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Propheticus #1
Propheticus
This is a sci-fi fantasy book set in an ancient universe. Four destined characters run into each other by chance and discover their pasts connect them in a prophecy to destroy some of the universes most gruesome creatures. The mystery of Aniah's past begins to unravel when she meets a stranger in the desert outside her ranch on the planet Delucia. Strange things start to happen around the ranch and Aniah experiences horrible nightmares of a dark creature the longer this stranger stays and the more she begins to question her fathers disappearance years ago. This story takes you to other worlds and although the first novel offers a little more romance and mystery with some thriller, the other novels in the series have more action and adventure in them as the characters travel the universe and visit incredible worlds. Sample from the book: There is something frightening about the way a hateful, unknown creature looks back at you. The way its beady red eyes snarl at you, and it's cheek curls with a hiss to reveal the greedy canines beneath. It is one thing to dream of this beastly creature, and it is another to have it inches from your face, its warm ungodly breath on your cheek, and its pallid gray bones reaching to devour you. My name is Aniah, and once my world was safe. But like many others throughout the universe-and here on the planet Delucia-fate would have me meet with the Mangitori de Sangue; an ancient army of blood-lusting creatures who have been frightening and devouring the inhabitants of the universe for decades. My fate brings me deep into their world. In fact, it is written somewhere-and the stories have been told long before I was ever born-of a prophecy wherein a young woman with the heart and soul of an angel will lead the universe in a victory against the Mangitori de Sangue. I am that woman. I just have to stay alive long enough to figure out how.
280 pages, Paperback
First published November 20, 2010
4 people are currently reading
498 people want to read
About the author
Emma Daley
4 books72 followersAt a very young age, Emma engrossed herself in stories of fantasy and mystery. Stories such as such as Jack and The Beanstalk, Peter Pan, and the Grimm Fairytales captured her attention and sent her into daydreams of other worlds with horrible obstacles that needed to be overcome. She couldn’t get enough mystery and adventure as she read about characters with strength and wit that could change their worlds under incredible circumstances. They were given magic or advice that helped them through their challenges, and Emma easily saw how this courage could be related to every day life, as she dreamt of courageous and adventurous ways out of her own obstacles in life. She seemed to be attracted to films with horror and excitement, suspense and intrigue. At the age of five, if you asked her what her favorite movies were, you’d be surprised to hear the variety and culture of these films; The Labyrinth, It, Never-ending Stories, Poltergeist and the Little Mermaid. As she got older, she never missed an episode of X-files and the Outer Limits. She was a big Terry Brooks fan; she began the Shannara series and after her homework was done, she would read until bedtime.
The world of make believe was all around Emma as she grew up; she was inspired by life around her. “There was a few years when I was little that things were kind of all over the place; we were moving a lot for my fathers work and money was always very tight. When I was about five, I remembered watching as my Mom painted over the rainbow and the dove that I had painted on my wall in my bedroom. I asked her why we had to do it because it made me really sad. My mother explained to me that something had happened and we had to leave our house. I think I was more saddened about losing the painting on my wall than anything.” Emma came from a large family-nine brothers and sisters. Her father worked hard in construction, but sometimes money was tight and Emma watched as her father, sometimes painfully, counted out money to buy milk and bread for the next week’s meals. But Emma would not consider her life an unfortunate one; she was surrounded by a large family with loving brothers and sisters, who shared and gave everything they had. She considered her life rather enchanting. When Emma was about six, her father received a job offer in a small town outside of Vegas. The family was very excited about the new job and packed up everything they had, sold the house, and left their small town in Utah. When her father entered the office of the construction company that had given him the offer, the man apologized that they had gone with someone different. “I couldn’t imagine how my father must have felt at the time. My parents must have been sick.” Emma’s church heard about their family and their situation. The next day, a single wide trailer had been moved onto a piece of property that used to be the towns junk yard-it was where the town had dumped all their old vehicles and tires-now it was Emma’s home. Some children might complain about the living condition, but Emma and her family were grateful. The junkyard looked like a playground to Emma, and if you asked her now, it was one of the best times of her life. “There was this old crane on the lot that I used to climb to the top of and look out over the city, especially when the sun went down; it was beautiful. I felt like I was on top of the world.” Emma told scary stories in the empty silos a mile or so away from their trailer, even though her Mom yelled at her not to in the dark, and told her horror stories about how the bats liked to tangle themselves in little girl’s hair. “I think the fear behind it made it more exciting. I never understood why it was such a big deal to my Mom that we played in the silos until about six months later when they tore them down because they were crumbling and people were getting hurt in them. I don’t think even that would have kept me from them. I think I remember crying when they were torn down.”
The world of make believe was all around Emma as she grew up; she was inspired by life around her. “There was a few years when I was little that things were kind of all over the place; we were moving a lot for my fathers work and money was always very tight. When I was about five, I remembered watching as my Mom painted over the rainbow and the dove that I had painted on my wall in my bedroom. I asked her why we had to do it because it made me really sad. My mother explained to me that something had happened and we had to leave our house. I think I was more saddened about losing the painting on my wall than anything.” Emma came from a large family-nine brothers and sisters. Her father worked hard in construction, but sometimes money was tight and Emma watched as her father, sometimes painfully, counted out money to buy milk and bread for the next week’s meals. But Emma would not consider her life an unfortunate one; she was surrounded by a large family with loving brothers and sisters, who shared and gave everything they had. She considered her life rather enchanting. When Emma was about six, her father received a job offer in a small town outside of Vegas. The family was very excited about the new job and packed up everything they had, sold the house, and left their small town in Utah. When her father entered the office of the construction company that had given him the offer, the man apologized that they had gone with someone different. “I couldn’t imagine how my father must have felt at the time. My parents must have been sick.” Emma’s church heard about their family and their situation. The next day, a single wide trailer had been moved onto a piece of property that used to be the towns junk yard-it was where the town had dumped all their old vehicles and tires-now it was Emma’s home. Some children might complain about the living condition, but Emma and her family were grateful. The junkyard looked like a playground to Emma, and if you asked her now, it was one of the best times of her life. “There was this old crane on the lot that I used to climb to the top of and look out over the city, especially when the sun went down; it was beautiful. I felt like I was on top of the world.” Emma told scary stories in the empty silos a mile or so away from their trailer, even though her Mom yelled at her not to in the dark, and told her horror stories about how the bats liked to tangle themselves in little girl’s hair. “I think the fear behind it made it more exciting. I never understood why it was such a big deal to my Mom that we played in the silos until about six months later when they tore them down because they were crumbling and people were getting hurt in them. I don’t think even that would have kept me from them. I think I remember crying when they were torn down.”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 21, 2012
I have absolutely no idea how this book has been out as long as it has, and I've never even heard of it! I sat down and read this book in less than one day. It was that addicting.
From the very first page of this book, I could tell it was going to be something unique and special. That this story would take place in a world and universe, that's different than what I expected, took me by surprise.
Ms. Daley's world-building is spectacularly done. In a time when I feel like fantasy books tend to throw out too much, too quickly, I found myself completely at ease with Ms. Daley's style of giving just enough to make me want more. I was able to fully emerse myself into this story without having to stop every so often to gather my thoughts and make sure that I was following along. Because of that, I got lost in Aniah's world. There is nothing better than reading a book and forgetting that you're, in fact, reading a book.
The romance between Aniah and Novell was breathtaking. There's no doubt in mind that this romance will continue to grow, as the story does.
There are even some creatures in this book that are a tad bit terrifying. It makes me giddy at the promise of adventure in the books to come.
At the end, I about died. As in, "how is this book POSSIBLY over?!" But, much to my happiness, I discovered that there is a second installment ready to be purchased on Amazon. I absolutely cannot wait to dig in.
If fantasy, romance, impending adventure, and tough-but-still-feminine girls are something you enjoy reading about, then this book is for you!
Christy @ Captivated Reading
From the very first page of this book, I could tell it was going to be something unique and special. That this story would take place in a world and universe, that's different than what I expected, took me by surprise.
Ms. Daley's world-building is spectacularly done. In a time when I feel like fantasy books tend to throw out too much, too quickly, I found myself completely at ease with Ms. Daley's style of giving just enough to make me want more. I was able to fully emerse myself into this story without having to stop every so often to gather my thoughts and make sure that I was following along. Because of that, I got lost in Aniah's world. There is nothing better than reading a book and forgetting that you're, in fact, reading a book.
The romance between Aniah and Novell was breathtaking. There's no doubt in mind that this romance will continue to grow, as the story does.
There are even some creatures in this book that are a tad bit terrifying. It makes me giddy at the promise of adventure in the books to come.
At the end, I about died. As in, "how is this book POSSIBLY over?!" But, much to my happiness, I discovered that there is a second installment ready to be purchased on Amazon. I absolutely cannot wait to dig in.
If fantasy, romance, impending adventure, and tough-but-still-feminine girls are something you enjoy reading about, then this book is for you!
Christy @ Captivated Reading
March 9, 2012
“Propheticus” is an exciting story with characters you will never forget.
This was an imaginative and unique world that I highly enjoyed discovering. The imagery was beautiful and very descriptive and the story line held my attention from the very first page.
Aniah was a great heroine and was really interesting. I liked seeing how she handled these situations and learning about her and how she interacted with all of the others as well as the prophecy that brought them all together. There was so much depth to her character and I really enjoyed learning about this new and sometimes frightening world that she lives in.
I highly recommend this book to fantasy and sci-fi lovers alike and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
This was an imaginative and unique world that I highly enjoyed discovering. The imagery was beautiful and very descriptive and the story line held my attention from the very first page.
Aniah was a great heroine and was really interesting. I liked seeing how she handled these situations and learning about her and how she interacted with all of the others as well as the prophecy that brought them all together. There was so much depth to her character and I really enjoyed learning about this new and sometimes frightening world that she lives in.
I highly recommend this book to fantasy and sci-fi lovers alike and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
April 1, 2012
I had a hard time getting into this book, and once I did it ended. Not sure I would want to read the sequel. I felt like I was being told a story rather then experiencing a story. I love 1st person, but only in one point of view. I find that going back and forth gets confusing and it is really difficult to change "voice" when doing that.
I had a hard time with the premise. People can have space travel but have to hike in dangerous conditions to get supplies? It seems technology and environment doesn't mix for me. I'm still not even sure I completely understood the culture.
I had a hard time with the premise. People can have space travel but have to hike in dangerous conditions to get supplies? It seems technology and environment doesn't mix for me. I'm still not even sure I completely understood the culture.
April 21, 2012
At first I thought this was going to be some mushy sci-fi love story but it turned out to be a fantastic read. Lie the way the book was done with each chapter switching from one point of view to another. Very unique writing and very creative. Read the book in two days.
December 13, 2010
This book is sooooo great! I recommend it to any age and peresonality! Emma really knows how to bring you into her world of excitement and love!
March 29, 2012
What a great adventure!! Clean, exciting good fir the whole family.
July 30, 2012
This review was orignially posted on my blog on 28th June 2012, here
in the beginning
I haven't read that many sci-fi novels in my time, it is one genre that I am still new to but I haven't yet read a sci-fi story that I haven't ended up really enjoying. Propheticus was a creative, moving and intriguing novel that really grabbed my attention. I loved the story and I was so focussed by the end of the book that I was left in a daze at the end wishing that I could continue reading. I need to know what happens next, I want to know more and spend more time with the characters and the planet. It was an inspiring read that lifted my heart and kept me interested throughout the book. It is one that I would easily re-read again and one that truly sets up the scene of what looks to be an intriguing series.
the structure holds
Aniah is such a strong, stubborn and amazing character. I loved how protective she was of her ma, and the way that she carried herself despite her loss and grief. I found her to be fascinating and I really just loved the way she acted around Novell. I felt attached to her and I found myself heart-broken during certain parts as I felt the way she did. She put so much of herself into things that when they went wrong it was hard not to feel hr pain. She was a great protagonist and one character that I am really looking forward to reading more about.
I adored Novell though. I think he really made the story for me. He was compassionate and caring, adventurous and on a mission to search for his family and I just found him absolutely thrilling. I loved seeing his perspective of things, especially how he felt about Aniah and just loved being able to see the two characters from different perspectives. I admired how he wanted to thank Aninah and her ma for their hospitality and I enjoyed his tales of his adventures. He was a really well-rounded character that I enjoyed reading about so much.
building it up
The relationship in this book was so adorable. I loved how it all came together and while I'm not a fan of insta-love, the way this relationship plays out and how they are with each other, I just found it so sweet. It was romantic and kind and you just couldn't help but feel your heart pumping a little faster. It was a great sub-plot to what else was going on within the book and while at times I started to feel that the book was more romance than anything else, I certainly didn't mind it!
I would say that the action doesn't really start to get going until near the end. There are hints throughout the narrative that make you curious that you put in a memory bank to call on later but with the focus being mostly on the characters and their history and relationship, it is fair to say that it really isn't that important to begin with. However, once that action is put to the forefront, it is such a riveting read. So much so that I was literally sitting foreword on the seat holding my Kindle closer to me trying to get closer to it all. The tension building was brilliant and so sudden and just really managed to take my breath away.
This brings me to the ending which totally left me wanting more, straight away. It wasn't an ending that left you with just enough and the hint of something on the horizon, it literally left many questions unanswered and really manages to keep the reader entertained. I am certainly looking forward to finding out what is going to happen next! I sometimes find it irritating when books end like this but I think it actually works well in this book and I just hope that I get my hands on the second book soon so as to continue on this wonderful story.
and knocking it down
Unfortunately, while I loved the plot, the characters and the romance in this novel, I sometimes found the writing style to be a little annoying. At times things are repeated and it feels like the author believes the reader would have forgotten something that had been written in the previous paragraph and it irritated me slightly. Fortunately this doesn't happen throughout the book and was something that I was able to look passed but it really put off a few times to the point that I would skim the next paragraph as it felt that it literally repeated itself just in a different way. Of course, this may be interesting for some readers but it did not bode well with me.
so it is said
All in all this was a fascinating read that I really enjoyed and was glad that I got the chance to read. The characters were enticing, the romantic subplot was heart-warming, the sci-fi worlds were thrilling and creative and interesting to read about and the plot was really intriguing and full of tension and curiosity, especially at the end. This book will leave you wanting more but I would definitely recommend it to anyone who loves sci-fi novels with romance and with an action sequence full of tension and mystery at the end. A brilliant read.
in the beginning
I haven't read that many sci-fi novels in my time, it is one genre that I am still new to but I haven't yet read a sci-fi story that I haven't ended up really enjoying. Propheticus was a creative, moving and intriguing novel that really grabbed my attention. I loved the story and I was so focussed by the end of the book that I was left in a daze at the end wishing that I could continue reading. I need to know what happens next, I want to know more and spend more time with the characters and the planet. It was an inspiring read that lifted my heart and kept me interested throughout the book. It is one that I would easily re-read again and one that truly sets up the scene of what looks to be an intriguing series.
the structure holds
Aniah is such a strong, stubborn and amazing character. I loved how protective she was of her ma, and the way that she carried herself despite her loss and grief. I found her to be fascinating and I really just loved the way she acted around Novell. I felt attached to her and I found myself heart-broken during certain parts as I felt the way she did. She put so much of herself into things that when they went wrong it was hard not to feel hr pain. She was a great protagonist and one character that I am really looking forward to reading more about.
I adored Novell though. I think he really made the story for me. He was compassionate and caring, adventurous and on a mission to search for his family and I just found him absolutely thrilling. I loved seeing his perspective of things, especially how he felt about Aniah and just loved being able to see the two characters from different perspectives. I admired how he wanted to thank Aninah and her ma for their hospitality and I enjoyed his tales of his adventures. He was a really well-rounded character that I enjoyed reading about so much.
building it up
The relationship in this book was so adorable. I loved how it all came together and while I'm not a fan of insta-love, the way this relationship plays out and how they are with each other, I just found it so sweet. It was romantic and kind and you just couldn't help but feel your heart pumping a little faster. It was a great sub-plot to what else was going on within the book and while at times I started to feel that the book was more romance than anything else, I certainly didn't mind it!
I would say that the action doesn't really start to get going until near the end. There are hints throughout the narrative that make you curious that you put in a memory bank to call on later but with the focus being mostly on the characters and their history and relationship, it is fair to say that it really isn't that important to begin with. However, once that action is put to the forefront, it is such a riveting read. So much so that I was literally sitting foreword on the seat holding my Kindle closer to me trying to get closer to it all. The tension building was brilliant and so sudden and just really managed to take my breath away.
This brings me to the ending which totally left me wanting more, straight away. It wasn't an ending that left you with just enough and the hint of something on the horizon, it literally left many questions unanswered and really manages to keep the reader entertained. I am certainly looking forward to finding out what is going to happen next! I sometimes find it irritating when books end like this but I think it actually works well in this book and I just hope that I get my hands on the second book soon so as to continue on this wonderful story.
and knocking it down
Unfortunately, while I loved the plot, the characters and the romance in this novel, I sometimes found the writing style to be a little annoying. At times things are repeated and it feels like the author believes the reader would have forgotten something that had been written in the previous paragraph and it irritated me slightly. Fortunately this doesn't happen throughout the book and was something that I was able to look passed but it really put off a few times to the point that I would skim the next paragraph as it felt that it literally repeated itself just in a different way. Of course, this may be interesting for some readers but it did not bode well with me.
so it is said
All in all this was a fascinating read that I really enjoyed and was glad that I got the chance to read. The characters were enticing, the romantic subplot was heart-warming, the sci-fi worlds were thrilling and creative and interesting to read about and the plot was really intriguing and full of tension and curiosity, especially at the end. This book will leave you wanting more but I would definitely recommend it to anyone who loves sci-fi novels with romance and with an action sequence full of tension and mystery at the end. A brilliant read.
February 12, 2013
On a trek for food to last through the "Dark Months", Aniah and her mother come across a man who is on the brink of death. Burdened with their heavy load of Eskerberries they were tired and weak, but still dragged him the miles to their home in Tyrana. Through his recovery Novell and Aniah form a frienship and a pull towards eachother.
Novell begins to tell Aniah about some of his adventures while looking for the family that he never knew. Aniah is intrigued by the places he has been and the people that he has met, since she has never traveled anywhere from home except the trek through the desert for the berries, and a few local villages for supplies. Novell tells stories of far-away lands and the tribes and beasts that inhabit them. Though she loves hearing these tales, Aniah begins to have strange dreams that slowly turn into nightmares filled with red glowing eyes.
Once Novell is well enough to begin helping out around the ranch and village he is brought into the daily tasks and chores that it takes to keep the village running smoothly. Aniah and Novell begin to feel a deeper bond to eachother. Strange things begin to happen around Aniah and her home, while her nightmares are becoming more vivid and frightening. Novell feels that he needs to protect her from whatever is happening. After some research he finds a little bit of information about the "Sleepwalkers" and the Mangitori de Sangue. Novell realizes just how much danger Aniah is in.
I will start out by saying that I read this book in less than 8 hours, almost completely in one sitting. Needless to say, I didn't get too much done at work that day. This whole book is written with the characters in mind. I felt like I could see Aniah in the kitchen waiting for Novell to walk in. I was suprised to find that I enjoyed the style of writing with the chapters switching back and forth between Novell and Aniah's perspective. I don't typically enjoy that style normally, but this book almost called for it. You knew what the other person was doing, but it was more important to know the detail of the current person. Since you are listening to their point of view you can follow their motivation and thought process, it was a very interesting writing style.
I truly felt connected to the story and the characters in this book. I wanted to make sure Aniah was OK, tell Novell a bit more information and get the two of them together. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for something different. True, it is a sci-fi book but there isn't some alien invasion or mother ship waiting just outside the atmosphere. It is a story about relationships and prophecy that is bringing them together. The people are humble and hardworking, nothing flashy and outrageous, just people living off of the land and helping one another. The book could be described as an adventure in another time and place, if you are looking for laser guns and star ships, this book doesn't have them (no telling what the next book could have). I enjoyed this book very much, and look forward to reading the next in the series (which is already on my cell phone waiting to be read).
Novell begins to tell Aniah about some of his adventures while looking for the family that he never knew. Aniah is intrigued by the places he has been and the people that he has met, since she has never traveled anywhere from home except the trek through the desert for the berries, and a few local villages for supplies. Novell tells stories of far-away lands and the tribes and beasts that inhabit them. Though she loves hearing these tales, Aniah begins to have strange dreams that slowly turn into nightmares filled with red glowing eyes.
Once Novell is well enough to begin helping out around the ranch and village he is brought into the daily tasks and chores that it takes to keep the village running smoothly. Aniah and Novell begin to feel a deeper bond to eachother. Strange things begin to happen around Aniah and her home, while her nightmares are becoming more vivid and frightening. Novell feels that he needs to protect her from whatever is happening. After some research he finds a little bit of information about the "Sleepwalkers" and the Mangitori de Sangue. Novell realizes just how much danger Aniah is in.
I will start out by saying that I read this book in less than 8 hours, almost completely in one sitting. Needless to say, I didn't get too much done at work that day. This whole book is written with the characters in mind. I felt like I could see Aniah in the kitchen waiting for Novell to walk in. I was suprised to find that I enjoyed the style of writing with the chapters switching back and forth between Novell and Aniah's perspective. I don't typically enjoy that style normally, but this book almost called for it. You knew what the other person was doing, but it was more important to know the detail of the current person. Since you are listening to their point of view you can follow their motivation and thought process, it was a very interesting writing style.
I truly felt connected to the story and the characters in this book. I wanted to make sure Aniah was OK, tell Novell a bit more information and get the two of them together. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for something different. True, it is a sci-fi book but there isn't some alien invasion or mother ship waiting just outside the atmosphere. It is a story about relationships and prophecy that is bringing them together. The people are humble and hardworking, nothing flashy and outrageous, just people living off of the land and helping one another. The book could be described as an adventure in another time and place, if you are looking for laser guns and star ships, this book doesn't have them (no telling what the next book could have). I enjoyed this book very much, and look forward to reading the next in the series (which is already on my cell phone waiting to be read).
November 29, 2012
I received this book from the author in exchange for a review.
This book is a great read. It is part one of three, which is obvious in the way the author very leisurely moves through the story. We are eased in to the characters, learning about Aniah through her own eyes, and learning about Novell through his stories.
I love Novell's stories. They do make up the bulk of the first half of the book, and I wouldn't have minded hearing more. He tells of all of the different tribes he has visited on the planet, about their customs, their attitudes and their lives. The way it was done reminded me of Le Petit Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery. It really made me think about the different tribes, as well as Aniah's own. It made me wonder about their technologies, their people, and how a group who seems to rely heavily on hunting and gathering can have steel. But then I'm an archaeologist, so I do think it's a credit to the author to present these peoples in such a way that I want to know more about them.
The book alternates between Aniah's and Novell's point of view, which I liked, but having the first named "The Stranger" when the rest are named for whose point of view we are following was a little odd. Aniah's voice is very heavily influence by how Stephanie Meyer write, with some of the odd turns of phrase so common in Meyer's books. On the other hand, the author seems to find more of her own voice when writing Novell, and I hope that becomes stronger in the next books in the series. She has a wonderful way of writing, and I hope that shows through.
I do have some small problems with the book, but most are formatting issues, common with independent publishing. I also found it funny that their homestead was called a ranch, when there was no evidence of it actually being a proper ranch, and that there seemed to be a lack of characterization of anyone else in the tribe, except Jessum, and there was a strong lack of other women; the only other woman in the book that wasn't family was a point of strong jealousy for Aniah. As well, and this may just be my dislike of nicknames, why shorten a short name like Aniah to Ana?
Overall, a great read, very light and enjoyable, and I look forward to reading the next books!
This book is a great read. It is part one of three, which is obvious in the way the author very leisurely moves through the story. We are eased in to the characters, learning about Aniah through her own eyes, and learning about Novell through his stories.
I love Novell's stories. They do make up the bulk of the first half of the book, and I wouldn't have minded hearing more. He tells of all of the different tribes he has visited on the planet, about their customs, their attitudes and their lives. The way it was done reminded me of Le Petit Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery. It really made me think about the different tribes, as well as Aniah's own. It made me wonder about their technologies, their people, and how a group who seems to rely heavily on hunting and gathering can have steel. But then I'm an archaeologist, so I do think it's a credit to the author to present these peoples in such a way that I want to know more about them.
The book alternates between Aniah's and Novell's point of view, which I liked, but having the first named "The Stranger" when the rest are named for whose point of view we are following was a little odd. Aniah's voice is very heavily influence by how Stephanie Meyer write, with some of the odd turns of phrase so common in Meyer's books. On the other hand, the author seems to find more of her own voice when writing Novell, and I hope that becomes stronger in the next books in the series. She has a wonderful way of writing, and I hope that shows through.
I do have some small problems with the book, but most are formatting issues, common with independent publishing. I also found it funny that their homestead was called a ranch, when there was no evidence of it actually being a proper ranch, and that there seemed to be a lack of characterization of anyone else in the tribe, except Jessum, and there was a strong lack of other women; the only other woman in the book that wasn't family was a point of strong jealousy for Aniah. As well, and this may just be my dislike of nicknames, why shorten a short name like Aniah to Ana?
Overall, a great read, very light and enjoyable, and I look forward to reading the next books!
September 9, 2013
I really liked this book.
Aniah, the main character, is a young woman who has lived in the same small tribe her entire life. She lost her father at a very young age, which made her who she is today, namely a strong, independent and yet caring person. She led a normal life for a duration of 20 years before everything changed.
This change in her life was caused by her meeting Novell. A handsome and wise man who turns her world upside down. He tells her stories about his journeys and the people and things he encountered on those voyages.
At the start, however, I was quite shocked by the introduction of Novell. It happened so early in the book, while I felt like I didn't know Aniah enough, but by reading more I understood that we get to know Aniah and Novell through each other.
Emma Daley, the author, chose to use two narratives in her story. Aniah and Novell each tell their part of the story. By changing the narrative we see things clearer and we understand the character’s feeling toward each other much better. Each time the author chose to change perspectives, the pace of the story wasn’t broken, nor did you feel like you were interrupted in your reading. The thoughts and feelings of Aniah and Novell flowed into each other without any difficulty and this without losing any aspect of the story.
I like the love story and I believe it’s refreshing to see a story like this one in the sci-fi genre. Emma Daley did a great job portraying her characters’ emotions and she created a beautiful love story by having a different take on portraying love at first sight.
Positives:
+ The different perspectives
+ The great love story
+ You can't stop reading and you want to find the answers
Negatives:
- The love story takes up most of the book, so you have to wait pretty long to get any answers.
I wouldn’t say that it’s a bad thing to get to know the characters before throwing them into a big adventure. So actually she turned a negative in a positive: you really know the characters before getting to the action and to the real answers that you (and the characters) are looking for.
Aniah, the main character, is a young woman who has lived in the same small tribe her entire life. She lost her father at a very young age, which made her who she is today, namely a strong, independent and yet caring person. She led a normal life for a duration of 20 years before everything changed.
This change in her life was caused by her meeting Novell. A handsome and wise man who turns her world upside down. He tells her stories about his journeys and the people and things he encountered on those voyages.
At the start, however, I was quite shocked by the introduction of Novell. It happened so early in the book, while I felt like I didn't know Aniah enough, but by reading more I understood that we get to know Aniah and Novell through each other.
Emma Daley, the author, chose to use two narratives in her story. Aniah and Novell each tell their part of the story. By changing the narrative we see things clearer and we understand the character’s feeling toward each other much better. Each time the author chose to change perspectives, the pace of the story wasn’t broken, nor did you feel like you were interrupted in your reading. The thoughts and feelings of Aniah and Novell flowed into each other without any difficulty and this without losing any aspect of the story.
I like the love story and I believe it’s refreshing to see a story like this one in the sci-fi genre. Emma Daley did a great job portraying her characters’ emotions and she created a beautiful love story by having a different take on portraying love at first sight.
Positives:
+ The different perspectives
+ The great love story
+ You can't stop reading and you want to find the answers
Negatives:
- The love story takes up most of the book, so you have to wait pretty long to get any answers.
I wouldn’t say that it’s a bad thing to get to know the characters before throwing them into a big adventure. So actually she turned a negative in a positive: you really know the characters before getting to the action and to the real answers that you (and the characters) are looking for.
November 22, 2012
I received this book from Emma Daley herself via Amazon Kindle. To be honest, I didn't know what to think of this book at the very beginning. It seemed to be starting a little slow for me. As I continued reading though, I was captured by the stories of Novell's travels almost as completely as Aniah herself. The storytelling is done expertly, even though at first I though it was a little too much. The story progressed and I was starting to appreciate the background information of the tribes.
When I hit the halfway point of the novel, I was officially hooked. The darkness lurking in the shadows began to make me anxious for the safety of Aniah and her family. The end, though, was so captivating. It did what every book should at its conclusion... It made me want to read the next book.
On that note, I'll be looking forward to reading the next two books in the series. Congratulations to Emma Daley for writing such a captivating ya series which can stand next to any of the top series this year.
When I hit the halfway point of the novel, I was officially hooked. The darkness lurking in the shadows began to make me anxious for the safety of Aniah and her family. The end, though, was so captivating. It did what every book should at its conclusion... It made me want to read the next book.
On that note, I'll be looking forward to reading the next two books in the series. Congratulations to Emma Daley for writing such a captivating ya series which can stand next to any of the top series this year.
February 19, 2013
I RECIVED THIS E-BOOK BECAUSE OF THE WRITER'S BIRTHDAY:
First I started to think that this would just be a love story. Not a bad one though, but I couldn't see how there could be two other books like this since it is a trilogy. Luckily, halfway through the book there was a dead mouse, an omen something was going to happen, and the Sleepwalkers were first mentioned, maybe the anemy who was to come? And then finely the last two chapers ended the book with a bang and caused me longing for more.
I liked the world and the different places the author described. I've always found it facinating how scince-fiction- and fantasywriters can create an intire world like that. Emma Daley for sure made me wander about that even more. In short: in the beginning the book might appear dull but wait and you will be surprised! Realy a good book. Believe me!
First I started to think that this would just be a love story. Not a bad one though, but I couldn't see how there could be two other books like this since it is a trilogy. Luckily, halfway through the book there was a dead mouse, an omen something was going to happen, and the Sleepwalkers were first mentioned, maybe the anemy who was to come? And then finely the last two chapers ended the book with a bang and caused me longing for more.
I liked the world and the different places the author described. I've always found it facinating how scince-fiction- and fantasywriters can create an intire world like that. Emma Daley for sure made me wander about that even more. In short: in the beginning the book might appear dull but wait and you will be surprised! Realy a good book. Believe me!
June 8, 2012
Overall, this was a really good book; it held my attention and kept me wanting more. The alternating perspectives worked well and I really enjoyed seeing the relationship develop from both ends. However, this book felt more like a prequel than the first installment of the series. I also felt that the book was not consistent with its description until about the 75% mark.
As a teacher, I loved that there were some great SAT vocabulary words used throughout the book!
I thought I would be giving this book 5 stars until the last few chapters where it became obvious that this is not a standalone book. Unfortunately the cliffhanger ending knocked it down a little in my perspective, but I still intend to read the next installment.
As a teacher, I loved that there were some great SAT vocabulary words used throughout the book!
I thought I would be giving this book 5 stars until the last few chapters where it became obvious that this is not a standalone book. Unfortunately the cliffhanger ending knocked it down a little in my perspective, but I still intend to read the next installment.
August 26, 2012
I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads and I'm waiting for it to arrive
I really enjoyed reading this book. The story kept me interesting all along, although I hate that it finishes, and I have to wait to read the next book.
I most definitely want to know what happens next.
I enjoyed the way the chapters were written using the different points of view of the main characters.
I really enjoyed reading this book. The story kept me interesting all along, although I hate that it finishes, and I have to wait to read the next book.
I most definitely want to know what happens next.
I enjoyed the way the chapters were written using the different points of view of the main characters.
December 20, 2012
Wow. This was not a fast moving book but it managed to keep my attention. It is full of mystery and really keeps you wondering what exactly is going on. There is definitely an underlying love story (which also usually loses me quickly), but the feel of adventure stays with you through it all. Definitely going on to book two! Thank you Emma Daley for gifting me with the pleasure of reading your book!
October 3, 2011
The beginning was a little slow and it took a little before I understood what was going on. Punctuation was a little rough. After a few chapters though, I was completely enthralled! I loved the rest of the book and couldn't put it down!
June 14, 2012
It was such a good read. It had an enjoyable storyline and Emma has a rich imagination thatyou can easily get sucked in her world. The charaters are easy to love and visualize ;) Full Review
December 14, 2010
Very easy read, couldn't put this book down! Literally read it in one day. Can't wait for the next books to come out.
December 15, 2010
If the final copy is anything like the rough draft then I won't be able to put it down the second time either... I may be a little biased, but it is so creative and a perfect mix of everything!
January 12, 2011
I loved the story of Propheticus. Emma has such a great imagination. I love Anniah and Novell and can't wait to find out what happens in the next book.
Currently reading
January 6, 2011I am very impressed this book has it all, emotion, detail, and the desire to read more I alkmost done and all I can say is bravo Emma, hurry up with the next one. :)
January 9, 2011
Well I love it and think that everyone who reads this story will find themselves emotionally involved by the relateability of the characters and the excitement of the story.
May 29, 2013
This was a great book. It was well written and full of action. The mystery mounts in this first book in the series. I am immediately starting the second book to keep the action flowing, I can't wait.
February 5, 2013
This is really my kinda book. Not too long, and just the right amount of characters so as not to be confusing. This book lays the foundation for the next 2 and I can't wait to read them.
May 18, 2018
I thought it was slow. Just when things started happening the book ends. Doesn't do to much to explain stuff. You would think if people could travel to different planets that there be more tech.
April 17, 2012
This book was a lot different from what I normally read, and I actually had quite a lot of trouble actually getting into the story and once I did get into the story it was done.
I found with this book that it was like information overload. When I started reading it I really didn’t know what to expect, but by the time of the book I was finally enjoying it even if I couldn’t fully immerse myself in the story.
The author gives us a lot of background information at least half the story seems like its all background. I understand that it was essentially to set the scene, and I have high hopes the in the next books all that information wont be needed, and I am sure that eventually everything that was talked about that I found a little useless in this book will be totally necessary in the books to come.
Overall I the book was OK. I think the main problem I had with it is that its just not my thing… but I would totally try the second book to give it another chance because by the end of the book I did want to keep reading.
I found with this book that it was like information overload. When I started reading it I really didn’t know what to expect, but by the time of the book I was finally enjoying it even if I couldn’t fully immerse myself in the story.
The author gives us a lot of background information at least half the story seems like its all background. I understand that it was essentially to set the scene, and I have high hopes the in the next books all that information wont be needed, and I am sure that eventually everything that was talked about that I found a little useless in this book will be totally necessary in the books to come.
Overall I the book was OK. I think the main problem I had with it is that its just not my thing… but I would totally try the second book to give it another chance because by the end of the book I did want to keep reading.
August 8, 2013
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review. When I first started reading Propheticus: The Mangitori De Sangue I wasn't sure if it was going to be my cup of tea and it took me a couple chapters to get into it because it's not a story line I'n normally get into. I am SO glad i picked it up!
This book is a perfect first book for a series.The love story develops gradually throughout the book and it's nice to see get to know the characters as they get to know each other. The story line and character development are amazing. By the end of the book I felt like I could close my eyes and picture everything with perfect clarity.
I can't wait to dive into Propheticus: The Migliao (book two in the series) and I'm so glad I have it waiting right here on my Kindle just for me.
This book is a perfect first book for a series.The love story develops gradually throughout the book and it's nice to see get to know the characters as they get to know each other. The story line and character development are amazing. By the end of the book I felt like I could close my eyes and picture everything with perfect clarity.
I can't wait to dive into Propheticus: The Migliao (book two in the series) and I'm so glad I have it waiting right here on my Kindle just for me.
February 3, 2011
This was the first book in a new Sci-fi series. It was a little slow in the beginning for me but Emma really goes into the characters and there feelings quite a bit. The action doesn't come in until the very end, which is where everything starts to happen, but you'll have to wait until book 2 comes out to see what happens. This had a very innocent romance involved which I did enjoy and I'd like to read more into the characters in the next book. Sometimes the first book in the series is a little slower getting started. I bet book 2 will have a lot more action. The author said that the cover art for this book was her sister in law. Very cool =)
January 31, 2011
I won this book as a part of GoodReads FirstReads. I thought that this book was really well written. The universe is very believable and the characters are multi-faceted and drew me into the story. The only thing I think that could have improved this book is a little forshadowing in the first half of the book. It was a little hard to connect the blurb to what I was reading in the first half, so I felt like I was playing catch up on the story. Even a little quote about the prophecy or something would have been perfect. Once it all came together, though, it was fantastic, and I really hope to read the nect one. I want to know what happens next!
abandoned
August 14, 2013No sé si mejorará, pero lo cierto es que las primeras casi cien páginas me han aburrido muchísimo y no he conseguido conectar con los personajes o la historia. Todavía no sé de qué va la novela y si para descubrirlo tengo que leer casi medio libro me parece que mal vamos... Vamos, que no ha pasado nada y dado que estoy de bajona lectora, lo último que me apetece es enfrascarme en un libro que no acaba de despegar.
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