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The Healer Chronicles #2
Shifter
Fifteen-year-old Alex and his learning-disabled friends barely survived the events of Spinner, but their nightmare has only just begun.
Alex’s wheelchair has never stopped him from doing what he wants, but his supernatural power to heal every human ailment known to science has put him in the crosshairs of a dangerous doomsday cult that will stop at nothing to capture him and his long-lost twin, Andy, who can shift illness from one person to another. When the boys combine their “gifts,” they unleash the power to control life and death.
Now Alex, Andy, and the others have been kidnapped by the U.S. military. On a creepy Air Force base in the remote Nevada desert, they must decide who to trust and who to fear while uncovering secrets this base wants to hide from the world. Who is the young boy with unusual abilities who’s treated like a soldier? What is hidden in an ultra-secret hangar that no one can access? And what unnatural experiments are conducted in that closed-off laboratory?
As Alex unravels these mysteries, he strives to bond with his twin, but Andy is distant and detached, trusting no one. He’s also more attracted to the dangerous power they wield than Alex would like. When misplaced faith in science ignites a hidden lust for supremacy, rescue can only come from the most unlikely source, and Alex must confront a terrible truth.
The Healer Chronicles continue…
Alex’s wheelchair has never stopped him from doing what he wants, but his supernatural power to heal every human ailment known to science has put him in the crosshairs of a dangerous doomsday cult that will stop at nothing to capture him and his long-lost twin, Andy, who can shift illness from one person to another. When the boys combine their “gifts,” they unleash the power to control life and death.
Now Alex, Andy, and the others have been kidnapped by the U.S. military. On a creepy Air Force base in the remote Nevada desert, they must decide who to trust and who to fear while uncovering secrets this base wants to hide from the world. Who is the young boy with unusual abilities who’s treated like a soldier? What is hidden in an ultra-secret hangar that no one can access? And what unnatural experiments are conducted in that closed-off laboratory?
As Alex unravels these mysteries, he strives to bond with his twin, but Andy is distant and detached, trusting no one. He’s also more attracted to the dangerous power they wield than Alex would like. When misplaced faith in science ignites a hidden lust for supremacy, rescue can only come from the most unlikely source, and Alex must confront a terrible truth.
The Healer Chronicles continue…
372 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 12, 2022
2 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Michael J. Bowler
20 books311 followersMichael J. Bowler is an award-winning author who grew up in Northern California. He majored in English/Theatre at Santa Clara University, earned a master’s in film production from Loyola Marymount University, a teaching credential in English from LMU, and a master’s in Special Education from Cal State University Dominguez Hills. Michael taught high school in Hawthorne, California for many years, both in general education and students with disabilities. When Michael is not writing you can find him volunteering as a youth mentor with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, volunteering within the juvenile justice system in Los Angeles, or caring for his newly adopted son. He is a passionate advocate for the fair treatment of children and teens in California, and hopes his books can show young people they are not alone in their struggles.
You can find Michael at:
Website: www.michaeljbowler.com
Amazon: www.amazon.com/Michael-J.-Bowler/e/B0...
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Twitter: twitter.com/BradleyWallaceM
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You can find Michael at:
Website: www.michaeljbowler.com
Amazon: www.amazon.com/Michael-J.-Bowler/e/B0...
Facebook: www.facebook.com/michaeljbowlerauthor
Twitter: twitter.com/BradleyWallaceM
tumblr: michaeljbowler.tumblr.com
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/michaelbowler
Instagram: www.instagram.com/stuntshark
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2NX...
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
June 26, 2022
“Shifter” is the second book in the Healer Chronicles, an exciting YA coming of age fantasy trilogy by Michael J. Bowler.
Twins Alex and Andy possess supernatural powers that enable them to heal and shift illness from one person to another. On their own, the boys hold tremendous power. Together, they have the capacity to control life and death. In “Shifter” we find the boys and their friends still reeling from their narrow escape of Mrs. G., their former teacher, who is actually an evil paranormal being set on destroying humanity.
When the brothers are subsequently kidnapped by the U.S. military, (also after their powers), they don’t know who to trust, especially when they discover a secret hangar housing unnatural experimental procedures being performed under the guise of national security. Alex fears Andy’s enthusiasm and willingness to take part in these procedures, as he witnesses just how enticing the allure of power becomes for his younger twin. In this all-out war against humanity, who can be trusted and who will emerge victorious?
Having just finished “Spinner,” the first book in the series, I was eager to dive into “Shifter” to see what challenges and adventures the young heroes encounter after their initial brush with the supernatural world. These special kids come back full force, growing into themselves through some tough lessons, self-awareness, and their natural curiosities about the world. These kids have overcome things most teens will never experience, things which have, for the most part, made them stronger—individually, and as a team. Or, as they devotedly refer to themselves now, “family.”
“Shifter” takes the Healer Chronicles to another level as the kids are tested to their limits. Once again Bowler drives well-drawn characters through an exciting story full of epic battles with enemies, terrifying experimental procedures, and betrayal at the deepest level. There are a few twists readers might suspect, but Bowler expertly uses these devices to take us down completely different paths you won’t see coming. The introduction of William and his “cousins” add an element of magic that I would love to see on the screen. Think a “Stranger Things” vibe with some eccentric creatures and kick it up a notch–can you even imagine?
As with the first book in the Healer Chronicles, it should be noted that “Shifter” also contains graphic gore, violence directed toward young characters, and use of profanity throughout, making this read best for teens aged 16+. And though readers will no doubt enjoy “Shifter” as an exciting standalone story, I highly recommend picking up “Spinner” first to get the full effect of this amazing series. The writing is phenomenal, the story intense and the characters expertly crafted. I eagerly anticipate the final book in the Healer Chronicles: “Spoiler.”
Twins Alex and Andy possess supernatural powers that enable them to heal and shift illness from one person to another. On their own, the boys hold tremendous power. Together, they have the capacity to control life and death. In “Shifter” we find the boys and their friends still reeling from their narrow escape of Mrs. G., their former teacher, who is actually an evil paranormal being set on destroying humanity.
When the brothers are subsequently kidnapped by the U.S. military, (also after their powers), they don’t know who to trust, especially when they discover a secret hangar housing unnatural experimental procedures being performed under the guise of national security. Alex fears Andy’s enthusiasm and willingness to take part in these procedures, as he witnesses just how enticing the allure of power becomes for his younger twin. In this all-out war against humanity, who can be trusted and who will emerge victorious?
Having just finished “Spinner,” the first book in the series, I was eager to dive into “Shifter” to see what challenges and adventures the young heroes encounter after their initial brush with the supernatural world. These special kids come back full force, growing into themselves through some tough lessons, self-awareness, and their natural curiosities about the world. These kids have overcome things most teens will never experience, things which have, for the most part, made them stronger—individually, and as a team. Or, as they devotedly refer to themselves now, “family.”
“Shifter” takes the Healer Chronicles to another level as the kids are tested to their limits. Once again Bowler drives well-drawn characters through an exciting story full of epic battles with enemies, terrifying experimental procedures, and betrayal at the deepest level. There are a few twists readers might suspect, but Bowler expertly uses these devices to take us down completely different paths you won’t see coming. The introduction of William and his “cousins” add an element of magic that I would love to see on the screen. Think a “Stranger Things” vibe with some eccentric creatures and kick it up a notch–can you even imagine?
As with the first book in the Healer Chronicles, it should be noted that “Shifter” also contains graphic gore, violence directed toward young characters, and use of profanity throughout, making this read best for teens aged 16+. And though readers will no doubt enjoy “Shifter” as an exciting standalone story, I highly recommend picking up “Spinner” first to get the full effect of this amazing series. The writing is phenomenal, the story intense and the characters expertly crafted. I eagerly anticipate the final book in the Healer Chronicles: “Spoiler.”
March 28, 2022
Twin brothers with the power of life and death – will they choose the path of good or evil? In Shifter, the second book in the Healer Chronicles, Michael J Bowler brings us back to the world of Alex and Andy and all the characters revolving around them. Having survived the events in the first thrilling book, the brothers begin to get to know each other and test the limits of what they can do together. But with secret organizations and military operations vying for control of their power, they have to make difficult choices that could save people… or leave them dead. The story takes twists and turns that make you question everything and everyone, from well-guarded fortresses and secret military labs in the desert.
Early on, we’re taken back to Andy’s horrific childhood, which explains his character to the reader and his brother Alex. The reader also gets some recaps and explanations of events in the first book, allowing those that have not read the first novel to understand this one. The author expertly balances dialogue, description, and action, creating incredible tension. A few scenes in the military lab had me literally at the edge of my seat! The author also created a rich and relatable world by adding small details between big moments.
There were plenty of everyday things that we take for granted highlighted in these extreme circumstances. For example, Alex’s experiences with his disability, not being able to reach a shirt in a closet that wasn’t made for someone in a wheelchair. Alex’s human existence gave us a closer connection to a character with incredible power. I loved so many of the characters in the novel. They were unusual heroes, abandoned or scorned by society because of who they are, mistakes from their past, or circumstances beyond their control.
There were also plenty of more important questions of ethics and morality in the choices the main characters have to make, as exemplified in the passage below: “And you would be, Alex. You two could save more lives than anyone in history.” “By killing,” Alex said, his voice barely a whisper. “How is that good?” “Because some people need to be killed so others may live.” Without giving too much away, you can see the dilemma Alex faces when he learns about how some powerful forces would want him to use his power.
However, conflict in the book doesn’t touch only upon questions of morality but also on adolescent insecurities and friendship. Many characters grapple with complex feelings of jealousy or fear of a new person joining the group and taking your place, wanting to prove their strength.
Shifter (The Healer Chronicles Book 2) is a suspenseful young adult thriller. With strong and memorable characters, non-stop action, and high tension, readers will not want to put the book down and anxiously await the conclusion of this exciting trilogy.
Early on, we’re taken back to Andy’s horrific childhood, which explains his character to the reader and his brother Alex. The reader also gets some recaps and explanations of events in the first book, allowing those that have not read the first novel to understand this one. The author expertly balances dialogue, description, and action, creating incredible tension. A few scenes in the military lab had me literally at the edge of my seat! The author also created a rich and relatable world by adding small details between big moments.
There were plenty of everyday things that we take for granted highlighted in these extreme circumstances. For example, Alex’s experiences with his disability, not being able to reach a shirt in a closet that wasn’t made for someone in a wheelchair. Alex’s human existence gave us a closer connection to a character with incredible power. I loved so many of the characters in the novel. They were unusual heroes, abandoned or scorned by society because of who they are, mistakes from their past, or circumstances beyond their control.
There were also plenty of more important questions of ethics and morality in the choices the main characters have to make, as exemplified in the passage below: “And you would be, Alex. You two could save more lives than anyone in history.” “By killing,” Alex said, his voice barely a whisper. “How is that good?” “Because some people need to be killed so others may live.” Without giving too much away, you can see the dilemma Alex faces when he learns about how some powerful forces would want him to use his power.
However, conflict in the book doesn’t touch only upon questions of morality but also on adolescent insecurities and friendship. Many characters grapple with complex feelings of jealousy or fear of a new person joining the group and taking your place, wanting to prove their strength.
Shifter (The Healer Chronicles Book 2) is a suspenseful young adult thriller. With strong and memorable characters, non-stop action, and high tension, readers will not want to put the book down and anxiously await the conclusion of this exciting trilogy.
May 10, 2025
Shifter by Michael J. Bowler is a compelling and fast-paced novel that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end. The narrative revolves around Alex, a teenager with the extraordinary ability to heal others. One of his most remarkable acts was curing a girl named Allison of leukemia. Despite their brief encounter, Allison develops strong feelings for Alex, captivated not only by his powers but by his kindness.
The story takes a more intense turn with the introduction of Alex’s twin brother, Andy. Unlike Alex, Andy has been isolated his entire life, hidden away in a controlled environment with no exposure to the real world. His lack of basic knowledge and social understanding becomes evident as he begins to interact with others for the first time. A mysterious dream haunts Alex, in which his deceased teacher, Ms. G, warns him that Andy already belongs to her—and soon, Alex will too.
As the plot thickens, Alex, Andy, and their group of friends are kidnapped by a man named Mr. Jones and a colonel, both of whom are aware of Alex's healing abilities. However, they are shocked to discover that Andy possesses a far more dangerous gift—the power to shift death from one person to another, effectively choosing who lives and who dies.
The novel raises high-stakes questions: Will Alex and his companions be able to outsmart their captors? Can they harness their powers to escape and protect each other? The book is filled with unexpected twists and thrilling moments, making it an exhilarating read. With strong character development, emotional depth, and a well-paced plot, Shifter is an engaging blend of science fiction and action.
The story takes a more intense turn with the introduction of Alex’s twin brother, Andy. Unlike Alex, Andy has been isolated his entire life, hidden away in a controlled environment with no exposure to the real world. His lack of basic knowledge and social understanding becomes evident as he begins to interact with others for the first time. A mysterious dream haunts Alex, in which his deceased teacher, Ms. G, warns him that Andy already belongs to her—and soon, Alex will too.
As the plot thickens, Alex, Andy, and their group of friends are kidnapped by a man named Mr. Jones and a colonel, both of whom are aware of Alex's healing abilities. However, they are shocked to discover that Andy possesses a far more dangerous gift—the power to shift death from one person to another, effectively choosing who lives and who dies.
The novel raises high-stakes questions: Will Alex and his companions be able to outsmart their captors? Can they harness their powers to escape and protect each other? The book is filled with unexpected twists and thrilling moments, making it an exhilarating read. With strong character development, emotional depth, and a well-paced plot, Shifter is an engaging blend of science fiction and action.
April 27, 2022
Title: Shifter
Author: Michael J. Bowler
Publisher: Michael J. Bowler
ISBN: B09R2K41L7
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
The Healer Chronicles 2
Fifteen-year-old Alex and his learning-disabled friends barely survived the events of Spinner, but their nightmare has only just begun.
Alex’s wheelchair has never stopped him from doing what he wants, but his supernatural power to heal every human ailment known to science has put him in the crosshairs of a dangerous doomsday cult that will stop at nothing to capture him and his long-lost twin, Andy, who can shift illness from one person to another. When the boys combine their “gifts,” they unleash the power to control life and death.
Now Alex, Andy, and the others have been kidnapped by the U.S. military. On a creepy Air Force base in the remote Nevada desert, they must decide who to trust and who to fear while uncovering secrets this base wants to hide from the world. Who is the young boy with unusual abilities who’s treated like a soldier? What is hidden in an ultra-secret hangar that no one can access? And what unnatural experiments are conducted in that closed-off laboratory?
As Alex unravels these mysteries, he strives to bond with his twin, but Andy is distant and detached, trusting no one. He’s also more attracted to the dangerous power they wield than Alex would like. When misplaced faith in science ignites a hidden lust for supremacy, rescue can only come from the most unlikely source, and Alex must confront a terrible truth.
Total Score: 5/5
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Summary:
Andy was raised in a glass box with no no o love or understanding. The only friends he had were puppies he was allowed to love and than forced to watch being liked until he refused to love again. Once he was reunited with his brother Alex and his friends things began to look up, but his past captures refuse to let them go.
Andy and Alex’s abilities, one to spin the other to shift, left them prime targets for anyone who craved power. The guys have finally found someone who is willing to do whatever he needs to keep them safe, but will that even be enough?
This was a fast paced young adult story about genetic manipulation and what some people will do to further their own agenda. There are surprises around every corner leaving the reader to wonder who is friend and who is foe. Alex has only his family and friends who he can trust or can he? I will be waiting impatiently for the next book in The Healer Chronicles.
Author: Michael J. Bowler
Publisher: Michael J. Bowler
ISBN: B09R2K41L7
Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09...
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Blurb:
The Healer Chronicles 2
Fifteen-year-old Alex and his learning-disabled friends barely survived the events of Spinner, but their nightmare has only just begun.
Alex’s wheelchair has never stopped him from doing what he wants, but his supernatural power to heal every human ailment known to science has put him in the crosshairs of a dangerous doomsday cult that will stop at nothing to capture him and his long-lost twin, Andy, who can shift illness from one person to another. When the boys combine their “gifts,” they unleash the power to control life and death.
Now Alex, Andy, and the others have been kidnapped by the U.S. military. On a creepy Air Force base in the remote Nevada desert, they must decide who to trust and who to fear while uncovering secrets this base wants to hide from the world. Who is the young boy with unusual abilities who’s treated like a soldier? What is hidden in an ultra-secret hangar that no one can access? And what unnatural experiments are conducted in that closed-off laboratory?
As Alex unravels these mysteries, he strives to bond with his twin, but Andy is distant and detached, trusting no one. He’s also more attracted to the dangerous power they wield than Alex would like. When misplaced faith in science ignites a hidden lust for supremacy, rescue can only come from the most unlikely source, and Alex must confront a terrible truth.
Total Score: 5/5
Reviewer: Teresa Fallen Angel
Summary:
Andy was raised in a glass box with no no o love or understanding. The only friends he had were puppies he was allowed to love and than forced to watch being liked until he refused to love again. Once he was reunited with his brother Alex and his friends things began to look up, but his past captures refuse to let them go.
Andy and Alex’s abilities, one to spin the other to shift, left them prime targets for anyone who craved power. The guys have finally found someone who is willing to do whatever he needs to keep them safe, but will that even be enough?
This was a fast paced young adult story about genetic manipulation and what some people will do to further their own agenda. There are surprises around every corner leaving the reader to wonder who is friend and who is foe. Alex has only his family and friends who he can trust or can he? I will be waiting impatiently for the next book in The Healer Chronicles.
April 14, 2022
Great Story!
This is a great sequel to Spinner. It is suspenseful, full of surprises and leaves the reader hanging! I can’t wait for Book 3!
This is a great sequel to Spinner. It is suspenseful, full of surprises and leaves the reader hanging! I can’t wait for Book 3!
September 9, 2022
Shifter (The Healer Chronicles 2) is a exhilarating story about twin boys Alex and Andy, who possess super powers in which they allow Alex to heal any disease known to science and Andy to shift diseases from one living thing to another. Once their powers are combined, they achieve the power of life and death.
Andy, Alex, and many other people have been kidnapped by the U.S military. In order to escape or even to survive, they must decide who to trust and who to fear in order to discover the hidden secrets of this military base. What is the military doing in the middle of nowhere? Why did they kidnap them? Who is the soldier who has mysterious powers?
As they try to figure out how to escape, Alex tries to connect with his long lost twin, who seems so distant and doesn't talk to anyone. Rescue can only come from a hidden person, and soon they will all have to face a deadly secret.
Opinion:
This book was definitely a really exciting book that takes you on a rollercoaster of twists and turns. The author was very descriptive, and I could easily picture what each scene would look like. In the beginning of the book, I was kind of confused at first because the book started with memories from when Andy was still with the Teacher. However, I eventually caught up and started following along. I loved the overall plot of the book, and it all flowed together really nicely. Compared to other books similar to this one, I think this is one I would recommend to someone looking for a page-turner.
Andy, Alex, and many other people have been kidnapped by the U.S military. In order to escape or even to survive, they must decide who to trust and who to fear in order to discover the hidden secrets of this military base. What is the military doing in the middle of nowhere? Why did they kidnap them? Who is the soldier who has mysterious powers?
As they try to figure out how to escape, Alex tries to connect with his long lost twin, who seems so distant and doesn't talk to anyone. Rescue can only come from a hidden person, and soon they will all have to face a deadly secret.
Opinion:
This book was definitely a really exciting book that takes you on a rollercoaster of twists and turns. The author was very descriptive, and I could easily picture what each scene would look like. In the beginning of the book, I was kind of confused at first because the book started with memories from when Andy was still with the Teacher. However, I eventually caught up and started following along. I loved the overall plot of the book, and it all flowed together really nicely. Compared to other books similar to this one, I think this is one I would recommend to someone looking for a page-turner.
May 29, 2025
Andy is Alex’s twin brother and also his mirror image. Andy spent his childhood trapped in a glass room, enduring relentless torment from cruel adults. His isolated, prison-like upbringing deprived him of even the simplest joys of childhood.
Allison was on the brink of death due to leukemia, but thanks to Alex, she is now completely cured. However, she was kidnapped because of her connection to him. The kidnappers had planned to take Alex as well, but his friends managed to prevent that.
Andy’s torture was so extreme that he was even forced to shower under constant surveillance. One phrase continues to haunt Alex: Ms. G’s chilling declaration — “Andy already belongs to her.” Andy is missing now, and Alex is determined to find his brother. Ms. G is a dangerous woman with sinister intentions. The story takes an even darker turn when others discover Andy’s terrifying ability — the power to transfer death from one person to another.
I absolutely loved this book. The series is a thrilling escape from the monotony of everyday life. I thoroughly enjoyed embarking on dangerous adventures with Alex and Andy, and the layered subplots added even more depth and excitement to the story.
Allison was on the brink of death due to leukemia, but thanks to Alex, she is now completely cured. However, she was kidnapped because of her connection to him. The kidnappers had planned to take Alex as well, but his friends managed to prevent that.
Andy’s torture was so extreme that he was even forced to shower under constant surveillance. One phrase continues to haunt Alex: Ms. G’s chilling declaration — “Andy already belongs to her.” Andy is missing now, and Alex is determined to find his brother. Ms. G is a dangerous woman with sinister intentions. The story takes an even darker turn when others discover Andy’s terrifying ability — the power to transfer death from one person to another.
I absolutely loved this book. The series is a thrilling escape from the monotony of everyday life. I thoroughly enjoyed embarking on dangerous adventures with Alex and Andy, and the layered subplots added even more depth and excitement to the story.
May 8, 2022
Ultimate hubris
Man has reached the Pinnacle of his Hubris, genetically creating new beings, putting himself on an even footing with the gods themselves. Can Alex and his friends (family) defeat these evil people and save the world?
Man has reached the Pinnacle of his Hubris, genetically creating new beings, putting himself on an even footing with the gods themselves. Can Alex and his friends (family) defeat these evil people and save the world?
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews