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Matt Turner #1
The Dig
A mysterious woven metal artifact is found at a paleontological dig in Africa. Mystified experts, confounded by the impossible timeline they get from traditional dating methods, call upon a stubborn nineteen-year-old with a unique talent. Matthew Turner's gift is also his curse: When he touches any object, his awareness is flooded with the thoughts and feelings of those who touched it before him. It is a talent that many covet, some fear, and almost no one understands. Despite being exploited as a child and tormented by the unpleasant experiences imprinted on him from the various items he has "read," Matthew agrees to travel from New York to the forests of Kenya. There, threatened by unknown enemies and helped by a beautiful but prickly ally who begins to understand his strange ability, he journeys back in geological time to make a discovery so shocking that it forces us to rewrite all human history.
Audible Audio
First published October 4, 2010
882 people are currently reading
2589 people want to read
About the author
Michael Siemsen
22 books238 followersUSA Today and Amazon bestselling author of Exigency (2014), the Matt Turner series (The Dig, 2011; The Opal, 2012; Return, 2015), and the Demon’s Story series (A Warm Place to Call Home, and The Many Lives of Samuel Beauchamp, 2013), Michael Siemsen has sold more than 175,000 books.
Michael grew up in Venice, California, the second son of a Vietnam veteran who was the first son of a Korean War veteran who was the first son of a World War I veteran. Like Lieutenant Dan, Michael carried on the family tradition and joined the Army, though the only wars he fought in involved blank ammunition, laser tag gear, and were kinda fun.
After a decade working various soul-sucking IT jobs, he independently released THE DIG in early 2011, and, 14 months later, the quirky sci-fi story rocketed to #1 on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, remaining in the top 10 for the rest of the year. He quit his job a few months into THE DIG's initial surge, and has released five more novels since.
Michael is currently at work on the next books in his popular serieseses.
Michael grew up in Venice, California, the second son of a Vietnam veteran who was the first son of a Korean War veteran who was the first son of a World War I veteran. Like Lieutenant Dan, Michael carried on the family tradition and joined the Army, though the only wars he fought in involved blank ammunition, laser tag gear, and were kinda fun.
After a decade working various soul-sucking IT jobs, he independently released THE DIG in early 2011, and, 14 months later, the quirky sci-fi story rocketed to #1 on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, remaining in the top 10 for the rest of the year. He quit his job a few months into THE DIG's initial surge, and has released five more novels since.
Michael is currently at work on the next books in his popular serieseses.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 479 reviews
July 16, 2019
An okay book that sees Matt Turner able to get imprint from anything that touches his skin that has once touched another person. His mind is transported into their bodies and times and sees what is happening in their lives. He is called to an archaeological dig in Kenya where a discovery of a piece of what seems to be metal clothing has been found, but normal methods have dated it to 150 million year old! When he touches the article he is transported back to a prehistoric, but intelligent humanoid settlement during the times of the dinosaurs (yeah I know...)
The premise is silly, but not unenjoyable, as we go back in time to try to save the people from an asteroid that's predicted to hit. I did find myself invested in the story, in both timelines, and I had to read on to find out what happened. Entertaining, but farfetched.
The premise is silly, but not unenjoyable, as we go back in time to try to save the people from an asteroid that's predicted to hit. I did find myself invested in the story, in both timelines, and I had to read on to find out what happened. Entertaining, but farfetched.
October 25, 2011
Funny story: I'm reading this book and super into it but thinking to myself "damn, I wish I could picture what these people and places look like...why the hell don't grown-up books get to have pictures? Are we so mature and sophisticated that we don't ever need them anymore?" And a few pages later is this illustration (on my kindle!) filling up the screen. Completely satisfied my questions.
I think there were 2 or 3 more throughout the book so I was real happy. Now I am going to start some kind of activist group to demand more illustrations in adult fiction books!!! Who's with me???heheeheeha
(oh, and this is a good book aside from the pictures)
I think there were 2 or 3 more throughout the book so I was real happy. Now I am going to start some kind of activist group to demand more illustrations in adult fiction books!!! Who's with me???heheeheeha
(oh, and this is a good book aside from the pictures)
March 9, 2012
The premise of this story intrigued me. The protagonist is a young man with a remarkable ability. He can read "imprints" off of inanimate objects simply by touching them. He goes into a trance in which he relives the history of the object.
What doesn't make sense is that he is so sensitive, that he must have everything brand new so that he doesn't pick up impressions of people who may have handled the object. Staying in a hotel is out of the question unless it is a brand new resort and he is the first guest to stay in his room, sleep in the bed, use the towels, etc. I guess it doesn't matter than workmen have hauled the bed into the room, the maid has made the bed with the new linens, that a carpet layer sat on his knees on the carpet as he stretched it. And how could he eat food prepared by another person. Chefs are constantly touching the food with their hands.
I don't think the author went the distance in making his story plausible.
It was a double mystery. Something not quite right was going on at the archeological dig in Kenya. There was only one time that I felt anxious enough about the mystery to keep me turning the pages.
The second mystery was embroiled in the past that was revealed with Matthew's reading of a metalic fabric discovered in the dig.
Another glitch in my mind was the inconsistency of the terminology used in the prehistoric language. In one part, the prehistoric people talked of a sky stripe that was going to hit the earth. Then, they called it an asteroid. Suddenly changing the word from sky stripe to asteroid should have been caught by an editor.
I didn't hate this book, but it didn't live up to my expectations.
What doesn't make sense is that he is so sensitive, that he must have everything brand new so that he doesn't pick up impressions of people who may have handled the object. Staying in a hotel is out of the question unless it is a brand new resort and he is the first guest to stay in his room, sleep in the bed, use the towels, etc. I guess it doesn't matter than workmen have hauled the bed into the room, the maid has made the bed with the new linens, that a carpet layer sat on his knees on the carpet as he stretched it. And how could he eat food prepared by another person. Chefs are constantly touching the food with their hands.
I don't think the author went the distance in making his story plausible.
It was a double mystery. Something not quite right was going on at the archeological dig in Kenya. There was only one time that I felt anxious enough about the mystery to keep me turning the pages.
The second mystery was embroiled in the past that was revealed with Matthew's reading of a metalic fabric discovered in the dig.
Another glitch in my mind was the inconsistency of the terminology used in the prehistoric language. In one part, the prehistoric people talked of a sky stripe that was going to hit the earth. Then, they called it an asteroid. Suddenly changing the word from sky stripe to asteroid should have been caught by an editor.
I didn't hate this book, but it didn't live up to my expectations.
May 7, 2021
Absolutely loved the book, the story and the characters. The characters were interesting, seemed true to life and found myself rooting for the relationship between Matt and Tuni. It was hard to pigeon hole this book to sci-fi, fiction, adventure and such. But it was just really difficult to take breaks from listening to it. Highly recommended.
May 4, 2012
Finding myself in need of something quick to read, I browsed through Amazon’s Kindle books and let myself be pulled along with the crowd. Having done enough Fantasy for a bit, I slogged through the Science Fiction list, and found The Dig by Michael Siemsen. It had high reviews and an interesting premise – discovery of an anachronistic item in pre-historic geological strata. Let me be pretty blunt – I eat this sort of stuff up. I can’t really offer up a reason why, but the idea of uncovering as-yet-undiscovered societies millions of years before they should exist… well, that’s sort of my weakness. Maybe that’s why I always enjoyed the Stargate TV Franchise (all 3 of them). This is, after all the second such book I’ve read in that vein within the last six months.
So, how does it stack up to the anticipation? Acceptable. It delivers on exactly what I thought it would. It’s just that everything else is somewhat lacking. I’m probably giving it higher marks because this genre is like heroin to me, but I can certainly say I enjoyed it. It hit the right notes – archaeology, ancient and undiscovered civilization, anticipation of the reveal. For that alone, I would recommend it – if you, like me, enjoy this genre.
If you don’t, well, don’t go in expecting a phenomenal example of exceptional writing. There’s zero character progression anywhere, really. Each introduced player on the page stays very static and rigid as they progress through the book, serving only to continue the unveiling of the hidden society. The bad guy is mustache-twirling in his machinations. The main protagonist has a special ability that unveils the plot as the book progresses, but really does nothing else except relate the story. The love interest exists… that’s about the best I can say. They fall for each other based entirely on the writer shooing them together, without any real growth in the story.
The book jumps perspectives within chapter with no lead in or break, leading to varying levels of disorientation. The actual story of the anachronistic society isn’t terribly engaging, though it serves well enough for my purpose – not every plot need to be wheels within wheels of complexity, so I won’t dock it many points here. As I said, I eat this sort of stuff up, quality of prose be damned.
There isn’t much plot – the book is two stories told across 150 million years, without much progression beyond “here is the story”. There’s no significant twists, and the ending is completely written in a way that will bring a sequel. Still… I enjoyed it. I’ve mentioned before on this blog that I don’t need poetic prose or twists within twists to rate a book as good. I was entertained for the few hours it took to read, it pushed the right buttons and had me reading it in one sitting. If this sort of plot is your thing, you might certainly enjoy it.
I’ll give it 3.5 out of 5 stars.
So, how does it stack up to the anticipation? Acceptable. It delivers on exactly what I thought it would. It’s just that everything else is somewhat lacking. I’m probably giving it higher marks because this genre is like heroin to me, but I can certainly say I enjoyed it. It hit the right notes – archaeology, ancient and undiscovered civilization, anticipation of the reveal. For that alone, I would recommend it – if you, like me, enjoy this genre.
If you don’t, well, don’t go in expecting a phenomenal example of exceptional writing. There’s zero character progression anywhere, really. Each introduced player on the page stays very static and rigid as they progress through the book, serving only to continue the unveiling of the hidden society. The bad guy is mustache-twirling in his machinations. The main protagonist has a special ability that unveils the plot as the book progresses, but really does nothing else except relate the story. The love interest exists… that’s about the best I can say. They fall for each other based entirely on the writer shooing them together, without any real growth in the story.
The book jumps perspectives within chapter with no lead in or break, leading to varying levels of disorientation. The actual story of the anachronistic society isn’t terribly engaging, though it serves well enough for my purpose – not every plot need to be wheels within wheels of complexity, so I won’t dock it many points here. As I said, I eat this sort of stuff up, quality of prose be damned.
There isn’t much plot – the book is two stories told across 150 million years, without much progression beyond “here is the story”. There’s no significant twists, and the ending is completely written in a way that will bring a sequel. Still… I enjoyed it. I’ve mentioned before on this blog that I don’t need poetic prose or twists within twists to rate a book as good. I was entertained for the few hours it took to read, it pushed the right buttons and had me reading it in one sitting. If this sort of plot is your thing, you might certainly enjoy it.
I’ll give it 3.5 out of 5 stars.
May 8, 2012
I can hardly find words to express how captivated I was by this unique and wonderful story!!!! It had my attention from beginning to end and wouldn't let it go until I'd spent a sleepless night reading the whole thing!
Normally, I HATE reading books that follow two timelines (I like to focus on one thing at a time -- I also don't like my peas and carrots to touch.) But the stories from both the present and the past had me riveted. When it was time to move on from one to the other, I constantly found myself torn between wanting to continue the timeline I was reading, or starting the next one.
I also loved how the author (Michael Siemsen) developed Matthew Turners character and abilities. At first, he wasn't the most likable of protagonists, but when you learn what Matthew had to suffer for his powers and what he had gone through, you understand. Even better, Matthew Siemsen explored many of the questions the average person would raise when learning about this type of ability (it drives me nuts when authors don't answer glaring and obvious questions about their characters that arise while reading.)
My ONLY complaint is that the second Matthew Turner book hasn't been published yet -- so I'm going to have to wait to read it!
Normally, I HATE reading books that follow two timelines (I like to focus on one thing at a time -- I also don't like my peas and carrots to touch.) But the stories from both the present and the past had me riveted. When it was time to move on from one to the other, I constantly found myself torn between wanting to continue the timeline I was reading, or starting the next one.
I also loved how the author (Michael Siemsen) developed Matthew Turners character and abilities. At first, he wasn't the most likable of protagonists, but when you learn what Matthew had to suffer for his powers and what he had gone through, you understand. Even better, Matthew Siemsen explored many of the questions the average person would raise when learning about this type of ability (it drives me nuts when authors don't answer glaring and obvious questions about their characters that arise while reading.)
My ONLY complaint is that the second Matthew Turner book hasn't been published yet -- so I'm going to have to wait to read it!
March 26, 2012
The premise is intriguing: teen can touch things and know what previous people touching it were thinking. Basically he knows the history of an object. Cool, right?
Except the author goes to great pains to tell us how this kid has to wear gloves all the time (sort of like Rogue) and how he has to have everything BRAND NEW so the items don't have a history. But I couldn't get past the glaring omission of how new things are NOT the same as untouched things. You think that car with zero miles on it has never been touched by anyone? How about those clothes you just bought? Staying in a new hotel? How did the sheets get on the bed? What about buying an orange at the grocery store and all the people who have picked up that orange? Author tries to say, "well, yeah, people only leave impressions when they're really emotional!" And yet we're following an entire story from impressions left on this one tiny piece of clothing. "They're just really emotional people!" Keep trying to plug that hole, Mr. Author.
There's also Really Bad Dialog between Matt and Tuni, and a pathetic attempt at creating a love interest. And there's something that apparently was done wrong at the dig site, but I can't really figure out what or why. Jackhammers were used when they shouldn't have been. And it seems like Rheese was intending to plant an object as if he found it there, but why? Why dig up genuine artifacts from other sites then pretend you found it somewhere else? That seems like a lot of work for absolutely no reason. UPDATE: the author gives a reason, but I still think it's lame to spend time digging up ACTUAL artifacts and then moving them elsewhere. How did he come across all these artifacts he can plant?
Also, the ending was LAME and hurried. "What? I only have 20 more pages to write? The end, happily ever after, but wait, out-of-place cliff hanger in case I decide to write a sequel!"
And what was with the police officer who began every sentence with "ha ha ha!"?? I couldn't parse any of his dialog into rational, real-life intonations.
Other questions:
The other story line isn't much more impressive. I can't keep the character names straight, and I can't picture what a clawtooth looks like.
Except the author goes to great pains to tell us how this kid has to wear gloves all the time (sort of like Rogue) and how he has to have everything BRAND NEW so the items don't have a history. But I couldn't get past the glaring omission of how new things are NOT the same as untouched things. You think that car with zero miles on it has never been touched by anyone? How about those clothes you just bought? Staying in a new hotel? How did the sheets get on the bed? What about buying an orange at the grocery store and all the people who have picked up that orange? Author tries to say, "well, yeah, people only leave impressions when they're really emotional!" And yet we're following an entire story from impressions left on this one tiny piece of clothing. "They're just really emotional people!" Keep trying to plug that hole, Mr. Author.
There's also Really Bad Dialog between Matt and Tuni, and a pathetic attempt at creating a love interest. And there's something that apparently was done wrong at the dig site, but I can't really figure out what or why. Jackhammers were used when they shouldn't have been. And it seems like Rheese was intending to plant an object as if he found it there, but why? Why dig up genuine artifacts from other sites then pretend you found it somewhere else? That seems like a lot of work for absolutely no reason. UPDATE: the author gives a reason, but I still think it's lame to spend time digging up ACTUAL artifacts and then moving them elsewhere. How did he come across all these artifacts he can plant?
Also, the ending was LAME and hurried. "What? I only have 20 more pages to write? The end, happily ever after, but wait, out-of-place cliff hanger in case I decide to write a sequel!"
And what was with the police officer who began every sentence with "ha ha ha!"?? I couldn't parse any of his dialog into rational, real-life intonations.
Other questions:
The other story line isn't much more impressive. I can't keep the character names straight, and I can't picture what a clawtooth looks like.
July 11, 2022
The Dig
by Michael Siemsen
Adventure Paranormal
Scribd Audio
A piece of fabric, woven with metal was found at a fossil dig in Africa, dated way before man was able to weave such fabric. Puzzled, and not entirely believing the findings, the museum funding the dig calls in Matthew Turner. Only a select few know of his gift; the ability to see what the last people who held the object did when he touches it. His father, a cop, had used Matthew's gift when he was a kid to solve his cases, even the bad ones.
He knows his 'friends' at the museum are taking advantage of him, tricking him to relive traumatic events imprinted on objects, even though they know the experiences torment him, he agrees to go 'read' the artifact after being 'paid' by reading a silver coin rumored to be part of a shipment that never made it to the shores of the United States.
The story started out interesting. The characters were well developed, unique in their own ways, and Matthew's gift was slowly explained, giving the reader two different opinions of the young man, first him being completely weird, and then slowly, (almost too slowly) being able to understand the effects a gift like his could do to a person.
But the story mostly revolved around him, so what was going on, he had to be a part of it, so the 'main' action of the story was only revealed when the other characters were able to tell him what happened.
The side story, the one that was told through Matthew's gift, started out really good, but it became monotonous and lacked descriptions and the history of the time. Things about why the people in his 'visions' did what they did, I didn't feel as if they were explained enough and were left to the reader to piece together as the story went on, which some of it, I feel, should have been explained with in the first three visions instead of in the middle. And it didn't make sense how they were able to do these things when they did them. It needed more in-depth details of the experience.
When I first started listening, I was thinking about trying out the next book in the series, but now, not so much. It dragged on way too long without any action.
2 Stars
by Michael Siemsen
Adventure Paranormal
Scribd Audio
A piece of fabric, woven with metal was found at a fossil dig in Africa, dated way before man was able to weave such fabric. Puzzled, and not entirely believing the findings, the museum funding the dig calls in Matthew Turner. Only a select few know of his gift; the ability to see what the last people who held the object did when he touches it. His father, a cop, had used Matthew's gift when he was a kid to solve his cases, even the bad ones.
He knows his 'friends' at the museum are taking advantage of him, tricking him to relive traumatic events imprinted on objects, even though they know the experiences torment him, he agrees to go 'read' the artifact after being 'paid' by reading a silver coin rumored to be part of a shipment that never made it to the shores of the United States.
The story started out interesting. The characters were well developed, unique in their own ways, and Matthew's gift was slowly explained, giving the reader two different opinions of the young man, first him being completely weird, and then slowly, (almost too slowly) being able to understand the effects a gift like his could do to a person.
But the story mostly revolved around him, so what was going on, he had to be a part of it, so the 'main' action of the story was only revealed when the other characters were able to tell him what happened.
The side story, the one that was told through Matthew's gift, started out really good, but it became monotonous and lacked descriptions and the history of the time. Things about why the people in his 'visions' did what they did, I didn't feel as if they were explained enough and were left to the reader to piece together as the story went on, which some of it, I feel, should have been explained with in the first three visions instead of in the middle. And it didn't make sense how they were able to do these things when they did them. It needed more in-depth details of the experience.
When I first started listening, I was thinking about trying out the next book in the series, but now, not so much. It dragged on way too long without any action.
2 Stars
May 29, 2012
I read "The Dig" on a Kindle...if I'd had a paper copy, I would have realized I was getting near the end of the book and been prepared for it to be over...alas, I was not. Suddenly there was an epilogue and I was not ready for the story to just end the way it did. So, if you look at it one way, I felt the ending was too abrupt, but looking at it another way, I guess I was left wanting more...never a bad thing. In fact, Siemsen left it in such a way that practically begs for a sequel.
The story (if you can suspend disbelief) was exciting and interesting. Due to the main character's ability to experience the emotions imprinted on physical objects, we switch back and forth between characters in the present and those in the prehistoric past (evolutionarily speaking, pre-human) in a way that often left me on the edge of my seat because cliff hangers were occurring in both timelines. There were parts where the dialog felt a little forced, otherwise the writing style reminded me of early Michael Crichton, (the good stuff!). If you're looking for a fast-paced read and don't feel the need to nit-pic the scientific details, I think you'll really enjoy "The Dig". Can't wait for the next one!
The story (if you can suspend disbelief) was exciting and interesting. Due to the main character's ability to experience the emotions imprinted on physical objects, we switch back and forth between characters in the present and those in the prehistoric past (evolutionarily speaking, pre-human) in a way that often left me on the edge of my seat because cliff hangers were occurring in both timelines. There were parts where the dialog felt a little forced, otherwise the writing style reminded me of early Michael Crichton, (the good stuff!). If you're looking for a fast-paced read and don't feel the need to nit-pic the scientific details, I think you'll really enjoy "The Dig". Can't wait for the next one!
September 15, 2018
I was pretty disappointed with this book. It was definitely an intriguing idea for a novel, with a lot of potential, but sadly, that potential wasn’t realized. If I were the kind of person who can just stop reading, I would have. I just kept hoping it would get better. The characterization is weak, which doesn’t help with the plot. There just wasn’t any one character who made me get invested. There are two sequels to this book. I won’t be reading either one.
September 2, 2022
I thought this was an archeological mystery when I started it. It isn’t. DNF it’s a fantasy concept that I’m sure some will like, but I found it silly.
April 28, 2021
It's been a while since I gave 5 stars to any book, but this one had me longing for more, and that doesn't happen very often.
I enjoy learning about history very much, and this is about pre-history as the "story" is about a humanoid from earth's ancient past. A young man with a very unique talent is brought in to help some Museum folk discover the history of an artifact that has been found, deep down in the earth in Africa. The young man's talent is that when he touches an article, he can "see" the history of that article. In this case it is a small piece from an article of metal cloth worn by a very, very ancient humanoid. The young man is immediately transported back into the age of huge beasts, seeing his world through the eyes of the pre-historic man whose bit of cloth came from.
This is just the beginning, and with each page, as the tale unfolds, it just gets better and better.
I was caught up in the imagination of the author immediately, and I could have read on and on and on, wanting to learn more. Extremely well written, with a wonderful and colorful cast of characters, most of whom were quite likable, and of course with at least one "villain" in the group. But the villains are necessary, right? They add so much to any tale a story would be boring without them.
If you enjoy a bit of history, and enjoy a wonderful imagination even more, this story is for you. I highly recommend it.
I enjoy learning about history very much, and this is about pre-history as the "story" is about a humanoid from earth's ancient past. A young man with a very unique talent is brought in to help some Museum folk discover the history of an artifact that has been found, deep down in the earth in Africa. The young man's talent is that when he touches an article, he can "see" the history of that article. In this case it is a small piece from an article of metal cloth worn by a very, very ancient humanoid. The young man is immediately transported back into the age of huge beasts, seeing his world through the eyes of the pre-historic man whose bit of cloth came from.
This is just the beginning, and with each page, as the tale unfolds, it just gets better and better.
I was caught up in the imagination of the author immediately, and I could have read on and on and on, wanting to learn more. Extremely well written, with a wonderful and colorful cast of characters, most of whom were quite likable, and of course with at least one "villain" in the group. But the villains are necessary, right? They add so much to any tale a story would be boring without them.
If you enjoy a bit of history, and enjoy a wonderful imagination even more, this story is for you. I highly recommend it.
May 24, 2025
"The Dig" by Michael Siemsen’, published in 2013 and narrated by Chris Patton, is a captivating blend of science fiction, historical mystery, and archaeological adventure that hooks listeners with its innovative premise and immersive storytelling. It follows Matthew Turner, a young man with a unique psychometric ability: when he touches an object, he experiences the thoughts and emotions of those who handled it before, regardless of how long ago. This gift, both a blessing and a curse, propels him into a thrilling narrative centered on a mysterious woven metal artifact unearthed at a paleontological dig in Africa, which defies conventional dating methods and challenges our understanding of human history.
Siemsen’s storytelling shines through the dual timelines that intertwine seamlessly. The primary narrative unfolds in modern-day Kenya, where Matthew, a reluctant hero shaped by a childhood of exploitation due to his ability, is drawn into the dig to uncover the artifact’s origins. His journey is fraught with tension, as he navigates unknown threats and forms a complex bond with Tuni, a sharp-witted museum assistant who becomes his ally. The second timeline, revealed through Matthew’s psychometric visions, transports listeners to a distant past, offering glimpses into a world that feels both alien and vividly human. This interplay between past and present is a highlight, creating a layered narrative that keeps you guessing about the artifact’s significance without feeling overly expository.
Chris Patton’s narration elevates the experience, bringing depth to Matthew’s socially awkward yet endearing personality. Patton captures the character’s emotional weight - his frustration with his gift, his guarded nature, and his gradual growth - while deftly handling the diverse cast, from Tuni’s prickly warmth to the varied voices of the artifact’s ancient owners. His pacing is spot-on, balancing slower, introspective moments with the story’s more action-packed sequences, though his accents can occasionally feel inconsistent. The production quality is crisp, ensuring an immersive listen that complements Siemsen’s vivid prose.
The book’s strengths lie in its imaginative premise and fast-paced plot, reminiscent of James Rollins or Michael Crichton but with a lighter touch on scientific jargon. The Kenyan setting is richly described, grounding the fantastical elements in a tangible sense of place. However, character development, particularly for Tuni and secondary figures like I-Rin and O-Rin from the artifact’s timeline, feels slightly underdeveloped. While Matthew’s arc is compelling, I found myself wanting more depth from Tuni to fully invest in their dynamic. Similarly, the historical characters, though intriguing, could have benefited from additional perspective to enhance their emotional impact.
Despite these minor flaws, "The Dig" is a page-turner (or rather, a play-button pusher) that blends mystery, sci-fi, and adventure with a fresh twist. Its exploration of history through Matthew’s unique lens is both thought-provoking and entertaining, leaving ample room for speculation - a testament to Siemsen’s restraint in not over-explaining every thread.
Siemsen’s storytelling shines through the dual timelines that intertwine seamlessly. The primary narrative unfolds in modern-day Kenya, where Matthew, a reluctant hero shaped by a childhood of exploitation due to his ability, is drawn into the dig to uncover the artifact’s origins. His journey is fraught with tension, as he navigates unknown threats and forms a complex bond with Tuni, a sharp-witted museum assistant who becomes his ally. The second timeline, revealed through Matthew’s psychometric visions, transports listeners to a distant past, offering glimpses into a world that feels both alien and vividly human. This interplay between past and present is a highlight, creating a layered narrative that keeps you guessing about the artifact’s significance without feeling overly expository.
Chris Patton’s narration elevates the experience, bringing depth to Matthew’s socially awkward yet endearing personality. Patton captures the character’s emotional weight - his frustration with his gift, his guarded nature, and his gradual growth - while deftly handling the diverse cast, from Tuni’s prickly warmth to the varied voices of the artifact’s ancient owners. His pacing is spot-on, balancing slower, introspective moments with the story’s more action-packed sequences, though his accents can occasionally feel inconsistent. The production quality is crisp, ensuring an immersive listen that complements Siemsen’s vivid prose.
The book’s strengths lie in its imaginative premise and fast-paced plot, reminiscent of James Rollins or Michael Crichton but with a lighter touch on scientific jargon. The Kenyan setting is richly described, grounding the fantastical elements in a tangible sense of place. However, character development, particularly for Tuni and secondary figures like I-Rin and O-Rin from the artifact’s timeline, feels slightly underdeveloped. While Matthew’s arc is compelling, I found myself wanting more depth from Tuni to fully invest in their dynamic. Similarly, the historical characters, though intriguing, could have benefited from additional perspective to enhance their emotional impact.
Despite these minor flaws, "The Dig" is a page-turner (or rather, a play-button pusher) that blends mystery, sci-fi, and adventure with a fresh twist. Its exploration of history through Matthew’s unique lens is both thought-provoking and entertaining, leaving ample room for speculation - a testament to Siemsen’s restraint in not over-explaining every thread.
December 11, 2018
Ausgrabung
Matt Turner, Mitte 20, ist dabei seine brandneue Wohnung zu beziehen. Er ist zu Geld gekommen und glaubt, endlich sei er frei. Doch weit gefehlt, seine Fähigkeiten sind weiterhin gefragt und sein ehemaliger Auftraggeber wird zu seinem neuen Auftraggeber. Matt hat die Gabe, mitzuerleben, was Besitzer von Gegenständen erlebt, erlitten haben, wenn er diese Gegenstände berührt. Für ihn ist es Segen und Fluch zugleich, denn so müssen seine eigenen Sachen immer neu und unberührt sein. Und die Besitzer der Gegenstände, deren Hintergrund er bestimmen soll, haben häufig keine schönen Erlebnisse hinter sich. Matt erleidet die Leben der anderen. Und doch lässt er sich breitschlagen, ein besonderes Artefakt zu berühren.
Zum einen istMatt Turner noch ein junger Schnösel, zum anderen allerdings hat er in seinem Leben schon eine Menge mitgemacht. Sein Vater, ein Polizist, hat seine Gabe während Matts Kindheit ausgenutzt, um Kriminalfälle zu lösen, ohne dabei zu bedenken, dass Matt in die Opfer eintaucht, wenn er deren Besitzgegenstände berührt. So ist es wohl schon eine ausgleichende Gerechtigkeit, wenn Matt jetzt auf eigenen Füßen steht und mit dem Geld rumprotzt. Das neue Artefakt, das an einer Ausgrabungsstätte in Kenia gefunden wurde, kann es eigentlich nicht geben. Nach den technischen Altersbestimmungen ist es älter als jede je da gewesene Zivilisation. Nach heutigem Kenntnisstand unmöglich. Und so soll Matts Gabe dabei helfen, das wahre Alter zu bestimmen oder herauszufinden, ob es schon vor den Menschen intelligente Wesen gegeben haben kann.
Das Gedanken-Experiment einer früheren Zivilisation ist schon bestechend. Das Rumgezerre derer, die Matts Gabe nutzen wollen, ist glaubhaft geschildert. Doch Matt als großes Kind, noch nicht ganz erwachsen, mit 25 sollte er doch schon etwas weiter sein. Zu Beginn wird diese Seite Matts beschrieben, während im Mittelteil sehr fesselnd geschildert wird, wie Matt sich dem Artefakt hingibt und wie die Informationen aufgenommen werden. Zum Schluss hin, ist Matt etwas abgeschnitten von den Ereignissen, so dass auch der Leser gewisse Dinge quasi aus zweiter Hand erfährt. Diese Art der Aufteilung mag nicht jedem gefallen, doch insgesamt unterhält Abenteuerroman mit Bezug zur Vorgeschichte doch sehr gut.
3,5 Sterne
Matt Turner, Mitte 20, ist dabei seine brandneue Wohnung zu beziehen. Er ist zu Geld gekommen und glaubt, endlich sei er frei. Doch weit gefehlt, seine Fähigkeiten sind weiterhin gefragt und sein ehemaliger Auftraggeber wird zu seinem neuen Auftraggeber. Matt hat die Gabe, mitzuerleben, was Besitzer von Gegenständen erlebt, erlitten haben, wenn er diese Gegenstände berührt. Für ihn ist es Segen und Fluch zugleich, denn so müssen seine eigenen Sachen immer neu und unberührt sein. Und die Besitzer der Gegenstände, deren Hintergrund er bestimmen soll, haben häufig keine schönen Erlebnisse hinter sich. Matt erleidet die Leben der anderen. Und doch lässt er sich breitschlagen, ein besonderes Artefakt zu berühren.
Zum einen istMatt Turner noch ein junger Schnösel, zum anderen allerdings hat er in seinem Leben schon eine Menge mitgemacht. Sein Vater, ein Polizist, hat seine Gabe während Matts Kindheit ausgenutzt, um Kriminalfälle zu lösen, ohne dabei zu bedenken, dass Matt in die Opfer eintaucht, wenn er deren Besitzgegenstände berührt. So ist es wohl schon eine ausgleichende Gerechtigkeit, wenn Matt jetzt auf eigenen Füßen steht und mit dem Geld rumprotzt. Das neue Artefakt, das an einer Ausgrabungsstätte in Kenia gefunden wurde, kann es eigentlich nicht geben. Nach den technischen Altersbestimmungen ist es älter als jede je da gewesene Zivilisation. Nach heutigem Kenntnisstand unmöglich. Und so soll Matts Gabe dabei helfen, das wahre Alter zu bestimmen oder herauszufinden, ob es schon vor den Menschen intelligente Wesen gegeben haben kann.
Das Gedanken-Experiment einer früheren Zivilisation ist schon bestechend. Das Rumgezerre derer, die Matts Gabe nutzen wollen, ist glaubhaft geschildert. Doch Matt als großes Kind, noch nicht ganz erwachsen, mit 25 sollte er doch schon etwas weiter sein. Zu Beginn wird diese Seite Matts beschrieben, während im Mittelteil sehr fesselnd geschildert wird, wie Matt sich dem Artefakt hingibt und wie die Informationen aufgenommen werden. Zum Schluss hin, ist Matt etwas abgeschnitten von den Ereignissen, so dass auch der Leser gewisse Dinge quasi aus zweiter Hand erfährt. Diese Art der Aufteilung mag nicht jedem gefallen, doch insgesamt unterhält Abenteuerroman mit Bezug zur Vorgeschichte doch sehr gut.
3,5 Sterne
October 9, 2018
I’m not typically a fan of a lot of sci fi because there’s often do much arcane technology, geography, language, etc., involved that I feel smothered and overwhelmed by it. Nevertheless, I enjoyed this book very much. The main character, Matt, can psychically “read” objects as if he were the person they once belonged to. This amazing gift powers the story of an archeological dig in Kenya, Africa, and helps uncover a previously unknown race of people that existed a long long time ago. Their story and the contemporary story of the archeological team run parallel with Matt bridging them. Both stories were complicated and interesting. One was a journey into the unknown and the other was a mystery story. I was pulled deeply into both stories and glad to follow them to their conclusions.
April 4, 2023
I have mixed feelings about this book.
The premise was intriguing: archaeological dig recovers crafted artifact from a period in which it should not have existed. Halfway around the globe, a young man is able to "read" the history of objects he touches, seeing events in the lives of those who held or owned the object, and he is summoned to "read" the object.
Wasn't sure where the book was going for a while (and don't want to say too much for fear of spoilers), but I think the first place where my imagination wandered would have been easier to believe than what happened. Suspending disbelief was difficult. Also, I liked the person from the past better than anyone in the present, but that still wasn't saying a lot.
Also, I absolutely loathed the ending. Seemed like a forced trick in order to get the reader to continue the series. No, thank you. This is it for me. And I'm not sure I am even willing to read the author again.
2 out of 5 stars.
The premise was intriguing: archaeological dig recovers crafted artifact from a period in which it should not have existed. Halfway around the globe, a young man is able to "read" the history of objects he touches, seeing events in the lives of those who held or owned the object, and he is summoned to "read" the object.
Wasn't sure where the book was going for a while (and don't want to say too much for fear of spoilers), but I think the first place where my imagination wandered would have been easier to believe than what happened. Suspending disbelief was difficult. Also, I liked the person from the past better than anyone in the present, but that still wasn't saying a lot.
Also, I absolutely loathed the ending. Seemed like a forced trick in order to get the reader to continue the series. No, thank you. This is it for me. And I'm not sure I am even willing to read the author again.
2 out of 5 stars.
July 6, 2021
Would Have been 3-4 Stars, But Cliffhanger!
I am completely disgusted. This nasty cliffhanger at the end is totally unnecessary! So, the author has so little respect for his readers that he is afraid no one will read #2 unless he inserts a cliffhanger at the very end of #1? Well, I certainly will never buy or read #2, or anything else by this author! What a dirty trick! I am still fuming!
I am completely disgusted. This nasty cliffhanger at the end is totally unnecessary! So, the author has so little respect for his readers that he is afraid no one will read #2 unless he inserts a cliffhanger at the very end of #1? Well, I certainly will never buy or read #2, or anything else by this author! What a dirty trick! I am still fuming!
July 16, 2021
I was very disappointed with this book. I was excited to read it because the concept was so interesting and different, but the execution just could not carry it. I found all the characters flat and under developed. There was so much potential for interesting backstories for many of them, including those from the past that Matt is “reading”, but we got almost nothing. I was also highly disappointed by the poor dialogue as much of it felt forced and cliched. None of it sounded like real conversations between real people. Lastly I found the author’s overall skill with story telling to be amateurish and weak. Descriptions were almost non existent and when he tried, he would use cop out phrases rather than give real imagery. Overall this book bored me more than anything else and I would not recommend.
February 1, 2023
I wanted to like this book so badly but the entire time I was just ready to finish it. I enjoyed the story but at the same time it was kind of corny. The beginning put me off a lot but it got a little better. The ending felt like it came really abruptly too. I’m not going to finish this series.
March 22, 2018
Matthew has the ability to read objects. He becomes the last person to have held it. He feels their feelings, hears their thoughts, sees what they see. It's a difficult situation and certainly not any easier to live with when faced with touching a public door knob or light switch.
I did not like this story and will not be reading any more of them. The characters were shallow and difficult to believe. The situation was hokey from the start.
I did not like this story and will not be reading any more of them. The characters were shallow and difficult to believe. The situation was hokey from the start.
January 7, 2018
Couldn't read it fast enough! Great protagonist with an interesting power/weakness. Drama, tension, light romance. Great world building, VERY inventive. Devourit!
September 14, 2022
This got really good before too long and stuck with a dual narrative where one or the other held my interest well, until both excelled at doing so in the latter third. It never really rises above being good, too often hitting a tone in the writing that is dull to me because of how much I've seen its like in amateur fiction; but the premise is interesting and executed with a talent beyond what some of those worse passages would imply.
I loved how easy it was to attach myself to (or, in a couple cases, despise) the characters, who aren't really fleshed out too well but have distinct personalities in a way that kept me invested in their fates. The historical characters were something of a surprise in how much I came to like them, and I think that the shared fascination helped me bond with the modern characters.
The cliches it hits and a writing style that rubbed me the wrong way often enough to notice drag this down a bit, but The Dig is still a solid book with some clever stuff to it. It's hooked me enough to look into the next book in the trilogy, especially with the epilogue setting up another story. 3.5, rounded up.
I loved how easy it was to attach myself to (or, in a couple cases, despise) the characters, who aren't really fleshed out too well but have distinct personalities in a way that kept me invested in their fates. The historical characters were something of a surprise in how much I came to like them, and I think that the shared fascination helped me bond with the modern characters.
The cliches it hits and a writing style that rubbed me the wrong way often enough to notice drag this down a bit, but The Dig is still a solid book with some clever stuff to it. It's hooked me enough to look into the next book in the trilogy, especially with the epilogue setting up another story. 3.5, rounded up.
August 29, 2022
This book was a bit of a mixed bag for me. On one hand I liked the premise of a psychometric helping out on archaeological finds and ending up on a dodgy dig in the Kenyan wilderness with a very unique artifact very interesting. However, I found several issues with the book:
- some things about how the psychometry works does not seem very consistant. On one hand stating only emotional events get recorded whilst also seeming to contrdict this. Not to mention the whole items are safe if they are new thing. This forgets the whole manifacturing process which is likely to have human interaction - what if the factory worker was having a super happy or bad time? Or the fact industrial accidents happen? But not a single mention of any of these issues despite going on about door handles and briefest touches etc.
- I could tell this book was written by a man without looking at the authors name. Female characters are always described by their looks and how sexy they are and there was not equal treatment between the sexes in this regard.
- Likewise whilst as effort was made to explain how "alien" the pre-historic people's mindset was for example with the ways they thought about numbers certain gender stereotypes were maintained which indicated a certain modern persepctive - for example when explaining the prehistoric people's names it was presumed the the woman had taken the name from the man on marriage.
- some aspects of how the archaeological career path ran, and how the dig and funding was being run just seemed off and seemed to lack research in to how these things work (even if it was a dodgy the way the funding was being abused with no oversight plus questionable results overturning known theories with little challenge was off).
- The whole romance seemed very contrived and Matt's decision to start divulging his life's secrets to someone he barely knows shortly after meeting - particularly after stating several times he has rarely told anyone, just smacked as inconsistant to how Matt's character had been described.
Though these are all issues I did still somehow find myself enjoying reading it and finished it in one sitting. Warning though it ends on a cliff hanger to lead onto the next book and now I'm unsure if I want to continue it or not.
- some things about how the psychometry works does not seem very consistant. On one hand stating only emotional events get recorded whilst also seeming to contrdict this. Not to mention the whole items are safe if they are new thing. This forgets the whole manifacturing process which is likely to have human interaction - what if the factory worker was having a super happy or bad time? Or the fact industrial accidents happen? But not a single mention of any of these issues despite going on about door handles and briefest touches etc.
- I could tell this book was written by a man without looking at the authors name. Female characters are always described by their looks and how sexy they are and there was not equal treatment between the sexes in this regard.
- Likewise whilst as effort was made to explain how "alien" the pre-historic people's mindset was for example with the ways they thought about numbers certain gender stereotypes were maintained which indicated a certain modern persepctive - for example when explaining the prehistoric people's names it was presumed the the woman had taken the name from the man on marriage.
- some aspects of how the archaeological career path ran, and how the dig and funding was being run just seemed off and seemed to lack research in to how these things work (even if it was a dodgy the way the funding was being abused with no oversight plus questionable results overturning known theories with little challenge was off).
- The whole romance seemed very contrived and Matt's decision to start divulging his life's secrets to someone he barely knows shortly after meeting - particularly after stating several times he has rarely told anyone, just smacked as inconsistant to how Matt's character had been described.
Though these are all issues I did still somehow find myself enjoying reading it and finished it in one sitting. Warning though it ends on a cliff hanger to lead onto the next book and now I'm unsure if I want to continue it or not.
November 12, 2022
Siemsen's book conjures up an imaginative and intriguing premise which serves as a perfect hook for the book.
Our protagonist has an unusual problem, or curse, depends on the point of view. He has the ability to read the contact history of an object through touch. Sounds complicated!
Matt Turner has had a difficult time with his powers in his family with his father a detective having exploited his powers in violent cases, which kept the young Matt awake and screaming at night. This background along with the horrors that we can imagine imprinting and re-living the history of murderous weapons and situations would turn anyone mad or depressed. In this case Matt turns out to be obnoxious and it is not his hunger for money which is his right, selling his consultancy at the highest possible price and setting his own terms but his behavior towards everyone. It's normal to be embarrassed, afraid or reticent because he does not socialize or meet too many people but taking up an assignment and not willing to make the social call associated with it is impudence. He is shown as thawing in the latter pages of the book but his antics in between somehow takes the sheen of what could have been a fabulous novel.
The story around these characters are of two different arcs from two timelines - the current and one that is millions of years in the past from the age of the dinosaurs that the object of interest is a part of and why Matt is roped in, to visualize its history and provenance.
The story of a fantastically advanced race from the time of the dinosaurs has been peddled many a time including some fabulous time travel stories and alien interventions but what made this story here a special read was the way the older story set in a difficult time for herd creatures and about the exodus of a group of humanoids and what befalls them through the story of a piece off dress made of a hitherto unknown metal. The ancient story that is visualized and articulated by Matt through the process of contact with the foreign object are both intriguing and well knit. Matt's process for the imprint and the explanation of severing contact has its loop holes but in the context of the overall story can be overlooked.
What kept me from giving this book higher points was that the premise was not exploited properly and several of the characters in the current timeline do not have depths and this leads to a failure for the reader to properly engage with them. This lack of engagement leads to the book losing steam and move forward in start and stops. The story especially the last quarter or so seems hurried and not because the story drives to a frenzy but rather like the story succumbed to its hunger and started proceeding in shambles.
Being a first book, I would try the follow up book before pronouncing any negative judgement on the author.
Our protagonist has an unusual problem, or curse, depends on the point of view. He has the ability to read the contact history of an object through touch. Sounds complicated!
Matt Turner has had a difficult time with his powers in his family with his father a detective having exploited his powers in violent cases, which kept the young Matt awake and screaming at night. This background along with the horrors that we can imagine imprinting and re-living the history of murderous weapons and situations would turn anyone mad or depressed. In this case Matt turns out to be obnoxious and it is not his hunger for money which is his right, selling his consultancy at the highest possible price and setting his own terms but his behavior towards everyone. It's normal to be embarrassed, afraid or reticent because he does not socialize or meet too many people but taking up an assignment and not willing to make the social call associated with it is impudence. He is shown as thawing in the latter pages of the book but his antics in between somehow takes the sheen of what could have been a fabulous novel.
The story around these characters are of two different arcs from two timelines - the current and one that is millions of years in the past from the age of the dinosaurs that the object of interest is a part of and why Matt is roped in, to visualize its history and provenance.
The story of a fantastically advanced race from the time of the dinosaurs has been peddled many a time including some fabulous time travel stories and alien interventions but what made this story here a special read was the way the older story set in a difficult time for herd creatures and about the exodus of a group of humanoids and what befalls them through the story of a piece off dress made of a hitherto unknown metal. The ancient story that is visualized and articulated by Matt through the process of contact with the foreign object are both intriguing and well knit. Matt's process for the imprint and the explanation of severing contact has its loop holes but in the context of the overall story can be overlooked.
What kept me from giving this book higher points was that the premise was not exploited properly and several of the characters in the current timeline do not have depths and this leads to a failure for the reader to properly engage with them. This lack of engagement leads to the book losing steam and move forward in start and stops. The story especially the last quarter or so seems hurried and not because the story drives to a frenzy but rather like the story succumbed to its hunger and started proceeding in shambles.
Being a first book, I would try the follow up book before pronouncing any negative judgement on the author.
December 7, 2015
My original The Dig audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
The Dig by Michael Siemsen is the first novel in the Matt Turner series. Matt Turner has a unique gift that allows him to read emotional and mental imprints that people leave behind on objects when they touch them and everyone leaves behind an imprint. This leaves Matt Turner nearly incapable of touching any objects that other humans have interacted with. This 25 year old, however, works on occasion with archaeologists. By capitalizing on his abilities, the archaeologists are able to make discoveries that would have been otherwise impossible. And this also has the added bonus of making Matt extremely rich. When Matt comes into contact with a woven metal artifact, he finds himself at a dig in Kenya, engrossed in the artifact and facing foes with unknown plans to subvert the truth finding.
This novel really sucked me in. I was really excited about the premise as soon as I realized that Matt was reading imprints from artifacts. It is a unique idea and I am impressed with how well thought out it was. There are two stories that are ongoing: the present day, and the story of the artifact. Both of these stories are interwoven seamlessly and build in intensity together as the novel progresses. I thought the highs and lows of the plot were satisfying and I loved the end. I really loved the artifact story and implications of artifact on modern society. The many different points of view throughout the novel added to the depth of the story and understanding the motivations of the different characters. While I originally found Matt to be irritating, overtime I understood his character more and I came to be more on his side. I thought all of the main characters were well developed and Matt specifically seemed grew over the course of the novel. While the developing romance between Tuni and Matt was not unexpected, it was not necessarily bad. The characters in the artifact story were also well-developed, which added to emotional force of that story and made it exciting. There is also an epilogue that begins the story for the next book.
Chris Patton did a great job with the narration. He captured Matt Turner’s immature personality well and he comes off as an entitled and weird young adult with specific needs that make him socially awkward. The changes in the voicing of the different characters are done well. The production quality is also good. I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves mysteries, history, and seeing history through the eyes of modern society.
Audiobook provided for review by the publisher.
The Dig by Michael Siemsen is the first novel in the Matt Turner series. Matt Turner has a unique gift that allows him to read emotional and mental imprints that people leave behind on objects when they touch them and everyone leaves behind an imprint. This leaves Matt Turner nearly incapable of touching any objects that other humans have interacted with. This 25 year old, however, works on occasion with archaeologists. By capitalizing on his abilities, the archaeologists are able to make discoveries that would have been otherwise impossible. And this also has the added bonus of making Matt extremely rich. When Matt comes into contact with a woven metal artifact, he finds himself at a dig in Kenya, engrossed in the artifact and facing foes with unknown plans to subvert the truth finding.
This novel really sucked me in. I was really excited about the premise as soon as I realized that Matt was reading imprints from artifacts. It is a unique idea and I am impressed with how well thought out it was. There are two stories that are ongoing: the present day, and the story of the artifact. Both of these stories are interwoven seamlessly and build in intensity together as the novel progresses. I thought the highs and lows of the plot were satisfying and I loved the end. I really loved the artifact story and implications of artifact on modern society. The many different points of view throughout the novel added to the depth of the story and understanding the motivations of the different characters. While I originally found Matt to be irritating, overtime I understood his character more and I came to be more on his side. I thought all of the main characters were well developed and Matt specifically seemed grew over the course of the novel. While the developing romance between Tuni and Matt was not unexpected, it was not necessarily bad. The characters in the artifact story were also well-developed, which added to emotional force of that story and made it exciting. There is also an epilogue that begins the story for the next book.
Chris Patton did a great job with the narration. He captured Matt Turner’s immature personality well and he comes off as an entitled and weird young adult with specific needs that make him socially awkward. The changes in the voicing of the different characters are done well. The production quality is also good. I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves mysteries, history, and seeing history through the eyes of modern society.
Audiobook provided for review by the publisher.
May 17, 2012
When evaluating scifi I don't apply the same expectations as I do when reading "fine literature". I suppose that would be like comparing mud wrestling to the ballet. I don't expect complex characters nor plots within plots, nor even much in the way of character development, there is comfort in knowing that people who are evil are all evil and good people are really good people.
I do expect a well-written story that grabs me and holds me and makes me wonder what is coming next. Think Indiana Jones; not a complex character nor were the stories deep and meaningful but they sure where loaded with action and the good guys always won, against all odds, and had a great time doing it.
Almost all SciFi is plot-driven, not character driven, and I think of it as full of action but no angst. There are only so many "What if this really is all there is?" questions I can deal with in my lifetime and then I want to read about the bad guys losing, and the good guy getting the girl, and saving the world.
Siemensen does well, the story is intriguing, the setting interesting and I stayed up way past my bedtime trying to find out what happened next.
The only jarring item in the whole book was the emphasis on "new" items, I'm sure other reviewers have pointed out that rare is the thing that has not passed through someone's hand. However by that time he had me and I was willing to suspend disbelief and decide that well maybe an inspector's touch doesn't imprint much.
I do expect a well-written story that grabs me and holds me and makes me wonder what is coming next. Think Indiana Jones; not a complex character nor were the stories deep and meaningful but they sure where loaded with action and the good guys always won, against all odds, and had a great time doing it.
Almost all SciFi is plot-driven, not character driven, and I think of it as full of action but no angst. There are only so many "What if this really is all there is?" questions I can deal with in my lifetime and then I want to read about the bad guys losing, and the good guy getting the girl, and saving the world.
Siemensen does well, the story is intriguing, the setting interesting and I stayed up way past my bedtime trying to find out what happened next.
The only jarring item in the whole book was the emphasis on "new" items, I'm sure other reviewers have pointed out that rare is the thing that has not passed through someone's hand. However by that time he had me and I was willing to suspend disbelief and decide that well maybe an inspector's touch doesn't imprint much.
April 6, 2012
In The Dig, Siemsen manages to keep the reader engaged in two completely distinct stories. There's a modern, paranormal, story that he uses to weave in a second, more science fiction, story that's easily as compelling. It's a great feat. And I found myself happily transitioning between the two worlds.
Likewise, he's developed some great characters. A few reviewers have complained that they didn't find anyone truly "likable." But, I think the "problem" is actually a more three-dimensional protagonist. Unfortunately, the villain is a bit caricature-ish, which may undermine the more well developed characters. Nevertheless, I was looking forward to turning each page.
The disappointment didn't hit until the end... Siemsen wrote two great stories and wove them together almost seamlessly. So, over the course of each chapter the anticipation of a great pay-off builds. You want to know where it's all going! But, the great climax never arrives... In fact, it felt incredibly anti-climactic when it was all said and done. The best that can be said is that all the loose ends were neatly tied up.
Hopefully Siemsen brings his great style to another book, and the storytelling is paired with a more dramatic purpose.
Likewise, he's developed some great characters. A few reviewers have complained that they didn't find anyone truly "likable." But, I think the "problem" is actually a more three-dimensional protagonist. Unfortunately, the villain is a bit caricature-ish, which may undermine the more well developed characters. Nevertheless, I was looking forward to turning each page.
The disappointment didn't hit until the end... Siemsen wrote two great stories and wove them together almost seamlessly. So, over the course of each chapter the anticipation of a great pay-off builds. You want to know where it's all going! But, the great climax never arrives... In fact, it felt incredibly anti-climactic when it was all said and done. The best that can be said is that all the loose ends were neatly tied up.
Hopefully Siemsen brings his great style to another book, and the storytelling is paired with a more dramatic purpose.
December 5, 2011
I was very pleasantly surprised by this book. The concept of someone being able to touch an item and get an imprint from it that could tell them a story was very well done. I loved having a story within a story. The characters were well fleshed out and very believable over all. In fact even before I got to the end of the book I was thinking of at least 4 or 5 other stories that could be told based on the main character. Hopefully considering the way the book ended the author is thinking so as well. If I had one complaint about the book it would be that the end seemed a bit rushed. I think another 25 pages would have fleshed out the final few chapters a bit more. Regardless I would definitely recommend this book to anyone.
June 13, 2015
Still reading this book and absolutely loving it. The character can "read" items by just holding them and is creating a stir in the archeology field when he is commissioned to date an item found on a recent dig. This is the part of the book write up that hooked me: "Despite being exploited as a child and tormented by the unpleasant experiences imprinted on him from the various items he's "read," Matt agrees to travel from New York to the forests of Kenya. There, threatened by unknown enemies, and helped by a beautiful but prickly ally who begins to understand his strange ability, his mind journeys back in geological time to make a discovery so shocking that it forces us to rewrite all human history." I have not been disappointed! Can't wait to get back to it.
May 2, 2012
I despised this book. The characters were shallow, the plot thin, and the pacing glacial.
It read like a wikipedia entry about a book that I actually wanted to read. The book ends just as the story finally gets interesting.
The main character is whiny and unlikeble and his supporting cast are all one-dimensional at best. I hated Matt, found no reason why Tuni would be at all attracted to him, and Hank, the most interesting character in the book, is in it for a criminally short period of time.
I enjoy the premise and I think a lot could be done with the idea of an empath who can read the history of objects turning archaeology on its ear, but this attempt fell woefully short.
It read like a wikipedia entry about a book that I actually wanted to read. The book ends just as the story finally gets interesting.
The main character is whiny and unlikeble and his supporting cast are all one-dimensional at best. I hated Matt, found no reason why Tuni would be at all attracted to him, and Hank, the most interesting character in the book, is in it for a criminally short period of time.
I enjoy the premise and I think a lot could be done with the idea of an empath who can read the history of objects turning archaeology on its ear, but this attempt fell woefully short.
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