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IN THE STRANGE labyrinth of pipes on the planet called Dark, things are falling apart. Dun doesn't want to be a hero, he just wants to find an answer to the terrifying dreams he's been having. But the answers, the real answers, are going to take him places he's never imagined and tear him from the only home he's ever known.
With a half finished map from his missing father, an old friend, a new friend and the mysterious Myrch to guide him, he journeys through parts of his world he's never imagined. Are his dreams real foretellings? Who can he trust to be who they say there are? What are the strange forces that seem to be literally pulling their world apart?
As he travels through a world that is much bigger than he thought it was, what he won't know will kill him. And everyone he knows.
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Published September 14, 2020
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About the author
Paul L. Arvidson
6 books97 followersPAUL ARVIDSON is a forty-something ex lighting designer who lives in rural Somerset. He juggles his non-author time bringing up his children and fighting against being sucked into his wife’s chicken breeding business.
The Dark Trilogy is his Sci-Fi Fantasy series. He has also written The Wheels of Cady Grey a thriller and the start of the Cady Grey series. Book 2 comes out next year.
The Dark Trilogy is his Sci-Fi Fantasy series. He has also written The Wheels of Cady Grey a thriller and the start of the Cady Grey series. Book 2 comes out next year.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
May 15, 2019
This was a good story that could have been great if it had been properly edited. It frequently was focussed on one character only to jump to another character who was somewhere else in the next sentence. It was a bit jarring and kept me from staying immersed in the story.
As for the story itself, Leland’s review is better than anything I could have written:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
As for the story itself, Leland’s review is better than anything I could have written:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
June 24, 2018
Dark, Unique & Fascinating!
Dark is an unexpected hybrid, part science fiction and part heroic fantasy. The residents of the place known as the Dark inhabit a labyrinth of pipes and drains surrounding a central aqueduct known as the River, and readers will quickly realize that it is a created world rather than an organic one.
Dun, a budding shaman, and his boisterous friend Padj, along with a clever alchemist named Tali and their mysterious guide, Myrch, are tasked with following the River to its source and finding out what has become of their clan’s upstream neighbors.
As the title implies, the Dark is a world almost entirely without light. Its inhabitants have evolved to navigate their enclosed home by sound, smell, and “air sense,” and the author does such a skillful job of describing the group’s surroundings through those senses that it took me a while to deduce whether or not the heroes were truly without conventional sight.
Danger and horror aplenty await in the Dark, along with more than a couple of surprising discoveries. Having something of a morbid fascination with the effect of radioactive substances on living tissue, I found the group’s brief encounter with the Chakka folk to be a truly grim surprise.
I greatly enjoyed following Dun, Tali, and Padj through the twists and turns of this dark tale, and I was sad to see the book come to an end. I’ll definitely be looking forward to the next installment in the series!
Dark is an unexpected hybrid, part science fiction and part heroic fantasy. The residents of the place known as the Dark inhabit a labyrinth of pipes and drains surrounding a central aqueduct known as the River, and readers will quickly realize that it is a created world rather than an organic one.
Dun, a budding shaman, and his boisterous friend Padj, along with a clever alchemist named Tali and their mysterious guide, Myrch, are tasked with following the River to its source and finding out what has become of their clan’s upstream neighbors.
As the title implies, the Dark is a world almost entirely without light. Its inhabitants have evolved to navigate their enclosed home by sound, smell, and “air sense,” and the author does such a skillful job of describing the group’s surroundings through those senses that it took me a while to deduce whether or not the heroes were truly without conventional sight.
Danger and horror aplenty await in the Dark, along with more than a couple of surprising discoveries. Having something of a morbid fascination with the effect of radioactive substances on living tissue, I found the group’s brief encounter with the Chakka folk to be a truly grim surprise.
I greatly enjoyed following Dun, Tali, and Padj through the twists and turns of this dark tale, and I was sad to see the book come to an end. I’ll definitely be looking forward to the next installment in the series!
April 29, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, and found the world to be impressively imagined and incredibly fresh. Maybe other people have had this idea before, but I’ve never come across it, and it was amazing to me.
SPOILERS MIGHT FOLLOW though not on story outcome...
Basically, because the characters live in a world without light, they can’t see. But the reader isn’t told that and only gradually comes to understand that their senses do not include sight. They do however include air sense, whereby individuals can sense the movement of air, I imagine somewhat like bats (only they bounce sound), and so move around in their lightless world with confidence, as well as an enhanced sense of smell.
The world itself is also extraordinary, in that the reader gradually comes to understand that it’s probably underground but also is a manmade environment, with references to bridges over the river pipe, walkways, fans, metal walls etc etc.
The main characters are members of “the folk,” amongst whom there are different groups or tribes. Dun is one of the bridge people, a cheerful and friendly bunch. They are somewhat reliant on fishing from the river pipe, but the water flow is lessening and the fish have disappeared. Along with his very good friend Padj and a smart and lively alchemist called Tali he is sent on a quest to find out what has happened to the furthest and most farflung of their kind, the Machine Folk, way up near the river’s source. To do this he must take his father’s map (dad disappeared a long time ago), and get through a number of less friendly folk’s territories.
Times and distances are measured in their specific terms – clicks, cycles, spans. There is writing in this world, but it is done with a stylus – so presumably communicates through texture and touch. We don’t get a very clear idea what the Folk look like (for obvious reasons) but do pick up that they’re not terribly tall, that Dun is a stockier than others he meets later, and that they have fur. There is a kind of ship’s log/space diary at the beginning of the chapters, which gives snippets of insight.
One snippet suggests that the Folk have evolved from the pets or domesticated animals of early human settlers many years ago (they are mammalian). Hm. Language, tools, written communication, sophisticated economy and trade – seems more likely they’ve evolved from the humans themselves, but we’ll see…
Anyway: the tone is positive and upbeat, with all three main protagonists extremely likeable and showing a strong vein of humour. Dun is patient, scholarly and thoughtful, and makes a fine contrast to his noisier and more ebullient companions. But for all the upbeat tone, there is more than enough conflict and threat to maintain dramatic tension.
I could puzzle that fish and plants could survive in this underground world without light, but I won’t. I’ll assume plant species have evolved to synthesize thermal energy (or something), rather than photo.
Because I am that super-picky reader: sometimes the action isn’t quite clear enough – there are too many exclamations, rather than explanation of what’s actually happening. Also, there are sometimes switches between scenes without line breaks, which makes it slightly less clear and easy to follow than it could be. Motivations are sometimes murky: I was unclear why Myrch left the three folk at the bandit town (Rivertown, was it?), when they’d overshot their destination and he gave no reason for going ashore. So then they predictably lost their craft straightaway to thieves.
Lastly, I wasn’t quite sure about the final section once Dun split from Padj and Tali. It didn’t quite fit with the rest of the narrative arc and felt rather tacked on: the story could almost have finished right there, with the split. I wonder if it would have been cleaner, with the stage set for the next stage in their adventures?
But anyway, they’re all minor quibbles. Great characters, and a refreshingly different, incredibly imagined world. I found myself quite worried at the end, when oblivious Dun and friends are warned by their dying and traitorous guide that they can’t win against the cruel and warlike Over-folk, because they have “ss-i…”. As well as weapons, and guns. How could you even explain to them what sight is? Really fascinating concept – far more engaging than the blurb led me to expect! Four stars plus!!
For more of Brin's reviews go to:
http://www.brinmurray.com/
SPOILERS MIGHT FOLLOW though not on story outcome...
Basically, because the characters live in a world without light, they can’t see. But the reader isn’t told that and only gradually comes to understand that their senses do not include sight. They do however include air sense, whereby individuals can sense the movement of air, I imagine somewhat like bats (only they bounce sound), and so move around in their lightless world with confidence, as well as an enhanced sense of smell.
The world itself is also extraordinary, in that the reader gradually comes to understand that it’s probably underground but also is a manmade environment, with references to bridges over the river pipe, walkways, fans, metal walls etc etc.
The main characters are members of “the folk,” amongst whom there are different groups or tribes. Dun is one of the bridge people, a cheerful and friendly bunch. They are somewhat reliant on fishing from the river pipe, but the water flow is lessening and the fish have disappeared. Along with his very good friend Padj and a smart and lively alchemist called Tali he is sent on a quest to find out what has happened to the furthest and most farflung of their kind, the Machine Folk, way up near the river’s source. To do this he must take his father’s map (dad disappeared a long time ago), and get through a number of less friendly folk’s territories.
Times and distances are measured in their specific terms – clicks, cycles, spans. There is writing in this world, but it is done with a stylus – so presumably communicates through texture and touch. We don’t get a very clear idea what the Folk look like (for obvious reasons) but do pick up that they’re not terribly tall, that Dun is a stockier than others he meets later, and that they have fur. There is a kind of ship’s log/space diary at the beginning of the chapters, which gives snippets of insight.
One snippet suggests that the Folk have evolved from the pets or domesticated animals of early human settlers many years ago (they are mammalian). Hm. Language, tools, written communication, sophisticated economy and trade – seems more likely they’ve evolved from the humans themselves, but we’ll see…
Anyway: the tone is positive and upbeat, with all three main protagonists extremely likeable and showing a strong vein of humour. Dun is patient, scholarly and thoughtful, and makes a fine contrast to his noisier and more ebullient companions. But for all the upbeat tone, there is more than enough conflict and threat to maintain dramatic tension.
I could puzzle that fish and plants could survive in this underground world without light, but I won’t. I’ll assume plant species have evolved to synthesize thermal energy (or something), rather than photo.
Because I am that super-picky reader: sometimes the action isn’t quite clear enough – there are too many exclamations, rather than explanation of what’s actually happening. Also, there are sometimes switches between scenes without line breaks, which makes it slightly less clear and easy to follow than it could be. Motivations are sometimes murky: I was unclear why Myrch left the three folk at the bandit town (Rivertown, was it?), when they’d overshot their destination and he gave no reason for going ashore. So then they predictably lost their craft straightaway to thieves.
Lastly, I wasn’t quite sure about the final section once Dun split from Padj and Tali. It didn’t quite fit with the rest of the narrative arc and felt rather tacked on: the story could almost have finished right there, with the split. I wonder if it would have been cleaner, with the stage set for the next stage in their adventures?
But anyway, they’re all minor quibbles. Great characters, and a refreshingly different, incredibly imagined world. I found myself quite worried at the end, when oblivious Dun and friends are warned by their dying and traitorous guide that they can’t win against the cruel and warlike Over-folk, because they have “ss-i…”. As well as weapons, and guns. How could you even explain to them what sight is? Really fascinating concept – far more engaging than the blurb led me to expect! Four stars plus!!
For more of Brin's reviews go to:
http://www.brinmurray.com/
April 8, 2023
Dark is an adventurous romp through the pipe system of Dun's planet, known as The River. Dun struggles with his dreams, which he fears may be prophetic, and his mission to discover what has happened to a neighboring clan. With his best friend Padj and their guide Myrch, Dun is exposed to brilliant new discoveries and horrific dangers. He also meets a brilliant alchemist, Tali, who gives him new perspectives. There were a few times the story lulled, but all in all, Dark is an enjoyable read and a world I'd like to know more about via future books!
May 6, 2018
Young Dun, who considers himself a shaman, has been assigned by village elders to carry out a mission that will take him and his two friends through unfamiliar territory. He plans to fill in an incomplete map. They would not have chosen a mysterious character to guide them, but trust him or not, he's part of their travel group. From village to village, the travelers experience many dangers. By journey's end, Dun has changed from a naive youngster to a mature adult with more purpose in mind than when he left.
Point of view characters include Dun and his two friends. Their guide remains mysterious but interesting.
Our heroes inhabit an artificial 'planet', comprised of pipes and concrete. At the beginning I was picturing sky and the outdoors as Dun walked on a path by the river that ordinarily supported fish and, I think, reeds. It was some chapters later that description amply supplied the realization that there is no sky, no outdoors. All life is enclosed in the darkness of pipes that vary in size and shape. Consequently individuals rely not on sight but on an air sense to identify their surroundings. And we ask ourselves if these individuals are humanoids, perhaps the result of eons of evolution to adapt to their odd environment.
I liked these characters. They are developed just enough to show us unique but good humored personalities. That's a great accomplish in writing.
However, though Arvidson gives deep thought to the varied cultures within these pipes, reference to animals, plants, and fungi leave us with questions. During the journey our travelers meet the various peoples, but they never run across plants or animals or fungi. This omission calls for greater story development. Also the story needs proof reading and editing. Never trust a spell checker. It can substitute wrong words, and this story is riddled with wrong words. Besides that, we find typos. And it needs a more logical use of punctuation.
The tale doesn't really end. We get enough satisfaction from a victory of some consequence and from Dun's enlarged sense of purpose, but most questions are not answered. Most loose ends are still loose. Of course this is a signal to read the next book in the series. This is a wonderfully imaginative and witty but serious read that has the potential to be great.
Point of view characters include Dun and his two friends. Their guide remains mysterious but interesting.
Our heroes inhabit an artificial 'planet', comprised of pipes and concrete. At the beginning I was picturing sky and the outdoors as Dun walked on a path by the river that ordinarily supported fish and, I think, reeds. It was some chapters later that description amply supplied the realization that there is no sky, no outdoors. All life is enclosed in the darkness of pipes that vary in size and shape. Consequently individuals rely not on sight but on an air sense to identify their surroundings. And we ask ourselves if these individuals are humanoids, perhaps the result of eons of evolution to adapt to their odd environment.
I liked these characters. They are developed just enough to show us unique but good humored personalities. That's a great accomplish in writing.
However, though Arvidson gives deep thought to the varied cultures within these pipes, reference to animals, plants, and fungi leave us with questions. During the journey our travelers meet the various peoples, but they never run across plants or animals or fungi. This omission calls for greater story development. Also the story needs proof reading and editing. Never trust a spell checker. It can substitute wrong words, and this story is riddled with wrong words. Besides that, we find typos. And it needs a more logical use of punctuation.
The tale doesn't really end. We get enough satisfaction from a victory of some consequence and from Dun's enlarged sense of purpose, but most questions are not answered. Most loose ends are still loose. Of course this is a signal to read the next book in the series. This is a wonderfully imaginative and witty but serious read that has the potential to be great.
April 7, 2018
The storyline and setting of “Dark” are very unusual and original: different groups or 'Folks' live in different sections of an (underground?) world, interlinked with tunnels and pipes. Also, the whole story is happening in utter darkness. Dun, from the Bridge Folk, is sent on a mission to find out why the Machine Folk, who live several layers up, have disappeared. That's quite a feat when you have to do everything in the dark! So in terms of the story, you’ll find a lot of very creative elements. However, in terms of writing style, I often felt disconnected from the story. That may sound critical, but all in all this is a great job for an indie author who has a fantastic imagination. As a reader, you are left with a lot of questions that you look forward to see resolved in the next books.
Some comments on the writing style, with spoiler alerts. First, since everything is dark, the Folks have developed their sense of smell and touch to make up for sight, yet the world we see through Dun's senses wasn’t always clear to me (extensive use of 'seems', 'sort of, 'stuff'). Second, it would seem that the Folks have fur, whiskers and that they stand upright, so the whole time I was trying to figure out if they were human or some type of animal. The thing is, a visually impaired person would be able to describe perfectly what a person/animal looks like, so why not here? Third, incomplete phrases, repetitions and bad punctuation put me off (example of strange phrases: 'Raiders!' he yelled. 'What? Who?' said Ebun. 'Irrelevant,' said Swych. Then to Macky: 'Militia?' 'Done.' 'Where?' 'Bridge.' 'How many?' 'Dozens?'). Fourth, the pacing was sometimes off with sudden, unclear switches in situations (unclear Bridge Folk 'battle', the machine-rat attack, Dun suddenly going off on his own with no opposition from the others, Myrch was a mystery).
Some comments on the writing style, with spoiler alerts. First, since everything is dark, the Folks have developed their sense of smell and touch to make up for sight, yet the world we see through Dun's senses wasn’t always clear to me (extensive use of 'seems', 'sort of, 'stuff'). Second, it would seem that the Folks have fur, whiskers and that they stand upright, so the whole time I was trying to figure out if they were human or some type of animal. The thing is, a visually impaired person would be able to describe perfectly what a person/animal looks like, so why not here? Third, incomplete phrases, repetitions and bad punctuation put me off (example of strange phrases: 'Raiders!' he yelled. 'What? Who?' said Ebun. 'Irrelevant,' said Swych. Then to Macky: 'Militia?' 'Done.' 'Where?' 'Bridge.' 'How many?' 'Dozens?'). Fourth, the pacing was sometimes off with sudden, unclear switches in situations (unclear Bridge Folk 'battle', the machine-rat attack, Dun suddenly going off on his own with no opposition from the others, Myrch was a mystery).
June 5, 2019
Dark (The Dark Series # 1)
By: Paul L. Arvidson
5 out of 5 stars
The story Dark (The Dark Series # 1) by Paul L. Arvidson is an amazing fantasy book that I loved reading. It hooks you in from the very beginning and I didn’t want to put it down until I had read the final page. It is a story that has action, adventure, mystery, and danger. I loved reading about the character of Dun. He wants to find the answers to the terrifying dreams that he has been having. He finds himself on a journey with an old friend, a new friend, and the mysterious Myrch. Myrch is a character that not a lot is known about. His actions cause questions to be raised about him. What does the future hold for Dun? Will he find the answers that he seeks? Read this book to find out. The author has done an amazing job in world building. The characters that Dun and the others meet are interesting and intriguing to read about. Both the story and the characters come alive and I felt like I was right there with them every step of the way. There is intense dialogue. Don’t miss out on a story that had me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. It is a book I would highly recommend reading.
By: Paul L. Arvidson
5 out of 5 stars
The story Dark (The Dark Series # 1) by Paul L. Arvidson is an amazing fantasy book that I loved reading. It hooks you in from the very beginning and I didn’t want to put it down until I had read the final page. It is a story that has action, adventure, mystery, and danger. I loved reading about the character of Dun. He wants to find the answers to the terrifying dreams that he has been having. He finds himself on a journey with an old friend, a new friend, and the mysterious Myrch. Myrch is a character that not a lot is known about. His actions cause questions to be raised about him. What does the future hold for Dun? Will he find the answers that he seeks? Read this book to find out. The author has done an amazing job in world building. The characters that Dun and the others meet are interesting and intriguing to read about. Both the story and the characters come alive and I felt like I was right there with them every step of the way. There is intense dialogue. Don’t miss out on a story that had me on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. It is a book I would highly recommend reading.
October 13, 2016
I started reading "Dark" out of loyalty to the author as he's a mate, but I kept reading right to end as I was hooked within the first couple of pages. The characters are well developed, the plot is exciting and as for the setting: wow. Once he's finished this trilogy (HINT!), I hope Paul sets some more books here as I am fascinated by the concept.
It's self-published so there are a few typos that, pedant that I am, caught my eye but I hope that enough people read and review the book to get an agent and publisher interested in order to employ, as Paul said to me, "someone what can spell proper".
Definitely recommended. Switch off the lights and enjoy Dark...
It's self-published so there are a few typos that, pedant that I am, caught my eye but I hope that enough people read and review the book to get an agent and publisher interested in order to employ, as Paul said to me, "someone what can spell proper".
Definitely recommended. Switch off the lights and enjoy Dark...
November 19, 2019
interesting, then more interesting. then unprefaced conflict/seemingly unprovoked, curious n interesting on it's own, so hints at a bigger story. so more questions, on more questions, all while feeling very immersive fer me. so, in total, the interesting ramps up in stages(so that's cool), to eventually captivating, n in moments, moving. nevermind that you've likely never seen a world like this, I think the story will catch yer eye too
May 28, 2019
Quite the interesting read, with some very engaging characters and a storyline that pulls out all the stops. Loved it
October 24, 2020
This is one of the strangest books I've ever read. On one hand, it's an adventure story where the Hobbits go on a quest to find out the Machine Folk who can tell them why the fish are gone, update a map, and possibly even find Dun's missing father, but these aren't hobbits. The River Folk as they call themselves are short, furry humans(?) who live in a cavelike environment. They also have different mystical abilities, such as Dun who has "foretellings" of the future.
Dun and his two companions go on their adventure, being joined shortly by Myrch, a man who isn't quite like them, although it's not until much later that they learn why. As they travel, they meet different groups of people with different forms of government, almost as though we were progressing through historical eras with each group they met. This reminded me a bit of Gulliver's Travels. Each society thinks they are superior and does not trust the other and so the companions find themselves on the run frequently. When they reach the land of the Machine Folk, things start to fall apart. The Machine Folk are gone. And nothing is as it seemed.
There are of course many more secrets and discoveries, but I don't want to spoil it for you. I do think it's a book that needs to be read more than once to be able to fully grasp the story. As always, Benjamin Fife's narration was superb and it will be no hardship to listen to the book all over again.
I received a free audiobook from StoryOrigin and have reviewed it willingly.
Dun and his two companions go on their adventure, being joined shortly by Myrch, a man who isn't quite like them, although it's not until much later that they learn why. As they travel, they meet different groups of people with different forms of government, almost as though we were progressing through historical eras with each group they met. This reminded me a bit of Gulliver's Travels. Each society thinks they are superior and does not trust the other and so the companions find themselves on the run frequently. When they reach the land of the Machine Folk, things start to fall apart. The Machine Folk are gone. And nothing is as it seemed.
There are of course many more secrets and discoveries, but I don't want to spoil it for you. I do think it's a book that needs to be read more than once to be able to fully grasp the story. As always, Benjamin Fife's narration was superb and it will be no hardship to listen to the book all over again.
I received a free audiobook from StoryOrigin and have reviewed it willingly.
May 13, 2018
I liked this book; but I have to confess, it didn't grip me. The characters were well-drawn, and I enjoyed them. The plot had unexpected twists and turns, and I wanted to see how it ended. The world-building was excellent, both on the 'macro' scale and the 'micro' scale, with many enjoyable little cultural, social and physical differences thrown in to create a believable alternate reality. Also, one of the central facts of the story (it's hard to say this without creating a spoiler) was very subtly communicated entirely by showing, not telling, so that the truth only gradually dawns on the reader. That was impressive.
However, there were certain areas where I felt the story was lacking. The first, was the entirely linear nature of the plot. There were no parallel storylines. The central story just proceeded inexorably from beginning to end. Maybe there are examples of this in books by 'great writers'; but for me, it risked becoming boring at times.
Second, there were sudden changes of viewpoint within a scene. Again, this is done by successful writers; but I think the pundits are right who say that it's easier on the reader, and more coherent, to stick to just one character's viewpoint within a scene.
There were also quite a few occasions where the same word or phrase was repeated in quick succession within a single paragraph, which suggests poor proofreading.
But the most disappointing aspects of the book, for me, were (4) the 'great divide' about three quarters of the way through; (5) the confusing romance(s); and (6) the sudden ending. I can't describe these in detail without giving too much away; so suffice it to say that, to me, item (4) made it hard for me to concentrate on the last quarter of the story; and the other two left a feeling of dissatisfaction and incompleteness.
But, despite these flaws, the book was certainly enjoyable; and others might not be as affected by them as I was.
However, there were certain areas where I felt the story was lacking. The first, was the entirely linear nature of the plot. There were no parallel storylines. The central story just proceeded inexorably from beginning to end. Maybe there are examples of this in books by 'great writers'; but for me, it risked becoming boring at times.
Second, there were sudden changes of viewpoint within a scene. Again, this is done by successful writers; but I think the pundits are right who say that it's easier on the reader, and more coherent, to stick to just one character's viewpoint within a scene.
There were also quite a few occasions where the same word or phrase was repeated in quick succession within a single paragraph, which suggests poor proofreading.
But the most disappointing aspects of the book, for me, were (4) the 'great divide' about three quarters of the way through; (5) the confusing romance(s); and (6) the sudden ending. I can't describe these in detail without giving too much away; so suffice it to say that, to me, item (4) made it hard for me to concentrate on the last quarter of the story; and the other two left a feeling of dissatisfaction and incompleteness.
But, despite these flaws, the book was certainly enjoyable; and others might not be as affected by them as I was.
April 17, 2019
This is a delightful, unique story. If you like an adventuresome tale where folk undertake a long, dangerous journey, discover new people and ways of living, and find out secrets that forever change their world view, this is for you.
Dun is a serious, kind sort of person, and he has Forebodings. Flashes of danger to come, and because of this ability (or burden?) he is chosen to travel up stream to find out two things: where have all the fish gone – a serious issue for the River Folk whose main source of protein is fish - and secondly, where have the Machine Folk disappeared to?
Since Dun’s dad disappeared and his mother barely notices him, he has little to hold him back. He chooses his best friend Padg to accompany him, and because of a Foreboding, also the alchemist’s apprentice Tali. The three friends’ relationships form the warm heart of the story. They tease each other constantly, contributing much to the underlying humor. They are hardly a day away from home when they’re joined by the unfathomable Myrch, who has his own agenda. Sometimes he helps them, but at other times disappears, leaving them in the lurch.
Don’t be fooled by the author’s jovial and understated style, the story becomes more serious as they progress. The trip turns out to be longer and way more dangerous than they thought. Along the way they have to depend one each other’s strengths and skills. The book, being part one of a series, ends on somewhat of a cliffhanger, but still there is a sense of completion, a sense of girding the loins for the next phase. The questions about the fish and the Machine Folk are answered, but by this time Dun and his friends are in deeper trouble than they’d ever expected to be and there is no going home for them yet.
From here on there are spoilers, so be warned.
I had some minor issues with formatting. There are no scene breaks and it often led to confusion, having to pop out of the world and find my bearings before reading on. Hopefully when the author reviews the book at some point, he will insert scene breaks to clarify the flow of the story.
Great cover and I had no quibbles with the editing.
The pace of the story was uneven in places and I agree with other reviewers that the final part of the story has a slightly different feel to it. However, given that this was, as far as I could gather, the author’s first book, it is a stunning achievement. Although it’s not marketed as YA, it has that feel and is suitable for kids.
Dun is a serious, kind sort of person, and he has Forebodings. Flashes of danger to come, and because of this ability (or burden?) he is chosen to travel up stream to find out two things: where have all the fish gone – a serious issue for the River Folk whose main source of protein is fish - and secondly, where have the Machine Folk disappeared to?
Since Dun’s dad disappeared and his mother barely notices him, he has little to hold him back. He chooses his best friend Padg to accompany him, and because of a Foreboding, also the alchemist’s apprentice Tali. The three friends’ relationships form the warm heart of the story. They tease each other constantly, contributing much to the underlying humor. They are hardly a day away from home when they’re joined by the unfathomable Myrch, who has his own agenda. Sometimes he helps them, but at other times disappears, leaving them in the lurch.
Don’t be fooled by the author’s jovial and understated style, the story becomes more serious as they progress. The trip turns out to be longer and way more dangerous than they thought. Along the way they have to depend one each other’s strengths and skills. The book, being part one of a series, ends on somewhat of a cliffhanger, but still there is a sense of completion, a sense of girding the loins for the next phase. The questions about the fish and the Machine Folk are answered, but by this time Dun and his friends are in deeper trouble than they’d ever expected to be and there is no going home for them yet.
From here on there are spoilers, so be warned.
I had some minor issues with formatting. There are no scene breaks and it often led to confusion, having to pop out of the world and find my bearings before reading on. Hopefully when the author reviews the book at some point, he will insert scene breaks to clarify the flow of the story.
Great cover and I had no quibbles with the editing.
The pace of the story was uneven in places and I agree with other reviewers that the final part of the story has a slightly different feel to it. However, given that this was, as far as I could gather, the author’s first book, it is a stunning achievement. Although it’s not marketed as YA, it has that feel and is suitable for kids.
July 7, 2018
Generally, when reading a novel, I try to think of other novels I have read that are like it. This one was very difficult, for a good reason - it is very unique. The best references I could come up with in terms of similar books were The Giver and Blindness, but they don't quite do it. I find myself leaning more toward movies to find equivalent stories, the closest of which would be 8 and The Dark Crystal. I am truly impressed by how unexpected the world of Dark is, how very interesting the ideas. I'm impressed with an author taking on the challenge of creating a world and characters living within it where the sense most utilized to explore literary worlds, sight, is not used.
I enjoyed how this particular aspect - lack of sight - was revealed and developed throughout the beginning of the story. It feels woven into the narrative organically and we get a sense of the world in parts, revealed in due time. I enjoyed the characters - Dun, Padg, Tali - and they felt well developed and individualized.
There were a few points in the story though where the narrative felt a little under-developed, or where motivations were a bit lacking. For example, I wasn't sure why Dun knew with such certainty that the fish were no longer there, or why he was sent by the village to go on the journey when they admitted he was a young, inexperienced and unlikely pick. There were also several formatting issues throughout the story that distracted a bit.
Dun has certainly grown by the end of the story - he has gone on the hero's journey - but the ending itself felt a little bit unsatisfying. I think this was because a portion of the questions remain unanswered. Of course this leaves the door open for a continuation of Dun's journey.
Overall though I have to say this was a really interesting story, and an incredibly interesting world. I can honestly say I've never experienced anything quite like it. I'm interested to see where Arvidson takes us next.
I enjoyed how this particular aspect - lack of sight - was revealed and developed throughout the beginning of the story. It feels woven into the narrative organically and we get a sense of the world in parts, revealed in due time. I enjoyed the characters - Dun, Padg, Tali - and they felt well developed and individualized.
There were a few points in the story though where the narrative felt a little under-developed, or where motivations were a bit lacking. For example, I wasn't sure why Dun knew with such certainty that the fish were no longer there, or why he was sent by the village to go on the journey when they admitted he was a young, inexperienced and unlikely pick. There were also several formatting issues throughout the story that distracted a bit.
Dun has certainly grown by the end of the story - he has gone on the hero's journey - but the ending itself felt a little bit unsatisfying. I think this was because a portion of the questions remain unanswered. Of course this leaves the door open for a continuation of Dun's journey.
Overall though I have to say this was a really interesting story, and an incredibly interesting world. I can honestly say I've never experienced anything quite like it. I'm interested to see where Arvidson takes us next.
June 1, 2018
Paul L. Arvidson's Dark is an intriguing adventure story/hero's journey set in a unique world, and first book in the series. Young shaman in training, Dun, is sent by the elders of the bridge-folk to find out why contact with the distant Machine folk has ceased and the fish have disappeared. He is accompanied by his friend Padg and alchemist in training Tali. The trio face dangers on the way and acquire a guide with dubious motives, Myrch.
What I loved about Dark is the world, which is ... well ... The Dark. The Folk, with their different clans (bridge-folk, river-folk, stone-folk, machine-folk, over-folk etc) are not human -- furred, perhaps with tails and whiskers (if the couple of references aren’t? metaphorical), but humanoid with opposable thumbs and upright stance. Their world is completely dark, or if there is some dim light, they are blind. They rely on sound and feel and air-sense. This was both fantastic and, at times, (or a visual processor like myself) frustrating, but it added authenticity to the world. There are also hints of other people (not-folk) from a distant culture (perhaps from space, perhaps human) that I'm sure will be explored in the sequels. Dun, Tali, Padg, Myrch and others were fun characters with their different personalities, tics, and talents. At times the narratives jumps were confusing, especially point of view jumps within scenes and sudden jumps in time and/or place (where a section break would have helped orientate me to the break).
Over all a fun read.
What I loved about Dark is the world, which is ... well ... The Dark. The Folk, with their different clans (bridge-folk, river-folk, stone-folk, machine-folk, over-folk etc) are not human -- furred, perhaps with tails and whiskers (if the couple of references aren’t? metaphorical), but humanoid with opposable thumbs and upright stance. Their world is completely dark, or if there is some dim light, they are blind. They rely on sound and feel and air-sense. This was both fantastic and, at times, (or a visual processor like myself) frustrating, but it added authenticity to the world. There are also hints of other people (not-folk) from a distant culture (perhaps from space, perhaps human) that I'm sure will be explored in the sequels. Dun, Tali, Padg, Myrch and others were fun characters with their different personalities, tics, and talents. At times the narratives jumps were confusing, especially point of view jumps within scenes and sudden jumps in time and/or place (where a section break would have helped orientate me to the break).
Over all a fun read.
July 6, 2019
A New Talent with a New Unique Story That I Adore!
I am guessing this is self published which is awesome BTW. It could use some editing for spelling.. and Clarity. I love that it’s mysterious and told from Dun’s POV. I feel like the story is strong, as I read it all at once because I was fascinated and drawn in. The author has talent of that there is no doubt but.. I’m confused what species Dun is.. I think that the creation of the Overworld, and the people of the Bridge/River/Etc Underneath needs to be more specific. I love the trio and was sad to see them split up, still wondering who “the spy & guide” really was. Anyways they have fur.. and so I was thinking maybe they were aliens..then monkeys.. or dogs even.. but at the end the teaser for book 2.. mentions cat people? And our trio unites yeah! Glad the story continues and I think this is a huge world to be explored and maps would be cool! Like the Globe.. turned flat for us to see all the territories.. there are so many side plots and secrets. I felt like the end was completely different in tone then the rest of the book with Dun and his buddy plus the alchemist. It got a little weird for me, it felt rushed.. and not explained very well.. I was as confused as Dun lol.
I am guessing this is self published which is awesome BTW. It could use some editing for spelling.. and Clarity. I love that it’s mysterious and told from Dun’s POV. I feel like the story is strong, as I read it all at once because I was fascinated and drawn in. The author has talent of that there is no doubt but.. I’m confused what species Dun is.. I think that the creation of the Overworld, and the people of the Bridge/River/Etc Underneath needs to be more specific. I love the trio and was sad to see them split up, still wondering who “the spy & guide” really was. Anyways they have fur.. and so I was thinking maybe they were aliens..then monkeys.. or dogs even.. but at the end the teaser for book 2.. mentions cat people? And our trio unites yeah! Glad the story continues and I think this is a huge world to be explored and maps would be cool! Like the Globe.. turned flat for us to see all the territories.. there are so many side plots and secrets. I felt like the end was completely different in tone then the rest of the book with Dun and his buddy plus the alchemist. It got a little weird for me, it felt rushed.. and not explained very well.. I was as confused as Dun lol.
June 18, 2019
I give Dark (The Dark Trilogy Book 1) by Paul L. Arvidson, 4 stars.
Dun is just a normal young adult living among his people, the bridge-folk. Well, maybe not that normal. He begins having these dreams that seem like more than dreams. Then the elders of his folk decide that he should set out on a journey to find more information about odd things happening lately. He, along with two friends, sets out on a journey leading them to many adventures and discover just how little they really know. But will they find answers or just more questions?
This is a young adult adventure fantasy book. Most of it revolves around the journey itself. The characters are quite interesting and easy to like. The story is very good and like nothing I have read before. The places they go, the decisions they have to make, all make the story more complex and interesting. There is a little bit of every emotion in this book -- not to mention the twists and turns this book takes. You will never guess just what is coming next.
If you enjoy fantasy with wonderful world building and great characters, this book is for you.
Dun is just a normal young adult living among his people, the bridge-folk. Well, maybe not that normal. He begins having these dreams that seem like more than dreams. Then the elders of his folk decide that he should set out on a journey to find more information about odd things happening lately. He, along with two friends, sets out on a journey leading them to many adventures and discover just how little they really know. But will they find answers or just more questions?
This is a young adult adventure fantasy book. Most of it revolves around the journey itself. The characters are quite interesting and easy to like. The story is very good and like nothing I have read before. The places they go, the decisions they have to make, all make the story more complex and interesting. There is a little bit of every emotion in this book -- not to mention the twists and turns this book takes. You will never guess just what is coming next.
If you enjoy fantasy with wonderful world building and great characters, this book is for you.
June 26, 2019
Dark (The Dark Series #1) by Paul L Arvidson
4 Stars
I needed something different and I definitely got that by going totally out of my comfort zone with this book. This is my first read by this author and even though this is not a chosen everyday genre for me it filled the bill for what I was looking for and I'm kind of thinking I will be looking for whatever else he might have available.
It was the writing that had me hooked and once I got going and comfortable I had a hard time putting it down. It was easy for me to stay involved because I never got so out there confused like normal while reading this genre and I really appreciated that.
I actually felt like I was roaming through the tunnels, or the pipes with Dun, Tali, and Padj and was scared through most of this book as I'm extremely scared of the dark, which is why I think this book was the one I chose.
I'm actually looking forward to reading the next in this series and that kind of surprises me.
I highly recommend this book especially if your looking for something outside of your safe little box like I was.
Awesome
4 Stars
I needed something different and I definitely got that by going totally out of my comfort zone with this book. This is my first read by this author and even though this is not a chosen everyday genre for me it filled the bill for what I was looking for and I'm kind of thinking I will be looking for whatever else he might have available.
It was the writing that had me hooked and once I got going and comfortable I had a hard time putting it down. It was easy for me to stay involved because I never got so out there confused like normal while reading this genre and I really appreciated that.
I actually felt like I was roaming through the tunnels, or the pipes with Dun, Tali, and Padj and was scared through most of this book as I'm extremely scared of the dark, which is why I think this book was the one I chose.
I'm actually looking forward to reading the next in this series and that kind of surprises me.
I highly recommend this book especially if your looking for something outside of your safe little box like I was.
Awesome
June 15, 2019
Dark
By Paul L. Arvidson
☆☆☆☆
You will find Dark to be in the fantasy world. Which will also have a mystery, as well as much needed answers.
Dun, Padg, and Tali set out to get answers. They travel through vents and pipes. Them being chosen by the fellow Bridge Folk. Their adventure will have them traveling many miles. In search of answers. I should mention, the boys are actually blind and therefore traveling in the Dark. They do however use their other senses to get them by. Their adventure will be interesting, but no spoilers from me. You will just need to read it.
This may not be my genre. But I truly enjoyed reading Paul L. Arvidson book. This is a real page turner, one you won't be able to put down. His character's are perfect for this fantasy story. While parts of the story threw me. I still enjoyed the mysteries told by Paul L. Arvidson. I will be curious to see where he goes from here.
By Paul L. Arvidson
☆☆☆☆
You will find Dark to be in the fantasy world. Which will also have a mystery, as well as much needed answers.
Dun, Padg, and Tali set out to get answers. They travel through vents and pipes. Them being chosen by the fellow Bridge Folk. Their adventure will have them traveling many miles. In search of answers. I should mention, the boys are actually blind and therefore traveling in the Dark. They do however use their other senses to get them by. Their adventure will be interesting, but no spoilers from me. You will just need to read it.
This may not be my genre. But I truly enjoyed reading Paul L. Arvidson book. This is a real page turner, one you won't be able to put down. His character's are perfect for this fantasy story. While parts of the story threw me. I still enjoyed the mysteries told by Paul L. Arvidson. I will be curious to see where he goes from here.
June 26, 2019
Dark (The Dark Series #1) by Paul L Arvidson is a fantasy sci fi story and is a dark tale.
It is a story that has plenty of mystery and adventure, action and danger that keeps you
intrigued. There were unexpected twists and turns and the world building was good, which
helped to make it a reality that was believable. I did however think that the story could be
expanded a little more in some areas but it did not detract from the overall story. I really liked
the characters, they are well developed and I enjoyed their humour.
Dark is a place that has no light and the people live in a labyrinth of pipes and drains. Dun
and his friends are tasked with finding out what has become of their neighbours which sets
them on an unexpected journey where the danger and horror are palpable and discoveries
are just as mysterious and enlightening.
I look forward to what Paul has in store for us next.
It is a story that has plenty of mystery and adventure, action and danger that keeps you
intrigued. There were unexpected twists and turns and the world building was good, which
helped to make it a reality that was believable. I did however think that the story could be
expanded a little more in some areas but it did not detract from the overall story. I really liked
the characters, they are well developed and I enjoyed their humour.
Dark is a place that has no light and the people live in a labyrinth of pipes and drains. Dun
and his friends are tasked with finding out what has become of their neighbours which sets
them on an unexpected journey where the danger and horror are palpable and discoveries
are just as mysterious and enlightening.
I look forward to what Paul has in store for us next.
June 10, 2019
Dark by Paul L. Arvidson is the first book in the Dark Trilogy. This is such a unique story that had me captivated from the moment I read the description.
I didn’t know what to expect from this story really when I went in to it. I was completely unfamiliar with this author but excited to see what the book had in store. While I did have a few minor issues with it I have to say I really enjoyed the story overall. The premise of it was so original and like nothing I have ever read before.
I also really felt drawn to Dun. There was something about the way he was written that I enjoyed. I wanted him to discover everything he could and to try and make sense of his dreams. His companions were also likeable and worked well with his character.
This is a strong start to a new series and I cannot wait to see what the next instalment brings.
I didn’t know what to expect from this story really when I went in to it. I was completely unfamiliar with this author but excited to see what the book had in store. While I did have a few minor issues with it I have to say I really enjoyed the story overall. The premise of it was so original and like nothing I have ever read before.
I also really felt drawn to Dun. There was something about the way he was written that I enjoyed. I wanted him to discover everything he could and to try and make sense of his dreams. His companions were also likeable and worked well with his character.
This is a strong start to a new series and I cannot wait to see what the next instalment brings.
June 18, 2019
Dark the first book in the series by Paul Arvidson is a beautifully written Sci-Fi fantasy book. This is my first book by this author so I did not have any preconceived thoughts of what to expect. Arvidson’s story is well thought out, characters are fully developed, and keeps you guessing on what is coming down the pike. One thing I really love about Sci-FI is that there are no rules. Arvidson created a new world that kept me turning the pages because I could not wait to see what was happening next. Dark is a planet on which Dun with his two friends are on a journey through a labyrinth. There are missing elements that Dun is trying to seek out. He is having dreams, but he is not sure if they mean anything. Will Dun and his friends make it through the labyrinth? What other dangers will they encounter?
June 28, 2020
This was an intriguing enough story to read through to the end. Very imaginative. It has a YA feel, it's about some kids on a hobbit-like expedition, but they are mature enough to not bog down the story in childish behavior. I was trying to figure out the overall premise from beginning to end, but didn't quite succeed. Are they inside an asteroid? An abandoned space station? Do they not have eyes? It seems there would be some source of light at times, static electricity, sparks, luminescent biology, but they don't seem to have vision. Though a sense of colors, black, and pink. We know Myrch is human, but it's unclear if others they encounter are. There's a lot of unanswered questions, but the story moved along interestingly enough to be worthwhile even so, and the main characters are likable.
June 5, 2019
Dark (The Dark Trilogy Book 1)by Paul L Arvidson
5-Stars
Dark is an interesting and creative novel. There are amazing characters and scenery. This book is very different from the books I have read before. The setting had me thrown for a bit because instead of ever6being described in a visual sense, the author utilized the other senses to describe it. The world is in complete darkness for these individuals. To me, that was fascinating. Dunn, Padg, Tali, and Myrch were all interesting and different characters. I enjoyed following them a long their journey and loved that each had their own unique talents. Each played a key role to the groups survival and task. Being that this is book 1 of this series, I look forward to the other books. I highly recommend this unique book.
5-Stars
Dark is an interesting and creative novel. There are amazing characters and scenery. This book is very different from the books I have read before. The setting had me thrown for a bit because instead of ever6being described in a visual sense, the author utilized the other senses to describe it. The world is in complete darkness for these individuals. To me, that was fascinating. Dunn, Padg, Tali, and Myrch were all interesting and different characters. I enjoyed following them a long their journey and loved that each had their own unique talents. Each played a key role to the groups survival and task. Being that this is book 1 of this series, I look forward to the other books. I highly recommend this unique book.
June 13, 2019
Dark is the first book in The Dark Trilogy series.
This story is a fantastic sci-fi fantasy adventure. I love the way the characters are written and how unique the setting is. One of the interesting things in this story is the way that the characters experience everything without using the sense of sight. I enjoyed how the author used the sense of proprioception as one of the main avenues for the characters exploring their world. It isn’t something a lot of books use.
Dark catches your interest from the beginning and holds it with unanswered questions that only have hints dropped throughout. It is fun to speculate what is going to happen based on the clues.
Definitely looking forward to reading the next book!!!
This story is a fantastic sci-fi fantasy adventure. I love the way the characters are written and how unique the setting is. One of the interesting things in this story is the way that the characters experience everything without using the sense of sight. I enjoyed how the author used the sense of proprioception as one of the main avenues for the characters exploring their world. It isn’t something a lot of books use.
Dark catches your interest from the beginning and holds it with unanswered questions that only have hints dropped throughout. It is fun to speculate what is going to happen based on the clues.
Definitely looking forward to reading the next book!!!
June 18, 2019
Dark by Paul L Arvidson is unlike any book I have ever read before. This science fiction meets fantasy was different and extremely fantastic. Pipes and drains make up the labyrinth called the Dark, all surrounding an area called the River. Dun, who wants answers to his horrible dreams and armed with a half-finished map given to him by his father, he sets off Tali and Padj. This takes Dun far away from the only home he’s ever know and into a world that he never thought that he would see.
I could NOT put this down and loved diving into the creation the author gave us. Dark, twists and turns, and a strong story line make this a read that I highly recommend. I give this book four stars and can not wait to see where this series leads!
I could NOT put this down and loved diving into the creation the author gave us. Dark, twists and turns, and a strong story line make this a read that I highly recommend. I give this book four stars and can not wait to see where this series leads!
June 20, 2019
Dark by PAUL ARVIDSON. Let me start by saying this book is WAY outside my normal reading enjoyments. However that didn’t stop me from sinking into this very original and different type of story. The author does a great job of writing a story that can be imagined quite vividly. I’m not the best judge when it comes to these types of stories but I’d have to say it’s well worth a read because as I stated even with it being outside my norm I was really impressed with the storyline and its characters. It’s definitely an adventure for readers and I liked that a lot. It’s well written and paced nicely never feeling rushed or lacking anything. Im happy to say it’s opened my eyes and mind to pushing away from my norm. I’m giving this story a five star review and highly recommend it.
June 27, 2019
4 Star
Dark (The Dark Series #1) by Paul L Arvidson
Dark is the first Book in The Dark Series and the first book I’ve read by this Author. I had a hard time getting into at first but the more I read and the further I got into it I had a hard time putting it down. This is not my usual genre but the more I read the more I’m starting to get into it. In this story there is plenty of action, adventure, mystery and even danger. Dun is having terrifying dreams and finds himself on a journey with a old friend, a new friend, and a mysterious Myrch. Will Dun find the answers he’s looking for? What does Dun's future look like? Find out what happens next. I recommend reading this book. I will be checking out other books by this Autho
Dark (The Dark Series #1) by Paul L Arvidson
Dark is the first Book in The Dark Series and the first book I’ve read by this Author. I had a hard time getting into at first but the more I read and the further I got into it I had a hard time putting it down. This is not my usual genre but the more I read the more I’m starting to get into it. In this story there is plenty of action, adventure, mystery and even danger. Dun is having terrifying dreams and finds himself on a journey with a old friend, a new friend, and a mysterious Myrch. Will Dun find the answers he’s looking for? What does Dun's future look like? Find out what happens next. I recommend reading this book. I will be checking out other books by this Autho
June 27, 2019
Oh my word!! Ok so here’s the deal. If you are looking for a dark fantasy, an unexpected treasure, a twisted tale...THIS book is most definitely for you. I was hooked on the first page. I can see how a reader could be confused if they have to step away from the story for long. But this was one I just simply couldn’t put down. Fascinating, rich in detail, fantastic characters - what a beginning to what looks to be an amazing series. Arvidson is extremely gifted with his words and I look forward to picking up the next book as soon as it is released.
June 6, 2019
This is my first book by this author, I enjoyed it from beginning to end. It is a science fiction, fantasy story that is well written and engaging. It has adventure along with sitting on the edge of your seat action. Dun and his two friends set out on a journey through a labyrinth. The farther they go the deeper the danger seems to be and going home is not an option. Are people who they say they are? Will the unknown turn out to be Dun’s survival or his end? I highly recommend this book.
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