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The Old Man and The Princess
A Raven Award Finalist. A Nashville Film Festival Screenplay Finalist and now recently optioned to be a MAJOR MOTION PICTURE
'Is the old man really who he says he is? And is he telling Sersha the truth about where she is truly from?'
Derek, a mysterious old Irish man, who claims to be not of this Earth, kidnaps Sersha, a young, headstrong, Irish foster girl, from the streets of Galway and tries to convince her that her life's destiny is tied to a seemingly random cave in the Scottish Highlands.
But with half of the Irish criminal underworld violently on their trail, the kidnapped Sersha, struggles back and forth with the old man's real identity and far-fetched schemes and intentions to whether he truly is genuine in his wild and fantastical beliefs.
Or is he just some kind of mad, demented and misguided old fool, having a mental breakdown in his twilight years?
-
'Is the old man really who he says he is? And is he telling Sersha the truth about where she is truly from?'
Derek, a mysterious old Irish man, who claims to be not of this Earth, kidnaps Sersha, a young, headstrong, Irish foster girl, from the streets of Galway and tries to convince her that her life's destiny is tied to a seemingly random cave in the Scottish Highlands.
But with half of the Irish criminal underworld violently on their trail, the kidnapped Sersha, struggles back and forth with the old man's real identity and far-fetched schemes and intentions to whether he truly is genuine in his wild and fantastical beliefs.
Or is he just some kind of mad, demented and misguided old fool, having a mental breakdown in his twilight years?
-
200 pages, Paperback
First published September 30, 2016
19 people are currently reading
3037 people want to read
About the author
Sean-Paul Thomas
20 books501 followersScottish Author/Screenwriter.
Best Selling Kindle Author of 'The Old Man and The Princess'
A new book just out - Audrey -
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Sean is an author from Scotland. He is the best-selling Kindle Author of 'The Old Man and The Princess' which was recently optioned to be a major motion picture.
Sean spent most of his childhood and teenage years on the move with his Scottish and Irish army Parents growing up in the likes of Cyprus, Germany, Wales, and England, as an army brat.
With a keen interest in both reading and writing, he was diagnosed with travel and writing bugs very early in life. Now, writing, travelling, reading, cinema, meditation, yoga and Scottish football (Supporting the mighty Hibernian for his sins) are his main passions in life.
So far Sean has 16 self-published works of fiction including his best selling kindle ebook 'My Sister and I' and 'The Old Man and The Princess'
Ask me any questions and be kept up to date about new books, and forthcoming releases by joining my Facebook and Instagram page below.
Screenwriting Accolades to date -
Winner of the Inroads Screenwriting Fellowship 2020 for his horror/thriller screenplay - Ugly Beautiful.
A finalist at the 2018 Nashville Film Festival Screenwriting competition for his road trip/fantasy/thriller screenplay 'The Old Man and The Princess.'
A finalist at Cinequest 2022 for my historical fantasy screenplay - The Pict.
A Finalist at the 2021 Bluecat Screenwriting competition for his horror/thriller screenplay - My Sister and I.
One of ten writers selected for the 2020 Nostos Screenwriting Retreat Scholarship in October for his latest Sci-Fi/Mystery screenplay - Sagarmatha
A finalist at the Filmatic Thriller Awards 2020 for his Action/Thriller screenplay - Cold Heart.
A finalist at the Filmatic TV Pilot Awards 2019 for his Action/Thriller screenplay - Cold Heart.
So far Sean has 16 self-published works of fiction including his best-selling Kindle ebooks 'My Sister and I' and 'The Old Man and The Princess'
Ask me any questions and be kept up to date about new books, and forthcoming releases by joining my Facebook and Instagram page below.
https://www.instagram.com/seanpaultho...
Best Selling Kindle Author of 'The Old Man and The Princess'
A new book just out - Audrey -
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5...
Sean is an author from Scotland. He is the best-selling Kindle Author of 'The Old Man and The Princess' which was recently optioned to be a major motion picture.
Sean spent most of his childhood and teenage years on the move with his Scottish and Irish army Parents growing up in the likes of Cyprus, Germany, Wales, and England, as an army brat.
With a keen interest in both reading and writing, he was diagnosed with travel and writing bugs very early in life. Now, writing, travelling, reading, cinema, meditation, yoga and Scottish football (Supporting the mighty Hibernian for his sins) are his main passions in life.
So far Sean has 16 self-published works of fiction including his best selling kindle ebook 'My Sister and I' and 'The Old Man and The Princess'
Ask me any questions and be kept up to date about new books, and forthcoming releases by joining my Facebook and Instagram page below.
Screenwriting Accolades to date -
Winner of the Inroads Screenwriting Fellowship 2020 for his horror/thriller screenplay - Ugly Beautiful.
A finalist at the 2018 Nashville Film Festival Screenwriting competition for his road trip/fantasy/thriller screenplay 'The Old Man and The Princess.'
A finalist at Cinequest 2022 for my historical fantasy screenplay - The Pict.
A Finalist at the 2021 Bluecat Screenwriting competition for his horror/thriller screenplay - My Sister and I.
One of ten writers selected for the 2020 Nostos Screenwriting Retreat Scholarship in October for his latest Sci-Fi/Mystery screenplay - Sagarmatha
A finalist at the Filmatic Thriller Awards 2020 for his Action/Thriller screenplay - Cold Heart.
A finalist at the Filmatic TV Pilot Awards 2019 for his Action/Thriller screenplay - Cold Heart.
So far Sean has 16 self-published works of fiction including his best-selling Kindle ebooks 'My Sister and I' and 'The Old Man and The Princess'
Ask me any questions and be kept up to date about new books, and forthcoming releases by joining my Facebook and Instagram page below.
https://www.instagram.com/seanpaultho...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
January 29, 2019
*****I received this book from Sean-Paul Thomas in exchange for an honest review*****
The Old Man and the Princess is a book that had my interest from the very beginning and I couldn’t put it down until I had finished the last page.
Sean Paul Thomas is a talented writer, with his own unique voice and style. The narrative is excellent and the readers get to enjoy the Irish/Scottish English throughout. There is a twist at the end and, might I add, what a perfect climax to the story! Nothing about this novel was cliched or predictable, including the ending. Questions pop up from the beginning and tests you imagination and problem solving skills to a point. It is successful in keeping you curious enough to finish reading it.
It's unique, entertaining and quite a thrilling read. Very interesting plot ( with action, mystery, and thrills all the way through), and wonderful characters. It takes you on a journey that will have you guessing all the way to the end.
Thank you, Sean for trusting me with your work!
The Old Man and the Princess is a book that had my interest from the very beginning and I couldn’t put it down until I had finished the last page.
Sean Paul Thomas is a talented writer, with his own unique voice and style. The narrative is excellent and the readers get to enjoy the Irish/Scottish English throughout. There is a twist at the end and, might I add, what a perfect climax to the story! Nothing about this novel was cliched or predictable, including the ending. Questions pop up from the beginning and tests you imagination and problem solving skills to a point. It is successful in keeping you curious enough to finish reading it.
It's unique, entertaining and quite a thrilling read. Very interesting plot ( with action, mystery, and thrills all the way through), and wonderful characters. It takes you on a journey that will have you guessing all the way to the end.
Thank you, Sean for trusting me with your work!
October 15, 2018
"The Old Man and The Princess" is written by Sean-Paul Thomas and is not the first book I have read by this author, having recently read and loved his twisty psychological thriller "My Sister and I".
Although the Irish dialogue is a little difficult to follow at times and there's a lot of foul language running through the book, this book is perfectly aimed at both a YA and older reader audience who love a thriller with a totally original theme coupled with some really funny black humour.
Dark and quite gritty this unique thriller has a very unusual premise incorporating a science fiction element which I found entertaining, intriguing and a joy to read. Yet despite the darkness and threatening behaviour at times I found the story endearing and by the end I had fell in love with Derek (the old man) and Sersha.
'Is the old man really who he says he is? And is he telling Sersha the truth about where she is truly from?' - these are the main questions that will keep you turning the pages until the end, making this a compelling and very gripping novel.
There's just a touch of an adult fairy tale about the story too, that will allow readers young and old to enjoy this mysterious tale of the old man and the princess and I'm very pleased to have encountered it. I thoroughly enjoyed reading how the old man and Sersha's relationship developed from suspected kidnapper and kidnapped to a really believable conclusion.
Being quite a quick read, I would advise you read this in as few a sittings as possible to fully immerse yourself in the atmospheric Irish and Scottish landscapes and I would be very happy to recommend this delightful tale and very imaginative and talented author to any thriller and suspense reader, young or old alike.
4 stars
Although the Irish dialogue is a little difficult to follow at times and there's a lot of foul language running through the book, this book is perfectly aimed at both a YA and older reader audience who love a thriller with a totally original theme coupled with some really funny black humour.
Dark and quite gritty this unique thriller has a very unusual premise incorporating a science fiction element which I found entertaining, intriguing and a joy to read. Yet despite the darkness and threatening behaviour at times I found the story endearing and by the end I had fell in love with Derek (the old man) and Sersha.
'Is the old man really who he says he is? And is he telling Sersha the truth about where she is truly from?' - these are the main questions that will keep you turning the pages until the end, making this a compelling and very gripping novel.
There's just a touch of an adult fairy tale about the story too, that will allow readers young and old to enjoy this mysterious tale of the old man and the princess and I'm very pleased to have encountered it. I thoroughly enjoyed reading how the old man and Sersha's relationship developed from suspected kidnapper and kidnapped to a really believable conclusion.
Being quite a quick read, I would advise you read this in as few a sittings as possible to fully immerse yourself in the atmospheric Irish and Scottish landscapes and I would be very happy to recommend this delightful tale and very imaginative and talented author to any thriller and suspense reader, young or old alike.
4 stars
February 27, 2017
Thanks to the author for a copy of this book!
I have to admit that I avoided the blurb on this one, and now that I've read the book I'm kinda glad that I did. I actually preferred going into this one blind and the results were quite satisfying.
The writing is quick and like all the best thrillers it moves along with some really great pace.
So what kind of book is this?
That's the real question, isn't it? I mean, it feels like a thriller, it smells like a thriller, and with all the great Irish and Scottish bits flying around the page, I have to admit I like this Old Man and the street-smart orphan he names the Princess after he "kidnaps" her.
Just what is going on here?
If you like books that mess with our heads as to whether this is a rather traditional SF tale about a Princess from Mars being spirited away before bounty hunters take her first, all the while feeling like we're on a really creepy kidnapping ride with a lot of seriously unanswered questions, (at least at first,) then I'm pretty certain you guys will love this.
I can easily call this a classic of psychological thrillers or a very-well-grounded SF adventure/mystery. Pick and choose. You'll still have your surprise at the end and I'm not gonna spoil it.
Besides, the writing it quite delicious and full of wry humor! :) Pure meat and potatoes for any good tale. :)
I have to admit that I avoided the blurb on this one, and now that I've read the book I'm kinda glad that I did. I actually preferred going into this one blind and the results were quite satisfying.
The writing is quick and like all the best thrillers it moves along with some really great pace.
So what kind of book is this?
That's the real question, isn't it? I mean, it feels like a thriller, it smells like a thriller, and with all the great Irish and Scottish bits flying around the page, I have to admit I like this Old Man and the street-smart orphan he names the Princess after he "kidnaps" her.
Just what is going on here?
If you like books that mess with our heads as to whether this is a rather traditional SF tale about a Princess from Mars being spirited away before bounty hunters take her first, all the while feeling like we're on a really creepy kidnapping ride with a lot of seriously unanswered questions, (at least at first,) then I'm pretty certain you guys will love this.
I can easily call this a classic of psychological thrillers or a very-well-grounded SF adventure/mystery. Pick and choose. You'll still have your surprise at the end and I'm not gonna spoil it.
Besides, the writing it quite delicious and full of wry humor! :) Pure meat and potatoes for any good tale. :)
December 22, 2016
A copy was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
EVERYONE SHOULD READ THIS BOOK.
If you’re looking for a risky adventure, one that would lead you to an uncertain destination, then you have to grab a copy of The Old Man and the Princess .
What if, one day, an old man decided to kidnap you, with claims that you were a princess from another planet and that he came to bring you back home to your real parents? Would you willingly go with him?
From Ireland to Scotland, an old man, Derek, took the young Sersha on an adventure that led to her self-discovery. Who was Sersha really?
I honestly have not much to say about this exquisite treasure, because I suck at reviewing works that astound me, but it’s the best Sean-Paul Thomas book I’ve ever read yet.
When I started reading this, I actually forgot what it was all about, so I plunged myself into it blindly. It was fascinating and very curious that the story started in pieces and then, eventually, I got a fuller idea of what was happening.
Reading this was like solving a riddle. Some parts were misleading but brought me surprises I didn’t expect.
Like the other two books by this author that I’ve read before, this was strongly rooted in Scottish and Irish culture. You would find yourself in those countries through the English forms used in the book. Their grammar, slangs, and sentence structures were very different from that of the English that I am familiar with. It was also a fun tour of the places, the landmarks, the gothic structures which I would love to visit one day.
The characters were your typical old man and teenager. You could really see their differences in age, in manners, in choices, etc.
Derek was determined to fulfill his end goal. He was very strong for his age and I know that most people that old would have died already in his situation, after all that he’s been through in Sersha’s company.
Sersha was a feisty teenager with a foul mouth. She always had a way of retorting to anything Derek had to say. She was also cunning, brave, and dangerous if she wanted. Despite this being a short read, the author was able to show how her character was molded in just a few days. She had a change of heart, taking a risk that I think most people would not.
The ending was just perfect. I was not able to put it down when all the truth started spilling. It was genuinely thought-provoking and heart-breaking. I think I was crying in the wee hours of the morning, or maybe it was just my eyes sweating.
Overall, I highly recommend this. It is absolutely one of my best reads this year. If you’re looking for a thriller with a touch of science fiction, then hurry up and read it.
EVERYONE SHOULD READ THIS BOOK.
If you’re looking for a risky adventure, one that would lead you to an uncertain destination, then you have to grab a copy of The Old Man and the Princess .
What if, one day, an old man decided to kidnap you, with claims that you were a princess from another planet and that he came to bring you back home to your real parents? Would you willingly go with him?
From Ireland to Scotland, an old man, Derek, took the young Sersha on an adventure that led to her self-discovery. Who was Sersha really?
I honestly have not much to say about this exquisite treasure, because I suck at reviewing works that astound me, but it’s the best Sean-Paul Thomas book I’ve ever read yet.
When I started reading this, I actually forgot what it was all about, so I plunged myself into it blindly. It was fascinating and very curious that the story started in pieces and then, eventually, I got a fuller idea of what was happening.
Reading this was like solving a riddle. Some parts were misleading but brought me surprises I didn’t expect.
Like the other two books by this author that I’ve read before, this was strongly rooted in Scottish and Irish culture. You would find yourself in those countries through the English forms used in the book. Their grammar, slangs, and sentence structures were very different from that of the English that I am familiar with. It was also a fun tour of the places, the landmarks, the gothic structures which I would love to visit one day.
The characters were your typical old man and teenager. You could really see their differences in age, in manners, in choices, etc.
Derek was determined to fulfill his end goal. He was very strong for his age and I know that most people that old would have died already in his situation, after all that he’s been through in Sersha’s company.
Sersha was a feisty teenager with a foul mouth. She always had a way of retorting to anything Derek had to say. She was also cunning, brave, and dangerous if she wanted. Despite this being a short read, the author was able to show how her character was molded in just a few days. She had a change of heart, taking a risk that I think most people would not.
The ending was just perfect. I was not able to put it down when all the truth started spilling. It was genuinely thought-provoking and heart-breaking. I think I was crying in the wee hours of the morning, or maybe it was just my eyes sweating.
Overall, I highly recommend this. It is absolutely one of my best reads this year. If you’re looking for a thriller with a touch of science fiction, then hurry up and read it.
May 1, 2017
A good suspense with crazy interesting, high fantastical anticipation..
A furious young Irish teenager get abducted by an Old Man who was stalking her all her life..
To get her to a mysterious cave...to be a Princess for a high fantasy quest..
And Sersha, The Princess, who lived as orphan all her life, with fosterfamily families. Isn't only "own" the Planet.. she's also must go back to save it and her family..
This whole idea reminded me a bit with Emma Swan from Once Upon A Time
But Sersha here is a wild, furious younger than Emma, with a tougher background and really really hard Irish language..
I won't spoil it for you...but it's a story of second chances... and repent..
And it has its high & low points...
*** The Story ***
The High
As I said, it's thrilling and full of anticipations.. will keep you waiting to know the truth behind this Old Man in his way for this mysterious cave..
And how it's true meaning revealed.. of second chances man always wish for..
But;
The Low
It'd be much much appreciated if it were a novella, basically because of how it ended..
So, if the ending could be in this way, the story wasn't supposed to be prolonged that much..
Or in other phrase, just as Sersha said ;
It took him almost 40% of the novel to tell her so..
But on another hand;
The High
The road trip was really fun to read. I felt the grand picture as amazing as it can be. Specially this trip in Scotland.
*** The Characters ***
The High
Though he started un clear... I liked him really, the Old Man, Derek.
-Part of my liking I guess is how I cast him in the movie in my mind, Old Man Logan.-
I liked how brutal he was, I loved his last scene.. but;
The Low
The High
And though she's tough, hard tongue ahe had..I really enjoyed reading the Princess, Sersha.
And no, she has no Low moments...though reading her Irish accent curses was a new to me but was really fun..
And she's the reason I loved the story more...
And the ending
Where everyone had his second chances...
May be always and forever happy...making a better Kingdom.
------------
*** VERDICT ***
It's 3.5 for me , but to be honest I really wished make it 4... and sure it could if it has -longer, more explained ending, or it was shorter as whole, as a long novella.
And million thanks to the author Sean-Paul Thomas for this very exciting opportunity to read this very Irish/Scottish novel, which was after all , with its ups and downs..a very 'magical' trip.
Mohammed Arabey
From 24 April 2017
To 28 April 2017
A furious young Irish teenager get abducted by an Old Man who was stalking her all her life..
To get her to a mysterious cave...to be a Princess for a high fantasy quest..
'Well, why didn't you just bleedin' well say all that shite from the off then instead of all your secrecy and exhausting wordplay, Derek? Why not just say, Sersha, you're from another planet now. A planet which you also own. And now I'm taking you back there.'
And Sersha, The Princess, who lived as orphan all her life, with foster
This whole idea reminded me a bit with Emma Swan from Once Upon A Time
But Sersha here is a wild, furious younger than Emma, with a tougher background and really really hard Irish language..
I won't spoil it for you...but it's a story of second chances... and repent..
And it has its high & low points...
*** The Story ***
The High
As I said, it's thrilling and full of anticipations.. will keep you waiting to know the truth behind this Old Man in his way for this mysterious cave..
And how it's true meaning revealed.. of second chances man always wish for..
But;
The Low
It'd be much much appreciated if it were a novella, basically because of how it ended..
So, if the ending could be in this way, the story wasn't supposed to be prolonged that much..
Or in other phrase, just as Sersha said ;
'Well, why didn't you just bleedin' well say all that shite from the off then instead of all your secrecy and exhausting wordplay, Derek? '
It took him almost 40% of the novel to tell her so..
But on another hand;
The High
The road trip was really fun to read. I felt the grand picture as amazing as it can be. Specially this trip in Scotland.
*** The Characters ***
The High
Though he started un clear... I liked him really, the Old Man, Derek.
-Part of my liking I guess is how I cast him in the movie in my mind, Old Man Logan.-
I liked how brutal he was, I loved his last scene.. but;
The Low
The High
And though she's tough, hard tongue ahe had..I really enjoyed reading the Princess, Sersha.
And no, she has no Low moments...though reading her Irish accent curses was a new to me but was really fun..
And she's the reason I loved the story more...
And the ending
Where everyone had his second chances...
May be always and forever happy...making a better Kingdom.
------------
*** VERDICT ***
It's 3.5 for me , but to be honest I really wished make it 4... and sure it could if it has -longer, more explained ending, or it was shorter as whole, as a long novella.
And million thanks to the author Sean-Paul Thomas for this very exciting opportunity to read this very Irish/Scottish novel, which was after all , with its ups and downs..a very 'magical' trip.
Mohammed Arabey
From 24 April 2017
To 28 April 2017
July 24, 2017
I must admit that I was pleasantly surprised by this book. Writer Sean Paul Thomas with a large dose of humor leads us into a story full of action and surprises. The main characters of Derek strange old man who claims he is not from planet Earth and sixteen Sersha, I had immediately liked. The old man kidnaps a girl from the streets of Galway and claims her that she is a princess and that he must take in Scotland because she was in danger from assassins. Normally she disbelieves is not a word of what the old man says, or a combination of events soon be forced to think. Is the old man mad or telling the truth. The book is full of action and just forcing you to read it. End of the book is excellent. I have enjoyed every moment in the book and caught every free moment in reading it because I wanted to find out what will happen later. I recommend this book for any fan of action thrillers, and science fiction fans will love to read.
"I received a free copy from the author without an obligation to review."
"I received a free copy from the author without an obligation to review."
April 6, 2017
Actual rating 3.5 stars.
High fantasy will always be my favourite genre because of the pure escapism that comes with being transported to another world. Magical realism - that is, fantastical elements set in a world recognisable as our own - however, has its own benefits. You can truly envisage yourself treading in the protagonist's footsteps and can imagine his or her mystical and transformative adventure as being one of your own.
And that is what Sean-Paul Thomas does here.
'The Old Man and the Princess' is a tale of just that. Sersha believes herself to be your average teenager, despite the string of bad-luck and ill-fortune that has plagued her past. That is until, what she believes to be her attempted kidnapping, reveals her station as Princess of another realm. Her kidnapper, Derek, proves himself to be more than your average, everyday abductor and instead becomes her saviour, in attempting to return her to her former station.
I initially found this book a hard one to get in to. Protagonist, Sersha, has a foul-mouth and a short-temper. She is sassy, independent and not easily cowed by any situation - even one involving her kidnapping. As her reactions were so different to how I imagined my own would be in her situation, I initially found it hard to gel with her tough attitude and sarcastic manner. I could imagine her as a hard character to get to know in real-life, and the same was true in my reading experience. Once her exterior was penetrated, however, she became a character I could really empathise with.
Her language was also not what I had expected to hear in what I had initially deemed a young adult book. I applaud the author in his unabashed usage of foul language and slang terminology. It might not be for every reader's tastes, but it accurately portrayed the demographic and background the protagonist hailed from.
Using bad language is almost a writer's taboo, and language for language's sake serves no purpose to any tale. In this instance, however, just one sentence from Sersha allowed me to envisage her character and continue to identify her voice immediately as the the novel progressed.
There was a dissonance and yet an intriguing quality created between the interplay and dialogue of the old man and the princess. Her coarseness and his patience made for interesting - and often hilarious - reading. Seeing the progression of their relationship also added a heartwarming element to what would otherwise be an adventure and action-dominated storyline.
This book delivers on so many fronts and combines so many genres into one cohesive and astounding whole. There is a layer of suspended belief needed, but once you can fathom the possibilities that the book puts forward, this is a tale to loose yourself in.
High fantasy will always be my favourite genre because of the pure escapism that comes with being transported to another world. Magical realism - that is, fantastical elements set in a world recognisable as our own - however, has its own benefits. You can truly envisage yourself treading in the protagonist's footsteps and can imagine his or her mystical and transformative adventure as being one of your own.
And that is what Sean-Paul Thomas does here.
'The Old Man and the Princess' is a tale of just that. Sersha believes herself to be your average teenager, despite the string of bad-luck and ill-fortune that has plagued her past. That is until, what she believes to be her attempted kidnapping, reveals her station as Princess of another realm. Her kidnapper, Derek, proves himself to be more than your average, everyday abductor and instead becomes her saviour, in attempting to return her to her former station.
I initially found this book a hard one to get in to. Protagonist, Sersha, has a foul-mouth and a short-temper. She is sassy, independent and not easily cowed by any situation - even one involving her kidnapping. As her reactions were so different to how I imagined my own would be in her situation, I initially found it hard to gel with her tough attitude and sarcastic manner. I could imagine her as a hard character to get to know in real-life, and the same was true in my reading experience. Once her exterior was penetrated, however, she became a character I could really empathise with.
Her language was also not what I had expected to hear in what I had initially deemed a young adult book. I applaud the author in his unabashed usage of foul language and slang terminology. It might not be for every reader's tastes, but it accurately portrayed the demographic and background the protagonist hailed from.
Using bad language is almost a writer's taboo, and language for language's sake serves no purpose to any tale. In this instance, however, just one sentence from Sersha allowed me to envisage her character and continue to identify her voice immediately as the the novel progressed.
There was a dissonance and yet an intriguing quality created between the interplay and dialogue of the old man and the princess. Her coarseness and his patience made for interesting - and often hilarious - reading. Seeing the progression of their relationship also added a heartwarming element to what would otherwise be an adventure and action-dominated storyline.
This book delivers on so many fronts and combines so many genres into one cohesive and astounding whole. There is a layer of suspended belief needed, but once you can fathom the possibilities that the book puts forward, this is a tale to loose yourself in.
September 24, 2018
I have to say this was different from the usual books I read. It was short and peculiar story about an old man who kidnaps a girl and takes her on a journey. I liked the story, it was weird, funny, mysterious, with a bit of fantasy in it. The twist at the end of the story made me like it even more.
I would like to thank the author for sending me this book in exchange for an honest review.
I would like to thank the author for sending me this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2017
The Old Man and The Princess by Sean-Paul Thomas is a mysterious and emotional story, all of which that takes place against the backdrop of the Scottish landscape. It is a touching story about the relationship between a girl and an old man.
Sersha is an orphan, living with her foster parents, when she is kidnapped by an old man, Derek. Sersha expects the worst but when Derek tells her that he will be reuniting her with her parents, she is surprised. Derek keeps referring to Sersha as Princess and upon questioning reveals that she actually is a princess from Mars and that she was sent to Earth as a baby for her own safety. But now that she is needed back home, Derek would do his duty and safely take her back.
While Sersha isn't convinced of this story, Derek's behavior and his protective attitude towards her alters her perspective about him. They set out on road trip all the way to the tip of Scotland, to find a portal to Mars. With bounty hunters at their heels, they manage to escape attacks. Racing against time and the enemy, Derek and Sersha are about to reach the cave where the supposed portal is situated. And then, the unthinkable happens.
Firstly, what an amazing story! It is an interesting blend of adventure, emotions and action. At the beginning of the story I was rapt, my curiosity being at a high and then began the adventure. It is not a lengthy book but unputdownable, nevertheless. The narrative is excellent and the readers get to enjoy the Irish/Scottish English throughout. There is a twist at the end and, might I add, what a perfect climax to the story!
The main characters in the story are Sersha and Derek. Sersha is this strong, street smart girl who longs for her real parents. Derek, on the other hand, is an old guy, looking out for Sersha and protecting her like a princess from every possible danger. There are many lovely emotional moments between them that forms the crux of the book. Last but definitely not the least, I could literally feel the wind in my hair while Sersha was driving through the Scottish mountains and the sand under my feet when they both were running towards the cave. Such is the beauty of the narrative!
I absolutely loved it and would highly recommend reading it. Truly enjoyable.
Sersha is an orphan, living with her foster parents, when she is kidnapped by an old man, Derek. Sersha expects the worst but when Derek tells her that he will be reuniting her with her parents, she is surprised. Derek keeps referring to Sersha as Princess and upon questioning reveals that she actually is a princess from Mars and that she was sent to Earth as a baby for her own safety. But now that she is needed back home, Derek would do his duty and safely take her back.
While Sersha isn't convinced of this story, Derek's behavior and his protective attitude towards her alters her perspective about him. They set out on road trip all the way to the tip of Scotland, to find a portal to Mars. With bounty hunters at their heels, they manage to escape attacks. Racing against time and the enemy, Derek and Sersha are about to reach the cave where the supposed portal is situated. And then, the unthinkable happens.
Firstly, what an amazing story! It is an interesting blend of adventure, emotions and action. At the beginning of the story I was rapt, my curiosity being at a high and then began the adventure. It is not a lengthy book but unputdownable, nevertheless. The narrative is excellent and the readers get to enjoy the Irish/Scottish English throughout. There is a twist at the end and, might I add, what a perfect climax to the story!
The main characters in the story are Sersha and Derek. Sersha is this strong, street smart girl who longs for her real parents. Derek, on the other hand, is an old guy, looking out for Sersha and protecting her like a princess from every possible danger. There are many lovely emotional moments between them that forms the crux of the book. Last but definitely not the least, I could literally feel the wind in my hair while Sersha was driving through the Scottish mountains and the sand under my feet when they both were running towards the cave. Such is the beauty of the narrative!
I absolutely loved it and would highly recommend reading it. Truly enjoyable.
October 23, 2016
I received this book for a fair review, special thanks to the author for providing the book for an honest opinion.
Surprisingly, I like this book, even though it is not a genre that I usually read, this book does not fit into any specific subset so it is hard to know if people will like this book or not.
The story starts with an old man pondering about his life, and then a killer appears, that it is the hook for the story. It turns to a girl who is angry at the world, because she's a foster girl stuck in an unloved family. Yes, sounds mundane... until the old man met the young girl.
Suddenly, this turns into a special kind of plot with a twist, the story is original with a good pace. I did wonder if the old man was telling the truth, or he was just senile. Nevertheless, his unwavering belief that the Princess of Mars was in danger and he has to save her. With people hot on their heels with every intention of killing them, the poor girl wonders if she is insane for trusting the old man.
The characters drew me in, especially the old man. He has a way of making you believe that he is serious, match that with his strong will of survival and you have a person who is worth reading. The girl? She is cynical and represents the reader (to me), trying to make sense of what was happening when she met the old man.
Overall?
It's unique, entertaining and quite a thrilling read. There is no romance in this book, questions pop up from the beginning and tests you imagination and problem solving skills to a point. It is no murder mystery, but it is successful in keeping you curious enough to finish reading it. For a little more than 200 pages, I recommend this short story. It has action, it has mystery and a little darkness. Pretty good for a short story.
Surprisingly, I like this book, even though it is not a genre that I usually read, this book does not fit into any specific subset so it is hard to know if people will like this book or not.
The story starts with an old man pondering about his life, and then a killer appears, that it is the hook for the story. It turns to a girl who is angry at the world, because she's a foster girl stuck in an unloved family. Yes, sounds mundane... until the old man met the young girl.
Suddenly, this turns into a special kind of plot with a twist, the story is original with a good pace. I did wonder if the old man was telling the truth, or he was just senile. Nevertheless, his unwavering belief that the Princess of Mars was in danger and he has to save her. With people hot on their heels with every intention of killing them, the poor girl wonders if she is insane for trusting the old man.
The characters drew me in, especially the old man. He has a way of making you believe that he is serious, match that with his strong will of survival and you have a person who is worth reading. The girl? She is cynical and represents the reader (to me), trying to make sense of what was happening when she met the old man.
Overall?
It's unique, entertaining and quite a thrilling read. There is no romance in this book, questions pop up from the beginning and tests you imagination and problem solving skills to a point. It is no murder mystery, but it is successful in keeping you curious enough to finish reading it. For a little more than 200 pages, I recommend this short story. It has action, it has mystery and a little darkness. Pretty good for a short story.
October 16, 2016
I received a free copy to review from the author. This is a one of those short stories that engages you right at the beginning with kick ass action, intrigue, and engaging and funny dialogue. If you are a classic sci fi buff, than you will enjoy this. It's a feel good story, despite some of its darker moments (which I liked), that will definitely leave you smiling at the end.
June 5, 2017
this review is going to be short because i can't say much about it, as it's one of those books that should be gone in blind. however, i can say that this was a really enjoyable read with a twisty ending that i didn't expect, and although there isn't anything vastly new about the book, it's definitely worth the read.
December 14, 2016
Read it on my blog
The Old Man and the Princess is a very skillfully crafted novel. As the tale gradually unfolds, the suspense slowly builds and leaves the reader guessing until the end.
The characters Derek and Sersha are both flawed individuals with a complicated relationship but their bond gradually develops until it becomes one of trust and co-dependence. But just who is Derek, the barmy old man who kidnaps teenager Sersha from a life of foster homes in Galway? Could the crazy tale he spins actually be true? What secret does the secluded cave in the Scottish Highlands hold and can they evade their pursuers long enough to reach it?
A thoroughly enjoyable book and one I couldn't put down until I reached the end and the truth.
Thanks to author Sean-Paul Thomas for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Old Man and the Princess is a very skillfully crafted novel. As the tale gradually unfolds, the suspense slowly builds and leaves the reader guessing until the end.
The characters Derek and Sersha are both flawed individuals with a complicated relationship but their bond gradually develops until it becomes one of trust and co-dependence. But just who is Derek, the barmy old man who kidnaps teenager Sersha from a life of foster homes in Galway? Could the crazy tale he spins actually be true? What secret does the secluded cave in the Scottish Highlands hold and can they evade their pursuers long enough to reach it?
A thoroughly enjoyable book and one I couldn't put down until I reached the end and the truth.
Thanks to author Sean-Paul Thomas for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 22, 2017
Full Review at: Bright Copy Book Review
(more like 3.5)
*This book was gifted to me by the author. The below review is my honest opinion*
This book was different than anything I've read lately, I'll definitely give it that. I'll probably keep thinking about this one for a while.
What a wild ride, for sure. It keeps you guessing and you never know what's going to happen next. One of the main reasons why I enjoyed this is because it was pretty realistic if you think about it. How many times have we read a fantasy where a teenage girl learns that she's special and has to go on some adventure to a different land? A lot. And how many times do they just accept it without questioning anything? almost always. This is the exception. Sersha never really believes Derek, she just kind of humors him and accepts that she's going on some crazy adventure, but isn't fully convinced that she's actually form Mars. I also liked the twist of what everything meant. I think that after everything, it may not be the ending that people are looking for, but again it's realistic and important.
There were a few things I didn't particularly like, one being all of the Irish slang just because I didn't understand most of it. Almost all of the dialogue (and there's a lot) in this book is made with Irish accents and wording (obviously, since they're in Ireland). Also, Derek seems to know everything about Sersha... stuff she's never told anyone else, but he doesn't know that she's vegan? I found that hard to believe. She also randomly kept comparing things to how she lost her virginity that had nothing to do with the story.
Overall, it was entertaining and enjoyable.
(more like 3.5)
*This book was gifted to me by the author. The below review is my honest opinion*
This book was different than anything I've read lately, I'll definitely give it that. I'll probably keep thinking about this one for a while.
What a wild ride, for sure. It keeps you guessing and you never know what's going to happen next. One of the main reasons why I enjoyed this is because it was pretty realistic if you think about it. How many times have we read a fantasy where a teenage girl learns that she's special and has to go on some adventure to a different land? A lot. And how many times do they just accept it without questioning anything? almost always. This is the exception. Sersha never really believes Derek, she just kind of humors him and accepts that she's going on some crazy adventure, but isn't fully convinced that she's actually form Mars. I also liked the twist of what everything meant. I think that after everything, it may not be the ending that people are looking for, but again it's realistic and important.
There were a few things I didn't particularly like, one being all of the Irish slang just because I didn't understand most of it. Almost all of the dialogue (and there's a lot) in this book is made with Irish accents and wording (obviously, since they're in Ireland). Also, Derek seems to know everything about Sersha... stuff she's never told anyone else, but he doesn't know that she's vegan? I found that hard to believe. She also randomly kept comparing things to how she lost her virginity that had nothing to do with the story.
Overall, it was entertaining and enjoyable.
February 19, 2017
3.75 stars
I wasn't sure what to expect when I first read the synopsis of this book, but I thoroughly enjoyed this novel! I was intrigued right off the bat, and I found myself guessing what the old man was up to just as much as Sersha was. You were never sure what was really going on, but in the best way.
The characters were- I admit- not my favorite, but I enjoyed them all the same. I really liked how feisty and real Sersha was, and how loyal and mysterious the old man was. They did seem a bit one-dimensional at times, but towards the end of the story they gained more depth.
The plot was very well executed, and very interesting! I found myself flying through pages. I was dying to know what was really going on with the old man!
I was also really pleased with the ending. I wasn't sure what to expect with the conclusion and how everything would wrap up, but I thought everything came together really well! The Old Man and The Princess was the perfect length- not to short, and not too long.
Sean-Paul's writing style is very unique and different. It took a few chapters to really get a feel for the writing, but once I got used to it I really loved how unique it was!
Overall, The Old Man and The Princess was a really well executed story, and very rememberable! I encourage you all go and check out this book, and give it a shot!
Thank you again to the author for sending me an copy in exchange for an honest review!
I wasn't sure what to expect when I first read the synopsis of this book, but I thoroughly enjoyed this novel! I was intrigued right off the bat, and I found myself guessing what the old man was up to just as much as Sersha was. You were never sure what was really going on, but in the best way.
The characters were- I admit- not my favorite, but I enjoyed them all the same. I really liked how feisty and real Sersha was, and how loyal and mysterious the old man was. They did seem a bit one-dimensional at times, but towards the end of the story they gained more depth.
The plot was very well executed, and very interesting! I found myself flying through pages. I was dying to know what was really going on with the old man!
I was also really pleased with the ending. I wasn't sure what to expect with the conclusion and how everything would wrap up, but I thought everything came together really well! The Old Man and The Princess was the perfect length- not to short, and not too long.
Sean-Paul's writing style is very unique and different. It took a few chapters to really get a feel for the writing, but once I got used to it I really loved how unique it was!
Overall, The Old Man and The Princess was a really well executed story, and very rememberable! I encourage you all go and check out this book, and give it a shot!
Thank you again to the author for sending me an copy in exchange for an honest review!
September 3, 2017
Okay. Do you want to know me real name? Or the name of the man whose body I’ve taken?
Firstly, thank you to the author for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review! I really much appreciate that.
I’m really not sure what I can say without spoiling the story too much for someone who hasn’t read this one! But I’ll try my best to leave out anything major.
Oh this book was good, okay? Especially I loved the fact that through the whole story you keep guessing that who the heck the old man is? What is really going on in here? Though I had my suspicions about that, I almost all the time came back to whatever the old man had told.
It was a tad bit confusing at the start of the book where we are told about a boy and his father, playing at the beach and the boy wants to see it one more time before they leave for good. After that starts the story of the old man’s adventure with kidnapped Sersha. But everything has it’s meaning and everything comes to a closure at some point. It all starts making sense.
After finishing I was left in the realization that I actually was told everything I needed to know but I just kept ignoring it all, what a punch of nonsense! Except that it wasn’t. This book is so well written, it keeps you interested through the whole story. And it has some heartbreaking moments too! It’s not all just frightening kidnapping.
I truly recommend everyone who loves a good thriller to read this book.
Firstly, thank you to the author for providing me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review! I really much appreciate that.
I’m really not sure what I can say without spoiling the story too much for someone who hasn’t read this one! But I’ll try my best to leave out anything major.
Oh this book was good, okay? Especially I loved the fact that through the whole story you keep guessing that who the heck the old man is? What is really going on in here? Though I had my suspicions about that, I almost all the time came back to whatever the old man had told.
It was a tad bit confusing at the start of the book where we are told about a boy and his father, playing at the beach and the boy wants to see it one more time before they leave for good. After that starts the story of the old man’s adventure with kidnapped Sersha. But everything has it’s meaning and everything comes to a closure at some point. It all starts making sense.
After finishing I was left in the realization that I actually was told everything I needed to know but I just kept ignoring it all, what a punch of nonsense! Except that it wasn’t. This book is so well written, it keeps you interested through the whole story. And it has some heartbreaking moments too! It’s not all just frightening kidnapping.
I truly recommend everyone who loves a good thriller to read this book.
August 20, 2017
Ever read the blurb of a book, think you have a general understanding of what it's about, dive into it, and discover that... You. Know. Nothing??? That's what happened when I read
The Old Man and The Princess.
Going into the plot would only ruin it, however, I will tell you that the author blessed us with Sersha. She was young, but she wasn't dumb. This girl was enterprising, surprisingly mature, had an independent streak a mile long, and was very opinionated. I loved her! Even the 'mysterious old man' found a way to touch my heart. This story was very character-driven and yet it yielded an intense and captivating plot. If you're up for an adventure with tons of action, suspense and hidden depth, then you need to add this book to your shelf today!!
Release Date: September 30, 2016
Genre: YA Mystery/Suspense
POV: Dual - 3rd person
Type: Standalone
Release Date: September 30, 2016
Genre: YA Mystery/Suspense
POV: Dual - 3rd person
Type: Standalone
February 5, 2018
Title: The Old Man and the Princess
Author: Sean-Paul Thomas
Publisher: Paul Thomas Publishing
Date of publication: October 1st, 2016
Number of Pages: 161
ASIN: B01M1AGJX7
The Old Man and the Princess written by author Sean-Paul Thomas is a Mystery, Thriller & Suspense, a Cozy mystery published by Paul Thomas Publishing. The novel is a fiction that will leave an indelible mark on its readers.
The novel is the journey that the protagonist Shersha takes from her birth till her teens. It talks about that one incident that would change Shersha’s life forever. We see a head-strong girl move through various foster homes and a sad childhood. Most importantly, we see the fire and the courage the young girl exhibits.
The novel is also about an old man and how Shersha and he form a bond in dangerous circumstances. The Old Man and the Princess brush upon the adventurous zeal of a teenager to the dreams of a senile mind. The plot is gripping, pulling, funny, adventurous, cosy, with a surprising end.
As a book reviewer, I have read many novels. The Old Man and the Princess will always be one of my favourites. I can gift it to friends, assured that they will love it. This novel is a keeper and deserves multiple reads. I don’t think I will ever part with the novel. In fact, I would ask one and all to read it. This novel is for teenagers, parents, young adults, would-be parents, couples and everyone else. I not only fell in love with the novel, but it made me see my parents in a different light. I give them more concessions than I gave them before. For some reason, this novel made me understand a parent’s heart as well as a child’s desires, expectations and emotions. Both the parent’s a child’s feelings are not wrong. The only thing that bridges the divide is love.
And this novel is all about love.
The novel made me understand that a bond between a parent and a child is unbreakable. And dreams do come true. As long as we don’t give up on ourselves, luck will not give up on us. Primarily, Old Man and the Princess by Sean-Paul Thomas made me realise that there is a guardian angel watching over us. It’s someone we can never identify, but if we think hard, we realise there is someone who has protected us, the best they can. It is also an assurance that whatever might come our way, it could have been worse if an invisible power didn’t guard us.
I loved Old Man and the Princess by Sean-Paul Thomas. However much I try as a book reviewer, I can’t remain objective towards the novel. That’s because I loved it. I loved it so much that even after months of reading it, I think about it every day. I have already read it more than once and I am looking forward to a re-read.
This novel is for the keeps and for re-reads. To sum it up, Old Man and the Princess by Sean-Paul Thomas absolutely deserves a five star.
Author: Sean-Paul Thomas
Publisher: Paul Thomas Publishing
Date of publication: October 1st, 2016
Number of Pages: 161
ASIN: B01M1AGJX7
The Old Man and the Princess written by author Sean-Paul Thomas is a Mystery, Thriller & Suspense, a Cozy mystery published by Paul Thomas Publishing. The novel is a fiction that will leave an indelible mark on its readers.
The novel is the journey that the protagonist Shersha takes from her birth till her teens. It talks about that one incident that would change Shersha’s life forever. We see a head-strong girl move through various foster homes and a sad childhood. Most importantly, we see the fire and the courage the young girl exhibits.
The novel is also about an old man and how Shersha and he form a bond in dangerous circumstances. The Old Man and the Princess brush upon the adventurous zeal of a teenager to the dreams of a senile mind. The plot is gripping, pulling, funny, adventurous, cosy, with a surprising end.
As a book reviewer, I have read many novels. The Old Man and the Princess will always be one of my favourites. I can gift it to friends, assured that they will love it. This novel is a keeper and deserves multiple reads. I don’t think I will ever part with the novel. In fact, I would ask one and all to read it. This novel is for teenagers, parents, young adults, would-be parents, couples and everyone else. I not only fell in love with the novel, but it made me see my parents in a different light. I give them more concessions than I gave them before. For some reason, this novel made me understand a parent’s heart as well as a child’s desires, expectations and emotions. Both the parent’s a child’s feelings are not wrong. The only thing that bridges the divide is love.
And this novel is all about love.
The novel made me understand that a bond between a parent and a child is unbreakable. And dreams do come true. As long as we don’t give up on ourselves, luck will not give up on us. Primarily, Old Man and the Princess by Sean-Paul Thomas made me realise that there is a guardian angel watching over us. It’s someone we can never identify, but if we think hard, we realise there is someone who has protected us, the best they can. It is also an assurance that whatever might come our way, it could have been worse if an invisible power didn’t guard us.
I loved Old Man and the Princess by Sean-Paul Thomas. However much I try as a book reviewer, I can’t remain objective towards the novel. That’s because I loved it. I loved it so much that even after months of reading it, I think about it every day. I have already read it more than once and I am looking forward to a re-read.
This novel is for the keeps and for re-reads. To sum it up, Old Man and the Princess by Sean-Paul Thomas absolutely deserves a five star.
January 8, 2017
If you like reading books about Adventure, you'll love this one. Sersha is an orphan who has never felt like she can trust anyone or believing in anything. One day she gets abducted by an old man who tells her she's a princess in another galaxy. At first she doesn't believe a single word he says. Eventually, she goes along with the adventure. After all, she never felt like she was worth anything and never had an adventure like this.
I really enjoyed reading this. You get to really know the characters and understand their motivations. The story takes you along twists and turns that you may never expect. It definitely is suspenseful and has an ending that you wouldn't have imagined.
I feel like most people can relate to the characters in the story. After all, who doesn't want to go on an adventure at least once in their lives? Just leave everything behind and follow your heart?
Buy this book, you won't regret it.
I really enjoyed reading this. You get to really know the characters and understand their motivations. The story takes you along twists and turns that you may never expect. It definitely is suspenseful and has an ending that you wouldn't have imagined.
I feel like most people can relate to the characters in the story. After all, who doesn't want to go on an adventure at least once in their lives? Just leave everything behind and follow your heart?
Buy this book, you won't regret it.
February 5, 2017
This book is unique in its approach of not pigeonholing itself into one genre, and you'll definitely want to know how it ends because of such an unpredictable plot!
Who's the old man, and who's the princess? And how much do the characters themselves know who they are along the course of the story? The story has a metaphor in there and you'll find out what it all means by the end of the book. On a side note, I laughed my a** off at some of the Irish-style banter, I mean I really laughed harder than I have in a long time. Tears were streaming down my face, you can ask those who were in the room with me at the time I was reading. And of course, I had to read the dialogue out loud to them too, I just had to share it. I didn't know what "jacksie" means or "egit," and the characters sprinkling these words into their dialogue made me like them more. There's a magical quality to this story throughout the suspense, which you won't find in many books these days. It was unassuming and sweet.
Who's the old man, and who's the princess? And how much do the characters themselves know who they are along the course of the story? The story has a metaphor in there and you'll find out what it all means by the end of the book. On a side note, I laughed my a** off at some of the Irish-style banter, I mean I really laughed harder than I have in a long time. Tears were streaming down my face, you can ask those who were in the room with me at the time I was reading. And of course, I had to read the dialogue out loud to them too, I just had to share it. I didn't know what "jacksie" means or "egit," and the characters sprinkling these words into their dialogue made me like them more. There's a magical quality to this story throughout the suspense, which you won't find in many books these days. It was unassuming and sweet.
March 7, 2017
LINDA'S BOOK OBSESSION
My Review of “The Old Man and the Princess” by Sean-Paul Thomas
What is real and what is not? You’ll have to read “The Old Man and the Princess”by Sean-Paul Thomas. A copy was provided by the author for an honest review. The genre of this book is Fiction and Cozy Mystery. After reading the book, you can decide if this is a Fantasy or an Adult Fairytale as well.
Sean-Paul Thomas uses colorful and vivid descriptions of Ireland and Scotland, where the story takes place. The characters are intriguing, complex and witty.
The story starts when an old man is dreaming of the past, hears a noise and in a confused and half-awaken state realizes that there is a man with a gun in his room. With amazing strength, the old man is able to overtake the trespasser, and ties him up and puts him in the trunk of his car. The old man, Derek realizes that he can waste no time in putting his plan in action.
Derek leaves his house and drives and follows Sersha a 16 year old foster child as she is ready to board a bus. He finally gets a chance and using chloroform and ties, kidnaps Sersha. When Sersha wakes up, Derek calls her a “Princess” and tells her that he has to get her home. There are bounty hunters after them and it is dangerous.
Derek also tells Sersha , that he is not of this planet. The old man gains Sersha’s trust when he retells how people who had bullied or tried to hurt Sersha were dealt with. Derek appears to be like a “Fairy Godfather” watching over Sersha.
Derek and Sersha leave Ireland for Scotland where they are looking for a way to get Sersha home. The two are followed by various people, and have a terrifying and dangerous adventure.
This story is packed with action, shooting, chasing,fighting, and running. Will Sersha get home? Who are are parents? Why is the Irish Mafia, and strange people following them?Is the old man, Derek who he says he is?
Sean-Paul Thomas has an amazing way of writing a story. This was enjoyable and entertaining, and I would recommend that you read it.
August 5, 2017
Thank you to the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! You can find this and other reviews on my blog at https://spinesinaline.wordpress.com
This one was a lot of fun to read, especially if you like Irish accents! Our two main characters share quite a lot of dialogue so you can very quickly get immersed in this setting. More than that, the narrative style of this story really reminded me of a folk tale. It diverges quite a bit from what we typically recognize as a folk tale, what with the inclusion of the mafia, aliens, and a fair amount of swearing, but the set-up of this old man and young girl setting off on an adventure was a really fun tale to tag along for.
Humour is a large part of this story, mostly with the bickering of the two main characters. Sersha’s got quite a mouth on her, that’s for sure, but I liked that she didn’t make the old man’s job easy. Even as the one who was kidnapped, she’s somehow able to retain control of the situation, and you’ll likely find it difficult to determine who exactly is in charge!
While there’s a lot to laugh at in this story, I think the author did a great job of managing a more serious tone at the same time. As crazy as the adventure reads, there are heavier topics under the surface that lead this story. These aren’t pushed to the forefront but I liked the more “backstage” role they took, that we could step back from the wild ride the old man is taking us on and really understand what this story is about. Of course, I won’t give any more away because this story does rely on its mystery but I’m sure you’ll get caught up in the adventure too.
The thing that is dragging my rating down is Sersha’s characterization. I don’t know any Irish teens so I can’t really know what they’re like but some of her vocabulary seemed at odds for someone who’s only fifteen. I also found that she was oversexualized for such a young girl (and really the only female character in the book) but I was happy to hear that the author largely edited out these parts from the final version.
This one was a lot of fun to read, especially if you like Irish accents! Our two main characters share quite a lot of dialogue so you can very quickly get immersed in this setting. More than that, the narrative style of this story really reminded me of a folk tale. It diverges quite a bit from what we typically recognize as a folk tale, what with the inclusion of the mafia, aliens, and a fair amount of swearing, but the set-up of this old man and young girl setting off on an adventure was a really fun tale to tag along for.
Humour is a large part of this story, mostly with the bickering of the two main characters. Sersha’s got quite a mouth on her, that’s for sure, but I liked that she didn’t make the old man’s job easy. Even as the one who was kidnapped, she’s somehow able to retain control of the situation, and you’ll likely find it difficult to determine who exactly is in charge!
While there’s a lot to laugh at in this story, I think the author did a great job of managing a more serious tone at the same time. As crazy as the adventure reads, there are heavier topics under the surface that lead this story. These aren’t pushed to the forefront but I liked the more “backstage” role they took, that we could step back from the wild ride the old man is taking us on and really understand what this story is about. Of course, I won’t give any more away because this story does rely on its mystery but I’m sure you’ll get caught up in the adventure too.
The thing that is dragging my rating down is Sersha’s characterization. I don’t know any Irish teens so I can’t really know what they’re like but some of her vocabulary seemed at odds for someone who’s only fifteen. I also found that she was oversexualized for such a young girl (and really the only female character in the book) but I was happy to hear that the author largely edited out these parts from the final version.
March 15, 2017
**I received this book in exchange for an honest review**
"Sersha folded her arms. She wasn't impressed by Derek's dodgy pirate accent or his crappy little boat either."
Oh my goodness where do I even start with this book? This was such fun and heartbreaking story to read. I found myself dying to know what was going to happen to the old man and then crying in the waiting room at the doctor's office waiting for my husband. So beautifully written.
This story starts with a secretive life of an old man. You have no idea what he does for a living or what his life as been like. I will make a note that if I have to read another book about the death of a dog, I'm going to boycott books. Haha kidding, but seriously, cmon guys!
The old man ends up kidnapping this young girl and telling her he is taking her to meet her parents she's never met in this whole different world where she's apparently a princess. She was left at an orphanage as a baby and has always wondered who her real parents were. I don't want to go much further with the story line because it was just so fun and exciting to read that I can't spoil this for anyone.
I absolutely loved the addition of the Irish accents throughout this book. As someone from the United States, I sometimes have a hard time reading books with accents written in. Sean-Paul Thomas did a wonderful job of not over-using it. I will now use the word "fekking" whenever possible.
I really believe everyone should read this book. I absolutely adored this book. I honestly didn't know what to expect going in. It started kind of dark and up in the air and turned in to a beautiful story.
For more reviews: https://soulmeetsbooks.wordpress.com/
"Sersha folded her arms. She wasn't impressed by Derek's dodgy pirate accent or his crappy little boat either."
Oh my goodness where do I even start with this book? This was such fun and heartbreaking story to read. I found myself dying to know what was going to happen to the old man and then crying in the waiting room at the doctor's office waiting for my husband. So beautifully written.
This story starts with a secretive life of an old man. You have no idea what he does for a living or what his life as been like. I will make a note that if I have to read another book about the death of a dog, I'm going to boycott books. Haha kidding, but seriously, cmon guys!
The old man ends up kidnapping this young girl and telling her he is taking her to meet her parents she's never met in this whole different world where she's apparently a princess. She was left at an orphanage as a baby and has always wondered who her real parents were. I don't want to go much further with the story line because it was just so fun and exciting to read that I can't spoil this for anyone.
I absolutely loved the addition of the Irish accents throughout this book. As someone from the United States, I sometimes have a hard time reading books with accents written in. Sean-Paul Thomas did a wonderful job of not over-using it. I will now use the word "fekking" whenever possible.
I really believe everyone should read this book. I absolutely adored this book. I honestly didn't know what to expect going in. It started kind of dark and up in the air and turned in to a beautiful story.
For more reviews: https://soulmeetsbooks.wordpress.com/
May 29, 2017
The Old Man and The Princess: A Black Humorous, Mystery, Thriller
By: Sean-Paul Thomas
5 out of 5 stars
The story The Old Man and The Princess: A Black Humorous, Mystery, Thriller by Sean-Paul Thomas is a book that had my interest from the very beginning and I couldn’t put it down until I had finished the last page. It has action, mystery, and thrills all the way through. This is an author who has created a story and characters that I couldn’t stop thinking about even after I finished the book. It is the story of Sersha who has been kidnapped. At first, she does all she can to get away, then things begin to change. Why did this man really kidnap Sersha? Will she believe the story that she is being told?
This book is the first I have read by the author and it is amazing. It takes you on a journey that will have you guessing all the way to the end. I really liked the character of Sersha. She has had a hard life up to now as she has always been in foster homes and not all of them have been a good place to live. She is a fighter. Then when her kidnapper explains why he took her she begins to see her situation in a different light. The explanation is unique, to say the least, and Sersha’s mind keeps going back and forth struggling to either believe or not to believe. There is also danger along the way and Sersha finds herself way over her head. Why are they being pursued and by whom? The old man that kidnaps Sersha is such a mystery. He is very protective of Sersha and does everything in his power to keep her safe. Is the story he tells Sersha really true or is there another explanation? Read this book to find out what happens to both Sersha and her kidnapper. I downloaded this book from Kindle Unlimited and voluntarily reviewed it.
By: Sean-Paul Thomas
5 out of 5 stars
The story The Old Man and The Princess: A Black Humorous, Mystery, Thriller by Sean-Paul Thomas is a book that had my interest from the very beginning and I couldn’t put it down until I had finished the last page. It has action, mystery, and thrills all the way through. This is an author who has created a story and characters that I couldn’t stop thinking about even after I finished the book. It is the story of Sersha who has been kidnapped. At first, she does all she can to get away, then things begin to change. Why did this man really kidnap Sersha? Will she believe the story that she is being told?
This book is the first I have read by the author and it is amazing. It takes you on a journey that will have you guessing all the way to the end. I really liked the character of Sersha. She has had a hard life up to now as she has always been in foster homes and not all of them have been a good place to live. She is a fighter. Then when her kidnapper explains why he took her she begins to see her situation in a different light. The explanation is unique, to say the least, and Sersha’s mind keeps going back and forth struggling to either believe or not to believe. There is also danger along the way and Sersha finds herself way over her head. Why are they being pursued and by whom? The old man that kidnaps Sersha is such a mystery. He is very protective of Sersha and does everything in his power to keep her safe. Is the story he tells Sersha really true or is there another explanation? Read this book to find out what happens to both Sersha and her kidnapper. I downloaded this book from Kindle Unlimited and voluntarily reviewed it.
April 23, 2017
This was a really great read! The title made me want to read it, it just sounds interesting no? But I really didn’t expect it to be this awesome! Psycho teenagers, creepy old men, uzis, what’s not to love?! And the whole Irish totally invaded my thoughts, I know have an Irishman in me head.
This is a fast paced book! Two hundred fifty pages will fly by but you will still connect with the characters. Sersha the foster-child/dancer is feisty/ foul mouthed, and ready for an adventure. Derek is a crazy old man with a mean right hook, even feistier than Sersha, a mysterious background involving wizards, and eventually wields an uzi. My favorite character though, is Deren the psychotic brother/torture specialist/crazy knife guy/psycho. He isn’t in much of the book but I still really liked him, especially the first scene with him and the three men ^_^
This is definitely dark fantasy, dark humor, dark everything, but if you are into adventures and guns then this book is pretty stupendous! Thomas has a way with words that draws readers into the story from start to finish. Oh and of course Neko fell for it. The entire way, at the end I was still expecting to find a Stargate and O’neill or Sheppard waiting for Sersha… Neko will persevere!
There really wasn’t anything I didn’t like, I was shocked when the book ended. I wanted more ;_; it did have a good ending, I’m just shellfish like that.
Overall, go read the book! Go now! Shoo! It’s well worth the time spent reading!
If guns, dancers, feisty old men, or Mars are some of your favorite things then give the Old Man and the Princess a try! If the Dark Lord Cthulhu is your idea of a date night then… Try it anyways?
This is a fast paced book! Two hundred fifty pages will fly by but you will still connect with the characters. Sersha the foster-child/dancer is feisty/ foul mouthed, and ready for an adventure. Derek is a crazy old man with a mean right hook, even feistier than Sersha, a mysterious background involving wizards, and eventually wields an uzi. My favorite character though, is Deren the psychotic brother/torture specialist/crazy knife guy/psycho. He isn’t in much of the book but I still really liked him, especially the first scene with him and the three men ^_^
This is definitely dark fantasy, dark humor, dark everything, but if you are into adventures and guns then this book is pretty stupendous! Thomas has a way with words that draws readers into the story from start to finish. Oh and of course Neko fell for it. The entire way, at the end I was still expecting to find a Stargate and O’neill or Sheppard waiting for Sersha… Neko will persevere!
There really wasn’t anything I didn’t like, I was shocked when the book ended. I wanted more ;_; it did have a good ending, I’m just shellfish like that.
Overall, go read the book! Go now! Shoo! It’s well worth the time spent reading!
If guns, dancers, feisty old men, or Mars are some of your favorite things then give the Old Man and the Princess a try! If the Dark Lord Cthulhu is your idea of a date night then… Try it anyways?
November 22, 2016
Just finished reading “The Old Man and the Princess” by Sean-Paul Thomas. I would first like to say thank you to Sean-Paul for reaching out to me on Goodreads.com and gifting me an e-copy of this book. This is my first read by Sean-Paul and I just thought it was brilliant. There was just enough witty dark humor (as only those across the pond can achieve) to balance out the more serious and crazy parts of this read. There is quite a touching story here mixed in with the horror, deceit, anger and violence. This one had me fooled up until the end and I never expected it to go where it did. I was entertained from start to finish and am looking forward to reading more of Sean-Paul's work. This is book is categorized as a Suspense/Thriller, but I would add Psychological/Suspense/Thriller to that label.
Synopsis: “A mysterious old Irish man, who claims to be 'not of this Earth,' kidnaps a young, headstrong, Irish girl, from the streets of Galway and tries to convince her that her life's destiny is tied to a mystical cave in the Scottish highlands.
But with half of the Irish criminal underworld violently on their trail, the young girl struggles back and forth with the old man's real identity and far fetched intentions, to whether he truly is genuine in his wild and fantastical beliefs. Or is he really just a mad, demented, old fool, having some kind of mental breakdown in his twilight years.”
Synopsis: “A mysterious old Irish man, who claims to be 'not of this Earth,' kidnaps a young, headstrong, Irish girl, from the streets of Galway and tries to convince her that her life's destiny is tied to a mystical cave in the Scottish highlands.
But with half of the Irish criminal underworld violently on their trail, the young girl struggles back and forth with the old man's real identity and far fetched intentions, to whether he truly is genuine in his wild and fantastical beliefs. Or is he really just a mad, demented, old fool, having some kind of mental breakdown in his twilight years.”
February 21, 2018
Enjoyable, easy to read and quite a few twists and turns. This is what I like in a book. Primarily a YA type short novel, it is gritty and dark yet there are humorous episodes. Sersha is an orphan and has been in foster care her entire young life. She is a teen on the verge of adulthood but has had to fend for herself mostly. One day, she is mysteriously kidnapped off the streets of Galway where she lives. Is the old man who kidnapped her a pervert? Or something else entirely? This book speaks to the disconnect many young people experience and also to the human cargo trade which is current. Sersha is a fighter and is not going quietly. How she deals with her plight is relevant for today's society. In the end, I could not predict the outcome which was satisfying and did not disappoint. I recommend this book for mature young readers and adults who enjoy interesting character study and plot. This book actually would make a very good screenplay and I hope it is optioned for a movie.
March 11, 2018
I received this book as a giveaway by Goodreads. Thank you!
I truly enjoyed this book. This was not an ordinary "kidnap" story. The "kidnapped" is 15 yr. old Sersha who is kidnapped by the "Old Man" Derek. It doesn't take very long to immediately love these two characters. Sersha had me laughing to a point of tears rolling down my face. The dialogue with Derek at times, is hilarious. There was a point when I was wondering if this was a fantastical, mystical, story, or what really was going on. What was the point of this kidnapping? It was hard to see where this story was going. This story didn't disappoint.
The only negative was the Irish dialect used that was, at times, difficult to read and understand.
I truly enjoyed this book. This was not an ordinary "kidnap" story. The "kidnapped" is 15 yr. old Sersha who is kidnapped by the "Old Man" Derek. It doesn't take very long to immediately love these two characters. Sersha had me laughing to a point of tears rolling down my face. The dialogue with Derek at times, is hilarious. There was a point when I was wondering if this was a fantastical, mystical, story, or what really was going on. What was the point of this kidnapping? It was hard to see where this story was going. This story didn't disappoint.
The only negative was the Irish dialect used that was, at times, difficult to read and understand.
April 1, 2017
Uncaged Book Reviews:
Once you get the cadence of the speech, you can’t put it down, wondering if this is sci-fi or reality with a twist. I’m not telling which it is, you’ll have to read the book. The only other warning is for the violence in the book. This book would not be suitable for tweens and younger. Most teens will have seen worse on TV and video games.
It is an enticing story and one I’d recommend for those who like suspense with a good twist.
4 1/2 stars
Reviewed by Barbara
Full review at UncagedBooks.com
Once you get the cadence of the speech, you can’t put it down, wondering if this is sci-fi or reality with a twist. I’m not telling which it is, you’ll have to read the book. The only other warning is for the violence in the book. This book would not be suitable for tweens and younger. Most teens will have seen worse on TV and video games.
It is an enticing story and one I’d recommend for those who like suspense with a good twist.
4 1/2 stars
Reviewed by Barbara
Full review at UncagedBooks.com
August 7, 2018
An e-book copy was kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Honestly, at first it was kind of boring to me but after the first action scene the story catch my attention from there to the end.
I don't know how to feel about the author's writing style because I didn't dislike it but I'm not used to the scottish idioms and it was kind of strange for me but it was easy to follow.
I didn't expect that kind of end! I really liked it.
It was a great story and I highly recommend it.
Honestly, at first it was kind of boring to me but after the first action scene the story catch my attention from there to the end.
I don't know how to feel about the author's writing style because I didn't dislike it but I'm not used to the scottish idioms and it was kind of strange for me but it was easy to follow.
I didn't expect that kind of end! I really liked it.
It was a great story and I highly recommend it.
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