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The Chronological Man #1
The Monster In The Mist
It's 1890 and the citizens of Boston are beginning to go missing in the fog.
The police are confounded. The public is frightened. The city is on the edge of hysteria.
It's up to the mysterious Smith, inventor and adventurer, to figure out what's going on with the help of his assistant, April Malone. They'll have to face off against a secret society, corrupt policemen and a mad psychologist hell-bent on dissecting Smith, in order to solve the mystery of what's going on and to save the city from an even more sinister threat.
It’s the first story of Smith, a hard science fiction time traveler with more than a enough quirk to last him several centuries.
A fast-paced 45,000 word tale of scientific adventure combines elements of DOCTOR WHO, SHERLOCK HOLMES and TONY STARK set against turn-of-the-century Boston’s soot-stained streets.
The police are confounded. The public is frightened. The city is on the edge of hysteria.
It's up to the mysterious Smith, inventor and adventurer, to figure out what's going on with the help of his assistant, April Malone. They'll have to face off against a secret society, corrupt policemen and a mad psychologist hell-bent on dissecting Smith, in order to solve the mystery of what's going on and to save the city from an even more sinister threat.
It’s the first story of Smith, a hard science fiction time traveler with more than a enough quirk to last him several centuries.
A fast-paced 45,000 word tale of scientific adventure combines elements of DOCTOR WHO, SHERLOCK HOLMES and TONY STARK set against turn-of-the-century Boston’s soot-stained streets.
5 pages, Audiobook
First published June 15, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
October 10, 2017
There are so many things to like in this story. Even with the nitpicks, it was really entertaining.
First and the best thing about it is that it has a Lovecraftian touch. After a whaler got back from the trip to the far north, the streets of Boston became less safe. Something has been taking people. Nobody could say what it is because of the thick fog. That and not many witnesses.
You get a story within a story too. What happened to the ship crew on that job up north.
The protagonists are interesting too. The young woman, April, has never met her employer. All she knows, her job is reading whatever books are requested, having pastry and the coffee ready (nobody ever touches them), practicing riding on a velocipede and other things, listening lectures and all kinds of other strange requests. The job pays well, though. One day the three lights above the metal door in the office light up and Smith enters the story. You won't get too much about him in this book. He suffers from some kind of amnesia. All he knows he is there because of the disappearances.
I liked April a lot. She is an independent young woman but the author didn't beat me over the head with it.
As for the other side, there's this shadowy organization, but April and Smith only confront one of their members. It's possible the rest will happen in another book.
Overall, The Chronological Man; The Monster in the Mist is a simple and fun story. You do need to suspend your disbelief a bit since some reactions to what's going on were pretty convenient ().
First and the best thing about it is that it has a Lovecraftian touch. After a whaler got back from the trip to the far north, the streets of Boston became less safe. Something has been taking people. Nobody could say what it is because of the thick fog. That and not many witnesses.
You get a story within a story too. What happened to the ship crew on that job up north.
The protagonists are interesting too. The young woman, April, has never met her employer. All she knows, her job is reading whatever books are requested, having pastry and the coffee ready (nobody ever touches them), practicing riding on a velocipede and other things, listening lectures and all kinds of other strange requests. The job pays well, though. One day the three lights above the metal door in the office light up and Smith enters the story. You won't get too much about him in this book. He suffers from some kind of amnesia. All he knows he is there because of the disappearances.
I liked April a lot. She is an independent young woman but the author didn't beat me over the head with it.
As for the other side, there's this shadowy organization, but April and Smith only confront one of their members. It's possible the rest will happen in another book.
Overall, The Chronological Man; The Monster in the Mist is a simple and fun story. You do need to suspend your disbelief a bit since some reactions to what's going on were pretty convenient ().
January 19, 2012
I randomly stumbled across this book while doing a search for steampunk books. Half way through, I went out and bought everything else Andrew Mayne has written. His writing style is gorgeous. His characters leap off the page. The world was vivid and alive. I absolutely fell into this story and couldn't put it down. If Sherlock Holmes and Caleb Carr's "Alienist" got together and had a steampunk baby, THIS is what it would look like. LOVED it!
September 8, 2011
3.5 stars and VERY strongly reminiscent of Doctor Who when the story starts out. I was excited by the beginning pages, but as I continued reading, I began to suspect that the beginning was the most well-revised part. The pace was uneven throughout the rest. A heavy reader of science fiction and fantasy (as I am) may not be particularly captivated by the mystery set out here.
June 13, 2019
I've noticed - and commented upon - an interesting phenomenon among authors who switch between First and Third Person POV in their writing. Almost without exception, the First-Person stories are far and away the authors' best work, with the Third Person stories suffering not only in comparison, but often being plain old Bad. Examples: Dean Koontz. While only a few of his many, many titles even approach unreadably bad, his First-Person Odd Thomas series is superb. Stephen Lawhead has written some absolute dreck, but his First Person works "Merlin" and "Byzantium" books are quite good.
And now we come to Mayne. I've enjoyed the two titles in the Naturalist series and one in the Blackwood series that I've read. They weren't great, but they were solid and each tempted me to seek out additional titles. Each of them were First Person.
But the (Third Person) Chronological Man... Ugh!
First, we have the plot, which turns out to be essentially "Jules Verne meets Tony Stark." Then we have the characters. The mysterious and amnesiac "Smith" with his steam-punk Iron Man suit, archaic manners, and extensive support network, but No backstory. The similarly two dimensional Mary, who clearly has a keen mind but is given little opportunity to show it. And of course the antagonist, a literal sea monster smart enough to use the sewers of Boston as a transportation network.
Honestly, even in the hands of a master it would have been hard for this not to become parody. Sadly, that master is not Mayne. Cardboard characters, terrible dialog, unbelievable situations...
I did finish it, but I admit to reading as fast as I could, just trying to get to the predictable, but still unsatisfying end.
I will Not pursue the rest of this series.
And now we come to Mayne. I've enjoyed the two titles in the Naturalist series and one in the Blackwood series that I've read. They weren't great, but they were solid and each tempted me to seek out additional titles. Each of them were First Person.
But the (Third Person) Chronological Man... Ugh!
First, we have the plot, which turns out to be essentially "Jules Verne meets Tony Stark." Then we have the characters. The mysterious and amnesiac "Smith" with his steam-punk Iron Man suit, archaic manners, and extensive support network, but No backstory. The similarly two dimensional Mary, who clearly has a keen mind but is given little opportunity to show it. And of course the antagonist, a literal sea monster smart enough to use the sewers of Boston as a transportation network.
Honestly, even in the hands of a master it would have been hard for this not to become parody. Sadly, that master is not Mayne. Cardboard characters, terrible dialog, unbelievable situations...
I did finish it, but I admit to reading as fast as I could, just trying to get to the predictable, but still unsatisfying end.
I will Not pursue the rest of this series.
July 4, 2018
Definitely borrows heavily from the concept of Doctor Who. Well-written characters, but the story lost me by the 50% mark when the pace sped up and the characters started doing irrational things. The mystery was also lost and I stopped caring about the “chronological man’s” origin. Barely finished. Could read something recent from the author, but won’t keep reading the series. This is one of those new Amazon authors who churn out pulp fiction to those who will read as long as there’s something to read about the characters they like and don’t care much about intricate plots and fine concepts.
September 8, 2020
2.5 Hmmm not the Mayne I’m used to. The naturalist series is awesome. This one not so much so. I adored Manyes writing skills in the naturalist series. But this doesn’t even seem to be written by him.ill seek out the Jessica series. But won’t look further into this one.
Cardboard characters and a disinteresting story line.
Cardboard characters and a disinteresting story line.
September 28, 2018
3.5 stars. Lost me a little towards the end but overall an enjoyable book. I’ll definitely check out the next one.
September 9, 2020
I’ve enjoyed every Andrew Mayne book I’ve read. This was an awesome Dr. Who/Moby Dick type story. I was hoping it was the start of a long series.
July 12, 2011
Here is a .99 cent bargain for Amazon Kindle.
I heard this book recommended on one of the tech podcasts I listen to and at this price decided to give it a try.
The novel is kind of a Dr. Who/Sherlock Holmes/Steampunk mashup - though it does not take place in London, but in Boston. The time element is that this is not a time traveler story in the normal sense in that the mysterious Smith only moves forward in time. There is a special emphasis on the scientific aspects in that the mystery is not of the supernatural order. There are people showing up missing and something is causing these people's sudden disappearance. Smith arrives on the scene and meets his Dr. Who like sidekick and goes on to solve this mystery. Along the way there is plenty of action along with only a bit of the revealing of just who exactly Smith is. This book is obviously the start of a series.
it was a good romp and quite fun and a short read at under 200 pages.
I heard this book recommended on one of the tech podcasts I listen to and at this price decided to give it a try.
The novel is kind of a Dr. Who/Sherlock Holmes/Steampunk mashup - though it does not take place in London, but in Boston. The time element is that this is not a time traveler story in the normal sense in that the mysterious Smith only moves forward in time. There is a special emphasis on the scientific aspects in that the mystery is not of the supernatural order. There are people showing up missing and something is causing these people's sudden disappearance. Smith arrives on the scene and meets his Dr. Who like sidekick and goes on to solve this mystery. Along the way there is plenty of action along with only a bit of the revealing of just who exactly Smith is. This book is obviously the start of a series.
it was a good romp and quite fun and a short read at under 200 pages.
May 19, 2020
I was disappointed. I'm a fan of Andrew Mayne. This book fell short. The beginning was promising, but near the end I was still hoping for some sort of interesting development that never happened. The plot is kind of unexisting, there is no plot really, it's just an episode of something. The characters are superficial. The setting, well the setting is a sewer and little else. Oh and there's a kraken..
September 21, 2023
1.5
This is among Mayne's earlier works and it shows. The writing is weak in nearly every way: the "science" of the story makes little sense, the characters are cartoons, the worldbuilding lacks verisimilitude, the action scenes are unconvincing, the dialog is cliched, the pacing is uneven, and the ending is unsatisfying.
This is an interesting concept for a book, but not an interesting book.
I've liked the other, more recent books written by Mayne, but this is not good.
This is among Mayne's earlier works and it shows. The writing is weak in nearly every way: the "science" of the story makes little sense, the characters are cartoons, the worldbuilding lacks verisimilitude, the action scenes are unconvincing, the dialog is cliched, the pacing is uneven, and the ending is unsatisfying.
This is an interesting concept for a book, but not an interesting book.
I've liked the other, more recent books written by Mayne, but this is not good.
January 29, 2019
Quick fun read. The plot was a little direct, no real significant setbacks or rising-falling tension, but the characters were engaging, and there's a Yes!
Will definitely check out any sequels if he writes any.
Will definitely check out any sequels if he writes any.
September 15, 2024
"The Monster in the Mist" by Andrew Mayne, narrated by Kevin T. Collins, is a captivating blend of steampunk, mystery, and science fiction that transports listeners to the foggy streets of 1890s Boston. This audiobook, the first in the Chronological Man series, introduces us to the enigmatic protagonist, Smith, an inventor and adventurer with a knack for unraveling the most perplexing mysteries.
Plot Overview
The story begins with a series of mysterious disappearances in Boston, where citizens are vanishing into the mist without a trace. The police are baffled, and the city is on the brink of hysteria. Enter Smith, a character reminiscent of Sherlock Holmes with a dash of Doctor Who's eccentricity. Alongside his resourceful assistant, April Malone, Smith embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind the disappearances.
Their investigation leads them through a labyrinth of secrets, involving a sinister secret society, corrupt policemen, and a mad psychologist with a dark agenda. The narrative is fast-paced and filled with twists and turns, keeping listeners on the edge of their seats. Mayne's ability to weave scientific concepts into the fabric of the story adds a layer of depth and intrigue, making the plot both intellectually stimulating and entertaining.
Character Development
Smith is a fascinating character, blending the analytical mind of a scientist with the adventurous spirit of an explorer. His quirks and idiosyncrasies make him a memorable protagonist. He is not just a detective but a time traveler with a complex past, which is hinted at but not fully revealed in this installment. This adds an element of mystery to his character, leaving listeners eager to learn more about his origins and abilities.
April Malone, Smith's assistant, is equally compelling. She is intelligent, brave, and resourceful, often playing a crucial role in solving the mysteries they encounter. Her dynamic with Smith is well-crafted, providing both moments of levity and tension. The supporting characters, including the antagonists, are well-developed, each with their own motivations and backstories that enrich the narrative.
Narration
Kevin T. Collins' narration is a standout aspect of this audiobook. His ability to bring the characters to life with distinct voices and accents enhances the listening experience. Collins' portrayal of Smith captures his eccentricity and intelligence perfectly, while his rendition of April is both strong and empathetic. The pacing of the narration is well-matched to the story's tempo, maintaining a sense of urgency and suspense throughout.
Themes and Style
"The Monster in the Mist" explores themes of science versus superstition, the quest for knowledge, and the ethical implications of scientific advancements. Mayne's writing style is descriptive and immersive, painting a vivid picture of 19th-century Boston. The steampunk elements are seamlessly integrated into the story, adding a unique flavour to the setting and plot.
The dialogue is sharp and witty, reflecting the intelligence and quick thinking of the characters. The interactions between Smith and April are particularly enjoyable, filled with banter and mutual respect. The story also delves into darker themes, such as the abuse of power and the consequences of unchecked ambition, adding a layer of moral complexity to the narrative.
Overall Impressions
"The Monster in the Mist" is a thoroughly engaging audiobook that combines the best elements of mystery, science fiction, and steampunk. Andrew Mayne's storytelling is both imaginative and thought-provoking, creating a world that is as intriguing as it is perilous. The characters are well-drawn and relatable, and the plot is filled with enough twists and turns to keep listeners hooked from start to finish.
Plot Overview
The story begins with a series of mysterious disappearances in Boston, where citizens are vanishing into the mist without a trace. The police are baffled, and the city is on the brink of hysteria. Enter Smith, a character reminiscent of Sherlock Holmes with a dash of Doctor Who's eccentricity. Alongside his resourceful assistant, April Malone, Smith embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind the disappearances.
Their investigation leads them through a labyrinth of secrets, involving a sinister secret society, corrupt policemen, and a mad psychologist with a dark agenda. The narrative is fast-paced and filled with twists and turns, keeping listeners on the edge of their seats. Mayne's ability to weave scientific concepts into the fabric of the story adds a layer of depth and intrigue, making the plot both intellectually stimulating and entertaining.
Character Development
Smith is a fascinating character, blending the analytical mind of a scientist with the adventurous spirit of an explorer. His quirks and idiosyncrasies make him a memorable protagonist. He is not just a detective but a time traveler with a complex past, which is hinted at but not fully revealed in this installment. This adds an element of mystery to his character, leaving listeners eager to learn more about his origins and abilities.
April Malone, Smith's assistant, is equally compelling. She is intelligent, brave, and resourceful, often playing a crucial role in solving the mysteries they encounter. Her dynamic with Smith is well-crafted, providing both moments of levity and tension. The supporting characters, including the antagonists, are well-developed, each with their own motivations and backstories that enrich the narrative.
Narration
Kevin T. Collins' narration is a standout aspect of this audiobook. His ability to bring the characters to life with distinct voices and accents enhances the listening experience. Collins' portrayal of Smith captures his eccentricity and intelligence perfectly, while his rendition of April is both strong and empathetic. The pacing of the narration is well-matched to the story's tempo, maintaining a sense of urgency and suspense throughout.
Themes and Style
"The Monster in the Mist" explores themes of science versus superstition, the quest for knowledge, and the ethical implications of scientific advancements. Mayne's writing style is descriptive and immersive, painting a vivid picture of 19th-century Boston. The steampunk elements are seamlessly integrated into the story, adding a unique flavour to the setting and plot.
The dialogue is sharp and witty, reflecting the intelligence and quick thinking of the characters. The interactions between Smith and April are particularly enjoyable, filled with banter and mutual respect. The story also delves into darker themes, such as the abuse of power and the consequences of unchecked ambition, adding a layer of moral complexity to the narrative.
Overall Impressions
"The Monster in the Mist" is a thoroughly engaging audiobook that combines the best elements of mystery, science fiction, and steampunk. Andrew Mayne's storytelling is both imaginative and thought-provoking, creating a world that is as intriguing as it is perilous. The characters are well-drawn and relatable, and the plot is filled with enough twists and turns to keep listeners hooked from start to finish.
July 28, 2018
A pretty gripping story, if you can get into the trappings.
The protagonist, April Malone, is a fantastic character, and she basically carries the book for me. I had a harder time with suspending disbelief about Smith (the other protagonist), and the way he seems to be able to pull magic out at unexpected times; but Mayne's writing, and April Malone herself, managed to get me through it.
I think I didn't realize exactly what genre this was when I picked it up. Unlike Mayne's other books like The Naturalist or Station Breaker, you are not in a world that's just like ours, where you know what to expect. There's some mysterious technology that is never made quite clear, so I felt like I didn't know the rules of the world. I feel like this genre tends more toward what you see in comic books, or the X men, or something, where readers seem completely comfortable with unexplained rules or implausible technology; not that this book has anything really implausible, but it tends in that direction (at least when you compare it to Mayne's present-day thrillers).
The book basically is a detective story set in late 19th century Boston, and Mayne is quite capable of writing excellent detective fiction. But you find out there's really more going on than *just* a detective story.... and that's what I was, unfortunately, not quite as thrilled with.
The protagonist, April Malone, is a fantastic character, and she basically carries the book for me. I had a harder time with suspending disbelief about Smith (the other protagonist), and the way he seems to be able to pull magic out at unexpected times; but Mayne's writing, and April Malone herself, managed to get me through it.
I think I didn't realize exactly what genre this was when I picked it up. Unlike Mayne's other books like The Naturalist or Station Breaker, you are not in a world that's just like ours, where you know what to expect. There's some mysterious technology that is never made quite clear, so I felt like I didn't know the rules of the world. I feel like this genre tends more toward what you see in comic books, or the X men, or something, where readers seem completely comfortable with unexplained rules or implausible technology; not that this book has anything really implausible, but it tends in that direction (at least when you compare it to Mayne's present-day thrillers).
The book basically is a detective story set in late 19th century Boston, and Mayne is quite capable of writing excellent detective fiction. But you find out there's really more going on than *just* a detective story.... and that's what I was, unfortunately, not quite as thrilled with.
January 30, 2021
A steampunk-themed story with a monster and a witty female character, written by Andrew Mayne? How cool is that!? The whole thing sounds awesome - the cool gadgets, the mysterious detective, the beautiful and feisty assistant and the action-packed thriller. I don't know why, but it was not very convincing for me. I am comparing this story with some other works of the same author, and this book just did not grab me at all. Actually, it took me a year to finish this story (and I only managed to finish it because Alexa read it to me out loud while I was playing with Lego). I just could not care less about the characters and it all sounded like a cliché. Everything the characters said or did, felt like a dejavu as it is written/shown on TV countless times before. I have the feeling that this story was written as an initial script for a low-budget sci-fi sitcom. Maybe, if the author wants to develop this story further he will do much better job, as I see that this is one of his earlier books. Anyway, I am not disappointed at all and I think the story is cool. I would love to read more about miss Malone in the future and see a movie about her.
April 13, 2021
The Chronological Man is the first in a series of books by Mayne, featuring the inimitable Smith - an eccentric machinist who might also be a time-traveler. Book 1 takes you on the streets of post-industrial era Boston where people have reported seeing a serpent that has been taking victims right in front of their eyes. While the flabbergasted police dismiss these as tricks that the mist is playing on the onlookers’ eyes, a drunk sailor knows what might be lurking in the shadows.
The narrative is told through the eyes of our plucky heroine April Malone who is in the employ of Smith. It’s always fun when characters as different as these two get together to investigate cases and that two in a steampunk Victorian-era setting. It’s a fast-paced read with witty humour that feels almost like a longer-than-usual short story. There are quite a few interesting ideas but Mayne pushes you to read the next book if you want to unravel who Smith really is.
What doesn’t work for the book is perhaps the fact that there’s no twist in the mystery of the serpent.
Not a bad read but definitely not Mayne’s best.
The narrative is told through the eyes of our plucky heroine April Malone who is in the employ of Smith. It’s always fun when characters as different as these two get together to investigate cases and that two in a steampunk Victorian-era setting. It’s a fast-paced read with witty humour that feels almost like a longer-than-usual short story. There are quite a few interesting ideas but Mayne pushes you to read the next book if you want to unravel who Smith really is.
What doesn’t work for the book is perhaps the fact that there’s no twist in the mystery of the serpent.
Not a bad read but definitely not Mayne’s best.
April 10, 2021
Andrew Mayne is probably one of the best storytellers (and most prolific) of all the authors I've read. His imagination knows no bounds, and his books are engaging and readable - even that parts that should be boring simply aren't, because of the way he puts them together.
Chronological Man was refreshing in that there were no F bombs, I suppose because they didn't talk that way in 19th century Boston. The only problem I've had with any of Mayne's books is that he chooses to insert unnecessary F words when just about any other word would work for the moment. This book got five stars from me for that reason.
Chronological Man was refreshing in that there were no F bombs, I suppose because they didn't talk that way in 19th century Boston. The only problem I've had with any of Mayne's books is that he chooses to insert unnecessary F words when just about any other word would work for the moment. This book got five stars from me for that reason.
March 24, 2019
I've enjoyed several other books by Andrew Mayne. This sci-fi thriller is more of a short novella. A time traveler (I think... it's not quite clear who or what he is) turns up in late 19th century Boston to investigate a series of mysterious disappearances. Like most of Mayne's books, the writing is crisp & the story moves along at a good pace. Unfortunately, details around the central characters & their motivations seem intentionally murky or mysterious as if they are part of something larger and I was left wondering what I was supposed to take away from it.
November 24, 2022
I usually enjoy Andrew Mayne’s work. Smart and talented, as well as good with fun chat and interesting details. This one I chalk up to series-growing pains. I read sci fi, mysteries, history, nature, comedy—all things in here. Regardless, it pains me to say I was bored enough I left this book at the 2/3 point to go hear two Arlis Cutter books and an older Gray man book before returning to complete this one. Not sure why it didn’t grab me at all. Theo and Jessica are a good team. I’ll await the next one.
February 12, 2023
A fun adventure with a Dr. Who vibe, mixed with liberal doses of pulpy fun. It's not full novel length, but it works well in a shorter novella format. There are some editing mistakes, but not enough to be off putting. My biggest problem with this comes with the follow up, which starts to hint at the mysteries behind our mysterious main character, but the last we hear of him was a decade ago. It's like that cool netflix show that was cancelled after two seasons and never got around to wrapping anything up.
March 4, 2019
On No, I'm Becoming A Full-Fledged Mayne-iac!
This mofo really is a magician. His range as an author seems to know no bounds. This particular book is a charming, lighthearted steampunk romp set in late 1800's in the environs of Boston and it's intricate sewer system as our mysterious hero and his spunky gal pal face off against a creepy sea monster and a cabal of sinister illuminati types up to no damn good. It's aces all the way, ridiculously fun and entertaining.
This mofo really is a magician. His range as an author seems to know no bounds. This particular book is a charming, lighthearted steampunk romp set in late 1800's in the environs of Boston and it's intricate sewer system as our mysterious hero and his spunky gal pal face off against a creepy sea monster and a cabal of sinister illuminati types up to no damn good. It's aces all the way, ridiculously fun and entertaining.
September 11, 2020
I am a huge fan of Andrew Mayne books. I love his writing style and will even chance a reading out of genre just to experience his writing. This book was interesting; a cross between Lovecraft's "Cthulhu", Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's "Sherlock Holmes", and H. G. Wells' "The Time Machine". This book is book one in a two book series. Although I enjoyed the book, the next book falls too far outside my genre.
The narrator, Kevin T. Collins, was not my favorite. He often could be heard swallowing or breathing in and overall narration was a little flat for me.
The narrator, Kevin T. Collins, was not my favorite. He often could be heard swallowing or breathing in and overall narration was a little flat for me.
January 3, 2023
I normally don't read a book like this type and was considering stopping but in the end I enjoyed it. At the dramatic ending I could visualize a movie made out of this book. I really liked the very end. I actually hope there is a sequel. Is there one?
I just answered my own question and bought the second of two in the series. We will see how it goes on number 2.
BTW, it shows that I read this book twice, but I didn't.
I just answered my own question and bought the second of two in the series. We will see how it goes on number 2.
BTW, it shows that I read this book twice, but I didn't.
March 17, 2023
Not mind-bending or amazing literature or anything, but thoroughly enjoyable. It's got a bit of a steampunk aesthetic, and the main characters are interesting enough. I didn't feel like I cared too much about the drama that was happening for whatever reason, though.
The whole book felt a bit like a modern version of something H.G. Wells would write, which might be what Mayne was going for. I liked it, but your mileage may vary.
3.5 of 5 stars
The whole book felt a bit like a modern version of something H.G. Wells would write, which might be what Mayne was going for. I liked it, but your mileage may vary.
3.5 of 5 stars
October 20, 2017
Good stories, needs better editor
I like the books and your writing- but please learn the difference between 'then' and 'than', 'affect' and 'effect' or at least get a better editor or proofreader. You're starting to drive me nuts. Other than that the stories are nicely written and enjoyable. I'm on your 4th or 5th book now.
I like the books and your writing- but please learn the difference between 'then' and 'than', 'affect' and 'effect' or at least get a better editor or proofreader. You're starting to drive me nuts. Other than that the stories are nicely written and enjoyable. I'm on your 4th or 5th book now.
December 31, 2017
This would have been a good solid three-star read, but the ending was just too idiotic. AND, although it was clever at first that the main character didn’t remember things, it soon became little more than an irritating sign of how lazy (or inept) the writer is.
This was the first in a series I shall not be reading.
This was the first in a series I shall not be reading.
February 24, 2018
This is an excellent book for kids (who have the vocabulary). Well written. Chaste, but full of action - with both a male and female hero. There is quite a bit of gross stuff and some violence; but overall pretty tame. I found the plot a little too simple to figure out, plus this kind of horror story just isn't my cup of tea.
March 21, 2018
This book was an easy and entertaining read. Being set in the past, it was different from what I usually read, but I really liked that part of it. The author did a great job of making me feel like I had been transported in time. The characters were interesting and the story well-told. I'm looking forward to reading the 2nd book in the series.
May 15, 2018
Light, fun, great characters
The book was a fun read. The descriptions of the characters and their mood was done in colorful fashion. The story was well written with a beginning, middle and end that tied together without dragging on or skipping baseline story detail. A look so a different style than Andrew's other books...fun summer read and great lead into next book in series.
The book was a fun read. The descriptions of the characters and their mood was done in colorful fashion. The story was well written with a beginning, middle and end that tied together without dragging on or skipping baseline story detail. A look so a different style than Andrew's other books...fun summer read and great lead into next book in series.
December 1, 2018
Surprisingly good
I was surprised at how good this book was! It truly was delightful to be surprised. It is difficult to explain it with out spoilers. It is like a well seasoned meal. A hint of steam, a dash of who, and a sprinkle of verne. But not a copy of anything! Truly an original fun read.
I was surprised at how good this book was! It truly was delightful to be surprised. It is difficult to explain it with out spoilers. It is like a well seasoned meal. A hint of steam, a dash of who, and a sprinkle of verne. But not a copy of anything! Truly an original fun read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews