Fantasy Buddy Reads discussion

This is a Buddy Read of Beyond Redemption by Michael R. Fletcher starting September 1, 2017.

Here's a link to a previous BR for this title: https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...

Again with this guy?

Seriously though, I loved this book. And the sequel :)

I cannot wait for this to start!!

Aristea wrote: "I cannot wait for this to start!!"

Me either!

I've just finished this book. Man... seriously, you guys are in one sick ride! xD

Reminder that this is coming up :)

Oh my, I cannot wait!!

and today I just finished the second book.. it's even better! can't wait to see what you guys think about it!

Petrik wrote: "and today I just finished the second book.. it's even better! can't wait to see what you guys think about it!"

This sounds sooooo promising!!!!

I started today and I must say I approve of the prologue. That really rarely happens for me and can often be heard loud and clear complaining about every prologue I really dislike.

Jenna wrote: "I started today and I must say I approve of the prologue. That really rarely happens for me and can often be heard loud and clear complaining about every prologue I really dislike."

Ouch. I hit my head on the floor.

Scott wrote: "Jenna wrote: "I started today and I must say I approve of the prologue. That really rarely happens for me and can often be heard loud and clear complaining about every prologue I really dislike."

..."

You'll recover as soon as I finish the book and rave about how fantastic it was so you can say "I told you so."

True dat.

I forgot to bring the book with me so I will start in Thursday. And I cannot wait to begin!!!

Chapter 3
(view spoiler)[For a second I thought Sister Wegwerfen was going to join them (had no idea what they were going to do), but she died a lot earlier than I was expecting. (hide spoiler)]

Hopefully you'll have a chance to start soon Aristea - you should be able to catch up to me pretty quickly. It's an engrossing read, but I've been having a busy week and all I can think about it getting back to this book.

Just finished chapter 10. (view spoiler)[The Doppels were characters that I wouldn't say I liked from the beginning - "like" is just not the right word - but they definitely stand out as unique characters, and in the fantasy genre that is full of crazy creatures and protagonists with otherworldly powers, that is saying something. I'm trying to think of a book with characters like the Doppels and I'm sure there is something out there, but they are different than anything I've read. They are so creepy and at the same time, completely intriguing. To me, they stand out a lot more than Konig himself which is interesting because of what they want to do.... (hide spoiler)]

I cannot wait to start Jenna!!! I am flying back in about 30 minutes (not that this is relevant piece of information for anyone other than me) and I will start later today! I am so hyped!

Aristea wrote: "I cannot wait to start Jenna!!! I am flying back in about 30 minutes (not that this is relevant piece of information for anyone other than me) and I will start later today! I am so hyped!"

Yay!

Jenna wrote: "Hopefully you'll have a chance to start soon Aristea - you should be able to catch up to me pretty quickly. It's an engrossing read, but I've been having a busy week and all I can think about it ge..."

(view spoiler)[
Konig is kind of the straight man in the routine and the doppels the one's that get all the laughs. Konig does have more and more to contend with as time goes on. I do agree the doppels are so unique. From the start I loved them as distinctive characters.
(hide spoiler)]

Ugggggggggggggggggggggggggggg! I just got this book the other day but I can't start it right now! I can never read something when someone else is.

I will come back to the thread though, it my goofy self can find it again =D

Or maybe I will try to get it in before you guys finish. I DON'T KNOW. Must not stress =)

Melissa ♥ Dog Lover ♥ wrote: "Ugggggggggggggggggggggggggggg! I just got this book the other day but I can't start it right now! I can never read something when someone else is.

I will come back to the thread though, it my goo..."

Well Aristea hasn't started yet and I'm not very far so you could definitely join us.

I just read the prologue and the first chapter! It was already sold to me, I am already hooked!

I will come in later. Godsgrave came today and I'm reading on 3 others. This always happens!! I'm never in sync with everyone else. Sigh.

I am actually happy about the extensive use of German. I am having a blast so far. I am still lagging, through chapter 2.
Also the whole concept of the book is fascinating - and I cannot add more than this because I am on the app. It is just so refreshing in terms of approach, while the characters (albeit I am already in love with them) feel a little more "fantasy ordinary".

I will keep reading tonight!

Aristea wrote: "I am actually happy about the extensive use of German. I am having a blast so far. I am still lagging, through chapter 2.
Also the whole concept of the book is fascinating - and I cannot add more ..."

I thought the German was a pretty unique idea in fantasy written in English. For me, it makes little difference because I still can't understand it, but I thought it would be pretty cool for German speakers. Glad to see that it's done right!

Chapter 15
(view spoiler)[I did not see Morgen's creepy fire, mirror reflection stuff coming. (hide spoiler)]

I did not make much progress on the book yesterday but I am through chapter 9. I am going to work on the read today! Also because I want to be able to read your spoilers, Jenna, and comment! :p

Jenna wrote: "Aristea wrote: "I am actually happy about the extensive use of German. I am having a blast so far. I am still lagging, through chapter 2.
Also the whole concept of the book is fascinating - and I ..."

I am a fake German speaker though - I am not native speaker and I barely can put two sentences together! :D

Jenna wrote: "Aristea wrote: "I am actually happy about the extensive use of German. I am having a blast so far. I am still lagging, through chapter 2.
Also the whole concept of the book is fascinating - and I ..."

Reading it on the kindle and translating instantly added to the experience for me, and the laughs.

Jenna wrote: "Chapter 15
[spoilers removed]"

That was brilliant and there's more to come.

Hey guys, I've been meaning to stop in and leave a few thoughts but I've been stuck on Chapter 9 for weeks now (nothing to do with the book by any means, its been a great journey so far, just a been a bit busy). Things are finally a bit more quiet around here and I plan on getting more reading done today/tonight. Like others, Jenna is motivation to get to Chapter 15 so I can read her spoiler (or at least get close enough tonight).

I hope you are all enjoying the book so far 😊

Danisha wrote: "Hey guys, I've been meaning to stop in and leave a few thoughts but I've been stuck on Chapter 9 for weeks now (nothing to do with the book by any means, its been a great journey so far, just a bee..."

Haha, it's a really short spoiler so it's not actually that exciting, but I'll try to leave some more juicy ones!

I've started this as well, but I haven't made much progress... I have to actually read it on my Kindle, so it ends up being a lower priority and as well as just having less time for it versus all my audiobook listening...

I finished chapter 3 yesterday... so I can agree on all the things said about those chapters already... I'll try to make more time for it over the next few days... but A Dragon of a Different Color just came out on audio so I make no promises...

I am up to chapter 11.

I like how dark and twisted this book is. Most of the characters are so hideous and so addicting at the same time.
The world building is incredibly smart and unique (at least, I cannot recall having read a book based on the same premises).
I need to fully focus on this book during the weekend (which I keep saying and I keep procrastinating!).

I keep getting sidetracked by audiobooks... binged A Dragon of a Different Color on my days off... now I've started Blade Bound... meanwhile this is just languishing away on my Kindle...

I am giving you guys a chance to catch up! ...but in reality, I just didn't get much reading done this week.. Glad we are all taking it slow on this one.

I was feeling bad because I am not ramping up the reading on this book and I resolved to take it easy. I am starting to think that this book is so dark that puts me in a difficult position: I really like it but it also is dark (a lot darker than I am have been reading lately).
I am through chapter 13 though!

I just started. The German is bothering me since it's my first language and a lot of it is grammatically incorrect. I'm trying to take it as "German inspired" like a lot of fantasy authors use words inspired by Latin etc. I'll hopefully soon stop paying attention to it. Chapter 4 now.

Olivia wrote: "I just started. The German is bothering me since it's my first language and a lot of it is grammatically incorrect. I'm trying to take it as "German inspired" like a lot of fantasy authors use word..."

I am not native speaker but I totally get why the author chose German - being a "harsher" language, especially if compared with English. I guess I would react the same way if someone would "exploit" Italian that way.
As a side note, the author clearly disclaims that he knows nothing about German but he felt that German conveyed how harsh the environment is.

Olivia wrote: "I just started. The German is bothering me since it's my first language and a lot of it is grammatically incorrect. I'm trying to take it as "German inspired" like a lot of fantasy authors use word..."

You're not the only one Olivia. I have 2 of my German friends gave up reading this because of how incorrect the German terms are used. For me, non German speaker, it sounds so cool xD btw, there's an official German translation for this book, with correct grammar and all that if you cant stand it! :)

Oh wow. I looked at the German translation and they indeed decided (it's even noted at the beginning) to either use different words or the grammatically correct ones! They also renamed the characters and Wichtig (means: important) is called Argos. Stehlen (means: stealing) is called Robyn and Bedeckt (covered) is now called Deckard. And these names have no meaning or at least no apparent meaning unless you go digging... I'm now torn since that probably will make me frown 0 times while the English version has my eyebrows hugging my hairline! BUT on the other hand I like to see what the author intended, so I'll read it in English first :) thank you for pointing me in direction of the translation.

I think that's part of my problem... I don't tend to read much dark stuff... I remember reading Mind Games several years ago with its weaponized neuroses, and just never got around to continuing the trilogy...

I think since i read the first few chapters 10 days ago or so, I've read 3 novellas and a short story, and listened to 5 books... that isn't a good sign...

I'm really enjoying the book, but my pace is so slow because I'm trying to knock out a couple of books I borrowed so I can give them back. Glad to have a couple more people join us.

Olivia wrote: "Oh wow. I looked at the German translation and they indeed decided (it's even noted at the beginning) to either use different words or the grammatically correct ones! They also renamed the characte..."

Interesting to know - I'm sure it would bother me if the translation wasn't correct and I noticed it every time I came across a word in German. I thought it was funny that he apologized for the German before the book started, but I guess it really was sincere!

Olivia wrote: "Oh wow. I looked at the German translation and they indeed decided (it's even noted at the beginning) to either use different words or the grammatically correct ones! They also renamed the characte..."

you're welcome Olivia! and that's really interesting to know the meaning behind each words! I know that reading it from Kindle you can get a literal translation or something but I was reading this book in physical xD

So, I've decided I'm going to post my thoughts so far. Like Aristea has said I've been trucking through this slowly it has nothing to do with the book itself, for me I feel like while reading this I can't have distractions or people around, you need a certain type of environment to read this one. Next week I'll have more time to get some real peace and try and finish this one up.

These are my random thoughts as they came to me don't mind the jumble-ness of it all:

Chapter 2(view spoiler)[It was interesting to see Konig's Doppels thoughts towards Aufschlag and then, in turn, see how that matches Aufschlag's true thoughts and intentions/feelings.

The description used to explain some of these delusions are very descriptive and creative.

Which so far is your favourite Doppel? Abandonment, Trepidation or Acceptance?
Are there more Doppels to come, or have there been more in the past?

I'm not completely sure who I like more or at all.

UPDATE:I'm leading more towards Trepidation, I'm not a fan of Acceptance but his humour gets me. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 3(view spoiler)[

"If our world is defined by delusion, there can be no truth. If there is no truth, how can there be lies?"

(hide spoiler)]

Chapter 4(view spoiler)['..."Trepidation might be on to something. This was the advantage of being able to speak to one's subconscious."...'

Don't we all get that feeling where we wish we understood our thoughts/subconscious? Or at least get them to explain/communicate their logic (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 6(view spoiler)[Konig communicating with Morgan '..."You will, Konig said, leaning forward to stare into Morgan's eyes. Why does he always do that when he really wants me to believe something?"...'
Does Konigs Delusions not effect Morgan because he is more powerful or is it his childlike innocence?

I've also noticed that this 'Perfect God Complex' they are pushing onto Morgan is creating OCD tendencies i.e. The cleanliness of constantly checking his nails and picking at them, and his books having to be aligned perfectly within the shelf. He seems more altogether than the other Gods and Geistrskraken but there's something brewing there with these compulsions, time will tell. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 7(view spoiler)[ I wonder how the Doppels are going to use Gehirn to overtake Konig? And will they succeed? (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 8(view spoiler)[The Krieger: '...These were the last words Konig spoke to them before they were ritually deafened to prevent another Gefahrgeist from infecting their faith. The force of Konig's faith defined their reality."...'

This is a bit much... and cruel but it shows how desperate and how far Konig is willing to go to save himself from his delusions...and to continue to rule over is dominions.

In Chapter 8 when Gehirn went to 'bed' were those her delusions? Is that what's really going on in her head daily? I kind of feel for her character, with all the anger, sadness and loneliness she takes on (and the self-loathing) she is bound to break and take a lot of things with her.

Also, did she kill the Krieger and thought it was a dream or are her delusions manifesting on their own?

'..."See, I understand what no one else seems to grasp, trying to achieve an effect–a goal. We first learn to talk so we may better manipulate our parents. Sign language. Grunting standing a certain way. This is all language and it is all manipulation."...'

I really enjoyed this quote. Witchtig gets on my nerves sometimes (nothing major just his cockiness and his jokes, it's laughable at times) but you can't help but smile at his unwavering logic. I enjoyed the part in there about learning to talk so we can better manipulate our parents (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 9(view spoiler)[ I'm intrigued with Gehirn, she can burn anything even herself but the sun burns her skin...hmmm...I guess everything has their own kryptonite.

I'm also intrigued with their 'Afterdeath' and if those who are slain are really going to be there, in the end, to serve...'slain in life, slaves in Afterdeath'.

A lot of the lines in this book makes me stop and think, evaluate and visualize.

'..."Gehirn pushed the thought aside. When the day finally came and she faced the last fire, she would embrace that moment as she had embraced all the fires leading to it. To be devoured by your one love was to achieve a harmony few would ever realize.

I also enjoyed the way this author described 'The Mirrorist' Verlorener Spiegel 'The Walking Mosaic'. This would look visually beautiful and eerie all at the same time. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 10(view spoiler)[I wasn't sure he could physically harm the Doppels. But, I am glad he's finally putting them in their place before they get too out of hand, this also somewhat levels the playing field, not by much but it's something. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 11(view spoiler)[Devine Delusions are working in their favour; from leaving the town in time to miss the Hassebrand, the guards 'looking the other way', as if Bedeckt thought it out loud and it was set in stone or the beliefs of his companions have willed them along against the odds. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 13(view spoiler)[ Gehirn makes a good point about Aufschlag's experiments '..."If delusion shaped reality, what was the point in testing that reality? The man was a fool for not seeing that his own expectations would taint the result of every experiment."...'

I really love how the author describes each character that's introduced into the storyline. i.e. Like I've said earlier 'The Mirrorist' and now 'The Erbrechen' 'The Slaver'. You can't help but visualize... the grotesqueness of him.

I guess Acceptance was right about Gehirn, that she would be Konigs downfall. Divulging Konig's plans and the plans of Bedeckt on their current mission. Now two groups are on the same mission to take Morgan from Konig. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 14(view spoiler)[Stehlen is very predictably unpredictable, definite wild card. She never heeds Bedeckt's warnings and causes more distress and commotion than plans involved. Here again, trying to causing a bigger distress stealing Morgan on her own. She does always push through her missions, but at what cost? (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 15(view spoiler)[I love how all the characters are moving towards one goal 'Morgan' but goals are changing, new endings and branch offs are forming; just enjoying the ride on the journey to the end or the beginning.

Also, it's funny to look back and think that Aufschlag's disobedience sending Sister Wegwerfen to spread the word of 'Morgan' instead of killing her like Konig requested two groups would not be on the way to take the child from his lifelong 'friend'. Now Aufschlag has joined the party of bandits to take/save Morgan.

With all of Konigs grand powers...and he has no inkling of what is about to transpire. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 16(view spoiler)[Who's to say Gehirn's devotion won't run right along with the slaves the longer she stays around Erbrechen. She'll end up 'pissin' and shitin' herself alongside them just to not be away from her new 'Master'. Especially if he finds a new 'toy/bestfriend'. Look at poor Regen (Schlammstamm shaman), his 'friend'. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 17(view spoiler)[

'..."The Gefahrgeist must first fool themselves. After that, everyone else is easy."...'

(hide spoiler)]

I'm a little further into the book now, my thoughts so far (view spoiler)[I'm about to read where Bedeckt's group reaches the Temple. How will this all go down? I cannot wait.

I want Bedeck to survive this one, I hope he can make it out to fight a few more battles.

I'm surprised at Acceptance but not, I really wonder if the Konig Mirror will help him or do they fear Konig more now?

Will Gehirn's relationship with Erbrechen grow or dissipate...disintegrate?

I'm also starting to think Acceptance is a lot smarter than Konig but Konig might be the lesser evil? Who knows the real intentions of his delusions...maybe Acceptance wants to save the world 😂😅😜.

I can't wait to see what other characters will be introduced no matter how brief or small. I'm interested to see how Morgan and his powers develop and who will end up with Morgan in the end.

When you get into the zone of this book I swear I could finish it in a sitting but lately everything and everyone keeps interrupting my flow. I think I will be able to get some free time in the next few days fingers crossed. (hide spoiler)]

I hope you guys are enjoying my random thoughts, questions and lines I've enjoyed so far.

P.s. I also live in a German/Ukranian house and they share your guy's sentiments. However, I don't speak the language that well so it doesn't bother me as much, just enjoying the ride.

I think I will put the book down for the time being. I want to give this book another chance later on this year; I am thinking my work-life unbalance is not helping me to focus on the story (otherwise I would expect to love this book).

Same... I'm going to try and return to this, but at the moment I've moved on to other things...

In response to your spoilers, Danisha:
Chapter 2: (view spoiler)[Which so far is your favourite Doppel? Abandonment, Trepidation or Acceptance?
I really dislike Acceptance. Out of all the morally ambiguous and/or evil characters, he takes the cake in my opinion. I also like Trepidation at this point (I'm on chapter 17). (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 3 - that is a great quotation.

Chapter 4 - (view spoiler)[ I thought so at first too, but as I read on, I realize that I think I really don't want to know what I am thinking in my subconscious. And while I'd like to think I know myself fairly well, to have your main personality traits personified - I would be afraid to know what they would be. Although I am pretty sure Fear would be one of them. I'm definitely a scardey-cat. Great question though. (hide spoiler)]

Chapter 9 (view spoiler)[I am also really intrigued by Gehirn. I feel like some plot bomb that I wasn't going to see coming is just going to be dropped on me and it will be about her. (hide spoiler)]

I didn't read your last spoiler, just in case. I'm on chapter 22 now.