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A Measure of Serenity
Eighteen-year-old Serenity Ashdown has a brilliant mind: she counts, calculates, and analyzes everything, even when she doesn’t want to. Her memory is also far beyond photographic, surpassing her physicist father’s abilities. But her world was otherwise normal right up until dimension-hopping enemies forced her into a parallel reality. The feds she meets on the other side claim to want to help her go home. All she has to do is use her memory to reconstruct the right sequence of codes. But it’s soon clear they want something more: a gateway for invasion, because this version of Earth is dying.
Serenity can’t risk returning home with a deadly force behind her, but the feds aren’t about to let her escape. Then she learns that the “other Serenity,” her alter-ego in this dimension, was a resistance leader recently betrayed and killed. She has a chance to assume her alter-ego’s identity and use her unique ability to lead the resistance in their fight against the tyrannical super-government that is poised to invade her universe. Serenity has no idea how to be someone she’s not, but she has to try—or she may not even have a home to return to.
Serenity can’t risk returning home with a deadly force behind her, but the feds aren’t about to let her escape. Then she learns that the “other Serenity,” her alter-ego in this dimension, was a resistance leader recently betrayed and killed. She has a chance to assume her alter-ego’s identity and use her unique ability to lead the resistance in their fight against the tyrannical super-government that is poised to invade her universe. Serenity has no idea how to be someone she’s not, but she has to try—or she may not even have a home to return to.
320 pages, Hardcover
Published July 20, 2021
5 people are currently reading
4619 people want to read
About the author
Bryan Prosek
6 books115 followersBryan Prosek is a science fiction, action thriller, and mystery writer. His first three novels, The Brighter the Stars and The Darker the Skies of his Earth United trilogy, and A Measure of Serenity, have been published by CamCat Publishing. His fourth novel, Return to Yesterday’s Tomorrow, is available on Amazon. When he isn’t writing, you can probably find him watching action, dystopian, and science fiction movies or television shows. He loves the big screen and the small screen.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
February 3, 2021
I guess you're allowed to review your own book, which is what I'm doing here. Of course, I have to give it five stars. A Measure of Serenity will be out this summer, 2021. It's science fiction, but not hard core science fiction. It combines elements of adventure, love, and a dystopian society, set in a parallel universe. You can check out more details on my website at www.bryankprosek.com
September 30, 2021
An excellent read; I flew through this book! The novel takes a lot of classic sci-fi elements and uses them to create a rich plot and dynamic characters. Serenity, the main character, is neurodivergent. Her growth throughout the book is evident and relatable. The events of the book embody the statement "man makes plans, and God (or in this case, the Feds) laughs." One of the things that I, personally, enjoyed about the book is that both the original plans made by the main characters, and the modifications made up on the fly were equally interesting and engaging. In terms of the author's voice, the book is well written and easy to follow- perfect for the YA age group. I would warn that there are some graphic depictions of war, which might not be appropriate for preteens and younger teens. Without spoilers, I think the ending is perfect for the book. Overall, a great modern sci-fi book.
June 3, 2022
Wonderful world building and character development.
Serenity is an eighteen-year-old Harvard senior with a mathematical mind made for problem solving. After helping her father with a project not totally revealed to her she goes looking for answers. While searching for her father she comes across a sphere that takes her to a dystopian, parallel dimension which is in a constant state of war. The Feds in this universe need Serenity's mental abilities to complete the sphere on their side to give them access from their dying world to the one Serenity came from. When the Feds real purpose is revealed to her, Serenity joins the resistance in the hopes of finding her father and returning them both to their home world.
I found this one to be a fast paced, easy read. Serenity and her new friends are very likable and easy to root for and the plot is well crafted. If you're one that enjoys dystopian novels or books with alternant worlds, I highly recommend you seek this one out and give it a try.
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Thank you to the author, CamCat Publishing and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the gifted copy and including me on this tour.
Serenity is an eighteen-year-old Harvard senior with a mathematical mind made for problem solving. After helping her father with a project not totally revealed to her she goes looking for answers. While searching for her father she comes across a sphere that takes her to a dystopian, parallel dimension which is in a constant state of war. The Feds in this universe need Serenity's mental abilities to complete the sphere on their side to give them access from their dying world to the one Serenity came from. When the Feds real purpose is revealed to her, Serenity joins the resistance in the hopes of finding her father and returning them both to their home world.
I found this one to be a fast paced, easy read. Serenity and her new friends are very likable and easy to root for and the plot is well crafted. If you're one that enjoys dystopian novels or books with alternant worlds, I highly recommend you seek this one out and give it a try.
.
Thank you to the author, CamCat Publishing and Suzy Approved Book Tours for the gifted copy and including me on this tour.
June 25, 2022
A dystopian, sci-fi YA thriller with a brilliant female in STEM, count me in!
And boy, can Serenity Ashdown count! She has a great mind, a gift; although she calls it a curse - she counts, analyzes, and calculates everything - all the time.
At only eighteen, she is a senior at Harvard, double majoring in chemical engineering and nuclear medical technology. She is invited to work on a special project, but then her father disappears.
Serenity takes up the search and follows his trail into a parallel universe. She comes face to face with an alternate version of her town, but this world is dying. And, she learns that her alternative self, with her super intelligence, was leading the fight to crush the oppressive government. Now she has a choice to make.
I enjoyed Serenity's character. I love how she is super-intelligent yet bold, courageous, and not without feelings. If you're a fan of alternative realities or love an action-packed sci-fi thriller, check out 𝐀 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲!
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @bryank.prosek for a spot on tour and a gifted copy.
And boy, can Serenity Ashdown count! She has a great mind, a gift; although she calls it a curse - she counts, analyzes, and calculates everything - all the time.
At only eighteen, she is a senior at Harvard, double majoring in chemical engineering and nuclear medical technology. She is invited to work on a special project, but then her father disappears.
Serenity takes up the search and follows his trail into a parallel universe. She comes face to face with an alternate version of her town, but this world is dying. And, she learns that her alternative self, with her super intelligence, was leading the fight to crush the oppressive government. Now she has a choice to make.
I enjoyed Serenity's character. I love how she is super-intelligent yet bold, courageous, and not without feelings. If you're a fan of alternative realities or love an action-packed sci-fi thriller, check out 𝐀 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲!
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @bryank.prosek for a spot on tour and a gifted copy.
November 12, 2021
Disclaimer: I received this e-book from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: A Measure of Serenity
Author: Bryan K. Prosek
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Diversity: Nuerodivergent MC
Recommended For...: young adult readers, dystopian, sci-fi, alternate world
Publication Date: July 20, 2021
Genre: YA Sci-Fi Dystopian
Recommended Age: 14+ (violence, gore, war, language)
Explanation of CWs: There is some violence and slight gore. There are also some graphic depictions of war. There is also slight cursing.
Publisher: CamCat Books
Pages: 320
Synopsis: Eighteen-year-old Serenity Ashdown has a brilliant mind: she counts, calculates, and analyzes everything, even when she doesn’t want to. Her memory is also far beyond photographic, surpassing her physicist father’s abilities. But her world was otherwise normal right up until dimension-hopping enemies forced her into a parallel reality. The feds she meets on the other side claim to want to help her go home. All she has to do is use her memory to reconstruct the right sequence of codes. But it’s soon clear they want something more: a gateway for invasion, because this version of Earth is dying.
Serenity can’t risk returning home with a deadly force behind her, but the feds aren’t about to let her escape. Then she learns that the “other Serenity,” her alter-ego in this dimension, was a resistance leader recently betrayed and killed. She has a chance to assume her alter-ego’s identity and use her unique ability to lead the resistance in their fight against the tyrannical super-government that is poised to invade her universe. Serenity has no idea how to be someone she’s not, but she has to try—or she may not even have a home to return to.
Review: For the most part I really liked this book. The premise of it is amazing and it reminded me a lot of Down World, which is fine with me because I like alternate/parallel universe reads. The book had amazingly well done character development and the world building was out of the world (hehe). The book was also well plotted and I loved how well the dystopian world was done.
The only issues I really had with the book is that the narration style is a bit weird and takes a second to get into it. The book is also predictable and the story dips a bit in the middle.
Verdict: It was good!
Book: A Measure of Serenity
Author: Bryan K. Prosek
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Diversity: Nuerodivergent MC
Recommended For...: young adult readers, dystopian, sci-fi, alternate world
Publication Date: July 20, 2021
Genre: YA Sci-Fi Dystopian
Recommended Age: 14+ (violence, gore, war, language)
Explanation of CWs: There is some violence and slight gore. There are also some graphic depictions of war. There is also slight cursing.
Publisher: CamCat Books
Pages: 320
Synopsis: Eighteen-year-old Serenity Ashdown has a brilliant mind: she counts, calculates, and analyzes everything, even when she doesn’t want to. Her memory is also far beyond photographic, surpassing her physicist father’s abilities. But her world was otherwise normal right up until dimension-hopping enemies forced her into a parallel reality. The feds she meets on the other side claim to want to help her go home. All she has to do is use her memory to reconstruct the right sequence of codes. But it’s soon clear they want something more: a gateway for invasion, because this version of Earth is dying.
Serenity can’t risk returning home with a deadly force behind her, but the feds aren’t about to let her escape. Then she learns that the “other Serenity,” her alter-ego in this dimension, was a resistance leader recently betrayed and killed. She has a chance to assume her alter-ego’s identity and use her unique ability to lead the resistance in their fight against the tyrannical super-government that is poised to invade her universe. Serenity has no idea how to be someone she’s not, but she has to try—or she may not even have a home to return to.
Review: For the most part I really liked this book. The premise of it is amazing and it reminded me a lot of Down World, which is fine with me because I like alternate/parallel universe reads. The book had amazingly well done character development and the world building was out of the world (hehe). The book was also well plotted and I loved how well the dystopian world was done.
The only issues I really had with the book is that the narration style is a bit weird and takes a second to get into it. The book is also predictable and the story dips a bit in the middle.
Verdict: It was good!
May 2, 2022
This book has such an intriguing premise. As one who doesn't read much sci-fi or books featuring a parallel universe, I was pleasantly surprised at how much this book drew me in. Despite the fact that I couldn't really relate to the main character, the world that Prosek built - a unique blend of sci-fi and dystopian - intrigued me and kept me going.
However, I found the writing style pretty hard to get into. For one, while the story is definitely fast-paced, the writing style made me feel like I was someone watching on the sidelines rather than actually experiencing the action. As a result, I didn't really FEEL any of the characters' emotions, which is slightly problematic because the emotions led a lot of the story - from Serenity's desperation at saving her family to her love for Shawn. I may be a heartless little bundle of angst, but reading some of the reviews, I found I'm not the only one who thinks this.
But overall, this is an intriguing story in a dynamic world with a mature main character. If you like that type of thing, I'd recommend this book as a clean and adventurous story.
However, I found the writing style pretty hard to get into. For one, while the story is definitely fast-paced, the writing style made me feel like I was someone watching on the sidelines rather than actually experiencing the action. As a result, I didn't really FEEL any of the characters' emotions, which is slightly problematic because the emotions led a lot of the story - from Serenity's desperation at saving her family to her love for Shawn. I may be a heartless little bundle of angst, but reading some of the reviews, I found I'm not the only one who thinks this.
But overall, this is an intriguing story in a dynamic world with a mature main character. If you like that type of thing, I'd recommend this book as a clean and adventurous story.
June 3, 2022
I typically shy away from books in the sci-fi/fantasy world. However, when I read the synopsis of this book about a genius female with a far superior eidetic and photographic memory that has ever existed.
It captivated me from the start when she was 18 and graduating from Harvard. She was invited to join a top secret project that her father was apart of and even the new president. Her world turns inside out when she discovers something hidden in the basement while trying to find her Dad.
Finding herself in an alternate world from her own, she might be the only person who is able to save herself and both her world and this new world she has landed in.
Action packed and full of heart, courageousness and finding hope again. A perfect page turner…I really need a book two now!!
It captivated me from the start when she was 18 and graduating from Harvard. She was invited to join a top secret project that her father was apart of and even the new president. Her world turns inside out when she discovers something hidden in the basement while trying to find her Dad.
Finding herself in an alternate world from her own, she might be the only person who is able to save herself and both her world and this new world she has landed in.
Action packed and full of heart, courageousness and finding hope again. A perfect page turner…I really need a book two now!!
October 11, 2021
In the book, the title depicts clearly what the book is about, only that serenity here doesn't mean tranquillity or peace of mind but the prodigious daughter of a genius scientist. Serenity is a prodigy whose genius might surpass any other person that has walked on this version of our earth.
Looking at the cover All I can see is an explosion of numbers and equation which is probably happening in the head of the girl depicted in the cover art, but there again lies another question as to who is the other girl and why does she look exactly the same. Well, most of the time this might have been an aesthetic co-incidence but here the illustrator went a step ahead to capture the meaning of the plot just with his tenacious creativity which I am going to explain how why moving into the plot. A measure for serenity from the cover thus must revolve around this extremely heightened individual to whom number crunching is the same as breathing. The first look at the book really left me thrilled to know the content in a bit more detail and the aesthetic and cover design have a lot to be thanked for in that context.
In an alternate reality on earth, there lives Serenity, whose neurons work at such amazing speeds that accumulation never happens. Any and every number all equations pass by as mere phrases of children's poetry in her deeply analytical mind. Things turn topsy turvy when invaders from dimension cross to her realm and wreak havoc across all land. The story involves her travelling through a portal that has been ripped across the fabric of reality to find herself trapped on a dying earth. A dystopian world is revealed to her who wants to travel back to an earth that is safe to harbour them and leave the dying earth to be annihilated by itself. Serenity finding herself in this twisted reality claims the identity of her doppelganger to sort out this extra-dimensional mess. I am sure you have realised that the twins from the cover art are Serenity and her doppelganger.
Looking at the cover All I can see is an explosion of numbers and equation which is probably happening in the head of the girl depicted in the cover art, but there again lies another question as to who is the other girl and why does she look exactly the same. Well, most of the time this might have been an aesthetic co-incidence but here the illustrator went a step ahead to capture the meaning of the plot just with his tenacious creativity which I am going to explain how why moving into the plot. A measure for serenity from the cover thus must revolve around this extremely heightened individual to whom number crunching is the same as breathing. The first look at the book really left me thrilled to know the content in a bit more detail and the aesthetic and cover design have a lot to be thanked for in that context.
In an alternate reality on earth, there lives Serenity, whose neurons work at such amazing speeds that accumulation never happens. Any and every number all equations pass by as mere phrases of children's poetry in her deeply analytical mind. Things turn topsy turvy when invaders from dimension cross to her realm and wreak havoc across all land. The story involves her travelling through a portal that has been ripped across the fabric of reality to find herself trapped on a dying earth. A dystopian world is revealed to her who wants to travel back to an earth that is safe to harbour them and leave the dying earth to be annihilated by itself. Serenity finding herself in this twisted reality claims the identity of her doppelganger to sort out this extra-dimensional mess. I am sure you have realised that the twins from the cover art are Serenity and her doppelganger.
October 20, 2021
Thank you Bryan Prosek for sending me an eARC in return for a review. It took me awhile to finish this book(because of school). When I finally did, I was amazed with this world. I'm not one for reading sci-fi, but this book has definitely changed that. The world building was so good, the character(s) had great development. I was not expecting to read that type of beginning and I was like "Wow, did I just read that?!" The battles she had to face and the choices she had to make were hard. 5 stars!
October 7, 2021
Thank you to the author for sending me an E ARC in return for a honest review.
This book was sooo good!! highly recommend to sci-fi lovers and those who are looking for a good, easy sci fi read
I really enjoyed the writing style - the chapters are a good length and fast paced. The characters are lovable and interesting - my ship sailed so I'm very happy haha. Overall I loved this book, it was so good that it only took me 3 days to read
Bryan Prosek has wrote a fantastic book 👏🏾
This book was sooo good!! highly recommend to sci-fi lovers and those who are looking for a good, easy sci fi read
I really enjoyed the writing style - the chapters are a good length and fast paced. The characters are lovable and interesting - my ship sailed so I'm very happy haha. Overall I loved this book, it was so good that it only took me 3 days to read
Bryan Prosek has wrote a fantastic book 👏🏾
June 7, 2022
I don’t read much young adult or science fiction but after sitting down and reading this book in basically one chunk I have to ask myself why in the world am I not reading more books like this one.
This book in my opinion is not just a YA sci-fy read but can also be considered an eco-thriller as the environment in the parallel universe which is the main setting is deteriorating rapidly.
This book was literally heart pounding for me. It is full of action, has an unlikely heroine that counts and calculates, really makes you think about human actions and reactions, and has an ending that I’ll be pondering for a LONG time.
The main character, Serenity (how great is that name?), is an 18 year old genius. She is a senior at Harvard and helps her dad with pieces of his top secret project even though she doesn’t know what he is actually doing.
Serenity accidentally goes into a parallel universe that is struggling to survive due to a corrupt government.
Serenity becomes the face of the resistance in order to save her dad and her world.
This book in my opinion is not just a YA sci-fy read but can also be considered an eco-thriller as the environment in the parallel universe which is the main setting is deteriorating rapidly.
This book was literally heart pounding for me. It is full of action, has an unlikely heroine that counts and calculates, really makes you think about human actions and reactions, and has an ending that I’ll be pondering for a LONG time.
The main character, Serenity (how great is that name?), is an 18 year old genius. She is a senior at Harvard and helps her dad with pieces of his top secret project even though she doesn’t know what he is actually doing.
Serenity accidentally goes into a parallel universe that is struggling to survive due to a corrupt government.
Serenity becomes the face of the resistance in order to save her dad and her world.
July 27, 2021
Thanks to the publisher for providing an eARC of A Measure of Serenity in exchange for an honest review.
So, I feel terrible. I didn't realize until popping onto Goodreads to review this that I've actually read a Bryan K. Prosek book before and disliked it for his narration style so asking to be an early reviewer for this one was pretty much setting up both myself and this book for failure. Once again, almost all the reasons I didn't like this just come down to writing style and I don't want to go on and on about what I didn't like here because I probably shouldn't have read it in the first place.
So, I feel terrible. I didn't realize until popping onto Goodreads to review this that I've actually read a Bryan K. Prosek book before and disliked it for his narration style so asking to be an early reviewer for this one was pretty much setting up both myself and this book for failure. Once again, almost all the reasons I didn't like this just come down to writing style and I don't want to go on and on about what I didn't like here because I probably shouldn't have read it in the first place.
March 18, 2022
RATING:
4 STARS
Serenity Ashdown is a genius - essentially a human calculator, she can’t stop herself from running the numbers in any situation she finds herself in (be it sneaking into a building, winning a game of chess, or calculating who has the best odds after a car crash). If that wasn’t enough, she was also blessed with a photographic memory. A normal day as a senior at Harvard becomes very strange once she enters one of her father's labs and encounters an odd device. Serenity quickly realizes she’s in a world that resembles her own but isn’t quite the same. Will she be able to save the day and return home before it’s too late?
Readers will be very impressed with the world that Mr. Prosek created. It was a fine line with creating an “alternate universe” that looks like ours but feels very different, and the author executed that aspect of the book beautifully. I was quite amused by the references to Amelia Earhart and the Bermuda Triangle, and how were incorporated into the story. The book reminded me of a cross between Alice in Wonderland and Tron. Serenity has a “falling down the rabbit hole experience”, but one that’s facilitated by science and technology rather than fantastical elements. There are also specific requirements that have to be met for her to return to her own world, like how Sam Flynn must journey to return from the world of Tron.
This book was written well before February 2022 and the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, but it’s interesting learning about the alternate world that Serenity finds herself in and how the US Russia, and China somehow find themselves working together there. I can’t ever see Russia and the US working together in the present day, so that definitely helped reinforce the whole “alternate universe” aspect of the book.
I wanted to touch on the fact that the main character, Serenity, is neurodivergent. It's so important for people who aren't neurotypical to see themselves represented in books, so it was heartening to see the representation that her character offered.
The audiobook narrator Suzanne Elise Freeman did a great job with her performance. I think she captured the essence of Serenity’s character well. If you are a fan of sci-fi audiobooks, I would recommend you give A Measure of Serenity a chance.
Overall, this was a great read perfect for fans of young adult sci-fi. If a mix between Tron and Alice in Wonderland sounds like a great read to you, then pick up A Measure of Serenity today. I look forward to checking out Bryan Prosek’s other books in the future.
Thank you to the author, CamCat Books and Jaime at Rockstar Book Tours for providing me with a complimentary audiobook review copy. I appreciate the opportunity to listen to and review the audiobook of A Measure of Serenity immensely! Please note - I voluntarily read and reviewed A Measure of Serenity. All opinions expressed in the review are my own and not influenced in any way.
Serenity Ashdown is a genius - essentially a human calculator, she can’t stop herself from running the numbers in any situation she finds herself in (be it sneaking into a building, winning a game of chess, or calculating who has the best odds after a car crash). If that wasn’t enough, she was also blessed with a photographic memory. A normal day as a senior at Harvard becomes very strange once she enters one of her father's labs and encounters an odd device. Serenity quickly realizes she’s in a world that resembles her own but isn’t quite the same. Will she be able to save the day and return home before it’s too late?
Readers will be very impressed with the world that Mr. Prosek created. It was a fine line with creating an “alternate universe” that looks like ours but feels very different, and the author executed that aspect of the book beautifully. I was quite amused by the references to Amelia Earhart and the Bermuda Triangle, and how were incorporated into the story. The book reminded me of a cross between Alice in Wonderland and Tron. Serenity has a “falling down the rabbit hole experience”, but one that’s facilitated by science and technology rather than fantastical elements. There are also specific requirements that have to be met for her to return to her own world, like how Sam Flynn must journey to return from the world of Tron.
This book was written well before February 2022 and the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, but it’s interesting learning about the alternate world that Serenity finds herself in and how the US Russia, and China somehow find themselves working together there. I can’t ever see Russia and the US working together in the present day, so that definitely helped reinforce the whole “alternate universe” aspect of the book.
I wanted to touch on the fact that the main character, Serenity, is neurodivergent. It's so important for people who aren't neurotypical to see themselves represented in books, so it was heartening to see the representation that her character offered.
The audiobook narrator Suzanne Elise Freeman did a great job with her performance. I think she captured the essence of Serenity’s character well. If you are a fan of sci-fi audiobooks, I would recommend you give A Measure of Serenity a chance.
Overall, this was a great read perfect for fans of young adult sci-fi. If a mix between Tron and Alice in Wonderland sounds like a great read to you, then pick up A Measure of Serenity today. I look forward to checking out Bryan Prosek’s other books in the future.
Thank you to the author, CamCat Books and Jaime at Rockstar Book Tours for providing me with a complimentary audiobook review copy. I appreciate the opportunity to listen to and review the audiobook of A Measure of Serenity immensely! Please note - I voluntarily read and reviewed A Measure of Serenity. All opinions expressed in the review are my own and not influenced in any way.
November 21, 2021
What if you related to the world through numbers and problem-solving? Eighteen-year-old Harvard senior Serenity Ashdown struggles to keep her mind focused as she gets pulled into a highly classified scientific project with a scope far beyond what she could have imagined. She relies on her numerical genius to try and save herself, her loved ones, and the world as she knows it.
Bryan Prosek’s debut YA science fiction novel has a uniquely gifted heroine who uses her amazing intellectual prowess to search for the truth and attempt to change the course of the project she has been coerced into working on. Serenity is highly intelligent yet flawed, making her relatable to those of us who struggled through basic algebra and geometry. The dystopian environment she finds herself in pushes her to face her fears and find her strengths outside of academia as she attempts to shut down the project.
Serenity’s journey is a fast-paced and engrossing read that makes you consider the priorities of the inhabitants of our planet. She evolves into someone she didn’t think she could become and never gives up on saving the world from destruction beyond repair. I love a good dystopian story, and it’s always a bonus when there’s a strong heroine leading the charge. Add this one to your TBR. You won’t be disappointed!
Bryan Prosek’s debut YA science fiction novel has a uniquely gifted heroine who uses her amazing intellectual prowess to search for the truth and attempt to change the course of the project she has been coerced into working on. Serenity is highly intelligent yet flawed, making her relatable to those of us who struggled through basic algebra and geometry. The dystopian environment she finds herself in pushes her to face her fears and find her strengths outside of academia as she attempts to shut down the project.
Serenity’s journey is a fast-paced and engrossing read that makes you consider the priorities of the inhabitants of our planet. She evolves into someone she didn’t think she could become and never gives up on saving the world from destruction beyond repair. I love a good dystopian story, and it’s always a bonus when there’s a strong heroine leading the charge. Add this one to your TBR. You won’t be disappointed!
December 17, 2021
Actual rating 3.5
Serenity is brilliant, she has a very analytical mind and a near perfect photographic memory. She can calculate the statistical probability of scenarios on the fly and then immediately apply it to real world life. At only 18 she is a senior at Harvard and helping her dad, a researcher, solve complex problems. Her dad's projects are very secretive and leads him to disappear. Serenity isn't getting answers on where he is and takes it in her own hands to find out what is wrong, leading her to secret tech that transports her to a parallel universe. Now Serenity has to find her dad and figure out how to return back to her own world.
For how much this story relies on numbers and analyzing problems it was surprisingly fast paced and really enjoyable to read. The only reason I rated it lower was because I'm not a fan of the romance side story. It was "instant love" and not very believable, but did add some sweet moments to the overall story. And that ending! Big cliffhanger that I'm hoping gets resolved in a sequel later.
If you love sci-fi then this is a very fun quick read!
Serenity is brilliant, she has a very analytical mind and a near perfect photographic memory. She can calculate the statistical probability of scenarios on the fly and then immediately apply it to real world life. At only 18 she is a senior at Harvard and helping her dad, a researcher, solve complex problems. Her dad's projects are very secretive and leads him to disappear. Serenity isn't getting answers on where he is and takes it in her own hands to find out what is wrong, leading her to secret tech that transports her to a parallel universe. Now Serenity has to find her dad and figure out how to return back to her own world.
For how much this story relies on numbers and analyzing problems it was surprisingly fast paced and really enjoyable to read. The only reason I rated it lower was because I'm not a fan of the romance side story. It was "instant love" and not very believable, but did add some sweet moments to the overall story. And that ending! Big cliffhanger that I'm hoping gets resolved in a sequel later.
If you love sci-fi then this is a very fun quick read!
December 9, 2022
I have had the pleasure of reading previous books by Bryan K Prosek and was excited to have the opportunity to read his release, A Measure of Serenity. I was not disappointed and enjoyed reading this story. I am not a huge sci fi and fantasy fiction fan, but glad that I wanted to give this one a chance. I really liked reading it. It was a fun journey to take to whole different world and away from the stresses of every day life. The character of teen Serenity Ashdown was a great one to know. I admired her bravery and determination. Her tale was entertaining with a unique plot. It was refreshing to read something different. I found the author’s talent really shines through. There were a few scenes that were a little over my head but I was quickly able to catch on and keep reading. I liked it.
I am giving A Measure of Serenity four and a half stars. Fans of the Young Adult, Science Fiction, Fantasy Fiction, and Paranormal Fiction will want to give it a try. I think it is worth a read. I am looking forward to see what other books from Bryan K Prosek to see where else he takes his readers, fans and characters to next in his upcoming releases.
I received a paperback copy of A Measure of Serenity from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving A Measure of Serenity four and a half stars. Fans of the Young Adult, Science Fiction, Fantasy Fiction, and Paranormal Fiction will want to give it a try. I think it is worth a read. I am looking forward to see what other books from Bryan K Prosek to see where else he takes his readers, fans and characters to next in his upcoming releases.
I received a paperback copy of A Measure of Serenity from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
December 14, 2021
A Measure of Serenity is a YA science fiction novel with a strong female lead and a dystopian parallel universe.
Serenity has a mind like no one else. With a glimpse, she knows how many leaves are on a tree. At 18 years old, she’s a senior in her last year at Harvard. She’s so brilliant that she somehow finds her way into a parallel world. It doesn’t take long for Serenity to realize that this world is different in the worst possible way, and it’s up to her to take the steps necessary to save her universe as well as the parallel one.
I’m about halfway through this one and I’m really enjoying it so far! Serenity is not your typical main character and I always love an independent and courageous female lead. There seems to be a new twist that appears every few minutes and it definitely keeps me on my toes. I also have no idea how it’s going to end, and I love when that happens.
If you love YA, I would definitely recommend this one. Even if you’re not big on science fiction, I would suggest you give this one a try. This one is out now in case you want to add it to your TBR!
Serenity has a mind like no one else. With a glimpse, she knows how many leaves are on a tree. At 18 years old, she’s a senior in her last year at Harvard. She’s so brilliant that she somehow finds her way into a parallel world. It doesn’t take long for Serenity to realize that this world is different in the worst possible way, and it’s up to her to take the steps necessary to save her universe as well as the parallel one.
I’m about halfway through this one and I’m really enjoying it so far! Serenity is not your typical main character and I always love an independent and courageous female lead. There seems to be a new twist that appears every few minutes and it definitely keeps me on my toes. I also have no idea how it’s going to end, and I love when that happens.
If you love YA, I would definitely recommend this one. Even if you’re not big on science fiction, I would suggest you give this one a try. This one is out now in case you want to add it to your TBR!
December 14, 2022
A Measure of Serenity is very different from my usual genre, but I was pulled in rather quickly. I appreciate that it’s a wholesome read.
Serenity is easy to connect with and I found her fascinating. She reminds me of a friend I used to know that counted everything—her steps, how many times she chewed, etc. She’s an interesting character and I enjoyed getting inside her head (even though math makes me nauseously bored.)
The alternate world kind of boggles my brain, which explains why I rarely read this genre. I tripped up at times on the writing style, but the mind-boggling premise is smartly done.
First Line (Prologue): My mind replays that night for me like a movie, whether I want it to or not.
Genre: YA, Science Fiction, Dystopian
Author: Bryan Prosek
Page Count: 368
Reading Age: 13-18
Content: Language, Violence, War
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
Serenity is easy to connect with and I found her fascinating. She reminds me of a friend I used to know that counted everything—her steps, how many times she chewed, etc. She’s an interesting character and I enjoyed getting inside her head (even though math makes me nauseously bored.)
The alternate world kind of boggles my brain, which explains why I rarely read this genre. I tripped up at times on the writing style, but the mind-boggling premise is smartly done.
First Line (Prologue): My mind replays that night for me like a movie, whether I want it to or not.
Genre: YA, Science Fiction, Dystopian
Author: Bryan Prosek
Page Count: 368
Reading Age: 13-18
Content: Language, Violence, War
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
December 6, 2022
The prologue of A Measure of Serenity had me hooked from the very beginning. And then Serenity herself – she has traits of a savant and as a psychology major; I was done for. I could not and did not want to stop reading, but I didn’t want the story to end either! (Talk about a conundrum!)
Serenity is such a neat individual and I love that the book reads as though she really is the one sharing. The storyline follows her vernacular.
Serenity has been through so much and what she stumbles into… well, that’s what makes the story.
I also want to add, that Isaiah is my favorite character after Serenity. I won’t say why. You have to read the book to find out, but I adore him.
This is the second book I have read by Bryan Prosek – in a row even – and I find that conspiracies tend to be a theme in his writing and I really find that it adds to the mystery surrounding the story.
A Measure of Serenity gave me heartache, romance, mystery, suspense, action, conspiracy… an amazing read that I very much enjoyed!
Serenity is such a neat individual and I love that the book reads as though she really is the one sharing. The storyline follows her vernacular.
Serenity has been through so much and what she stumbles into… well, that’s what makes the story.
I also want to add, that Isaiah is my favorite character after Serenity. I won’t say why. You have to read the book to find out, but I adore him.
This is the second book I have read by Bryan Prosek – in a row even – and I find that conspiracies tend to be a theme in his writing and I really find that it adds to the mystery surrounding the story.
A Measure of Serenity gave me heartache, romance, mystery, suspense, action, conspiracy… an amazing read that I very much enjoyed!
December 13, 2021
This story - about an 18-year old girl with unnatural mathematical abilities who falls into a portal to a parallel dimension - is wonderfully written. There is no doubt that Serenity is a character that everyone would root for. She is sweet, a bit awkward and driven by the love she feels for her family.
The notion of parallel dimensions has always fascinated me. Thinking of the possibility of spontaneous portals opening to similar worlds is intriguing, to say the least. I loved how this book really took such a complex topic and made it approachable in a YA format. The book was engaging, interesting and appealing on so many levels. I would highly recommend it for anyone who loves a good YA novel with science-related undertones.
The notion of parallel dimensions has always fascinated me. Thinking of the possibility of spontaneous portals opening to similar worlds is intriguing, to say the least. I loved how this book really took such a complex topic and made it approachable in a YA format. The book was engaging, interesting and appealing on so many levels. I would highly recommend it for anyone who loves a good YA novel with science-related undertones.
November 10, 2021
A Measure of Serenity by Bryan Prosek is a warning about alternate universes. Serenity is an absolute genius who sometimes helps her physicist father with his secret work. When she goes looking for him and falls into another reality, she realizes this world is not as friendly as her own.
This book gave me major Fringe vibes and I absolutely loved it. From start to finish there was never a dull moment. I could not put this book down, especially with the many theories going on in my head. The characters were phenomenally done. The way Serenity views the world as countless numbers made me feel terrible for her, since it seemed exhausting. The way she would sometimes tell herself out loud to stop counting hit close to home because sometimes I have to tell myself to stop thinking. I really hope we get a sequel. This book was a great read and so for me, it was a 4.5/5.
If you like alternate universes, insanely smart women, or have ever wondered about your doppelganger, this is the one for you.
This book gave me major Fringe vibes and I absolutely loved it. From start to finish there was never a dull moment. I could not put this book down, especially with the many theories going on in my head. The characters were phenomenally done. The way Serenity views the world as countless numbers made me feel terrible for her, since it seemed exhausting. The way she would sometimes tell herself out loud to stop counting hit close to home because sometimes I have to tell myself to stop thinking. I really hope we get a sequel. This book was a great read and so for me, it was a 4.5/5.
If you like alternate universes, insanely smart women, or have ever wondered about your doppelganger, this is the one for you.
December 12, 2022
My Thoughts:
Serenity is a brilliant women who at the age of 18 is already a senior at Harvard.
But what some call a gift she calls a curse her mind is alway counting and calculating
Which gets worse when she is nervous Serenity just wants to be normal.
So when Serenity is asked to work on a project she soon learns her dad is also working on and has been hiding a top secret project from her. So when she can’t get ahold of him she goes looking for him and what she falls into is another dimension of the world she lives in and learns she not the same person in this world. I ended up reading this in one sitting.
Serenity is a brilliant women who at the age of 18 is already a senior at Harvard.
But what some call a gift she calls a curse her mind is alway counting and calculating
Which gets worse when she is nervous Serenity just wants to be normal.
So when Serenity is asked to work on a project she soon learns her dad is also working on and has been hiding a top secret project from her. So when she can’t get ahold of him she goes looking for him and what she falls into is another dimension of the world she lives in and learns she not the same person in this world. I ended up reading this in one sitting.
November 7, 2021
Firstly, thank you CamCat Publishing for sending me this arc.
This book had some potential, but it wasn't executed. I found this boring and kinda predictable. I also didn't really like the authors writing style. I will say that I like the cover. Overall this book was just not for me.
This is my own personal opinion and honest review!
This book had some potential, but it wasn't executed. I found this boring and kinda predictable. I also didn't really like the authors writing style. I will say that I like the cover. Overall this book was just not for me.
This is my own personal opinion and honest review!
March 29, 2022
I enjoy an alternate reality story, and this is a great one. The narration confused me a bit, but I think that's more my issue than an issue with the author's writing style. Prosek created amazing characters, and I enjoyed the plot.
June 12, 2022
This is the story of Serenity Ashdown, an eighteen-year-old with a supernatural memory,
She pretty much had a normal life but somehow entered into a parallel reality. now she has to do what the feds are asking her to do in order for them to let her go home.
I rarely read Sci-Fi, but Parallel World is one of the most interesting subjects for me.
Serenity’s story was full of action and courage. The book is well written with an interesting and detailed storyline, I also liked Serenity’s character. Her journey is fast-paced, it relies on analysis and numbers which I really liked.
She pretty much had a normal life but somehow entered into a parallel reality. now she has to do what the feds are asking her to do in order for them to let her go home.
I rarely read Sci-Fi, but Parallel World is one of the most interesting subjects for me.
Serenity’s story was full of action and courage. The book is well written with an interesting and detailed storyline, I also liked Serenity’s character. Her journey is fast-paced, it relies on analysis and numbers which I really liked.
November 10, 2021
This is a great action packed and creative sci fi book. I liked the Area 51 reference. It seems like it’s going to be about time travel but then readers realize it’s a multiple dimension story. Serenity is just 18 years old but about to graduate college. She has unusual math skills that gave her an edge in school. She signs up for a university experiment and finds herself in another dimension that actually has worse climate issues than our own. The pace of the action is intense. I liked it. The characters are well developed but I’m not sure why the author wanted serenity to be so young. It doesn’t seem to serve a purpose. Overall, a great read.
March 21, 2022
This alternate universe debut novel is intensely full of both action and twists and turns. The main character reluctantly uses her intellect to find the truth and makes notable growth throughout the book. She is pushed to face her fears and find her strength in this dystopian environment while never giving up. Recommended for YA readers, dystopian, and alternate world.
May 30, 2022
Book Review…A Measure of Serenity by Bryan K. Prosek
Eighteen-year-old Serenity Ashdown has a brilliant mind: she counts, calculates & analyzes everything & her memory is also far beyond photographic. Her world was otherwise normal until dimension-hopping enemies forced her into a parallel reality. The feds she meets on the other side claim to want to help her go home. All she has to do is use her memory to reconstruct the right sequence of codes. But they want something more: a gateway for invasion, because this version of Earth is dying.
Then she learns that her alter-ego in this dimension, was a resistance leader recently betrayed & killed. She has a chance to assume her alter-ego’s identity & use her unique ability to lead the resistance in their fight against the tyrannical government that is poised to invade her universe. Serenity has no idea how to be someone she’s not, but she has to try or she may not have a home to return to.
A Measure of Serenity was an interesting read! The book's character development was done really well. The growth that each character made was interesting to see and realistic making it a natural progression. The plot was intriguing and I was actually surprised by how much I got into the story especially since I don't normally read a lot of sci-fi! And the world building is amazing! Overall it's a fast paced entertaining story and definitely a great book for the YA sci-fi readers!
Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours and Bryan K. Prosek for sharing this lovely adventure with me!
Eighteen-year-old Serenity Ashdown has a brilliant mind: she counts, calculates & analyzes everything & her memory is also far beyond photographic. Her world was otherwise normal until dimension-hopping enemies forced her into a parallel reality. The feds she meets on the other side claim to want to help her go home. All she has to do is use her memory to reconstruct the right sequence of codes. But they want something more: a gateway for invasion, because this version of Earth is dying.
Then she learns that her alter-ego in this dimension, was a resistance leader recently betrayed & killed. She has a chance to assume her alter-ego’s identity & use her unique ability to lead the resistance in their fight against the tyrannical government that is poised to invade her universe. Serenity has no idea how to be someone she’s not, but she has to try or she may not have a home to return to.
A Measure of Serenity was an interesting read! The book's character development was done really well. The growth that each character made was interesting to see and realistic making it a natural progression. The plot was intriguing and I was actually surprised by how much I got into the story especially since I don't normally read a lot of sci-fi! And the world building is amazing! Overall it's a fast paced entertaining story and definitely a great book for the YA sci-fi readers!
Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours and Bryan K. Prosek for sharing this lovely adventure with me!
November 23, 2022
The story itself is very interesting. The world building is very good, and it felt a bit reminiscent of the show the Fringe. There is a reality parallel to ours and it is similar but not the same as ours.
The characters are also very well developed and take you through a range of experiences that draw you in. Serenity is a very logical thinker and analysis everything all the time which leads to some anxiety in some situations. when it comes to studies and lab tests this serves her well and she excels. While this may sound like you will get bored, I assure you this is far from the truth. The author does an excellent job keeping things from sounding analytical and instead you get Serenity’s emotions and deeper thoughts instead of boring analysis.
Overall, I think this story has earned it’s full 5 stars as you are drawn into Serenity’s worry about her dad and his work and then into a whole new world. As she fights to find her dad and uncovers the truth about his work things are not as simple as just going home. She makes new friends and grows into a different person who knows her worth and what she is fighting for. I would recommend this for anyone ages 15+ and just a bit of a warning there is a slight cliff hanger at the end. I am really looking forward to a book 2.
The characters are also very well developed and take you through a range of experiences that draw you in. Serenity is a very logical thinker and analysis everything all the time which leads to some anxiety in some situations. when it comes to studies and lab tests this serves her well and she excels. While this may sound like you will get bored, I assure you this is far from the truth. The author does an excellent job keeping things from sounding analytical and instead you get Serenity’s emotions and deeper thoughts instead of boring analysis.
Overall, I think this story has earned it’s full 5 stars as you are drawn into Serenity’s worry about her dad and his work and then into a whole new world. As she fights to find her dad and uncovers the truth about his work things are not as simple as just going home. She makes new friends and grows into a different person who knows her worth and what she is fighting for. I would recommend this for anyone ages 15+ and just a bit of a warning there is a slight cliff hanger at the end. I am really looking forward to a book 2.
November 12, 2021
3.5/5⭐️
I was pleasantly surprised with this book. I didn't think I was going to like it that much since it isn't the typical book that I read but I ended up really enjoying it.
I was pleasantly surprised with this book. I didn't think I was going to like it that much since it isn't the typical book that I read but I ended up really enjoying it.
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