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Longclaws
Their world is crowded with active volcanoes, sulfur and acid rains, permanent thick clouds turn day into deep twilight. It is a violent place: moment-to-moment survival is victory, every creature is constantly predator and prey, sleep is certain death.
This is home to the longclaws, beings of super-human speed, strength and senses. Their predatory skills allow them a only tenuous niche in their hellish environment. Though smart and fierce, their rank in the food chain is far below the top. One clan leader draws from ancient legends of paradise and devises a plan to escape and take his clan to the otherworld – a world filled with slow, defenseless prey.
The clan activates an Indian mound deep in southern forests and enters our world –hungry for prey.
Torrential rains and washed out bridges force a runaway teen, an old dowser and a Cherokee healer to face the horrors of the clan’s merciless onslaught.
Mankind's legends are filled with vampires, werewolves, dragons and other nightmarish. Perhaps our legend of hell is based on the world of the Longclaws.
This edition also uses the ASIN B0010ZGPB2.
This is home to the longclaws, beings of super-human speed, strength and senses. Their predatory skills allow them a only tenuous niche in their hellish environment. Though smart and fierce, their rank in the food chain is far below the top. One clan leader draws from ancient legends of paradise and devises a plan to escape and take his clan to the otherworld – a world filled with slow, defenseless prey.
The clan activates an Indian mound deep in southern forests and enters our world –hungry for prey.
Torrential rains and washed out bridges force a runaway teen, an old dowser and a Cherokee healer to face the horrors of the clan’s merciless onslaught.
Mankind's legends are filled with vampires, werewolves, dragons and other nightmarish. Perhaps our legend of hell is based on the world of the Longclaws.
This edition also uses the ASIN B0010ZGPB2.
Unknown Binding
First published December 3, 2007
About the author
Steve Peek
39 books33 followersedit biographydelete
Biography
First cousins, Steve and Pat Conroy's families often shared their grandmother's big house in Atlanta. Both wanted to be writers. Pat became a literary lion by the time he was thirty. Steve began writing semi-seriously in the 1980's. Now, for better or for worse, he writes full time.
Steve traveled extensively and explored histories and myths of peoples and places all over the world. He loves all things ancient, mysterious and digs deep into lore and enigmas for his subjects.
Difficult to classify his books, they are always reviewed as unique and fresh storylines with believable characters. Often, he can't help sprinkling a touch of humor in an otherwise serious scene.
His books on Amazon include:
W-G-O-D: In your Dreams, All night, Every Night
The Island Builders
Your Money or Your Mustard
Longclaws
Alien Agenda
Coyote Dreaming
Otherworld
The Game Inventors Handbook
Million Dollar Monster (Short Story)
The Sword of the Stone (Short Story)
Global Warning (Short Story)
New Roads (Short Story)
The Sword of the Flame (Short Story)
One Day Sale (Short Story)
He loves animals, especially birds and loves to sit and watch them at the feeders when his dogs allow it.
He appreciates the magic of life and the interconnection of all things.
He would like to hear from you via steve peek author on facebook or jstephenpeek@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 24, 2011
After finishing this book, I don't know exactly how to feel.
I expected to feel horrified, and at certain points I was, perhaps not at the points Steve intended, but generally speaking I felt a little disjointed.
I believe this was because of the choppy way the story went from one place and time to another and then another. I don't have a solution to make it better; I just know that I didn't really get it.
The introduction to the 'world' took a long time. Almost a third of the book! It held useful information, but it felt like I was being introduced to characters, ideas and concepts just to have them ripped away. You don't meet the real protagonist until about 30% in either. That meant you only had 70% of the book left in which to get to know them and feel something for them.
It took a while, but eventually I did start to care for a couple of the characters. I think the kicker for me though, the turning point in my feelings for the book, revolved solely around the dog. I felt more for that wiry-haired pooch than any of the other characters. That could be because I'm an animal person, but I don't think so. In fact I believe it's got more to do with the characterisation that the dog had that the other characters were lacking.
The antagonists were brilliant creations of horrific proportions, but strangely humanesque in some of their actions, protecting their young and mates for example, and so completely alien in other aspects.
I didn't really appreciate the dialogue around them and their existence in their world; I think it would have been enough knowing that they came from a hellish world without all the rest of it too.
The thing that kept me engaged and enjoying this story was the science/history behind the different worlds. The ley lines and the Indian culture, the standing stones and the magic that was obviously so thoroughly researched by Steve. That part of the story was steeped in so much truth that even though it was completely 'out there' I found myself wanting to believe it too.
I didn't much like how things ended, but then I can't say I didn't expect it a little anyway. Steve seemed to enjoy mutilating characters, finding creative ways to dispatch them from the story and well, I guess I came to expect that any characters were potential targets, even those who deserved a second chance at things or ones who were young and innocent.
This book is certainly not for the feint-hearted. It starts off slowly enough, but by the end of it you'll be wading through so much blood and guts it all just starts to blur together.
This book could do with another pass over by an editor. There were plenty of little typos and formatting issues on the kindle.
The things I noticed:
15% - now it (was) just weeds.
23% - that's what is (delete is, add it) has to do...
27% - A brownish shake's (snake's)...
29% - the boat ramp.. (Double full stop)
31% - why did L.T. hung (hang) around...
42% - ...builds things from stones.(")
43% - ...each cave need(ed) to be checked...
46% - ...and was (delete was) barely avoided passing talons.
48% - With Speaker's dead (either speaker's death or speaker dead)
54% - looking for away (a way) out.
57% - ...trip to insure (ensure) everything...
...with hoofs drug (dragged) something through...
66% - could loose (lose) that much...
83% There must be away (a way).
88% - ...lie (lay) crumpled... Lie x 2
91% - ...creature attacked knocked (either attack knocked or attacked knocking)...
94% - ...and (an) expended...
**Note: I was provided an electronic version of this book in return for an honest review**
I expected to feel horrified, and at certain points I was, perhaps not at the points Steve intended, but generally speaking I felt a little disjointed.
I believe this was because of the choppy way the story went from one place and time to another and then another. I don't have a solution to make it better; I just know that I didn't really get it.
The introduction to the 'world' took a long time. Almost a third of the book! It held useful information, but it felt like I was being introduced to characters, ideas and concepts just to have them ripped away. You don't meet the real protagonist until about 30% in either. That meant you only had 70% of the book left in which to get to know them and feel something for them.
It took a while, but eventually I did start to care for a couple of the characters. I think the kicker for me though, the turning point in my feelings for the book, revolved solely around the dog. I felt more for that wiry-haired pooch than any of the other characters. That could be because I'm an animal person, but I don't think so. In fact I believe it's got more to do with the characterisation that the dog had that the other characters were lacking.
The antagonists were brilliant creations of horrific proportions, but strangely humanesque in some of their actions, protecting their young and mates for example, and so completely alien in other aspects.
I didn't really appreciate the dialogue around them and their existence in their world; I think it would have been enough knowing that they came from a hellish world without all the rest of it too.
The thing that kept me engaged and enjoying this story was the science/history behind the different worlds. The ley lines and the Indian culture, the standing stones and the magic that was obviously so thoroughly researched by Steve. That part of the story was steeped in so much truth that even though it was completely 'out there' I found myself wanting to believe it too.
I didn't much like how things ended, but then I can't say I didn't expect it a little anyway. Steve seemed to enjoy mutilating characters, finding creative ways to dispatch them from the story and well, I guess I came to expect that any characters were potential targets, even those who deserved a second chance at things or ones who were young and innocent.
This book is certainly not for the feint-hearted. It starts off slowly enough, but by the end of it you'll be wading through so much blood and guts it all just starts to blur together.
This book could do with another pass over by an editor. There were plenty of little typos and formatting issues on the kindle.
The things I noticed:
15% - now it (was) just weeds.
23% - that's what is (delete is, add it) has to do...
27% - A brownish shake's (snake's)...
29% - the boat ramp.. (Double full stop)
31% - why did L.T. hung (hang) around...
42% - ...builds things from stones.(")
43% - ...each cave need(ed) to be checked...
46% - ...and was (delete was) barely avoided passing talons.
48% - With Speaker's dead (either speaker's death or speaker dead)
54% - looking for away (a way) out.
57% - ...trip to insure (ensure) everything...
...with hoofs drug (dragged) something through...
66% - could loose (lose) that much...
83% There must be away (a way).
88% - ...lie (lay) crumpled... Lie x 2
91% - ...creature attacked knocked (either attack knocked or attacked knocking)...
94% - ...and (an) expended...
**Note: I was provided an electronic version of this book in return for an honest review**
February 24, 2013
A unified theory of hell
Longclaws is an ambitious book that posits a unified theory of terror using alternate dimensions, time travel, ley lines, dowsing, Native American burial mounds, crystals, Stonehenge, the Bermuda Triangle, cattle mutilations and pretty much every other supernatural and occult staple available. The only things seemingly missing are UFO abductions and spontaneous human combustion. (I expect those may be included in future works?)
The setup: Bands of mystic energy link our world to a particularly horrid "other world" and occasionally people get sucked into that world; worse, vicious creatures occasionally get plopped into ours. When they do, bad things happen and those bad things have become the basis for our various cultural myths of hell, vampires, werewolves, dragons, etc. It is a compelling idea that could easily founder under its own weight but author Steve Peek brings a patient, almost academic biologists' approach to the world of the monsters that distinguishes this effort.
The alternate universe he describes is not a place one would want to visit (though, in his book, some do with poor results) with active volcanoes and sulfuric acid rain and a Noah's ark of horrid creatures forever swooping down to disembowel a fellow creature or laying traps to exsanguinate some unfortunate howler. He provides patient descriptions of the creatures and their world and really helps the reader see the world through their eyes and experience the constant struggle to survive and feed.
Sound overwhelming? It could be, but he does an admirable job of grounding the story in the every day life of the rural south. There's an almost a Grisham-like Painted House feel to the simple rhythms he portrays both in the present, and flashing back to earlier decades. This story would not work as well if not for the old gas stations, grape sodas and aw-shucks charm of small town life. Of course, that life is turned upside down when a vicious clan of Longclaws make the journey over from the other side and hit the ground running, hungry for blood.
This book — imagining not one, but two alternate worlds (the bad place, and the mystic underpinning of this world) and moving back and forth in time — is well-worth the read. I know I will never look at Native American artifacts the same way again.
Longclaws is an ambitious book that posits a unified theory of terror using alternate dimensions, time travel, ley lines, dowsing, Native American burial mounds, crystals, Stonehenge, the Bermuda Triangle, cattle mutilations and pretty much every other supernatural and occult staple available. The only things seemingly missing are UFO abductions and spontaneous human combustion. (I expect those may be included in future works?)
The setup: Bands of mystic energy link our world to a particularly horrid "other world" and occasionally people get sucked into that world; worse, vicious creatures occasionally get plopped into ours. When they do, bad things happen and those bad things have become the basis for our various cultural myths of hell, vampires, werewolves, dragons, etc. It is a compelling idea that could easily founder under its own weight but author Steve Peek brings a patient, almost academic biologists' approach to the world of the monsters that distinguishes this effort.
The alternate universe he describes is not a place one would want to visit (though, in his book, some do with poor results) with active volcanoes and sulfuric acid rain and a Noah's ark of horrid creatures forever swooping down to disembowel a fellow creature or laying traps to exsanguinate some unfortunate howler. He provides patient descriptions of the creatures and their world and really helps the reader see the world through their eyes and experience the constant struggle to survive and feed.
Sound overwhelming? It could be, but he does an admirable job of grounding the story in the every day life of the rural south. There's an almost a Grisham-like Painted House feel to the simple rhythms he portrays both in the present, and flashing back to earlier decades. This story would not work as well if not for the old gas stations, grape sodas and aw-shucks charm of small town life. Of course, that life is turned upside down when a vicious clan of Longclaws make the journey over from the other side and hit the ground running, hungry for blood.
This book — imagining not one, but two alternate worlds (the bad place, and the mystic underpinning of this world) and moving back and forth in time — is well-worth the read. I know I will never look at Native American artifacts the same way again.
May 6, 2013
First of all I should thank the author of Longclaws, Steve Peek, for gifting me a copy of Longclaws and giving me the opportunity to read it. I did warn Steve that I would give an honest review regardless, and here it is.
I found Longclaws to be a fascinating and imaginative novel, quite different from what I originally envisaged. Steve has created a well thought out storyline in more than one world with a cool cast of characters and creatures. Whilst none of the characters has a great deal of depth to them, not that this is necessary, it is interesting that for all the death and suffering there aren't really any bad guys. Each group or faction is doing what it needs to do to survive, rather than being evil.
The layout of the book and/or formatting for the Kindle could have been better. Sometimes there was a chapter change almost mid scene, and on other occasions a new paragraph would be a completely different scene in another place with different characters. This led to confusion until I realised what had happened, and could have been avoided. There were also some errors which may have been down to typos, grammar or formatting.
The only other thing that affected my enjoyment of Longclaws was that the writing style sometimes came across as a little awkward. I've tried to think of a better way of putting it but failed. It could be the mark of a writer who hasn't quite found his style and will improve with more books under his belt. It wasn't that off-putting, it's just that the story could have flowed better.
Longclaws is at heart a horror novel with elements of several other genres thrown in. It's an imaginative and enjoyable read that earns a good 3 star rating from me that would have been 4 with a bit more polish. I would like to thank Steve Peak for Longclaws and encourage him to keep using that fertile imagination and working on his writing style to achieve his full potential as a writer.
I found Longclaws to be a fascinating and imaginative novel, quite different from what I originally envisaged. Steve has created a well thought out storyline in more than one world with a cool cast of characters and creatures. Whilst none of the characters has a great deal of depth to them, not that this is necessary, it is interesting that for all the death and suffering there aren't really any bad guys. Each group or faction is doing what it needs to do to survive, rather than being evil.
The layout of the book and/or formatting for the Kindle could have been better. Sometimes there was a chapter change almost mid scene, and on other occasions a new paragraph would be a completely different scene in another place with different characters. This led to confusion until I realised what had happened, and could have been avoided. There were also some errors which may have been down to typos, grammar or formatting.
The only other thing that affected my enjoyment of Longclaws was that the writing style sometimes came across as a little awkward. I've tried to think of a better way of putting it but failed. It could be the mark of a writer who hasn't quite found his style and will improve with more books under his belt. It wasn't that off-putting, it's just that the story could have flowed better.
Longclaws is at heart a horror novel with elements of several other genres thrown in. It's an imaginative and enjoyable read that earns a good 3 star rating from me that would have been 4 with a bit more polish. I would like to thank Steve Peak for Longclaws and encourage him to keep using that fertile imagination and working on his writing style to achieve his full potential as a writer.
February 27, 2013
I was immediately drawn by the book's cover. It reminds me of those lurid (meant in a good way!) covers on old horror stories which I love and miss with today's generic appearance of most books. The plot summary sealed the deal: I had to read this one!
Three different story-lines are intricately woven into a compelling story: a clan of vampire-like beings called longclaws living in a parallel, prehistoric-like world, hunting for fresh blood and hiding from other, even more menacing creatures. An ancient Indian tribe knowing about the dangerous otherworldly beasts and closing the energy lines leading to their world. A teenage runaway boy ending up with his old great-uncle who lives to protect humanity by guarding the portal.
Then one longclaw discovers a way to cross the border into paradise: our human world, where they are superior predators among easy prey. A brutal fight for survival begins - on both sides.
The author uses different time lines, parallel worlds and different points of view, sometimes retelling a scene as experienced from both humans and longclaws. Where other books get lost in their overwhelming, confusing complexity, that is never the case with longclaws, where all parts converge into a coherent and unique whole.
The underlying premise that our folklore especially about vampires and werewolves stems from encounters with creatures from another dimension mark Longclaws as an outstanding work in the 'fangs&claws' genre. However, this distinctive novel will surely appeal to fans of all types of horror.
(I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review)
Three different story-lines are intricately woven into a compelling story: a clan of vampire-like beings called longclaws living in a parallel, prehistoric-like world, hunting for fresh blood and hiding from other, even more menacing creatures. An ancient Indian tribe knowing about the dangerous otherworldly beasts and closing the energy lines leading to their world. A teenage runaway boy ending up with his old great-uncle who lives to protect humanity by guarding the portal.
Then one longclaw discovers a way to cross the border into paradise: our human world, where they are superior predators among easy prey. A brutal fight for survival begins - on both sides.
The author uses different time lines, parallel worlds and different points of view, sometimes retelling a scene as experienced from both humans and longclaws. Where other books get lost in their overwhelming, confusing complexity, that is never the case with longclaws, where all parts converge into a coherent and unique whole.
The underlying premise that our folklore especially about vampires and werewolves stems from encounters with creatures from another dimension mark Longclaws as an outstanding work in the 'fangs&claws' genre. However, this distinctive novel will surely appeal to fans of all types of horror.
(I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review)
February 16, 2013
Author Steve Peek has created a world that embraces many legends, werewolves, vampires, the like, as beings of an alternate dimension. Gates allow them passage to out world. Ancient humans had learned ways to shut those doors down, building such as Stonehenge, the Indian mounds of the Americas, and other such structures around the world. But as humans spread and built, those impediments were destroyed, weakening those lines connected worldwide.
And a pack of Longclaws have found a way to cross over into our world. In their own dimension, they are far down the food chain. In our world, they are incredibly fast with claws protruding from hands made for slashing, cutting up their prey.
In northern Alabama forests, cut off by a collapsed bridge and rivers swollen by the torrential rains, there will be a battle between the clan of longclaws and two families, the Masons, from a long line that watched the mounds for just such an event, and an old Indian woman and her granddaughter.
Most excellent. Ready for another.
And a pack of Longclaws have found a way to cross over into our world. In their own dimension, they are far down the food chain. In our world, they are incredibly fast with claws protruding from hands made for slashing, cutting up their prey.
In northern Alabama forests, cut off by a collapsed bridge and rivers swollen by the torrential rains, there will be a battle between the clan of longclaws and two families, the Masons, from a long line that watched the mounds for just such an event, and an old Indian woman and her granddaughter.
Most excellent. Ready for another.
March 28, 2013
Looking at the cover of this book, I wasn't really sure what I was going to find inside. I was both thrilled with the contents and impressed by this author's ability to transport his reader to another world and make you forget yourself while reading his work. This story is amazing. Steve Peek has a unique talent for building believable characters that you can't help but identify with. This story is very complex and has a lot of elements that I had not seen before, and was not at all what I had expected.
If you like books that will keep you at the edge of your seat for the entire experience, this is the book to choose. I was particularly fascinated with the way his characters reacted to things. The suspense he manages to build through their uncertainty and terror leaves you half afraid to turn the page, but half afraid not to. This is the type of book that could be adapted into a very exciting movie. The author's descriptions are detailed and bring the book to life before your eyes as though you are watching a film. Here is an example of his descriptive writing:
"The house looked as if it had never seen a coat of paint. The gray planks warped and strained against the rusty nails, which bled dark-red streaks from years of rain." Rather than telling the reader everything that is going to happen step by step, Steve Peek allows us to connect the dots and reveals his story through the actions of his characters.There was no extra fluff or poorly utilized space in this novel.
By the time you reach the middle of this book, the pages turn furiously. I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next, but at the same time I hated to see this book be over with. Steve Peek has a real talent for writing, and I look forward to seeing what he comes up with next. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes a complex mystery with a measure of terror and truly original and unexpected twists.
I received a digital copy of this book for my review. My opinions are my own.
If you like books that will keep you at the edge of your seat for the entire experience, this is the book to choose. I was particularly fascinated with the way his characters reacted to things. The suspense he manages to build through their uncertainty and terror leaves you half afraid to turn the page, but half afraid not to. This is the type of book that could be adapted into a very exciting movie. The author's descriptions are detailed and bring the book to life before your eyes as though you are watching a film. Here is an example of his descriptive writing:
"The house looked as if it had never seen a coat of paint. The gray planks warped and strained against the rusty nails, which bled dark-red streaks from years of rain." Rather than telling the reader everything that is going to happen step by step, Steve Peek allows us to connect the dots and reveals his story through the actions of his characters.There was no extra fluff or poorly utilized space in this novel.
By the time you reach the middle of this book, the pages turn furiously. I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next, but at the same time I hated to see this book be over with. Steve Peek has a real talent for writing, and I look forward to seeing what he comes up with next. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes a complex mystery with a measure of terror and truly original and unexpected twists.
I received a digital copy of this book for my review. My opinions are my own.
April 30, 2013
Author Steve Peek has managed to straddle two worlds, bring his characters through the veils that separate them and still maintain a shroud of mystery around his tale, Longclaws. Are they from the realm we refer to as Hell? Are they behind the legends of the vampire? Are they going to cause me to sleep with the lights on for a while?
Longclaws are predators with super-human strength, speed and bravery in their world, where survival is a constant battle. Each member of the clan has an important role to play, vital to their survival, yet, we do not meet them as individuals because that seems unimportant, they are what and who they are, able to see the big picture in the battle for survival, fiercely loyal to their clan and their traditions. When one Leader finds a way to cross the veils that surround their world from ours, it is to survive. Humans are unknown demons to them, weak, yet with the will to survive that is respected by the longclaws. If not for their passing through these veils or ley lines a young boy would never know how to belong to a family, how to feel loved, or how to find self-respect. I wondered if there was a villain in this tale. I saw factions fighting for survival in the only way they knew how!
Steve Peek’s writing style is almost dreamlike, blending Indian folklore, ley lines, myths and legends into a tale that will stay with you, in a hauntingly beautiful way. He grounds his tale with humanity at its finest, everyday people coping with the impossible, often mirroring the clan’s will for survival, but who will win in the end?
On a personal note, I absolutely loved the writing, the plot, the characters, the style, the pace and the world-building….my anticipated nightmares, not so much.
Longclaws are predators with super-human strength, speed and bravery in their world, where survival is a constant battle. Each member of the clan has an important role to play, vital to their survival, yet, we do not meet them as individuals because that seems unimportant, they are what and who they are, able to see the big picture in the battle for survival, fiercely loyal to their clan and their traditions. When one Leader finds a way to cross the veils that surround their world from ours, it is to survive. Humans are unknown demons to them, weak, yet with the will to survive that is respected by the longclaws. If not for their passing through these veils or ley lines a young boy would never know how to belong to a family, how to feel loved, or how to find self-respect. I wondered if there was a villain in this tale. I saw factions fighting for survival in the only way they knew how!
Steve Peek’s writing style is almost dreamlike, blending Indian folklore, ley lines, myths and legends into a tale that will stay with you, in a hauntingly beautiful way. He grounds his tale with humanity at its finest, everyday people coping with the impossible, often mirroring the clan’s will for survival, but who will win in the end?
On a personal note, I absolutely loved the writing, the plot, the characters, the style, the pace and the world-building….my anticipated nightmares, not so much.
March 24, 2013
A very fine book chock full of ideas and action. I liked the characters and the twists and turns. If anything there was a bit too much detail about some aspects of the Longclaws world. But overall it was quite an enjoyable read.
February 13, 2017
Great read
What a great adventure! The story line was awesome and this became one of those books that I could not wait to see what happened next at the same time not sure I wanted it to end! If you can get engrossed in what you are reading, put yourself in the world being described. Enjoy!
What a great adventure! The story line was awesome and this became one of those books that I could not wait to see what happened next at the same time not sure I wanted it to end! If you can get engrossed in what you are reading, put yourself in the world being described. Enjoy!
July 4, 2016
This is the best book and 'story' I have read this year! Two worlds that cross with horrible results. Steve Peek brought many genre together and created a fantastic book.
I don't like writing a review of a novel. Others do a much better job than I would and I ask that you read the other reviews. I will be reading this book again and it holds its place in my list of favorite books.
Thank you, Steve Peek, for telling this story.
I don't like writing a review of a novel. Others do a much better job than I would and I ask that you read the other reviews. I will be reading this book again and it holds its place in my list of favorite books.
Thank you, Steve Peek, for telling this story.
February 14, 2013
I edited this book (again); there was a mixup in the files uploaded in January or something, because there were a lot of errors left that I fixed. So, if you have a copy that you picked up before, be sure to wait for the updated file and download the update before you read it.
January 2, 2021
That was different!
This was quite a story. Demonic creatures from other dimensions, doorways between dimensions, and people who can sense the energy lines that connect the worlds are key elements of the story.
Pete Mason, runaway from a military school, finds himself in his family's place of origin in Alabama. He meets, accidently, his great uncle Royce Mason and ends up staying with him for awhile. The story alternates between views of Pete's world in Alabama and that of the Longclaws in their dimension. The description of that place is a bit like our notion of hell complete with sulferous fumes. Ironically, Leader of the Longclaws refers to humans as demons. Occasionally the doorways between dimensions opens and humans pass through to the other realm and vice versa. The Longclaws and other species from their realm find humans easy picking and Leader tries to find a way to our world.
At first I wasn't sure I liked this story. I enjoyed the narrative of events in the human dimension but not so much in the other one. It was hard for me to appreciate the other creatures of that place in that they seemed a bit like modified vampires and werewolves as well as other strange things. But it soon became apparent that there was a good reason for that and I settled down to enjoy the rest of the story.
One of my favorite characters turned out to be a dog, a standard poodle, named Pogo. He was well represented and I daresay the author has some familiarity with the breed. If you're looking for something a bit different, you might enjoy this book.
This was quite a story. Demonic creatures from other dimensions, doorways between dimensions, and people who can sense the energy lines that connect the worlds are key elements of the story.
Pete Mason, runaway from a military school, finds himself in his family's place of origin in Alabama. He meets, accidently, his great uncle Royce Mason and ends up staying with him for awhile. The story alternates between views of Pete's world in Alabama and that of the Longclaws in their dimension. The description of that place is a bit like our notion of hell complete with sulferous fumes. Ironically, Leader of the Longclaws refers to humans as demons. Occasionally the doorways between dimensions opens and humans pass through to the other realm and vice versa. The Longclaws and other species from their realm find humans easy picking and Leader tries to find a way to our world.
At first I wasn't sure I liked this story. I enjoyed the narrative of events in the human dimension but not so much in the other one. It was hard for me to appreciate the other creatures of that place in that they seemed a bit like modified vampires and werewolves as well as other strange things. But it soon became apparent that there was a good reason for that and I settled down to enjoy the rest of the story.
One of my favorite characters turned out to be a dog, a standard poodle, named Pogo. He was well represented and I daresay the author has some familiarity with the breed. If you're looking for something a bit different, you might enjoy this book.
February 10, 2019
This book is about the doorways between our world and other's and what can happen when the ultimate predator finds it's way into ours .
This was a decent read it's was interesting how the author gave you different points of view even from the antagonist who really wasn't evil they just wanted a better place a safer play for their people . Anyway I enjoyed this book although it took a little time for me to get into the plot not a bad story at all . The ending was definitely a twist though .
This was a decent read it's was interesting how the author gave you different points of view even from the antagonist who really wasn't evil they just wanted a better place a safer play for their people . Anyway I enjoyed this book although it took a little time for me to get into the plot not a bad story at all . The ending was definitely a twist though .
February 10, 2021
Overpriced and Under Delivered
For me, there are two kinds of “series” books. One is a complete story; within a continuing saga. The other is a single story that is broken up and sold in pieces; typically by an unknown author, to maximize profits. “Claws” is the latter. Book One just introduces characters and places; for which there are multiples. The story hasn’t even been laid out. I’m sorry, I just can’t recommend this to anyone. There’s just not enough there to justify the final price of the story. There are too many authors that give you better value for your dollars.
For me, there are two kinds of “series” books. One is a complete story; within a continuing saga. The other is a single story that is broken up and sold in pieces; typically by an unknown author, to maximize profits. “Claws” is the latter. Book One just introduces characters and places; for which there are multiples. The story hasn’t even been laid out. I’m sorry, I just can’t recommend this to anyone. There’s just not enough there to justify the final price of the story. There are too many authors that give you better value for your dollars.
January 25, 2019
What are they?!!
I enjoyed this book it was an easy read. The beginning of the book seemed a bit disjointed but by the end of the book it was clear. I dont know what the creatures are but i dont want to met one. They are very fast and intelligent. The book is not what you expect. You will be surprised. If you like horror than this book is for you. I am going to buy more of Steve Peek, right now.
I enjoyed this book it was an easy read. The beginning of the book seemed a bit disjointed but by the end of the book it was clear. I dont know what the creatures are but i dont want to met one. They are very fast and intelligent. The book is not what you expect. You will be surprised. If you like horror than this book is for you. I am going to buy more of Steve Peek, right now.
December 28, 2016
Good - a different sort of vampire story.
Excellent story, although a bit slow in the beginning. It explains the origins of the vampire and werewolf myths., and then explodes into action. I stayed up past 2 a.m. to finish the book. If you are a horror story fan, you will enjoy this tale of two worlds colliding and competing for survival
Excellent story, although a bit slow in the beginning. It explains the origins of the vampire and werewolf myths., and then explodes into action. I stayed up past 2 a.m. to finish the book. If you are a horror story fan, you will enjoy this tale of two worlds colliding and competing for survival
February 20, 2017
Good book
I liked this book because it wasn't too predictable, decent amount of action and had a different perspective on vampires and werewolves.
I liked this book because it wasn't too predictable, decent amount of action and had a different perspective on vampires and werewolves.
July 24, 2018
Original storyline
I liked this book because it has an original plot. I would recommend this to young adults who like fantasy and adventure stories.
I liked this book because it has an original plot. I would recommend this to young adults who like fantasy and adventure stories.
December 17, 2018
Great story!
Imaginative and we'll written. Mr Peek created three great civilization as well as some terrifying monsters. Really enjoyed it 😊
Imaginative and we'll written. Mr Peek created three great civilization as well as some terrifying monsters. Really enjoyed it 😊
August 18, 2019
Long Claws
I am a pretty fast reader, but I could not turn the pages fast enough. My only disappointment was that it ended.
I am a pretty fast reader, but I could not turn the pages fast enough. My only disappointment was that it ended.
June 25, 2013
First off, Longclaws has a lot of positives. I love new and creative monsters and Longclaws did not disappoint. The demonic creatures are the stuff of nightmares and provided many tense scenes for the characters and for me.
Next, the story had good character development. The characters were believable and had great backstories. Which brings me to the next thing I liked, the writing. The novel was fast paced and well written. The middle of the story really picks up and I had to know what was going to happen next.
I also thoroughly enjoyed the “Creation Paths” as that added great depth to the story and was very interesting research.
And lastly, I appreciated that Native Americans were written into the story. I find that many stories just include a line about “Indian Graveyards” as a cheap way to give a special reverence to a place, but the author adds them as characters and makes them come alive.
Some things that I disliked were: the beginning chapters were confusing. There was an inception thing going on that made me re-read the first chapters. In chapter 1, Tom has a flash back to himself as a child. Then the story goes 20,000 years in the past in chapter 2 which ends up being a flashback of the younger version of Tom from chapter 1. Then the next chapter introduces the monsters of the story and are written from their point of view. Which was interesting but I was lost as to what was happening in the story at that this point.
Secondly, there was no main character to root for. It starts with Tom, who I assumed was the main character and then we are introduced to Royce, a lovable man with a mysterious gift (which I will talk about later). But the main character is actually Pete, whom we do not meet until chapter 10, almost a third of the way through the book but by then I was waiting for Tom or Royce to really take off and they never do.
Lastly, the explanation of dowsing as a special gift. I felt that since it was explained in great detail that it would be used at some major point in the story to assist or be a plot changer but that never happens. It was good information but didn’t add anything to the story for me.
Overall it was a good read and I would give a 3 out of 5. If you like to read monster fiction and are tired of the staple creatures (werewolves, vampires, zombies), then this book is for you.
Next, the story had good character development. The characters were believable and had great backstories. Which brings me to the next thing I liked, the writing. The novel was fast paced and well written. The middle of the story really picks up and I had to know what was going to happen next.
I also thoroughly enjoyed the “Creation Paths” as that added great depth to the story and was very interesting research.
And lastly, I appreciated that Native Americans were written into the story. I find that many stories just include a line about “Indian Graveyards” as a cheap way to give a special reverence to a place, but the author adds them as characters and makes them come alive.
Some things that I disliked were: the beginning chapters were confusing. There was an inception thing going on that made me re-read the first chapters. In chapter 1, Tom has a flash back to himself as a child. Then the story goes 20,000 years in the past in chapter 2 which ends up being a flashback of the younger version of Tom from chapter 1. Then the next chapter introduces the monsters of the story and are written from their point of view. Which was interesting but I was lost as to what was happening in the story at that this point.
Secondly, there was no main character to root for. It starts with Tom, who I assumed was the main character and then we are introduced to Royce, a lovable man with a mysterious gift (which I will talk about later). But the main character is actually Pete, whom we do not meet until chapter 10, almost a third of the way through the book but by then I was waiting for Tom or Royce to really take off and they never do.
Lastly, the explanation of dowsing as a special gift. I felt that since it was explained in great detail that it would be used at some major point in the story to assist or be a plot changer but that never happens. It was good information but didn’t add anything to the story for me.
Overall it was a good read and I would give a 3 out of 5. If you like to read monster fiction and are tired of the staple creatures (werewolves, vampires, zombies), then this book is for you.
July 28, 2013
The book up for review is “Longclaws” by Steve Peek.
This novel in the genre of horror and thriller. It’s one of those novels where there are two themes unfolding in alternating chapters. But they tie in together brilliantly.
It starts off with creatures from a distance past. The kind of creatures legends are made out of. But people never take as having an ounce of truth in it. You are introduced to Longclaws a clan of animals that are vicious, bloodthirsty yet protective of their own. But they are not alone in this unforgiving world. The reader is taken on an adventure as the book describes them beautifully where you can imagine in your mind what is being written. Kudos on that alone. The picture has been painted well.
Enter the Mason family who has a history and knowledge of the creatures. They are the keepers of the entrance that separates our world from theirs. It is imperative the doors remain close. For the alternative would involve chaos and destruction for both worlds.
This book starts off a little slow. However I encourage the reader to keep reading. The twists and turns that comes off the pages will keep your interest as you wonder what happens next. I am always amazed at authors who can create a unique and different world. Mr. Peek has done just that.
A well thought out and written novel.
This novel in the genre of horror and thriller. It’s one of those novels where there are two themes unfolding in alternating chapters. But they tie in together brilliantly.
It starts off with creatures from a distance past. The kind of creatures legends are made out of. But people never take as having an ounce of truth in it. You are introduced to Longclaws a clan of animals that are vicious, bloodthirsty yet protective of their own. But they are not alone in this unforgiving world. The reader is taken on an adventure as the book describes them beautifully where you can imagine in your mind what is being written. Kudos on that alone. The picture has been painted well.
Enter the Mason family who has a history and knowledge of the creatures. They are the keepers of the entrance that separates our world from theirs. It is imperative the doors remain close. For the alternative would involve chaos and destruction for both worlds.
This book starts off a little slow. However I encourage the reader to keep reading. The twists and turns that comes off the pages will keep your interest as you wonder what happens next. I am always amazed at authors who can create a unique and different world. Mr. Peek has done just that.
A well thought out and written novel.
May 1, 2013
This modern update on the legends of vampires, werewolves, and dragons imagines that there is a parallel universe to our own. At times, these creatures are able to cross into our world, and this is where the legends come from. In a quiet rural community of Alabama, a pack of vampires, or longclaws, has done just that. Without any spoilers, I liked how the author incorporated some of the myths about vampires (garlic, stakes, etc) into the story. And also how we got read a POV from the longclaws, both in their world and ours. Fans of both vampire novels and sci-fi would enjoy this.
May 10, 2013
I was lucky enough to be gifted this book by the author himself.
I must admit, I thoroughly enjoyed Long Claws.
It takes age old doctrines and adds a new twist and or idea as to why they are in place.
It is fast paced and well written. Although, the kindle edition does require some editing.
It is also refreshing to not always just see the world from the perspective of humans alone, and that the "Long Claws" were not just mindless killing machines.
I would recommend this book to any book enthusiast, even ones who don't enjoy a scare.
I must admit, I thoroughly enjoyed Long Claws.
It takes age old doctrines and adds a new twist and or idea as to why they are in place.
It is fast paced and well written. Although, the kindle edition does require some editing.
It is also refreshing to not always just see the world from the perspective of humans alone, and that the "Long Claws" were not just mindless killing machines.
I would recommend this book to any book enthusiast, even ones who don't enjoy a scare.
July 9, 2013
It took me all of 5 hours to read this book. That's counting snack breaks! This book is a page turner, once you enter; you do not want to come back out! This author is a fabulous story teller and his story is woven flawlessly with consistency and attention to detail! I felt as if I were standing in the middle of the scenes taking place! Love the Harley character in the beginning; he brought some humor into it with him and his ways. I look forward to reading Alien Agenda! I am seriously considering Steve Peek as one of my new favorite authors! Great job!
February 5, 2017
Just Awesome!
I loved this book! Mr. Peek has an imagination I'm in love with! I have a nightlight in my room now and we won't be walking in the woods...Or the dark for a while.
I loved this book! Mr. Peek has an imagination I'm in love with! I have a nightlight in my room now and we won't be walking in the woods...Or the dark for a while.
March 6, 2016
I was so confused by this book, the way it bounced from character to character, time period to time period, that I realized after about 20% of it that I had absolutely no idea what was going on. I rarely stop reading a book, hoping that it will come together somehow, but this one I couldn't bear any longer.
July 6, 2015
Impressive!
A very interesting take on stories of monsters. The characters are well developed and believable. The author gives the reader insight into both humans and monsters. I look forward to reading the next book.
A very interesting take on stories of monsters. The characters are well developed and believable. The author gives the reader insight into both humans and monsters. I look forward to reading the next book.
December 24, 2016
A TALE OF TWO WORLDS CONNECTED AND NOT, IT IS....
Hello, this story was very different. The author did a good job of correlating legends of old with his version. Thanks and MERRY CHRISTMAS..
Hello, this story was very different. The author did a good job of correlating legends of old with his version. Thanks and MERRY CHRISTMAS..
January 16, 2017
Outstanding
Had me from the very first page I will read it again it's that good I wood love more like it I stopped reading it a lot of times so it wood not end I was really let down when it ended I thought there was more thank u for the book
Had me from the very first page I will read it again it's that good I wood love more like it I stopped reading it a lot of times so it wood not end I was really let down when it ended I thought there was more thank u for the book
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