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Project Proteus #1
Lemuria
Nick Dirkse is a workaholic software developer, and he's desperate to save his crumbling marriage and reconnect with his neglected children. So he takes them on what promises to be the ultimate vacation in a tropical paradise.
The island, newly built off the southwest coast of India, is named for the mythical land of Lemuria. And it's a world-class private resort to indulge the modern-day rich and famous.
But this seemingly luxurious wonderland hides a terrible secret, a nightmare so real and terrifying it will test the outer limits of Nick's courage and resolve if he is to save the ones he loves.
In the tradition of Michael Crichton's Jurassic Park and Peter Benchley's Jaws, John Triptych's newest novel combines scientific horror with heart-stopping thrills. Don't miss it!
Project Proteus Series:
Book 1: Lemuria
Book 2: Typhon
The island, newly built off the southwest coast of India, is named for the mythical land of Lemuria. And it's a world-class private resort to indulge the modern-day rich and famous.
But this seemingly luxurious wonderland hides a terrible secret, a nightmare so real and terrifying it will test the outer limits of Nick's courage and resolve if he is to save the ones he loves.
In the tradition of Michael Crichton's Jurassic Park and Peter Benchley's Jaws, John Triptych's newest novel combines scientific horror with heart-stopping thrills. Don't miss it!
Project Proteus Series:
Book 1: Lemuria
Book 2: Typhon
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 18, 2018
236 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
December 11, 2018
It's good, if you like this genre
If you're a big fan of Michael Crichton this is a must read. It's similar to what he writes (only without the boring scientific descriptions that make Crichton books so difficult to enjoy.). I would have given it a better rating had it been something I was interested in. It's a good book unfortunately it's not my cup of tea.
If you're a big fan of Michael Crichton this is a must read. It's similar to what he writes (only without the boring scientific descriptions that make Crichton books so difficult to enjoy.). I would have given it a better rating had it been something I was interested in. It's a good book unfortunately it's not my cup of tea.
Read
November 12, 2023Rating: minus 3
Another revision to do. I was surprised by this writer, as I had a memory of his writing being better. This is not a novel as much as a screenplay. The story is pointless but is perfect for a Hollywood action/thriller movie. Add appropriate music, do a proper job of casting, the Philippines are a very low cost setting, secure a director who respects budgetary constraints and it might be a successful film. It still will not be a good story but it might find an audience.
I will need a step away to YouTube before attacking this. This was made possible by channels - Doctor Who/They Break My Heart - RecklessGirl100, Leeja Miller, Mia Mulder, Malinda, Terrible Writing Advice, KernowDamo, Truth to Power, NerdForge, Dr Alexander Clarke, A lil bit mads, Radio Retrofuture, Daniel Greene, Author Quest, Kyiv Post, Science Asylum, Kazachka, Second Thought, Vaerko, Dream Dimensions Productions, Tulia, Emma Thorne, Bovington Tank Museum, Northern Narrowboaters, OrangeRiver, May, Ship Happens, Dark Tech, Jay Exci, Kayla Says, Stubagful, Horses, The Library of a Viking, Diem25, Geo Girl, The Clockwork Reader, Alizee, Told in Stone, Answer in Progress, Military History Visualized, Up and Atom, Autumn's Boutique, Planarwalker, Dr Becky, History with Cy, Smack the Pony, Terrible Writing Advice, ThePrimeChronus, Strange Aeons, Fantasy and World Music by the Fletchers, Essence of Thought, Captured in Words, Verilybitchie, Annie's Literary Empire, Mom on the Spectrum, Daisy Viktoria, Lisa Walton, Lindsay Nikole, A Crowing Cockatrice. NYTN, Female Warriors - Teresatessa, Elliot Books, The Book Leo, Artur Rehi, The Cold War, Sailing Melody, Tale Foundry, Cecilia Blomdahl.
The world building could be described as thin, though non-existent is probably more honest. Several characters do have some little substance but are not used to provide heft to the background universe. Consequently dialogue does not provide the necessary information to justify any of the struggle being staged. I use stage purposely because this feels more a staged thriller than a tense action story. For a preteen, it might pass muster but children do demand explanations and logic in their stories. Anyone who has skipped story essentials reading to a child, even in retelling has had to backtrack or begin the story again.
The Backdrop.
A bioengineering experiment, initiated for ........ reasons.
A private agent hired by no one, does a James Bond insertion.
Agent could easily have rented a hotel room with no issues.
The location is a small Philippine island.
The local government are pressured with donations to the local budget but without any benefits to the villain.
The experimentation does not appear to be illegal.
The film "Shoot'em Up" has more background than the above and Clive Owens is splendid but the film was made specifically to showcase gun battles. It is a stunning action film with no particular message, except perhaps that the gun is mightier than the bomb. A note: wealthy US legislators in the film are portrayed as the most evil of villains. Make of that what you will. I liked that touch.
There is no attempt at world building In this book. I thought that any writer or reader for that matter would agree that in any fiction the world must be defined. In any fantasy, near or far future fiction there is still more need for a coherent background. A default popular universe just will not do. World first, then story.
The writer used the stereotypical evil billionaire, who with no particular motivation is creating a monster. Billionaires in the real world always seem to focus solely on the increase in their holdings, "forcing" governments to save them from their own mistakes and avoiding as much tax liability as possible. With no background given the villain, I see no believable financial, personal or political advantage for him in this strange enterprise.
This is Dr Evil level depth. The henchmen are standard hired thugs, who are incurious about their employer's schemes and even their own safety. This is James Bond fare. The scientists are cardboard cutouts in lab coats, again James Bond standard. The billionaire responsible is portrayed as a victim and figure of pity (?). I leave it to you whether that works on any level.
I feel that I have earned another break before continuing. This next is brought to you by YouTube's - Cinzia Dubois, Cambrian Chronicles, Dr Fatima, Lily Simpson, Chris and Shell, Cruising the Cut, JohnTheDuncan, Stevie Emerson, The Bands of HM Royal Marines, Physics Girl, No Justice MTG, SK Media, The Juice Media, Interior Design Hub, Depressed Russian, Ukraine Matters, Siobahn McCarthy, The Trans Atheist, James Somerton, Alt Shift X, Linguoer Mechanic, Roomies Digest, Austin McConnell, Trae Crowder, Big Train, Steve Shives, Biz Barclay, Gutsick Gibbon, Kelly Loves Physics and History, Octopus Lady, DinsArt Design, Fantasy and World Music by the Fletchers, Chris Animations, Atun Shei, Brandon F, Ash L G, Dark Seas, Viva La Dirt League, Dominic Noble, Ana Psychology, Anna from Ukraine, World War Two, Real Time History, Karolina Zebrowska, Shannon Makes, Brittany Page, Kat Blacque, Kaz Rowe, Ponderful, Elliot Brooks, A Life of Lit, Philosophy Tube, Savy Writes Books, Sophie from Mars, Cass Ellis, Andrew Watson, Andrewism, Rebecca Watson, Lady Knight the Brave, No Justice MTG, The Chloe Connection, Kate Robson, Digging for Britain.
The hapless employees who are not ethically challenged scientists or hired guns are better written than the rest of the cast. Sadly they do not make many appearances nor are given meaningful dialogue. The local government are believable in having their culture, financial circumstances and poor policy described.
The agent has no personality. James Bond is drawn with more depth and does have a backstory. This interloper is far less substantial than the main characters of "Secret Agent", "The Prisoner", "The Saint" or "The Avengers" (not the Marvel heroes).
Decent prose alone will not carry the book. The book consists of a predictable plot and ending, no characters worth remembering and no dialogue that adds anything to the characters. It is a Hollywood movie without good cinematography.
I have read several books deserving the same judgement.They are boring but they are not overtly offensive. When the bar for any genre is set that low, the quality of any US fiction has serious problems. I spent most of the last five years trying to rediscover my love of science fiction and related genres but instead I have lost most of my interest in any US publisher titles.
The publishing houses seem to be bound by several guidelines. The writing quality for US publishing has been reduced to bad YA fiction marketed to adults. That applies across genres. The characters read in many novels as children in adult bodies with mentalities that include magical thinking, early teen hormonal fluctuations, a lack of connection between action and consequences and an inability to recognise that the needs of others might affect them or be of value on their own account. Most of the "Woman's" fiction and "Military Science Fiction" are bound to those requirements. The prose is usually suited to the 8 to 13 year old.
The quality standards are probably Minimal Effort, No Effort, Insulting and Abhorrent. The includes politics being touted to make Franco, Hitler, Stalin, Putin or Republican Party lawmakers blush. Almost every science fiction book, seemed legally required to exclude non-white, non-cis males without good English names. There are exceptions for the occasional Scottish, Welsh, Irish male and even female providing she lacks agency or empathy. Those are allowed for diversity. These are factors to consider when you next see a Times Bestseller or Kindle/Goodreads must read notification.
If women and men continue to praise these books, I do not expect that the quality will improve. To read them might be entertaining but to insist others enjoy them is probably harmful. I now look to the streaming services to provide stories which are usually better written and always more entertaining. There are also very good short film channels (DUST, Omeleto and others) to be found on YouTube, which provide good and excellent stories.
I began using YouTube a bit more than two years ago in search of useful science fiction commentary. I was stunned by the number of other interest area channels. I really liked the lifestyle, documentary, hobby channels and am a great fan of the essayist channels. The best surprise though, were the book channels. 😍 The communities fostered are comprised of thoughtful, curious readers all of whom love the entirety of the world of books. The environment which they create is completely different to that of Goodreads. The essayist, documentary and other educational channels also embed sponsor spots for the dedicated educational video sites. Nebula and all the others are worth a visit and are inexpensive.
My YouTube picks of the moment.
The Little Platoon, Cruising Alba, Linguoer Mechanic, Philosophy Tube, MechaWest Show, Owen Jones, New Economic Thinking, Art Deco, Weir on the Move, Vaerko, Paola Hermosin, The Juice Media, The Book Leo, Second Thought.
As for Amazon/Kindle/Goodreads, please consider treating this site as potentially hostile. 😐
Ominous music begins. 😊 For my view of Kindle, Goodreads and certain members see my review of "Dark Horse", a good novel by Diener or Powers of the Earth, a pathetic salute to the January 6, 2021 hero by Travis Corcoran. He is an employee of an unnamed US agency, a veteran and supporter of Putin's Russia, a self-described libertarian And vocal advocate for the return of chattel slavery. Only in America, as they say.
I have read from ex-employee interviews how little oversight is applied to Goodreads and from experience to Kindle. Through all my interesting interactions with both, I have received no acknowledgement from Kindle of any query. There are quite a number of diseased fellows among the employees and members alike. After reading either of those reviews, you may decide as I did that precautions are in order.
I recommend that a reader minimise personal information on Kindle - files, contact list, calendar, email and Goodreads messaging and profile. I also recommend removal of all lurkers (those friends who monitor and never post), the screenshot of the odd and the ugly. Your personal safety rests on the whims of disturbed man-children (the dreaded Snowfkake) lacking either morality or restraint and most importantly, they are American. Ominous music ends. 😊
May we all enjoy Good Reading! 😊
I am no expert as regards YouTube channels but do like these and hopefully you will find some of them interesting.
Bobbing Along, AllShorts, Rachel Oates, Leeja Miller, Ponderful, TVP News, Malinda, Tara Mooknee, The Clockwork Reader, Widebeam and Wellingtons, Munecat, More Perfect Union, Ship Happens, Olga Mieleszuk, Snappy Dragon, IL Neige, Julie Nolke, Ben and Emily, Ushanka Show, The Welsh Viking, Lady of the LIbrary, A Day of Small Things, Chris and Shell, Arthur Rehi, A Day of Small Things, A Clockwork Reader, Sound of Music Flashmob, The Juice Media, Jake Broe, Alysotherlife, Naked Science, Book Furnace, PatrickHWillems, Smack the Pony, C.L.Peachtree Narrowboat, Books and Lala, Jean's Thoughts, Munecat, Some More News, Tom Nicholas, Mia Mulder, Discourse Minis, Mitchell and Webb, Novara Media, Mrs Betty Bowers, With Olivia, Red Plateaus, Prime of Midlife, Garyseconomics, A Cup of Nicole, Philosophy Tube, Vlad Vexler, Dan Davis History. TIkHistory, Real Science, Brandon F, Atun Shei, Polyushka Polye, New Economic Thinking, It's Black Friday, The Templin Institute, Big Think, Ula and Josh, Travelling K, May Moon Narrowboat, Adult Wednesday Addams - 2 seasons, Dr Tracey Marks, Table Size Productions, Truth to Power, Michael Lambert, XPLRD, Sideprojects, The Good Place, Tom Nicholas, Kathy's Flog in France, Sailing Melody, Steve Shives, Sci-Fi Odyssey, Johnny FD, Engineering with Rosie, Prime of Midlife, Kiko1006 - Empire of Angels, , Alice Cappelle, DW News, Amanda Rae, Abney Park, Brittany Page, Our Changing Climate, J Draper, Karolina Zebrowska, Bernadette Banner, History with Cy, Deerstalker Pictures, Viva La Dirt League, Red Wrench Films, AllShorts, DUST, Potential History, Launch Pad Astronomy, Sci-fi Secrets, Sci-Fi Odyssey, Crecganford, Mandy - web series, Digging for Britain, Patrick is a Navajo, Overly Sarcastic Productions, DUST, Kyiv Post, Cruising Alba, Nomadic Crobot, What Vivi did next, Jared Henderson, Cruising the Cut, Lily Alexandre, Jessie Gender, History with Kayleigh, Engineering Knits, Lisa Walton, The Sword and The Pen Reflections, Cari Can Read, Xiran Jay Zhao, It's Black Friday,
I wish you a glorious morning, a splendid afternoon, a pleasant evening, a magnificent night and may we all continue learning.
If you allow Others to speak in your name without challenge, you adopt the Other's sins.
My grandmother
Another revision to do. I was surprised by this writer, as I had a memory of his writing being better. This is not a novel as much as a screenplay. The story is pointless but is perfect for a Hollywood action/thriller movie. Add appropriate music, do a proper job of casting, the Philippines are a very low cost setting, secure a director who respects budgetary constraints and it might be a successful film. It still will not be a good story but it might find an audience.
I will need a step away to YouTube before attacking this. This was made possible by channels - Doctor Who/They Break My Heart - RecklessGirl100, Leeja Miller, Mia Mulder, Malinda, Terrible Writing Advice, KernowDamo, Truth to Power, NerdForge, Dr Alexander Clarke, A lil bit mads, Radio Retrofuture, Daniel Greene, Author Quest, Kyiv Post, Science Asylum, Kazachka, Second Thought, Vaerko, Dream Dimensions Productions, Tulia, Emma Thorne, Bovington Tank Museum, Northern Narrowboaters, OrangeRiver, May, Ship Happens, Dark Tech, Jay Exci, Kayla Says, Stubagful, Horses, The Library of a Viking, Diem25, Geo Girl, The Clockwork Reader, Alizee, Told in Stone, Answer in Progress, Military History Visualized, Up and Atom, Autumn's Boutique, Planarwalker, Dr Becky, History with Cy, Smack the Pony, Terrible Writing Advice, ThePrimeChronus, Strange Aeons, Fantasy and World Music by the Fletchers, Essence of Thought, Captured in Words, Verilybitchie, Annie's Literary Empire, Mom on the Spectrum, Daisy Viktoria, Lisa Walton, Lindsay Nikole, A Crowing Cockatrice. NYTN, Female Warriors - Teresatessa, Elliot Books, The Book Leo, Artur Rehi, The Cold War, Sailing Melody, Tale Foundry, Cecilia Blomdahl.
The world building could be described as thin, though non-existent is probably more honest. Several characters do have some little substance but are not used to provide heft to the background universe. Consequently dialogue does not provide the necessary information to justify any of the struggle being staged. I use stage purposely because this feels more a staged thriller than a tense action story. For a preteen, it might pass muster but children do demand explanations and logic in their stories. Anyone who has skipped story essentials reading to a child, even in retelling has had to backtrack or begin the story again.
The Backdrop.
A bioengineering experiment, initiated for ........ reasons.
A private agent hired by no one, does a James Bond insertion.
Agent could easily have rented a hotel room with no issues.
The location is a small Philippine island.
The local government are pressured with donations to the local budget but without any benefits to the villain.
The experimentation does not appear to be illegal.
The film "Shoot'em Up" has more background than the above and Clive Owens is splendid but the film was made specifically to showcase gun battles. It is a stunning action film with no particular message, except perhaps that the gun is mightier than the bomb. A note: wealthy US legislators in the film are portrayed as the most evil of villains. Make of that what you will. I liked that touch.
There is no attempt at world building In this book. I thought that any writer or reader for that matter would agree that in any fiction the world must be defined. In any fantasy, near or far future fiction there is still more need for a coherent background. A default popular universe just will not do. World first, then story.
The writer used the stereotypical evil billionaire, who with no particular motivation is creating a monster. Billionaires in the real world always seem to focus solely on the increase in their holdings, "forcing" governments to save them from their own mistakes and avoiding as much tax liability as possible. With no background given the villain, I see no believable financial, personal or political advantage for him in this strange enterprise.
This is Dr Evil level depth. The henchmen are standard hired thugs, who are incurious about their employer's schemes and even their own safety. This is James Bond fare. The scientists are cardboard cutouts in lab coats, again James Bond standard. The billionaire responsible is portrayed as a victim and figure of pity (?). I leave it to you whether that works on any level.
I feel that I have earned another break before continuing. This next is brought to you by YouTube's - Cinzia Dubois, Cambrian Chronicles, Dr Fatima, Lily Simpson, Chris and Shell, Cruising the Cut, JohnTheDuncan, Stevie Emerson, The Bands of HM Royal Marines, Physics Girl, No Justice MTG, SK Media, The Juice Media, Interior Design Hub, Depressed Russian, Ukraine Matters, Siobahn McCarthy, The Trans Atheist, James Somerton, Alt Shift X, Linguoer Mechanic, Roomies Digest, Austin McConnell, Trae Crowder, Big Train, Steve Shives, Biz Barclay, Gutsick Gibbon, Kelly Loves Physics and History, Octopus Lady, DinsArt Design, Fantasy and World Music by the Fletchers, Chris Animations, Atun Shei, Brandon F, Ash L G, Dark Seas, Viva La Dirt League, Dominic Noble, Ana Psychology, Anna from Ukraine, World War Two, Real Time History, Karolina Zebrowska, Shannon Makes, Brittany Page, Kat Blacque, Kaz Rowe, Ponderful, Elliot Brooks, A Life of Lit, Philosophy Tube, Savy Writes Books, Sophie from Mars, Cass Ellis, Andrew Watson, Andrewism, Rebecca Watson, Lady Knight the Brave, No Justice MTG, The Chloe Connection, Kate Robson, Digging for Britain.
The hapless employees who are not ethically challenged scientists or hired guns are better written than the rest of the cast. Sadly they do not make many appearances nor are given meaningful dialogue. The local government are believable in having their culture, financial circumstances and poor policy described.
The agent has no personality. James Bond is drawn with more depth and does have a backstory. This interloper is far less substantial than the main characters of "Secret Agent", "The Prisoner", "The Saint" or "The Avengers" (not the Marvel heroes).
Decent prose alone will not carry the book. The book consists of a predictable plot and ending, no characters worth remembering and no dialogue that adds anything to the characters. It is a Hollywood movie without good cinematography.
I have read several books deserving the same judgement.They are boring but they are not overtly offensive. When the bar for any genre is set that low, the quality of any US fiction has serious problems. I spent most of the last five years trying to rediscover my love of science fiction and related genres but instead I have lost most of my interest in any US publisher titles.
The publishing houses seem to be bound by several guidelines. The writing quality for US publishing has been reduced to bad YA fiction marketed to adults. That applies across genres. The characters read in many novels as children in adult bodies with mentalities that include magical thinking, early teen hormonal fluctuations, a lack of connection between action and consequences and an inability to recognise that the needs of others might affect them or be of value on their own account. Most of the "Woman's" fiction and "Military Science Fiction" are bound to those requirements. The prose is usually suited to the 8 to 13 year old.
The quality standards are probably Minimal Effort, No Effort, Insulting and Abhorrent. The includes politics being touted to make Franco, Hitler, Stalin, Putin or Republican Party lawmakers blush. Almost every science fiction book, seemed legally required to exclude non-white, non-cis males without good English names. There are exceptions for the occasional Scottish, Welsh, Irish male and even female providing she lacks agency or empathy. Those are allowed for diversity. These are factors to consider when you next see a Times Bestseller or Kindle/Goodreads must read notification.
If women and men continue to praise these books, I do not expect that the quality will improve. To read them might be entertaining but to insist others enjoy them is probably harmful. I now look to the streaming services to provide stories which are usually better written and always more entertaining. There are also very good short film channels (DUST, Omeleto and others) to be found on YouTube, which provide good and excellent stories.
I began using YouTube a bit more than two years ago in search of useful science fiction commentary. I was stunned by the number of other interest area channels. I really liked the lifestyle, documentary, hobby channels and am a great fan of the essayist channels. The best surprise though, were the book channels. 😍 The communities fostered are comprised of thoughtful, curious readers all of whom love the entirety of the world of books. The environment which they create is completely different to that of Goodreads. The essayist, documentary and other educational channels also embed sponsor spots for the dedicated educational video sites. Nebula and all the others are worth a visit and are inexpensive.
My YouTube picks of the moment.
The Little Platoon, Cruising Alba, Linguoer Mechanic, Philosophy Tube, MechaWest Show, Owen Jones, New Economic Thinking, Art Deco, Weir on the Move, Vaerko, Paola Hermosin, The Juice Media, The Book Leo, Second Thought.
As for Amazon/Kindle/Goodreads, please consider treating this site as potentially hostile. 😐
Ominous music begins. 😊 For my view of Kindle, Goodreads and certain members see my review of "Dark Horse", a good novel by Diener or Powers of the Earth, a pathetic salute to the January 6, 2021 hero by Travis Corcoran. He is an employee of an unnamed US agency, a veteran and supporter of Putin's Russia, a self-described libertarian And vocal advocate for the return of chattel slavery. Only in America, as they say.
I have read from ex-employee interviews how little oversight is applied to Goodreads and from experience to Kindle. Through all my interesting interactions with both, I have received no acknowledgement from Kindle of any query. There are quite a number of diseased fellows among the employees and members alike. After reading either of those reviews, you may decide as I did that precautions are in order.
I recommend that a reader minimise personal information on Kindle - files, contact list, calendar, email and Goodreads messaging and profile. I also recommend removal of all lurkers (those friends who monitor and never post), the screenshot of the odd and the ugly. Your personal safety rests on the whims of disturbed man-children (the dreaded Snowfkake) lacking either morality or restraint and most importantly, they are American. Ominous music ends. 😊
May we all enjoy Good Reading! 😊
I am no expert as regards YouTube channels but do like these and hopefully you will find some of them interesting.
Bobbing Along, AllShorts, Rachel Oates, Leeja Miller, Ponderful, TVP News, Malinda, Tara Mooknee, The Clockwork Reader, Widebeam and Wellingtons, Munecat, More Perfect Union, Ship Happens, Olga Mieleszuk, Snappy Dragon, IL Neige, Julie Nolke, Ben and Emily, Ushanka Show, The Welsh Viking, Lady of the LIbrary, A Day of Small Things, Chris and Shell, Arthur Rehi, A Day of Small Things, A Clockwork Reader, Sound of Music Flashmob, The Juice Media, Jake Broe, Alysotherlife, Naked Science, Book Furnace, PatrickHWillems, Smack the Pony, C.L.Peachtree Narrowboat, Books and Lala, Jean's Thoughts, Munecat, Some More News, Tom Nicholas, Mia Mulder, Discourse Minis, Mitchell and Webb, Novara Media, Mrs Betty Bowers, With Olivia, Red Plateaus, Prime of Midlife, Garyseconomics, A Cup of Nicole, Philosophy Tube, Vlad Vexler, Dan Davis History. TIkHistory, Real Science, Brandon F, Atun Shei, Polyushka Polye, New Economic Thinking, It's Black Friday, The Templin Institute, Big Think, Ula and Josh, Travelling K, May Moon Narrowboat, Adult Wednesday Addams - 2 seasons, Dr Tracey Marks, Table Size Productions, Truth to Power, Michael Lambert, XPLRD, Sideprojects, The Good Place, Tom Nicholas, Kathy's Flog in France, Sailing Melody, Steve Shives, Sci-Fi Odyssey, Johnny FD, Engineering with Rosie, Prime of Midlife, Kiko1006 - Empire of Angels, , Alice Cappelle, DW News, Amanda Rae, Abney Park, Brittany Page, Our Changing Climate, J Draper, Karolina Zebrowska, Bernadette Banner, History with Cy, Deerstalker Pictures, Viva La Dirt League, Red Wrench Films, AllShorts, DUST, Potential History, Launch Pad Astronomy, Sci-fi Secrets, Sci-Fi Odyssey, Crecganford, Mandy - web series, Digging for Britain, Patrick is a Navajo, Overly Sarcastic Productions, DUST, Kyiv Post, Cruising Alba, Nomadic Crobot, What Vivi did next, Jared Henderson, Cruising the Cut, Lily Alexandre, Jessie Gender, History with Kayleigh, Engineering Knits, Lisa Walton, The Sword and The Pen Reflections, Cari Can Read, Xiran Jay Zhao, It's Black Friday,
I wish you a glorious morning, a splendid afternoon, a pleasant evening, a magnificent night and may we all continue learning.
If you allow Others to speak in your name without challenge, you adopt the Other's sins.
My grandmother
September 19, 2018
Nick Dirkse works too hard and has been neglecting his wife and his two children, Kim and Scott. He is a software developer and co-owner of a small software company in Los Angeles. If he can’t debug their latest project in time, then their investor will walk. This is the latest in a string of late nights and covering for Art’s, his partner, lack of control over the budgets and spending for their company.
Since Nick and his wife, Cathy’s, parents had all died, all the child centred roles were left to Cathy and she was felling neglected and no longer in a real relationship, just a pair of old friends at best. She constantly has to change her hours for her job as a real estate broker to fit everything in. Nick has no idea his wife feels this way, nor that both his kids also have issues on their minds.
Art offers him and his family the chance to take a holiday at the soon to be opened resort, on a newly built island, named Lemuria, off the coast of India. It was an incentive from their latest client, Benny, for their hard work. Four reservations for the soft opening of the resort, while it works out any issues for the guests. A totally luxurious island paradise, built on a reef, against local wishes, by a multi-billionaire, of course. Nick gets to surprise his wife and kids with a two week holiday of a lifetime and hopefully, the chance for him to regain his family.
As with any supposed paradise, there is a dark side to the island. Locals are against the build, many for environmental reasons and others who don’t want massive tourism on their doorstep and the erosion of their land and lifestyles. What nobody actually knows, is what is happening on the secret, owner’s side of the island. A large private mansion with many secrets lying beneath and even your worst nightmares, come to life.
A good read, which changes from a man too involved in his companies software projects, his neglected wife and kids, to a sudden chance of paradise, but then the nightmarish need to find enough courage to save his family as all hell breaks loose. It will keep you reading as you wait to see what the opening part of the book teased you about and then the shocking opening night gala and the destruction to follow.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and it leaves you thinking about how far developments are being pushed in our currents times. Not everyone or everything is controlled with the proper safeguards and disaster could be just a step away. I received an ARC copy of this book from Hidden Gems and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Since Nick and his wife, Cathy’s, parents had all died, all the child centred roles were left to Cathy and she was felling neglected and no longer in a real relationship, just a pair of old friends at best. She constantly has to change her hours for her job as a real estate broker to fit everything in. Nick has no idea his wife feels this way, nor that both his kids also have issues on their minds.
Art offers him and his family the chance to take a holiday at the soon to be opened resort, on a newly built island, named Lemuria, off the coast of India. It was an incentive from their latest client, Benny, for their hard work. Four reservations for the soft opening of the resort, while it works out any issues for the guests. A totally luxurious island paradise, built on a reef, against local wishes, by a multi-billionaire, of course. Nick gets to surprise his wife and kids with a two week holiday of a lifetime and hopefully, the chance for him to regain his family.
As with any supposed paradise, there is a dark side to the island. Locals are against the build, many for environmental reasons and others who don’t want massive tourism on their doorstep and the erosion of their land and lifestyles. What nobody actually knows, is what is happening on the secret, owner’s side of the island. A large private mansion with many secrets lying beneath and even your worst nightmares, come to life.
A good read, which changes from a man too involved in his companies software projects, his neglected wife and kids, to a sudden chance of paradise, but then the nightmarish need to find enough courage to save his family as all hell breaks loose. It will keep you reading as you wait to see what the opening part of the book teased you about and then the shocking opening night gala and the destruction to follow.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and it leaves you thinking about how far developments are being pushed in our currents times. Not everyone or everything is controlled with the proper safeguards and disaster could be just a step away. I received an ARC copy of this book from Hidden Gems and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
March 12, 2021
I love a good "Creature" story, be it insects, predatory animals, or something never heard of before, I love the mystery and fear that a well written "Creature" feature story can bring. With Lemuria (Project Proteus) I was not at all disappointed.
Very well written, well developed characters, a story that moves right along from the very beginning with no pauses where you might lose interest. No way, this one just kept going, at times leaving you feeling just a little breathless, and I was loving every minute of it. Action, mystery, romance (a little) all combined to make for a very fun read! I'll definitely be reading more by this Author.
Very well written, well developed characters, a story that moves right along from the very beginning with no pauses where you might lose interest. No way, this one just kept going, at times leaving you feeling just a little breathless, and I was loving every minute of it. Action, mystery, romance (a little) all combined to make for a very fun read! I'll definitely be reading more by this Author.
March 1, 2022
For me, this book was so bad it was actually entertaining. Maybe that's not what the author was going for, but its hard to imagine anyone taking this as a serious read. The sections from the creature's POV in particular were hilarious. Add some stereotypical villains and some incredible cheesy dialogue and you've got a book that's worth reading, if only to see what ridiculous event will happen next. I'll probably pick up the next book just to see if it gets any better - or worse.
Only thing that truly irritated me about this book was how the author insists on using the full name of every single character over and over again. We get it, his name is Nick Dirkse, her name is Cathy Dirkse... just use the first names! I got so tired of seeing that in every single chapter. Another reviewer pointed this out and I thought maybe they were being too picky but they were right - annoying
Only thing that truly irritated me about this book was how the author insists on using the full name of every single character over and over again. We get it, his name is Nick Dirkse, her name is Cathy Dirkse... just use the first names! I got so tired of seeing that in every single chapter. Another reviewer pointed this out and I thought maybe they were being too picky but they were right - annoying
September 3, 2021
2.5/5
I didn't pay for this book but I would still like a refund. I think part of the issue is that I didn't like the audiobook. Also really don't need to have your characters call Arabs terrorist. (This was published in 2018 so totally beyond "the times".)
About 40% of the way through I was ready for everyone to die (except for the locals who again did nothing wrong.)
The story was pretty predictable but I liked how certain timelines were woven together. I really think this would make a good movie?
Good concept/plot. But unlikeable characters and okay writing really didn't give me the impact I was suspecting.
I didn't pay for this book but I would still like a refund. I think part of the issue is that I didn't like the audiobook. Also really don't need to have your characters call Arabs terrorist. (This was published in 2018 so totally beyond "the times".)
About 40% of the way through I was ready for everyone to die (except for the locals who again did nothing wrong.)
The story was pretty predictable but I liked how certain timelines were woven together. I really think this would make a good movie?
Good concept/plot. But unlikeable characters and okay writing really didn't give me the impact I was suspecting.
August 6, 2021
.
As usual John starts out with a bullsht, trite, over-done and very hackneyed story, and yet there is something weird and unique developing….
Yet, “Nick” is such a pussy I LOATHE him as a character. See, this “man” just knifed Nick’s associate and tried to kill him, and Nick reacts by Tasing the “man.” Here’s Nick’s final reaction:
“Nick quickly stepped back, the rush of adrenaline replaced by a sudden nausea over what he had just done. Seeing the man jerk his shoulders gave him a bit of relief. At least he didn't kill him.”
I mean… what is this? All, like, the New Millennial Folks, and, like, stuff?
.
Oh, and then there’s this gem:
“Cathy stared meekly at the Glock pistol. ‘I-I’ve never used one of those things before.’
.
‘It's easy,’ Quentin said. ‘Just grip it with both hands and aim down the sights. Keep your finger off the trigger until you're ready to fire.’ Scott wanted to tell them he could use the gun since he’d seen all those action movies….”
.
“…The feeling made him queasy, and he would have thrown up if it weren't for his stomach already being empty….”
.
“…Cathy moved next to Scott and placed her hand over her son's eyes. ‘Don't look anymore.’ Scott pushed himself away from her. ‘Mom, I can handle it, okay? I've played a lot of gory videogames that are worse than this….’"
.
.
…oh Geez…wait a second…I think now I’M GONNA HURL!!!!
Toward the end, when a certain EXTREMELY IRRITATING and OBSESSIVE character died, I was so happy I danced!!!
Oh! And what a stupid, dumb, trite, moronic ending!! So stupid a caveman could do it.
.
As usual John starts out with a bullsht, trite, over-done and very hackneyed story, and yet there is something weird and unique developing….
Yet, “Nick” is such a pussy I LOATHE him as a character. See, this “man” just knifed Nick’s associate and tried to kill him, and Nick reacts by Tasing the “man.” Here’s Nick’s final reaction:
“Nick quickly stepped back, the rush of adrenaline replaced by a sudden nausea over what he had just done. Seeing the man jerk his shoulders gave him a bit of relief. At least he didn't kill him.”
I mean… what is this? All, like, the New Millennial Folks, and, like, stuff?
.
Oh, and then there’s this gem:
“Cathy stared meekly at the Glock pistol. ‘I-I’ve never used one of those things before.’
.
‘It's easy,’ Quentin said. ‘Just grip it with both hands and aim down the sights. Keep your finger off the trigger until you're ready to fire.’ Scott wanted to tell them he could use the gun since he’d seen all those action movies….”
.
“…The feeling made him queasy, and he would have thrown up if it weren't for his stomach already being empty….”
.
“…Cathy moved next to Scott and placed her hand over her son's eyes. ‘Don't look anymore.’ Scott pushed himself away from her. ‘Mom, I can handle it, okay? I've played a lot of gory videogames that are worse than this….’"
.
.
…oh Geez…wait a second…I think now I’M GONNA HURL!!!!
Toward the end, when a certain EXTREMELY IRRITATING and OBSESSIVE character died, I was so happy I danced!!!
Oh! And what a stupid, dumb, trite, moronic ending!! So stupid a caveman could do it.
.
November 10, 2019
At first I wasn't sure if I'd like this book. It's well written but it started out reading more like a family drama than a horror/thriller. Lot's of husband/wife and girlfriend/boyfriend angst. But as I get further into it, things began getting interesting. A dishonored scientist is performing unspeakable experiments in a secret lab on the same island as a newly-built resort. Of course, things get out of hand and people begin dying, in particularly gruesome ways. The last third of the book mostly involves the resort guests trying to survive the horror.
The storyline itself is somewhat formulaic. Man-made genetic monster. Greedy megabillionaire. Experiments that ask us to ignore reality (it is fiction, after all). The reason for all the genetic experimentation is not all that much of a surprise, but it wraps up the story nice and tight.
This book was good enough to make me want to read the rest of the series. They are all stand alone books but have a similar theme.
The storyline itself is somewhat formulaic. Man-made genetic monster. Greedy megabillionaire. Experiments that ask us to ignore reality (it is fiction, after all). The reason for all the genetic experimentation is not all that much of a surprise, but it wraps up the story nice and tight.
This book was good enough to make me want to read the rest of the series. They are all stand alone books but have a similar theme.
March 29, 2021
Just good enough to get me to read book 2
I enjoyed the book - most of it. It had some interesting characters that were well developed and some characters I could really care for. However, this is a book where you don't want to get too attached to your favorite character. It took a long time to get to any action in this one but once it started it did not slow down until the very end where the reader is treated to a cliche of an ending that screams sequel, even though you already know one is coming. If this was a Syfy Channel movie, you could see the twist coming. One character I didn't get was Cathy, the wife. Why was she even in the story? Didn't care for her. I kind of liked the bad guys. I liked Nick and Quentin. Scott was the required kid, wiser than his age. The bottom line? Pretty good. If you read it, you'll probably want to read the next one. I do.
I enjoyed the book - most of it. It had some interesting characters that were well developed and some characters I could really care for. However, this is a book where you don't want to get too attached to your favorite character. It took a long time to get to any action in this one but once it started it did not slow down until the very end where the reader is treated to a cliche of an ending that screams sequel, even though you already know one is coming. If this was a Syfy Channel movie, you could see the twist coming. One character I didn't get was Cathy, the wife. Why was she even in the story? Didn't care for her. I kind of liked the bad guys. I liked Nick and Quentin. Scott was the required kid, wiser than his age. The bottom line? Pretty good. If you read it, you'll probably want to read the next one. I do.
March 15, 2019
Be careful what you wish for
Well, I read the 2nd book first and loved it and I just had to read this book to see how the whole ordeal started. This book did not disappoint me. In fact, it made me want to read book 2 again now knowing what went down in the beginning. The characters are great and there is lots of action. I felt as if I were actually in the story at times. I love creatures, scariness, and some gore in my books and Lemuria had all of these and more. I am still hoping for a 3rd book. Love, love this series.
Well, I read the 2nd book first and loved it and I just had to read this book to see how the whole ordeal started. This book did not disappoint me. In fact, it made me want to read book 2 again now knowing what went down in the beginning. The characters are great and there is lots of action. I felt as if I were actually in the story at times. I love creatures, scariness, and some gore in my books and Lemuria had all of these and more. I am still hoping for a 3rd book. Love, love this series.
April 9, 2019
A rip roaring ride
I really appreciated the book's organization. First, the creation of mystery in the first chapter, cranking up the tension. Secondly, the development of the main characters and their personal problems. Thirdly, the meshing of the characters with the horror they are doomed to encounter, and fourthy, the resolution of situation. Only the rather long description of struggling through the tunnels wore me down.
I really appreciated the book's organization. First, the creation of mystery in the first chapter, cranking up the tension. Secondly, the development of the main characters and their personal problems. Thirdly, the meshing of the characters with the horror they are doomed to encounter, and fourthy, the resolution of situation. Only the rather long description of struggling through the tunnels wore me down.
March 10, 2021
Good first book in the series for Triptych with lots of unimaginable gore & experimentation involved. Having read book 2 first it was good to see how the creature came about & was created. As in all good series books, the ending always leads to more prospects for future stories the reader will want to pursue.
September 22, 2018
Interesting
A different approach in monster books but one that will keep you engaged. A sad alien-like birth was somewhat surprising with gore aplenty. It’s worth taking on. Enjoy the ride.
A different approach in monster books but one that will keep you engaged. A sad alien-like birth was somewhat surprising with gore aplenty. It’s worth taking on. Enjoy the ride.
April 3, 2019
Interesting story
A very captivating story with some great characters. An island paradise has a very dark secret. Staying alive is the hardest thing that one family is trying to do.
A very captivating story with some great characters. An island paradise has a very dark secret. Staying alive is the hardest thing that one family is trying to do.
June 4, 2020
Can't put it down
This was a read every free moment you have I usually read two books at once because one gets too slow but I was captivated by this book I would recommend this book to any one that reads
This was a read every free moment you have I usually read two books at once because one gets too slow but I was captivated by this book I would recommend this book to any one that reads
February 2, 2021
Monster from the Black Lagoon
I rather enjoyed this book, as I need a bit of a change sometimes. It didn’t exactly turn out the way I thought it would when I began.
Jaws isn’t the only reason not to go into the water!!
I rather enjoyed this book, as I need a bit of a change sometimes. It didn’t exactly turn out the way I thought it would when I began.
Jaws isn’t the only reason not to go into the water!!
August 10, 2021
Great creature thriller!
Very entertaining and thrilling story about an exclusive island resort, the mysterious private side of the island and a terrifying creature with a thirst for blood.
Very entertaining and thrilling story about an exclusive island resort, the mysterious private side of the island and a terrifying creature with a thirst for blood.
June 22, 2022
Реално си вървеше за тройка, но гадориите на финала бяха толкова брутални, че вдигнах оценката на четири звезди.
Иначе идеално за сезона хорър трилърче. По-подробно съм го ревюирал в Цитаделата:
https://citadelata.com/lemuria/
Иначе идеално за сезона хорър трилърче. По-подробно съм го ревюирал в Цитаделата:
https://citadelata.com/lemuria/
March 22, 2023
I didn’t realize this was a series when I checked it out from the library. It’s a pretty good start to a series and it will be interesting to see where it goes. It pretty much kept my attention from the very beginning.
October 12, 2018
An interesting approach to a monster story IT definitely had gore aplenty
December 8, 2018
Roller coaster!
This book does not end like you think it will. Twists and turns, mixed with good scifi, it's a fun read.
This book does not end like you think it will. Twists and turns, mixed with good scifi, it's a fun read.
January 28, 2019
Great read
It was a page turner, I couldn't put it down. Love the characters, lots of action and edge of your seat storyline.
It was a page turner, I couldn't put it down. Love the characters, lots of action and edge of your seat storyline.
March 12, 2020
Superbe !!!
Pas capable d’arrêter de lire!!! Il faut que vous lisiez ce livre j’ai vraiment adoré et j’en veut plus merci
Pas capable d’arrêter de lire!!! Il faut que vous lisiez ce livre j’ai vraiment adoré et j’en veut plus merci
September 24, 2020
Don't bother to read!
If I told give this book zero stars I would . Had great potential but that fizzled quicker than an open can of soda. Just a big disappointment .
If I told give this book zero stars I would . Had great potential but that fizzled quicker than an open can of soda. Just a big disappointment .
December 8, 2021
good book
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