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The Safekeeper #1
The Safekeeper
The Safekeeper Adventure continues...
~ Winner of the Indies Today 2020 Best Paranormal Award ~
Her job is to keep their secrets safe. A secluded Retreat Center full of preternatural clientele. A talking crow who thinks she knows everything. A new boy in town asking a lot of nosy questions. Sound like a lot to handle? Not for fifteen-year-old Macy Steward, who lives at the Center and helps her parents run the highly unusual retreats.
For Macy, this is simply normal routine. And it’s all going exactly as expected, that is until the guests become dangerously unpredictable, the talking crow goes suspiciously missing, and the new boy turns out to be so much more than he first appeared.
“Here comes trouble.” That’s the last thing the crow says before disappearing. Even though she doesn’t scare easily, Macy has to admit the crow was right. Because soon enough, she finds herself trying to keep a lot more things safe than just secrets...
~ Winner of the Indies Today 2020 Best Paranormal Award ~
Her job is to keep their secrets safe. A secluded Retreat Center full of preternatural clientele. A talking crow who thinks she knows everything. A new boy in town asking a lot of nosy questions. Sound like a lot to handle? Not for fifteen-year-old Macy Steward, who lives at the Center and helps her parents run the highly unusual retreats.
For Macy, this is simply normal routine. And it’s all going exactly as expected, that is until the guests become dangerously unpredictable, the talking crow goes suspiciously missing, and the new boy turns out to be so much more than he first appeared.
“Here comes trouble.” That’s the last thing the crow says before disappearing. Even though she doesn’t scare easily, Macy has to admit the crow was right. Because soon enough, she finds herself trying to keep a lot more things safe than just secrets...
235 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
November 6, 2020
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
Fifteen-year-old Macy Steward works at her family-run Greenmont Grith Retreat Center where humans play body hosts to offworlders for three days in which they come to Earth to relax. Activities include yoga, arts & crafts, hikes, mindfulness sessions, and much, much more. The hosts have all been selected or volunteered. This time just five offworlders are waiting to join the retreat, so only five humans are needed.
The retreat is a secret, private affair governed by the Orbit Center Council Order and there are rules for both humans and the offworlders to make sure everyone is happy and everything runs smoothly.
However, this time things are a little hectic including a newcomer to town, student Nick Pendigan sniffing around the place under the guise of wanting to take Macy out, the resident crow called Clio has gone missing, the offworlders are not behaving themselves and something is not right with the one they say is just an errand boy. Plus Macy keeps on seeing things, such as a moving Gargoyle, her friends turning into creatures, and Clio no longer just being a crow.
Is something stranger going on, is Macy losing it, or is there something more suspicious happening?
The Safekeeper is a fantasy, supernatural, sci-fi, YA read for I would say the younger end of the YA market. The book is certainly different from anything I have read before and I liked the easy of the story as I never once felt out of my comfort zone or confused which can happen when I read books that feature sci-fi elements.
The plot is told in the first person and from Macy’s POV. The writing is quite basic and it certainly felt like I was reading a YA or even a middle-grade book. However, this didn’t distract me from the eventful and adventurous storyline that just kept on giving. I liked the idea of there being a body swap with people from other worlds and that they come here to relax and enjoy themselves before heading home. I also liked the naughty crow.
The book was both engaging and humorous at times. I did rush through it as I was eager to keep the story moving and wanted to know more about this retreat and offworlders as well as Macy. There are plenty of twists and turns and the pace felt fast, leaving me with a desire to not put the book down and just keep reading, as such I read it in just two sittings.
Overall, this is an impressive debut novel that will appeal to those who want something different from the fantasy/sci-fi/supernatural world. It has characters you can enjoy spending your time with and from my limited sci-fi knowledge a unique plot, well, it was to me.
Fifteen-year-old Macy Steward works at her family-run Greenmont Grith Retreat Center where humans play body hosts to offworlders for three days in which they come to Earth to relax. Activities include yoga, arts & crafts, hikes, mindfulness sessions, and much, much more. The hosts have all been selected or volunteered. This time just five offworlders are waiting to join the retreat, so only five humans are needed.
The retreat is a secret, private affair governed by the Orbit Center Council Order and there are rules for both humans and the offworlders to make sure everyone is happy and everything runs smoothly.
However, this time things are a little hectic including a newcomer to town, student Nick Pendigan sniffing around the place under the guise of wanting to take Macy out, the resident crow called Clio has gone missing, the offworlders are not behaving themselves and something is not right with the one they say is just an errand boy. Plus Macy keeps on seeing things, such as a moving Gargoyle, her friends turning into creatures, and Clio no longer just being a crow.
Is something stranger going on, is Macy losing it, or is there something more suspicious happening?
The Safekeeper is a fantasy, supernatural, sci-fi, YA read for I would say the younger end of the YA market. The book is certainly different from anything I have read before and I liked the easy of the story as I never once felt out of my comfort zone or confused which can happen when I read books that feature sci-fi elements.
The plot is told in the first person and from Macy’s POV. The writing is quite basic and it certainly felt like I was reading a YA or even a middle-grade book. However, this didn’t distract me from the eventful and adventurous storyline that just kept on giving. I liked the idea of there being a body swap with people from other worlds and that they come here to relax and enjoy themselves before heading home. I also liked the naughty crow.
The book was both engaging and humorous at times. I did rush through it as I was eager to keep the story moving and wanted to know more about this retreat and offworlders as well as Macy. There are plenty of twists and turns and the pace felt fast, leaving me with a desire to not put the book down and just keep reading, as such I read it in just two sittings.
Overall, this is an impressive debut novel that will appeal to those who want something different from the fantasy/sci-fi/supernatural world. It has characters you can enjoy spending your time with and from my limited sci-fi knowledge a unique plot, well, it was to me.
January 20, 2021
Fantastic, fun and entertaining read!
This book was refreshing and different and the writing is excellent, descriptive 'just enough' with fantastic dialogue to keep the story moving forward. I felt like I was watching a film and I was engaged and invested in the characters, especially the main character, Macy, who is a teen. The novel had humour, romance, thrills, mystery, fantasy/sci fi, all wrapped up in a great story. Like Harry Potter where Rowling's blends fantasy with relatable, real life experiences and people, The Safekeeper does that, as well. I liked the mystical side of the story and how the author writes in a way that is simple enough so that the reader can believe in the possibility of interworldly travel, the power of energy & quantum physics/string theory, and the interconnectedness of everything. This book is full of great lines and the story is fantastic. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND and what a wonderful debut novel!
This book was refreshing and different and the writing is excellent, descriptive 'just enough' with fantastic dialogue to keep the story moving forward. I felt like I was watching a film and I was engaged and invested in the characters, especially the main character, Macy, who is a teen. The novel had humour, romance, thrills, mystery, fantasy/sci fi, all wrapped up in a great story. Like Harry Potter where Rowling's blends fantasy with relatable, real life experiences and people, The Safekeeper does that, as well. I liked the mystical side of the story and how the author writes in a way that is simple enough so that the reader can believe in the possibility of interworldly travel, the power of energy & quantum physics/string theory, and the interconnectedness of everything. This book is full of great lines and the story is fantastic. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND and what a wonderful debut novel!
November 19, 2020
Full Review: https://rueisreadingcorner.blogspot.c...
Fifteen-year-old Macy Steward works at the Greenmont Grith Retreat Center with her parents but there's a catch. It's not just a normal retreat. It's organized by the Orbit Center Council Order for exchangers to enjoy three days of life on Earth. They spend vacation at the center and get to do all sorts of activities including yoga and going to the beach.
Nick is new in town and he's been asking Macy a bunch of questions about the Retreat Center making her a little suspicious of him. But then again, it's a small town so everyone knows about each other's business, right?
However, things prove to be wrong when Clio, the talking crow, disappears suddenly and no one can seem to find him. Then Nick shows up at the wrong place at the wrong time and the exchangers are behaving weirdly. What could possibly be happening?
The plot and characters weren't hard to understand which made this book a lighter read. I enjoyed having Clio as a character because he made me laugh a lot. Though it was easier to read, it didn't take away from anything that was going on. I was immersed in the book and finished it pretty quickly.
This book is a great debut novel and I liked the author's writing style. The book was a fun, easy read which I definitely found relaxing. It was nice to sit on the couch and just read the entire afternoon. I was curious to find out what was happening to Macy up until the very end.
More Reviews: https://rueisreadingcorner.blogspot.com
Fifteen-year-old Macy Steward works at the Greenmont Grith Retreat Center with her parents but there's a catch. It's not just a normal retreat. It's organized by the Orbit Center Council Order for exchangers to enjoy three days of life on Earth. They spend vacation at the center and get to do all sorts of activities including yoga and going to the beach.
Nick is new in town and he's been asking Macy a bunch of questions about the Retreat Center making her a little suspicious of him. But then again, it's a small town so everyone knows about each other's business, right?
However, things prove to be wrong when Clio, the talking crow, disappears suddenly and no one can seem to find him. Then Nick shows up at the wrong place at the wrong time and the exchangers are behaving weirdly. What could possibly be happening?
The plot and characters weren't hard to understand which made this book a lighter read. I enjoyed having Clio as a character because he made me laugh a lot. Though it was easier to read, it didn't take away from anything that was going on. I was immersed in the book and finished it pretty quickly.
This book is a great debut novel and I liked the author's writing style. The book was a fun, easy read which I definitely found relaxing. It was nice to sit on the couch and just read the entire afternoon. I was curious to find out what was happening to Macy up until the very end.
More Reviews: https://rueisreadingcorner.blogspot.com
January 8, 2021
Some people were born to do great things.
The world building was complex and well constructed. I actually ended up taking notes while reading this in order to make sure I remembered all of the intricate details of what The Greenmont Grith Retreat Center was and why Macy’s family worked so hard to keep it low profile. The blurb barely scratched the surface on this topic in a good way, so there were many details to take note of as they were slowly revealed throughout the plot.
I would have liked to see more time spent on character development. As interesting as the main characters were, I didn’t notice much growth from them as a result of their experiences. They all seemed to remain more or less the same people they were when I first met them. There were so many opportunities for them to change. All this reader needed was the opportunity to see them evolve as a result of those experiences.
Reading the dialogue was entertaining. All of the characters had voices that sounded natural, and their conversations flowed just like they would in real life. In certain cases, I was also able to immediately tell who was speaking next due to the unique patterns of speech some of the main characters had. It was fun to match those speech patterns to the right folks and start making those predictions a moment ahead of time.
The Safekeeper was a fast-paced and wild ride. Do check it out if you love plot-heavy storylines.
The world building was complex and well constructed. I actually ended up taking notes while reading this in order to make sure I remembered all of the intricate details of what The Greenmont Grith Retreat Center was and why Macy’s family worked so hard to keep it low profile. The blurb barely scratched the surface on this topic in a good way, so there were many details to take note of as they were slowly revealed throughout the plot.
I would have liked to see more time spent on character development. As interesting as the main characters were, I didn’t notice much growth from them as a result of their experiences. They all seemed to remain more or less the same people they were when I first met them. There were so many opportunities for them to change. All this reader needed was the opportunity to see them evolve as a result of those experiences.
Reading the dialogue was entertaining. All of the characters had voices that sounded natural, and their conversations flowed just like they would in real life. In certain cases, I was also able to immediately tell who was speaking next due to the unique patterns of speech some of the main characters had. It was fun to match those speech patterns to the right folks and start making those predictions a moment ahead of time.
The Safekeeper was a fast-paced and wild ride. Do check it out if you love plot-heavy storylines.
January 1, 2021
This was well written and full of intrigue and excitement. Macy’s is a very capable and quite likeable character that has to deal with all sorts of revelations and problems as the story progresses. This was a fairly unique take on the theme. I have to admit to being a little baffled for a chapter or two when I wasn’t sure what the purpose of the retreat was, but we find out soon enough and that’s where it all kicks off! I did think Macy made a deductive leap that seemed a little bit too much of a leap, but perhaps I just missed the clues!!
I am left with a few unanswered questions: how did the compounds come about? Why would the retreat visitors want to come in the first place? How did it all begin and do governments know etc? It has been left so that there could easily be a sequel or two so maybe we will learn more...
I am left with a few unanswered questions: how did the compounds come about? Why would the retreat visitors want to come in the first place? How did it all begin and do governments know etc? It has been left so that there could easily be a sequel or two so maybe we will learn more...
January 29, 2021
An intriguing, out-of-this world read
This book, wow! If you enjoy YA with aliens and the supernatural with one heck of a female lead, then check out The Safekeeper! I lost sleep over this one, wanting to read just one more page. I commend this debut author for her top notch tale. The characters, the settings...realistic and well-built. Macy is one tough cookie. Aladair and Clio...loved these secondary characters. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and I am excited to see what else Esther will write!
This book, wow! If you enjoy YA with aliens and the supernatural with one heck of a female lead, then check out The Safekeeper! I lost sleep over this one, wanting to read just one more page. I commend this debut author for her top notch tale. The characters, the settings...realistic and well-built. Macy is one tough cookie. Aladair and Clio...loved these secondary characters. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and I am excited to see what else Esther will write!
January 22, 2021
Lakhani mixes mysterious technologies and strange beings with drives familiar to all humans to create a fresh perspective on the idea of a covert alien infiltration of Earth.
Many years ago, aliens arrived discreetly on Earth. Now certain humans have a little alien in their mix, making them suitable vessels for temporary alien mind-swaps. Fifteen-year-old Macy Steward helps her parents run a retreat for aliens wanting to experience a few days in human body. For years she’s kept the secret, but when Nick, the new boy at school, takes an interest in her, she worries he might be getting too close. But, when something goes wrong with the latest exchange ceremony as well, she realises the problem might be bigger than a boy who might know a little too much.
Lakhani central concept of a rather more placid than usual alien conspiracy is interesting and arguably more plausible than many aliens among us plots: instead of expending vast resources to cross the interstellar void in order to take control of something Earth supposedly has an abundance of, these aliens seek something unique to Earth: the experience of being a human on Earth.
However, while the infiltration itself is benign, the world beyond our skies is not a unified utopia. Aliens have the same imperfect motivations as humans, so are not immune to taking advantage of the opportunity either to be someone else or to act while a rival is away from their centre of power in a body that is not their own. Thus the plot has the same tension as a covert invasion arc.
This uncertainty over motivations also colours Maya’s relationship with Nick. Instead of the usual “does he like me? Do I like him?” angst common to teenage protagonists, in this instance his potential interest might be more nefarious.
Lakhani’s choice of the child of low-ranking humans within the hidden tourism structure as narrator provides a sound balance between providing insights into how it works and not providing—potentially implausible or tension-deflating—explanations for the technology and broader social structures. Thus, the reader is likely to accept the premise without losing the joy of not knowing whether things are actually as they seem.
This issue of low rank within a compartmentalised organisation also provides a sound and immediately apparent reason why supporting characters seem to withhold information from the narrator or casually disdain her input. Thus, while there is the same sense of teenage aggrievement as many other young adult novels, readers are unlikely to feel it is overdone or merely a device to slow the revealing of plot.
Where some readers might find this viewpoint less realistic is in Maya’s variable openness to aliens on Earth: she, for example, displays worry that Nick might be involved in (literally) illegal alien activity, but doesn’t even think of aliens as a possible explanation for some objectively weirder matters.
Maya is a sympathetic protagonist, displaying an engaging balance of intelligence and skill with naivety and youthful inexperience. She is, plausibly, irritated by the lack of proper answers or support she receives, but acts rather than dwelling; thus she is unlikely to irritate readers who find the self-centredness of the classic young adult protagonist wearing.
The supporting cast are distinct but do not all display complex nuances; depending on reader preference this will either seem a missed opportunity or strengthen the sense of a universe of body hopping aliens seen from the perspective of a young teenager.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel. I recommend it to readers seeking fast-paced young adult science-fiction that avoids the usual dystopias and love-triangles.
I received a free copy via a GoodReads community with a request for a fair review.
Many years ago, aliens arrived discreetly on Earth. Now certain humans have a little alien in their mix, making them suitable vessels for temporary alien mind-swaps. Fifteen-year-old Macy Steward helps her parents run a retreat for aliens wanting to experience a few days in human body. For years she’s kept the secret, but when Nick, the new boy at school, takes an interest in her, she worries he might be getting too close. But, when something goes wrong with the latest exchange ceremony as well, she realises the problem might be bigger than a boy who might know a little too much.
Lakhani central concept of a rather more placid than usual alien conspiracy is interesting and arguably more plausible than many aliens among us plots: instead of expending vast resources to cross the interstellar void in order to take control of something Earth supposedly has an abundance of, these aliens seek something unique to Earth: the experience of being a human on Earth.
However, while the infiltration itself is benign, the world beyond our skies is not a unified utopia. Aliens have the same imperfect motivations as humans, so are not immune to taking advantage of the opportunity either to be someone else or to act while a rival is away from their centre of power in a body that is not their own. Thus the plot has the same tension as a covert invasion arc.
This uncertainty over motivations also colours Maya’s relationship with Nick. Instead of the usual “does he like me? Do I like him?” angst common to teenage protagonists, in this instance his potential interest might be more nefarious.
Lakhani’s choice of the child of low-ranking humans within the hidden tourism structure as narrator provides a sound balance between providing insights into how it works and not providing—potentially implausible or tension-deflating—explanations for the technology and broader social structures. Thus, the reader is likely to accept the premise without losing the joy of not knowing whether things are actually as they seem.
This issue of low rank within a compartmentalised organisation also provides a sound and immediately apparent reason why supporting characters seem to withhold information from the narrator or casually disdain her input. Thus, while there is the same sense of teenage aggrievement as many other young adult novels, readers are unlikely to feel it is overdone or merely a device to slow the revealing of plot.
Where some readers might find this viewpoint less realistic is in Maya’s variable openness to aliens on Earth: she, for example, displays worry that Nick might be involved in (literally) illegal alien activity, but doesn’t even think of aliens as a possible explanation for some objectively weirder matters.
Maya is a sympathetic protagonist, displaying an engaging balance of intelligence and skill with naivety and youthful inexperience. She is, plausibly, irritated by the lack of proper answers or support she receives, but acts rather than dwelling; thus she is unlikely to irritate readers who find the self-centredness of the classic young adult protagonist wearing.
The supporting cast are distinct but do not all display complex nuances; depending on reader preference this will either seem a missed opportunity or strengthen the sense of a universe of body hopping aliens seen from the perspective of a young teenager.
Overall, I enjoyed this novel. I recommend it to readers seeking fast-paced young adult science-fiction that avoids the usual dystopias and love-triangles.
I received a free copy via a GoodReads community with a request for a fair review.
February 1, 2021
This novel begins with a seemingly normal fifteen-year-old girl on her way home from school and quickly evolves into a story that transcends “normal” in a most intriguing way. I’m a sucker for a unique premise, and this book delivers. Think house-swapping with an enchanting twist.
Ms. Lakhani’s vibrant, polished writing style drew me in from the first page. She’s a stickler for precise word choice and a master at using imaginative language to tell her story. The result is a novel filled with gems such as these: “He waved my awkwardness away with a hand so translucent and frail, I was relieved it didn’t disintegrate into dust mid-gesture”; “Spilling down upon us all was a vast black night, salted with endless tiny stars.” No tired clichés here!
The story is rich in sensory detail: I could almost smell the moist greenery of the redwood forest and hear the disgruntled squawks of Clio the talking crow. The dialogue is witty and realistic, and I especially enjoyed the banter between the two teens. The characters are well-rounded, their actions and attitudes plausible. And it’s all topped off with a generous sprinkling of humor.
I would have liked to learn more about the science and history behind the exchanger program, but the good news is, more books are coming, so I’m sure all those questions will be answered. I highly recommend this book, and I look forward to Macy’s next adventure!
*I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.
Ms. Lakhani’s vibrant, polished writing style drew me in from the first page. She’s a stickler for precise word choice and a master at using imaginative language to tell her story. The result is a novel filled with gems such as these: “He waved my awkwardness away with a hand so translucent and frail, I was relieved it didn’t disintegrate into dust mid-gesture”; “Spilling down upon us all was a vast black night, salted with endless tiny stars.” No tired clichés here!
The story is rich in sensory detail: I could almost smell the moist greenery of the redwood forest and hear the disgruntled squawks of Clio the talking crow. The dialogue is witty and realistic, and I especially enjoyed the banter between the two teens. The characters are well-rounded, their actions and attitudes plausible. And it’s all topped off with a generous sprinkling of humor.
I would have liked to learn more about the science and history behind the exchanger program, but the good news is, more books are coming, so I’m sure all those questions will be answered. I highly recommend this book, and I look forward to Macy’s next adventure!
*I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.
January 11, 2021
"The Safekeeper" is about a teen named Macy and her life living and working at a retreat with her parents. Instead of a normal well-being retreat, it's for Offworlders aka aliens. When the new boy at school Nick decides to follow her home on the very first day of the current retreat, things get a little complicated for everyone involved. The new visitors are not being truthful and she's finding out her life isn't exactly what she thought it was, and with the help of Nick she finds out so much more about her home and the retreat she calls home.
I enjoyed reading "The Safekeeper" and it's sci-fi adventure/fantasy story and was surprised to find out that it's the authors' first book. What a great story and I look to reading your future books as well!
I enjoyed reading "The Safekeeper" and it's sci-fi adventure/fantasy story and was surprised to find out that it's the authors' first book. What a great story and I look to reading your future books as well!
January 29, 2021
Fasten your seat belts… Author Esther Archer Lakhani has written a fun-filled, fast paced, fan-freaking-tastic story that is destined to become a YA favorite. The Safekeeper introduces Macy, who is anything but a typical teen. She has one foot in the “normal” world and one foot in a secret, alien, body-snatching, intergalactic world, and the combination makes Macy’s life a bit complicated. Lakhani has done a superb job of building a world(s) within, and without, planet earth. This book is well-crafted and each and every character plays a vital role in making the story rich and layered with thrills and excitment. Completely entertaining, it kept me on the edge of my seat and up late. I couldn’t put this story down. The author’s writing style is creative and clever, and she fills each page with vivid descriptions and with fascinating characters (including aliens) and places (here, there and everywhere) and keeps an engaging pace as the plot twists and turns on this wild and thrilling sci-fi adventure. I highly recommend this book for YA readers, young and old. Love, love, loved it!
January 18, 2021
I enjoyed this book. It seems in today's day and age that it can be really tricky to find original YA si-fi that doesn't follow that same old cliched mold, but this one definitely delivers.
The main character, Macy, is an easy to love and root for teenager. She l, along with the other characters, are dynamic and we'll developed, making it easy to get lost in their lives.
The vibrant setting and description of the world is fantastic, and I enjoy the interaction between the people of earth and the off-worlders. Very interesting, and a fantastic book.
The main character, Macy, is an easy to love and root for teenager. She l, along with the other characters, are dynamic and we'll developed, making it easy to get lost in their lives.
The vibrant setting and description of the world is fantastic, and I enjoy the interaction between the people of earth and the off-worlders. Very interesting, and a fantastic book.
February 4, 2021
This is a really creative YA sci-fi book with what I would consider fantasy elements, which is mostly set on a contemporary Earth. It really is very unique, with an interesting premise. Lakhani's aliens are incredibly original, as is the way they visit Earth.
The protagonist, 15-year-old Macy, is a good character anyone can relate to. She has an unusual family secret: her parents run a retreat center for very unusual visitors. In the book, a group of visitors arrive and all sorts of trouble comes with them. While helping to work at the center, Macy also is trying to have a life and meets an interesting boy named Nick. Nick turns out to be a very important character with quite a surprise to be revealed. Macy proves herself to be strong and resourceful when the situation demands it.
Highly recommended for fans of YA sci-fi, especially if you're looking for something different.
The protagonist, 15-year-old Macy, is a good character anyone can relate to. She has an unusual family secret: her parents run a retreat center for very unusual visitors. In the book, a group of visitors arrive and all sorts of trouble comes with them. While helping to work at the center, Macy also is trying to have a life and meets an interesting boy named Nick. Nick turns out to be a very important character with quite a surprise to be revealed. Macy proves herself to be strong and resourceful when the situation demands it.
Highly recommended for fans of YA sci-fi, especially if you're looking for something different.
January 18, 2021
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator was soooo GOOD!
Read
January 14, 2021Very buoyant, the tough parts that would seem to bring the most worry were immediately buffered—I liked the readiness of the Safekeeper.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 3, 2021
Action. Nostalgia. Modern. Sci-Fi. First love.
Great book that will capture your mind & heart. Outstanding read aloud for older middle school. Macy and Nick will keep readers thinking! And Clio is intriguing.
Great book that will capture your mind & heart. Outstanding read aloud for older middle school. Macy and Nick will keep readers thinking! And Clio is intriguing.
April 18, 2021
“The Safekeeper” introduces Macy, a fifteen year old attempting to balance the social demands of high school with her responsibilities at home. A common enough dilemma for teens everywhere, except that Macy has the added complication of assisting her parents in out of body retreats from beings not of this world. There’s so much more that Macy doesn’t know, even about herself. Will she be able to figure it out all out before everything falls apart around her?
Overall, I enjoyed the scifi and fantastical elements of the story. While the concept of body swapping is not new, the way that it was done and the reasoning behind it was especially interesting. All of the other creatures and off world species were also creative and different. I also enjoyed the blooming friendship between Macy and Nick. Their banter adds a degree of humor to the story as does the author’s descriptions of Macy’s internal dialogue. The part that I had trouble with was the believability of Macy’s evolution. She starts the story as a relatively naïve girl abiding by her parents wishes, is given an extraordinary amount of information in a very short amount of time, and then suddenly turns into a boss who must run this interstellar show. While the journey was enjoyable, the pacing was off and it made it hard to get completely onboard. I did enjoy how the story all came together at the end, however, and would be interested in reading more of Macy’s adventures in the future.
The full blog post can be found here: https://heatherlbarksdale.com/blog/bl...
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
Overall, I enjoyed the scifi and fantastical elements of the story. While the concept of body swapping is not new, the way that it was done and the reasoning behind it was especially interesting. All of the other creatures and off world species were also creative and different. I also enjoyed the blooming friendship between Macy and Nick. Their banter adds a degree of humor to the story as does the author’s descriptions of Macy’s internal dialogue. The part that I had trouble with was the believability of Macy’s evolution. She starts the story as a relatively naïve girl abiding by her parents wishes, is given an extraordinary amount of information in a very short amount of time, and then suddenly turns into a boss who must run this interstellar show. While the journey was enjoyable, the pacing was off and it made it hard to get completely onboard. I did enjoy how the story all came together at the end, however, and would be interested in reading more of Macy’s adventures in the future.
The full blog post can be found here: https://heatherlbarksdale.com/blog/bl...
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
April 7, 2021
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review.
Initially, Macy seems like a typical teenager, who is a bit of a loner. However, after Macy misses her bus ride due to an afternoon detection, the new boy Nick offers to give her a ride home on the back of his bike. Nick asks a lot of questions and seems to know too much about the Retreat Center where Macy lives. Once at home, Macy has responsibilities to help her parents as hosts of the Center. Within short order, we meet the guests who have come for a 3-day Exchange Retreat and the “Guide” who will direct the activities. When the “exchange” ceremony takes place, we are introduced to the unique premise of the novel. The bodies of the guests become hosts to “offworlders” (aliens from other worlds), while the essence or souls of the hosts are put in another place for safe keeping. Complications develop when various visitors, some mostly human and some alien, arrive unexpectedly. Macy learns that the local crow isn’t just an ordinary crow and several people refer to her as “The Safekeeper” which is news to her! Furthermore, the newly arrived “offworlders” have some deadly motives.
I appreciated the unique twists of this book and the melding of the lives of humans and alien beings while on earth. There is not a lot of unusual technology to get in the way of the storytelling. The novel focuses on the personalities and the actions of the characters. The plot moves along nicely; action and intrigue are served up at just the right times. The story has a satisfying conclusion. However, there seems to be more opportunity to develop the characters and the premise in future books.
My primary criticism of the book is that terminology is used with very little explanation and some of it never becomes completely clear. For example, the terms “exchanger” and “compounder” are almost used interchangeably, but there seems to be a distinction that wasn’t made clear by the author. Another minor criticism was that I had to return back to Chapter 2 of the book to reacquaint myself with a character who is briefly mentioned then reappears in Chapter 10.
The book was written for young adults and I think it would be terrifically entertaining for them. Macy is a likeable character who has spunk. Nick has an interesting mix of boyish charm with some subtle maturity. The undertone of attraction between Macy and Nick is lovely without being annoying. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this book to a young person who has a creative imagination and enjoys reading fantasy novels.
My original review was posted on the Reedsy web site at the following link -
My review of "The Safekeeper"
Initially, Macy seems like a typical teenager, who is a bit of a loner. However, after Macy misses her bus ride due to an afternoon detection, the new boy Nick offers to give her a ride home on the back of his bike. Nick asks a lot of questions and seems to know too much about the Retreat Center where Macy lives. Once at home, Macy has responsibilities to help her parents as hosts of the Center. Within short order, we meet the guests who have come for a 3-day Exchange Retreat and the “Guide” who will direct the activities. When the “exchange” ceremony takes place, we are introduced to the unique premise of the novel. The bodies of the guests become hosts to “offworlders” (aliens from other worlds), while the essence or souls of the hosts are put in another place for safe keeping. Complications develop when various visitors, some mostly human and some alien, arrive unexpectedly. Macy learns that the local crow isn’t just an ordinary crow and several people refer to her as “The Safekeeper” which is news to her! Furthermore, the newly arrived “offworlders” have some deadly motives.
I appreciated the unique twists of this book and the melding of the lives of humans and alien beings while on earth. There is not a lot of unusual technology to get in the way of the storytelling. The novel focuses on the personalities and the actions of the characters. The plot moves along nicely; action and intrigue are served up at just the right times. The story has a satisfying conclusion. However, there seems to be more opportunity to develop the characters and the premise in future books.
My primary criticism of the book is that terminology is used with very little explanation and some of it never becomes completely clear. For example, the terms “exchanger” and “compounder” are almost used interchangeably, but there seems to be a distinction that wasn’t made clear by the author. Another minor criticism was that I had to return back to Chapter 2 of the book to reacquaint myself with a character who is briefly mentioned then reappears in Chapter 10.
The book was written for young adults and I think it would be terrifically entertaining for them. Macy is a likeable character who has spunk. Nick has an interesting mix of boyish charm with some subtle maturity. The undertone of attraction between Macy and Nick is lovely without being annoying. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this book to a young person who has a creative imagination and enjoys reading fantasy novels.
My original review was posted on the Reedsy web site at the following link -
My review of "The Safekeeper"
August 12, 2021
🌌❤🧡 Amazing and unique !
Waiting for the late school bus to take her home, Macy, 15, is impatient.
While waiting, she chats with a bunch of friends who invites her to a sporting event tonight.
But Macy can’t go, she has to work at the Greenmont Grith Retreat Center, lost in the middle of nowhere, about twenty miles away.
She sends an SMS to her parents : "the bus is late"...
---‐-----‐---
A very nice surprise and an unexpected crush on this unique sci-fi youth novel that is surprising to read !
I loved the whole story of the book, as well as the different characters, especially the main character of Macy, perfect in her role as a teenager.
Lots of originality, action, mystery, the unexpected and novelty in this gripping novel.
The author’s handwriting is funny and pleasant to read.
I look forward to volume 2 !
For me this is an absolute must read 🧡
Waiting for the late school bus to take her home, Macy, 15, is impatient.
While waiting, she chats with a bunch of friends who invites her to a sporting event tonight.
But Macy can’t go, she has to work at the Greenmont Grith Retreat Center, lost in the middle of nowhere, about twenty miles away.
She sends an SMS to her parents : "the bus is late"...
---‐-----‐---
A very nice surprise and an unexpected crush on this unique sci-fi youth novel that is surprising to read !
I loved the whole story of the book, as well as the different characters, especially the main character of Macy, perfect in her role as a teenager.
Lots of originality, action, mystery, the unexpected and novelty in this gripping novel.
The author’s handwriting is funny and pleasant to read.
I look forward to volume 2 !
For me this is an absolute must read 🧡
May 11, 2021
Relatively short and available on kindle, this is a quick fun YA Science Fiction lite story.
Science Fiction can be a genre that people steer away from (including me) because it can often be very technical in nature and difficult to understand at times. The Safekeeper was just the opposite, easy to understand, written for the average reader and so easy to read!
I loved the author’s writing style. It felt like a contemporary fiction read that just happened to have some science fiction subject matter added in. It was a fun concept, a mystery like unfolding of information and some really fun characters! Very enjoyable!
I am eager to see what this author will publish next.
Science Fiction can be a genre that people steer away from (including me) because it can often be very technical in nature and difficult to understand at times. The Safekeeper was just the opposite, easy to understand, written for the average reader and so easy to read!
I loved the author’s writing style. It felt like a contemporary fiction read that just happened to have some science fiction subject matter added in. It was a fun concept, a mystery like unfolding of information and some really fun characters! Very enjoyable!
I am eager to see what this author will publish next.
November 3, 2023
Help me read more books
It's a common enough story, (probably read half a dozen similar stories before), but this one was unique enough that it kept me interested, and made me actually want to read more in the series. The story is well done, and the characters are amusing enough that the story moves along fairly well. I'm sure some of the things I thought were amusing certainly weren't meant to be, but what the heck, it works for me.
Anyway, if you're after a bit of magic, and some vacation time gone wrong, then this story should suit you just fine.
It's a common enough story, (probably read half a dozen similar stories before), but this one was unique enough that it kept me interested, and made me actually want to read more in the series. The story is well done, and the characters are amusing enough that the story moves along fairly well. I'm sure some of the things I thought were amusing certainly weren't meant to be, but what the heck, it works for me.
Anyway, if you're after a bit of magic, and some vacation time gone wrong, then this story should suit you just fine.
April 22, 2021
This paranormal science-fiction story moved at a fast pace. I wish the author had provided more history of the exchanger program to help me understand the craziness that happens. There were some fun and whimsical characters, for sure. I loved Clio, the talking crow. And who wouldn’t love a red-eye, crock-toting monster with purple eyes?
Lakhani is a good, descriptive writer who held my interest in a genre I rarely read. Younger kids will love the mystical world she creates. Her writing stirs the imagination. The manuscript was well-edited except for a handful of punctuation errors.
Lakhani is a good, descriptive writer who held my interest in a genre I rarely read. Younger kids will love the mystical world she creates. Her writing stirs the imagination. The manuscript was well-edited except for a handful of punctuation errors.
February 25, 2021
Fantastically Unique
The Safekeeper is truly a unique story from beginning to end. A young fifteen old has to deal with offworlders, compounders, a talking Crow that warns them of danger, and a house they call Gigi, the retreat center, which gives off vibes and a portal where all hell breaks loose.
I don't give spoilers but if you are searching for a young adult, action packed read with scads of intriguing creatures, then pick this book up!
The Safekeeper is truly a unique story from beginning to end. A young fifteen old has to deal with offworlders, compounders, a talking Crow that warns them of danger, and a house they call Gigi, the retreat center, which gives off vibes and a portal where all hell breaks loose.
I don't give spoilers but if you are searching for a young adult, action packed read with scads of intriguing creatures, then pick this book up!
August 30, 2021
This is an ok SFF novel in which a young woman becomes a Chosen One, animals can talk, and aliens take vacations by inhabiting human bodies and experience Earth life. There are a lot of disparate elements, and things get a little overloaded with alien politics, secret missions, bureaucracy, dating, sentient ground, and more. But overall it's a fun read and the trope of the girl who saves the day is down pretty well.
April 29, 2021
Macy has a lot of responsibility. The high school student isn't surprised by anything so you wonder what her life must be like. Then you find out. It's strange. I liked the writing as it quickly draws you into the story. That's a good thing because there is a lot going on that Macy has to deal with.
July 21, 2021
We are proud to announce that THE SAFEKEEPER by Esther Archer Lakhani has been honored with the B.R.A.G.Medallion (Book Readers Appreciation Group). It now joins the very select award-winning, reader-recommended books at indieBRAG.
October 31, 2021
A Very Unique YA Pageturner
I received a free copy of the kindle ebook via GoodReads.
I went into this book without knowing anything about what to expect and have to say that I have been wowed. For a debut novel, this was absolutely incredible. Fast-paced with great detail, this book absorbed me straight into the word of the ‘exchangers’. I definitely recommend this read for those that love sci-fi YA novels. I am ecstatic to see there will be at least one more novel in this series. I also want to complement the gorgeous cover art!
I received a free copy of the kindle ebook via GoodReads.
I went into this book without knowing anything about what to expect and have to say that I have been wowed. For a debut novel, this was absolutely incredible. Fast-paced with great detail, this book absorbed me straight into the word of the ‘exchangers’. I definitely recommend this read for those that love sci-fi YA novels. I am ecstatic to see there will be at least one more novel in this series. I also want to complement the gorgeous cover art!
February 10, 2022
unique
I have a reading history of murder mysteries because I enjoy the puzzle. The Safekeeper is a new experience for me, and I throughly appreciate this author, storyline and look forward to reading more books like this. Brilliant!
I have a reading history of murder mysteries because I enjoy the puzzle. The Safekeeper is a new experience for me, and I throughly appreciate this author, storyline and look forward to reading more books like this. Brilliant!
February 18, 2022
I won this Kindle edition book in a Goodreads
Giveaway. Thank you to everyone involved.
Good book. Interesting story.
Giveaway. Thank you to everyone involved.
Good book. Interesting story.
July 24, 2022
YA. The kind of SF that is a lot closer to fantasy than SF. Main character is a 15yo girl. Takes place in roughly present day: cell phones, automobiles, electric bike. Aliens but no spaceships.
December 28, 2025
This was okay. Not as good a fantasy style as many but it was cute and fast moving. I liked the idea of the sentient resort but it was a bit all over the place for me
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