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Cryptic Spaces #1
Cryptic Spaces: Foresight
A brilliant young mathematician, and a world-famous young violinist are recruited to a clandestine organization with time travel technology.
The organization, Observations, Inc., is probing the myths and mysteries of mankind, things like the Loch Ness Monster, Atlantis, the Bermuda Triangle, Zombies, Witches, Secrets of the Pyramids, and more.
When introduced to the time grid for their first assignment, they discover that the time grid has a dark side, and what we have always believed to be merely myth and mystery are part of a carefully hidden history - one whose weave could mean the end of everything.
˃˃˃ Willoughby sees patterns that others cannot.Applying his brilliance in mathematics, he uncovers puzzles hidden in plain view. A carved symbol over a local barbershop, for example, leads him to one Antonio Chavez, and eventually, to a secretive organization where nothing is as it seems.
˃˃˃ Antonio, he learns, is far more than a barber, and introduces him to his oddly eccentric team.The famous and beautiful Sydney Senoya exhibits a musical talent that can reach beyond the living. James Arthur, proves to have strange healing powers. Even feisty T.K., their crew liaison on the company yacht, is more than she seems. Determined to uncover the truth behind the supposed seer, Nostradamus, the new team finds itself lost across the corridors of time, fighting for their lives.
Does Willoughby alone, have the skill to save them?
˃˃˃ International Award Winning Bestselling Author Deen Ferrell delivers the first installment of his new novel that merges romance and destiny in an intense time-travel adventure.If you love Eoin Colfer (Artemis Fowl), Rick Riordan (Percy Jackson), Brandon Mull (Fablehaven) you will absolutely enjoy Cryptic Spaces.
396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2013
36 people are currently reading
1393 people want to read
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Deen Ferrell
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
February 12, 2014
Willoughby Von Brahmer is almost 16 years old now. Since before he was out of diapers, he could recognize and analyze sequences and patterns in his environment, particularly those mathematically based. He is a prodigy, a savant really, and his accomplishments have netted him both wealth and the attention of some very influential and secretive personages.
Sydney Senoya is another teenage prodigy – a musical virtuoso. Her talent and her mesmerizing performances have made her a fortune and her talent extends to the mastery of multiple languages. She is also being watched.
James Arthur Washington, aka Dr. J, is older than Willoughby and Sydney, but not by much. However, he became a medical doctor before he became an adult, specializing in healing through energy points. Now whether he is also a rich doctor is not told, but he is quite athletic, is a bad singer and has a smart mouth with few filters. And his watch is over; he’s been recruited.
Our main protagonist is Willoughby, with Sydney and Dr. J as major support. Joining this group is Antonio Chavez, a middle aged nautical and spatial engineer who works undercover as a barber. Rounding out the main cast is Hathaway Simon, a man of very indeterminate age, who runs Observations, Inc., a very secretive, scientific think tank which does a whole lot more than “think.” And this organization has a very, very big problem on its hands that it feels can only by solved by Willoughby, with the help of Sydney and Dr. J.
So we have three child prodigies, a spatial engineer, an ageless CEO, a secret scientific organization with massive financial resources, and a big problem – an undefined, CRYPTIC problem. And we also have a story that is beyond convoluted.
Not only is the story cryptic, its genre is just as hard to pin down. On one hand it is science fiction, with constant and deep references into higher mathematics, spatial dimensions and holograms. Then it becomes fantasy with the spatial dimensions warping into time travel, rifts, prehistoric creatures and Nostradamus. From there, we have to add in the horror genre as we encounter demons, zombies and even a smidgen of the Devil. The paranormal genre gets a tag here also with the seeming immortality of several characters and the out-of-body nature of several events. And we can’t forget YA – the main characters are kids, prodigies and savants they may be, but still kids.
By the end of the book I was just shaking my head in confusion. And it was not the heavy-handed info dumps referencing mathematical principles or the winding, disjointed treatises on time and space correlation that created that confusion. I simply couldn’t determine what the author considered the point of the story to be. The title of the series is “Cryptic Spaces,” and the author took “cryptic” to a new level.
There were too many characters doing too many things with too little explanation as to motive or intent. There were too many scenes, that when completed, left the question of its importance, why it was included. And when explanations were forthcoming, they embodied that term “cryptic” in spades.
It took me fourteen days to read this book; my normal time for a book of its length is three days. And it was not just my frustration with the lack of clarity that made me keep putting it down. It was also the characterization, or lack thereof. With the exception of Willoughby, no one else was given any real depth. While we heard what they said and saw how they acted, we weren’t given a clue as to what they were thinking or where they were coming from in their responses. This made it difficult to get invested in them as characters or even care if they survived.
So, if I can’t see the point of the plot and I can’t see a reason to care about the characters, I can’t see a reason to read any further novels in this series.
I received this book through the Goodreads First Reads Program. That fact in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
Sydney Senoya is another teenage prodigy – a musical virtuoso. Her talent and her mesmerizing performances have made her a fortune and her talent extends to the mastery of multiple languages. She is also being watched.
James Arthur Washington, aka Dr. J, is older than Willoughby and Sydney, but not by much. However, he became a medical doctor before he became an adult, specializing in healing through energy points. Now whether he is also a rich doctor is not told, but he is quite athletic, is a bad singer and has a smart mouth with few filters. And his watch is over; he’s been recruited.
Our main protagonist is Willoughby, with Sydney and Dr. J as major support. Joining this group is Antonio Chavez, a middle aged nautical and spatial engineer who works undercover as a barber. Rounding out the main cast is Hathaway Simon, a man of very indeterminate age, who runs Observations, Inc., a very secretive, scientific think tank which does a whole lot more than “think.” And this organization has a very, very big problem on its hands that it feels can only by solved by Willoughby, with the help of Sydney and Dr. J.
So we have three child prodigies, a spatial engineer, an ageless CEO, a secret scientific organization with massive financial resources, and a big problem – an undefined, CRYPTIC problem. And we also have a story that is beyond convoluted.
Not only is the story cryptic, its genre is just as hard to pin down. On one hand it is science fiction, with constant and deep references into higher mathematics, spatial dimensions and holograms. Then it becomes fantasy with the spatial dimensions warping into time travel, rifts, prehistoric creatures and Nostradamus. From there, we have to add in the horror genre as we encounter demons, zombies and even a smidgen of the Devil. The paranormal genre gets a tag here also with the seeming immortality of several characters and the out-of-body nature of several events. And we can’t forget YA – the main characters are kids, prodigies and savants they may be, but still kids.
By the end of the book I was just shaking my head in confusion. And it was not the heavy-handed info dumps referencing mathematical principles or the winding, disjointed treatises on time and space correlation that created that confusion. I simply couldn’t determine what the author considered the point of the story to be. The title of the series is “Cryptic Spaces,” and the author took “cryptic” to a new level.
There were too many characters doing too many things with too little explanation as to motive or intent. There were too many scenes, that when completed, left the question of its importance, why it was included. And when explanations were forthcoming, they embodied that term “cryptic” in spades.
It took me fourteen days to read this book; my normal time for a book of its length is three days. And it was not just my frustration with the lack of clarity that made me keep putting it down. It was also the characterization, or lack thereof. With the exception of Willoughby, no one else was given any real depth. While we heard what they said and saw how they acted, we weren’t given a clue as to what they were thinking or where they were coming from in their responses. This made it difficult to get invested in them as characters or even care if they survived.
So, if I can’t see the point of the plot and I can’t see a reason to care about the characters, I can’t see a reason to read any further novels in this series.
I received this book through the Goodreads First Reads Program. That fact in no way influenced my opinion of this book.
April 23, 2014
Willoughby Von Bramer is a shy young man with an unusual name and a secret--in response to an internet contest, he solved the Riemann Hypothesis at an incredibly young age. Now he suddenly finds himself attending an exclusive private high school; possessing a large trust fund and a limo driver. But who sponsored the contest, and what do they want with the gifted young mathematician they uncovered?
Sydney Senoya is violin prodigy--a teen-age starlet with a flair for controversy who is grabbing headlines across the globe for concerts that appear to be equal parts virtuosity and performance art. So why does she suddenly break from her touring schedule and spend an enormous sum of money to buy a 500-year-old skeleton?
This is clearly a young adult title, but I must stress that it is for young adults who enjoy books with a significant intellectual component. I can see how someone could read Cryptic Spaces: Foresight and lose their connection to the story if they have a hard time with some of the music, physics and mathematics concepts that are integral to the story. However, this YA avid reader couldn't get enough and is waiting rather impatiently for Book 2. (Does anyone know when Book 2 will come out?)
My biggest frustration with the most recent blockbuster YA titles, especially the dystopian ones, has been the need to stretch my suspension of disbelief to take in the books' premises. That is precisely why I found Cryptic Spaces to be so engaging. There are elements of fantasy to be sure, but the plausibility of each element is so thoroughly explored that I felt no need to upgrade my own gullibility to enjoy the story. The author seems to have a Dan Brown-like knack for bringing the most interesting aspects of physics into a believable world that teeters between science and science fiction.
And instead of overly stylized (or overly dramatic) protagonists, the characters respond to their world with equal parts wit and wonder--trying to understand what they see, what they feel, and to ultimately stay alive. The banter between the young gifted team members reminded me a little of Ender's Game in its originality and unpredictability.
My biggest criticism so far, is the wait for Book 2.
Sydney Senoya is violin prodigy--a teen-age starlet with a flair for controversy who is grabbing headlines across the globe for concerts that appear to be equal parts virtuosity and performance art. So why does she suddenly break from her touring schedule and spend an enormous sum of money to buy a 500-year-old skeleton?
This is clearly a young adult title, but I must stress that it is for young adults who enjoy books with a significant intellectual component. I can see how someone could read Cryptic Spaces: Foresight and lose their connection to the story if they have a hard time with some of the music, physics and mathematics concepts that are integral to the story. However, this YA avid reader couldn't get enough and is waiting rather impatiently for Book 2. (Does anyone know when Book 2 will come out?)
My biggest frustration with the most recent blockbuster YA titles, especially the dystopian ones, has been the need to stretch my suspension of disbelief to take in the books' premises. That is precisely why I found Cryptic Spaces to be so engaging. There are elements of fantasy to be sure, but the plausibility of each element is so thoroughly explored that I felt no need to upgrade my own gullibility to enjoy the story. The author seems to have a Dan Brown-like knack for bringing the most interesting aspects of physics into a believable world that teeters between science and science fiction.
And instead of overly stylized (or overly dramatic) protagonists, the characters respond to their world with equal parts wit and wonder--trying to understand what they see, what they feel, and to ultimately stay alive. The banter between the young gifted team members reminded me a little of Ender's Game in its originality and unpredictability.
My biggest criticism so far, is the wait for Book 2.
December 4, 2014
Goodreads Win
In a world that exists for a few people who can venture through space. Can this be the secret of Nostradamus or was information manipulated by someone else?
Willoughby is a mathematic genius which leads to solve puzzles where most do not see. This leads to deal with people whom want his knowledge good and bad that they might be.
He is befriend at first by a barber named Antonio who is more than he seems who leads him on a journey aboard a ship where he meets various persons like a beautiful violinist named Sydney Senoya whose music reaches beyond the living. Then there is James Arthur who has strange healing powers that he befriends and T.K. the company yacht go between.
As these group of mismatch people try to seek the truth behind Nostradamus, they are enemies on board looking for a mysterious pendant which they believe will uncover another world. When they are held hostage, as crew members are murder what will become of them? How is Willoughby’s dead dad involved in all this and is he really dead?
Interesting read that has you thinking about the possibilities of another world and place.
In a world that exists for a few people who can venture through space. Can this be the secret of Nostradamus or was information manipulated by someone else?
Willoughby is a mathematic genius which leads to solve puzzles where most do not see. This leads to deal with people whom want his knowledge good and bad that they might be.
He is befriend at first by a barber named Antonio who is more than he seems who leads him on a journey aboard a ship where he meets various persons like a beautiful violinist named Sydney Senoya whose music reaches beyond the living. Then there is James Arthur who has strange healing powers that he befriends and T.K. the company yacht go between.
As these group of mismatch people try to seek the truth behind Nostradamus, they are enemies on board looking for a mysterious pendant which they believe will uncover another world. When they are held hostage, as crew members are murder what will become of them? How is Willoughby’s dead dad involved in all this and is he really dead?
Interesting read that has you thinking about the possibilities of another world and place.
February 24, 2016
Amazing and very creative I was hooked from start to finish a wonderful master piece of literature amazing and characteristic and loud characters each to his or her own. A truly wonderful story and I loved reading this first book of a series and will be reading book 2 and I just know that this story can only get better. My thanks to the wonderful author Deen Ferrell for allowing me the privilege and pleasure of reading his amazing books. This story I would be so delighted to recommend this wonderful book to my friends so happy reading to all I just know you will enjoy reading this wonderful book and all the books to follow so happy, happy reading from wee me
P.S This book was a gift from the author.♥☺
P.S This book was a gift from the author.♥☺
February 18, 2014
I don't read YA that much, but took a chance and was pleasantly surprised by this book.It has a sense of mystery and good pacing, and I liked the science and math. I also enjoyed the interaction of characters and humor. It was a fun read that left you thinking. I will definately be following the series!
March 16, 2020
Do not get mislead by the cover of this book which is quite deceiving. Even though after reading the book you will realize that it displays the character of Sydney, the passionate violinist, but if you came across it at a bookstore, you would never be able to guess it to be a sci-fi thriller. All said and done, a must read.
August 28, 2013
I liked the characters and the fantasy in this book. I'm not sure I understood all the math and science, but it didn't keep me from enjoying the book. My biggest complaint is that the book ends too soon! How long do we have to wait until book 2?
November 12, 2013
This was a fun read. Not too short, not too long. It answered just enough questions to keep you curious and didn't leave too many loose ends.
It was also nice to see some fresh ideas for the imagination to chew on. Hope the next book is just as good.
It was also nice to see some fresh ideas for the imagination to chew on. Hope the next book is just as good.
January 4, 2015
Although the mathmatics were a little intense this was an excellent book. I highly recommend it and I'm itching to read more of the series. There are few books out there right now like Cryptic Spaces and the break from the norm was wonderful.
Intelligent, witty and full of action and adventure.
Intelligent, witty and full of action and adventure.
August 8, 2014
I won this from a goodreads giveaway and I absolutely loved it. This author could easily be my new fav!
February 21, 2015
Overall it was a good read. The math in it was different from what I expected but it was still a fun read. The book kept me interested throughout and left me wanting more.
March 12, 2020
This novel is a fabulous amalgamation of art and science brought to life by impressionable characters and an intense plot.
June 30, 2015
"It was a dark and stormy night ..." Just kidding! So, I came across this book because I won its sequel in a goodreads giveaway. Even though the book came with a nice note from the author stating it would be perfectly fine to read the second book as a stand-alone novel, I though it would not hurt to know the backstory. Besides, the blurb did read intriguing and the book did win a few awards.
Overall, it is a nice relaxing summer read not necessarily for a young adult -- regrettably, I am no longer one. I am also not sure whose marketing idea it was to cram this book into "young adult", as opposed to "fantasy" or "adventure". If it were a large-ish publishing house, I would conclude that it was a matter of whose desk it first landed on for review. As things stand, it might be that the protagonist is fifteen years old, or it might be that the YA genre sells best. Keine Ahnung! Do not get me wrong, the genre-ambiguity is a positive (in my opinion). In fact, if you agree with me regarding the moving boundaries of genre designations you might want to peruse Samantha Shannon's blog entry on that topic or literally any of the Thursday-Next books by Jasper Fforde.
The book opens with a few well-paced, atmospheric chapters. The author loves words and uses them well. I regret that the later settings did not receive the same detailed attention. The fifteen-year-old protagonist is young Willoughby (W in the sequel of this review). After the initial wince at the name so inextricably connected to Jane Austen's ne'er-do-well, you get used to it and his aristocratic and/or Dutch surname. Apparently, W is a Math prodigy of sorts and managed to resolve the Riemann hypothesis at the ripe age of twelve. An interested reader might want to look at this video:
James Grimes on the Riemann Hypothesis
I promise that the video is fun, and energetic, and suitable for all levels of mathematical background and prowess. You will be smiling all through the presentation :)
On the bright side, Mr. Ferrell does not write which way the resolution of the Riemann hypothesis went. He does say that W received a cash prize, though, which is probably reflection of the existing Clay millennium prizes. On the negative, the constant mention of number strings and visual representation of mathematical ability is misleading and simplistic. It's the literary equivalent of the NCIS folks madly tapping on the keyboards to evict a computer virus with the neon green characters blinking all over the place causing epileptic attacks all across this great nation. Anyhow, let's just say that W is good at math and pattern recognition. This is still the good part of the book.
W's dad has been missing for a while (the absent parent trope is semi-present here as well). W gets recruited by a clandestine organization. The plot's trajectory is somewhat predictable, but well executed. The effect is comforting. Then, twists starts sprouting up.
W joins an expedition along with a handful of other larger-than-life participants. Here, the author succumbs to a few cliches in character development.
The most relevant other character appears to be the violin prodigy by the name of Sydney Senoya. Her genetic background and behavior are rather ... eclectic. But, it is completely unclear how she came to be vital to the Organization. She speaks a variety of languages, but how relevant can that be? Most distractedly, Sydney is blatantly trying to "seduce" young W. This is not a spoiler -- you know where all this is going right from the first chapter. However, her approach is quite inappropriate for someone so young. It's like the scenes involving the two were lifted from a telenovela. It's really embarrassing to read the paragraphs in question -- they are clumsy and unbelievable and I was hoping to preserve by disbelief for the fantasy portion of the book.
Now for the biggest twist:
My favorite twist is this one:
Finally, the word "data" is plural. Using it as singular in a printed and (supposedly) edited book is unforgivable. Sorry!
Overall, it is a nice relaxing summer read not necessarily for a young adult -- regrettably, I am no longer one. I am also not sure whose marketing idea it was to cram this book into "young adult", as opposed to "fantasy" or "adventure". If it were a large-ish publishing house, I would conclude that it was a matter of whose desk it first landed on for review. As things stand, it might be that the protagonist is fifteen years old, or it might be that the YA genre sells best. Keine Ahnung! Do not get me wrong, the genre-ambiguity is a positive (in my opinion). In fact, if you agree with me regarding the moving boundaries of genre designations you might want to peruse Samantha Shannon's blog entry on that topic or literally any of the Thursday-Next books by Jasper Fforde.
The book opens with a few well-paced, atmospheric chapters. The author loves words and uses them well. I regret that the later settings did not receive the same detailed attention. The fifteen-year-old protagonist is young Willoughby (W in the sequel of this review). After the initial wince at the name so inextricably connected to Jane Austen's ne'er-do-well, you get used to it and his aristocratic and/or Dutch surname. Apparently, W is a Math prodigy of sorts and managed to resolve the Riemann hypothesis at the ripe age of twelve. An interested reader might want to look at this video:
James Grimes on the Riemann Hypothesis
I promise that the video is fun, and energetic, and suitable for all levels of mathematical background and prowess. You will be smiling all through the presentation :)
On the bright side, Mr. Ferrell does not write which way the resolution of the Riemann hypothesis went. He does say that W received a cash prize, though, which is probably reflection of the existing Clay millennium prizes. On the negative, the constant mention of number strings and visual representation of mathematical ability is misleading and simplistic. It's the literary equivalent of the NCIS folks madly tapping on the keyboards to evict a computer virus with the neon green characters blinking all over the place causing epileptic attacks all across this great nation. Anyhow, let's just say that W is good at math and pattern recognition. This is still the good part of the book.
W's dad has been missing for a while (the absent parent trope is semi-present here as well). W gets recruited by a clandestine organization. The plot's trajectory is somewhat predictable, but well executed. The effect is comforting. Then, twists starts sprouting up.
W joins an expedition along with a handful of other larger-than-life participants. Here, the author succumbs to a few cliches in character development.
The most relevant other character appears to be the violin prodigy by the name of Sydney Senoya. Her genetic background and behavior are rather ... eclectic. But, it is completely unclear how she came to be vital to the Organization. She speaks a variety of languages, but how relevant can that be? Most distractedly, Sydney is blatantly trying to "seduce" young W. This is not a spoiler -- you know where all this is going right from the first chapter. However, her approach is quite inappropriate for someone so young. It's like the scenes involving the two were lifted from a telenovela. It's really embarrassing to read the paragraphs in question -- they are clumsy and unbelievable and I was hoping to preserve by disbelief for the fantasy portion of the book.
Now for the biggest twist:
My favorite twist is this one:
Finally, the word "data" is plural. Using it as singular in a printed and (supposedly) edited book is unforgivable. Sorry!
March 9, 2020
A book for all seasons. It keeps getting better page after page with its intriguing sense of mystery, thrilling adventures and incredibly pleasing characters.
November 22, 2018
Epic time travel
A swashbuckling tale supported by almost believable science. It promises much, I
wanted to give it 5 stars but it left too much mystery for future volumes.
A swashbuckling tale supported by almost believable science. It promises much, I
wanted to give it 5 stars but it left too much mystery for future volumes.
March 4, 2020
If you enjoy science fiction mysteries with a touch of friendship and emotion, this novel will prove to be a treat for you.
October 4, 2024
✍️📗Cryptic Spaces is a masterfully crafted novel that navigates the intricate interplay between reality and the unknown, seamlessly blending elements of science fiction, mystery, and psychological exploration. The story centers on Willoughby, a mathematical prodigy whose exceptional ability to solve complex puzzles draws him into a perilous adventure linked to the enigmatic prophecies of Nostradamus.📚
✍️📗The author excels in character development, presenting a diverse cast that includes the enigmatic barber Antonio, the ethereal violinist Sydney Senoya, and the mysteriously gifted healer James Arthur. Each character is richly developed, bringing their own unique motivations and complexities to the narrative. Their interactions create a palpable tension, driving the story forward as they confront both internal conflicts and external threats during their quest.📚
✍️📗The plot unfolds with a compelling pace, skillfully interspersing moments of revelation with unexpected twists that keep readers thoroughly engaged. The pursuit of a legendary pendant, believed to unlock alternate realities, serves as a powerful narrative device, prompting deep explorations of themes such as friendship, betrayal, and the quest for truth.📚
✍️📗The writing is both evocative and intellectually stimulating, featuring vivid descriptions that transport readers into the atmospheric confines of the ship and the vastness of space. Philosophical undertones challenge readers to reflect on the nature of knowledge and existence, adding layers of depth to the story.📚
✍️📗Overall, Cryptic Spaces stands out as a thought-provoking and immersive read. Its intricate character arcs and compelling plot ensure that readers will be captivated from start to finish, leaving them to ponder its profound themes long after the final page is turned. This novel is a must-read for aficionados of speculative fiction and those intrigued by the mysteries of the cosmos.📚
✍️📗The author excels in character development, presenting a diverse cast that includes the enigmatic barber Antonio, the ethereal violinist Sydney Senoya, and the mysteriously gifted healer James Arthur. Each character is richly developed, bringing their own unique motivations and complexities to the narrative. Their interactions create a palpable tension, driving the story forward as they confront both internal conflicts and external threats during their quest.📚
✍️📗The plot unfolds with a compelling pace, skillfully interspersing moments of revelation with unexpected twists that keep readers thoroughly engaged. The pursuit of a legendary pendant, believed to unlock alternate realities, serves as a powerful narrative device, prompting deep explorations of themes such as friendship, betrayal, and the quest for truth.📚
✍️📗The writing is both evocative and intellectually stimulating, featuring vivid descriptions that transport readers into the atmospheric confines of the ship and the vastness of space. Philosophical undertones challenge readers to reflect on the nature of knowledge and existence, adding layers of depth to the story.📚
✍️📗Overall, Cryptic Spaces stands out as a thought-provoking and immersive read. Its intricate character arcs and compelling plot ensure that readers will be captivated from start to finish, leaving them to ponder its profound themes long after the final page is turned. This novel is a must-read for aficionados of speculative fiction and those intrigued by the mysteries of the cosmos.📚
November 15, 2023
Remember the first time you went on a rollercoaster?
First there was that slow-moving part up the rails as you saw the crest and just knew something was coming, but you did not know what to expect. Well, that is Deen Ferrell’s book ‘Cryptic Spaces: Foresight’, a roller coaster of a novel.
As soon as the introductions are done, the main characters presented Ferrell rush into one adventure after another adventure. You are there with Willoughby as he and his friends explore the various mysteries that unravel with their discoveries. Each chapter has a clue. Willoughby gets them, or does he?
Does Mr Ferrell bring you characters? Does he present the reader with different settings?
How about time travel to prehistoric time? How about mathematics, music, physics, serpents, demons, zombies, and evildoers, just to name a few?
Mr Ferrell brings them all together in an enchanting and outstanding science fiction novel that is both a mystery and a mind twister.
The author has a well-developed storyline but has added his wonderful imagination and creativity to the page, each of them bursting through as Mr Ferrell brings to life the characters that entertained this reader throughout the book.
In short, it is a page turner.
If you are looking for something fresh and different in the science fiction arena, ‘Cryptic Spaces: Foresight’ is your go to book!
But you know what is best about the book?
It leaves an opening for the next adventure. I cannot wait!
I highly recommended it.
First there was that slow-moving part up the rails as you saw the crest and just knew something was coming, but you did not know what to expect. Well, that is Deen Ferrell’s book ‘Cryptic Spaces: Foresight’, a roller coaster of a novel.
As soon as the introductions are done, the main characters presented Ferrell rush into one adventure after another adventure. You are there with Willoughby as he and his friends explore the various mysteries that unravel with their discoveries. Each chapter has a clue. Willoughby gets them, or does he?
Does Mr Ferrell bring you characters? Does he present the reader with different settings?
How about time travel to prehistoric time? How about mathematics, music, physics, serpents, demons, zombies, and evildoers, just to name a few?
Mr Ferrell brings them all together in an enchanting and outstanding science fiction novel that is both a mystery and a mind twister.
The author has a well-developed storyline but has added his wonderful imagination and creativity to the page, each of them bursting through as Mr Ferrell brings to life the characters that entertained this reader throughout the book.
In short, it is a page turner.
If you are looking for something fresh and different in the science fiction arena, ‘Cryptic Spaces: Foresight’ is your go to book!
But you know what is best about the book?
It leaves an opening for the next adventure. I cannot wait!
I highly recommended it.
August 8, 2015
What do you get when you cross a young mathletic genius, a friendly barber, an absentee father, an attractive tomboy, a stunning and adept musician and a whole host of unsavoury characters? Answer - adventure, intrigue and time travel ... all within the pages of this book.
I wasn't struck with this book initially and wondered if I would in fact gain any enjoyment from it as I was bogged down in the mathematics and intricacy of formulae. However, I soon learnt that this was just a small part of the story and, whilst this was pivotal to the story it wasn't the b all and end all.
I warmed to the characters, the camaraderie and the adventure.
This book wasn't the sort of book I would have chosen. I would not have sought it out, but it was a good read and I know that my 10 year old son will enjoy reading it.
I found the ending leading me to frustration, rather than encouraging me to read the sequel!!
I wasn't struck with this book initially and wondered if I would in fact gain any enjoyment from it as I was bogged down in the mathematics and intricacy of formulae. However, I soon learnt that this was just a small part of the story and, whilst this was pivotal to the story it wasn't the b all and end all.
I warmed to the characters, the camaraderie and the adventure.
This book wasn't the sort of book I would have chosen. I would not have sought it out, but it was a good read and I know that my 10 year old son will enjoy reading it.
I found the ending leading me to frustration, rather than encouraging me to read the sequel!!
November 8, 2023
Cryptic Spaces Foresight/ book one by Deen Ferrell is a mathematical/time travel adventure sci-fi novel with a dash of Jules Verne. I was not aware of Deen Ferrell's writing and was offered this book to read and went in not really expecting that much. Boy, was I mistaken. I am in no way a math wiz but the author describes the mathematical components of the story in an easily understandable way and never gets in the way of the enjoyable romp. The story of Willoughby Von Brahmer a young math genius together with a team of eccentric characters all gifted in their own way is a delightful read filled with adventure, discovery, and budding romance. I had so much fun reading Cryptic Spaces Foresight a book filled with fun, intelligent characters as well as despicable evil henchmen led by a truly mysterious, manipulative villain. I could not put this book down as it neared the finish with its many unseen reveals. I will continue to read this series and great job Deen Ferrell!
November 21, 2023
Spoilers: One could describe Deen Ferrell’s Foresight, the first book in the Cryptic Spaces series, as the Thinking Person’s Fantasy Adventure. It is the kind of book that shows characters with supernatural gifts, but instead of citing them as magic or psychic abilities, they are more symptoms of an intellectual deep thinking mind. It is a captivating journey of the mind and spirit.
Willoughby Von Brahmer is an eccentric teen prodigy with some very unique gifts. He can see numbers and patterns all around him and because of that, he can recognize mathematical equations and solutions. He is obsessed with looking at what he calls “the spaces between,” those areas of emptiness between solid objects like alleys between buildings, the cracks on a cement or painted surface, or the space between leaves on a tree branch. These spaces seem to tell him something and make him feel like he is being observed. He is also responsible for solving the Riemann Hypothesis, a mathematical equation once thought unsolvable.
Unfortunately, Willoughby is something of a social misfit. He has very few friends, does not always get along with his seemingly normal family, has questions about his missing father, and gets tongue tied around girls. Even a picture of renowned violinist Sydney Senoya makes him flush with embarrassment and nervousness. In fact, his only friend is Antonio, a talkative friendly barber who dispenses some brotherly advice to the kid genius. Willoughby is definitely someone who lives inside his own head more than anywhere else.
Willoughby soon comes to learn that inside his own head is not the safest place to be either because he is starting to see people appearing and disappearing through those in between spaces. Some are even watching him and want to harm him. He also sees certain numbers shine more than others like they are pointing him towards a code or a specific pattern.
He follows the number patterns and between spaces to the headquarters of Cryptic Spaces, a secret society that travels through time, and studies and solves mysteries and puzzles that have eluded experts for centuries. Willoughby is invited to join this group by its enigmatic leader, H.S. The offer is tempting and before he knows it, Willoughby finds himself onboard a windjammer, The Absconditus, heading for the high seas with the other Cryptics. They include Antonio who is not just a barber but an architectural genius, Sydney, who has a hypnotic mesmerizing way of playing her violin and a gift for languages, Dr. James Arthur “Dr. J” Washington, the kindly physically fit medical doctor, Dr. Hugh O’Grady, a nervous expert on string theory, and T.K., the cabin girl assigned to watch this band of genius misfits. The Cryptics' latest assignment is to travel back to the 16th century and encounter the famed seer, Nostradamus but unfortunately they are not alone. They are being followed by another more sinister group that has been very interested in their doings since Willoughby joined them and are hot on the trail of the young math genius.
Cryptic Spaces is a book that activates the mind and imagination by fusing science and magic, reason and romance to make a perfect blend of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Adventure. While mathematical concepts are explained in detail, they are done in a way that is not only understandable but poetic. There is something genuinely beautiful about the concept of someone seeing mathematical patterns that form in the air and realize how connected everything is by a specific design and structure. It's a visually appealing thought that makes Cryptic Spaces not only a good book to read but a beautiful work to imagine. When the characters discuss for example the Golden Mean, they reveal that they are able to capture the golden strings that it emits and travel along the streams through time.
Even if you aren't a Math person, you will still find this book to be a work of art and imagination.
There are plenty of awe inspiring moments spread throughout the book. How does H.S. convince Willoughby that he is on the level and the Cryptics really do time travel? Why show him a Jurassic era sea complete with plesiosaur of course. There are some interesting possibilities about the alleged prophecies of Nostradamus and how exactly he knew so much about the future, possibilities that had better be followed up on.
The way that characters travel through those in between spaces is an interesting concept. It's like that person that you barely see out of the corner of your eye and they quickly disappear. These abilities are impressive but could make one doubt their sanity. Of course it doesn't help that you're not paranoid. Those characters that pop in and out of your line of sight really are trying to recruit or kill you!
Foresight is the typical first book in the series where the core characters meet, get to know each other, show their special gifts, and ongoing conflicts are introduced that trail throughout the series. Romances bloom and friendships are made. The Cryptics are a fascinating bunch with diverse talents and peculiarities. Sometimes they make others suspicious. H.S.’s motives are particularly questionable and characters wonder more than once what his real goals and intentions are. There is also an attack and betrayal comes from a familiar face. Most of this is routine for a first book. But with a concept like this and a fascinating ensemble like the Cryptics, the formula works well.
Cryptic Spaces combines the reason of mathematics, the imagination of fantasy, the wonder of science fiction, and the thrill of adventure to make one of the best books of 2023.
Willoughby Von Brahmer is an eccentric teen prodigy with some very unique gifts. He can see numbers and patterns all around him and because of that, he can recognize mathematical equations and solutions. He is obsessed with looking at what he calls “the spaces between,” those areas of emptiness between solid objects like alleys between buildings, the cracks on a cement or painted surface, or the space between leaves on a tree branch. These spaces seem to tell him something and make him feel like he is being observed. He is also responsible for solving the Riemann Hypothesis, a mathematical equation once thought unsolvable.
Unfortunately, Willoughby is something of a social misfit. He has very few friends, does not always get along with his seemingly normal family, has questions about his missing father, and gets tongue tied around girls. Even a picture of renowned violinist Sydney Senoya makes him flush with embarrassment and nervousness. In fact, his only friend is Antonio, a talkative friendly barber who dispenses some brotherly advice to the kid genius. Willoughby is definitely someone who lives inside his own head more than anywhere else.
Willoughby soon comes to learn that inside his own head is not the safest place to be either because he is starting to see people appearing and disappearing through those in between spaces. Some are even watching him and want to harm him. He also sees certain numbers shine more than others like they are pointing him towards a code or a specific pattern.
He follows the number patterns and between spaces to the headquarters of Cryptic Spaces, a secret society that travels through time, and studies and solves mysteries and puzzles that have eluded experts for centuries. Willoughby is invited to join this group by its enigmatic leader, H.S. The offer is tempting and before he knows it, Willoughby finds himself onboard a windjammer, The Absconditus, heading for the high seas with the other Cryptics. They include Antonio who is not just a barber but an architectural genius, Sydney, who has a hypnotic mesmerizing way of playing her violin and a gift for languages, Dr. James Arthur “Dr. J” Washington, the kindly physically fit medical doctor, Dr. Hugh O’Grady, a nervous expert on string theory, and T.K., the cabin girl assigned to watch this band of genius misfits. The Cryptics' latest assignment is to travel back to the 16th century and encounter the famed seer, Nostradamus but unfortunately they are not alone. They are being followed by another more sinister group that has been very interested in their doings since Willoughby joined them and are hot on the trail of the young math genius.
Cryptic Spaces is a book that activates the mind and imagination by fusing science and magic, reason and romance to make a perfect blend of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Adventure. While mathematical concepts are explained in detail, they are done in a way that is not only understandable but poetic. There is something genuinely beautiful about the concept of someone seeing mathematical patterns that form in the air and realize how connected everything is by a specific design and structure. It's a visually appealing thought that makes Cryptic Spaces not only a good book to read but a beautiful work to imagine. When the characters discuss for example the Golden Mean, they reveal that they are able to capture the golden strings that it emits and travel along the streams through time.
Even if you aren't a Math person, you will still find this book to be a work of art and imagination.
There are plenty of awe inspiring moments spread throughout the book. How does H.S. convince Willoughby that he is on the level and the Cryptics really do time travel? Why show him a Jurassic era sea complete with plesiosaur of course. There are some interesting possibilities about the alleged prophecies of Nostradamus and how exactly he knew so much about the future, possibilities that had better be followed up on.
The way that characters travel through those in between spaces is an interesting concept. It's like that person that you barely see out of the corner of your eye and they quickly disappear. These abilities are impressive but could make one doubt their sanity. Of course it doesn't help that you're not paranoid. Those characters that pop in and out of your line of sight really are trying to recruit or kill you!
Foresight is the typical first book in the series where the core characters meet, get to know each other, show their special gifts, and ongoing conflicts are introduced that trail throughout the series. Romances bloom and friendships are made. The Cryptics are a fascinating bunch with diverse talents and peculiarities. Sometimes they make others suspicious. H.S.’s motives are particularly questionable and characters wonder more than once what his real goals and intentions are. There is also an attack and betrayal comes from a familiar face. Most of this is routine for a first book. But with a concept like this and a fascinating ensemble like the Cryptics, the formula works well.
Cryptic Spaces combines the reason of mathematics, the imagination of fantasy, the wonder of science fiction, and the thrill of adventure to make one of the best books of 2023.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2024
The perfect ending
It's been a while since a series surprised me this much with its ending. I seriously could not put it down. As always, the author took us on a thrilling ride through time, with unexpected twists and turns around every corner. I felt like I was on the bedge of my seat the whole read. This author has a talent for drawing you in, making you feel a part of his character's world and experience their every emotion. All I can say is I want more, and I can't wait to see what new adventures this author can share with us in the future. I highly recommend the entire series!
It's been a while since a series surprised me this much with its ending. I seriously could not put it down. As always, the author took us on a thrilling ride through time, with unexpected twists and turns around every corner. I felt like I was on the bedge of my seat the whole read. This author has a talent for drawing you in, making you feel a part of his character's world and experience their every emotion. All I can say is I want more, and I can't wait to see what new adventures this author can share with us in the future. I highly recommend the entire series!
April 17, 2023
I've read this book twice now, and I love it!! I have to skip over some of the technical stuff, but I do like that the author tries to have realistic reasons for how things happen in this story... as opposed to "A Wrinkle In Time" where they time travel pretty-much by magic!!! AND, I love the characters! Antonio captivates me, Sydney cracks me up, James Arthur is funny, and Willoughby is cute!! So, I recommend this book! If you like books like Artemis Fowl, The Hobbit, A Wrinkle In Time, or any action-adventure... you'll like this one!
June 5, 2017
Interesting start to a new young adult series. I liked the way the mystical elements were built into a mysterious, quasi-scientific seeming approach. Maybe for a younger audience, than I am, but definitely a series that I'm going to introduce my niece to.
EDITED to add that my 14-year-old niece read it and thought it was really good. Now she wants to read the sequels. (4 stars to reflect her comments, as well)
EDITED to add that my 14-year-old niece read it and thought it was really good. Now she wants to read the sequels. (4 stars to reflect her comments, as well)
November 21, 2023
This fantasy sci-fi time travel book as a lot going on and is not an easy read but I really enjoyed it. The story has a lot of depth, twists and turns. I am curious where the series will go forward now that there are so many paths available. As the first book in the series, this book did set up the overall world building and characters rather well. I loved the Nostradamus angle in the back story and hope it continues forward.
May 21, 2025
Cryptic Spaces is like an escape room in book form, with deeper philosophical and historical layers. Ferrell doesn't spoon-feed you anything, which I appreciated. There’s math, music, hidden knowledge, and a secret society that reminded me of something Dan Brown would write, but with more heart and less formula.
The way the story threads together elements of time travel, forgotten truths, and Willoughby’s mental abilities felt incredibly immersive.
The way the story threads together elements of time travel, forgotten truths, and Willoughby’s mental abilities felt incredibly immersive.
March 18, 2020
Brilliant piece of writing with a fantastic imagination that created the magic that is Cryptic Spaces. It is quite difficult and confusing juggling so many different genres together but Ferrel does an excellent job combining science, fiction, mystery, adventure and drama to present a masterpiece. Two thumbs up!
September 28, 2015
Received from Goodreads free for review. This was a strange book. Kept me reading and interested even though it is not my normal style of literature. The science was a little intense for me but the action kept me reading (I don't finish bad books).
December 16, 2023
Unexpected this is a book I have just recently passed on to my niece. She's one of those people who needs a book that the storyline seems to be believable. Like this could actually happen. This is one of those , well written
December 13, 2014
Will be posting a writing form review soon!!!
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