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The Orb
Jake MacCorkle, a wounded combat veteran, drifts through life. When his father dies in an automobile accident, he is forced into a six-hundred-year-old relationship previously unspecified to him.
Thousands of acres in North Georgia are his, but there is a catch. No tree can be cut, no road built, and the land can never be sold. Inheriting the land is a perilous secret, one he must never reveal. Grieving and confused, Jake visits the land to fulfill his father's last request.
Weird happenings haunt him—people appear and disappear, watchers track and harass him, and disturbing dreams taunt him.
Hidden deep within a mountain, Jake penetrates a magical world where faeries wield immense power through a glowing orb.
Before his first day ends, assassins attack his new friends. Jake defends them, only to be drawn into a struggle for protection of this people and control of The Orb. Jake’s fears drive him to escape the conflict. Will he deny an ancient family pledge?
Thousands of acres in North Georgia are his, but there is a catch. No tree can be cut, no road built, and the land can never be sold. Inheriting the land is a perilous secret, one he must never reveal. Grieving and confused, Jake visits the land to fulfill his father's last request.
Weird happenings haunt him—people appear and disappear, watchers track and harass him, and disturbing dreams taunt him.
Hidden deep within a mountain, Jake penetrates a magical world where faeries wield immense power through a glowing orb.
Before his first day ends, assassins attack his new friends. Jake defends them, only to be drawn into a struggle for protection of this people and control of The Orb. Jake’s fears drive him to escape the conflict. Will he deny an ancient family pledge?
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Published October 1, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
October 29, 2022
~I received an ARC of this book for free in exchange for leaving an honest review. ~
The Orb is a fast paced fantasy novel about Jake MacCorkle, a combat veteran who inherites thousands of acres worth of property when his father dies. When he visits the land to honor his fathers last request to spread his ashes, he is pulled into a hidden world of faeries and secrets, and discovers a whole other world his father had been a part of— that he must become a part of when he learns he also inherits his father's role within the clan of faeries: A Bard and Advisor to Prince Lothian of the People of Peace.
Much throughout the story Jake's sole focus isn't entirely on learning to perform his duties and learn magic. His whole perspective revolves around a woman, Vivian, the Prince's sister who knows from the real world and is in love with. His inner diolgue during intense scenes and important missions I found to be a tad annoying. It's always "Vivian this, Vivian that." He's just entered a whole new world where he learns magic is possible and he plays a key role in it, yet his only thoughts in the brginning is leaving or wondering what Vivian is doing. Several times the transition from one scene to the next is a little abrupt.
Overall I enjoyed the story and seeing how it unfolded. The characters were lively and the twists were unexpected, and the action and magic was top notch! Seeing Jake grow to accept magic and learn enchantments was exciting. I would recommend this book to those who love magical adventures and rescuing a world from magic-wielding villains.
The Orb is a fast paced fantasy novel about Jake MacCorkle, a combat veteran who inherites thousands of acres worth of property when his father dies. When he visits the land to honor his fathers last request to spread his ashes, he is pulled into a hidden world of faeries and secrets, and discovers a whole other world his father had been a part of— that he must become a part of when he learns he also inherits his father's role within the clan of faeries: A Bard and Advisor to Prince Lothian of the People of Peace.
Much throughout the story Jake's sole focus isn't entirely on learning to perform his duties and learn magic. His whole perspective revolves around a woman, Vivian, the Prince's sister who knows from the real world and is in love with. His inner diolgue during intense scenes and important missions I found to be a tad annoying. It's always "Vivian this, Vivian that." He's just entered a whole new world where he learns magic is possible and he plays a key role in it, yet his only thoughts in the brginning is leaving or wondering what Vivian is doing. Several times the transition from one scene to the next is a little abrupt.
Overall I enjoyed the story and seeing how it unfolded. The characters were lively and the twists were unexpected, and the action and magic was top notch! Seeing Jake grow to accept magic and learn enchantments was exciting. I would recommend this book to those who love magical adventures and rescuing a world from magic-wielding villains.
October 31, 2022
Recommended by a friend and read it on vacation. Not being a fiction reader, I didn't expect to be drawn in to the story like I was. Especially since I was on an adventure vacation. But I found myself wanting to get back at the end of each day to see where it was going next. I appreciated the character development being clear but layered. The number of characters made it an easy read, I didn't have to go back and place people. I think the character's were very real in both a vision in my mind, and a personality I could love or hate. Oddly, I really liked one of the villen's.
When descriptions were done, there were a few that had me truly 'feel' the compression or pain. It made me realize I had phobias I didn't think I had. Time shifted, but was easy to follow. State's of being changed and expanded my mind to possibilities. The textures, colors, feels and sounds were crisp and well presented. It made me feel like I was there. At one point I laughed out loud as if I was a part of the crowd.
The book was a fantasy and anything is possible. With that in mind I found the journey very enjoyable.
When descriptions were done, there were a few that had me truly 'feel' the compression or pain. It made me realize I had phobias I didn't think I had. Time shifted, but was easy to follow. State's of being changed and expanded my mind to possibilities. The textures, colors, feels and sounds were crisp and well presented. It made me feel like I was there. At one point I laughed out loud as if I was a part of the crowd.
The book was a fantasy and anything is possible. With that in mind I found the journey very enjoyable.
July 3, 2023
Review The Orb – By Dr. John Mauldin
The Orb did not disappoint! I did not know what to expect when it was gifted to me at a picnic, but Wow! The book did not come across as a first time writer, but had depth and complexity of a long time writer. The writer is a true story teller with a great imagination. I am an avid reader of a lot of genres, especially fiction and paranormal fiction. My whole family are all readers of this genre. I think the author blow it out the water. I don’t say it lightly, and I don’t usually see it on the first book of most writer’s. I have no idea how long it has been in the works to write, however this book has me wanting more. What happens next?
The Orb had some complex characters with believable flaws that, I and most others can relate to. The community and story line the author developed is one I want to visit. The story is both heartwarming and heartbreaking at times. The humor is perfect, made me want to laugh out loud. I loved all the characters, Jake being haunted by not just war, but losing his mom and then his dad was well introduced. His grief was real. As many of us do, we have regrets in life and we also find out a lot about our love ones once they are gone. I really love how the author had Jake coming around to this world that he didn’t know or believe at first. I yelled out loud at him a few times for being so stubborn. I loved how all the relationships developed and there was a bit of a love story also.
When I fall in love with a book, which I did quickly with “The Orb”, I tend to get attached and talk out loud to the characters. My husband will still turn and say “what?” or “who are you talking to?” when I read. I’m happy that the main character seems to have found his place in his world.
I have a really hard time putting a book down, if I like it. I started reading last night after dinner until at 1:00am, and picked it up today after chores. I finished about an hour ago. I wanted to write my review right away, and thanked the person for giving me the book and to tell them I really loved it. It left me with a big emotional sigh and a smile on my face when I finished the last page.
The Orb was a joy to read. People getting to know each other and taking a chance to rethink what they believe, find new friends and believe in having something that never crossed their minds. It was funny and heart-warming. I want more of the Wyzard’s of Daoine Sithe – People of Peace.
The Orb did not disappoint! I did not know what to expect when it was gifted to me at a picnic, but Wow! The book did not come across as a first time writer, but had depth and complexity of a long time writer. The writer is a true story teller with a great imagination. I am an avid reader of a lot of genres, especially fiction and paranormal fiction. My whole family are all readers of this genre. I think the author blow it out the water. I don’t say it lightly, and I don’t usually see it on the first book of most writer’s. I have no idea how long it has been in the works to write, however this book has me wanting more. What happens next?
The Orb had some complex characters with believable flaws that, I and most others can relate to. The community and story line the author developed is one I want to visit. The story is both heartwarming and heartbreaking at times. The humor is perfect, made me want to laugh out loud. I loved all the characters, Jake being haunted by not just war, but losing his mom and then his dad was well introduced. His grief was real. As many of us do, we have regrets in life and we also find out a lot about our love ones once they are gone. I really love how the author had Jake coming around to this world that he didn’t know or believe at first. I yelled out loud at him a few times for being so stubborn. I loved how all the relationships developed and there was a bit of a love story also.
When I fall in love with a book, which I did quickly with “The Orb”, I tend to get attached and talk out loud to the characters. My husband will still turn and say “what?” or “who are you talking to?” when I read. I’m happy that the main character seems to have found his place in his world.
I have a really hard time putting a book down, if I like it. I started reading last night after dinner until at 1:00am, and picked it up today after chores. I finished about an hour ago. I wanted to write my review right away, and thanked the person for giving me the book and to tell them I really loved it. It left me with a big emotional sigh and a smile on my face when I finished the last page.
The Orb was a joy to read. People getting to know each other and taking a chance to rethink what they believe, find new friends and believe in having something that never crossed their minds. It was funny and heart-warming. I want more of the Wyzard’s of Daoine Sithe – People of Peace.
November 18, 2022
I was recommended to try an advanced reading of The Orb by a friend & NOT being a huge fan of Fiction, (more of a factual fiction's type reader) I was pleasantly surprised by the characters, both heroes/villains alike & I really could identify with both throughout this epic journey!
I started enjoying the characters in The Orb prior to traveling to The Yucatan Peninsula for our annual trek for vacation to relax and absorb the Mayan Culture!
It's interesting that I was asked to read & review this book by a colleague through ARC and the timing of our annual trek to Mayan Cultural & Archaeological sights such as: Chicen Itza & Tulum, but especially Ek Balam as ancient Mayans were huge believers of transport portals into other worldly 🌎 dimensions as evidenced by their Archaeological pyramids which we always visit in wonder!!!
I was inspired to complete The Orb in the Delta ✈️ home across The Gulf Of Mexico, which has always been a sort of mystical portal of fun & adventures for me as I was a child of The Gulf growing up in Gulf Shores, AL, and having spent my misguided youth on the FL/Bama line I could definitely relate to these characters after they were clearly defined in a very descriptive way as the author did an outstanding job of setting them up! I especially can relate to the disabled Veteran's angle of the character as I am a USAF 🇺🇸 Veteran's with those stripes!
Back to the novel, this fictional, fun read took me places in my mind that I was NOT prepared for but as another reviewer stated I embraced characters both heroins/villains alike and quite frankly more so on the villain's side could relate!!!
Being that I was in the Yucatan Peninsula and the lands of Toltec Mayan Rituals of human sacrifice & transporting into different space/World portals, I felt very "at home" in this Odyssey titled "The Orb"!!!
I found myself at one point, literally laughing 😃 out load in a burst of laughter with my headset on leaving The Yucatan Peninsula traveling at a cruising altutude of 34,000 feet so much so that my wife and riding partner had to squeeze my hand to try & quiet me in my seat!
Great story, Big Fan of thus author already & look forward to recommending it!!!
Thanks for the opportunity to give feedback on "The Orb"!!!
Warmest Regards,
Patrick Romano USAF 🇺🇸 Veteran
I started enjoying the characters in The Orb prior to traveling to The Yucatan Peninsula for our annual trek for vacation to relax and absorb the Mayan Culture!
It's interesting that I was asked to read & review this book by a colleague through ARC and the timing of our annual trek to Mayan Cultural & Archaeological sights such as: Chicen Itza & Tulum, but especially Ek Balam as ancient Mayans were huge believers of transport portals into other worldly 🌎 dimensions as evidenced by their Archaeological pyramids which we always visit in wonder!!!
I was inspired to complete The Orb in the Delta ✈️ home across The Gulf Of Mexico, which has always been a sort of mystical portal of fun & adventures for me as I was a child of The Gulf growing up in Gulf Shores, AL, and having spent my misguided youth on the FL/Bama line I could definitely relate to these characters after they were clearly defined in a very descriptive way as the author did an outstanding job of setting them up! I especially can relate to the disabled Veteran's angle of the character as I am a USAF 🇺🇸 Veteran's with those stripes!
Back to the novel, this fictional, fun read took me places in my mind that I was NOT prepared for but as another reviewer stated I embraced characters both heroins/villains alike and quite frankly more so on the villain's side could relate!!!
Being that I was in the Yucatan Peninsula and the lands of Toltec Mayan Rituals of human sacrifice & transporting into different space/World portals, I felt very "at home" in this Odyssey titled "The Orb"!!!
I found myself at one point, literally laughing 😃 out load in a burst of laughter with my headset on leaving The Yucatan Peninsula traveling at a cruising altutude of 34,000 feet so much so that my wife and riding partner had to squeeze my hand to try & quiet me in my seat!
Great story, Big Fan of thus author already & look forward to recommending it!!!
Thanks for the opportunity to give feedback on "The Orb"!!!
Warmest Regards,
Patrick Romano USAF 🇺🇸 Veteran
November 1, 2022
I received an arc copy of this book.
November 11, 2022
Here's a book you'll want to read next, if you enjoy a gripping, fast-paced supernatural tale between mortals and the fairy kingdom under attack from the dark side of the soul. You'll follow the interdimensional yet believable adventures and challenges of Scottish-American Jake McCorkle, as he discovers his destiny in securing the safety of the Orb, a magical talisman formed by a distant ancestor to bring harmony between mortals and the fairy kingdom and end years of ceaseless strife. No easy task, as the dark side will do and try anything to gain control over this potent Orb.
How much we all owe J.R.R. Tolkein and J.K. Rowling for enriching our lives with breath-taking adventures and a deeper understanding of the darkness of our own times. And now we get to add another brave author to our pantheon, J.T. Mauldin. Real adventure awaits.
How much we all owe J.R.R. Tolkein and J.K. Rowling for enriching our lives with breath-taking adventures and a deeper understanding of the darkness of our own times. And now we get to add another brave author to our pantheon, J.T. Mauldin. Real adventure awaits.
June 30, 2023
A friend told me to read this book and wow... this was an incredibly disappointing read that fell flat in almost every aspect. The plot was disjointed and lacked coherence, leaving me confused and disengaged throughout the entire book. The characters were one-dimensional and lacked depth, making it impossible to form any emotional connection or investment in their stories. The writing style was tedious and riddled with clichés, further detracting from the overall reading experience. Additionally, the pacing was sluggish, with long stretches of monotony punctuated by random bursts of action that felt forced and out of place. Overall, The Orb was a lackluster and forgettable novel that failed to deliver on its promises.
October 26, 2022
This book was a real treat. I mostly read non-fiction and enjoyed taking a break into the unknown. Truly fascinating story, great characters and a story that moved quickly. It is well positioned for the story to continue. The quality of the writing was amazing and truly imaginative. I hope to see this story on Netflix and will be checking, frequently, for more work by this author. It will also find itself under the Christmas tree for several of my friends.
November 1, 2022
I found the Orb imaginitive, very interesting, and I liked it. It didn't take long to be drawn into the plot which was well written. I found it easy to identify with the characters as the story moved at a quick pace but kept me coming back to see what was around the next turn. There was a good blend of life lessons and also reminded me that anything in life is possible. I would recommend reading this book to anyone.
October 21, 2022
The Orb is simply a wonderful read! I don’t usually read fantasy books but this one is unusually good. There is a great balance between our reality and fantasy that makes it grounded but with very descriptive imaginary fun. Many good life lessons that we all should be reminded of in an entertaining way. Can’t wait for a sequel!
November 1, 2022
The Orb is a fiction book where you are drawn in to a fantasy world of faeries, magic, and ancient inheritance. The book is a bit confusing in the beginning but balances out quite well in bringing everything together. There isn't an influx of characters so it is an easy read in getting to know and being drawn in by them. Overall overall The Orb is a definite recommended read.
November 2, 2022
A must read book! From the moment you open the book, it lures you in chapter after chapter, you are lost in a world just like Jake McCorkle. I have never been one to read these type books. But man it’s a must read that leads you to wanting to know whatever becomes of The Orb and Jake. If you don’t read you are missing out!
November 2, 2022
This is not my typical genre so was pleasantly surprised with how this book captured my interest. Mauldin did an excellent job connecting real life with the intrigue within a fantasy world. The characters are rich and well developed. The detailed descriptions of action and settings make me think this book would make a great movie!
November 5, 2022
At first the book was a little choppy, but the author quickly settled into the story and after that it flowed freely. His descriptions of places and events really put me in the moment and soon I wasn’t noticing the craft - I was in the story. It is a very good story, full of genuine, believable characters and plenty of action and intrigue.
November 9, 2022
I found this to be a wonderful book. Dr. Mauldin has an enjoyable prose that makes even the necessary mundane scene building enjoyable to read. The characters were fun and the villains were deliciously vile - Simian being a a strong stand-out. If you are a fan of fantasy I believe you will like this book as much as I did.
November 23, 2022
Interesting. This book is not in my preferred genre but I couldn't put it down. The author made the characters so real that I wanted to jump in and assist the good guys (and ladies) in their quest. Quite a few surprises early on. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a well written story.
July 29, 2023
Loved it. I got to enter a rich fantasy world. Part of the world, I knew well from the physical reality of knowing the author’s childhood home. Another part I knew very little of but found it “peopled” with psychologically well drawn characters. I was entranced with the magic spell which kept one character in denial.
A great read.
A great read.
October 15, 2022
This is a fun and entertaining read. Moves quickly and really tells two stories in one. Author did a great job of getting me involved in the characters from the beginning to the end. Can't wait for the follow-on to see what happens to the clan, does Jake have children, is the villain dead.....
October 23, 2022
I found this story to be lighthearted, engaging and entertaining, and thoroughly enjoyed reading it. I’d love to know what happens after the story stops. The writing style reminded me of the Vine Witch series by Luanne G. Smith. I will absolutely be on the lookout for future works by this author!
November 1, 2022
I was skeptical when I began to read this novel but found myself really immersed in the plot and characters. Hard to put down as the plot twists and character examinations come fast and furious. I really enjoyed. Thank you for the opportunity to read.
March 22, 2023
I was recommended this book by a friend from Georgia. Honestly, I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. The characters were one dimensional and the narrative had no arch. Also, a lot of grammatical errors. The book needed a professional editor.
August 24, 2023
We are proud to announce that THE ORB by John Mauldin 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 1, 2024
A fast-paced fantasy written by a local author (bought this from the author at a local art walk). Interesting story with action, mystery, magic, and faeries. The story could have been fleshed out more with a few things hinted at but never fully explained, but overall a fun read.
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November 7, 2022Simply stated The Orb is a great book. Fast paced, great plot and a book I didn’t put down. Would love to see a sequel from Dr. Mauldin!
November 7, 2022
Very well written and easy to read. You aren’t bouncing all over the book trying to understand where you are.
January 10, 2023
What an amazing book! 10/10!
January 10, 2023
I enjoyed this book as it was captivating and had an unexpected outcome. No spoilers from this reader just a suggestion that if you pick it up you will enjoy it.
October 7, 2022
I don't usually read fantasy books, but this was intriguing. I really liked it. Surprises around each corner. Very well written. Wanted to hurry back to continue reading. Wondered what would happen to the main characters at the end of the book. I highly recommend.
www.drjohnmauldin.com
www.drjohnmauldin.com
January 31, 2023
This is not my typical genre, but I chose to read The Orb. It takes you into a magical non-earthly world where faeries live and thrive. What surprised me was that underlying it all was a beautiful love story. The faeries coexist with humans, but just as in our world there is good and evil in the faeries world. I would recommend that you read it, even if it's not your normal genre. The Orb might change that. Looking forward to a prequel or sequel. John Mauldin has more to say for sure.
January 27, 2023
I received this book as a winning on Goodreads giveaway.
I was amazed of it being signed by the author..like totally mind blown! I wasn't it expecting that and it caught me off guard. It was such an amazing surprise to fall upon! I was also amazed by seeing the son worked on the book image for the cover! How awesome is it to work on something with your parent that will circulate forever?! It was a wonderful book to read! So great that I have already read it twice since receiving it this month! I have already recommended it to a few friends and family! I love reading war stories and anything revolving around them so with the character being a veteran caught my attention right away! I can't wait to read all other books written by John Mauldin when I get the chance one day! I love his writing style and don't want to miss out on anymore fantastic books written by him. Thank you for this chance to read your work!
I was amazed of it being signed by the author..like totally mind blown! I wasn't it expecting that and it caught me off guard. It was such an amazing surprise to fall upon! I was also amazed by seeing the son worked on the book image for the cover! How awesome is it to work on something with your parent that will circulate forever?! It was a wonderful book to read! So great that I have already read it twice since receiving it this month! I have already recommended it to a few friends and family! I love reading war stories and anything revolving around them so with the character being a veteran caught my attention right away! I can't wait to read all other books written by John Mauldin when I get the chance one day! I love his writing style and don't want to miss out on anymore fantastic books written by him. Thank you for this chance to read your work!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews