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Children of the Eye #1
When the children come
Nathan, emotionally scarred after three tours in Afghanistan, lives alone in Manhattan until New Year's Eve, when he meets Lara. The next morning, he notices that something odd is going on—a terrified kid is being pursued by his father. A young girl, Sally, pleads with Nathan to hide her from her parents. There is no internet, no television, no phone coverage. Nathan, Lara and Sally flee along the East Coast, encountering madmen, terrorists, the armed forces, and other children frightened for their lives. The only thing Nathan knows for sure is that he must not fall asleep...
296 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 2, 2020
115 people are currently reading
6293 people want to read
About the author
Barry Kirwan
20 books2,310 followersBarry (J F) Kirwan is a split personality. He writes science fiction under the name Barry Kirwan, and thrillers under his pen name J F Kirwan. In his day job, he travels worldwide, working on aviation safety. He lives in Paris, where he first joined a fiction class – and became hooked! This led to an acclaimed four-book series called the Eden Paradox. But when a back injury stopped him scuba diving for two years, he wrote a thriller series about a young Russian woman, Nadia, where a lot of the action occurred in dangerously deep waters. Since then he wrote a serial killer thriller called The Dead Tell Lies, and is writing a new scifi series starting with When the Children Come....
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
January 8, 2021
The minute I started reading When The Children Come by Barry Kirwan, I knew I was in for a thrill ride. The premise is unique, with twists that kept me on my toes. I loved it.
The characters are very true to life. They feel so real, I immediately was drawn to them.
The story opens with Nathan letting the readers know he doesn’t like kids. However, his situation contradicts that because he’s determined to save every child he can.
Lara is a risk taker. I liked her immediately. She has a NASA background, so she definitely is smart. I just loved her ability to hold her own.
Sally is awesome. She helps the other kids and has such a strong-willed attitude.
Barry Kirwan’s writing really feels authentic. His knowledge is clearly well researched, and the themes of this novel felt real. I absolutely loved the vivid descriptions. The characters. The struggles. Everything felt so real, I was on the edge of my seat.
Tension, conflict, danger…When the Children Come is an unique and creative scifi that I didn’t want to put down. Highly recommended.
5/5☆
*I received a free copy of this book from Rachel’s Random Resources in exchange for an honest review on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
The characters are very true to life. They feel so real, I immediately was drawn to them.
The story opens with Nathan letting the readers know he doesn’t like kids. However, his situation contradicts that because he’s determined to save every child he can.
Lara is a risk taker. I liked her immediately. She has a NASA background, so she definitely is smart. I just loved her ability to hold her own.
Sally is awesome. She helps the other kids and has such a strong-willed attitude.
Barry Kirwan’s writing really feels authentic. His knowledge is clearly well researched, and the themes of this novel felt real. I absolutely loved the vivid descriptions. The characters. The struggles. Everything felt so real, I was on the edge of my seat.
Tension, conflict, danger…When the Children Come is an unique and creative scifi that I didn’t want to put down. Highly recommended.
5/5☆
*I received a free copy of this book from Rachel’s Random Resources in exchange for an honest review on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
January 14, 2021
This review of When the Children Come by Barry Kirwan came through a Blog Tour. I received a free copy of the ebook.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one! So much so that I’m anxiously awaiting book 2 (due in autumn 2021).
The writing is staccato – short sharp sentences and quite a few commas. At first it frustrated me a little, but I realised that Mr Kirwan has grasped a style so suited to the story – where you don’t know what’s going to happen from one scene to the next. By Chapter 4, I was thoroughly enjoying myself. So much so, I raced through this in an afternoon.
I love a good alien story, I love a dystopian thriller, and I dig military scifi – this one has it all! And, if you throw in some super-soldier research, a dash of AI and hints of leaving Earth/colonisation? I’m in! When the Children Come has it all, and all of it is believable, structured and truly a tale well told.
An original premise, engaging characters who act believably within their sphere, intrigue and horror in equal measure – this is shaping up to be a killer of a series! Well done Mr Kirwan!
Gives new definition to ‘unputdownable’.
Pick it up. Seriously.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one! So much so that I’m anxiously awaiting book 2 (due in autumn 2021).
The writing is staccato – short sharp sentences and quite a few commas. At first it frustrated me a little, but I realised that Mr Kirwan has grasped a style so suited to the story – where you don’t know what’s going to happen from one scene to the next. By Chapter 4, I was thoroughly enjoying myself. So much so, I raced through this in an afternoon.
I love a good alien story, I love a dystopian thriller, and I dig military scifi – this one has it all! And, if you throw in some super-soldier research, a dash of AI and hints of leaving Earth/colonisation? I’m in! When the Children Come has it all, and all of it is believable, structured and truly a tale well told.
An original premise, engaging characters who act believably within their sphere, intrigue and horror in equal measure – this is shaping up to be a killer of a series! Well done Mr Kirwan!
Gives new definition to ‘unputdownable’.
Pick it up. Seriously.
January 13, 2021
When The Children Come, the first in a new series by Barry Kirwan, was a bit of a departure from my usual kind of sci-fi read, which normally comprises something about time travel, a full on space opera, a post-apocalyptic Dystopian nightmare, or a Black Mirror type mindbender.
There is a space element, as you can tell from the cover, but this is more of drop you in at the beginning of a terrifying apocalyptic scenario - and what a scenario it is! I am not ashamed to say that this is just the kind of plot I find particularly disturbing actually, so there was an extra big dollop of the chills for me in this book.
It's pretty difficult to talk much about this one without giving away spoilers. Suffice to say, things get pretty bad for Nathan, Lara and Earth's children, along with the mixed bag of helpmates they pick up along the way, as they unexpectedly find themselves having to take on the role of saviours of humanity.
There is action aplenty here, a nice bit of science and speculation, and a great theme of "the enemy of my enemy is my friend", which I really enjoyed. It was also very pleasing to have a bevy of smart female characters in this book, rather than consigning them to the 'weak and wishy-washy/always needing to be rescued category', which sometimes happens in a sci-fi adventure - good work Mr Kirwan! The story is nicely paced with lots of suspense, and it kept my interest all the way through to the very end - with an intriguing hook into the next book too.
For me, there was a real feel of Scott Sigler about this one, and there are definite echoes of some well received sci-fi books and action films/TV series in these pages too, with an intriguing underlying premise that is very thought provoking. I can't wait to see what happens next!
There is a space element, as you can tell from the cover, but this is more of drop you in at the beginning of a terrifying apocalyptic scenario - and what a scenario it is! I am not ashamed to say that this is just the kind of plot I find particularly disturbing actually, so there was an extra big dollop of the chills for me in this book.
It's pretty difficult to talk much about this one without giving away spoilers. Suffice to say, things get pretty bad for Nathan, Lara and Earth's children, along with the mixed bag of helpmates they pick up along the way, as they unexpectedly find themselves having to take on the role of saviours of humanity.
There is action aplenty here, a nice bit of science and speculation, and a great theme of "the enemy of my enemy is my friend", which I really enjoyed. It was also very pleasing to have a bevy of smart female characters in this book, rather than consigning them to the 'weak and wishy-washy/always needing to be rescued category', which sometimes happens in a sci-fi adventure - good work Mr Kirwan! The story is nicely paced with lots of suspense, and it kept my interest all the way through to the very end - with an intriguing hook into the next book too.
For me, there was a real feel of Scott Sigler about this one, and there are definite echoes of some well received sci-fi books and action films/TV series in these pages too, with an intriguing underlying premise that is very thought provoking. I can't wait to see what happens next!
January 13, 2021
I don't usually read Sci-Fi. Not because I don't like it, but because I haven't taken the chance and time to do it. It's a genre that I'm very curious about and that I hope I can explore more. The reason why I jumped to the opportunity to read this book.
"When the Children Come" is the first novel in a brand new series. As soon, it's my introduction not just to the author's writing and book, but also to a specific world he created for the series.
When I first read the synopsis, I was intrigued. Who were the characters? Why were the children being pursued? What's Nathan's role in all of this? Why and What... those were the main words in my mind at that time, as well as while reading.
I found myself turning page after page, trying to learn more, loosing myself in the story and this version of the world. It was a rollercoaster of emotions and thoughts, in a balanced storytelling that makes me want to continuing reading the series.
It's hard for me to talk about specific things I enjoyed, since I fear it may give spoilers. I can say I love the characters. Loved Nathan and loved Sally. I loved the interactions and the grows. I loved the way I empathize with them.
The plot was great. I'm very curious to see how the story will go next. And I loved that it was fast paced, full of action, and it was interesting. I never got bored.
Overall, although I'm no sci-fi expert, I do think this is an awesome book. For a start of a series it was amazing and, as I previous said, I can't wait for more.
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Barry Kirwan for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
"When the Children Come" is the first novel in a brand new series. As soon, it's my introduction not just to the author's writing and book, but also to a specific world he created for the series.
When I first read the synopsis, I was intrigued. Who were the characters? Why were the children being pursued? What's Nathan's role in all of this? Why and What... those were the main words in my mind at that time, as well as while reading.
I found myself turning page after page, trying to learn more, loosing myself in the story and this version of the world. It was a rollercoaster of emotions and thoughts, in a balanced storytelling that makes me want to continuing reading the series.
It's hard for me to talk about specific things I enjoyed, since I fear it may give spoilers. I can say I love the characters. Loved Nathan and loved Sally. I loved the interactions and the grows. I loved the way I empathize with them.
The plot was great. I'm very curious to see how the story will go next. And I loved that it was fast paced, full of action, and it was interesting. I never got bored.
Overall, although I'm no sci-fi expert, I do think this is an awesome book. For a start of a series it was amazing and, as I previous said, I can't wait for more.
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Barry Kirwan for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
February 25, 2021
I read the blurb and really wanted to read the book. I’m impressed! I have never thought of PTSD as a tool and yet there it is! My thinking has been challenged.
This story started strongly, and worked effectively in keeping me engaged, wanting to know what came next. Nathan, Lara and Sally, their personalities will stay with you long after reading this book.
This story started strongly, and worked effectively in keeping me engaged, wanting to know what came next. Nathan, Lara and Sally, their personalities will stay with you long after reading this book.
January 15, 2021
Traumatised from tours of duty in Afghanistan, Nathan’s existence is a lonely one. Then one New Year’s Eve he meets Lara and for one night his life begins to look promising. But the following day, something odd happens – a girl from a neighbouring family appears at his front door pleading for help. And that’s not the only weird thing going on…
What would you do if you woke up one day and the whole world had gone mad? Faced with a bizarre situation, our hero takes his new girlfriend and a frightened child and sets off to his sister’s house, hoping she at least will be normal. But normal has packed up and left and Nathan’s life, and everyone else’s, will never be the same.
One of the things that irritates me about some sci-fi novels is that so often it feels like the author doesn’t have a clue and simply regurgitates what so many other writers have already done. This is not one of those novels. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, so I wasn’t sure what to expect, but from the first page it had me riveted. Barry Kirwan is not only a brilliant storyteller, but he also has the background knowledge to bring a realism to his tale that is at times mind-boggling. The detail may come from research or personal experience (at least as far as Nathan’s earthbound adventures go) but they give the book a depth that makes it feel real and truly believable. I loved the interactions and conflicts with the different characters and the experience each one brings to the table as the reality of their situation unfolds.
A terrific read that kept me engrossed right to the end.
What would you do if you woke up one day and the whole world had gone mad? Faced with a bizarre situation, our hero takes his new girlfriend and a frightened child and sets off to his sister’s house, hoping she at least will be normal. But normal has packed up and left and Nathan’s life, and everyone else’s, will never be the same.
One of the things that irritates me about some sci-fi novels is that so often it feels like the author doesn’t have a clue and simply regurgitates what so many other writers have already done. This is not one of those novels. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, so I wasn’t sure what to expect, but from the first page it had me riveted. Barry Kirwan is not only a brilliant storyteller, but he also has the background knowledge to bring a realism to his tale that is at times mind-boggling. The detail may come from research or personal experience (at least as far as Nathan’s earthbound adventures go) but they give the book a depth that makes it feel real and truly believable. I loved the interactions and conflicts with the different characters and the experience each one brings to the table as the reality of their situation unfolds.
A terrific read that kept me engrossed right to the end.
May 10, 2021
‘A human antagonist encounters an AI’
British author Barry Kirwan, now living outside of Paris, has written academic articles about preventing disasters in nuclear power plants, oil rigs, and aircraft (his work experience has been in air traffic and nuclear power safety), four text books on human error, and nine novels - THE EDEN PARADOX, EDEN’S TRIAL, EDEN’S REVENGE, EDEN’S ENDGAME, 66 METRES, 37 HOURS, 88 NORTH, THE DEAD TELL LIES, and WHEN THE CHILDREN COME. He writes under two names – J.F. Kirwan for thrillers and Barry Kirwan for science fiction novels.
Barry takes science fiction writing to a new level. His polished prose lingers over character creation with such skill that his story becomes credible from the top. An example of this gift is found in his opening lines – ‘Nathan had never wanted children of his own. Plenty of reasons. Babies screamed as soon as they were born – wasn’t that warning enough of what was to come? And when they grew into toddlers, and then young kids, they were far worse: tantrums, more screaming, whining. How many business trips, restaurant dinners, theatre visits, you name it, were ruined by one small, precocious loud brat and its doting, utterly useless parents? No discipline any more. Nathan had sure been disciplined. It wasn’t just the infants themselves; it was the way most women, and quite a few men on the planet, went gaga every time saw one…But then most people hadn’t seen what he’d seen, how kids cold be used in war…’ An intriguing personal definition that has at its core the nidus of the story.
The provided synopsis of the book’s tale serves the novel well: ‘Nathan, emotionally scarred after three tours in Afghanistan, lives alone in Manhattan until New Year’s Eve, when he meets Lara. The next morning, he notices that something odd is going on – a terrified kid is being pursued by his father. A young girl, Sally, pleads with Nathan to hide her from her parents. There is no internet, no television, no phone coverage. Nathan, Lara and Sally flee along the East Coast, encountering madmen, terrorists, the armed forces, and other children frightened for their lives. The only thing Nathan knows for sure is that he must not fall asleep...’
This is some of he most polished science fiction writing this reader has encountered. Not only is the story original, but also it is delivered with such style that it transports us into a world so credible that we feel as though we are physically accompanying the characters. First class novel – and a highly recommended one!
British author Barry Kirwan, now living outside of Paris, has written academic articles about preventing disasters in nuclear power plants, oil rigs, and aircraft (his work experience has been in air traffic and nuclear power safety), four text books on human error, and nine novels - THE EDEN PARADOX, EDEN’S TRIAL, EDEN’S REVENGE, EDEN’S ENDGAME, 66 METRES, 37 HOURS, 88 NORTH, THE DEAD TELL LIES, and WHEN THE CHILDREN COME. He writes under two names – J.F. Kirwan for thrillers and Barry Kirwan for science fiction novels.
Barry takes science fiction writing to a new level. His polished prose lingers over character creation with such skill that his story becomes credible from the top. An example of this gift is found in his opening lines – ‘Nathan had never wanted children of his own. Plenty of reasons. Babies screamed as soon as they were born – wasn’t that warning enough of what was to come? And when they grew into toddlers, and then young kids, they were far worse: tantrums, more screaming, whining. How many business trips, restaurant dinners, theatre visits, you name it, were ruined by one small, precocious loud brat and its doting, utterly useless parents? No discipline any more. Nathan had sure been disciplined. It wasn’t just the infants themselves; it was the way most women, and quite a few men on the planet, went gaga every time saw one…But then most people hadn’t seen what he’d seen, how kids cold be used in war…’ An intriguing personal definition that has at its core the nidus of the story.
The provided synopsis of the book’s tale serves the novel well: ‘Nathan, emotionally scarred after three tours in Afghanistan, lives alone in Manhattan until New Year’s Eve, when he meets Lara. The next morning, he notices that something odd is going on – a terrified kid is being pursued by his father. A young girl, Sally, pleads with Nathan to hide her from her parents. There is no internet, no television, no phone coverage. Nathan, Lara and Sally flee along the East Coast, encountering madmen, terrorists, the armed forces, and other children frightened for their lives. The only thing Nathan knows for sure is that he must not fall asleep...’
This is some of he most polished science fiction writing this reader has encountered. Not only is the story original, but also it is delivered with such style that it transports us into a world so credible that we feel as though we are physically accompanying the characters. First class novel – and a highly recommended one!
January 14, 2021
When the Children Come is dystopian sci-fi novel that will immediately draw you in and have you on edge the entire time, anxiously wondering what might happen next. It's an emotional page-turner that's unlike any other alien invasion story I've come across, and that's what makes it unique and immensely more likable.
The beginning of the story had me hooked immediately, and I found myself up until 2 am the first night eagerly flying through the pages. My heart was beating so hard I thought it would fall out of my chest, that's how intense things were right off the bat.
The story follows Nathan and Lara, a couple set up by Nathan's sister on New Year's Eve. Everyone is happy and celebrating, but come New Year's Day, that's when everything changes. Nathan sets off to get some bagels and coffee, but something is off. He sees a little boy running terrified as his father chases after him with a knife. Other people are acting odd as well. But it isn't until Sally, the little girl who lives downstairs, stumbles into his apartment upon his return that the reality of the situation comes into focus. Nathan, Lara, and Sally are now on the run, trying to avoid the Infected while trying to figure out how to stop the alien invasion before it's too late.
With an interesting cast of supporting characters, a fast-paced plot, and writing that comes across as short, staccato bursts, When the Children Come is one of those books you won't be able to put down.
4.5 stars!
The beginning of the story had me hooked immediately, and I found myself up until 2 am the first night eagerly flying through the pages. My heart was beating so hard I thought it would fall out of my chest, that's how intense things were right off the bat.
The story follows Nathan and Lara, a couple set up by Nathan's sister on New Year's Eve. Everyone is happy and celebrating, but come New Year's Day, that's when everything changes. Nathan sets off to get some bagels and coffee, but something is off. He sees a little boy running terrified as his father chases after him with a knife. Other people are acting odd as well. But it isn't until Sally, the little girl who lives downstairs, stumbles into his apartment upon his return that the reality of the situation comes into focus. Nathan, Lara, and Sally are now on the run, trying to avoid the Infected while trying to figure out how to stop the alien invasion before it's too late.
With an interesting cast of supporting characters, a fast-paced plot, and writing that comes across as short, staccato bursts, When the Children Come is one of those books you won't be able to put down.
4.5 stars!
May 25, 2021
This book did not disappoint, and I was hooked the whole way. The author has done an incredible job. I found myself reaching for the book whenever I was free because I NEEDED to finish it.
In short, the book is about aliens who brainwash adults, who have fallen asleep, into killing their children to leave room for the aliens. However, there are humans who do not want to give up and are sacrificing sleep to save the remaining children.
Other than getting me hooked, the author has done his research, because he included some scientific and military topics/issues. I appreciated the background information and how it wasn't overly complicated. I am sure there is more to say, but I was glad it was kept simple.
This is the start of a series, and I can not wait for the next one to come out. The authors writing style is easy to follow and people new to sci-fi would like this. I even think people who like survival or post-apocalyptic games would enjoy this too!
In short, the book is about aliens who brainwash adults, who have fallen asleep, into killing their children to leave room for the aliens. However, there are humans who do not want to give up and are sacrificing sleep to save the remaining children.
Other than getting me hooked, the author has done his research, because he included some scientific and military topics/issues. I appreciated the background information and how it wasn't overly complicated. I am sure there is more to say, but I was glad it was kept simple.
This is the start of a series, and I can not wait for the next one to come out. The authors writing style is easy to follow and people new to sci-fi would like this. I even think people who like survival or post-apocalyptic games would enjoy this too!
January 13, 2021
When The Children Come by Barry Kirwan is a novel that pulls you in and won't let go until you reach the final page. A story that skilfully blends science fiction and fact together along with action that incorperates a gritty story and characters that are so indelibly real, flawed people who have experienced both sides of life and you can tell. In my eyes, when you can empathise with the characters almost immediately, the author has fulfilled their aim with that book.
Nathan is an army veteran, and his experiences have scarred him, emotionally. He meets Lara and they see that children are being killed, won't give any spoilers, so you need to read the book to discover the gritty stuff. They protect Nathans next door neighbour, Sally a child that the people of the world are trying to be rid of. The story follows their journey along with their struggles and discoveries they make along the way to attempt to fight to save the human kind on Earth.
Wow! A fast paced read where we are thrown head first into Nathan, Lara and Sally's world. I found it such an interesting read that I didn't even move for a few hours so I could find out as much as I could, as quick as I could! The authors world building is so well done that I was immersed in my experience of this book and loved the fact that there is every possibility that this type of thing may happen one day, we will only know if we are here to see it! As I said earlier and excellent bkend of sci fi and fact that merge together the deeper you get into the book! Highly recommended if you enjoy a blurring of the edges with sci fi and realism, I definitely did.
Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources and Barry Kirwan for my invitation on this tour and the copy of the book.
Nathan is an army veteran, and his experiences have scarred him, emotionally. He meets Lara and they see that children are being killed, won't give any spoilers, so you need to read the book to discover the gritty stuff. They protect Nathans next door neighbour, Sally a child that the people of the world are trying to be rid of. The story follows their journey along with their struggles and discoveries they make along the way to attempt to fight to save the human kind on Earth.
Wow! A fast paced read where we are thrown head first into Nathan, Lara and Sally's world. I found it such an interesting read that I didn't even move for a few hours so I could find out as much as I could, as quick as I could! The authors world building is so well done that I was immersed in my experience of this book and loved the fact that there is every possibility that this type of thing may happen one day, we will only know if we are here to see it! As I said earlier and excellent bkend of sci fi and fact that merge together the deeper you get into the book! Highly recommended if you enjoy a blurring of the edges with sci fi and realism, I definitely did.
Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources and Barry Kirwan for my invitation on this tour and the copy of the book.
January 9, 2021
Let me just start by saying I am a fantasy girl and can find Sci-Fi pretty boring at times. Especially when it gets too complex or outer-spacey. So picking this novel up, I was not sure what to expect. But I went in clear headed, midnight to the new year hit and all hell broke lose on earth. And I mean it, the book made me hug my two boys just a little bit tighter. So here’s what I thought.
*The book is set in modern day (pre-covid) when suddenly majority of the population become infected/turned/brainwashed (don’t want to give anything away so you choose) and murder become family time number one. Over the course a day, nearly all the children in the world are dead, but Martin and Lara our two main characters are determined to keep his neighbour Sally alive in a world determined to kill her. The book follows their struggle, their discoveries and our species fight for survival. I really gave me vibes of Stephen King and his novel Cell. I love that book, I became invested in this one.
*The writing style was easy, fast paced and interesting. It kept me wanting more and struggling to put it down in between reading sessions. Though I did find the time jumps could have been done a little bit more fluidly. Maybe it was just because I wanted more of the book.
*I found the characters overall believable, but wanted just a little more depth to fully bond with them. But I am an emotional reader and love being able to completely become the character or feel like I am one of them. I would have loved to have done this with Lara and Sally. Martin came close.
*The world the author has created is scary, blood fuelled and addictive. It is a world that could happen one day, a shadow of fiction that is holds everyone fear of what if we get visitors from another world. It was a fast paced race against the clock to save the last of humanity’s future. A race I think you will enjoy too.
*The book is set in modern day (pre-covid) when suddenly majority of the population become infected/turned/brainwashed (don’t want to give anything away so you choose) and murder become family time number one. Over the course a day, nearly all the children in the world are dead, but Martin and Lara our two main characters are determined to keep his neighbour Sally alive in a world determined to kill her. The book follows their struggle, their discoveries and our species fight for survival. I really gave me vibes of Stephen King and his novel Cell. I love that book, I became invested in this one.
*The writing style was easy, fast paced and interesting. It kept me wanting more and struggling to put it down in between reading sessions. Though I did find the time jumps could have been done a little bit more fluidly. Maybe it was just because I wanted more of the book.
*I found the characters overall believable, but wanted just a little more depth to fully bond with them. But I am an emotional reader and love being able to completely become the character or feel like I am one of them. I would have loved to have done this with Lara and Sally. Martin came close.
*The world the author has created is scary, blood fuelled and addictive. It is a world that could happen one day, a shadow of fiction that is holds everyone fear of what if we get visitors from another world. It was a fast paced race against the clock to save the last of humanity’s future. A race I think you will enjoy too.
June 15, 2021
Author Barry Kirwan started writing whilst still at school, a weekly satirical thriller called the Adventures of Blackie the Cat for his classmates. It wasn’t until he moved to Paris that he started writing fiction again, with the Eden Paradox released in 2011. It was intended to be a one-off, but the book generated a lot of fans who demanded more, and so it went ‘epic’, a space opera of four books, he then went on to write a thriller about a spy who was also a scuba diver, and the Nadia Laksheva series.
When the Children Come is a race against time to save humanity from another species! it is a fast paced science fiction thriller filled with action, tension, conflict and lots of drama. I loved this book, the author is a fantastic storyteller, the plot was brilliant and the characters had depth to them allowing the reader to really get to know them and bond. I eagerly await the next installment from Kirwan. A definite 5 stars from me!
When the Children Come is a race against time to save humanity from another species! it is a fast paced science fiction thriller filled with action, tension, conflict and lots of drama. I loved this book, the author is a fantastic storyteller, the plot was brilliant and the characters had depth to them allowing the reader to really get to know them and bond. I eagerly await the next installment from Kirwan. A definite 5 stars from me!
May 27, 2021
When the children come by Barry Kirwan is a mesmerizing science fiction that gives a new perspective to an alien invasion. Nathan never cared for children and doesn't want any of his own. One day he goes out to find the world has gone berserk, killing all the children. Searching for answers only makes what is happening even more mysterious. He must never rest because if he does the last of the children could die.
Barry Kirwan is one of those authors that grab hold of what is dearest to you and tragically plays out your fears. I found When the children come chilling as the horrors come to life for Nathan. His military training prepared him for the ruthlessness of humanity, but not to this extent when they are under alien influence. I love the adrenaline rush as time ticks down before the world is invaded and fight to keep from being infected by the virus.
Barry Kirwan is one of those authors that grab hold of what is dearest to you and tragically plays out your fears. I found When the children come chilling as the horrors come to life for Nathan. His military training prepared him for the ruthlessness of humanity, but not to this extent when they are under alien influence. I love the adrenaline rush as time ticks down before the world is invaded and fight to keep from being infected by the virus.
January 12, 2021
When the Children Come pulled me right in from the first page. No introductions or descriptive narrative. Kirwan dropped me right into the action.
Nathan, a military vet who never wanted children, is ironically guarding over two-hundred of them. He’s their protector and possibly last chance for survival… as long as he stays awake.
The story pulls back to explain how Nathan and the children came to be hiding in the abandoned school, and who they’re hiding from.
I enjoyed this page-turner, reading it quickly, and ending up frustrated I’d have to wait until fall for book 2! HA!
Nathan is a great protagonist/hero. While he appears to be negative in the beginning, his backstory explains the guilt he feels for the lives lost during his three tours in Afghanistan—and his PTSD. But with the words of his late CO playing on repeat in his head, Nathan pushes on to be the protector and leader he doesn’t want to be but knows he has to be.
Lara and Raphaela, two women connected to NASA in different ways, are amazing sources of counsel and support for Nathan. Kudos to Kirwan for continuing to write strong, confident female characters. Nathan wonders more than once how he came to be surrounded by women smarter than him. However, it will take smarts and the Special Forces training Nathan has tried to bury to fight an enemy they know nothing about.
My favorite character though is ten-year-old Sally. After her brother is murdered, Sally runs for her life, straight to Nathan who lives in the same apartment building. Though he doesn’t know the child, her fear and his gut instincts tell him something is wrong. The streets are too empty for New Years Day. The adults who begin to gather are angry. And there are no children. Along with Lara—Nathan’s New Year’s Eve blind date—he takes the child and flees the city in search of help and answers. Each leg of the journey brings no answers and more hopelessness, but Nathan can’t help but notice as their situation becomes more dire, Sally matures, adding things overlooked or unspoken to the adults’ conversation.
When the trio meets up with others searching for answers while trying to survive, the ten-year-old becomes the unspoken leader for the children, and that’s how Nathan treats her as he and others train the children in basic survival skills to protect themselves and to kill. They know if adults fall asleep it’s kill or be killed when they wake up.
It wasn’t lost on me that while adults fought over race, politics, and authority, there was no dissension between the children. They didn’t separate by race or gender. There were no outcasts, no labeling. Without the societal burdens adults choose to carry, the children share one focus… to survive. However, as chances of survival shrink and the enemy reveal themselves, the children’s focus turns to revenge. War is coming, but it takes time to plan and train because it will be winner take all. They’ll only get one chance to take down an enemy that’s growing in number, more advanced… and not human. It’s ironic the group’s best chance for survival and victory is also not human.
I’ve read and enjoyed first contact stories before, but the unique plot and realistic characters of When the Children Come make it a memorable book that goes on the re-read shelf.
Enjoy!
Nathan, a military vet who never wanted children, is ironically guarding over two-hundred of them. He’s their protector and possibly last chance for survival… as long as he stays awake.
The story pulls back to explain how Nathan and the children came to be hiding in the abandoned school, and who they’re hiding from.
I enjoyed this page-turner, reading it quickly, and ending up frustrated I’d have to wait until fall for book 2! HA!
Nathan is a great protagonist/hero. While he appears to be negative in the beginning, his backstory explains the guilt he feels for the lives lost during his three tours in Afghanistan—and his PTSD. But with the words of his late CO playing on repeat in his head, Nathan pushes on to be the protector and leader he doesn’t want to be but knows he has to be.
Lara and Raphaela, two women connected to NASA in different ways, are amazing sources of counsel and support for Nathan. Kudos to Kirwan for continuing to write strong, confident female characters. Nathan wonders more than once how he came to be surrounded by women smarter than him. However, it will take smarts and the Special Forces training Nathan has tried to bury to fight an enemy they know nothing about.
My favorite character though is ten-year-old Sally. After her brother is murdered, Sally runs for her life, straight to Nathan who lives in the same apartment building. Though he doesn’t know the child, her fear and his gut instincts tell him something is wrong. The streets are too empty for New Years Day. The adults who begin to gather are angry. And there are no children. Along with Lara—Nathan’s New Year’s Eve blind date—he takes the child and flees the city in search of help and answers. Each leg of the journey brings no answers and more hopelessness, but Nathan can’t help but notice as their situation becomes more dire, Sally matures, adding things overlooked or unspoken to the adults’ conversation.
When the trio meets up with others searching for answers while trying to survive, the ten-year-old becomes the unspoken leader for the children, and that’s how Nathan treats her as he and others train the children in basic survival skills to protect themselves and to kill. They know if adults fall asleep it’s kill or be killed when they wake up.
It wasn’t lost on me that while adults fought over race, politics, and authority, there was no dissension between the children. They didn’t separate by race or gender. There were no outcasts, no labeling. Without the societal burdens adults choose to carry, the children share one focus… to survive. However, as chances of survival shrink and the enemy reveal themselves, the children’s focus turns to revenge. War is coming, but it takes time to plan and train because it will be winner take all. They’ll only get one chance to take down an enemy that’s growing in number, more advanced… and not human. It’s ironic the group’s best chance for survival and victory is also not human.
I’ve read and enjoyed first contact stories before, but the unique plot and realistic characters of When the Children Come make it a memorable book that goes on the re-read shelf.
Enjoy!
May 15, 2021
OMG what a plot!
When I read books are usually can compare the book to something else I have read as plots are pretty similar in many genres, but not When The Children Come. As far as plots go it’s in a class all by itself. This book is so original and so good and I love how the hero is a normal person not one of these strong brooding and never speaks type of person. He acts like a leader and the hero but one with humanity and dignity. I love the mysterious llama and The two professors and even the leader of the Taliban Akbar. Yes in this book Americans huddled down with Taliban militia on American soil. As it says in the book and it’s an old saying as well the enemy of my enemy is my friend… And trust me this is a big enemy and we need all the friends we can get. I love this book I can’t say enough about it I highly highly recommend it!
When I read books are usually can compare the book to something else I have read as plots are pretty similar in many genres, but not When The Children Come. As far as plots go it’s in a class all by itself. This book is so original and so good and I love how the hero is a normal person not one of these strong brooding and never speaks type of person. He acts like a leader and the hero but one with humanity and dignity. I love the mysterious llama and The two professors and even the leader of the Taliban Akbar. Yes in this book Americans huddled down with Taliban militia on American soil. As it says in the book and it’s an old saying as well the enemy of my enemy is my friend… And trust me this is a big enemy and we need all the friends we can get. I love this book I can’t say enough about it I highly highly recommend it!
May 9, 2021
I was so engaged in this book! It pulled me in from the start and zipped along. I couldn’t wait to read more. It was full of constant action and the characters were so interesting and developed. I really loved how much credit the author gave the young children in the store credit for intelligence, and had the main character recognize it. The story was so well thought out and the idea seems very original. As I read I hoped that there would be a series or at least another book, and there is one coming so I’m really looking forward to it!
August 23, 2022
Usually I can find something good about a book. This one however is pure trash. Not one redeeming quality. The story line and plot are haphazard and just utterly ridiculous. The writing and execution are lazy and underwhelming. Was anything researched? It was honestly as if my 9 year old kid wrote out one of his dreams. A lot of the "scientific" parts made no sense. None! And that was the basis of the entire story!! And all the characters other than the protagonist are all just there to remind the reader how smart and great Nathan is in every possible way. He's just so modern and noble seeking counsel from women isn't he? Women that are mostly portrayed as little more than very attractive objects for him to man handle or fawn over when he likes, and who feed him information that he, the saviour, can fit together into some, allegedly, ingenious plan or new way of thinking, while everyone looks on and claps. None of the other characters are alive on their own. And Nathan isn't remotely relatable or believable. I bet that the author sees a lot of Nathan in himself. The character is written in that sort of self mas***b***ry, ego trip way many authors fall prey to. And then there's the children - Has the author ever met a child? The children in this book are either more precocious than any kid the world has ever seen, or complete non entities. Utter garbage.
December 2, 2021
Sci-fi Excellent Thriller That Is Terrifyingly Fast-Paced
This is a well-written, fascinating, and engrossing tale involving Nathan, an army veteran who has become a children's defender. Nathan is an amazing hero of the story and hero. While he first looks pessimistic, his history reveals the remorse he bears for the people that died over his previous deployments in Afghan. But, with his fallen CO's comments echoing in his memory, Nathan presses on to be the warrior and protector he doesn't like being but realizes he must be.
Another amazing character in this tale is Sally a ten years old girl, who fled for her survival after her brother was slain, directly to Nathan, who resides in the same residential area.
Even though he has never met Sally, her apprehension and his personal feelings convince him something might be amiss. The roads were far too deserted on New Year's eve. After a time, a group of enraged grownups convened.
There are also no children. He grabbed Sally, Lara Nathan's New Year's Eve whirlwind romance, and managed to flee in quest of aid and explanations. Each part of the journey offers no insights and more sadness, but Nathan simply can not help but note that as their position worsens, Sally develops, contributing things to the people's dialogue that was previously unnoticed or unstated.
This is a well-written, fascinating, and engrossing tale involving Nathan, an army veteran who has become a children's defender. Nathan is an amazing hero of the story and hero. While he first looks pessimistic, his history reveals the remorse he bears for the people that died over his previous deployments in Afghan. But, with his fallen CO's comments echoing in his memory, Nathan presses on to be the warrior and protector he doesn't like being but realizes he must be.
Another amazing character in this tale is Sally a ten years old girl, who fled for her survival after her brother was slain, directly to Nathan, who resides in the same residential area.
Even though he has never met Sally, her apprehension and his personal feelings convince him something might be amiss. The roads were far too deserted on New Year's eve. After a time, a group of enraged grownups convened.
There are also no children. He grabbed Sally, Lara Nathan's New Year's Eve whirlwind romance, and managed to flee in quest of aid and explanations. Each part of the journey offers no insights and more sadness, but Nathan simply can not help but note that as their position worsens, Sally develops, contributing things to the people's dialogue that was previously unnoticed or unstated.
January 11, 2021
A unique plot with well written characters and a writing style that keeps the tension high and the action rolling along.
My full review at www.brokengeekdesigns.com
My full review at www.brokengeekdesigns.com
February 22, 2021
It was ok but I felt like it should of had more to the story.
November 20, 2021
A great story
“When the children come” is the first novel in the series called “Children of the Eye”. It is a dark and spooky story that kept me alert all the time while I was reading. Barry Kirwan has come up with an original sci-fi and thriller plot worth a chance.
The story revolves around Nathan´s mysterious situations that surround him. He strives to keep himself awake and safe. It is rather creepy but at the same it is full of turns and twists that will hold your attention. I could experience what the characters felt, such as fear, anxiety, and doubt among other feelings.
It is a well-written novel with complex characters. The author´s writing style is excellent. I highly recommend it.
“When the children come” is the first novel in the series called “Children of the Eye”. It is a dark and spooky story that kept me alert all the time while I was reading. Barry Kirwan has come up with an original sci-fi and thriller plot worth a chance.
The story revolves around Nathan´s mysterious situations that surround him. He strives to keep himself awake and safe. It is rather creepy but at the same it is full of turns and twists that will hold your attention. I could experience what the characters felt, such as fear, anxiety, and doubt among other feelings.
It is a well-written novel with complex characters. The author´s writing style is excellent. I highly recommend it.
November 18, 2021
As a big fan of paranormal stories, I'm always on the lookout for something fresh and new and definitely "When the Children Come” fulfilled all my expectations. I was new to this author but found as soon as I started that I couldn't put the book down.
This is a well-written, interesting and more than captivating novel about Nathan, a military veteran who becomes the protector of children.
There is a kind of resolution at the end of this book, so this can be a stand-alone novel, but there is much more to be revealed about the main character and a second and third instalments were necessary. Of course, as I enjoyed so much this first masterpiece, I went on to immediately purchase the other two.
I love this book, it is awesome. In fact, the entire series is great!
This is a well-written, interesting and more than captivating novel about Nathan, a military veteran who becomes the protector of children.
There is a kind of resolution at the end of this book, so this can be a stand-alone novel, but there is much more to be revealed about the main character and a second and third instalments were necessary. Of course, as I enjoyed so much this first masterpiece, I went on to immediately purchase the other two.
I love this book, it is awesome. In fact, the entire series is great!
July 2, 2021
Starts slow but.....
Was a while before the game moved into it's interesting mode. Unfortunately this is the first book and I have more books on the run. 😀😀😀😀😀
Was a while before the game moved into it's interesting mode. Unfortunately this is the first book and I have more books on the run. 😀😀😀😀😀
February 27, 2022
This story is incredible! Aliens, adult 'zombies', orphaned kids, mass death, and on top of all of this, the remaining normal adults can't go to sleep or they'll turn into murderers.
I loved it and couldn't put it down. I'm really looking forward to book two.
I'd give it a PG rating for kissing & killing, but it's not overtly gory or sexual and there's not any cursing that I remember. Great apocalypse story aimed at a tween/pre-teen audience. I do feel like the ending was a little rushed; like the author was just looking to get to book two, but overall, it's worth the read.
Some reviews complained about the science, but this story isn't about the science, it's about humanity and the lengths people will (hopefully) go to in order to save it.
I loved it and couldn't put it down. I'm really looking forward to book two.
I'd give it a PG rating for kissing & killing, but it's not overtly gory or sexual and there's not any cursing that I remember. Great apocalypse story aimed at a tween/pre-teen audience. I do feel like the ending was a little rushed; like the author was just looking to get to book two, but overall, it's worth the read.
Some reviews complained about the science, but this story isn't about the science, it's about humanity and the lengths people will (hopefully) go to in order to save it.
March 23, 2022
“When the children come” is the first book in the Children of the Eye series by author Barry Kirwan, and a good beginning of this amazing saga.
I truly enjoyed the introduction of the characters to the story and the building of this fantastic sci-fi world. The writing is very descriptive and that makes it easy to imagine the scenes and to empathize with the characters. Also, the plot of the story is engaging and suspenseful. There are certain twists and turns that make the tale even more interesting and difficult to put down.
All in all, this is a great thriller. The book is exciting and action-packed. I recommend it to everyone who likes the cyberpunk and the science fiction genre.
I truly enjoyed the introduction of the characters to the story and the building of this fantastic sci-fi world. The writing is very descriptive and that makes it easy to imagine the scenes and to empathize with the characters. Also, the plot of the story is engaging and suspenseful. There are certain twists and turns that make the tale even more interesting and difficult to put down.
All in all, this is a great thriller. The book is exciting and action-packed. I recommend it to everyone who likes the cyberpunk and the science fiction genre.
March 23, 2022
Barry Kirwan uses his amazing writing skills to make sure the reader stays absorbed at all times. When the Children Come is a suspense/action novel starred by Nathan, a veteran whose life is about to change from one day to another. Something strange starts happening, adults are attacking children! This is the moment when Nathan becomes the hero, protecting younglings from the hands of their own family.
I personally enjoyed this reading, I considered it well-written and interesting. I'm giving it 4 stars because the cause of the problem is a little bit confusing and beyond belief, but a great story after all. I'll definitely continue with the second book soon!
I personally enjoyed this reading, I considered it well-written and interesting. I'm giving it 4 stars because the cause of the problem is a little bit confusing and beyond belief, but a great story after all. I'll definitely continue with the second book soon!
March 27, 2022
must read story!
This is one of the most unusual apocalypse sagas I’ve read so far. It Carrie’s the battle of humanity to survive. It’s aliens with a difference. And what a battle it is. The story has everything a reader could ask for!
This is one of the most unusual apocalypse sagas I’ve read so far. It Carrie’s the battle of humanity to survive. It’s aliens with a difference. And what a battle it is. The story has everything a reader could ask for!
March 20, 2022
Barry Kirwan is a science fiction fan who is curious about what else is out there. Inspired by mystery and several events, he wrote a saga called Children of the Eye. This is the first book, "When the children come." A story that starts with Nathan, a great man that has gone through so much and is emotionally drained. His life is about to change forever when he meets Sally, a little girl who is desperate to hide away from her parents. With no connections and hundreds of terrified children, they flee Manhattan in search of the truth.
This book is excellent! From the start, I was hooked on Kirwan’s writing. He describes everything in detail, and he manages to give his characters a depth of emotions that is very hard to find. The story overall is fantastic; it kept me wondering what else was about to happen and why it was happening. Highly recommended!
This book is excellent! From the start, I was hooked on Kirwan’s writing. He describes everything in detail, and he manages to give his characters a depth of emotions that is very hard to find. The story overall is fantastic; it kept me wondering what else was about to happen and why it was happening. Highly recommended!
March 18, 2022
Stirring!
“When the children come” by Kirwan is such a multifaceted book that it’s hard to find the words to describe it. But it will definitely teach you one thing: you never ever know what life will put in your way and you have absolutely no control over the future. Whether you want kids or not, life doesn’t care. If you are supposed to have them, you will. It’s crazy how little and how much a human being can do to choose a path in life. And Nathan is just the perfect example for that.
Nevertheless, this book is anything but unplanned. It is very well written and structured, which leads to it being very comprehensible and easy to follow. The author has managed to write a work of art, that I can only advocate for!
“When the children come” by Kirwan is such a multifaceted book that it’s hard to find the words to describe it. But it will definitely teach you one thing: you never ever know what life will put in your way and you have absolutely no control over the future. Whether you want kids or not, life doesn’t care. If you are supposed to have them, you will. It’s crazy how little and how much a human being can do to choose a path in life. And Nathan is just the perfect example for that.
Nevertheless, this book is anything but unplanned. It is very well written and structured, which leads to it being very comprehensible and easy to follow. The author has managed to write a work of art, that I can only advocate for!
September 24, 2021
Imaginative and Exciting
I loved this story. It is so unusual and very imaginative. To focus the story on children is really a great way to project a story and as they are protected by adults, they become adults in their thinking and their ways. Such a great story including an extraterrestrial who fashions herself as part hero and part counsellor to the survivors. I hope if you are thinking of reading this story you will go ahead and do so and enjoy the ride.
I loved this story. It is so unusual and very imaginative. To focus the story on children is really a great way to project a story and as they are protected by adults, they become adults in their thinking and their ways. Such a great story including an extraterrestrial who fashions herself as part hero and part counsellor to the survivors. I hope if you are thinking of reading this story you will go ahead and do so and enjoy the ride.
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