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Cyclops Road
Evan Portin is at a sad, scary place in his life. While taking a long walk to compose himself and figure out where to go from here, he encounters a young woman being mugged in a park.
When he tries to intervene, he discovers that she doesn't need his help. At all.
Her name is Harriett. She is very, very good at defending herself. Everything she owns is in a large backpack. She's never seen a cell phone. She's never been in a car. She's never really ventured into the outside world.
And she says she's traveling across the country to slay a Cyclops.
She's crazy, right? Evan is not in the habit of hanging out with delusional women he's just met. On the other hand, it can't hurt to offer her a ride out of town. And maybe this insane journey is exactly what he needs...
When he tries to intervene, he discovers that she doesn't need his help. At all.
Her name is Harriett. She is very, very good at defending herself. Everything she owns is in a large backpack. She's never seen a cell phone. She's never been in a car. She's never really ventured into the outside world.
And she says she's traveling across the country to slay a Cyclops.
She's crazy, right? Evan is not in the habit of hanging out with delusional women he's just met. On the other hand, it can't hurt to offer her a ride out of town. And maybe this insane journey is exactly what he needs...
359 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 20, 2016
185 people are currently reading
515 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Strand
229 books2,213 followersBram Stoker Award-winning author of a bunch of demented books, including PRESSURE, DWELLER, CLOWNS VS. SPIDERS, AUTUMN BLEEDS INTO WINTER, MY PRETTIES, the official novelization of ATTACK OF THE KILLER TOMATOES, and lots of others!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
August 21, 2018
Easy 5 STARS - Strand entertains like nobody else!
Humor is subjective, for sure, and it is difficult to find truly funny authors. Especially in the horror genre. But Jeff Strand is right at the top. He will make you laugh your ass off while you are feeling guilty about finding it funny. And never underestimate him - bad shit happens to his characters and it is often brutal.
Genius!
Here's what you can expect from this book:
Evan Portin is recently widowed and unemployed, when he tries to intervene when a woman gets mugged in a park.
Harriett doesn't need his help - she's been home schooled and trained all her life to one day fulfill her destiny and slay a Cyclops.
With nothing better to do, Evan decides to offer this crazy girl a ride. Maybe a road trip will help them both clear their minds.
Yeah right!
___________________________________________________________
My very first thought - and this might surprise you - was that the first chapter, in which the main character had some time with his wife who was dying of cancer, was BRILLIANTLY written and truly moving.
I believe most people read and imagine themselves as the main characters in the stories. According to taste, they look for the good and heroic in those characters, the things they can relate to - or want to, at least. There might even be those who prefer the "bad guys" - do they believe themselves to be good people, too?
A psychologist friend once told me many people tell themselves that they would do exactly the same thing as the hero in the story.
Personally, I always think more in terms of "Would I have had the courage to do that if it were me...". I'm a realist, you see, so most of the time I honestly don't know. Strap me to a chair and threaten to torture me, I would NOT have a snappy, brave comeback. Show me the sharp, pointy things you want to use to torture me, I would probably crack and tell you everything I know. Bring any of those things close to either my eyes or testicles (you don't even need to do both), and I would probably be able to tell you things I don't even know I know - like the formula for superglue or something.
Strand's particular genius comes in with his main characters being normal people, who do normal things and act like I think I truly might in their situation. If it were a movie, Ben Stiller would play that guy. And since I can completely relate to the character, I have absolutely no trouble going along with him.
And just when you get into that almost PG zone, WHAM, something truly horrible happens and makes your heart skip a beat.
I know by talking this guy up so much, I'm probably setting somebody up for disappointment, but I just love his books and want many many more people to experience it.
Humor is subjective, for sure, and it is difficult to find truly funny authors. Especially in the horror genre. But Jeff Strand is right at the top. He will make you laugh your ass off while you are feeling guilty about finding it funny. And never underestimate him - bad shit happens to his characters and it is often brutal.
Genius!
Here's what you can expect from this book:
Evan Portin is recently widowed and unemployed, when he tries to intervene when a woman gets mugged in a park.
Harriett doesn't need his help - she's been home schooled and trained all her life to one day fulfill her destiny and slay a Cyclops.
With nothing better to do, Evan decides to offer this crazy girl a ride. Maybe a road trip will help them both clear their minds.
Yeah right!
___________________________________________________________
My very first thought - and this might surprise you - was that the first chapter, in which the main character had some time with his wife who was dying of cancer, was BRILLIANTLY written and truly moving.
I believe most people read and imagine themselves as the main characters in the stories. According to taste, they look for the good and heroic in those characters, the things they can relate to - or want to, at least. There might even be those who prefer the "bad guys" - do they believe themselves to be good people, too?
A psychologist friend once told me many people tell themselves that they would do exactly the same thing as the hero in the story.
Personally, I always think more in terms of "Would I have had the courage to do that if it were me...". I'm a realist, you see, so most of the time I honestly don't know. Strap me to a chair and threaten to torture me, I would NOT have a snappy, brave comeback. Show me the sharp, pointy things you want to use to torture me, I would probably crack and tell you everything I know. Bring any of those things close to either my eyes or testicles (you don't even need to do both), and I would probably be able to tell you things I don't even know I know - like the formula for superglue or something.
Strand's particular genius comes in with his main characters being normal people, who do normal things and act like I think I truly might in their situation. If it were a movie, Ben Stiller would play that guy. And since I can completely relate to the character, I have absolutely no trouble going along with him.
And just when you get into that almost PG zone, WHAM, something truly horrible happens and makes your heart skip a beat.
I know by talking this guy up so much, I'm probably setting somebody up for disappointment, but I just love his books and want many many more people to experience it.
November 22, 2016
With a recently deceased wife and no job, Evan's life was going nowhere until a mysterious young woman named Harriet saves him from muggers. She's lived a monastic existence, training her whole life to combat a Cyclops that lives in Arizona. Like any sensible man, Evan decides to drive her there...
I'll read pretty much anything Jeff Strand writes at this point. A road trip that may or may not have a Cyclops at the end of it? Why the hell not?
Cyclops Road is one of Jeff Strand's quirkier books, like Kumquat. Evan's at rock bottom when Harriet falls into his life. Who wouldn't want to go on a crazy hero's journey type of quest given those circumstances.
Like most of Jeff Strand's works, Cyclops Road is pretty damn hilarious. Harriet guides Evan, the unbeliever, to three other companions the prophecy dictates they find, sending them zigzagging across the country. When they finally find the Cyclops, the wheels come off the ice cream truck in dramatic fashion.
While I liked Cyclops Road, I didn't love it. It was funny but the only characters I cared about were Evan and Harriet. After such hilarious tales as Kumquat and Blister, it was probably a case of me setting the bar a little too high. Jeff Strand's still high on my list of favorite authors, though.
To sum things up, Cyclops Road is a hilarious tale of faith, destiny, renewal, and monster slaying. Three out of five stars.
I'll read pretty much anything Jeff Strand writes at this point. A road trip that may or may not have a Cyclops at the end of it? Why the hell not?
Cyclops Road is one of Jeff Strand's quirkier books, like Kumquat. Evan's at rock bottom when Harriet falls into his life. Who wouldn't want to go on a crazy hero's journey type of quest given those circumstances.
Like most of Jeff Strand's works, Cyclops Road is pretty damn hilarious. Harriet guides Evan, the unbeliever, to three other companions the prophecy dictates they find, sending them zigzagging across the country. When they finally find the Cyclops, the wheels come off the ice cream truck in dramatic fashion.
While I liked Cyclops Road, I didn't love it. It was funny but the only characters I cared about were Evan and Harriet. After such hilarious tales as Kumquat and Blister, it was probably a case of me setting the bar a little too high. Jeff Strand's still high on my list of favorite authors, though.
To sum things up, Cyclops Road is a hilarious tale of faith, destiny, renewal, and monster slaying. Three out of five stars.
June 30, 2021
“If Raiders of the Lost Ark taught us anything, it's that you don't swing your sword at somebody who has a gun.”
Fantasy/adventure stories really aren't my thing, but if they were, this would have easily been a five-star read. Even though I don't particularly love the genre, I still couldn't put this book down. I mean, I had to sometimes put it down to eat, sleep, shower, and work...but I didn't wanna. It was a really funny, compelling, suspenseful story, with that perfect blend of Strand humor and characterization (he wins the gold medal for characterization in every book of his I've read).
And the prologue. Oh my goodness, that prologue. It was so beautifully and poignantly written...I can honestly say that Jeff deserves a huge hug for giving me all the feels. Any time writing can evoke that kind of emotion, it deserves some recognition. Just...wow.
I'm giving four stars for the story, and an extra half a star for the prologue.
4.5 stars
Available on Kindle Unlimited!
Fantasy/adventure stories really aren't my thing, but if they were, this would have easily been a five-star read. Even though I don't particularly love the genre, I still couldn't put this book down. I mean, I had to sometimes put it down to eat, sleep, shower, and work...but I didn't wanna. It was a really funny, compelling, suspenseful story, with that perfect blend of Strand humor and characterization (he wins the gold medal for characterization in every book of his I've read).
And the prologue. Oh my goodness, that prologue. It was so beautifully and poignantly written...I can honestly say that Jeff deserves a huge hug for giving me all the feels. Any time writing can evoke that kind of emotion, it deserves some recognition. Just...wow.
I'm giving four stars for the story, and an extra half a star for the prologue.
4.5 stars
Available on Kindle Unlimited!
October 1, 2016
Single, minor complaint - I have some weird comedy threshold and think this would have benefited from shaving off a few pages. Even in film, if it's a comedy over two hours, I'll get bored or tired of laughing or something equally lazy. 200-300 pages seems like the sweet spot for Strand fiction.
Other than that, good stuff! I already have my next road trip mapped out around slaying a fantastical creature. As should we all.
Other than that, good stuff! I already have my next road trip mapped out around slaying a fantastical creature. As should we all.
October 25, 2017
ROAD TRIP!
Ah, but what kind of zany awesome awaits us?
Cyclops? HELLO?
Really, it's not my favorite of Strand's novels, but it's still easy and entertaining and it takes on a whole new riff of RPG gaming meets road trip. All the great prophesy and gaining new adventurer cliches are perfectly intact, including tragic backstory, weird and vague plot points (on purpose, mind you,) and pure streamlined adventure.
Why kill the cyclops? Better question... why is some 44-year-old who had just lost his wife a week earlier then quitting his job and helping out some stray woman that kicked some robber's butts? The answer is... WHY THE HELL NOT? Depression and denial make people do the damndest things. You know, like bloodsports. And climbing down ancient trap-filled wells. It's perfectly reasonable!
Did I say zany?
Oh, yeah. And entertaining. I really like Strand's stuff. It brings out my inner twelve-year-old. :)
Ah, but what kind of zany awesome awaits us?
Cyclops? HELLO?
Really, it's not my favorite of Strand's novels, but it's still easy and entertaining and it takes on a whole new riff of RPG gaming meets road trip. All the great prophesy and gaining new adventurer cliches are perfectly intact, including tragic backstory, weird and vague plot points (on purpose, mind you,) and pure streamlined adventure.
Why kill the cyclops? Better question... why is some 44-year-old who had just lost his wife a week earlier then quitting his job and helping out some stray woman that kicked some robber's butts? The answer is... WHY THE HELL NOT? Depression and denial make people do the damndest things. You know, like bloodsports. And climbing down ancient trap-filled wells. It's perfectly reasonable!
Did I say zany?
Oh, yeah. And entertaining. I really like Strand's stuff. It brings out my inner twelve-year-old. :)
January 10, 2017
It seemed like such a normal road when we set out...
I really admire fiction writers who can bang out a ton of material, especially when it's good stuff. I've only just dipped my toes into Strand's extensive catalog, but I like what I've read enough that I checked this out based solely on the fact that it's his newest work (I think. Like I said, he's got a ton of stuff).
The prologue is subtle and heartbreaking, a curtain slowly and masterfully pulled back to reveal something far sadder than the opening lines would have you believe. This part could honestly stand alone as a piece of top-shelf storytelling. The meat of the story begins like a solid thriller set in our world, but the further you read, the further Strand pushes you into the deep end of the pool. I'm still not even sure when my toes stopped touching the bottom, and that's because he's good at what he does.
The narrator was relatable to the point that I could see him as myself, the sarcastic skeptic of the group. I loved his voice so much I may have kept reading even if the story wasn't driving as hard as it does. There's enough comic relief that I didn't feel as much tension as with other Strand books (Faint of Heart comes to mind), but the trip down Cyclops Road is definitely a good time.
I really admire fiction writers who can bang out a ton of material, especially when it's good stuff. I've only just dipped my toes into Strand's extensive catalog, but I like what I've read enough that I checked this out based solely on the fact that it's his newest work (I think. Like I said, he's got a ton of stuff).
The prologue is subtle and heartbreaking, a curtain slowly and masterfully pulled back to reveal something far sadder than the opening lines would have you believe. This part could honestly stand alone as a piece of top-shelf storytelling. The meat of the story begins like a solid thriller set in our world, but the further you read, the further Strand pushes you into the deep end of the pool. I'm still not even sure when my toes stopped touching the bottom, and that's because he's good at what he does.
The narrator was relatable to the point that I could see him as myself, the sarcastic skeptic of the group. I loved his voice so much I may have kept reading even if the story wasn't driving as hard as it does. There's enough comic relief that I didn't feel as much tension as with other Strand books (Faint of Heart comes to mind), but the trip down Cyclops Road is definitely a good time.
February 14, 2020
Jeff Strand is not only one of the most idiosyncratic writers working but he’s also one of the most dependable. I found this latest book to be a real treat. Strand is capable of giving us terrifying material with graphic images that linger and also finding a perfect blend of comedy and terror. No matter how silly they seem, all his books have true heart and a potent sense of creativity and this story is no different.
It’s about a recent widower stumbling into a mysterious young woman who claims to be fulfilling her destiny and hunting a deadly cyclops and who takes him on an adventure of a lifetime across the country. It was laugh-out-loud funny, equal parts sad and hopeful. It’s a story of friendship and of taking a leap of faith. There’s a running question throughout whether the cyclops is real or not. But you’ll find yourself not caring because it truly is about the journey and the friendships that are made.
It’s about a recent widower stumbling into a mysterious young woman who claims to be fulfilling her destiny and hunting a deadly cyclops and who takes him on an adventure of a lifetime across the country. It was laugh-out-loud funny, equal parts sad and hopeful. It’s a story of friendship and of taking a leap of faith. There’s a running question throughout whether the cyclops is real or not. But you’ll find yourself not caring because it truly is about the journey and the friendships that are made.
"What a nutzo way to die, huh? Not that it’s a competition, but my demise is going to be far more spectacular than my wife’s."
September 23, 2016
Three pages into CYCLOPS ROAD by Jeff Strand and I'm wiping drops of water off my kindle. What has he written now? I was thrilled to hear that an adult book was coming out, but that was all I knew. I don't read descriptions about books by authors whose books that I automatically buy on release.
So there I sat, just a few pages into Jeff's newest book - in tears. Holy crap, can that man write! I'm not going to get into the storyline except to tell you that it's about heroes and adventure and doing the right thing.
Jeff Strand's writing was sheer brilliance. Read this book.
So there I sat, just a few pages into Jeff's newest book - in tears. Holy crap, can that man write! I'm not going to get into the storyline except to tell you that it's about heroes and adventure and doing the right thing.
Jeff Strand's writing was sheer brilliance. Read this book.
May 2, 2020
A quirky road trip novel.
A recent widower is perhaps not completely emotionally healed when he tells off his boss enough to lose his job. Suddenly, completely unmoored, he meets a strange red head, who insists she is walking to Arizona to kill a cyclops. It doesn't seem like a good idea, but he decides to drive her.
They have some unusual road trip adventures across the country, but is the Cyclops real?
A notable loose end, but otherwise a fun though meandering book.
A recent widower is perhaps not completely emotionally healed when he tells off his boss enough to lose his job. Suddenly, completely unmoored, he meets a strange red head, who insists she is walking to Arizona to kill a cyclops. It doesn't seem like a good idea, but he decides to drive her.
They have some unusual road trip adventures across the country, but is the Cyclops real?
A notable loose end, but otherwise a fun though meandering book.
October 9, 2016
Crud, I wanted to like this one more than I did. That's weird since I really did like it. I just wanted to love it. Then I got bored. It was a bit too long and felt like it was reaching a bit in the middle. Not a bad read by any means, I just wasn’t feeling it like I usually do with Strand reads. Maybe, my timing was off. Happens. Still a solid 3 star read.
February 17, 2017
Evan Portin has just lost his wife and is having a very bad day at work. But he comes upon a woman being mugged and finds that she doesn't need his help.
Harriet is a strange one for sure. She's never been in a car or seen a cellphone. Safe to say she's been pretty isolated. Oh, and she's on her way to kill a cyclops.
I know, right? Someone has a few screws loose. Maybe...?
Follow Evan as he takes the ride of his life.
I found this book entertaining as all get out, and unique, and very funny! I loved it! It was very different from the usual Strand novels. Can't say much more so I don't give anything away. I definitely recommend it though. It's not actually horror. I would put it more in the fantasy, sci-fi category.
4 stars
Harriet is a strange one for sure. She's never been in a car or seen a cellphone. Safe to say she's been pretty isolated. Oh, and she's on her way to kill a cyclops.
I know, right? Someone has a few screws loose. Maybe...?
Follow Evan as he takes the ride of his life.
I found this book entertaining as all get out, and unique, and very funny! I loved it! It was very different from the usual Strand novels. Can't say much more so I don't give anything away. I definitely recommend it though. It's not actually horror. I would put it more in the fantasy, sci-fi category.
4 stars
October 1, 2016
Another excellent book by Jeff Strand. I had a blast with this one - great adventure/road trip story. If you're on my friends list and haven't checked out Strand yet... put his shit on your list! I don't know how long it takes him to write a novel but it feels like it just flows out of him. Love this guy.
August 7, 2018
Oh my gawd! This book was sooo good. Like, literally. I can't even right now you guys. OMG! Squeee!
Srlsy, I totes feel like a giddy teen ager right now. Totes magoates. This was so good you guys. Like the story and plot and stuff. So good.
And like ive totally read way good stuff already this year on, like, Kindle and Wattpad and Reddit and stuff. So, like me saying this is like total validation and stuff, ya know?
So, anyway, cool. Yeah. Im out. Read this cool stuff from this old guy and stuff.
#AdamCesareIsADreamBoat, im out.
FTW JFK LOL SMFH BBIAB n' shit.
Srlsy, I totes feel like a giddy teen ager right now. Totes magoates. This was so good you guys. Like the story and plot and stuff. So good.
And like ive totally read way good stuff already this year on, like, Kindle and Wattpad and Reddit and stuff. So, like me saying this is like total validation and stuff, ya know?
So, anyway, cool. Yeah. Im out. Read this cool stuff from this old guy and stuff.
#AdamCesareIsADreamBoat, im out.
FTW JFK LOL SMFH BBIAB n' shit.
September 24, 2016
Jeff Strand Does It Again
I've loved every book I've ever read by Jeff Strand so I bought this one the day it was released. And once again, I was delighted, entertained, and couldn't put it down. No spoilers here - this book is not the usual horror themes from Jeff, but there is some horror in it. It's more of a road trip adventure tale. And full of the usual twisted humor Jeff is known for. Do yourself a favor and read the book. If you're already a fan, you will get to experience another great book that reminds you why you're a fan. And if you've never read Jeff Strand, be prepared to become addicted!
I've loved every book I've ever read by Jeff Strand so I bought this one the day it was released. And once again, I was delighted, entertained, and couldn't put it down. No spoilers here - this book is not the usual horror themes from Jeff, but there is some horror in it. It's more of a road trip adventure tale. And full of the usual twisted humor Jeff is known for. Do yourself a favor and read the book. If you're already a fan, you will get to experience another great book that reminds you why you're a fan. And if you've never read Jeff Strand, be prepared to become addicted!
May 9, 2019
This one was odd, even for Mr. Strand. Definitely something different, though.
July 12, 2018
An absolute blast. What starts out as a fairly simple premise, a grieving widow escorting a potentially mentally ill girl across the states to slay a cyclops (okay maybe it's not that simple), becomes more and more ludicrous with each and every twist and turn.
I really don't want to even hint at some of the madness that's in this book. If you're pining for something a little left-of-field then this is the book for you.
I really don't want to even hint at some of the madness that's in this book. If you're pining for something a little left-of-field then this is the book for you.
September 28, 2016
This was a fun read :)
RTC
RTC
May 3, 2017
Jeff strand is awesome. He has quite possibly become my favorite author, I want to write him fan mail (in the forum of mad lib) and hang his picture on my wall.
November 30, 2016
In the prologue of Cyclops Road we see a side of Jeff Strand that isn't always obvious. We are introduced to Evan and his memories of his recently deceased wife. It is a head on assault into the experience of grieving and a profoundly emotional start to what will be mainly a humorous novel. Yet it sets the stage to understand Evan and his unusual decisions as the novel progresses.
It is this grief that is the reason he impulsively insults his boss which gets him fired. While in the park mulling his brash actions, he spots an attempt robbery . He tries to intervene but it is the potential victim that ends up saving him. He discovers that she is on a mission to go to Arizona and slay a cyclops. Most people would think at this point "OK. Bye crazy lady." and that is what Evan initially does. Yet in his vulnerable condition and his concern for Harriet the potential cyclops slayer, he offers to drive her partway to her destination...just for a little more distance to get her closer.
Of course, a little more distance isn't the way it works out and we are soon deep into a modern fairy tale. Harriet is operating by some kind of mental GPS and needs to find her three allies for the adventure. We are now in classic Jeff Strand territory with a cast of eccentrics and a accompanying dialogue that is witty and fun. The prologue rounds Evan out enough to explain his participation in a scenario that could easily have stretched the reader's disbelief too far. Harriet is an excellent foil to Evan's skepticism. She is an innocence in the ways of the world but wise and loyal to the needs of her quest. The other characters fill out the novel and present clever commentary and comic relief to the plot. I wish I could say the same about a group of villains who suddenly show up and are eventually dispersed of with only a vague explanation for their existence.
But even with a strong main protagonist, the plot falters. Even though it is a modern fairy tale, sometimes the action and motives seems a bit forced. I can blame his last couple of great novels for this. Kumquat and Blister had a similar main character who connects with a girl who has issues but brings out a strength in him. In other words, Cyclops Road tells the same story with a fantastical edge and that edge really doesn't add much. It's a great theme told by Strand that I have already read. I think I may be too harsh here since the ones who comes to this novel uninitiated to Strand's previous novels will probably go "WOW!" and several of the reviews of this book bears that out.
But it's Strand, which means you are going to read something by a skilled storyteller who has a true talent with clever dialog and wears his heart on his sleeve. That is why I liked it and give it a recommendation.
Three and a half stars.
It is this grief that is the reason he impulsively insults his boss which gets him fired. While in the park mulling his brash actions, he spots an attempt robbery . He tries to intervene but it is the potential victim that ends up saving him. He discovers that she is on a mission to go to Arizona and slay a cyclops. Most people would think at this point "OK. Bye crazy lady." and that is what Evan initially does. Yet in his vulnerable condition and his concern for Harriet the potential cyclops slayer, he offers to drive her partway to her destination...just for a little more distance to get her closer.
Of course, a little more distance isn't the way it works out and we are soon deep into a modern fairy tale. Harriet is operating by some kind of mental GPS and needs to find her three allies for the adventure. We are now in classic Jeff Strand territory with a cast of eccentrics and a accompanying dialogue that is witty and fun. The prologue rounds Evan out enough to explain his participation in a scenario that could easily have stretched the reader's disbelief too far. Harriet is an excellent foil to Evan's skepticism. She is an innocence in the ways of the world but wise and loyal to the needs of her quest. The other characters fill out the novel and present clever commentary and comic relief to the plot. I wish I could say the same about a group of villains who suddenly show up and are eventually dispersed of with only a vague explanation for their existence.
But even with a strong main protagonist, the plot falters. Even though it is a modern fairy tale, sometimes the action and motives seems a bit forced. I can blame his last couple of great novels for this. Kumquat and Blister had a similar main character who connects with a girl who has issues but brings out a strength in him. In other words, Cyclops Road tells the same story with a fantastical edge and that edge really doesn't add much. It's a great theme told by Strand that I have already read. I think I may be too harsh here since the ones who comes to this novel uninitiated to Strand's previous novels will probably go "WOW!" and several of the reviews of this book bears that out.
But it's Strand, which means you are going to read something by a skilled storyteller who has a true talent with clever dialog and wears his heart on his sleeve. That is why I liked it and give it a recommendation.
Three and a half stars.
November 21, 2016
"Hey, after work do you wanna see a movie, get a couple of drinks, maybe slay a Cyclops?"
Cyclops Road, by Jeff Strand, is a bizarre little adventure that toes the line of the suspension of disbelief almost the entire novel. A road-trip adventure, complete with strange occurrences that may or may not have to do with the actual plot, your only requirement when cracking this one open is to jump in the passenger's seat and not worry too much about the destination, because its the journey that you'll enjoy.
Strand cements his place in the bizarre sub-genre of horror / comedy once again, introducing wacky characters with some delicious dialogue. While certainly entertaining, there were definitely more moments in this than any of his other works I've read that caused me to question not only the world he created here but the actions of the characters within it. I almost felt like that backseat driver, brought along for a road trip, who doesn't really identify with everyone else who's traveling together.
That being said, Strand, along with his characters, definitely commit to this one. While not my favorite book of his, it's a worthwhile read and a light-hearted adventure that won't soon be forgotten. 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Cyclops Road, by Jeff Strand, is a bizarre little adventure that toes the line of the suspension of disbelief almost the entire novel. A road-trip adventure, complete with strange occurrences that may or may not have to do with the actual plot, your only requirement when cracking this one open is to jump in the passenger's seat and not worry too much about the destination, because its the journey that you'll enjoy.
Strand cements his place in the bizarre sub-genre of horror / comedy once again, introducing wacky characters with some delicious dialogue. While certainly entertaining, there were definitely more moments in this than any of his other works I've read that caused me to question not only the world he created here but the actions of the characters within it. I almost felt like that backseat driver, brought along for a road trip, who doesn't really identify with everyone else who's traveling together.
That being said, Strand, along with his characters, definitely commit to this one. While not my favorite book of his, it's a worthwhile read and a light-hearted adventure that won't soon be forgotten. 3.5 out of 5 stars.
October 22, 2019
One of the best things about Kindle Unlimited is unlimited Jeff Strand books. Whenever I’m in the mood for some lightness, especially after some really dark and heavy reading, Strand always does the trick. Objectively speaking, this is one of his lesser works, which is to say not quite as good as he can deliver, but still…so much fun. Which is probably the main thing about Strand’s writing…no matter what genre he’s working in (and this guy more versatile than a well made Transformer), his books are always so much fun. This, the lighter of his fares, stays away from horrific and disturbing and instead presents the readers with an action comedy. It’s kind of like Kumquat without the romance. Instead, you get a road trip, a seemingly mad mission, a comedy of errors and a wackadoddledoo cast of characters. Of course, there’s the sane normal (as it were) proverbial straight man around whom all this wackiness transpires. In fact, he stumbles into it, while on a downward spiral, freshly widowed, freshly fired, Evan Portin is a sad sack of a person. Coming across a damsel who is plenty able to take care of herself in distress provides him with a much needed jolt of excitement. So much so that upon discovering that the damsel is traveling (by foot) across the country to slay a mythical beast and upon (quite appropriately) questioning her sanity), Evan decides to join her as a driver, companion and the skeptical voice of reason. There’s no romance involved, it’s all refreshingly platonic and well intentioned, just people on a mission and by mission I mean something very much Quixote esque. Outrageous credulity straining quest that is just so much more exciting than the mundane drag of everyday life that you want to throw caution to the wind and follow along. And of course, you have to, if only to find out if it’s all real or a fantasy of a mad woman, a very entertaining, hilariously spoken mad woman at that. Strand gave his protagonist (who was homeschooled and sheltered from the world at large) such an appropriately awesome vernacular, she’s an absolute delight to read. So yeah, it isn’t made of yellow bricks, but still a fun road to follow. Very entertaining, somewhat silly, but considerably charming quick read. Recommended.
September 8, 2017
This is my second Jeff Strand book, and definitely will not be my last, In fact, I've already been looking on Amazon to see what title I need next!
I absolutely love Strand's storytelling voice! I cannot get enough of it! I'd like to give him some of my favorite books and tell him to rewrite them for me, because I know they'd be that much better! And the funny! (No, that was not a typo) Omigod, I don't think I've ever laughed so much during a book! And it's not huge laughs, but more subtle ones thrown in all over the place. I just love it.
It's bizarre! It's funny! It's amazingly written! And I love all the characters. Even the Cyclops! Wait! Is there a real Cyclops?? I'll never tell!
I absolutely love Strand's storytelling voice! I cannot get enough of it! I'd like to give him some of my favorite books and tell him to rewrite them for me, because I know they'd be that much better! And the funny! (No, that was not a typo) Omigod, I don't think I've ever laughed so much during a book! And it's not huge laughs, but more subtle ones thrown in all over the place. I just love it.
It's bizarre! It's funny! It's amazingly written! And I love all the characters. Even the Cyclops! Wait! Is there a real Cyclops?? I'll never tell!
July 14, 2018
Jeff Strand has a talent for writing witty dialogue that sounds realistic even in the midst of non-realistic situations: like a 44 year old accountant who just rage-quit his job and decides to accompany a total stranger on a quest to slay a cyclops. He also has a talent for making you care about his characters, dropping moments that are truly poignant in the midst of a novel that deftly combines horror and humor. Cyclops Road is highly recommended for fans of Jeff Strand, or as a great introduction to those who haven't read Jeff Strand before.
February 24, 2021
I’m super bummed about this one.
3.75 Stars
Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed it..... just not as much as his other books.
This story was very tame. Very....PG13.
It was a fun adventure but it did not have my full attention.
Jeff Strand still remains a favorite of mine and I’m so ready to move on and read more of his book.
This book was my 10th Strand book....which one will be my 11th!?!?!
3.75 Stars
Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed it..... just not as much as his other books.
This story was very tame. Very....PG13.
It was a fun adventure but it did not have my full attention.
Jeff Strand still remains a favorite of mine and I’m so ready to move on and read more of his book.
This book was my 10th Strand book....which one will be my 11th!?!?!
August 22, 2022
Книгата е достатъчно откачена, както се полага на Джеф Щранд. Хуморът е на лице и няколко пъти се смях на глас. Малко ми липсваха брутално кървавите моменти, които избухват спорадично в повечето му книги (имаше само един към края), но ако отнесем книгата към градското фентъзи, всичко си идва на мястоот. Все пак, не е най-доброто от автора, поне за мен.
Айвън е 44 годишен счетоводител, наскоро преживял семейна трагедия. Един ден, в моментен пристъп на депресия, решава да каже на шефа си да си го зачука. Беза семейство, без работа и без переспективи, Айвън попада на странно момиче в парка. Тя се казва Хариет и изпълнява пророчество. Обикаля страната пеш, за да покоси циклоп. Хариет определено е леко не таман, но Ейвън така и така няма какво да прави. Що пък да не пообиколи с нея и да преживее най-откаченото приключение в живота си?
Немни убийци, нелегални боеве, настолни игри, загадъчен лабиринт, мнго километри и потресаващи срещи с колоритни образи. А, и циклоп, голям, грозен хищен циклоп.
Айвън е 44 годишен счетоводител, наскоро преживял семейна трагедия. Един ден, в моментен пристъп на депресия, решава да каже на шефа си да си го зачука. Беза семейство, без работа и без переспективи, Айвън попада на странно момиче в парка. Тя се казва Хариет и изпълнява пророчество. Обикаля страната пеш, за да покоси циклоп. Хариет определено е леко не таман, но Ейвън така и така няма какво да прави. Що пък да не пообиколи с нея и да преживее най-откаченото приключение в живота си?
Немни убийци, нелегални боеве, настолни игри, загадъчен лабиринт, мнго километри и потресаващи срещи с колоритни образи. А, и циклоп, голям, грозен хищен циклоп.
May 2, 2022
Awesome fantasy type book with very likable characters. This kind of reminded me of a grown up version of the Percy Jackson series. Speaking of which I.love love for this to be made into. Series of novels. Maybe in the next one, have the heroes go after a Minotaur?
April 14, 2018
I haven't read or listened to anything by this author before, but the premise of the book is an interesting one with a mysterious woman going on a quest to kill a cyclops in a modern setting, she is joined on her quest by Evan Portin who finds himself in a dark place having recently lost his wife and telling off his boss enough to lose his job too.
Harriet is an unusual one as she seems to have led a very sheltered life, being unused to common elements of modern technology such as cars and phones, she also takes on the more traditional warrior role of their party as she so ably demonstrates at numerous points along their journey.
Evan, by contrast has had a much more conventional life, but grows greatly over the course of an unusual road-trip that is recounted with a subtlety to the humour that doesn't undercut the more serious moments.
The cast expands beyond these two initial characters, but this book is as much about the journey as the titular cyclops, so it is probably best for people to meet them for themselves as they read this book.
By contrast to the author, I have listened to a number of books done by this narrator and he again gives a strong performance, moving the story along at the appropriate pace in a clear manner, while giving nicely distinctive performances for all the main characters that help to further enhance an enjoyable story.
Overall, I found this to be an interesting and enjoyable listen and will keep an eye out for more from this author in the future.
[Note - I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.]
Harriet is an unusual one as she seems to have led a very sheltered life, being unused to common elements of modern technology such as cars and phones, she also takes on the more traditional warrior role of their party as she so ably demonstrates at numerous points along their journey.
Evan, by contrast has had a much more conventional life, but grows greatly over the course of an unusual road-trip that is recounted with a subtlety to the humour that doesn't undercut the more serious moments.
The cast expands beyond these two initial characters, but this book is as much about the journey as the titular cyclops, so it is probably best for people to meet them for themselves as they read this book.
By contrast to the author, I have listened to a number of books done by this narrator and he again gives a strong performance, moving the story along at the appropriate pace in a clear manner, while giving nicely distinctive performances for all the main characters that help to further enhance an enjoyable story.
Overall, I found this to be an interesting and enjoyable listen and will keep an eye out for more from this author in the future.
[Note - I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.]
December 6, 2016
Cyclops Road: Original, Witty, Never Boring
Jeff Strand is very quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. After reading Blister and Pressure and thoroughly enjoying them I picked up Cyclops Road. This is by far my favorite Jeff Strand novel to this point and definitely one of the stand-out novels I’ve read this year.
The novel begins when Evan, an unemployed widower, discovers Harriett, a young adventurer. Harriett is being mugged by three men. These muggers don’t know what they are getting into but soon find out the hard way. Harriett is quite the expert in hand to hand combat. A real bad-ass. She’s been training her entire life for a prophesied mission. That mission: to slay a cyclops in Rapport, Arizona. From there Evan decides, what the hell, I have nothing better to do, I’ll give Harriett a lift from Florida to Arizona. They don’t take the most direct route as they have several other prophesied heroes to pick up along the way. They also have several opponents to contend with on their journey.
Cyclops Road is paced in such a way that will you be glued to this book to find out what happens next. Jeff Strand’s writing is filled with a snappy, witty dialog that you’ll be hard pressed to match in the horror genre. There is action that is reminiscent of some of the best superhero and monster movie battles ever screened. My imagination enjoyed every word of it. I look forward to reading more of Jeff Strand’s novels and stories. He’s original, witty, and never boring.
Five Stars*****
Jeff Strand is very quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. After reading Blister and Pressure and thoroughly enjoying them I picked up Cyclops Road. This is by far my favorite Jeff Strand novel to this point and definitely one of the stand-out novels I’ve read this year.
The novel begins when Evan, an unemployed widower, discovers Harriett, a young adventurer. Harriett is being mugged by three men. These muggers don’t know what they are getting into but soon find out the hard way. Harriett is quite the expert in hand to hand combat. A real bad-ass. She’s been training her entire life for a prophesied mission. That mission: to slay a cyclops in Rapport, Arizona. From there Evan decides, what the hell, I have nothing better to do, I’ll give Harriett a lift from Florida to Arizona. They don’t take the most direct route as they have several other prophesied heroes to pick up along the way. They also have several opponents to contend with on their journey.
Cyclops Road is paced in such a way that will you be glued to this book to find out what happens next. Jeff Strand’s writing is filled with a snappy, witty dialog that you’ll be hard pressed to match in the horror genre. There is action that is reminiscent of some of the best superhero and monster movie battles ever screened. My imagination enjoyed every word of it. I look forward to reading more of Jeff Strand’s novels and stories. He’s original, witty, and never boring.
Five Stars*****
April 12, 2018
"What an awesome story from start to finish!"
I started this book and it had me so confused, I was sure I had signed on for a fantasy road trip epic and that is exactly what it delivered the literary slight of hand at the start is so worth it as it sets the tone for the rest of the book.
It is a tongue in cheek fantasy road trip to kill a mythical monster and the journey is anything but straight forward.
The story misdirects you whilst never feeling like any of it is out of place. You move through increasingly bizarre and incredible situations and all the while you just keep going with it as it is so well written and narrated.
The narrator Joe Hempel has definitely matched the tone and feel perfectly allowing for a listening experience which is up there with the best. All of the characters feel real and unique. I never once had any confusion as to who was speaking. All of the voices seemed tospeak of the characters essence and I absolutely could not put this book down once I got started. (I even checked if there was a follow up book).
In summation this is a must read for anyone who enjoys an adventure story whether you like fantasy or not you will love this book it is so well written and narrated that I urge you to give it a try.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily provided this impartial review.
I started this book and it had me so confused, I was sure I had signed on for a fantasy road trip epic and that is exactly what it delivered the literary slight of hand at the start is so worth it as it sets the tone for the rest of the book.
It is a tongue in cheek fantasy road trip to kill a mythical monster and the journey is anything but straight forward.
The story misdirects you whilst never feeling like any of it is out of place. You move through increasingly bizarre and incredible situations and all the while you just keep going with it as it is so well written and narrated.
The narrator Joe Hempel has definitely matched the tone and feel perfectly allowing for a listening experience which is up there with the best. All of the characters feel real and unique. I never once had any confusion as to who was speaking. All of the voices seemed tospeak of the characters essence and I absolutely could not put this book down once I got started. (I even checked if there was a follow up book).
In summation this is a must read for anyone who enjoys an adventure story whether you like fantasy or not you will love this book it is so well written and narrated that I urge you to give it a try.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily provided this impartial review.
July 22, 2018
The story basically starts with Evan as he finds himself witness to a mugging. Strong and in control of most situations, Harriet is not about to let these muggers have an easy time. Evan decides to help her on her quest to kill a cyclops but all she has to guide her is her remarkable intuition and a scroll. First however, they have to find some heroes. And that is easier said than done.
This is the first book I’ve read/listened to by this author and I would listen to another. I enjoyed the tale. My only issue is why Harriet’s parents kill themselves- it’s never explained that I’m aware of.
This is the second book I’ve listened to by this narrator (Joe Hempel) and I would listen to another. The individual voices were decernable and he brought out the character’s personalities, sarcasm and all.
There are no explicit sex scenes, excessive violence or swearing. Audiobook Boom had content warning as “violence, language” but it was minimal.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and voluntarily left this unbiased review
This is the first book I’ve read/listened to by this author and I would listen to another. I enjoyed the tale. My only issue is why Harriet’s parents kill themselves- it’s never explained that I’m aware of.
This is the second book I’ve listened to by this narrator (Joe Hempel) and I would listen to another. The individual voices were decernable and he brought out the character’s personalities, sarcasm and all.
There are no explicit sex scenes, excessive violence or swearing. Audiobook Boom had content warning as “violence, language” but it was minimal.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and voluntarily left this unbiased review
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