Books like this, I usually find myself skimming over passages, but I found myself not wanting to with this book. Can't wait to read the rest of the series! Dec 26, Michelle rated it really liked it. Although not a ton physically happens, the read is still interesting as the main character thinks through what his life means up to this point. The fight scenes are brutal. May 05, KandyMay Poff rated it really liked it. This is a well written book with just enough detail to keep your interest. It's a book about the military and it's mildly realistic in its portrayal of military personnels interactions, warriors aren't politicians nor do they always mind their manners or their mouths.
That bring said, if you enjoy futuristic military tales, this is the book for you. Apr 25, Lorenzo Dozier rated it it was amazing.
First time reading this genre. I thought the story was interesting. Don't know why I kept thinking of the video game Destiny or Halo while reading it, but it was what allowed me to get through the book. Atriya is a great protagonist, but if there were swear jars in this story, it would have been filled up with the amount of language lol.
Jan 13, Nathaniel Harscher rated it it was amazing. The story told herein is incredible. It takes the world of science fiction and takes it to an incredible, apocalyptic level. On top of that, it has tech ninjas, literal boatloads of bullets, and a nigh-unstoppable force of a man.
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I'm very pleased, looking forward to reading the next one! May 24, E. Gette rated it liked it. Ended up being a little different than I expected. That being said, there are descriptions in this book that make it worth reading. It is easy to visualize this book. There is, to me, an overabundance of profanity. If you enjoy the more violent side of dystopia, then this is the book for you. Aug 10, K. Leigh rated it really liked it. Feb 13, Jesse rated it really liked it. For this review and many others, visit my blog at https: Mar 11, Jaka Tomc rated it really liked it.
I liked the book a lot and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. A little too descriptive for my taste, hence the four stars. I love the characters and I love Kent's writing skills. Jun 27, Rebecca rated it really liked it. I enjoyed this and will read more of this author. May 16, Klorrie rated it really liked it. Check out my review at https: May 01, LightHouse Verner rated it it was amazing. Looking forward to reading the other volumes.
Highly recommend this read. Prose This part is a bit contradictive, and I had a feeling this book would suffer the normal disease most first time writers do: But like quite a few, this is quickly alleviated further on and actually gets good. The only difference is the rate. But again, the author seems to learn from his mistakes because later this horrible habit is not continued. Unfortunately, it takes roughly half the book to do so.
Most characters were stereotypical military types. This was okay with some, like Benson, the cookie-cutter of many movie-like war leaders. I understood him—you need an antagonist—and he worked well. But other characters, like Clement and his buddy, not to mention Verus, were a little too familiar and archetypal. Quite possibly the weak writing and repetition in the beginning left this distasteful residue.
Like I said, later on, I liked the guy. Structure This is the killer. First off, the author goes through extensive pages in the beginning flipping from slight movement of characters, to well-detailed info dumps. Very tell-tale sign of a new writer. The second chapter…and the third chapter do the same but with different backgrounds.
The third offense here is the obsession with detail in everything military and machine-like. Anytime new tech or a new division comes in, we get large rolling paragraphs, situating us just right as to how we should feel about it all. If that is the way those books are done, I may be wrong, but for me, it caused me to skim, and usually skimming is a sign of something done wrong in my book. I know I made a lot of complaints, but what I always like is to see an author grow—and this definitely has that. In essence, he got down to the story.
This book is a snippet, not a stand-alone. I can get with it, though. The author said he cut it off in a way to follow themes, which is what old time books originally were as well. Crime and Punishment was published in six separate parts, but back then, that was the norm. Still, I have a feeling his next one will be better. Sep 16, Rebecca Alasdair rated it really liked it Shelves: I have read a small number of military sci-fi books in recent years, but never one quite like Echo Volume 1: This is largely owed to the fact I connected with the main character, Atriya, right from the start.
Within the first few chapters I understood him and his motivations He embraced the pain. In a way, he was addicted to it. Not the pain itself, but the validation it gave him. Each burning breath, each chafe of gea I have read a small number of military sci-fi books in recent years, but never one quite like Echo Volume 1: Each burning breath, each chafe of gear against his skin--every ounce of discomfort assured him he was strong.
That he was tough Occasionally, someone would ask him why he punished himself as harshly as he did. The only answer he could produce was a condescending scoff, or a blank look. Atriya is a Crusader, an elite operative within the militaristic Department of Enforcement. He continually strives for self-improvement, and not only in the physical sense--he seeks to hone his mind as well. He eschews the performance-enhancing drugs on which most of his comrades depend, and is determined not to rely on society's advanced technology to get the job done.
But something else sets Atriya apart, and it is starting to cause him problems. He calls it his "contemplative side". To me, it seems like a combination of interfering conscience, not quite PTSD, and an existential crisis. He is no longer satisfied with the way things are and is increasingly dissatisfied by the world around him, and I really empathised with his growing confusion and disconnect as he "approaches shatter".
The whole world seemed loose and pliable. He couldn't shake a gut-wrenching feeling that reality's underpinnings were breaking away Everything seemed strange and alien. He felt a palpable lack of solace coming from all that he did. All that he touched. This deep, almost philosophical, exploration of Atriya's psyche was a welcome change from a lot of the sci-fi I've previously encountered, where the focus is on the plot and world-building, often at the expense of character development.
Not that there isn't plot and world-building here. The customs and technology on the planet Echo are described in breathtaking detail, and the air of despair and apathy and decay is palpable. With the passing of time, layers of aged and obsolete city had piled up like rotted wood There were a few times when I found the details got in the way of the plot, when the action was suddenly broken by long passages of text describing concepts I wasn't sure needed explaining at that point in time. I don't like it when exposition disrupts the flow of a story. However, I appreciate the effort Kent Wayne has gone to in creating this world, and I understand the desire to depict as much of it as possible.
Overall, I was very impressed by this book. I was a bit blind-sided by the very sudden ending, which didn't seem like much of an ending at all, but at least there's a sequel to make up for it.. The Taste of Ashes will certainly be added to my 'to read' list! Review also available on Amazon. Jan 13, Robert rated it it was amazing Shelves: A great first step for a first-time author. The characters have a lot of depth and the plot seems interesting. It's a tad short so we'll see where it goes. Jun 21, Drew rated it really liked it Shelves: Echo is a human colony gradually slipping into decay.
Cityscapes crumble, Dissidents grow in number and the ruling elite has left the planet's surface for a isolationist paradise on the moon. The main character of Approaching Shatter is Atriya, a member of the elite Crew, who is slowly finding his world and the sense of his place in it dissolving under. All Atriya has ever wanted to do is be good at his job, constantly pushing himself to be stronger, tougher, better. But doubt is creeping in to Echo is a human colony gradually slipping into decay. But doubt is creeping in to his world view. Despite all his efforts, he seems to have plateaued in his constant training.
His dissatisfaction with his lack of progress, as well as the seeming obliviousness of everyone around him, is driving him towards some kind of breakdown. There is a lot to like about Approaching Shatter. The thought that has gone into the world portrayed is obvious; ranging from new religions to new diseases to social structure. Given Atriya's vocation and the author's background , the bulk of the world-building focuses on the militaristic parts of Echo, creating a detailed description of the various levels of soldiers, their training regimes and, of course, the weapons they use.
But despite all the military trappings, there is relatively little action in the novel. A vicious and detailed street fight in the first third is the main exception. Based on the final chapter, and the excerpt from Vol. Instead, the novel is more concerned with Atriya's inner life. Throughout, he struggles to come to terms with the realization that there is something missing from his life, but unsure of what. My main complaint is the abrupt ending. While it did serve to leave me ready to read Vol. Even the author acknowledges as much but overall, I did enjoy Approaching Shatter.
As I said, it's well drawn and detailed, and fans of military sci-fi will find plenty to enjoy. Nov 26, C. Martens rated it really liked it. Approaching Shatter; by Kent Wayne Super soldier tech, a bad-ass hero questioning everything he's been taught, a dystopian planet, and a hint of mysticism or is it? What51raeuyoyyl's not to love?
As the pages unfold the scene for our hero, we're instantly immersed in the grit, and confliction, he's just coming to know. Following Atriya through his initial breakdown, where he p Echo Volume 1: Following Atriya through his initial breakdown, where he pushes his luck, and shows us his level of badassdom, we're later struck at how controlled he actually is; at how much he immersed himself in the system that's suddenly turned it's back on him, even as it continues to expect his service.
His resolve to carry out his orders, even in the face of his personal dilemma, shows true character in Echo's hero. Read more… A cliff hanger ending to rival all others, make sure that Volume 2 is ready when you near the end of this one! Reading the author's notes at the end reversed my hatred for this mind-play, so I suggest reading it to understand the method behind the madness.
Echo Volume 1: Approaching Shatter by Kent Wayne
Wayne gives us just enough information to keep the page flips spinning, and enough foreshadow to keep us intrigued. I can not wait to start getting these ends tied up, and see who else Atriya will let loose on. Mar 04, Kathleen Molyneaux rated it liked it. I toss the quotes on there because despite the fact that the main character Atriya was trained to be a hormone-boosted, cybernetic combat beast, there was a curious lack of actual ass-kicking in this story.
Turns out that'll have to wai Actually 3. Turns out that'll have to wait for volume 2. Does this mean that I disliked volume 1? Not at all you notice the air quotes were around the word military instead of the word fun. I enjoyed the setting and there was plenty of tension between Atriya and the officers in his own organization. Is it possible to show an introspective character without narrating their thoughts?
Jul 21, Elaina rated it really liked it. Despite taking to the stars, the lessons of peace are not learned, so expect brawls and battles, extreme soldier training, terrible weapons and violence. However, I thoroughly enjoyed it. The insight into the mind-set of a soldier and the brilliant use of tech held me captive from beginning to end.
I will be reading the next book to discover what happens to him. There is something added, though, to this tale. There is something other on the horizon, something extra to the physical world of being and doing. It offers hope, but the journey to that new state will, I suspect, almost kill Atriya. It will certainly torture him, test him … A worthy read! Dec 19, Margaret Sorick added it. First of all- mother of all cliff hangers! I'm so glad I know a sequel is forthcoming! The author portrays a future where humankind has moved out into the galaxy to colonize another planet, Echo.
And this future is brutal, with dissident factions fighting the elitist government. Though our hero, Atriya, is a soldier for that government, he finds himself in a precarious position, too valuable to be discarded but too dangerous to be ignored. The story ends with Atriya facing enem Left wanting more! The story ends with Atriya facing enemies without and within! Kent Wayne, you're killing me! Nov 17, Keith Heltsley rated it it was amazing. For a first novel, and self published, I give this a 5 star rating. If you're looking for a polished production, consider it as a gem in the rough.
If brutal, and graphic violence is not for you, this may not be for you. Kent Wayne has a depth of knowledge in military matters, and portrays the drive that makes military people do what they do as they fight enemies, and sometimes each other. Ghostly encounters, a locked door, and a set of photographs pique her curiosity. But Adam and his grandfather refuse to let her investigate. And her marriage is further strained, when Adam, a reservist, is called up to fight in the Gulf War.
In , Elsie Flint is already living at Echo Hall with her children, the guest of her unsympathetic in-laws, whilst her husband Jack is away with the RAF. Rachel and Leah Walters meet Jacob Flint at a dinner party in Whilst Leah is drawn to Jacob, Rachel rejects him leading to conflict with her sister that will reverberate through the generations. As Ruth discovers the secrets of Echo Hall, she is able to finally bring peace to the Flint family, and in doing so, discover what she really needs and wants. Echo Hall is a novel about the past, but it is very much a novel of the now.
Does history always have to repeat itself, or can we find another way? This is a book that will be published by Unbound when I have enough backers. Published November 30th by Unbound.
Echo Boy, by Matt Haig: review
To see what your friends thought of this book, please sign up. To ask other readers questions about Echo Hall , please sign up. Lists with This Book. This book is not yet featured on Listopia. Apr 06, Lindsay - Traveling Sister rated it liked it Shelves: This was a mysterious, eerie and atmospheric story following three generations of women whose pasts intertwine through their connection to Echo Hall.
There are many secrets hidden within the rooms of Echo Hall. She uncovers pieces of the past through hidden diaries and journals along with conversations with several people who previously lived or worked at Echo Hall. While I did enjoy this novel, there were a few times where I found myself confused between characters and timelines.
After an intriguing start to the book, my interest wavered for the remainder and some parts seemed repetitive. View all 12 comments. Nov 26, Claire rated it really liked it Shelves: This book contained love and heartache, following three intertwined storylines of three generations it was really well done. The events that reoccured over the generations, the choices made and not made and the mystery of what really happened kept me reading with continued interest.
Thank you Virginia and Pigeonhole for providing this copy. Dec 05, Charmaine Saliba rated it really liked it. What a beautiful and heartbroken story. I have to thank the author Virginia Moffatt and The Pigeonhole for the opportunity to read this beautiful novel. It is a historical fiction with a paranormal aspect.
I believe that I found another genre to add in my read luxury. These three great and tragic events are related together by the Flint family and the Echo Hall. Three women lived in different periods of time but share the same courage, love and lose. They faced the same darkness and atrocity of the Flint family. It is a fast-read novel that kept me reading and wanted to discover the secrets of these family.
When Ruth married Adam, she had followed him to Echo Hall, once she arrives, she immediately sensed something sinister in that house. One day she discovered a door locked and when she asked why it was lock both men, quickly answered her that that room was empty. As days goes by Ruth was hunting by that room and one day, she had the opportunity to open it.
Once inside she felt the agony and sorrow that took her breath away. Who lived here must had suffered a lot. Then she found the diaries and letters that will reveal the secrets of the household. Would she find out? And more importantly would history repeat itself? Apr 18, Caroline Vincent - Bits about Books rated it really liked it.
The Black Echo
All somehow connected to Echo Hall. All influenced by its ominous atmosphere… Introduction It is the year and Phoebe is curious as to the place where she was born: Most of all, it is a place where love was hard to find, where children were hardly free to laugh and play, to be.. Instead, it seems the whole atmosphere of the house brings you down in a suffocating kind of way. Here is it in the early years of the 20th century, that sisters Rachel and Leah grow up — here is it that their sibling rivalry starts The rivalry that, in the end, will have such far-going consequences.
When both sisters fall in love, it is only a matter of time before irreparable rifts divide their family. Elsie is determined to humour her mother-in-law but is that enough? The three of them are close friends but Leah is fiercely opposed to Elsie meeting Daniel whilst Jack is away, fighting for his country. Closed doors, hidden secrets and violent outbursts.. My Thoughts I am in awe of how the author cunningly wove her plotlines into one story — the events of the past unfolding the secrets that have had such an impact on the lives of those involved, up to the present days.
At one point, I felt so absorbed in a tale that, after finishing the chapter and moving on to the next, I had to stop and think as I could not place the next characters in the book — I was completely drawn in by the tale that was set against WWII. The book contains so many fascinating details and insights into the lives of women in the first decades of the s, about Quakers and the suffragette movement and how people coped with their loved ones being away, fighting overseas. But also, this novel covers the age-old topics of love and hate, of friendship and betrayal, of prejudices, mistrust and sibling rivalry.
I loved the characters of all three the women, Ruth, Rachel and Elsie. Almost impossible to chose a favourite among them, Is it Ruth who is determined to help her father-in-law? Or perhaps Elsie, who goes through difficult times? I think for me I admired Rachel the most, not only because of the letters she writes to her friend, the letters that give such a fascinating insight into her life. Rachel is a strong woman who stands by the choices she makes and in that, is a source of inspiration. A wonderfully crafted novel with well-drawn characters taking you on a journey through time.
Read the review on my website: Nov 25, Gail Wylde rated it it was amazing Shelves: I really loved this book. The story was set over three wars and just be ready with some tissues. I certainly had a lump in my throat on more than one occasion. I read this book with pigeonhole, which released a twelfth of the book a day - I will admit I saved mine up so I could read 2 or 3 staves a day which is cheating I'm sorry!!
I highly recommend this book and will be telling everyone I know to read it before it comes on the TV as a mini series!! Thank you so much to Virginia for wri Wow! Thank you so much to Virginia for writing this fantastic book and please hurry up and write another!
Apr 28, Stephanie rated it it was amazing. When I was contacted by the author asking me if I would like to read her book I was delighted. It was the just the type of book that I enjoy reading as a break from crime fiction. Some of the people in it are in more than one period and you see the way that life has turned out for them. The author demonstrates very well how war has a devastating effect on an area, which is more obv When I was contacted by the author asking me if I would like to read her book I was delighted. The author demonstrates very well how war has a devastating effect on an area, which is more obvious when the community is small.
In the beginning it is noticed how many families have had their lives torn apart from more than one war. The Flint family are a strange one. Brittle, unapproachable and very unhappy. The novel focuses on the women: Rachel, Elsie, Ruth, Phoebe and Leah. Leah is one of the more elusive characters but it is her actions which have the biggest effect on most of the others.
Daniel, Joseph and Jack also have a role but it is the women whose story is told. Attitudes towards the war also play a part. How differing views can unsettle relationships and cause bad feeling in families and in a small community. But just as destructive as the wars is jealousy and it is this what affects the different generations. It is hard to think that a feeling can cause misery and loneliness for a years, but I have a feeling that it could be common.
My favourite period was WW1, where Rachel gets her chance to find love, but my favourite character was Elsie, and I wished she could have had a happy life away from the Flints. Virginia Moffatt is an author who I would definitely read again and I would like to thank her for sending me her book to review. Nov 24, Di Paterson rated it it was amazing.
Virginia Hall has created a wonderful Gothic atmosphere, in which three generations of women living in Echo Hall experience love and loss. I read Echo Hall through The Pigeonhole, which releases the book in daily portions, over a period of time. It's a great way to read, but sometimes as in this case , not so much, because Echo Hall is one of those books you just don't want to put down!
I like the way Virginia uses both narrative and letters to bring the experiences of the three women to life. T Virginia Hall has created a wonderful Gothic atmosphere, in which three generations of women living in Echo Hall experience love and loss. The story flows well, and the shift from one woman's life to next is well executed and seamless. I loved it, and recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good family drama, romance or mystery novel. Feb 09, Maggie rated it it was amazing. Echo Hall is not happy place, especially not for women!
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Ruth''s visit is in the early s when she is still getting to grips with being a mother and getting to know her husband's family,she discovers that maybe she doesn't know her husband all that well either. She is perplexed as to why part of the house is out of bounds for her, although judging from the noises coming from there it isn't out of bounds for everyone!
When her husband, a reservist is called up for the Gulf War she is not overjo Echo Hall is not happy place, especially not for women! When her husband, a reservist is called up for the Gulf War she is not overjoyed to having to remain at Echo Hall, but she decided to make the best of it, as well as find out the mystery of the locked rooms.
The story switches back to just before the first World War. Two sisters Rachel-, lively, adventurous, silent suffragette and Leah- the good daughter who is as rigid and stuffy as their parents. When Jacob Flint enters the scene Leah is instantly attracted to him, however it is Rachel he wants, even though she has no interest in him. She refuses his attentions and falls in love with a conscientious objector. Then we go to the next woman in Echo Hall- Elsie.
Swept off her feet by Jack, the heir to the place, she finds herself at the beck and call of Leah and as she waits out the war, but her story is not happy either. The author captures the atmosphere of each era and the character of these women beautifully. While not exactly being a cheerful tale it is a thoroughly absorbing one.