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Reality: Part 1 of Mental Damnation
Having her family murdered by the humans during her people’s banishment from the surface world, Krista and her only friend, Darkwing, struggle to remain alive. The pair of reptilian street scum live in their newfound home, the City of Renasence, dictated by a fascist military known as the Renasence Guard. The two find themselves at odds when Krista puts her faith in the Five Guardians’ goal of unification, while Darkwing chooses to stand with a notorious gang, the Blood Hounds, who are known for their anarchist views.
This divide in their friendship forces Krista to persist on her own as the Five Guardians become crazed from an unknown disease - Mental Damnation. After their infection, the Guardians develop a bizarre interest in her, claiming they must reap her innocence for their newfound master, the Weaver.
With a military dictatorship, politically-driven gangs and their guardians infected and on a hunt for her, Krista has limited options for survival: Does she fend for her life in the City of Renascence, against menacing forces, or risk leaving everything behind and enter the uncharted realm of the underworld?
This divide in their friendship forces Krista to persist on her own as the Five Guardians become crazed from an unknown disease - Mental Damnation. After their infection, the Guardians develop a bizarre interest in her, claiming they must reap her innocence for their newfound master, the Weaver.
With a military dictatorship, politically-driven gangs and their guardians infected and on a hunt for her, Krista has limited options for survival: Does she fend for her life in the City of Renascence, against menacing forces, or risk leaving everything behind and enter the uncharted realm of the underworld?
384 pages, Paperback
First published July 17, 2012
82 people are currently reading
312 people want to read
About the author
Konn Lavery
36 books156 followersKonn Lavery is a Canadian author whose award-winning fiction has reached the bestselling charts on Amazon and in his hometown, Edmonton.
Konn's Recommended Release
Read More
● GOLD Medal in Dan Poynter's Global Ebook Awards 2023 Fantasy/Contemporary Category
Fugitive Lola Cabello is hellbent on avenging her mother's death in this multi-award-winning adventure.
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His work has been described as uncanny and immersive and frequently falls under the Dark Fantasy and Horror genres. Each of his stories are housed within the expanding universe known as the Macrocosm spanning across time and space.
He has been recognized by reviewers such as Reader Views, Readers’ Favorite, Literary Titan, and by award programs such as indieBRAG, The Wishing Shelf Book Awards, eLit Awards, and Dan Poynter’s Global Ebook Awards. His work has also been curated into the Edmonton Public Library’s Capital Press collection.
Konn started writing stories at a young age while being a homeschooled vegetarian, enthralled with storytelling. After graduating college, he began professionally pursuing his writing with his first release, Reality, in 2012 while balancing his graphic design business. Konn’s visual communication skills have been transcribed into the formatting and artwork found within his publications, supporting his fascination with transmedia storytelling.
Konn's Recommended Release
Read More
● GOLD Medal in Dan Poynter's Global Ebook Awards 2023 Fantasy/Contemporary Category
Fugitive Lola Cabello is hellbent on avenging her mother's death in this multi-award-winning adventure.
---
His work has been described as uncanny and immersive and frequently falls under the Dark Fantasy and Horror genres. Each of his stories are housed within the expanding universe known as the Macrocosm spanning across time and space.
He has been recognized by reviewers such as Reader Views, Readers’ Favorite, Literary Titan, and by award programs such as indieBRAG, The Wishing Shelf Book Awards, eLit Awards, and Dan Poynter’s Global Ebook Awards. His work has also been curated into the Edmonton Public Library’s Capital Press collection.
Konn started writing stories at a young age while being a homeschooled vegetarian, enthralled with storytelling. After graduating college, he began professionally pursuing his writing with his first release, Reality, in 2012 while balancing his graphic design business. Konn’s visual communication skills have been transcribed into the formatting and artwork found within his publications, supporting his fascination with transmedia storytelling.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
December 5, 2018
Mental Damnation: Reality by Konn Lavery is a book that offers plenty of food for the imagination. Its setting is unique. The deep City of Renascence is crawling with danger and intrigue as is the plot that takes place there. Two friends are split by their beliefs as they are forced to navigate street gangs, a growing dictatorship, and a mysterious evil disease. Both well-written and well thought out, Mental Damnation is an instant classic and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
September 29, 2018
I LOVED this story!!!
There were many things I loved about this book. I will describe three of them: The World, The Characters, The Action.
The World - The author, Konn, has created a unique, imaginative world in which the story takes place. He describes intricately the different parts of the world. I felt like I was in the world, experiencing it myself.
The Characters - I loved the characters. All of them. Konn has created absolutely relatable, believable characters. I cared about them all. I felt very close to the main characters (Krista) struggles. I wanted her to find herself. I wanted her to succeed. I loved that she continually questioned herself, despite the fact that she was actually very adventurous and brave - she simply didn't realize how strong she really was throughout her entire journey.
The Action - right from the opening scene, the reader is taken into non stop action. As the journey unfolds, the action increases, and I found myself glued to every page, desperately wanting to know what would happen next.
This is not the type of book (genre) that I usually pick up. However, the artwork, and the snippets of the recently launched part 3 that Konn has been sharing really intrigued me.
He truly has a unique artistic style. I love the blend of writing and sketching that are genuinely his.
There were many things I loved about this book. I will describe three of them: The World, The Characters, The Action.
The World - The author, Konn, has created a unique, imaginative world in which the story takes place. He describes intricately the different parts of the world. I felt like I was in the world, experiencing it myself.
The Characters - I loved the characters. All of them. Konn has created absolutely relatable, believable characters. I cared about them all. I felt very close to the main characters (Krista) struggles. I wanted her to find herself. I wanted her to succeed. I loved that she continually questioned herself, despite the fact that she was actually very adventurous and brave - she simply didn't realize how strong she really was throughout her entire journey.
The Action - right from the opening scene, the reader is taken into non stop action. As the journey unfolds, the action increases, and I found myself glued to every page, desperately wanting to know what would happen next.
This is not the type of book (genre) that I usually pick up. However, the artwork, and the snippets of the recently launched part 3 that Konn has been sharing really intrigued me.
He truly has a unique artistic style. I love the blend of writing and sketching that are genuinely his.
July 20, 2019
Fantastic book really got my attention. Character descriptions where so exquisitely done that I could easily picture and feel who they where. Fantastic Author as well. I look forward to getting book two. Told friends as well to read his books.
May 10, 2020
I enjoyed this story very much so. It had a well-thought out premise with plenty of extremely interesting characters. The main character was increasingly fascinating and I never found myself wanting to quit reading the story. I finished it all rather quickly and would definitely recommend this book to others wanting to try this author out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 28, 2015
Mental Damnation: Reality
Krista, a young Reptilian and her people have been banished to the Underworld by man. She and her friend Darkwing fight for survival. Their leaders are infected by an illness known as Mental Damnation. The fallen leaders, interested in Krista's innocence attempt to infect her with the disease. They also want to take her to Dreadweave Pass, which pretty much is hell. Will Krista and Darkwing be able to fight them off and save themselves, or will they be doomed to dwell in a nightmarish realm.
A well written story. Krista is very likable. She is young innocent and just a likable person. I also liked her being a different species. Darkwing is likable as well. He seems to be the only one Krista can trust. They are both living in the grimmest situation in the underworld and both wish to find happiness and lead a somewhat normal life. There are fascinating and awesome drawings throughout the book, which really gives you the feel as if you are part of the story.
I highly recommend (to fantasy lovers) Mental Damnation: Reality and Mental Damnation Dream, which goes deeper into Krista.s story. I look forward to reading Mental Damnation Fusion to learn more about Krista.
Krista, a young Reptilian and her people have been banished to the Underworld by man. She and her friend Darkwing fight for survival. Their leaders are infected by an illness known as Mental Damnation. The fallen leaders, interested in Krista's innocence attempt to infect her with the disease. They also want to take her to Dreadweave Pass, which pretty much is hell. Will Krista and Darkwing be able to fight them off and save themselves, or will they be doomed to dwell in a nightmarish realm.
A well written story. Krista is very likable. She is young innocent and just a likable person. I also liked her being a different species. Darkwing is likable as well. He seems to be the only one Krista can trust. They are both living in the grimmest situation in the underworld and both wish to find happiness and lead a somewhat normal life. There are fascinating and awesome drawings throughout the book, which really gives you the feel as if you are part of the story.
I highly recommend (to fantasy lovers) Mental Damnation: Reality and Mental Damnation Dream, which goes deeper into Krista.s story. I look forward to reading Mental Damnation Fusion to learn more about Krista.
Want to read
October 21, 2018at the beginning I was beyond confused. I had to re read the first few pieces again, a few times before I finally decided to just move on.
when I finally got into the actual book, I found myself unable to put it down, even reading it on my break at work. it had smooth transitions between the events that happened throughout the book, and I found myself wondering what perils Krista would face.
Krista is by far my favorite character. I'm not 100% sure how to feel about Dark wing. I like him and then I don't and then I do... I'm hoping that the next book, Dream, will be able to help me decide if I actually like him. He seems to have some of her best interests at heart and sometimes not.
At the end of the book, I was able to understand more of what had confused me when I first picked it up.
when I finally got into the actual book, I found myself unable to put it down, even reading it on my break at work. it had smooth transitions between the events that happened throughout the book, and I found myself wondering what perils Krista would face.
Krista is by far my favorite character. I'm not 100% sure how to feel about Dark wing. I like him and then I don't and then I do... I'm hoping that the next book, Dream, will be able to help me decide if I actually like him. He seems to have some of her best interests at heart and sometimes not.
At the end of the book, I was able to understand more of what had confused me when I first picked it up.
June 10, 2015
Konn Lavery has taken me into his mind and carried me on a richly woven tapestry of metaphors for the human condition. Beginning his tale with a comprehensive explanation of the world you are about to enter, His story is intricately laid out on a backdrop of history wrapped in legend and tied off with a myth.
whether you're looking for a dark ride exploring the labyrinth of the psyche, or just looking for a good fantasy novel with relatable characters, this book will take you six layers deep.
I got a signed copy from the author at a convention and, within a day, had completely destroyed the first installment and found the next two online. My only complaint is that I now have to wait patiently for the next one
whether you're looking for a dark ride exploring the labyrinth of the psyche, or just looking for a good fantasy novel with relatable characters, this book will take you six layers deep.
I got a signed copy from the author at a convention and, within a day, had completely destroyed the first installment and found the next two online. My only complaint is that I now have to wait patiently for the next one
December 12, 2012
If you like your fantasy intermixed with horror, I recommend Mental Damnation: Reality. It is a tale of survival, both physical and mental, set in an intricately constructed world.
The digital copy includes stunning original artwork that adds further realism to the world which author Lavery has created.
Can Krista survive Mental Damnation?
The digital copy includes stunning original artwork that adds further realism to the world which author Lavery has created.
Can Krista survive Mental Damnation?
October 12, 2013
This book is not the usual type of book that i tend to read. The story has a good storyline, the characters are interesting.I give this book 5/5 stars.
May 4, 2021
Really enjoyed this book. At the time of reading it, I was playing a little Skyrim, which complemented the reading experience nicely since both include an oppressed reptilian culture. The book's main protagonist, Krista (full name Kristalantice Scalebane), is a "vazelead" which is to say she's a reptilian creature subjugated by humans. The book starts out with some good action, with Krista's inciting incident (which I won't spoil here). She meets a male vazelead named Darkwing (later a member of the Blood Hounds gang) and they end up travelling the course of the story together. Plenty of action throughout to keep things interesting.
If I had to describe the genre, I'd say it's fantasy with a side of horror, so dark fantasy. Plot and characters kept me interested, but my favourite aspect of this story was definitely the world building. You could tell when reading it that the author put a ton of thought and work into building a complex society with various casts/hierarchies, religious beliefs, social mores, and social structures. The world building was grounded in the plot and characters, which made it an immersive reading experience and brought the world to life for me.
The book is beautifully designed, too, with a gorgeous cover. The author is a graphic designer, and that skillset comes through in the book. There are even some beautiful sketches throughout. At the end of the book, there's an encyclopedia of world-related terminology and characters, which is one thing about the fantasy genre I quite enjoy. Not only do you get a quick and easy reference guide if you need it while reading, but you also get to see the sheer depth and intricacy of the world building that went into the book.
While there were occasional violent or graphic scenes/descriptions (my preference, of course, is always for more), and the book is definitely a good read for adults, I think it would also work well for teens in the YA range. So if you're maybe 14 to 100 years old and you love a dark fantasy story with great world building, then this book should be right up your alley.
If I had to describe the genre, I'd say it's fantasy with a side of horror, so dark fantasy. Plot and characters kept me interested, but my favourite aspect of this story was definitely the world building. You could tell when reading it that the author put a ton of thought and work into building a complex society with various casts/hierarchies, religious beliefs, social mores, and social structures. The world building was grounded in the plot and characters, which made it an immersive reading experience and brought the world to life for me.
The book is beautifully designed, too, with a gorgeous cover. The author is a graphic designer, and that skillset comes through in the book. There are even some beautiful sketches throughout. At the end of the book, there's an encyclopedia of world-related terminology and characters, which is one thing about the fantasy genre I quite enjoy. Not only do you get a quick and easy reference guide if you need it while reading, but you also get to see the sheer depth and intricacy of the world building that went into the book.
While there were occasional violent or graphic scenes/descriptions (my preference, of course, is always for more), and the book is definitely a good read for adults, I think it would also work well for teens in the YA range. So if you're maybe 14 to 100 years old and you love a dark fantasy story with great world building, then this book should be right up your alley.
November 7, 2018
I've been a fan of Konn's work for a long time. And let me tell you, I am amazed at the amount of work that went into the 2nd edition. The characters are so much more in depth then what they were before and I love that there a minor plots changes that have filled some holes. I dont feel that it was as rushed as the 1st edition. Like it gave more information and made more connection between characters.
July 19, 2020
Such an amazing story! I can't wait to read the rest of the series!
December 2, 2021
Great read.
May 30, 2022
Cliffhanger
The book was great. But I hate cliffhangers. It made me want more. I'll check if the Part 2 is available on amazon.in.
The book was great. But I hate cliffhangers. It made me want more. I'll check if the Part 2 is available on amazon.in.
November 27, 2022
Wow!
This world is so in-depth. Loved just how far the author went to create these worlds and their races. Definitely worth the read
This world is so in-depth. Loved just how far the author went to create these worlds and their races. Definitely worth the read
November 16, 2023
dragon tales set in an alternate universe
October 16, 2012
In pure fantasy fiction style, Konn Lavery offers up a new world with Mental Damnation: Reality. In this story we meet Krista, a type of lizard humanoid who is trapped in the Underworld after her people were banished there by the humans. The world of the vazeleads, Krista’s reptilian people, is not unlike one of our primitive societies. In this culture the powerful control the weak, and Krista is certainly weak. When we first meet her, she is raped, an event that must be common in this culture as it does not elicit a very strong reaction from her friend, Darkwing, when she meets with him next. Later, she attends a party in the hopes of snagging some food and is brutally attacked by guards and left for dead in a ditch. It’s a harsh world and yet Krista remains innocent-- a fact that will soon be exploited by those in charge.
Darkwing seems to be Krista’s only friend: her family was slaughtered when the humans banished her people to the underworld. But Darkwing seems more interested in impressing his new gang friends than being there for Krista. He runs out on his friend when a vicious shade attacks Krista. Unsure of where to turn and with no one else on her side, she forgives Darkwing. The two attempt to stay out of trouble, something that proves much harder than they thought.
Author Lavery has a vivid imagination and, in a time when derivative plots and cliched characters abound, it is nice to see a completely original story. I worried that having lizard-like humanoids as main characters would make it hard to relate, but I found the vazelead to be mostly human. Part of me wished for a little more differentiation of species. I mean, what’s the point of using a whole new species if we can’t see how another society might have dealt with our problems differently? However, since there were only minor differences, it did make it easier to follow along.
Plot-wise, Krista’s journey could’ve used with a bit of tightening. I wondered often what her goal was other than “don’t get raped” or “find food.” I wanted to know more about her larger desires. What did she crave? What was she working towards? Much of the book felt like she was meandering through towns bumping into trouble along the way. Even though I liked her, I wanted a deeper motivation to draw me through the story.
Overall, if you like world-building fantasy that is truly original, pick up Mental Damnation: Reality. It’s a sharp departure from vampires and werewolves. The illustrations, beautiful tribal-like drawings, are worth the $3.50 alone.
Darkwing seems to be Krista’s only friend: her family was slaughtered when the humans banished her people to the underworld. But Darkwing seems more interested in impressing his new gang friends than being there for Krista. He runs out on his friend when a vicious shade attacks Krista. Unsure of where to turn and with no one else on her side, she forgives Darkwing. The two attempt to stay out of trouble, something that proves much harder than they thought.
Author Lavery has a vivid imagination and, in a time when derivative plots and cliched characters abound, it is nice to see a completely original story. I worried that having lizard-like humanoids as main characters would make it hard to relate, but I found the vazelead to be mostly human. Part of me wished for a little more differentiation of species. I mean, what’s the point of using a whole new species if we can’t see how another society might have dealt with our problems differently? However, since there were only minor differences, it did make it easier to follow along.
Plot-wise, Krista’s journey could’ve used with a bit of tightening. I wondered often what her goal was other than “don’t get raped” or “find food.” I wanted to know more about her larger desires. What did she crave? What was she working towards? Much of the book felt like she was meandering through towns bumping into trouble along the way. Even though I liked her, I wanted a deeper motivation to draw me through the story.
Overall, if you like world-building fantasy that is truly original, pick up Mental Damnation: Reality. It’s a sharp departure from vampires and werewolves. The illustrations, beautiful tribal-like drawings, are worth the $3.50 alone.
November 16, 2012
I like premise of the story, and definitely did like the book and the storytelling within it.
Due to back log, full review pending.
Due to back log, full review pending.
May 1, 2017
This is the second book of Mr. Lavery's that I've reviewed and I went into it with expectations that it would have the same creepy, nightmare-three-weeks-later effect that his earlier work, Seed Me, had. It didn't, for which in part I'm grateful.
Mental Damnation reads a lot more like a dark fantasy novel than a horror 'creepy' novel. The main characters are a bit two-dimensional, and at times, the society they live in seems more relevant than the people do. I think Mr. Lavery has the start of something interesting, I just hope that he carries the main story forward in the sequels.
Without getting spoilery, any book that I feel the need to re-read to make sure that the ending is justified, and not a deux ex machina plot device, is pushing it.
Mental Damnation reads a lot more like a dark fantasy novel than a horror 'creepy' novel. The main characters are a bit two-dimensional, and at times, the society they live in seems more relevant than the people do. I think Mr. Lavery has the start of something interesting, I just hope that he carries the main story forward in the sequels.
Without getting spoilery, any book that I feel the need to re-read to make sure that the ending is justified, and not a deux ex machina plot device, is pushing it.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews