.
Whilst there is not a whole really any romance in this book, in fact there are other people involved sexually with the MC, i still loved both these characters. The friendship that they built was really loved to see developing. They bonded, they understood each other and i couldnt get enough of them. That being said i really really hope they develop something romantic.
I loved Reagen, i just felt like i could identify with her. She was real, honest, and completely a great heroine to read about.
Drake i loved just as equally, even though he could be extremely selfish at times, i still found myself being drawn to his character with every page.
The world building is again, quite spectacular. I could feel and see everything that Lyn's characters could, which is truly amazing.
Reagen Thorpe is an I.I. agent, a person who works for Investigators, Inc a company that takes on cases that come their way. Reagen is enjoying her quiet life, until a drug that is supposed to be controlled starts killing people. Through a series of events Reagen ends up being paired up with an enforcer from Black Corp, which is the people who control the government and are law enforcers. This Enforcers name is Drake Esten, who is more than friendly when it comes to sex, but less than friendly with his colleagues.
Whilst there is not a whole really any romance in this book, in fact there are other people involved sexually with the MC, i still loved both these characters. The friendship that they built was really loved to see developing. They bonded, they understood each other and i couldnt get enough of them. That being said i really really hope they develop something romantic.
I loved Reagen, i just felt like i could identify with her. She was real, honest, and completely a great heroine to read about.
Drake i loved just as equally, even though he could be extremely selfish at times, i still found myself being drawn to his character with every page.
The world building is again, quite spectacular. I could feel and see everything that Lyn's characters could, which is truly amazing.
May 20, 2017
It took me a while to get through this book only because I was in a hard core book hangover that seemed to be never ending, and I just couldn't get into this book. I have loved both of Lyn Forester's other books I've read, and I really wanted to give this book the fair chance it deserved, so I took a break for a bit then came back to it. I am so glad I did. I really like science fiction and alien worlds and this book was set in the same poison world as House of Glass that is another book by this author. I'm not usually into the whole crime and investigations thing, but this one was pretty good. The reason I give 4 stars is because I'm a girl who likes her romance and I just wasn't getting it in this book. Maybe it's a slow build? Maybe there just isn't going to be any in this series? But whatever, I need to branch out and read stuff other than all that lovin' so I'll be reading the next one for sure.
June 17, 2017
THE THRILL IS ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT! I couldn't sleep! The characters and stories are so well developed. The mystery flies right across from the book to the readers mind! And oh my what a thrilling adventure. I like the bond that is being built here. Really nice to see how the main character and her comrade start off and where they get to. Seeing their friendship grow is really interesting. The scenario they are placed in is also mind boggling and oooooh when the book reaches its climax! I love the way the crime scene was described. Beautiful use of the English language! They way two contrasting actions can be used in the same scenario. Absolutely magnificent. The way the words form the story is an artwork in itself. In simple words- get your hot chocolate and blanket ready for a thrilling read!
June 29, 2017
Thoroughly enjoyed this story by Lyn Forester. As I've come to expect from Forester, this is set in a very original world all of her own creation. The story is full of intrigue and even though half of it's written in 1st person the reader doesn't have all the answers laid out - Reagan is still a total mystery, and I love it. Drake is entertaining and intriguing and I honestly have no idea if the two MCs are going to end up together or just end up friends - and I don't even know which way I want it to go! I kind of love Drake as this sex-crazed bottomless pit and don't want him to change, but love the scenes as Reagan and Drake get closer. Luckily #2 is already out because as I finished this book I just want to keep reading!
May 4, 2017
I'm normally not a fan of books that are crime/investigations. They normally bore me. And there wasn't any romance in this book, which also normally puts me off.
I'm guessing it's a slow build romance. And so far I haven't had an issue. It's freaking Amazballs! Yes!
This book was so interesting, what sort of kind does this writer have. So many new worldly things going on. Disc bikes, epic idea! And her descriptions of everything just filled my head with pictures. Just loved it.
And Reagan, seriously. Such an amazing complex character. I loved the start, and where the end of the book kind of fixes in with the beginning. So well written.
Can't wait for book two!
I'm guessing it's a slow build romance. And so far I haven't had an issue. It's freaking Amazballs! Yes!
This book was so interesting, what sort of kind does this writer have. So many new worldly things going on. Disc bikes, epic idea! And her descriptions of everything just filled my head with pictures. Just loved it.
And Reagan, seriously. Such an amazing complex character. I loved the start, and where the end of the book kind of fixes in with the beginning. So well written.
Can't wait for book two!
May 18, 2017
I received this book free from Covey ARC in trade for a honest review.
To be honest, this isn't my usual genre to read, but I really liked it. Reagan is a smart and fiercely independent woman who knows how to take care of her self. I like how the time frame is in the future and on another planet. The writing and descriptions were good enough to where I could invision myself there.
The only reason it's 4 stars is because I'm a gal who likes to know the back story to things. Like why did she run from her peeps in the beginning and how many identities has she gone through ( because it sounds like a lot). Also TBH, I'm a romance gal and there is none one book
To be honest, this isn't my usual genre to read, but I really liked it. Reagan is a smart and fiercely independent woman who knows how to take care of her self. I like how the time frame is in the future and on another planet. The writing and descriptions were good enough to where I could invision myself there.
The only reason it's 4 stars is because I'm a gal who likes to know the back story to things. Like why did she run from her peeps in the beginning and how many identities has she gone through ( because it sounds like a lot). Also TBH, I'm a romance gal and there is none one book
May 18, 2017
3.5 stars.
Good things first: I really liked the concept of the world with its stacked cities. The story is interesting, combining crime and sci-fi.
My problem with the book though were the characters. While I usually love a strong female lead, I never found a connection to Reagen. It probably didn't help that the chapters written from her 1st person sounded very similar to the ones written in 3rd person. Because of that I thought that the book dragged on a little, and I wanted it to end faster to find out who the criminals are and to say goodbye to Reagen. Probably going to read the second book though nonetheless, in the hope that we'll become friends after all.
Good things first: I really liked the concept of the world with its stacked cities. The story is interesting, combining crime and sci-fi.
My problem with the book though were the characters. While I usually love a strong female lead, I never found a connection to Reagen. It probably didn't help that the chapters written from her 1st person sounded very similar to the ones written in 3rd person. Because of that I thought that the book dragged on a little, and I wanted it to end faster to find out who the criminals are and to say goodbye to Reagen. Probably going to read the second book though nonetheless, in the hope that we'll become friends after all.
June 11, 2018
Reagen Thorpe is an intetesting character
I haven't encountered a character like Reagen before. She's a little like Eve Dallas without the shinning moral compass of good verses evil. Sarcastic and aware of her Awesomeness she puts the Black Corp desk jockey Drake in his place. He oozes charm to men and women and Reagen isnt even fazed by him. I love the banter between them and the frequent " I hate you!" they throw at each other. I hope to delve deeper into the mystery that is Reagen in future books. Great read!
I haven't encountered a character like Reagen before. She's a little like Eve Dallas without the shinning moral compass of good verses evil. Sarcastic and aware of her Awesomeness she puts the Black Corp desk jockey Drake in his place. He oozes charm to men and women and Reagen isnt even fazed by him. I love the banter between them and the frequent " I hate you!" they throw at each other. I hope to delve deeper into the mystery that is Reagen in future books. Great read!
May 17, 2017
I won't lie when I first heard about this book I was told that its sh*t book but when it was offered to arc readers I decided to give it a shot and I will say I am very happy I gave it a shot and went into it with an open mind
It was a very good book and it is well worth the 5 stars I've given it
It has caught my attention and I am very excited to read book 2
I love how you can see a romance coming and I'm hoping that what I see coming does come about
Go into this with an open mind
It was a very good book and it is well worth the 5 stars I've given it
It has caught my attention and I am very excited to read book 2
I love how you can see a romance coming and I'm hoping that what I see coming does come about
Go into this with an open mind
June 2, 2017
I have to admit I've been in a major non gritty easy read funk for a while now. So this was a real jump back into something a bit more out there.
This was a great first book, Reagan was a no-nonsense investigator, with a lot of hidden secrets and a very go it alone attitude. To find herself lumbered with a partner and a dark grisly investigation, leads to some great entertaining reading.
I'm intrigued as to where it's going to go from here, looking forward to reading more!
This was a great first book, Reagan was a no-nonsense investigator, with a lot of hidden secrets and a very go it alone attitude. To find herself lumbered with a partner and a dark grisly investigation, leads to some great entertaining reading.
I'm intrigued as to where it's going to go from here, looking forward to reading more!
June 2, 2017
More!
The Poison Worlds fascinate me and I can't wait to read more! I first the beginning of a different series, but now I can't wait to read more about any of the Poison World Series.
The Poison Worlds fascinate me and I can't wait to read more! I first the beginning of a different series, but now I can't wait to read more about any of the Poison World Series.
August 26, 2016
Lyn introduces us to another world where Helion (another race) and Humans crash landed and colonised together. It's an exceptionally crafted world that I am so glad I don't live on. Cities are on levels with a holo sky that is timed to replicate day/night and there is a poisoned jungle around them. The jungle is mentioned in passing and is not part of this story, but I really hope we find out more about it in other books. Water clean enough to drink is at a premium. Food is generated and no longer 'real' food.
The two main characters, Drake and Reagan, were also written really well. Their development, as individuals and how they work together, moved along as smoothly as the plot line. There were a few laugh out loud moments and some pretty good dialogue between them. I thought at first that Reagan was going to be a super Barbie, but we soon discover she's not perfect at everything and can even be annoying at times, which is refreshing. Same with Drake, at first he seemed a real dick, especially in his attitude towards women, and there's no denying he's a player (there is no sex in this book), but as we get to know him more we see he's more than image and getting laid. I really liked him and I'm holding out hope that they will eventually get together.
Secondary characters were really well thought out too. Good people with weaknesses, and I love Carmichael. There were no plot holes, no surplus characters, it was a tight read.
The story is told in third person POV but from each character. Deep POV? I don't know what they're calling it these days, but you hear things from Reagan's thought process without it being a first person. This worked quite well, there were no changes mid chapter to confuse who was thinking, but it would change with each chapter. There was no indication the POV had changed and sometimes it was a few paragraphs before I worked out which POV I was in now, but that could be me.
Another plus. The editing. I didn't find any errors at all. Not to say there aren't any, but I didn't stumble across them. I'm not a grammar expert, but there were no obvious spelling mistakes, repeated words etc, and that, for me, makes a nice change in the world of ebooks.
Well worth a read if you like worlds that make you glad we still live on planet Earth.
The two main characters, Drake and Reagan, were also written really well. Their development, as individuals and how they work together, moved along as smoothly as the plot line. There were a few laugh out loud moments and some pretty good dialogue between them. I thought at first that Reagan was going to be a super Barbie, but we soon discover she's not perfect at everything and can even be annoying at times, which is refreshing. Same with Drake, at first he seemed a real dick, especially in his attitude towards women, and there's no denying he's a player (there is no sex in this book), but as we get to know him more we see he's more than image and getting laid. I really liked him and I'm holding out hope that they will eventually get together.
Secondary characters were really well thought out too. Good people with weaknesses, and I love Carmichael. There were no plot holes, no surplus characters, it was a tight read.
The story is told in third person POV but from each character. Deep POV? I don't know what they're calling it these days, but you hear things from Reagan's thought process without it being a first person. This worked quite well, there were no changes mid chapter to confuse who was thinking, but it would change with each chapter. There was no indication the POV had changed and sometimes it was a few paragraphs before I worked out which POV I was in now, but that could be me.
Another plus. The editing. I didn't find any errors at all. Not to say there aren't any, but I didn't stumble across them. I'm not a grammar expert, but there were no obvious spelling mistakes, repeated words etc, and that, for me, makes a nice change in the world of ebooks.
Well worth a read if you like worlds that make you glad we still live on planet Earth.
September 30, 2016
As a long-time science fiction fan, it's hard for me to find something new that really draws me in or doesn't feel like the same old thing. This one does. I couldn't put it down every time I got a chance to read. The races that Ms. Forester has created are unique and fascinating, and I already can't wait to learn more about them, which I have every confidence we will. I'm also looking forward to learning more about Reagan's past, because I have a feeling the secrets she's hiding are going to cause all sorts of wonderful trouble. The bureaucracy of the city is fascinating; how all of it works, from the different levels for different classes from poor to rich, to the co-existing legal and not-so-legal groups in charge of it all. Reagan and Drake are such solid characterizations that even when they do something odd, it doesn't feel out of character in the least, and I love how she highlighted their different parts of the story by using two different point-of-view voices, hers in first, and his in third. I can't wait to see what they get up to in the next book, and I am very curious to find out who is behind the illegal Ash.
As an e-book reader who has read a lot of self-published works that way, I have to say I was impressed with how very polished this book is. Especially for a first book. So many feel as though they didn't bother getting edited at all, but this one reads as though it were professionally edited, and I very much appreciate that. I'm looking forward to reading more by her in the future.
As an e-book reader who has read a lot of self-published works that way, I have to say I was impressed with how very polished this book is. Especially for a first book. So many feel as though they didn't bother getting edited at all, but this one reads as though it were professionally edited, and I very much appreciate that. I'm looking forward to reading more by her in the future.
September 12, 2016
I used to read a lot of science fiction, but haven't for some time. This one appealed to me as I was looking for something a little different without getting too far away from my preferred genre -- mystery/suspense. The how and why of Ash is a great backdrop for learning about this future world of vertical cities inhabited by humans, halions and half-breeds. Through the investigation, we are introduced to a number of scenes and characters that give us a glimpse into Lyn Forester's vision of the future. The dialogue is much like Reagan -- quick and witty with a dash of sarcasm. The writing is fast-paced, making it difficult to put the book down. The book ended with a solved murder and the on-going mystery of who has the balls to buck the mob and produce Ash. And, just who is Reagan, where did she come from and what makes her tick? I'm looking forward to learning more in the next installment.
September 24, 2016
I absolutely loved it! There's no way I could put into words how amazing this books was. I was always on the edge of my seat, waiting to find out what would happen next!
April 12, 2017
Oh what a wonderful start to a fantastic sci-fi series. I laughed my ass off on this one and cant wait to read the next book. the world building on this book is fantastic and I could not put it down. I highly recommend for sci-fi readers
March 9, 2017
*** REVIEW FOR BOOK 1 & 2 (ASH IN THE BLOOD) *****
Damn this book was so up my alley, down the street, and around the block at least three times with a couple of WHOO HOOS!!! in between.
All I wanted to know at the end of the second book was where's the third and who would I have to kill to get an ARC!!!
What wasn't to love, we have a mysterious kickass leading lady on the run from the mob for a reason that never quite reveals itself - think "the dance of a thousand veils".
Set in a Sci Fi world of humans and aliens, she uses her chances to create a new identity as Reagen Thorpe, a PI, which best makes use of her skill set, under the very eyes of those who are after her, the Black Corporation.... que ominous music...
Now a poisonous drug hits the streets and threatens to unravel all her best laid plans.
***Review to be continued in the next book...****
Damn this book was so up my alley, down the street, and around the block at least three times with a couple of WHOO HOOS!!! in between.
All I wanted to know at the end of the second book was where's the third and who would I have to kill to get an ARC!!!
What wasn't to love, we have a mysterious kickass leading lady on the run from the mob for a reason that never quite reveals itself - think "the dance of a thousand veils".
Set in a Sci Fi world of humans and aliens, she uses her chances to create a new identity as Reagen Thorpe, a PI, which best makes use of her skill set, under the very eyes of those who are after her, the Black Corporation.... que ominous music...
Now a poisonous drug hits the streets and threatens to unravel all her best laid plans.
***Review to be continued in the next book...****
April 21, 2017
Who is behind the Ash? What is up with everyone being so drawn to Drake? Why doesn't Reagan eat anything but Bell-E Up bars? I'm dying for book two and to see more of the story. I loved the prologue backstory on Reagan and really want to learn more
May 6, 2017
The female main character is such a bad a** in this book and I love it. She is strong and independent and extremely intelligent. I also like that when paired with a male partner there isn't the typical instant love connection. It's a great story that takes place in another world and keeps you glued to it! A must read.
May 15, 2017
So I'm going to start with this book genre is not my cup of tea which is why is got 4 stars. That being said I liked the characters and the story line, it was just hard for me to get into it.
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