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Daughters
Doctor Sam Enright and his geneticist wife, Dorinda, face turmoil in their small town when a dozen adolescent girls show up pregnant at Sam’s office—and they’re all virgins.
When their own daughter falls victim to the same fate, the Enrights rush to Homeland Security for answers. As the questions multiply, they realize they are at the vanguard of a worldwide epidemic, and the mystery deepens. As the events escalate, a disparate group of international doctors, scientists, and mothers-to-be are brought together at Dorinda’s genetics lab in Middle America. They race to find the cause and meaning of the mysterious pregnancies, but every discovery reveals a new, worse scenario, leaving humanity's very existence in question.
When their own daughter falls victim to the same fate, the Enrights rush to Homeland Security for answers. As the questions multiply, they realize they are at the vanguard of a worldwide epidemic, and the mystery deepens. As the events escalate, a disparate group of international doctors, scientists, and mothers-to-be are brought together at Dorinda’s genetics lab in Middle America. They race to find the cause and meaning of the mysterious pregnancies, but every discovery reveals a new, worse scenario, leaving humanity's very existence in question.
- GenresScience Fiction
359 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 19, 2011
2 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
About the author
Stuart Land
12 books142 followersStuart’s story ideas come from his vivid imagination, but his inspiration draws from world travel and fascinating careers: from US military medic to hairstylist, then Washington D.C. Police officer to NYC photographer.
Later, he converted a chicken coop in the woods into a live-in studio and taught himself metal sculpture. That rudimentary craft expanded into the fine arts. Sculptures in bronze and fiberglass led to shows in the US, England, and Thailand.
Stuart’s passion for all arts segued into: costume design (top 100 designers in the book, Fashion: 2001); modeling agency art director; fashion show designer; water feature designer, computer illustrator, and a top sculptor for special effects, sets and props in the entertainment industry with work in over thirty major films, hotels, and theme parks worldwide.
During Stuart’s film career, he learned screenwriting firsthand, writing 20 screenplays so far. To explore character and environment more, he took up narrative fiction with short stories and published 14 novels. His writing has won 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and finals in contests, and some of his screenplays sold or optioned.
He continues on the journey.
Later, he converted a chicken coop in the woods into a live-in studio and taught himself metal sculpture. That rudimentary craft expanded into the fine arts. Sculptures in bronze and fiberglass led to shows in the US, England, and Thailand.
Stuart’s passion for all arts segued into: costume design (top 100 designers in the book, Fashion: 2001); modeling agency art director; fashion show designer; water feature designer, computer illustrator, and a top sculptor for special effects, sets and props in the entertainment industry with work in over thirty major films, hotels, and theme parks worldwide.
During Stuart’s film career, he learned screenwriting firsthand, writing 20 screenplays so far. To explore character and environment more, he took up narrative fiction with short stories and published 14 novels. His writing has won 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and finals in contests, and some of his screenplays sold or optioned.
He continues on the journey.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 7, 2017
All around the world, prepubescent girls are mysteriously becoming pregnant with out ever even having sex. As more girls come forward with their medical mysteries, doctors and scientists from all over begin to take notice. Eventually, those professionals decide to work together in hopes of figuring out this alarming phenomenon.
A team of medical researchers travel to America with a group of effected girls in order to figure out what's going on. Quickly after arriving, though, they learn that time is their enemy . While a regular pregnancy would normally take nine months to complete, these girls are reaching their full terms in 45 days! That's not all, of course, but the babies these girls are giving birth to are all female and lack any reproductive organs of their own. What's worse ? More girls around the globe are being effected.
Can the medical research team figure out how to stop it? What will this mean for human kind if they can't?
I noticed that this book was formally called Epiphany, and also Primal Daughters, but the edition I read is titled Daughters. The cover is very similar to Primal Daughters but with slight differences - I love the cover art for this book! There's just something about it that catches my eye and draws me in. Then, of course, after reading the synopsis, I knew I just couldn't pass this book up!
Daughters by Stuart Land is an intriguing medical mystery sci-fi tale that's terrifying to imagine really happening. I'll admit, when I first read the content of this novel I instantly thought "aliens!", so I was definitely thrown off when I learned this story had nothing to do with extraterrestrial beings, but instead had everything to do with strange DNA make-up. Don't get me wrong, I love alien stories, but I was pleasantly surprised that there were none.
I love the plot of this story! The world building was good and I really loved that this story didn't just focus on girls from one location, but from all over the world (Africa, Russia, etc).
Unfortunately, I noticed a bit of a pattern whenever a new girl was introduced, but that was sort of made up for when I saw how the author showed how a pregnancy might effect a certain girl. For example, the author would mention how a pregnancy would clash with that girls culture, religious beliefs, and home life - very thoughtful. However, I didn't really feel attached to any of them. There wasn't enough character depth for me to be able to form an emotional connection, and for me that's where this book feel short.
**** I reviewed an eBook copy of this title in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Booktasters for introducing me to this author and thank to to Stuart Land for giving me the chance to read and review his work. ****
A team of medical researchers travel to America with a group of effected girls in order to figure out what's going on. Quickly after arriving, though, they learn that time is their enemy . While a regular pregnancy would normally take nine months to complete, these girls are reaching their full terms in 45 days! That's not all, of course, but the babies these girls are giving birth to are all female and lack any reproductive organs of their own. What's worse ? More girls around the globe are being effected.
Can the medical research team figure out how to stop it? What will this mean for human kind if they can't?
I noticed that this book was formally called Epiphany, and also Primal Daughters, but the edition I read is titled Daughters. The cover is very similar to Primal Daughters but with slight differences - I love the cover art for this book! There's just something about it that catches my eye and draws me in. Then, of course, after reading the synopsis, I knew I just couldn't pass this book up!
Daughters by Stuart Land is an intriguing medical mystery sci-fi tale that's terrifying to imagine really happening. I'll admit, when I first read the content of this novel I instantly thought "aliens!", so I was definitely thrown off when I learned this story had nothing to do with extraterrestrial beings, but instead had everything to do with strange DNA make-up. Don't get me wrong, I love alien stories, but I was pleasantly surprised that there were none.
I love the plot of this story! The world building was good and I really loved that this story didn't just focus on girls from one location, but from all over the world (Africa, Russia, etc).
Unfortunately, I noticed a bit of a pattern whenever a new girl was introduced, but that was sort of made up for when I saw how the author showed how a pregnancy might effect a certain girl. For example, the author would mention how a pregnancy would clash with that girls culture, religious beliefs, and home life - very thoughtful. However, I didn't really feel attached to any of them. There wasn't enough character depth for me to be able to form an emotional connection, and for me that's where this book feel short.
**** I reviewed an eBook copy of this title in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Booktasters for introducing me to this author and thank to to Stuart Land for giving me the chance to read and review his work. ****
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2011
Epiphany is quite a unique reading experience. The subject matter might be too controversial for some, too chilling for others. I must say after reading Mr. Land’s Shadow House and Original Blood, which are also two very different stories, Epiphany is certainly another road we travel with this wonderful storyteller. Enter into the mind of the creative Stuart Land.
As the mother of two daughters, I know that one of a mother’s worst nightmares, is the possibility of her young daughter coming home and saying she is pregnant. Stuart Land takes this nightmarish thought one chilling step further. What if pre-teen girls, from every corner of our world, were becoming pregnant without any sexual contact? Virgins, pregnant at 11 - 13 years old. From America, Africa, Russia we meet the children, parents and doctors fighting against the clock to solve this mystery.
We begin with an 11 year old from a village in Africa. Her name is Ayira. Her friend David is in the Peace Corps and lives in her village. He is going to be blamed for her pregnancy. She creeps to his campsite in the middle of the night. They must leave immediately before the elders come to kill them both. The pain of this child having to leave her home, her mother and her life has been written with great caring and insight. You can taste the fear and danger.
They make their escape through the jungle to the American Embassy and are flown back to the States. They are taken to meet Dr Sam Enright, OB/GYN, and his wife Dorinda a geneticist. They have just found their daughter is in the same position, as are other young girls in their town. They have no other choice as fear has led them to Homeland Security and the FBI is brought in. We flash to Russia and meet a learned Doctor there. He has been given orders to find out why girls in this area are getting pregnant. He actually holds a whole town almost hostage trying to find ‘the culprit,’ finding the girls are getting pregnant anyway. He is brought to America with one of the Russian girls to work with this team.
Who is the villian,??? and how and why is this happening??? You feel the fear, pain and torment of these children and families trying to decipher this secret. They huddle together against all odds. The story is an excellent depiction of human nature, adding fear of the unknown to the mixture. Epiphany is poignant, with heart and family values ever-present, yet shocking in its ideology. I laughed and cried connecting with the children and the families. You cannot stop thinking that Mr. Land has laid the gauntlet down to mankind to take a good look at themselves.
As I said when I began this review, This book is quite an undertaking for both the reader and the author. It is not a simple read. It might make you question your beliefs, some might feel this powerful read might be too controversial, but this reviewer found it to be a 5 Star read. Bravo Stuart Land.
Review by Gloria Lakritz
Senior Reviewer and Review Chairperson for the Paranormal Romance Guild
As the mother of two daughters, I know that one of a mother’s worst nightmares, is the possibility of her young daughter coming home and saying she is pregnant. Stuart Land takes this nightmarish thought one chilling step further. What if pre-teen girls, from every corner of our world, were becoming pregnant without any sexual contact? Virgins, pregnant at 11 - 13 years old. From America, Africa, Russia we meet the children, parents and doctors fighting against the clock to solve this mystery.
We begin with an 11 year old from a village in Africa. Her name is Ayira. Her friend David is in the Peace Corps and lives in her village. He is going to be blamed for her pregnancy. She creeps to his campsite in the middle of the night. They must leave immediately before the elders come to kill them both. The pain of this child having to leave her home, her mother and her life has been written with great caring and insight. You can taste the fear and danger.
They make their escape through the jungle to the American Embassy and are flown back to the States. They are taken to meet Dr Sam Enright, OB/GYN, and his wife Dorinda a geneticist. They have just found their daughter is in the same position, as are other young girls in their town. They have no other choice as fear has led them to Homeland Security and the FBI is brought in. We flash to Russia and meet a learned Doctor there. He has been given orders to find out why girls in this area are getting pregnant. He actually holds a whole town almost hostage trying to find ‘the culprit,’ finding the girls are getting pregnant anyway. He is brought to America with one of the Russian girls to work with this team.
Who is the villian,??? and how and why is this happening??? You feel the fear, pain and torment of these children and families trying to decipher this secret. They huddle together against all odds. The story is an excellent depiction of human nature, adding fear of the unknown to the mixture. Epiphany is poignant, with heart and family values ever-present, yet shocking in its ideology. I laughed and cried connecting with the children and the families. You cannot stop thinking that Mr. Land has laid the gauntlet down to mankind to take a good look at themselves.
As I said when I began this review, This book is quite an undertaking for both the reader and the author. It is not a simple read. It might make you question your beliefs, some might feel this powerful read might be too controversial, but this reviewer found it to be a 5 Star read. Bravo Stuart Land.
Review by Gloria Lakritz
Senior Reviewer and Review Chairperson for the Paranormal Romance Guild
August 9, 2011
Prepubescent girls worldwide are showing up pregnant, all claiming to be virgins, and all claiming to have had no contact with boys.
In Africa, 13 year old Ayira Akilah Mukendi escapes with Peace Corp volunteer David Fifer. The tribal elders are convinced David is the one to have gotten her pregnant, and are determined to kill them both. In America, 11 year old Roshonda Williams is attending Girl Scout camp along with her best friend Kimber Enright and faints during a marshmallow roast. In Russia, Dr. Dimitri Sergeyevich Andronnikov gets a mysterious late night phone call informing him he must attend an early morning meeting that is of utmost importance. The next morning he drives to a small village where he finds six frightened girls and their mothers, soon discovering all six girls are pregnant.
Soon, Ayira and David, Dr. Dimitri and one of the girls Evgeniya, will end up being whisked away to the home of Dr. Dorina and Dr. Sam Enright, who are Kimber’s parents in America, to try to figure out how these girls became pregnant and what to do about it. Special Agent Edward Hogarty and Secret Service agent Laura Rodriquez, are added to this mixed group of people to will embark on the harrowing mission of trying to solve the mystery of the virgin pregnancies, and will become a family along the way.
One has to approach Mr. Land’s writing as you would a painting in a museum. You look at it from all angles, you look at it close up and at a distance, and you sit and ponder it for a while. You never just quickly glance at it and move along, you get up and walk away and come back and look again. The same happens with Mr. Land’s books, his words must be savored, studied, pondered, read and re-read, yes, you even get up and walk away to think and come back again. Epiphany is no exception to this. The characters are complex and simple at the same time, the plot is not straight forward, and there are surprises around every corner.
I found myself getting involved with Kimber and her parents immediately, I loved their by-play with each other, their love and strength as a family was obvious from the beginning, and I knew I was going to enjoy getting to know them. I didn’t take to some of the other members of this small family as quickly as others, Dr. Dimitri was difficult for me to get to know and I’m not sure I ever knew Special Agent Hogarty or David that well. The girls all had their own personalities and quirks, again, some easier to know and like than others. The story flowed along somewhat like a river, quickly at times and sometimes slow and lazy, causing me to stay alert so as not to miss anything.
This book is not going to appeal to all, as a matter of fact; I dare say some are going to be outright offended. It deals with controversial issues and comes to conclusions that might make a few readers angry. That aside, it’s obvious Mr. Land put his heart into the story; I couldn’t help but be drawn in, and truly didn’t know how it was going to end until it was over.
This is a book I’ll read again and again, because, like most good books, I’m sure I’ll see something new each time its read. Anyone who enjoys a good, intelligent, mystery/thriller/suspense should read this book. Beware, read it slowly, savor it like a good wine or a really expensive piece of chocolate, so you don’t miss Mr. Land’s genius for storytelling.
Paranormal Romance Guild Reviewer
In Africa, 13 year old Ayira Akilah Mukendi escapes with Peace Corp volunteer David Fifer. The tribal elders are convinced David is the one to have gotten her pregnant, and are determined to kill them both. In America, 11 year old Roshonda Williams is attending Girl Scout camp along with her best friend Kimber Enright and faints during a marshmallow roast. In Russia, Dr. Dimitri Sergeyevich Andronnikov gets a mysterious late night phone call informing him he must attend an early morning meeting that is of utmost importance. The next morning he drives to a small village where he finds six frightened girls and their mothers, soon discovering all six girls are pregnant.
Soon, Ayira and David, Dr. Dimitri and one of the girls Evgeniya, will end up being whisked away to the home of Dr. Dorina and Dr. Sam Enright, who are Kimber’s parents in America, to try to figure out how these girls became pregnant and what to do about it. Special Agent Edward Hogarty and Secret Service agent Laura Rodriquez, are added to this mixed group of people to will embark on the harrowing mission of trying to solve the mystery of the virgin pregnancies, and will become a family along the way.
One has to approach Mr. Land’s writing as you would a painting in a museum. You look at it from all angles, you look at it close up and at a distance, and you sit and ponder it for a while. You never just quickly glance at it and move along, you get up and walk away and come back and look again. The same happens with Mr. Land’s books, his words must be savored, studied, pondered, read and re-read, yes, you even get up and walk away to think and come back again. Epiphany is no exception to this. The characters are complex and simple at the same time, the plot is not straight forward, and there are surprises around every corner.
I found myself getting involved with Kimber and her parents immediately, I loved their by-play with each other, their love and strength as a family was obvious from the beginning, and I knew I was going to enjoy getting to know them. I didn’t take to some of the other members of this small family as quickly as others, Dr. Dimitri was difficult for me to get to know and I’m not sure I ever knew Special Agent Hogarty or David that well. The girls all had their own personalities and quirks, again, some easier to know and like than others. The story flowed along somewhat like a river, quickly at times and sometimes slow and lazy, causing me to stay alert so as not to miss anything.
This book is not going to appeal to all, as a matter of fact; I dare say some are going to be outright offended. It deals with controversial issues and comes to conclusions that might make a few readers angry. That aside, it’s obvious Mr. Land put his heart into the story; I couldn’t help but be drawn in, and truly didn’t know how it was going to end until it was over.
This is a book I’ll read again and again, because, like most good books, I’m sure I’ll see something new each time its read. Anyone who enjoys a good, intelligent, mystery/thriller/suspense should read this book. Beware, read it slowly, savor it like a good wine or a really expensive piece of chocolate, so you don’t miss Mr. Land’s genius for storytelling.
Paranormal Romance Guild Reviewer
January 27, 2014
‘Epiphany’ by Stuart Land
Have you ever read a book that was so thought-provokingly powerful that you didn’t know how to describe it to someone else? That is what this book has done to me, but I’m determined to give it a try.
First, let me say that I truly appreciate a story with multiple points of view – how else can you know what all the characters are thinking, right? That is what Mr. Land has done, right down to how individual scenes are interpreted by different players. It gave incredible insight into the characters’ joy, pain, beliefs, fears and insecurities. It also showed how various cultures react differently to the same stimuli.
The next thing I came to really focus on was Mr. Land’s word usage. It’s not every author that can string a group of words together and come up with a description so vivid that I can actually see the scene that has been painted. An example of this from ‘Epiphany’ is as follows:
‘….Reflected in the still surface, a near-perfect image of languid clouds glided above. Like illuminated fairy dust, pearlescent mist floated on the air through shafts of amber morning light, clinging to the svelte copper bodies of the scantily-clad men and women. Both young and old, they ventured noiselessly into the vale. Their joyous paint-streaked faces, with colors rivaling those of the birds gliding above and the redolent flowers about them, bespoke of an internal radiance that seemed to make the air hum.’
I said at the beginning that this book was thought-provoking. It is. It makes the reader ask questions; questions that can’t be readily answered. Could events such as described in ‘Epiphany’ really happen? Of course. They already do. Every single day and in so many different ways. That’s what makes this such a powerful story.
I recommend this book to everyone who reads, it is that good. And on that note, I will finish with one last quote from ‘Epiphany’:
From Mr. Dileo’s history lecture: “…Every way imaginable has been conceived, on the most part unconsciously, to keep people joined into specific groups and apart from the whole. Why? Because groups are easier to control than individuals. Imagine what the world would be like if people weren’t divided like this.”
Have you ever read a book that was so thought-provokingly powerful that you didn’t know how to describe it to someone else? That is what this book has done to me, but I’m determined to give it a try.
First, let me say that I truly appreciate a story with multiple points of view – how else can you know what all the characters are thinking, right? That is what Mr. Land has done, right down to how individual scenes are interpreted by different players. It gave incredible insight into the characters’ joy, pain, beliefs, fears and insecurities. It also showed how various cultures react differently to the same stimuli.
The next thing I came to really focus on was Mr. Land’s word usage. It’s not every author that can string a group of words together and come up with a description so vivid that I can actually see the scene that has been painted. An example of this from ‘Epiphany’ is as follows:
‘….Reflected in the still surface, a near-perfect image of languid clouds glided above. Like illuminated fairy dust, pearlescent mist floated on the air through shafts of amber morning light, clinging to the svelte copper bodies of the scantily-clad men and women. Both young and old, they ventured noiselessly into the vale. Their joyous paint-streaked faces, with colors rivaling those of the birds gliding above and the redolent flowers about them, bespoke of an internal radiance that seemed to make the air hum.’
I said at the beginning that this book was thought-provoking. It is. It makes the reader ask questions; questions that can’t be readily answered. Could events such as described in ‘Epiphany’ really happen? Of course. They already do. Every single day and in so many different ways. That’s what makes this such a powerful story.
I recommend this book to everyone who reads, it is that good. And on that note, I will finish with one last quote from ‘Epiphany’:
From Mr. Dileo’s history lecture: “…Every way imaginable has been conceived, on the most part unconsciously, to keep people joined into specific groups and apart from the whole. Why? Because groups are easier to control than individuals. Imagine what the world would be like if people weren’t divided like this.”
October 30, 2011
"Epiphany" is an imaginative and convincing sci-fi concept set in today's world, which is a feat in itself to pull off. The novel begins with twelve-year-old girls around the world suddenly turning up pregnant--and all are virgins. We follow the stories of several of these girls and their journey through a world laden with fear as theories of a new form of bioterrorism arise. Governments around the world must deal with what's happening as scientists race to understand the reasons. The novel spans a few years of the characters' lives, from the births of the children to their unexpected rapid growth and maturation.
This is very much a character-based novel. The author does a superb job of both the cultural and linguistic aspects of all his characters. I especially liked his portrayal of Ayira, the African girl. The international flavor he brings to this novel adds to its expanse, while at the same time showing off the writer's expertise.
I rate "Epiphany" as one of best indie-published novels I've read to date. That's not to say that it doesn't have a few flaws, which is why I gave it only 4 stars. However, it really deserves 4.5.
Although the novel has some grammatical and spelling errors, plus a few incorrect words in several spots, Land has done a much better job than most authors in cleaning up his work. Another pair of proofreading eyes looking at the manuscript would have helped.
I did some find parts in the middle a bit slow-moving and lacking in tension, but not seriously so. The author does on several occasions shift the character point of view within a scene. Some commercial novels do this, but it's generally not considered a good writing technique. In any case, none of the problems distracted me from enjoying the book.
I'm looking forward to reading more of Land's work, in particular "Back from the Dead." He is definitely an author to watch.
NOTE: The author did provide a free review copy, but this in no way influenced my comments.
This is very much a character-based novel. The author does a superb job of both the cultural and linguistic aspects of all his characters. I especially liked his portrayal of Ayira, the African girl. The international flavor he brings to this novel adds to its expanse, while at the same time showing off the writer's expertise.
I rate "Epiphany" as one of best indie-published novels I've read to date. That's not to say that it doesn't have a few flaws, which is why I gave it only 4 stars. However, it really deserves 4.5.
Although the novel has some grammatical and spelling errors, plus a few incorrect words in several spots, Land has done a much better job than most authors in cleaning up his work. Another pair of proofreading eyes looking at the manuscript would have helped.
I did some find parts in the middle a bit slow-moving and lacking in tension, but not seriously so. The author does on several occasions shift the character point of view within a scene. Some commercial novels do this, but it's generally not considered a good writing technique. In any case, none of the problems distracted me from enjoying the book.
I'm looking forward to reading more of Land's work, in particular "Back from the Dead." He is definitely an author to watch.
NOTE: The author did provide a free review copy, but this in no way influenced my comments.
January 25, 2014
Epiphany was a story that had me stupified and engrossed from the very first paragraph. At first I didn't know what to think. Innocent girls had all the classic signs of being pregnant, dizzyness, morning sickness. The problem? These innocent girls were truelly innocent and infact still virgins which had me going WTF? That's not possible and for a few minutes I thought I was reading the bible and the virgin mary story all over again. So I had to read more to find out what how and why.
Nobody had answers and this awesome group of scientists and doctor's do everything to find the answers to an incident that like I said seems religious or biblical all over again. Stuart Land's writing is incredible and had an amazing rhythm is the best word I could us. It just seemed to read fluidly like it was ment too.
I've never really been one for scientific stories but this one just drew me in and kept me there. This story was powerful, to read about the young women, watch them grow up and how realistic it was when it came to human beings and how they react to things.
I highly recommend this story.
Nobody had answers and this awesome group of scientists and doctor's do everything to find the answers to an incident that like I said seems religious or biblical all over again. Stuart Land's writing is incredible and had an amazing rhythm is the best word I could us. It just seemed to read fluidly like it was ment too.
I've never really been one for scientific stories but this one just drew me in and kept me there. This story was powerful, to read about the young women, watch them grow up and how realistic it was when it came to human beings and how they react to things.
I highly recommend this story.
March 20, 2012
The concept of this book drew me in immediately. It was so exciting; this totally weird thing happening to a few pre-teen girls and then to every one. I couldn't stop reading. Why was this happening? I was completely entranced - for the first 150 pages, or so.
The whole thing fizzled out by the ending with a less than satisfactory conclusion about why this all happened. I can't go into more detail without spoiling things, but I couldn't swallow the ending. After being so excited for the first half of the book, I was let down by the second half.
See the in-depth review here: http://www.siftreviews.com/2012/03/ti...
Review by: Sarah of Sift Book Reviews
Sift Book Reviews received a free copy for review from the author. This has, in no way, affected the reviewer's opinion.
The whole thing fizzled out by the ending with a less than satisfactory conclusion about why this all happened. I can't go into more detail without spoiling things, but I couldn't swallow the ending. After being so excited for the first half of the book, I was let down by the second half.
See the in-depth review here: http://www.siftreviews.com/2012/03/ti...
Review by: Sarah of Sift Book Reviews
Sift Book Reviews received a free copy for review from the author. This has, in no way, affected the reviewer's opinion.
February 12, 2014
Epiphany by Stuart Land, is a story that entices the reader "in", within the first paragraph, and by the end of the first chapter has the reader enthralled. The second and third chapters go off into a tangent, but master wordsmith as he is Mr Land pulls all the threads together making one cohesive and thought provoking episode. The story is a "can't put it down" one and by the end of part one the reader has taken a roller coaster ride through the intricacies of a Scifi plot. The excitement engendered by the first part of the story is muffled slightly when the understanding of the outcome is revealed, however the plot line weaves its magic through this second part of the story until the end which leaves the reader hanging onto an idea left partially unresolved. This is a fast paced, exciting and visionary story is well recommended by this reader.
November 14, 2017
"Primal Daughters" by Stuart Land stands as one of the most fascinating science fiction novels I have ever read. I was drawn to reading the novel because I was extremely intrigued by its premise. I just had to experience what an author could do with such a delicate and controversial premise. I can wholeheartedly say that Land did not disappoint and exceeded my expectations. Land does intricate and thorough storytelling in many dimensions of the novels. I became emotionally invested in the array of characters. I found myself mirroring the feelings of the adults in the novel towards the girls in that I developed protective feelings for the girls as well. My concerns about their fragility, their abbreviated childhood, and their future never left my mind. As for the primary adult characters, I became more and more understanding of their behaviors and perspectives as details of their backstories were revealed. I remain in awe of how Land provided such thorough and detailed scientific information in a way that was never dry but instead was riveting and which consistently heightened my anticipation of what lay ahead. I am purposefully not referring to specific events or plotlines because the novel is such a treat of revelations and surprises. I want anyone who is reading this to have the luxury of beginning the novel with as fresh of a perspective as possible! An aspecit of "Primal Daughters" that I particularly loved is how Land challenges the reader to think about the universal questions around the possibilities of science and how humanity is affected--are we inspired by, are we enraged by, are we frightened by these possibilities? In summary, I give "Primal Daughters" my highest recommendation.
March 15, 2018
Really something!
The concept of this story really drew me in, and kept me hooked most of the way. Without giving any major spoilers, girls are having pregnancies, despite being virgins, and of course, people freak out. This story shows how people, both individuals and groups, would react and behave if such a thing were to happen, but it's also more than this. The story follows sevreal people, and so each chapter is written from a different perspective, and therefore in a different style, which really adds to the story. It is both a face paced story in places, but I did find it a little 'sticky and slow' towards the middle of the book, but I just wanted to know more and more!
There are a few twists and turns, and often when things look promising, they aren't again. What I think worked really well was the way in which the opionions and reactions of those not directly affected were shown. You could imagine this happening in real life, and we would probably react exactly as the characters in this book.
Sure, some of it might seem a little far-fetched, and in some places a little confusing with character continuation, but over all it is well done, and one of the those books that will get you thinking! Would recommend to anyone who loves a bit of mystery/sci-fi/human conflict type books.
The concept of this story really drew me in, and kept me hooked most of the way. Without giving any major spoilers, girls are having pregnancies, despite being virgins, and of course, people freak out. This story shows how people, both individuals and groups, would react and behave if such a thing were to happen, but it's also more than this. The story follows sevreal people, and so each chapter is written from a different perspective, and therefore in a different style, which really adds to the story. It is both a face paced story in places, but I did find it a little 'sticky and slow' towards the middle of the book, but I just wanted to know more and more!
There are a few twists and turns, and often when things look promising, they aren't again. What I think worked really well was the way in which the opionions and reactions of those not directly affected were shown. You could imagine this happening in real life, and we would probably react exactly as the characters in this book.
Sure, some of it might seem a little far-fetched, and in some places a little confusing with character continuation, but over all it is well done, and one of the those books that will get you thinking! Would recommend to anyone who loves a bit of mystery/sci-fi/human conflict type books.
October 2, 2018
I received this book from the author, Stuart Land, through Booktasters in exchange for an honest review.
This book was very interesting. It caught me off guard. A large epidemic of unexplained, young pregnancy happens across the planet. More shocking events follow, changing humanity as we know it.
This book was unique and diverse. This wasn't a book that followed one or two POVS, but several. I got a strong sci-fi feel from the book. So sci-fi that IW as ready to call Mulder and Scully from the X-Files. The story got more and more intense as more strange things kept happening. I really liked the way Land captured different cultures, expressing powerful imagery.
The writing was a little stiff for me. I couldn't get emotionally attached because I couldn't read any emotion from the characters. It was like hitting a brick wall unfortunately.
This really was a book that sat in the middle for me. Both good and not that great.
Full Review:
https://beentherereadthat.blog/2018/0...
This book was very interesting. It caught me off guard. A large epidemic of unexplained, young pregnancy happens across the planet. More shocking events follow, changing humanity as we know it.
This book was unique and diverse. This wasn't a book that followed one or two POVS, but several. I got a strong sci-fi feel from the book. So sci-fi that IW as ready to call Mulder and Scully from the X-Files. The story got more and more intense as more strange things kept happening. I really liked the way Land captured different cultures, expressing powerful imagery.
The writing was a little stiff for me. I couldn't get emotionally attached because I couldn't read any emotion from the characters. It was like hitting a brick wall unfortunately.
This really was a book that sat in the middle for me. Both good and not that great.
Full Review:
https://beentherereadthat.blog/2018/0...
January 9, 2019
Daughters by Mr. Stuart Land has all the aspects of a good story. A little bit of SciFi, a bit of mystery, and a bit of drama. The story starts with a controversial premise, pubescent girls from all over the world who become pregnant mysteriously. Things really start to get interesting when the girls give birth to babies who at first glance appear to be normal but who turn out to be anything but normal. The book does a great job of representing different cultures and perspectives to this unusual and scary phenomenon of virginal births occurring on a global scale. The characters are also interesting and so lifelike that you may feel you know or even met someone like them before in your own life.
There are many contemporary issues that the book brings to light such as gender identity, evolution, reproductive rights, etc. that currently being discussed with many unanswered questions. The story the book tells provides some of the possible answers to these issues and what the future could hold for mankind. A very interesting and thought-provoking read. Highly recommended
There are many contemporary issues that the book brings to light such as gender identity, evolution, reproductive rights, etc. that currently being discussed with many unanswered questions. The story the book tells provides some of the possible answers to these issues and what the future could hold for mankind. A very interesting and thought-provoking read. Highly recommended
October 17, 2017
I needed a few days after I finished the book to write a review. And I still don't know what to think - but I keep thinking about it which is the best review.
I read the blurb and was instantly drawn to it. This is the first book by Stuart Land I ever read and I was pleasantly surprised by the style. I also loved the character development and how attached I feel to them.
I have to say that the age of the girls turned out to be a trigger for me, so be aware of 11-13 years old girls getting pregnant and dealing with the consequences.
I don't know how to classify Daughters. I would shoot for sci-fi but the one that keeps you on the edge. I loved the fact that there is no magic or aliens involved. It is easy to put a soap opera on a spaceship and call it a sci-fi. But putting science in and make it feel real is the challenge. And Land did it well.
I read the blurb and was instantly drawn to it. This is the first book by Stuart Land I ever read and I was pleasantly surprised by the style. I also loved the character development and how attached I feel to them.
I have to say that the age of the girls turned out to be a trigger for me, so be aware of 11-13 years old girls getting pregnant and dealing with the consequences.
I don't know how to classify Daughters. I would shoot for sci-fi but the one that keeps you on the edge. I loved the fact that there is no magic or aliens involved. It is easy to put a soap opera on a spaceship and call it a sci-fi. But putting science in and make it feel real is the challenge. And Land did it well.
February 23, 2025
Stunning book for Women! Personal Favorite for Me
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November 11, 2018
I loved this book. Since the moment I started reading, I wanted find out more and why this was happening. Virgin daughters getting pregnant worldwide, changing the story of human survival... I cannot say more, as I do not want to spoil the story-line for future readers. I love a good SciFi story, and this story ticks all the boxes. The story are made even more plausible by the use of biological science throughout. It is well-researched. The well-rounded characters also adds to the allure of the story. I would definitely recommend this story for a movie script.
Well done, Stuart Land!
Disclaimer: I got this book for free through a suggestion by Booktasters on Twitter, with the undertaking that I do a review afterwards. I even changed my review from 4.5 to 5 when I read the end of the story. You'll know when you read the end of the story.
Well done, Stuart Land!
Disclaimer: I got this book for free through a suggestion by Booktasters on Twitter, with the undertaking that I do a review afterwards. I even changed my review from 4.5 to 5 when I read the end of the story. You'll know when you read the end of the story.
June 7, 2018
A Worldwide Phenomenon. A Glimmer of Hope
Overall the story was good. I enjoyed the descriptions of the different locations where the characters lived. I also like the pregnant girls, their parents/guardians and their cultures. It was interesting to see how each dealt with the issue they all faced. Parts of the story were repetitive making it seem too long, while other parts seemed too short. I think the story about the children of the pregnant girls should have been in a separate work. At times the story was too philosophical.
Overall the story was good. I enjoyed the descriptions of the different locations where the characters lived. I also like the pregnant girls, their parents/guardians and their cultures. It was interesting to see how each dealt with the issue they all faced. Parts of the story were repetitive making it seem too long, while other parts seemed too short. I think the story about the children of the pregnant girls should have been in a separate work. At times the story was too philosophical.
December 22, 2011
Let me preface this review with this note: I am very sensitive to authors trying to teach me their idea of correctness in politics or morality and it shows in my reviews.
Well this review is a mixed bag and almost two reviews in one. I started this book already impressed with the writing of Stuart Land in what I considered one of the better things I read in 2011 [Original Blood]. Unfortunately, I got off to a bad start with this book because it seemed it was written to be the most politically correct novel I had ever read set in an unrealistic setting of blended families that is inferred to be normal. You quickly got the feeling that all black women were brilliant, all straight white men were borderline emotional cripples (at best) and the smartest white guys in the world were gay or complete nerds (which went along with the inferred role of stupidest people being white women). Sadly, this theme persists throughout the novel and detracted me from what would otherwise have been an exceptional novel. The vast majority of my reading history has been in the fantasy/paranormal/Sci-Fi which is consistently color blind or blended in such a way you don’t feel like you are being schooled in modern day morality (which was my feeling here).
NOW that I have that out of the way, let us talk about the story. This starts out with a feeling of a cross between Children of the Damned and Outbreak and stays that way IMHO until about the halfway point (high thriller and mystery stuff, great). The main thrust is that instead of getting their first period, pretty much all females on the planet become pregnant (virgin births) and the following storyline captures your attention and goes off in directions most of us would not have thought about but even though I loved the story I felt that it lasted a few more chapters than it should have and found myself wishing for it to end. It was not that the story was bad, it had accomplished pretty much everything the reader was interested in but the story stumbled on for a couple more chapters and finally closed. I do not indulge in spoilers so either read the book or get somebody to tell you more.
Bottom Line: Great story and if you can ignore the political correctness it is probably a 4+ Star effort but for me it was 3 Stars because of all the distractions assailing my common sense and feeling like I was being told how I should think.
Well this review is a mixed bag and almost two reviews in one. I started this book already impressed with the writing of Stuart Land in what I considered one of the better things I read in 2011 [Original Blood]. Unfortunately, I got off to a bad start with this book because it seemed it was written to be the most politically correct novel I had ever read set in an unrealistic setting of blended families that is inferred to be normal. You quickly got the feeling that all black women were brilliant, all straight white men were borderline emotional cripples (at best) and the smartest white guys in the world were gay or complete nerds (which went along with the inferred role of stupidest people being white women). Sadly, this theme persists throughout the novel and detracted me from what would otherwise have been an exceptional novel. The vast majority of my reading history has been in the fantasy/paranormal/Sci-Fi which is consistently color blind or blended in such a way you don’t feel like you are being schooled in modern day morality (which was my feeling here).
NOW that I have that out of the way, let us talk about the story. This starts out with a feeling of a cross between Children of the Damned and Outbreak and stays that way IMHO until about the halfway point (high thriller and mystery stuff, great). The main thrust is that instead of getting their first period, pretty much all females on the planet become pregnant (virgin births) and the following storyline captures your attention and goes off in directions most of us would not have thought about but even though I loved the story I felt that it lasted a few more chapters than it should have and found myself wishing for it to end. It was not that the story was bad, it had accomplished pretty much everything the reader was interested in but the story stumbled on for a couple more chapters and finally closed. I do not indulge in spoilers so either read the book or get somebody to tell you more.
Bottom Line: Great story and if you can ignore the political correctness it is probably a 4+ Star effort but for me it was 3 Stars because of all the distractions assailing my common sense and feeling like I was being told how I should think.
June 16, 2012
The Times, They Are A-Changin’!
Epiphany by Stuart Land is one of those unusual works that crosses genres, but not because of the writing style or the writer’s intent, but due to the reader’s interpretation of the storyline. Like with The Matrix, which was full of metaphysical import, some may choose to classify Epiphany as science fiction; others as a thriller; some may even classify it as fantasy; but others, like myself, will call it mystical fiction. It is an allegory for what is energetically happening in our world today. The times, they are a-changin’, and as Epiphany beautifully relates, we have to be open to new experiences and new perspectives if we desire the peaceful existence we all claim to be seeking.
There are many main characters in this tale, but it is their changing relationships with each other and within themselves that will enthrall you until the end of the story, and hopefully, beyond. I usually offer the reader a taste of the story itself; however, I am reluctant to do that in this review because I want you to experience it without philosophies or prejudices getting a head start. No matter what you choose to see when you read this story, you will not be disappointed by the storyteller.
Epiphany by Stuart Land is one of those unusual works that crosses genres, but not because of the writing style or the writer’s intent, but due to the reader’s interpretation of the storyline. Like with The Matrix, which was full of metaphysical import, some may choose to classify Epiphany as science fiction; others as a thriller; some may even classify it as fantasy; but others, like myself, will call it mystical fiction. It is an allegory for what is energetically happening in our world today. The times, they are a-changin’, and as Epiphany beautifully relates, we have to be open to new experiences and new perspectives if we desire the peaceful existence we all claim to be seeking.
There are many main characters in this tale, but it is their changing relationships with each other and within themselves that will enthrall you until the end of the story, and hopefully, beyond. I usually offer the reader a taste of the story itself; however, I am reluctant to do that in this review because I want you to experience it without philosophies or prejudices getting a head start. No matter what you choose to see when you read this story, you will not be disappointed by the storyteller.
December 29, 2017
This book intrigued me when I read the description--pre-pubescent girls all over the world mysteriously fall pregnant despite not reaching menarche and being virgins. The pregnancies do not follow the usual gestation and the resulting children have some rather extraordinary traits. A group of doctors and scientists work to try to figure out the whys and hows of this phenomena while governments try to maintain peace and order in what is proving to be a world-changing phenomena. If I reveal anything else about the plot, I will reveal too much. But, suffice to say, there are some surprises in store for the reader.
The character development was fantastic, given the large number of people the writer introduces the reader to. It would be easy for you to lose everyone in the crowd, but the characters are all distinct and unique. Pacing of the story is great and there are some fun action sequences as well. The ending leaves readers with questions that provide food for thought, but is still satisfying.
If you are a fan of stories like Contagion, Andromeda Strain, and the X-Files, this would be a great book for you.
The character development was fantastic, given the large number of people the writer introduces the reader to. It would be easy for you to lose everyone in the crowd, but the characters are all distinct and unique. Pacing of the story is great and there are some fun action sequences as well. The ending leaves readers with questions that provide food for thought, but is still satisfying.
If you are a fan of stories like Contagion, Andromeda Strain, and the X-Files, this would be a great book for you.
June 27, 2014
Epiphany is a thought-provoking novel that fascinates readers with it's intriguing plot and vast array of characters.
When eleven and twelve year old girls mysteriously begin showing up pregnant around the world, Doctors Sam and Dorinda Enright, along with a team of scientists, FBI, and military personnel set out to find the root cause of this enigma. However, the more they delve into the pregnancies, the more puzzling the situation becomes. One thing they are certain of is the end of civilization looms in the shadows. Will they uncover the truth before it's too late?
Epiphany is fast-paced and full of energy from beginning to end. The author seamlessly intertwines the lives of people from many walks of life, who come together to achieve a common goal. He also exhibits his knowledge and ingenuity by effectively creating a believable world readers are drawn to. Just when you think you have the mystery solved, another baffling discovery is made sending you right back into the unknown.
I recommend picking up a copy of Epiphany.
When eleven and twelve year old girls mysteriously begin showing up pregnant around the world, Doctors Sam and Dorinda Enright, along with a team of scientists, FBI, and military personnel set out to find the root cause of this enigma. However, the more they delve into the pregnancies, the more puzzling the situation becomes. One thing they are certain of is the end of civilization looms in the shadows. Will they uncover the truth before it's too late?
Epiphany is fast-paced and full of energy from beginning to end. The author seamlessly intertwines the lives of people from many walks of life, who come together to achieve a common goal. He also exhibits his knowledge and ingenuity by effectively creating a believable world readers are drawn to. Just when you think you have the mystery solved, another baffling discovery is made sending you right back into the unknown.
I recommend picking up a copy of Epiphany.
January 7, 2012
Epiphany will grab hold of you and won't let you go...even days after you've read it.
I'm going to be honest here and tell you that Stuart Land scared the hell out of me. As a parent this book took me on a roller coaster ride way out of my comfort zone. I LOVED IT! If I had to describe Epiphany, I'd say it was a brilliantly mastered, wonderfully written, cross genre book that kept me glued to my Kindle until I finished it. I had to know what was going on and what the end result was going to be.
I've heard Epiphany described as sci-fi, fantasy, horror, suspense, thriller, medical thriller, and I wondered how in the heck Mr. Land could possibly pull all of that off successfully in one book. Well, I'm here to tell you that he did just that. This book was superb, and I highly recommend it!
I'm going to be honest here and tell you that Stuart Land scared the hell out of me. As a parent this book took me on a roller coaster ride way out of my comfort zone. I LOVED IT! If I had to describe Epiphany, I'd say it was a brilliantly mastered, wonderfully written, cross genre book that kept me glued to my Kindle until I finished it. I had to know what was going on and what the end result was going to be.
I've heard Epiphany described as sci-fi, fantasy, horror, suspense, thriller, medical thriller, and I wondered how in the heck Mr. Land could possibly pull all of that off successfully in one book. Well, I'm here to tell you that he did just that. This book was superb, and I highly recommend it!
December 31, 2011
Epiphany was very cleverly written. It can be hard for the sceptic to accept the idea of a peaceful existence or the reversal of social order and dismiss the story as too politically correct. As adults we stop looking for the 'happy ending' and believe more in the negative. It's like no longer believing in Santa, but still dreaming for the impossible. I loved the addition of the foreign languages and their explanations. Throughout the story I was waiting for something scary and gross to happen. Afraid aliens would take over the world and totally surprised and happy with the ending.
I totally recommend it to everyone.
I totally recommend it to everyone.
March 20, 2013
An interesting concept. I was instantly engrossed in the storyline about the mysterious pregnancies. As the story progressed, however, it became a little slow and boring. I really had a hard time finishing as the characters became more and more soap opera like.
February 27, 2012
HUM - ITS OK
Read
March 20, 2012Reviewed for Sift Book Review. See review here: http://www.siftreviews.com/2012/03/ti...
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