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The Monocle
Alternate cover edition of ASIN: B091CTR9ST
Viv Oulette and Mick Sullivan have never teleported to the other side of the world, or time traveled. They have never punched a hole through space, or whipped up a blizzard on a hot summer day. They have never run from federal agents, or battled a supernatural being. All they have known is riding bikes around their 1960s small town, looking for adventure and coming up short. But all of that is about to change when they find a mysterious metal clam and a notebook of secret code. Will it unlock an adventure beyond time and space, or will they go too far and lose what they care about most? Best friends, on the verge of so much more, if they can survive.
Viv Oulette and Mick Sullivan have never teleported to the other side of the world, or time traveled. They have never punched a hole through space, or whipped up a blizzard on a hot summer day. They have never run from federal agents, or battled a supernatural being. All they have known is riding bikes around their 1960s small town, looking for adventure and coming up short. But all of that is about to change when they find a mysterious metal clam and a notebook of secret code. Will it unlock an adventure beyond time and space, or will they go too far and lose what they care about most? Best friends, on the verge of so much more, if they can survive.
205 pages, ebook
Published March 29, 2021
4 people are currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
Mark Cavanagh
3 books24 followersMark Cavanagh, author of The Monocle Trilogy, Big Blue Society, The Zen of Laundry and RV Time Machine, lives by the Dark Swamp in northwestern Rhode Island where H.P. Lovecraft searched for the legendary IT.
He co-wrote and produced Zombie Dearest, a feature film, and directed the award-winning Youth Vision Series.
Join the Dark Swamp Dispatch for news, info, freebies, and behind the scenes content on the Monocle Report.
https://darkswampdispatch.substack.co...
He co-wrote and produced Zombie Dearest, a feature film, and directed the award-winning Youth Vision Series.
Join the Dark Swamp Dispatch for news, info, freebies, and behind the scenes content on the Monocle Report.
https://darkswampdispatch.substack.co...
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
July 27, 2025
I haven’t stopped thinking about the line, 'Some truths are clearer when seen through glass.' This book isn’t just a mystery—it’s a philosophical labyrinth. We had one of our most passionate discussions ever!"
—Amina El Khoury,Booked Solid Literary Circle
—Amina El Khoury,Booked Solid Literary Circle
June 12, 2025
ARC review, this is my honest opinion.
This book is not what I expected, the same way the metal clam is not what Viv and Mick expected, because in both cases it's so much more. At first it can seem a regular book, with normal teenagers (with their faults, of course) living a normal adventure, but things change quickly and it's so much bigger, the same happened to me with the book.
The first half felt closer to home, more normal and common. Just some teenagers trying to figure out a mystery. It's true in this part I noticed more the things I didn't like but they are just two and not really bothering honestly. One is that the action happens too fast and it's also described in a way that can make it hard to follow, it's a bit flashy, but it does keep you hooked. The second is that Mick and Viv, but specially Viv, are definitely normal teenagers, and they can be just as insufferable and silly at times. I got a bit frustrated I'll admit, but it also felt realistic in a way, because they're not stupid, they can think and solve mysteries and issues, but just as normal teenagers, they can miss the importance and the size of what they are dealing with.
But the second half is totally unexpected, and it made me feel like the characters because it's also more than they expected when they started investigating the clam. I feel this book really makes you feel like you are there. It feels real, tense, and fascinating at the same time. I find it so interesting that this book explores the topic of what happens when you give absolute power to teenagers, does power always corrupt? Or maybe it is more that people can't really control it? Is there anyone capable and trust-worthy enough to hold such power? I want to read more, I want to see where this goes and more.
I'll warn this book is darker than it looks. To me it seemed like typical YA sci-fi at first, but the themes, the plot and more it's definitely darker, so keep this in mind when picking this book.
This book is not what I expected, the same way the metal clam is not what Viv and Mick expected, because in both cases it's so much more. At first it can seem a regular book, with normal teenagers (with their faults, of course) living a normal adventure, but things change quickly and it's so much bigger, the same happened to me with the book.
The first half felt closer to home, more normal and common. Just some teenagers trying to figure out a mystery. It's true in this part I noticed more the things I didn't like but they are just two and not really bothering honestly. One is that the action happens too fast and it's also described in a way that can make it hard to follow, it's a bit flashy, but it does keep you hooked. The second is that Mick and Viv, but specially Viv, are definitely normal teenagers, and they can be just as insufferable and silly at times. I got a bit frustrated I'll admit, but it also felt realistic in a way, because they're not stupid, they can think and solve mysteries and issues, but just as normal teenagers, they can miss the importance and the size of what they are dealing with.
But the second half is totally unexpected, and it made me feel like the characters because it's also more than they expected when they started investigating the clam. I feel this book really makes you feel like you are there. It feels real, tense, and fascinating at the same time. I find it so interesting that this book explores the topic of what happens when you give absolute power to teenagers, does power always corrupt? Or maybe it is more that people can't really control it? Is there anyone capable and trust-worthy enough to hold such power? I want to read more, I want to see where this goes and more.
I'll warn this book is darker than it looks. To me it seemed like typical YA sci-fi at first, but the themes, the plot and more it's definitely darker, so keep this in mind when picking this book.
March 16, 2025
Here we have a fairly standard YA story that pushes a couple of boundaries to good effect. The main character is a bit of a nerd, very sympathetic, who manages to stay out of the sights of the bullies most of the time. His friend Viv, on the other hand, is not so typical. In an interesting switch, the main character is not the hero. Viv has the hero gene to the max. If this was Sherlock Holmes, Mick would definitely be Dr. Watson. Viv is the driving force in the plotline, and he is the only thread of sanity that keeps her from wandering, literally, out of this world.
As in many stories of this genre, they find a talisman which gives them magic powers. In this case, seemingly endless powers, including time travel. Fortunately for the reader, the author keeps this situation under control, and the plausibility of the story does not suffer.
This is a story about absolute power and what it does to you, and it is told in a way that teenagers can understand it. It is also emotionally believable. Mick’s reactions to traumatic events are gut wrenching and realistic. His developing feelings for Viv are understandably confusing to him, but not to the reader.
I found the antagonistic character a bit over the top. This is a story for thirteen-year-olds, and suddenly (with no magic involved) the neighbourhood bully tries to commit first degree murder. It sort of jumps out at you.
If I were to complain about anything else, I would say that imprecise action description makes the reader slow down to understand what is happening. Otherwise, the writing style is smooth and unobtrusive.
A fine YA Sci-Fi story, enjoyable for adults as well.
PS. One question. Is it really telepathy? If so, why don’t they use it more? If not, why call it telepathy?”
As in many stories of this genre, they find a talisman which gives them magic powers. In this case, seemingly endless powers, including time travel. Fortunately for the reader, the author keeps this situation under control, and the plausibility of the story does not suffer.
This is a story about absolute power and what it does to you, and it is told in a way that teenagers can understand it. It is also emotionally believable. Mick’s reactions to traumatic events are gut wrenching and realistic. His developing feelings for Viv are understandably confusing to him, but not to the reader.
I found the antagonistic character a bit over the top. This is a story for thirteen-year-olds, and suddenly (with no magic involved) the neighbourhood bully tries to commit first degree murder. It sort of jumps out at you.
If I were to complain about anything else, I would say that imprecise action description makes the reader slow down to understand what is happening. Otherwise, the writing style is smooth and unobtrusive.
A fine YA Sci-Fi story, enjoyable for adults as well.
PS. One question. Is it really telepathy? If so, why don’t they use it more? If not, why call it telepathy?”
September 25, 2025
The Monocle is the first in a YA sci-fi trilogy, set in 1966, where two thirteen-year-olds—Mick Sullivan and Viv Oulette—discover a strange artifact that grants extraordinary powers like time travel, teleportation, and folding space. As they uncover its secrets, they’re forced to navigate trust, friendship, and the danger of outside forces determined to seize the power for themselves.
The novel shines in its nostalgic 1960s setting, believable teen characters, and the sense of wonder that comes with discovering something larger than life. Its themes of friendship, responsibility, and the cost of wielding power make it engaging for fans of Stranger Things or A Wrinkle in Time.
While some action scenes can be a little unclear and a few antagonistic moments feel over-the-top, the story’s pacing, imagination, and heart carry it through. Overall, it’s a fun, adventurous, and thoughtful read for YA fans—worth about 3.5–4 stars out of 5.
The novel shines in its nostalgic 1960s setting, believable teen characters, and the sense of wonder that comes with discovering something larger than life. Its themes of friendship, responsibility, and the cost of wielding power make it engaging for fans of Stranger Things or A Wrinkle in Time.
While some action scenes can be a little unclear and a few antagonistic moments feel over-the-top, the story’s pacing, imagination, and heart carry it through. Overall, it’s a fun, adventurous, and thoughtful read for YA fans—worth about 3.5–4 stars out of 5.
July 20, 2025
This book reminded me why I love reading. The Monocle taps into that innocent yearning to escape, explore, and understand the bigger world and does so with a sense of awe that never feels forced or contrived. Viv and Mick are exactly the kind of characters you root for: clever, brave, a little reckless, but deeply human. The mystery they uncover isn’t just about sci-fi mechanics; it’s about what it means to risk everything for something extraordinary. I was completely enthralled. The world-building is subtle but rich, and the ending left me thinking about the choices we make and the people we hold dear. Five glowing stars.”
July 19, 2025
What a beautiful, bittersweet story. The Monocle is filled with incredible imagination, but also incredible heart. Viv and Mick’s friendship, and the way it evolves, is at the core of everything and it’s handled so delicately and realistically. You watch them grow up a little with each chapter, even as the stakes of their discovery spiral into something far bigger than they ever imagined. I loved the retro setting, the clever twists, and especially the emotional weight of the final chapters. This is a story about wonder, yes but also about courage, sacrifice, and choosing love even when it’s hard.”
July 19, 2025
It's rare to find a sci-fi novel that delivers real emotional stakes, but The Monocle hits that sweet spot. This book surprised me over and over not just with its plot twists, but with how deeply I came to care about Viv and Mick. Their relationship is beautifully written, filled with small gestures and honest conversations. When the story ventures into strange dimensions and impossible physics, it never loses its emotional center. I loved the moral questions it raises: What would you do if you had the power to change everything? What would you risk to keep the people you love safe? A stunning book.”
July 28, 2025
Cavanagh strikes gold with The Monocle. Imagine the curiosity and camaraderie of Stranger Things set in a picturesque 1960s American town, minus the horror but with all the wonder. The way Viv and Mick’s friendship deepens as they unravel the mystery of the monocle is both heartwarming and emotionally satisfying. The stakes keep rising, but so does the bond between them. The narrative is beautifully balanced between wonder and danger, light and dark, and ultimately, love and loss. I was completely invested in these characters and the way Cavanagh writes dialogue is sharp, witty, and authentic. This is the kind of book you want to read slowly, savoring every page.
July 28, 2025
This book blew me away. From the moment Viv and Mick stumble across the strange metal clam and encoded notebook, The Monocle kicks into high gear. But what really elevates it beyond just a fun sci-fi adventure is its heart. Cavanagh writes adolescence with rare authenticity the awkwardness, the bravery, the yearning for something bigger. The world-building is subtle but powerful, and the time travel mechanics are unique and believable. It’s not just about what happens it’s about what it means to grow up, to face danger, and to figure out who you want to be. I couldn’t stop thinking about this book after I finished.
July 19, 2025
I couldn’t put The Monocle down. Every chapter had me either grinning with delight, wide-eyed with suspense, or moved to tears. It’s clear that Mark Cavanagh poured heart and soul into this story. The sci-fi elements are clever and unique the kind of “what if” mysteries I loved as a kid and the way he writes about young love and identity is incredibly tender. Viv and Mick’s friendship felt like watching my own best memories play out on the page. There’s something truly timeless about this book. Whether you’re 14 or 40, there’s magic here.”
July 19, 2025
This isn’t just a time-travel adventure though it is an incredible one. The Monocle is a beautifully written story about connection and the power of moments. I found myself racing through the pages to find out what would happen next. The pace is perfect, and the twists are unpredictable but satisfying. I especially appreciated how Viv and Mick were never reduced to stereotypes. They’re layered, flawed, hopeful, and brave. The story will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt stuck in a small place and longed for something bigger. Truly an underrated gem.”
July 19, 2025
If you loved E.T., Stand By Me, or Super 8, you’ll fall head over heels for The Monocle. It has that same timeless feel kids on bikes, stumbling across something magical that adults would never believe. But it goes deeper than those stories, dealing with real stakes, time, and loss. Cavanagh’s prose is both poetic and readable. The pacing is tight, the dialogue believable, and the adventure unrelenting. But what stuck with me most was the aching beauty of the characters’ connection. I’d read a dozen more books set in this world.”
July 28, 2025
From start to finish, The Monocle had me hooked. It’s rare to find a book that blends humor, suspense, and emotion so seamlessly. Every character feels fleshed out and real even the town itself pulses with life. But the biggest triumph here is how Cavanagh explores what it means to face the unknown. Viv and Mick are just kids, yet they carry the weight of adult decisions. The tension between staying safe and stepping into something bigger is so well-drawn. And that ending? It stayed with me for days. Absolutely brilliant.
July 28, 2025
Reading The Monocle is like opening a door to another universe one that’s filled with both whimsy and wisdom. The concept of the monocle and its strange, reality-warping power is fresh and exciting, but what kept me turning pages was the emotional honesty at the core. This is a book about friendship, about what it means to grow up and let go, and about discovering that love often hides in the places we least expect. Cavanagh is a master storyteller who knows how to entertain while pulling on your heartstrings.
July 28, 2025
I didn’t think a book could be so tender and thrilling at the same time, but The Monocle proves otherwise. Viv and Mick’s friendship is beautifully written it’s raw, funny, heartbreaking, and real. The world they inhabit is grounded and rich with detail, making the sci-fi elements feel that much more extraordinary. I loved the way the story built slowly, layer by layer, until it burst into full-blown adventure. But what impressed me most was how the author never lost sight of the characters’ emotional journeys. This is storytelling at its finest.
July 28, 2025
Mark Cavanagh’s The Monocle reads like a film I wish existed somewhere between E.T., The Iron Giant, and Super 8. The imagery is so vivid I could picture every moment, from the creaky garages and sun-warmed sidewalks to the cold, awe-inspiring rooms where time bends and secrets unravel. But beyond the cinematic thrill, this book has depth. It asks big questions about growing up, about loyalty, about what we’re willing to risk for adventure and for each other. It’s everything I want in a novel: exciting, emotional, and unforgettable.
July 29, 2025
Mark Cavanagh’s The Monocle is a brilliant exploration of perception, reality, and the human psyche. The narrative doesn’t simply entertain—it challenges the reader to think critically about how we see the world. The use of the monocle as a central metaphor is fascinating, and Cavanagh’s attention to detail in crafting philosophical undertones is commendable. This is a book for those who enjoy deep, reflective fiction.
----Ethan
----Ethan
July 29, 2025
The Monocle is a brilliant, edge-of-your-seat thriller. Mark Cavanagh masterfully balances suspense and historical intrigue, creating a story that’s as unpredictable as it is gripping. The twists keep coming, and just when you think you've figured it out, Cavanagh introduces a shocking revelation that takes the story to a whole new level. Highly recommended for anyone who loves a good puzzle!
Nathaniel
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Nathaniel
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September 2, 2025
I am a new member to goodreads.Though i knew about it before i never used it to rate books or leave reviews.But after the monocle was introduced to our book club i had to leave a review.“During our club meeting, the room was silent for a full ten minutes after a particularly intense passage. That’s when you know a book has pierced through to the core. Cavanagh writes with precision and raw empathy.
__Emily,Prose and Passion
__Emily,Prose and Passion
July 29, 2025
The Monocle" is the perfect mix of insightful reporting, cultural commentary, and global trends. It offers something for everyone — from fashion enthusiasts to international politics junkies. Every issue feels like a well-crafted snapshot of what's happening in the world. Highly recommend for anyone who values quality journalism.
Hiroshima Mitakaki
Hiroshima Mitakaki
August 31, 2025
“I couldn’t put it down. The Monocle feels like a mirror to the human soul, reflecting the parts we often try to hide. In our book club discussion, we all admitted that some chapters hit uncomfortably close to home, yet we were grateful for it. The depth of Cavanagh’s insight lingers long after you close the book.
William Craig_The Literary Lantern
William Craig_The Literary Lantern
July 27, 2025
Mark Cavanagh’s The Monocle gripped our whole group from chapter one. The tension, the moral ambiguity, and that gut-punch of an ending? Stunning. We’re still debating what was real and what was illusion—and that’s a sign of brilliant storytelling."
—Claire Kim,The Midnight Readers Club
—Claire Kim,The Midnight Readers Club
Read
July 27, 2025"I devoured it in two sittings. Cavanagh writes like a man with a secret to tell. Every member of our group had a different theory—and all of us were wrong. Deliciously clever."
—Amelia jones, Spines & Vines Book Club
—Amelia jones, Spines & Vines Book Club
July 27, 2025
The atmosphere in this book is suffocating in the best way. Every page builds dread like steam in a kettle. If your club likes books that feel like intellectual thrill rides—this is it."
—Zoya Petrovna, The Spiral Shelf Society
—Zoya Petrovna, The Spiral Shelf Society
July 29, 2025
What I love most about "The Monocle" is its global perspective. It covers stories from all corners of the world, giving readers a rich and nuanced view of international affairs. The only downside is that it can feel a bit niche, but if you’re into luxury, design,
Preesha Swavathi
July 29, 2025
I loved how The Monocle pulled us into a world where everyone is being watched—but no one really sees. Mark Cavanagh balances suspense with character depth in a way most authors can’t. Our book club rated it a unanimous 5/5."
—Peter Jerome
—Peter Jerome
August 1, 2025
We Spent an entire book club meeting discussing Chapter 14.That is how layered this book is.The best yet.A big hanks to Claire Hephzibah for recommending this book
__ Eleanor Brooks,Word woven Book Club
__ Eleanor Brooks,Word woven Book Club
August 6, 2025
Some readers might find the gritty tone or violence a bit intense, but it feels true to the genre and the story being told. The ending, while satisfying, leaves just enough open for interpretation, which is great for discussion.
__ Gold
__ Gold
August 31, 2025
“Reading the summary gave me chills. The Monocle promises a journey of discovery and quiet devastation, and I can’t wait to own it. It feels like a story that will stay with me for months, if not years.
_Liam
_Liam
September 1, 2025
Cavanagh’s writing feels like a slow reveal of the human psyche. Our discussion was electric; every member found themselves unexpectedly moved, and some even teared up. The Monocle isn’t just read—it’s experienced.”
Amelia,Chapter and Verse Book Club
Amelia,Chapter and Verse Book Club
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews