What do you think?
Rate this book
The Black Sky
Set in a dangerous post-apocalyptic, near-future Manhattan, THE BLACK SKY tells the gripping story of a group of survivors, some living in a lawless wasteland, others safely inside a walled city, caught in the ticking clock adventure of an extraordinary mission to save one man, unlock the truth of humanity’s near extinction, and risk it all to save the ones they love - a thrilling debut novel that illuminates the power of family, survival against all odds, and hope in dark times.
- GenresScience FictionDystopia
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 28, 2020
7 people are currently reading
51 people want to read
About the author
Timothy D. Minneci
7 books8 followersTimothy D. Minneci grew up in the suburbs of Buffalo, New York and has authored several fiction and non-fiction books. He is the co-host of the long-running 1990s music-focused Dig Me Out Podcast. He lives with his family in Columbus, Ohio.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 30, 2020
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Set in a dangerous post-apocalyptic, near-future Manhattan, The Black Sky (The Perseverantia Trilogy #1) by Timothy D. Minneci tells the gripping story of a group of survivors, some living in a lawless wasteland, others safely inside a walled city, caught in the ticking clock adventure of an extraordinary mission to save one man, unlock the truth of humanity’s near extinction, and risk it all to save the ones they love - a thrilling debut novel that illuminates the power of family, survival against all odds, and hope in dark times.
I'm so lucky to have had the opportunity to read an ARC of this sci-fi dystopian post-apocalyptic series opener from Mr. Minneci, a fellow Ohioan. I will say that with everything that's been going on so far this year reading a post-apocalyptic story just hits a little differently than it used to. I don't know about you, but any more when I read from this genre I always have something along the lines of "don't get any more ideas, 2020" in the back of my mind as if that will make a difference. This new novel was no exception. When it says near-future it really seems like it could just be around the corner.
As for what I enjoyed, I really appreciated the action, the speedy pacing, the twists and turns, and the world building of this future Manhattan. The characters are all well fleshed out, including the supporting members of the cast. I especially appreciated Tessa's can do, take no crap attitude. Another highlight is the author's great descriptions of of unique weapons and advanced technology that the characters find themselves coming face to face with. My only real issue is that sometimes during my reading experience I felt too distant from Bishop to really connect with his character as much as I would have liked.
Overall, The Black Sky by Timothy D. Minneci is a must-read if you're interested in action-packed sci-fi, post-apocalyptic, and/ or dystopian stories. You will want to make sure that this one is on your radar. If you're a fan of the writing of Robert Ludlum or John Carpenter's Escape From New York, I have a feeling you'll feel right at home here. I can't wait to see what happens next in the next installment of The Perseverantia Trilogy.
Set in a dangerous post-apocalyptic, near-future Manhattan, The Black Sky (The Perseverantia Trilogy #1) by Timothy D. Minneci tells the gripping story of a group of survivors, some living in a lawless wasteland, others safely inside a walled city, caught in the ticking clock adventure of an extraordinary mission to save one man, unlock the truth of humanity’s near extinction, and risk it all to save the ones they love - a thrilling debut novel that illuminates the power of family, survival against all odds, and hope in dark times.
I'm so lucky to have had the opportunity to read an ARC of this sci-fi dystopian post-apocalyptic series opener from Mr. Minneci, a fellow Ohioan. I will say that with everything that's been going on so far this year reading a post-apocalyptic story just hits a little differently than it used to. I don't know about you, but any more when I read from this genre I always have something along the lines of "don't get any more ideas, 2020" in the back of my mind as if that will make a difference. This new novel was no exception. When it says near-future it really seems like it could just be around the corner.
As for what I enjoyed, I really appreciated the action, the speedy pacing, the twists and turns, and the world building of this future Manhattan. The characters are all well fleshed out, including the supporting members of the cast. I especially appreciated Tessa's can do, take no crap attitude. Another highlight is the author's great descriptions of of unique weapons and advanced technology that the characters find themselves coming face to face with. My only real issue is that sometimes during my reading experience I felt too distant from Bishop to really connect with his character as much as I would have liked.
Overall, The Black Sky by Timothy D. Minneci is a must-read if you're interested in action-packed sci-fi, post-apocalyptic, and/ or dystopian stories. You will want to make sure that this one is on your radar. If you're a fan of the writing of Robert Ludlum or John Carpenter's Escape From New York, I have a feeling you'll feel right at home here. I can't wait to see what happens next in the next installment of The Perseverantia Trilogy.
March 25, 2020
This book is a solid adventure in the spirit of Robert Ludlum and Tom Clancy. The Black Sky offers the reader plenty of action, and the level of military detail left me jealous. Timothy D. Minneci has invented unique near-future weapons, each believable: a microwave beam, a sarin drone; you name it! And the main character, Bishop, utilizes them with strategic ingenuity.
Bishop and Tessa, the main characters, are well-rounded and interesting- both ample survivors who have their hearts in the right place. What impressed me most: both fight with their own set of weaponry and unique skills. I loved Tessa with her knives and I-can-handle-it, no bullshit attitude! Both are blind to what lies ahead, and that produces twists and turns which the reader doesn’t see coming.
The supporting cast and the visiting side characters all complement the excellent worldbuilding: children, hippies, old folks, armed gangs, the country town... The author has created several forms of society, each convincing. The post-apocalyptic, meteor- stricken world of Minecci is conventional, and that’s fine because his writing is straightforward and smooth. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel to produce awesome entertainment. Look at Mad Max: we’ve seen it all, but it looks terrific, and the action carries us away.
The pages invite you to continue reading with great action and clever survival tricks. The cliffhangers work, and the plot keeps offering surprising revelations.
I found only a minor flaw: sometimes, a writer should consider if all Point Of Views are necessary. The corporate suits didn’t bring enough to the table to earn a POV. But this is just my opinion. I skipped some pages because of this, mostly in the beginning.
I must say that The Black Sky is one of the most outstanding action books I’ve read in a while.
Bishop and Tessa, the main characters, are well-rounded and interesting- both ample survivors who have their hearts in the right place. What impressed me most: both fight with their own set of weaponry and unique skills. I loved Tessa with her knives and I-can-handle-it, no bullshit attitude! Both are blind to what lies ahead, and that produces twists and turns which the reader doesn’t see coming.
The supporting cast and the visiting side characters all complement the excellent worldbuilding: children, hippies, old folks, armed gangs, the country town... The author has created several forms of society, each convincing. The post-apocalyptic, meteor- stricken world of Minecci is conventional, and that’s fine because his writing is straightforward and smooth. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel to produce awesome entertainment. Look at Mad Max: we’ve seen it all, but it looks terrific, and the action carries us away.
The pages invite you to continue reading with great action and clever survival tricks. The cliffhangers work, and the plot keeps offering surprising revelations.
I found only a minor flaw: sometimes, a writer should consider if all Point Of Views are necessary. The corporate suits didn’t bring enough to the table to earn a POV. But this is just my opinion. I skipped some pages because of this, mostly in the beginning.
I must say that The Black Sky is one of the most outstanding action books I’ve read in a while.
August 14, 2020
You can find the full review and all the fancy and/or randomness that accompanies it at It Starts at Midnight
When the author approached me with a request to review this book, I pretty readily agreed. Want to know why? He appealed to The 100 fan in me, and apparently that is what it takes. This should surprise no one. But beyond that, I thought the concept was very exciting. And guess what? I was right! It was completely, unequivocally exciting! So let's talk about it now!
What I Loved:
►Like I said, it is wholly thrilling. The action really does not stop. It's high octane, high stakes, high reward. Which, is always a great combo, frankly.
►The world-building was great! One of my favorite things about any post-apoc/dystopian book is when I actually get a good feel for the hows and whys of the world. The author does this wonderfully, and incorporates the world into the story in a way that makes it a plot point. It's another thing I am quite fond of, really. Vagueness and I don't get along, and this world was anything but. The author even mentions what is happening in other places, not just our Manhattan/New England settings.
►I loved Tessa! Her Octavia Blake-ness is what sold me on the book in the first place, and she delivered without a doubt. She is tough and gritty, but also incredibly compassionate and empathetic and loyal. That is basically my favorite character combo.
►Lots of twists and turns! Obviously I will be intentionally vague here, but there were things that I definitely did not see coming, especially along Bishop's journey!
►Definitely morally gray, and I never knew (nor did the characters) who could be trusted. Don't you just love when a villain isn't obvious? You think you know at the start, but then you'll question yourself. Many, many times. Can anyone in this world be trusted, fully? My guess is no, tbh.
►It's definitely dark! This world isn't cute. It isn't pleasant. There are bits of hope, which is good, but for the most part, it's bleak. People are scraping by to survive, and only the elite are welcomed into Manhattan's walled city. I daresay there is a good deal of current social commentary interspersed here, too.
What I would have liked more of:
►Bishop Connection! This is my only real complaint, honestly. Sometimes weapon talk flew over my head a little, but that is more a "me" problem than a book problem. I just wished that I had a better sense of who Bishop was as a person. Obviously it's clear he'd put his life on the line for the chance of a better future for his wife and himself, and he's clearly a badass, but I do hope to connect more to him in the next book (which I will absolutely be reading).
Bottom Line: I recommended this book to my dad. I have recommended like, two books ever to my dad because he has incredibly high standards. So there you have it.
Real Bottom Line: A book full of adventure and survival in a world where no one can be trusted and everyone has an agenda, the characters stand out for their willingness to stop at nothing to not only survive, but thrive.
When the author approached me with a request to review this book, I pretty readily agreed. Want to know why? He appealed to The 100 fan in me, and apparently that is what it takes. This should surprise no one. But beyond that, I thought the concept was very exciting. And guess what? I was right! It was completely, unequivocally exciting! So let's talk about it now!
What I Loved:
►Like I said, it is wholly thrilling. The action really does not stop. It's high octane, high stakes, high reward. Which, is always a great combo, frankly.
►The world-building was great! One of my favorite things about any post-apoc/dystopian book is when I actually get a good feel for the hows and whys of the world. The author does this wonderfully, and incorporates the world into the story in a way that makes it a plot point. It's another thing I am quite fond of, really. Vagueness and I don't get along, and this world was anything but. The author even mentions what is happening in other places, not just our Manhattan/New England settings.
►I loved Tessa! Her Octavia Blake-ness is what sold me on the book in the first place, and she delivered without a doubt. She is tough and gritty, but also incredibly compassionate and empathetic and loyal. That is basically my favorite character combo.
►Lots of twists and turns! Obviously I will be intentionally vague here, but there were things that I definitely did not see coming, especially along Bishop's journey!
►Definitely morally gray, and I never knew (nor did the characters) who could be trusted. Don't you just love when a villain isn't obvious? You think you know at the start, but then you'll question yourself. Many, many times. Can anyone in this world be trusted, fully? My guess is no, tbh.
►It's definitely dark! This world isn't cute. It isn't pleasant. There are bits of hope, which is good, but for the most part, it's bleak. People are scraping by to survive, and only the elite are welcomed into Manhattan's walled city. I daresay there is a good deal of current social commentary interspersed here, too.
What I would have liked more of:
►Bishop Connection! This is my only real complaint, honestly. Sometimes weapon talk flew over my head a little, but that is more a "me" problem than a book problem. I just wished that I had a better sense of who Bishop was as a person. Obviously it's clear he'd put his life on the line for the chance of a better future for his wife and himself, and he's clearly a badass, but I do hope to connect more to him in the next book (which I will absolutely be reading).
Bottom Line: I recommended this book to my dad. I have recommended like, two books ever to my dad because he has incredibly high standards. So there you have it.
Real Bottom Line: A book full of adventure and survival in a world where no one can be trusted and everyone has an agenda, the characters stand out for their willingness to stop at nothing to not only survive, but thrive.
March 9, 2021
I received a free copy from voracious readers only. Good storyline of how the world could become post apocalyptic. Following groups of survivors from different areas of the world. Recommend to others
February 27, 2021
I enjoyed reading this book - the book is based in the future and is based on two characters Bishop and Tessa Dawes, They are married but live apart. Bishop works in Manhattan Island seawall, one of fifteen corporation-controlled cities across the United States in the post-asteroid apocalypse. Tessa lives in the danger's areas controlled by gangs. In order for Bishop and Tessa to be together Bishop has to work two years and pay a large debt to allow Tessa to enter the safety of Manhattan but is offered the chance to pay off the debt and save the life of Manhattan's ill CEO. There are dangers at every turn and is a twist at the end. I received this book from the Voracious Readers Only.
January 17, 2021
I received this book as a free copy from a new club I joined, Voracious Readers Only. I had zero expectations, having never heard of either the club or the author.
Boy was I pleasantly surprised!
The plot hooked me from the beginning and I found no boring parts. It was a genre I’ve read many times before: post apocalyptic, and at first it seemed like something I had read before, although I couldn’t pin down where. However, very quickly I realized this was unlike anything I had read before and really enjoyed it.
Boy was I pleasantly surprised!
The plot hooked me from the beginning and I found no boring parts. It was a genre I’ve read many times before: post apocalyptic, and at first it seemed like something I had read before, although I couldn’t pin down where. However, very quickly I realized this was unlike anything I had read before and really enjoyed it.
April 12, 2021
Really good read, since 2020 I have started reading a lot of dystopian thrillers and this author brings a different slant to it. He has absolutely incredible ability to create future weapons which are so believable.
Off to research more by this author.
The main characters were very well rounded but also there was attention to the other characters so it felt very whole if that makes sense.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Off to research more by this author.
The main characters were very well rounded but also there was attention to the other characters so it felt very whole if that makes sense.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 27, 2021
Fast paced Action from page one.
A great dystopian military thriller! I will definitely be looking forward to book two. This author hit a home run on his debut novel. It was an easy to read page turner. A definite must read for fans of Tom Clancy.
A great dystopian military thriller! I will definitely be looking forward to book two. This author hit a home run on his debut novel. It was an easy to read page turner. A definite must read for fans of Tom Clancy.
January 27, 2021
This book for me took a bit of time to get going however as soon as it did, I couldn’t put it down. Well worth a read.
October 4, 2020
I read a fair bit of post-apocalyptic/dystopian fiction (and have been one of the few to find comfort in it this strange 2020 we are having), but I haven't read one with such a military slant before(sure plenty have elements of it, or are even set in military contexts but this was different again). I am so very pleased that I gave this one a go.
An asteroid has hit Earth, and the world is dealing with the consequences. Minneci both thrusts you right in the middle of things, which takes some adjusting, and slowly releases information to world build as the story unfolds.
Like most post apocalyptic novels, the world has gone to pieces. Violence is the only way to survive. Different parts of America have been taken over by various gang type factions, armoured against the rest of the world. Bishop, ex air force, has made it to Manhattan Island, where in return for the relative safety of the island fort, he works an 8 hour shift piloting drones to blow up any one attempting to make their way across the water to x. Life is a relentless routine of work (including second jobs just to survive), sleep, struggle, repeat.
Then, he is given a mission to complete in 48 hours that, if successful, would enable him to live without debt and to bring his wife, Tessa, to the walled island as well. And so the mission begins…
The Black Sky is written in present tense with a slightly unusual cadence (can’t quite put my finger on it, but you soon get used to it - I think it adds to the near future setting ) which helps create the sense of urgency needed to drive a book like this forward. While reasonably explicit in specific military detail, it doesn’t take itself too seriously. In fact there is a hilarious passage written in the voice of a previous mission attempter, illustrating that gung ho long-winded, endlessly diverging operational anecdotes in which he would often refer to himself proudly in the third person’' type character that a lesser novel might present.
There is something incredibly vivid about the world Minneci builds. Maybe it is because I watch and read a lot of post apocalyptic material, but I was surprised at how quickly my mind created the visuals to accompany the words. As Bishop travels on his mission, I easily could relate it to the visuals of Mad Max in parts, and from me that is high praise!
Something I didn't expect - twists. Clever and acutally surprising twists. I tend to see twists coming from a mile off, so not expecting them in this made them even more at times exclaim-out-loud delicious. The characters were also really well written - you get to know Bishop and his wife Tessa (who is just fabulous, if I have to choose a post-apoc person to be in a hard to survive future, I pick her), as well as quite a few other supporting characters, and each one is very much their own person.
I did waver between 4 and 5 stars for this, one personal criticism was at the start there were too many adverbs used to describe speech, and as the author describes himself as a big King fan, he should know that that is the biggest no-no in King's On Writing book. But I got over myself with that one and before too long was at the not wanting to put it down stage, so decided to round up rather than down.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
An asteroid has hit Earth, and the world is dealing with the consequences. Minneci both thrusts you right in the middle of things, which takes some adjusting, and slowly releases information to world build as the story unfolds.
Like most post apocalyptic novels, the world has gone to pieces. Violence is the only way to survive. Different parts of America have been taken over by various gang type factions, armoured against the rest of the world. Bishop, ex air force, has made it to Manhattan Island, where in return for the relative safety of the island fort, he works an 8 hour shift piloting drones to blow up any one attempting to make their way across the water to x. Life is a relentless routine of work (including second jobs just to survive), sleep, struggle, repeat.
Then, he is given a mission to complete in 48 hours that, if successful, would enable him to live without debt and to bring his wife, Tessa, to the walled island as well. And so the mission begins…
The Black Sky is written in present tense with a slightly unusual cadence (can’t quite put my finger on it, but you soon get used to it - I think it adds to the near future setting ) which helps create the sense of urgency needed to drive a book like this forward. While reasonably explicit in specific military detail, it doesn’t take itself too seriously. In fact there is a hilarious passage written in the voice of a previous mission attempter, illustrating that gung ho long-winded, endlessly diverging operational anecdotes in which he would often refer to himself proudly in the third person’' type character that a lesser novel might present.
There is something incredibly vivid about the world Minneci builds. Maybe it is because I watch and read a lot of post apocalyptic material, but I was surprised at how quickly my mind created the visuals to accompany the words. As Bishop travels on his mission, I easily could relate it to the visuals of Mad Max in parts, and from me that is high praise!
Something I didn't expect - twists. Clever and acutally surprising twists. I tend to see twists coming from a mile off, so not expecting them in this made them even more at times exclaim-out-loud delicious. The characters were also really well written - you get to know Bishop and his wife Tessa (who is just fabulous, if I have to choose a post-apoc person to be in a hard to survive future, I pick her), as well as quite a few other supporting characters, and each one is very much their own person.
I did waver between 4 and 5 stars for this, one personal criticism was at the start there were too many adverbs used to describe speech, and as the author describes himself as a big King fan, he should know that that is the biggest no-no in King's On Writing book. But I got over myself with that one and before too long was at the not wanting to put it down stage, so decided to round up rather than down.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2021
An action-packed post-apocalyptic drama.
I am a fan of dystopian novels and this one did not disappoint. A dark world filled with haves and have nots; most of the general population are left scraping a living and some will risk, and lose, everything trying for a better life on the other side of the Manhattan Island sea wall.
Bishop works 2 jobs in Manhattan Island. Even this will take 2 years to build enough credits to bring his wife Tessa over to safety. When he accepts a high risk mission which will guarantee her passage to be with him once more, he embarks on a perilous, adrenaline- fuelled adventure like no other.
Several times I thought I could see where the story was going, only for another clever twist to prove me wrong and open up unexpected plot lines, fraught with danger. It’s a land where you don’t know who to trust and it’s easy to get on the wrong side.
I absolutely loved it. The author’s description of a land laid to waste and people making their way in this new and dangerous world had me captivated from start to finish. Action packed and filled with great characters. A brilliant story, together with a very satisfying ending.
I received a complimentary copy of the novel from the author and, in return, am giving an honest review.
I am a fan of dystopian novels and this one did not disappoint. A dark world filled with haves and have nots; most of the general population are left scraping a living and some will risk, and lose, everything trying for a better life on the other side of the Manhattan Island sea wall.
Bishop works 2 jobs in Manhattan Island. Even this will take 2 years to build enough credits to bring his wife Tessa over to safety. When he accepts a high risk mission which will guarantee her passage to be with him once more, he embarks on a perilous, adrenaline- fuelled adventure like no other.
Several times I thought I could see where the story was going, only for another clever twist to prove me wrong and open up unexpected plot lines, fraught with danger. It’s a land where you don’t know who to trust and it’s easy to get on the wrong side.
I absolutely loved it. The author’s description of a land laid to waste and people making their way in this new and dangerous world had me captivated from start to finish. Action packed and filled with great characters. A brilliant story, together with a very satisfying ending.
I received a complimentary copy of the novel from the author and, in return, am giving an honest review.
March 28, 2021
An interesting premise for a post apocalyptic thriller.
The book started really well with Bishop's story and how he was within the walls of the privileged city and his wife Tessa surviving outwith the Manhattan walls.
I really enjoyed both their stories and in particular I felt my pulse beating when Tessa is taken hostage and how she copes......
The story of the leaders of this world was a bit complicated or not clearly described and the crossing and double crossing was at times hard to follow.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily, so I really did not want to mark down this book, however it lost a star because I find the military jargon and minutiae description of weapons very boring. Maybe this is my older female demographic speaking and younger people of any gender might enjoy that a lot more.
Overall an interesting thriller of how Bishop and his allies extract the target and how his wife copes by herself and fights when taken hostage.
The book started really well with Bishop's story and how he was within the walls of the privileged city and his wife Tessa surviving outwith the Manhattan walls.
I really enjoyed both their stories and in particular I felt my pulse beating when Tessa is taken hostage and how she copes......
The story of the leaders of this world was a bit complicated or not clearly described and the crossing and double crossing was at times hard to follow.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily, so I really did not want to mark down this book, however it lost a star because I find the military jargon and minutiae description of weapons very boring. Maybe this is my older female demographic speaking and younger people of any gender might enjoy that a lot more.
Overall an interesting thriller of how Bishop and his allies extract the target and how his wife copes by herself and fights when taken hostage.
August 7, 2020
Post- Apocalyptic Manhattan, Bishop is Ex Military on an important, life altering extraction mission. Once he is successful his wife Tessa will be granted passage to the island safely. But of course it won't be a simple task in a lawless waste land that is now the world. Bishop is in for a wild ride, twists and turns at every corner, amazing hi tech machinery & weaponry that he uses with such ease it's almost believable it is real stuff [ha! Easily said for someone who is blindsided about that kinda stuff like me] Then you have his wife Tessa who is living in this lawless land, who is a knife PRO! Holy moly this woman is amazing!
.
This is Sci-fi, post- Apocalyptic heaven!!!! From the well written story to the kick A$$ characters. So fast paced, action packed it didn't take me long to breeze through this one
.
This is Sci-fi, post- Apocalyptic heaven!!!! From the well written story to the kick A$$ characters. So fast paced, action packed it didn't take me long to breeze through this one
September 2, 2020
I knew by the synopsis that this book would pique my interest, and it did not disappoint. I loved the post-apocalyptic world that Mr. Minneci created and the awesome use of futuristic weaponry. If post-apocalyptic thrillers are your thing, you will absolutely love this story. I loved following Bishop through this post-apocalyptic world. I can't wait to read more books by this author. I would most definitely recommend.
December 2, 2020
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only.
This book was very well written and I didn’t want to put it down! I was really excited that Maine played a big part in this book (I’m a Mainer and love when Maine is brought up in media). The characters were well developed and I wasn’t expecting the actual reason why he wanted the Dr. from Maine. I can’t wait for the second!
This book was very well written and I didn’t want to put it down! I was really excited that Maine played a big part in this book (I’m a Mainer and love when Maine is brought up in media). The characters were well developed and I wasn’t expecting the actual reason why he wanted the Dr. from Maine. I can’t wait for the second!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. I was wary of reading a dystopian novel right now due to current events, but I’m glad I did! I was hooked after the first chapter and didn’t want to put it down. The detailed descriptions of the weapons were lost on me, but other readers may enjoy. I look forward to the next book in the series!
October 10, 2020
Post apocalyptic world ✔️
Villians who think they know what is best for everyone else ✔️
Good guy who just want to reunite with their wife and live happily ever after ✔️
Lots of layers of plot, that sometimes were accepted without much pushback from characters who I would expect to be more sceptical.
Overall a solid adventure with potential for future installments.
Villians who think they know what is best for everyone else ✔️
Good guy who just want to reunite with their wife and live happily ever after ✔️
Lots of layers of plot, that sometimes were accepted without much pushback from characters who I would expect to be more sceptical.
Overall a solid adventure with potential for future installments.
January 7, 2021
This is quite a "post-apocalyptic adventure"! Dark, but with some light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel (which isn't an oncoming train!).
It's a post "chicuxlub" (or however you spell it) adventure, with pockets of civilization and technology (but civilization is not the same as technology).
I really like the fast-moving and complex plotline. I enjoyed the protagonists--I thought they were interesting, and reacted well.
I'm a bit disappointed that my "willing suspension of disbelief" was broken several times. The economics of the post-apocalypse are hard to believe, and the string of coincidences necessary to make the plot work out are a bit too contrived--but the book is hard to put down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It's a post "chicuxlub" (or however you spell it) adventure, with pockets of civilization and technology (but civilization is not the same as technology).
I really like the fast-moving and complex plotline. I enjoyed the protagonists--I thought they were interesting, and reacted well.
I'm a bit disappointed that my "willing suspension of disbelief" was broken several times. The economics of the post-apocalypse are hard to believe, and the string of coincidences necessary to make the plot work out are a bit too contrived--but the book is hard to put down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 9, 2020
Received as a review copy, this is an honest review. A beautifully written, emotional thriller that is filled with haunting revelations mixed with plenty of hope. Highly recommended.
June 26, 2020
The black sky is a post-apocalyptic story set in Manhattan. It is the first book of a trilogy, and the story begins with Bishop working off to clear his citizenship dept. An offer comes with a task. Bishop’s dept is cleared if she goes to the free city of Bangor and kidnaps a doctor who can save Manhattan’s CEO.
On the other hand, Tessa has had many years living outside the corporation- controlled cities across the US. Years of surviving in the lawless environment have had much effect on the protagonist. There is a chance for her return. Betrayal, deception, triumph, and a great deal of adventure takes place in this futuristic story.
I particularly enjoyed the weaponry and advanced technology the story possessed. The pace was faced, and Bishop’s personality was very engaging. The entire story took me by surprise as I wasn’t expecting to like it this much.
I recommend it to anyone who likes dystopian, sci-fi thriller stories.
On the other hand, Tessa has had many years living outside the corporation- controlled cities across the US. Years of surviving in the lawless environment have had much effect on the protagonist. There is a chance for her return. Betrayal, deception, triumph, and a great deal of adventure takes place in this futuristic story.
I particularly enjoyed the weaponry and advanced technology the story possessed. The pace was faced, and Bishop’s personality was very engaging. The entire story took me by surprise as I wasn’t expecting to like it this much.
I recommend it to anyone who likes dystopian, sci-fi thriller stories.
May 12, 2021
The Black Sky is a solid military-esque post-apocalyptic adventure novel with plenty of twists and turns to keep your attention. The plot summary of The Black Sky initially pulled me in because of my obsession with all things post apocalyptic/dystopian and it did not disappoint in that department. All in all it was an interesting and action packed read.
March 31, 2021
An extremely well written piece of fiction set in post- apocalyptic Manhattan. Bishop is an ex military member of the new city who is sent on an extraction mission, which once successfully executed, will allow his wife access to the island. His wife, Tessa, is outside the city and is in survival mode until she is able to secure entry into Manhattan. Much in the vein of Stephen King's The Stand, this book is eerily relatable, given the current state of global events.
Minneci clearly has great command of the English language and has captured the essence of a popular idea into which he has breathed new life. The plot twists are totally unexpected but believable. I was a little lost with some of the intricately described weaponry, but that is solely due to my complete lack of knowledge in that area- Minneci did a superb job creating hi tech armament and artillery. The characters are artfully fleshed out, and I felt personally connected to the protagonists.
I look forward to the next installment in the series- I'm eager to find out what happens next!!
Minneci clearly has great command of the English language and has captured the essence of a popular idea into which he has breathed new life. The plot twists are totally unexpected but believable. I was a little lost with some of the intricately described weaponry, but that is solely due to my complete lack of knowledge in that area- Minneci did a superb job creating hi tech armament and artillery. The characters are artfully fleshed out, and I felt personally connected to the protagonists.
I look forward to the next installment in the series- I'm eager to find out what happens next!!
November 12, 2020
You can check out my full review at mediadrome.wordpress.com
This was a pretty solid first novel. Although I feel that in the end, I just wasn’t the best audience for it, I still overall enjoyed it. Ultimately, I look for more by way of character- and world-building, but if you’re looking for a post-apocalyptic action-driven thrill ride, you might want to check this one out.
I received this as an advance review copy from the author.
This was a pretty solid first novel. Although I feel that in the end, I just wasn’t the best audience for it, I still overall enjoyed it. Ultimately, I look for more by way of character- and world-building, but if you’re looking for a post-apocalyptic action-driven thrill ride, you might want to check this one out.
I received this as an advance review copy from the author.
October 4, 2021
Fast paced read, I really enjoyed it! Got it as part of Voracious readers to review when finished and I’m happy I selected this one. I enjoyed this take on dystopian/apocalyptic science fiction. It had a military slant to it but wasn’t bogged down by a lot of jargon that left me bewildered and wanting to check out of the story. Looking forward to more!
Read
October 12, 2021This book was quite fun and interesting, set in an apocalyptic, dangerous world. The premise was dead interesting and written well. I found that I was sat there thinking to myself.. this is like a Bond book thrown in an apocalyptical world.
But, the writing was overall good, the plot interesting so I would recommend reading this!
But, the writing was overall good, the plot interesting so I would recommend reading this!
June 15, 2021
A really good read.
July 15, 2020
Minecci spins a dystopian tale of a post apocalyptic United States where billionaires who profited off of a meteoric disaster rule major cities, which are considered safe zones.
Upon receiving my advanced copy of this book, I was very excited to get into the narrative. Upon finishing it, I have a lot of questions I want answered! I have to commend this book for an excellent plot line and a story that is almost believable. The constant driving action is really what earned it its three stars. Many characters complemented the action, specifically Tessa, Kel, Lamb, and Sarah. These characters had a very authentic feel and you can easily understand their own turmoil while living in the dangerous world they do.
This can not be said for our main character, Bishop. If I had to describe Bishop in one word, I couldn’t. He has no personality. We don’t know how he thinks, we don’t know his motivations outside of wanting Tessa to live inside of Manhattan’s walls and, even then, we don’t really understand his love for her. I think the author may have taken for granted the audience’s assumption of the main character as good and just without really being shown any of it. It truly feels like things just happen to Bishop. When he is the one to think of an idea, there maybe a sentence of context for how he arrived at that thought, but it still almost feels random. My biggest qualm with this book is that I don’t know the main character at all. Honestly, I felt more connected to secondary characters like Lamb and Takeshi because they had feelings and acted on them.
I also feel a lack of direction when it comes to character morality. Decisions are made but we don’t always know why or the characters motive. Additionally, there is a system in place in which our main characters now have influence and we don’t find them wanting to dismantle it or keep it in place. They don’t even wonder about it! I find that this books lacks the necessary philosophical questions to keep the reader thinking and engaged. It begs the question, what is the purpose of writing this book? What are themes? What is there to unpack and infer. That’s what twist endings and plot lines are borne of, after all.
I find that the ending chapters truly pick up speed and help round our characters out quite a bit. If the writing throughout the book were like the writing here, this would easily be a 4.5 star novel. We finally see our main characters, even Bishop, start to show emotion, morality, and then make decisions based on both of those things.
I gave this book 3 stars because the plot is original and very entertaining. It did not earn more stars because I feel that the characters lack engagement with the reader.
Upon receiving my advanced copy of this book, I was very excited to get into the narrative. Upon finishing it, I have a lot of questions I want answered! I have to commend this book for an excellent plot line and a story that is almost believable. The constant driving action is really what earned it its three stars. Many characters complemented the action, specifically Tessa, Kel, Lamb, and Sarah. These characters had a very authentic feel and you can easily understand their own turmoil while living in the dangerous world they do.
This can not be said for our main character, Bishop. If I had to describe Bishop in one word, I couldn’t. He has no personality. We don’t know how he thinks, we don’t know his motivations outside of wanting Tessa to live inside of Manhattan’s walls and, even then, we don’t really understand his love for her. I think the author may have taken for granted the audience’s assumption of the main character as good and just without really being shown any of it. It truly feels like things just happen to Bishop. When he is the one to think of an idea, there maybe a sentence of context for how he arrived at that thought, but it still almost feels random. My biggest qualm with this book is that I don’t know the main character at all. Honestly, I felt more connected to secondary characters like Lamb and Takeshi because they had feelings and acted on them.
I also feel a lack of direction when it comes to character morality. Decisions are made but we don’t always know why or the characters motive. Additionally, there is a system in place in which our main characters now have influence and we don’t find them wanting to dismantle it or keep it in place. They don’t even wonder about it! I find that this books lacks the necessary philosophical questions to keep the reader thinking and engaged. It begs the question, what is the purpose of writing this book? What are themes? What is there to unpack and infer. That’s what twist endings and plot lines are borne of, after all.
I find that the ending chapters truly pick up speed and help round our characters out quite a bit. If the writing throughout the book were like the writing here, this would easily be a 4.5 star novel. We finally see our main characters, even Bishop, start to show emotion, morality, and then make decisions based on both of those things.
I gave this book 3 stars because the plot is original and very entertaining. It did not earn more stars because I feel that the characters lack engagement with the reader.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2020
A dystopian, militaristic story that will keep you tightly in it’s grip.
Back when I first started posting regularly on my blog, I was approached by the author of this book with an offer. It was the first review request I ever received and I was stoked! The fact that it was a science fiction dystopia made me even more excited to read it. I have to take a moment to thank Timothy Minneci for sending me a copy in exchange for this honest review. It was very much appreciated! I should also apologize for taking so long to finally get this review up (the book was released in August 😳). I’ve been having a time trying to corral all my thoughts about The Black Sky into something coherent! But, having finished the book and sitting with my thoughts for a bit, it’s time to get them out!
First and foremost, this book has quite a bit going for it. It has a grim landscape built on the backdrop of Manhattan after an apocalyptic event has crippled the planet. The atmosphere of this book is dark and will have you glad you can escape just by closing it! The things our main characters have to suffer through are intense and it’s written in a way that is incredibly gripping. I think the author did a great job of building up that gritty atmosphere and making you feel the despair of this particular dystopia.
Another aspect of the book that I really enjoyed was the characters. The book is mainly focused on Bishop, an ex-Air Force officer who is sent on a mission to help save the leader of Manhattan. Several other “assests” have been sent out and lost before Bishop, so he knows he very well may not make it back. So why volunteer? Because of the promise of being reunited with his wife, Tessa, who is stuck in the Free Zone outside of the heavily guarded city. Bishop is such an interesting character and has a lot of depth to him. His motivation is clear and never wavers: he loves his wife and wants her back with him. But he also has layers to him that peek out throughout the story. Tessa is also a pretty awesome character, with a lot of heart and brains. The other players in this book don’t feel quite as fleshed out as Bishop and Tessa, but I still enjoyed them (or loved to hate them) overall.
Lamb can kick rocks, tho.
I think one thing that didn’t work so well for me was the pacing. We start off with a lot going on: the setting is getting established, the mission parameters are laid out, and the action gets rolling pretty quickly. But, then, it starts to drag. The bits focusing on Bishop while he’s on his dangerous mission are great! They kept my interest and kept me on the edge of my seat. But there are moments where we are focused on the, for lack of a better word, upper management of Manhattan and a certain character (Lamb… the one who can kick rocks) trying to make a power play. And, honestly, I could not care less. I just found my interest straying during those moments and I couldn’t wait to get back to the action.
Also, there is a lot of military jargon in this book. Like… a lot. To the point that it could be a bit much. Of course, this book is centered around an ex-military man going on a rather military mission, so I get it. But it was still a bit overwhelming to me. It made sense in the story, it didn’t feel misplaced, I just didn’t care for it. Your mileage may vary!
Final thoughts: Overall, this was an interesting story with a lot of action and a very satisfying ending. The pacing does drag a bit when you’re not focused on the central mission and there’s a fair bit of military jargon, but I still think this was a solid book with an intriguing message and fascinating characters. If you like gritty dystopian novels with a militaristic flavor, I think you would really enjoy this book!
Back when I first started posting regularly on my blog, I was approached by the author of this book with an offer. It was the first review request I ever received and I was stoked! The fact that it was a science fiction dystopia made me even more excited to read it. I have to take a moment to thank Timothy Minneci for sending me a copy in exchange for this honest review. It was very much appreciated! I should also apologize for taking so long to finally get this review up (the book was released in August 😳). I’ve been having a time trying to corral all my thoughts about The Black Sky into something coherent! But, having finished the book and sitting with my thoughts for a bit, it’s time to get them out!
First and foremost, this book has quite a bit going for it. It has a grim landscape built on the backdrop of Manhattan after an apocalyptic event has crippled the planet. The atmosphere of this book is dark and will have you glad you can escape just by closing it! The things our main characters have to suffer through are intense and it’s written in a way that is incredibly gripping. I think the author did a great job of building up that gritty atmosphere and making you feel the despair of this particular dystopia.
Another aspect of the book that I really enjoyed was the characters. The book is mainly focused on Bishop, an ex-Air Force officer who is sent on a mission to help save the leader of Manhattan. Several other “assests” have been sent out and lost before Bishop, so he knows he very well may not make it back. So why volunteer? Because of the promise of being reunited with his wife, Tessa, who is stuck in the Free Zone outside of the heavily guarded city. Bishop is such an interesting character and has a lot of depth to him. His motivation is clear and never wavers: he loves his wife and wants her back with him. But he also has layers to him that peek out throughout the story. Tessa is also a pretty awesome character, with a lot of heart and brains. The other players in this book don’t feel quite as fleshed out as Bishop and Tessa, but I still enjoyed them (or loved to hate them) overall.
Lamb can kick rocks, tho.
I think one thing that didn’t work so well for me was the pacing. We start off with a lot going on: the setting is getting established, the mission parameters are laid out, and the action gets rolling pretty quickly. But, then, it starts to drag. The bits focusing on Bishop while he’s on his dangerous mission are great! They kept my interest and kept me on the edge of my seat. But there are moments where we are focused on the, for lack of a better word, upper management of Manhattan and a certain character (Lamb… the one who can kick rocks) trying to make a power play. And, honestly, I could not care less. I just found my interest straying during those moments and I couldn’t wait to get back to the action.
Also, there is a lot of military jargon in this book. Like… a lot. To the point that it could be a bit much. Of course, this book is centered around an ex-military man going on a rather military mission, so I get it. But it was still a bit overwhelming to me. It made sense in the story, it didn’t feel misplaced, I just didn’t care for it. Your mileage may vary!
Final thoughts: Overall, this was an interesting story with a lot of action and a very satisfying ending. The pacing does drag a bit when you’re not focused on the central mission and there’s a fair bit of military jargon, but I still think this was a solid book with an intriguing message and fascinating characters. If you like gritty dystopian novels with a militaristic flavor, I think you would really enjoy this book!
September 1, 2020
Thanks to the author for reaching out and sharing his book - the opinions are my own.
This is a pretty quick read with lots of action - chase scenes and escapes and close calls. The dystopian story is set in the future when an asteroid hit has decimated most of the world and the US has consolidated into 15 walled cities. Everywhere else is a wasteland populated by gangs and thugs.
The premise is interesting: a man (with some former military experience) is asked to drive thru the wastelands, retrieve someone from another city and return to Manhattan within 48 hours. The dangers he faces along the way, the people he meets that change his outlook, and the final confrontation are all somewhat formulaic and kind of superficial. I don't feel like there was enough attention given to the why in his change of heart. None of the characters was particularly memorable; they had fairly common personalities.
For me, the book had too much tech toys to be truly dystopian, so from that standpoint, it didn't meet my expectations - which is no fault of the author's. If you enjoy stories with a strong military vibe and some cool new tech stuff, this is likely a book you'll enjoy. I'd probably rate it a 2.5-3.
This is a pretty quick read with lots of action - chase scenes and escapes and close calls. The dystopian story is set in the future when an asteroid hit has decimated most of the world and the US has consolidated into 15 walled cities. Everywhere else is a wasteland populated by gangs and thugs.
The premise is interesting: a man (with some former military experience) is asked to drive thru the wastelands, retrieve someone from another city and return to Manhattan within 48 hours. The dangers he faces along the way, the people he meets that change his outlook, and the final confrontation are all somewhat formulaic and kind of superficial. I don't feel like there was enough attention given to the why in his change of heart. None of the characters was particularly memorable; they had fairly common personalities.
For me, the book had too much tech toys to be truly dystopian, so from that standpoint, it didn't meet my expectations - which is no fault of the author's. If you enjoy stories with a strong military vibe and some cool new tech stuff, this is likely a book you'll enjoy. I'd probably rate it a 2.5-3.
January 2, 2021
So, first thing, I did not finish this book. I could only make it to page 70. I did still give the book 2 stars because I do really think the story had a lot of potential!
I received a complimentary copy of it from the author through Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review.
As far as why I couldn't finish the book. There was way too much description for everything. I remember one scene in particular where the author describes how the guy was working a tablet. There were MANY more instances of over-description throughout.
I also don't feel like this book was properly edited. There were some basic grammar moments that I feel like would have been resolved had the book went through some more editing.
As I mentioned above, I really loved the story idea!! I truly think it it could end up being a 4 to 5 star rating! I also really liked the cover art! In fact, it's what originally drew me to give this book a chance.
As far as if anybody still wants to give it a chance, it has a lot of military vibes to it. Also, there is definitely an apocalyptic air to it.
I received a complimentary copy of it from the author through Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review.
As far as why I couldn't finish the book. There was way too much description for everything. I remember one scene in particular where the author describes how the guy was working a tablet. There were MANY more instances of over-description throughout.
I also don't feel like this book was properly edited. There were some basic grammar moments that I feel like would have been resolved had the book went through some more editing.
As I mentioned above, I really loved the story idea!! I truly think it it could end up being a 4 to 5 star rating! I also really liked the cover art! In fact, it's what originally drew me to give this book a chance.
As far as if anybody still wants to give it a chance, it has a lot of military vibes to it. Also, there is definitely an apocalyptic air to it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews