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The Peabrain Adventures #1
The Magic Compass
From the best selling author of The Leira Chronicles
If smart phones and GPS rule the world - why am I hunting a magic compass to save the planet?
Austin Detective Maggie Parker has seen some weird things in her day, but finding a surly gnome rooting through her garage beats all.
Her world is about to be turned upside down in a frantic search for 4 Elementals.
Not 3, not 5…but 4. Why is it always 4?
Each one has an artifact that can keep the Earth humming along, but they need her to unite them first.
Unless the forces against her get there first.
A compass, a telescope and untapped magic are her only tools.
Will she join forces with an army of gnomes? Can she get the hang of even a simple spell to defend herself?
Magic exists. Too bad it might kill us all. Click read for free or buy now and join in the adventure in The Magic Compass!
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2020
394 people are currently reading
769 people want to read
About the author
Martha Carr
560 books765 followersOkay, I'm a late bloomer who's a big DC comics fan and spent my childhood summers on the Jersey shore but I was born under a wandering star and have lived in different parts of America ever since. That's enough about me. Need to feel inspired today? Looking for something to make you root for an ordinary hero? I'm all about that in everything I write.
I love a good tale that makes me wonder about things and I love a story even more that leaves me feeling inspired or like I'm capable of doing more than I realized. That's my goal with everything I've ever written. Some of the stories I tell involve twisting, turning thrillers and others have a lot of magic.
There's something to be said for getting lost in another world and coming out the other side feeling a little better about yourself or the possibilities in front of you. That's basically the best part of life in a nutshell, no matter what kind of story I'm setting out to tell.
Thank you for checking out my stories!
I love a good tale that makes me wonder about things and I love a story even more that leaves me feeling inspired or like I'm capable of doing more than I realized. That's my goal with everything I've ever written. Some of the stories I tell involve twisting, turning thrillers and others have a lot of magic.
There's something to be said for getting lost in another world and coming out the other side feeling a little better about yourself or the possibilities in front of you. That's basically the best part of life in a nutshell, no matter what kind of story I'm setting out to tell.
Thank you for checking out my stories!
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
May 23, 2024
Oh! I REALLY loved this!
This is a fun, fantastic, furious, and also rather serious, story, and I'm loving every minute of it.
I laughed out loud at the first description of the bubbles, and love that they will be a part of this whole story - who else would think of using bubbles for magic, than Martha - bless her heart for thinking of it, as it really made my day.
The underlying story is, of course, quite serious, but I love the layering of it, with the various rules that the Huldu/Gnomes live by, and I'm very much looking forward to learning more of them.
I also LOVE the idea of the Earth being what they say it is - who knew, hey? Lol
I immediately loved Maggie and her rather different family, and how they cope with loss and disaster in their own special ways, and I'm going to be one happy reader as I learn more about them all.
I'm not going to hesitate any, right now, as I go and start reading book two of this series: 'The Gnomes Magic', and so, once I finish THAT book, I'll catch you on the flip side, to let you know what I think of it!
If it's like book one, then I'll be very happy! Lol
This is a fun, fantastic, furious, and also rather serious, story, and I'm loving every minute of it.
I laughed out loud at the first description of the bubbles, and love that they will be a part of this whole story - who else would think of using bubbles for magic, than Martha - bless her heart for thinking of it, as it really made my day.
The underlying story is, of course, quite serious, but I love the layering of it, with the various rules that the Huldu/Gnomes live by, and I'm very much looking forward to learning more of them.
I also LOVE the idea of the Earth being what they say it is - who knew, hey? Lol
I immediately loved Maggie and her rather different family, and how they cope with loss and disaster in their own special ways, and I'm going to be one happy reader as I learn more about them all.
I'm not going to hesitate any, right now, as I go and start reading book two of this series: 'The Gnomes Magic', and so, once I finish THAT book, I'll catch you on the flip side, to let you know what I think of it!
If it's like book one, then I'll be very happy! Lol
February 22, 2020
Sorry, this just wasn’t for me.
I found this pretty blah. The characters were just annoying, and fairly generic. The villain of the piece is revealed right away, and the new boyfriend is on the periphery so he could either end up an ally, ora villainous mastermind... but I don’t care enough to continue on.
I found this pretty blah. The characters were just annoying, and fairly generic. The villain of the piece is revealed right away, and the new boyfriend is on the periphery so he could either end up an ally, ora villainous mastermind... but I don’t care enough to continue on.
April 13, 2020
I feel badly about giving this a poor rating & review. However it is my honest opinion.
There was a loss of an outright star, almost two, because it ends on a cliff hanger to put it nicely. Honestly, the book just ends... almost like a chapter ending- although those also felt arbitrary with this particular work.
The book had a definite starting point. That was probably the clearest part about the book. From there...???
The positives:
The writing is good. The writing is also a touch simplistic but that can be excused by thinking it was written for younger audiences - perhaps middle school....
I enjoyed the attempts at humor and found some of the situations good and funny.
I also enjoyed the novelty of the paranormal basis. Cute and innovative re: the explanation and existence of the characters.
The negatives:
There are MANY, too many, negatives.
Character development: They have many good and excellent characters ... but they aren't well developed in terms of the whole of them. They are working on it. There are references to things. The main character gets better developed as the book progresses, but there are frequently references and comments that feel like the reader is missing important background information. Perhaps it is meant to be foreshadowing. From the way the book "ended" I'm assuming that they were just teasers designed to get you to buy more of their books so you could find out the answers. For me - it was annoying. They are going on my "Avoid" shelf.
I get that it was meant to be a light read, but it was so light - it was brainless. Truly. I spent most of my time skimming & trying to figure out the point. I got the obvious point - get back the compass. But really, it was just so poorly presented that I was bored.
The kissing wasn't overly described, which is good IF it was written for middle-schoolers, but it was also written as if a middle schooler was doing it - except for the biting of the bottom lip. The weirdest part was just the shoving of a tongue into the other's mouth & that was supposed to be good and result in a positive experience? Have the authors ever kissed or been kissed by anyone?? I'd think not based on the writing! My take? Eeww!
I think my biggest problem with this is that I am frustrated ... there is so much possibility in this story and the characters & even the tone. But the work as a whole is a massive fail. It is sad.... such promise destroyed by the actual presentation.
Know that I got the book as a Goodreads Giveaway (Kindle). The good about that is that I did not waste any of my money. The bad... I wasted my valuable (and limited) reading time.
There was a loss of an outright star, almost two, because it ends on a cliff hanger to put it nicely. Honestly, the book just ends... almost like a chapter ending- although those also felt arbitrary with this particular work.
The book had a definite starting point. That was probably the clearest part about the book. From there...???
The positives:
The writing is good. The writing is also a touch simplistic but that can be excused by thinking it was written for younger audiences - perhaps middle school....
I enjoyed the attempts at humor and found some of the situations good and funny.
I also enjoyed the novelty of the paranormal basis. Cute and innovative re: the explanation and existence of the characters.
The negatives:
There are MANY, too many, negatives.
Character development: They have many good and excellent characters ... but they aren't well developed in terms of the whole of them. They are working on it. There are references to things. The main character gets better developed as the book progresses, but there are frequently references and comments that feel like the reader is missing important background information. Perhaps it is meant to be foreshadowing. From the way the book "ended" I'm assuming that they were just teasers designed to get you to buy more of their books so you could find out the answers. For me - it was annoying. They are going on my "Avoid" shelf.
I get that it was meant to be a light read, but it was so light - it was brainless. Truly. I spent most of my time skimming & trying to figure out the point. I got the obvious point - get back the compass. But really, it was just so poorly presented that I was bored.
The kissing wasn't overly described, which is good IF it was written for middle-schoolers, but it was also written as if a middle schooler was doing it - except for the biting of the bottom lip. The weirdest part was just the shoving of a tongue into the other's mouth & that was supposed to be good and result in a positive experience? Have the authors ever kissed or been kissed by anyone?? I'd think not based on the writing! My take? Eeww!
I think my biggest problem with this is that I am frustrated ... there is so much possibility in this story and the characters & even the tone. But the work as a whole is a massive fail. It is sad.... such promise destroyed by the actual presentation.
Know that I got the book as a Goodreads Giveaway (Kindle). The good about that is that I did not waste any of my money. The bad... I wasted my valuable (and limited) reading time.
October 27, 2021
This book is like one of the patch quilts that have a different pattern on every square. It has magic, aliens, fairy creatures, mysteries, and for some reason there are bubbles. Lots of bubbles.
If the earth was a space ship that had gotten lost and caught in this sun's solar system on accident, what might you need to save it? If you didn't say bubbles, then you're probably sane, but still wrong. Now don't get me wrong, the story had an interesting concept. But without answering basic questions about how this is possible then it just seemed like a joke.
The main issue I had was the random changes in POV. Literally in the middle of a paragraph the point of view would change multiple times. There is a scene in the beginning where Maggie goes to her moms drum circle after a burglary. I had to listen to that scene three times because it went from Maggie's perspective, to Toni's perspective, to some other ladies perspective, to a shape-shifting cat's perspective at random times and without any type of transition. This should have been written in first person. It would have made the book easier to follow.
Unfortunately, it feels discombobulated in places...clunky story telling. And why steal a book when they've invited you to visit library as much as you want?
Good concept though. I'll probably try the next one when I'm in between books. If it has the same issue, then I'll stop there.
If the earth was a space ship that had gotten lost and caught in this sun's solar system on accident, what might you need to save it? If you didn't say bubbles, then you're probably sane, but still wrong. Now don't get me wrong, the story had an interesting concept. But without answering basic questions about how this is possible then it just seemed like a joke.
The main issue I had was the random changes in POV. Literally in the middle of a paragraph the point of view would change multiple times. There is a scene in the beginning where Maggie goes to her moms drum circle after a burglary. I had to listen to that scene three times because it went from Maggie's perspective, to Toni's perspective, to some other ladies perspective, to a shape-shifting cat's perspective at random times and without any type of transition. This should have been written in first person. It would have made the book easier to follow.
Unfortunately, it feels discombobulated in places...clunky story telling. And why steal a book when they've invited you to visit library as much as you want?
Good concept though. I'll probably try the next one when I'm in between books. If it has the same issue, then I'll stop there.
April 19, 2020
Great start on new series
It took a few chapters for me to really get into the story. By the time I finished, I had already downloaded the next book. While it took a while to get into this book, by the time I did I was hooked. This book represented the beginning of a new universe that already includes multiple series written by a variety of authors. Fascinating characters, I'm interested in finding where it will go. Light humor, some good action, and plot twisting. All of which picked up the further I got in the book. Fun read to pass the time during social distancing. Reading this type of recreational reading to help get through the isolation by safely while keeping my spirits up.
It took a few chapters for me to really get into the story. By the time I finished, I had already downloaded the next book. While it took a while to get into this book, by the time I did I was hooked. This book represented the beginning of a new universe that already includes multiple series written by a variety of authors. Fascinating characters, I'm interested in finding where it will go. Light humor, some good action, and plot twisting. All of which picked up the further I got in the book. Fun read to pass the time during social distancing. Reading this type of recreational reading to help get through the isolation by safely while keeping my spirits up.
January 19, 2020
Great new story in a new universe
I love the characters in this novel. Maggie shows lots of determination and isn't afraid try new things, like her developing magic. She discovers her world is not what it seems to be, but rolls with it. Bernie is a fun character who is becoming a friend to Maggie in spite of both of them. Her family is non-traditional, but living. Lots of action leaves you wanting to read the next one right away. Luckily, it's available now, with number 3 coming soon! You won't regret picking this one up.
I love the characters in this novel. Maggie shows lots of determination and isn't afraid try new things, like her developing magic. She discovers her world is not what it seems to be, but rolls with it. Bernie is a fun character who is becoming a friend to Maggie in spite of both of them. Her family is non-traditional, but living. Lots of action leaves you wanting to read the next one right away. Luckily, it's available now, with number 3 coming soon! You won't regret picking this one up.
February 13, 2020
Refreshingly Original
I was given an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The only reason I am giving this book four stars instead of five is because of how abrupt and random the introduction was. However, once I got to know the characters, and the back story to the plot, I was hooked. It seems this book is part of a series and it looks incredibly promising. Can’t wait to read more.
I was given an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The only reason I am giving this book four stars instead of five is because of how abrupt and random the introduction was. However, once I got to know the characters, and the back story to the plot, I was hooked. It seems this book is part of a series and it looks incredibly promising. Can’t wait to read more.
July 8, 2020
I have come to expect only the best from any author that co-writes with Michael Anderle and Martha Carr is no exception. This book started out with a bang and the hits just kept on coming! The characters are strong, believable, and very endearing. The plot moves along like a freight train with plenty of twists and turns to keep you focused. I am definitely looking forward to the next book. I highly recommend this book.
February 25, 2020
Great new series. Incredibly novel concept.
I have enjoyed a great deal of Martha Carr's work, both the individual and various collaborations. This series is based on an incredibly unique and creative concept. I love it! I can't wait to see what happens next. I highly recommend this book if you are a fan of fun science fiction. It is great, really. Give it a try right away!
I have enjoyed a great deal of Martha Carr's work, both the individual and various collaborations. This series is based on an incredibly unique and creative concept. I love it! I can't wait to see what happens next. I highly recommend this book if you are a fan of fun science fiction. It is great, really. Give it a try right away!
January 4, 2020
Re-publish of Peabrain
If you have been following the Peabrain series, this is just the re-branded version of it. Probably just wait to the book that you haven't read yet in the Peabrain series.
If you have been following the Peabrain series, this is just the re-branded version of it. Probably just wait to the book that you haven't read yet in the Peabrain series.
January 21, 2020
New Universe
A great start for a new world. The characters are likeable and the Earth is seen in a while new way. Add in the introduction of the idea of peabrains and Maggie Parker is our newest heroine. Can't wait for more.
A great start for a new world. The characters are likeable and the Earth is seen in a while new way. Add in the introduction of the idea of peabrains and Maggie Parker is our newest heroine. Can't wait for more.
April 20, 2020
Interesting take on the world being a somewhat broken spaceship. With various fractions trying to control or fix it. And the concept of magic being science is all woven together nicely. Enjoyed the start of this series and looking forward to the next book.
March 19, 2020
I enjoyed this book. I found there was lots of action, well written and interesting characters. I look forward to reading Book #2.
November 15, 2020
Enticing tale
I loved every minute of reading this very enticing tale about a human detective who learns she is a magic person.
I loved every minute of reading this very enticing tale about a human detective who learns she is a magic person.
February 11, 2021
Good start to a new series, with engaging characters.
Read
February 4, 2024Dnf
June 24, 2020
DNF - quit at 22% (page 55)
This book just didn't get my interest or make me care about the main female character. The part I read moved slowly, & was written kinda like a crime investigative story with paranormal fantasy thrown in, the crime investigation part is not my cup of tea. It didn’t keep my attention, & ended up surfing the internet to avoid reading. That's when I gave up & quit. This is my opinion, others might like the book, it was written well to the point when I quit.
At my age (approaching 60), life is way to short & my time is to important to force myself to read a book I'm not enjoying, especially when there are so many other books out there waiting to be read.
This book just didn't get my interest or make me care about the main female character. The part I read moved slowly, & was written kinda like a crime investigative story with paranormal fantasy thrown in, the crime investigation part is not my cup of tea. It didn’t keep my attention, & ended up surfing the internet to avoid reading. That's when I gave up & quit. This is my opinion, others might like the book, it was written well to the point when I quit.
At my age (approaching 60), life is way to short & my time is to important to force myself to read a book I'm not enjoying, especially when there are so many other books out there waiting to be read.
September 14, 2019
Rambling
This has to be one of the craziest worlds I've read about. Magic is done with bubbles, and few people somehow notice. Humans have an extra organ we've somehow missed in autopsies. The juxtaposition of science and magic made suspension of disbelief difficult for me.
The plot is a series of unfortunate events with no climax. The book just... ends. I might forgive that if I liked the characters enough. I liked them enough to finish the book, but not enough to read the next.
This has to be one of the craziest worlds I've read about. Magic is done with bubbles, and few people somehow notice. Humans have an extra organ we've somehow missed in autopsies. The juxtaposition of science and magic made suspension of disbelief difficult for me.
The plot is a series of unfortunate events with no climax. The book just... ends. I might forgive that if I liked the characters enough. I liked them enough to finish the book, but not enough to read the next.
March 29, 2020
Wonderful prequel, can't wait to read the whole series.
September 9, 2019
I ❤️ Martha
This book is so much fun. I love this wacky world and I adore the lady who wrote it. Looking forward to more fun!
This book is so much fun. I love this wacky world and I adore the lady who wrote it. Looking forward to more fun!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews