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November Fox, #1. Following Joy - A Metaphysical Visionary Fable
Think you’ve read it all? This revelatory chronicle will have you thinking otherwise. Into the swirling vortex, you will be drawn – whether you think this is your sort of book or not. You just might find yourself questioning your own perceptions of reality and be left craving more. + 39 Augmented Reality Illustrations. 60% Discount off the RRP of $9.99USD - Until Midnight EST, November 7th. Get it now to save $$$$$!
THE
November Fox has never even heard of other dimensions when a teleporting magical cube appears on her doorstep. With a hole in her heart and a cosmic identity yet to be discovered, the orphan rock star accepts an invitation to find the key within herself that will unlock the mysteries of form.
Little does she know, The Architect, from the race of philosophical beings who create our world of form, has been watching over her all her life.
Grieving Erica, a teacher and writer from London, finds The Architect’s fascinating letter in a glass bottle washed ashore on Brighton Beach. Pages continue to magically appear as she, too, is compelled to follow November’s quest.
Realities eclipse as we embark on a metaphysical adventure through time and space. November learns that harnessing the power of her mind and heart is fundamental, if she wishes to unlock the cube and escape the sometimes sinister, sometimes wonderful dimensions into which she is propelled.
Combining elements inspired by the new thought movement, the law of attraction, magic, mysticism, wisdom and wonder, November learns that she can use the power of dreaming, imagination and positive thinking to remake herself and her world.
November Fox will be enjoyed by readers who liked wisdom-filled, visionary fiction fables like “The Alchemist,” the escapism of “Alice in Wonderland” or the Mind-bending nature of the movie “The Matrix.”
As an idiosyncratic fantasy/science fiction crossover, it is suitable for teens and adults alike.
It comes with 39 illustrations with an Augmented Reality technology feature, enabling readers to further expand their experience by scanning in the pictures with the Layar app and accessing 3D interactive elements, videos and the connected music project.
Sign Up for Free November Fox Music here.
“Things aren’t always as they seem, do we wake or do we dream?”
THE
November Fox has never even heard of other dimensions when a teleporting magical cube appears on her doorstep. With a hole in her heart and a cosmic identity yet to be discovered, the orphan rock star accepts an invitation to find the key within herself that will unlock the mysteries of form.
Little does she know, The Architect, from the race of philosophical beings who create our world of form, has been watching over her all her life.
Grieving Erica, a teacher and writer from London, finds The Architect’s fascinating letter in a glass bottle washed ashore on Brighton Beach. Pages continue to magically appear as she, too, is compelled to follow November’s quest.
Realities eclipse as we embark on a metaphysical adventure through time and space. November learns that harnessing the power of her mind and heart is fundamental, if she wishes to unlock the cube and escape the sometimes sinister, sometimes wonderful dimensions into which she is propelled.
Combining elements inspired by the new thought movement, the law of attraction, magic, mysticism, wisdom and wonder, November learns that she can use the power of dreaming, imagination and positive thinking to remake herself and her world.
November Fox will be enjoyed by readers who liked wisdom-filled, visionary fiction fables like “The Alchemist,” the escapism of “Alice in Wonderland” or the Mind-bending nature of the movie “The Matrix.”
As an idiosyncratic fantasy/science fiction crossover, it is suitable for teens and adults alike.
It comes with 39 illustrations with an Augmented Reality technology feature, enabling readers to further expand their experience by scanning in the pictures with the Layar app and accessing 3D interactive elements, videos and the connected music project.
Sign Up for Free November Fox Music here.
“Things aren’t always as they seem, do we wake or do we dream?”
- GenresFantasyScience Fiction
521 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
3 people are currently reading
516 people want to read
About the author
E.E. Bertram
14 books43 followersE.E. Bertram (Esther Bertram) is an Author, Musician & Media Artist. Her dedication, creative mind, and technical skill set enable her to create innovative and original expressions, combining wisdom and fantasy, to assist her life’s mission – “To inspire wonder and growth.” After more than a decade of touring Europe and recording as a professional singer/songwriter and producer of electronic music, Esther has spent 5 years creating the media-fusion, metaphysical, fantasy, science fiction novel “November Fox.” The book incorporates Augmented Reality with a connected music project. This pioneering way of story telling is on the leading edge of what is possible when you combine technology with art.
Personal motivations:
As a creative artist, I like to inspire people to challenge their mental models of reality for the sake of growth and entertainment; to probe into the cosmic depths of existence, bring back my insights and express them in creative form. With a mother from Lapland/Finland and father from Melbourne/Australia, dualism has been in my genes from day one, and I have always felt best when balancing contrasting worlds; Organic/Inorganic, Acoustic/Digital, Adventurous/Reflective, Present/Escapist, Vegan/Indulgence etc. I've had lucid dreams since I was a child, so I've always enjoyed creating dreamscape realities and then applied the knowledge to manifest desired outcomes while I'm awake. The lessons I have learned and amazing experiences I have had, have been the prime inspiration in the creation of November Fox. I wanted an outlet to share what I have learned to hopefully help others, specifically the next generation, to create the realities of their dreams and find and achieve their purpose. Yet I'm too much of a dreamer and child at heart to write a normal self-help book, so I decided to put my discovered wisdom in the guise of a metaphysical, fantasy science fiction story. Technology then enables me to create layers within layers to aptly represent the depths of our own consciousness and take the fantasy world to new heights.
Personal motivations:
As a creative artist, I like to inspire people to challenge their mental models of reality for the sake of growth and entertainment; to probe into the cosmic depths of existence, bring back my insights and express them in creative form. With a mother from Lapland/Finland and father from Melbourne/Australia, dualism has been in my genes from day one, and I have always felt best when balancing contrasting worlds; Organic/Inorganic, Acoustic/Digital, Adventurous/Reflective, Present/Escapist, Vegan/Indulgence etc. I've had lucid dreams since I was a child, so I've always enjoyed creating dreamscape realities and then applied the knowledge to manifest desired outcomes while I'm awake. The lessons I have learned and amazing experiences I have had, have been the prime inspiration in the creation of November Fox. I wanted an outlet to share what I have learned to hopefully help others, specifically the next generation, to create the realities of their dreams and find and achieve their purpose. Yet I'm too much of a dreamer and child at heart to write a normal self-help book, so I decided to put my discovered wisdom in the guise of a metaphysical, fantasy science fiction story. Technology then enables me to create layers within layers to aptly represent the depths of our own consciousness and take the fantasy world to new heights.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
March 22, 2017
Told by The Architect from another dimension, November Fox is a book which manages to illustrate an overall connection of everything that is in the Universe. Truly interesting, imaginative and entertaining, as well as thought provoking.
The blurb is really all that you should know about the story before reading it. My re-telling of any events would simply ruin the wonderment of discovery. November Fox is not only an enjoyable read but it also does something new… E.E. Bertram takes a step further by providing the technology aspect of being able to scan the illustrations for a further insight into the story and the ebook will also direct you to an external link on the book’s website to create your personal Cube and send a photo of it back to the author. I haven’t heard of such a thing being done before… November Fox thus is more than a book. It’s kind of like an interactive book… we’re taking a step further in the book evolution!
The structure of November Fox is delivered by way of letter that The Architect wrote and sent in a bottle through the river of collective consciousness.
The message in the bottle, in which The Architect reports the events he sees played across one of his screens as he observes November, made it over the ocean of consciousness to Erica. A primary teacher in London who finds the bottle at a time when she’s mourning the loss of someone who could have been her soulmate.
So, we have November Fox, The Architect and Erica in various settings of space and dimensions. Confusing? Not to worry- the book is really super easy to follow, it’s fun and comes with quite a few quotes from quite a few master minds all of us know. There is a ton of dimensional travel, a good scoop of inner recognition and fantastic/vivid scene setting.
I really liked the book. It was a relaxing read with so much new in it for me. So why not 5 stars? Good question.. even though I really really enjoyed the book, I felt towards the end that it could have been slightly shorter because there was so much information, so many news things for me it all just blew my mind. But not in a bad way! It was slightly taxing, reading all the questions The Architect posed because I found myself stopping and trying to find the answers that no one has managed to find yet! A really unique and interesting book, though, I do suggest you check this out guys!
The blurb is really all that you should know about the story before reading it. My re-telling of any events would simply ruin the wonderment of discovery. November Fox is not only an enjoyable read but it also does something new… E.E. Bertram takes a step further by providing the technology aspect of being able to scan the illustrations for a further insight into the story and the ebook will also direct you to an external link on the book’s website to create your personal Cube and send a photo of it back to the author. I haven’t heard of such a thing being done before… November Fox thus is more than a book. It’s kind of like an interactive book… we’re taking a step further in the book evolution!
The structure of November Fox is delivered by way of letter that The Architect wrote and sent in a bottle through the river of collective consciousness.
The message in the bottle, in which The Architect reports the events he sees played across one of his screens as he observes November, made it over the ocean of consciousness to Erica. A primary teacher in London who finds the bottle at a time when she’s mourning the loss of someone who could have been her soulmate.
So, we have November Fox, The Architect and Erica in various settings of space and dimensions. Confusing? Not to worry- the book is really super easy to follow, it’s fun and comes with quite a few quotes from quite a few master minds all of us know. There is a ton of dimensional travel, a good scoop of inner recognition and fantastic/vivid scene setting.
I really liked the book. It was a relaxing read with so much new in it for me. So why not 5 stars? Good question.. even though I really really enjoyed the book, I felt towards the end that it could have been slightly shorter because there was so much information, so many news things for me it all just blew my mind. But not in a bad way! It was slightly taxing, reading all the questions The Architect posed because I found myself stopping and trying to find the answers that no one has managed to find yet! A really unique and interesting book, though, I do suggest you check this out guys!
March 3, 2017
**Thank you to the author and Netgalley for sending me an ARC in return for an honest review.
3 stars!!!
This book is really hard for me to rate to be honest with you. Although, the concept is highly original, I found the execution to be rather confusing and heavy at times. Maybe I wasn't the targeted audience for this book. Don't get me wrong, I love philosophical books that pose the big questions in life. But somehow I feel that for a fictional piece of writing, complexity in subject matter can tend to make a book rather dry even though the lessons being taught within the pages are actually worth reading about.
For me, I felt the MC November was rather childish to be honest. Her dialogue was very stilted and lacked conviction. I loved the adventures that the author draws out for her. The way the story was interconnected was beautiful. But November came across as very one dimensional. I didn't enjoy her character at all.
As the book is based on three specific characters and told from their POVs. I found the Architect to be the best character of all. He is a philosophical being but is quite the rebel. I found him to be particularly witty and I liked how he really cares for November. The MC Erica, on the other hand, has lost her best friend in a car crash and most of her parts are written as notes as she is reading about November. However, even though the author draws correlations between all three MCs. I didn't get to know Erica at all. Like who is she. I guess this book was not very character driven but I suppose that was not the intention of the author.
With regards to the minor characters, Klaus would have to be the best. I found him to very engaging yet highly bizarre. But his parts were the most fun while Rebmevon was the creepiest. I found those parts to be quite terrifying but I felt it rather lent balance to the book. As it tried to portray various aspects of life. So that was pretty interesting.
Overall, I would say that this book would probably engage a particular audience. It's quite heavy on subject matter. I wish the author had simplified stuff because the core idea of the book is amazing once you get it. I wouldn't suggest this as a YA novel though it can be read by teens. It's a purely clean read. It's just that there's a lot of info-dumping. Other than that, it was a different kind of read for me.
3 stars!!!
This book is really hard for me to rate to be honest with you. Although, the concept is highly original, I found the execution to be rather confusing and heavy at times. Maybe I wasn't the targeted audience for this book. Don't get me wrong, I love philosophical books that pose the big questions in life. But somehow I feel that for a fictional piece of writing, complexity in subject matter can tend to make a book rather dry even though the lessons being taught within the pages are actually worth reading about.
For me, I felt the MC November was rather childish to be honest. Her dialogue was very stilted and lacked conviction. I loved the adventures that the author draws out for her. The way the story was interconnected was beautiful. But November came across as very one dimensional. I didn't enjoy her character at all.
As the book is based on three specific characters and told from their POVs. I found the Architect to be the best character of all. He is a philosophical being but is quite the rebel. I found him to be particularly witty and I liked how he really cares for November. The MC Erica, on the other hand, has lost her best friend in a car crash and most of her parts are written as notes as she is reading about November. However, even though the author draws correlations between all three MCs. I didn't get to know Erica at all. Like who is she. I guess this book was not very character driven but I suppose that was not the intention of the author.
With regards to the minor characters, Klaus would have to be the best. I found him to very engaging yet highly bizarre. But his parts were the most fun while Rebmevon was the creepiest. I found those parts to be quite terrifying but I felt it rather lent balance to the book. As it tried to portray various aspects of life. So that was pretty interesting.
Overall, I would say that this book would probably engage a particular audience. It's quite heavy on subject matter. I wish the author had simplified stuff because the core idea of the book is amazing once you get it. I wouldn't suggest this as a YA novel though it can be read by teens. It's a purely clean read. It's just that there's a lot of info-dumping. Other than that, it was a different kind of read for me.
June 2, 2019
A rare and unique novel that is amazingly beautiful and enjoyable to read.
The story goes around The Architect, November Fox, and Erica. How The Architect follows the life of November Fox since she was a baby, how Erica will learn the existence of the Architect and the life of November and of course, how November Fox will need to uncover some mysteries that surround the world of Form.
I am telling you that this novel is very uncommon, and reading this will impress you. This book will also let you experience November’s quest by those 39 augmented reality images that can be viewed through an app. I also like how this book gives different yet valuable lessons.
The characters are all well-written. It is like I’m back again inside the world of Alice (from Alice in Wonderland) and the characters here are all lovable! I won’t name them as I might spoil you on how exciting to read this book because of them!
The ending is a blast! This book really makes me think until the end, and I am now looking forward to reading the next book to see how the story will go from there.
Overall, a lovely and entertaining read from E.E. Bertram. I am recommending this book to everyone and if you really want to enjoy reading this, try to see those augmented reality images so you can delve into the world and places that November travels to.
Disclaimer: I received a reader copy from the author.
BLOG POST LINK: http://bit.ly/2fLtOgB
The story goes around The Architect, November Fox, and Erica. How The Architect follows the life of November Fox since she was a baby, how Erica will learn the existence of the Architect and the life of November and of course, how November Fox will need to uncover some mysteries that surround the world of Form.
I am telling you that this novel is very uncommon, and reading this will impress you. This book will also let you experience November’s quest by those 39 augmented reality images that can be viewed through an app. I also like how this book gives different yet valuable lessons.
The characters are all well-written. It is like I’m back again inside the world of Alice (from Alice in Wonderland) and the characters here are all lovable! I won’t name them as I might spoil you on how exciting to read this book because of them!
The ending is a blast! This book really makes me think until the end, and I am now looking forward to reading the next book to see how the story will go from there.
Overall, a lovely and entertaining read from E.E. Bertram. I am recommending this book to everyone and if you really want to enjoy reading this, try to see those augmented reality images so you can delve into the world and places that November travels to.
Disclaimer: I received a reader copy from the author.
BLOG POST LINK: http://bit.ly/2fLtOgB
October 31, 2016
Review also posted at: http://underthebookcover.blogspot.com...
5/5
Thank you to E.E. Bertram for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for review!
I'm not really sure where to begin with this review. This is one of the most unique books that I have ever read, and has left me in a state of absolute fascination and with a very large need for the second book. The waiting game for the sequel is going to be the longest and hardest wait I've had to experience for years, but I know it will be worth it! Follow along as I try to compose all of my thoughts about this masterpiece of a book into a review, or something like a review.
November Fox follows, well, November Fox. She is an orphan turned rock star who one day receives a mysterious box that holds a teleporting cube named Joy. The note that comes with the box states that November has been invited to join the LOTNE, or Leaders of the New Earth, and that she is an Official Keeper of the Cube. Supposedly, November is part of a select few that have the key to unlock the mysteries of Form and has to pass Level One of the initiation in order to become part of the Collective. When she opens the box, a cube similar to a Rubik's Cube shoots out and so begins an adventure through time and space that is unlike any other. Outside of November's story, we have The Architect, a being that has been watching November since she was a baby. He's not human, but rather a philosophical being that has created our World of Form. Finally, outside of both November and The Architect, we follow Erica, a grieving teacher and writer from London who has discovered a mysterious letter in a bottle that washed up on Brighton Beach. The letter turns out to be from The Architect, and is about his journey watching November's journey through various realities. As she reads each page of the letter, more pages appear, and she soon finds herself wrapped up in the story of November just as The Architect has been since November was a baby.
This is without a doubt the most unique and amazing book that I have read in many years. Not only does this book take you on a journey through time and space, but you also get to experience some of the things that November experiences with 39 amazing augmented reality illustrations. I've never seen a book include anything like this in a book, so that was definitely a fun little treat that the author included to really allow the reader to dive deeper into the worlds that November travels to. Not only that, but there is also music by November and her band that accompanies the book! It's such an incredible addition and it's clear that the author has gone to great lengths to bring this world to life in more ways than just a book. E.E. Bertram is not only an author, but also a musician, and it's amazing to see what happens when you combine multiple medias to create something entirely new. The second I read the line “Things aren’t always as they seem, do we wake or do we dream?” in the synopsis, I knew that I was in for a treat. I just didn't know how fast I would fall in love with everything about November and her world!
November was such a multi-layered character, just like this book! She grew up in an orphanage and discovered at a young age that she was able to sing very well. When she got older, she became a singer in a band that, at the point in the book where the reader comes in, is on the last date of their year long world tour. She carries a lot of emotions with her, and constantly has to remind herself to "get it together, Fox." With the past trauma of being abandoned as a baby, and the awful thing that happened when she was at the orphanage (spoilers, you'll have to read the book to find out!), she hasn't had the easiest life. But when the mysterious cube shows up at her door, everything changes. She makes a new friend named Klaus, who she becomes instantly attached to, and travels to different dimensions learning things about herself and the world that will soon help her to change things for the better. November grows so much from the beginning to the end and it's one of my favorite character developments that I've read about. When she first begins her journey, she's very cautious and afraid, but determined to figure out just what she's gotten into. Once she meets Klaus, she is excited to have a friend but is also terrified to be left alone again. As she progresses through the story, she gains more confidence in herself and what she is meant to do, and once she reaches the end, she is almost a completely different person. She's stronger, more aware of the world around her, and wants to help shape the future into something good using all of the knowledge that she gained on her travels.
As Klaus would say, "details are mattering." November Fox is filled with beautiful and descriptive writing that allows for an incredibly remarkable reading experience. Even if you don't use the Layar app to look at the augmented reality photos that are spread throughout the book, the writing alone is enough to keep you engaged and provide you with a one-of-a-kind story that is unlike any you will encounter. It's difficult to explain just how fascinating the story of November is, so to help give you an idea of just how magnificent the writing is, take a look at some of my favorite quotes from the book!
"She sensed her curious inner pixie winning over her innate cautiousness. When this inquisitive elf comes out, she experiences a sublime break from her enforced self-control. For better or for worse, she wears it like armour to protect her true essence as a free-flying spirit."
"The sweeter you can make the music of your soul sing, the more harmony you will find within your environment. But you must tune your instrument!"
"You realise that giving things titles could stop you looking beyond the branding to the full reality."
"Things aren't always as they seem, do we wake or do we dream? Are we dreaming life or living the dream?"
Not only is this book full of exceptional and comprehensive writing, but it also makes you think. With all of the different realities that November travels to, and the lessons that she learns, it opens the door for some very out of the box thinking from the reader. Not only are you reading November's story, but you're also reading about The Architect who is from an entirely different reality and is constantly thinking about how he could be connected to November's world despite not being in her world. There are several instances where The Architect tries to help November and communicate with her in his own way, and things happen in November's world that he believes he caused. One of my favorite quotes from The Architect is, "What if I only live because November does? And is it possible she only exists because I do? Does my observation of her summon her into reality?" This is a quote that really made me think about the possibility of other worlds, and how they are all connected. Throughout November Fox, you will encounter a multitude of quotes and thoughts that prompt the reader to think about more than just the space around them and the world they live in. Do the smallest of actions (such as a butterfly flapping its wings) really have a larger impact (the flapping of the wings of the butterfly causes a tornado) on the future, like the Butterfly Effect suggests? With each new character that November meets, a new idea and way of thinking is introduced. Not only are you reading about November and her travels, but also how she impacts people (or rather a philosophical being in regards to The Architect) that she's never met as well as the world around her. This book introduces so many extraordinary ideas that I never expected to encounter in my reading, and it's such an incomparable adventure that is sure to be raved about for years to come.
November Fox is a story unlike any that has ever been released. It involves multiple media elements which allows for a reading experience that is deeper and more involved than a large majority of the books that are released. With charming characters that you're sure to fall in love with, writing that will draw you in and leave you breathless, and a story that takes a step outside of the norm to explore the unknown, November Fox is an instant hit for fans of all ages. Be sure to pick it up when it releases on 01 November 2016!
5/5
Thank you to E.E. Bertram for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for review!
I'm not really sure where to begin with this review. This is one of the most unique books that I have ever read, and has left me in a state of absolute fascination and with a very large need for the second book. The waiting game for the sequel is going to be the longest and hardest wait I've had to experience for years, but I know it will be worth it! Follow along as I try to compose all of my thoughts about this masterpiece of a book into a review, or something like a review.
November Fox follows, well, November Fox. She is an orphan turned rock star who one day receives a mysterious box that holds a teleporting cube named Joy. The note that comes with the box states that November has been invited to join the LOTNE, or Leaders of the New Earth, and that she is an Official Keeper of the Cube. Supposedly, November is part of a select few that have the key to unlock the mysteries of Form and has to pass Level One of the initiation in order to become part of the Collective. When she opens the box, a cube similar to a Rubik's Cube shoots out and so begins an adventure through time and space that is unlike any other. Outside of November's story, we have The Architect, a being that has been watching November since she was a baby. He's not human, but rather a philosophical being that has created our World of Form. Finally, outside of both November and The Architect, we follow Erica, a grieving teacher and writer from London who has discovered a mysterious letter in a bottle that washed up on Brighton Beach. The letter turns out to be from The Architect, and is about his journey watching November's journey through various realities. As she reads each page of the letter, more pages appear, and she soon finds herself wrapped up in the story of November just as The Architect has been since November was a baby.
This is without a doubt the most unique and amazing book that I have read in many years. Not only does this book take you on a journey through time and space, but you also get to experience some of the things that November experiences with 39 amazing augmented reality illustrations. I've never seen a book include anything like this in a book, so that was definitely a fun little treat that the author included to really allow the reader to dive deeper into the worlds that November travels to. Not only that, but there is also music by November and her band that accompanies the book! It's such an incredible addition and it's clear that the author has gone to great lengths to bring this world to life in more ways than just a book. E.E. Bertram is not only an author, but also a musician, and it's amazing to see what happens when you combine multiple medias to create something entirely new. The second I read the line “Things aren’t always as they seem, do we wake or do we dream?” in the synopsis, I knew that I was in for a treat. I just didn't know how fast I would fall in love with everything about November and her world!
November was such a multi-layered character, just like this book! She grew up in an orphanage and discovered at a young age that she was able to sing very well. When she got older, she became a singer in a band that, at the point in the book where the reader comes in, is on the last date of their year long world tour. She carries a lot of emotions with her, and constantly has to remind herself to "get it together, Fox." With the past trauma of being abandoned as a baby, and the awful thing that happened when she was at the orphanage (spoilers, you'll have to read the book to find out!), she hasn't had the easiest life. But when the mysterious cube shows up at her door, everything changes. She makes a new friend named Klaus, who she becomes instantly attached to, and travels to different dimensions learning things about herself and the world that will soon help her to change things for the better. November grows so much from the beginning to the end and it's one of my favorite character developments that I've read about. When she first begins her journey, she's very cautious and afraid, but determined to figure out just what she's gotten into. Once she meets Klaus, she is excited to have a friend but is also terrified to be left alone again. As she progresses through the story, she gains more confidence in herself and what she is meant to do, and once she reaches the end, she is almost a completely different person. She's stronger, more aware of the world around her, and wants to help shape the future into something good using all of the knowledge that she gained on her travels.
As Klaus would say, "details are mattering." November Fox is filled with beautiful and descriptive writing that allows for an incredibly remarkable reading experience. Even if you don't use the Layar app to look at the augmented reality photos that are spread throughout the book, the writing alone is enough to keep you engaged and provide you with a one-of-a-kind story that is unlike any you will encounter. It's difficult to explain just how fascinating the story of November is, so to help give you an idea of just how magnificent the writing is, take a look at some of my favorite quotes from the book!
"She sensed her curious inner pixie winning over her innate cautiousness. When this inquisitive elf comes out, she experiences a sublime break from her enforced self-control. For better or for worse, she wears it like armour to protect her true essence as a free-flying spirit."
"The sweeter you can make the music of your soul sing, the more harmony you will find within your environment. But you must tune your instrument!"
"You realise that giving things titles could stop you looking beyond the branding to the full reality."
"Things aren't always as they seem, do we wake or do we dream? Are we dreaming life or living the dream?"
Not only is this book full of exceptional and comprehensive writing, but it also makes you think. With all of the different realities that November travels to, and the lessons that she learns, it opens the door for some very out of the box thinking from the reader. Not only are you reading November's story, but you're also reading about The Architect who is from an entirely different reality and is constantly thinking about how he could be connected to November's world despite not being in her world. There are several instances where The Architect tries to help November and communicate with her in his own way, and things happen in November's world that he believes he caused. One of my favorite quotes from The Architect is, "What if I only live because November does? And is it possible she only exists because I do? Does my observation of her summon her into reality?" This is a quote that really made me think about the possibility of other worlds, and how they are all connected. Throughout November Fox, you will encounter a multitude of quotes and thoughts that prompt the reader to think about more than just the space around them and the world they live in. Do the smallest of actions (such as a butterfly flapping its wings) really have a larger impact (the flapping of the wings of the butterfly causes a tornado) on the future, like the Butterfly Effect suggests? With each new character that November meets, a new idea and way of thinking is introduced. Not only are you reading about November and her travels, but also how she impacts people (or rather a philosophical being in regards to The Architect) that she's never met as well as the world around her. This book introduces so many extraordinary ideas that I never expected to encounter in my reading, and it's such an incomparable adventure that is sure to be raved about for years to come.
November Fox is a story unlike any that has ever been released. It involves multiple media elements which allows for a reading experience that is deeper and more involved than a large majority of the books that are released. With charming characters that you're sure to fall in love with, writing that will draw you in and leave you breathless, and a story that takes a step outside of the norm to explore the unknown, November Fox is an instant hit for fans of all ages. Be sure to pick it up when it releases on 01 November 2016!
November 6, 2016
A wonderful read. Beautifully planned and presented.
I have read the just released and wonderful November Fox, Book 1, Following Joy, A Metaphysical Visionary Tale. I loved the main character November Fox who was an orphan, is now a vegan pop star, and may be destined to be one of the future leaders of Earth.
The book is very interesting, unusual and has been crafted with great care. I liked the balance of metaphysical philosophy and progression through the challenges that November faced. The different layers to the story are fascinating. There is also a nice addition of augmented reality images, which are viewed with an App. The illustrations themselves, without the augmentation, are beautifully created.
The challenges that November faces are in an alternate Alice in Wonderland like reality. November is likeable, strong and humble. She is following her destiny and meeting the Level One challenges presented to her by the mysterious Cube Maker. This aspect of the book is amusing and very visual. November is forced to progress, faces danger, meets great companions, and learns about her past and future. I loved November’s friend Klaus, who is loyal and very focused, but frustratingly for November disappears often at inconvenient times.
The vegan theme is subtle but is a nice element of November’s character. I did like that vegan cake was mentioned regularly. And it was interesting that November just assumed that everyone else could also hear what animals were saying. This theme was blended perfectly with the principles of focusing on the present, and living a good and heroic life. The discussion of the future for the planet and of agelessness is important, and part of November’s destiny.
The story is also told in layers and from different perspectives. November is observed with fascination by The Architect, who is in a different dimension and who desperately wants to visit November. The third layer is that The Architect is telling the story about himself and November to Erica, who may be in November’s time and place.
I enjoyed the book very much. I loved the spiritual nature of November’s life, the soft vegan element, the interesting discussion about our future, the characters, and the brilliant fantasy, science fiction scenes. Anyone would enjoy this book. It is beautifully planned and presented. We will all be waiting anxiously for the sequel.
I have read the just released and wonderful November Fox, Book 1, Following Joy, A Metaphysical Visionary Tale. I loved the main character November Fox who was an orphan, is now a vegan pop star, and may be destined to be one of the future leaders of Earth.
The book is very interesting, unusual and has been crafted with great care. I liked the balance of metaphysical philosophy and progression through the challenges that November faced. The different layers to the story are fascinating. There is also a nice addition of augmented reality images, which are viewed with an App. The illustrations themselves, without the augmentation, are beautifully created.
The challenges that November faces are in an alternate Alice in Wonderland like reality. November is likeable, strong and humble. She is following her destiny and meeting the Level One challenges presented to her by the mysterious Cube Maker. This aspect of the book is amusing and very visual. November is forced to progress, faces danger, meets great companions, and learns about her past and future. I loved November’s friend Klaus, who is loyal and very focused, but frustratingly for November disappears often at inconvenient times.
The vegan theme is subtle but is a nice element of November’s character. I did like that vegan cake was mentioned regularly. And it was interesting that November just assumed that everyone else could also hear what animals were saying. This theme was blended perfectly with the principles of focusing on the present, and living a good and heroic life. The discussion of the future for the planet and of agelessness is important, and part of November’s destiny.
The story is also told in layers and from different perspectives. November is observed with fascination by The Architect, who is in a different dimension and who desperately wants to visit November. The third layer is that The Architect is telling the story about himself and November to Erica, who may be in November’s time and place.
I enjoyed the book very much. I loved the spiritual nature of November’s life, the soft vegan element, the interesting discussion about our future, the characters, and the brilliant fantasy, science fiction scenes. Anyone would enjoy this book. It is beautifully planned and presented. We will all be waiting anxiously for the sequel.
December 2, 2016
This was quite the adventure of a book. I wasn't quite sure what I was getting into when I agreed to be a part of the virtual book tour as a reviewer. This book was definitely out of my comfort zone. You know what, though? I am so happy I decided to take that step and read this beautiful book. November Fox will take you through many dimensions and on a magic carpet ride (quite literally). Enjoy this book in all its wonderfulness because it is the kind of book that every individual will have vastly different experiences with. Diving into this book head first is worth it. I hope you enjoy the journey as much as I did.
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to the author for providing a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2017
First of all thank you E.E. Bertram for the review copy. This has to be one of the most unusual and yet fascinating books I have ever read. AR is something that I am aware of but don't think about all too often. In this book it plays a main role in helping the reader immerse themselves into the story. It's very hard to explain what goes on in the story without giving a lot away (and I'm generally a spoiler free reviewer) so just know that when people say this is similar to The Matrix know they are telling the truth. It's almost mind altering at times as you think you know whats going on then the whole thing gets turned upside down.
November 14, 2018
This audiobook was a pleasure to listen to, so many interesting concepts!
It's unlike most things I've ever read, I was totally captivated by it.
Great story, fun to listen to, great narration.
What a treat!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
It's unlike most things I've ever read, I was totally captivated by it.
Great story, fun to listen to, great narration.
What a treat!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
June 9, 2018
NOVEMBER FOX by E.E. Bertram
4 STARS
A mystical, visionary fable with whimsical elements and humor. This story is chock full with interesting characters and an entertaining read that involves travels to other worlds on different levels and times, and weaved with imaginative connectivity between worlds that exist in differing quantum realities.
4 STARS
A mystical, visionary fable with whimsical elements and humor. This story is chock full with interesting characters and an entertaining read that involves travels to other worlds on different levels and times, and weaved with imaginative connectivity between worlds that exist in differing quantum realities.
October 15, 2016
Review coming November 1st 2016
Read
December 22, 2016You can read my full review here:
http://www.sholee.net/2016/12/mpov-no...
http://www.sholee.net/2016/12/mpov-no...
June 29, 2017
While I was really intrigued in the story of this book, I felt that the writing and character development just held this book back from being great. ‘November Fox’ follows a music star ‘November’ as she receives a mystical cube form the ‘Cube Maker’ and goes on a fantasy journey as she explores her purpose in life and the importance of love and relationships in our lives. We see Novembers story through the narration of ‘The Architect’ in the form of letters he has written and sent to our world, ‘The World of Form’ from his dimension/universe. We also get little insights from Erica, a human on Earth who stumbles upon these letters and goes on her own journey of discovery and meaning.
This book has a sort of ‘Alice in Wonderland’ feeling as November is thrown into magical and strange worlds. She makes a friend early on, Klaus a talking German elephant, and meets a number of characters throughout her journey to ‘activate’ the Cube. I was actually really intrigued in the plot, and that was the main reason I kept reading. I wanted to find out what happened to November, what the meaning of the cube is, and how everything tied together. The ending was a little anti-climactic, but it really set up for a sequel.
I also enjoyed the messages that are share throughout the book. Each location November visits explores something new about herself and life- about heart, mind, soul, purpose and love. I though the small ways each of these lessons were woven into the book was very cute, even if the dialogue at many times was very stilted and forced. I wish Novembers character was a little more organic, and with more development some of her dialogue and actions would not feel so forced.
While there were some great things about the book, overall I felt the writing and characterization let down the really unique plot, interesting narrator and strong messages. The dialogue and phrasing, as I mentioned before, felt very forced and November’s character as a whole spoke and acted younger then her age. At times I got lost in the rambling sentences and large amounts of philosophical dialogue that just did not feel like it fit in to the scene. Klaus, while endearing, just annoyed me at some times with his dialogue and childish nature-though he is a small talking elephant, so that could be expected.
Overall I enjoyed the story and the concept behind the book, especially the little philosophical discussions and messages laced throughout. However, the writing and dialogue made it hard to fully enjoy and appreciate the book as a whole, and with a little more development of the characters I think it could be an interesting series.
This book also had the option to download an app and scan images in the book to view some augmented reality items, listen to some music and watch some short videos that compliments the book. I used it once or twice, and while it is a really cool feature, it was sometimes hard to use and I felt fine reading the book without it.
This book has a sort of ‘Alice in Wonderland’ feeling as November is thrown into magical and strange worlds. She makes a friend early on, Klaus a talking German elephant, and meets a number of characters throughout her journey to ‘activate’ the Cube. I was actually really intrigued in the plot, and that was the main reason I kept reading. I wanted to find out what happened to November, what the meaning of the cube is, and how everything tied together. The ending was a little anti-climactic, but it really set up for a sequel.
I also enjoyed the messages that are share throughout the book. Each location November visits explores something new about herself and life- about heart, mind, soul, purpose and love. I though the small ways each of these lessons were woven into the book was very cute, even if the dialogue at many times was very stilted and forced. I wish Novembers character was a little more organic, and with more development some of her dialogue and actions would not feel so forced.
While there were some great things about the book, overall I felt the writing and characterization let down the really unique plot, interesting narrator and strong messages. The dialogue and phrasing, as I mentioned before, felt very forced and November’s character as a whole spoke and acted younger then her age. At times I got lost in the rambling sentences and large amounts of philosophical dialogue that just did not feel like it fit in to the scene. Klaus, while endearing, just annoyed me at some times with his dialogue and childish nature-though he is a small talking elephant, so that could be expected.
Overall I enjoyed the story and the concept behind the book, especially the little philosophical discussions and messages laced throughout. However, the writing and dialogue made it hard to fully enjoy and appreciate the book as a whole, and with a little more development of the characters I think it could be an interesting series.
This book also had the option to download an app and scan images in the book to view some augmented reality items, listen to some music and watch some short videos that compliments the book. I used it once or twice, and while it is a really cool feature, it was sometimes hard to use and I felt fine reading the book without it.
March 15, 2018
Alice in wonderland is one of the hardest formats to pull off.
So this book just rips it instead.
You follow a character named November (red flag already) who's in her late twenties yet acts 9. Falls through the metaphoric rabbit hole and follows a pink elephant around because "he's late, he's late. Is there cake?"
They shift from one world / dimension / to the next just soAlice November can have an exposition dump with one character. Just one. Each time. All this hoping around just so one character can act as a mouth piece for some philosophical non-sense. Before going to the next dimension and doing the same.
here is the problem, The whole Philosophical view point is.... nothing. No that's just it, this is a book about nothing.
At one point a character tells you to stand infront of a mirror and tell him who you are. Don't use your name or what you spend your tick-tocks on. So who are you?
By the way, the tick-tock thing and the cake screeching elephant? Those are the only evidence of whimsy in this tale. They feel so tacked on it's ridiculous.
I'm rating this down because it's classified under Sci-fi and fantasy. It's neither, the Alice in wonderland story is used to thinly vial a philosophical debt that all characters actually agree on so there is no progression of an idea, no opposition, no story even.
I expect to see similar views in Sci-fi books from the 60s not in 2018. Even then there was an attempt to build a story or have likable characters if only to keep the reader interested. None of that is attempted here.
You are reading a story, from the point of view of someone that found a diary randomly somewhere, detailing things from Alice's stalker. So a photocopy, of a photocopy of a photocopy and just as bleached.
So this book just rips it instead.
You follow a character named November (red flag already) who's in her late twenties yet acts 9. Falls through the metaphoric rabbit hole and follows a pink elephant around because "he's late, he's late. Is there cake?"
They shift from one world / dimension / to the next just so
here is the problem, The whole Philosophical view point is.... nothing. No that's just it, this is a book about nothing.
At one point a character tells you to stand infront of a mirror and tell him who you are. Don't use your name or what you spend your tick-tocks on. So who are you?
By the way, the tick-tock thing and the cake screeching elephant? Those are the only evidence of whimsy in this tale. They feel so tacked on it's ridiculous.
I'm rating this down because it's classified under Sci-fi and fantasy. It's neither, the Alice in wonderland story is used to thinly vial a philosophical debt that all characters actually agree on so there is no progression of an idea, no opposition, no story even.
I expect to see similar views in Sci-fi books from the 60s not in 2018. Even then there was an attempt to build a story or have likable characters if only to keep the reader interested. None of that is attempted here.
You are reading a story, from the point of view of someone that found a diary randomly somewhere, detailing things from Alice's stalker. So a photocopy, of a photocopy of a photocopy and just as bleached.
February 2, 2017
This novel was both interesting and weird on many levels, though thankfully most were entertaining. The philosophical ramblings tend to be too much once in a while, but basically it’s an enjoyable ride as we follow a young female rock star through many worlds and even time, all the while searching for some kind of enlightenment, semi-guided by a floating Rubik’s Cube that makes the subtitle literal.
November—thankfully we find out about the name early—turns out to be a happy loopy girl, the kind who says good morning to the furniture and singsongs to herself about everything she sees. On her travels she meets an elephant who speaks in a German accent and only wants cake. This guy is a hoot! Inspired characterization. At one point Captain Picard of Star Trek makes a cameo, and the Borg are mentioned, which makes November the nerdiest rock star ever.
I found it weird that there was an omnipresent voyeur narrating what’s going on with the protagonist. This narrator is even stranger than November, and talks—writes—way too cutesy and mannered. There’s a strange fascination with time, which here is called tick-tock, or cake time, depending on the character. By the end I was thinking I liked November’s story and Erica’s notes much more than the Architect’s philosophical ramblings, and could have done without them.
There was also a promise of music and/or video which could be accessed via an app, but even though there was animation at some points it didn’t work as promised.
Most importantly, November—the character—was so enjoyable. Her story could have been told just as well without the frames, but obviously that’s not what the author wanted.
November—thankfully we find out about the name early—turns out to be a happy loopy girl, the kind who says good morning to the furniture and singsongs to herself about everything she sees. On her travels she meets an elephant who speaks in a German accent and only wants cake. This guy is a hoot! Inspired characterization. At one point Captain Picard of Star Trek makes a cameo, and the Borg are mentioned, which makes November the nerdiest rock star ever.
I found it weird that there was an omnipresent voyeur narrating what’s going on with the protagonist. This narrator is even stranger than November, and talks—writes—way too cutesy and mannered. There’s a strange fascination with time, which here is called tick-tock, or cake time, depending on the character. By the end I was thinking I liked November’s story and Erica’s notes much more than the Architect’s philosophical ramblings, and could have done without them.
There was also a promise of music and/or video which could be accessed via an app, but even though there was animation at some points it didn’t work as promised.
Most importantly, November—the character—was so enjoyable. Her story could have been told just as well without the frames, but obviously that’s not what the author wanted.
October 22, 2018
I'm not sure that I really loved this book, and I'm not sure that I don't, but I certainly found myself captivated by it. This was in part due to James Abbott's storytelling prowess... he was Awesomesauce on toast!
I'd noticed that in several of the reviews that I've read, people are saying that it is reminiscent of "Alice in Wonderland" but since I haven't read that book (Yeah,yeah... I know... sheesh!) I felt that I would be stepping into the book with a fresh perspective. I found it to be totally unique, surreal, and unpredictable. Another reason to like this book is Klaus... and the 3 facts that he knows (he is just Friggin' adorable [and that reminds me, I want cake!]) Get the book and you'll know what I mean... better yet, get the audio version, and be captured by it's spell!
Story 3.5/5 ☆ Performance 5/5 ☆
I'd noticed that in several of the reviews that I've read, people are saying that it is reminiscent of "Alice in Wonderland" but since I haven't read that book (Yeah,yeah... I know... sheesh!) I felt that I would be stepping into the book with a fresh perspective. I found it to be totally unique, surreal, and unpredictable. Another reason to like this book is Klaus... and the 3 facts that he knows (he is just Friggin' adorable [and that reminds me, I want cake!]) Get the book and you'll know what I mean... better yet, get the audio version, and be captured by it's spell!
Story 3.5/5 ☆ Performance 5/5 ☆
December 6, 2018
I received this book for free but the opinion is mine. This was definitely a very interesting and intriguing story. Lots of fantasy elements that are used in a completely different way which is what makes this story very different from most. Definitely makes you think about life in a different way. 4.5 stars as there was a few sort of confusing parts but an overall awesome read.
January 20, 2022
It was a lovely amalgamation of The Law of Attraction and the Secret with a strong evocation of Terry Pratchett's Discworld - Thief of Time in style and content. Made me smile and wonder and admire the playful, wise teachings that emerged from its pages. Enjoyed it thoroughly and will be purchasing the next installment.
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