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The Valiant Chronicles #0.5
Earthbound
What if you could attend your own funeral?
Jayden McQueen’s day begins when she wakes up dead. But that’s the least of her worries. Turns out, she’s a murder victim, and nobody knows it but her.
Who killed her? Why? How?
In her quest to find answers, Jayden sets in motion events that propel humanity towards a future already written. But just because events appear inevitable doesn't mean you shouldn't fight them. Does it?
While a work of fiction, Earthbound explores concepts drawn from a variety of teachings, including those of Doreen Virtue, Ph.D., whose courses the author attended in Kona, Hawaii in 2008 and 2010; the author's education in parapsychic science and parapsychology; and research she did for her master's thesis on the after-effects of near-death experience.
Jayden McQueen’s day begins when she wakes up dead. But that’s the least of her worries. Turns out, she’s a murder victim, and nobody knows it but her.
Who killed her? Why? How?
In her quest to find answers, Jayden sets in motion events that propel humanity towards a future already written. But just because events appear inevitable doesn't mean you shouldn't fight them. Does it?
While a work of fiction, Earthbound explores concepts drawn from a variety of teachings, including those of Doreen Virtue, Ph.D., whose courses the author attended in Kona, Hawaii in 2008 and 2010; the author's education in parapsychic science and parapsychology; and research she did for her master's thesis on the after-effects of near-death experience.
208 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 17, 2017
33 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
February 11, 2018
I read the preview first and then bought this book after deciding I was going to like it. However, as I progressed further on than the initial five chapters, it began to change, at least the story moved beyond the scope of what I thought it was going to be about; it got better.
It is a great adventure story which draws you in and introduces the reader to parapsychology ideas in such a way as not to conflict with any inherent beliefs. It simply didn't matter to me that the author's view of afterlife differs from my own; I still loved it. I loved how complex social & psychological constructs were simply explained, such as frenemies, giving the story a real lived in feeling.
Although written in first person point of view, its great narrative description helps free the story from the usual constraints this POV offers. There is no need to explain what other characters are thinking because they are animated by their actions as well as by dialogue. Good grammar throughout dares to not always conform to the holy book of Chicago manual of style, making it pleasantly easy to read with an excellent flow. Here's an example:
— He stroked a hand down my arm, clasping me by the wrist when he reached it. "Honey, the things you're thinking, the impulses compelling you to act, they're understandable." I waited, the big, fat "but" hanging in the air as if he had already said it.
Earthbound is a prequel to a book series and hopefully, they are equally as good as this book.
It is a great adventure story which draws you in and introduces the reader to parapsychology ideas in such a way as not to conflict with any inherent beliefs. It simply didn't matter to me that the author's view of afterlife differs from my own; I still loved it. I loved how complex social & psychological constructs were simply explained, such as frenemies, giving the story a real lived in feeling.
Although written in first person point of view, its great narrative description helps free the story from the usual constraints this POV offers. There is no need to explain what other characters are thinking because they are animated by their actions as well as by dialogue. Good grammar throughout dares to not always conform to the holy book of Chicago manual of style, making it pleasantly easy to read with an excellent flow. Here's an example:
— He stroked a hand down my arm, clasping me by the wrist when he reached it. "Honey, the things you're thinking, the impulses compelling you to act, they're understandable." I waited, the big, fat "but" hanging in the air as if he had already said it.
Earthbound is a prequel to a book series and hopefully, they are equally as good as this book.
July 18, 2017
A story of the afterlife that was sad, funny, tense and unpredictable. The author was able to make all the characters – both the living and dead ones – believable and interesting, and their interactions were very well written. Daniel was one of my favourites. I particularly liked the way the author portrayed Jayden’s continuing need to put her children first and her frustration at not being able to do it in a physical form.
It is obvious the author researched a lot of material on the afterlife and incorporated different aspects of it to make a great story. I liked the concept that even after we die, we make our own decisions about the route our new journey will take.
I loved the ending and I am looking forward to reading the sequel.
It is obvious the author researched a lot of material on the afterlife and incorporated different aspects of it to make a great story. I liked the concept that even after we die, we make our own decisions about the route our new journey will take.
I loved the ending and I am looking forward to reading the sequel.
July 24, 2017
Love, determination, acceptance, and letting go . . .
Some of us often wonder about the road we’ll take into the afterlife, hoping to see loved ones, friends, and pets that have passed on. But do we ever consider the emotional struggle of choosing between transitioning to the next stage and leaving our families behind?
Worried about her son and daughter getting through the days alone, a dead woman refuses to cut her earthly ties. Concern soon turns to desperation when she discovers she was murdered, and that her children, and a co-worker, may be next on the killer’s list. With the sometimes-reluctant help of a deceased relative, who remains earthbound for reasons of his own, she finds herself in a war against time to stop the lethal threat.
Heartwarming moments, sad moments, frustrations, and even a bit of humor make up this unique mystery told from the dead’s point of view. Earthbound by Val Tobin will give you a pondering look into the soul—the core of who and what we are that continues long after the body ceases to exist. A wonderful story of love, determination, acceptance, and letting go. Well worth your time to read this one.
Some of us often wonder about the road we’ll take into the afterlife, hoping to see loved ones, friends, and pets that have passed on. But do we ever consider the emotional struggle of choosing between transitioning to the next stage and leaving our families behind?
Worried about her son and daughter getting through the days alone, a dead woman refuses to cut her earthly ties. Concern soon turns to desperation when she discovers she was murdered, and that her children, and a co-worker, may be next on the killer’s list. With the sometimes-reluctant help of a deceased relative, who remains earthbound for reasons of his own, she finds herself in a war against time to stop the lethal threat.
Heartwarming moments, sad moments, frustrations, and even a bit of humor make up this unique mystery told from the dead’s point of view. Earthbound by Val Tobin will give you a pondering look into the soul—the core of who and what we are that continues long after the body ceases to exist. A wonderful story of love, determination, acceptance, and letting go. Well worth your time to read this one.
May 22, 2017
Not what I expected
When I started this book, I want expecting the path it went down. But it worked so well.
Jayden McQueen woke up dead and after refusing to leave her family, she becomes earthbound. But she soon finds out that she didn't just die, she was murdered........here's where it doesn't go the way you think it would.
I got totally sucked in with this book, the characters, the unexpected storyline, everything about this book, makes you want to read on.
When I started this book, I want expecting the path it went down. But it worked so well.
Jayden McQueen woke up dead and after refusing to leave her family, she becomes earthbound. But she soon finds out that she didn't just die, she was murdered........here's where it doesn't go the way you think it would.
I got totally sucked in with this book, the characters, the unexpected storyline, everything about this book, makes you want to read on.
May 28, 2020
Sometimes the title of a book hits the nail on the head. This one does exactly what it says on the tin. Having survived an episode where my old ticker stopped, I recognised something in this straightaway as my anxiety at the light approached, was very much for my family not for myself. I believe that not only has Val Tobin told a wonderful story here, but she must have some inside knowledge because this reads and rings true to me. If you've seen the movie Ghost, there is a not unfamiliar plot in a way but it is not deeper a connection than a reference point for me to explain the book without giving away the clever and original story that unfolds. Superb story, an easy 5 stars for me. Get it today and you wont be disappointed.
June 15, 2017
Read through KU.
Jayden MacQueen finds herself dead and at her own funeral, watching her family grieve. Able to 'hear' their thoughts, she not only finds out her daughter's secret, and her son's physic talents, but realises she has been murdered. Trapped between the worlds, she meets a family member and she investigates why an innocent housewife was killed,
A very well-written, detailed, and researched book about the afterlife, which is bound to raise questions in your own ideas.
Would highly recommend this book.
I loved the book cover, too!
Jayden MacQueen finds herself dead and at her own funeral, watching her family grieve. Able to 'hear' their thoughts, she not only finds out her daughter's secret, and her son's physic talents, but realises she has been murdered. Trapped between the worlds, she meets a family member and she investigates why an innocent housewife was killed,
A very well-written, detailed, and researched book about the afterlife, which is bound to raise questions in your own ideas.
Would highly recommend this book.
I loved the book cover, too!
May 19, 2017
Imagine you have died and find out you were murdered. Also, as one of the first steps in the afterlife you are sent back to the living world to witness your funeral, after which a tunnel will open up and you will pass through forever into your new existence, but, if you decide not to pass through you are forever bound to roam the earth - the downside being you will witness all those you love die and will never be able to join them on the other side. A lot of vibrations, after life philosophies, love of family, and a lost soul, all wrapped around a murder mystery. One aspect I really enjoyed in the story is the tongue in cheak humor hidden nicely behind the seriousness of the crime. A unique and enjoyable read that is more than your normal ghost story - depth - a great read for believers in the paranormal.
May 29, 2020
A prequel by its nature is intended to not only create interest in what happened earlier but also to effectively ‘fill in the blanks’ for a reader who has read the original ‘main’ story or series. Having read and thoroughly enjoyed The Valiant Chronicles series I can testify that this prequel steps up to the plate and does its job.
Not being a religious person I’m open to peculiar theories, and generally being entertained when it comes to the supernatural, aliens and UFOs. Technology is highlighted in some scenes but done in a way which carries the reader along rather than causing confusion. The author is eminently qualified to cover all of the topics in this story and her in-depth knowledge shines through in the confident explanations of each situation.
Characterisation and imagery are excellent. It’s been some time since I read the ‘main’ stories but when the introduction of the original characters occurred here it was done comprehensively and with subtlety. I was impressed that in just a few sentences I was transported back to the situation in the first of The Valiant Chronicles.
Not being a religious person I’m open to peculiar theories, and generally being entertained when it comes to the supernatural, aliens and UFOs. Technology is highlighted in some scenes but done in a way which carries the reader along rather than causing confusion. The author is eminently qualified to cover all of the topics in this story and her in-depth knowledge shines through in the confident explanations of each situation.
Characterisation and imagery are excellent. It’s been some time since I read the ‘main’ stories but when the introduction of the original characters occurred here it was done comprehensively and with subtlety. I was impressed that in just a few sentences I was transported back to the situation in the first of The Valiant Chronicles.
August 10, 2021
Of course we are not to know until we too shuffle off this mortal coil, but Val Tobin has created an intriguing perspective for the afterlife, in particular that space between this plane and the next, written with very plausible aplomb. I easily got tangled within the possibility and found myself wanting this plateau of existence to be true; such a dimension would be a real blast. Val’s eloquent writing style is captivating, elevating, humorous at times and meticulously researched. As a prequel to the Valiant Chronicles, Earthbound is the essential set-up for the next two instalments. If you are a fan of the paranormal, or just enjoy a good mystery thriller, I urge you to buy this book and indeed the series that follows.
July 5, 2019
I enjoyed this book so much I read it in a day, not wanting to put it down.
The characters feel real, and scenes will bring tears to your eyes, especially if you've ever been in similar situations. When you think you know exactly where the story is going, the author fools you and adds a new dimension to it.
Besides the story and characters themselves, the book has scenes dealing with parapsychology (I hope that's the right term) that intrigued me: auras, channeling, and more. It also gives you an interesting perspective on the afterlife that doesn't "bash" any one belief, but works them together into a plausible reality.
The characters feel real, and scenes will bring tears to your eyes, especially if you've ever been in similar situations. When you think you know exactly where the story is going, the author fools you and adds a new dimension to it.
Besides the story and characters themselves, the book has scenes dealing with parapsychology (I hope that's the right term) that intrigued me: auras, channeling, and more. It also gives you an interesting perspective on the afterlife that doesn't "bash" any one belief, but works them together into a plausible reality.
Read
August 26, 2021Who Says You Can't Go Home
The spirit of a dead woman remains earthbound after she learns she was murdered and her teen daughter is pregnant. Aided by another earthbound spirit she becomes involved in an investigation involving secretive government agencies, UFO fanatics and co-workers with competing agendas. But while a spirit may be bulletproof they still can be hurt.
The second half of this book is better than the first. The beginning is weighed down with too much snark. Once she gets investigating it becomes better. Wasn't keen on the sci fi aspects, i.e., aliens, murder by Tesla death ray, but it is fairly entertaining.
The spirit of a dead woman remains earthbound after she learns she was murdered and her teen daughter is pregnant. Aided by another earthbound spirit she becomes involved in an investigation involving secretive government agencies, UFO fanatics and co-workers with competing agendas. But while a spirit may be bulletproof they still can be hurt.
The second half of this book is better than the first. The beginning is weighed down with too much snark. Once she gets investigating it becomes better. Wasn't keen on the sci fi aspects, i.e., aliens, murder by Tesla death ray, but it is fairly entertaining.
May 25, 2019
A well-researched book worth reading.
Jayden finds she is dead but before she passes fully to the other side she wants to ensure her family are able to find happiness particularly her daughter Silver. With the help of a spirit Daniel who also hasn't passed over she investigates the circumstances of her death. This is a mystery as well as a paranormal story. Jayden and the other characters are defined well. Jayden's frustrations being able to watch her family but do little to help her are discussed well and the reader can emphasize with her.Good dialogue. An interesting read.
Jayden finds she is dead but before she passes fully to the other side she wants to ensure her family are able to find happiness particularly her daughter Silver. With the help of a spirit Daniel who also hasn't passed over she investigates the circumstances of her death. This is a mystery as well as a paranormal story. Jayden and the other characters are defined well. Jayden's frustrations being able to watch her family but do little to help her are discussed well and the reader can emphasize with her.Good dialogue. An interesting read.
September 7, 2021
Being dead is a whole new experience. If you discover you were murdered, it makes you vengeful, and reluctant to pass through the portal to... not heaven, but a happy place. The question is, can Jayden rescue a man she thought she disliked before he too is killed? His aura has turned black...
Val Tobin has created an intriguing world that leads beyond anger at being cheated of the rest of her life to a conspiracy at government level. Recommended.
Val Tobin has created an intriguing world that leads beyond anger at being cheated of the rest of her life to a conspiracy at government level. Recommended.
December 6, 2018
A great prequel to the Valiant Chronicles. I had a little bit of a hard time getting into the book due to my own recent personal history of having almost lost someone to a heart attack and then losing someone else almost right after, but other than that I really enjoyed it once I got past it. The story adds an additional layer of depth to the world that we wouldn't have otherwise had.
June 27, 2019
I was pleasantly surprised at just how much I enjoyed this story. The concept is new and refreshing. The plot moves quickly, and is well developed as are the characters. I fell in love with the story and all of the charcters. I will read more from this author.
November 27, 2019
I skimmed a lot because it wasn't what I expected. The afterlife imagined was bits and pieces of the human made religions currently being favored, and wasn't very interesting. The mystery kept getting interrupted by mini vacations, trips to visit the kids, the mall, and room descriptions.
July 2, 2025
Loved Earthbound! Especially the actions of the 2 dearly departeds! 😊. It all seemed so possible and natural. Loved the cigarette smoking and dessert indulgences as they worked hard to solve her murder! Tender also in her relationship with her kids.. 🙏.
November 18, 2019
Intriguing and imaginative read that really draws you into the life of the characters and where the story may be leading. Beautiful cover.
Recommend to readers of psychic suspense.
Recommend to readers of psychic suspense.
Want to read
December 14, 2019TheFussyLibrarian
February 11, 2020
Uma mistura de espiritismo com teorias da conspiração, uma narrativa interessante.
April 24, 2020
Thought provoking!
Whether you believe in a higher power or not, this book will have you wondering just what.Is next for you.
Whether you believe in a higher power or not, this book will have you wondering just what.Is next for you.
August 16, 2021
The concept of what happens after we die is brought about in a unique way in this tale. I was hooked from the first sentence and kept on reading. Excellent read!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews