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Questions of Perspective
No one knew it at the time, but April 19, 2011, was the most important day in the history of the world.
After his only friend and colleague, John Manta, disappears without a word, Dave Randall further entrenches himself in the humdrum life of an unenthusiastic lawyer. But once he begins to understand what happened, he embarks on a journey to uncover the deeper meanings and implications of John’s fate.
Accompanied by Peaches the cat, Dave uproots his life and reinvents himself in the midst of his search. Along the way, he is haunted by his piecemeal understanding of John’s fate and what it means for his existence. Little does Dave know, his journey of self-discovery will have ramifications that extend far beyond the borders of his own little life.
After his only friend and colleague, John Manta, disappears without a word, Dave Randall further entrenches himself in the humdrum life of an unenthusiastic lawyer. But once he begins to understand what happened, he embarks on a journey to uncover the deeper meanings and implications of John’s fate.
Accompanied by Peaches the cat, Dave uproots his life and reinvents himself in the midst of his search. Along the way, he is haunted by his piecemeal understanding of John’s fate and what it means for his existence. Little does Dave know, his journey of self-discovery will have ramifications that extend far beyond the borders of his own little life.
245 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 14, 2020
43 people are currently reading
976 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
June 16, 2020
4.25 stars
**Many thanks to BookSirens, Daniel Maunz, and Black Rose Writing for this free copy in exchange for an honest review**
This book has everything that I like about contemporary fiction. As a person who rarely reads it, just because it is hard for me to get recommendations that fit my taste, I decided to try and pick this genre up a bit more. I was not disappointed by choosing to read Questions of Perspective. Dave's friend John became God. It happened inexplicably. After sharing a glimpse of omnipresence/omnipotence Dave decides to change his life, making it one worth living. Along with John's old cat Peaches, we follow the two as Dave tries to figure out John, life, and his purpose. This books gives you a lot to think about in the best way possible. A stunning debut.
The themes and emotions in this book are the central piece. What's more, themes are executed very well. A lot of this is musings on what is the meaning in life when in reality we are just an insignificant little blip when comparing ourselves to the greater timeline of the world. (Yes this did give me an identity crisis). The reason why I think this theme has been done so well is because it is shown through plot and character. I came to really care about Dave, Peaches, John, and (later) Abby. The first half is moreso about fulfilling yourself, and the second about free-will and love. Maunz takes his time in establishing Dave and John but it is never boring. In the end, once again this helps bring the themes across.
Although most of the book's conflict is world-vs-man, since Dave gets a crisis and doesn't know what to do with his life, there is no real antagonist that we root against. Sometimes this is done poorly and the plot is stale. Maunz manages to avoid this pitfall by making each chapter end in a cliff-hanger and making you want to turn the page with his easy to read, to the point but characteristic prose. Later the conflict becomes more direct, without going into spoilers, all I can say is that the change in tone was very good and the pacing accelerates quite dramatically. Nothing is rushed, and the epilogue ties everything nicely together.
Overall, I am very impressed by this debut novel. It definitely gave me a lot to think about, and I know it will stay with the readers for a long time.
**Many thanks to BookSirens, Daniel Maunz, and Black Rose Writing for this free copy in exchange for an honest review**
This book has everything that I like about contemporary fiction. As a person who rarely reads it, just because it is hard for me to get recommendations that fit my taste, I decided to try and pick this genre up a bit more. I was not disappointed by choosing to read Questions of Perspective. Dave's friend John became God. It happened inexplicably. After sharing a glimpse of omnipresence/omnipotence Dave decides to change his life, making it one worth living. Along with John's old cat Peaches, we follow the two as Dave tries to figure out John, life, and his purpose. This books gives you a lot to think about in the best way possible. A stunning debut.
The themes and emotions in this book are the central piece. What's more, themes are executed very well. A lot of this is musings on what is the meaning in life when in reality we are just an insignificant little blip when comparing ourselves to the greater timeline of the world. (Yes this did give me an identity crisis). The reason why I think this theme has been done so well is because it is shown through plot and character. I came to really care about Dave, Peaches, John, and (later) Abby. The first half is moreso about fulfilling yourself, and the second about free-will and love. Maunz takes his time in establishing Dave and John but it is never boring. In the end, once again this helps bring the themes across.
Although most of the book's conflict is world-vs-man, since Dave gets a crisis and doesn't know what to do with his life, there is no real antagonist that we root against. Sometimes this is done poorly and the plot is stale. Maunz manages to avoid this pitfall by making each chapter end in a cliff-hanger and making you want to turn the page with his easy to read, to the point but characteristic prose. Later the conflict becomes more direct, without going into spoilers, all I can say is that the change in tone was very good and the pacing accelerates quite dramatically. Nothing is rushed, and the epilogue ties everything nicely together.
Overall, I am very impressed by this debut novel. It definitely gave me a lot to think about, and I know it will stay with the readers for a long time.
May 26, 2022
Review publishhed at https://amanjareads.com/2022/05/12/qu...
Thank you so much to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in order to be able to provide an honest review.
Questions of Perspective is an impressive debut novel from Daniel Maunz that deals with all the biggest questions in life. Is there a god? Is god good? What is the meaning of life? What is the importance of free will? Why do bad things happen to good people?
But forget all of that for a second because I want to bring up the most important part of this book, there's a cat named Peaches who goes on hikes with its owner sans leash and doesn't run away. So basically, it's a fantasy novel.
There's a lot of heavy subject matter in this book that may make you stop to think about these grand questions and philosophize about what you should be doing with your life but the story and the characters are also engaging enough that you can easily forget about all of that and just go along for the ride.
Questions of Perspective balances philosophy with escapism in a very entertaining and never heavy handed way.
As most people have, I've found myself questioning my career or life choices and therefore found myself lost wondering what it all means. The protagonist here is in that situation but dialed up to 11.
As Dave journeys to find himself and his place in the universe we see him go through phases that many of us have probably experienced as well. He's pretty relatable even to non-lawyers.
The pacing of the novel is spot on. I never found myself questioning how we got from one event to the other and when the timeline jumps forward by years at a time it flows naturally.
But the thing I appreciate most about this book is how casually it handles the concept of god. The way Maunz handles faith and personifying a deity is reminiscent of Christopher Moore but with his own flair.
I absolutely recommend this book to anyone who's tired of reading the same heroes journey. This is a unique story that catches you in the first chapter and keeps you waiting right alongside the main character every step of the way until the ending which is equal parts fantastical and down to earth.
Thank you so much to the author for providing me with a copy of this book in order to be able to provide an honest review.
Questions of Perspective is an impressive debut novel from Daniel Maunz that deals with all the biggest questions in life. Is there a god? Is god good? What is the meaning of life? What is the importance of free will? Why do bad things happen to good people?
But forget all of that for a second because I want to bring up the most important part of this book, there's a cat named Peaches who goes on hikes with its owner sans leash and doesn't run away. So basically, it's a fantasy novel.
There's a lot of heavy subject matter in this book that may make you stop to think about these grand questions and philosophize about what you should be doing with your life but the story and the characters are also engaging enough that you can easily forget about all of that and just go along for the ride.
Questions of Perspective balances philosophy with escapism in a very entertaining and never heavy handed way.
As most people have, I've found myself questioning my career or life choices and therefore found myself lost wondering what it all means. The protagonist here is in that situation but dialed up to 11.
As Dave journeys to find himself and his place in the universe we see him go through phases that many of us have probably experienced as well. He's pretty relatable even to non-lawyers.
The pacing of the novel is spot on. I never found myself questioning how we got from one event to the other and when the timeline jumps forward by years at a time it flows naturally.
But the thing I appreciate most about this book is how casually it handles the concept of god. The way Maunz handles faith and personifying a deity is reminiscent of Christopher Moore but with his own flair.
I absolutely recommend this book to anyone who's tired of reading the same heroes journey. This is a unique story that catches you in the first chapter and keeps you waiting right alongside the main character every step of the way until the ending which is equal parts fantastical and down to earth.
November 11, 2021
This was oddly a book I needed to read. There are some books that do that, that show up at a time when you’re dealing with something and it just answers questions for you that you’re not quite sure how to ask. This book was that for me. Some of the quotes I pulled out make it sound like a self-help book (I detest those) but it’s really not. This book makes you think. It has you literally questioning your perspective and others’ as well. It has you doubting (that’s life!) but it also leaves you … not necessarily with all the answers but better equipped to look for them. Or be okay with not finding them.
Dave is an apathetic lawyer who befriends John, a colleague at his firm who most stay away from (to be fair, John avoids them too). This friendship doesn’t start off easily (most of the best friendships, in my experience, don’t) and was honestly some of my favorite parts to read. The way the friendship naturally progresses, the way it’s not perfect but it’s real, I loved reading every minute of it. I really loved John and all the little glimpses we got of his personality through Dave’s recollections and memories. Then, one day, just like any ordinary day, John disappears. A year later, Dave finds him, but he’s not quite John anymore. His discovery of what happened to his friend causes Dave’s entire perspective on life to change and leads him to drastically alter his life to match it. He’s torn — if our lives are a spec in the grand scheme of things and so fleeting, why do we try so hard? On the other hand, if our lives are so fleeting, so short compared to the existence of the universe, shouldn’t we try to live it to the fullest? How? What is this “full life?” There are times when he thinks he’s found it but you can feel it, he’s not quite there. This part hit me.
I remember reading this while I was sitting outside in my backyard (during self-isolation, I seem to be getting more sunlight than before) and just putting the book down for a second to truly let that process. And we follow Dave, trying to figure out what happiness really is. Even when you’re not sure why, you realize that what he thinks is happiness at the time isn’t. It was interesting. The whole time I kept thinking wow that’s a great life but … something is missing. And Dave realizes it too.
To follow his path to find that joy, that something more than just the absence of hurt was one I enjoyed. It was disorienting, but it was meant to be. It’s interesting because the book starts out very slow, to the point where (apart from the parts that included John) I wanted to put the book down and come back to it later. I’m hoping to practice law so some of the law parts genuinely interested me and I was able to follow at least to some extent but I don’t think this will be the case for everyone. Again, I think that’s sort of the point. It’s kind of supposed to feel pointless and boring and painfully slow — much like how Dave feels about his life before he decides to change it. So if you’ve just started the book, let me tell you, it’s a bit of a journey. But honestly, I appreciated it more. It felt more real. Another reviewer mentioned — this book can be something you stay up all night reading or one you really want to just take your time with. For me it was a bit of both.
This book discusses religion but, somehow, in a way that doesn’t really alienate anyone. I feel like the perspective that’s provided and the story that’s told kind of makes it all-encompassing, regardless of religion or lack thereof. It’s hard to explain without spoiling but I never felt like it was offensive in any way. This story is listed as a paranormal fantasy but it doesn’t really read like one. Yes, there are some things in there that are definitely not real but it somehow works and it helps to understand the other real things in the book (and life). It’s a mix of new adult and adult and just … hard to fit into one category.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It makes you think (or rethink) about life and look closely. It reminds you to notice the little things and, if you aren’t, question why.
I’ve been guilty of that. Sometimes I’ve made a game of it actually where I ask myself how many tiles are in our kitchen or something mundane. It’s crazy how little we register of all the things around us, even the things that we see and deal with daily. Only one other book (The Book Thief) has ever reminded me to look, truly look at the world and notice the details and it’s left me so much better off because of it. I still notice the different colors in the sky every day thanks to The Book Thief. And now, I’ll always look for that one little thing that I haven’t noticed before in my path.
Please note that I received an advance review copy for free in exchange for my honest opinion.
Dave is an apathetic lawyer who befriends John, a colleague at his firm who most stay away from (to be fair, John avoids them too). This friendship doesn’t start off easily (most of the best friendships, in my experience, don’t) and was honestly some of my favorite parts to read. The way the friendship naturally progresses, the way it’s not perfect but it’s real, I loved reading every minute of it. I really loved John and all the little glimpses we got of his personality through Dave’s recollections and memories. Then, one day, just like any ordinary day, John disappears. A year later, Dave finds him, but he’s not quite John anymore. His discovery of what happened to his friend causes Dave’s entire perspective on life to change and leads him to drastically alter his life to match it. He’s torn — if our lives are a spec in the grand scheme of things and so fleeting, why do we try so hard? On the other hand, if our lives are so fleeting, so short compared to the existence of the universe, shouldn’t we try to live it to the fullest? How? What is this “full life?” There are times when he thinks he’s found it but you can feel it, he’s not quite there. This part hit me.
“But what you’re feeling is not so much happiness as the relief of no longer having to carry around the weight of needless burden. Sure, you’re carefree for now. But when you’re really living, there’s something in your life that you are afraid, at some level, of losing. And I don’t sense any fear in you.”
I remember reading this while I was sitting outside in my backyard (during self-isolation, I seem to be getting more sunlight than before) and just putting the book down for a second to truly let that process. And we follow Dave, trying to figure out what happiness really is. Even when you’re not sure why, you realize that what he thinks is happiness at the time isn’t. It was interesting. The whole time I kept thinking wow that’s a great life but … something is missing. And Dave realizes it too.
“ … joy is more than just the absence of hurt. More than merely being the loss of a negative, joy is a positive force that fills a day with moments that are truly worth living.”
To follow his path to find that joy, that something more than just the absence of hurt was one I enjoyed. It was disorienting, but it was meant to be. It’s interesting because the book starts out very slow, to the point where (apart from the parts that included John) I wanted to put the book down and come back to it later. I’m hoping to practice law so some of the law parts genuinely interested me and I was able to follow at least to some extent but I don’t think this will be the case for everyone. Again, I think that’s sort of the point. It’s kind of supposed to feel pointless and boring and painfully slow — much like how Dave feels about his life before he decides to change it. So if you’ve just started the book, let me tell you, it’s a bit of a journey. But honestly, I appreciated it more. It felt more real. Another reviewer mentioned — this book can be something you stay up all night reading or one you really want to just take your time with. For me it was a bit of both.
This book discusses religion but, somehow, in a way that doesn’t really alienate anyone. I feel like the perspective that’s provided and the story that’s told kind of makes it all-encompassing, regardless of religion or lack thereof. It’s hard to explain without spoiling but I never felt like it was offensive in any way. This story is listed as a paranormal fantasy but it doesn’t really read like one. Yes, there are some things in there that are definitely not real but it somehow works and it helps to understand the other real things in the book (and life). It’s a mix of new adult and adult and just … hard to fit into one category.
I really enjoyed reading this book. It makes you think (or rethink) about life and look closely. It reminds you to notice the little things and, if you aren’t, question why.
“ … I would drive to my work on autopilot. I eventually managed to get to my office without actually seeing anything, at least not in any kind of way that registered. I tended to look through everything, like it was all transparent. So when I found this trail, I vowed to hike it until there was nothing new on it for me to appreciate. Now, every time I climb up that mountain, I challenge myself to see something that I haven’t noticed before. And I haven’t failed yet. So the trail for me represents a reminder to live life with eyes and ears open and not take anything for granted.
I’ve been guilty of that. Sometimes I’ve made a game of it actually where I ask myself how many tiles are in our kitchen or something mundane. It’s crazy how little we register of all the things around us, even the things that we see and deal with daily. Only one other book (The Book Thief) has ever reminded me to look, truly look at the world and notice the details and it’s left me so much better off because of it. I still notice the different colors in the sky every day thanks to The Book Thief. And now, I’ll always look for that one little thing that I haven’t noticed before in my path.
Please note that I received an advance review copy for free in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 26, 2020
Thank you Rachel's Random Resources for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Questions Of Perspective
By: Daniel Maunz
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
As an undergraduate, I was required to take a philosophy class. I hated it for the first few weeks, then, one Friday morning some caveat or other caught my attention in the book or from the teacher. See, I was sick, recently diagnosed, and avoiding what that meant for me. One little quip from some long dead philosopher slapped me, and just like that, everything I had so carefully kept out came in. I ran from that room to the restroom where I sat on the floor and cried for a long time. Someone found me eventually. That was twenty years ago, and I'm still sick and just getting worse. Guess what happened? This book, Questions of Perspective, slapped me, too. I'm not going to explain the plot to you. This book asks the big questions that no one really wants answered. If you had all the answers, what would you do? There would be nothing wonderous, baffling, amazing or life affirming to discover. The journey is everyone's, and the questions have no definitive answers. That is the nature of free will. We are all the same, but we are not alike. Whether you believe in God or mystical powers or voodoo or whatever, it's irrelevant because the seeking is the same. I think this book is symbolic of all people on all paths. You will be enlightened but confused by Questions of Perspective, and that's okay. If you don't understand anything I've said, that's okay, too.
Questions Of Perspective
By: Daniel Maunz
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
As an undergraduate, I was required to take a philosophy class. I hated it for the first few weeks, then, one Friday morning some caveat or other caught my attention in the book or from the teacher. See, I was sick, recently diagnosed, and avoiding what that meant for me. One little quip from some long dead philosopher slapped me, and just like that, everything I had so carefully kept out came in. I ran from that room to the restroom where I sat on the floor and cried for a long time. Someone found me eventually. That was twenty years ago, and I'm still sick and just getting worse. Guess what happened? This book, Questions of Perspective, slapped me, too. I'm not going to explain the plot to you. This book asks the big questions that no one really wants answered. If you had all the answers, what would you do? There would be nothing wonderous, baffling, amazing or life affirming to discover. The journey is everyone's, and the questions have no definitive answers. That is the nature of free will. We are all the same, but we are not alike. Whether you believe in God or mystical powers or voodoo or whatever, it's irrelevant because the seeking is the same. I think this book is symbolic of all people on all paths. You will be enlightened but confused by Questions of Perspective, and that's okay. If you don't understand anything I've said, that's okay, too.
November 8, 2020
Questions of Perspective by Daniel Maunz is a thought provoking and engaging novel about the existence and purpose of God. Is there a God? Who is God? What is God’s purpose? Should God interfere with man’s free will?
This is a story about the existential journey of your seemingly average guy. Black Rose Writing, the publisher, describes this book as ‘paranormal fantasy.’ I didn’t know this when I started reading and it didn’t become apparent to me that this wasn’t your typical contemporary novel for the first part of the book. But I didn’t mind it when I realized this book was going to be a thinker!
I found the first part of the book hilarious as it describes the daily ins and outs of a law firm. As someone who has worked in law firms for over a decade, I can attest to the accuracy of the descriptions of stereotypes and personalities, office politics and mundane interactions in this story.
Dave and John are associate attorneys just plowing through another day at the office when something happens, and the story enters a whole new depth. We then embark on a journey alongside the protagonist, Dave, to figure out what this ‘something’ means. There is a lot packed into this book and it shouldn’t be read too quickly!
The writing is excellent, the concepts intriguing, and the story engaging. The narrative moves through time very quickly but it doesn’t lack character developed. A character who I’d like to highlight is Peaches the cat who accompanies Dave on is journey and quite literally never leaves his side.
Thank you @danielmaunz for a copy of this book for review; I really enjoyed it!
This is a story about the existential journey of your seemingly average guy. Black Rose Writing, the publisher, describes this book as ‘paranormal fantasy.’ I didn’t know this when I started reading and it didn’t become apparent to me that this wasn’t your typical contemporary novel for the first part of the book. But I didn’t mind it when I realized this book was going to be a thinker!
I found the first part of the book hilarious as it describes the daily ins and outs of a law firm. As someone who has worked in law firms for over a decade, I can attest to the accuracy of the descriptions of stereotypes and personalities, office politics and mundane interactions in this story.
Dave and John are associate attorneys just plowing through another day at the office when something happens, and the story enters a whole new depth. We then embark on a journey alongside the protagonist, Dave, to figure out what this ‘something’ means. There is a lot packed into this book and it shouldn’t be read too quickly!
The writing is excellent, the concepts intriguing, and the story engaging. The narrative moves through time very quickly but it doesn’t lack character developed. A character who I’d like to highlight is Peaches the cat who accompanies Dave on is journey and quite literally never leaves his side.
Thank you @danielmaunz for a copy of this book for review; I really enjoyed it!
January 31, 2020
This review first published on Oh Just Books.
Although classified as a paranormal fantasy, I personally am unable to categorize this book at all. It covers spirituality, law, psychology, theology, the question of free will, the seemingly random occurrences that affect humanity, and so much more. It spans so far and wide, and does so beautifully.
Once in a while, a book comes into my life that I feel like a better person for having read it. As a book blogger, I get the chance to discover so many new books, and books like this one make me love the fact that I love books.
Our protagonist and narrator, Dave, is an all-round good human being. His friend, John, suddenly disappears, and over time, Dave starts to question a lot of things about life as a whole. These two main characters (plus the cat, Peaches!) are extremely real, well-written and well-rounded.
Read the rest of the review here.
Although classified as a paranormal fantasy, I personally am unable to categorize this book at all. It covers spirituality, law, psychology, theology, the question of free will, the seemingly random occurrences that affect humanity, and so much more. It spans so far and wide, and does so beautifully.
Once in a while, a book comes into my life that I feel like a better person for having read it. As a book blogger, I get the chance to discover so many new books, and books like this one make me love the fact that I love books.
Our protagonist and narrator, Dave, is an all-round good human being. His friend, John, suddenly disappears, and over time, Dave starts to question a lot of things about life as a whole. These two main characters (plus the cat, Peaches!) are extremely real, well-written and well-rounded.
Read the rest of the review here.
January 11, 2020
I received this book as a Goodreads giveaway, but that does not affect my review.
I had intended on reading a different book, but since the author signed it and enclosed a note I felt compelled to give it a go. I had no expectations. I was just hoping it was a book I would finish and not abandon. I set my expectations way too low. I love this book! It is one I will read more than once.
I won't give away any details. Immediately I felt a connecting with the two main characters. I should say three, Peaches is an added bonus. The story went where I wasn't expecting and kept me hooked through the end.
I believe Questions of Perspective would be a wonderful book club selection. There are so many aspects that would make for great discussions.
Once the book is released I'm expecting to see it take off. I am already waiting for the next book by Daniel Maunz. (I hope you are writing it now.)
I had intended on reading a different book, but since the author signed it and enclosed a note I felt compelled to give it a go. I had no expectations. I was just hoping it was a book I would finish and not abandon. I set my expectations way too low. I love this book! It is one I will read more than once.
I won't give away any details. Immediately I felt a connecting with the two main characters. I should say three, Peaches is an added bonus. The story went where I wasn't expecting and kept me hooked through the end.
I believe Questions of Perspective would be a wonderful book club selection. There are so many aspects that would make for great discussions.
Once the book is released I'm expecting to see it take off. I am already waiting for the next book by Daniel Maunz. (I hope you are writing it now.)
May 8, 2020
The thing I love about reading is when you go into a book with no expectations and it blows you out of the water.
Questions of Perspective did exactly that.
The whole grey area surrounding this book's theme had me feeling a little intimidated. Paranormal fantasy isn't exactly my go-to genre. But this book is so much more than that; it's actually impossible to categorise into any kind of box. It is unique in its own way and there are very few books you can say that about these days.
For me, this book was a mix between a toned-down Bruce Almighty and a 30-year-old coming-of-age story. It was serious yet comical in all the right places. It brought the theory of God to life in a believable way. It didn't force beliefs down your throat, nor did it make fun of religion in any way. It was the perfect middle-ground.
I had no idea where the plot of the story was going. It starts out with Dave living his mundane lawyer life in New York. The pace was slow to give us a thorough insight into the cases that Dave deals with and his life outside of work. Do I have an interest in law and litigation? Not at all. But somehow, this book brought it to life and made it interesting and compelling to read about. Next, Dave goes through a life-changing experience that makes him re-evaluate who he is as a person. He packs up his life, leaves his possessions behind and embarks on a pilgrimage of sorts. I was so invested in the story that I couldn't turn the pages fast enough.
The author has such a great writing style that keeps you engaged throughout the entire book. A mix of fast and slow pace, tension counteracted with reflection, and some real witty one-liners. If I had the time, I could have easily read this book in one day.
I'm also not a pet person, especially with cats. But dare I say, Peaches the cat was one of my favourite characters and brought so much to the story.
And the ending. The last 20% actually had me reading faster than I thought possible. There is so much you will take from this book. It may be a work of fiction, but the life lessons can apply to us all. It was everything I needed right now and I can't recommend it enough.
Rating breakdown:
- Plot/narrative - 4.9
- Writing style/readability - 4.7
- Characters - 4.8
- Diverse themes - 4.2
- Ending - 4.8
Overall - 4.7
Thank you so much to the author and BookSirens for sending me a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
Questions of Perspective did exactly that.
The whole grey area surrounding this book's theme had me feeling a little intimidated. Paranormal fantasy isn't exactly my go-to genre. But this book is so much more than that; it's actually impossible to categorise into any kind of box. It is unique in its own way and there are very few books you can say that about these days.
For me, this book was a mix between a toned-down Bruce Almighty and a 30-year-old coming-of-age story. It was serious yet comical in all the right places. It brought the theory of God to life in a believable way. It didn't force beliefs down your throat, nor did it make fun of religion in any way. It was the perfect middle-ground.
I had no idea where the plot of the story was going. It starts out with Dave living his mundane lawyer life in New York. The pace was slow to give us a thorough insight into the cases that Dave deals with and his life outside of work. Do I have an interest in law and litigation? Not at all. But somehow, this book brought it to life and made it interesting and compelling to read about. Next, Dave goes through a life-changing experience that makes him re-evaluate who he is as a person. He packs up his life, leaves his possessions behind and embarks on a pilgrimage of sorts. I was so invested in the story that I couldn't turn the pages fast enough.
The author has such a great writing style that keeps you engaged throughout the entire book. A mix of fast and slow pace, tension counteracted with reflection, and some real witty one-liners. If I had the time, I could have easily read this book in one day.
I'm also not a pet person, especially with cats. But dare I say, Peaches the cat was one of my favourite characters and brought so much to the story.
And the ending. The last 20% actually had me reading faster than I thought possible. There is so much you will take from this book. It may be a work of fiction, but the life lessons can apply to us all. It was everything I needed right now and I can't recommend it enough.
Rating breakdown:
- Plot/narrative - 4.9
- Writing style/readability - 4.7
- Characters - 4.8
- Diverse themes - 4.2
- Ending - 4.8
Overall - 4.7
Thank you so much to the author and BookSirens for sending me a free digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 19, 2020
This was exactly the type of book I needed now, during a global pandemic where I'm making huge life choices in uncertain times. Questions of Perspective by Daniel Maunz couldn't have come at a better time. This book explores a lot of big concepts, but in a way that is so relatable and human that they aren't intimidating. Author Daniel Maunz could have made his book a heavy read, but instead it bounces along until the last few addictive chapters.
Questions of Perspective follows Dave, a lawyer who has lost his inspiration for life, his best friend John, who goes through a massive change, and Peaches, the cat. Everyone will relate to Dave at some point in their lives. We've all been in those periods where we feel like we are just going through the motions, unsure how we got to this point in our lives and questioning whether this is it. In this book Dave's life, perspective and outlook on everything is shaken up by a major event concerning John.
I love Daniel Maunz's writing style. The dry humour from Dave and John really connected with me. He describes every characters so well that I feel like I know them, right down to minor side characters like Dave's co-workers and John's landlord. I could picture this world he has created.
Questions of Perspective leaves you with a lot of great questions for yourself. It really puts you in the position of asking 'What would you do' and 'How would you react'. It's the perfect book club.
I got a free copy of this book from NetGalley and Black Rose Writing and I'm so glad I did. It's such a great first novel. It made me laugh, cry and had me dying to know what would happen next.
Questions of Perspective follows Dave, a lawyer who has lost his inspiration for life, his best friend John, who goes through a massive change, and Peaches, the cat. Everyone will relate to Dave at some point in their lives. We've all been in those periods where we feel like we are just going through the motions, unsure how we got to this point in our lives and questioning whether this is it. In this book Dave's life, perspective and outlook on everything is shaken up by a major event concerning John.
I love Daniel Maunz's writing style. The dry humour from Dave and John really connected with me. He describes every characters so well that I feel like I know them, right down to minor side characters like Dave's co-workers and John's landlord. I could picture this world he has created.
Questions of Perspective leaves you with a lot of great questions for yourself. It really puts you in the position of asking 'What would you do' and 'How would you react'. It's the perfect book club.
I got a free copy of this book from NetGalley and Black Rose Writing and I'm so glad I did. It's such a great first novel. It made me laugh, cry and had me dying to know what would happen next.
July 27, 2020
It was April 19, 2011. It would be the day an apathetic lawyer changes his fate to one of free will. Daniel Mauraz takes us on the journey of Dave Randall whos life has been a result of unpurposeful choices. When a friend reappears after being missing for a year, the entire universe unfolds before him. It is then that Dave can no longer continue to exist in his current life and starts on a quest. This beautiful narrative unfolds like a character study and encompasses themes of faith, love, freedom, and the meaning of God (not a religious). This novel is fresh and thought-provoking but an easy read. And should be on everyone's to be read list.
Thank you, NetGalley, Black Rose Writing, and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you, NetGalley, Black Rose Writing, and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 22, 2020
I'm a bit biased--I edited Questions of Perspective! And of course every editor feels proud of his or her work; that's a given. But this one's different.
Often, editing is a struggle, even though I love it. It exercises a different muscle of the brain than simply reading for pleasure; I work full time and have my own creative pursuits, so sometimes editing can feel like an added chore. But not with Questions of Perspective. Not for one second.
When Dan reached out to me, I considered his manuscript to be on par with others I'd edited. After all, when I evaluate a manuscript for editing work, I only see a small fraction of the whole. But as I dug in, the writing and the characters scooped me up and spirited me away into this alternate timeline of our reality where I could all but see the characters--especially Peaches. I fell in love with them.
At one point, deep into the novel, I completely lost myself. I realized that I'd stopped editing; the narrative pulled me in, and I couldn't put it down until I found myself crying and heartbroken for the characters. I had to go back to figure out where I'd become so engrossed so that I could get back to the actual job at hand!
This is a beautiful, touching book that doesn't quite go where you would expect, and the characters are real. They're flawed, dark, funny, caring, insolent, redeemable--everything that real humans can be. I suggest you grab a copy as soon as you can, because I have no doubt you will fall in love with the story and the characters (and the cat!) just as I did.
Often, editing is a struggle, even though I love it. It exercises a different muscle of the brain than simply reading for pleasure; I work full time and have my own creative pursuits, so sometimes editing can feel like an added chore. But not with Questions of Perspective. Not for one second.
When Dan reached out to me, I considered his manuscript to be on par with others I'd edited. After all, when I evaluate a manuscript for editing work, I only see a small fraction of the whole. But as I dug in, the writing and the characters scooped me up and spirited me away into this alternate timeline of our reality where I could all but see the characters--especially Peaches. I fell in love with them.
At one point, deep into the novel, I completely lost myself. I realized that I'd stopped editing; the narrative pulled me in, and I couldn't put it down until I found myself crying and heartbroken for the characters. I had to go back to figure out where I'd become so engrossed so that I could get back to the actual job at hand!
This is a beautiful, touching book that doesn't quite go where you would expect, and the characters are real. They're flawed, dark, funny, caring, insolent, redeemable--everything that real humans can be. I suggest you grab a copy as soon as you can, because I have no doubt you will fall in love with the story and the characters (and the cat!) just as I did.
July 13, 2020
It's been a long time since I read a fiction book like this one.
Things I loved about this book:
-It was so easy to read.
-Thought-provoking
-The plot was surprisingly refreshing
-It truly moved me. ( I laughed and cried)
-I didn't want it to end, however the ending could not have been any better.
-The characters were relatable and felt like long-time friends. (Specially Peaches)
I have the feeling I needed to read this at this very precise momet.
Things I loved about this book:
-It was so easy to read.
-Thought-provoking
-The plot was surprisingly refreshing
-It truly moved me. ( I laughed and cried)
-I didn't want it to end, however the ending could not have been any better.
-The characters were relatable and felt like long-time friends. (Specially Peaches)
I have the feeling I needed to read this at this very precise momet.
May 15, 2020
Dave Randall is a fairly successful, ethical, but unenthusiastic lawyer when his one real friend in the New York firm, fellow lawyer John Manta, disappears.
Completely disappears. No notes, credit card usage, or messages to Dave or to his landlord. He left his phone, wallet, and keys behind. Also, a cat named Peaches. Dave takes custody of Peaches, tells the police what little he knows when everyone is finally convinced John didn't just take off for an unscheduled long weekend.
But John is gone, nothing is found, and Dave settles down to his work.
A year later, he's up for partnership, and finds himself unexpectedly resistant to it. He heads out for a walk, to think, and walks smack into John.
John has had, to put it mildly, a life-changing experience. He's become God.
John shares with Dave a small taste of what omniscience is, gives him some time to recover from that, and says he will talk with Dave again--sometime.
The taste of omniscience, and of that sense of oneness with everything, affects Dave's perspective rather strongly. He quits the law firm, takes Peaches, and starts wandering. Eventually he finds himself in the town of Woodstock, and rents a cottage. He and Peaches start hiking locally.
He's got enough from his years of racking up billable hours and not having a life outside the office that he's good, not forever, but for a few years.
He starts to discover himself, To work through his previous detachment from life, and to find what he really cares about.
He also learns that John--God--wants Dave to help him find a reason, a purpose, for John having become God.
It's a very odd book, but I found it very satisfying. A significant part of its message is that you never know what's going in someone else's life, but that's not the whole thing. The characters are compelling, and if you let yourself go with it, the journey is interesting and may be enlightening.
It won't be for everyone, but I really enjoyed this.
Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley from the publisher, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
Completely disappears. No notes, credit card usage, or messages to Dave or to his landlord. He left his phone, wallet, and keys behind. Also, a cat named Peaches. Dave takes custody of Peaches, tells the police what little he knows when everyone is finally convinced John didn't just take off for an unscheduled long weekend.
But John is gone, nothing is found, and Dave settles down to his work.
A year later, he's up for partnership, and finds himself unexpectedly resistant to it. He heads out for a walk, to think, and walks smack into John.
John has had, to put it mildly, a life-changing experience. He's become God.
John shares with Dave a small taste of what omniscience is, gives him some time to recover from that, and says he will talk with Dave again--sometime.
The taste of omniscience, and of that sense of oneness with everything, affects Dave's perspective rather strongly. He quits the law firm, takes Peaches, and starts wandering. Eventually he finds himself in the town of Woodstock, and rents a cottage. He and Peaches start hiking locally.
He's got enough from his years of racking up billable hours and not having a life outside the office that he's good, not forever, but for a few years.
He starts to discover himself, To work through his previous detachment from life, and to find what he really cares about.
He also learns that John--God--wants Dave to help him find a reason, a purpose, for John having become God.
It's a very odd book, but I found it very satisfying. A significant part of its message is that you never know what's going in someone else's life, but that's not the whole thing. The characters are compelling, and if you let yourself go with it, the journey is interesting and may be enlightening.
It won't be for everyone, but I really enjoyed this.
Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley from the publisher, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
May 19, 2020
Entertainment and escapism mix with philosophical questions that most of us consider at some time. Belief, faith love and self-realisation are explored in this story. The multi-layered plot is part fantasy and part literary fiction with a liberal amount of humour.
Relatable characters keep the story moving forward. The cat is a vital companion for Dave on his journey of self-discovery. The motivational ethos makes this an uplifting read that has something of interest for most of us.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
Relatable characters keep the story moving forward. The cat is a vital companion for Dave on his journey of self-discovery. The motivational ethos makes this an uplifting read that has something of interest for most of us.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
May 19, 2020
Questions of Perspectives is not the book to sit down with when you are wanting a quick read you can fly through. It's the book you read when you want to sit down, take your time and slowly make your way through a journey. I'm not a fan of slow paced books, but this is one I couldn't help but enjoy from the first page to the last.
Dave Randall is an unfulfilled lawyer just going through the motions of life. One day his only friend, John Manta, disappears without a trace. When Dave finally discovers what really happened to John it starts him on his own journey of self discovery.
I absolutely adored this book. It was one of those reads that you just relax and float through. I loved the calm tone and steady pace. It's so well written. The trouble with slow paced novels is that they tend to become boring rather quickly. Thankfully, Daniel Maunz is able to keep you interested and entertained while keeping everything calm and slow. He did an absolutely wonderful job and I loved it.
I think fans of The Shack by William Paul Young would enjoy this book. Both have an unusual representation of God that is meant to have the readers see situations from different perspectives and focus on a bigger picture than what you can immediately see.
Https://fourmoonreviews.blogspot.com/
Dave Randall is an unfulfilled lawyer just going through the motions of life. One day his only friend, John Manta, disappears without a trace. When Dave finally discovers what really happened to John it starts him on his own journey of self discovery.
I absolutely adored this book. It was one of those reads that you just relax and float through. I loved the calm tone and steady pace. It's so well written. The trouble with slow paced novels is that they tend to become boring rather quickly. Thankfully, Daniel Maunz is able to keep you interested and entertained while keeping everything calm and slow. He did an absolutely wonderful job and I loved it.
I think fans of The Shack by William Paul Young would enjoy this book. Both have an unusual representation of God that is meant to have the readers see situations from different perspectives and focus on a bigger picture than what you can immediately see.
Https://fourmoonreviews.blogspot.com/
May 29, 2020
This one was hard to pin down and put into any one drawer.
It’s not, actually, Fantasy. There are some larger-than-life aspects, however, these happen on a spiritual rather than a supernatural plane.
It’s not, despite the blurb, a Road Trip. The protagonist and his cat do go in search for their friend, their trip, though, is short, to a purpose and follows a well-trodden path.
It’s also not, I’m happy and relieved to say, a preachy, goody-goody, having-all-the answers, tale, although it asks some poignant questions and provides quite a few helpfl hints.
The story starts out describing the protagonist's lawyer job, which part felt a bit lengthy and drawn-out, however, underlining the humdrum monotony of his existence up until the extradordinary experience that leads him on a quest for the real meaning of life.
The prose is beautiful, perfectly paced, exuding calmth and authenticity, little details clearly showing the author’s drawing from experience. Peaches, the cat, is a very real one: “I was rudely awoken by Peaches walking across my throat to settle in on the opposite side of the bed.” A very real cat, this. Minor details, implying: That guy knows what he is talking about in this instance, so it might well be worth listening to the rest, he may really be onto something here.
He is. The details are worth finding out for yourselves.
An impressive debut, well worth re-reading, from an author I'd like to see more.
It’s not, actually, Fantasy. There are some larger-than-life aspects, however, these happen on a spiritual rather than a supernatural plane.
It’s not, despite the blurb, a Road Trip. The protagonist and his cat do go in search for their friend, their trip, though, is short, to a purpose and follows a well-trodden path.
It’s also not, I’m happy and relieved to say, a preachy, goody-goody, having-all-the answers, tale, although it asks some poignant questions and provides quite a few helpfl hints.
The story starts out describing the protagonist's lawyer job, which part felt a bit lengthy and drawn-out, however, underlining the humdrum monotony of his existence up until the extradordinary experience that leads him on a quest for the real meaning of life.
The prose is beautiful, perfectly paced, exuding calmth and authenticity, little details clearly showing the author’s drawing from experience. Peaches, the cat, is a very real one: “I was rudely awoken by Peaches walking across my throat to settle in on the opposite side of the bed.” A very real cat, this. Minor details, implying: That guy knows what he is talking about in this instance, so it might well be worth listening to the rest, he may really be onto something here.
He is. The details are worth finding out for yourselves.
An impressive debut, well worth re-reading, from an author I'd like to see more.
January 16, 2020
David and John both work in a mediocre Law firm in Long Island. One day John fails to show up to work, David knows it’s out of character but refuses to worry. After a few days of John absence in the office David checks on him at John’s home but all he finds is Peaches, Johns cat but no trace of his friend. David adopts Peaches and they both start their life changing adventure by trying to find out what happened to John.
I wasn’t really sure about this book at first but then stayed up to 3 am to finish it! It’s really a story of friendship, the meaning of life and what is really important in life and what isn’t. All in all a great book.
I wasn’t really sure about this book at first but then stayed up to 3 am to finish it! It’s really a story of friendship, the meaning of life and what is really important in life and what isn’t. All in all a great book.
May 13, 2020
This book is beautiful and brilliant and will stay with you long after you turn the last page. Buy it immediately, then buy a copy for a friend.
June 16, 2020
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is all about being a good person and true to your morals. It is about a God, but really isn’t religious. If anything, it simply lays out what religion is intended to be about, treating each other with kindness and understanding. It was quite moving. On top of that broad theme that I believe is so pure and wonderful, there’s such endearing characters. So many genuinely good people are littered within this story in so many unexpected ways. It was genuine. Thoughts of death, purpose, and insignificance are so well done and brought to light to share in the fact that we all face insecurities but with the support of really great people and a life we become proud of, anything can be done. It was highly creative the way this author chose to portray a very lovely theme about happiness and care. I really think this is a wonderful novel that holds a lot of lost values about care that I think is highly beneficial to discuss, especially in today’s social climate. I found this to be moving in ways I didn’t expect and genuinely made me feel good to read it. We’re all people and even though we all get sad, misguided, frustrated, angry, there’s always someone out there who cares and always a way to make it better. If you want something uplifting and relatable in a beautiful but humble self awareness journey, this is a great pick.
This book is all about being a good person and true to your morals. It is about a God, but really isn’t religious. If anything, it simply lays out what religion is intended to be about, treating each other with kindness and understanding. It was quite moving. On top of that broad theme that I believe is so pure and wonderful, there’s such endearing characters. So many genuinely good people are littered within this story in so many unexpected ways. It was genuine. Thoughts of death, purpose, and insignificance are so well done and brought to light to share in the fact that we all face insecurities but with the support of really great people and a life we become proud of, anything can be done. It was highly creative the way this author chose to portray a very lovely theme about happiness and care. I really think this is a wonderful novel that holds a lot of lost values about care that I think is highly beneficial to discuss, especially in today’s social climate. I found this to be moving in ways I didn’t expect and genuinely made me feel good to read it. We’re all people and even though we all get sad, misguided, frustrated, angry, there’s always someone out there who cares and always a way to make it better. If you want something uplifting and relatable in a beautiful but humble self awareness journey, this is a great pick.
October 23, 2020
Questions of Perspective by Daniel Maunz
“No one knew it at the time, but April 19, 2011, was the more important day in the history of the world.”
Dave is plodding along through life and meets John at his new job as a lawyer. John is “different” and even though they don’t do much together, they are friends. One day John doesn’t show up at work and no one knows where to find him so everyone assumes Dave can find out. Once John disappears, Dave takes in his cat, Peaches who turns out to be one of my favorite characters (of course). And this is where the story really takes off!
At this point in the story it started reminding me of The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho just a bit. There are messages and realizations found throughout and a feeling that there is more to this book than what’s written.
I was chuckling by page two and envisioning everything that was written. Maunz has a knack for easily describing characters, locations, and attitudes and I couldn’t wait to continue reading and seeing how it ended. I did need a few tissues (don’t worry, not about the cat) and I would definitely recommend this story to anyone who enjoys…life! It’s just a truly great story. I hope to read more by Daniel Maunz.
“No one knew it at the time, but April 19, 2011, was the more important day in the history of the world.”
Dave is plodding along through life and meets John at his new job as a lawyer. John is “different” and even though they don’t do much together, they are friends. One day John doesn’t show up at work and no one knows where to find him so everyone assumes Dave can find out. Once John disappears, Dave takes in his cat, Peaches who turns out to be one of my favorite characters (of course). And this is where the story really takes off!
At this point in the story it started reminding me of The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho just a bit. There are messages and realizations found throughout and a feeling that there is more to this book than what’s written.
I was chuckling by page two and envisioning everything that was written. Maunz has a knack for easily describing characters, locations, and attitudes and I couldn’t wait to continue reading and seeing how it ended. I did need a few tissues (don’t worry, not about the cat) and I would definitely recommend this story to anyone who enjoys…life! It’s just a truly great story. I hope to read more by Daniel Maunz.
March 3, 2021
The steady, persistent narrative trajectory of this unique novel, unencumbered by a specific genre, often left me pleasantly wondering where it was headed.
At once a mix of magical realism, fantasy, philosophical exploration, and droll dark humor, Questions of Perspective in the hands of a less talented writer might have gone off the rails early on because of the book’s rather intricate and unusual premise. This is the book to read for anyone who has ever worked in a buttoned-up corporate job they hated. It’s a novel for anyone who ever thought about life’s sometimes tragic roulette wheel twists, or pondered the puzzling inconsistencies of the universe. It’s also an irreligious tale with subtle religious undertones about fate, belief, love and redemption.
If you think the idea of a lawyer named John who announces that he is God sounds improbable and absurd, then Daniel Maunz’s ambitious first novel might pleasantly convince you otherwise.
I highly recommend this unusual and refreshingly different piece of fiction that more often than not sounds perfectly true and believable.
At once a mix of magical realism, fantasy, philosophical exploration, and droll dark humor, Questions of Perspective in the hands of a less talented writer might have gone off the rails early on because of the book’s rather intricate and unusual premise. This is the book to read for anyone who has ever worked in a buttoned-up corporate job they hated. It’s a novel for anyone who ever thought about life’s sometimes tragic roulette wheel twists, or pondered the puzzling inconsistencies of the universe. It’s also an irreligious tale with subtle religious undertones about fate, belief, love and redemption.
If you think the idea of a lawyer named John who announces that he is God sounds improbable and absurd, then Daniel Maunz’s ambitious first novel might pleasantly convince you otherwise.
I highly recommend this unusual and refreshingly different piece of fiction that more often than not sounds perfectly true and believable.
May 1, 2020
I was able to get an early copy of this book by buying directly from the publisher. Dave and John are two of the youngest lawyers at a mid-sized law firm. Their personalities bring them together as friends, but keep them at odds with the rest of their colleagues. While both are very talented lawyers, they are too introverted to mix in socially with the rest of the firm. One day John doesn't show up for work, and since that is so out of character for John, Dave is sent to John's home to find him. John has disappeared, leaving everything behind, including his rescue cat Peaches. Dave takes Peaches home with him, but it takes a year before John reappears. What happened to John changes Dave's entire outlook on life. He makes changes in himself and ultimately finds what is the true meaning of life.
I loved everything about this book. The first quarter of the book tells of Dave's legal career, which I found to be very interesting. Most legal novels tell of the hero lawyer winning the unwinnable case. This just tells of the everyday life of an insurance defense attorney. This may sound dull, but it is told in such an entertaining way and had me laughing out loud.
Dave (and Peaches) search for a more meaningful life leads them in several different directions. John shows up at various parts of Dave's life and while he is a main character, he is mostly in the background.
I feel this book has something for everyone. It is classified as a paranormal fantasy, but it doesn't feel like that to me. It is spiritual while still being human, very funny, great characters (but not too many characters that make it hard to keep track of who is who) awesome dialogue, a very believable love story and, of course, Peaches the cat.
I find it hard to believe that this is Daniel Maunz's first novel. I hope it won't be too long before his second one is out. I will be looking out for it.
I loved everything about this book. The first quarter of the book tells of Dave's legal career, which I found to be very interesting. Most legal novels tell of the hero lawyer winning the unwinnable case. This just tells of the everyday life of an insurance defense attorney. This may sound dull, but it is told in such an entertaining way and had me laughing out loud.
Dave (and Peaches) search for a more meaningful life leads them in several different directions. John shows up at various parts of Dave's life and while he is a main character, he is mostly in the background.
I feel this book has something for everyone. It is classified as a paranormal fantasy, but it doesn't feel like that to me. It is spiritual while still being human, very funny, great characters (but not too many characters that make it hard to keep track of who is who) awesome dialogue, a very believable love story and, of course, Peaches the cat.
I find it hard to believe that this is Daniel Maunz's first novel. I hope it won't be too long before his second one is out. I will be looking out for it.
August 4, 2020
Most unique book I have read this year.. yep! In the beginning of Questions of Perspective I immediately connected with Dave when he realized he doesn’t know what direction he wants to go in life. We see him as a lawyer who realizes he wants a more fulfilling career but doesn’t know what that looks like or how to find it. Haven’t we all been there?!
As Dave’s story progresses and we see him contemplate what life really means, along with his cat Peaches, I found myself thinking about how we are all connected. Each decision we make in life affects another person which can greatly change the future.
I don’t want to give away any spoilers, so I will just say this book is perfect for anyone who has been uncertain of their path in life, and maybe needs a little reminder to look for the good in the world.
As Dave’s story progresses and we see him contemplate what life really means, along with his cat Peaches, I found myself thinking about how we are all connected. Each decision we make in life affects another person which can greatly change the future.
I don’t want to give away any spoilers, so I will just say this book is perfect for anyone who has been uncertain of their path in life, and maybe needs a little reminder to look for the good in the world.
May 16, 2020
Daniel Maunz's "Questions of Perspective" is a mesmerizing, haunting cosmological roller-coaster of a novel. Yet it's a deeply human tale, too. Imagine remonstrating with a deity who was once your best friend. God may not play dice with the universe, but even He has issues. And Dave Randall---with an assist from Peaches the cat---discovers his own purpose while questioning the Almighty's raison d'être.
The author deftly dovetails comedy and tragedy in spinning a yarn of page-turning enjoyment. Daniel Maunz must have penned this book while sitting alongside Rod Serling, Jean-Paul Sartre and Luigi Pirandello at the Existentialist Café.
The author deftly dovetails comedy and tragedy in spinning a yarn of page-turning enjoyment. Daniel Maunz must have penned this book while sitting alongside Rod Serling, Jean-Paul Sartre and Luigi Pirandello at the Existentialist Café.
January 1, 2022
This book wasn't perfect but you know what? I'm giving it five stars anyway for the following reasons: 1) almost as soon as I started reading it, I couldn't put it down. "Unputdownable," as they say. 2) It made me think and feel. Simultaneously. 3) The ending was extremely satisfying, in fact, everything I could have asked for. Even while reading it, I was saying to myself, "I hope the author doesn't blow it by wrapping this all up in a tidy little unbelievable bow. He didn't.
I recommend it.
I recommend it.
Want to read
June 21, 2020This is really well done. It is a unique tale that defies genre, and includes well-formed characters and some humor. It can be a little deep and a "thinkers" book for some. Given the premise it have gone all kinds of wrong, but the author masterfully crafted an excellent mix of story, individuals, and questions about life. Highly recommended.
I really appreciate the review copy!!
I really appreciate the review copy!!
May 15, 2020
The rhythm first-person narrative is one of confusing. Starting with the long prologue which doesn't make sense to the rest of the story. Preceding chapters constitutes a hodgepodge of jumping back and forth in the timeline. At one point the main character David Randall states that a John Montes is missing. Later David Randall finds John Montes in the copy room than later David Randall goes to John Montes apartment because John hasn't showed up for work for two days. The story goes on like this. Which makes the story frustrating. There is no plot or structure to story just simply haphazard writing and faulty editing.
The main character David Randall we are told graduated third in the law school. And yet picks a mediocre law firm that deals in litigation. There is a lot of legalize in the first half of the story which would confuse an ordinary reader and yet David Randall, even though he graduated third in his class is also confused when it comes to simple directives for example filing a motion for discovery. Either the computer software that the firm uses doesn't have programs to include templates, or the law school that the third graduate went to doesn't teach a course in discovery.
So David Randall had to run to John Montes for help. John Montes fills David Randall in with the latest gossip and backbiting in the firm as one person tries to out do the other to climb up the ladder.
Later in the story, John Montes appears to David Randall and peaches the cat which David Randall stole from John Montes apartment and John Montes now claims that he is God. And that David Randall can be One. Thus David Randall abandons the law firm and his lifestyle which according to the story only consisted of a third graduate of a law firm who doesn't know anything about the law. Like the story in the book fight club and the gnostic teaching in star Wars David Randall is now one in the universe.
Thanks to Book Sirens for this advance copy.
The main character David Randall we are told graduated third in the law school. And yet picks a mediocre law firm that deals in litigation. There is a lot of legalize in the first half of the story which would confuse an ordinary reader and yet David Randall, even though he graduated third in his class is also confused when it comes to simple directives for example filing a motion for discovery. Either the computer software that the firm uses doesn't have programs to include templates, or the law school that the third graduate went to doesn't teach a course in discovery.
So David Randall had to run to John Montes for help. John Montes fills David Randall in with the latest gossip and backbiting in the firm as one person tries to out do the other to climb up the ladder.
Later in the story, John Montes appears to David Randall and peaches the cat which David Randall stole from John Montes apartment and John Montes now claims that he is God. And that David Randall can be One. Thus David Randall abandons the law firm and his lifestyle which according to the story only consisted of a third graduate of a law firm who doesn't know anything about the law. Like the story in the book fight club and the gnostic teaching in star Wars David Randall is now one in the universe.
Thanks to Book Sirens for this advance copy.
May 9, 2020
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
3.5
Dave Randall, through a series of vague ideas and noncommittal actions, finds himself a lawyer with no real interest in being one, surrounded by cold-hearted people, and a lack of meaning. And then, his coworker and only friend, John, disappears without even a call. A year later, Dave is exactly where he was before, but John, reappearing on the sidewalk, seems completely different. In fact, he's not even human anymore. He was chosen by someone, for some reason, to become God.
The idea of this book is an interesting one, and it carries it in the low fantasy, deep thinking way of a Gaiman novel, with far fewer flourishes. John's desire to help Dave onto a better path, and desire to find some kind of answer to his new existence that will make him comfortable, pave the road for a lot of heavy philosophical thinking, which sometimes makes the whole text feel refreshing and closer to a good conversation or meditation than an actual story.
There are a lot of really nice details and sprawling lines of thought akin to a guided meditation that I really enjoyed. You can tell that Maunz really likes thinking in these ways, and it comes through in the coloring of each scene. Occasionally it gets to a place where it becomes overwhelming with the amount of examples of existences in the universe, but in general it's done well. It definitely also makes it feel like a larger story, even with most of the plot and settings being mundane. That expansion makes the whole story resonate that idea of omniscience.
For me, this book didn't really draw me in any closer than it did, because I didn't find myself really caring about any of the characters. I'm definitely someone who tends to enjoy the specific characters even more so than the plot the majority of the time, so for me personally, I found these characters more or less flat and they didn't do anything for me, or for the story. I also expected the side plot of John's questioning his place in the universe/Dave attempting to figure things out for and about John to be bigger in the book, and was confused and a bit disappointed by how little is seemed to play into it.
In the end, it's a fairly short book full of big ideas.
3.5
Dave Randall, through a series of vague ideas and noncommittal actions, finds himself a lawyer with no real interest in being one, surrounded by cold-hearted people, and a lack of meaning. And then, his coworker and only friend, John, disappears without even a call. A year later, Dave is exactly where he was before, but John, reappearing on the sidewalk, seems completely different. In fact, he's not even human anymore. He was chosen by someone, for some reason, to become God.
The idea of this book is an interesting one, and it carries it in the low fantasy, deep thinking way of a Gaiman novel, with far fewer flourishes. John's desire to help Dave onto a better path, and desire to find some kind of answer to his new existence that will make him comfortable, pave the road for a lot of heavy philosophical thinking, which sometimes makes the whole text feel refreshing and closer to a good conversation or meditation than an actual story.
There are a lot of really nice details and sprawling lines of thought akin to a guided meditation that I really enjoyed. You can tell that Maunz really likes thinking in these ways, and it comes through in the coloring of each scene. Occasionally it gets to a place where it becomes overwhelming with the amount of examples of existences in the universe, but in general it's done well. It definitely also makes it feel like a larger story, even with most of the plot and settings being mundane. That expansion makes the whole story resonate that idea of omniscience.
For me, this book didn't really draw me in any closer than it did, because I didn't find myself really caring about any of the characters. I'm definitely someone who tends to enjoy the specific characters even more so than the plot the majority of the time, so for me personally, I found these characters more or less flat and they didn't do anything for me, or for the story. I also expected the side plot of John's questioning his place in the universe/Dave attempting to figure things out for and about John to be bigger in the book, and was confused and a bit disappointed by how little is seemed to play into it.
In the end, it's a fairly short book full of big ideas.
February 2, 2023
An unusual book where an attorney befriends a fellow employee, who then goes on to become god. The attorney meets god (his old friend John) and is compelled to change his life. A novel which is funny, heart wrenching an questions god's role in this world. A really good read and I believe Daniel Maunz's first book. I look forward to see what he does with his talent next.
June 1, 2020
https://clavie.co/2020/05/27/arc-book...
Firstly, the cover is so pretty and colourful!
Secondly, this novels plot grabbed my attention so I would like to thank Daniel the author for the advanced readers copy. I began reading this before it was officially published.
Now onto the review, this novel begins with the whole present and past tense. We are introduced to the main character Dave’s day during April 19th 2011. The day this novel focuses on. Then we are taken back in time to when Dave and John first met. I love how this novel is focused within the job itself as they are working within a law firm. The two meet during a mundane task that is beneath both of them however as with everything – someone has to do it! A great conversation starter too.
It’s interesting to learn about this omniscience although it still does not make sense how a human can be chosen to be this god figure. I do not like the idea of books being at all religious because it’s preaching however this novel is different as the main character goes from being stuck in a routine where he works for the law doing things without question. To quitting and starting a new life elsewhere trying to figure out what he wants to do. Later on he becomes a teacher and meets this woman called Abby, and events leading to disappointments and questioning in God.
The novel progresses well throughout each stage of life as it passes over years throughout. Some quotes I really enjoyed include:
“Nothing is worth doing if you have to give up even a fraction of your soul in the process”
“When you’re really living, there is something in your life that you are afraid, at some level, of losing.”
“I want to change the world for the better, but I’m not always sure how to do it. And it can be too daunting at times to consider the big picture.”
“Joy is a positive force that fills a day with moments that are truly worth living.”
At first, like Dave, I was very annoyed God/John would let such a horrible thing happen if he can control it from not happening. But the role is to let us make our own decisions and be responsible for the consequences. Despite some horrible things that happen in life. Some would always turn to religion and curse at why would whoever is out there, do that to the world? Because life is not peachy – no pun intended. Life is made to have ups and downs as it does shape who we are.
Overall, at the beginning it took me a while to understand the idea of omniscience however by the end of it I found myself emotional at times with sadness and joy once things finally developed properly (within the story’s plot of wanting the happy ever after), it’s rare for me to give 5 star ratings however this one deserves it as I cannot find a major fault in anyway. I really did enjoy the message of this read and how it was written and how it progressed.
5/5 Stars
Firstly, the cover is so pretty and colourful!
Secondly, this novels plot grabbed my attention so I would like to thank Daniel the author for the advanced readers copy. I began reading this before it was officially published.
Now onto the review, this novel begins with the whole present and past tense. We are introduced to the main character Dave’s day during April 19th 2011. The day this novel focuses on. Then we are taken back in time to when Dave and John first met. I love how this novel is focused within the job itself as they are working within a law firm. The two meet during a mundane task that is beneath both of them however as with everything – someone has to do it! A great conversation starter too.
It’s interesting to learn about this omniscience although it still does not make sense how a human can be chosen to be this god figure. I do not like the idea of books being at all religious because it’s preaching however this novel is different as the main character goes from being stuck in a routine where he works for the law doing things without question. To quitting and starting a new life elsewhere trying to figure out what he wants to do. Later on he becomes a teacher and meets this woman called Abby, and events leading to disappointments and questioning in God.
The novel progresses well throughout each stage of life as it passes over years throughout. Some quotes I really enjoyed include:
“Nothing is worth doing if you have to give up even a fraction of your soul in the process”
“When you’re really living, there is something in your life that you are afraid, at some level, of losing.”
“I want to change the world for the better, but I’m not always sure how to do it. And it can be too daunting at times to consider the big picture.”
“Joy is a positive force that fills a day with moments that are truly worth living.”
At first, like Dave, I was very annoyed God/John would let such a horrible thing happen if he can control it from not happening. But the role is to let us make our own decisions and be responsible for the consequences. Despite some horrible things that happen in life. Some would always turn to religion and curse at why would whoever is out there, do that to the world? Because life is not peachy – no pun intended. Life is made to have ups and downs as it does shape who we are.
Overall, at the beginning it took me a while to understand the idea of omniscience however by the end of it I found myself emotional at times with sadness and joy once things finally developed properly (within the story’s plot of wanting the happy ever after), it’s rare for me to give 5 star ratings however this one deserves it as I cannot find a major fault in anyway. I really did enjoy the message of this read and how it was written and how it progressed.
5/5 Stars
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