Trespassing into forbidden territory, sixteen-year-old Cyrus LongBones discovers that his small island is, in fact, a giant fossilized turtle shell.
With the villagers obsessed with working the earth, the skeleton collapses in on itself, killing Cyrus’ brother and destroying his village. Unjustly blamed for the disaster, Cyrus is forced to flee his crumbling island and sail out to sea in search of a new home.
When Cyrus learns that a creature known as the Sea Zombie is at the root of his brother’s death and his people’s corruption, he must make a decision that could forever cost him his soul. Will Cyrus risk all to rescue his village, or will he abandon all hope to save his own skin?
Welcome to book 1 in the Cyrus LongBones adventure.
Greeting adventure seekers, from the treacherous frozen north.
My name is Jeremy Mathiesen, and I’ve wanted to create stories ever since I was a little kid.
I remember being five years old, watching Indiana Jones in the theater, excited and shaking in my seat. As the giant stone rolled towards Indi, I remember realizing that someone, somewhere had created this movie for people like me, and through it, was playing our emotions like a fiddle. It felt like true magic.
I remember, a few years later, seeing The Return of the Jedi with my dad and brother. It seemed like the story I was experiencing reached far beyond what I could see on screen, like the Star Wars universe had a history and depth greater than real life. I knew that one day when I grew up, I wanted to be involved in that kind of creativity.
I was a terrible student. I was held back in elementary school, and suffered from crippling learning disabilities, but always the desire to create stories stuck with me. My teen years were not my favorite. I barely graduated high school, but I was a decent artist. When I was nineteen, I was accepted into animations school. A year later I was hired by Mainframe Entertainment animating cartoons like Reboot and Transformers. It was a lot of fun, but I still wasn’t doing what I felt I was meant to do. At the age of twenty-three, I had the idea for my Cyrus LongBones series. When I turned twenty-eight, with zero writing ability, and dodgy English grades, I decided I was going to write my first book. I joined the West End Writers Group, and the Western Canadian Children’s Writers Group and I started writing every day, and I haven’t stopped since.
If you love adventure like I do, and would like a FREE copy of the first book in my Cyrus LongBones series, please click the link below:
I liked this book and would have given it a higher rating had Cyrus been a more identifiable character. For a “hero” this guy was a disappointment. He was often “frozen in shock,” with his “mouth hanging open.” When stuff went down, Cyrus was guaranteed to run away, if he didn’t faint first.
I know, he’s only 16, but he forever proclaims his incapacity to do anything, even as he watched his stepmother (granted, a nasty piece of work) and stepbrother falling into the earth. He stands by stupidly as the crafty old Mayor of his village blames him for all the disasters that are occurring, choosing to (surprise!) run away.
When a sea creature saves Cyrus and Edward from the Sea Zombie (a really bad old hag), Cyrus is his usual useless self. Edward does more to help them escape than Cyrus.
Now that I’ve trashed Cyrus, understand that the story itself is really interesting and well crafted. It’s only in the last few chapters that our hero steps up and shows what he’s worth. I’m looking forward to reading book two, now that I can count on the characters to be active in their own destiny.
Cyrus is a scared little boy who gets beaten by his stepmom. He doesn’t long for adventure, he longs for an escape. He tries to find it by building a ship. Cyrus uses that ship to explore a forbidden island with his brother and finds out their island is part of an ancient giant turtle’s skeleton. And the many tremors and smalls earthquakes they experience daily are signaling the end of the island is near. But when his stepmom falls into a sinkhole caused by an earthquake, the villagers believe it is caused by the legendary Sea Zombie. And they think Cyrus is responsible for summoning her.
I quite like the plot, it’s adventurous and linked perfectly with the fascinating setting. The protagonist feels a bit lacking for me but he’s got potential. And he eventually does manage to transition from a coward to the hero who ends up saving the day.
Overall, a short and fun fantasy story with a cool setting.
To be honest, this book had the generic formula for other books like it. It was still fun, and characters are (almost) always different, but yeah.
I liked the characters, mostly Fibian and Edward. Cyrus was OK, mostly. Though his development was nice, if a little fast-happening.
It’s also really great to have a specific ‘goal,’ in terms of plot, and a villain or a problem that persists in the books.
I really hated the unnecessary use of the word ‘savage’ in a couple of instances, and the whole Sarah thing made me really uncomfortable. The ‘beautiful’ adjectives were forced and awkward. Other than that I don’t really have any other issues not pertaining to the plot or characters.
Oh, wait. I absolutely didn’t like the fact that any mentioned-by-name female was either abusive, useless and sorta weirdly hypersexualised, or evil. Just great.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Storytelling on par with the 'Princess Bride'. You know, how the begining of the movie the grandfather is reading to his stuck in bed grandson? I can easily see the same scene with this series of books. Spine tingling villians, lots of action and fighting, awesome monsters (really, how does one think up such nastiness and draw them so ickyly with words--so gross, I loved it.) and characters who grow and develop so much they become so different from what they thought of themselves. Cyrus and his best friend just want peace and freedom from abuse. Little did they know just what that freedom would require. I don't like reviews that outline the story-very rude to the author, imho-so I won't leave any spoilers. Reading the book gives the thrill of discovery and anticipation brings the deep sigh of contentment at the resolution. Think 'Doctor Who' does a lot of running? Cyrus would keep up with him, and then some, as he finds his courage. Not only am I totally looking forward to reading the rest of this series, but I want to start my grandchildren by reading to them when we can visit. It will get them started reading these books on their own. Wholeheartedly recommend 'Cyrus Longbones' to readers of all ages who love a clean, suspenseful, action story with character development and villians akin to Marvel's baddies. Enjoy!
Cyrus LongBones and the Curse of the Sea Zombie is an epic adventure appropriate for junior high aged kids. I particularly like that Cyrus is a reluctant hero with little faith in his own worth who rises to meet insurmountable odds. Mathiesen does not whitewash the brutality of the challenges that Cyrus faces...but this violence did not dissuade me from quickly reading the book. I am looking forward to the next installment. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and am willingly offering my unbiased review.
ok .. again another treasure from my used book store, I was wondering what to read next , then I read the first two pages of this one, and I was simply intrigued, have to admit the writing is not superb, the narrating voice lacks something, but what the narrating lacks was compensated in the plot itself, it was not at all boring, and I don't think I quite read something similar, also if you are an anime fan you might quite like this one, the Zero to hero kind of novel. it is good that I own the second one, courtesy again from the used book store...
You wnt boys to read? Keep the action going. Want girls to read it? I wouldn't. The action is fine. But here's the female line-up: An abusive step mother A zombie water witch a girl-sister(?) who needed rescuing
It seems you want to grow heroes but don't want them to be female. And don't care to teach inclusiveness in any way.
Sorry. All that action was boring to me and I wouldn't recommennd it to boys or girls for what it doesn't teach.
Fun read. Makes me want to read the next in series. Cyrus LongBones and the Curse of the Sea Zombie (Kindle Edition) by Jeremy Mathiesen presents a world of monsters and witches. Cyrus, a 16 year old tries to save himself from a wicked step-mother and deluded townspeople. He and his best friend, a poisonous spider join forces with a blue eyed monster to fight the arch witch who is responsible for all his world's problems.
Epic fantasy adventure filled with monsters, magic and mayhem. A perilous journey, an evil witch complete with minions, a mysterious prophesy, and even a spider for a best friend. This book has all the elements readers expect from the genre. The action is non-stop! just when you think Cyrus has one problem sorted, another crops up bigger and badder than the last. It is really more one related adventure after another than an overarching plot. Almost like a video game in a way with smaller bosses and challenges leading up to the big boss battle.
It is hard to say what age group this book is best for - it is the type of story that would appeal to upper elementary and junior high aged readers as well as older readers, but the level of violence would too much for many at the younger end of the age group. Proceed with caution. I think this would appeal to boys more than girls too just because all the female characters are either vapid or evil.
This is book one in a series, but can function as a standalone. The reveals at the end of the book open some intriguing possibilities for the next volume.
A truly wonderful read. Great characters and a fabulous world of of wonders and monsters. This action packed adventure introduces us to young Cyrus. A character who is thrust into an adventure just to save his own life. This was a refreshing read with plenty too keep you turning the pages. I can't wait to to see where the author takes us on the next installment. I received a free copy of this book with no expectations from the author. The review is my idea.and is my honest opinion. It is my hope that you will grab a copy for yourself and enjoy.
I was really impressed with this book. I'd put him in the same group as Jenny Nimmo, and T.A. Barron. It's a fantasy fiction that is entertaining and safe for young people to read. I cannot wait to read his next book
This was a wonderful reading experience. I enjoyed every page. I'm looking forward to the next book and hope it is as good as the first. Please let the spider live!!!!!!
this is a different book than what I usually read. I love steampunk but this seemed different. I loved the story. It was different enough it took me on a journey with a young boy and his poison spider. The characters kept me turning pages. I had to see what was going to happen next. Creatures and frightening characters attack our journeys.Of course, they manage to escape and go on to the next situation.
So I got this book by accident, I think, or was it karma? I was going to receive a book from an author to review and this book is what I got, I love it! Could not resist reading this wonderful adventure about Cyrus and his terrible life. I will not give anymore away about the story line but this is the kind of book I would have read at night under my blanket with a flashlight when I was 9 or 10. I'm now a 62 year old Grandfather that is going to read this to my Granddaughters for there Halloween book.I will continue through this series and give only honest reviews . So if you have children who love heros and adventure then read this series and you will enjoy it.
Cyrus wants to escape his village. His spiteful step-mother hates him and berates and beats him. Nobody in the town likes him, he looks different from them.
So Cyrus does what nobody else will, he climbs over the forbidden wall and explores outside the restricted area which is supposed to be haunted by all kinds of dangers including the Sea Zombie. Does she exist? Will he escape his village?
Jeremy Mathiesen appears to be a new author and for a Freshman book, this is a really good book. He definitely has had a top notch artist create his cover, and has had it thoroughly edited well, even though I found 3 possible mistakes, but very minor ones.
At over 350 pages I wasn’t really wanting to read that much today, but I started reading it and it was a very quick read. I think I read it in about 4 hours and I just couldn’t put it down the entire time.
The only thing that annoyed me was how much of a coward Cyrus was at times. His friends and family were dying and he constantly failed to live up to expectations or needs. Sometimes it just seemed to be too much. But in all reality, would I have done any better if I was in his shoes? The bravado in me says, “Yes”. But deep down I know, probably not.
This books is currently FREE on Amazon and it is a great read. If you like books for young pre-teens with lots of fantasy and adventure, then definitely pick this book up ASAP.
I’m certainly waiting patiently for the sequel to come out so I can read and review it.
Loads of thrilling adventure, violent fights, and fantastical worldbuilding excitement for teenagers. The author has plenty of imagination and doesn't shy away from making Cyrus LongBones enemies really, really horrific, which should delight young readers and horrify their parents. But, isn't that what we all wanted when we were fourteen? Our young reluctant hero hasn't a clue what he's doing, but at least his friends believe in him, including his best friend Edward, who happens to be a spider.
I'll be honest though. I was disappointed that there were no positive role models for girls. The closest we get is Sarah, whose only merit is being the girl our protagonist saves from drowning, and has a crush on. Any other female characters are, unfortunately, disgusting and evil, including his own stepmother.
This is the first book in a series. This adventure was 'run for your life!' from start to finish. While I understand that this is an introduction to the world in the form of a fighting adventure, I hope later books introduce more thoughtful storylines to help balance out all the fighting. And a few kickass girls are direly needed, too.
The tale follows protagonists Cyrus and Edward through the forbidden regions beyond the Fence. There, they discover the truth behind Virkelot's recent disasters and find an unlikely ally that aids them in combating the infamous Sea Zombie. Cyrus is a hero that most can relate to; he is doubtful, insecure, and skittish when exploring the new lands. However, his camaraderie with Edward, the talking blodbad spider, empowers him to conquer the unthinkable. The novel is riveting from beginning to end, with rich descriptions of each creature, mountain, and castle they confront. I especially enjoyed the lore of why the Sea Zombie haunts the land with her rat-like minions and how the . I would definitely recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys high fantasy. I look forward to reading more of Cyrus's adventures into the North Sea.
I enjoyed this book. The author did a great job inventing new creatures and maps. It was interesting to learn about. He had vivid details when describing locations and creatures. I will say his use of similes was a bit distracting and tedious at times, especially when describing common items that most people can envision just with the name of the item, but many people might not notice. He did a good job developing characters, although, I was more of a fan of Fabian and Edward than I was of Cyrus. Hopefully Cyrus gets a bit more developed so he isn't overshadowed by other characters. Overall, this was a good book for YA. Maybe a bit gruesome for younger readers, but the first couple pages show the worst of it, so it's easy for parents to decide after reading those pages.
An incredible journey! As an abused young teenager decides to escape his cruel and abusive stepmother, the idiot stepmother drills too deeply into the "land" and initiates a catastrophe that cannot be undone. The ensuing disaster leads to horrific consequences and starts the young lad on an incredible journey! An astounding adventure fraught with unimaginable danger and sacrifice. The thing I found surprising is that it's a children's story. The gore is too much and should be YA at the youngest. I find it sad that children are exposed to such violence and gore at such young ages these days. But it's an excellent fantasy adventure for the YA and older readers.
This is a fun YA adventure book that is the first in a series. I enjoyed reading this and learning about the main character, the title's namesake. Cyrus is on a quest to leave his home island when we first meet him. As the story unfolds we come to understand why he is working toward this goal. We learn about his family and his neighbors. We grow to know Cyrus and his best friend Edward as the story progresses. They add an unlikely 3rd member to their travel party as this first book comes to an end. I eagerly started the second book the next day.
There is a large amount of fighting so if you or your younger reader are not up for that this may not be the best book for you.
Great YA book/series If your teen or Middle schooler needs a great adventure book with good moral lessons this is going to be a good series. It has some good detail and it does draw you in and stays interesting all the way through for a younger audience. Me as an adult i got bored and figured things out quickly and i am used to more advanced books which is why i gave it the rating i did BUT for the audience it is for i am sure a higher rating will be granted. I would still recommend this series to my friends with kids/teens.
This was a book that I REALLY wanted to enjoy. Unfortunately, I could not draw myself in to the book and I found myself setting it aside repeatedly after reading a couple of pages each time.
I finally forced myself to sit down and just read it. I only have the best wishes for Mr. Mathiesen in the future and his writing. Mayhaps, I'll find a different series of his in the future that will work out better
I liked the story although the constant cowardice shown by Cyrus throughout the book began to bother me. As expected, Cyrus came through in the end and saved his comrades. Overall, I thought the characters were well - drawn and the story enjoyable.
This book does have a boy who is abused by his stepmother, and the townspeople seem to hate him as well.
Cyrus Longbones longs to escape his life. He has no friends, and only one person has ever been nice to him growing up. He has gone against the towns rules about going beyond a specific fence. He found a boat and fixed it up in hopes that the next island over will be a refuge. He finds only strange creatures on the island, and something watches him, so he returns home, but he did find what looks like a journal.
After he reads the journal, he discovers that his home island is slowly crumbling away. When a hole opens up in the ground, he tries to warn the mayor. He gets blamed for the disasters that follow, and he has to run away.
This is only the beginning of his adventures, and I am willing to read more in this series.