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The Master of Perceptions #2
The Sound of Suffering
Hunter Miller has a secret.
He can read and manipulate the auras that surround everyone.
Having used his talent to dethrone the reigning school bully, thirteen-year old Hunter finds himself thrust into a new quest after hearing screams in the aura of a teacher. Unable to resist this powerful siren song, he investigates—despite warnings from his family and friends. It nearly costs him everything.
Upon discovering the truth, Hunter seeks assistance in his mission to defeat his formidable adversary. As the situation escalates, the adolescent hero ultimately realizes that despite the risks, he must fight this battle alone.
In this second installment of The Master of Perceptions series, can Hunter use his extraordinary powers to rescue an innocent woman without losing himself in the process?
He can read and manipulate the auras that surround everyone.
Having used his talent to dethrone the reigning school bully, thirteen-year old Hunter finds himself thrust into a new quest after hearing screams in the aura of a teacher. Unable to resist this powerful siren song, he investigates—despite warnings from his family and friends. It nearly costs him everything.
Upon discovering the truth, Hunter seeks assistance in his mission to defeat his formidable adversary. As the situation escalates, the adolescent hero ultimately realizes that despite the risks, he must fight this battle alone.
In this second installment of The Master of Perceptions series, can Hunter use his extraordinary powers to rescue an innocent woman without losing himself in the process?
326 pages, Paperback
Published February 21, 2019
1 person is currently reading
1344 people want to read
About the author
Darin C. Brown
4 books163 followersDarin C. Brown Darin C. Brown grew up in upstate New York, the youngest of seven children. After fourteen years of higher education, including a master’s degree and two doctorates, he saved lives as an ER physician in New Hampshire and Maine for over twenty years. Darin started writing local talent shows including the White Mountain Waldorf School’s annual coffee house and the Memorial Hospital Talent Show before moving on to novels. The Master of Perceptions Series, his primary fiction work, is an extensive series documenting the life of Hunter Miller, a superhero with a unique ability. It remains a work-in-progress, with fifteen books planned. He writes and directs a local comedy event, the Josh and Darin Variety Show, and plays piano with The Saturday Boys. A former All-American runner, he still competes (when healthy) on the track. He has three fantastic children and currently resides in the White Mountains of New Hampshire with his wife, Dr. Sandra Brown, and their many pets.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
February 21, 2019
I received this book for free from the YA Bound Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Can Hunter defeat this new adversary?
The Sound of Suffering by Darin C. Brown is a different type of book than I usually read, however, it is okay. Hunter is a teenager learning how to control his power of aura manipulation in a world where he can’t talk to anyone about but his grandpa.
What I liked
Our protagonist, Hunter has autism and is a karate expert.
The book is in the first-person point of view which helps us, know what Hunter is thinking and the auras he sees.
Hunter had friends that helped him.
What I didn’t like
I didn't like the author's writing style. He uses a lot of medical terminologies and karate terms. I mean sometimes it was nice to know especially when Hunter started karate or when his grandfather explained things. However, Dr. Brown could have used common terms once the story was rolling. As these words kept taking me out of the story so I could look them up.
Three Stars
The Sound of Suffering by Darin C. Brown is the second book in a new series, and sadly not a book for me. I loved the idea of this series. I enjoyed it though since it kept me entertained. I'm recommending this book to those who love books where the underdog becomes a hero.
Other Books in the Series
Prize: Signed copy of The Sound of Suffering (the US only)
Blog Tour Organized by:
The Sound of Suffering by Darin C. Brown is a different type of book than I usually read, however, it is okay. Hunter is a teenager learning how to control his power of aura manipulation in a world where he can’t talk to anyone about but his grandpa.
What I liked
Our protagonist, Hunter has autism and is a karate expert.
The book is in the first-person point of view which helps us, know what Hunter is thinking and the auras he sees.
Hunter had friends that helped him.
What I didn’t like
I didn't like the author's writing style. He uses a lot of medical terminologies and karate terms. I mean sometimes it was nice to know especially when Hunter started karate or when his grandfather explained things. However, Dr. Brown could have used common terms once the story was rolling. As these words kept taking me out of the story so I could look them up.
Three Stars
The Sound of Suffering by Darin C. Brown is the second book in a new series, and sadly not a book for me. I loved the idea of this series. I enjoyed it though since it kept me entertained. I'm recommending this book to those who love books where the underdog becomes a hero.
Other Books in the Series
Prize: Signed copy of The Sound of Suffering (the US only)
Blog Tour Organized by:
To find the tour schedule, each stop with exclusive content, and all the tour information click the banner at the top of the page.
Thank you for dropping by. I hope you enjoyed this review of The Sound of Suffering by Darin C. Brown.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
January 18, 2019
The Sound of Suffering gets a 4.5/5.0. The characters were realistic and relatable. I enjoyed the story. I believed that the aura manipulation was interesting. The character development was well done. The pacing was good, and I didn't see any plot holes. The world-building was new and refreshing. Overall, I really enjoyed this novel.
March 8, 2019
“The Sound of Suffering,” Book 2 in Darin Brown’s The Master of Perception series, easily captures even the adult reader, although the more likely audience would be young adults (or, remembering the aficionados in The Big Bang Theory, perhaps anyone fascinated by the sci-fi/fantasy world). We know from the beginning of the book that Hunter has super-powers that he is learning to use, and we also know that he has experienced disabilities, presented as autism, that he has not fully overcome. His name, in light of the way he uses his developing powers, suggests that he has the potential to become a super-hero (like Lee Child’s Reacher?).
We’ve all heard of auras, but the auras Hunter perceives are not just visual. His auras have color, but the color may blend with hearing, taste, and smell through synaesthesia. Hunter, who lacks the ability to “read” people in normal ways, must learn to decode multi-sensory auras to understand the people around him. As he learns to read complex auras, he gradually discovers that he has additional powers. His inclination is to use these powers for good, but he crosses a line when he, in effect, tortures a a criminal (a man who abuses women) for the purpose of getting him to confess.
In the years following the controversy over the legality of “waterboarding” suspected terrorists, a few television dramas occasionally seemed to promote the idea that torture might be necessary in some instances to protect the public. I find this unequivocally wrong (for all the usual reasons). The one mitigating factor in Hunter’s use of extreme force is that he has a super-power that allows him to mend the physical damage and remove the memory of the event from the criminal’s mind once he has attained the confession. I view this as a “slippery slope” all the same.
What I particularly enjoyed in reading Book 2 of Hunter’s story was his daily exercise of mental detection, as Hunter proceeds to analyze his observations and solve mysteries, some of which are mysteries to him alone. I myself was puzzled as to why a star reporter was driving a Datsun. Having owned a Datsun B210 in the early 80s, I was aware that Nissan discontinued making Datsuns in 1984. Since the reporter’s car was not presented as either a “classic car” or a junk-heap, this detail seems to suggest a 1980s time setting. I suspect that Hunter may have decades of adventures to come.
We’ve all heard of auras, but the auras Hunter perceives are not just visual. His auras have color, but the color may blend with hearing, taste, and smell through synaesthesia. Hunter, who lacks the ability to “read” people in normal ways, must learn to decode multi-sensory auras to understand the people around him. As he learns to read complex auras, he gradually discovers that he has additional powers. His inclination is to use these powers for good, but he crosses a line when he, in effect, tortures a a criminal (a man who abuses women) for the purpose of getting him to confess.
In the years following the controversy over the legality of “waterboarding” suspected terrorists, a few television dramas occasionally seemed to promote the idea that torture might be necessary in some instances to protect the public. I find this unequivocally wrong (for all the usual reasons). The one mitigating factor in Hunter’s use of extreme force is that he has a super-power that allows him to mend the physical damage and remove the memory of the event from the criminal’s mind once he has attained the confession. I view this as a “slippery slope” all the same.
What I particularly enjoyed in reading Book 2 of Hunter’s story was his daily exercise of mental detection, as Hunter proceeds to analyze his observations and solve mysteries, some of which are mysteries to him alone. I myself was puzzled as to why a star reporter was driving a Datsun. Having owned a Datsun B210 in the early 80s, I was aware that Nissan discontinued making Datsuns in 1984. Since the reporter’s car was not presented as either a “classic car” or a junk-heap, this detail seems to suggest a 1980s time setting. I suspect that Hunter may have decades of adventures to come.
January 17, 2019
‘It all depends on how we look at things and not on how they are themselves.’ - Carl Jung
New Hampshire author Dr. Darin C. Brown earned a bachelor degree in engineering physics, a master’s degree in biomedical engineering from Cornell, and a PhD in biophysics from the University of Illinois. He has been an ER doctor, but now devotes his time to writing, acting, and directing theater as well as to an active and honored sports life.
Darin made his debut with Book 1 of The Master of Perceptions series - THE SIGHT OF DEMONS – which suggested the depth of character development and the unique line of story we now find with even more polish in Book 2 – THE SOUND OF SUFFERING.
The primary character of this series is an autistic child, Hunter Miller, who sees demons that no one else can see. In the moving Prologue to the series Darin described the visions – ‘The gigantic blue demon swims around me, engulfing my entire body with its long tentacles. Other demons of varying colors sparkle beyond, but the horrifying blue apparition occupies all my attention. I open my eyes, hoping the sights of the everyday world will make it go away, but it still slithers around me, unwilling to loosen its grip. In a panic, I jump back into the nothingness, certain I’m fortunate to escape with my life… I keep my eyes closed, but it doesn’t help. They’re here. I still see the sparkling colors. My empty hands feel textures. I smell odors and taste flavors even though my mouth is empty. I can’t stop any of it. If I open my eyes, the sensations superimpose themselves on the sights all around me. The demons. They’re out to get me. But I never let them; as soon as they get close enough, I retreat inside myself, where they can’t follow. Safety awaits me in the emptiness, and I go there whenever the fear grips me. I visit this world— the one outside myself— infrequently, because the demons are always there, ready to pounce. They bombard me with their myriad of unwanted sensations. Falling off into my own private universe happens automatically.’
So how does the author encourage his patient with ‘cen’ (a local variant of spirit possession) to cope? The polished eloquence of this second installment skillfully brings the reader into a closer understanding of Hunter’s demons and how he interacts with them. In the offered brief description we gain insight – ‘Hunter Miller has a secret. He can read and manipulate the auras that surround everyone. Having used his talent to dethrone the reigning school bully, thirteen-year old Hunter finds himself thrust into a new quest after hearing screams in the aura of a teacher. Unable to resist this powerful siren song, he investigates—despite warnings from his family and friends. It nearly costs him everything. Upon discovering the truth, Hunter seeks assistance in his mission to defeat his formidable adversary. As the situation escalates, the adolescent hero ultimately realizes that despite the risks, he must fight this battle alone.
While some would discard this ‘gift’ as part of a mental disarrangement, Darin makes the demons represent the challenges facing an autistic child and how Hunter grapples with what he perceives as real he gradually learns to accept them as particular abilities. The manner in which this occurs is not only a credible story but also a flag to readers to reconsider the mind of autistic children – or even a study of how childhood trauma affects the mental development of many children today. Exceptionally well written, this book establishes Dr. Darin Brown as a master craftsman litterateur. Highly Recommended.
New Hampshire author Dr. Darin C. Brown earned a bachelor degree in engineering physics, a master’s degree in biomedical engineering from Cornell, and a PhD in biophysics from the University of Illinois. He has been an ER doctor, but now devotes his time to writing, acting, and directing theater as well as to an active and honored sports life.
Darin made his debut with Book 1 of The Master of Perceptions series - THE SIGHT OF DEMONS – which suggested the depth of character development and the unique line of story we now find with even more polish in Book 2 – THE SOUND OF SUFFERING.
The primary character of this series is an autistic child, Hunter Miller, who sees demons that no one else can see. In the moving Prologue to the series Darin described the visions – ‘The gigantic blue demon swims around me, engulfing my entire body with its long tentacles. Other demons of varying colors sparkle beyond, but the horrifying blue apparition occupies all my attention. I open my eyes, hoping the sights of the everyday world will make it go away, but it still slithers around me, unwilling to loosen its grip. In a panic, I jump back into the nothingness, certain I’m fortunate to escape with my life… I keep my eyes closed, but it doesn’t help. They’re here. I still see the sparkling colors. My empty hands feel textures. I smell odors and taste flavors even though my mouth is empty. I can’t stop any of it. If I open my eyes, the sensations superimpose themselves on the sights all around me. The demons. They’re out to get me. But I never let them; as soon as they get close enough, I retreat inside myself, where they can’t follow. Safety awaits me in the emptiness, and I go there whenever the fear grips me. I visit this world— the one outside myself— infrequently, because the demons are always there, ready to pounce. They bombard me with their myriad of unwanted sensations. Falling off into my own private universe happens automatically.’
So how does the author encourage his patient with ‘cen’ (a local variant of spirit possession) to cope? The polished eloquence of this second installment skillfully brings the reader into a closer understanding of Hunter’s demons and how he interacts with them. In the offered brief description we gain insight – ‘Hunter Miller has a secret. He can read and manipulate the auras that surround everyone. Having used his talent to dethrone the reigning school bully, thirteen-year old Hunter finds himself thrust into a new quest after hearing screams in the aura of a teacher. Unable to resist this powerful siren song, he investigates—despite warnings from his family and friends. It nearly costs him everything. Upon discovering the truth, Hunter seeks assistance in his mission to defeat his formidable adversary. As the situation escalates, the adolescent hero ultimately realizes that despite the risks, he must fight this battle alone.
While some would discard this ‘gift’ as part of a mental disarrangement, Darin makes the demons represent the challenges facing an autistic child and how Hunter grapples with what he perceives as real he gradually learns to accept them as particular abilities. The manner in which this occurs is not only a credible story but also a flag to readers to reconsider the mind of autistic children – or even a study of how childhood trauma affects the mental development of many children today. Exceptionally well written, this book establishes Dr. Darin Brown as a master craftsman litterateur. Highly Recommended.
May 23, 2021
The Sound of Suffering
By Darin C. Brown
Once again, I met and immersed myself in the world and life journey of my thirteen-year-old hero-Hunter. This time, Hunter has a slight grip on the auras. But still unstable. Still in the transition phase to control it. And at the precise stage of discovery, using the power of auras to the fullest. Despite this state, Hunter is undaunted. His courage and confidence pushed by his pure heart so passionate to help others, prevailing the impossible. Hunter could help with the suffering of a particular teacher in his school.
I love the section where Hunter and the author grandly reveal the meaning and reasons of various colors of the auras. The colors seemed to burst and hovering above me to relish. Like watching fireworks! This time around, the colors of the auras become sharper and somehow precise. For instance, the color of happiness is yellow! And so, I love yellow now! And the green hues are auras for curiosity and confusion.
The conflict of the tale concerns domestic violence. It is heavy, yet the author carried it out in its feather-like and fun-filled writing style.
Of course, there are medical words and other new complicated terms. Yet this adds up to my new learning. Helpful to me as a reader. It widens my vocabulary and broadens my knowledge of things and perspectives.
To cite:
Amnesia means you can't remember anything. The regular kind—what you have—is 'retrograde'
Amnesia, where you can’t recall the past. He had that too, losing most of his memories from the two years before his accident. But he also had 'anterograde' amnesia, where you can’t remember the present.'
The author bravely and patiently expounded the conflict and came up with a resolution in a lighter tone. The author intertwined the adolescent struggles and coming of age of Hunter and his friends. Sprinkling with the naughty and funny quirkiness of the adolescents. It made things easier to digest.
Once more, Sir Darin Brown, you are outstanding. You are right; I finished the book in one sitting with a good hearty laugh. I enjoyed reading the novel from the beginning page until the end page.
The characters in this novel and journey are still unfolding; even Hunter, his parents, and friends are still developing. The journey of Hunter continues. More books are still to come. Everyone will love this book, adult and young alike.
To you, Sir Darin Brown, stay energetically motivated to write more. Our hero is just discovering its power for the ultimate aim to build a better world. More power to you!
By Darin C. Brown
Once again, I met and immersed myself in the world and life journey of my thirteen-year-old hero-Hunter. This time, Hunter has a slight grip on the auras. But still unstable. Still in the transition phase to control it. And at the precise stage of discovery, using the power of auras to the fullest. Despite this state, Hunter is undaunted. His courage and confidence pushed by his pure heart so passionate to help others, prevailing the impossible. Hunter could help with the suffering of a particular teacher in his school.
I love the section where Hunter and the author grandly reveal the meaning and reasons of various colors of the auras. The colors seemed to burst and hovering above me to relish. Like watching fireworks! This time around, the colors of the auras become sharper and somehow precise. For instance, the color of happiness is yellow! And so, I love yellow now! And the green hues are auras for curiosity and confusion.
The conflict of the tale concerns domestic violence. It is heavy, yet the author carried it out in its feather-like and fun-filled writing style.
Of course, there are medical words and other new complicated terms. Yet this adds up to my new learning. Helpful to me as a reader. It widens my vocabulary and broadens my knowledge of things and perspectives.
To cite:
Amnesia means you can't remember anything. The regular kind—what you have—is 'retrograde'
Amnesia, where you can’t recall the past. He had that too, losing most of his memories from the two years before his accident. But he also had 'anterograde' amnesia, where you can’t remember the present.'
The author bravely and patiently expounded the conflict and came up with a resolution in a lighter tone. The author intertwined the adolescent struggles and coming of age of Hunter and his friends. Sprinkling with the naughty and funny quirkiness of the adolescents. It made things easier to digest.
Once more, Sir Darin Brown, you are outstanding. You are right; I finished the book in one sitting with a good hearty laugh. I enjoyed reading the novel from the beginning page until the end page.
The characters in this novel and journey are still unfolding; even Hunter, his parents, and friends are still developing. The journey of Hunter continues. More books are still to come. Everyone will love this book, adult and young alike.
To you, Sir Darin Brown, stay energetically motivated to write more. Our hero is just discovering its power for the ultimate aim to build a better world. More power to you!
January 28, 2019
The Sound of Suffering, by Dr. Darin Brown, builds off the unusual and mysterious abilities that some autistic people have. This is the second book featuring Hunter Miller, this time he is gaining more control of his demons. The first ten years of his life were lost in a world he could not comprehend. Risen from a fog, Hunter has years to make up learning what most people already know; how to ride a bike, staying focused, and anything that has to do with human relationships. He can read the aura people give off by their emotions, deeds, and intent. Add to this is someone he knows who is being physically abused by her husband, a cop. Mastering a take-down like a chess game was the only way he could visualize her rescue.
I loved how The Sound of Suffering combines the unknown of autism with special abilities. Dr. Darin Brown is an excellent writer, giving his characters a realistic feel as they face unusual family issues with normal teenage ambition. He weaves the unknown question about Hunter’s real father within the pages, staging an additional book in the life of this young man. I love watching Hunter learn about himself and those around him, but most importantly, his newfound abilities to help other.
I loved how The Sound of Suffering combines the unknown of autism with special abilities. Dr. Darin Brown is an excellent writer, giving his characters a realistic feel as they face unusual family issues with normal teenage ambition. He weaves the unknown question about Hunter’s real father within the pages, staging an additional book in the life of this young man. I love watching Hunter learn about himself and those around him, but most importantly, his newfound abilities to help other.
April 4, 2019
'The Sound of Suffering' is a follow up to Darin Brown's 'Gifted' and I must say he has really developed an inspiring hero with a difference with his teenage protagonist, Hunter. The young hero started his life struggling with his autism, feeling trapped in a world he could not control, but what emerged from the fog were some extraordinary powers. Hunter can control the auras that surround people, and through this remarkable ability, he has made his world and the world for those around him a better place. But, he is about to face a challenge, when he hears the aura of a teacher suffering terribly – she is being abused by her husband and Hunter may be the only person that can help her. However, this man is a cop and he is not going down without a fight.
I love reading Hunter's adventures as he navigates a world that is relatively new to him, whilst also following the strong desire he has to help others. A great read and I really hope we see a lot more of Hunter in the future. 5 stars!
I love reading Hunter's adventures as he navigates a world that is relatively new to him, whilst also following the strong desire he has to help others. A great read and I really hope we see a lot more of Hunter in the future. 5 stars!
March 25, 2019
[English review + Reseña en español]
The Sound of Suffering (The Master of Perceptions # 2), by Darin C. Brown (author of The Sight of Demons (The Master of Perceptions # 1), published by Doc Squared Publishing, 1st edition, 2019. 326 pages (printed edition) Genre: Fiction / Superheroes / Coming of age.
Hunter Miller, a 13-year-old boy diagnosed with autism, has managed to dismantle the gang of bullies in his school and defeat the ringleader, thanks to his peculiar ability to detect and manipulate the aura of living beings. Now, as he tries to understand and develop his exceptional abilities with the help of his only confidant, he discovers that a close adult is experiencing terrible suffering that puts her life at risk. Hunter will decide to launch a risky plan to save her and continue to punish the abusers.
The language that C. Brown has chosen to tell this new Hunter adventure is direct, simple and innocent; perfect to personify a child whose life has been held back for years by mental gaps and whose history is just starting to take shape. The adventure, built around a boy with well-placed values who begins to discover life while trying not to succumb to the seizures that isolate him from the world, is exciting, fast and quite credible. The narrative is totally coherent with the circumstances that surround Hunter and it is very easy to empathize with him and be interested in his journey.
Reading this story has been a pleasure. The rhythm is very good and the characters are very real. Although at some point in history the descriptions of the auras may seem exhaustive, I think they help to perfectly exemplify how a person trying to make sense of something that only he lives and no one else can explain can feel. I really liked that Hunter has his values strong and that at the same time he faces his child problems as a real child who does not have the tools of an adult to put his world to rights.
-----------
The Sound of Suffering (The Master of Perceptions #2), por Darin C. Brown (autor de The Sight of Demons (The Master of Perceptions #1). Publicada por Doc Squared Publishing. 1ª. edición, 2019. 326 páginas (edición impresa). Género: Ficción / Superhéroes.
Hunter Miller, un niño de 13 años diagnosticado con autismo, ha logrado desmantelar a la pandilla de abusadores de su escuela y derrotar al cabecilla, gracias a su peculiar capacidad de detectar y manipular el aura de los seres vivos. Ahora, mientras trata de comprender y desarrollar sus excepcionales habilidades con ayuda de su único confidente, descubre que un adulto cercano está experimentando un terrible sufrimiento que pone en riesgo su vida. Hunter decidirá poner en marcha un arriesgado plan para salvarla y continuar castigando a los abusadores.
El lenguaje que C. Brown ha elegido para contar esta nueva aventura de Hunter es directo, simple e inocente; perfecto para personificar a un niño cuya vida ha sido frenada durante años por lagunas mentales y cuya historia apenas comienza a tomar forma. La aventura, construida alrededor de un chico con los valores bien puestos que comienza a descubrir la vida al mismo tiempo que trata de no sucumbir a los ataques que lo aíslan del mundo, es emocionante, rápida y bastante creíble. La narrativa es totalmente coherente con las circunstancias que rodean a Hunter y es muy fácil empatizar con él e interesarse en su viaje.
La lectura de esta historia ha sido un placer. El ritmo es muy bueno y los personajes son muy reales. Aunque en algún momento de la historia las descripciones de las auras pueden parecer exhaustivas, creo que ayudan a ejemplificar a la perfección cómo puede sentirse una persona que trata de encontrarle sentido a algo que sólo él vive y que nadie más es capaz de explicar. Me gustó mucho que Hunter tenga sus valores bien firmes y que al mismo tiempo enfrente sus problemas de niño como un verdadero niño que no cuenta con las herramientas de un adulto para poner su mundo al derecho.
The Sound of Suffering (The Master of Perceptions # 2), by Darin C. Brown (author of The Sight of Demons (The Master of Perceptions # 1), published by Doc Squared Publishing, 1st edition, 2019. 326 pages (printed edition) Genre: Fiction / Superheroes / Coming of age.
Hunter Miller, a 13-year-old boy diagnosed with autism, has managed to dismantle the gang of bullies in his school and defeat the ringleader, thanks to his peculiar ability to detect and manipulate the aura of living beings. Now, as he tries to understand and develop his exceptional abilities with the help of his only confidant, he discovers that a close adult is experiencing terrible suffering that puts her life at risk. Hunter will decide to launch a risky plan to save her and continue to punish the abusers.
The language that C. Brown has chosen to tell this new Hunter adventure is direct, simple and innocent; perfect to personify a child whose life has been held back for years by mental gaps and whose history is just starting to take shape. The adventure, built around a boy with well-placed values who begins to discover life while trying not to succumb to the seizures that isolate him from the world, is exciting, fast and quite credible. The narrative is totally coherent with the circumstances that surround Hunter and it is very easy to empathize with him and be interested in his journey.
Reading this story has been a pleasure. The rhythm is very good and the characters are very real. Although at some point in history the descriptions of the auras may seem exhaustive, I think they help to perfectly exemplify how a person trying to make sense of something that only he lives and no one else can explain can feel. I really liked that Hunter has his values strong and that at the same time he faces his child problems as a real child who does not have the tools of an adult to put his world to rights.
-----------
The Sound of Suffering (The Master of Perceptions #2), por Darin C. Brown (autor de The Sight of Demons (The Master of Perceptions #1). Publicada por Doc Squared Publishing. 1ª. edición, 2019. 326 páginas (edición impresa). Género: Ficción / Superhéroes.
Hunter Miller, un niño de 13 años diagnosticado con autismo, ha logrado desmantelar a la pandilla de abusadores de su escuela y derrotar al cabecilla, gracias a su peculiar capacidad de detectar y manipular el aura de los seres vivos. Ahora, mientras trata de comprender y desarrollar sus excepcionales habilidades con ayuda de su único confidente, descubre que un adulto cercano está experimentando un terrible sufrimiento que pone en riesgo su vida. Hunter decidirá poner en marcha un arriesgado plan para salvarla y continuar castigando a los abusadores.
El lenguaje que C. Brown ha elegido para contar esta nueva aventura de Hunter es directo, simple e inocente; perfecto para personificar a un niño cuya vida ha sido frenada durante años por lagunas mentales y cuya historia apenas comienza a tomar forma. La aventura, construida alrededor de un chico con los valores bien puestos que comienza a descubrir la vida al mismo tiempo que trata de no sucumbir a los ataques que lo aíslan del mundo, es emocionante, rápida y bastante creíble. La narrativa es totalmente coherente con las circunstancias que rodean a Hunter y es muy fácil empatizar con él e interesarse en su viaje.
La lectura de esta historia ha sido un placer. El ritmo es muy bueno y los personajes son muy reales. Aunque en algún momento de la historia las descripciones de las auras pueden parecer exhaustivas, creo que ayudan a ejemplificar a la perfección cómo puede sentirse una persona que trata de encontrarle sentido a algo que sólo él vive y que nadie más es capaz de explicar. Me gustó mucho que Hunter tenga sus valores bien firmes y que al mismo tiempo enfrente sus problemas de niño como un verdadero niño que no cuenta con las herramientas de un adulto para poner su mundo al derecho.
March 28, 2019
“Oh, Hunter, you’re impossibly easy to read. You’re an open book. Of course you’d figure out who put the sign on your back, clever you, and then naturally you’d seek justice. It’s all over your face. Can’t just let sleeping dogs lie. Gotta save the world, even if it doesn’t need or want saving.”
Hunter Miller has a secret...and in this, the second Master of Perception book, he’s learning even more about it. He has the ability to read and manipulate auras. And in trying to understand how he’s able to do that, he’s begun to hear them. Energy does make sounds, and the sounds he’s hearing tell him the person is being hurt; badly. So, what does he do? He scrambles to find something/someone to help. The question is, can he help them in time?
I was overjoyed that Darin C. Brown’s second book was as inventive and interesting as the first was. As an elder, some of the basic information about alternative healing was a bit redundant but for a YA who may not know about it, it’s important foundational information. My problem was that I have to pace myself or I will read this series at too fast a speed and miss the nuances Brown presents; not only in Hunter’s understanding, but in his maturity as he grows up. Not every superhero wears a cape. Who knows? Maybe the kid next door might change your world. I cannot praise or recommend this series highly enough. 5/5
[disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher and voluntarily read and reviewed it]
Hunter Miller has a secret...and in this, the second Master of Perception book, he’s learning even more about it. He has the ability to read and manipulate auras. And in trying to understand how he’s able to do that, he’s begun to hear them. Energy does make sounds, and the sounds he’s hearing tell him the person is being hurt; badly. So, what does he do? He scrambles to find something/someone to help. The question is, can he help them in time?
I was overjoyed that Darin C. Brown’s second book was as inventive and interesting as the first was. As an elder, some of the basic information about alternative healing was a bit redundant but for a YA who may not know about it, it’s important foundational information. My problem was that I have to pace myself or I will read this series at too fast a speed and miss the nuances Brown presents; not only in Hunter’s understanding, but in his maturity as he grows up. Not every superhero wears a cape. Who knows? Maybe the kid next door might change your world. I cannot praise or recommend this series highly enough. 5/5
[disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher and voluntarily read and reviewed it]
February 26, 2019
Can Hunter use his immense powers of reading and manipulating the auras to save this innocent woman and still avoid losing himself? Brown’s book is very engaging, and despite the supernatural elements, he structures characters that are relatable and realistic. The concept of aura manipulation is quite fascinating with the story told at a good pace without leaving any plot holes. By writing in the first-person view, Brown allows you to immerse yourself in the thought process of the main protagonist in a way that you almost feel like you know him.
The thing I did not like about the book was the writing style due to the use of many karate terms and medical terminologies. Other than the initial explanations of karate as Hunter is being taught karate by his grandpa, the story could have been better developed with common terms once it began rolling, as these words can take you out of the story. The story did, however, me a new perspective on the challenges that autistic people may be undergoing.
The thing I did not like about the book was the writing style due to the use of many karate terms and medical terminologies. Other than the initial explanations of karate as Hunter is being taught karate by his grandpa, the story could have been better developed with common terms once it began rolling, as these words can take you out of the story. The story did, however, me a new perspective on the challenges that autistic people may be undergoing.
February 25, 2019
Book 2 in a series of ??? Love this series. Re-read book one before continuing on to book two. It's an interesting concept of the autism spectrum. Does the concept of sense overload mean they just interpret them differently or do they sense them differently? Does that sentence even make sense? Just know that I've enjoyed both books and patiently wait for book 3.
May 31, 2020
Love
I'm hooked. When is the next book coming out? Great story from beginning to the end. Love the interesting concept.
I'm hooked. When is the next book coming out? Great story from beginning to the end. Love the interesting concept.
May 20, 2019
Darin Brown offers a fascinating look into one young mans experience living with autism. Part of his perception is the ability to see peoples’ auras. Once he learns to not fear this phenomenon he actually learns to control it. In this second book in the series we journey with Hunter as he discovers more about his past and uses his special ability to help those around him.
I loved the idea that a person with autism may actually have a sixth sense that others don’t have. I’ve hesrd theories about this before but I loved it played out in Hunter, who is just such a likable character. The author seems to know his characters so well it almost feels like this draws heavily from the authors own life experiences. I enjoyed this book but I think the young adult set will be particularly enthused by this story and the characters. A thoroughly enjoyable read!
I loved the idea that a person with autism may actually have a sixth sense that others don’t have. I’ve hesrd theories about this before but I loved it played out in Hunter, who is just such a likable character. The author seems to know his characters so well it almost feels like this draws heavily from the authors own life experiences. I enjoyed this book but I think the young adult set will be particularly enthused by this story and the characters. A thoroughly enjoyable read!
August 24, 2022
I enjoyed the first book in the Master of Perception series, so I was excited to read the sequel.
Something that got my attention was the theme of colours running throughout the book. The descriptions of various colours and colour combinations that Hunter saw. This was something I enjoyed during the first book, and I enjoyed it again a second time around. It seemed to me that Hunter's world was very colourful, and I liked that.
I warmed to Hunter last time, so I enjoyed reading about what happened to him next, and I also enjoyed the return of some of the other characters that I became fond of in the first book. It was interesting and entertaining to see Hunter grow and develop further.
If there are going to be any more books featuring Hunter and his friends, I may be interested in reading those too.
Something that got my attention was the theme of colours running throughout the book. The descriptions of various colours and colour combinations that Hunter saw. This was something I enjoyed during the first book, and I enjoyed it again a second time around. It seemed to me that Hunter's world was very colourful, and I liked that.
I warmed to Hunter last time, so I enjoyed reading about what happened to him next, and I also enjoyed the return of some of the other characters that I became fond of in the first book. It was interesting and entertaining to see Hunter grow and develop further.
If there are going to be any more books featuring Hunter and his friends, I may be interested in reading those too.
April 21, 2021
“The Sound of Suffering,” is the second book in Darin Brown’s The Master of Perception series. The story continues to follow Hunter, a teenager with autism learning how to control his power of aura manipulation. The power or of aura manipulation was a fascinating choice of power that is explored in the book and the overall pacing of the book really good. The character development was well done in this book and helped build on the world that was created in the first book. I liked the fact that the book was told from Hunter's point of view which mean that is was easy to follow him on his adventures and how he views the world. Overall a different and refreshing read and sequel. Appealing for those interested in the science fiction/fantasy genre and young adult readers.
May 17, 2019
Hunter is a great protagonist and would make an excellent lead character in a transition to the bog screen. The Sound of Suffering is pretty cinematic the way it’s written so I would imagine this will be snapped up by some studio or other.
I hadn’t heard of author Brown before but after reading the blurb decided to take a shot with this book. It turned out to be one of those rare finds that afterwards you couldn’t imagine having missed out on. There’s an interesting plot, exciting progression, compelling characters, all in all a lucky find for me.
I hadn’t heard of author Brown before but after reading the blurb decided to take a shot with this book. It turned out to be one of those rare finds that afterwards you couldn’t imagine having missed out on. There’s an interesting plot, exciting progression, compelling characters, all in all a lucky find for me.
November 29, 2019
I don't know why I read this but I enjoyed it.
did-not-finish
March 17, 2019I received a review copy of this book for the blog tour through YA Bound Book Tours. This does not affect my rating or opinions.
DNF at 15%.
I had high hopes for the promise of autism as a literal superpower — it reminded me of how Rick Riordan incorporated dyslexia and ADHD as hallmarks of his Greek/Roman demigods — but, as someone who has been diagnosed as and identifies as autistic, so much of this book actually hurt to read. There is casual ableism and some inaccuracy in the depiction of autism (including repeated implications that the protagonist having Asperger's/being high-functioning is "closer to normal"/"improved" from when he had "severe" autism, blaming Hunter's parents for his autism "because it's genetic," and more), a lot of infodumping (including a list of autism symptoms, as well as seemingly random topics like retrograde amnesia), some exotification of karate (which apparently includes "yelling like a crazy person") ... the list goes on.
DNF at 15%.
I had high hopes for the promise of autism as a literal superpower — it reminded me of how Rick Riordan incorporated dyslexia and ADHD as hallmarks of his Greek/Roman demigods — but, as someone who has been diagnosed as and identifies as autistic, so much of this book actually hurt to read. There is casual ableism and some inaccuracy in the depiction of autism (including repeated implications that the protagonist having Asperger's/being high-functioning is "closer to normal"/"improved" from when he had "severe" autism, blaming Hunter's parents for his autism "because it's genetic," and more), a lot of infodumping (including a list of autism symptoms, as well as seemingly random topics like retrograde amnesia), some exotification of karate (which apparently includes "yelling like a crazy person") ... the list goes on.
July 31, 2019
I picked this book to read as was interested in Auras and like the premise of the book that they main character could do things to them to change things. I wasn’t sure when first started getting into book as seen that it was the second book in the series and I hadn't read the first one if it would affect the outcome or not. I did pick up on what happens so didn’t find that a problem. There are some triggers in the book of bullying and abuse. I'm not sure I like how the bullying was handled but them on the flip side the bullies were pretty violent to their victims. Over all I did like the story. I felt the story moved well but did pick up more in the middle/ last part of the book. There was some friendships that went back and forth and one that started out rocky but I think that grew as they did more things together. I did receive an ARC from Hidden Gems for an honest review. I will say i was not feeling well and wanted something fun to read and this fit the bill. I would give this 3.5 stars as did hold my attention and I wanted to see what happened with the characters. I will round up as there is no half star system. It did leave a couple unanswered questions but not enough to take away the overall enjoyment of the book.
March 9, 2019
The Sound of Suffering
by Darin C. Brown
4½ out of 5
I received a complimentary ARC copy of The Sound of Suffering by Darin C. Brown from NetGalley and Doc Squared Publishing/Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' in order to read and give an honest review.
Hunter is on a quest to find out what the aura's, smells and sounds he experiences around people mean. This is the second book in the Masters of Perceptions series, the first I have not read but feel it didn't hamper my ability to enjoy the story. Young Hunter is autistic and suffers from overwhelming stimuli when he comes in contact with others. At this point, he is learning a little bit about himself and his abilities. While excelling at school and working his way through earning his Karate belts he still struggles with learning how to handle his gift and how to interact with those around him. He has people to help him though, a few friends, one of which has a dubious reputation, his desk mate and his Sensei all help him but he finds his biggest confidant to be his grandfather who lives across the country. When he gets strange sensations indicating one of his teachers is in trouble he can't ignore the feeling and becomes determined to help her. His friends by his side he sets out on a dangerous adventure that is much bigger than just helping his teacher. I won't give any more away the plot takes an interesting turn you need to read!
The characters are well-written and as mentioned the story takes an unexpected and interesting path. I would give this story 4.5 stars only because I found that some things seemed a bit unnecessary and they detracted from the story. Although I appreciate that the author is trying to teach the reader through the process of reading, sometimes the "info dumps" distracted me from the flow of the story, it felt hard to stay connected. It's really is an ingenious story with interesting characters but many of the lessons seem repetitive. All in all, though I think it's worth reading and would definitely recommend it!
by Darin C. Brown
4½ out of 5
I received a complimentary ARC copy of The Sound of Suffering by Darin C. Brown from NetGalley and Doc Squared Publishing/Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' in order to read and give an honest review.
Hunter is on a quest to find out what the aura's, smells and sounds he experiences around people mean. This is the second book in the Masters of Perceptions series, the first I have not read but feel it didn't hamper my ability to enjoy the story. Young Hunter is autistic and suffers from overwhelming stimuli when he comes in contact with others. At this point, he is learning a little bit about himself and his abilities. While excelling at school and working his way through earning his Karate belts he still struggles with learning how to handle his gift and how to interact with those around him. He has people to help him though, a few friends, one of which has a dubious reputation, his desk mate and his Sensei all help him but he finds his biggest confidant to be his grandfather who lives across the country. When he gets strange sensations indicating one of his teachers is in trouble he can't ignore the feeling and becomes determined to help her. His friends by his side he sets out on a dangerous adventure that is much bigger than just helping his teacher. I won't give any more away the plot takes an interesting turn you need to read!
The characters are well-written and as mentioned the story takes an unexpected and interesting path. I would give this story 4.5 stars only because I found that some things seemed a bit unnecessary and they detracted from the story. Although I appreciate that the author is trying to teach the reader through the process of reading, sometimes the "info dumps" distracted me from the flow of the story, it felt hard to stay connected. It's really is an ingenious story with interesting characters but many of the lessons seem repetitive. All in all, though I think it's worth reading and would definitely recommend it!
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