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Blackthorn
The UK, year 2139
One hundred and fifteen years ago, a mysterious virus wiped out ninety-five per cent of humanity.
Blackthorn, the largest settlement in England, rose from the ashes of the devastated old world. It is a troubled city, where the workers live in crude shacks, and make do with the worst of everything.
It is a city of violent divisions, crime, and an over-populated jail block―until a charismatic traveller has a miraculous vision and promises to bring hope back to the people's lives.
Blackthorn falls under Ryder Swift's spell, and the most devoted of all is the governor's loyal servant, Lieutenant August Hemsley.
Twenty-one-year-old Evie has lived her whole life in the shacks. She and disillusioned guard Byron Lewis are two of a minority who have doubts about Ryder's message. Can they stand against the beliefs of an entire city?
One hundred and fifteen years ago, a mysterious virus wiped out ninety-five per cent of humanity.
Blackthorn, the largest settlement in England, rose from the ashes of the devastated old world. It is a troubled city, where the workers live in crude shacks, and make do with the worst of everything.
It is a city of violent divisions, crime, and an over-populated jail block―until a charismatic traveller has a miraculous vision and promises to bring hope back to the people's lives.
Blackthorn falls under Ryder Swift's spell, and the most devoted of all is the governor's loyal servant, Lieutenant August Hemsley.
Twenty-one-year-old Evie has lived her whole life in the shacks. She and disillusioned guard Byron Lewis are two of a minority who have doubts about Ryder's message. Can they stand against the beliefs of an entire city?
453 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 25, 2019
83 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
About the author
Terry Tyler
34 books584 followersI am self-published with thirty books on Amazon. Most recently I've published the first two books in my Revenge series, Served Cold and So Shall Ye Reap. More to come!
Other recent releases include Safe Zone, a dystopian/post-apocalyptic thriller. It follows on from the SFV-1 series (Infected, Darkness and Reset), but is completely stand-alone, so can be read as a story within itself.
I love watching and reading anything to do with history, post apocalypse, dystopian scenarios, anthropology, mountaineering and polar exploration. Big Walking Dead fan.
Favourite writers: Gemma Lawrence, Kate Mary, Blake Crouch, Deborah Swift, Carol Hedges, Douglas Kennedy, John Boyne, Deborah Moggach, Judith Arnopp, Jon Krakauer, Phillipa Gregory, John Privilege, Zeb Haradon, Dylan Morgan, Kate Atkinson, Norah Lofts, Dorothy Parker, Bill Bryson, PJ O'Rourke, Ann Swinfen, Keith Blackmore, Frank Tayell.
Other recent releases include Safe Zone, a dystopian/post-apocalyptic thriller. It follows on from the SFV-1 series (Infected, Darkness and Reset), but is completely stand-alone, so can be read as a story within itself.
I love watching and reading anything to do with history, post apocalypse, dystopian scenarios, anthropology, mountaineering and polar exploration. Big Walking Dead fan.
Favourite writers: Gemma Lawrence, Kate Mary, Blake Crouch, Deborah Swift, Carol Hedges, Douglas Kennedy, John Boyne, Deborah Moggach, Judith Arnopp, Jon Krakauer, Phillipa Gregory, John Privilege, Zeb Haradon, Dylan Morgan, Kate Atkinson, Norah Lofts, Dorothy Parker, Bill Bryson, PJ O'Rourke, Ann Swinfen, Keith Blackmore, Frank Tayell.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
January 13, 2020
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
‘Blackthorn’ is the latest release from best-selling, multi-genre British author, Terry Tyler. Whilst this book is related to the Project Renova series, readers have sufficient backstory drip-fed for this tale to stand alone as an offshoot. The action is mainly seen through the eyes of Evie Woods, the free-spirited young bakery assistant, Byron Lewis V, the guard who values his independence and Gus Hemsley, the honest and dutiful lieutenant. Occasionally we see things from the perspective of the devious and cynical governor, Wolf North. The story is told in the first person and the present tense and divided into three fairly even parts.
Many years have passed since the earth was turned on its head where only a few survived. Generations have lived and died in a world reclaimed by nature with urbanisation giving way to forestation and life being focused on the quest for survival.
Blackthorn grew from the ashes of UK North and has its own currency but over a hundred years since ‘the Fall’, Britain is still a partial barter economy. The city has its own independent infrastructure and there is a strict hierarchy with social tiers from labourers, farmers and hunter gatherers, to a tertiary sector and at the top, those in control who enjoy the best that this dystopian life has to offer. Although nothing is on a parallel with the life their ancestors enjoyed before bat fever wiped out huge sways of the worldwide population.
Whilst life on the outside can be lawless, life in the city of Blackthorn is relatively safe if you abide by the rules. However, the workers are restless with fighting and strikes becoming more pronounced. Prison sentences are becoming less of a deterrent, so something needs to happen to keep society stable. Enter charismatic traveller, Ryder Swift, who appears to have all the answers. With him comes a glorious light which brings hope to the hopeless and peace of mind to the troubled. It is fair to say at this point, I was intrigued to see how this would play out and enjoyed the journey as subtle manipulation turned to calculated indoctrination.
As the plot develops, we witness Tyler’s matchless style through the use of irony, cynicism, humour and foreshadowing to keep her readers on their toes. There are echoes from the Nazi-influenced Renova Project in the creation of the ‘House of Angels’ and parallels between some characters from the earlier books but the inclusion of these elements did not lessen the impact of this story.
Just when the reader thinks they have all the answers, Tyler pulls yet another ace from her sleeve. She has the ability to create vivid characters with enviable ease, about whom her readers cannot help but care. There was a particularly delightful twist at the end for Evie which will melt the heart of the most critical of reviewers.
I wondered if Terry Tyler was over-egging the pudding with regard this particular post-apocalyptic idea but before long I was totally hooked on yet another page-turner and read the book in three days. I suspect there may be scope for a sequel here and award Blackthorn five stars.
‘Blackthorn’ is the latest release from best-selling, multi-genre British author, Terry Tyler. Whilst this book is related to the Project Renova series, readers have sufficient backstory drip-fed for this tale to stand alone as an offshoot. The action is mainly seen through the eyes of Evie Woods, the free-spirited young bakery assistant, Byron Lewis V, the guard who values his independence and Gus Hemsley, the honest and dutiful lieutenant. Occasionally we see things from the perspective of the devious and cynical governor, Wolf North. The story is told in the first person and the present tense and divided into three fairly even parts.
Many years have passed since the earth was turned on its head where only a few survived. Generations have lived and died in a world reclaimed by nature with urbanisation giving way to forestation and life being focused on the quest for survival.
Blackthorn grew from the ashes of UK North and has its own currency but over a hundred years since ‘the Fall’, Britain is still a partial barter economy. The city has its own independent infrastructure and there is a strict hierarchy with social tiers from labourers, farmers and hunter gatherers, to a tertiary sector and at the top, those in control who enjoy the best that this dystopian life has to offer. Although nothing is on a parallel with the life their ancestors enjoyed before bat fever wiped out huge sways of the worldwide population.
Whilst life on the outside can be lawless, life in the city of Blackthorn is relatively safe if you abide by the rules. However, the workers are restless with fighting and strikes becoming more pronounced. Prison sentences are becoming less of a deterrent, so something needs to happen to keep society stable. Enter charismatic traveller, Ryder Swift, who appears to have all the answers. With him comes a glorious light which brings hope to the hopeless and peace of mind to the troubled. It is fair to say at this point, I was intrigued to see how this would play out and enjoyed the journey as subtle manipulation turned to calculated indoctrination.
As the plot develops, we witness Tyler’s matchless style through the use of irony, cynicism, humour and foreshadowing to keep her readers on their toes. There are echoes from the Nazi-influenced Renova Project in the creation of the ‘House of Angels’ and parallels between some characters from the earlier books but the inclusion of these elements did not lessen the impact of this story.
Just when the reader thinks they have all the answers, Tyler pulls yet another ace from her sleeve. She has the ability to create vivid characters with enviable ease, about whom her readers cannot help but care. There was a particularly delightful twist at the end for Evie which will melt the heart of the most critical of reviewers.
I wondered if Terry Tyler was over-egging the pudding with regard this particular post-apocalyptic idea but before long I was totally hooked on yet another page-turner and read the book in three days. I suspect there may be scope for a sequel here and award Blackthorn five stars.
March 12, 2020
You can read all my review on Blog - Books Teacup and Reviews
Blackthorn was post-apocalyptic dystopia set in 2139, revolved around Blackthorn- a largest settlement in England, people in the city, their life under an oppressive ruler and how it changed with arrival of a charming traveler with his story of The Light. It was about politics and control, faith and belief vs cynicism and logic, communism, manipulations for personal gain, and fighting for loved ones. If I’m not wrong this was fifth book in Project Renova series.
This book brilliant. Writing was wonderful. It was gripping and flawless with serious and controversial subject. Setting, world, characters and lifestyle was intriguing and well described. Multiple narration from Evie, Byron and Hemsley worked well here. All three were working on different level in Blackthorn and they all had different life and view point.
It started with Helmsley giving an overview on situation in Blackthorn that was on verge of uprising, Evie telling about her life and how people living in shack were waiting for arrival of popular charismatic traveler, Ryder, how they all felt good in his presence, how he helped solving their problems, and Byron telling about his life so far and what he thought about Blackthorn and other guards and lieutenants.
This time when Ryder returned, something strange happened to him. He told about experiencing God, how he felt his presence and how he was chosen to deliver God’s message. He called the God ‘The Light’, told people to let light enter in their dark life, live peacefully and be kind to each other. The way he said all these, people- one by one and over short period of time- fell into his spell, they believed it and started living under his guidance. All but two were skeptic about it, Evie and Byron. They kept thinking what Ryder’s motive was and if he was telling truth. They didn’t accept Light nor oppose it openly but they were forced to do something about it when persons they cared about fell victim to it.
What will they do to save those they cared about? Can they stand against whole community and even the governor who also believed in this Light or they have to leave the community they lived in all their life and go out on road that is even more dangerous?
There was so much to grasp in first few chapters. I didn’t know this was part of series Project Renova until I read Author’s note at the end. It worked perfectly as a standalone. There was enough information about world from previous books.
World was amazing. This is first time I read a story that was futuristic but destruction and wipe out of population was so vast that people were living without technology, vehicle or any scientific advancement. Not even electricity or water supply through pipes. I didn’t even see a gun, which was more shocking. Electricity and proper bathroom was there but only for elite class not for poor or lower middle class. Let’s just say in 2139 people were living like 1739. And moreover people didn’t believe in God or any religion (not until Ryder’s experience). They lived in small communities and there were only few big communities like Blackthorn that provided shelter to people which were ruled by governor.
Even the city was presented wonderfully. There were levels in Blackthorn according to class and occupations which was wonderfully narrated in Evie’s voice. Discrimination and unfairness towards lower class and women made the world even more sad and sorry.
All characters were interesting. Even villain. I loved Evie and Byron most. Evie was strong and developed character. She didn’t like her life in Blackthorn in general, but she had family, a job as backer that provided her food and shelter. She didn’t have anything to complain about but life was hard especially for her friend from lower level for whom she was willing to take risk. She was kind, compassionate, and smart girl with brain and logic. Her questions and doubt regarding God, faith and Light was logical. She could see through the deception and pretty words.
Byron was a guard. He had strong ethics and view point. He liked keeping himself to himself and doing his duty but was not subservient. He was a free spirit who loved roaming outside walls and craved independence. He didn’t care about anything except few people he called friends. I liked how his life took shape and direction once he found a person he cared about and all this light thing started.
He fancied Evie but was hesitant and was not sure if she would reciprocate his feelings. He and Evie made perfect pair in the book. I liked how slowly but strongly their friendship and relationship developed. Romance was not most important part of the story but I liked it.
Lieutenant August Hemsley was subservient to governor, Wolf North. He had blind faith in him. He never believed in rumors about Wolf, never voiced against wrong nor had his opinion. He thought he has earned his respect by doing his duty, he believed in what his mother said to him- “he was born to serve” until he could no longer turn blind eye. His development was tremendous. We see a different side of him when he came face to face with truth. It shattered his illusion and his faith and did right thing in the end.
“Looks are deceptive.” “There is more than you can see.” “I respect faith but doubt is what gets you an education.” All these saying were so apt here. The ultimate message was, you don’t need entity, or religion or fear of heaven and hell to be kind, compassionate, and caring towards others. It comes from within. It’s a simple logic, if you be nice, listen to others, broaden perspective, discuss problems and find a solution, there will be order in any community. One doesn’t need faith and false hope to cling to get this. If you read this book you get the idea how much it was manipulated and tyrannical.
I could see where things were going most of the time and it was easy to guess how this will end yet author had surprise cards at climax and near end. Climax was at around 65% of the book with a shocking revelation. I guessed the truth about Light but not what Hemsley found out at this point. The story from here was most exciting and thrilling. When they decided to get justice and make things better for people of Blackthorn I could predict what might happen, I knew if they could get away with it or not. It was the result of their plan that was so uncertain and unpredictable which we know about in last 10% of the book. It was most shocking.
I enjoyed all chapters between climax and end. It was filled with hope, sadness, new learning, discovering real happiness, and tragedy. The end was perfect, I wish things were different but I hope to keep my hope in next standalone installment of series “Hope”.
Overall it was mind blowing, intriguing and thought-provoking post-apocalyptic dystopia that I recommend to fans of this genre.
*** Note: I received this book from the author via Shannon @R&R Book Tours, in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to author and Shannon. ***
Blackthorn was post-apocalyptic dystopia set in 2139, revolved around Blackthorn- a largest settlement in England, people in the city, their life under an oppressive ruler and how it changed with arrival of a charming traveler with his story of The Light. It was about politics and control, faith and belief vs cynicism and logic, communism, manipulations for personal gain, and fighting for loved ones. If I’m not wrong this was fifth book in Project Renova series.
This book brilliant. Writing was wonderful. It was gripping and flawless with serious and controversial subject. Setting, world, characters and lifestyle was intriguing and well described. Multiple narration from Evie, Byron and Hemsley worked well here. All three were working on different level in Blackthorn and they all had different life and view point.
It started with Helmsley giving an overview on situation in Blackthorn that was on verge of uprising, Evie telling about her life and how people living in shack were waiting for arrival of popular charismatic traveler, Ryder, how they all felt good in his presence, how he helped solving their problems, and Byron telling about his life so far and what he thought about Blackthorn and other guards and lieutenants.
This time when Ryder returned, something strange happened to him. He told about experiencing God, how he felt his presence and how he was chosen to deliver God’s message. He called the God ‘The Light’, told people to let light enter in their dark life, live peacefully and be kind to each other. The way he said all these, people- one by one and over short period of time- fell into his spell, they believed it and started living under his guidance. All but two were skeptic about it, Evie and Byron. They kept thinking what Ryder’s motive was and if he was telling truth. They didn’t accept Light nor oppose it openly but they were forced to do something about it when persons they cared about fell victim to it.
What will they do to save those they cared about? Can they stand against whole community and even the governor who also believed in this Light or they have to leave the community they lived in all their life and go out on road that is even more dangerous?
There was so much to grasp in first few chapters. I didn’t know this was part of series Project Renova until I read Author’s note at the end. It worked perfectly as a standalone. There was enough information about world from previous books.
World was amazing. This is first time I read a story that was futuristic but destruction and wipe out of population was so vast that people were living without technology, vehicle or any scientific advancement. Not even electricity or water supply through pipes. I didn’t even see a gun, which was more shocking. Electricity and proper bathroom was there but only for elite class not for poor or lower middle class. Let’s just say in 2139 people were living like 1739. And moreover people didn’t believe in God or any religion (not until Ryder’s experience). They lived in small communities and there were only few big communities like Blackthorn that provided shelter to people which were ruled by governor.
Even the city was presented wonderfully. There were levels in Blackthorn according to class and occupations which was wonderfully narrated in Evie’s voice. Discrimination and unfairness towards lower class and women made the world even more sad and sorry.
All characters were interesting. Even villain. I loved Evie and Byron most. Evie was strong and developed character. She didn’t like her life in Blackthorn in general, but she had family, a job as backer that provided her food and shelter. She didn’t have anything to complain about but life was hard especially for her friend from lower level for whom she was willing to take risk. She was kind, compassionate, and smart girl with brain and logic. Her questions and doubt regarding God, faith and Light was logical. She could see through the deception and pretty words.
Byron was a guard. He had strong ethics and view point. He liked keeping himself to himself and doing his duty but was not subservient. He was a free spirit who loved roaming outside walls and craved independence. He didn’t care about anything except few people he called friends. I liked how his life took shape and direction once he found a person he cared about and all this light thing started.
He fancied Evie but was hesitant and was not sure if she would reciprocate his feelings. He and Evie made perfect pair in the book. I liked how slowly but strongly their friendship and relationship developed. Romance was not most important part of the story but I liked it.
Lieutenant August Hemsley was subservient to governor, Wolf North. He had blind faith in him. He never believed in rumors about Wolf, never voiced against wrong nor had his opinion. He thought he has earned his respect by doing his duty, he believed in what his mother said to him- “he was born to serve” until he could no longer turn blind eye. His development was tremendous. We see a different side of him when he came face to face with truth. It shattered his illusion and his faith and did right thing in the end.
“Looks are deceptive.” “There is more than you can see.” “I respect faith but doubt is what gets you an education.” All these saying were so apt here. The ultimate message was, you don’t need entity, or religion or fear of heaven and hell to be kind, compassionate, and caring towards others. It comes from within. It’s a simple logic, if you be nice, listen to others, broaden perspective, discuss problems and find a solution, there will be order in any community. One doesn’t need faith and false hope to cling to get this. If you read this book you get the idea how much it was manipulated and tyrannical.
I could see where things were going most of the time and it was easy to guess how this will end yet author had surprise cards at climax and near end. Climax was at around 65% of the book with a shocking revelation. I guessed the truth about Light but not what Hemsley found out at this point. The story from here was most exciting and thrilling. When they decided to get justice and make things better for people of Blackthorn I could predict what might happen, I knew if they could get away with it or not. It was the result of their plan that was so uncertain and unpredictable which we know about in last 10% of the book. It was most shocking.
I enjoyed all chapters between climax and end. It was filled with hope, sadness, new learning, discovering real happiness, and tragedy. The end was perfect, I wish things were different but I hope to keep my hope in next standalone installment of series “Hope”.
Overall it was mind blowing, intriguing and thought-provoking post-apocalyptic dystopia that I recommend to fans of this genre.
*** Note: I received this book from the author via Shannon @R&R Book Tours, in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to author and Shannon. ***
December 20, 2019
Dark, dark and darker.
Ms Tyler's dystopian world advances through time in Blackthorn, a book that grows ever more disturbing and harrowing the further you read. A world unveiled where the worst of humanity, and some of its best, has survived the bat fever that wiped out most of the population. Here, you will find true heroes, and villains. Whilst not wanting to give anything away of the plot, as there are many twists and turns, this is a dark, dark read. A glaring light is held up, blinding the people of Blackthorn to the darkness hiding just behind it. I have a suspicion that this thread of this story will continue, and I certainly want it to.
Not an easy read, but an excellent one. Five stars.
Ms Tyler's dystopian world advances through time in Blackthorn, a book that grows ever more disturbing and harrowing the further you read. A world unveiled where the worst of humanity, and some of its best, has survived the bat fever that wiped out most of the population. Here, you will find true heroes, and villains. Whilst not wanting to give anything away of the plot, as there are many twists and turns, this is a dark, dark read. A glaring light is held up, blinding the people of Blackthorn to the darkness hiding just behind it. I have a suspicion that this thread of this story will continue, and I certainly want it to.
Not an easy read, but an excellent one. Five stars.
December 5, 2019
My fifth Terry Tyler book and a fifth five-star rating.
Blackthorn, the largest settlement of those remaining after a virus destroyed 95% of the population, is a mess. Drinking, violence, strikes, hunger, full prisons, sadistic guards, classism. One day a charismatic and very good looking young man is stricken by the vision of the Light. In a society that has long forgotten all the religions, Ryder Swift is first laughed at, then listened to, then followed. The Blackthorn residents discover inner peace, begin to help each other, find happiness without the drink.
At least most of them. Most of the time. Mostly when there are witnesses.
It's a cynical book about cynical people (if you use the phrase "my religious feelings" non-ironically, there's a chance your religious feelings will get hurt). I shouted at my e-reader and more than once I had to stop reading and do something else – but never because I lost interest. If anything, some plot twists were too brutal and I needed rest, I was too invested in some of the characters. There were a few tears as well.
The author's writing is becoming more and more refined and literary – multiple points of view, present tense, alternating between first and third person, yet managing to keep the voices of the characters so clearly different that I didn't need to go back and check who is currently talking to me. The characters felt very real, which wasn't always a good thing; the dialogue delightful, especially the scenes narrated by lieutenant Hemsley. The only bit that I felt could have been improved was one "as you know" scene – the type of conversation where characters talk about the things they've done and said elsewhere. It wasn't bad, it just wasn't as great as everything else.
Who knew December would bring me another contender for book of the year?
Blackthorn, the largest settlement of those remaining after a virus destroyed 95% of the population, is a mess. Drinking, violence, strikes, hunger, full prisons, sadistic guards, classism. One day a charismatic and very good looking young man is stricken by the vision of the Light. In a society that has long forgotten all the religions, Ryder Swift is first laughed at, then listened to, then followed. The Blackthorn residents discover inner peace, begin to help each other, find happiness without the drink.
At least most of them. Most of the time. Mostly when there are witnesses.
It's a cynical book about cynical people (if you use the phrase "my religious feelings" non-ironically, there's a chance your religious feelings will get hurt). I shouted at my e-reader and more than once I had to stop reading and do something else – but never because I lost interest. If anything, some plot twists were too brutal and I needed rest, I was too invested in some of the characters. There were a few tears as well.
The author's writing is becoming more and more refined and literary – multiple points of view, present tense, alternating between first and third person, yet managing to keep the voices of the characters so clearly different that I didn't need to go back and check who is currently talking to me. The characters felt very real, which wasn't always a good thing; the dialogue delightful, especially the scenes narrated by lieutenant Hemsley. The only bit that I felt could have been improved was one "as you know" scene – the type of conversation where characters talk about the things they've done and said elsewhere. It wasn't bad, it just wasn't as great as everything else.
Who knew December would bring me another contender for book of the year?
December 17, 2019
Although Blackthorn is tied to the Project Renova series is easily read as a stand alone. Enough of the backstory is included as we meet the inhabitants of the city, that the reader has a good flavour of the previous stories.
Blackthorn, a city in turmoil, is suffering from the effects of bad weather ruining crops resulting in a disgruntled populace. Evie, who lives in Shackers’ End with her family, is one of the bakers supplying food to those higher up the chain who care little for the living conditions of the less fortunate. The rules imposed on the townspeople are unpopular and the present circumstances of low food stocks stir up more resentment than usual. The best of everything goes to the ‘important’ people in the East End. Next down the line are those who live in the city centre, and lastly the shackers, who produce the food but are only allowed sub standard fare. And even those who live in Shacker’s End have a hierarchy.
Into this volatile situation comes the captivating Ryder, one of the regular group of travellers who visit Blackthorn looking for work in the autumn. His personality and good looks are such that he has managed to gain the admiration and affection of the people, who always look forward to his visits.
When Ryder claims he’s had a vision from a being he calls The Light, who wants the people of Blackthorn to live in love and harmony, he soon has most of the city under his spell and has even gained the support of the governor, Wolf North. Evie and Byron Lewis, a guard, are two of the small group who remain sceptical and unconvinced by Ryder’s proclamations.
The story is character driven, written in the present tense from various distinctly individual viewpoints, with Evie’s perspective told in the first person. Terry Tyler has the enviable skill of creating characters who come alive for the reader, with fully rounded, authentic and sometimes flawed personalities, shown through dialogue and introspection. Wonderful imagery and world building sets the mood with unexpected twists adding to the tension. Blackthorn’s divisions are so easy to picture, from the palatial governor’s palace through to the slum-like Stinky Bottom. As events unfold, the story takes on a much darker tone as the distressing, true extent of the horror that is Blackthorn becomes ever clearer.
The writing and storytelling, as always, are exceptional and give a fascinating, and sometimes horrifying, glimpse into a possible future world. A compelling, well paced narrative is peopled with diverse characters you’ll either love, pity or despise. Highly recommended.
Blackthorn, a city in turmoil, is suffering from the effects of bad weather ruining crops resulting in a disgruntled populace. Evie, who lives in Shackers’ End with her family, is one of the bakers supplying food to those higher up the chain who care little for the living conditions of the less fortunate. The rules imposed on the townspeople are unpopular and the present circumstances of low food stocks stir up more resentment than usual. The best of everything goes to the ‘important’ people in the East End. Next down the line are those who live in the city centre, and lastly the shackers, who produce the food but are only allowed sub standard fare. And even those who live in Shacker’s End have a hierarchy.
Into this volatile situation comes the captivating Ryder, one of the regular group of travellers who visit Blackthorn looking for work in the autumn. His personality and good looks are such that he has managed to gain the admiration and affection of the people, who always look forward to his visits.
When Ryder claims he’s had a vision from a being he calls The Light, who wants the people of Blackthorn to live in love and harmony, he soon has most of the city under his spell and has even gained the support of the governor, Wolf North. Evie and Byron Lewis, a guard, are two of the small group who remain sceptical and unconvinced by Ryder’s proclamations.
The story is character driven, written in the present tense from various distinctly individual viewpoints, with Evie’s perspective told in the first person. Terry Tyler has the enviable skill of creating characters who come alive for the reader, with fully rounded, authentic and sometimes flawed personalities, shown through dialogue and introspection. Wonderful imagery and world building sets the mood with unexpected twists adding to the tension. Blackthorn’s divisions are so easy to picture, from the palatial governor’s palace through to the slum-like Stinky Bottom. As events unfold, the story takes on a much darker tone as the distressing, true extent of the horror that is Blackthorn becomes ever clearer.
The writing and storytelling, as always, are exceptional and give a fascinating, and sometimes horrifying, glimpse into a possible future world. A compelling, well paced narrative is peopled with diverse characters you’ll either love, pity or despise. Highly recommended.
January 20, 2020
As far back as her first books I have loved Terry Tyler's work, particularly as they are character led, and because the characters leap out at you on the page from the word go. When the author ventured into the dystopian genre (not one of my favourite genres) I thought I wouldn't like her stories. But, true to her style, she produced great rounded characters in a world that was both believable and gave a good sense of place.
And so she has carried on in the same way with this latest book. Hope continues to build on a future that is so easily credible but also made me very uneasy; because many of the themes that run through this story are juxtaposed with the premises of our world today. The people in power, whether in business or politics, influence and control the everyday life of the public; through lies and machinations. But where there is a modicum of subtlety (perhaps) in the present world, the depiction of authority and dominance in this future life is blatant in the control over the masses
The story revolves around three friends, living in Britain, who swiftly move from a flat share to homelessness. And hopelessness. But there is hope; two of the three, Lita and Nick, fight back against the tyrannical and oppressive regime.
It’s a gripping yet disturbing read. An unnerving story that ends, however, on the hope that humanity survives because of the intrinsic layers of empathy and compassion in the majority of mankind. I would recommend Hope to any reader, both those who like a good dystopian book and those who just want to settle down with a brilliant stor
June 1, 2020
Terrific characters and a ray of hope in a dark, dark world I’ve read quite a few novels by Terry Tyler, and the whole of the Project Renova series, and I was looking forward to this one as well, as it is a story set in one of the settlements we visited in the last novel in the series, Legacy(you can find my review of Legacy here and there are also links to the rest of the novel available on that post). Blackthorn is a pretty memorable place and my previous visit to that world made me think of Westworld (the old movie rather than the series, which I haven’t watched), because it was like an amalgamation of the worst of Ancient Rome and a Medieval court. Some of the events that happened in that novel are bound to be fresh in the minds of readers, and they are referred to in this novel, but I think even people who haven’t read any of the other novels in the Renova Series would be able to enjoy this one, as the author does a great job of creating a vivid world, and it’s not difficult to understand the rules and get to know the characters that play the different parts. Yes, those who have read the whole series will have a fair more background, and it fits in beautifully with the rest, but that should not deter new readers from trying it (and judging by the reviews, it seems that many new readers have enjoyed it as well).
I don’t want to go into a lot of detail about the plot, because there are a number of surprises, and the author has built them up perfectly and paced the story so that we discover each bit of information with the characters at a particular point in the story, sharing in their feelings and emotions, and that helps explain and justify their actions. Most of the story is told in the first person present tense, by the three main characters: Evie, a young girl, a shacker (because there is a strict social order, and where you are born determines your lot in life in Blackthorn. It’s very difficult to rise above one’s station and those who try pay dearly for it), who works in a bakery and leads a very modest life (she has no other option), clever, witty, and a bit of an outsider; Byron Lewis, a guard from a family with a long tradition in Blackthorn but also a bit of an outsider; and Lieutenant August Hemsley, who is a good an honest man, a bit of a loner and has always tried his best to do his duty, remaining blind to some of the most unsavoury aspects of life in Blackthorn. There are also brief chapters told in the third person (and in italics) that offer readers some hints and clues as to other things that might be going on behind the scenes and that our three narrators have no access to. Although those three get to learn plenty about what is really going on, readers get an even closer look at the darkness and horror most of the population are completely unaware of. This is a dystopian novel, science-fiction about a possible future if civilisation were to collapse (in this case due to a virus, a particularly scary thing to read at the time of the COVID-19 pandemic), and it touches on a lot of themes: social control, organised religion, faith, spirituality, and tradition, power and manipulation, family, friendship and identity…
I have mentioned the main characters and the way the story is narrated. There are other characters who play important parts, like Ryder Swift, an outlier who used to visit Blackthorn every year, charismatic, good at telling stories and a favourite with the shackers, who becomes something of a religious leader; Wolf North, the governor, a master manipulator who is one of the darkest characters in the whole story, and many others with smaller parts, like Evie’s friends and relatives, the other guards, the women who live in the House of Angels (I’ll let you learn about that when you read the story)… but if I had to choose one, my favourite would be Evie, who reminded me of Lottie, one of my favourite characters in the whole of the Project Renova series. Tyler excels at creating characters, some likeable, some dislikeable, but all real human beings (no matter what strange worlds and circumstances they might live in), and we see how the three protagonists grow and develop during the novel (the three of them are keen readers, so that helps the connection as well), refusing to be defined by socially-designated roles and categories and coming into their own. This helps us engage with them and feel touched, marvelled or horrified by their experiences, and we feel sorrow when we leave them (although the author hints at a possible follow up on some of the characters’ adventures).
Notwithstanding the author’s focus on her characters, she manages to create a truly compelling and realistic world in Blackthorn, one that might feel fairly alien to our daily experience and we might not like, but one we can understand, and some aspects of which might be uncomfortably recognisable. Her description of the different parts of the city, the conditions the inhabitants have to live in, their routines, their way of life, their hardships and/or privileges are seamlessly woven into the story, rather than told in long stretches of information dumps, and we learn all we need from wandering around Blackthorn’s streets with the narrators, sharing in their observations, their day-to-day life and their adventures. We see their homes, their places of work, we follow them to the bakery, the prison, the outskirts, the governor’s home, the bars, their friends’ homes, and we get to know the hidden spots in Blackthorn as well. This is done in a fluid style, with an eye for detail that does not disrupt the narrative or interrupt the plot (even when there are short chapters that take us back to earlier moments in the story), and the writing is perfectly in sync with the narrative, not calling undue attention to itself but rather serving the story. There are contemplative and beautiful moments; there are some funny touches; some truly horrific events, and some touching and hopeful passages as well. Tyler’s writing mastery keeps increasing with every novel as demonstrated by this book.
The ending hints at new beginnings and at many more stories. It brings some wonderful surprises and some disappointments (not totally unexpected), but I won’t go into details. I loved it, and, for me, it is a hopeful ending.
This is another great novel by Terry Tyler, and one set in a world that most readers will be able to connect with. I loved its unlikely mix of characters, the fantastic baddy (Wolf North his pretty up there with the best, or worst, depending on how you look at it), the masterful way the story is told, and how it makes us pause and think, about the past, the present, and the future. A few words of warning, there are some violent scenes (not extreme but upsetting), some very dark and nasty happenings, and its take on official religions could be challenging for some readers. Personally, I can’t wait to read the sequel to Hope.
I don’t want to go into a lot of detail about the plot, because there are a number of surprises, and the author has built them up perfectly and paced the story so that we discover each bit of information with the characters at a particular point in the story, sharing in their feelings and emotions, and that helps explain and justify their actions. Most of the story is told in the first person present tense, by the three main characters: Evie, a young girl, a shacker (because there is a strict social order, and where you are born determines your lot in life in Blackthorn. It’s very difficult to rise above one’s station and those who try pay dearly for it), who works in a bakery and leads a very modest life (she has no other option), clever, witty, and a bit of an outsider; Byron Lewis, a guard from a family with a long tradition in Blackthorn but also a bit of an outsider; and Lieutenant August Hemsley, who is a good an honest man, a bit of a loner and has always tried his best to do his duty, remaining blind to some of the most unsavoury aspects of life in Blackthorn. There are also brief chapters told in the third person (and in italics) that offer readers some hints and clues as to other things that might be going on behind the scenes and that our three narrators have no access to. Although those three get to learn plenty about what is really going on, readers get an even closer look at the darkness and horror most of the population are completely unaware of. This is a dystopian novel, science-fiction about a possible future if civilisation were to collapse (in this case due to a virus, a particularly scary thing to read at the time of the COVID-19 pandemic), and it touches on a lot of themes: social control, organised religion, faith, spirituality, and tradition, power and manipulation, family, friendship and identity…
I have mentioned the main characters and the way the story is narrated. There are other characters who play important parts, like Ryder Swift, an outlier who used to visit Blackthorn every year, charismatic, good at telling stories and a favourite with the shackers, who becomes something of a religious leader; Wolf North, the governor, a master manipulator who is one of the darkest characters in the whole story, and many others with smaller parts, like Evie’s friends and relatives, the other guards, the women who live in the House of Angels (I’ll let you learn about that when you read the story)… but if I had to choose one, my favourite would be Evie, who reminded me of Lottie, one of my favourite characters in the whole of the Project Renova series. Tyler excels at creating characters, some likeable, some dislikeable, but all real human beings (no matter what strange worlds and circumstances they might live in), and we see how the three protagonists grow and develop during the novel (the three of them are keen readers, so that helps the connection as well), refusing to be defined by socially-designated roles and categories and coming into their own. This helps us engage with them and feel touched, marvelled or horrified by their experiences, and we feel sorrow when we leave them (although the author hints at a possible follow up on some of the characters’ adventures).
Notwithstanding the author’s focus on her characters, she manages to create a truly compelling and realistic world in Blackthorn, one that might feel fairly alien to our daily experience and we might not like, but one we can understand, and some aspects of which might be uncomfortably recognisable. Her description of the different parts of the city, the conditions the inhabitants have to live in, their routines, their way of life, their hardships and/or privileges are seamlessly woven into the story, rather than told in long stretches of information dumps, and we learn all we need from wandering around Blackthorn’s streets with the narrators, sharing in their observations, their day-to-day life and their adventures. We see their homes, their places of work, we follow them to the bakery, the prison, the outskirts, the governor’s home, the bars, their friends’ homes, and we get to know the hidden spots in Blackthorn as well. This is done in a fluid style, with an eye for detail that does not disrupt the narrative or interrupt the plot (even when there are short chapters that take us back to earlier moments in the story), and the writing is perfectly in sync with the narrative, not calling undue attention to itself but rather serving the story. There are contemplative and beautiful moments; there are some funny touches; some truly horrific events, and some touching and hopeful passages as well. Tyler’s writing mastery keeps increasing with every novel as demonstrated by this book.
The ending hints at new beginnings and at many more stories. It brings some wonderful surprises and some disappointments (not totally unexpected), but I won’t go into details. I loved it, and, for me, it is a hopeful ending.
This is another great novel by Terry Tyler, and one set in a world that most readers will be able to connect with. I loved its unlikely mix of characters, the fantastic baddy (Wolf North his pretty up there with the best, or worst, depending on how you look at it), the masterful way the story is told, and how it makes us pause and think, about the past, the present, and the future. A few words of warning, there are some violent scenes (not extreme but upsetting), some very dark and nasty happenings, and its take on official religions could be challenging for some readers. Personally, I can’t wait to read the sequel to Hope.
December 22, 2019
I have read all the books in the Project Renova Series that follow the survivors of a virus that wipes out most of the population of the UK. Blackthorn has risen from the ashes and promises sanctuary in return for hard labour and obedience.
Characters in this book set a hundred and fifteen years after the outbreak, carry familiar names to those we have met before in previous books, and some bear the traits of their ancestors, occupying positions of power, often by manipulation and violence such as the governor Wolf Thorn. This familiarity extends to include the narrators of the book, loyal lieutenant to the governor August Hemsley, Evie from the poverty ridden shacks, and Byron Lewis one of the colony's guards.
Despite harsh rules and their enforcement, Blackthorn is a troubled colony and Wolf Thorn is looking for resolution. This miraculously appears when charismatic traveler Ryder Swift brings the promise of redemption and faith to the citizens, from the humble shacks of the disillusioned and impoverished workers, right into the governor's mansion.
Very few can deny the fire and passion that this golden-haired orator brings to the people, and with only a few dissenters, massive changes begin to take place in the dynamics of the colony. Some of which hide an evil and deceit that only a handful begin to glimpse behind the fanfare.
As with all Terry Tyler's books, the characters are believable, even when they are not likeable.The world that they live in is vividly portrayed and you are invited to utilise all your senses to appreciate the living conditions from Stinky Bottom to the relative luxury of the shacks to the dank prison blocks.
This post apocalyptic world is not a comfortable one to inhabit, whether behind the walls of Blackthorn, or out in the small settlements struggling to survive nature and predatory gangs. You might grow enough food, but there is always someone coming along who is willing to use violence to take it from you. This encourages people to put up with the bare existence in the confines of Blackthorn, in return for its relative safety. To turn a blind eye to the dark nature of those in charge, and to accept without question the miracle that is being offered to them of a brighter future.
Can those with doubts change the direction that this reformation is taking? Or will they disappear as so many have before them?
When I have finished a book I like to think about what I have taken away from the story. Clearly we live in a world today that seems often to have a very thin veneer of civilisation, but the reality is that we do have structure, most of us have access to education and health care,and live in safety. Billions of us are privileged and have more than enough for our needs, and yet there is always that drive to have more.
But all it takes is one virus!
You can try to imagine what it would be like to survive in a world where all that we possess and love has been stripped away, or you can read Blackthorn and the other Project Renova stories and get a disturbingly believable look at the future. #Recommended
Characters in this book set a hundred and fifteen years after the outbreak, carry familiar names to those we have met before in previous books, and some bear the traits of their ancestors, occupying positions of power, often by manipulation and violence such as the governor Wolf Thorn. This familiarity extends to include the narrators of the book, loyal lieutenant to the governor August Hemsley, Evie from the poverty ridden shacks, and Byron Lewis one of the colony's guards.
Despite harsh rules and their enforcement, Blackthorn is a troubled colony and Wolf Thorn is looking for resolution. This miraculously appears when charismatic traveler Ryder Swift brings the promise of redemption and faith to the citizens, from the humble shacks of the disillusioned and impoverished workers, right into the governor's mansion.
Very few can deny the fire and passion that this golden-haired orator brings to the people, and with only a few dissenters, massive changes begin to take place in the dynamics of the colony. Some of which hide an evil and deceit that only a handful begin to glimpse behind the fanfare.
As with all Terry Tyler's books, the characters are believable, even when they are not likeable.The world that they live in is vividly portrayed and you are invited to utilise all your senses to appreciate the living conditions from Stinky Bottom to the relative luxury of the shacks to the dank prison blocks.
This post apocalyptic world is not a comfortable one to inhabit, whether behind the walls of Blackthorn, or out in the small settlements struggling to survive nature and predatory gangs. You might grow enough food, but there is always someone coming along who is willing to use violence to take it from you. This encourages people to put up with the bare existence in the confines of Blackthorn, in return for its relative safety. To turn a blind eye to the dark nature of those in charge, and to accept without question the miracle that is being offered to them of a brighter future.
Can those with doubts change the direction that this reformation is taking? Or will they disappear as so many have before them?
When I have finished a book I like to think about what I have taken away from the story. Clearly we live in a world today that seems often to have a very thin veneer of civilisation, but the reality is that we do have structure, most of us have access to education and health care,and live in safety. Billions of us are privileged and have more than enough for our needs, and yet there is always that drive to have more.
But all it takes is one virus!
You can try to imagine what it would be like to survive in a world where all that we possess and love has been stripped away, or you can read Blackthorn and the other Project Renova stories and get a disturbingly believable look at the future. #Recommended
May 18, 2020
Blackthorn is the first book of Terry Tyler's that I've read, and I enjoyed the read immensely. I came accross this story on a book blog and am so glad I decided to give it a go. Despite my wanting to avoid this type of tale right now due to all that's going on in the world today, I soon found myself hooked.
The year is 2139, and we see a new Britain after 'The Fall', and a world largely reclaimed by nature. The city of Blackthorn is one of only a few power bases remaining or surviving. Its social structure is a rigid one and not too well balanced. As ever, a vast gap lies between the haves and have-nots.
At a time of particular social unrest, a traveller arrives with a message of love and light, but not all is as it may seem, and political manipulation and manouvring change the lives of many.
The story is told in first-person voice and in the present tense. Usually, I find this style difficult to read, but the author wrote so well, I hardly noticed the narrative. This is a book you live rather than read, as you become totally immersed in the world created and walk alongside the superbly drawn characters.
I will be reading more books by this author. Blackthorn gets a resounding five stars from me.
***
NOTE ON RATINGS: I consider a 3-star rating a positive review. Picky about which books I give 5 stars to, I reserve this highest rating for the stories I find stunning and which moved me.
5 STARS: IT WAS AMAZING! I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! — Highly Recommended.
4 STARS: I WOULD PULL AN ALL-NIGHTER — Go read this book.
3 STARS: IT WAS GOOD! — An okay read. Didn’t love it. Didn’t hate it.
2 STARS: I MAY HAVE LIKED A FEW THINGS —Lacking in some areas: writing, characterisation, and/or problematic plot lines.
1 STAR: NOT MY CUP OF TEA —Lots of issues with this book.
The year is 2139, and we see a new Britain after 'The Fall', and a world largely reclaimed by nature. The city of Blackthorn is one of only a few power bases remaining or surviving. Its social structure is a rigid one and not too well balanced. As ever, a vast gap lies between the haves and have-nots.
At a time of particular social unrest, a traveller arrives with a message of love and light, but not all is as it may seem, and political manipulation and manouvring change the lives of many.
The story is told in first-person voice and in the present tense. Usually, I find this style difficult to read, but the author wrote so well, I hardly noticed the narrative. This is a book you live rather than read, as you become totally immersed in the world created and walk alongside the superbly drawn characters.
I will be reading more books by this author. Blackthorn gets a resounding five stars from me.
***
NOTE ON RATINGS: I consider a 3-star rating a positive review. Picky about which books I give 5 stars to, I reserve this highest rating for the stories I find stunning and which moved me.
5 STARS: IT WAS AMAZING! I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! — Highly Recommended.
4 STARS: I WOULD PULL AN ALL-NIGHTER — Go read this book.
3 STARS: IT WAS GOOD! — An okay read. Didn’t love it. Didn’t hate it.
2 STARS: I MAY HAVE LIKED A FEW THINGS —Lacking in some areas: writing, characterisation, and/or problematic plot lines.
1 STAR: NOT MY CUP OF TEA —Lots of issues with this book.
November 30, 2019
It was with great excitement that I began to read Blackthorn about life in the largest settlement in England 115 years after ninety-five per cent of the population died as a result of a fatal virus. The books of the Project Renova series had introduced us to several unforgettable characters, evil, conniving, honourable or delightful but there are many more permutations possible within the human race. Here we meet Evie, a hard-working, kind young woman who doesn’t follow the crowd but is careful not to draw attention to her family or friends. Living in a simple shack she is one step above her friend Jay in Stinky Bottom but definitely below the status of Byron and Hemsley, guards who can live in the East End near to Governor North with all the modern conveniences.
Into their lives comes Ryder Swift, a handsome, charming traveller whom everyone takes to. Soon he brings a vision of life after death and harmony amongst the people. But when Jay gets into trouble, the unhappy lives of the poor and imprisoned cause Hemsley, Byron and Evie to question the new-found benevolence of their unpleasant governor. They need to take dangerous, drastic action.
This is a great book to read as a stand-alone story, including love, friendship, deceit and cruelty in the fast moving tale, but if you have read books in the Project Renova series you will find some of the names are familiar and towards the end of the novel a connection to the original legacy is made.
Into their lives comes Ryder Swift, a handsome, charming traveller whom everyone takes to. Soon he brings a vision of life after death and harmony amongst the people. But when Jay gets into trouble, the unhappy lives of the poor and imprisoned cause Hemsley, Byron and Evie to question the new-found benevolence of their unpleasant governor. They need to take dangerous, drastic action.
This is a great book to read as a stand-alone story, including love, friendship, deceit and cruelty in the fast moving tale, but if you have read books in the Project Renova series you will find some of the names are familiar and towards the end of the novel a connection to the original legacy is made.
March 12, 2020
This book is set within the world of the Project Renova series, but is able to be read as a standalone. Backstory regarding what happened in the world during that series is explained so the reader can easily follow along.
Since I've read the Project Renova series, I adored the mention of some of those characters - but I also enjoyed meeting these new ones. Evie is a delight - feisty, independent, and smart. She doesn't automatically drink the Koolaid like most of the folks in Blackthorn - she's skeptical, asks questions, and has a good head on her shoulders. Female readers will be enraged at the way some women are treated in Blackthorn. It's scary to think society could regress to that point after a postapocalyptic event.
This author has a talent for character development, and the story is primarily character-driven. I enjoyed the changing POVs between Evie, Byron, and Hemsley, whose character arc is especially riveting. Ryder is charismatic and personable, and perfect to carry out the role he's been given - but you just never quite trust him.
Blacktorn is a compelling and thought-provoking read I found difficult to put down. As I mentioned, this is a standalone book, but after finishing it, don't be suprised if you find yourself purchasing the Project Renova series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Since I've read the Project Renova series, I adored the mention of some of those characters - but I also enjoyed meeting these new ones. Evie is a delight - feisty, independent, and smart. She doesn't automatically drink the Koolaid like most of the folks in Blackthorn - she's skeptical, asks questions, and has a good head on her shoulders. Female readers will be enraged at the way some women are treated in Blackthorn. It's scary to think society could regress to that point after a postapocalyptic event.
This author has a talent for character development, and the story is primarily character-driven. I enjoyed the changing POVs between Evie, Byron, and Hemsley, whose character arc is especially riveting. Ryder is charismatic and personable, and perfect to carry out the role he's been given - but you just never quite trust him.
Blacktorn is a compelling and thought-provoking read I found difficult to put down. As I mentioned, this is a standalone book, but after finishing it, don't be suprised if you find yourself purchasing the Project Renova series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 15, 2020
120 years in the future. Our society lies in tatters after a bat fever decimated the population and humanity was forced back to basics. The Blackthorn community has clearly defined social classes, law and order, crime and punishment. But those at the lower end of the social spectrum are causing unrest.
Friend to all, Ryder Swift discovers the Light and encourages the rest of the community to join him in this burgeoning religion. But some members of society see this as sinister...
OK, so first of all, reading about bat fever in the current climate of coronavirus was a litle creepy! I hope this isn't a premonition about our future!
There is a famous saying by Voltaire: If God did not exist, it would be necessary to invent him. I certainly could see how society relies upon a definition of faith to underpin the choices for individuals and the community as a whole. It becomes clear that the form of organised religion is being used to control the population of Blackthorn and prevent civil unrest.
This is thought-provoking as it raises questions about our own religions and how they represent the rich and poor. I can see that some readers may find this controversial and even heretical but I believe in a personal Christianity rather than an organised communal version so I found it fascinating, cynical and clever.
Blackthorn also reminds me of Animal Farm where equality is proposed as the ideal but the reality falls far short and the leaders manipulate the community for their own gains.
The book is written from several viewpoints including Evie the baker, Byron the guard and Lieutenant Hemsley. This allows us to identify with each of the characters but I did find that it took me a little longer than usual to get hooked by the plot. Once the scene is set and the characters defined, the action is non stop and I couldn't put this book down!
Blackthorn works as a standalone book but is actually a sequel to Tipping Point and 3 follow up books which I have not read. Terry Tyler has created another captivatingly wonderful yet frightening book!
Friend to all, Ryder Swift discovers the Light and encourages the rest of the community to join him in this burgeoning religion. But some members of society see this as sinister...
OK, so first of all, reading about bat fever in the current climate of coronavirus was a litle creepy! I hope this isn't a premonition about our future!
There is a famous saying by Voltaire: If God did not exist, it would be necessary to invent him. I certainly could see how society relies upon a definition of faith to underpin the choices for individuals and the community as a whole. It becomes clear that the form of organised religion is being used to control the population of Blackthorn and prevent civil unrest.
This is thought-provoking as it raises questions about our own religions and how they represent the rich and poor. I can see that some readers may find this controversial and even heretical but I believe in a personal Christianity rather than an organised communal version so I found it fascinating, cynical and clever.
Blackthorn also reminds me of Animal Farm where equality is proposed as the ideal but the reality falls far short and the leaders manipulate the community for their own gains.
The book is written from several viewpoints including Evie the baker, Byron the guard and Lieutenant Hemsley. This allows us to identify with each of the characters but I did find that it took me a little longer than usual to get hooked by the plot. Once the scene is set and the characters defined, the action is non stop and I couldn't put this book down!
Blackthorn works as a standalone book but is actually a sequel to Tipping Point and 3 follow up books which I have not read. Terry Tyler has created another captivatingly wonderful yet frightening book!
January 4, 2020
I really don't know how Terry Tyler can keep up the momentum with this Project Renova series. Yet again she has given us another bevy of believable characters in this continuing saga, for saga it certainly is. I have reviewed each and every book so far so I won't go into details of the storyline other than state that it is a dystopian series following the survivors (and their descendents) of a terrible disease that has descimated Planet Earth. Blackthorn is the name of a town in England established by Phoenix the son of one of the original characters in book one. It was meant to be a safe haven for survivors of Bat Fever but Blackthorn is so much more than that. Oh so much more. The current Governor of the town is a decendent of Phoenix and by golly has he inherited the North genes. Wolf North is a cunning character who rules Blackthorn with a collection of Lieutenants and it is fair to say that his rule is anything but fair. A charismatic young traveller takes up residence and the story picks up pace. Ryder Swift is surely too good to be true and this is where I end my dialogue. This book deserves to be read. I thought I knew how Tyler's mind worked but I didn't see the end coming. Suffice to say that retribution reigns but not how I expected. This is a stand alone novel but far better if you start from the beginning with Tipping Point.
March 11, 2020
This is my second Terry Tyler book and it is a fast-paced and fascinating dystopian read. Blackthorn is a gated community in England created to keep survivors safe from the fatal Bat Fever virus, but when the town decides to embrace the Enlightenment, the residents aren't safe anymore.
Blackthorn is a character-driven story built around three main characters. Lieutenant Hemsley, a loyal guard for the egomaniacal Governor Wolf North, Byron Lewis, a skeptical guard of Governor North, and Evie, a disillusioned working-class resident. Ryder, a traveler who believes he is the chosen one is influenced by the Governor to continue his legacy to go down in history. I can't go into detail because it will give away the plot, so I will have to stop there.
Overall, it is a gripping and disturbing story with many layers that are unpeeled gradually to find the horrific truth of Blackthorn and its residents. Recommend highly!
Thank you to Ms. Tyler for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
Blackthorn is a character-driven story built around three main characters. Lieutenant Hemsley, a loyal guard for the egomaniacal Governor Wolf North, Byron Lewis, a skeptical guard of Governor North, and Evie, a disillusioned working-class resident. Ryder, a traveler who believes he is the chosen one is influenced by the Governor to continue his legacy to go down in history. I can't go into detail because it will give away the plot, so I will have to stop there.
Overall, it is a gripping and disturbing story with many layers that are unpeeled gradually to find the horrific truth of Blackthorn and its residents. Recommend highly!
Thank you to Ms. Tyler for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
January 29, 2020
I was a big fan of the Project Renova trilogy and was so pleased when the author decided to continue writing books about events before/during/after this series. Blackthorn is about one of the settlements that was built by a character from a previous book and covers the reign of Wolf North as governor. The settlement has rediscovered religion in the form of The Light and the story follows various characters that this affects. One of Terry's best attributes is her characters and again she does not let the reader down as we are introduced to Evie, Ryder Swift, Lieutenant Hemsley and Byron Lewis to name just a few. Won't say too much as it may give plot details away but it is another great story by this author and another worthy 5 stars from me. Hopefully this will not be our last visit to this dystopian era
January 3, 2020
I’ve loved this series, but to get the best from this book I would need to read the earlier ones again. Set several decades into the future from Lindisfarne and U2 I struggled to make the family connections. An interesting tale set against a similar background to the previous books, nothing much has moved on since Central City was set up, but with the rise of a new Messiah (who of course professes to be nothing of the sort) the author has added a new dimension.
March 14, 2020
Thoroughly enjoyed this book. A really good page-turner. Terry has a fantastic understanding of the human condition, of what drives and impedes us. part of a series - I found this out at the end but also a great stand-alone, I'll definitely be dipping into the others in the series. A very entertaining post-apocalyptic universe she's created.
December 26, 2019
I have had a great year discovering Terry's books and Blackthorn was anticipated the moment I saw it was due to be released. It didn't disappoint, I'm happy to say! It addressed all sorts of issues and built on the other novels in the series, although it could be read as a stand alone story without any problem. It all sounds close to truth at the moment with all that's going on in the world! I also saw flashes of Handmaids Tale and other futuristic/dystopian stories which didn't diminish the story at all but in fact gave it some more depth. Another 5* rating for Terry Tyler from me! Thanks so much for your fabulous books @TerryTyler4
January 18, 2020
I reviewed this book as part of the team at Whispering Stories and my post can be read by following the link below. I awarded five stars.
https://whisperingstories.com/blackth...
https://whisperingstories.com/blackth...
May 10, 2023
Part 5 of the Renova Story. This has been my favourite so far. It kept me guessing from start to finish. A great cast of characters and a fantastic plot with twists and turns to the very end. I really hope this is not the end of this series, because I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.
December 19, 2019
Once again Terry Tyler has produced an absorbing & gripping novel with strong characters
( mu favourite was Evie )
Hopefully there will be a sequel to this excellent story.
( mu favourite was Evie )
Hopefully there will be a sequel to this excellent story.
March 24, 2020
Terry really has a way with words. I really enjoyed this dystopian novel that kind of left me surprised towards the ending. I can't wait to read more of her books!
June 30, 2020
Absolutely amazing!
July 31, 2020
Thoroughly enjoyed this story. Thought provoking with a lot of twists and surprises. Great characters as well! Loved it!
October 3, 2020
This is a dark tale that is full of secret, lies and betrayals.
February 13, 2021
Great read! Very unique story. Would love another to tell what happens next.
May 16, 2020
Review: https://klling.wordpress.com/2020/04/...
Blackthorn is a story about beliefs and cults in a dystopian future where the balance has been offset. In the current state of the world, calculating back the years of how this story is sets up its future scenario, it almost hits a little too close to home. However, much like the other book that I read Hope from Terry Tyler, this author excels in building immersive dystopia worlds. In Blackthorn, its one that works thoroughly from the society’s lowered population built up and almost driving everything back to the basics in older times with different societal classes doing different jobs and someone ruling over the different cities/districts by richer families and the concept to carry on the family name by passing it on.
This brings in all kinds of characters that weave together a story of bringing back the concept of faith in the Bible and having the community come together to be better in order to reach the Light. With that, it brings up questions of how truthful the situation actually is as well as the motives of different decisions by the different characters that manage to bring in some deeper characters. Characters is where the story is executed well as it bounces between the perspective of three characters: Lieutenant August Hemsley, a lower class baker Evie and guard Byron Lewis. Their different perspectives of the different elements of the society completes the picture in many of the scenarios and fills in those blanks to connect the dots while at the same time, having perspectives from different characters also creates enough gaps of the unknown to have their own secrets and msyteries in the story that slowly unveil in the third part. With that said, the book is divided into three parts plus an epilogue, giving it a progression of time and shift in time and events as well as Blackthorn’s position.
If there was something to criticize about this book, its that the pacing at times felt lacking here and there. It had to do with its length perhaps and that some moments were made to create a link between the perspectives of the three. Provided that most of the time, the three views did work very well together but at times, it did make some situations a little longer to read. Plus, with three characters, it also needs to create enough dilemmas to solidify their purpose, push and feelings towards the society and predicament. Although, I say this, overall Blackthorn is a satisfying read. Its world-building and dystopian future plus the intricate details of putting all the three characters together from little events popping up in their passing at the beginning to having the three characters’ path intersect was done really well. Despite its little moments, its still well-executed in the scope of the story that it wants to tell.
Blackthorn is a story about beliefs and cults in a dystopian future where the balance has been offset. In the current state of the world, calculating back the years of how this story is sets up its future scenario, it almost hits a little too close to home. However, much like the other book that I read Hope from Terry Tyler, this author excels in building immersive dystopia worlds. In Blackthorn, its one that works thoroughly from the society’s lowered population built up and almost driving everything back to the basics in older times with different societal classes doing different jobs and someone ruling over the different cities/districts by richer families and the concept to carry on the family name by passing it on.
This brings in all kinds of characters that weave together a story of bringing back the concept of faith in the Bible and having the community come together to be better in order to reach the Light. With that, it brings up questions of how truthful the situation actually is as well as the motives of different decisions by the different characters that manage to bring in some deeper characters. Characters is where the story is executed well as it bounces between the perspective of three characters: Lieutenant August Hemsley, a lower class baker Evie and guard Byron Lewis. Their different perspectives of the different elements of the society completes the picture in many of the scenarios and fills in those blanks to connect the dots while at the same time, having perspectives from different characters also creates enough gaps of the unknown to have their own secrets and msyteries in the story that slowly unveil in the third part. With that said, the book is divided into three parts plus an epilogue, giving it a progression of time and shift in time and events as well as Blackthorn’s position.
If there was something to criticize about this book, its that the pacing at times felt lacking here and there. It had to do with its length perhaps and that some moments were made to create a link between the perspectives of the three. Provided that most of the time, the three views did work very well together but at times, it did make some situations a little longer to read. Plus, with three characters, it also needs to create enough dilemmas to solidify their purpose, push and feelings towards the society and predicament. Although, I say this, overall Blackthorn is a satisfying read. Its world-building and dystopian future plus the intricate details of putting all the three characters together from little events popping up in their passing at the beginning to having the three characters’ path intersect was done really well. Despite its little moments, its still well-executed in the scope of the story that it wants to tell.
February 5, 2021
Another brilliant read from Terry Tyler.
I have read a few of Terry Tylers books now, her writing is always easy to read and her writing style is addictive. I always quickly become gripped and engrossed in the stories that her wonderful mind creates.
Blackthorn is no exception. What a brilliant story with excellent characters, some you grow to love dearly and others you grow to hate.
Ryder Swift is one of the characters that you find yourself easily drawn to, he has you hanging on to his every word.....he has you believing all of the tales he comes up with as a traveller.
Evie and Byron are so easy to like, so easy to feel for and as reader I felt that their feelings were mine too. Lieutenant Hemsley is my favourite character in this story, for many reasons, but I do not want to spoil the book for you so I will say no more than that.
Wolfe North, the governor of Blackthorn is a character that at times I felt sorry for and at other times I detested. He is essential to this book, with him the story would be missing an essential ingredient.
How the author comes up with these stories and makes you feel part of them is amazing. I really recommend that you read Terry Tylers books, I will be reading the rest of the series and look forward to many more great books from Terry Tyler.
Thank you Terry for another brilliant read at a time when I was struggling to find a book that kept my attention.
I have read a few of Terry Tylers books now, her writing is always easy to read and her writing style is addictive. I always quickly become gripped and engrossed in the stories that her wonderful mind creates.
Blackthorn is no exception. What a brilliant story with excellent characters, some you grow to love dearly and others you grow to hate.
Ryder Swift is one of the characters that you find yourself easily drawn to, he has you hanging on to his every word.....he has you believing all of the tales he comes up with as a traveller.
Evie and Byron are so easy to like, so easy to feel for and as reader I felt that their feelings were mine too. Lieutenant Hemsley is my favourite character in this story, for many reasons, but I do not want to spoil the book for you so I will say no more than that.
Wolfe North, the governor of Blackthorn is a character that at times I felt sorry for and at other times I detested. He is essential to this book, with him the story would be missing an essential ingredient.
How the author comes up with these stories and makes you feel part of them is amazing. I really recommend that you read Terry Tylers books, I will be reading the rest of the series and look forward to many more great books from Terry Tyler.
Thank you Terry for another brilliant read at a time when I was struggling to find a book that kept my attention.
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