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Missing Beat #1
Missing Beat
'Listen to your heart...'
When Joey Cale is almost knocked down by a car, he finds himself alone in a world which is familiar but also ominously different.
Can he overcome the odds and the threat of the terrifying Screamers to find his way home, or is he doomed to be lost forever amongst The Missing?
The first book in an exciting new trilogy.
When Joey Cale is almost knocked down by a car, he finds himself alone in a world which is familiar but also ominously different.
Can he overcome the odds and the threat of the terrifying Screamers to find his way home, or is he doomed to be lost forever amongst The Missing?
The first book in an exciting new trilogy.
206 pages, Paperback
Published June 7, 2018
8 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
June 29, 2018
Imagine you are seventeen years old, you wake up to all the familiar sights, sounds and people you have known all your life. Today's the day you need to go and get your exam results. You tread the route you have taken to school hundreds of times in your life, see your best friend on the other side of the road. The lights are about to change and you can just make it if you hurry. You dash into the road just as a car jumps the lights. It brakes equal. You fall. Your heart stops. When you come to, you are still lying on the road. It's the rest of the world that has changed.
This is the story of Joey Cale - born with a hole in his heart, later repaired by surgery. The world he has now entered looks on the surface identical to the one he knows. It's the small details that are wrong. The newsagent has a different name. There's a different president in the White House. A new Dr Who is male, not female. And then there are the Screamers - and a girl called Emma Winrush.
This novel is being marketed as Young Adult. Well, this much older adult loved it so much she can't wait for the sequel (this is the first in a trilogy). It is a Sci-Fi adventure that will appeal to all ages and genders. The author racks up the tension, creates characters to care about, with all their flaws which make them truly human. Bob Stone may be a new name in fiction but with work of this quality, he is here to stay.
This is the story of Joey Cale - born with a hole in his heart, later repaired by surgery. The world he has now entered looks on the surface identical to the one he knows. It's the small details that are wrong. The newsagent has a different name. There's a different president in the White House. A new Dr Who is male, not female. And then there are the Screamers - and a girl called Emma Winrush.
This novel is being marketed as Young Adult. Well, this much older adult loved it so much she can't wait for the sequel (this is the first in a trilogy). It is a Sci-Fi adventure that will appeal to all ages and genders. The author racks up the tension, creates characters to care about, with all their flaws which make them truly human. Bob Stone may be a new name in fiction but with work of this quality, he is here to stay.
May 22, 2018
A fantastic story that keeps you gripped from page to page. Set in a parallel world where you're not quite sure what or who to believe, the author has weaved a world that leaves you not wanting to put the book down until you get to the end and then leaves you asking when is the next one coming?
August 8, 2018
An extremely well written and thought provoking debut novel from Bob Stone, full of colourful and engaging characters who come up against, and overcome, many an obstacle thrown in their path in their search for a way out of the world they're trapped in.
How they've ended up in a parallel world to their own, isn't entirely clear. I took it to be that point at which the spirit hangs between this world and the next, not sure which way it is going to go. Then I questioned myself, as one of the characters is plastered across 'Missing' posters in the real world, yet in the parallel world it seems obvious to me that this character tried to take their own life. These ponderings did distract me.
Joey and Emma lead this tale of lost souls who are looking for a way out of this world they find themselves trapped in; a world almost the same as the real world, but with subtle differences; a world which appears to be perfect, but which soon starts to tarnish like everything else. Along the way, as other lost souls latch on to them - for good reasons and for bad - they learn that they are the key to escaping this world. The escape they are hoping for, however, isn't the one they get.
Will Joey and Emma ever find their way 'home'? I guess we'll have to read books two and three to find out!
The local setting of this novel, around the author's home base, will appeal to many readers as they will be able to follow Joey and Emma's journey.
How they've ended up in a parallel world to their own, isn't entirely clear. I took it to be that point at which the spirit hangs between this world and the next, not sure which way it is going to go. Then I questioned myself, as one of the characters is plastered across 'Missing' posters in the real world, yet in the parallel world it seems obvious to me that this character tried to take their own life. These ponderings did distract me.
Joey and Emma lead this tale of lost souls who are looking for a way out of this world they find themselves trapped in; a world almost the same as the real world, but with subtle differences; a world which appears to be perfect, but which soon starts to tarnish like everything else. Along the way, as other lost souls latch on to them - for good reasons and for bad - they learn that they are the key to escaping this world. The escape they are hoping for, however, isn't the one they get.
Will Joey and Emma ever find their way 'home'? I guess we'll have to read books two and three to find out!
The local setting of this novel, around the author's home base, will appeal to many readers as they will be able to follow Joey and Emma's journey.
August 16, 2022
WOW! WOW! WOW!
I was in a chokehold for the whole book, this is definitely a book that doesn’t stop. No chill all thrills! Seriously I’m love with the book
I was in a chokehold for the whole book, this is definitely a book that doesn’t stop. No chill all thrills! Seriously I’m love with the book
July 30, 2018
Editor's Review
I am so far behind with my editor's reviews, as in...it's nearly two months since Bob Stone's debut novel Missing Beat was released and I'm only just getting around to writing this. On the plus side, Bob's written a short story in the intervening time, which means once you've read Missing Beat (and in a moment I'll tell you why you should), you'll get to read more about enigmatic Remick, who's a secondary character in Missing Beat but integral.
Before I get to the book itself, I need to say a little more about the author. I've known Bob Stone in passing for several years (I've lost count, but about five, I think). Ours is a relationship structured around bookshops and, by extension, books, but it's only in the past year or so I've come to realise Bob is an incredibly special and important man - the kind all indie authors need on their side. His bookshop - Write Blend - is the sort of place we all dream of: books downstairs and a big meeting space for signings and other authorly events; a coffee shop upstairs, which serves great coffee. Many of the books on the shelves are by indie authors, and while I'm pretty sure Bob does it for the same reason I do what I do (love of books, lest there's any doubt), I'm 100% sure he'd welcome your custom if you happen to be in the Crosby (Liverpool) area at any point.
Which leads me to Missing Beat. You might notice that on the cover (designed by the incredibly talented Trevor Howarth) there are people and water: a stylised depiction of Crosby beach where there is a collection of statues known colloquially as the Iron Men (officially 'Another Place' by Antony Gormley). These statues also play an integral role in Missing Beat, but I'll say no more on't. Well, no more than saying how much I love books that feature a place I know quite well (the North West of England) but take me on a brand-new journey so that I see it in an entirely new light.
That's the preamble, really. The story itself is young adult (as Bob suggests, this means young adult and upwards in age - adult readers will enjoy this story just as much), and the protagonist, Joey, is a young man whose exam results day takes a bizarre turn when he's almost knocked down by a car and ends up alone in the world. Except it's not quite his world. Everything is slightly off and slightly scarier than before. The Screamers are, bluntly, terrifying, but far from the only threat to Joey's survival. Nor is he quite alone. However, we, the readers, are as much in the dark as Joey when it comes to distinguishing friend from foe.
Ultimately, Joey's sole aim is to get back home, but, of course, it's a little more complicated than that, and Joey is a little more important than he believes. A reluctant hero - imperfect, afraid, humble - absolutely the kind of guy you want on your side.
That's about as much as I can write about the story without giving away the central plot and its many twists and turns. What's different about Missing Beat? After all, there have been some very high profile British YA novels with a reluctant hero who, along with his friends, saves the world. Well, there are a few things. First of all, Joey isn't magical or gifted or anything like that. He's just an ordinary sixth-former with plans to go to university and that's about all. He also has a disability - nothing spectacular. He's no mystical savant. It's a physical condition, and he just gets on with it. Finally, Joey and his crew are from Liverpool (or thereabouts). No doubt, there are other fine YA novels out there set in Liverpool, but it's not those that make it onto the screen.
And that's precisely where Missing Beat should be too. So, if anyone at Netflix is reading this... ;)
Missing Beat is a YA fantasy novel, published 7th June, 2018. Paperback and ebook editions available from all the usual outlets. Book one of a trilogy.
I am so far behind with my editor's reviews, as in...it's nearly two months since Bob Stone's debut novel Missing Beat was released and I'm only just getting around to writing this. On the plus side, Bob's written a short story in the intervening time, which means once you've read Missing Beat (and in a moment I'll tell you why you should), you'll get to read more about enigmatic Remick, who's a secondary character in Missing Beat but integral.
Before I get to the book itself, I need to say a little more about the author. I've known Bob Stone in passing for several years (I've lost count, but about five, I think). Ours is a relationship structured around bookshops and, by extension, books, but it's only in the past year or so I've come to realise Bob is an incredibly special and important man - the kind all indie authors need on their side. His bookshop - Write Blend - is the sort of place we all dream of: books downstairs and a big meeting space for signings and other authorly events; a coffee shop upstairs, which serves great coffee. Many of the books on the shelves are by indie authors, and while I'm pretty sure Bob does it for the same reason I do what I do (love of books, lest there's any doubt), I'm 100% sure he'd welcome your custom if you happen to be in the Crosby (Liverpool) area at any point.
Which leads me to Missing Beat. You might notice that on the cover (designed by the incredibly talented Trevor Howarth) there are people and water: a stylised depiction of Crosby beach where there is a collection of statues known colloquially as the Iron Men (officially 'Another Place' by Antony Gormley). These statues also play an integral role in Missing Beat, but I'll say no more on't. Well, no more than saying how much I love books that feature a place I know quite well (the North West of England) but take me on a brand-new journey so that I see it in an entirely new light.
That's the preamble, really. The story itself is young adult (as Bob suggests, this means young adult and upwards in age - adult readers will enjoy this story just as much), and the protagonist, Joey, is a young man whose exam results day takes a bizarre turn when he's almost knocked down by a car and ends up alone in the world. Except it's not quite his world. Everything is slightly off and slightly scarier than before. The Screamers are, bluntly, terrifying, but far from the only threat to Joey's survival. Nor is he quite alone. However, we, the readers, are as much in the dark as Joey when it comes to distinguishing friend from foe.
Ultimately, Joey's sole aim is to get back home, but, of course, it's a little more complicated than that, and Joey is a little more important than he believes. A reluctant hero - imperfect, afraid, humble - absolutely the kind of guy you want on your side.
That's about as much as I can write about the story without giving away the central plot and its many twists and turns. What's different about Missing Beat? After all, there have been some very high profile British YA novels with a reluctant hero who, along with his friends, saves the world. Well, there are a few things. First of all, Joey isn't magical or gifted or anything like that. He's just an ordinary sixth-former with plans to go to university and that's about all. He also has a disability - nothing spectacular. He's no mystical savant. It's a physical condition, and he just gets on with it. Finally, Joey and his crew are from Liverpool (or thereabouts). No doubt, there are other fine YA novels out there set in Liverpool, but it's not those that make it onto the screen.
And that's precisely where Missing Beat should be too. So, if anyone at Netflix is reading this... ;)
Missing Beat is a YA fantasy novel, published 7th June, 2018. Paperback and ebook editions available from all the usual outlets. Book one of a trilogy.
July 3, 2018
You have to watch your heart.'
That phrase drew me in. They are Joey's mum's words and they are what a mum would say. They show her concern, her fear and her love for her son and the shadow of loss for Joey's grandad. Bob Stone does dialogue authentically, really capturing the way people speak and the thought process behind their words. Stone obviously knows the North of England well and that shines in the book. The use of Another Place and the iron men at Crosby ground us in place and are spot on.
The story opens with Joey Cole listening to his heart. But then there is the car accident...
It's a great set up and great opening lines. I was immediately interested in this boy with a hole in his heart. I cared. By the end of the book, I loved how this apparent defect is turned on its head. However, I am not going to give anything away and spoil your reading!
Missing Beat is a page turner. I ploughed through the first 22 chapters before I had to take a break. Stone ends chapters, spring-boarding us in another direction or with hands clutched to mouth. He also creates a new, unique world and it is terrifying, not only because of the Screamers but also because it is so much like our own world but with chilling differences. Slowly, we come to learn what the real threat is, all the time being given some shocking moments. We switch between POVs while also being overseen by an omniscient commentator, with a turn of phrase like, 'It really should have come as no surprise that Ruby was waiting...' I don't know why, but phrases like that made me feel closer to the writer and I liked that.
Each character has a reason for being in the novel. No-one is superfluous. I liked trying to work out how each person's skill or foible would be used. Stone's answers never disappointed.
This world is a nightmare. The quest notches up a gear at every turn and frustrates in a way this journey with a lead protagonist dictates. We understand that this has to happen, but it is not formulaic because the author keeps surprising us with the characters and action.
All I'll say about the ending, is that the characters remain consistent, with militant Emma, strong to the last, and her journey, a satisfying arc. I love what the hole in Joey's heart means, linking cleverly with his mum's refrain, 'Listen to your heart.'
The ending sets up extremely well for a sequel too...and then there is the epilogue...
Again, unexpected twists and I am eager to see where we are now. A different world or time yet again? What I mostly feel is dread for Joey, Emma and the others, but excitement as to where Stone will lead next.
When is the sequel out?
Downside....I don't think we need the contents page.
I would love a map instead, because I love maps and feel it would be a useful addition.
That phrase drew me in. They are Joey's mum's words and they are what a mum would say. They show her concern, her fear and her love for her son and the shadow of loss for Joey's grandad. Bob Stone does dialogue authentically, really capturing the way people speak and the thought process behind their words. Stone obviously knows the North of England well and that shines in the book. The use of Another Place and the iron men at Crosby ground us in place and are spot on.
The story opens with Joey Cole listening to his heart. But then there is the car accident...
It's a great set up and great opening lines. I was immediately interested in this boy with a hole in his heart. I cared. By the end of the book, I loved how this apparent defect is turned on its head. However, I am not going to give anything away and spoil your reading!
Missing Beat is a page turner. I ploughed through the first 22 chapters before I had to take a break. Stone ends chapters, spring-boarding us in another direction or with hands clutched to mouth. He also creates a new, unique world and it is terrifying, not only because of the Screamers but also because it is so much like our own world but with chilling differences. Slowly, we come to learn what the real threat is, all the time being given some shocking moments. We switch between POVs while also being overseen by an omniscient commentator, with a turn of phrase like, 'It really should have come as no surprise that Ruby was waiting...' I don't know why, but phrases like that made me feel closer to the writer and I liked that.
Each character has a reason for being in the novel. No-one is superfluous. I liked trying to work out how each person's skill or foible would be used. Stone's answers never disappointed.
This world is a nightmare. The quest notches up a gear at every turn and frustrates in a way this journey with a lead protagonist dictates. We understand that this has to happen, but it is not formulaic because the author keeps surprising us with the characters and action.
All I'll say about the ending, is that the characters remain consistent, with militant Emma, strong to the last, and her journey, a satisfying arc. I love what the hole in Joey's heart means, linking cleverly with his mum's refrain, 'Listen to your heart.'
The ending sets up extremely well for a sequel too...and then there is the epilogue...
Again, unexpected twists and I am eager to see where we are now. A different world or time yet again? What I mostly feel is dread for Joey, Emma and the others, but excitement as to where Stone will lead next.
When is the sequel out?
Downside....I don't think we need the contents page.
I would love a map instead, because I love maps and feel it would be a useful addition.
June 15, 2020
I loved this book. It is gripping from start to finish, and so different to anything else I’ve read. I’ve got the next one downloaded and am delighted there is a third one even before I start the second! The characters are wonderfully realised, completely described and as with all good books, it feels as if they are people you know. Being from nearby, I recognise the locus of the action which gives an added thrill. I don’t want to go into anything that might be a spoiler, so suffice to say as a ‘young adult’ of 53 years, I’m delighted to have found Bob Stone. You should buy this book!
August 5, 2024
A real page turner with each chapter ending on some sort of cliffhanger that makes you want to read the next one and chapters short enough that you might as well read just one more. It was interesting how each character's 'weakness' or 'fear' became a 'superpower' in this strange new world. Personally, I'd have liked to get to know some of the characters a bit more but I realise this is a book aimed at teens, not a 49 year old. I can imagine many teens racing through this story and keen to read the next one, even those who aren't avid readers.
June 16, 2018
if this is a debut novel ito the genre of of teen fiction its a very good start. i particularly liked joey as I could identify with him as i was bullied at school. i look forward to number two in the series It wi l go on my bookshelves once it comes out
this should light the path for anyone one thinking of writing a book have a go at it
A definite 5 *****from me.
this should light the path for anyone one thinking of writing a book have a go at it
A definite 5 *****from me.
September 2, 2018
A fabulous story and thought provoking. Well written which made this novel a real page turner. The characters are full of depth yet still intriguing which only leaves me wanting more. Cannot wait for this brilliant authors next novel in this series
April 16, 2019
A brilliant concept and excellent debut, Missing Beat is fast-paced, gripping and impossible to put down. Very much looking forward to reading the next two books in this trilogy. Great stuff!
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews